Hurlingham Park, Fulham The Ultimate Three-day Summer Celebration! 10th Anniversary
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FROM THE
O
EDITOR
n Saturday 4th May Partridges of Sloane Square are hosting Chelsea’s first annual Chelsea Bun Bake-Off Competition to celebrate World Chelsea Bun Day. The judging will take place during the Duke of York Square weekly fine food market on the Kings Road and all proceeds will be donated to the Chelsea Children’s Hospital Charity. Taking place over four days, Henley Royal Regatta epitomises and encompasses everything that is great about rowing and our British summertime. However, a day out at Henley Royal Regatta is about so much more as well. Giles Cooper Entertainment has announced that Kenwood House, overlooking Hampstead Heath, will host a stellar line-up of live music concerts this Summer within the splendour of its breath-taking gardens. The Heritage Live Concert Series will bring the best in live music to the most beautiful of outdoor settings at one of the capital’s most significant historic properties. The iconic Aston Martin DB5 is back, thanks to a unique collaboration between Aston Martin and EON Productions, the company that produces the James Bond films. Now in its third year, We Love Cheese, the free festival for cheese lovers, promises to be bigger and better than ever and for the first time partnering with Vagabond Wines. The event will be held at Circus West Village at Battersea Power Station, the new riverside quarter bustling with exciting new restaurants, cafes and bars at the foot of the iconic building.
Faye Manning Editor
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Editor Faye Manning ••••• Editorial Assistant Katie Miller ••••• Sub Editor Nicholas Peter ••••• Fashion Editor Lara Accison ••••• Design & Production Lisa Wade ••••• senior business development manager Vanessa Lane ••••• ACCOUNT MANAGERS Nicola Drew, Lisa Westerman Anita Hill ••••• ACCOUNTS Kathy Manning, Andree Georgiou ••••• Directors Rory Smith, Patrick Smith
CONTENTS LOCAL LIFE
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INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS GUIDE
95
We put fantastic local businesses and exciting events in the spotlight each month, plus enjoy food and drink in the local area and investigate beautiful homes and properties The finest schools in your area
THE LUXURY TRAVEL GUIDE
125
FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY
149
HOUSE & GARDEN
203
FLOORS, DOORS & WINDOWS GUIDE
245
FABRICS & FURNISHINGS
265
Heading out of London to explore the rest of the world Fashion, health and beauty news to keep you looking and feeling your best A collection of London’s finest interior companies The ultimate guide to floors, doors & windows for your London home
Offerings from gorgeous fabrics and furnishings companies in London and beyond
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 : H E NL E Y R E GATTA
OUT & ABOUT
KALEIDOSCOPE Saatchi Gallery, until 5 May 2019
“Kaleidoscope is a timely exploration of our relationship with our surroundings, asking viewers to reconsider the way we engage with our environment - and indeed art itself with our senses”
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ALEIDOSCOPE is a new exhibition featuring the work of 9 international contemporary artists working across a variety of mediums. It examines the distortion of human perception, moving from normal domestic spaces, to turbulent nautical vistas and eventually complete abstraction. From the disruptive work of Mia Feuer, who addresses the post-natural landscape and our effect on it, to Pierre Carreau’s emotionally charged depictions of waves, the diverse media on display form a kaleidoscopic representation of the world, revealing a constantly changing sequence of elements and mediums. Kaleidoscope presents an exciting mixture of contemporary artists from around the world. Other featured artists include Tillman Kaiser whose dynamic paintings and sculptural works are meditations of history, style and form; Whitney Bedford whose tempestuous seascapes act as motifs for connecting the past and the present, and the young painter Florence Hutchings who will be presenting a series of vivid still-life paintings inspired by everyday life. Kaleidoscope is a timely exploration of our relationship with our surroundings, asking
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Clockwise from top left: Peter Linde Busk; Pierre Carreau; Laura Buckley; Florence Hutchings
viewers to reconsider the way we engage with our environment - and indeed art itself - with our senses.
THE ARTISTS Whitney Bedford - received her MFA at the University of California, Los Angeles in 2003. She had solo exhibitions in the US, New Zealand, France, Germany and Czech Republic. Laura Buckley - trained at the Chelsea College of Art and Design, London, and her work features in the Saatchi Gallery and Zabludowicz Collections, among others. Pierre Carreau - born near Paris, Pierre moved to the Caribbean island of Saint Barth in 2004, where he works on high-speed photographic exploration of wave shapes. Mia Feuer - received her BFA from the University of Manitoba in 2004 and her MFA in 2009 from the Department of Sculpture + Extended Media at Virginia Commonwealth University. Her work was included in the first ever female only exhibition at The Saatchi Gallery. Tom Howse - trained at the Wimbledon College of Art, and has exhibited across Europe. Florence Hutchings - undertaking a Painting degree at Slade School of Fine Art and has been awarded the Lynn Painters Stainers Prize (20162019). Tillman Kaiser – has had solo exhibitions in New York, Rome, Madrid, Los Angeles, Prague, and London, among others. Peter Linde Busk - trained at the Royal Academy of Arts and the Hunter Slade School of Fine Art, and has exhibited across Europe. Benedetto Pietromarchi - studied classical sculpture at Accademia delle Belle Arti in Carrara, Italy, and at the Architectural Association School of Architecture in London. His work has been exhibited in London, Bogotá, Rome, Berlin, and Cairo. For more details please visit www.saatchigallery.com. Entry to all exhibitions at the Saatchi Gallery is free.
OUT & ABOUT
Heritage Live Concert Series at Kenwood 2019 14th – 16th June
Giles Cooper Entertainment has announced that Kenwood House, overlooking Hampstead Heath, will host a stellar line-up of live music concerts this Summer within the splendour of its breath-taking gardens. The Heritage Live Concert Series will bring the best in live music to the most beautiful of outdoor settings at one of the capital’s most significant historic properties.
THE PIANO GUYS Friday 14th June 2019 With special guest supports from Collabro and Kingdom Choir Voices Hailing from the US, the musical group have rapidly become a global sensation amassing billions of views and over 6.3 million subscribers on YouTube with their strikingly original music videos, mashing up pop and classical music. The Piano Guys - Steven Sharp Nelson (cello), Jon Schmidt (piano), Al van der Beek (producer) and Paul Anderson (videographer) have made over 70 music videos since forming in 2011, filmed at some of the most magnificent locations in the world including The Great Wall of China, Chichen Itza and Iguazu Falls. They continue to work towards their goal of filming a video at every Wonder of The World. Concert goers at Kenwood House will enjoy their energetic and infectious live shows with a diverse repertoire to the backdrop of their incredible music videos on the big screen. The band have sold millions of albums, topped charts and achieved a staggering 3 billion audio and video streams worldwide.
MADNESS 40th BIRTHDAY CELEBRATES WITH A LIVE ORCHESTRA
Saturday 15th June 2019 Special guest supports from Cliff Difford with Boo Hewerdine 2019 will mark forty years since a ragtag bunch of self-proclaimed ‘hoolies and urchins’ first emerged from the back streets of Camden Town - fusing reggae, punk and pop on their classic album ‘One Step Beyond’. A real homecoming for the local 16 APRIL 2019
North London boys, Madness will treat the crowd to a truly one-off, career-spanning set which will see the Nutty Boys joined live by a full orchestra – plus a few other surprises! One of the most successful pop groups ever, they continue to defy expectations, trends and the aging process.
JOSÉ CARRERAS FAREWELL LONDON CONCERT Sunday 16th June 2019 Featuring Chrissy Johnston With the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra. With special guest support from Sheku Kanneh-Mason José Carreras is one of the most accomplished tenors in history, having sung over 60 roles from operas by Verdi and Puccini and created memorable productions including the famed Franco Zeffirelli production of La Bohème at the Metropolitan Opera. With a discography that includes over 160 recordings across classical and popular music, it earnt him several Gold and Platinum discs with over 80 million records sold. Carreras has also performed in several operatic movies, winning Grammys, BRITs, and Olivier Awards. He is also revered for his role as one of the legendary Three Tenors, alongside Plácido Domingo and Luciano Pavarotti, creating an immense impact on the world of Opera and wider popular culture, with the trio performing to over 2 billion people worldwide. For more details visit www.heritagelive.net To purchase tickets for all concerts visit www.ticketmaster.co.uk. VIP Packages available. Kenwood House, Hampstead Lane, Highgate, NW3 7JR.
OUT & ABOUT
HAMPTON COURT PALACE FESTIVAL ANNOUNCES A WORLD CLASS LINE-UP
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istoric Royal Palaces and IMG are delighted to announce an incredible line-up for Hampton Court Palace Festival 2019. World-class artists perform in a 3,000-seat auditorium set against the backdrop of Henry VIII’s stunning Tudor palace. Festival favourite Jools Holland will launch this year’s Festival and perform inside the magnificent Tudor courtyard on Thursday 6 June. Pop royalty The Jacksons will take to the stage for the first time on Friday 7 June. Transporting Hampton Court to the Year 3000 for one night only, Busted will play their greatest hits on Saturday 8 June. The Dutch songstress Caro Emerald will return on Wednesday 12 June, having previously performed at the festival in 2012 and 2016. The iconic Nile Rodgers & Chic will make their debut on Friday 14 and Saturday 15 June. New-wave legends Tears For Fears will also perform for the first time on Tuesday 18 and Wednesday 19 June. The princess of pop Kylie Minogue will grace the Hampton Court Palace Festival stage for the first time on Thursday 20 and Friday 21 June. Musical theatre stars Michael Ball & Alfie Boe will headline the final night on Saturday 22 June, concluding with a spectacular fireworks finale in the sumptuous Palace Gardens. Attendees can enjoy a spot of picnicking at the Palace Gardens, with hampers this year supplied by Fortnum & Mason. They are available to purchase when buying tickets for the festival online. General tickets that are now sold out are Kylie Minogue, Michael Ball & Alfie Boe and Nile Rodgers & Chic’s concert on Friday 14 June.
VIP & HOSPITALITY PACKAGES As well as a fantastic music line-up, Hampton Court 18 APRIL 2019
6 – 22 June 2019 Palace Festival is renowned for creating a truly unforgettable hospitality experience, where you can follow in the footsteps of the infamous Kings and Queens. It begins with a welcome drink in the glorious East Front Gardens and followed by exclusive access to the Palace’s magnificent state apartments. An exceptional three-course dinner fit for royalty is served where royalty themselves dined and entertained and accompanied by fine wines throughout. Indulge in a setting of royal grandeur before taking your premium seats in the stunning Tudor Courtyard for the evening’s entertainment. VIP and corporate packages for all concerts are available to purchase now. Call 0208 233 6701 or email hamptoncourtfestivalinfo@img.com (subject to availability). General festival tickets can be purchased from www.hamptoncourtpalacefestival.com (subject to availability). Facebook @HamptonCourtPalaceFestival. Twitter @HCPfestival. Instagram @HCPfestival
“The princess of pop Kylie Minogue will grace the Hampton Court Palace Festival stage for the first time on Thursday 20 and Friday 21 June”
OUT & ABOUT
ZIP NOW LONDON RETURNS! from June 12th 2019
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drenaline junkies rejoice! After another incredibly successful run last year, London’s city centre zip wire is bringing adventure back to the capital. Zip Now London remains the world’s longest and fastest city centre zip line, with added new thrills. Thrill-seekers will soar through the sky on a 225-metre zip wire taking in unique views of London’s skyline including the Houses of Parliament and the London Eye. Located in Archbishop’s Park, South Bank, Zip Now London
has hosted 75,000 customers to date, and for 2019 it is back even bigger and better! This year the event will feature four lines for the first time, meaning you can experience the thrill of flying along with three of your friends together! As if flying through London’s skyline wasn’t enough, Zip Now London offers an exhilarating free-fall experience. The ‘Mega Drop’ gives riders a heart-in-the-mouth freefall before being lowered safely down to earth. The entire Zip Now experience lasts 40 minutes which includes a thorough safety briefing. Zip Now welcomes riders from eight years old. Riders must be more than 1.2m (3ft 11in) tall, less than 2.1m (6ft 11in) tall to fit into the harness and weigh no more than 120 kg. London’s hottest (and fastest) ticket can be purchased via www.zip-now.co
THE DETAILS Booking early is highly recommended Opening hours: Monday to Friday 11.30 to 19.30 Saturday 9.00 to 19.30 Sunday 9.00 to 17.00 Archbishop’s Park, Lambeth, London, SE1 7LF. Nearest tube stations are Lambeth North and Waterloo. Zip Now London is owned and operated by The City Zip Company Limited.
20 APRIL 2019
OUT & ABOUT
READER OFFER: SAVE
10%
LIFE MAGAZINES READER OFFER We have joined forces with The Telegraph to offer our readers a 10% discount off full price tickets for Stella Live, quoting LIFEMAG10.
This Image: Jo Malone CBE; Left: Fearne Cotton; Below: Davina McCall
The Telegraph announces
Stella Live F
10 & 11 May, Saatchi Gallery, Chelsea
rom mental health awareness to makeup masterclasses, Stella Live has got it covered. A packed programme of beauty, fashion, lifestyle inspiration and advice along with fun and provocative interactive debates and interviews will see a host of expert speakers and celebrities take centre stage, including Davina McCall, Fearne Cotton, Liz Earle, Trinny Woodall, Jo Malone CBE, Jo Brand, Sherrille Riley, Meg Matthews, Clemmie Hooper and many more.
Highlights include: In conversation with Davina McCall - Friday 10 May, 12:30pm With a TV career spanning over 20 years and 14 fitness DVDs to her name, Davina McCall knows what it means to be a busy woman. Join Stella’s deputy editor Kate Bussman for an honest conversation with one of the UK’s favourite TV presenters. Living with Anxiety: How We Found Our Happy Place - Friday 10 May, 1.30pm Fearne Cotton, Bryony Gordon, and Middults explore their relationship with anxiety and how they have learnt to understand it and find their happy places. 22 APRIL 2019
In Conversation with Liz Earle - Friday 10 May, 8.15pm The wellbeing entrepreneur, TV presenter and bestselling author shares her insights from gut health to mental health and menopause with The Telegraph’s Anna Magee. In conversation with Jo Malone CBE - Saturday 11 May, 1.25pm Brand building expert and fragrance entrepreneur Jo Malone CBE will discuss her career business and reinventing herself. Join Stella Editor Marianne Jones for a chat with the woman behind the fragrance.
Ticket includes entry to one 4 hour session which include: Friday 10th May 12:00-16:30, Friday 10th May 17:30-22:00, Saturday 11th May 11:00-15:30, Saturday 11th May 16:30-21:00. Sessions are subject to availability. The ticket code will expire at midnight on Thursday 9th May 2019. All entrants must have a valid email address as e-tickets will be supplied. It is the entrant’s sole responsibility to ensure that their contact details are up to date. Tickets are non-transferable and non-refundable. Tickets can be purchased here: www.telegraph.co.uk/event/ stella-live/. Instagram: @Stella_telegraph @TelegraphBeauty Twitter: @Stellamagazine Entry to all exhibitions at the Saatchi Gallery is free. www.saatchigallery.com
Make-up Masterclass with Trinny Woodall - Saturday 11 May, 2.20pm Trinny Woodall will hold a make-up masterclass using her premium make up brand and a Q&A hosted by The Telegraph’s Lifestyle Features Editor Claire Cohen. Born Lippy: How to do Female - Saturday 11 May, 8pm Jo Brand’s latest book is a gathering of all the things she wishes she’d known, what’s she’s learnt and her hopes for the future. Guaranteed to be an entertaining conversation with Stella’s Features Editor Laura Powell.
Visit www.stellalive.co.uk for further details and opening times.
OUT & ABOUT FEATURE
Bugatti celebrates 110TH Anniversary with a one-off hyper sports car
To celebrate Bugatti’s 110th anniversary, the luxury car manufacturer presents the “La Voiture Noire”
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pioneering spirit, a passion for perfection and the desire to continually redefine its limits have been the key characteristics of Bugatti since the brand was established 110 years ago. The new hyper sports car reflects Bugatti’s French heritage and its French identity – elegance through minimalism and refinement through intensification. This is a tailor-made creation only comparable with the haute couture of exclusive Paris fashion designers. With its one-off car “La Voiture Noire “Bugatti has again proved that it makes the world’s most powerful, most luxurious and most exclusive hyper sports cars. The exclusive new “La Voiture Noire” or the black car, is a reminiscence of “La Voiture Noire” a Type 57 SC Atlantic that was Jean Bugatti’s most famous creation. The outstanding design feature was a dorsal seam running from the hinge in the split bonnet through to the rear end. The Type 57 SC Atlantic was one of the most extraordinary grands tourismes and a timeless creation. Nowadays, it is one of the most valuable classic 26 APRIL 2019
cars in the world. Only four Atlantics were made between 1936 and 1938, each of them with detailed differences created individually for a customer. Three of these extraordinary coupés are still in existence. The second car built was used by Jean Bugatti himself as well as some of the Bugatti grand prix drivers among his friends. The world has been searching for this Atlantic for more than 80 years – it is one of the great mysteries in the history of the automobile. The car probably disappeared before the German invasion of Alsace, when it was to be dispatched to a safe region. “Our history is both a privilege and a responsibility – the responsibility for continuing the Bugatti heritage into the future. With “La Voiture Noire”, we are paying homage to our heritage and bringing speed, technology, luxury and aesthetics forward to a new era,” says Bugatti President Stephan Winkelmann. “Bugatti arouses passion and emotions throughout the world. Customers expect us to continually surprise them and to raise the goalposts beyond the limits of their imagination. We have just succeeded in doing so with ‘La Voiture Noire, –
“Our history is both a privilege and a responsibility – the responsibility for continuing the Bugatti heritage into the future”
“La Voiture Noire” - more than a reinterpretation With its extended front end and the distinctive Bugatti C-line, the “La Voiture Noire“ creates an elongated impression with the elegant waistline defining the contours of the coupé. Purism and elegance are reflected in the surfaces and the clear lines. The bumpers are smoothly integrated into the body and the windscreen seems to flow seamlessly into the windows at the sides like the visor on a helmet. Without any irritating lines, the surface is “all of a piece” and there is nothing to disturb the optical flow. This means that the hyper sports car has changed its attitude and become a grand tourisme – ideal for comfortable travel on long trips. “Every single component has been handcrafted and the carbon fibre body has a deep black gloss only interrupted by the ultrafine fibre structure. This is a material that has been handled perfectly,” says Bugatti designer Etienne Salomé. “We worked long and hard on this design until was nothing that we could improve. For us, the coupé represents the perfect form with a perfect finish. The heart of the new creation is the iconic 16-cylinder engine – unique in the automotive world and the peak of the engineer’s art. “This is not only an engine but the heart of the vehicle and a technical masterpiece. There is no other car in the world with such an engine. It is not only extremely powerful but also beautiful to look at,” Stephan Winkelmann enthuses. The 16-cylinder engine with a displacement of 8 litres develops 1,103 kW/1,500 PS and 1,600 Newton-metres of torque. Six tailpipes at the rear bear witness to its incredible power and are also a tribute to the 16 cylinders. For €11 million (before tax) this unique car has already been sold to a Bugatti enthusiast. It is the most expensive new car of all time. The car enthusiast is fascinated by the Atlantic; with the “La Voiture Noire“, he has acquired a vehicle that takes up the legend and carries the idea forward to the present day. In its exclusiveness, style, quality and performance, “La Voiture Noire” is an unprecedented and unique car that continues a long tradition in the history of the automobile. “Bugatti will continue to work hard to shape the future of the brand. This will be a future full of beauty, passion and surprises. The “La Voiture Noire” is a modern interpretation of the spirit of gran turismo vehicles, a tribute to perfect technology and perfect design. It is also the most elegant and fastest way to travel with a vehicle.” With our automotive haute couture, we have shown what Bugatti is capable of now and in the future” – Bugatti President Stephan Winkelmann www.bugatti.com
“This is not only an engine but the heart of the vehicle and a technical masterpiece”
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Chihuly: Reflections on nature C
ontemporary artist Dale Chihuly returns to showcase his stunning glass artworks in the beautiful setting of Kew Gardens. Building on the success of Chihuly at Kew in 2005, this year’s exhibition brings together some of Chihuly’s most astonishing works from the past 50 years. They range from innovative and daring installations set against some of the Gardens’ most iconic sights to beautifully intricate pieces in Kew’s Shirley Sherwood Gallery of Botanical Art. A new artwork specially created for the recently restored Temperate House is not to be missed. The packed programme at Kew includes a selection of tours, trails and evening events to celebrate the return of Chihuly and this unique exhibition.
Chihuly Nights, 15 August – 26 October Visitors will see Chihuly in a different light at our night-time events. This a wonderful opportunity to explore the Gardens as the sun sets and see the artworks come alive. To find out more and book, visit kew.org. 28 APRIL 2019
13 April – 27 October Family fun
The Chihuly family guide trail is a specially illustrated, colourful and engaging guide that will delight younger visitors. Available weekends and school holidays.
Tour of Chihuly: Reflections on nature: 23 April – 31 August 12 noon and 2.30pm, 1 September – 27 October, 12 noon. Enjoy a guided tour showcasing the highlights of this extensive exhibition and hear more about Chihuly’s process. Limited capacity, register at Victoria Plaza from 15 minutes before the start. Supported by DS Automobiles. Dale Chihuly, Green Hornets and Gold Waterdrops (detail), 2010 © Chihuly
“The packed programme at Kew includes a selection of tours, trails and evening events to celebrate the return of Chihuly and this unique exhibition.”
From left: Dale Chihuly, Chartreuse Hornet Polyvitro Chandelier (detail), 2001;; Chihuly, Sapphire Star, 2010 © Chihuly Studio
OUT & ABOUT
OUT & ABOUT
The art of persuasion: Wartime posters by Abram Games 6 April – 24 November, National Army Museum, Chelsea
“Games’s work offers a fascinating picture of a nation at war”
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his major exhibition explores the life and legacy of the iconic designer Abram Games, focusing on his time as ‘Official War Poster Artist’ during the Second World War. Always direct, and occasionally controversial, Games’s wartime posters have left a legacy that continues to influence the art of persuasion employed by visual designers today. During his employment as a poster artist for the Public Relations Department at the War Office from 1941 until 1945, Abram Games designed over 100 posters as tools to recruit, educate and influence soldiers and civilians alike. ‘The art of persuasion’ presents these posters and explores how Games was inspired by his Jewish heritage, his experiences as a soldier, and the turbulent politics of the time. In helping to transform new conscripts into trained soldiers, encouraging support for the war effort and presenting an idealistic vision of postwar Britain, Games’s work offers a fascinating picture of a nation at war. This exhibition examines the techniques Games used to communicate his messages effectively. Guided by his mantra ‘maximum meaning, minimum means’, Games was the master of reductive design. From stark imagery
and visual puns to innovative use of the airbrush, his unique artistic approach changed the face of British graphic design. This year, and in conjunction with the exhibition opening at the National Army Museum, English Heritage will commemorate Games with a blue plaque. The exhibition will include posters from the Museum’s collection alongside loans from the Estate of Abram Games. See Games’s airbrush, his school report and the sealed pattern of his cap badge design for the Royal Armoured Corps. Visitors can also listen to interviews discussing the legacy of the artist and test their artistic skill by designing their own poster. A public programme will run throughout the exhibition with study evenings, tours, creative workshops, an academic conference and a Blitzthemed evening of jive. The art of persuasion: Wartime posters by Abram Games runs until 24 November 2019 at the National Army Museum, Chelsea. Closest tube Sloane Square. Adults £6, Concessions £5, Students £4, Groups £4, Under 16s and Serving Army personnel free
OUT & ABOUT
The Real Victoria Kensington Palace, from 24 May 2019
2019 marks the 200th anniversary of the birth of Queen Victoria at Kensington Palace. To recognise this important anniversary, Kensington Palace are opening a major exhibition, which examines her later life and legacy. Titled Victoria: Woman and Crown. In this exhibition see a different side to Queen Victoria in her later life and gain a fascinating insight into the woman behind the crown. Alongside this, the rooms Victoria grew up in are being reinterpreted to give visitors a sense of what they might have looked like during her childhood at the palace. Visit this family-friendly exploration of an royal childhood to reveal the extraordinary story of the girl destined to be queen. Explore Victoria’s escape from family feuding into a fantasy world of story writing, doll making and drawing inspired by her love of opera and ballet, as she transformed into the independent and iconic monarch we remember today. Both offers will open to visitors on the exact date of the 200th anniversary of Victoria’s birth; 24 May 2019. www.hrp.org.uk/ kensington-palace
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OUT & ABOUT
Man of La Mancha he producers who brought you the smash hit productions of Sweeney Todd, Sunset Boulevard, Carousel and Chess present the Tony-award winning musical Man of La Mancha, at the London Coliseum this spring. Featuring the legendary song, The Impossible Dream (The Quest), Man of La Mancha is inspired by Miguel de Cervantes’s masterpiece novel Don Quixote. This uplifting, timeless tale stars Kelsey Grammer, Danielle de Niese, Nicholas Lyndhurst, Cassidy Janson and Peter Peter Polycarpou from 26 April for a limited 6 week season. Described by esteemed American critic Edward P. Morgan as ‘One of the most magnificently moving pieces I have ever seen on any stage’, and celebrated throughout the world, Man of La Mancha at last returns to the West End in a new production for the first time in 50 years. Performed on the magnificent stage at the London Coliseum with the ENO’s 30-piece orchestra, it is set to be the theatrical event of the year. Join Don Quixote as he chases his impossible dream, to pursue the beautiful princess Dulcinea – and a few windmills. Determined to uphold all that is good and right at a time when the odds are stacked against him, Quixote’s courage is abounding, and we are all compelled to follow his unreachable star. Find out more at eno.org/manoflamancha
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“Man of La Mancha is a triumph of creative imagination and stagecraft… a thoroughly triumphant enterprise, faithful to the spirit of the Spanish classic” – New York Post
Photography: Dan Kennedy
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From 26 April | 6 Weeks Only | London Coliseum
OUT & ABOUT
ALL MY SONS Arthur Miller. On stage at The Old Vic until 8 June Jenna Coleman & Colin Morgan
Bessie Carter & Sule Rimi
Bill Pullman
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‘You don’t realise how people can hate, Chris, they can hate so much they’ll tear the world to pieces…’
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merica, 1947. Despite hard choices and even harder knocks, Joe and Kate Keller are a success story. They have built a home, raised two sons and established a thriving business. But nothing lasts forever and their contented lives, already shadowed by the loss of their eldest boy to war, are about to shatter. With the return of a figure from the past, long buried truths are forced to the surface and the price of their American dream is laid bare. Jeremy Herrin directs double Oscar-winner Sally Field (Lincoln, Steel Magnolias) and Bill Pullman (The Sinner, Independence Day) in Arthur Miller’s blistering drama, All My Sons at The Old Vic theatre. Tickets from £12. An Old Vic and Headlong co-production. To book tickets or for more information visit oldvictheatre.com, call 0844 871 7628* or visit the theatre in person on The Cut. The Old Vic is located very close to lots of major transport networks, and the easiest way to get to there is usually by public transport. The theatre is just three minutes’ walk from Waterloo station, served by the Northern, Bakerloo, Jubilee and Waterloo & City tube lines, as well as the South West national rail line. *0844 numbers are charged at 7p per minute plus your phone company’s access charge
Photography by Johan Persson
Sally Field & Jenna Coleman
OUT & ABOUT
Shakespeare’s Globe announces
Summer Season 23 April – 11 October 2019
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elebrating and interrogating their ‘sceptred isle’ through Shakespeare’s history plays, a year-long journey begins with Richard II, in the Sam Wanamaker Playhouse, continuing into the Globe Theatre this summer with Henry IV Parts 1 and 2, and Henry V. (opens 23 April) The cast will comprise the new resident Globe Ensemble, echoing the approach that Shakespeare’s company would have taken over 400 years ago. The season also includes A Midsummer Night’s Dream (opens 28 June) The Merry Wives of Windsor (opens 17 May) Ben Jonson’s Bartholomew Fair (opens 23 August) and the return of 2018’s As You Like It (opens 17 August) Robin Hood tales will form the core of the Read Not Dead series this year, and festivals throughout the summer include Women & Power and Poland is Hamlet. The Shakespeare’s Globe Touring Ensemble will once again present a trio of plays for the audience to choose from: The Comedy of Errors, Pericles, and Twelfth Night. (opens 4 May) .Continuing last summer’s experiment, which revived the Shakespearean tradition of allowing audiences to vote for the play they’d like to see, this year audiences will cast their votes for The Comedy of Errors, Twelfth Night or Pericles, all stories of lost families, new homes, and what it means to belong. The tour will return to the Globe stage for Refugee Week (17 - 23 June) as part of a wider programme of events in which refugee artists, performers and audiences will all share their stories. In May, Women & Power will comprise performances, panel events and workshops to highlight the work and voices of women of all backgrounds. In light of movements such as #MeToo and #TimesUp, the festival will ask some of the most important questions of the moment, exploring how theatre, music, art and poetry can have a part to play in social change. Shakespeare and Poland, a two-week festival commencing 26 June, will celebrate Poland’s affinity and fascination with Shakespeare’s works. The festival will combine theatre, film, illustration
38 APRIL 2019
“The Shakespeare’s Globe Touring Ensemble will once again present a trio of plays for the audience to choose from”
and song, and will feature the remarkable Song of the Goat Theatre Company, with a rare opportunity to see their Songs of Lear. This year also marks the 150th anniversary of the birth of Polish playwright, director and painter Stanislaw Wyspiański, whose one-woman play Death of Ophelia will premiere in the Sam Wanamaker Playhouse, and whose seminal work Hamlet Study will be published in English for the first time. In celebration of Shakespeare’s birthday, Mark Rylance will bring together a company of 22 actors in Westminster Abbey to roam amongst the audience performing fleeting extracts of drama, poetry and song. Shakespeare Walks: Sweet Love Remember’d (20 and 21 April) Directed by Darren Raymond, Artistic Director of Intermission Theatre, the walks will include scenes and speeches woven over two hours through London, starting from either Westminster Abbey or the parish of Shoreditch, where the original Theatre was built in 1576. For more information, and to purchase tickets please visit www.shakespearesglobe.com or by calling 020 7401 9919. 21 New Globe Walk, London SE1 9DT As You Like It
OUT & ABOUT
RAF MUSEUM LAUNCHES
DAMBUSTERS: VIRTUAL REALITY EXPERIENCE
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he Royal Air Force Museum invites you to take a seat on board a Lancaster during the legendary Dambusters raid of 1943, using Virtual Reality technology. The Dams Raid was the greatest feat of arms performed by the Royal Air Force and one of the key stories of the Second World War. Its success captured the public imagination at the time and over the next 70 years inspired a multitude of books, films and documentaries. Dambusters: Immersive Histories at the RAF Museum London, is the newest part of the Dambusters offer that also includes a replica of the ‘bouncing bomb’, Barnes Wallis’ office and the original moulds of the first test bombs. The Virtual Reality Experience (VRE) puts the user inside a moment in history. For the first time ever, visitors to the Museum can step inside the story of the iconic operation through an authentic, interactive recreation of the Dambusters’ first mission on 16 May 1943 attacking the Möhne Dam. 360° first person views, spatialised audio and haptic feedback vests reinforce the experience of being aboard a No. 617 Squadron Lancaster bomber during Operation CHASTISE. Participants suit up in a vest and step inside
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an accurate physical set of a Lancaster. They are completely immersed and able to reach out to feel the window, fuselage and desk’ of the Lancaster bomber. As the aircraft continues it’s mission, users will also feel the ‘roar of the Lancaster’s Merlin engines’, through their haptic vests. The Dambusters Immersive Experience has been created by All Seeing Eye with input from No. 617 Squadron official historian, Robert Owen. Barry Smith Director of Visitor and Commercial Development “At the RAF Museum we are very interested in new ways of interpreting and sharing the stories of the Royal Air Force. The opportunity to actually invite our visitors to be part of the Dambusters story is one that we are very excited about. I can honestly say that our visitors are in for a treat!”
