Life Magazines (Kent editions) March 2018

THIS IS SUFFOLK again, anew Suffolk is a collection that’s known and loved for its simplicity, its less-is-more approach and its Shaker influence.

By Neptune Kitchens

WELCOME TO OUR

MARCH ISSUE THE TEAM PUBLISHED BY THE FISH MEDIA GROUP LTD

17, The Broadway, Old Hatfield, Herts, AL9 5HZ, UK 0844 800 8439 www.thelifemagazines.com

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© All Rights Reserved. Life Magazines are copyrighted and may not be reproduced in any form either in part or whole without written permission from the publishers. Whilst Fish Media Group Ltd. takes every reasonable precaution, no responsibility can be accepted for any property, services or products offered in these publications and any loss arising therefrom. Whilst every care is taken with all materials submitted to Life Magazines, the publisher cannot accept any responsibility for the loss or damage to such material. Fish Media Group Ltd. reserves the right to reject or accept any advertisement, article or material prior to publication.

Opinions expressed are strictly those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views or policies of Fish Media Group Ltd. We accept no liability for any mistakes and no responsibility can be taken for the content of these pages.

Editor Faye Manning ••••• Editorial Assistant Katie Miller ••••• Sub Editor Ben Jones ••••• Fashion Editor Lewis Casserley ••••• Design & Production Lisa Wade ••••• business development managers Tim Lees, Lisa Westerman ••••• SALES Vanessa Lane, Anita Hill ••••• Accounts & admin Kathy Manning, Ken Fleet ••••• Directors Rory Smith, Patrick Smith

CONTENTS OUT & ABOUT

11

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

29

LUXURY KITCHEN GUIDE

41

HOUSE & GARDEN

59

FOOD & DRINK

73

We put fantastic local businesses and exciting events in the spotlight each month Fashion, health and beauty news to keep you looking and feeling your best Everything you need to create the perfect kitchen Keep it local for everything house and home Bringing you updates on the local food and drink scene

0844 800 8439

www.thelifemagazines.com

out & about – We put fantastic local businesses and exciting events in the spotlight each month – i m a g e : S PA M ALOT AT TH E OR C HARD TH E ATR E

OUT & ABOUT

21 MARCH & 1 April

Yew Tree Cottage - Open Garden for NGS Lots of seats and secret corners, many unusual plants - hellebores, spring bulbs, old roses, many special perennials. Created and maintained by owner.12pm-5pm.

Yew Tree Cottage, Penshurst, Kent TN11 8AD

25 MARCH & 2 April

Mere House - Open Garden for NGS Increasing areas of snowdrops and daffodils in spring. Extensive lawns set off herbaceous borders, ornamental shrubs and trees with year-round foliage contrast.

Mere House, Mereworth, Kent ME18 5NB

[ e v en t s ]

OUT & ABOUT

28 MARCH - 2 April

23 MARCH

10 & 17 MARCH

Tonbridge Market & Bootfair The biggest fruit & veg stall in Kent, also have pet food, household, plant and flower stall, hot food and luggage and fishing tackle stall. Plus, there is a knitting wool stall, a food stall and many more, parking is free. 7am-2pm. Bootfair cars are £10 and vans are £20 for more information call or text Simon 07756169178.

Tonbridge Market, Angel Lane, Kent tn9

7 march

Introduction to face painting This course provides product knowledge and general information about product and equipment supplies and will give you basic application techniques and design skills. You will leave with the knowledge of how to paint at least six faces.

Information will be given on how to develop these basic faces and to extend your repertoire. 10am-3pm.

St Johns Centre, Wrotham Road (just off A227), Meopham, Kent, DA13 0AA 12 MARCH 2018

Bore Place - Astronomy Evening If you love looking at the night sky then head along to this event and join the Edenbridge and District Astronomers for an evening of astronomy. Fingers crossed for a clear night so you can look through powerful telescopes to see the Moon and seek out dark sky objects. The team will talk you through the observations and give hints and tips about other key astronomical objects or events you can look out for over the coming months.

Adult £8, child £6. 7-9pm Bore Place, Bore Place Road, Chiddingstone, Edenbridge, Kent TN8 7AR

Zippos Cirque Berserk!

Showcasing the finest in traditional circus thrills and skills. Combining contemporary cirque-style artistry with adrenaline-fuelled stunt action, this astoundingly talented international troupe includes over thirty jugglers, acrobats, aerialists, dancers, drummers and daredevil stuntmen. Featuring the world’s most hair-raising circus act – the legendary motorcycle ‘Globe of Steel’. Tickets, times and prices at churchilltheatre.co.uk/Online/ticketscirque-berserk-bromley-2018 Churchill Theatre, Bromley, Kent BR1 1HA

OUT & ABOUT

EASTER FUN 24 march 15 April Easter Garden Trail How many Spring themed children’s poems do you know?

Come and find them hidden in our garden. Pick up your trail sheet from the visitor centre.

10am-4.30pm, £2.50 per trail sheet (includes small prize).

Hall Place & Gardens, Bourne Road, Bexley, Kent DA5 1PQ

[ e v en t s ]

OUT & ABOUT 10-11 MARCH

Antiques & Collectables Fair This free entry Antiques and Collectables Fair runs at Coolings Garden Centre. 10am till 4pm.

Free entry.

Coolings Garden Centre, Rushmore Hill, Knockholt, Kent TN14 7NN

25 MARCH 30 MARCH - 1 April Easter Weekend Fair Feed the baby animals in the barn, say hello to the live hatching chicks and take a tractor to explore the orchards on the Easter egg trail. Get creative with the kids craft and don’t forget to take a ride on the magical miniature railway or join in our crazy egg and spoon race. 10am till 4pm each day.

Brogdale Collections, Brogdale Farm, Brogdale Road, Faversham, Kent ME13 8XZ

Maidstone Resolution Run Join us for this fantastic 5k/10k/15k at Mote Park in Maidstone. The run will begin at 10am. Entry includes: Resolution Run fundraising pack; Book at www.stroke.org.uk/events/sporting-fundraising/resolution-run-maidstone-2018 Mote Park, Mote Avenue, Maidstone, Kent, ME15 7RN

AFTERNOON TEA 11 march

Spoil your Mum with a special Afternoon Tea at Hall Place. Enjoy a traditional tea with tea, finger sandwiches, cake, scones, jam and cream. Who wouldn’t want to indulge!

Advance booking required.

Hall Place & Gardens, Bourne Road, Bexley, Kent DA5 1PQ

29 MARCH 2 April

Easter Egg Trail Children take part in a letter trail around Rainbow Meadow, Loose Valley and claim their Easter egg prize at the end. Magician and Easter bunny. 11am-2pm £3.

Rainbow Meadow, Loose Valley, Kent ME15 0ET

14 MARCH 2018

Traditional Afternoon Tea: to include freshly made finger sandwiches, scones, assorted cakes, tea and coffee. £20 per person. Champagne Afternoon Tea £25 per person.

Will also include a raffle and other entertainment. Book and pre-pay through reception at the Centre by calling 01227 470876. From £20 per person 1pm to 4pm.

The King’s School, Birleys Pavilion, St. Stephens Road, Canterbury, Kent CT2 7JS

OUT & ABOUT

Altogether now! ‘Lovely Spaaam! Wonderful Spaaam!’

(It does what it says on the tin)

O

f all the silly sketches performed throughout the four series of Monty Python’s Flying Circus, one of the best-loved was and still is the ‘Spam’ sequence. In a greasy spoon café, packed out with horn-helmeted Vikings, a middle-aged coupled, played by Eric Idle and Graham Chapman are ‘flown in’ to the set on wires. They try to order breakfast only to find that every item on the menu includes Spam.

Back in 1970, when the sketch was first aired on TV, everybody knew that Spam was a brand of canned, cooked meat that had been very popular during and after the Second World War. Its unmistakeable pink rubberiness surfaced in sandwiches, fried in breadcrumbs or served hot with chips in schools and homes throughout the fifties and sixties.

