Life Magazines (Hertfordshire editions) October 2022

Results. Enthusiasm for Life. Purposefully Small.

Harpenden born sculptor Keziah Burt began her creative studies at Sir John Lawes Senior school and attributes her love of sculpture to the excellent support and advanced techniques she learned there. ‘I was lucky enough to have three wonderful art teachers who always encouraged me. I became curious and brave under their tuition, it was a very special place to learn and I am incredibly grateful to them.”

St. Michael’s Manor hotel is located close to the city centre of St Albans, Hertfordshire, formerly the ancient city of Verulamium and near the famous Abbey Cathedral. Set in five acres of beautiful private English country gardens with its own one-acre piece of the lake, this country house hotel in St Albans is, surprisingly, only 20 minutes by train from London.

Located in the beautiful setting of Stable Yard within Hatfield Park, the Coach House Kitchen is a contemporary yet cosy restaurant brimming with warmth and welcome.

With autumn well and truly underway, The Ivy St Albans Brasserie is delighted to be adding an array of new and exciting dishes to its already extensive menu. From White Onion Truffle Soup, featuring caramelised onion, artichoke purée, truffle mascarpone and artichoke crisps to FlatIron Chicken with creamed polenta, rocket, pine nuts, parmesan and lemon with a red wine sauce. For those with a sweet tooth, the brasserie has added a truly luxurious dessert - Coconut Panna Cotta featuring pineapple carpaccio, coconut, chilli and lime zest.

Faye Manning Editor

NOVEMBER

THE LUXURY HARPENDEN WEDDING FAIR AT THE EMC

The EMC offers the perfect setting to explore the wide variety of inspirational and local wedding suppliers that the Luxury Harpenden Wedding Fair has to offer. With a grand stage perfect for our trademark catwalk shows featuring Bridal gowns from a variety of bridal shops both in Hertfordshire and further afield, stylish menswear for the lads and dads plus the latest collections for mother of the bride/mother of the groom and guests. The exhibition areas give plenty of room for the many unique and creative suppliers available to discuss your special day. The Eric Morecombe Centre Rothamsted Park, Harpenden, Hertfordshire AL5 2FR

[ EVENTS ]

THE CALENDAR

29 OCTOBER

ALICE IN WONDERLAND

Let’s All Dance returns with this fabulous family favourite this half term. Stunning dancing, much loved characters and superb music brings the famous tale to life in this magical ballet production.

Drill Hall, 17 Amwell End, Ware, Hertfordshire SG12 9HP

30 OCTOBER

AFTERNOON TEA

Indulge in one of the finest British traditions at Benslow Music complemented with live music this October. Prices available upon request, tea from 4pm Benslow Music, Benbow Lane, Hitchin, Hertfordshire SG4 9RB

EVERY FRIDAY AND SATURDAY

COCKTAIL MASTERCLASSES

Every Friday and Saturday we are offering cocktail masterclasses for between 5 and 10 people with one of our expert mixologists. Included in the class: Welcome cocktail, 3x cocktails to make. Plus a spirit tasting so you know what you’re mixing. To book email events@hertfordhouse.co.uk or call our reception team Hatfield House, Great North Road, Hatfield AL9 5HX

15, 22 & 29 OCTOBER

RIVERSIDE SCENIC WALK TO HAM

Starting from Richmond Station, this free two-hour guided walk will take visitors through some of Richmond’s most picturesque spots including the remains of Richmond Palace, along the peaceful River Thames and up to the top of Richmond Hill before finishing at Ham House and Garden. Please note that this tour is dependent on volunteer availability and normal admission applies for non National Trust members. Meet at Richmond Station, The Quadrant, Richmond TW9 1EZ

UNTIL 30 OCTOBER

WHERE ONCE WE STOOD: HERTFORD’S LOST BUILDINGS

Discover lost architectural glories and buildings we were glad to see the back of and find out about some of the people who lived and worked in them. Free. Donations welcome! Hertford Museum 18 Bull Plain Hertford Hertfordshire SG14 1DT

22 & 23 OCTOBER

WOLF WEEKEND

We are offering a once in a lifetime opportunity to hand feed our majestic European grey wolves Romulus and Inge as part of an “on the day” raffle.

Paradise Wildlife park, White Stubbs Lane, Broxbourne EN10 7QA

16 OCTOBER

SHENLEY PARK APPLE DAY

There is a focus on all things apple for sale such as apples, juices, cakes, apple pies and preserves and apple trees etc. And fun activities for children as well as educational sections on apple tree care or the various types of apple and their uses.The grounds are beautiful and perfect for a picnic and the family or couples to enjoy at this well run but relaxed event. Shenley Park, Radlett Lane, Hertfordshire WD7 9DW

21 23 & 28 30

OCTOBER

DINOS AFTER DARK

Take a magical trip around our World of Dinosaurs and see the dinosaurs come to life by moonlight. Packed full of all the best dinosaurs, your family will be in for an experience like never before. Walk amongst dinosaurs as the sun starts to come down.

Paradise Wildlife park, White Stubbs Lane, Broxbourne EN10 7QA

4 NOVEMBER

COULL QUARTET

The Coull Quartet return to Benslow this Autumn with an eclectic programme of String favourites including Dvorak Quartet in F, Mozart Quartet in E flat K428 and Gershwin Lullaby Benslow Music, Benbow Lane, Hitchin, Hertfordshire SG4 9RB

6 NOVEMBER

42 FALCONER ROAD - OPEN GARDEN FOR NGS

Enchanting magical unusual Victorian style space. Bird cages and chimney pots feature, plus a walk through conservatory with many plants. Children so very welcome. Winter viewing for fairyland lighting, for all ages, bring a torch.

42 Falconer Road, Watford, Hertfordshire WD23 3AD

Harpenden Artist becomes Royal Sculptor!

Harpenden born sculptor Keziah Burt began her creative studies at Sir John Lawes Senior school and attributes her love of sculpture to the excellent support and advanced techniques she learned there. ‘I was lucky enough to have three wonderful art teachers who always encouraged me. I became curious and brave under their tuition, it was a very special place to learn and I am incredibly grateful to them.”

Who could have predicted that this young Harpenden girl would be commissioned by the National Army Museum in London, to sculpt a portrait of her Majesty Queen Elizabeth the Second to celebrate her Platinum Jubilee. Keziah is the last person to be commissioned to sculpt her Majesty’s portrait and the only person the depict her in her first military uniform. Our late Queen joined the Army and served in the Auxiliary Territorial Service as a mechanic and ambulance driver aged 18. She was the first female member of the Royal Family to become a full-time member of the British Armed Forces. Ground breaking from the very start.

“As a military wife, it was such an incredible honour to be chosen to depict her majesty in her first military service dress. The very uniform that she celebrated in on Victory in Europe day in May 8TH 1945. Pulling her hat down over her eyes to avoid being recognised, she danced joyfully in the streets with the public!”

Keziah created the bust in the Atrium of the museum, beneath the huge Lynx Helicopter during a week-long Artist Residency. She spoke to the public, demonstrated the process and techniques of her craft, as well as running workshops as part of the Platinum Jubilee celebrations.

Last month Keziah was in Mayfair at her Exhibition, a stone’s throw from Buckingham Palace sculpting a portrait of the then Prince of Wales. Later in the afternoon she received a phone call to say that the Royal Family were heading to Balmoral to see the Queen. By the end of that day what had started as a sculpt of a prince had become a sculpt of his Majesty King Charles III. The sculpture titled simply ‘Ascension’ will be cast in bronze and is quite possibly the very first portrait of our new King.

Keziah Is available for private family portrait and figurative sculpture commissions.

keziahburt.co.uk @keziahburtartist on instagram

Autumn at The Ivy St Albans Brasserie

With autumn well and truly underway, The Ivy St Albans Brasserie is delighted to be adding an array of new and exciting dishes to its already extensive menu. From White Onion Truffle Soup, featuring caramelised onion, artichoke purée, truffle mascarpone and artichoke crisps to Flat-Iron Chicken with creamed polenta, rocket, pine nuts, parmesan and lemon with a red wine sauce. For those with a sweet tooth, the brasserie has added a truly luxurious dessert - Coconut Panna Cotta featuring pineapple carpaccio, coconut, chilli and lime zest.

As the days get shorter and nights get longer, be sure to enjoy what The Ivy St Albans Brasserie has to offer this season.

October also sees the restaurant celebrate all things Halloween with a limited edition dessert. From Saturday, 29 until Monday, 31 October guests will be able to sink their teeth into the Chilling Praline Parfait, a spooktacular combination of a frozen hazelnut coffin with

“From Saturday, 29 until Monday, 31 October guests will be able to sink their teeth into the Chilling Praline Parfait, a spooktacular combination of a frozen hazelnut coffin with chocolate soil and raspberry sauce”

chocolate soil and raspberry sauce.

Ewa Jordan, General Manager at The Ivy St Albans Brasserie, says: “Autumn is my favourite season of all, and the team and I are very much looking forward to welcoming guests and locals alike into the restaurant”.

The Ivy St Albans Brasserie is open seven days a week and offers everything from breakfast, lunch, cream tea, dinner and cocktails. theivystalbans.com

THE COACH HOUSE KITCHEN AT HATFIELD PARK

Located in the beautiful setting of Stable Yard within Hatfield Park, the Coach House Kitchen is a contemporary yet cosy restaurant brimming with warmth and welcome.

Open to all, the restaurant sits with a picturesque courtyard view for al fresco dining in warmer weather and lovely indoor dining atmosphere for those colder days. Serving breakfast, brunch, lunch and afternoon teas, the Coach House Kitchen now offers early evening dinner service and a variety of live music evenings to complete the experience.

Open from 9am to 9pm Tuesday to Saturday and 9am to 7pm Sunday*, the Coach House Kitchen presents a varying menu, with children’s options available. Their seasonal menu includes sustainable produce and monthly specials created by Head Chef Manuel Tovar and his dedicated team.

Lovers of Afternoon Tea will be in for a treat

as they sample seasonal delights, accompanied by a selection of refined rare loose leaf teas including earl grey, herbal infusions and a range sourced from Cornwall to South Africa. Afternoon Tea can be enjoyed each Tuesday to Sunday between 11.30am and 3.30pm.

Sitting adjacent to the restaurant, the Coach House Kitchen also offers a humble delicatessen of delicious morning and afternoon treats, freshly brewed coffee and a delightful array of freshly made sandwiches.

Outside in the Stable Yard, you will find an eclectic mix of independent businesses open throughout the year with free entrance and free parking. The Stable Yard at Hatfield Park is not to be missed and provides a unique browsing experience all of its own.

*The last service is at 7pm Tuesday to Saturday. On Sundays the last service will be at 5pm. coachhousekitchen@compass-group.co.uk

St. Michael’s Manor Hotel

St. Michael’s Manor hotel is located close to the city centre of St Albans, Hertfordshire, formerly the ancient city of Verulamium and near the famous Abbey Cathedral. Set in five acres of beautiful private English country gardens with its own one-acre piece of the lake, this country house hotel in St Albans is, surprisingly, only 20 minutes by train from London.

The original house dates back over 500 years and was converted into a hotel in the early 1960s. St. Michael’s Manor remains privately owned and managed, which gives the hotel its own unique flavour.

The 30 bedrooms are individually styled with a blend of classical and contemporary décor to create a relaxed yet elegant atmosphere. This welcoming feel is continued through to the lounge, bar, function rooms and highlyacclaimed orangery-style Lake Restaurant. All public rooms, along with many of the bedrooms, have excellent views of the garden and lake.

Non-residents can also enjoy the restaurant, which offers a wide choice of dining options from full breakfast through to afternoon teas, lunch, dinners, conferences & events and exclusives. All of these can be taken on the terrace, in the garden or lakeside. The restaurant offers a fine dining experience in a beautiful, relaxed setting.

Exciting times are ahead as the hotel welcomes a new management team all with hotel and fine dining experience of more than 25 years combined. They bring a wealth of knowledge, passion, and comradery.