THE DETAILS Tickets are £10 www.rafmuseum.org.uk #BeADambuster #ImmersiveHistoriesDambusters Royal Air Force Museum, Grahame Park Way, London NW9 5LL Tel: 020 8358 6410
OUT & ABOUT
DOG DAY AFTERNOON Saturday 11th May, 11am-5pm, Cabbages and Frocks market, Marylebone Village
S THE DETAILS Cabbages & Frocks is open every Saturday 11-5pm. 0207 794 1636 or 07956 282 532 Facebook: Cabbages and frocks market Twitter: @cabbagesfrocks Instagram: cabbagesandfrocks St Marylebone Parish Church grounds, Marylebone High Street W1U 5BA, (opp. Conran Shop) Tube: Baker Street www.cabbagesandfrocks.co.uk
camper down to the Cabbages and Frocks market in Marylebone village for another special dog lover’s day out. Introducing for the first time, Doga with Mahny Djahanguiri and Robbie, her 7 year old Maltese Terrier. Doga is a human yoga practise that helps support the natural bond you have with your dog. The free class will start at 11am so join in with your four-legged friend, it will be fun! All dogs welcome. Don’t forget your yoga mat, suitable clothing and a sense of humour! At 12noon and 2pm, give a round of “appaws” to Dima, star of Britain’s Got Talent and The Secret Life of Dogs. He runs the Good Boy Dog School and will put on his new show with his four legged friends. Competitions from 2.30pm with judges Rob Alleyne of Dog Owners club and seen on BBC3 “Dog Borstal” and Mahny Djahanguiri from Dogamahny. Running order with each taking approx. 10 mins. “A bit of ruff ” for mixed breeds • Waggy tail • The Prettiest Bitch • Most Handsome Male • Miniatures & toy breeds • New kid on the block - Best puppy • Oldies but goodies • Best in show Look out for the latest in canine couture and doggy accessories. Spoil your pooch with a handmade luxury memory foam dog bed from
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Ivy and Duke. Made in the UK from a range of practical and stylish materials to ensure the beds will suits everyone’s needs, big or small. Or take a look at the illustrations by Lucy Driver including artwork and greeting cards, some have appropriate sayings such as “Who said silly sausage”. For the active dog, Reg & Bob will have their full range of collars and leads in vibrant colours ideal for showing off in the park. The market will also feature homeware, contemporary fashion, designer jewellery and vintage finds like handmade cake stands and English vintage crockery by A Piece of History Vintage. Bantam knits have a range of accessories to include snoods, lampshades, linen tea towel plus tableware screen printed from original dog drawings. Get them sniffing at healthy dog treats from Yoko, perfect for health conscious owners as these products are organic and gluten free without added sugar. No more fussy eaters thanks to Butternut Box who makes fresh home cooked dog meals, perfectly proportioned and delivered to your front door. Dog charities on the day include Paws2Rescue who rehome dogs from the UK, Romania and across the world in desperate need of help. Rushton Dog save dogs from the dog meat trade in China. Visit both stalls and support their worthwhile causes. A “woof-tastic” day not to be missed! You may go home with prizes, rosettes and purchases for you and your pet. Either way we guarantee a fun filled day out for the whole family!
OUT & ABOUT
WOMEN’S HEALTH LIVE From 3-5 May 2019, Business Design Centre
W
omen’s Health – the fastest growing international women’s magazine - are taking over the Business Design Centre in Islington for a fitness festival with a difference! With a dynamic schedule packed with over 130 workouts and talks and spread across four studios and three stages, this three-day festival brings together the biggest and brightest names on the global wellness scene.
destination for the 21st century wellness devotee and I am thrilled to have the opportunity to bring our expert advice on fitness, nutrition and mental wellbeing together in a fun, experiential event like What can you expect? Women’s Health Live. Over the three days, we’ll Celebrity trainers… Global wellness connect our readers with some of the bestexperts… Mental health respected brands, influencers and qualified ambassadors… Gut health experts in the community to help them specialists… Body confidence build a body for life” READER champions… Cutting edge Your general access ticket includes OFFER: SAVE workouts… Science & access to any talk on the Main Stage nutrition clinics… Injury and in the Zen Den with no need to prevention techniques… Panel pre-book! You’ll also be able to discover discussions… Yoga… Skincare the most exciting brands in health and and beauty… Fashion boutiques… wellness, from the latest athleisure in the Functional training… Holistic Boutique Village to gym-proof skincare trends wellbeing… First look at future trends… in the Beauty Lab. and much more! Workout sessions can be purchased for just £5 Whether you’re looking to smash a fitness goal, extra, so whether you want to sweat it out or soak upgrade your nutrition or build a stronger mindset, up some knowledge, you can tailor your schedule to join the Women’s Health team and the biggest suit you. names in the global wellness industry for three days Life Magazines has teamed up with Women’s of classes, panel talks and experiential workshops – Health Live to offer our readers 20% off general and make 2019 your fittest year yet. access tickets today! Use code: APRIL20. The dynamic schedule is packed with unique Womenshealthlive.co.uk workouts – from HIIT to yoga to adult ballet and talks from industry experts on gut health, hormones, mental health, nutrition and so much more. The festival also brings together the biggest and brightest names on the global wellness scene such as Dame Jessica Ennis-Hill, Jillian Michaels, Katie Piper, Gemma Atkinson, Binky Felstead and Alice Liveing. Claire Sanderson, Editor-in-Chief, Women’s Health UK, says; “Women’s Health is the one-stop
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“The dynamic schedule is packed with unique workouts – from HIIT to yoga to adult ballet”
OUT & ABOUT
HIDE AND SEEK SHELTER FROM SWEENEY TODD’S BLADE THIS EASTER Keep hold of your head as the London Dungeon’s demonic barber launches his new hide and seek show
THE DETAILS The London Dungeon is located on the South Bank close to Waterloo and Westminster station. Open seven days a week – times vary so check the website for the most up to date information. Enjoy a whole London day out and save 25% with combination tickets for The London Dungeon, Coca-Cola London Eye, SEA LIFE London Aquarium, Shrek’s Adventure! London and Madame Tussauds.
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Until 22nd April 2019
his Easter, the London Dungeon’s own Sweeney Todd is calling all those brave enough, to play his twisted game of hide and seek. Following a narrow escape from his barbershop, you need to seek refuge in a small and secret room within the walls, sharing the space with creepy crawlies and the menacing drips of the pipes – all in the hope of escaping the demon barber’s blade. Guests need to hold their breath and peer through the walls, as Sweeney himself plays the seeker. He has his eye on one of them so they need to watch out as he grabs hold and delivers that infamous close shave. The rush doesn’t stop there for those who visit the attraction, which includes 19 shows and 2 thrilling rides. Treat yourself, your family or your friends to the ultimate day out at the London Dungeon - the home of scary fun - and experience an array of scream-drenched stories and fearinducing shocks. Andrew Walker, General Manager at The London
Dungeon said: “This Easter we wanted to give visitors something more than just an Easter Egg. So, we decided to bring guests up close and personal with our resident barber Sweeney Todd, who’s more than happy to swap out chocolate eggs for his own brand of personal grooming, as he seeks out his new victim.” Known for bringing the city’s dark history to life, The London Dungeon promises to deliver ample laughs and screams for a half-term experience that you’ll never forget. The London Dungeon is a uniquely thrilling attraction that will whisk you way back to the capital’s most perilous past. See, hear, feel and (ahem) smell the chillingly amusing characters of the ‘bad old days’ as they come to life before you. The show is available until 22nd April and included in the standard ticket price. Tickets prices on the door £30 (adult), £24 (children), book in advance online to save up to 20%. Please book ahead to avoid horrible disappointment: www.thedungeons.com/london
FEATURE
Aston Martin recreates iconic James
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he iconic Aston Martin DB5 is back, thanks to a unique collaboration between Aston Martin and EON Productions, the company that produces the James Bond
films. Following the successful DB4 G.T. continuation project, a series of 25 Goldfinger DB5 continuation editions* have been recreated for customers by Aston Martin Works and EON Productions. The Goldfinger DB5 continuation is based on James Bond’s legendary car from 1964 and built by Aston Martin Works at Newport Pagnell – the original home of the DB5. They are authentic reproductions of the DB5 seen on screen, with some sympathetic modifications to ensure the highest levels of build quality and reliability. This authenticity extends to include functioning gadgets such as revolving number plates and more, which were made famous in Goldfinger. The gadgets are co-developed with Oscar®-winner Chris Corbould, special effects supervisor from the James Bond films. Officially sanctioned by Aston Martin and EON Productions, all the Goldfinger edition cars are produced to one specification - Silver Birch paint - just like the original. The most instantly recognisable car of all-time, the DB5 made its first appearance in the third James Bond movie, Goldfinger, alongside Sean Connery as James Bond. Laden with gadgets and armaments installed by Q Branch, the secret agent’s Aston Martin became an instant hit with moviegoers. Since its seminal appearance in Goldfinger the DB5 has featured in a further six James Bond movies: Thunderball (1965), again with Connery; GoldenEye (1995) and Tomorrow Never Dies (1997)
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with Pierce Brosnan and three appearances alongside Daniel Craig in Casino Royale (2006), Skyfall (2012) and Spectre (2015). James Bond and his DB5 have become two icons of popular culture and one of the most successful and enduring movie partnerships of all-time. Such was its popularity, the DB5’s movie debut even spawned a Corgi die-cast model, an astonishing 2.5m of which were sold in its first year of production (1965). No wonder an entire generation of children grew-up aspiring to own an Aston Martin. Now, thanks to the remarkable Goldfinger
“This authenticity extends to include functioning gadgets such as revolving number plates and more”
Bond Goldfinger DB5 DB5 continuation project, a fortunate 25 of them can now own a faithful and authentic tribute to that original car. A further three cars will be built – one each for EON and Aston Martin, plus another to be auctioned for charity. Andy Palmer, Aston Martin Lagonda President & Group CEO, said: “The connection between Aston Martin and James Bond is something of which we are very proud and it is remarkable that the DB5 remains the definitive James Bond car after so many years. To own an Aston Martin has long been an aspiration for James Bond fans, but to own a Silver Birch DB5, complete with gadgets and built to the highest standards in the very same factory as the original James Bond cars? Well, that is surely the ultimate collectors’ fantasy. The skilled craftspeople at Aston Martin Works and the expert special effects team from the James Bond films are about to make this fantasy real for 25 very lucky customers.” Each Goldfinger DB5 continuation car is priced at £2.75m plus taxes. First deliveries to customers will commence in 2020. *Please note, this car is not road legal.
Aston Martin DB5 1963-1965 The DB5, unveiled at the Earls Court motor show in October 1963, was a development of the DB4 but with many updates and improvements. The most significant change for the new model would be the introduction of a 3995cc straight six complete with three SU carburetors it offered an additional 42bhp over the outgoing DB4. www.astonmartin.com
“The connection between Aston Martin and James Bond is something of which we are very proud”
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feature
GAVIN GARDINER LTD AUCTION OF MODERN & VINTAGE SPORTING GUNS & RIFLES THE DETAILS For further information, please visit www.gavingardiner.com or call 01798 875300 You can follow Gavin Gardiner on Twitter @GavinGardiner and on Instagram @gavingardinerlimited Prior to the auction, Gavin Gardiner will be holding a series of valuation days around the UK,.
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avin Gardiner’s first sale of 2019 will take place in the heart of the gunmaking district of London (Mayfair) and will include a good selection of fine English and European sporting guns. Among the notable items is a fine pair of 12bore single trigger sidelock ejector guns by highly desirable London-makers Boss & Co, built in 1923. The guns have 28-inch replacement barrels by the makers fitted in 1990 and remain virtually unused since. They carry an estimate of £25,000 to £35,000. Elsewhere, a fine pair of 12-bore single trigger MX12 SCO single trigger over and under ejector guns, built in 1991 by Italian Makers, Perazzi. The guns have 26-inch barrels and remain little used from new and carry an estimate of £15,000 to
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£20,000. Another interesting British piece is by John Wilkes. A .358 Win Mag boxlock non-ejector rifle which was built in 1923. The gun is fitted with replacement 26-inch barrels fitted by John Slough of London, and extensively refurbished and refinished at the same time. The rifle has been little used since and carries an estimate of between £3,000 and £5,000. Overall, the auction of more than 200 lots of vintage sporting guns, rifles and shooting accessories, is the only sale of Sporting Guns to be held in the heart of London’s Mayfair and will have a strong section of 12-bore Sporting Guns by England and Scotland’s finest makers. The sale will also include a strong section of accessories and more curious items. Sotheby’s, New Bond Street, London W1a 2Aa
FEATURE
Paintings that tell stories
We are told that Norway is the land of the fairytales. And it is by the beautiful sea in Norway that we find the raising star painter Merete Steinvik Haugen. Layers upon layer she is creating a mysterious world for the observer to dive into. The more you look, the more you see
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erete Steinvik Haugen’s paintings are portraying different aspects of human relations and emotions, set in a timeless environment of space, where the idea is that even the smallest creature is important for the whole large picture. 5 years ago she started her journey as a full time painter and she has already reached out across continents. At the moment she is exhibiting at gallery Zenith in Miami. “What about exhibitions in London”, we ask? “I still have a part of my heart in London, since that is where I did my art studies, so of course, if a good gallery asks me, I will not hesitate”, she replies. It is an adventure to enter her 2700 sq/ft studio, in Fredrikstad, at the harbour, with windows facing the Oslo fiord. Her studio is filled with work in progress. “I always work on several pieces at once”, she says while explaining techniques and how she builds up the content of each painting. Everywhere we move around in her rooms, where it is up to 20 ft tall ceilings, we are surrounded by her rich use of colours and textures. Her early dream in life was to become a criminal investigator, but as we feel her passion, she probably had no chose, art was her mission. «But it is almost the same, a criminal investigator solves mysteries, while I
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create them», she says, with a big smile. Merete has endless amounts of stories she wants to tell, and she says it gives her no chose other than to paint from morning til evening every day, weekends and holidays as well. Every painting is different to another. Unlike most other artists, she does not make art prints. “I believe in the value of each piece of my work to only exist in one original”, she explains. She started her career with the exhibition “Do you see me?” in 2015, containing 100 paintings on one same subject. It was about the people we do not see. “Those that pass us in the street, that we don’t notice, who are they?”, she asks. And she tells us that she believes that every person has a story to be told. That is also why she has a love for commissions, she enjoys telling the stories of the customer, making unique personal paintings. “I listen and investigate, and I create a piece of art based on a combination of information and intuition. Fulfilling my artistic freedom, but made specific for the exact place where it will hang. And since a paintings is a very personal experience, I always give 100% satisfaction guarantee”, she says with pride. Her paintings are a tribute to life. With a spectre from the depths of the soul, to the more joyful and sunny sides of life. Like a journey within time and space. All her paintings contains some golden dust or sparkling pigments. That is part of her signature. She also always wears a dress when she paints. She admits that even her most beautiful gowns have traces of paint on them. “Wearing a dress is underestimated», she says, while making a twirl.
THE DETAILS Merete Steinvik Haugen Living in Norway BA Hons in Arts from London Exhibiting now in Miami Price approx £250 per sq/ft instagram: @m_art.no web: m-art.no “You can run, but you cannot hide” 200x300cm “In the beginning lies the end, in the end a new beginning” 140x280cm
FEATURE
Clarendon fine art Clarendon Fine Art - the country’s leading gallery group, is delighted to announce an exclusive partnership with Sky Arts’ Landscape and Portrait Artist of the Year series
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n exclusive exhibition opens to the public on the 18th April 2019 at Clarendon Fine Art’s flagship gallery in Dover Street, Mayfair to showcase the work of programme finalists and the winner from the 2019 show. For one week, you are invited to get up close and personal to some of the celebrity portraits created during the series, before they go on tour to our galleries around the UK. Meanwhile, you can enjoy an unrivalled collection at Clarendon Fine Art’s newest gallery in the heart of Hampstead village - making it the ninth in the Clarendon portfolio. The gallery’s opening collection includes the avant-garde, figurative work of expressionist painter Todd White, Sky Arts’ Portrait Artist of the Year Christian Hook and BP Portrait nominee Toby Mulligan, plus work from the UK’s leading modern impressionist artist Sherree Valentine Daines. There is also a collection of sculptures by award-winning Hamish Mackie famed for his captivating wildlife bronzes. Visitors can also expect modern masters such as Lowry, Chagall and Picasso, as well as paintings by former Hampstead resident Henry Moore. CEO of the Clarendon Fine Art Group Helen Swaby enthused; “Our Clarendon brand, has been 56 APRIL 2019
“Our Clarendon brand, has been at the forefront of the international fine art market for 10 successful years”
at the forefront of the international fine art market for 10 successful years and is synonymous with quality, innovation and excellence. We are therefore thrilled to have opened our gallery in Hampstead, an area with such a rich artistic heritage, while at the same time supporting exciting, new artistic talent that shows such as the Artist of the Year series have uncovered.” Clarendon Fine Art offers an inspirational collection of original paintings, sculptures and fine art books from an outstanding array of international, award winning artists. Each of the Clarendon Fine Art galleries has a finely curated selection of originals from modern masters to internationally acclaimed contemporary artists to emerging new talent. You can find galleries in Mayfair, Chelsea, Hampstead, Richmond, Wimbledon, Marlow, Cobham, Hale and Stow-on-the-Wold. There is also an exclusive artistic partnership with Cunard, and the Queen Mary II, the Queen Elizabeth and the Queen Victoria all feature Clarendon galleries. We regularly host Meet the Artist events. Please go to our website to check for forthcoming shows at all our galleries: www.clarendonfineart.co.uk
FEATURE
World-famous Chelsea grocer launches Chelsea Bun Bake-Off Competition
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n Saturday 4th May Partridges of Sloane Square are hosting Chelsea’s first annual Chelsea Bun Bake-Off Competition to celebrate World Chelsea Bun Day. The judging will take place during the Duke of York Square weekly fine food market on the Kings Road and all proceeds will be donated to the Chelsea Children’s Hospital Charity. The judges will include Phil Howard, Michelin Star Chef and Owner of Elystan Street in Chelsea; Chelsea Pensioner Marjorie Cole; John Shepherd, owner of Partridges and a representative from the Chelsea Children’s Hospital Charity.
• Buns can be delivered to Partridges of Sloane Square from midday...
• Prizes and certificates will be awarded to the winners of each category and one of these will be selected as the overall champion.
All winners will receive a Partridges Certificate and the Overall Champion will also be awarded a magnificent Partridges Hamper and £100 Gift Voucher from Charity Partner Merci Maman. John Shepherd, Owner and Managing Directory of Partridges says…“The first Chelsea Bun was created around 1700 by Richard Hand, who was known as Captain Bun, close to Partridges store in Duke of York Square, Chelsea. Richard ran The Old Chelsea Bun House which was famous for its Chelsea Buns and counted amongst its customers King George II and King George III. We hope lots of Chelsea residents will want to get involved and help raise funds and awareness for the excellent Chelsea Children’s Hospital Charity.”
• Junior Bakers (12 & under) £2 to enter; Prize: Crepe or Waffle Making Class for Kids at Chelsea Creperie and a Kids Personalised Baking Kit. • Young Bake-Off Wannabes (age 25 & under) £5 to enter; Prize: Icing Workshop at Biscuiteers worth £85. • Have-a-Go Grown-ups - £10 to enter; Prize: Champagne Lunch for two at Partridges at the Saturday Market. • Business & Professional Bakers - £25 to enter; Prize: 2 x Tickets to RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2019.
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• Buns will be judged on: taste/ flavour, originality/creativity and presentation/plating.
• Judging begins at noon on Saturday 4th May, with winners announced at 2pm.
Bakers of all ages and skill levels can enter now at www.partridges.co.uk in one of five categories:
• Over 65’s – Free to enter; Prize: 2 x Tickets to RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2019.
COMPETITION DETAILS
Enter Now at www.partridges.co.uk
Partridges, 2-5 Duke of York Square, Chelsea, SW3 4LY Tel: 020 7730 0651 Opening Hours: Daily 8am – 10pm. Partridges Café: Daily 8am – 5pm Follow on Twitter & Instagram @partridgesfood and on Facebook @PartridgesOfSloaneSquare #WorldChelseaBunDay #ChelseaBunBakeOff
OUT & ABOUT
The Waterfront Enclosure during Henley Royal Regatta Wednesday 3rd - Saturday 6th July
Like Nowhere Else LONG-TABLE BANQUET MENU Beginning Smoked Garlic Houmous (v) Lime and Green Chilli Yoghurt (v) Smoked Taramasalata Buttermilk Lavash (v) Harissa Marinated Baby Aubergines (v) Honey and Ras el Hanout Carrots, Pomegranate and Almonds (v) Roasted Butter Beans, Dukkah (v)
Middle Spiced Slow Cooked Rib of Beef Citrus and Herb Spatchcock Poussins Jersey Royals (v) Baby Beetroots, Lemon and Horseradish (v)
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aking place over four days, Henley Royal Regatta epitomises and encompasses everything that is great about rowing and our British summertime. However, a day out at Henley Royal Regatta is about so much more as well. An event that grows from strength to strength each year, hospitality for The Waterfront Enclosure is on sale now. Discover a relaxing location and stylish riverside spot to entertain your guests, positioned overlooking the iconic starting line. Offering a premium but casual base for your visit to the Regatta, relaxation and attention to detail are the order of the day along with stunning dishes to savour whilst watching the best boat racing in the world. Our creative four course menu is beautifully presented and inspired by the best of local seasonal flavours to fit perfectly with the summer setting.
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Tender Stem Broccoli, Anchovy Dressing
Finish Chocolate, Orange and Cardamom Tart (v) Kalamansi Citrus Meringue Tart (v) Strawberry and Basil Custard Tart
Great British Cheese Board
With thoughtful wine pairing and impeccable service, this is casual dining at its very best and a winning way to entertain friends, colleagues and clients. The enclosure boasts a well-stocked contemporary pop up bar supported by The Chase Distillery for easy access all day to the best of British drinks. Escape the crowds in our luxury riverside garden for a game of croquet or outdoor jenga and don’t miss our resident florist’s ever popular flower crown workshops. Lovers of jazz can look forward to the return of Go with the Flo for smooth sounds throughout the day, perfect to accompany one of life’s simple pleasures – an afternoon tea in the sunshine. Tickets are selling fast so see booking information and take advantage of an exclusive reader discount of 10% off. Please quote READER OFFER: SAVE WELCOME10 when booking.
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‘Our guests had a wonderful time. The staff were great and the hostess was excellent, making everyone feel welcome. Overall it was a brilliant day. Thank you very much for your efforts, we are already looking forward to next year!’ – Conveyancing Data Services
Package Details: Wednesday 3rd July £249 + vat Thursday 4th July £289 + vat Friday 5th July £299 + vat Saturday 6th July £249 + vat
All packages include: • Unique Canapés • Arrival Champagne & Breakfast Cocktails • Pop-up Bar • Four Couse Long-Table Banquet • Afternoon Tea with a Modern Twist • Impressive Contemporary Structure • Large Garden area for premium viewing of the Rowing • Relaxed Rattan Lounging Area • Exciting Kitchen Theatre • Live Commentary • TV Screen for Wimbledon • Regatta Programme • Free Parking Please contact the designated hospitality team on 01635 200 200 or email hello@thewildfork.co.uk for more details.
The Wild Fork: The Wild Fork is an Event Bar and Kitchen based in rural West Berkshire. We specialise in creative, contemporary food and providing a bespoke service for all occasions in locations across the United Kingdom, from treasured Grade 1 listed buildings to historic castles, garden marquee weddings, boardrooms, shoot lodges and pop-up restaurants. The Wild Fork: unique events delivered with fun and friendly professionalism. Instagram @thewildfork01. www.thewildfork.co.uk
‘We loved it. Food was great, wasn’t too crowded but most importantly the staff were excellent. Nothing was too much trouble and they were incredibly polite. I thought they were very well dressed unique and even your bouncer was probably the coolest guy there. The music was also good, but it’s the staff that have client interaction and they were great, so well done.’ –Allenby Capital
The Waterfront Enclosure is undoubtedly the best enclosure on the river. Where else could you get a front row seat to the race’s start while being served the most delicious seasonal menu, gorgeous wines and cocktails. The ambience is chilled, the vibe is cool, the music sets you up for the day. The team make you feel relaxed from the moment you arrive. There really is no reason you would leave this fabulous enclosure and to top it off, a game of croquet is always a giggle. Whether you are entertaining clients gathering friends together, we cannot recommend The Waterfront Enclosure highly enough! –Queenie & Belles Events
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OUT & ABOUT
CARNABY FEELS THE LOVE E
at, drink and shop greener this year in Carnaby at shops and restaurants who are feeling the love by championing sustainability, giving back to the community and partnering with brilliant charities. Denim-lovers can rejoice as Pepe Jeans London continues to take its eco-consciousness to the streets. Following the launch of the eco-revolutionary washing technology Wiser Wash® X Pepe Jeans, which uses zero toxic chemicals with no water waste, the brand continues to evolve under their TRUBLU® program, a conscious innovation initiative that aims to set a new standard in denim design. Calling adrenaline junkies and outdoor enthusiasts – head to the brand-new Columbia Sportswear store on Carnaby Street. Must-have items include the OutDry™ Ex Eco Jacket, made out of 100% recycled fabric including 21 plastic bottles, dye-free fabrics which save over 51 litres of water compared to a standard dyed jacket, and labels, toggles, zipper pulls, thread and eyelets made from 100% recycled materials. Instead of a sparkly rock for your other half, consider a more conscious approach. Nestled in Carnaby’s charming Newburgh Quarter, family-run Joy Everley Fine Jewellers’ ecologically sustainable engagement rings are made from 100% recycled materials. Each ring features a beautiful recycled diamond taken from a vintage treasure, reworked into its own unique design and set in recycled gold. Helping in the battle against mass pollution single-use plastic water bottles, Carnaby has its own free water refill station in Kingly Court in collaboration with the Mayor of London’s #OneLess campaign. Since its launch in June 2018, Carnaby has saved the use of over 35,000 plastic
Pepe Jeans
Columbia Sportswear
“Calling adrenaline junkies and outdoor enthusiasts – head to the brandnew Columbia Sportswear store on Carnaby Street”
Carnaby.co.uk @CarnabyLondon #Carnaby Dishoom Breakfast
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500ml bottles. Support Magic Breakfast at Dishoom and The Good Egg, a charity helping children to start their day with a healthy breakfast. Dishoom has donated 5.3 million meals since starting its Meal for a Meal initiative in 2015, where for every meal served, a breakfast is in turn donated to a child who would otherwise go hungry. At Darjeeling Express, chef and restaurateur Asma Khan donates a percentage of all proceeds from her incredible menu to the Second Daughters Fund, a cause close to her heart which supports second daughters in India with their education, aiming to give them the same opportunities as their siblings. Sustainable thinking is the way forward and making eco-friendly purchases and dining consciously has never been easier, helping to make a difference in restoring and protecting our planet.
FEATURE
IN FOCUS: Ann George Photography
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y native ground is a small Louisiana town in the United States where traditions are strong. My modest roots and southern values from where I grew up guide me and sustain me. I love “found objects” and all things old and unusual, which guides my vintage eye in my work. When I was a little girl, I was too busy, gallivanting on my bike and catching fleeting fireflies to be exposed to the arts, nor was there an opportunity. My daddy painted and penned his Louisiana as I watched. This was the only art I counted. The results were treasured by my family and hung proudly on our wall. It was the closest thing to a gallery I ever knew. I flew through high school drenched with a flurry of friends and memories, which were as far away from the arts as the moon and followed that path through college, finally settling on a Nursing degree. This profession turned passion led me to start a chain of hospitals based on a different approach to providing care. Other than
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raising my four boys, this, I thought was my life’s work and calling and the source of my passion. I became interested in photography while working in New Orleans, and happened upon the photography gallery. I had never visited a gallery before, much less a photographic one. I didn’t think I would be interested, however, I liked the look of the quintessential New Orleans vintage feel of the place and so I stepped inside. What happened next caught me totally off guard. The photography exhibited moved me. At once I understood why all the fuss about art. Knowing not one thing about photography, I wanted to create an image one day that could make me feel what I had just experienced. In my little spare time, I began teaching myself how to photograph by reading profusely and practicing, developing friendships with other photographers It took me awhile to grasp the technical, as I was still totally engrossed in my career and family. I considered photography as a hobby. My life’s work and career calling was my nursing and my hospitalsor so I thought.
“I picked up my camera and began to photograph, reaching for “THAT ONE” image” It was not to be but for a season of my life. As fate would have it I was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis, and the nurse became the patient. This, among the needs of my family and demands of the business, led me to prune what I thought was “my best fruit to save the vine”. I let go of my beloved hospitals, and said goodbye my co-workers, friends, and patients who believed in our mission and in me. To ease my pain, I picked up my camera and began to photograph, reaching for “THAT ONE” image. I have yet to create “THAT ONE”, and have now relaxed about striving to please myself at that level. For me, creating the one that melts my soul is now not my point. I am satisfied to share the fire that is lit in me with others and for their work. More importantly, I feel blessed for the relationships I’m building through the excuse of photography. I still love the fluttery giggly feeling when an image I am working on reveals itself and pleases me. I respond to the cocoon of working on my own projects by accepting each image created through my work as a gift. Whether or not anyone sees them but me. Currently I am working towards a large installment of my work at the R.W. Norton Art Gallery, opening June 1 2019 www.rwnaf.org/ Museum exhibition My work is represented at Nevares Fine Art, NY, NY and Lionheart Gallery, Pound Ridge, NY. I am currently showcased on Artsy and 1stdibs.”
OUT & ABOUT
Town & Country W
imbledon Village is the most desirable area within the SW19 postcode. The Village has a bustling high street, Europeanstyle café culture and an abundance of green spaces. Many properties are Victorian and Edwardian with an eclectic mix of luxury mansions, smart townhouses, terraces and quaint cottages with an endearing mix of mature residents, upper middleclass families and young professionals drawn by the area’s excellent transport links. Described as Wimbledon’s millionaires’ row, properties on Parkside facing the common can cost up to £10 million. The prestigious Parkside Hospital is also located there. The Village has something for everyone… a blend of chic shops and designer boutiques, fine art and antiques, jewellers, beauty clinics and salons, delis and coffee shops. Most are independently run so you get that added personal touch. The Village is alive with drinking spots from traditional inns to brasseries to gastro pubs. The array of restaurants caters for all tastes! Traditional British, Thai, Indian, European, French, Italian, Lebanese and Argentinian are just some. The open space of 1,140 acre Wimbledon Common is popular for horse riding, walking the
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dog and sitting in the sun with a picnic or delicious foods and drinks from the surrounding pubs. There is plenty of space for children to run about so it is a big draw for families - as are leading private schools such as The Study Prep, Kings College School, and Wimbledon Common Prep, with Wimbledon High, Donhead Prep and Ursuline Prep schools nearby. And for those who like to keep active there is the wonderful Wimbledon Village Stables - the oldest recorded riding stables in England, offering exceptional horse riding and fun lessons for all abilities. Also golf clubs, health clubs, hockey, ballet, yoga and of course, tennis! During the Wimbledon tournament, the Village is awash with sports stars and well-dressed spectators sipping on champagne. There is a real buzz at this time of year, with tennis stars often spotted shopping or having lunch. Other events include the Wimbledon Common Park Run, a weekly Sunday Farmers Market, winetasting at Friarwood Fine Wines and live music, cocktails and canapes at Hotel du Vin. Wimbledon Village is a paradise…friendly, welcoming and all that is exclusive and elegant. For more details visit www.wimbledon-village.com or email info@wimbledon-village.com
“The Village is alive with drinking spots from traditional inns to brasseries to gastro pubs”
OUT & ABOUT
Jazz in the House Returns to Lauderdale House, Highgate, 25th April – 20th June 2019
B
ringing world class jazz talent to Highgate every Thursday evening, a host of talented and eclectic jazz musicians will be giving concert-style jazz performances at Lauderdale House, all kicking off just before International Jazz Day on 30 April. There will be nine performances offering the perfect mix of formality and relaxed listening, complemented by the stunning setting of Lauderdale House’s historic Lower Gallery. This season will be several incredible female-led artists and Highgate locals will be excited to see Ben Crosland Quintet play the Ray Davies Songbook as part of this year’s Highgate Festival.
The full line-up each Thursday evening: 25 April, 8.30pm: Roger Beaujolais with Jim Mullen (guitar) and Steve Watts (double bass) Major instrumentalists come together with an intriguing drumless trio. 2 May, 8:30pm: Brigitte Beraha’s Babelfish with Barry Green (piano), Chris Laurence (double bass) and Paul Clarvis (drums) For all lovers of the jazz voice, this concert is a must. The Jazzmann calls her “one of the most adventurous young vocalists around.” 9 May, 8.30pm: Andrew Cleyndert with Nadim Teimoori (saxophones), Mark Edwards (piano) and Winston Clifford (drums) Andrew Cleyndert, Ronnie Scott’s last bass player, returns for an evening of consummate jazz. 16 May, 8:30pm: Robert Mitchell with Tom Mason (double bass) and Saleem Raman (drums) Robert Mitchell’s performances go beyond easy, superficial flair, revealing an enormous strength in his playing, alongside lyricism and great beauty. 23 May, 8.30pm: Shireen Francis with Gunther Kurmayr (piano), Josh Kemp (tenor sax), Manuel Alvarez (double bass) and Dave Ingamells (drums) Shireen returns for a third visit to Lauderdale House! A warm and engaging artist who believes in taking the audience along with her. 68 APRIL 2019
30 May, 8:30pm: Chris Laurence with Frank Ricotti (vibes), John Parricelli (guitar), and Martin France (drums). Their last show at Lauderdale House was one of the finest concerts that they have been privileged to present. 6 June, 8.30pm: Sarah Moule and the Simon Wallace Quartet, featuring Simon Wallace (piano), Dave Bitelli (saxophones), Mick Hutton (double bass) and Paul Robinson (drums) Presenting a brilliant programme of class popular songs featuring material by Duke Ellington alongside music by Billy Strayhor and Marshall Barer. 13 June, 8:30pm: Karen Sharp Quartet featuring Nikki Iles (piano), Dave Green (double bass), Steve Brown (drums) Prepare for a night of jazz at its best. This quartet is the perfect vehicle for Karen Sharp’s wonderful loping lines and warm sound. 20 June, 8.30pm: Ben Crosland with Brandon Allen (saxophones), Chris Allard (guitar), Steve Lodder (keys) and Sebastian de Krom (drums) Inspired by the music of The Kinks, Crosland’s rich palette contains up-tempo swing, Latin tinged balladry, jazz waltz and modern New Orleans feel, which he uses to enhance, but not swamp, the rich, melodic content of Ray Davies’s classic material.