At a time when proper meat was in short supply and rationing meant that you couldn’t get hold of a juicy lamb chop for love nor money, Spam was a cheaper, more available alternative.

But what actually was it and how did it get its name? Well, the company that produced it once said that it means ‘Shoulder of Pork and Ham’. But the name has also been explained away as SPiced hAM. For Eric Idle, when he came to write his awardwinning comedy musical, it was a gift that goes on giving. Lovingly ripped off from the 1975 film Monty Python and the Holy Grail which in turn was a merciless parody of the Arthurian legend and the Hollywood musical it spawned, Camelot, Spamalot continues to honour the fake-looking tinned meat 80 years after it first graced your grandma’s kitchen cupboards.

Spamalot arrives at The Orchard Theatre, Dartford from Tue 24 - Sat 28 April. Book online at orchardtheatre.co.uk or call the Ticket Office on 01322 220000.

16 MARCH 2018

“For Eric Idle, when he came to write his award-winning comedy musical, it was a gift that goes on giving”

OUT & ABOUT

THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING ERNEST at th e churchill th e atr e

with West End star Peter Sandys-Clarke who plays Jack How is the tour going so far?

The tour is going really well so far and we have had great houses and responses to the production in Guildford, Hereford, Plymouth and Belfast. The great thing about touring is that you get to explore lots of the country so I’ve been trying to make the most of it and going up hills and round monuments and so on as though they’re going out of fashion.

We’ve got a lovely company which makes such a difference to the touring experience.

Where are you most looking for performing on the tour?

With the exception of Bromley, of course? I grew up in the North of England so I’m looking forward to getting up to Manchester and York. Joking apart I am looking forward to performing at Bromley again too - it’s a great theatre and, as a Crystal Palace resident, only half an hour from home.

What can Bromley audiences expect from this production?

We are trusting Oscar Wilde’s brilliance and trying to be as true to the script and the world of the play.

Alastair (Whatley, the director) was very determined during rehearsals that we actors shouldn’t try to dominate and lead the play but rather that we should allow the relationships, themes and repartee which are all so beautifully crafted to flourish naturally. I hope this is a pure production of which Oscar would be proud.

Why do you think The Importance of Being Earnest remains such a popular play?

It’s just so brilliantly whimsical and at the same time incisive. It’s very barbed in the way it treats snobbery and class consciousness but the barbs are so precisely written and so well hidden in the candy floss of the world that the characters find themselves blundering into them. It’s really fun to perform too and there are so many little layers and foibles to each character that every night the relationships shift slightly which keeps it fresh.

18 MARCH 2018

Oscar Wilde’s The Importance of Being Earnest is known as a brilliantly funny play, do you have a favourite moment from the show?

Spoilers coming up... It would be so difficult to pinpoint a favourite moment. My character has so many victories and defeats which he glories in or despairs at respectively. I’m very lucky to be working with such a great cast the scenes between Jack and Algy are such fun to play but I do love my battles with Lady Bracknell too - Gwen Taylor is so superb: my character refers to Lady B as a gorgon and she certainly is, but she’s a gorgon with a keen awareness and enjoyment of the ironies of life and of her own social position and power. I know it’s a cop out but I have to say that I love it all - it’s such a privilege to perform it every night.

“It’s just so brilliantly whimsical and at the same time incisive” THE DETAILS Tuesday 3 - Saturday 7 April Box office: 020 3285 6000 www.churchilltheatre.co.uk

UK Pool Contractor of the Year. Family Company celebrating 52 years of excellence.

OUT & ABOUT

Benefits of a preschool as part of an all through Independent school

“I

n the EYFS, excellent achievement is promoted through well-planed schemes of work which allow pupils’ thinking to be extended, these utilise a wide range of resources, a rapid pace in lessons and teachers’ excellent subject knowledge.” ISI Report 2016 Bishop Challoner is an independent co-educational Catholic school educating children from ages 3-18.

Children may enter the nursery setting the term that they celebrate their 3rd birthday. They are divided into groups alongside their peers – one group for the youngest children and two groups for older children preparing for transition to school the next September. One of the nursery’s unique qualities is its highly qualified and mature staff base. The staff team shares decades of experience in supporting children in their formative years.

Dedication and commitment are key.

The Nursery setting boasts three well-equipped classrooms all with their own PC, a kitchen for both serving lunches and cooking activities and an additional library space complete with interactive Smart board, used for IT activities, but also for quieter activities where turn-taking, listening and child-participation are desired outside of busy classrooms.

The outdoor learning area at Bishop Challoner Nursery provides a stimulating learning space. The area is fitted with safety flooring, a permanent sand box, climbing equipment, water table, weighing scales and playhouse. Staff encourage all areas of learning out of doors and regularly take activities outside to be delivered in the natural environment.

In the last academic year prior to transition to school, children in the Nursery access their own on-site Forest School for one morning a week and enjoy the learning that the outdoors provides in all seasons.

Being part of a larger school environment means that nursery children reap the benefits of a wide range of resources. The Nursery sees itself as part of the whole school and joins in with whole school events such as assemblies and Masses and other special events.

The Nursery is very lucky to be able to access all the facilities the main school has to offer including the junior infant playground, the sports field, a trim trail, gymnasium and dining hall spaces for events and PE sessions, and the stage which is used for the

22 MARCH 2018

“The outdoor learning area at Bishop Challoner Nursery provides a stimulating learning space. The area is fitted with safety flooring, a permanent sand box, climbing equipment, water table, weighing scales and playhouse”

Christmas Nativity Play.

Bishop Challoner is dedicated to good transition at all stages of the school. We are proud of our transition between Nursery and Reception. The EYFS as a whole gets together once a week for play sessions and celebrates events together, giving them the opportunity to get used to the Reception teacher and the environment they will be joining in the September.

Children in the Nursery enjoy a varied curriculum which promotes both child-initiated and adult-led learning which is carefully planned and delivered to support progression. Nursery children are supported not only academically but in their emotional intelligence. The use of an online learning journal to record observations and assessments means that parents are able to view photographs and videos of their child’s activities, the ability to comment on these ensures open dialogue with parents about how their child is progressing. The Nursery prides itself on outstanding relationships with parents, supporting the most important aspect of all – the children.

Ms Ludlam, Head of Nursery Contact: hknowles@bcsweb.co.uk to arrange a tour

OUT & ABOUT

“How do we get in?”

Discover The Waterfront Enclosure During Henley Regatta 2018

THE DETAILS The Waterfront Enclosure during Henley Royal Regatta 2018 Wednesday 4th July – Saturday 7th July 2018 10.30am – 5.30pm Pricing and all-inclusive package details: Wednesday £249.00 + vat Thursday £289.00 + vat Friday £299.00 + vat Saturday £249.00 + vat Includes free car parking, complimentary regatta programme and live rowing commentary.

Bookings available on 01635 200 200 or by email to jaz@thewildfork.co.uk www.thewildfork.co.uk The Wild Fork, The Old Cart Shed, Haw Farm, Hampstead Norreys, Berkshire RG18 0TP

24 MARCH 2018

T

hese were the words on everyone’s lips last year at Henley Regatta 2018 as they stumbled across the exclusive Waterfront Enclosure.

Located by the iconic start line opposite beautiful Temple Island, The Waterfront Enclosure run by stylish event and catering company The Wild Fork is emerging as the place to be at the world famous sporting event.

The eye-catching stretch tent and idyllic English country garden add style and atmosphere to a perfect summer’s day out, either for entertaining corporate guests and colleagues or for gathering friends and family for a real treat.

Arrive mid-morning in time for champagne and a classic Pimms with delicious pastries, fresh juices, miniature English breakfasts and healthy granola, yoghurt and fruit compote pots on offer too.

Friendly, attentive staff are on hand to ensure guests quickly unwind with soft, live music playing in the background.