Roberto, the new General Manager says “I am really pleased to be joining the St Michael’s Manor family. I have always had the passion and the energy to provide the best guest experience by improving standards and exploring new ways of working with the team to train and develop their talents. We are investing in our service and have a full 180 degrees on refurbishment, service, food and stay. I believe we have a team at St Michael’s Manor that will create great memories for every single guest. We put the customer at the centre of everything we do. I personally invite you to come and meet me and the team so we can share our vision.

THOMPSON’S GALLERY 1st ANNIVERSARY

In addition to our established galleries in London and Aldeburgh Suffolk, Megan Thompson opened the Harpenden branch after moving her family here during the lockdown. Her decision was cemented by the sculpture positioned in front of this soon-to-be gallery– by artist and longstanding friend John Brown.

Thompson’s Gallery is family-owned and run since its opening by John and Sue Thompson in 1982. For over four decades, we have specialised in Modern British and Contemporary artwork, and we have built a reputation for putting an informative and approachable face to art dealership. We pride ourselves in sourcing and promoting outstanding contemporary work by both established and emerging talents that will stand the test of time. A large part of our business is in also the secondary market, focused on buying and selling Modern British artists. These highly regarded and well-known 20th Century British figures were once regular exhibitors in the early years of the gallery, including Royal Academicians Fred Cuming RA, Mary Fedden RA, and Sir Terry Frost RA.

Throughout the year, our London, Harpenden

and Aldeburgh galleries offer a wide range of exhibitions carefully curated by our entire team.

We take pride in sourcing great work. Our most recent addition to the Harpenden galleries exhibition calendar is St Albans-based artist Gail Olding, who captured our attention with her elegant and arresting pieces.

We focus on partnerships with other local business, most recently hosting exhibitions with Nobu Hotel on Portman Square and the Hyatt Churchill in London.

WHAT’S NEXT IN HARPENDEN?

All three galleries are also represented at major domestic and international art fairs. In forthcoming months, we are exhibiting at the Affordable Art Fair in Battersea and the London Art Fair in Islington.

While our London Gallery will be opening its exhibition calendar in September with the Autumn Exhibition, here in Harpenden we will be hosting a solo exhibition by celebrated sculptor Max Tannahill in October followed by a curated Christmas exhibition offering small, unique, and affordable works, many from our core list of artists — perfect for festive gifting!

Throughout the year, we will be hosting a wide

“Thompson’s Gallery is family-owned and run since its opening”

range of events at the gallery, Private Views, Meet the artist and evenings focused on “Advice When Buying Contemporary Paintings.” We will be hosting an event explaining the governmentbacked incentive of “OWN ART,” a buying scheme for contemporary artwork that splits payments over 10 months at 0% interest.

The welcome from the Harpenden community has been humbling, We hope to continue to develop our relationships with our neighbours. We have met new clients and re connected with some of our Aldeburgh buyers who live in the area!

We look forward to another exciting year ahead.

Christmas Family Concert with James Mayhew, Award-Winning Children’s Author & Illustrator

presented classical music concerts for children with different orchestras, ensembles and soloists with his debut concert at the Royal Festival Hall in 2016.

The de Havilland Philharmonic Orchestra has enjoyed over 50 years of success and brings together over 80 classical musicians who perform a wide musical repertoire under the leadership of their dynamic conductor, Robin Browning. This is a Double Bill, so there will be two 60-minute seasonal concerts taking place on 27 November: at 14:00 and at 16:00 in the 450-seater Weston Auditorium on the de Havilland campus at the University of Hertfordshire. Tickets can be purchased at a reduced price for 2022 - Full Price £12, Concessions £9, Children £5, Free for Carers and UH Students – from the website: uharts.co.uk or by calling the Box Office 01707 281 127 (open Mon-Fri 10:00-12:00).

This November the University of Hertfordshire’s resident orchestra, the de Havilland Philharmonic Orchestra (dHPO) will be performing alongside acclaimed children’s illustrator and author James Mayhew for a wonderful Christmas treat –Fairytales and Pantomimes.

Hosted by UH Arts + Culture, the Orchestra will be playing much-loved seasonal favourites by Rossini, Tchaikovsky and Humperdinck, while Mayhew paints his illustrations live on stage and projected onto a big screen for the audience to enjoy. The concert will take place on Advent Sunday, the perfect date to experience the musical tales that inspired the traditional festive Panto.

Inna Allen, Acting Head of UH Arts + Culture, says: “We are delighted to be teaming up again with award-winning children’s illustrator and author James Mayhew for a Christmas treat for the whole family. James Mayhew has collaborated with an impressive list of orchestras, and we are thrilled that he will once again perform with the de Havilland Philharmonic Orchestra. It’s a magical start to the Christmas countdown and a wonderful opportunity to introduce young people to the wonders of classical music – our audience of the future!”

A former pavement artist, James Mayhew has published over 50 books in a career spanning more than 30 years. Since 2007 he has devised and

“The de Havilland Philharmonic Orchestra has enjoyed over 50 years of success and brings together over 80 classical musicians who perform a wide musical repertoire under the leadership of their dynamic conductor, Robin Browning”

YOUR COUNTRYSIDE GETAWAY AWAITS AT TEWINBURY HOTEL

Escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life at Tewinbury Hotel in Hertfordshire. Set on a 700-acre working farm, Tewinbury provides the perfect place to rest and relax whilst experiencing the UK countryside at its best.

With recent expansions including a new Cookery School and luxury new accommodation facilities, there really is no better place to come for an unforgettable break.

Perfect your cooking skills at the brand-new Cookery School

The new state-of-the-art Cookery School set on the banks of the river Mimram delivers a diverse range of cooking courses that cater to every taste

THE DETAILS

Your getaway in a beautiful rural location awaits you at Tewinbury. Visit our website tewinbury.co.uk, or contact our Reservations team on 01438717793 to book your trip. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook to stay updated: @tewinburyfarmhotel

bud. Create fresh and sustainable dishes using high-quality ingredients sourced from homegrown farm gardens and local suppliers. Led by Head of Cookery School Chef Lee Maycock, each class provides full culinary training. Guests receive an accredited certificate at the end of each class, along with complimentary food and drinks flowing throughout the day. Starting with 3 courses a week before offering classes 5 days a week, choose from half-day or full-day classes. Private, group and corporate sessions are also available to book.

Luxury accommodation with unique touches

Accommodation at Tewinbury is designed with luxury in mind. There are 49 accommodation facilities, and you can expect beautiful original features like exposed beams, with extra features in some rooms such as Jacuzzi baths and woodburning stoves.

For a more unique stay, three brand-new Woodland Huts are a perfect choice. Located in private woodlands, each hut boasts premium décor, including a cosy private terrace with a log burner where you can take in the stunning surroundings.

Food and drink lovers’ paradise

Be spoilt for choice when it comes to food and drink at Tewinbury. Sipping a garden-to-glass cocktail in the barn-turned-piano bar ‘The Stable Bar’ is a must! You’ll also want to check out the Cowshed & Farm Shop restaurants, serving exceptional menus of delightful seasonal dishes that incorporate fresh ingredients from the organic farm gardens.

GET READY FOR A PUMPKIN TASTIC TIME!

With the Autumn season almost upon us, there is no better time to start planning your pumpkin-tastic adventures for this October Half-Term! This Autumn watch as an autumnal overlay transforms Paradise Wildlife Park in a fun and colourful way!

Take part in our pumpkin-tastic trail across the park, learning all about the animals that may sometimes seem scary but are truly marvellous! Visit our World of Animals and witness the animals getting into the season spirit themselves!

Visit our newest Land of the Tigers and keep an eye out to see if our tigers are enjoying some terrific pumpkin enrichment. As well as, our reptiles in our Temple of Angkor. Even visit the largest Anaconda on display in the UK to get into the season feelings!

With multiple autumnal photo opportunities for you to enjoy and to make some fang-tastic memories with, make sure to tag us in your posts across the social platforms for us to join in the fun too!

Join us for Dino’s After Dark is an exclusive limited after-hours event, running on select dates in late October from the 21st to the 30th. Take a pre-historic walk with over 40 life-size, moving and roaring Dinosaurs as they come to life in the moonlight. The event will run from 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm, with members of Paradise Wildlife Park being offered a discounted ticket price of £12.00, with general admissions tickets at £14.00. Under 2’s will be free to enter at the gate with proof of identification.

Cédric Grolet Unveils A New Afternoon Tea At The Berkeley

The menu evolves and changes with the seasons but for Autumn, Grolet features the chef’s iconic vanilla flower, a Paris Brest, a pistachio cookie and, for a purist English nod, a scone with cream and jam. The sweet piece de resistance is a glistening trompe-l’œil green apple which, inside, features fresh apple and dill. The savoury goodies are Grolet’s highly intricate take on avocado on toast and a trompe-l’œil burrata which reveals tomato gel and basil pesto when cut open. A mini comté cheese and bacon quiche, warm from the oven, is bought to table mid-service to complete the savoury offering.

“In true Cédric Grolet style, surprising touches are presented throughout the service”

In true Cédric Grolet style, surprising touches are presented throughout the service such as chef’s circulating the room with trays of freshly baked madeleines.

Cédric Grolet’s Goutea at The Berkeley is £85 per person, served seven days a week and bookable at noon, 2pm and 4pm. Reservations can be made by visiting theberkeley.co.uk/restaurants-bars/ the-berkeley-cafe

ABOUT THE BERKELEY

Nestled between bustling Knightsbridge and leafy Belgravia, The Berkeley is the essence of contemporary chic and innovative luxury. Stunning rooms and suites are accompanied by Michelin-starred cuisine from Marcus Wareing, a fashion favourite afternoon tea at Prêt-à-Portea and Cedric Grolet at The Berkeley, courtesy of one of the world’s most famous pastry chefs. Complete with the Blue Bar and The Berkeley Bar & Terrace for drinks, the Bamford Wellness Spa and a rooftop pool with jaw dropping Hyde Park views, The Berkeley continues to surprise and enchant.

Cédric Grolet – one of the world’s best pastry chefs – opened the doors to his first patisserie outside of France, Cédric Grolet at The Berkeley in February 2022. With a string of accolades citing him as the best pastry chef in the world, Grolet is known for his trompe-l’œil artistry and legendary Instagram channel which has a following of 3.6 million, which he runs himself with signature flair and spontaneity.

Guests seated in the surroundings of The Berkeley Café designed by Remi Tessier, are welcomed with an iced vanilla tea and Grolet’s cake stand – perfectly paired with tea, coffee or champagne – showcasing two savoury and five sweet creations.

LONDON RESTAURANT FESTIVAL

This month, London Restaurant Festival in partnership with American Express, is back for its fourteenth year and showcasing some of the most exciting talent behind London’s dynamic food scene. With a line-up of over 50 carefully curated culinary events, this year’s festival is serving up everything from gastronomic tours across the capital’s best restaurants to evenings with Britain’s most esteemed critics.

Many of the city’s leading chefs are taking part with a hand-picked timetable of ‘Tasting Menus’ including a celebratory Indian banquet from Kricket and a feast from chefs Will and Jack at Fallow in St James’s Market. A new addition for this autumn will be ‘The Resy Hit List presented by London Restaurant Festival’, where the city’s

hottest restaurants – curated by booking platform Resy – are offering a unique menu or dish for the duration of the festival.

The festival also brings a series celebrating the best of the fashionable neighbourhoods of Mayfair and Belgravia, including an evening of creativity at Eccleston Yards and an experience showcasing the best of North Audley Street.

‘Talk of the Town’ events offer exclusive gastronomic experiences with bespoke menus in a restaurant take-over and include ‘Feast from Fallow‘ from Fallow at St James’s, Oxeye at Embassy Gardens and a live jazz evening alongside a seasonal British four-course menu at the elegant Rotunda Bar and Lounge at Four Seasons Hotel London at Ten Trinity Square. The Festival also incorporates the

William Sitwell, Food Critic

ever popular ‘Masterclasses’ – featuring an Italicus Spritz masterclass, the best of Negronis at the Four Seasons Hotel London at Park Lane and a Spanish cookery class with Nieves Barragan of Sabor, paired with Estrella Galicia beer.