THE DETAILS With the bar open from late afternoon and the chance to take a stroll around the Tea Lawn in the interval, the concerts are a wonderful way to welcome in those long summer evenings. All concerts start 8.30pm, doors open at 8pm. Standard Tickets: £12 (£13 on the door) Concession Tickets: £10 (£11 on the door) Box office: www.lauderdalehouse. org.uk/whats-on/jazz-house-0 Discounted student tickets are available for each show. Tel: 020 8348 8716 Highgate Hill, Waterlow Park, London N6 5HG
From Top: Shireen Francis; Robert Mitchell; Babelfish
FEATURE
WIN 2 tickets to the RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2019
F
or many years Trailfinders has showcased at the prestigious RHS Chelsea Flower Show, having Australian-themed gardens for eight consecutive years, before taking a hiatus in 2013 after being awarded a ‘Gold Medal’ and the ultimate ‘Best in Show’ accolade. In 2018, Trailfinders made a big comeback reinvigorated and with new inspiration. The Trailfinders South African Wine Estate Show Garden, designed by Jonathan Snow, was a great success, and now both are back at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show for the 10th year. 2019 will see another part of the world on display with The Trailfinders ‘Undiscovered Latin America’ Garden. Inspired by the rainforests of South America, the garden is built on a steep slope and covered in lush, temperate planting that enjoys high rainfall, cool temperatures, and wet conditions underfoot. Dramatic waterfalls cascade into a pool, and a striking red walkway winds its way through the garden, around the waterfalls and among the planting. Some plants, such as the monkey puzzle tree have never been shown at Chelsea Flower Show before and it is also the first time Chile will be represented. The temperate rainforests of South America are under threat from urbanisation, over-farming and
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logging. With this garden, Trailfinders and Jonathan Snow hope to raise awareness of these fragile ecosystems. To celebrate, Trailfinders is offering you the change to win 2 tickets to the RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2019 on a day of your choice, along with a private tour to view The Trailfinders ‘Undiscovered Latin America’ Garden, given by Jonathan Snow. All you have to do is visit trailfinders.com/chelsea and enter your details to be in with a chance of winning. Trailfinders is Trustpilot’s No.1 rated travel company, so who knows where their knowledge and inspiration will take Chelsea to next? From a fly drive holiday along the stunning Amalfi Coast to a luxury escape in the Indian Ocean, let Trailfinders take care of your travels - it’s what they do best. www.trailfinders.com
“All you have to do is visit trailfinders.com/ chelsea and enter your details to be in with a chance of winning”
FEATURE
SEE THE SEA
P
eter Goodhall is an artist whose paintings tell us that he might wear two hats, but he says that he doesn’t wear berets and neither does he wear smocks. So how can we describe him? He’s an artist that clearly has two completely differing styles of painting? His very modern and his extremely traditional styles. Large striking centre piece paintings are at the forefront of Peter’s modern contemporary style of painting. Adjectives such as stunning, vibrant and seductive have been used to describe his paintings that feature water and sometimes water with the addition of a nude swimming. The colours on his canvases are highly crafted and meticulously blended using quite small brushes and each canvas can take several weeks to complete. Peter’s paintings of water are focal points for any space and portray the subtle movement and transparency of the sea, showing beautifully an abstract and surreal side to this natural world. Peter’s paintings often combine the play of light with the distorted shapes of pebbles visible under
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“Adjectives such as stunning, vibrant and seductive have been used to describe his paintings that feature water and sometimes water with the addition of a nude swimming”
Realism fascinated by the sea
the shallow water. An impressive selection of awards from both sides of the Atlantic has been collected and his oil paintings have gone off to many international destinations. Peter is also internationally recognised for his paintings and drawings of historical marine themes that are carefully researched. These paintings have been exhibited on both sides of the Atlantic. Rough seas with lifeboat rescues from the early days of the RNLI when lifeboats only had oars are a popular choice for Peter to paint and several of these paintings have been collected by lifeboat men themselves. That’s testimony itself to his skill in successfully portraying the sea and those brave lifeboat crews. The Royal Navy also hold a collection of Peter’s paintings. These paintings are absolutely traditional in both their subject matter and in the style in which they are painted so many people just wouldn’t think they were by the same artist. Peter attributes this method of painting to his admiration of 19th and early 20th century artists and love of sailing craft. Also featuring water are his paintings of koi carp. He keeps koi himself and says that it seemed a natural progression to paint his own fish and created an opportunity to use a range of colours that were not normally on his palette. Of course these koi paintings display a completely realistic technique with an astonishing attention to detail. Interestingly these fish are kept in very high regard by many cultures. It is little wonder that the sea has significantly influenced so much this artist’s work. He has spent most of his life within a stone’s throw from the sea and for twenty five years he had a studio on a Devon cliff top. www.petergoodhall.com
“Alaska”, Acrylics on Wood
FEATURE
Living Artfully
The Private World of A.C. Lindner
A
.C. Lindner is an American contemporary artist who creates masterful paintings of nature and animals. Inspired by her surroundings at her Texas home, Lindner is an avid naturalist and conservationist who encourages others to live artfully and appreciate the gifts nature has to offer. Her meticulously detailed paintings have captured the hearts of collectors worldwide, especially her paintings of rabbits in her garden. Lindner studied art at Texas A&M University, where she immersed herself in British sporting art. She was especially drawn to works by George Stubbs and other artists of the 18th and 19th centuries. After college she honed her painting skills at the Schuler School of Fine Arts in Baltimore, Maryland, an atelier that taught the techniques of the old masters. Lindner, who specializes in painting animals and still lifes, is often asked to paint portraits of animals. Painting the Kentucky Derby winning horse, Super Saver, was one such commission and a “favorite accomplishment,” she says. “It was considerably challenging as I painted him in his garland of roses. I try to work completely from life, so I was making trips to the store for red roses for months. I think I painted about 125 of them. “Being an avid equestrian myself, I loved having the opportunity to visit the farm and spend time with such a magnificent creature—the most beautiful animal I have ever seen. I am most grateful to have had such an amazing opportunity, and it has been a highlight of my career,” she adds. 74 APRIL 2019
With a family ranch in the Texas Hill Country, Lindner finds boundless sources of inspiration for paintings. Lindner says that she is continually amazed and inspired by God’s creations on Earth and is fascinated by their immense variety; she seeks to communicate this on her canvases so that others might appreciate the beauty she sees in life. “I find inspiration in the smallest things; it may be a butterfly or the way the sun rakes light across a landscape. Beauty is all around us, and it is this simple beauty that I try to convey to the viewer in my paintings. My hope is that others will be inspired to see their world in an artful way that satisfies their soul, whatever their talents and interests.” Lindner believes that if you do what you love, you will find true happiness. For those interested in nature and animals, there are many ways to get involved. Take a walk down your favorite path. Take a camera or a sketchbook with you to record those special and fleeting moments that you would like to remember. Volunteer or donate to a worthy nonprofit organization that benefits nature or wildlife. These activities will fuel your creative spirit. Lindner’s work has been exhibited in galleries and museums worldwide, receiving numerous awards and honors. The artist is represented by Russell Collection Fine Art Gallery in Austin, Texas. For more information, please visit www.aclindner.com or email lindnerstudios@yahoo.com.
“I find inspiration in the smallest things; it may be a butterfly or the way the sun rakes light across a landscape. Beauty is all around us, and it is this simple beauty that I try to convey to the viewer in my paintings”
Born in the region of Skane in Sweden. Seminars in drawing, nude painting, sculpturering and glazing. First exhibition in 2010. Some individual exhibitions, participations in projects, national and international group exhibitions in galleries, and art fairs in Sweden, Denmark, Italy, France, Austria Germany and USA. You can find examples of her art in international art books, art magazines, online galleries and private collections in Sweden and abroad. She has got several International distinctions. A key element in many of her pieces are leaves of some kind. If you want to contact her see below Websites: www.artklemendz.se and www.gunillak.se Email: ludvigske@gmail.com
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OUT & ABOUT FEATURE
CAROLINE COBBOLD C
aroline has over 35 years of experience in the design industry. Having honed her design skills as an Art Director for Film and TV, Interior Design seemed a natural progression. She has accumulated an undeniable wealth of experience, borrowing cultural influences from work abroad, her love for travel and from work in the film industry. Her unique taste and attention to detail sourcing props and furniture has evolved organically over the years. Caroline’s skills lie in her versatility; in instinctive style and in adapting to each project, focusing on brining each individual clients needs and vision to life. Throughout, taking into account practical requests while bringing unique ideas to create a beautiful space. Caroline prefers to layer different genres of styles so it appears that the client has built up their own collection of treasured items over time, without looking or feeling too over-designed.Caroline is particularly known for her bold strong use of
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colour palette. Antique furniture sits alongside contemporary pieces, merging modern with vintage to create an innovative, original style bespoke for every project.
“She has accumulated an undeniable wealth of experience” From large residential properties, to commercial work, Caroline’s approach is both highly personal and collaborative. She aims to create an interior that reflects the true personality of its owner interpreted through her own taste, complete with individually sourced items. All the while working within an agreed budget and programme. ‘I want to create interiors for clients that actually exceed their expectations’, she says. www.carolinecobbolddesign.com
Amanda Horvath is a contemporary artist, her unique paintings celebrate life, nature and beauty. Achieving a B A Hons (first class) in fine art Amanda went on to lecture in painting and printmaking. Now working full time from her studio in the Peak District she is influenced by the wild landscape of her home and is renowned for forests and meadow flowers, which are increasingly popular. “Painting is a response to the beautiful landscape, I attempt to capture the spirit of the land and that quiet sense of tranquillity that coexists with a closeness to the natural world. This affinity with nature has grown from childhood and my past experiences” After taking preliminary notes en plein air Amanda works in the studio translating her drawings on canvas using various techniques and palette knives to create a highly textured finished painting, which lies somewhere between abstraction and realism. Her work has found homes with private collectors worldwide. Amanda exhibits with galleries in the UK, her work will appear with Eclectic Gallery at the Affordable Art Fair Hampstead 9-12 May.
For more information visit www.amandahorvath.co.uk www.instagram.com/amandahorvathfineart/ or to request commissions email amandahorvath.art@gmail.com
ROY RODGERS “My deep - rooted interest in the landscape of Suffolk and surrounding countryside has grown over a period of 25 years. The flatness of the terrain, the big skies, and the unique light combine with how seasons, weather, and time, affect the landscape. These are the forces that drive me as an Artist. The changing colours and textures resulting from living farm land are a constant source of joy and inspiration. The spiritual aspect of the area is an important element to me: the landscape is steeped in history from the early Vikings, to more recent times to World War 2. The land is ideal for airfields due to it’s flatness and was extensively used by U.S. Forces and the R.A.F. All this is still evident today and is still evocative. The wildlife reserves, such as R.S.P.B. at Minsmere in Suffolk, and the Fens of Cambridgeshire are rich sources of inspiration, and all contribute to my love of the area...
“Kenneth Clarke once said, ‘the most important thing about painting is that it must be life enhancing’. To live with a painting by Roy Rodgers is a life enhancing experience, as he always shows us his way of seeing the world. He reveals the world to us, he celebrates the world and he communicates that celebration to us.” – Ken Howard, OBE RA
FORThCOMinG ExhiBiTiOn: 16Th - 28Th AUGUST, QUAY GAllERY, SnAPE MAlTinGS, AlDEBURGh iP17 1SR
www.royrodgers.co.uk
FEATURE
Sworders continue to expand S
tansted Mountfitchet-based auctioneers Sworders have opened a viewing and consignment office in the heart of London’s theatre district. The newly refurbished premises, with 700 square feet of gallery space and a private valuation room, is located in Cecil Court, a picturesque Victorian thoroughfare just a moment’s walk from Leicester Square tube station and five minutes from Trafalgar Square. The street, with its array of independent shops, is already a favourite with collectors of antiquarian books, maps and silver. Sworders’ London Office is open from Monday to Friday for free auction valuations, auction preview events and insurance and probate work, with late opening on Thursdays until 19.00. The office launched with a display of prints from the Modern and Contemporary Prints sale, including works by Peter Blake, Damien Hirst, Tracy Emin and Paula Rago. Previously based at the Stansted Head Office, Emma McCann will be running the day-to-day activities in London working closely with Mark Wilkinson, former Christie’s and Bonhams specialist and curator of Sworders’ Out of the Ordinary sales. Sworders’ Managing Director Paul Martin said: “We have long been working with clients in London,
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across all of our auction departments. A base in the West End is the natural next step; we have friends and business relationships there and it will be great to be closer to them. This is an exciting move which will enable us to give clients an even better level of service. Do drop in to see us for a coffee.” The office will welcome walk in visits throughout the week, though should visitors wish to discuss an item of a particular specialism, it is advised to call ahead to check dates and availability for the appropriate valuer. www.sworder.co.uk
Opening hours: Monday 10:30-17:00 Tuesday 10:30-17:00 Wednesday 10:30-17:00 Thursday 10:30-19:00 Friday 10:30-17:00 Occasional weekend auction previews and events
PROPERTY
The Goldenstone Collection G
oldenstone was established in 2014 and specialises in new development and refurbishments of residential and commercial projects, both in the UK and continental Europe. The highly experienced team combines a shared passion for creating buildings which marry modern technology with classical architectural detailing and aesthetics; incorporating fine materials with firstclass craftsmanship. Goldenstone prides itself in its design led approach to crafting high quality, mixed use development projects, which complement their surroundings and enhance the environment in which the schemes are built. With three very individual projects currently under construction and available to buy off- plan now, the developer aims to deliver the final product, ready to move in to, by the end of 2019. Located in some of London’s most desirable postcodes, each development offers a unique identity whilst maintaining a high standard of specification and finish. First under the spot light is Oakley Gardenslocated on the edge of leafy Hampstead; this 35 unit development is situated on a quiet, residential street in Childs Hill. Offering 31 high specification apartments and 4 townhouses, the scheme is set within its own private landscaped gardens surrounded by mature tree borders and lawns. The development features off street parking and concierge services to cater for your daily requirements. Completing in December 2019, Oakley Gardens will provide a mix of One, Two and Three bedroom apartments and 3 & 4 bedroom houses. Every property benefits from outside space such as balconies, terraces or gardens. Help to Buy is now available. Prices from: £595,000 Nestled behind the scenic, walled St Georges Gardens, in the heart of Bloomsbury, is The Old Dairy; a hidden mews development currently being built by Goldenstone, on the site of the old Express Dairies bottling factory. Created with space and light at the foundation of its design; the scheme comprises 11 contemporary apartments and two townhouses. Just minutes from Kings Cross St Pancras, Russell Square and the Brunswick centre, the area
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also boasts boutique shopping and eateries on Lambs Conduit Street and the world famous British Museum and Library just a short walk away. High ceilings, oak engineered flooring and views across the picturesque garden square are appealing to buyers, with properties ready to move in to this Summer. Prices from: £1,650,000 The Osborn Apartments is just another of Goldenstone’s development schemes; embracing contemporary warehouse living as the key design element of this project, in the historic Brick Lane area of London. Situated on the edge of both London’s financial district and creative heartland, just minutes from Aldgate East Underground station and the forthcoming Crossrail, The Osborn Apartments is a selection of 15 spacious loft style apartments. Featuring crittal windows, engineered floors and underfloor heating, The Osborn Apartments are neighbours to the renowned Whitechapel Gallery and soon to be opened, boutique Buxton Hotel and pub. Prices from: £600,000 For more information on any of Goldenstone’s current and future developments, contact sales@gsdlondon.co.uk or call: 020 3195 3466
“The Osborn Apartments is a selection of 15 spacious loft style apartments”
OUT & ABOUT PROPERTY
Move in Safe Hands with Galleon
S
ince 1980 Galleon International have been moving people all over the world, and while the last 40 years have seen huge changes in the way we live, their process and values have remained the same. Whether you’re moving to a new country or just round the corner, the prospect of upping sticks and going somewhere new can be a daunting one. This is where Galleon come in. With a wealth of experience at all levels, you will be looked after by your own dedicated Move Manager, from the very first point of contact, right until you are settled in your new home. They will arrange a visit from a specialist Move Consultant, who will spend time discussing your needs, and work out the most effective way to get the job done. Amanda, who has first-hand experience of moving herself a number of times said “I love guiding people though the move process, over the years I’ve learnt that no two moves are the same, but our processes are. This lets me focus on what is important, the people we are moving” Amanda has been looking after clients moves for over 15 years now. Once this is all agreed, you can sit back and let Galleon do all the work. Safe in the knowledge that they have made the parking arrangements with the local council, they will make sure your home is protected from floors to stairs. Then the packing commences, each room is carefully boxed by their professional staff, making sure everything is labelled, and carefully loaded on to their vehicles. Can’t face dismantling another bed? Galleon will do it for you. Worried about your valuable art work, or marble table? Galleon will build a crate for that too! Now your possessions are all wrapped, packed and loaded, you can look forward to the exact same service at your new home – just in reverse! Boxes
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carefully unpacked, beds re-assembled, and furniture placed exactly how you want it. They will even fill your fridge for you if you wanted to take advantage of their gold service. And the best part is, this service remains the same whether you are moving to Chelsea, or China. Such is the high standard of the network that Galleon have nurtured over the years. Having been in the industry for so many years they have been a part of some really interesting projects, The Chairman, Mr David Townsend, recalls moving 130 families to Arizona, USA to work on ground-breaking new technology. “It was a real privilege to have played a part in such an exciting project, that in turn has changed the way we all run our lives today, we’ve been lucky enough to move people to some really exciting places, and look forward to being of service for many more years to come” There is no problem that Galleon haven’t found a solution for, from delivering pianos through tenth floor windows, to making sure that their clients prize British Bulldog arrived safely in Sydney, Australia! But should you have a request that you think they haven’t handled yet, they are ready and waiting by the phone for their next challenge! Tel: 01708 868068. Email: info@galleon-ltd.com. Web: www.galleon-ltd.com. Twitter: @GalleonUK
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PROPERTY
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property
GRAND DESIGNS LIVE RETURNS TO LONDON
4th – 12th May 2019, London ExCeL
P
roudly sponsored by Anglian Home Improvements, the show will boast new exhibitors and features, as well as the favourites with design guru and TV broadcaster, Kevin McCloud. Whether you are starting your first renovation, building a new home, redecorating a room, installing a new kitchen or simply looking for ideas, Grand Designs Live is the must-visit event for anyone wanting to learn about interiors, design and self-build. As Grand Designs the TV series turns 20 in April 2019, the show will be celebrating with fun and exciting features! In line with its green agenda, Grands Design Live will work with returning charity partner for 2019, Friends of The Earth, launching the brandnew movement the ‘Green Finger Campaign’. A Wildlife forest will be created to show visitors how and where to create wildlife friendly environments in whatever outdoor space they have to work with. Grand Designs Live will continue to support their initiative to reduce the usage of single-use plastics at the show; prohibiting the sale of plastic bottles from all in-show catering points along with the distribution of plastic straws. Visitors will be encouraged to use refillable bottles and water points at the show’s cafes. Also not to be missed is the new interiors feature – The Under the Stairs Project, which
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For more information visit Grand Designs Live www.granddesignslive.com
will see eight interior designers showcase bespoke installations, using a commonly neglected area in the home. Visitors can browse and pick up inspirations for their own mini grand designs. Judges for this exciting new competition will include Kevin McCloud and Jenny Gibbs from the KLC School of Design. Established favourites such as Kevin’s Green Heroes will showcase the most ground-breaking and eco-friendly products on the market, and the popular Ask An Expert returns with a host of inspiring and informative seminars at The Grand Theatre . As part of the linking between Grand Designs Live and National Custom and Self Build Week, talks and an expert clinic focusing on Self-Build will take place on weekdays, including topics themed around ‘Busting the myths of Self-Build’. Grand Designs Live feels strongly that supporting this initiative is important as the UK has a much lower rate of self-building than other European countries. NaCSBA and Grand Designs Live will hold a parliamentary reception on 7th May in The Houses of Parliament. This invitation-only event will be hosted by the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Self-Build, Custom & Community Housebuilding & Placemaking with the likes of The Housing Minister Kit Malthouse, Richard Bacon MP and Kevin McCloud will be in attendance. Grand Designs Live encourage the public to get involved by submitting questions to the event panel through Grand Designs Live social media or email via info@ granddesignslive.com. Covering Build, Kitchens, Bathrooms, Gardens and Interiors the show offers a great day out with hundreds of innovative ideas for the home. Get access to amazing brands launching new products and check out homewares not yet available on the high street.
FOOD & DRINK
WE LOVE CHEESE
TAKES OVER BATTERSEA POWER STATION Saturday 11 and Sunday 12 May
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ow in its third year, We Love Cheese, the free festival for cheese lovers, promises to be bigger and better than ever and for the first time partnering with Vagabond Wines. The event will be held at Circus West Village at Battersea Power Station, the new riverside quarter bustling with exciting new restaurants, cafes and bars at the foot of the iconic building. We Love Cheese will bring together the diverse world of ‘fromage’ with the likes of Raclette Brothers’ Alpine dishes, Mac To The Future’ signature mac’n’cheese and The Toasty Badger’s oozy toasties plus all your favourite cheese board accompaniments with charcuterie, fresh breads, olives, sauces and speciality produce.
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“We Love Cheese will bring together the diverse world of ‘fromage’ with the likes of Raclette Brothers’ Alpine dishes, Mac To The Future’ signature mac’n’cheese and The Toasty Badger’s oozy toasties”
While the country’s best cheese producers and importers such as Capo Caccia, Une Normande à Londres, Alsop & Walker, L’Ubriaco and Bath Soft Cheese will battle it out to win the coveted We Love Cheese Cup voted by guests on both days. This year’s event, will also see the introduction of the wine fair led by resident urban winery and kitchen, Vagabond. The weekend’s wine sessions will be run from Vagabond’s award-winning Urban Winery, based in the heart of Battersea Power Station. Taste English wine picked from locally sourced grapes. There will be plenty of opportunities to meet Vagabond’s resident winemaker, Gavin Monery and special guests, as well as insider tasting tips in their masterclass sessions and wine-focused talks. If that isn’t enough the bar will be open on the riverside all weekend to pair with your cheesy choices. Throughout the weekend, guests can head to the ‘Battersea Bites’ tent for a curated programme of talks and masterclasses including matching cheeses with wines or beers. And because no festival is complete without music and entertainment for kids and adults alike, expect live performances, a craft area for little ones and the return of the Wheel of Cheese to be in with a chance of winning special prizes. With such a cheese-loaded, fun and familyfriendly weekend, where would you rather brie?! We Love Cheese is free to attend on Saturday 11 May (12pm – 6pm) and Sunday 12 May (11am-5pm) Voting cards for the We Love Cheese Cup are £8 in advance or £12 on the day and include tasters of all the cheeses in the competition and one complimentary drink. www.welovecheesefest.co.uk. Facebook and Instagram: @eatmedrinkmeldn. #WeLoveCheese Or visit batterseapowerstation.co.uk and follow @BatterseaPwrStn to keep up to date with all the latest news and events.
OUT & &ABOUT FOOD DRINK
Celebrate the Summer Season with Royal Warrant Holder Partridges
2 House Gins P
artridges, the independent, familyrun grocer and Royal Warrant Holder launched THE ORIGINAL CHELSEA FLOWER GIN in May 2017 to celebrate its 45th Anniversary and No.2 CHELSEA FLOWER GIN last May to commemorate the Royal Wedding of Prince Harry and the Duchess of Sussex. The launch dates also coincide with the RHS Chelsea Flower Show, which takes place close to Partridges’ flagship store in Duke of York Square, each May. THE ORIGINAL CHELSEA FLOWER GIN - contains 19 botanicals including rose petals, marigold, verbena, cassia bark and juniper. ‘Rose and other floral notes interact with piney juniper and peppery spice’. No.2 CHELSEA FLOWER GIN – is infused with bergamot and is ‘elegant, indulgent and rounded with body and freshness. Notes of bergamot lead but there is also a medley of citrus and coriander with hints of lemon tart and vanilla’. Both Gins were created in collaboration with the Dunnet Bay Distillers in Scotland who are located close to the home of the Partridges owners’ great, great, great grandmother. Each of the limited edition bottles is hand filled, numbered by hand and sealed with wax. John Shepherd, Owner and Managing Director of Partridges says... “Gin is a quintessential British drink, and as a Royal Warrant Holder to HM The Queen, we are delighted to include these two new house gins in the ever popular Partridges’ Chelsea Flower range. During Chelsea Flower Show and in
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the summer months we can think of nothing finer than mixing a G & T or G & Tea with one of our delicious Partridges’ gins and savouring it slowly. Cheers.” Partridges – was awarded a Royal Warrant as Grocer to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth in 1994. Chelsea Flower Gin is exclusively available in Partridges’ two central London stores in Duke of York Square, Chelsea and Gloucester Road, Kensington and via www.partridges.co.uk 50cl £29.95; 5cl £3.99. www.partridges.co.uk @partridgesfoods #ChelseaFlowerGin
Partridges of Sloane Square
John Shepherd, Owner and Managing Director of Partridges
FOOD & DRINK
45 JERMYN ST.
CELEBRATES THE START OF SPRING WITH SEASONAL ASPARAGUS MENU
THE DETAILS 45 Jermyn St. Corner of Jermyn Street and Duke Street, London, SW1 6DN. www.45jermynst.com
45 Jermyn St., the foodie destination in the heart of St James’s is celebrating spring with the launch of a new asparagus menu. The award-winning dining room known for championing seasonal ingredients at their best, welcomes guests in from the bustling Jermyn Street with intimate booths, an exquisite bar and old school glamour interiors with a contemporary feel. Marking the start of the season, 45 Jermyn St. will showcase five fresh new dishes with the finest produce from Wye Valley. Diners will be treated to dippy soft boiled eggs to start with at breakfast time, followed by delicious mains options. To start, diners can savour the earthy stems in their finest form, served with tangy hollandaise sauce more moving onto bigger plates. New this year, guests can enjoy lightly blanched stems tossed into 92 APRIL 2019
a salad of iberico ham, jersey royals, topped with wild garlic mayonnaise. The seasonal vegetable is also showcased in a delicious smoked haddock and parmesan tart with hollandaise sauce for a hearty and flavoursome bite. Plus, for pasta lovers, homemade traditional tagliolini is paired with thinly sliced asparagus and morel mushrooms, cooked together in an earthy mushroom stock and finished with salted ricotta.
INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS GUIDE A P RIL 2 0 1 9
THE FINEST SCHOOLS IN your area
EDUC ATION
A new look for Cranleigh School C
ranleigh’s dedicated boarding community is enjoying a period of new building and refurbishment across all ages, enhancing the boarding facilities across both campus. The Prep School’s beautiful new academic building, Townsend, houses Design, Art and Food Tech facilities and the boarding houses will soon be enhanced and expanded to meet increased demand. More dormitory spaces will be added and a refurbishment programme will create leisure and social spaces for pupils to enjoy together. Last year the senior school opened a new girls’ boarding house, Rhodes, and work is well underway on the fourth girls’ house, Martlet, which opens in August. The School will achieve co-educational balance with four boys’ and four girls’ houses and is working towards a community of even numbers across the sexes. This continued development and investment in boarding facilities underlines Cranleigh’s position as Surrey’s most mature co-
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“This continued development and investment in boarding facilities underlines Cranleigh’s position as Surrey’s most mature coeducational boarding environment”
educational boarding environment. A new academic building, the van Hasselt Centre, opened this year. Named after a former headmaster, the van Hasselt Centre is a multi-million pound investment in teaching of the humanities that includes classrooms, social and collaborative learning spaces, an English library and a sixth form centre that we have named Cranleigh Futures. A large glass-roofed café space provides an area for social activities and collaborative learning and seminars. The van Hasselt Centre is more than a building. It’s a commitment to teaching of liberal arts at a time when their place on the curriculum is being questioned by policy makers. It’s also a statement of investment in our pupils and their futures, and celebrates all that the humanities and liberal arts can bring to their lives as culturally aware global citizens, now and in the future. www.cranleigh.org
EDUC ATION
Get the ArtsEd Experience with a range of exciting Scholarships… W ith a wide range of part-time courses on offer for all ages, ArtsEd is once again teaming up with The Stage to offer 15 free
places this year. Following the success of last year’s association with The Stage Scholarships, ArtsEd will be offering a series of scholarship places for 2019 across a selection of its part-time courses for ages 7 – 18+! This year, they will be offering two places on the ArtsEd Part-Time Foundation Courses; one on the Musical Theatre course, and another on the Acting course, aimed at ages 17+. These courses run over three evenings a week for six months, and focus on building confidence, developing performance skills and getting audition-ready for drama school and the industry. The other scholarship places will be on the ArtsEd Summer School, for ages 7 – 18+ aimed at developing skills in audition technique, making your own movie, putting on a play, or learning real West End choreography – the options are endless! The total value of the courses available with The Stage Scholarships from ArtsEd is £12,000. Jonathan Goodwin, director of ArtsEd Extra, introduced a selection of courses to The Stage Scholarships in 2018, and managed to fill the places
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several times over. “Last year, we had between one and three scholarship students on every course in the summer. Once we hit our target, we said: ‘Okay, let’s make this bigger’ “We had more applications than we originally had places, but we tried to facilitate as many as possible by offering a 70% discount. Some students who did the summer courses are now coming to audition at ArtsEd for the Day School, Sixth Form or threeyear BA (Hons) courses.” All Summer courses offer professional training from industry professionals and ArtsEd alumni in West End shows. Over one week, ArtsEd offers the real drama school experience, developing performance skills, while making friends and most importantly, having fun! This year, ArtsEd will be taking their Summer courses on the road! Due to major building works at ArtsEd’s headquarters in Chiswick, they will be carrying out their Summer School at venues in Richmond, Acton and Catford. Find out more and apply on the ArtsEd Wesbite: www.artsed.co.uk @ArtsEdLondon
“Some students who did the summer courses are now coming to audition at ArtsEd for the Day School, Sixth Form or three-year BA (Hons) courses”
EDUC ATION
DLD COLLEGE: MAKING ITS MARK
BTEC courses may be less familiar to many students and parents considering further study, but they have been established for nearly 30 years and are recognised both nationally and internationally at higher education level.
D
LD College London is really making its mark on the capital’s educational scene. The College is set in the heart of the city, minutes from the London Eye on the South Bank, and the Houses of Parliament sit just across the river Thames. The College occupies a purpose-built building with contemporary and cutting-edge facilities which reflect the ethos and ambition of its staff and students. The College offers a range of courses and programmes including A Levels, BTEC and GCSEs. Students can study up to nine GCSEs over two years including Art, Drama and Music. A friendly and flexible approach to learning helps students build confidence in their own abilities. DLD offers 29 A Levels and we are flexible when it comes to subject combinations. This is discussed at interview to ensure students can progress to their preferred university course. For those ambitious students, the EPQ (Extended Project Qualification) is an excellent way to improve their UCAS applications. We welcome tops students and also offer a range of scholarships. Recent destinations and courses of DLD A Level students include:
Recent Destinations King’s College London UCL Bartlett School of Architecture Royal Holloway LSE Durham University Brighton and Sussex Medical School Bournemouth SOAS Warwick 100 APRIL 2019
Course History Architecture Physics Politics Accounting and Finance Medicine Film Production Japanese Studies and Economics Mathematics
DLD offers three paths in BTEC: • Business • Digital Media Production • Music Technology Here are just a few examples of universities that our BTEC students have gone on to attend: Business Birmingham
Media Production Bournemouth
Goldsmiths
Bristol
York
Emerson College
Nottingham UCL
Leeds Ravensbourne
Music Technology Academy of Contemporary Music British and Irish Modern Music Institute The Institute of Contemporary Music Performance Point Blank SAE Institute
The College is relatively small – so it is not just a school but a community – and as the students come from many countries, they learn to respect different opinions, cultures and backgrounds. DLD is rated by the Good Schools’ Guide as being the top London School for TLC (Tender, Loving, Care). Small class sizes (ranging from six to 10) allow for dedicated and focused student-staff contact. Students are treated as individuals and learning is pupil-centred. This respect for the student is reflected in many pupil-led initiatives such as the recent Summer Ball at Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre and the College’s inaugural Graduation Ceremony at the Houses of Parliament. Principal, Mr Irfan Latif, who has a wealth of experience in both the state and independent sectors, has ambitions to build on DLD College’s success academically and as a community. His priority though is to nurture self-confident and responsible young people who are full of character and creativity and are well equipped to meet future challenges. www.dldcollege.co.uk
EDUC ATION
The GOLD Standard
Fairley House School, described by the Sunday Times as the ‘Gold Standard’, is London’s leading day school for children with Specific Learning Difficulties
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ddressing the needs of children from the age of five, who require assistance due to dyslexia and dyspraxia, the school has a staff/ pupil ratio of 1:3.5 and the average stay at the school is between two to three years. Children then return to mainstream schooling with a new ‘can do’ attitude. Fairley House now offers Key Stage 4. This enables pupils to carry on their education in an environment that ensures that their
needs are fully met. While our intention is to enable your child to re-join mainstream education as quickly as possible, our provision now offers the possibility of remaining in our school to undertake the first major examinations that a pupil will face. Many of our alumni have enjoyed great success at GCSE and A-Level and they have progressed to top universities and have successful careers in a range of professions.