A 4 course lunch is served from 12.30pm onwards, shared across banqueting tables with views of the river and the team of chefs impressively working the wood-fired ovens. Expect overflowing platters of gin and elder cured salmon as well as rabbit rillette, duck liver parfait, smoked pigeon and celeriac remoulade to start. To follow, mouthwatering lamb with orzo, spring greens, tzatziki and flat breads and deliciously tender chicken accompanied by Israeli couscous, heritage tomatoes and tabbouleh. A selection of miniature English classic desserts and a fine cheese board complete the feast.

The inspired bar stocked with thoughtfully selected wines, spirits, summer cocktails and craft ales remains at guests’ disposal for the rest of the day before afternoon tea is served - a temptation too irresistible to miss.

Tickets are selling fast so see below for booking information plus don’t miss out on a 10% discount for all early bird bookings made before the end of April. Quote TWFHENMAGOFFER

OUT & ABOUT

What’s Mine is Yours

Steve Johnston, Head of Family at Judge & Priestley, on the perils of breaking-up without a separation agreement.

O

verheard on the train last week: “He was absolutely desperate to keep Louie.

I begged him to have the car instead.

Didn’t care. It was only Louie. My mum took him. I looked distraught and said “Louie must have run off ”. He looked at me strange. Of course he doesn’t believe me. I even had little cards done up. But in his eyes he’s not quite sure anymore.”

Hiding the dog from your soon to be ex- might seem slightly odd and tough on poor Louie, but break-ups can get complicated. Family lawyers see cases of the gamers and schemers and worse who hide money, transfer a business, or assets, to friends or temporarily run a business down in myriad ways, all in the name of, if not exactly winning, then trying not to lose.

However, the majority of separation cases involve each party wanting, more or less, to do the right thing by the other. The problem often is, however, there was never a specific discussion about what the right thing looks like in practice.

There are so many difficult questions, especially if there are children involved. Who leaves your home and who stays? Do both of you leave and you

26 MARCH 2018

rent it out? What if you do not agree to sell? How much does it matter who has been paying for what anyway?

Trying to work through this with little or nothing at all to guide you, at a time when you are very likely to be upset, angry and confused (or just plain determined that you will keep his dog by hiding it at your mum’s), can be a daunting prospect. Our advice is to get the details down from a place of contentment and harmony when, well, working out what is fair to both of you is not so hard to imagine.

A pre-defined separation agreement can help to identify the best route through the maze of details and compromise that you need to set each other on your new respective paths and to separate fairly all that you have worked hard for and built-up together over the years.

For more details on setting up a separation agreement, or any other family law question, Steve can be contacted by email: sjohnston@judge-priestley.co.uk or by telephone on 020 8290 7331.

Blue Velvet, the home of contemporary and Luxury footwear direct from the heart of Europe. Always one step ahead, they have established themselves on their quality and first-rate service.

Visit Blue Velvet Shoes at 174 Kings Road, SW3 4UP or call 020 7376 7442 buy online www.bluevelvetshoes.com

fashion, HEALTH

& beauty

– Fashion, health and beauty news to keep you looking and feeling your best – i m a g e : t h e n a u t i c a l c o mpa n y

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

‘Pimping my ride’ takes on a whole new meaning at a local care home Rectory Court

R

esidents at Leah Lodge in Blackheath have benefitted from a creative approach to help prevent falls and injury. The team members noticed that the people living at the care home sometimes found it difficult to remember their walking frame which led to inconsistent use and some avoidable tumbles. Each zimmer is adjusted to suit individual needs so it is important that people use the right one. The team suggested that if each walking frame looked a bit different it would help people recognise their own more easily.

This resulted in an initiative, ‘Pimp my zimmer’ where team members have worked with each person to decorate their walking frame with items that reflect their interests, hobbies and personality. The fleet of zimmers at Leah Lodge is now suitably adorned, highly visible and residents can locate their own personal walking frame far more easily by their signature theme – a favourite football club, a passion for cars or a floral display of pink roses amongst many others!

“Team members have worked with each person to decorate their walking frame with items that reflect their interests, hobbies and personality” Activities Co-ordinator, Herve Boscher, commented: “This project has been a lot of fun and our residents take real pride in their new ‘pimped ride’! But it has a serious and positive outcome as the number of falls amongst people who are using walking frames has dramatically reduced. And each zimmer is now like a mobile piece of art!”.

30 MARCH 2018

Leah Lodge

Leah Lodge Care Home in Blessington Road is one of two residential care homes in Blackheath belonging to the Cinnamon Care Collection, which is an exclusive group of luxury care homes and retirement developments occupying beautiful locations around the country. Rectory Court on The Glebe, which opened in November 2017, is the sister home in Blackheath. Both homes combine luxurious surroundings with genuinely caring people and are places where quality and compassion are stitched into the very fabric of each building, creating a warm and supportive atmosphere in which residents can live comfortable and fulfilled lives. Leah Lodge also offers care for people living with dementia.

If you would like to find out more about Rectory Court, Leah Lodge and their current 4-weeks-forthe-price-of-3 respite care offer, call Maggie at Leah Lodge on 0208 108 0076, or Sue at Rectory Court on 0203 797 7620.

You may also wish to know more about the Cinnamon Care Collection including Emerson Park, the newest development of retirement apartments to buy and a brand new care home opening in spring 2018 in Hextable, Kent.

For further details see www.cinnamoncc.com

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

[NEWS]

BEAUTY & FASHION WINTER WARMER This men’s wool rich peacoat for in true breton style, is designed in France. A true classic. £170, www.thenauticalcompany.com

A TOUCH OF ELEGANCE

THE GIFT OF BEAUTY Perfect for Mother’s day, the Winter in Venice Gardeners’ Gift Luxury Hamper from Virginia Hayward will leave your lucky recipient feeling special. Offering an array of gorgeous bath soaps, scrubs and lotions, infused with extracts of sweet smelling Cedarwood, leave them feeling pampered and relaxed after a day working in the garden. Along with a pair of pretty patterned gardening gloves and presented in a beautiful red plant pot.

WE LOVE This strong, stunning statement ring fom Pernille Corydon, with a large synthetic coral stone on a simple gold band. £50, www.printerandtailor.com

32 MARCH 2018

SENSE OF ADVENTURE The canvas barrel bag, used by sports women and men for decades. Jimbag has updated the original by combining fashion with function. The barrel bag takes you from the office to the gym with ease. £39.99, www.jimbag.co.uk

Revive your favourite LBD with a touch of elegance. Shades of gold, copper, yellow and orange will make you sparkle, and breathe new life into your favourite evening outfit. Framed in the middle sits an artist’s rendering of the Black Breasted Parrotbill, a dwindling species found in northeastern India. £140, www.in-spaces.com

silly socks These Soup Socks make an ideal quirky gift. They’re available in three designs: minestrone, spring vegetable and carrot & coriander and come presented in a soup can. £9.99, www.gettingpersonal.co.uk

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

Finding your perfect retirement property

S

pecialist retirement housing developments are becoming far more popular in the UK but we still lack well behind many other countries. In the UK, just 0.5% of the over-65 population live in a retirement community whereas in the USA, New Zealand and Australia over 5% of the over-65’s live in retirement communities*.

But when looking for a retirement property there are a number of other considerations to take into account than just the property.

If you’re in your 60’s, 70’s or 80’s you have possibly lived in the same home for a number of years and along with that comes plenty of fond memories. However, lots of people in this age bracket are living in houses which although have wonderful memories, are now becoming a burden.

The cost of heating and the upkeep of a large house just for one or two people, along with the ongoing maintenance of the garden can soon make the home more of a chore than an enjoyment.

So what are the choices and what is the best option?

In truth, only you can decide what is the best option but the choices are greater now than ever before. And forget the stereotypical retirement housing impression; todays retirement properties provide luxury living with fantastic facilities and services.

We spoke to Paul Hart, manager at the soon to open retirement village, Emerson Park in Hextable, Kent, to get his thoughts.

“Like any house purchase, first off do your wish list of what you would like the property to have. Most retirement apartments are one- or twobedrooms so, as an example, if it’s a two-bedroom property would you want an en-suite to the master?” said Paul.

“Think about the location; is it easy to get to places and is it easy for friends and family to get to?