Much-loved Saturday Kitchen regular Anna Haugh is hosting guests at her restaurant Myrtle in Chelsea as part of the ‘Ultimate Gastronomic Weekend’, including a stay at Four Seasons Hotel London at Ten Trinity Square and a dinner at the hotel’s restaurant Mei Ume, which showcases traditional dishes from both Chinese and Japanese cuisines with a modern approach. Meanwhile, ‘Binge’, the popular series at Television Centre returns for a second year, featuring the best combination of food and TV viewings. For those who are partial to a food and drink pairing across multiple restaurants, ‘Restaurant-Hopping Tours’ returns in Belgravia (with Luigi Bosca wines), Covent Garden (with Innis & Gunn beers) and Chelsea (with Martin Miller’s Gin cocktails).

LRF is also bringing back their successful ‘Festival within a Festival’ member programmes for American Express Centurion and Platinum Cardmembers. The Platinum Card® have access to a series of ‘Chef-Hosted New Openings’ at three of London’s most exciting new launches: Chantelle Nicholson’s Apricity in Mayfair, Carlo Scotto’s immersive dining experience at Amethyst and Alex Dilling at Hotel Café Royal.

Art à la Carte’ allows guests to explore some of London’s best collaborations between artists, curators and restaurateurs, including Langan’s Brasserie - with walls covered in fine art. Seasonal ‘Autumn Spotlights’ include a King’s Caviar Tasting in the William Kent Room at The Ritz and a Seafood School at The Sea, The Sea hosted by chef Leo Carreira. American Express Cardmembers also have the option to ‘Discover Regent Street & St James’s’, with specially curated experiences including a one-off Supper Club in

the Fortnum & Mason Crypt and a Gourmet Odyssey lunch at Maison François, Chutney Mary and Michelin-starred Wild Honey, paired with Gusbourne’s range of English sparkling wines.

The ‘Penthouse Supper Club’ is hosting in an exclusive residence on London City Island offering panoramic views whilst guests enjoy an intimate dinner cooked and hosted by Tim Spedding, former chef of The Clove Club. The event features a sommelier-led tasting of Oregon wines served from LG SIGNATURE’s state-of-the-art Wine Cellar. The most discerning of Centurion members can also partake in a rare opportunity to join some of the nation’s most respected restaurant critics - Fay Maschler, Nigel Barden and William Sitwell - as they take guests to some of their favourite spots in town.

For the first time, London Restaurant Festival is proud to be partnering with London’s hippest restaurant booking platform, Resy. ‘The Resy Hit List - presented by London Restaurant Festival’ includes hand-selected spots, each granting guests access to special menus and dishes, including a Caravel fan-favourite, potato rösti with sour cream and caviar. For more information visit londonrestaurantfestival.com

“Art à la Carte’ allows guests to explore some of London’s best collaborations between artists, curators and restaurateurs”

Anna Haugh

AN EXCEPTIONAL CHRISTMAS AT HARRODS WITH THE WONDERFUL WORLD OF DIOR

About Dior

As the end-of-year festivities approach, Dior pays tribute to the unbreakable ties it has woven with Harrods over nearly seventy years, and to Christian Dior’s love of Christmas celebrations.

From 10 November 2022 until 3 January 2023, the House will dream up The Wonderful World of Dior, a spectacular new mise-en-scène, creating a magical atmosphere on each floor of London’s prestigious department store.

For this occasion, and for the first time ever, the facade of the famed Brompton Road address will be adorned with a monumental installation, reinterpreting the compass rose – a symbol treasured by the founding couturier – animated by a dazzling interplay of lights featuring classic Dior emblems. The Dior gold star, Bar jacket and Medallion chair will guide pedestrians to the renowned Harrods windows, the full run of which will be transformed into fantastic tableaux vivants in a captivating decor composed of gingerbread, caramel and multiple delights showcasing the House’s various universes and iconic symbols from fashion, perfume and jewellery, to beauty and homeware.

Dior has a thousand fascinating surprises and

gourmet treats for guests to discover within the British capital’s treasure trove. Unforgettable moments of magic and sharing are promised by two exclusive pop-ups, featuring exclusive creations imagined by the House for Harrods, a café and a Dior micro-village, the latter of which plays with proportions to magnify the enchantment.

A spell-binding invitation, marrying the audacity and heritage of two Houses, united now more than ever by a quest for excellence and the desire to keep the Dior dream alive.

Harrods, 87-135 Brompton Road

Christian Dior, commonly known as Dior is a French luxury fashion house] controlled and chaired by French businessman Bernard Arnault. The company was founded in 1946 by French fashion designer Christian Dior (1905–1957). The luxurious brand sells shoes and clothing exclusive to Dior boutiques. dior.com

About Harrods

Located on Brompton Road in Knightsbridge, the store occupies a five acre site and has 330 departments covering 1.1 million sq ft of retail space. It is one of the largest and most famous department stores in the world. The Harrods motto is ‘Omnia Omnibus Ubique’ which is Latin for “all things for all people, everywhere”. harrods.com

© James Robjant

HOWARD JONES ACOUSTIC TRIO UK TOUR

October 14–30, 2022

Bernard Butler to produce her forthcoming album ‘You & Me, We Are The Same’, by emailing him a demo.

The acoustic shows will highlight a fresh take on Howard’s best-known hits and will provide a rare and intimate opportunity for the audience to hear first-hand about the inspiration behind Howard’s beloved material, plus fascinating recollections from his international touring career.

Hailed by many as an electronic music pioneer, Howard Jones has been a constant presence on the international touring scene for the past three decades, playing live in several configurations including intimate solo shows and dates with his full high-tech band set-up. His most recent album, the Top 40 album Transform, is his first new studio album in nearly a decade. Originally released in 2019 to critical acclaim, Transform features several collaborations with electronica luminary BT.

THE DETAILS

HOWARD JONES ACOUSTIC TRIO TOUR

OCTOBER 14–30, 2022

Howard Jones Acoustic Trio embark on a 13-date UK tour this month. The tour will showcase an intimate stripped-down trip through Howard’s colourful 30-year music career. Special guest on all dates is London-based singer-songwriter Roxanne de Bastion.

The acoustic trio will feature Howard Jones on electric piano, guitarist Robin Boult (Roger Daltrey, Dave Stewart, Fish) and Nick Beggs (Kajagoogoo, Belinda Carlisle, John Paul Jones) on chapman stick.

Roxanne de Bastion Is a pioneering DIY singersongwriter who was the first artist to virtually tour during lockdown, To date she has performed an incredible run of over 500 gigs to date, including two USA tours and a slot at Glastonbury; she has self-released a debut album ‘Heirlooms and Hearsay’ (2017); was invited to join the FAC’s (Featured Artist Coalition) Board of Directors (alongside members of British music royalty Blur and Radiohead); and more recently procured

“I am really excited about the trio tour we have planned for 2022,” says Howard. “Nick and Robin are dear friends and world class musicians and I love performing with them. After touring the trio in America, I thought the time was right for us to bring the fun of this acoustic show back home. I will play a range of songs from the Hojo canon including the hits old and new as well as some deep cuts and fan favourites.”

Howard Jones first burst upon the contemporary music scene in 1983, with his very English song-writing and pioneering synthesizers. His first two albums Human’s Lib and Dream into Action were worldwide hits. Human’s Lib #1 in 1984 in the UK and featured the hits New Song, and What Is Love?

In 1985, Jones released the follow-up, Dream into Action, which quickly became a Top Ten Platinum album in North America. It featured the smash hit singles Things Can Only Get Better, Life In One Day, No One Is To Blame, and Like To Get To Know You Well. Howard Jones has sold over 8 million albums worldwide and continues to make new music and tour the world. He recently performed on NBC’s top-rated morning and nighttime television shows respectively, Today and The Tonight Show (the latter hosted by Jimmy Fallon).

SPECIAL GUEST ROXANNE DE BASTION

Become a VIP ticket holder and pick the best available seats in the theatre, along with a VIP meet and greet* prior to the performance with Howard and a signed souvenir package. There are a limited number of tickets allocated to each show, book early advised. *Subject to government guidance on social contact.

Tickets are available from TheGigCartel.com and HowardJones.com.

Ticket prices range from £27.50, £30.00, and £100 VIP.

Knebworth Christmas Fair

25th – 27th November 2022 – Knebworth House

The countdown to Christmas has begun – and customers can get a head start on their Christmas shopping with the return of the Knebworth Christmas Fair this November.

Exactly one month before Christmas Day, the region’s favourite Christmas Market returns to the Barns and Marquees at Knebworth House on Friday 25th, Saturday 26th and Sunday 27th November 2022.

Featuring over 200 stalls selling a range of Christmas goodies, across the three-day Christmas Market, visitors can discover inspirational gifts, Christmas decorations, festive food and drink to take home and so much more.

“We’re really looking forward to this year’s Knebworth Christmas Fair,” said Show Director Matt Upson. “The show features over 200 exhibitors selling a huge range of Christmas gift ideas, decorations and festive food to really get everyone in the Christmas spirit.

“We’ll be opening the show exactly one month before Christmas Day so we’re really excited to make this Christmas the best ever and hope that the Knebworth Christmas Fair will spread a little

yuletide cheer and help to kick start the festive season.”

Entry tickets are available to book online in advance and are limited in arrival time slots. The time slots are for customers arrival times only and visitors will be welcome to stay at the show until 4pm. A small number of tickets will be available on the gate, but visitors are advised to book online to avoid disappointment. Entry time slots are as follows:

• 9am – 10am

• 10am – 11am

• 11am – 12pm

• 12pm – 1pm

• 1pm – 2pm

• 2pm – 2.30pm (late entry)

The Knebworth Christmas Fair will run from 9am to 4pm on Friday 25th, Saturday 26th and Sunday 27th November 2022 in the Barns and Marquees at Knebworth House. Tickets are on sale now. Please note that tickets do not include entry into Knebworth House, Park & Gardens. For more details or to book visit knebworthchristmasfair.co.uk.

Follow @KnebworthChristmasFair

“Visitors can discover inspirational gifts, Christmas decorations, festive food and drink to take home and so much more”

Immerse

THE CHELSEA ANTIQUES & FINE ART FAIR

Wednesday 2 to Sunday 6 November 2022

Chelsea Old Town Hall, King’s Road, Chelsea, London SW3 5EE

Frequented by interior designers and collectors, this stalwart of the London fairs’ calendar is taking place again this November, this time with a new feature – the Cadogan Oriental Suite. In celebration of the 25th anniversary of Asian Art in London, with which The Chelsea Antiques & Fine Art Fair coincides this month, the Cadogan Hall is being transformed into a dedicated Oriental themed exhibition within the Fair. Curated by 2Covet’s own director and Japanese art specialist Steve Sly, the Cadogan Oriental Suite is showcasing exceptional Japanese, Chinese, Indian, Islamic and Oriental themed works of art to create an eclectic mix of the Asian arts for visitors to purchase.

Dr Shanshan Wang, dealer in early Asian art, is giving a series of talks on Wick Antiques’ stand where some of her pieces will also be for sale: Tuesday 1st November at 3pm (private preview

day) - Chinese Neolithic pottery vs. European antique furniture

Thursday 3rd November at 1pm - From Persia to China, blue in ancient ceramics Saturday 5th November at 1pm - Japanese ceramics and bronze sculptures to create a wabisabi European home

Apart from the Oriental element, there are many other experts gathering from around the country selling different disciplines from vintage watches, ceramics, glass, paintings and furniture to jewellery, aeronautica, antique boxes, maritime items, silver, objets d’art and so much more. All items are vetted for quality and authenticity. The perfect opportunity to pick up exquisite and unique Christmas presents or something splendid for your interior.

Over the years, the Fair has maintained strong links with a variety of charities. This November, the Fair is supporting The Edward Guinness Appeal in aid of Queen Elizabeth’s Foundation for the disabled. Onsite catering is provided by 28°50° Wine Workshop and Kitchen Chelsea..