London’s leading day school for for specific learning difficulties 020 7976 5456 fairleyhouse.org.uk APRIL 2019 103
EDUC ATION
Good mental health and wellbeing for pupils is paramount Mike Lamb, Director of Staff and Pupil Wellbeing/Head of Year 9 at Hurst College tells us how good mental health and wellbeing for pupils is paramount, especially around the key transition periods
M
ost people would agree that good mental health and wellbeing is the basis for a happy and successful life at school and beyond. At Hurst this is at the core of what they do and which they consider is especially important around the key transition times. Moving schools can be a challenging experience for pupils and it is important for schools to work closely together to ensure a successful transition. This process begins at Hurst well before a pupil joins them. They invite key staff from their feeder prep schools to witness first-hand how they teach the key subjects and to share ideas and best practice – they also work closely with the respective heads to determine how best to support each pupil when they join. In addition, current pupils return to their prep schools to share their experiences about what it was like when they joined. Hurst hosts a special two-day event, with an overnight for boarders, in the March before Year 9 pupils join, and they take part in a variety of activities and challenges to acquire a real taste for life at Hurst. It is a fantastic experience which helps pupils to familiarise themselves with their new school, make new friends and meet their teachers.
New Year 9 pupils start the school year before any other year groups for a three-day induction programme. This allows staff to focus on supporting new pupils before the school is full again and helps with orientation and a sense of belonging. This is not - and should not - be the end of supporting the transition. There are a number of teambuilding and bonding experiences in the first few weeks, such as a multi-activity day, which involves abseiling, zip wire, pot-holing and the like. Hurst believes that a busy, challenging, engaging and rewarding day and weekly timetable is vital in order for a pupil to successfully settle. The school day is packed with learning and activities - plus there is the opportunity to exercise during three 104 APRIL 2019
games sessions each week, either through team sports such as rugby and netball, or alternatives such as climbing, gym or triathlon. All Year 9 pupils also take part in drama, dance, PE and there is an activities afternoon each Tuesday – with everything from football to shooting - plus enrichment activities later in the week, which could involve dismantling a Dyson vacuum, developing travel writing skills or learning Mandarin Chinese. The recently developed Year 9 wellbeing programme was designed to provide pupils with a quieter moment in the middle of the week. On a carousel over the year, pupils are able to develop some mindfulness techniques, practice yoga and also spend time on the college farm, plus they learn how to make fires and shelters in the surrounding woods. Through their diverse and varied curriculum, Hurst believes pupils will thrive and develop the life skills they need to achieve their personal bests. Combined with a robust tutorial programme this helps develop other attributes such as effective study skills, an understanding of the world around them and how to maintain good relationships with others, which stands them in good stead for life beyond Hurst. Tutors meet regularly with the pupils in their care, to identify the type of support required, and the school works closely with parents to help pupils achieve their potential. Later this year, Hurst will be launching their inaugural Wellbeing Conference when local schools will be invited to join them for presentations and discussions about good mental health and transition between schools. www.hppc.co.uk
“Pupils are able to develop some mindfulness techniques, practice yoga and also spend time on the college farm”
EDUC ATION
Step into the most exciting school in England “We have had four children through the public school system and I think that Hurtwood House is the only one which has really delivered what it promised”
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lthough it has all the facilities of a typical public school, Hurtwood House specialises exclusively in the sixth form and the age range 16-18. Changing schools at 16 opens up a whole new world of fresh experiences and challenges and provides the perfect steppingstone between school and university. Hurtwood House is young, exciting and dynamic and, most importantly of all, it is exceptionally creative with drama, media, art, textiles, dance, music and singing to die for. Famous former students include Oscar-winner Hans Zimmer (music for Gladiator, Rain Main, Lion King) and Golden Globe winner Emily Blunt (The Devil Wears Prada, Gideon’s Daughter) and watch out for Hollywood hot-tip Jack Huston (Factory Girl). Zara Brownless (winner of the first Young Apprentice). But marvellous as the performing and creative arts are, this school is definitely not a one-trick pony. It also caters for the budding entrepreneur, doctor, lawyer, architect, etc etc etc with a range of subjects which, though less eyecatching, are no less successful and inspirational. Small wonder, then, that the world is beating a path to Hurtwood’s door, and one of the first things to strike visitors is that it has a completely different “campus” feel about it – not like school at all. That’s because there are no juniors – everybody here is 16+ and they all join after they have taken their GCSE’s. In many ways, it defies definition - more public school than sixth form college, but smaller and less institutional – more boutique than department store. At the moment it’s in a class of its own but one suspects that one day soon there will be more schools like this, because five years is a long time 106 APRIL 2019
to be in one public school, and so many boys and girls are now ready at 16 for a fresh challenge and a more stimulating life. A lot of parents agree wholeheartedly. As one satisfied customer puts it: “We have had four children through the public school system and I think that Hurtwood House is the only one which has really delivered what it promised.” Indeed, Hurtwood has a file of letters as thick as your arm from grateful parents, and clearly what they appreciate most is that Hurtwood has given their children the confidence to cope with anything in life and has fired up their enthusiasm. “Her mind was turned on,” says one, “and her appetite for learning is voracious. I want you to know that you lit the fuse.” Who could ask for anything more?
THE DETAILS Hurtwood House, Holmbury St Mary, Nr Dorking, Surrey RH5 6NU Tel: 01483 279000 www.hurtwoodhouse.com
OPEN MORNING ON 2ND MAY 2019
EDUC ATION
A Creative
Approach
to Exam
Preparation
C
ompetition for limited places at top London schools has led to tutoring becoming the acceptable norm with families often choosing to supplement expensive education to secure their child a school place. Many recognise such harmful pressure on children is not sustainable and thus welcomed the well documented ‘creative assessment’ introduced by the London 11+ Consortium earlier this year. The logic behind the new innovative testing is to avoid children being taught restrictive exam techniques and instead allows them to obtain a clear well rounded picture of a child’s academic potential
rather than their ability to obtain knowledge. Yellowbird Education have long identified the need to introduce creativity into school admission processes. Their hugely popular holiday workshops are carefully designed with a fun but educational approach acknowledging that exam preparation needs to adapt to both encourage and inspire children to think creatively during assessments. During lengthy school holidays, Yellowbird offers small group workshops for children of all abilities that are interactive and forward thinking. Their innovative fresh approach equips children with key skills whilst building vital confidence to think
differently. As such, creative writing becomes an enjoyable lifelong skill rather than a means to passing grueling exams – a valuable asset on any educational journey. Exam practice is vital, but if structured well, can be a fun and dynamic exercise allowing children to learn whilst making new friends. So whilst admissions processes are undoubtedly changing, exam preparation in all it’s many guises still has a role to play ensuring children have the creative skills with which to shine! Yellowbird education – Holiday Workshops. Now available in North London. www.yellowbirdeducation.com
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EDUC ATION
A record breaking year at Rosemead Prep School & Nursery I t gives me great pleasure to announce the final offers from this year’s 11+ Senior School Entrance results. We are extremely proud to say that this year is the best set of results on record for number of offers and also for the number of scholarship offers. Our Year 6 pupils have once again excelled and have gained places at some of the area’s most prestigious schools. There is a great range of schools that have offered places to our pupils, showing how far and wide the consideration of Senior schools has become. With 190 offers across the year group (which is more than 3 per pupil), the children have achieved great things through a balance of outstanding teaching, hard work, commitment to opportunity and willingness to explore new experiences. The number of scholarships awarded is truly astounding and again a new record for Rosemead this year. Ranging from Music, Sport, Art and Drama, as well as an extremely high number of Academic awards, these 67 scholarships really do show how we are providing for, and nurturing, children with a range of different talents and interests. Also, the number of all-round scholarships is particularly pleasing as we celebrate the balance of our education here at Rosemead. I hope that this also shows that the 11+ entrance process should not be seen as one that should be avoided as, at Rosemead, you have the best chance of gaining the school place that is right for your child, with an extremely high chance of them being rewarded for their talents, abilities and interests. No
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“The number of scholarships awarded is truly astounding and again a new record for Rosemead this year” other school in Dulwich will have the 11+ results to rival us this year. Congratulations to all the pupils for their hard work and dedication, also to the staff involved for their advice, pastoral care and teaching over the years, which starts as soon as they join Rosemead and the effect continues long after they have left us. We look forward to celebrating their success through the remainder of this term. – Phil Soutar, Headmaster Rosemead Preparatory School & Nursery, 70 Thurlow Park Road, Dulwich, SE21 8HZ. Tel: 0208 670 5865. www.rosemeadprepschool.org.uk
EDUC ATION
OPTIMUS LAUDUM With ‘Felices Erimus’ as its motto, happiness is at the heart of the philosophy at St John’s Wood Pre-Preparatory School and it works
E
ducating 3-7 year-old boys and girls in a friendly and caring environment for over 35 years is its strength. Principal & Proprietor Adrian Ellis believes that the excellent ratio of staff to pupils allows each child to reach their full potential. “Of course, together with parents, we look to recognise each child’s unique qualities and particular talents and aim to develop them as fully as possible,” says Mr Ellis. “We want our children to move on to the right schools for them. As a result, St John’s Wood Pre-Preparatory has been since 1982 a ‘feeder’ to many of London’s top preparatory schools, including St Paul’s Juniors, Highgate, South Hampstead High School, University College School and Westminster Under School. “The sense of a whole-school community is evident in this small school, we become an extension of home and family” adds Mr Ellis. Size matters to St John’s Wood Pre-Prep. By limiting
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its numbers, most children know the rest of their fellow pupils throughout the school – an important element in building confidence and developing social skills.” There is never a time when prospective parents aren’t welcome and there are frequent tours bookable via the website.
Latest Leavers List: The Year 2 class of 11 pupils joined the following schools in September 2018: 2 girls to City of London School for Girls and 1 girl to South Hampstead High School, 2 Boys to St Paul’s Juniors; 2 boys to Westminster Under School; 4 boys to University College School For more details visit www.sjwpre-prep.org.uk Tel 020 7722 7149 or email info@sjwpre-prep.org.uk. St John’s Hall, Lord’s Roundabout, London, NW8 7NE
“We want our children to move on to the right schools for them. As a result, St John’s Wood Pre-Preparatory has been since 1982 a ‘feeder’ to many of London’s top preparatory schools”
EDUC ATION
Prince’s Gardens Preparatory School announces its opening in September 2020
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estled in the heart of Kensington, a stone’s throw from some of London’s most acclaimed institutions, Prince’s Gardens Preparatory School for children 3-11, is due to open its doors in September 2020. Jill Walker, Headmistress, told Life Magazines about their exciting plans to renovate four Georgian townhouses at 10-13 Prince’s Gardens. State-of-the-art science laboratories, music and art studios and an amazing ‘maker space’ are some of the innovative redevelopments underway for the project; highlighting the school’s commitment to academic excellence and character development. The school will also have direct access to both a wonderful garden space to the rear and Hyde Park, surrounded by inspirational Exhibition Road. It demonstrates the emphasis of the school’s teachers for nurturing a global perspective in their pupils and preparing them for the exciting challenges that life can offer through a myriad of activities. Jill Walker said: “This is such a tremendous opportunity, which places the school firmly in the academic hub of London. We want our pupils to relish all that school life has to offer so that they leave us confident and excited about their future.” The rigorous and wide-ranging curriculum draws on the school’s access to London’s museums and outdoor spaces which serve as fantastic stimuli for collaborative learning projects and creating the next generation of independent, curious children. Due to the scope of the project and building renovations over the forthcoming months, Prince’s Gardens Preparatory School will open its doors in September 2020. Details about the plans will be held at a launch event on Thursday 27th June at 7pm at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel, 66 Knightsbridge, London SW1X 7LA. See the school website here:princesgardensprep.co.uk/London
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“State-of-the-art science laboratories, music and art studios and an amazing ‘maker space’”
THE LUXURY
travel GUIDE
– Heading out of London to explore the rest of the world – i m a g e : LOS CABOS
LUXURY TRAVEL
Once Upon a Time…
A good book can transport you to endless wonderful places; but what about actually travelling in honour of a decent read? Whether it’s to meet inspirational authors or discover the roots of classic stories, literary pursuits can serve as an escape for body and mind How to get there: A two-night stay in a sixperson holiday house in Loonsche Land costs from £652, based on a May 28 arrival. Includes unlimited entrance to the park. Direct trains from London to Rotterdam with Eurostar (eurostar.com/uk-en) cost from £126.50pp. Visit efteling.com.
Head to the Channel Islands for the Guernsey Literary Festival
Celebrate love and literature at the Sant Jordi festival in Spain Less showy than flowers but much more meaningful, the gift of a book is a fine gesture of love. On April 23, as part of Catalonia’s Sant Jordi Festival - the region’s equivalent of Valentine’s Day - women present men with books in exchange for bouquets. The event is particularly celebrated in the Las Ramblas neighbourhood in Barcelona, where streets are filled with roses and book stalls, and authors even turn up to sign copies of their works. Free carillon concerts, poetry recitals, book exchanges and a blessing of roses also take place in the Gothic courtyard of the Government Palace. The date of the festival, which originated in the 15th century, was chosen to commemorate the death of two great literary names, Cervantes and Shakespeare. How to get there: AlphaRooms (alpharooms. com) offers seven nights at the NH Porta Barcelona with flights departing from Gatwick on April 20 from £342 per person (two sharing) on a room-only basis. For more information visit catalunya.com.
Explore a fairy tale forest at Efteling Theme Park, Holland Family theme park Efteling, in the south of the Netherlands, is the ideal destination for a fairy tale break, with attractions based on stories written by Hans Christian Andersen, the Brothers Grimm, and Charles Perrault. Children and adults will love taking a stroll through the secret Fairytale Forest, where they can see classic characters Pinocchio, Sleeping Beauty and Rapunzel come to life. In autumn 2019, Efteling will launch a new ‘scene’ based on the Brothers Grimm story, The Six Swans. Along with a mini ride, it will feature six swan-shaped boats suitable for younger visitors. There’s plenty of material for bedtime stories at the Efteling Hotel, Efteling Holiday Villages Bosrijk and Loonsche Land. Professional storyteller Mr Sandman promises a happy ending to the day, ensuring everyone has sweet dreams. 126 APRIL 2019
“Adults will love taking a stroll through the secret Fairytale Forest, where they can see classic characters Pinocchio, Sleeping Beauty and Rapunzel come to life”
Acclaimed French writer Victor Hugo was a former resident of Guernsey, drawing inspiration from his surroundings for numerous works. In April, his former home, Hauteville House, reopens after a year’s closure. Designed and furnished by the writer, he used the space to write Les Miserables and Toilers Of The Sea. The following month, from May 1-6, The Guernsey Literary Festival offers a varied programme celebrating literature, with several talks and workshops given by well-known writers and performers. A highlight for families is an interactive tea party event, inspired by Roald Dahl’s The Enormous Crocodile. Guernsey is also the setting for bestseller The Guernsey Literary & Potato Peel Pie Society, written by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows, which was made into a film in 2018 starring Lily James. Fans of the novel can visit places mentioned in the story on themed tours of the island, including the parish where the characters lived. How to get there: Premier Holidays (premierholidays.com) offers seven nights B&B at the Marton hotel near St Peter’s Port, from £445 per person (two sharing). Includes flights from London on May 1. For more information on the festival, go to visitguernsey.com.
Talenti Luxury Outdoor Furniture at Lagoon Get The Latest Designs
www.vivalagoon.com
Tel: 020 71291309
LUXURY TRAVEL
UNIQUE, STYLISH & LUXURIOUS C oquet Cottages comprise of over 105 unique and stylish luxury holiday homes in Northumberland. Fabulous interiors, amazing attention to detail and our signature concierge service combine to provide the best privately-owned luxury holiday homes in the most enviable coastal and countryside locations in stunning Northumberland. We provide everything you need to choose your perfect holiday home – from lots of comprehensive photographs, detailed descriptions and location maps to our ground-breaking 3D Virtual Tours, allowing you to virtually ‘walk around’ the property to explore all areas. Never has the ‘staycation’ been as popular as it currently is in the UK – and for good reason! Forget the hassle with baggage allowance and airport queues and instead enjoy a shorter journey with unlimited luggage allowance, an easy arrival and no jet lag. Our gorgeous properties are in some of the most dramatically stunning locations in the UK, with golden sandy beaches on your doorstep and ancient castle ruins just around the corner. But the best part about coming ‘home’ after a day out exploring these interesting places is that your Coquet Cottage
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is not just a ‘base’, it is a sumptuous, relaxing and comfortable home for the week. Enjoy lazy mornings in your pyjamas with fresh coffee from the Nespresso machine, or afternoons in front of the fire watching the latest movie or series on Netflix. Our holiday homes are designed for days in and days out, to suit every kind of need on holiday. Some of our properties have picnic hampers, spare wellies and rugs for enjoying days out in the countryside, others have BBQ’s and parasols for making the most of your dining al fresco in the summer. Try a ‘staycation’ this year and head up to Northumberland to escape the hustle and bustle of the south coast. Enjoy a friendly northern welcome, with ‘proper’ fish and chips and empty beaches. Can’t manage a full week? We offer shorter breaks of just 3 or 4 nights, so you can have a taste of Northumberland just enough to leave you wanting more. Our concierge reservations service can help you find exactly what you’re looking for from your holiday, so please don’t hesitate to give one of our friendly team a call to find you the perfect property for your Northumberland holiday. www.coquetcottages.co.uk
“Try a ‘staycation’ this year and head up to Northumberland to escape the hustle and bustle of the south coast”
A family business providing exclusive valet parking at Gatwick Airport since 1992.
Try our hotel… Have your car collected from the Terminal Forecourt and walk direct into check-in. On your return your car is delivered to the Forecourt and you can drive straight home. No Buses – No Waiting Our customised car park is only 3 minutes from The terminal enabling a prompt and reliable service. Car Park vetted annually by Surrey Police and holder of Trading Standards ‘Buy with Confidence’ award.
Book online at: www.tudorrose.co.uk or telephone 01293 822844
10% Discount Code TRLM010
LUXURY TRAVEL
A touch of GLAMOUR
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et your glamp on with the newly developed Luna Bell Tents from Boutique Camping. With summer festivals just around the corner, these brand new glamorous tents will provide a unique glamping experience for you and your peers. Boutique Camping understand that camping enthusiasts search for a tent that is convenient and easy to set up, but also long for a spacious and trendy tent that stands out. Durable but also chic, the Luna Bell tents are the perfect accessory for withstanding any form of weather. For a tent that oozes contemporary class, the Luna Bell Tent in Sandstone is a suitable choice. This luxurious tent has a heavy duty zipped in water-resistant groundsheet and can withstand strong winds for those unexpected rainy days in the summer. For glamping beginners, this tent can be pitched as one in just a few minutes. If you are searching for a vibrant tent to stand out from other festival goers, opt for the brand
“Durable but also chic, the Luna Bell tents are the perfect accessory for withstanding any form of weather�
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new poly-cotton Rainbow Luna Bell Tent. This tent is ideal to spot in a field of neutral colours and is, therefore, the perfect camping companion for busy festivals and events. The distinctive dome shape boasts space and style all packed into one for groups of glampers or family campers. With a heavy-duty zipped in groundsheet and a sturdy pole, allowing the tent to be pitched as one, this colourful tent takes just a few minutes to set up. If you are glamping with a larger party, opt for the Luna Emperor Bell Tent. It is no surprise that this extravagant tent was commended for Best Glamping Tent in Camping Magazine, April 2019. New and exclusive to Boutique Camping, this distinctive tent combines space with style. The Luna Emperor was designed to boost headroom but also add character to appeal to festival fanatics. The internal space of this tent is maximised, allowing room for both people and furniture for the ultimate glamping experience. www.boutiquecamping.com
About BOUTIQUE CAMPING We lovingly make and distribute a range of luxury bell tents and beautiful accessories that will turn any campsite into a home from home. From festival glamping to unforgettable family holidays and everything in between, Boutique Camping brings colour to your camping experience. Our luxury bell tents are unique; fully waterproof and exclusively available in a range of gorgeous colours to suit any occasion. Made in our own factory to exacting specifications, Boutique Camping bell tents are of the highest quality whilst being the best value on the market. Our luxury bell tents are made from durable, 100% cotton canvas. More like a hotel suite than a tent; our bell tents are luxurious, extremely spacious and offer enough headroom to stand up straight. Furthermore, every tent we sell comes with a zipped in ground sheet allowing you to roll up the sides, let in the breeze and enjoy the view on those hot balmy days of summer.
LUXURY TRAVEL
Luxury Lodge Holidays in the Derbyshire Peak District
There is no better place than the Derbyshire Peak District to enjoy a short break or a family holiday
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he Peak District is ideally located in the Heart of England just 2 hours from London and is bursting with majestic landscapes, stunning views, stately homes and unique family attractions. Award winning Landal Darwin Forest is situated between Matlock and Bakewell and combines luxury self-catering lodges with fantastic onsite facilities. Whether you want peace and tranquillity on a romantic break, action packed adventures or fantastic local attractions for entertaining friends and family, our lodges provide the perfect base from which to explore. The luxury lodges at Landal Darwin Forest are nestled within a 47 acre woodland paradise. The parks 135 lodges are sympathetically interwoven into the forest, which enables you to get back to nature and enjoy the picturesque environment. We have created a holiday park where children can explore, and young and old will feel carefree and relaxed. There are several types of accommodation options to choose from which will keep the whole family happy. Most popular are our spa lodges that include a private hot tub on the veranda and really enable you to appreciate the serenity of our forest setting. We also have a number of pet friendly lodges. At Landal Darwin Forest we have created the perfect setting for you to relax, enjoy your holiday and leave the hustle and bustle of everyday life far behind. Landal Darwin Forest is the perfect destination to enjoy a family holiday. Our fantastic onsite facilities include Evolution Health & Fitness, which
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has a swimming pool, spa, gym and beauty rooms. For the younger members of your family, Little Monkeys indoor play centre will provide hours of fun and entertainment. The Activity Den is perfect for older children with pool tables and a games room to keep them entertained. We also offer a range of fun activities onsite that are suitable for children and adults. Let our qualified instructors train you in the art of archery or the skills of fencing. The more adventurous could experience the thrills of bodyzorbing, waterwalkerz or snorkelling! For all the family to enjoy, we have a tennis court, mini golf and an abundance of footpaths and cycling trails. If you want to give yourself a break from cooking you can enjoy a coffee and lite bite at the Explorers cafe or you can visit the Foresters bar and restaurant which has an extensive menu serving fresh, locally sourced produce. Many families enjoy celebrating Christmas or New Year at the park, or gathering the family together for a birthday or anniversary. No matter what the time of year, we are confident your friends and family will have a fantastic break. www.darwinforest.co.uk
“Let our qualified instructors train you in the art of archery or the skills of fencing. The more adventurous could experience the thrills of bodyzorbing, waterwalkerz or snorkelling!�
LUXURY TRAVEL
CINEMATIC WEEKEND IN
SEVILLE
Countless TV and film crews have used the Spanish city in their productions. Laura Paterson finds out why
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aving taken six attempts to pass my driving test, letting me loose on a Segway near main roads in a European city is perhaps ill-advised. But speeding around on two wheels proves to be a novel way to see the sights in the Andalusian capital Seville, in the south of Spain. Our tour starts in the lush Maria Luisa Park, and after getting to grips with balance, thanks to some patient teaching from the instructors, our group is zipping around the Plaza de Espana on the futuristic devices. The landmark is no stranger to space-age visitors, having featured in Star Wars: Episode II - Attack of the Clones, in a scene when Anakin and Padme
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arrive on the planet Naboo. In fact, many of the city’s historic landmarks pop up in films, with the five-star Alfonso XIII Hotel which counts royals including Princess Diana amongst its former guests - appearing in 1962 epic Lawrence Of Arabia, and hit Netflix series The Crown. Elsewhere, the orange groves, peaceful pools and idyllic gardens of the Real Alcazar double up as the Kingdom of Dorne in Game Of Thrones. Home to the Royal family since the 10th Century, this World Heritage Site was partially built by a Christian king at a time of harmony amongst Christian, Jewish and Muslim people; quotations from the Koran mix with Christian symbols in the beautiful mosaics. As we head across the Guadalquivir River to Triana - proudly known to some residents as the Independent Republic of Triana - I hit the heady Segway heights of 18 kmph. Originally a working-class neighbourhood packed with ceramic factories, it has become fashionable in recent years, but has a dark past as the headquarters of the Spanish Inquisition. Our Segway tour ends near the Plaza Nueva, a palm-shaded square filled with the scent of jasmine. It’s almost in sight of Seville Cathedral, the third largest church in the world and home to a tomb of Christopher Columbus, containing just 150g of his body. Even more bizarre is a wooden crocodile hanging outside the cathedral; it’s a replica of the live animal sent by an Egyptian sultan in a bid to woo a princess in the 13th century. After failing to win her heart, it was strung up after living out its
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vision among the shops and cafes of Seville city centre. It’s officially known as Metropol Parasol, although most people refer to it fondly as Las Setas (the mushrooms). Walking on top of the 28.5m-high sculpture offers great views across the city, while below, the Antiquarium archaeological museum reveals the history of Seville. Las Setas entry €3 (£2.50); Antiquarium entry €2 (£1.70). Visit setasdesevilla.com and antiquarium.icas-sevilla.org.
Feel empassioned by a flamenco show days in the palace. We finish our journey at the city hall, where a meeting with the mayor reveals another Hollywood actor may currently be filming in town. Sadly, I fail to set eyes on Javier Bardem, but I’ve already clocked up enough A-list sights to fill more than just one blockbuster.
Where to eat? La Quinta It’s probably worth visiting Seville just to eat here. Based in an Andalusian mansion house, the restaurant offers modern twists on local specialities, with highlights including croquettes filled with local cheese, Iberico ham and prawns, and Iberico pork cheeks slow-cooked and served with a rich and sweet Pedro Ximenez sherry glaze. Mains from €10.50 (£9); glass of wine from €3 (£2.50). Visit grupopanot.com.
Tapas bar La Azotea Buzzy but relaxed, this modern restaurant has a mix of tapas and larger dishes, all with an emphasis on fresh produce; staff routinely present fish to diners for approval before cooking. Go for the Spanish tomatoes with tuna belly, followed by a dessert made from local oranges. Tapas from €4 (£3.50); beer from €1.60 (£1.40). Visit laazoteasevilla.com/en/.
Where to stay? Hotel Inglaterra On the edge of the Plaza Nueva in the heart of the old city, this hotel is minutes from key sights, including the palace and cathedral - which can be seen from the modern, upmarket roof terrace. Built in 1857, the design is opulent and traditional, with mirrors, dark wood and swathes of marble offsetting the pale blue and yellow decor. Double rooms from £78.29, on a bed and breakfast basis. Visit hotelinglaterra.es/en
What to do? Take a selfie at Las Setas The world’s largest wooden structure is a futuristic 136 APRIL 2019
Shaped by various cultures passing through Andalucia over the past 3,000 years, and used to commemorate persecution of minorities, flamenco is the heart and soul of Seville. Castanets came from the ancient Phoenicians, guitars were brought over from the Middle East, and hand gestures owe their origin to the Roma gypsies making their centurieslong journey from India to Europe. Learning the complex steps and hand movements reputedly takes 10,000 hours to master, so those hoping to appear on Strictly after one lesson can think again. Instead, go and watch a show. Museo del Baile Flamenco, the world’s only flamenco museum, has a nightly performance. Combined entry adult ticket to the museum and show, €26. Visit museodelbaileflamenco.com/en
Zoom around the sights on a Segway Segways are permitted on Seville’s many cycle lanes, making them an ideal means of zipping about and and covering more ground than you would on foot. Cyclotour guides will whisk you around the main sites, stopping regularly to give a local perspective on the city. Segway tours (30 min) from €17 (£14.50).
LUXURY TRAVEL
PALAZZO VERSACE DUBAI
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rue to the roots of the renowned Italian fashion house, the hotel’s interiors reimagine the Versace lifestyle through the contemporary eyes of Donatella Versace, its Artistic Director. Combining grandeur and opulence with true craftsmanship and exquisite taste, the extraordinary permeates Palazzo Versace: the marble mosaic in the entrance a 1.5- milliontile masterpiece by Fantini Mosaici and is one of the largest in the world. The grand chandelier was created with 3,000 kilograms of hand-blown Bohemian glass, cascading from a ceiling handdetailed in gold. Louche watering hole Q’s Bar and Lounge is one of the hottest live music venues in the Middle East, personally curated by legendary musician and record producer Quincy Jones to showcase his favourite up and coming acts. From its sweeping dimensions to the fine Italian
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marbles and mosaics, Palazzo Versace Dubai is reminiscent of a 16th-century Italian villa, fusing neo-classical architecture with subtle traces of Arabic design. With 215 Italianate bedrooms and 169 luxury residences, accommodation immerses guests into the brand’s renowned glamour with furniture and fabrics designed and tailor-made by the House of Versace exclusively for the hotel. Versace icons abound throughout, with motifs such as the famed Medusa, classical friezes and the House’s legendary prints present at every turn. Bathrooms feature handcrafted mosaics and Carrara marble tiling – the ultimate backdrop to the walk-in rainforest showers. The lobby has been crafted from Italian Cremo Delicato marble, and textiles are transported directly from the Versace runway. Guests can choose from three pools - mosaictiled, naturally - set amongst manicured tropical gardens, each offering unobstructed views over Dubai Creek and beyond. Eight contrasting dining venues feature menus from Michelin-starred chef Mansour Memarian, Director of Culinary and F&B of the property. Almost 1000sqm of wellness typifies the stunning boutique SPA. Dedicated male and female thermal circuits crafted in Nero Assoluto granite each contain a spa pool, sauna, steam room, relaxation lounge and a luxury Moroccan hammam sanctuary, complemented by an exquisite spa suite complex with private Jacuzzi, monsoon rain shower and full changing facilities. Visual references belong to the marine world: cornucopias interlaced with seashells and embellished curlicues. Coveted ingredients from gold leaf and pearl to caviar and Champagne feature throughout the spa treatment menu. Set in the heart of the burgeoning Culture Village, and just minutes from Dubai international Airport, Palazzo Versace Dubai occupies a historical spot on the banks of Dubai Creek. Surrounded by landscaped gardens and its own private marina, Palazzo Versace is one of Dubai’s most prestigious waterside addresses. www.palazzoversace.ae
“Guests can choose from three pools - mosaic-tiled, naturally - set amongst manicured tropical gardens”
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LUXURY TRAVEL
Art & Amsterdam I
The Dutch city marks 350 years since the death of Rembrandt. Gabrielle Fagan goes in search of the original selfie
’m wobbling along cobbled streets on a bicycle, on my way to visit someone who could be regarded as the world’s first Instagrammer. Being on a bike for the first time in 20 years is an event for me; in cycle-mad Amsterdam, it’s the most authentic way to travel. But far more extraordinary is discovering that the social media pioneer is iconic artist Rembrandt, who died centuries before the photo-sharing site was even a twinkle in anyone’s eye. The way he sowed the seeds for one of the most popular ways to communicate today is revealed for the first time in the new All The Rembrandts exhibition at the Rijksmuseum (until June 10, 2019), which I’m going to view. Marking the 350th anniversary of the painter’s death, part of a year of celebrations in the Netherlands, it shows the 17th century Dutch miller’s son was not only obsessed with self-portraits - akin to our ‘selfies’ - but way ahead of his time in chronicling, through drawings and sketches, his daily life, family, and friends, for his and their enjoyment. It’s a habit that would be entirely recognisable to the online ‘posters and boasters’ of today. “Rembrandt was the first artist in history - the first Instagrammer, one could even say, and that’s not trying to be popular - to really capture the world around him,” declares Taco Dibbits, director of the museum. “No artist before the 20th century made as many self-portraits as he did. He painted his family, he drew his friends, he went out into the streets, the countryside and he even lets us enter his own bedroom, where his sick wife was stretched out. He was a rebel who did not abide by rules of art, and consequently, we’re brought into his private world.” The Old Master, who dominated the Golden Age of Dutch painting in the 17th century, could never have dreamt of his legacy being so influential on those using 21st century mobiles. But Taco insists: “If I use words like ‘selfie’ and ‘Instagram’, it’s because he fashioned the way we look at the world, and the way we take photographs. “He’s the first person to register the life around
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him and make it personal. He never idealises, so he really portrays people how they are. Without him, we would still be painting - or trying to paint - pictures of gods and goddesses, and scenes from antiquity.” For the first time in history, the museum is showing every Rembrandt it owns. “Light makes the drawings fade, so we almost never show them. An exhibition likes this only happens once in a generation,” promises Taco. Twenty-two paintings, 300 sketches and 60 drawings, many of which are normally hidden away in climate-controlled storage, show a fresh-faced young man rocketing to worldwide success, but whose life is marred by tragedy. He was devastated by the death of his wife, Saskia, who outlived all those closest to him, including his four children, and struggled in old age with poverty and loneliness. It’s also the last chance for a while to see the one painting not in the exhibition, his masterpiece and
“For the first time in history, the museum is showing every Rembrandt it owns. “Light makes the drawings fade, so we almost never show them. An exhibition likes this only happens once in a generation”
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huge tableau, Night Watch, which has pride of place in the museum’s Gallery of Honor, but will be obscured when work on restoring it begins in July. Gaining an insight into this artistic genius is just one highlight of a three-day visit to a city which boasts more canals than Venice and where I discover, as a keen amateur artist, it’s possible to easily immerse yourself in art. I’ve travelled from London St Pancras by Eurostar, on its new direct route to Amsterdam, which takes under four hours to arrive direct into the city centre.