These are the normal house buying thoughts but with a retirement property you should think about other areas as well. Most retirement developments will have a communal lounge but some, such as Emerson Park, provide far more facilities including a restaurant, bar, beauty and fitness facilities as well as services such as a driver and vehicles along with a dedicated activities and events manager.”

Continued Paul, “We all hope it would never

34 MARCH 2018

happen, but you should also consider what would happen if you needed help in an emergency. Is the emergency call system to people on-site 24-hours a day, or to a call centre?”

It’s clear that today there is more choice than ever before so it’s certainly worth weighing up the pros and cons before making a decision.

To help you with this decision process we have come up with these 4 top tips: • The old adage location, location, location still applies.

• Make sure the apartment is right for you. Don’t just downsize, right size!

• Go for somewhere with more facilities than just a communal lounge. You may not need it now, but you might in the future.

• The same applies for services and care. You may be driving now but what would happen, for example, if you had to give your car up?

The show apartment at Emerson Park is available to view Monday to Saturday 10am – 4pm and on Sunday by prior appointment. For further information on Emerson Park call 01322 515415 or visit www.cinnamoncc.com/emersonpark *Source – Associated Retirement Community Operators (www.arcouk.org)

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

Going for Gloss G

loss hair and spa opened 2016 by Marc and Agnieszka.

The team at Gloss specialise in advanced biodynamic Technology as well as plastic-free environmentally friendly packaging. Our H.balance ammonia-free no stress no damage to hair fibre.

Leaving your hair with a unbelievable shine.

We specialise in tailor made colour and hair treatment, delivering a personal luxury service. We offer our clients the multi- sensory experience of a head Spa salon for wellbeing – including environ facials & ,body massage, Manicures with Bio sculpture, Evo oxygenate gel,Shellac, CND hard gel and Dipping powder, and many more beauty treatments and pampering. Ask for Sally or Anushka.

Book now for your tailor made haircut and colour. For more information about our treatments visit our website www.gloss.salon and simply call us on 01883732100. Late night Thursday.

38 MARCH 2018

“We offer our customers the multisensory experience of a spa hair salon which offer exclusive service”

SKIN LESION REMOVALS & REDUCTIONS • Skin tags • Moles and warts • Red veins and blood spots • Mili, syringomas and xanthelasma • Pigmentation and lentigo correction

OTHER SPECIALIST TREATMENTS • Semi-permanent makeup - eyebrows and eyeliner • Areola and nipple reconstruction • Scar relaxation - improvement to trauma scars • Scalp hairless tattooing for men and women • Hollywood and Brazilian waxing • MCA - treatment for fine lines, wrinkles

Gillian has been in the industry for over 30 years and has trained in the UK, Middle East, USA and Europe.

2017 Winner Kent HealtH & Beauty aWards

BIAE, ITEC, BABTAC, SPCP, C&G, CIBTAC, MGBT, IDI, IIAA.

APPEARANCES AESTHETICS ADVANCED AESTHETIC CLINIC

07711 067 789

gillian@appearancesaesthetics.co.uk www.appearancesaesthetics.co.uk

opening hours Monday: 9am - 6pm Tuesday: 9am - 6pm Wednesday: 9am - 6pm Thursday: 9am - 8pm Friday: 9am - 6pm Saturday: 9am - 6pm Sunday: Closed

Follow Gillian at:

Welcome to Gloss Hair & Spa, Oxted, we are more then just a hairdressers… We would like to introduce you to Oway, a revolutionary hair care range, made of naturally derived ingredients grown, harvested and developed on a unique, biodynamic eco farm in the hills of Bologna, Italy, which is now available in our salon! Our team is looking forward to working with you with our totally ammonia-free, natural hair colouring system. Our beauty team and skin care professionals work with Environ Skin Care products and we offer semi permanent make-up, High Definition Brows, Bio Sculpture Gel , Cuccio Powder Nails and many more beauty treatments.

Along side our experienced team of senior stylists we would like to introduce Sabrina our international stylist from Italy to Gloss Hair and Spa, who specialises in a unique 3D cutting technique.

59 Station Road EaSt, oxtEd RH8 0ax • 01883 732 100 • info@gloSS.Salon • www.gloSS.Salon

LUXURY

KITCHEN guide

– Everything you need to create the perfect kitchen – i m a g e : S TO N E HA M S

LUXURY KITCHEN GUIDE

Kitchen Trends for 2018 T

hinking of getting a new kitchen but are unsure where to start? Whether you have a compact galley room or an impressive open-plan space, this year’s trends are abundant in choice and style. Adrian Stoneham, Managing Director at Stoneham Kitchens, provides inspiration for your new room with his top kitchen trends for 2018.

Perfect in purple Pantone, the world’s designator of Colour of the Year, has introduced a colour that is bold, bright and bursting with possibility for 2018 – Ultra Violet. With purple often associated with creativity and artistic brilliance, this year’s contemplative colour is ideal if you’re looking to refresh and revitalise your kitchen.

Starting at the subtler end of the spectrum, ultra violet makes a great accent colour for trims, the inside of cabinets and kitchen accessories. Think pops of purple in the form of tea towels, glassware, or pots and pans. For a design feature, purple splashbacks are the perfect way to incorporate this elegant and emotive shade into your kitchen. Play with material and patterns for pockets of textural interest using tiles, or go for a sleek aesthetic with a glossy or glass finish splashback. For something really bold turn an entire wall ultra violet or choose this popular hue for cabinet exteriors or the bulk of your kitchen island to make an ultra-statement.

Good as gold Warm gold, copper, brass and rose gold accents will become increasingly prevalent in kitchen décor this year. A luxe addition to any cooking space, they make it possible to transform a simple kitchen design into a stylish show space with just a few simple elements. Acting as jewellery for the room, knobs, handles and light shades can all be used to add character and will complement the kitchen’s overall colour palette. Pendant lights in particular, hung over an island or a bar, are the perfect accent pieces bound to offer a touch of sophisticated glamour to every meal.

46 MARCH 2018

Classy quartz

“Open shelving is becoming increasingly popular with homeowners who want to make a statement in their kitchen”

Due to its unique qualities and benefits, quartz will continue to be a beloved worktop material throughout 2018. Fabricated from natural quartz, one of the hardest minerals found in the Earth, small amounts of glass or metallic flecks are added to create variety, resulting in today’s on-trend and beautiful quartz worktops.

Providing a shiny, satin look, quartz offers practicality as well as style. Impervious to stains, self-sealing and bacteria resistant, these worktops are perfect for families with young children and can be engineered to look exceptionally beautiful thanks to modern manufacturing techniques.

Open up Open shelving is becoming increasingly popular with homeowners who want to make a statement in their kitchen by adding their own personality.

Small accessories, beloved cook books and treasured trinkets can be placed on exposed shelving; greenery, including succulents and hanging ivy, are also popular choices and play to another of this year’s trends – bringing the outside in. Plants create a bright, airy feel, and matched with other unique items on your shelving units, they will deliver a kitchen that truly feels like your own.

Come to the dark side While lighter hues will always remain en vogue, a resurgence in dark, moody shades is dominating the market and looks to continue well into 2018 and beyond. Plum, navy and graphite grey are

especially popular, making for a dramatic style that oozes elegance. Opt for a kitchen in full colour across cabinets or add accents in bolder shades, such as burnt orange, terracotta or saffron yellow, to accentuate certain aspects of your room.

Disguise your devices Smart storage is making a return as a big trend for homeowners who wish to embrace the everlasting appeal of minimalist design or those who simply have limited space. Integrated into kitchens with clever panelling and built-ins, gadgets can maintain their functionality and are then concealed in an appliance garage after use. Tambour roller shutters, swing-out doors, display cabinets and vertically bi-folded doors are highly favoured and each design has something for everyone. Space tower units in particular offer peerless, accessible storage in tall units. Expect to find food processors, kettles and much more expertly hidden in intelligent highquality storage solutions.