For opening times, tickets, exhibitors and other information, visit the website at chelseaantiquesfair.co.uk or follow the Fair’s social media:

Facebook:

ChelseaAntiquesandFineArtFair

Instagram:

@chelseaantiquesfineartfair

Pinterest:

@chelseaantiquesfineartfair

Mary Fedden RA OBE (1915-2012)‘Pansies and a Lighthouse’ gouache. 11” x 8”. £6,200 from Kaye Michie Fine Art

Gents Vacheron & Constantin wristwatch from 1951 in 18k rose gold case. £12,600 from Timewise Vintage Watches

Satsuma vase by the highly regarded Kinkozan studios, Japan. (29.2cm high x 26cm wide x 23cm deep) circa 1895-1900. £24,000 from Steve Sly Japanese Art

Wick Antiques’ rare and exceptional Meiji period hardwood exhibition display cabinet, Yokohama, Japan, circa 1900, £78,500,

Ide

The Nick Ross Orchestra

The Glenn Miller & Rat Pack era

Many years before the Beatles stepped onto the world’s most famous zebra crossing, Glenn Miller made his last known recording at London’s Abbey Road Studios on Monday 27th November 1944, just a few short weeks before he “disappeared” on December 15th of that same year.

And so, it was especially poignant, to be able to bring the NRO into those same studios to record a new CD for almost 75 years later.

The lights soften, the mood settles. An audience waits for that first moment of sound. The Big Band is poised, relaxed, but with eyes anxious for the lead. And then, as if giving body to an echo, the murmured notes of ‘Moonlight Serenade’…

and the night, it seems, is suddenly full and timeless.

There are those who watch and listen, who tap a shy finger to the melodies, others who follow with a silent foot-beat, still others who murmur softly through the lyrics, and those who simply permit a fleeting smile. But common to all are memories.

Recapture the sounds of a bygone era as the Nick Ross Orchestra presents ‘an unmissable evening of music and song’ – the Classic Big Band Sound of the 1940s & 50s, at the Eric Morcambe Centre, Harpenden on Sunday 29th October 2022 @ 7.30pm.

Tickets are available from the-emc.co.uk Box Office 01582 767525

A DOG’S LIFE

There’s nothing better than buying a Christmas present for someone that benefits you too - cheeky but very tempting and satisfying.

When buying for the dog this year, why not invest in some Ruff and Tumble products, which do just that?

Drying and stylish on dogs and time saving and practical for humans, they are a double winner.

Drying Coats dry dogs completely - unlike towels - and all you have to do is pop it over the dog’s head, fasten with velcro and watch the dog dry itself. Two layers of thick cotton towelling wick wet from the dog’s hair and they are so comfy and warm to wear, dogs love them. In 17 sizes from XXXS-Giant Mountain Dog, from £31.95-£69.95, and eight stock colours, all breeds from 1-120Kg can find one to suit them.

Match with a pair of Drying Mitts, £21.95, and the legs and paws will be dried easily and quickly too. These make a great stocking filler or a present for the new dog owner/dog lover. Hung up by the back door or in the car, muddy paws on floors are stopped in their tracks. ruffandtumbledogcoats.com

WINTER ART & ANTIQUES FAIR, OLYMPIA

1 – 6 November 2022 - Preview 31 October

The UK’s last major Art and Antiques Fair before Christmas

Positioned just as the nights are getting darker and thoughts are turning to Christmas, the 31st Winter Art & Antiques Fair, running for over 30 years, will sparkle with diamonds, glass, silver and mirrors.

Over 70 of the UK’s finest specialist dealers will present an outstanding selection of irresistible pieces from the modern and eclectic, to the traditional and classic, including furniture, art, sculpture and object d’art in time for the Christmas buying and interiors-focused time of year. Visitors will find truly unique gifts and exclusive pieces to add to their collections, from over 20,000 works of art, antiques, furniture, sculpture, jewellery, textiles and collectors’ pieces.

All buyers, at any level, are reassured by the ‘vetting’ process which sees a team of experts check every piece for sale before opening to ensure quality and authenticity.

Beloved by interior designers as well as collectors and creative homeowners, the fair presents an extraordinary range of pieces from the traditional to the quirky, the grand scale to the minute with prices starting at under £100 and

heading well over £100,000 for rare, museumquality pieces.

Discover truly one-of-a-kind pieces created by legendary artists such as Lalique, Matisse, Meissen, Cartier, and Van Cleef & Arpels; discover furniture dating from the 16th century to the 20th century. There will also be an unrivalled selection of antique jewellery, including pieces by Cartier, Boucheron, Vacheron Constantin, and Tiffany.

Coming together for six-days only collectors, interior designers, Christmas shoppers and homelovers will be able to buy original works priced from £100 to £1 million.

Fair Director, Mary Claire Boyd, says of the six-day event. ‘Expect the unexpected. You just never know what the dealers will have discovered. It could be a pendant made for Charles I, glasses given to Humphrey Bogart or Andy Warhol’s mirror. That is the excitement of an antique fair like Olympia.’

The fair is the last major art and antiques fair before Christmas and runs alongside The Luxury Travel Fair and The Spirit of Christmas fair in the National Hall at Olympia.

Website olympia-art-antiques.com Twitter twitter.com/ OlympiaAntiques Facebook facebook.com/ olympiaartandantiques Instagram instagram.com/ olympiaartandantiques

Above: Anthony Gilbert, Red Patterned Lady

CLARIDGE’S UNVEILS FIRST SPA IN ITS HISTORY

In a ground-breaking project that has seen teams of experts excavate five floors into the London clay, to pave the way for the next 200 years of Claridge’s life, the legendary Mayfair hotel announces the opening of its first ever spa.

Situated three floors down with 7,000 square feet of space, Claridge’s Spa is a haven of wellness and tranquillity featuring its first ever swimming pool, steam rooms, sauna and seven treatments rooms. The space is an epicentre of wellness, showcasing healing rituals, a knowledge of restorative body work and the latest bioinnovation to amplify emotional, physical and spiritual wellbeing. The service is signature fivestar Claridge’s, with touches of the iconic timeless glamour synonymous with the hotel. Claridge’s Spa offers both a best-in-class list of resident brands including Josh Wood, Augustinus Bader and FaceGym, and an ever-evolving roster of visiting wellness masters, featuring nail artist Harriet Westmoreland and acupuncturist Ross J. Barr, ensuring guests are expertly treated, head to toe.

Guests cross the iconic monochrome lobby and embark on a journey to a sensorial space of calm serenity, with sounds of flowing water, a visual play of light and shadow, and energy-cleansing music. Escaping the bustle of the capital, spa guests can feel time moving at a slower pace and experience a sense of replenishing restoration. The heated swimming pool is central to the spa, framed by a striking, multi-vaulted ceiling and stone columns. Cabanas set back from the water

offer privacy to relax and unwind. In addition to private consultation spaces, the treatment rooms are oak panelled and ensuite, where each treatment is personalised to the individual, inspired by the ancient concept of omakase (‘leaving another to decide what is best’).

The piece de resistance is Josh Wood at Claridge’s – a dedicated hair and beauty space within the spa, where celebrated British hair colour expert Josh Wood brings his hand-picked dream team of A-list stylists to the hotel. This collaboration sees his first home in Mayfair, and a 21st century reimagination of what haircare looks like in hotels.

THE DETAILS

Claridge’s Spa is open to both hotel and outside guests, MondaySunday 8am-9pm. 90 minute treatments include access to the pool. To book treatments please call 0207 409 6565. claridges.co.uk/spa

HARRISONS ACCOUNTANCY

When picking an accountant and business advisor it is always important to find a business that you can work with. An accountant is one of the most important members of your team. They can make sure you are going the right direction and help you with bumps in the road. If you don’t talk to your accountant, how can you expect them to help you? Harrison’s Accountancy offer you a different accountancy experience. They are a family run business who take the stress out of dealing with your finances whilst being on the end of the phone if you have any questions. They are there to simply make your life easier. Harrison’s go so much further than traditional accountants, who were always looking at what you have done in the past, ignoring the present and future of your business.

They produce simple solutions to make sure you are making enough cash whilst also making sure you have enough cash for the dreaded tax bills. One of the most important parts of Harrisons service is communication. The team at Harrisons always say ‘’if you don’t talk to us, how we can help you?’’

Harrisons pride themselves on offering a high

quality service, taking care of the elements of your business you shouldn’t have to worry about giving you more time to do things you enjoy.

THE SME OF THE YEAR 2022 AWARD

There are six million SMEs trading across the UK today and SME awards are one of the most prestigious national small business awards in the UK. We are thrilled to announce that Harrisons accountancy Limited have been announced as a 2022 Gold winner of Luton and Bedfordshire.

It is an honour to be recognised for the quality Harrisons pride themselves the most on - outstanding, high quality services provided to clients.

“Harrisons

Accountancy is a small friendly local accountancy practice aiming to give clients the service they require with a high level of service”

ELECTRIC CAR REVOLUTION IS BUZZING !

It’s no secret that more and more of us are turning to electric cars.

With the Government proposing to ban the sale of petrol and diesel vehicles by 2030 we are all going to become part of the green revolution like it or not.

But what model do we buy and how do we choose ? One manufacturer at the forefront of the EV space is VW with a range of models in all shapes and sizes including the top selling ID.3.

And the latest vehicle - which will not be available to buy until next year- has certainly captured everyone’s imagination. Think iconic campervan and then fast forward 70 years and you have the retro, futuristic, carbon neutral, multifunctional ID.BUZZ.

Indeed Alan Day Motor Group in Hampstead and New Southgate took 50 pre bookings with a £2,000 fee for the iconic VW campervan in just 24 hours.

Darran Clarke, marketing director of Alan Day Motor Group in London said:”There has been phenomenal interest in the ID.Buzz.

“It ticks all the right boxes, stylish, cool, adaptable and eco friendly - this vehicle was definitely built from the ground up with electrification in mind.”

The state of the art 4.71 metre long campervan boasts a range of 258 miles, top speed of 90 mph, a charge time of 5%- 80% in 30 minutes

and a starting price of £57,115, rising to £62,995 depending on specifications.

Add to that it has an animal leather free interior, recycled seat covers and floor coverings, it is a complete multi-functional, fully connected electric vehicle for families.

Mr Clarke added: “The ID. Buzz pays homage to the first campervan but this is on an entirely different level. It is bristling with innovative technology and redefines modern e-mobility.”

“We’ve actually had so much interest in the ID.Buzz, we had to divert some staff to handle all the inquiries - it seems to have struck a chord with the motoring public in the UK. We are eagerly awaiting our first deliveries next year.”

“It ticks all the right boxes, stylish, cool, adaptable and eco friendly - this vehicle was definitely built from the ground up with electrification in mind.”

BASED CARE AGENCY ARE FINALISTS IN RECORD NUMBER OF AWARDS

Home Care Preferred, an independent care agency, with branches in London, Hertfordshire and Devon are finalists in ten award categories. The company provide care in people’s homes and specialise in live-in-care. Live-in care is a real alternative to life in a care home and means people can stay at home in a place they know and love. They are supported by a full-time, live in carer. Live-in carers can assist with a range of duties, whilst ensuring the client remains as independent as their situation allows.

INCLUDE:

Support is tailor made to the client’s individual needs with a care team that are well trained, DBS checked and referenced. The management team provide support

days of the year and are always on hand to help.

find out why Home Care Preferred is one of the most highly awarded care companies in the UK, please visit, homecarepreferred.com.

call and speak to a member of our friendly team:

Getting children socially ready for joining a new school this September

By Lara Péchard, Head at St Margaret’s School in Hertfordshire

Starting a new school is an exciting time, but it can also be a daunting time for parents and children as they prepare to adapt to a new way of life. Once families have made their school choice, parents often ask how they can help to get their child ready. This covers the practical questions from uniform and sports kits to bus routes and policies. Most school joining packs or handbooks will cover these off, but there are also the more complex questions to consider around getting children ready socially, as well as academically, for their new school.