“Its latest exhibition, Rembrandt’s Social Network, focuses on his relationships with his friends and family” My base is luxury boutique hotel, The Dylan. Built on the site of the city’s first theatre, where Vivaldi once conducted an orchestra, it’s an elegant fusion of old and new. Historic wood-panelled walls and rafters harmonise perfectly with contemporary pared-back decor. It’s a treat for gourmets, with a brasserie and Michelin-starred Vinkeles restaurant. Crucially, it provides the ultimate in 21st century comfort; my room even has a bed which automatically adjusts itself to my body temperature. Location is all - particularly when time’s limited
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- and The Dylan is well placed in the fashionable heart of city, beside the small boutiques, art galleries, bars, and restaurants of the famed Nine Streets (De Negen Straatjes), and overlooking the famous Emperor’s canal - one of the three prime waterways. Most importantly, I’m only a 10-minute bike ride (the hotel has cycles for hire) or a short walk away from Museumplein, the city’s largest square. It has a stellar choice of art venues. As well as The Rijksmuseum, there’s the wonderful Van Gogh Museum, currently showing the works of British artist David Hockney (until May 26, 2019), the Stedelijk Museum, for contemporary and modern art, and the MOCO Museum, currently exhibiting works by English street artist Banksy. Another nearby must-see is Rembrandt’s House, now fully-restored and a museum, which gives brilliant demonstrations of his paint mixing and etching techniques. Its latest exhibition, Rembrandt’s Social Network, focuses on his relationships with his friends and family, further burnishing his credentials for engaging in a modern way. To refresh my palate, I step away from the galleries and frames, for lunch and a tour aboard a private canal boat. Travelling along part of the city’s 75 kilometres of waterways with Captain Maarten Van Vliet of Classic Boat Dinners is fascinating, as he’s a fund of knowledge on the area, history and key landmarks. This is a relaxing way to view the city and enjoy a panorama of its richly diverse architecture, ranging from the ultra-modern to the signature canal-side houses, and their charming, gabled facades. It may have been a whistle-stop visit, but by following in Rembrandt’s footsteps, I’ve found this city - whose life and residents he captured on canvas and paper - is a feast for the eyes on every level. As an aspiring artist, what more could you ask of a destination?
How to get there: The Dylan offers a threenight Rembrandt Art Package, valid until June 12, 2019, from £1,236 (two sharing). It includes breakfast, one dinner, two tickets to Rijksmuseum, and two tickets to Rembrandt House Museum. For more information, email reservations@dylanamsterdam. com or call +31 20 530 2010. Eurostar (eurostar.com; 03432 186 186) operates a direct service from London St Pancras International to the Netherlands, with one-way fares starting from £35 (based on a return journey). Fastest London/Amsterdam journey time is three hours and 41 minutes.
Picture perfect properties P
lan your summer getaway to Fowey, a beautiful haven on the southern Cornish coast. The historic seaside town has everything you need for your perfect holiday. When it comes to choosing your home away from home, Fowey Cottages offer some of the finest holiday cottages in and around Fowey. A family owned business based in the heart of the town, Fowey Cottages have a wide range of properties. You can choose to relax and unwind in a stunning townhouse with views across the harbour, retire to a cosy cottage along the coast or escape to a peaceful rural hideaway, just minutes away from
the main town. Looking for a Cornish retreat for the family? Ankorva, named after the Cornish word for ‘anchor’, is a fabulous 5 bedroom Victorian property with stunning views out to sea. This picture perfect property in the heart of Fowey was recently renovated to a very high standard. The space oozes luxury and charm while offering everything you could possibly need for the perfect break. So if you are planning your next escape to the country, Fowey Cottages is guaranteed to have the property for you. www.foweycottages.com
“Ankorva, named after the Cornish word for ‘anchor’, is a fabulous 5 bedroom Victorian property with stunning views out to sea”
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LUXURY TRAVEL
LOS CABOS THE MEXICAN RESORT THE A-LIST LOVES
Celeb haunt Cabo San Lucas is famous for its raucous nightlife, but is there more to the town than just bar-hopping? Katie Wright finds out
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here’s no doubt about it, Los Cabos has a reputation. The name will be familiar to anyone who’s watched a few too many American reality TV shows, because this popular Mexican playground is where the casts of Keeping Up With The Kardashians, The Hills, and other LA-based shows head to on their private jets, when they want to let their hair down. Perched on the tip of Baja California, the long, thin peninsular that extends for 1,000 miles from the bottom of America’s Sunshine State, Los Cabos municipality first gained notoriety when Hollywood stars started coming here in the 1940s. One of the main coastal towns, Cabo San Lucas, still has a reputation for being a party central. With Tui starting direct 12-hour flights from the UK to SJD Los Cabos International airport in
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November, it will soon be easier for Brits to sample the Cabo craziness. But is it worth flying all the way to the west coast of Mexico just for a good night out? It turns out Cabo has a lot more to offer than after-dark amusement, as I discover when I jump on a speedboat at the San Lucas Marina and jet off in search of Pacific sea creatures. Every year, humpback whales travel to the warm waters around Baja California to mate, before returning to the freezing north. Between December and April, the marine mammals can be spotted when they surface to breathe. On this occasion, we’re lucky enough to glimpse a mother and baby, their dorsal fins and flukes repeatedly emerging from the waves before they dive back down into the deep.
“Every year, humpback whales travel to the warm waters around Baja California to mate, before returning to the freezing north”
LUXURY TRAVEL
It’s a magnificent sight to see up close - although there are strict rules about how close boats can get, to avoid disturbing the beautiful ocean dwellers. That’s not my only brush with local marine life during my trip. Four hundred sea lions have colonised a craggy island off the coast of state capital La Paz, a twohour drive from Cabo San Lucas. We hop aboard a privately chartered boat to pay them a visit. Even before we see the playful pinnipeds, we hear them honking cheerfully as they bask in the midday sun. Donning wet suits, flippers and snorkel gear, we plunge into the clear blue waters to take a closer look. With their button noses, whiskers and sleepy smiles, the adorable creatures loll and doze on the rocks, while a mother and her baby whizz about in the water beneath us. After paddling around the island, it’s back to the catamaran for lunch (tangy ceviche, fresh guacamole and tortilla chips) and an afternoon spent sipping ice-cold mimosas and lounging around, not unlike our sea lion pals.
“Four hundred sea lions have colonised a craggy island off the coast of state capital La Paz” After so much rest, I go in search of something a bit more adventurous. On Cabo’s main beach, Medano, I hire a jet ski and zoom about for half an hour, bouncing over the waves and pretending I’m in a hip-hop music video. I put the pedal to the metal again when I jump on an electric bike, adapted with extra-wide tires, to make it suitable for the sandy terrain. Speeding along a deserted beach and down cactus-lined desert trails with the wind in my hair feels awesome. On reflection, I realise it’s probably a good thing the bike’s speed is capped at 25km per hour. But the pinnacle of my daredevil pursuits comes with a nerve-wracking but exhilarating zip line tour, zigzagging across a narrow rocky canyon on increasingly long wires and, in one case, hanging upside down like a bat. The excursion culminates in an adrenalineinducing 1.5km whoosh face-down along a ‘Superman’ line - the closest I’ve ever come to feeling like I’m flying. 146 APRIL 2019
But it would be rude to ignore Cabo’s nightlife completely. As my heart rate returns to normal, the sun is setting, and the town’s party animals are starting to stir. A typical night starts with margarita cocktails at the much-loved Nowhere Bar (nowherebar.com) on the marina before getting roped into drinking games led by an emcee at The Giggling Marlin (gigglingmarlin.com). Then it’s time to hit the light-up dance floor at the cow-themed La Vaquita, followed by R’n’B tunes down the road at Mandala (mandalacabos.com). And finally, all roads lead to El Squid Roe (elsquidroe.com), a legendary four-floor disco paradise where the crowds bump, grind and do jelly shots into the small hours. It’s all good fun, and because Cabo attracts a slightly older crowd (it’s popular with bachelor and bachelorette parties, as Americans call them), it doesn’t feel seedy, like some European clubbing spots do. Saying that, you might want to avoid the Spring Break holidays in March and April, when hordes of hedonistic teenagers descend. Apart from restaurants, the concept of a ‘quiet drink’ doesn’t really exist here, but if it’s quality cocktails you’re after, head to Vas Que Vuelas Mezcaleria. Situated slightly off the main drag, this laid-back, black-lit bar serves 17 types of mezcal, the smoky spirit made from the native agave plant. Painted on the wall in Spanish is a sentence that translates as, ‘I want a love that you enjoy like mezcal: slowly’. It’s hard to believe this town ever slows down, but factor in a few lazy afternoons on the beach and it is possible to feel refreshed. If you’re looking for a holiday that’s equal parts fiesta, siesta and adventure, Los Cabos will certainly float your boat.
THE DETAILS TUI (tui.co.uk) offers seven-night holidays to Los Cabos staying at the 4T+ RIU Palace Baja California on an all-inclusive basis, from £1,183 per person (two sharing). Includes flights departing from London Gatwick airport on November 4, 2019 and transfers. TUI will be launching the only UK direct flights on November 4, 2019 - with two flights departing every week from Gatwick airport.
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fashion, HEALTH
& beauty – Fashion, health and beauty news to keep you looking and feeling your best – i m a g e : TH E HISTOR Y O F HAIR
FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY
[NEWS]
BEAUTY & FASHION SHOWSTOPPING Dazzle with this showstopping pendant, a unique design created with real hand picked leaves. Each leaf is preserved, dipped in precious metal and attached to a delicate chain. Making a thoughtful, creative gift. Available in oak or maple design and in a choice of silver and gold. www.nhmshop.co.uk
stunning in silk We absolutely love this beautiful silk scarf by British designer Jane Williams. Every single scarf is hand-painted individually, making each one a unique piece of Wearable Fine Art. Her scarves are inspired by the beauty of nature, the drama of our landscapes and the wildness of our seas. Her creations come from the heart and are all luxurious, fabulous silk, plus she uses the best French silk dyes. There are no prints or silk screens, just her paint brush to create your own, personal and unique scarf to love. www.janewilliamssilks.co.uk
staying positive Daily we are exposed to messages of our imperfections and Future Poet wanted to change that concept by introducing a voice of positivity into the fashion industry whit a line of apparel embellished with simple, but effective, enriching quotes. https://shop.futurepoet.com
HATS OFF Complete your special occasion attire with this chic Beauvoir Leather hat. The 100% wool felt blocked button base is adorned with beautiful handmade leather flowers in shades of dark brown and cream. Individually designed and handcrafted by V V Rouleaux founder Annabel Lewis. vvrouleaux.com
SOME LIGHT ON THE SUBJECT These are just great! Portable makeup mirrors with light colour options, each comes with a plush carry case and USB charger. www.illuminated-mirrors.uk.com 1 5 0 april 2 0 1 9
GIRL’S BEST FRIEND A stunning ring crafted from 9ct yellow gold, featuring a heart shaped opal gemstone with a sparkling diamond either side. Sourced primarily from Australia, Gemondo’s opal cabochons have been hand selected for their bright colours and gorgeous sheen. Admired for their striking beauty and strength (and being a girl’s best friend), diamonds are the precious stone emblematic of the greatest romantic gestures. We also love this stunning 9ct white gold ring featuring a oval cluster of eye catching diamonds. www.gemondo.com
FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY
Bowel Cancer Awareness month Bowel Cancer is the fourth most common cancer in the UK. April is Bowel Cancer Awareness month and we are shining a light on FIT Testing, the latest and most accurate screening tool for Bowel Cancer which is saving lives through early detection. Mr James Kinross,
Consultant Colorectal Surgeon and Bowel Cancer specialist at King Edward VII’s Hospital explains more:
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How does it work? Done from the comfort of your home, FIT testing requires only one faecal sample – compared to three samples required by the FOBT – and is able to detect minute traces of blood. A FIT test kit will include straightforward, step-by-step instructions on how to complete the test. Once complete, you are required to post your sample to the designated screening centre for further analysis. How are results returned? At King Edward VII’s Hospital our Colorectal Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) receives all test results and will relay the results to patients, offering the appropriate guidance and support. If a patient receives a negative result from their FIT Test, they can rest assured that no additional testing is required. If, at a later stage, they experience symptoms consistent with Bowel Cancer (persistent changes in bowel movements, blood in stools, abdominal pain / discomfort or unexplained weight loss) we always suggest speaking with a GP or a Healthcare Professional as the next step. What is FIT testing? Most bowel cancers are silent and do not cause symptoms. The only sign may be the passage of tiny quantities of blood into the stool. Faecal Immunochemical testing (or FIT) is a new test that detects the presence of blood in a faecal sample. It is a far superior screening method than that of its predecessor (the FOBT kit). The FIT test specifically detects human haemoglobin; ensuring results are not influenced by the presence of other blood in stools (i.e those ingested from diet). Additionally FIT testing uses machine analysis – removing subjective human error from the screening process.
What happens if a result is abnormal? An abnormal result suggests there may be bleeding within the gastrointestinal tract that requires further investigation. If a patient receives an abnormal result it DOES NOT mean they have bowel cancer, but at King Edward VII’s we will invite patients for further testing via a colonoscopy in our state-of-the-art facility. We are well equipped to deal with patients at all stages of their journey, especially through our Urgent Bowel Cancer service which guarantees an appointment with a specialist within 48 hours. For more information on FIT Testing or the Urgent Bowel Cancer Service at King Edward VII’s Hospital, visit www.kingedwardvii.co.uk
FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY
BEAUTY REVIEW
THE GHD GLIDE
The latest must-have hair tool promises to tame strays and banish kinks. Liz Connor and Georgia Humphreys decide if it’s worth the £125 price tag
Liz says...
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longside shedding strands everywhere you go, washing your hair is easily one of the worst things about having long tresses. Not only do you go through expensive bottles of anti-breakage shampoo like there’s no tomorrow, but it takes forever to dry and style. If you regularly spend a lot of time under the hairdryer, you’re probably a big fan of stretching out your non-hair washing days for as long as possible. The problem is that after a night of tossing and turning in bed, your second or third day locks can end up looking pretty dishevelled. That’s where ghd’s latest hair-taming tool comes in - a hot brush that’s designed to gently smooth out any unwanted kinks or frizz that happen during the night. To the untrained eye, it looks a lot like your average hairbrush, but when you plug it in and switch it on, two inbuilt ceramic plates heat up to 185°C and smooth hair in seconds, promising a glossy, Duchess of Cambridge-worthy finish. Designed to be used on dry hair, according to ghd, the Glide has an ‘anti-static ioniser’ which sends negative charges through the hair, helping to combat static and frizz. There are shorter bristles as well as longer ones that allow enough tension to shape the hair - so you can style big sections when you’re in a rush. It’s basically the hair tool most of us never knew we needed. So, does it actually live up to the hype? Two long-haired writers, Liz Connor and Georgia Humphreys, put the Glide to the test. Here’s what they had to say...
The ghd Glide is available for a limited time. £125, ghdhair.com 154 APRIL 2019
“As someone who hates to spend ages getting ready, I love how intuitive and user-friendly is the Glide is. You simply plug it in, switch it on, and in less than a minute it’s ready to go with no technical nous needed (a little light around the on button alerts you to when it’s at maximum heat). The actual process of using the heated brush was so simple and took no more than ten minutes to complete. I simply grabbed my hair in sections and ran the brush over and underneath to smooth out any kinks - which is the main issue I have when my hair is left to its own devices. The brush prongs aren’t as pliable as plastic ones, so if you have knotty hair like me, I’d recommend initially brushing your hair before you go over it with the heat tool. The results were definitely a major improvement in the frizz department, but because my hair is quite coarse from bleaching and heat tools, it took quite a few brushes to get it looking sleek and straight. From seeing Georgia’s results, I’d say that this hot brush probably works best on nondamaged or colour treated hair. That being said, as someone who is keen to move away from straighteners to gentler options, this is a really great tool for gradually weaning yourself off tons of heat. Plus, it’s so simple to throw into your bag for quick and easy touch ups at the gym or work!” AFTER
BEFORE
BEFORE
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Georgia says... “I’m far from a patient person. That, and the fact that I’m actually quite a fan of my wavy (read: messy) hair, means I’ve never been one for making straightening my hair part of my morning routine; I’d rather the extra time in bed (which made me a perfect candidate for testing out the ghd Glide). I wondered whether it would be a bit of a gimmicky product, and was dubious if it would actually be able to tame my mane enough that I really would be frizz-free. But I was happily proved wrong. It heated up super quickly, and with its long handle like a normal hairbrush you can get a good grip, so it’s much easier to do the back of your hair than with normal straighteners. It felt nice and smooth as I ran the brush through sections of my hair, and within less than ten minutes I had sleek, no-kinks locks. I had lots of comments throughout the day about how different - and shiny - my hair looked, which just shows how well the Glide worked. And, unlike with other styling tools I’ve tried, this didn’t involve me poring over the instructions. It’s official - I’m a convert.”
Don’t let Back Pain Ruin your Day!
FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY
The World of Ria Kashyap - Celebrity Fashion Designer “Ria first realised that she wanted to become a fashion designer when she started styling her own family at a very young age of 14”
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ia Kashyap, the British Asian celebrity fashion designer that has taken over the western world with her eastern flair. Born and brought up in West London, Ria was always inspired by cultural fusion and really wanted to create fashion that would evolve the way in which people dressed. As a child, her mother was her fashion muse. Ria spent hours trawling through her cupboard unfolding silky material and her mother’s love for fashion taught her how to look after and love clothes herself. Ria first realised that she wanted to become a fashion designer when she started styling her own family at a very young age of 14. This was the pivotal point in her life where she recognised fashion was the avenue she wanted to pursue. Ria started to design and began with creating her own style of blouse tops that were not typically Asian in style, yet not entirely westernised. The more she designed and created, the more she realised that she could change an entire outfit with one small piece. These blouses became central to her own outfits and she realised that the versatility of their design, the elegance of the cut and the luxury of the fabric meant that they were not just part of the outfit, they made it what it was. Ria injected eastern fashion and fused this into western red-carpet glam. She followed western fashion designers and eastern fashion influencers
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and was inspired to create fusion-wear. This enabled her to introduce Bollywood glamour into western fashion and allow women to wear this style of fashion not only to traditional Asian occasions but also to chic western red-carpet events. Ria Kashyap, very quickly, became a well-known brand in both the eastern and western world. Social media became an essential platform for Ria as it became the central point for all her collaborations. Ria was recognised for her creative flair and was approached by a number of celebrities for an opportunity for them to work with her brand and for them to be dressed in her collection. They acknowledged the uniqueness of her luxury range and how it could be worn in multiple stylish ways. The brand Ria Kashyap has become a trend in its own right and women follow Ria’s sense of style religiously to gain inspiration. Ria is enjoying growing her brand organically and having the impact that she has had on the fashion world. She is currently working on multiple collaborations and projects which she’s looking forward to sharing with everyone in the near future. She is also continuing to make her mould in the western fashion scene and this is something that she really wants to achieve in concrete. She realises how important it is to get the message across to her audience, that the beauty of her brand is versatility and fusion, whether east or west, its glamour is unrivalled and she has proven this by making her mark on the fashion industry.
FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY
T he H istory
of Hair
Luke Rix-Standing
of daring ‘dos
breaks down the many decades
Awards to showcase the best and brightest in cranial style. Here are a few of the barmiest barnets to have challenged barbers, horrified parents, and defined the decades...
H
air occupies a unique place in the pantheon of fashion. T-shirts can be exchanged for shirts, jumpers shelved for jackets, and an ill-fitting pair of jeans taken back to the shop and switched, but there’s no getting away from a bad haircut. One simple misstep - “Let’s try a buzz cut, why not?” can result in months of shame. If you choose to do nothing with your hair it sits there unkempt, gleefully informing the world of your inaction. You can shave it all off, but that too is a “hairstyle” - and a statement one at that. You can cover it with a hat, but tufts may protrude guiltily around the back and sides, and you risk the dreaded ‘hat hair’ upon removal. Although technically the history of hair goes back at least seven million years (and some stone age styles saw revivals in the 1970s), we’re going to confine ourselves to the last century or so. We teamed up with the British Hairdressing
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“Although technically the history of hair goes back at least seven million years (and some stone age styles saw revivals in the 1970s), we’re going to confine ourselves to the last century or so”
The Bob - subtle subversion; serious style Perhaps the most varied of all our featured cuts, the ‘bob’ can cover anything from the dreaded ‘pudding bowl’ to the carefully coiffured bob-with-bangs popularised by Taylor Swift. An enduring do, bobs were causing trouble long before Swift walked in on the heads of the rebellious ‘flapper’ girls of the 1920s. Early twentieth-century femininity expected women to wear their hair long - so much so that one angry father in Paris reported his daughter’s hairdresser to the police for shearing her hair without his permission. By the 1960s the scandal had faded, and the bob was reborn in the capable hands of Vidal Sassoon. His short, straight-edged style still finds favour on the high street today.
The Beehive - size matters Ever since hovering atop the scalp of sex-symbolin-chief Brigitte Bardot, the big, bad beehive has been up there with the most iconic looks of our times. A product of the 1960s and the invention of commercially available hairspray, this powerful cut gave the wearer a good three or four inches extra in height. It’s been a big hit with musicians: Over the
Hair, Nails & Cocktails in the heart of Fulham
261 New Kings Road, London, SW6 4RB | 0207 736 9453 www.261newkingsroad.com | @261newkingsroad
FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY
draws headlines with every big debut. Who wore it best? Audrey Hepburn, obviously. years The Ronettes, Dusty Springfield, and more recently Amy Winehouse and Adele, have all made the beehive their own.
The Bouncy Blow Dry luxurious and voluminous
The Afro - hairstyle, symbol, movement This deeply political cut was widely worn by the Black Is Beautiful movement throughout the Sixties and Seventies. Activists Angela Davis and Pam Grier set the standard, before it was picked up by pop icons like Gloria Gaynor and a young Michael Jackson. The afro resisted chemical treatments and straightening techniques designed to bring it in line with Western beauty standards, as well as the tuts of mainstream society, to become a symbol of pride, rebellion, and empowerment.
The Perm - working it in the workplace In the 1960s hair was big. In the 1970s it was bigger. But in the 1980s it had its own gravitational field and was steadily expanding on a quest to consume the solar system. Whitney Houston, Cher and Dolly Parton (“People ask how long it takes to do my hair,” the latter quipped. “I don’t know, I’m never there”), turned the powerful, unapologetic perm into a symbol for career-driven women making their own way in the world. The Eighties reached its logical conclusion with the patented “perm mullet” (we’re looking at you, Jon Bon Jovi). We may think it looks awful now, but this monstrous mop of glam became an icon of its day.
The Pixie Cut - a hairdo of one’s own Still a statement style today, the pixie cut is popular among celebrities trying to keep their look fresh (Katy Perry and Jennifer Lawrence, to name just two). A deceptively complex cut, the perfect crop should highlight the features you want to flag and flatter those you don’t, whether slicked down or toughened up with textured waves. Elegant, defiant, and cheekily subversive: The pixie cut 162 APRIL 2019
“In the 1960s hair was big. In the 1970s it was bigger. But in the 1980s it had its own gravitational field and was steadily expanding on a quest to consume the solar system”
The bouncy blow dry has enjoyed a renaissance for two reasons: First, improved high street products have allowed women everywhere to get that fresh-from-the-salon look in their home bathrooms, and second, the Duchess of Cambridge. Kate’s curls are so notorious they have their own name - ‘the Chelsea blow dry’ - characterised by gloss, volume, and the illusion of near-constant movement. Probably the premier style featured on hair-care adverts and billboards, it’s an ‘effortless’ look that’s far from effortless to put together. Big hair, do care - actually quite a lot.
FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY
Make space for the upcoming season
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EWI originally known as HARDLY EVER WORN IT was founded in 2012 by British-born Sharon WolterFerguson and her two daughters, Natalya and Tatiana. Now based in Manchester Square, London W1, the family previously lived for a time in Monaco, offering Wolter-Ferguson fascinating insight into the world of Monte Carlo’s jet set elite. Observing how her socialite friends never repeated outfits and were constantly updating their wardrobes with the latest new-season buys, she was inspired to create a safe space for fashion lovers to buy and sell their own luxury items. And so HEWI was born, creating a uniquely emancipating shopping experience. Are you regretting that beautiful but slightly too expensive coat? Bought the red version of your dream bag, and now wishing you’d got the grey? HEWI eliminates buyer’s remorse, liberating wardrobes and creating a shopping platform that works perfectly in today’s age of social media and the changing landscape of fashion and luxury retail. Now a global brand, HEWI’s first-and-foremost focus on security, authenticity and discretion has seen it partner with many famous names from the worlds of film, fashion and music, as well as international royalty. HEWI offer a concierge/VIP service for those
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“Are you regretting that beautiful but slightly too expensive coat? Bought the red version of your dream bag, and now wishing you’d got the grey? HEWI eliminates buyer’s remorse”
seeking a service to handle the process for them, from collection to shipping and the seller simply receives payment. For this service, the charge is 35%, items of certain value, fee is negotiable. HEWI’s self-upload is simple and easy to use, fully supported by a passionate customer service team - the fee is 18%. HEWI members are encouraged to communicate with each other, ship speedily, and engage in a respectful manner with other buyers and sellers. HEWI is a wonderful, fashion-loving community who love the liberation of buying and selling from each other, in a trusted environment. HEWI offers exclusive pop ups from time to time, and large annual events, notice of these events is sent out to members. Please contact admin@hewilondon.com with any enquiries or telephone 0207 487 2679 We look forward to welcoming you to HEWI!
FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY
Nailing it! W
hether it’s a subtle soft pink, classic red or jet black, we’ve all got our favourite nail varnishes, the ones we return to time after time. These go-with-everything shades are great for grabbing when you’re in a rush, but every so often it’s fun to mix it up and try something new.
has all the backstage beauty inspiration you need for spring
Katie Wright
If you’re craving a mani makeover, look no further than the spring/summer catwalk shows, which gave us tons of nailspiration, from uber brights and metallic finishes to a new take on nudes - all looks which you can easily recreate yourself. Here, we run down the major trends and the polishes you need to get the look at home...
Perfectly pale Bright white nails can be a challenge (sometimes it looks like you got bored at work and applied two coats of Tipp-ex - not a good look), but pale can be interesting when it’s done right. The matte pearl nails at Fyodor Golan were created by starting with a base of beige, finish with a blue-toned frost topcoat for the perfect off-white blend. Model wearing nail varnish from the OPI Tokyo collection
Orly Rage Rose Gold and Orly Luxe, £11.99 each, SuperdruG
Japanese flavours At New York Fashion Week the nail technicians were having a ball, creating the kind of colourful nail art seen on the streets of Tokyo’s trendy Harajuku district, like neon green talons at The Blonds and sparkly blue tips at Tadashi Shoji. The Japanese capital was also the starting point for OPI’s Tokyo collection, which offers a dozen dazzling hues from lime green and shocking pink to indigo blue. Even more authentic, cult nail brand Gofun has recently landed in the UK all the way from Kyoto. The waterbased, acetone-free polishes are based on a traditional Japanese paint and come in a variety of vivid shades. Gofun Nail Transparent Pink, £13.50, & Special Guests
Models backstage at Fyodor Golan SS19, nails by Sabrina Gayle
Coffee nudes Modern metallics Think gold and silver nail polishes shouldn’t be worn once the festive season is over? Think again - Julien Macdonald and Sadie Williams made a strong case for spring metallics on their SS19 runways. The key to keeping it modern is to look for cool metallic tones - think rose rather than yellow gold and gunmetal sheen rather than glitter.