Material mix-up Mixing materials will remain a key trend in 2018 with concrete in particular continuing as a popular choice with both kitchen designers and homeowners. Appearing as understated accents, sinks or even kitchen accessories, advances in material manipulation means that shades of grey aren’t your only colour option, with concrete available in pastel shades too. You don’t even have to have the real thing, with concrete effect finishes now available for kitchen cabinetry or even splashbacks.

Mix and match with another on-trend material, such as timber, to create warmth and interest. This trend is perfect for those who love creating varied compositions of colour, texture and finish.

Transformative taps Kitchen technology has become ever more integral in kitchen design, and accessories such as taps is no exception. Transformative taps, such as those in Quooker’s range, are increasing in popularity, providing boiling water instantly for speedy cooking and beverage preparation. The latest offering is Quooker’s Flex Tap, a boiling-water and mixing tap in one, with a flexible pull-out hose for more reach and functionality. Another great product homeowners will love is a hands-free tap which works via a sensor, offering the added benefit of improved hygiene by eliminating the need to physically touch the fixture. Finally, sparkling water taps are the latest craze; an environmentally friendly choice for those who can’t live without the taste of carbonated H20. www.stoneham-kitchens.co.uk

“Another great product homeowners will love is a hands-free tap which works via a sensor”

MARCH 2018 47

LUXURY KITCHEN GUIDE

A benchmark for taste and understated elegance

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hristopher Peacock remains the benchmark for taste and understated elegance which has graced many of the world’s most luxurious private estates and residential developments across the globe. Including high profile clients from the world of arts, sports and business.

Whether it’s a Kitchen, Library, Master Bathroom and Dressing Room or a simple Laundry room.

The same attention to detail and practical design follow through the entire process. From the initial design concepts to the finishing process and on-site installation the same care is provided throughout.

Spectacular hardware provides jewellery like finishing to the furniture and the exceptional joinery and material selections ensure that beauty is not only skin deep.

The company philosophy has always been to produce hand crafted cabinetry of the highest quality,

48 MARCH 2018

using the finest materials and offering an unparalleled level of professional service to its clientele.

Christopher Peacock offer a full turn key service from concept to completion to make the experience seamless.

A visit to the inspirational showroom where you can see a wide selection of rooms including The Refectory Collection with its impressive island and elegance of New Hampton styling.

The Motra Collection offering modern lines in a wide variety of finishes from Oak, American Walnut & the Christopher Peacock Paint Library for the Hand Painted finish.

The Scullery Collection with its special Doggy Bowl feeding area!

The Hepburn Collection for the Ultimate Dressing Room for Her and The Library Collection for Him. www.peacockhome.com

LUXURY KITCHEN GUIDE

Grants

of s e v e n o a ks John Grant has been creating high quality, bespoke kitchens, bedrooms, bathrooms, studies and free standing furniture for over 30 years.

E

ach piece of furniture, whether free standing or fitted is created to my client’s individual design and personal needs.

I am keen to hear their ideas and will advise on all types of different woods and their benefits, as well as painted finishes and the final result and appearance.

Competitively priced*, I combine traditional hand crafted joinery methods and hand finishing to the highest standards with modern superior fittings, accessories and appliances.

I encourage my clients to view each commission as it takes shape at my workshop in Seal to ensure that their needs are met, even if this changes as the work progresses. I arrange and coordinate the whole process from design to completion. * All of our bedroom and kitchen furniture is priced by the metre run Unit 3, Chart Farm Seal Chart, Sevenoaks, Kent, TN15 0ES; Telephone: 01732 763610 or 07809 504251; info@grantsofsevenoaks.co.uk www.grantsofsevenoaks.co.uk

50 MARCH 2018

“I combine traditional hand crafted joinery methods and hand finishing to the highest standards with modern superior fittings, accessories and appliances�

LUXURY KITCHEN GUIDE

INSTANT TRANSFORMATION

S

erving customer in Kent & South East London is Granite Transformations a owner operated company offering the ultimate in Kitchen Makeover solutions.

The multi award winning company is celebrating its 14th year of business, with its unique offering of granite, quartz and glass worktops that fit directly over your existing kitchen surface. With our exclusive 6.5mmm engineered stone fitting is achieved in just one day and often includes the upgrade of appliances such as sinks, taps and ovens at the same time and offered at trade pricing.

In addition, we offer a complete kitchen door replacement service from stripping back to the bare carcass and changing doors, panels, cornice & pelmets to give you that truly new kitchen look for a fraction of the cost of a new kitchen and without the mess and demolition.

With many styles of new and contemporary doors and over thirty colours to choose for the design possibilities are endless and all fitted by our

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own long serving professional fitting staff. Every item is made bespoke to your exact requirements and all the worktops are manufactured in our head office in Tunbridge Wells, Kent As members of Checkatrade we also boast an impressive 1200+ reputation reports posted on line with an average score of 9.9 for its remarkable service and attention to detail to provide the customer with a swift and hassle free service with stunning results. To see the very latest on what our customers are saying about us visit: www. checkatrade.com/ granitetransformationstunbridgewells We have showrooms in Tunbridge Wells, Ruxley Manor Garden Centre in Sidcup and Polhill Garden Centre, Sevenoaks where you can see our product and speak to one of our staff to discuss your requirements. We offer free in home consultations with one of our designers to show you exactly how we can transform your kitchen to suit your desired style and budget.

“With many styles of new and contemporary doors and over thirty colours to choose for the design possibilities are endless�

THE DETAILS Visit our website at www.granitetransformations. co.uk to see how our product and service can help you or simply call 01892 517385 for more information or to book an appointment.

LUXURY KITCHEN GUIDE

YOUR PERFECT KITCHEN FROM CREATIVE interiors

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reative Interiors have been supplying and installing German rigid built kitchens for 15 years.

We provide a free design service either working from architects drawings or completing a site survey.

Our design software is able to help you visualize your perfect kitchen, with our large range of doors (from modern true handleless through to traditional inframe Shaker), put together with the perfect worktops and appliances.

Our kitchens are everything you would expect from one of Germany’s largest manufacturers, with market leading solutions and components.

We are also able to offer all aspects of kitchen installation and refurbishment. www.creative-iduk.co.uk

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ADAM SWAINE PHOTOGRAPHY

Email: adamswaine@rocketmail.com

Mobile 07798 526569

LUXURY KITCHEN GUIDE

Freelands Tiles

Decorative tiles Here at Freelands Tiles we are delighted to offer a collection of brand new ‘encaustic tiles’.

This collection has been introduced by Ca Pietra, one of our leading suppliers of natural stone.

It is their first ever collection of handmade decorative tiles, made using the ‘encaustic’ technique with cement where the pattern is inlaid into the body of the tile, so that the design and colour remain, even as the tile wears. These differ from ceramic tiles, where the surface pattern is the product of the finishing glaze printed on the surface.

Encaustic tiles were first made in Europe in the late 19th century and were used to decorate the floors of palaces in St. Petersburg, Barcelona and 56 MARCH 2018

THE DETAILS 124-126 London Road, Dunton Green, Sevenoaks TN13 2UT www.freelands-tiles.co.uk; 01732 459 765 sales@freelands-tiles.co.uk

grand hallways from Paris to Saigon.

Today they can be found in chic bars, restaurants and designer homes in London, Paris and New York. Why not pop along and take a look at this beautiful range of tiles, and consider them for your home?

Chislehurst Kitchens

Kitchens • Appliances • Worktops • Installation 52 Green Lane, Chislehurst BR7 6AQ • 020 8467 6955 • www.chislehurstkitchens.co.uk

HOuse &

garden – Keep it local for everything house and home – I M AG E : N I C HOLA S TY E

H OUSE & GARDEN

THE GREYSTONES

“Each house is some 600m2 spread over 3 floors, which negotiate the changing levels of the site”

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ocated in the centre of Radlett this exclusive area has generous house plots with generally substantial houses. Our site previously housed a single bungalow of no historical or architectural note. Our clients brief was to demolish the existing house and replace this with 2 generous houses, one of which to become their new house, the other to sell on.