Specifically, when a child is starting a new school with no, or few of their existing cohort, parents will often want to know how the school’s ‘buddy’ system works, whereby they will pair a child up with another, to provide support socially, come September. Parents are also keen to understand how the school will look after their child and get to know them personally. Questions will be asked in the lead up to the induction and parents and children will feel reassured if the school has a

programme and channel of communication to connect with them post offer and before starting the academic year.

If specific learning support is needed or there is a pastoral situation to be managed, it can be helpful for schools to link parents up with experts in the school community and to start preparing ahead of time so that September lands more softly. Moving up, or moving schools is a big transition for children and helping a child and their family to feel more connected to the school and to other families before they arrive, is a big positive.

Yet most important of all is the social aspect around joining a new school or moving up a year, this is perhaps even more important than any academic consideration. If a child can make the move smoothly, and settle in and make friends quickly, then academically speaking, the rest should follow. A happy child always makes greater progress with their learning, so the more time a family can spend in their new school before their child starts, the better.

ABOUT ST MARGARET’S SCHOOL

St Margaret’s School is an independent day and boarding school for pupils aged 2 to 18 years. Based in Bushey, Hertfordshire, the school is steeped in history and is among one of the oldest in the UK dating back to 1749. Offering a range of flexible boarding options for both UK and international pupils from the age of 11 years, the school is set over 60 acres of beautiful grounds and places its renowned pastoral care and proven track record of academic success at the heart of its culture and ethos. With a rich programme of extra-curricular activities, its pupils are encouraged to discover their talents in a caring environment that fosters a genuine enthusiasm for learning in an evolving world filled with complex challenges and exciting new possibilities. stmargarets-school.org.uk

Space for students to keep moving and learning at FELSTED SCHOOL

‘O

ur pupils don’t sit down for long,’ says Sarah Capewell, Deputy Head at Felsted, an independent boarding and day school an hour from London in the north Essex countryside.

‘We have a 90-acre campus here and there is a great emphasis on breaking up the school day with opportunities for students to move around, so they can learn and think creatively and also take part in all the sporting, artistic and adventurous activities that go on.’

Even in lessons, Felsted students are likely to be standing up. The school’s brand new, multi-millionpound Marshall Centre for Learning has ten bright classrooms, all with writable walls so students can jot down their ideas and thoughts for group discussion, and huge interactive screens for sharing work with the class. A wall between two of the rooms can be retracted to create a big space.

‘Research tells us that students’ brains work harder when they’re up and about, and when they collaborate they achieve bigger and better things,’ says Sarah. ‘Students love the Marshall Centre –

they gravitate to it during the day between lessons to work on projects, or just to read in one of the learning pods or quieter areas. In the evenings, it’s a favourite spot for our boarders, who study in groups or independently.’

In fact, around 80 percent of Felsted senior school students aged 13 to 18 choose to board in one of eight comfortable on-campus houses, with weekly boarding a popular arrangement for families based in London.

The school’s own buses collect students from various locations across the region on Sunday evening and return them on Saturday afternoon to spend quality time with their parents, and there is an ‘exeat’ - a weekend spent at home - every half-term.

‘Pupils have the advantage of the space and facilities at Felsted – sports pitches, music school, theatres, indoor pool, gym and more – but most importantly they have room to stretch their legs and energise their brains, which helps them learn and develop as young adults. To find out more, please visit felsted.org

St Columba’s College Rated Excellent in ISI Report

The quality of the pupils’ development is Excellent:

• Pupils’ understanding of spirituality is excellent and permeates all areas of school life.

• Pupils have a high level of social awareness, and their collaboration skills are strong.

• Pupils have an excellent moral understanding and readily take responsibility for their behaviour.

• Pupils are extremely respectful towards one another and value diversity within the school community.

Fantastic news for the pupils and staff at St Columba’s College in St Albans!

The school has been rated ‘Excellent’ by the ISI.

In its latest Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) report, St Columba’s College has been recognised as fully compliant and ‘Excellent’ in all areas. This judgement represents the highest possible outcome that any school can achieve.

Unlike OFSTED Inspection in maintained schools, ISI reports do not give an overall grading for a school. Instead, ISI make judgements on a four-point scale: Excellent, Good, Sound and Unsatisfactory.

St Columba’s College Head, Mr David Buxton, says: “The Inspection process is inevitably stressful, but at St Columba’s we always welcome the opportunity to showcase our fine young pupils and inspirational staff.”

He encourages prospective parents to read the latest report: “There is much to celebrate in these pages. We hope they inspire you to come and visit us.”

THE INSPECTORS’ KEY FINDINGS ARE DETAILED BELOW.

The quality of the pupils’ academic and other achievements is Excellent:

• Pupils have excellent attitudes towards their learning and their knowledge, understanding and skills are highly developed.

• Pupils throughout the school are highly effective communicators.

• Pupils are extremely reflective and have welldeveloped study skills.

• Pupils make effective use of information and communication technology (ICT) in most areas of the curriculum.

THE DETAILS

The May 2022 ISI report is now available to read on the school’s website: stcolumbascollege.org/ about-us/inspection-reports

“Quality of pupils’ academic and other achievements is excellent.”

“Pupils’ personal development is excellent.”

The Benefits of Being Purposefully Small

Lockers Park is a boarding school for boys aged 4 to 13, nestled within 23 acres of Boxmoor woodland in Hertfordshire with Radlett, Berkhamsted, Harpenden, St Albans and Bushey close by.

We hold a highly regarded academic reputation for achieving excellent results. Small classes of 16 pupils or fewer allow teachers to know every single individual well, and to get the best out of them with a personalised approach. Boys achieve excellent results because they are so well supported and encouraged.

Each year, boys secure places at a wide range of Senior Schools including Berkhamsted, Harrow, and St Albans. Considering the school’s small size, boys are awarded a high number of scholarships. With deep knowledge of the Senior School landscape, teachers work with each family to find the best school for their son.

As a purposefully small school, pupils are able to

make the most out of a rich and varied school life which gives every boy the chance to try everything there is on offer. Lockers Park encourage boys to find and develop their passions.

The happiness and wellbeing of the boys is at the heart of Lockers Park. With around 175 boys a year, the teachers know each pupil not only by name but by personality and learning style. Simply put, Lockers Park know what makes each boy tick. The family-like community – which actively involves parents – gives the school a special, caring feel built on a well-established framework of respect. All boys are encouraged to experience boarding during their time at the school and there are a range of full- to flexi-boarding options which reflect the needs of modern family life.

Come and see for yourself how our purposefully small school could benefit your son; join us at our 15 October Open Morning and 21 October Stay and Play session. lockerspark.co.uk

“The happiness and wellbeing of the boys is at the heart of Lockers Park”

The Benefits of Online Schooling vs Traditional School

Minerva’s Virtual Academy is a unique, online independent school for pupils aged 12 - 18. Pupils study the British Curriculum from the comfort and safety of their own home, wherever they live in the world, receiving an affordable, world-class education to rival traditional school for the first time. The school enables its pupils to thrive academically, make friends online and off, and helps them develop the skills needed to succeed in the modern world. Pupils choose from 20 subjects at GCSE and A Level. Personal mentors support each child outside lesson hours. A dynamic weekly timetable includes live lessons, virtual assemblies, after school clubs, wellbeing sessions, and an exciting co-curricular learning programme called “World Changers” that tackles the most urgent issues of the day. Minerva’s Virtual Academy is run by Headmaster Lawrence Tubb, who taught at Wycombe Abbey for nine years, and is supported by a team of outstanding teachers and mentors who’ve come together to re-define what’s possible for school-age children in the 21st century.

• Pupils can receive a world class education at home, anywhere in the world

• Pupils can study at speeds that suit them - they are no longer held back or silenced by the class majority

• Anxious pupils can gain confidence by leaving the pressure of the traditional school behind them

• Pupils receive higher quality one-to-one attention via personal mentors

• Parents are closer to their children on a daily

“The school enables its pupils to thrive academically, make friends online and off”

basis, helping to create strong family bonds

‘We think the pandemic has been an opportunity for us to reflect on what is important and we are getting very comfortable with the fact that there are many paths to success for children and that traditional school does not always bring out the best in every child. Overall, Minerva has been a life-saver for all of us. It has been a great experience and it has brought out the best in our daughter.’

Mr & Mrs W. minervavirtual.com

FASHION, HEALTH

FASHION & BEAUTY

QUOTING SHAKESPEARE

Taking centre-stage in Rory’s extensive collection of signature silk scarves - this collection celebrates the 400th of the publication of William Shakespeare’s 1623 First Folio. The designs features references to the First Folio’s publication date, Shakespeare’s birth and death years, and his portrait, as well as figures dressed in Elizabethan costume, and recurring motifs in the plays, including a rose, crown, dagger, skull, and quill pen. roryhutton.co.uk

SIMPLY ENCHANTED

Stunning wrap effect top with ruffle detailing, concealed button and ties up to the front. Match with the Far Away Skirt for the dreamiest combination!

SET OFF IN STYLE

We love this Waxed Canvas and Leather Backpack, a practical and stylish all round bag to take you from work to the wilderness. scaramangashop.co.uk

BRITISH BEANIES

This simple, classic cuffed hat is the perfect partner for all outdoor activities. The cuff makes sure your ears stay nice and cosy. The eco-friendly yarn we use is soft and very pleasant to wear - and of course it’ll help protect our planet too. betterfullstop.co.uk

STEP INTO AUTUMN

Our autumn/winter collection this year is focused around the collector. There is a fascination with collecting objects and revealing long-forgotten treasures. It’s all about the find, big or small, and how objects come together and create beautiful collections.

Autumn SALE

October 1st – 15th

a head start on your Winter Warmers!

warm and cosy this winter

great

Christmas Gnome Doorstop Monday 17 October 10am-2pm

Christmas Stocking Bunting Advanced Beginner Wednesday 23 November 10am-4pm

Range of classes starting in October, these include:

Dressmaking Friday 21 & 28 October, 4 November 10am-2pm

Stock up and stay cosy this winter!

Please visit our website

Dressmaking with Stretch Fabric for Beginners Wednesday 9 November 10am-4.30pm

many more classes and to reserve your place.

Amalily Jewellery

AMALILY designs are diverse. Inviting you to find your perfect style. From bold, statement pieces, to fine dainty designs, there is something for everyone. From granddaughters to grandmothers, fashionistas to country girls and the much-anticipated Men’s collection will launch at the end of October. It is the jewellery brand for the discerning eye. For those that may have expensive taste but don’t feel the need to buy super expensive jewellery!

Alison Lloyd started AMALILY in 2012 and has grown the brand organically, opening the first store in George Street, St Albans in 2020. This hidden gem, situated just off the high street in

the historical Cathedral District, offers a fresh approach to jewellery shopping. Pieces are lovingly displayed and the “happy to advise” / “happy to let you browse” service is refreshing. Good music and friendly vibes further set the scene for you to discover your favourite pieces.

AMALILY jewellery reflects innovative craftsmanship, from stylish costume jewellery, everyday gold hoop earrings and paperclip chains to semi-precious stone rings, .925 Sterling Silver pieces made in the UK, precious 18ct Gold bracelets and unique one-off treasures. You may also choose to shop from the comfort of your home, as AMALILY offers an excellent service online at www.amalily.com. You can order with postal delivery, packaged perfectly from their St Albans shop. 95% of their orders are dispatched same day so expect a speedy service. Gift-wrapping options are available or give the gift of choice with a Gift Voucher!

THE DETAILS

Shop online at amalily.com with Free Delivery on orders over £50. Or visit the store at 23 George Street St Albans

Opening Hours: Monday - Saturday 10am - 5.30pm

Sundays 11am - 4pm

Copenhagen Earrings & T Bar Bracelet

Peony Gemstone Earrings

Astro Gold Cuff & Lani Curve Ring.

AMALILY,

George Street,

Albans,

HOW DESIGNERS PAID TRIBUTE TO THE QUEEN AT LONDON FASHION WEEK

Catwalk shows featured moments honouring the late monarch. By Katie Wright.

London Fashion Week was swiftly scaled back following the announcement of the death of the Queen – a longstanding supporter of the UK’s largest creative industry – just a week before the biannual event was due to begin.