The Nineties make-up trend has seen brown lipstick taking over from pink as the most on-trend nude and the same thing is happening with nails, if the cafe au lait shades see at the Palmer//Harding and Prabal Gurung shows are anything to go by. Give your nails a caffeine injection by swapping your usual pale pink for a warm latte or mocha shade. Sally Hansen Colour Therapy Nail Polish Cashmere Calm, £8.99, Superdrug Artistic Colour Revolution Reactive Nail Lacquer Running In The Buffalo, £4.95, NailPolishDirect
OPI Nail Lacquer How Does Your Zen Garden Grow and All Your Dreams in Vending Machines, £10.80 each (was £13.50)
Model backstage at Julien Macdonald SS19
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Model backstage at Palmer/Harding SS19, nails by Sabrina Gayle
Mavala Nail Colour Cream Venezia, £5.20, Feel Unique
Artistic Colour Revolution Reactive Nail Lacquer Skindalous, £4.95; Satin Frost Topcoat, £7.95, NailPolishDirect
Photographer -Sean P Watters
For more information, contact iurish@hotmail.com
FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY
CHAMPNEYS TRING BRITISH WELLBEING SINCE 1925 C
hampneys Tring in Hertfordshire is Britain’s original health spa, starting out over 90 years ago as the extraordinary vision of Latvian massage pioneer Stanley Lief. The Spa was the first health resort of its kind, and is a location that has provided the backdrop to a vast array of innovations and wellbeing breakthroughs over the years. The once Rothschild family-owned estate – complete with Downton-esque driveway – is set in 170 acres of idyllic Hertfordshire countryside. Whether you’re seeking a slice of spa indulgence, a pampering treat or something a little more strenuous; at Champneys Tring, there really is something for everyone. The spa boasts 62 treatments rooms, an extensive treatment menu, from mani-pedis to facials, massage and waxing, wellness therapies, pregnancy friendly treatments and men’s grooming, using Champneys own skincare and body range, Elemis and Clarins products. Tring’s spa facilities are second to none, including a heated 25 metre indoor pool, manicure and pedicure salon, hair salon, hydropool and whirlpool, sauna, steam room and plunge pool, Ladies’ laconium heat room, men’s steam room, indoor and outdoor Jacuzzi; recent additions include the relaxation hideaway and the Marine and Wellness Spa using Thalgo products. Champneys Tring takes fitness seriously too, with a well-equipped gym, exercise studios, over 20 fitness classes a day, and most recently the addition of the new Urban Gym and dedicated cycle studio. The gym includes a unique boxing area, prowler
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track, ropes, boxing bags and air bikes. There are also dedicated sections for high intensity interval training (HIIT), core conditioning and total body workouts with bursts of cardio to deliver amazing metabolic results. Classes include a signature HIIT boot camp and boxing with specialist boxing instructors. The new cycle theatre, with professionally engineered audio, video and lighting technology, provides a superior cycling experience for the beginner and the more experienced cyclist. New classes include Express 30 mins, Reps & Revs (with weights), Ride Intro and Extreme Cycling, not for the faint hearted! Specialist retreats run throughout the year at Tring, whether you’re looking to re-energise your lifestyle with a health management retreat, de-stress with a mindfulness and meditation retreat, get in shape at a boot camp, or simply enjoy a weekend of recuperation in stunning surroundings with a recreational activities retreat. There is even a private GP service Your Doctor on site, where friendly and experienced GPs are able to offer a wide range of services, with exceptional and personal service – and appointment lengths and times convenient to you. Bringing new meaning to all-inclusive health, sit back, relax and enjoy; let our experts take care of the rest! For further information www.champneys.com
THE DETAILS Prices at Champneys Tring start from £119 for the day and £165 for a stay, there is something to suit all requirements. All Champneys spa days and spa breaks include delicious and nutritious meals, and use of the spa and fitness facilities. To book or for further details visit www.champneys.com or Tel: 0843 316 2222
FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY
Spring Florals S
pring has sprung, and so have we, so it’s time to give your wardrobe a bit of a refresh. Introducing floral patterns and brighter colours is a definite must for transitioning into your Spring wardrobe. For Spring/Summer 2019 trends of those years gone-by were storming the catwalk, all giving us a bit of nostalgia. Now flooding the Highstreet are those large exaggerated floral and foliage prints. Combining that with our ultra-feminine silk, flattering, fluid shapes and the individually designed Phoebe Grace prints, you have a winning combination. ‘When choosing something from our collection start with your own style’, says Janet. ‘Whether you love layering or live in Denim, you’ll find pieces which will just add that extra dimension to your wardrobe. Most of our prints are inspired by nature, add to that the colours we infuse, and you have the essence of what we are striving for, a balance that is visible, beautiful and always harmonious’. Established in London, Phoebe Grace is a British designed luxury silk collection. The creative inspiration was to re-invent timeless luxe silk separates which are comfortable, contemporary, and sophisticated. The natural elegance of pure silk has been infused with an abundance of fun, offering individuality, providing any woman the opportunity to luxuriate with style and glamour, making you feel truly special. Exceptional levels of quality are at the heart of the Phoebe Grace ethos. From our exclusive in-house designed prints to perfecting the silhouette of each garment, we ensure that every piece meets those unstinting levels of quality. Retaining the heritage of silk and championing products made in Great Britain has always been a fundamental Phoebe Grace principle. Our pure
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“When choosing something from our collection start with your own style”
satin silk is printed in Evesham and fashioned into our gorgeous designs in Wimbledon and through growing popularity some being manufactured with their partners in Europe. All of this could not be possible without Mother and Daughter Janet and Phoebe Newman. The amazing prints are designed and led by Phoebe – a textile design graduate- with the brand being driven forward by Janet, who also hails from a creative background as an artist. Phoebe Grace has now grown into a much sought-after luxury silk collection and is now featured in the press and by respected influencers. As they grow, their brand values remain the same – to provide pieces that are beautifully crafted, high quality, contemporary, feminine and overall, well….. just fun! www.phoebe-grace.co.uk. its_phoebegrace
PHOEBE GRACE
HONEY CORN Honey Corn is a boutique, 100% natural and organic skincare range which contains honey “liquid gold”. Honey Corn’s potent anti-ageing properties; promote healthy, radiant, supple skin. Their essential mix of honey with botanic, organic and natural plant-based ingredients have been formulated to nourish, hydrate and protect skin. The Honey Corn range is a rich fusion of clean and superior ingredients, high in essential fatty acids, anti-oxidants, vitamins together with a high mineral content. Honey Corn makes your skin glow - whatever the season. Honey Corn is a gender neutral/ unisex, skincare brand for him and for her. Fragrance free, nutrient rich, it soaks right in and won’t leave a greasy residue. Our range is hyperallergenic and perfect for those who have sensitive skin. You will feel it’s effects instantly and your skin will thank you for it. One of Honey Corn’s active ingredient is honey aka liquid gold. Their range is certified organic and natural. Honey Corn was born out of the desire to create clean botanic, organic, natural skincare products which posses curative properties that promote and maintain healthy skin. Their products contain high quality plant based ingredients and honey. Our philosophy is always, BOTANIC ORGANIC NATURAL.
www.honeycornuk.com @HoneyCornUK
WWW.PHOEBE-GRACE.CO.UK its_phoebegrace
SA vE LI 15 FE % O 15 - U Rd % S ER W E C In HE O G n dE
LUXURY SILK LEISURE & RESORT WEAR
FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY
Creating the Barre Body
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arrecore is a workout synonymous with the lithe bodies of Jourdan Dunn and Rita Ora. The boutique brand, which was launched in Chiswick in 2011 by celebrity trainer Niki Rein, now has ten locations across London, proving the consumer desire for the highly coveted ‘barre body’. The brand is considered the original and leading barre workout in the capital. A 55-minute Signature Barrecore class uses the ballet barre, your own body weight and a light hand weights to target all major muscle groups. Participants efficiently and safely sculpt the entire body by working muscles to exhaustion and subsequently stretching the muscles for relief. Loved for giving quick results but with low-impact, it’s an ideal workout for achieving a longer, leaner, stronger body. Niki Rein explains why Barrecore is so popular with A-listers and fitness fans alike; “Barrecore is a low-intensity workout which incorporates a fat-burning format of interval training, making it kind on the body but incredibly effective. It’s also a hugely enjoyable workout to do one-to-one or in a group environment.” Barrecore attracts both men and women across the capital looking for the ‘barre-bod’. In addition to Signature, clients can also choose class variations which vary in difficulty, but whatever you choose, there is no getting away from the ‘Barrecore Shake’ the wobbly feeling when you don’t think your
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muscles can take one more rep! Remember that’s where the gains happen and take a leaf out of the Barrecore book; ‘Embrace the Shake.’ Barrecore is a truly premium workout experience with stunning studio spaces, luxurious locker rooms and top-notch trainers who have all undergone auditions followed by a rigorous training programme. It’s no wonder it’s approved by Jourdan Dunn and Pippa Middleton. Because of barre’s low-impact nature, it’s also the ideal workout for mums and mums-tobe. Specialist pre-natal classes have launched at the Wandsworth studio, and are excellent for maintaining a strong and healthy body during pregnancy. Barrecore post-natal modification sessions are also available across all studios, as a safe way to regain fitness after giving birth. With Londoners being notoriously pushed for time, Barrecore also has a catalogue of ‘on demand’ online workouts as a separate membership option. The library of video content has classes of varying length and difficulty to help users enjoy the barre experience wherever they are. Individual classes cost £28 and new clients can benefit from an introductory offer of £56 for three classes. The full memberships start at £120 whereas the £150 is an introductory unlimited month offer only. Online classes membership costs £25 per month with subscribers benefiting from regularly updated content and advice.
THE DETAILS Barrecore can be found in Chelsea, Chiswick, Hampstead, Islington, Kensington, Mayfair, Moorgate, Notting Hill, Wimbledon Village, Wandsworth. Visit www.barrecore.co.uk to find out more.
FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY
TESS HEADLEY JEWELLERY Y
ears ago, as an artist, Tess Headley frequently took painting classes at her local art museum. She usually painted in oils and enjoyed learning from other artists who used different genres and techniques. One day while scanning the catalog of new courses she spotted a class on lost wax casting and it hit her like a thunderbolt; she couldn’t explain why, but knew it was a new art form that she had to learn. She and her fellow classmates carved objects out of hard wax which the instructor brought to a local jeweller to be cast in silver. She had carved what she describes as “a pathetic little ring” that she would never have worn, but when she saw it and held it in her hand she thought it was the coolest thing she had ever seen. She had created something out of nothing. It was like alchemy. She was hooked. That was a fork in the road that changed her life. Tess devoured every book she could find on the
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ancient art of goldsmithing. She set up a studio with a jeweller’s bench and all the tools and equipment she would need for a complete shop including torches, a kiln and casting equipment, and she started playing with her new toys, creating things for friends and family. She ultimately got hands-on training, the seed of a new career. When she invented her patented coupling device – the basis of her current collections of interchangeable “Lego” jewellery – she needed the precision and close tolerances that could only be achieved with 3D computer design and 3D printing, so she had a new skill to conquer. Even now, she still does most of the computer design herself. She loves her work and espouses creativity in any form as a potent healing and rejuvenating force. Tess feels strongly that love and compassion for our fellow human beings, animals, and our planet itself are needed in this world now more than ever. Thus she was inspired to create a line of jewellery with the hidden messages “Love is the Answer” and “We Are One” in multiple languages to exude the powerful energy of love and hopefully generate a small ripple toward elevating the vibration of humanity. Grateful for her good fortune in life, Tess wants to do what she can to give a hand up to those who are down on their luck; to empower those who need a lift and a little compassion, so she donates ten percent of her proceeds to charities for the homeless. “All You Need is Love”. You can find Tess Headley Design at tessheadley.com and on Facebook and Instagram.
“Tess feels strongly that love and compassion for our fellow human beings, animals, and our planet itself are needed in this world now more than ever. Thus she was inspired to create a line of jewellery with the hidden messages “Love is the Answer” and “We Are One””
FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY
WHITER THAN WHITE
WORDS: LAUREN NAYLOR
At home whitening
Mouthwashes
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Ensure any whitening kit you use is professionally made, over the counter whitening trays are unlikely to fit well which means the gel will leak and not whiten the teeth. A dental professional can ensure that you have no poorly fitting fillings or cavities and the correct concentration of whitening gel is used (sensitive teeth need a weaker formula) this is why you really need a dental expert to undertake this service. Non-dental professionals are not legally allowed to whiten teeth. With a dental professional at the helm, they can check that you are the ideal candidate for this procedure and ensure there are no dental issues that could cause future complications or problems.
Avoid using chlorhexidine-based mouthwashes, unless advised by your dentist. They can actually cause stains on your teeth if used for prolonged periods.
hitening has come under media scrutiny of late after the BDS (British Dental Bleaching Society) is calling for a ban on over the counter non-hydrogen whitening kits after tests found they could harm enamel on the teeth. While a study published in the BDJ found some whitening products were as effective on the teeth as saline! Amazon recently removed its best-selling whitening kit after it was revealed it contains a harsh chemical banned by the EU which can damage fertility and cause chemical burns. Anyone wanting to brighten their teeth safely and effectively must consult their dentist first. By law, only dentists can check a patient’s teeth to see if they are an eligible candidate for whitening. Smilepod dentists have offered their guidance and advice when it comes to professional whitening and maintenance at home. They have six London locations, no referral is required, all dentists are GDC registered, and they offer a professional, friendly service. www.smilepod.co.uk
Toothpaste To get the most out of your fluoride toothpaste and keep teeth white and healthy, spit and don’t rinse with water. When you brush, instead of gargling or rinsing, just split out the excess and allow the rest to remain on your teeth.
Toothbrush maintenance Change your toothbrush every 3-4 months; Old worn bristles will not remove surface stains so effectively, thus making the teeth look dull.
Smoking Cut out smoking – not only does it carry numerous health risks, but the build-up of tartar will dull teeth. If that isn’t an incentive to stop this unhealthy habit, we don’t know what is!
Drinking Aside from causing teeth erosion due to its acidity, excessive amounts of wine and cola and coffee will also contribute to teeth staining, so it’s wise to limit these drinks.
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HGDP Ask your Smilepod dentist for a ‘High gloss diamond polish™’ which makes them look naturally clean and brighter. An ultrasonic scaler is used to remove tartar with a gentle tip. The tip vibrates, flushing out bacteria and deposits from below the gum line with water. The dentist will then gently hand scale removing small pieces of build-up missed during the ultrasonic treatment, and then it’s followed by a stain busting airflow for efficient and faster stubborn stain removal. Finally, the luxurious diamond polish is applied for a sparkling white smile. High Gloss Diamond Polish™, £89, smilepod.co.uk
Fillings To make your teeth appear whiter, ask to change any dark fillings to brighter white ones. Having an allwhite smile ensures you’ll teeth will look mega-watt in photos.
Aftercare To keep teeth white. It’s not enough to whiten them and expect them to stay like that. Schedule regular hygienist appointments for teeth health, especially if you consume fizzy drinks, tea, coffee, alcohol. These bad habits and lifestyle factors require your teeth to have more frequent touch-ups and a service like at-home whitening from a dental professional.
Why Whitening? Whitening your teeth can give you confidence and make you look and feel good if carried out professionally it does no damage to your teeth, and in fact, can make your gums healthier because of the oxygen release during the process.
“Once precious materials are gathered together, there exists only potential. It is up to the artist/designer to
transform that potential into reality” – Gregory Crawford
GREGORY CRAWFORD DESIGN Since 1972, American Designer and Master Jeweler Gregory Crawford has worked within the jewelry industry designing and creating original one of a kind pieces as well as various jewelry lines for the trade. In the last few years a growing list of individuals from different parts of the world have enjoyed working directly with Gregory to create their own special piece and originals are now also available for purchase. Reflective of the beauty and grace of times past, Gregory uses only hand tools and centuries old traditional techniques. He is known for his beautiful one of a kinds that display a high artistic quotient and works only with quality natural gemstones. Originals for sale and commissions are welcomed, please visit our website.
www.gregorycrawforddesign.com Instagram jewelerybygregory E-mail gcrawforddesign@mac.com
FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY
The house of No.1 Rosemary Water is the first of its kind profiles and flavours that have never been captured before. From the fragrant juniper to the earthy nature of fennel, No.1 Botanicals are all delicate, aromatic and completely natural - and at their best when served simply over ice. Showcasing the power of herbs, the drinks appeal as much to the flavour-seeker as to the health conscious. It also doesn’t hurt that they’re sugar, preservative and sweetener-free and are never contained in plastic. The No.1 Botanicals range is available online at www.no1botanicals.com and in Waitrose, M&S, Harvey Nichols, Harrods and Selfridges. Follow No.1 Botanicals on Instagram - @no.1botanicals
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hen its’ founder, David Spencer Percival, read the story of the residents of the Italian coastal village of Acciaroli living to the ripe old age of 100, without many of the health problems that often plague the elderly, he decided to investigate further. Scientists had identified rosemary as the key ingredient added to their otherwise traditional Mediterranean diet, so he searched for a rosemary water product to help him emulate their longevity - and simply couldn’t find one! That is when the No.1 Rosemary Water story began. 2 years later, the world’s first rosemary extract drink is stocked in Waitrose, Marks & Spencer, Harvey Nichols, Harrods and Selfridges amongst others and is a favourite of stars and celebrities such as Edward Enninful and Hollywood A-lister Henry Cavill. The drinks are also sold online and in bars, restaurants and hotels in the UK and around the world. It would have been simple to just take a few drops of rosemary essence, throw it in the bottle and be done with it. But No.1 Rosemary Water is truly innovative. The team worked tirelessly to ensure that all the active compounds in the fresh herb are transferred and in 2018, the house of No.1 Rosemary Water launched its brand new No.1 Botanicals range. Authenticated by the scientists at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, there are nine additional single extract herbal drinks now available online, all painstakingly produced based on the same principles of health and wellness and of course, great taste. The addition to the range of basil, fennel, mint, juniper, thyme, lemon verbena, olive leaf, meadowsweet & sage has added a series of drinks 178 APRIL 2019
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
Hormones Out of Whack? 5 Ways to Balance Your Hormones Naturally H ormones are a super important part of our biology. They influence our mental health and physical wellbeing every single day. These chemicals contribute to our appetites, moods, and reproductive systems. Sometimes, our hormones can fall out of balance and wreak havoc on our bodies But don’t worry, there are ways to fix it without using pills or chemicals. Read on to learn how to balance hormones naturally
1. Change Up Your Diet One of the easiest and most effective ways to balance out your hormones is to change your diet. A lot of the foods we eat affects our hormones in both good and bad ways. To start, try to get more protein in your diet. Protein provides your bodywith essential amino acids that it can’t naturally make. These help keep your bones, skin, and muscles healthy and strong. Also, try to avoid sugar and refined carbohydrates. This can improve your hormone function and help keep your digestion system healthy. Nutritional treatment is a great option if you want to get the most out of a new diet.
2. Get More Exercise Getting active is a great way to balance out your hormones. Exercise can reduce your insulin levels and increase insulin sensitivity. Regular exercise will help you stay fit and healthy and can reduce PMS symptoms. The most effective exercises are strength training and aerobic exercises, so hit the gym or go for a run! Find something you love to do and make it a regular event. Take up swimming or go on long walks each day. Before long, you will feel the benefits of it.
3. Take Supplements Taking supplements can be a great way to help balance your hormones too. Vitamins D and B, as well as fish oil, helps to balance out the estrogen in your body. These are best taken alongside a nutritional diet. Multivitamins, probiotics, antioxidants, and omega 6 fat are great ways to balance hormones. These are easy to find in health stores and there are so many more you can try out too. Do some research before you buy to see what may work best for you.
4. Try to Reduce Stress It’s easier said than done, but reducing your stress levels can do wonders for your hormones. Stress hormones cortisol and adrenaline affect the ways our bodies respond to stress. Higher cortisol levels can increase hormone 180 APRIL 2019
production and increase the likelihood of obesity. The higher this stress hormone is, the more stress it put on our bodies and it throws our hormones out of whack. Great ways to reduce stress include meditation sessions, yoga, and deep breathing exercises. They work very well at calming you during moments of stress and are a great way to focus throughout the day.
5. Avoid Caffeine If you’re someone who loves coffee, you mightn’t want to hear this one. Cutting out caffeine is another effective way to balance out your hormones. Caffeine makes your blood sugar spike and crash and also releases more cortisol. As mentioned above, this can wreak havoc on your body and hormone levels. Switch your morning coffee for some herbal teas. Green tea is great as it boosts your metabolism and is a great antioxidant, so try to drink more of it! These Are the Best Ways to Balance Hormones Naturally Hormone imbalances can have an awful impact on your mind and body, so it’s important to keep them in check. You don’t need chemicals or medicines to do it--there are plenty of easy ways to balance hormones naturally. Trying to lose weight? Check out our articles on weight loss to get some inspiration!
“Hormone imbalances can have an awful impact on your mind and body, so it’s important to keep them in check”
FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY
romney marsh wool
K
ristina Boulden founded Romney Marsh Wools a little over 10 years ago, driven by the desire to raise awareness for all the benefits wool can bring, whilst adding value to a natural fibre which was not yielding any real value at the time. Family run, with Romney sheep having been in the family for at least 6 generations, the business is based on the farm in the heart of the Romney Marsh, where their flock of around 1,000 Romney ewes and 80 Merino ewes produce all the wool used to create Romney Marsh Wools’ wide range of products. With a drive for more sustainable and natural material, wool is seeing a resurgence, and for good reason; it is renewable, versatile and has many unique properties which cannot be replicated by synthetic fibres. Kristina explains “There are many reasons to pick wool, whether for knitting with, for clothing such as scarves and moccasins or as a throw or
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blanket. Wool is breathable, adapting to the body’s temperature, it is naturally hypoallergenic and completely biodegradable, to name just a few of its great properties.” The majority flock is made up of Romney ewes, a breed which has long been associated with the Romney Marsh. The softness of wool is measured in microns looking at a single fibre strand. On average a human hair is about 100 microns and a highland sheep is around 50 microns. However, Romney fleeces are considered to be one of the finer British Breeds at around 32 microns. The family also have small flock of Merinos, whose wool is world famous for being super fine and has been developed down to as fine as 9 microns which means that it is more than five times finer than a human hair, and in fact most people who are allergic or cannot wear wool because it irritates their sensitive skin, would be able to wear Merino wool. Once the sheep have been sheared, the fleeces are handpicked to ensure only the best wool is used in the Romney Marsh Wools range. By working with the very best British weavers, hat makers, knitters and makers, the wool is then transformed into throws, cushion covers, flat caps, scarves, yarn, knit kits and everything in between! Lanolin is a naturally occurring fat in wool and this is used to produce a range of toiletries including shampoo, wool fat soap, hand wash and hand & body lotion as well as Lanolin balm. Raw fleece and sheepskin are also produced, for which the demand has soared in recent years. Although there is not a shop on site, visitors are welcome by prior arrangement and new for 2019, Romney Marsh Shepherds Huts provide a countryside escape in a traditional Lookerers Hut in the heart of the farm, overlooking the Marsh and with your very own flock of sheep. The full range is available to buy online as well as from independent retailers throughout Kent, London & the UK. Kristina also attends events throughout Kent & London and a full list of events for the coming year may be found at www.romneymarshwools.co.uk. Romney Marsh Wools, Rushfield, Giggers Green Road, Aldington, Ashford, Kent TN25 7BT. 01233 721800 info@romneymarshwools.co.uk Facebook: www.facebook.com/ romneymarshwools. Instagram: @romneymarshwools Twitter: @romneymarshwool
“Family run, with Romney sheep having been in the family for at least 6 generations”
FLOPZ. Beautiful flip flops with a unique massaging sensation. These comfortable flip flops with vibrantly colourful coral reef designs will revolutionise your holiday footwear.
www.flopz.com £30
“The most spectacular open skies and an opportunity to get close to nature in the cosy comfort of our Shepherds Huts on the beautiful Romney Marsh”
www.romneymarshshepherdshuts.co.uk • info@romneymarshshepherdshuts.co.uk • 01233 721800 Rushfield, Giggers Green Road, Aldington, Kent, TN25 7BT
FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY
Bring the Nineties back Dorothy Perkins Petite Scarf Print Shirt, £28, available from Dorothy Perkins
Scarf Print Long Line Shirt Dress, £35, available from JD Williams
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River Island Red Scarf Print Tie Front Shirt, £30, available from River Island
Black Chain Print Denim Skirt, £32, available from Topshop
hen the Nineties fashion resurgence started a few years ago, could anyone have predicted it would have such longevity? What started with Calvin Klein style slip dresses, cute crop tops and sleek sportswear has evolved, and now bold baroque prints are splashed all over the high street. A far cry from the minimalist mood that reigned on the New York catwalks during the decade, these colourful designs are rooted in a pair of storied European fashion houses. First, there’s French label Hermes, famous for its exquisite silk scarves hand printed with colourful equestrian motifs, which have been worn by everyone from Audrey Hepburn, Grace Kelly and the Queen. Then there’s Versace, and the prints pioneered by the late Gianni Versace in the late Eighties and early Nineties, when he took traditional Italian artistic designs and replaced angels and cherubs with chains and Medusa heads. In recent years, Donatella Versace has brought these baroque prints back to the catwalk, and now they’ve trickled down to high street collections too. So how do you wear these silky vintage inspired pieces? The easiest option is a floaty shirt or blouse paired with black skinny jeans - when your top is this busy you should keep it sleek and simple on your lower half. Likewise, a scarf print skirt - whether tight and mini or loose and midi length - looks best teamed with a snug block colour roll-neck. If you want to go the whole hog in all over print, there are some gorgeous midi shirt dresses in the shops - just add knee high boots and your Nineties homage is complete. 184 APRIL 2019
&F Chain Print Midi Skirt, £22, available from Tesco (in store only)
Model wearing Sosandar Black Chain Print Shirt Dress With Belt, £69; Burgundy Leather Zip Knee High Boots, £139, available from Sosandar
Evans Black Chain Print Shirt Dress, £36 (was £45), available from Evans
FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY
Self-Pay at Parkside Hospital medication for up to 14 days. • One post-discharge outpatient visit for wound dressing or stitches removal. • One follow-up consultation with your consultant. • For weight loss patients - Two dietician appointments. • For Orthopaedic patients - Hydrotherapy during your stay, physiotherapy & one set of mobility aids for post discharge rehabilitation. If I need surgery how long will I need to wait? For most procedures it is usually possible to arrange surgery within 2-3 weeks of your initial Outpatient consultation. What is Self-Pay? Self-Pay is the option to pay for your own treatment. This alternative solution allows you quick access to high quality treatments with little or no wait time without the need for private insurance. Paying for your own treatment also allows you the freedom to choose the Consultant who will look after you. At Parkside Hospital we offer a range of Self-Pay Fixed Price packages allowing you to fund your own treatment with no unexpected additional costs. When can I choose to pay for myself ? • If the NHS doesn’t cover the treatment you require. • If you are not eligible for NHS-funded care. • You are on a waiting list and would like to be treated quicker and at time that is convenient to you. • If you don’t have private health insurance Do I need a referral? We have over 100 expert consultants across a range of specialities, who offer consultations for a fixed fee of £200 without the need for a referral letter. If my consultant recommends further tests, how do I find out costs? If at the time of your Outpatient consultation you are recommended to have further tests i.e. blood tests, scans or minor procedures we have a cashier in our Outpatient department who is available until 8pm on weekdays, and can provide you the cost of your treatment, allowing you to make an informed decision before proceeding. If I need surgery do you have any self-pay packages available? We have Self-Pay fixed prices packages for over 80 procedures across a range of specialties. What is included in your fixed price packages? • Pre-operative assessment prior to admission*. • All clinical costs associated with your stay, including consultant & anaesthetist fees for your inpatient care, nursing care and theatre fees. • Standard prosthesis, if required. • 24hr on-call doctor. • Test & scans required during your stay & postdischarge. • Medication & dressings including take-home 186 APRIL 2019
Do you offer any finance options? Yes, subject to status we can offer monthly payment options for one-off private treatments through Chrysalis Finance. This allows you to spread the cost of your treatment using an interest free low APR finance option which can be arranged in advance.
“This alternative solution allows you quick access to high quality treatments with little or no wait time without the need for private insurance”
Benefits of choosing self-pay at Parkside Hospital: • Rated No.1 Private Hospital in London in 2018* by our patients across 15 Categories (*Survey compiled by HWA- Howard Warwick Associates)
• Choice of over 100 expert Consultants who offer a £200 fixed price consultation • Caring nurses • No waiting lists • Transparent pricing • Comprehensive pre and post-surgical care • Flexible finance options available To find out more about Self-Pay at Parkside Hospital call: 020 8971 8008 or email: selfpay@parkside-hospital.co.uk www.parkside-hospital.co.uk Please note: Terms & Conditions apply on the Self-Pay Fixed Price Packages. *This does not include initial Consultation fees, diagnostic tests and scans prior to admission
FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY
suffering from weak ankles?
Do you often feel you have weak and sore ankles, or you get the feeling your ankle is ready to give way?
M
r Pal Ramesh a Consultant Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Surgeon from Parkside Hospital offers his expertise and advises what can be done. Mr Pal Ramesh was awarded the prestigious international American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle (AOFAS) fellowship in 2007 preceded by the DePuy travelling fellowship in 2006. He is involved in clinical research and academic development and has presented his work at Orthopaedic conferences both nationally and internationally. Mr Ramesh holds membership of the British Orthopaedic Association, BOFAS, IOA and the American Foot &Ankle Society.
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What is a weak ankle? A common symptom of ankle instability (weak ankle) is the feeling that the ankle will give way or roll over. Whilst this may be due to under or overpronation (the natural side-to-side movement of the foot as you walk or run), it can also be due to the weak ligaments surrounding your ankle. Weak ankles can be the result of a previous ankle injury, commonly a sprain or injury that has not adequately healed or was not rehabilitated completely. In some cases it can also be a congenital condition. People with chronically unstable ankles will often complain of sore ankles especially whilst walking or doing various activities. Some people experience this playing sport. Why do I have a weak ankle? When you sprain your ankle, the connective tissues (ligaments) are stretched or torn and the ability to balance is often affected. Proper rehabilitation is needed to strengthen the muscles around the ankle and retrain the tissues within the ankle that affect balance. Failure to do so may result in repeated ankle sprains. Ankle instability (weak ankles) which leads to the ankle rolling over unexpectedly or when performing sports can be a significant issue for many patients. This mostly affects teenage to middle-aged patients. The ankle joint is well supported by a group of ligaments and when patients suffer injuries; the outside group of ligaments (the lateral ligaments) are commonly affected. Most of these injuries heal and recover well although some patients continue to have weakness and instability. Repeated episodes of the ankle rolling can lead to further damage to the joint.
How do I treat weak ankles? Initial treatment consists of, ice and physiotherapy. Physiotherapy is quite successful in many patients but a small number of patients may continue to suffer with instability and encounter difficulty with sports and activities. Patients with persisting symptomatic instability will benefit from surgery. What does the surgery involve? Surgery usually consists of repairing or reconstructing two sections of the lateral ligament complex, namely the ATFL (Anterior Talo Fibular Ligament) and the CFL (Calcaneo Fibular Ligament). These ligaments are tightened with the help of special bone sutures. Although this procedure is very successful, the ankle has to be kept in plaster for a significant time, usually about 6 weeks. The ‘internal brace’ is the latest technique (an artificial ligament) available for strengthening weak ankles. This is used in addition to repairing the weak ligaments and therefore, reduces the time in plaster to 2 weeks. Patients will be able to start weight bearing in a boot quicker, start physiotherapy earlier and return back to activities sooner. This is particularly beneficial to patients with naturally increased lax ligaments (hyper mobility), for whom ‘internal brace’ provides stronger support. Mr Pal Ramesh also specialises in: Bunions • Hammer toe correction • Rheumatoid foot • Sports injuries to foot & ankle • Ankle replacement & fusions • Morton’s Neuroma • Mid foot pathology & arthritis For an appointment call: 020 8971 8026 or Email: info@parksidehospital.co.uk www.parkside-hospital.co.uk
FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY
Stubborn Fat?
This may be your solution!
I
f you’re struggling with areas of fat that just won’t shift, you’re not alone. In a recent survey, 79% of respondents said they were bothered by excess fat somewhere on their body. If this sounds familiar, CoolSculpting® could be the answer for you. With 20 years’ research and development and over seven million procedures completed worldwide*, CoolSculpting® is non-invasive, non-surgical treatment that uses technology to freeze away fat. Developed by Harvard scientists, no needles are used and little recovery time is needed. Dr Ravi Jain The UK Vaser Specialist says “CoolSculpting® is the only non-surgical alternative to Vaser that we do at Riverbanks Wellness, I recommend it, because quite simply, it works.
“CoolSculpting® is the only non-surgical alternative to Vaser that we do at Riverbanks Wellness, I recommend it, because quite simply, it works”
OVER 7 MILLION TREATMENTS WORLDWIDE* YOUR CUSTOMISED PLAN CoolSculpting® is suitable for many areas of the 190 APRIL 2019
body, including thighs, arms, abdomen and under the chin. The process begins with a consultation, where your body contouring specialist , will firstly access your areas of concerns , confirm if you are appropriate for treatment. We then develop a customised treatment plan for you. Treatment involves an applicator being placed on the skin, which cools fat cells to the exact temperature they crystallise and die. These cells are naturally processed and removed by the body, while the skin and surrounding tissue is unaffected, although some patients may experience temporary mild bruising. CoolSculpting® has a well-established safety record, and features Freeze Detect, which monitors skin temperature to prevent freeze burns. The results are significant, with fat layer reductions of up to 27% across multiple treatment areas six months after the procedure . It’s no wonder 82% of former patients would recommend CoolSculpting® to a friend.
TARGETED TREATMENT AREAS • Under the chin • Bra fat • Chest • Upper arm • Back fat • Flank • Abdomen • Under the buttock • Thigh • Distal thigh
Dr Rav i Jain
THE DETAILS For more information visit my informative website www.riverbanksclinic.co.uk and subscribe to my email list. Or if you would like to schedule a consultation with one of my aesthetic doctors call 01582762877 to book in.
Before
After
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cycl a fire e Buy 4 v i e c and re f sculpt ent course o treatm tments 4 trea ,200 1 £ h t r wo aders, ines re Magaz on. or Life validati Valid f ert for v d a is h pply bring t &c’s a Some T
By appointment only Call 01582 762877 w w w. r i v e r b a n k s . c o . u k
Acne | Wrinkle Reduction Injections | Dermal Fillers | Fat Freezing | Skin Peels | Pigmentation Mole Removal | Liposuction | Vita min Injections | Rosacea | Non-Surgical Facelifts (Ultherapy ) Hormone Profile tests | Laser treatments | Cosmetic Surgery
FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY
Access to Private Health Care is easier than you think
W
hen you or a family member is unwell it can be a distressing time. Waiting for the treatment or care you need can be unbearable. Avoid long queues and waiting times with the Hospital of St John & St Elizabeth, London’s leading private hospital with an international reputation for the finest patient care. Home to some of the world’s leading Consultants and specialists, the charitable Hospital of St John & St Elizabeth is one of the capital’s best
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kept secrets; able to treat almost any illness whist providing ultimate standards of care. With same day consultations available in their specialist units including Urology, Spine, ENT and Dermatology, patients can enjoy immediate referrals to imaging and diagnostics where treatments and surgeries can be scheduled for the next day. Patients enjoy luxurious surroundings, state of the art technology and the reassurance of being treated by some of the best consultants and nurses in the world. Based in St John’s Wood, minutes from Central London, services include Casualty First, a walk in urgent care centre, which is able to treat children from the age of one. Uniquely, profits support their on-site Hospice, St Johns, which provides care to 4,000 terminally ill patients and their families each year for free. So while enjoying the best care you giving something back to the community. Contact the dedicated patient services team today to find out more about appointments and care at the Hospital of St John & St Elizabeth. 60 Grove End Road, London, NW8 9NH; www.hje.org.uk; 0207 806 4000
“Home to some of the world’s leading Consultants and specialists, the charitable Hospital of St John & St Elizabeth is one of the capital’s best kept secrets; able to treat almost any illness whist providing ultimate standards of care”
FASHION, HEALTH & FITNESS BEAUTY
Above: Image courtesy of BBC
V
An Extraordinary Place
anessa Feltz, journalist, TV and radio broadcaster has publicly paid tribute to St John’s Hospice after attending a dinner on Wednesday 14 November to thank supporters. During her BBC2 morning show Vanessa referred to the event and said. ‘Yesterday evening I attended a dinner to give a short speech. A short braising speech at The Royal College of Physicians which is on the edge of the beautiful Regents Park in the heart of London. And in the most exquisite book lined library there was a dinner to thank people for all their hard work on behalf of the St John’s Hospice. I’m sure if any of you have had any contact with hospices in your life, you’ll know they are places of great joy, and places of calm, and a place where there’s a wonderful feeling that patients can really, really be themselves – in whatever way they feel they can. St John’s Hospice is such an extraordinary place. And this is what the dinner was about, to thank all those who work so hard to make it what it is. A fine time I must say was had by all’. St John’s Hospice is an independent charity located in St John’s Wood within London’s leading private charitable hospital, The Hospital of St John & St Elizabeth. The hospital is one of The UK’s only private charitable Hospitals, where profits and surplus funds are put back into the hospice to help provide crucial palliative care to more than 4,000 terminally-ill patients and their families every year. - serving those living in Westminster, Brent,
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“The Hospice runs a range of services and includes an Inpatient unit, Therapies, Day services, Community support and Hospice@Home”
Camden, Islington, Barnet, Kensington & Chelsea, Hammersmith & Fulham. The Hospice runs a range of services and includes an Inpatient unit, Therapies, Day services, Community support and Hospice@Home which enables patients to be cared for in their own home. St John’s Hospice aspires to a time when every individual can approach death informed, supported and free of pain; a time when the needs of the individual, and of those close to them, are met with personalized care at the end of life. It really is an extraordinary place. For more information on how to support the Hospice visit www.stjohnshospice.co.uk. Tel: 020 7806 4040. Email hospice.info@hje.org.uk St John’s Hospice, 60 Grove End Road, London, NW8 9NH
FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY
Focus on… Prostate Cancer
Dr Angela Rai from The London General Practice discusses prostate cancer What is the prostate? The prostate is a small gland in men in the pelvic area. It is at the base of the bladder and in front of the rectum, it surrounds part of the urethra. It is part of the male reproductive system and helps make some of the fluid in semen. This gland can grow and be a normal part of ageing. The prostate surrounds the urethra, therefore prostate enlargement can cause difficulty in passing urine. A benign enlargement is known as Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH).