Each house is some 600m2 spread over 3 floors, which negotiate the changing levels of the site.

As such the first floor from the front approach leads you through to the rear garden level. The highly contemporary properties respond to the surroundings utilising white render, but in simple modernist forms with timber cladding and elegant glazing systems, which create a delicate blend of privacy and views.

The Greystone houses were shortlisted for the Hertfordshire Building Futures Awards 2011. The judges commented: “the Greystones houses are a perfect example of how sustainable design can be intertwined effectively with modern amenities in a domestic setting.” www.nicolastyearchitects.co.uk

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H OUSE & GARDEN

[NEWS]

INTERIORS TROPICAL VIBES

MARVELLOUS MARBLING

Blending into the background is not an option in 2018, let us introduce you to this quirky latest range of wallpapers and murals from Woodchip and Magnolia Take some artistic license with splashes of paint, washes of watercolour and abstract marbled designs. www.woodchipandmagnolia.co.uk

Leafy tropical forests lush with fruit and populated by charming and mysterious creatures. The Loris print features that rare and beautiful creature, the slender Loris. In vibrant mustard yellow and black or hot orange and black this large lampshade is a statement piece that will add jungly character and a pop of colour to a room.

Hand screen-printed and made in Lush Designs’ London studio, these lampshades are part of a range of vibrant home wares that feature exciting, illustrative prints with story-telling themes. £80, www.lushlampshades.co.uk

1920s glamour BEAUTIFUL BLOOMS

TOP TABLEwear from vietnam

New table loveliness from Vietnam ... these stunning handmade bowls make a beautiful addition to any dining table or surface - great for fruit, salads, rice, couscous and more. This elegant handmade range of Vietnamese ceramic tableware is handpainted with an oriental indigo drop design using age old traditions that have remained unchanged for generations. www.carolinemcgrath.co.uk 62 MARCH 2018

The Hampstead, The Parisian, The Amalfi and The Miami, the four statement pieces that make up Bay and Box’s smart range of window boxes, specifically sized to fit Victorian terrace and bay windows exactly. The team looked to their favourite places around the world to establish their collection of modern products – the bestselling lead grey window box for example named after the elegant Hampstead village. In addition, the company also sell high-quality artificial plants and flowers to provide a maintenance-free solution for busy lives. £45, www.bayandbox.com

Bring a touch of luxe to your home with this fabulous pink Gatsby Velvet Armchair. This armchair with its stunning scalloped detail will subtly add vibrancy to your bedroom, living room or study. £675, www.audenza.com

H OUSE & GARDEN

BR FLOORING:

90 Years of Outstanding Quality and Service

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R Flooring is a family-owned business with branches in Petts Wood and Eltham.

Covering Sidcup, Chislehurst, Blackheath, Bromley and all surrounding locations in South East London, we understand how important it is that you select the right kind of carpets or flooring for your home, office space or business property.

If you want luxury carpets, hardwood flooring or laminate flooring that not only looks good but that also delivers on practicality and your lifestyle choices, you’ve definitely come to the right place.

We also specialise in premium quality vinyl flooring by offering a full range of Karndean products to customers in the local area.

Other solutions include laminate flooring and hardwood flooring in the Van Gogh, Da Vinci, Opus and Tile ranges. With such prestigious names, it’s only right that you would expect these products to be truly special. Everything we do is built around the supply of beautifully-designed flooring of the highest standard.

Karndean offers a state-of-the-art virtual flooring design service that helps you choose the perfect product for your home or office. We also sell carpets and other flooring materials from Westex, Axminster, Amtico, Quick Step, Crucial Trading and Real Wood.

90 Years of Outstanding Quality and Service Following a rebrand in 2014, we have extended our reach by supplying carpets, hardwood flooring and laminate flooring for many valued customers in the surrounding Chislehurst, Sidcup, Bromley and Blackheath areas.

With over 90 years of providing great service and value, we have the knowledge and the experience to bring you flooring that truly reflects individual taste and personality.

BR Flooring offer you a desirable range of carpets made from either natural or manmade fibres. There is almost no limit to our vast number of options and we can supply patterned or plain fabrics covering everything from the dazzlingly funky to the more neutral and understated style.

Our showrooms in Petts Wood and Eltham also supply high-end hardwood flooring and easy-to-fit laminate flooring. Both outlets provide you with exceptional choice, honest advice and outstanding customer service. We also offer free estimates and measuring. www.br-flooring.co.uk 64 MARCH 2018

“If you want luxury carpets, hardwood flooring or laminate flooring that not only looks good but that also delivers on practicality and your lifestyle choices, you’ve definitely come to the right place”

WINTER PROMOTION

up to

15% Off Karndean

1/2

price Carpets*

plus fREE fitting ** on all carpets

2b/2c, fairway Station Square, Petts Wood, Kent BR5 1EG Telephone: 01689 822100

216-218 High Street, Eltham, SE9 1BA Telephone: 020 8294 2660

www.brflooring.co.uk *on selected items **free fitting on minimum order of 10sq metres

H OUSE & GARDEN

A GREAT START TO THE YEAR FOR THOMAS PLASTERING

“We have got all areas completed to the specified time frames, with minimal fuss”

2018 has started with a bang for Thomas Plastering, we have been ‘Flat out’, since the start of January.

We have been kept busy by our regular customers, with many lofts coming our way from Smiths of Bromley and Addspace builders.

One project this year in Deptford South East London, has been a bit more interesting/challenging than our normal work.

The building contractor ‘Tully Construction’, for whom we have worked for years, have been converting an old Church into a lovely living space.

With many great features including vaulted ceilings a mesina floor etc, these will help create a great home for a young couple that will be a stones through away from Central London, in an up and coming area of the South East of the City.

We have carried out both internal and external works, with our highly skilled team.

Due to our numbers we have got all areas completed to the specified time frames, with minimal fuss.

Its always nice working with trades people from other trades that we know well, as we can deal 66 MARCH 2018

directly with them and try to stay out of each others way!!

Not long now and the decorating and final touches will be made so that the customer can have a unique property to reside in and the area will have a fully updated building, with the same external characteristics as Deptford has always had, with no changes to the existing skyline. Its win, win!!

Many thanks to our team. www.thomasplastering.co.uk

Big enough to cope… small enough to care…

• All aspects covered, free quotes, clean and reliable • Proudly servicing the Bromley Borough and surrounding areas • We are happy to plaster a small ceiling to a block of apartments

Fully insured - clean - reliaBle

thomas plastering 01689 820096 • 020 8819 0528 07931 278405 • 07802 543926 Email: thomasplastering@hotmail.com www.thomasplastering.co.uk

H OUSE & GARDEN

Make your A bedroom a spring sanctuary You are missing a trick if you’re only using your bedroom for snoozing and loving, as this space should be a stylish sanctuary where it’s easy to relax and unwind words: gabrielle fagan

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fter a long day, you should be able to retreat to a place of tranquillity and calm in order to relax and catch up on some precious sleep. Design and decor can play a huge role in making sure your bedroom is the oasis it should be.

There’s a lot of talk about getting the ‘wow’ factor for rooms, but in bedrooms you’re really seeking the ‘aaah’ factor’. You should immediately feel your shoulders drop as you shed tension and realise that this is where you can truly be yourself and unwind.

When decorating your bedroom, simplicity is the key to serenity. So no matter what your particular style is, all you need to do to create a sumptuous oasis is heed a few basic but important design ideas.

If you’re having trouble sleeping, it might be because of the paint colour in your room. Colours that are too bright or bold can actually keep you awake. Light colours are great for making a room feel larger, but a darker hue envelops the bedroom, creating the perfect space to relax and slumber. If you need to have something bold, painting a feature wall behind your head may give you the punch you’re looking for without interrupting your sleep.

The bed is obviously the focal point, but at the end of the day, it’s the finishing touches that will turn a bedroom into the ultimate personal comfort zone. Whether your bedroom is covered in carpet or hardwood, rugs are a great way to add colour, texture and of course, warmth underfoot. Try layering rugs in different shapes and patterns for an extra-comfy look.