“As a business-to-business event London Fashion Week will continue while observing Royal Protocol and the event will be dedicated to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II with our own moments of respect,” the British Fashion Council said in a statement.

“Having spoken to designers and industry members, we as an industry want to unite as a creative and business community to celebrate Her Majesty’s legacy and commitment to creativity and design.”

Parties were called off, some catwalk shows (including high profile designers such as Burberry and Raf Simons) were cancelled or postponed, and all presentations due to take place on the day of the funeral were rescheduled.

Designers who did go ahead as planned paid tribute to the late Queen on the catwalk in a variety of ways. Here’s how London Fashion Week’s big

names marked the occasion during a subdued spring/summer edition…

S.S. DALEY

Winner of the LVMH Prize for Young Designers, Steven Stokey-Daley’s third runway presentation was based around a dramatised reading of the love letters between Vita Sackville West and Violet Trefusis.

The show opened with bells tolling, before seven black-clad models carrying white candles processed down the catwalk – which many saw as a mournful tribute to the late Queen.

“I was the first to tell her [my grandmother] the Queen had died, and she burst into tears on the phone. And I don’t know why, I felt really emotional about that,” Stokey-Daley told Vogue, admitting he has mixed feelings about the royal family: “I grapple with my personal standpoint on the monarchy, as regards to class.”

NENSI DOJAKA

Attendees at up-and-coming designer Nensi Dojaka’s show walked over a white petal-strewn

“Designers who did go ahead as planned paid tribute to the late Queen on the catwalk in a variety of way”

floor to reach their seats (white flowers are often used in memorial bouquets).

On the catwalk, models including Emily Ratajkowski carried delicate floral sprigs during the finale – thought to be lily of the valley, one of the Queen’s favourite flowers.

JW ANDERSON

Perhaps the most literal tribute of London Fashion Week came at the JW Anderson show, which was held in a casino arcade against a backdrop of neon-lit gambling machines.

The final look at the colourful collection was an oversized black T-shirt dress emblazoned with a simple ‘Thank you’ message to the late monarch.

CHRISTOPHER KANE

A minute’s silence was held in remembrance of the Queen before Christopher Kane’s show at London’s iconic Roundhouse venue.

The SS23 collection featured Kane’s signature blend of the weird (prints straight out of human anatomy textbooks and transparent latex straps that gave models fake six-packs) and the wonderful (pastel-hued blouses and lacy LBDs), as well as vibrant floral prints reminiscent of the kind the monarch used to wear.

In the show notes Kane said he was inspired by “the young Queen Elizabeth and Princess Margaret roaming the grounds of Balmoral”, and a cape detail jumper and skirt combo was inspired by the Queen in her last official photograph.

HALPERN

Michael Halpern honoured the memory of Queen Elizabeth II with the regal opening look of his show, which was presented in silence.

Inspired by a conversation Halpern had with the late monarch, in which he expressed his love of ostentation, the billowing blue cape was topped with a mint green headscarf similar to the kind worn off-duty by Her Majesty.

ERDEM

Erdem Moralioglu, a designer popular with royals including the Princess of Wales, dedicated his SS23 collection to the late Queen, citing one of her most famous quotes in his show notes: “Grief is the price we pay for love.”

A collection of largely pastel, white and chartreuse dresses in the designer’s typically ornate

style was bookended with a handful of black and white Fifties-style tailoring and full-skirted evening looks, topped with black mourning veils.

RICHARD QUINN

The late monarch famously sat front row at Richard Quinn in 2018 and presented the young designer (now a major fixture on the LFW schedule) with the inaugural Queen Elizabeth II Award for British Design.

Recalling that iconic moment, the Londonborn talent dedicated SS23 to the Queen, opening the show with a series of all-black looks featuring many of her sartorial signatures – from headscarves and crowns to belted coats and ballgowns – while archive footage from her youth played on a big screen.

Black confetti rained down on the catwalk during the finale, the dramatic show celebrating the life of Quinn’s most high profile and influential supporter.

“Kane said he was inspired by “the young Queen Elizabeth and Princess Margaret roaming the grounds of Balmoral”

ATELIER FERRARI MONTI

want a bespoke, handmade piece created especially for you and made to fit perfectly. Everything, from the pattern development to the finishing touches, make the creation special.

Bespoke tailoring might seem at first a long journey between the decision making and the fitting before collecting the finished garment but it’s worth it. Once you have tried it, you will find it addictive because the only thing you have to worry about is what you like and need for your wardrobe.

We are Cristopher and Annalisa, an Italian couple in life and in business. We have been calling St Albans home since 2013 when we set up ‘Atelier Ferrari Monti’ after graduating from Istituto di Moda Burgo in Milan.

Our brand brings together sustainable fashion and beautiful Italian fabrics with our philosophy to create universal pieces and staples that can stay in your wardrobe forever, ideal for everyday wear as well as special occasions.

Our made-to-measure service is for you if you

If you would like to see a specific piece come to life, get in touch to find out more.

ferrarimonti.com

Atelier Ferrari+Monti

“Every garment we create is unique and designed for youfrom the perfect shape, style and fit to the right fabric choice that will fit you and no one else. The design is adjusted to complement your body shape and needs”

We are a slow fashion brand designing and producing bespoke garments with Italian fabrics all in our St Albans Atelier.

MAKE THIS FESTIVE PERIOD YOUR TIME FOR CHANGE

With the Christmas season around the corner, office parties, dresses and family gatherings might not be the only things weighing on people’s minds. Whether you’re the cocktail party hostess, the office social butterfly or even the festive family cook, Christmas is a time when people want to look and feel at their best, which for many includes losing excess weight.

At LighterLife, we know there’s more to longlasting weight loss than what’s going into your mouth - it’s about what’s going on in your head. That’s why we combine expert eating plans for fast, effective weight loss with free-to-attend weekly meetings.

Instead of focusing on recipes and exercise, you explore ideas that help you understand what triggers your overeating, with guidance from trained weight-management Mentors. That’s how we are different – getting your mind sorted as well as your body. We’ll help you explore different solutions and ideas through CBT Mindfulness work helping you discover the ‘whys’ of your

relationship with food and develop the skills you need to make a lasting change.

LighterLife’s new FlexiFasting plan is an ideal way to navigate your Christmas temptation ready for January. This convenient and flexible plan allows you to fit your weight-loss goals around your festive plans.

We take away the stress of calorie counting and meal-planning with our nutritionally complete Foodpacks, which offers fast, safe and motivating weight loss. Available in a choice of plans to suit your weight-loss needs – conventional food is replaced with our nutritious and delicious products, giving you all the vitamins and minerals your body needs.

So, what are you waiting for? Enter 2023 with the right mindset and ensure it’s the year you start living your lighter life.

Alicia can be found at St Albans Girls School, Sandridgebury Lane, AL3 6DB on a Saturday at 10am, so come along and find out how to get started.

For more information, visit LighterLife.com.

“We take away the stress of calorie counting and mealplanning with our nutritionally complete Foodpacks, which offers fast, safe and motivating weight loss”

The Kensington Wing

The Kensington Wing is the dedicated private maternity unit at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, providing women and birthing people with around-the-clock clinical care, comfortable en-suite private rooms and hospitality services.

Located in the heart of Chelsea and Westminster Hospital – part of one of the UK’s top rated hospital Trusts – your baby’s and your safety and wellbeing are reassuringly supported at all times. The Kensington Wing is immediately located next to the hospital’s outstanding and newly expanded Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and a consultant anaesthetist remains on site at all times 24/7, dedicated to the needs of our patients.

To ensure the safety of women, birthing people and birth partners, The Kensington Wing has important infection control procedures for staff and visitors to adhere to but remain welcoming to your chosen birth partner for all stages of your pregnancy, birth and postnatal stay. Your individual room and en-suite facilities are a haven, and the catering and hospitality team ensures your stay is relaxing as well as safe. On the Kensington Wing the consultant obstetricians, midwives, nurses and maternity support workers provide care as a team and are delighted to offer both consultant-led and midwife-led maternity packages.

If

THE DETAILS

The Kensington Wing’s highly experienced team of midwives welcome enquiries and the opportunity to discuss midwife-led care in more detail. These ‘meet the midwife’ sessions are always a relaxed and special time to talk and discover more without any obligation. For those women and birthing people who are appropriate for midwife-led care, the team provide full support throughout your pregnancy and the midwifery team are available 24 hours seven days a week for advice or concerns throughout your pregnancy, birth and postnatal stay.

The consultant-led care package allows you the choice of one of their experienced consultant obstetricians to personally guide you through your pregnancy and birth. Your consultant provides continuity and individualised expertise throughout your journey. They build a relationship with you and your partner through the antenatal period to give you confidence to birth safely with them in line with your birth preferences. They continue to support you through the postnatal period, including your 6 week postnatal check. All consultants are available to meet you and your birth partner without any obligation.

The Kensington Wing enquiry team are always happy to support with these arrangements and answer any questions.

&

INTERIORS

MAGIC OF CHRISTMAS

Handcrafted on luxurious cream velvet, the gorgeous penguin cushion is exquisitely appliquéd in cream and black wool with the detail hand-embroidered in antique gold thread. The little penguin stands upon the melting ice surrounded by golden sequin stars. This lovely Penguin Cushion will make a wonderful gift for someone who loves the natural world.

RAISE A GLASS FOR FIZZ SUPREME

Known for their eccentric take on nature-inspired interiors, The Curious Department launches a fabulously new design this Autumn, ‘Fizz Supreme’. Inspired by the excess and glamour of the 1970’s party scene, from the sensory multicoloured disco lights to the most decadent Palm Springs champagne pool parties, this playful design has been created to evoke positive energy in a curiously reimagined style. thecuriousdepartment.com

SCANDI STYLE TABLESCAPE

Reflecting the fresh seasonal colours of Sweden, this luxury collection breathes life into dining. Alive with energy and light, showcasing the latest design ‘Gotland’ by Swedish Artist Nina D. nina-d.co.uk

NEW ADDITION

Luxury online retailer Naken.co.uk has expanded its offering by introducing a range of wallpaper, featuring designs from some of the most celebrated names in the industry. naken.co.uk

BEING BOLD

London design house Divine Savages has teamed up with the masters of luxury vinyl, Beija Flor, to create a unique collection of rugs & mats inspired by a shared obsession with brave colour and bold pattern.

BEDS ARE UZZZ LONDON HEAD OFFICE

Telephone: 0208 578 2883

Email: greenford@bedsareuzzz.co.uk

BEDS ARE UZZZ HIGH WYCOMBE

Telephone: 01494 411421

Email: wycombe@bedsareuzzz.co.uk

BEDS ARE UZZZ HEMEL HEMPSTEAD

Telephone: 01442 266148

Email: hemel@bedsareuzzz.co.uk

BEDS ARE UZZZ MAIDENHEAD

Telephone: 01628 630063

Email: maidenhead@bedsareuzzz.co.uk

Visit www.bedsareuzzz.co.uk to find out more

The fitted furniture files

What the design world is coming to realise more than ever recently, is that what defines a home, is you. The people living in it. The modern home is focusing on expressing the personalities within it through decoration and design. This could be by displaying meaningful, memory-filled objects, by planning a room around a treasured work of art or by more actively placing the needs and preferences of a house’s occupants at the core of how it looks and functions. Houses are becoming as unique as the people within them, telling their stories and revealing their personalities.

That’s where fitted furniture comes in, pieces of practical storage created precisely for the space you need them in.

Think of fitted furniture and what first comes to mind may not be hugely inspiring. We’re here to prove you wrong. It’s an art form, not only designed to fit specifically into the space you need it in, but – yes – beautiful, creative, expressive as well as the very definition of useful.

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a bespoke piece that slides perfectly into place. Perhaps there’s an element of ASMR to it: look at how it lines up so perfectly with the ceiling. See how it fits so smoothly into that alcove. Watch how it skirts around the bumps in the wall. Feel how smoothly those doors glide open. Oooo.

Fitted furniture is about making the most of every centimetre. About stretching up high, adding an extra shelf, making room for more pairs of shoes or finally creating somewhere to house

that LP collection. It makes life easier and rooms smarter.