Risk factors for prostate cancer 1) Age. Increasing age is a risk factor. Prostate cancer mainly affects men over 50. The average age of men being diagnosed with prostate cancer is between 65 and 69 years. 2) Ethnicity. Men from Afro-Caribbean origin have a higher risk of developing prostate cancer. 3) Family history. Men with a first degree relative (father or brother) who have had prostate cancer have a higher risk of developing prostate cancer, especially if the relative was diagnosed before the age of 60. 4) BRCA gene. The risk increases in men with BRCA 1/BRCA 2 gene mutation. BRCA gene also increases the risk of breast and ovarian cancer in women. 5)Obesity. There are links with obesity and prostate cancer. Staying a healthy weight and exercising regularly may be important.
What are the symptoms? The symptoms of prostate cancer can be similar to other prostate conditions such as BPH, but you should seek medical advice if you have any of the following symptoms: • Having to pass urine more often than usual • Waking up in the night several times to pass urine • Difficulty in starting to pass urine and difficult emptying your bladder • Weak flow of urine • A sudden strong urge to empty your bladder • Blood in urine or sperm • Other symptoms that can occur if the cancer has spread include back pain, bone pain, unexplained 196 APRIL 2019
weight loss and loss of appetite. Having these symptoms does not mean you have prostate cancer, however speak to your GP if you have concerns.
Testing There is currently no screening programme on the NHS for prostate cancer. However an individual’s risk is assessed by their doctor and further tests are initiated. PSA is a blood test. Prostate specific antigen (PSA) is a protein that is produced by both normal and malignant cancer cells. It is normal for men to have some PSA in their blood, but high levels can also indicate prostate disease, both cancerous and benign. A raised PSA can be due to BPH, urinary tract infection and other benign conditions as well as cancer. There are age related reference ranges for PSA results, however these may vary with individual risk factors: Age 40-49 years <2.5 Age 50-59 years <3.0 Age 60-69 years <4.0 Age 70-79 years <5.0 There is a test available that calculates the ratio of ‘free’ and ‘protein bound’ PSA in the blood. Free PSA is associated with benign conditions whilst bound PSA is associated with malignancy. Research has shown that the proportions of free and bound PSA are different in men with prostate cancer compared to those that have benign disease. If more than 25% of the total PSA is free then there is less chance of having prostate cancer. However PSA testing is not diagnostic and further investigations would be required to diagnose prostate cancer. In addition to the PSA blood test, further investigations include a rectal examination, transrectal ultrasound scan, MRI and biopsy. If you have any questions or concerns about these issues then please speak to your GP who can advise on the best form of examination and testing.
THE DETAILS
The London General Practice 114a Harley Street, London W1G 7JL (Entrance on Devonshire Street; between Harley Street and Portland Place) Tel: 0207 935 1000
OPEN 24 HOURS A DAY, 7 DAYS A WEEK
Private GP services www.thelondongeneralpractice.com Occupational Health and Corporate Health Services www.londonocchealth.com
FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY
Time for a knee replacement?
For over 100 years, surgeons have been trying to solve the problem of hip and knee arthritis. This gathered pace in the 1960s, when materials such as steel and ivory were used to replace worn out joints, and there are now over 160,000 hip and knee replacements performed in the UK each year. The numbers continue to rise, and it is thought that 20% of all GP consultations are now for musculoskeletal problems. Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon Mr David Houlihan-Burne talks us through the latest treatment options.
A
patient with knee arthritis is typically over 50 years old, and will have gradually worsening knee pain. There is often also swelling and a change in the alignment of the leg, commonly with bowing of the legs or development of a ‘knock knee’. Some people have restricted movement and can’t fully straighten or bend the knee - a GP will refer for diagnostic scans which will confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment options for hip or knee arthritis GPs and specialists will exhaust all non-invasive treatment options before considering joint replacement. They will look at medication options (painkillers), the need to modify activities and exercise regimes, and may refer you to a physiotherapist to help make these decisions. If legs are misaligned you may need a brace to offload weight from the painful part of the joint, and as symptoms get worse, injecting steroids into the joint can give good short-term pain relief. There has also been a trend recently to inject blood products into the knee to ‘cure’ arthritis, but there is little evidence to date that this works. As the arthritis develops and pain increases 198 APRIL 2019
to the point where it significantly interferes with quality of life, you will need to consider a surgical solution such as an osteotomy (re-alignment surgery) or joint replacement. Osteotomy surgery is performed in younger, more active patients as a temporary solution, as it usually pushes back the need for a joint replacement for 10-15 years. This is a great option for the right patient with the right pattern of arthritis, and an orthopaedic surgeon will quickly determine if it’s right for you. Joint replacement is the ‘gold standard’ treatment for older sufferers (those who have had arthritis for 10-15 years). There are many reasons for the increase in the number of joint replacements, but the main one is the increased effectiveness of the operation, both in terms of relieving pain but also helping people get back to doing all the activities they previously enjoyed. The procedure has advanced dramatically over recent years. Joint replacements are made of materials that should last for many decades if looked after, and they enable patients to have a much better quality of life. For more information, visit bupacromwellhospital.com
“GPs and specialists will exhaust all noninvasive treatment options before considering joint replacement” Mr David Houlihan-Burne BSc(Hons) MBBS (Hons) MRCS FRCS (Tr&Orth) Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon Bupa Cromwell Hospital
FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY
Swim
to a
healthier you A five point guide on why it’s healthy to swim Swimming is a great way to get your body fit and healthy. Whether you want to conquer stress, lose weight or tone your muscles, swimming could hold the key to many day-to-day problems. Here’s our quick guide on how swimming can benefit your health and even help you recover from injuries.
Stress relief Everyday life can be so stressful these days so it’s important to be able to spend time relaxing. It is easy to switch your focus from your day-to-day problems and concentrate on your swimming technique alone. The less time spent worrying about the issues that are causing your stress and the more time spent developing your swimming, the better.
Injury recovery It is widely accepted that swimming is a great way to recover from injuries. It is a non-load bearing sport, which means the joints are under far less pressure than they are in a sport such as running. Poor swimming technique, however, can cause injuries, so make sure you get expert supervision to make sure you’re swimming correctly.
Swimming as a source of weight loss The key to losing weight is to train at the right intensity. Swimming allows you to do this far more than running, for example, where it’s far easier to raise your heart rate above the zone where it is 200 APRIL 2019
possible to lose weight. Swimming will keep you in that zone and, with regular 20 minute sessions, you’ll be surprised at how quickly the weight will fall off.
Getting all-over body shape Most of us are looking to tone all the muscles of the body, rather than just a certain area, and swimming is the perfect way to do this. Using the correct swimming technique ensures that virtually all of the key muscle groups receive a perfect workout.
Self-esteem Learning to swim from scratch as an adult, or going from a basic level to one much higher, is a significant achievement and one to be proud of. It can have a major effect on your personal confidence and self-esteem and give a major boost to your overall well-being. Having the determination and focus to stick with your lessons and achieve your goal is without doubt one of the major benefits of learning to swim properly. Don’t underestimate how good it could make you feel.
HOuse & garden – A collection of London’s finest interior companies – I M AG E : CHA P LINS
H OUSE & GARDEN
The Beauty of Natural Wood Shutters
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he New England Shutter Company creates exclusive designs by combining luxury and durability to compliment any style of interior décor in residential homes or commercial spaces such as gyms, board rooms, restaurants and spas. All shutters designed and manufactured by The New England Shutter Company are made from natural solid woods using only the highest quality materials to provide your home with long lasting, beautiful window treatments. Beautiful natural wood shutters add character and warmth to any room. The different grains and finishes of wood can add a certain charm and authenticity to your shutters, especially when incorporated into traditional interiors. As standard, our natural solid wood shutters are finished by hand oiling which gives a lustrous finish, highlights the natural wood grain and enables the wood to breathe. We can lacquer, stain, sandblast or lime the woods to create a unique finish.
THE LIGHT WOODS: Maple, Ash, Beech Ash wood is a favorite with furniture manufacturers. With its pronounced and fairly straight grain, we can accentuate the grain details and create dramatic white highlights when applying our exclusive limed wax finish. Maple is the lightest in colour of our solid woods which can add a traditional Shaker feel to your home.
THE WARM WOODS: Oak, Cherry, Cedar Oak shutters have a beautiful grain and when stained, the pronounced grain shows through creating a different look compared to the smoother painted tulipwood. Solid oak shutters can be left natural or limed to create a white weathered look. Cedar, a soft and lightweight wood with a red brown colour, is resistant to warping and cracking making it suitable for wet rooms or external shutters. 204 APRIL 2019
THE DARK WOODS: Walnut, Teak, Mahogany Walnut is the darkest of our woods. With a beautiful depth of colour, walnut shutters provide a stunning contrast of dark and light in any room. Teak is particularly suitable for bathrooms and kitchens as it is least affected by a damp environment. These shutters are best left untreated but can be oiled to give a lustrous darker finish. We pride ourselves on excellence, making shutters as a traditional joinery company would have done years ago, using time honoured methods and the finest craftsmanship. Attention to detail goes beyond our design process right through to the personal service we provide to ensure complete customer satisfaction. Investing in shutters is as rewarding as investing in a piece of bespoke furniture as we design to enhance architectural and interior design features. Whatever your specific needs are, we can design and manufacture shutters to meet them. www.thenewenglandshuttercompany.com
THE DETAILS London Showroom: 16 Jaggard Way, London, SW12 8SG. t: 0208 675 1099. e: enquiries@tnesc.co.uk
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stunning kitchens P
oggenpohl has always been a pioneer. For over 125 years, their team has been developing, designing and producing luxury kitchens in their factory in Herford. Social transformation, foresight into emerging trends and the needs of people are Poggenpohl’s core values, bringing their exceptionally high standard to customers all over the world. The kitchen means something different to each individual. Workshop or workplace, adventure area or recipe haven, separate or at the heart of the home, a solo encounter or with family and friends. Sometimes it is dominant and noble, and at other times it retreats and integrates quietly into the living space. Poggenpohl creates options for every lifestyle and independent person, utilising their years of experience to ensure the highest level of quality. With 400 Poggenpohl studios worldwide, they are able to offer first-class advice and design capability, aiming to deliver the customer’s idea of their “perfect” kitchen. True innovation in kitchen design must take its cues from how people actually live, as well as current architectural and socio-cultural trends. For German manufacturer +VENOVO, Poggenpohl has done exactly that. As a testament to the innovation, the design has recently garnered two prestigious awards: the German Design Award 2019 and the ‘Best of Best’ ICONIC AWARD: Innovative Interior 2019. The design represents a genuine rethinking of the kitchen. Through detailed analysis, Poggenpohl identified the specific demands of the space, recognising different trends and adapting to the customer’s needs. With more people living in cities than ever before and flexibility characterising urban life, our dwellings are required to be fluid; almost the exact opposite of our past counterparts. In our careers, we frequently take on new challenges that involve relocation and lifestyle changes, so our homes need to empower this. And as a society, we love to continually reinterpret the spaces we live in, which should always be encouraged. Poggenpohl Chelsea, 107 Pimlico Road, SW1W 8PH Poggenpohl Hampstead, 477-481 Finchley Road, NW3 6HS Poggenpohl Wigmore, 118 Wigmore Street, W1U 3RT www.poggenpohl.com
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[NEWS]
INTERIORS cult style
CLASSIC CORNERS
A classic corner arrangement is perfect for open-plan living and relaxed spaces. Darlings of Chelsea have a selection of new corner sofas designed to match different colour schemes and trends, making it easy to discover your dream sofa. For a bold statement piece, opt for the Dulwich Large Corner Sofa, available in a range of vibrant colours. The fibre filled seat cushions will provide ultimate relaxation for the whole family. Pair this curved corner and buttoned back sofa with warm hues to add depth and a unique style into any living area. www.darlingsofchelsea.co.uk
talent-seeking
Creators of made-to-measure wall murals, Wallsauce.com has teamed with Rise Design and Shine to give up-and-coming illustrators the chance to win a licence agreement. Designers have been asked to create two mural designs based on ‘nature’. Both designs are to be shortlisted by the product team at Wallsauce.com. The shortlisted designs will then be presented to the Wallsauce community will cast the final vote for their favourite murals. The full brief and how to enter can be found here: www.risedesignandshine.com/ wallsauce-design-contest
LET THERE BE LIGHT
The Regent lamp base is a striking little lamp. Nickel plated, it is lightweight and well proportioned. With simple details, such as a concave feature at the top of the tiered base, it is a classic design. Place on a side table, shelf or bedside to throw some ambience to your room. We also have a range of beautiful vases ranging from £8. Lamp base £45 (shade sold separately). www.layeredlounge.com 208 APRIL 2019
With it’s exposed look, bare fixtures, and raw appeal, the industrial, “loft-style” look has remained popular for many seasons now. The look still remains as strong as ever, however, stylists are also infusing the look with other popular styles. Upholstered in black faux leather, the Heather 75cm barstool is the slickest way to sit at the bar. Inspired by the Beetle Dining Chair By Gubi, the chair features a curved back and stunning quilted detailing that hugs the contours of the body. Add an art deco touch to you bar, kitchen island, or modern office. www.cultfurniture.com
BEAUTIFULLY BOHO Melody Maison’s Boho Beautiful collection has everything you need to turn any home into a boho heaven - take a look at their newest arrivals and get inspired! www.melodymaison.co.uk
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SUMMER INTERIORS Create a more positive, energetic living space with these summer interior tips from Lucy Pittaway
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hether you are having a complete revamp, or adding the finishing touches to your home, a stunning piece of artwork from Lucy Pittaway will brighten up your living space. Gaze at the Yorkshire-based artist’s work, and you can’t help but break into a smile. There is a magnificent story in each one. Many of her pieces draw upon themes of family, friendship, hopes and dreams, as she tries to capture the everyday magic of daily life with depictions of quirky animals and scenic landscapes. If you’d like to add a cheerful twist to your home décor as we enter the summer season, follow these hints and tips.
Add a Splash of Colour Spruce up your space by adding a bold pop of colour or a new texture. Feature walls are all about drawing the eye in, making a statement and are fantastic for highlighting unusual features in a room such as fireplaces, alcoves and quirky shelving. Refreshing colours such as mint green or soft pastels are fab for summer too.
Add Some Quirky Wall Art Whether you live in a modern apartment or old Victorian terrace, adding some cheerful artwork will bring character into a room. Lucy’s collections contain a myriad of beautiful colours, themes and framing options, with pieces to complement all interior colour schemes - from energetic, joyful greens and yellows to calming pastels and neutrals. 210 APRIL 2019
Bring the Outdoors Indoors Summer is the perfect time to garnish your home with gorgeous fresh blooms, and whether freshly picked from the garden or delivered, plants and flowers can bring any room to life. Expand your tableware collection, by adding so vibrant ceramics. Fine bone china jugs can be used for floral arrangements in summer and dining during the winter.
Switch your Soft Furnishings Nothing makes a room feel cosier than cushions, rugs and throws. Change them seasonally to refresh your living space. Go for crisp white, paired with bright, optimistic colours and don’t be afraid to layer colours or play with patterns.
Factor in Florals Transport yourself to a beautiful English Garden by adding floral artwork, cushions or ceramics. Florals often contain purples and pinks which are uplifting and can help to create a warm, fun, positive atmosphere within a room. They are timeless and stylish year after year, in some shape or form, so opting for floral home accessories is a fail-safe investment too. Lucy Pittaway’s complete art and homeware collection can be ordered online for home delivery, please visit www.lucypittaway.co.uk. Or if you happen to be visiting Yorkshire, visit the galleries, open 7 days a week.
Specialist basement construction
0203 086 9431 / 07779 062227
SOY CANDLES EXTRA LARGE MULTIWICK 3, 5 and 7 wick candles Gift boxed Free UK delivery Gold or silver labels Personalised message card Complimentary matches Clear & black glass LUXURY SCENTED
For our full range and to place your order visit us at;
www.SovereignMultiwickCandles.co.uk
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Welcome to Pots and Pithoi! P “We have by far the largest range of these beautiful handmade pots anywhere in the world”
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ots and Pithoi are proud to announce their return to the RHS Chelsea Flower Show after a four-year absence. The show starts on Tuesday May 21st where Pots and Pithoi will be showcasing all of their 135 designs, including the new 2019 range. Please come and see us on stand number RHW 614. Pots and Pithoi first introduced Cretan terracotta pots to the UK in 1985. The current owners now work exclusively with one pottery. This is due to the fact that they are the best potters in Crete producing the most remarkable terracotta and we only want to sell the highest possible quality hand thrown pots available. Our pots are capable of withstanding UK winters due to the unique ’secret recipe’ of the clay and that they are properly fired to around 1150°C using crushed olive stones and grape seeds. We have by far the largest range of these beautiful handmade pots anywhere in the world. With over 14,000 in stock displayed around the barns and courtyard at Pots and Pithoi, we are delighted to still be introducing new designs to complement our already extensive range. The Cretans have been making the best pots in the world for thousands of years. Our continuing close relationship with the finest potters ensures the traditional and ancient methods are maintained. Being thrown on the wheel and traditionally fired gives each pot its unique character and colouration. Crafts in Crete are still as prolific as ever. At Pots and Pithoi you will find some of the finest ceramics,
Cretan honey, olive oil and many other fine crafts and accessories. The Coffee Pot Café offers a large selection of coffees, teas, cakes, brunches (9.00-11.00am) and lunches (12.00-2.30pm) 7 days a week (9.00 4.30pm). You can also book a delicious afternoon tea to enjoy in our courtyard. Pots and Pithoi, The Barns, East Street, Turners Hill, West Sussex RH10 4QA. +44 (0)1342 714793. info@potsandpithoi.com. www.potsandpithoi.com
H OUSE & GARDEN
MAKE A SPLASH FOR WILDLIFE: CREATE YOUR OWN MINI-POND
As charities focus this year’s Wild About Gardens challenge on ponds, this step-by-step guide will help you build your own pocket-sized pool. WORDS: Hannah Stephenson
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ancy a pond but don’t have much space? Now’s your chance to make waves with a mini-pond - which will not only look pretty, but will also attract beneficial insects and other wildlife to your plot. Gardeners across the UK are being urged to encourage wildlife with water, as ponds form this year’s Wild About Gardens challenge, from The Wildlife Trusts and the RHS. The UK has lost ponds, rivers and streams at a rapid rate, and only a small amount of our natural ponds and wetlands remain, the charities warn. Helen Bostock, senior horticultural advisor at the RHS, observes: “Even cheap container ponds made from upcycled materials will quickly be colonised by a whole host of creatures, and help form a living chain of aquatic habitats across the neighbourhood.”
Here’s how to build a mini-pond yourself... 1. Choose your spot Your mini-pond will need some sunlight, but not full sunlight all day. Make sure it’s in shade for some of the time. Light shade is fine and will reduce water loss. If you are thinking of placing it under a tree, a few fallen leaves aren’t a worry. However, heavy shade under a tree, together with lots of leaves blowing in, isn’t a good spot for a container pond. A patio is ideal as it’s where you are likely to spend time watching all the wildlife come and go. But remember to add a wildlife ramp inside and out, and ideally cluster with other pots so amphibians such as frogs have a little cover while coming and going. The best way to create shade is with another plant or two (they can be in pots), perhaps a Japanese maple or some tall grasses.
2. What type of container is best? Be creative - is there anything you could upcycle, such as a washing-up bowl, wheelbarrow basin, sawn-off plastic dustbin, half barrel, rubber trug, large plant pot or sink? You can easily recycle an old sink or bowl, but make sure it’s watertight. If you are using a garden container that has drainage holes in the bottom, use a piece of pond liner to cover the holes. Unglazed terracotta containers may lose water through the sides very slowly, though quicker on hotter days. It depends on the quality of the terracotta. There will be a degree of water loss through evaporation, whatever the container. Your pond will need a wide ‘neck’ so wildlife can get in and out. Other than that, the shape really doesn’t matter. Sink your pond or add a ramp for creatures to access.
3. Choose the right plants Water forget-me-not and flowering rush are pretty. Other suitable specimens include waterlily (Nymphaea ‘Pygmaea Helvola’), Lesser spearwort
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(Ranunculus flammula) and Starwort (Callitriche stagnalis). Avoid anything that is too invasive or vigorous. Water soldier and sweet flag are unsuitable for small ponds.
4. Place your plants in baskets Place aquatic plants in baskets lifted up to the correct level of the water by standing them on bricks, stones or other pots. Aquatic baskets are ideal as they allow plenty of water flow around the roots, although normal planting pots can work too. Use aquatic compost, which can be bought from specialist aquatic nurseries. This is heavy (so plants won’t float away) but low in nutrients (so the water won’t turn green with algae).
5. Fill your mini-pond with rainwater Install a water butt to collect rainwater with which to fill your pond, and continue to use this water to top up if levels drop. Check on levels a couple of times a week in hot weather and top up as needed. But don’t panic - even if the levels drop to half way, most creatures will survive. If desperate, just use tap water, but this contains nutrients so it’s not a good idea to regularly top up with this. You won’t need a pump in a mini-pond to stop the water stagnating. It may go a little green at first or before the plants fill out, but it will settle down.
6. Tackle weed problems If you get blanket weed, remove it by hand or use a barley straw extract available from pond specialist companies. Water in a wildlife pond will usually settle into a balance without needing a lot of treatments. For more information, download the Big or Small, Ponds for All booklet - a step-by-step guide to creating the perfect pond at Wild About Gardens (wildaboutgardens.org.uk).
FEATURES INCLUDE: Removable ash pan • fire basket • removable drinks container • stainless steel BBQ grill lid • waterproof protective cover • castors for ease of movement • firewall to protect stored logs
H OUSE & GARDEN
The English Beagle I
f you are looking for quality handcrafted gifts for anyone in the family or for a special event, log onto www.theenglishbeagle.com. A new online shopping site set to champion independent British producers. With Suzy, the original English beagle at the helm and her dutiful owner twenty something handpicked partner’s come together to create a thriving community of British entrepreneurs. The English Beagle celebrates the love of family and gift giving providing beautiful heartfelt gifts for your nearest and dearest. It strives to be your go-to shopping site that aims to create a point of difference providing stunning gifts with personality and purpose in this crowded retail market, appealing to customers that seek out the perfect present. Each item is carefully selected to offer something different, something unique. From the humorous journal for the workaholic to the relaxing bath salts desired by the busy mum or the colour-in t-shirts for a child’s birthday, we have everyone covered. The English Beagle passionately supports British design and manufacture and every product listed on the site is designed and manufactured within the UK. From the highlands of Scotland to the coast in Cornwall, we ensure that first glaze to the first stich is made within our beautiful isle. www.theenglishbeagle.com
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ANNIE SLOAN & CHARLESTON T
his Spring, fine artist and colour expert Annie Sloan launches three new Chalk Paint™ colours in collaboration with Charleston Farmhouse, the country home and meeting place of the Bloomsbury Set until 1978. Today, The Charleston Trust promotes the legacy of the group, who took art beyond the canvas and immersed themselves in a world where design and radical thinking took centre stage. Replete with uninhibited colour and pattern on both walls and surfaces, it is a hymn to the possibilities of paint. Joining the iconic Chalk Paint™ by Annie Sloan collection of decorative paints are Firle, a fresh vibrant green echoing the colour of the wall surrounding a mantelpiece in Clive Bell’s study, Rodmell, a deep damson inspired by the painterly washes of twilight
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shades on the studio walls, and Tilton, a warm mustard reflecting the golden hues in Vanessa Bell’s bedroom. “I found out about the Bloomsbury Set and Charleston Farmhouse through old illustrative books which led me to 1930s English artists. I loved their spontaneous and free approach to painting. They pushed boundaries and took chances in an absolutely joyful way, seamlessly blending historical, cultural and modern references,” explains Annie. “I felt like Charleston was my special secret, it was such a cherished find. In 1971, when I was studying Fine Art, I actually wrote to Duncan Grant to invite him to our arts club. Sadly he declined, so this collaboration is genuinely a dream come true for me.” www.anniesloan.com
“Annie Sloan launches three new Chalk Paint™ colours in collaboration with Charleston Farmhouse, the country home and meeting place of the Bloomsbury Set until 1978”
Designers and producers of fine bespoke metalwork specialising in filigree ironwork, curving stair balustrades, interior gates, ornamentation and sculpture. Over 20 years Matt Livsey Hammond Ltd have established an impressive portfolio of work undertaken for a wide range of interior designers, architects and private clients. Telephone: +44(0)7932 698 747 Email: matt@mattlivseyhammond.co.uk
www.mattlivseyhammond.co.uk
H OUSE & GARDEN
Making a Difference Wilful Ink has created a beautiful wallpaper to raise funds for Rainforest Trust. For every roll sold an amazing 21 acres of rainforest will be saved.
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ainforest Trust is an amazing organisation that funds so many crucial projects that protect our irreplaceable rainforest. The project supported by Wilful Ink is in Peru. Money raised will enable Rainforest Trust to secure the titles for these lands for the indigenous communities that live there. Currently they have no legal way to defend their land from those looking to exploit it. Owning the titles will protect the land from logging and agricultural expansion. You can see more about this initiative here - www.rainforesttrust.org/projects/savingindigenous-lands-in-the-amazon/ Creatures that will benefit from this include endangered species such as the White-bellied Spider Monkey, Giant Otter and Black-faced Black Spider
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Monkey. For those that aren’t into maximalist jungle wallpaper there are also art prints and tea towels will be launched soon. Wilful Ink is a wallpaper and homewares brand that focuses on botanical and zoological themes. All the artwork is created by hand in ink and watercolour before being digitally printed in the UK. Other collections include velvet cushions, make up bags, oven gloves, cards, tiles and coasters. This is not the first time the designer has donated profits to charity as they are also a proud supporter of The Bumblebee Conservation Trust. The wallpaper is £210 per roll. High quality non woven, paste the wall luxury wallpaper. Designed and printed in the UK. www.wilfulink.com
“Wilful Ink is a wallpaper and homewares brand that focuses on botanical and zoological themes”
H OUSE & GARDEN
Extensive garden displays showcasing classic outdoor furniture in the village of Nettlebed
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rights of Nettlebed can be found on the main high street of the rural Oxfordshire village of Nettlebed, alongside traditional country inns, shops and plenty of quaint, thatched properties with large, leafy gardens. Enter the company’s classically designed showroomsthe largest of its kind in the UK- and you’ll find extensive gardens. Aside from perfectly manicured flowerbeds, hedgerows bustling with birds, a fully restored red telephone box and koi carp ponds, Brights of Nettlebed’s outdoor displays are home to an ever-changing selection of garden furniture and accessories, carefully selected from the world’s finest producers. Brights of Nettlebed’s choice of outdoor furniture and accessories is sure to delight you. This wonderful array of classical furniture, inspired by the gardens of great houses from centuries gone by, encompasses everything you could want to add elegant country style to your home, wherever you are. For entertaining guests during the bright days and warm evenings of summer or simply relaxing in the sunshine, what could be more ideal than luxurious dining sets and benches? Brights’ collection includes benches, chairs, tables and complete dining sets. Much of this timelessly elegant furniture has been created in partnership with Oxleys, the most reputable name in the industry for its long and proud tradition of handmaking metal, English garden furniture. These two prestigious brands have come together in celebration of the nation’s passion for gorgeous gardens. Produced in Cotswold workshops by craftsmen with decades of experience, Oxleys garden furniture is made from the highest possible grade of aluminium, with exceptional attention given to the details of the finishing process to ensure that the quality will remain intact for years to come. Aluminium is widely considered to be the ultimate choice of material for garden furnishings partly because, when properly treated, it does not rust. It is also light and easily moved and required no maintenance to maintain its appearance. The aluminium furniture produced for Brights by Oxleys is available in 21 colours and special finishes and is guaranteed to withstand the test of time for generations. One of the most impressive aspects of Brights of Nettlebed’s outdoor displays is the stunning
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selection of fine stone statues. From sculpted figures and busts inspired by those of ancient Rome and Greece, to exotic elephants and medieval lions, Brights of Nettlebed’s showstopping statues would be fit for any winner of the Chelsea Garden Show. Other accessories that can be used as a focal point in lawns, courtyards and terraces include accessories and water features. Ornate water features have been used as centre pieces to luxurious landscapes for centuries. The fountains and freestanding water features available at Brights of Nettlebed are no exception to this tradition. Other accessories, such as wall plaques, birdbaths and sundials, will provide you with countless hours of enjoyment as you admire them from the comfort of your cosy garden seat. If you’re looking to enhance the splendour of your blossoming garden this year, pay a visit to Brights of Nettlebed’s gardens where all of this and much more are showcased. These inspirational displays are home to hundreds of items for you to view, so you’re sure to find the piece to suit your taste and garden. A friendly and professional team of experts is always on hand to show guests around and provide advice as well as ensuring that there is always a cup of tea or coffee to hand. These displays, along with more than 30 classically designed interior showrooms, make Brights of Nettlebed a great choice for a day out, there are even several inns and eateries in the village to get lunch or an early evening meal. Nettlebed is easily accessible by car and to make the journey even more simple, you can arrange complimentary transport to the showrooms from your home or a suitable station. www.brightsofnettlebed.co.uk
Bretain aluminium table and chairs available in 21 finishes
“Brights of Nettlebed’s outdoor displays are home to an ever-changing selection of garden furniture and accessories, carefully selected from the world’s finest producers”
H OUSE & GARDEN
5 High-Concept Designs For Contemporary Homes Words: Anna Howell,
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Chaplins Interior Editor
igh-concept design is about adventure, the search for new frontiers that can’t always be expressed with words. So why is it that so many of us play it safe with our interiors? At Chaplins, we’re often asked to help source a missing piece that will make a home extraordinary. From statement sofas through to stunning pendants, we’ve rounded up five of our favourite high-concept designs, each of which promises to add drama and style to contemporary homes. What does never-ending glory look like to you? Is it riches and fame? Success or happiness? For Jan Plechac and Henry Wielgus it’s the ability to move through time, recapturing passionate emotions through minimal design. Designed to emulate iconic chandeliers from five of the world’s most distinguished concert halls, the Neverending Glory collection takes Neoclassical splendour and reinterprets it for the modern age. Using traditional Czech glass-blowing techniques, each pendant spins a historic story while creating new emotions and memories in the eye of the beholder. As the classic becomes contemporary, Lasvit leaves just one question for design enthusiasts. Where will your lighting take you? De Sede’s DS600 is the only design on the list to occupy a position in the Guinness Book of World Records. Crowned the World’s Longest Sofa, its sinuous leather form snakes elegantly through open-plan residences, operating as both an architectural feature and elegant lounging system. Inspired by a mythical alpine creature, the Tatzelwurm, it can be used indoors or out to add comfort to contemporary spaces. Revered for their quirky, uncompromising designs, the Ella Dining Chair by Edra is a
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watercolour brought to life. Designed by Jacopo Foggini, the black pedestal rises like a stem from the earth giving way to a corolla of multi-coloured petals. Available in opulent gold or stunning blue, Ella is a physical reminder to make art out of the everyday. For interior designers, the hallway is the business card of the house. And yet, the chance to make a powerful first impression is often overlooked. Enter Ligne Roset’s Geoffrey Mirror An oversized glamorous design; it riffs on the idea of a private butler. At once a decorative element and a handy storage solution, Geoffrey encourages you to keep track of important possessions via the stylish brass dish and metal rack. Equally useful as a bedroom clothes stand, its aesthetics of scale create a quirky design that’s a delight to look at and live with. It’s often said that lighting is the jewellery of the home. It’s an expression that comes to life in Michael Anastassiades award-winning Arrangements Pendant Light. Manufactured by the iconic Italian brand, Flos, Arrangements combines a variety of geometric light elements to great a glowing chain of light. Spectacular yet ethereal, these stunning pendants can be used to create dramatic constellations in modern homes. At Chaplins, we live and breathe contemporary design and are proud to showcase the world’s most exclusive brands to a UK audience. Flanked by fantastic restaurants, our 25,0002 ft showroom is your chance to get up close and personal with some of design’s hottest names, including Paola Lenti, Cassina, and Cattelan Italia. Why not pop by this April and bag yourself a designer steal in our annual Spring Promotion? Available online and in-store until the 12th May 2019. www.chaplins.co.uk
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DIVE DOWN INTO A BASEMENT POOL Building a pool into your basement is very en vogue, extremely popular amongst the rich and famous.