You need to clear any clutter, allow space for you to breathe! The only items that should be in your bedroom are the items you love and care to look at every morning and evening, like family photographs.

If you are trying to make your bedroom as cosy as possible, bright overhead lighting will not help.

Instead, opt for sleek bedside lighting whether that be a wall mounted sconce or a simple lamp. It has to be bright enough to allow for reading in bed, but not overwhelming or (gasp!) fluorescent. Anything with a dimmer is ideal.

Scent your room with essential oils. In aromatherapy, a number of scents are recognised for reducing stress. Relaxing scents include bergamot, chamomile, lavender, lemon, marjoram, neroli, orange, sandalwood, valerian and ylang-ylang.

Your bedroom should be a place of rest and relaxation. You should look forward to retreating there at the end of the day. Making some simple decor changes can help transform this important space into the peaceful sanctuary you deserve!

QUALITY HANDMADE ENGLISH SOFAS AVAILABLE IN 1000’S OF FABRICS

BESPOKE TAILORING TO SUIT YOUR SIZES, ANY ALTERATION YOU REQUIRE

WINTER PROMOTION 25% OFF OF ALL THREE PIECE SUITES

H OUSE & GARDEN

“Don’t dismiss interior design” says Chislehurst business owner words: Gwen Lardner

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ave you dismissed interior design as an unnecessary expense, or as something only accessible to an elite few? Elle Kirkwood, co-founder of interior design practice Guthrie & Kirkwood, helps demystify her world of work for those tempted by the idea of help with home improvements.

“Making use of an interior designer is often considered an expensive luxury rather than a pragmatic, cost-effective approach,” says Chislehurst resident Elle, who founded Guthrie & Kirkwood with fellow interior designer, April Guthrie.

The misconception is that interior designers only work with those who don’t have any budgetary constraints, or people without their own sense of style. The reality is very different, according to Elle, who has helped re-design many homes in Chislehurst and surrounding areas.

Her view is that interior design services are accessible to anyone wanting to invest in their home: “We can all benefit from working with someone who takes us out of our comfort zone and encourages us to be more adventurous. A good interior designer will understand a client’s vision and use their technical knowledge and expertise to make it a reality. Their objectivity and experience guarantees getting the very best out of a room.”

Guthrie & Kirkwood operates on the principle that if you are going to the expense of a home improvement project then it may well be justifiable to factor in a design fee to avoid costly mistakes such as a sofa or bed that is too large for the room, a colour scheme that doesn’t quite work, or curtains that are ill-fitting or badly made. Even the smallest error can spoil the overall look of a room.

“Bad decisions cost money and that is where we come in,” says Elle. She believes that most clients enjoy the process of working with an interior

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designer because it takes away the stress and opens their eyes to new concepts and different places to source furniture and accessories.

“We can all benefit from working with someone who takes us out of our comfort zone and encourages us to be more adventurous” “Redecorating or refurnishing your home is costly, however you approach it. Our job is to ensure that the investment is worthwhile, with the end result being perfect in every way. We help you create somewhere that you can relax and enjoy spending time in, surrounded by things you love,” says Elle, who believes that too many of us ‘put up with’ or tolerate rooms that do not reflect our personalities or lifestyles.

If someone is new to the concept of interior design, it is understandable that they might be wary about what is involved. Guthrie & Kirkwood’s response to any level of scepticism is always the same: “There are no hidden or uncapped fees.

Clients know upfront what our involvement is going to cost as we charge a flat fee per project, dependent on size and level of complexity. We always offer a free consultation with no obligation to proceed,” says Elle.

“Typically, our clients know roughly what they want, but need a bit of a push to make it happen within their budget or to bring it all together in a coherent scheme. It may be that they may have seen a piece of furniture that they really want but is not within budget. We can help them source an

affordable alternative or commission something to be made to meet their exact requirements,” Elle explains.

There are of course, plenty of people who have the time, inclination and experience to revamp their home without outside help, yet even those with a good eye for design make use of interior design companies to get specialist advice on a particular aspect of a DIY project.

As well as the flat fee design package, Guthrie & Kirkwood offers a consultancy service which amounts to expert help charged at an hourly rate.

This might include practical assistance with colour schemes, storage solutions, soft furnishings, space planning or lighting.

“The most rewarding part of this job is helping client’s fall in love with their home again. We strive to achieve that ‘wow’ factor in a room and clients have, without exception, been thrilled with the result. More often than not, once the trust has been established, we get invited back to work on another room in the house.”

Guthrie & Kirkwood operates throughout London and the South East. Each of their interior design services can be tailored according to a client’s budget and the level of help needed. For further information, visit www.guthrieandkirkwood.co.uk

fiveways fires & stoves

743-745 sidcup rd, new elthaM, se9 3sa (located along sidcup Bypass)

Stay warm with our stunning range of fires and stoves experienced, friendly & family run showroom. hetas and gas safe engineers.

Multi fuel stoves all defra approved, gas fires and Mantles, the new optimist range of electric fires and stoves. open 6 days a week: 10 until 6.

0208 127 4747

www.fivewaysfires. co.uk

FOOD & DRINK – Bringing you updates on the local food and drink scene – i m a g e : S IL E N T P OOL

FOOD & DRINK

Silent Pool Distillery to open new distillery extension

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ith the drive to expand their presence both nationally and internationally, Silent Pool Distillers, producers of the multiaward winning Silent Pool Gin, are due to open their new distillery in April this year, just three years after they first started back in 2015.

The new distillery extension will contain an 1800L, custom made copper still, 5 times the size of their original still Juliet, allowing the company to keep up with the current and increasing global demand.

Unlike many other distilleries, Silent Pool Distillers proudly bottle their spirits onsite ensuring that each product is entirely crafted within the four walls of the distillery. It was of great importance to the company that even with increased production, their ethos of personally overseeing every stage of production remained. With the aid of an EU grant the distillery will also unveil a new bottling line built in Italy which will enable the company to hold true to overseeing each stage onsite but also to meet the

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“Unlike many other distilleries, Silent Pool Distillers proudly bottle their spirits onsite”

fast growing demand.

The expansion has been driven in large part by exports, Silent Pool Gin is now available in over 24 countries including most of mainland Europe, Japan and America; this has resulted in more jobs for local people and local trades who supply the business. The efficiency of the larger still will allow the innovative distillers to dedicate more time to product development within gin but also whiskey and brandy.

Part of what makes the distillation process so authentic is the method they use to power their hand made still. Similar to Juliet, the new still will be heated by steam from a reclaimed, vintage boiler that’s fired on local hardwood. Originally designed to power a steamboat in a 1980’s film, this classically British, McEwen boiler has been reformed and adopted by the distillers at Silent Pool and is now an essential part to the production of their handcrafted spirits.

Becoming a ‘greener distillery’ was integral in the planning stages of the expansion and with over 40 solar panels covering every square inch of the new roof, the distillery extension will now generate enough electricity across the year to be completely carbon neutral, Silent Pool Gin really will be made by sunshine!

Nestled on the banks of the spring-fed Silent Pool, deep within the rolling Surrey Hills, the distillery is open to visitors 7 days a week, MondaySaturday 9:30-17:00, Sundays & Bank holidays 10:00 – 15:00. You can even immerse yourself into the world of Silent Pool Gin with a 90 minute deep dive distillery tour, covering all aspects of production including product sampling.