Chaplins’ range of beautiful, designer fitted furniture is ready and waiting to be crafted into shape around you, your home and those objects that you most care about, whatever they may be. The in-house fitted furniture expert Denis Barclay knows every trick in the fitted furniture book: here he talks through everything you need to know to ready your room for a bespoke storage piece.

How can Chaplins help with fitted furniture?

We offer a complete design and installation service. In the first instance, you are invited into our showroom to browse the options – during this initial meeting, we discuss the space you are considering and how you want to use the area, as well as any ideas you have and designs you like so we can make suggestions to better meet your brief. We then work from your plans or visit your home, depending on the stage of the project. It’s also important to establish the budget.

What falls under the category of ‘fitted furniture’? It’s more than wardrobes, right?

Over the 35 years, I have been involved with the furniture business, there are not many spaces that I have not planned fitted furniture for, inside or outside, be it under the stairs, boot rooms, TV rooms, studies, libraries, bedrooms, dressing rooms and craft workshops. Modular furniture is very

adaptable. It’s only limited by the imagination, and of course the budget.

Which designer brands offer fitted furniture?

We work with premium Italian brands Lema, Molteni&C and Porro, and heritage German company Interlübke. They are modern and sleek, with finishes ranging from matt and high gloss lacquers to glass, metals, ceramics and veneers. There’s a lot to choose from.

Our Lema wardrobe studio showcases different styles of wardrobe in a range of finishes. We also have a door bar showing a small format selection of doors options.

What do I need to know before my fitted furniture consultation? Do I need to get out the tape measure?

The more information you can bring, then the more meaningful the initial meeting will be. Generally, we ask customers to have photos of the space, or architect’s plans if it’s under construction. It’s also helpful to really consider your storage requirements so that we can make best use of the space available.

What’s the timeline between consultation to installation?

After the first discussion, we’ll produce an initial plan and costing, then the process develops from there. In some instances, it can be very quick, while larger projects can take months. Then of course it takes 10-12 weeks for the furniture to be made and

delivered from the factory. Installation is quick – it usually takes a day for a conventional room, to a week or more on a larger project.

WHAT’S THE FIRST STEP?

DO I NEED TO COME INTO THE SHOWROOM? WHO DO I TALK TO?

Call us or email us at sales@chaplins.co.uk and we’ll discuss the best way to get started.

For more ideas on bespoke designer storage, see chaplins.co.uk, or book an appointment to visit the 25,000 sq ft luxury lifestyle showroom in Hatch End where you’ll find the latest shelves, doors and finishes under one roof.

Chaplins Furniture, 407-577 Uxbridge Road, HA5

4JS Tel: 020 8421 1779

Back to basics with Warm Minimalism

Throughout the years we have seen many interpretations of Minimalism within the interior world, but one that is taking Autumn 2022 by storm is Warm Minimalism. Unlike its predecessor, a warm minimalist décor brings texture, comfort, and character to a simple yet functional living space. It is a trend that makes the most of organic shapes, patterns, textures, and natural materials while keeping a clutter-free, sleek environment. How do you incorporate the warm minimalist style into your home interior? Here are some Cult tips for the perfect cosy home…

Let’s start with the basics; for a warm minimalist scheme, you need to integrate a warm colour palette. Neutral tones like beige, off-white and creams are the building blocks of the trend –consider our Viola taupe dining chair and Illfra opal pendant light. With a soft boucle upholstery and sleek brass accents, these clean lines and curves will add a welcoming tone to your dining room or kitchen, which is amiss with typical minimalist décor.

If you are still feeling that your living space is lacking some texture, why not consider layering soft furnishings with natural materials and organic shapes/patterns. Consider our Lambert dining bench and our Orla neutral rug - with a natural

cane seat and a sturdy oak frame, the Lambert is a versatile piece that will slot into any dining space while working perfectly with the abstract face expression on the Orla. Add some depth to your bedroom by combining the soft organic curves on the Mhairi set of 3 stone vases in neutral, with the Luis ceramic hanging basket in mottled white -sure to increase the warmth!

Nevertheless, whatever way you decide to approach the ‘Warm Minimalism’ trend, we hope that these tips will help to increase the cosy factor in your décor and bring back the warmth to your space this Autumn. cultfurniture.com

Origin Indoor Pools - Top Considerations

So, you’ve decided on an indoor swimming pool, what now? There are many decisions to be made along the way, attention to detail and precise planning are crucial when designing a successful swimming pool and pool house.

For anyone wanting to begin the process, here are the answers to key questions to help with the decision-making:

Are you interested in a stand-alone indoor pool house or a pool house extension to your home?

This is the biggest decision you’ll need to make when it comes to your indoor swimming pool as placement and location play a crucial role in the

success of a project. There are advantages and disadvantages to both options. You’ll need to think about the main use for the swimming pool, do you want a place to escape away from the home or do you want it attached to your home? Will it play a big part in your daily routine? Do you have a budget you’re working towards?

Will you need planning permission?

For a stand-alone pool house, one that is freestanding and complies with the permitted development design criteria, it’s likely you won’t need planning permission. However, a pool house extension to your home will need planning permission. Origin has a wealth of experience in gaining planning approval for indoor pools and

“For a stand-alone pool house, one that is freestanding and complies with the permitted development design criteria, it’s likely you won’t need planning permission”

they also manage the whole process for you so, no need to panic!

Do you start with an architect?

No, Origin does it all. They provide initial design sketches and budgetary proposals free of charge in their feasibility studies. Architects are extremely well versed with domestic construction details, but unfortunately, an indoor pool is very different. An architect can provide an outline design for an indoor pool but this may be an unnecessary expense as many don’t have the knowledge or insurance needed to take that design further.

Which features have the biggest impact on cost?

The most popular size for an indoor pool is between 8m to 12m as the bigger the pool, the bigger the cost. For avid swimmers, there are some

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

excellent counter current swim devices available making the size of the pool less important. Buying a pool cover is one of the bigger investments you’ll make throughout the process but they’re worth it as an important part of the pool design. They retain heat, reduce running costs and provide a level of safety, making them a necessity rather than an option. When adding different features to your indoor swimming pool, it’s important to remember your original motivation. Did you want to create a place of relaxation? Your own fitness centre? A social hub for friends and family?

Why Origin?

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

Beautiful birds

North Yorkshire, UK - North & Nether’s newest wallpaper collection, Caged Bird, has been unveiled today. The sixth collection in the brand’s catalogue, Caged Bird features vintage bird illustrations with a trademark North & Nether twist.

According to Megan Slack at Homes & Gardens, bird motifs are trending because they represent freedom, optimism, and the ability to escape.

In addition to bird motifs, biophilic designs have featured on Real Homes roundup of wallpaper trends - and of course maximalist patterns are everywhere. The Caged Bird collection takes inspiration from these trends and reimagines them with birds in captivity, including elements both vintage and modern.

Four of the designs in the collection feature a different species of bird in a cage - either real or metaphorical. Magpie and Pigeon are more traditional patterns, while Rifle and Roller have more modern lines.

Magpie has the namesake bird flying amid irises, seemingly aware of the mesh cage which surrounds them. Look closely in Pigeon, and you will see leg bands on a few of the birds.

Rifle has a vibrant teal background with a modern gate illustration - with other flora and fauna around, the birds look to find freedom.

Roller is a linear barbed wire print with the bird guarding its eggs.

Feather, a supporting pattern, is a dense motif

of abstract feathers in the collection’s signature teal colour.

Teal is the focal point of the collection - a timeless colour which, according to colour psychology expert Karen Haller on The Design Sheppard, evokes feelings of tranquillity, calm, peace, and balance - a direct contrast to the feelings of being held captive.

Mara Nieuwsma, Managing Director, comments on her colour choices: “I was drawn to the vivid teal feathers of the rifle and roller, and wanted to carry this hue through the collection, balanced with black, greys and beiges to make the designs more versatile. The cages arrived naturally through the creative process, in a desire to add something unexpected to a familiar motif.” northandnether.com

CREATING STUNNING PRODUCTS FROM QUALITY MATERIALS…

Creative Curtains & Interiors has been a family run business for nearly 40 years.

We pride ourselves on offering our clients quality handmade curtains, soft furnishings, blinds and shutters, as well as a full interior design service.

Although styles have changed over the years, one thing that hasn’t is our commitment to offering the best personal service you simply wouldn’t get from department stores. Craig will be more then happy to guide you and take you through the whole process from the initial designing stage, through to the installation.

With a huge range of successful and diverse projects, from 8 bedroom homes to 1 bed apartments, we also like to work with landlords and take on commercial projects including hotels and offices.

You can feel assured that we have the experience and expertise to help you design and create your

perfect home interiors.

Our showroom is based in Chigwell but we not only cover Essex but also all of Hertfordshire and London.

All products can be motorised for your complete convenience and security purposes. creativecurtainsandinteriors.com

THE ULTIMATE SECRET COCKTAIL BAR

Do you love a secluded bar, somewhere that no-one knows your name and always has your favourite drink available?

What if that secret bar was actually in your own home, discreetly hidden behind bespoke cabinetry that when opened reveals all the essential ingredients for your perfect night in!

Urban Myth, a local leading kitchen company, have just launched a new kitchen design that delivers exactly that. Featuring a pocket door system that when closed, the doors conceal

everything inside and blend seamlessly into rest of the kitchen cabinetry. However, when opened, the doors slide into a pocket, opening to a wellequipped bar.

These pocket doors can hide a selection of units and appliances, allowing full flexibility of the design, allowing the space behind to be whatever meets your needs. With a wide range of glass storage, open shelves, or drawer units to choose from you can create the drinks cabinet of your dreams.

But don’t stop there, if you’re more of a coffee person why not create a breakfast station or a pocket door larder. The beauty of the pocket doors is that they can be retracted whilst in use allowing all your contents to be easily accessible but when you want to hide the clutter you can just close the doors making sure your kitchen always looks its best with minimum effort.

This design features Urban Myth Serica Matt Black cabinets contrasted with an interior using Halifax Pewter Oak both styles from their Urban Life range manufactured from their own factory in Essex. The Urban Life range has a wide range of colour and finish options that can be tailored to create your own unique design.

If you’re renovating your kitchen this year, visit urbanmyth.net for some more design inspiration or book an Urban Myth showroom appointment by calling 0208 531 3413.

“Featuring a pocket door system that when closed, the doors conceal everything inside and blend seamlessly into rest of the kitchen cabinetry”

Come home to quality...

driveway inSTallaTion

Thinking about a new driveway, modernising or improving your front of house? Our experienced team can provide you with a complete service from the initial design through to finished article.

The block paving, reSign bound and naTural STone SpecialiST

Having over 25 years of experience within our home improvement sector, we have built an unrivalled reputation for the quality of our installations and the care and the service provided to our customers.

As well as experienced and professional driveway and patio installers, we also work alongside leading governing bodies within our industry. Being approved installers of Marshalls, Bradstone and Brett landscaping, we are able to give all our customers the peace of mind that carrying these accreditation’s deliver. Our approved status allows us to proudly and confidently service Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire and North London with decades of design ideas. We can offer a vast range of product choices and solutions to all size and manner of installation requirements.

paTio and garden ServiceS

Being more than just professional hard landscapers, we provide a complete service that offers garden and patio design. With a free consultation backed by skilled craftsman, we can create the outdoor space that you have always dreamed of.

oTher ServiceS

can also add the finishing touches to your new garden or driveway project, including

such as raised kerbing, steps, sleeper walls, Landscaping for natural or artificial lawns, and also a range of quality fencing products, to name but a few.

TinkleTorium, St Albans

Situated in one of the most premier independent shopping streets in the Cathedral Quarter in St Albans, TinkleTorium is a newly opened Bathroom showroom offering a variety of high quality & affordable brands.

We are as much about people as about luxury bathrooms and because we are independent, we are free to source the best brands across a wide range of prices and offer our customers advice they can trust. Buying a bathroom involves many complex decisions and having someone guide you through the process, we feel, makes all the difference. Combining the latest trends and ideas

to suit your budget, we can source a huge selection of baths, toilets, shower enclosures, bathroom taps & shower fixtures, basins, shower trays, shower doors, walk-in showers, LED mirrors & cabinets, radiators, towel warmers & bathroom accessories.

Although our showroom may be new, we don’t lack experience, having over 30 years in the industry. Originally a family-run business established in 1989 to both trade & public, we are now a small team with a passion for bathroom design.

OUR SERVICE:

We pride ourselves on providing the best service for our customers. We understand that planning a bathroom is a big decision, whether it’s an update on a cloakroom or a complete refurb on a main bathroom. We offer various levels of design from simple CAD design, planning, quoting and mood boards for inspiration. If necessary, we can visit your home to take the required measurements and once you have a good idea on your space, we can advise you on brands and products. We are open 6 days a week and offer a free appointment service if you wish to come in and sit down with us. Contact us on: 01727 615779 info@tinkletorium.co.uk

“We pride ourselves on providing the best service for our customers. We understand that planning a bathroom is a big decision, whether it’s an update on a cloakroom or a complete refurb on a main bathroom”

HIGH QUALITY BESPOKE GLAZING SOLUTIONS

We are a family run manufacturer & installer of windows, doors, glass roofs & bespoke glazing solutions for North London and Hertfordshire and Buckinghamshire.

We are committed to providing excellent customer service, good value products and a wide range of products for our trade and residential customers.

We have spent many years researching the best profiles, components and technologies for residential and commercial use.

We are proud to be partners with Schuco UK Aluminium and we believe that the Schuco products are simply the best on the market.

Traditional sash windows to bespoke Aluminium front entrance doors to bifolds and lift and slide doors to French doors and modern roof lights, all our work is guaranteed, and we have an after sales service that we will ensure you are 100% satisfied during and after installation.

At Multitrades Windows & Doors, we are conscious of our planet and always try to use the most environmentally friendly and sustainable option. We are a responsible manufacturer and only source materials from suppliers who practise sustainable development. multitradeswindows.co.uk

TYE ARCHITECTS : Case study

Settled in the open countryside in Buckinghamshire this house is nestled in a secluded rural location, reflecting its surroundings of mature woodland. The setting and elegant simplicity were paramount to the design of this house.

The brief was to provide a dwelling which responds to its context in materiality. A simple palette of carefully selected materials includes the use of stone from the earth on the lower level and timber on the floating box of the upper level, enhanced by a green tinted series of panels to provide transparency and reflect the surrounding plot-scape.

With clean geometric lines, the floating first floor cantilevers and balances on the ground floor, providing long reaching views from the master bedroom and several short distance views of the plot from the other bedrooms. This architectural element pulls you into the site and allows you to marvel at its geometry and weightlessness.

The lower floor is grounded by the strong stone element; the roofing detail of the first floor floats, gliding with the frameless glazing.

Approaching the house, the glass enhances the large open spaces. The open plan ground floor connects from the front entrance area through to the rear garden and a horizontal expanse of glazing connects the rear living spaces to the garden-scape to the rear.

Vertical electronically controlled louvres to the windows provide solar shading and privacy shading

to the bedrooms. Wooden sliding door panels, some recessed and hidden in the walls allow for areas to be discretely closed off. The house is fully equipped with a home cinema room and an outdoor amphitheatre. A sunroom in the garden provides an area for outdoor living where you can sit outside in a sheltered area at different times of the day and enjoy the views of the house and the landscaped garden.

This project is energy efficient and environmentally friendly with ground source heat pumps providing the heating and hot water. To further reduce the carbon footprint, the house is also equipped with solar panels and low energy lighting.

This dwelling was designed to create an elegant, contemporary family home with an open plan layout that is an environmentally sustainable, contextually relevant and timeless concept. tyearchitects.com

“This architectural element pulls you into the site and allows you to marvel at its geometry and weightlessness”

THE SHAPE OF THINGS TO COME

new lines exude a gentle elegance evoking a sense of strength and quiet reassurance.

Whether used to dictate style on the overall space to create a very modern minimalist aesthetic or act as a complementary contrast with more organic forms within the design, Waters Baths of Ashbourne’s range of angular baths add a simple purity that fits both; along with a lifetime guarantee that promises a future of flawless bathing.

Forming a new idea on functionality in a smaller-sized room with the all-new Skye shower bath, this latest addition to the hugely popular Space collection is crafted from one piece of seamless 100% recyclable Lucite® acrylic. In both left and right hand options, it hugs the wall and is designed to be used in conjunction with a shower screen.

The counterswing to curves is here as Waters Baths of Ashbourne embraces the emerging new move towards angular baths delivering their own refreshingly modern take on contemporary style across all four of their collections to suit every home and budget,

Whilst smooth gentle curves and soothing organic shapes of curved baths and basins continue to enjoy huge popularity in bathroom design, for those keen stay ahead of the curve and work a different angle, the rise in more sleek, angular shapes is making its presence felt. Inspired by the Industrialist and Modernist styles of the 1920’s and 30s, tempered by passing of time, the

Create a stunning statement using the strong silhouette of the matt stone Haze Freestanding Bath as a centrepiece, complemented with its coordinating countertop basin from the Elements Collection.

Offering a freestanding bathing experience yet designed to be set directly against a wall, limiting splashes but neither fun or luxury, Waters Baths of Ashbourne’s River Back to Wall Bath made from Lucite® acrylic blends beauty with practicality.

Gain a sense of sanctuary and on-trend style with the slim-line elegance of Waters Baths of Ashbourne’s re-released Pool Freestanding Bath which combines expert craftsmanship with the very latest manufacturing techniques and materials.

watersbaths.co.uk

“Create a stunning statement using the strong silhouette of the matt stone Haze Freestanding Bath as a centrepiece, complemented with its co-ordinating countertop basin from the Elements Collection”

Are you fed up with clutter?

wide-tread wooden steps. There’s really no need for anyone to be struggling in and out of the loft anymore.

Freeing up a room currently clogged with clutter can save a lot of trouble and expense, people looking for more space consider moving to a bigger home, but this needn’t be necessary. People are surprised by the amount of space a loft can create, and shelving can be included to maximise the space.

Access4Lofts is an approved Which? Trusted Trader which means they have been accessed by Which? and passed their stringent checks. For added confidence, Access4Lofts has full public liability insurance and all ladders and work carried out comes with a Lifetime Guarantee. To find out how Access4Lofts can create more space for you and your family or to book a free survey and quote, visit Access4Lofts.co.uk or call on 0800 909 8967.

For many home owners, the loft is an underutilised area because it can be difficult and dangerous to reach. Loft ladder installers, Access4Lofts, whose slogan is ‘Creating Space The Easy Way’ can change all that, often in less than a day.

Much of the work the Access4Lofts installers carry out is for growing families, for who storage space is crucial, but many clients are also looking for the safest and most accessible way to open up this space in their homes.

Access4Lofts provides a free survey and quote service so you can find out what is achievable with your loft area. For the full works, customers can get a retractable 3-section ladder, a new hatch, a floating floor over the loft insulation and lighting.

Some homeowners who perhaps inherited an old loft ladder, may want to consider an upgrade as in many homes the loft hatch and ladder are out of date compared to what’s on offer now. The new ladders are spring-assisted and lighter so they’re much easier to use. The ladders can also come with a safety handrail, and there is an option of

THE CANOPY

New retirement development for Chigwell meets later-life buyers’ needs

The Canopy is a brand new development of 25 luxury apartments for the over55s, designed carefully to meet the criteria of later-life buyers.

Richard Williams, executive chairman of Cognatum Property, says, “Today’s retirement buyers are looking for properties that require little in the way of day to day maintenance, are easy and secure to lock up and leave, with excellent transport links, extensive amenities within easy walking distance, and that are energy efficient. The Canopy ticks all those boxes.

“Retirees are attracted by the hassle-free lifestyle of retirement estates, with all the benefits and reassurances of a managed environment and an estate manager on hand if issues arise.”

Located in the historical village of Chigwell, The Canopy, set in its own woodland, is a perfect balance between bustling convenience and leafy retreat. The large communal roof terrace, equipped with soft furnishings, and heaters for cooler days, is a perfect spot to enjoy views over the development’s green and leafy landscape and further afield.

London’s Liverpool Street Station is a 30-minute tube ride away, while the M11 and M25 are easily reached.

The dip-in dip-out nature of a community of like-minded people is popular with later-life buyers.

Canopy’s comfortable lounges, situated on each floor, are a welcoming space for residents and guests to get together for a chat, a game of backgammon or cards, or to read the paper in companionable quiet.

Other on-site facilities include:

High-speed broadband

Electric car charging points

Lift to all floors

Highly efficient communal heating included in the service charge

Dedicated parking space per apartment, plus visitor spaces

personal emergency alarm service

• On site Estate Manager to ensure smooth running of the estate and to be on hand for advice

in an emergency.

from £599,950

THE DETAILS

While the development officially launches on 27th October, Chigwell Life readers are being invited to an exclusive pre-launch view of The Canopy. To book an appointment: thecanopychigwell.co.uk 01491 821170

sales@thecanopychigwell.co.uk

Cognatum, an independent not for profit company, has over 60 retirement estates across the country.

BE A PART OF HISTORY:

Leading placemaking developer, Comer Homes, has opened the doors to Newland Park, an impressive residential development set on 200 acres of landscaped grounds. Under private ownership since the 14th Century, this is the first opportunity to live on this iconic site, with a collection of 74 luxurious new-build houses and apartments, ranging in price from £695,000 to £1.950 million, released in the first phase.

Each available exclusively through sole agents Hamptons, at 1.425 million, the first collection of 10 semi-detached 2,045 sq. ft. three/four-bedroom houses will provide exceptional living spaces, with high ceilings, contemporary kitchens fitted with high-grade integrated appliances, ensuite bathrooms, spacious landscaped front and rear gardens, as well as private driveways and ample visitor parking.

The first phase also includes the impressive Pankhurst Collection of two and three-bedroom ground floor and duplex apartments. Priced from £695,000 and ranging in size from 1,055 sq. ft. to 2,831 sq. ft., the heritage-style homes are wellproportioned and configured to meet modern lifestyle needs, with flexible spaces that can be freely arranged. The majority of homes include private terraces or balconies, as well as allocated parking with the option of electric vehicle charging points.

Setting a new standard of living in the area, the interior design of each home will reflect the prominent surroundings and refined history of the site, with bespoke handmade furniture specially curated to create the highest quality finishes.

A stunning health & wellness spa facility will be open to residents of Newland Park, as well as members of the local community. The state-ofthe-art spa centre will provide a swimming pool, tennis courts and Racquets Club, multi-sports pitches, Padel courts and tennis courts with an

inflatable dome. There will also be a five-star spa, bar, restaurant and relaxation terraces.

Additionally, there will be ample underground parking, with the facility for electric charging units, whilst 24-hour security will be present across the site. There will also be a courtesy shuttle bus service in operation, exclusively for residents to local commuter stations and popular shopping destinations.

Newland Park will also offer residents direct access to expansive private grounds that have been restored to retain the design and layout created by eminent landscape designer Thomas Mawson in 1903.

Steeped in history, Newland Park has been home to or welcomed a wide range of eminent figures. One of the most notable to frequent the manor house is King George III, who used to enjoy hunting on the grounds with then owner Henry Gott.

Surrounded by thick woodland, Newland Park offers fantastic privacy, which once made the former estate the perfect safe haven for Emmeline Pankhurst and numerous Suffragette members. Under the ownership of politician and women’s rights advocate Henry Devenish Harben and his wife Agnes Harben (founder of the United Suffragists) the house and grounds became a refuge for suffragettes from 1910 to 1921.

The calm and peaceful setting has also attracted numerous famous authors, poets and playwrights, such as acclaimed author H.G. Wells and Irish playwright George Bernard Shaw.

THE DETAILS

For further information on the first phase at Newland Park contact the Comer Homes sales team or Hamptons on 01494 506 364, Email: info@newlandpark.com or visit newlandpark.com

Take your chance to live on the spectacular private grounds of a former Georgian mansion at Newland Park