Please check their website for more details www.silentpooldistillers.com/tours

AVAILABLE NATIONWIDE IN WAITROSE, MAJESTIC AND 31DOVER.COM

FOOD & DRINK

MISTER MYSTÈRE PIERRE MARCOLINI’S 2018 EASTER COLLECTION

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ierre Marcolini, the ever-creative chocolatier, is taking a surrealistic turn with the illusory delights of his Mister Mystère Easter collection. Is it a rabbit? Surely that’s not an egg? Could that be… a bowler hat? See if you can spot the Mister Mystère Easter Bunny as he plays hide-and seek in the Maison’s iconic chocolates and mini praline eggs. Subtle riddles for the grown-ups; wondrous sights for the kids. Indulge your love of chocolate and children’s games one nibble at a time…

All retail prices include tax…

1

THE EGG HAT Egg or bunny? This creation sums up every iota of Pierre Marcolini’s avant-garde approach. An eyecatching curiosity that consists of a Maison dark chocolate egg topped with a big-eared white chocolate bowler hat. This perfect family Easter gift comes with 30 mini eggs and 30 caramel animals. £135

2 THE BIG-EARED HAT Fancy a round of hide-and-seek? This strange, stunning and striking creation consists of a Maison milk and white chocolate bowler hat topped with a large pair of bunny ears. In this game, the winner gets the irresistible mini praline eggs at the end! Sixteen mini eggs, comprising of four each - white chocolate pistachio praline, white chocolate almond praline, white chocolate hazelnut praline and milk chocolate nougat praline. £85

THE MYSTERY EGGS

3 THE MINI BIG-EARED HAT This pocket-sized version of the Big-Eared Hat comes in a pesky range of three versions – Maison milk chocolate with a nougat praline egg, Maison dark chocolate with a hazelnut praline egg and Maison white chocolate with an almond praline egg. £15

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BOXES This year, Maison Pierre Marcolini is delighted to unveil six new signature Easter eggs: Box of 30: £39. Box of 12: £19

4

An egg with a secret lock?

A bunny hidden inside? If you want to solve the riddle, you’ll just have to get eating!

Pierre Marcolini brings you this treat in two different versions: Maison dark chocolate for a more intense flavour; or Maison white chocolate for something more delicate. Nestled inside both you’ll find a cache of mini praline eggs. 26 with 500g egg: £60. 10 with 250g egg: £45

• White chocolate pistachio praline (White chocolate/Yellow) • Extreme fondant (Dark chocolate/Yellow) • White chocolate almond praline (White chocolate/Pink) • Extreme milk (Milk chocolate/ Orange) • White chocolate hazelnut praline (White chocolate/Orange) • Milk chocolate nougat praline (Milk chocolate/Pink)

The mini Maison caramel animals are also back in a special 2018 format. Boxes contain milk and white chocolate caramel rabbits, dark chocolate caramel ducks, white chocolate bells and milk chocolate caramel bells.

Box of 30 - £29

The Mister Mystère collection is available at: Pierre Marcolini, 37 Marylebone High Street, W1U 4EQ. Counters in Selfridges and Harrods.

Online at uk.marcolini.com facebook.com/PierreMarcolini Twitter/Instagram @pierremarcolini

The Manor at Bickley, open for breakfast, brunch, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner.

Bromley’s best kept secret.... The Manor at Bickley

Events • Conferences • Weddings • Parties and Funeral receptions The Manor at Bickley, Thornet Wood Road, BR1 2LW Reservations 020 8467 1461 themanoratbickley.co.uk

FOOD & DRINK

Proud of what’s British C

ow and Pig British Kitchen was a labour of love created by Gavin Boyer, with a passion for good quality food, cooked well and best of all locally sourced. Not to mention their huge love of a good steak!

The mission behind the restaurant is to utilise the best and freshest produce found throughout neighbouring London, Kent and Surrey and most importantly through local suppliers. That includes quality British charcuterie from Cannon & Cannon of Borough Market, a cheese menu by Cheese Works, and If you are up early enough you might spot Gavin perusing the local markets of Covent Garden, Smithfield’s and Billingsgate where he hand picks his fresh produce to help create a menu that aims to take classic British dishes and add a contemporary twist.

With an emphasis on locally sourced food and a scratch kitchen, everything is made in house, from the home cooked chips to homemade retro desserts.

The Cow and Pig British Kitchen has contemporary style with a polished yet causal atmosphere, making it ideal for either celebrating a special occasion or just stopping by after work.

So come along and let us take you on a journey of the Best of British! Rest assured that alongside the house favourites, there will always be something new to whet your appetite and keep you coming back.

78 MARCH 2018

What’s on @ Cow and Pig Orpington Daily Set Menu…

Tuesday-Saturday £13 for 2 courses £16 for 3 courses Lazy Sundays…

Possibly serving south east London’s best roast £16.50 for 2 courses Coming soon…

Afternoon Tea Served From 2pm-5pm

COming SOOn @COWANDPIG OrPINGtON

Hendricks Afternoon teA

Afternoon Tea £15 Hendrick’s Afternoon Tea £20 Champagne Afternoon Tea £25

Bookings only with 48hour notice, £10 non refundable deposit needed to confirm your reservation.

Call us on 01689 820033 or email at hello@cowandpig.co.uk 40c The Walnuts Shopping Centre, Orpington BR6 0TW www.cowandpig.co.uk

FOOD & DRINK

RESTAURANT REVIEW

Joy Kitchen, High Street, Orpington

This month, Food editor Regan Anderton has visited Joy Kitchen to give you her view on their menu. Other local restaurant reviews, recipes and dinner party game ideas can be found at www.whatiatelastnight.com Ambiance Joy Kitchen is located in a bright and open restaurant. You may walk past and be fooled in to thinking it’s simply a noodle-style bar - but don’t be, inside is a treasure of authentic SouthEast Asian cuisine.

Service This was our second time of visiting, and the staff were as warm, welcoming, and friendly as they were before. They were happy for us to wait until we’d eaten our starter, before ordering our main course which was a really nice and refreshing approach.

Food A menu packed with well known and favourite SouthEast Asian dishes, as well as some not so well known, authentic dishes. We started with a couple of dishes to share - crispy, aromatic duck (always a crowd pleaser!) served with plenty of pancakes, and fresh accompaniments, and a portion of prawn

80 MARCH 2018

sesame rolls, a little like sesame prawn toast in flavour, but instead deep fried filo pastry rolls filled with prawn and bamboo shoots, and served with a dish of sweet chilli sauce. For main, our favourite was the Malaysian chicken curry - tender pieces of chicken served in a deliciously rich creamy curry sauce made with chilli, lemongrass, galangal, shrimp paste, ground spices, roasted coconut, and kaffir lime leaves. All soaked up with perfectly cooked jasmine rice. The flavours were fresh, well balanced, and portion sizes were very generous.

Drink A nice selection of juices were available - I had the coconut water and lychee juice - with lots of lychee fruit lining the bottom to enjoy. We also enjoyed a glass of Malbec from the crowd pleasing wine list, which had good, deep, slightly spicy notes that accompanied the duck well.

318 High Street, Orpington BR6 0NG; 01689 829341; www. joykitchen.co.uk

Overview

“Authentic, delicious SouthEast Asian food”

NOW tAkiNG BOOkiNGS fOR MOtHeR’S DAy, fRee GlASS Of PROSeccO fOR MuMS

At Joy Kitchen we serve fresh tantalizing Southeast Asian dishes from Indonesia, Malaysia & Thailand

Details of our fabulous dishes can be found at www.joykitchen.co.uk

Wok-fry noodles, soups, curries and many things that will make you feel the warmth of Southeast Asia. Whether you are looking to feed a crowd or whip up a quick meal, our meals never disappoint. All of our Southeast Asian dishes are made in our modern scratch kitchen, with only the finest ingredients, for tastes both unexpecting and comforting. We also stock a full selection of spirits, Asian Beers, cocktails and an unparalleled wine list.

Special lunch menu All week:

£7.50 for a drink, starter and main course.

318 High Street, Orpington. BR6 0NG

01689 829341 www.joykitchen.co.uk

Dine in, take away and delivery*

We’re on Trip Advisor

Find us on Facebook

Wednesday 4 April, 2pm Hazlitt Theatre, Maidstone Box Office 01622 758611

Friday 6 April, 7.30pm Stag Community Arts Centre, Sevenoaks Box Office 01732 450175

Tuesday 10 April, 7.30pm The Woodville, Gravesend Box Office 08442 439480

Friday 27 April, 7.30pm Winter Gardens Margate Box Office 01843 292795