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helsea Football Club owner Roman Abramovich, Formula 1 heiress Tamara Ecclestone, and steel tycoon Lakshmi Mittal are among those that have dabbled with basement extensions in recent years. If you have dreamt of having a home swimming pool and don’t fancy the idea of going for an outdoor swim in the middle of winter, then a basement pool is your answer. Of course, there is no upper limit on what can be spent and some pools are the absolute height of luxury and sophistication. There are very few places in your property that are suitable for pool installations, other than basements. Most basements provide the perfect setting, with concrete floors and being at the bottom of the property you do not have to worry about the weight a pool would put on the ceiling of the room below. Some build an extension to house their swimming pool, but there is nothing more luxurious with that extra wow factor than a basement pool. The design of basement pools can be equally indulgent, extravagant and indeed, delightful. Depending on your taste, you might have an underground grotto with cave-like stonewalls and a waterfall running into a spa beside the pool. You might be attracted by the idea of marble columns and arched ceilings in the style of the Basilica Cistern in Istanbul or you might go for a modern, graphic approach.
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“There are very few places in your property that are suitable for pool installations, other than basements”
You need to make sure you don’t cut corners when it comes to damp proofing your basement pool, as this will be your biggest challenge. Many people have problems with damp after they have installed a swimming pool, but don’t be put off by horror stories you may hear - ensure you employ an accredited builder to fit your swimming pool and that they have had experience in converting basements for swimming pools in the past. A basement is the perfect place for a pool, whether it’s a five-metre training pool or a 25-metre high-spec infinity pool. Professional designers can create a swimming pool of any shape and size to fit your space and your needs; with a specialist team who will then install your pool, and include any finishing touches such as tiling, wet rooms, and lighting. Working below ground is a specialist area and there are some specific regulations that apply. All floors and walls that are below ground level need to be waterproofed, or ‘tanked’ as it is sometimes called. Existing walls may have to be underpinned and additional joists and steelwork might need to be installed in order to support your property above. You will almost certainly have to ensure that there is a suitable fire escape from the basement, an adequate ventilation system and insulation to comply with building regulations. Different councils can ask different things of you when it comes to a basement conversion, so it is important that you speak to them before you plan or start any work.
UK Pool Contractor of the Year. Family Company years of excellence. Family Company celebrating 53celebrating years of52excellence.
H OUSE & GARDEN
All Change
IQ Glass UK Working with some of the worlds leading architects IQ® Glass are the number one choice for exclusive super prime, high end and complex residential glazing projects in the UK. Some renovations include, in South West London – A contemporary glass box extension was installed within the balcony of a penthouse apartment in South West, London. Glass beams, minimal windows, solar control glass and structural glazing were used for this project. Low maintenance coating was also applied to the glazing. In Welbeck Street, The minimal windows® sliding door system creates an elegant finish to complement the main building material - in this case the copper exterior is accentuated by the interrupting slim framed sliding door system. The combination of glass and copper provides a modern sophisticated exterior aesthetic while flooding the interior living spaces with natural light. Posterns Courts sees sliding doors and structural
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A round-up of companies to help with your renovations, whether you’re looking to build a glass extension, replacing windows or having your very own folly!
glass used in conjunction to create an elegant glass box extension in Surrey. The minimalist framing achieved by the structural glass and slim framed sliding doors creates a beautiful ultra-modern conservatory style addition to homes. Glass box extensions bring homeowners closer to their garden and outdoor living spaces for the whole year as the glass box can be used throughout both the warm and colder months. www.iqglassuk.com
Evolution Windows All the beauty of timber without the drawbacks. No expensive maintenance, no laborious sanding and painting - not to mention significant cost savings when compared to bespoke timber windows. What’s not to love? With unrivalled energy-efficiency of A+ 13 as standard, exceptional weather proofing and low maintenance, without compromising on quality and design, your search for the perfect window solution for your home starts right now... www.evolutionwindows.com
Redwood Stone - Folly & Garden Shown right is a classic Redwood Stone Gothic folly and ruin design in a private English garden. Designed and built in the style of the eighteenth century. A Gothic design in the Horace Walpole, Strawberry Hill style. Redwood Stone can be seen each year at the Chelsea and Hampton Court Flower Shows. Standard designs can be reimagined to create structures to enhance private gardens or commercial projects. Redwood Stone also make architectural stonework for construction projects including this fabulous Orangery. Redwood Stone provided the curved window heads for this orangery with integral keystones as well as other masonry. www.redwoodstone.com
Founded over 20 years ago by interior designers David Oliver and Sophie Grattan-Bellew, Paint Library London is the original shop of Paint & Paper Library and is a design destination trusted and respected by architects, interior designers, decorators and homeowners. Our colours will help you achieve a dynamic and signature style in your home and are chosen to bring a sophisticated charm and contemporary relevance to all interior spaces. They are displayed in painted boxes in complementary and integrated tones to help you visualize a decorating plan for a single room or an entire home. Our paint consultants are also on hand to advise and guide. We also offer a Colour Consultation Service to help you choose colours for a Harmonious and coherent scheme. Samples of paint, wallpaper and fabric are available in-store and to order and we offer a nationwide delivery service. To find out more about how our colours can enhance your home visit Paint Library London or contact us to arrange a bespoke colour consultation mention this ad to receive a 5% discount on all paint and wallpaper
Founded over 20 years ago by interior designer David Oliver and Sophie Grattan-Bellew, Paint Library London is the original shop of Paint & Paper Library and is a design destination trusted and respected by architects, interior designers, decorators and homeowners. Our colours will help you achieve a dynamic and signature style in your home and are chosen to bring a sophisticated charm and contemporary relevance to all interior spaces. They are displayed in painted boxes in complementary and integrated tones to help you visualise decorating plan for a single room or 3 ElystanaStreet , London SW3 3NT 7823 7755 info@paintlibrary.london an entire home. Our 020 paint consultants are also www.paintlibrary.london on hand to advise and guide. We also offer a Colour Consultation service to help you choose colours for a harmonious and coherent scheme. Samples of paint, wallpaper and fabric are available in-store and to order and we offer a nationwide delivery service. To find out more about how our colours can enhance your home visit Paint Library London or contact us to arrange a bespoke colour consultation.
RECEIVE O T D A S N THI MENTIO
A 5% DI
PA P E R D WA L L N A T N I PA ON ALL SCOUNT
3 Elystan Street, London SW3 3NT 020 7823 7755 • info@paintlibrary.london www.paintlibrary.london
H OUSE & GARDEN
On the map F
or as long as he can remember, Mike Hall has been fascinated by maps, plans and buildings. He isn’t certain when or how it began, though he recalls spending endless days of his childhood poring over atlases and street plans and repeatedly drawing the distinctive modernist buildings that loomed over the back garden fence of his home in Harlow, Essex, one of the New Towns built in the mid-20th century around southeast England. He learnt about the planning and development of his town at school, and he believes that this cemented his fascination with all things cartographic, historic and architectural. Since graduating with a degree in Illustration from the University of Westminster in 2008, Mike
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has established a distinctive line in map illustration and architectural drawing, influenced by antique prints and vintage design. In 2013 he was signed up by the international agency Illustration, and he succeeded in becoming a full-time freelance illustrator a year later; that same year he took the decision to relocate from London to live with his Spanish partner in Valencia, Spain. During his nine years spent living in London (on both sides of the river) and influenced by the work of writers including Peter Ackroyd, John Rogers, Zadie Smith and Craig Taylor, he developed a strong fascination with the city’s history, myriad of cultures and wide network of neighbourhoods, boroughs and suburbs. These themes continue to guide and characterise his work, not least his most recent (and possibly most ambitious) personal project to draw retro-style maps of all 32 boroughs in Greater London. Most of his designs are digitally drawn, although he also produces a variety of detailed works using pen on paper. He retains a strong affinity with London and maintains clients and regular customers there. Publishers such as Bloomsbury, HarperCollins, Penguin, Random House and Scholastic have all called upon his services for maps and drawings to decorate their books, and he has also designed colourful and detailed visitor maps for BBC Countryfile Live, Butlins, Goodwood and the Royal Horticultural Society. Alongside commissioned work, Mike has also created a sideline in his own print designs that he sells to the public through his online store and a selection of gift shops in London. All of his designs are completely original, unique creations designed entirely by his hand in his home studio, requiring many hours’ worth of research and hard work. They are printed using his professional-standard wideformat Epson SureColor printer and Ultrachrome HD archival inks on high quality, exhibitionstandard paper, and have proven to be popular with map enthusiasts around the world. Visit Mike’s website at thisismikehall.com or follow him on Twitter and Instagram as @thisismikehall.
“Mike has established a distinctive line in map illustration and architectural drawing, influenced by antique prints and vintage design”
LEIVARS is a high end interior design practice with a fundamental passion for creating beautiful interiors. Whether inspired by existing architecture or our clients individual tastes, every stage of design is considered with meticulous attention to detail. A focus on quality and practicality has earned LEIVARS thirteen industry awards, extensive press coverage, and House and Garden ‘one to watch’ status. Most recently we have received a ‘one to watch for the UK’ 2019 accolade from Build Magazine, won the bedroom category and been shortlisted in two further categories at the 2018 International Design & Architecture Awards, reached finalist status for the third time in the SBID Design Excellence awards, received a ‘Best of Houzz Design’ accolade for the sixth year running, and our fifth consecutive ‘Best of Houzz Service’ award. Having just celebrated our 11th Anniversary the philosophy of LEIVARS remains to the core of everything that we design, our interiors must be both intelligent, and diverse in style, with the utmost attention to detail throughout. We are absolutely committed to being approachable and designing homes that are unique in style, liveable balanced with luxury. We understand that our clients opinion should be at the heart of what we do and we have never lost sight of that. Working on a no in house style philosophy allows us the freedom to work with our clients and develop and implement designs that reflect their personalities, it also ensures we are constantly on the search for new products and suppliers both British and International. As a team we attend as many trade shows as we can to truly keep abreast of new innovative products coming to the market but we also take the back routes down the unknown streets to find those one off items, the detail is what we love as it brings to life the designs for our clients. Working on coastal projects in Sandbanks, through elegant country homes, to Georgian Townhouses, our strength lies in our ability to listen to the needs of our clients and offer the utmost discretion. Proud of our reputation for excellence, we thrive on client referrals and repeat business as our clients expand their property portfolios.
Consultations are by strict appointment through studio@leivars.com or please call Rebecca Leivars (founder) on +44 (0)7929 934511, please visit our website www.leivars.com
H OUSE & GARDEN
Spring Clean Your Home
with the Konmari Method
T
he launch of the Netflix show ‘Tidying Up with Marie Kondo’ has brought much-needed inspiration on how to declutter and organise the home - namely with the popular Konmari method. Based on advice from the show’s star, Marie Kondo, Rebecca Snowden, Interior Style Advisor at Furniture Choice shares tips and tricks on how to spark joy in the most relaxing room of the house the bedroom.
Tackle clutter by category Created by Marie Kondo, the KonMari method breaks clutter into five categories - clothing, books, documents, miscellaneous and sentimental items. Putting everything into one big pile makes it easier to get organised, as it allows people to see how much they really have. “Tackling clutter based on the KonMari method helps to maintain order and prevents having to purge again,” Rebecca advises. “This also helps on a psychological level, as it reminds us to think about what we need to buy instead of fixating on what we want.”
Keep objects that spark joy Practicing gratitude is an important part of Kondo’s ethos and that comes through in how she suggests working through each category. Her approach is to pick each item up to see if it sparks joy - if it does, keep it, and if not, it’s time to let it go. “So to know if something sparks joy, hold it in both hands and see how the body responds. You will feel a certain thrill if something sparks joy, and a sense of heaviness if it doesn’t. This is a chance to ‘thank’ an item for its service before moving on, and highlights how to tackle clutter in an organised and cheerful way.”
Using the ‘Fold and stand’ method Finding a home for items that have made the cut 232 APRIL 2019
can be tricky so it is important to keep things in order and easy to identify. Kondo’s method of folding clothing in thirds and then standing them up, takes up less space, so it works equally well in wardrobes as well as smaller spaces such as bedside tables and chests of drawers. “This method may take some getting used to, but makes it simple to visually keep track of the clothes you have. On top of that, if you wanted to colour code your wardrobe, the uniform look and size of each item means that turning your wardrobe into an Instagram-friendly dream is easily achievable,” Rebecca explains. “The ‘fold and stand’ method is also perfect for beds with built-in storage - a part of the room that can be easily overlooked. Ottoman beds have ample room for essentials like bedding and towels, and attached drawers that will benefit from this KonMari trick. This can help to create a sense of peace whenever a drawer or cabinet is opened to reveal a tidy and organised space.”
Make use of small boxes Using small boxes for clothing and other essentials is a particularly useful storage tip for the bedroom. The compact size of the boxes easily fit into drawers and wardrobes and are perfect for clothing or miscellaneous items. This is especially useful for stray items that tend to go missing easily - rings, watches, glasses - and makes getting ready in a hurry a lot easier. “A good thing to use here might be old gift or shoe boxes - they’re often a great size, and upcycling them is a wonderful way to make use of something that might otherwise be discarded ,” Rebecca says. “It also allows people to get creative, giving them a chance to DIY the boxes to match the decor or complement their aesthetic. This can be another way to spark joy - bringing together elements of decorating and tidying.”And bonus: it’s also easier to clean and move things around while still keeping everything tidy.”
“Putting everything into one big pile makes it easier to get organised, as it allows people to see how much they really have”
H OUSE & GARDEN
[NEWS]
OUTDOOR LIVING FEEDING FRENZY
Take a sneak ‘beak’ out your window as your feathered friends peck away at the finest food in the Copper Seed Feeders from Boxwild. The birds in your backyard will be living in luxury with these sleek copper feeders. www.boxwild.com
PICNIC TIME The new colour combination of picnic blankets, paired with beautiful leather straps are now exclusively available! With a waterproof backing, these blankets are a fantastic musthave for a successful cosy outing whether it is a family picnic, a concert in your local park or a day on the beach. www.heating-and-plumbing.com
SUMMER DREAMING
The warmer weather is fast approaching and it is time to step out into the garden. For SS19, Lights4fun have everything covered from plug in and battery lights through to solar, to get your outdoor space ready for glorious garden parties, casual barbecues and laid back suppers. www.lights4fun.co.uk
AL FRESCO DINING
Move your dinner party outside with luxurious outdoor dining sets and stunning dining accessories from Bridgman. Whether you are having an afternoon tea for two or a dinner party for ten, Bridgman have the perfect dining sets for the occasion. And with a range of table tops to choose between (glass, HPL, and composite), you can be sure to find a table that is both durable and that looks great in your space. Pictured is the Evesham Oval Dining Table with 10 Evesham Dining Armchairs £6,499. www.bridgman.co.uk
FIRE UP THE OVEN
Host the perfect summer party with these brand new outdoor accessories from Cuckooland. Brand new to Cuckooland, the Ooni Koda Gas-Powered Outdoor Pizza Oven is lightweight, compact, gas powered and ready to use straight out of the box! Live in pizza paradise with this luxurious accessory that includes an Ooni Koda pizza oven, a stone baking board and a propane tank gas regulator. www.cuckooland.com 234 APRIL 2019
H OUSE & GARDEN
Darlings of Chelsea Fulham Showroom RelaunchED sofa specialists Darlings of Chelsea have dedicated their old Fulham store to their beloved beds and sofa beds. The ‘Darlings of Sleep’ showroom reopened 4th January and features their finest beds and sofa bed designs - including the Andreas range,
“Designer sofa specialists Darlings of Chelsea have dedicated their old Fulham store to their beloved beds and sofa beds”
D
arlings of Chelsea is an award-winning designer sofa brand specialising in luxury, hand-crafted sofas, with most hand made to order in the UK. Style, comfort and quality is at the heart of what they do and with their exclusive designs, you are guaranteed to create something as individual and unique as you. With the launch of their brand new showroom at Parsons Green opened in January 2019, designer
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the Felton range, the Brendon Sofa Bed and the Corby Storage Chaise Sofa Bed. Starring traditional frames, modern fabrics and retro designs, Darlings have a diversified range to fit into different bedroom spaces, whether it be in a traditional mansion or a contemporary condo. So explore the relaxed, opulent store that has a feeling of serenity for customers to feel right at home. With the Fulham showroom just a 15 minute walk away from the Parsons Green showroom, it is particularly convenient for customers looking to invest in a high-quality bed and a luxurious sofa at the same time.
THE DETAILS Discover the latest collections at www.darlingsofchelsea.co.uk
H OUSE & GARDEN
In the Right Place at the Right Time T he term ‘occasional furniture’ actually dates back to the period between 1660 and 1740 when the gentry took advantage of social change and had multi-purpose furniture made to suit different requirements at different times of the day. Extending the dining table, or having miniature beds on wooden wheels called ‘truckles’ to go under the main bed during the day were nothing new, but having small adaptable furniture that folded down or opened up were new in the Carolean era. Production of these pieces was made possible by improved methods of construction heralded by the introduction of a new craft and a new craftsman the cabinet maker. His ability to create more finely cut joints, having access to more sophisticated hinges and of course the best long-seasoned quality timbers allowed him to create furniture that could be a serving board one minute to be quickly transformed into a table for gaming, needlework or tea the next. At this time rooms were not set permanently as we have them today or indeed as they have been since the mid-
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eighteenth century. Circular tables were made to tilt and long rectangular ones had disproportionately small centre sections from which two long flaps or leaves were hinged to be supported when horizontal by a framework rather like a gate, hence gateleg. Once invented these in various forms never went out of fashion and followed the styles of decoration throughout the ensuing periods. Still the most interesting are surely the earliest examples, miraculously surviving over three hundred years of use. Here the art of the wood turner comes into play, for now was the time when more than one person was responsible for making a piece of furnture. At first one can see just a single turned upright as in the table illustrated, but by 1700 the legs, stretchers and most of the gate were formed by the turner. An informal supper is over, let’s fold down the table, tuck it away and dance. For more information about John Bly Antiques: 533 King’s Road, Chelsea, London SW10 0TZ email john@johnbly.com; www.johnbly.com
“The most interesting are surely the earliest examples, miraculously surviving over three hundred years”
H OUSE & GARDEN
Spring Birds Wormwood Scrubs, London “This is my favourite place in the whole world. Why? Because this large park in west London was virtually unknown as a birding venue when I first visited it over 25 years ago. It’s the place where I first realised that, by simply looking up, you could see so many birds. Head there to find northward bound spring migrants like gorgeous wheatears and my favourite bird, the ring ouzel.”
Lundy Island, Bristol
B
roadcaster and writer David Lindo has made it his mission to introduce new audiences - young and old to the joys of birding in city environments. Also known as The Urban Birder, he’s eager to dispel the myth that observing our feathered friends is a nerdy activity - on the contrary, it’s becoming rather cool. His own fascination with birds started when, at the age of three, his mum recalls him going missing during a family gathering. A search party was dispatched and they eventually found him standing outside a churchyard, watching magpies. He hasn’t stopped since. With spring around the corner, now is one of the best times to go birdwatching - and you don’t need to travel far. These are some of Lindo’s favourite spots in the UK.
“OK, so this isn’t an urban spot, but it fulfils another desire that I have: My love of being on islands. Situated in the Bristol Channel, this magical island is a magnet for rare birds. Springtime sees the return of the island’s breeding seabirds including manx shearwater, guillemots and the comical looking puffin.”
Alderney, Channel Islands “This Channel Island is another of my favourite islands in the UK. I love the fact it is small and easy to walk around, as well as being a throwback to earlier times when people used to keep their doors open all the time. The bird life is pretty special too, and they have even established a new Bird Observatory on the island. Spring is a great time to look for ravens and returning gannets.”
Conwy RSPB Reserve, North Wales “I’ve had some great times watching birds at this funky little nature reserve in North Wales, like the common sandpiper feeding along the shoreline of the lake there. It is also pretty urban too, which always helps to make me feel more at home!”
Barons Haugh RSPB Reserve, Motherwell, Scotland “What a little gem! Sandwiched between Motherwell and Hamilton, this is a great place to observe the ordinarily unobtrusive kingfisher and the reedbed dwelling water rail. For some reason, these birds can sometimes parade out in the open, seemingly without a care in the world.”
Walthamstow Wetlands, London “This place in east London has romantic connotations for me. Run by the London Wildlife Trust, it’s a great spot to watch common terns in the spring, fresh back from their wintering areas of southern Africa - and it’s also the site where I once took a girl on a date. However, far from having a romantic stroll, I stood her under cold grey rainy skies for two hours waiting for a rare dusky warbler to emerge from a bush.”
Hartlepool Headland, County Durham “This is a bit of an oddity as a birding venue. To the average eye, it is just a neighbourhood by the coast; to a birder, it is a potential oasis. During spring, many migrant birds make first landfall along the 240 APRIL 2019
A new season welcomes a multitude of winged species to our shores. Celebrity ornithologist David Lindo recommends where to spot them east coast, including this headland. In bumper years, tired birds can be found in the residents’ gardens and even on their houses.”
Hull “Another unlikely birding nirvana. This Yorkshire city is often much derided for not containing anything of interest to outsiders, but I beg to differ. There are some great places in the city to watch birds, and springtime at Paull Holme Strays Nature Reserve can be pretty special. Watch out for newly arrived swallows as well as wading birds.”
Belfast Lough RSPB Reserve, Northern Ireland “Although just a stone’s throw from the busy George Best Belfast City Airport, this is a fabulous place to watch for spring migration. Despite its tiny size, it packs a mighty punch and is always seemingly buzzing with gulls and terns.”
Saltholme RSPB Reserve, Middlesbrough “With a backdrop of oil refineries and factory towers - the visual inspiration for local boy Ridley Scott in his iconic film, Bladerunner - this is a marshy wildlife oasis. It is possible to be here during the spring and watch great birds like barn owls and marsh harriers.” David Lindo is an Ambassador for Leica Sports Optics. Leica have a range of Sports Optics ideal for bird watching, starting from £421 for the Trinovid Compact 8 x 20 BCA Compact Binoculars. Visit leicastore-uk.co.uk/ collections/sport-optics.
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H OUSE & GARDEN
Tempting Tapestries
from
Historic
Royal
Palaces Tapestry art has adorned the homes of the rich since the Middle Ages. Today everyone can still enjoy the beautiful tapestries available from Historic Royal Palaces. From cushions to wall hangings, they are a wonderful way to bring a bit of history to a home. Each tapestry is woven in Flanders and lined with cotton canvas. A channel sewn into the back allows for easy hanging from a tapestry pole.
The Arming and Departure of the Knights tapestry Measuring 1.05 metre by 70cm this exquisite tapestry would brighten the wall of any room with its colourful image inspired by the Holy Grail tapestry series designed by Edward Burne-Jones in 1890 and originally woven by Morris & Company. The Arming and Departure of the Knights tapestry is the second scene in the series and it depicts the ladies of King Arthur’s Court assisting the knights in preparation for their quest. On the far left of the tapestry, Queen Guinevere hands Sir Lancelot his shield and Sir Gawaine, who fails the quest, is seen on the far right of the tapestry. A richly vibrant mille-fleur of golds, burgundies, greens and blues on a striking black background surround the figures. Price: £325.
Knights Templar - Templier Tapestry This is a depiction of a Templar, of the Knights Templar, the medieval period military order responsible for protecting the Holy Grail. Templars played a key part in the Crusades of the Middle Ages and are believed to be the pioneers of modern banking. This particular tapestry features a Knight Templar and the Krak des Chevaliers, or the ‘Fortress of the Knights’, one of the most famous medieval castles in the world. Measures 62cm x 48cm. Price: £90. Also available as a cushion for £40.
Lady and the Unicorn tapestry – sense of smell This beautiful tapestry has been inspired by The Lady and the Unicorn tapestries woven in Flanders in the 15th century. Five of the tapestries in the series depict the five senses – taste, hearing, sight, smell and touch. The fourth tapestry depicts the sense of smell. The medieval lady is making a wreath of flowers framed by a unicorn and a 242 APRIL 2019
monkey who is smelling a flower he has stolen. Measures 48cm x 36cm.Price: £60.
Lady and the Unicorn tapestry - my one sole desire This beautiful tapestry has been inspired by The Lady and the Unicorn tapestries woven in Flanders in the 15th century. The sixth tapestry represents love. In this tapestry a lady stands before a tent with her handmaiden holding a chest beside her. The lady is placing the necklace she has worn into the chest. The lion and the unicorn frame the lady and on top of the tent is written ‘À Mon Seul Désir’ which means ‘my one sole desire’. The original tapestries are considered one of the greatest works of art of the Middle Ages. Measures 49cm x 70cm. Price: £125.
Unicorn Tapestries - captive unicorn tapestry This beautiful tapestry has been inspired by the Unicorn Tapestries or The Hunt of the Unicorn woven at the end of the 15th century in the Netherlands. The tapestries were probably made for Anne of Brittany to celebrate her marriage to Louis XII, King of France. This tapestry illustrates the final in the series, The Captive Unicorn. In the tapestry the unicorn is tethered to a tree and constrained by a fence. It is important to note that the chain is not secure and the fence is low. The unicorn could escape if it wished to but is happy in its confinement. The pomegranates in the tree above are medieval symbols of fertility and friendship and other plants in the scene such as the thistle and wild orchid represent themes of love, marriage and procreation. The scene is believed to represent the beloved tamed. Measures 49cm x 70cm. Price: £125. Also available as a cushion for £40. www.historicroyalpalaces.com
floors, doors
& windows GUIDE
– The ultimate guide to floors, doors & windows for your London home – i m a g e : CAST E LNAU TIL E S
FLOORS, DOORS & WINDOWS
LUXURY PERSONIFIED C
astelnau Tiles is an independent, family run tile business with showrooms in Barnes, Kingston and Esher. They have been selling to both trade and retail customers for nearly 40 years. Castelnau Tiles source their tiles directly from many factories in Italy, Spain and across the globe, and provide a competitively-priced, reliable and professional service. They are passionate about design and can assist you with all aspects of your tiling requirements. In March 2019, Castelnau Tiles opened their newest showroom in Esher, Surrey. The new showroom, based on Esher High Street, is a complete tile design studio – so whatever stage you may be in your refurbishment, it is definitely worth a visit! “We’ve been working closely with architects and designers for many years and really wanted a place they could feel comfortable bringing their clients. We wanted the showroom to reflect the passion we have for tiles and interior design, I think we have achieved that. It’s a really nice space where you can browse our ranges, have a coffee and sit and discuss ideas with your designer or architect,’ explains Managing Director Liam Gallagher. Castelnau Tiles has selected a range of highquality tiles from leading tile importers worldwide with a focus on quality, design and value. They specialise in supplying large format floor and wall tiles for indoor and outdoor areas, large marble slab effect porcelain, as well as all types of kitchen tiles and bathroom tiles. Their main tile ranges include Victorian Tiles, Encaustic Pattern tiles, Ceramic tiles, Porcelain floor and wall tiles and a large selection of look-a-like porcelain wood tiles. In addition to their extensive ranges of tiles from around the world, Castelnau Tiles also provides: • a free, no-obligation tiling quotation service • a guaranteed tile installation service • the manufacture and installation of kitchen worktops and vanity tops • a full after-care service • a wide selection of under floor heating products, fixing materials and maintenance products Please contact your local Castelnau Tiles Showroom for further information… Castelnau Tile Studio, 12 High Street, Esher, Surrey KT10 9RT. 01372 466318 Castelnau Tiles, 36 Cambridge Road, Kingston, Surrey KT1 3JY. 020 8547 2551 Castelnau Tiles, 145a Church Road, Barnes, London SW13 9HR. 020 8741 2452 www.castelnautiles.co.uk. Instagram - @castelnautiles. Pinterest – Castelnau Tiles. Twitter - @castelnautiles
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CASTELNAU TILES
ESHEr SHow r Now o oom PEN
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FLOORS, DOORS & WINDOWS
A burning issue: A GUIDE TO FIRE DOORS
Buildings are compartmentalised to delay the spread of fire from one area to another. These compartments are usually linked by fire doors to allow the flow of traffic around the building. Fire doors have two important functions in a fire; when closed they form a barrier to stop the spread of fire and when opened they provide a means of escape
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well designed timber fire door will delay the spread of fire and smoke without causing too much hindrance to the movement of people and goods. Every fire door is therefore required to act as a barrier to the passage of smoke and/or fire to varying degrees depending upon its location in a building and the fire hazards associated with that building. As smoke spread is an even greater threat to life and property than flames, particularly in the early stages of a fire, fire doors should also be fitted with a ‘cold smoke’ seal to prevent the ingress of smoke around the door edges. Combined smoke and intumescent seals protect from all aspects of fire in a single unit. Some fire doors only require intumescent seals (specified as FD fire doors). Others may have to resist the the passage of smoke as well as the spread of fire (specified as FDs fire doors).
PERFORMANCE GUARANTEED Fire doors are available in a range of ratings that indicate how long the product can withstand heat and flames. The minimum rating is FD30 doors that protect life and offer 30 minutes fire resistance. Higher specification FD60 doors are also available if required.
“Fire doors are available in a range of ratings that indicate how long the product can withstand heat and flames”
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SLIM LINE FIRE RESISTANCE Fireguard® 35mm doors meet the latest regulatory requirements and are compatible with most existing doorframes, making fire safety in the home more practical and inexpensive.
FIRE RESISTING GLAZING Glazing may range from a small vision panel in a door to a glazed screen for maximum light transmission and safety. Ordinary glass cracks when exposed to heat and is liable to fall out fairly early in a fire. Fire resisting glass can withstand exposure to the heat condition in a fire test for at least 60 minutes before it reaches a temperature high enough
to soften it. This is mainly because, with clear FR glazing, nearly 50 per cent of the incident heat is transmitted through the glass by radiation. The size of the glass and the method of its retention are important factors that influence its integrity. As the temperature approaches the softening point, a large sheet will tend to collapse earlier than a smaller one. On the unexposed face, beading retaining the glass is subjected to radiant and conducted heat through the glass and to convection currents at the top of the pane. This can raise the temperature sufficiently to ignite timber beading after approximately 20 minutes. To delay the ignition of beading to 30 minutes, it is necessary either to provide protection by impregnation of a surface coating or a surface covering of non-combustible material or to fit a fire resistant glass secured using a fire resistant glazing system. This will hold the glass firmly in place during normal use, but in the event of fire, allows the intumescent material to expand, thereby securing and insulating the glass and protecting the surrounding timber. For longer periods of fire protection, an improved retention system for the glazing is required. The glass panel should be small and the method of fixing must ensure that no direct path can be created for the transference of hot gases. It is imperative to fit smoke alarms in every room of your property to prevent any fire breaking out in the first place.
FLOORS, DOORS & WINDOWS
The Dark Side A Design Collaboration R
enowned for signature stripe runners and rugs in vibrant colours and sophisticated neutrals, Roger Oates Design has been seduced by ‘the dark side’, collaborating with Abigail Ahern to create a capsule flatweave flooring collection in deep, mysterious shades. The collection retains the iconic Roger Oates Design handwriting but adds a darker, deeper, intense colour element to the already extensive palette. Although dramatically different, both companies are famed for their use of colour. The seed for a collaboration grew when Andy Guard – Head of Design at Roger Oates - armed with a catalogue of designs and the exclusive Roger Oates yarn chain, met Abigail to discuss bespoke colours. She was fascinated by the texture that flatweave offers and the endless variety of designs achievable using a simple stripe. Inspired by the subtle shades and depth of colour of the yarn, Abigail immediately honed-in on a very particular section of the colour palette bearing a striking resemblance to her own sultry paint hues. ‘Having been a long-term fan of Roger Oates for ages it’s been my absolute delight, dream and pleasure to collaborate with them on this most beautiful collection of runners and rugs. The quality of the wool adds the most perfect luxurious touch to any hall or staircase and makes this space so much more than somewhere to just drop off your keys and walk through. I now actually want to linger longer in mine, it’s the biggest game changer for hallways.’ – Abigail Ahern More akin to a heavy fabric than a traditional carpet, flatweave is woven on traditional looms. The narrow widths are an exciting way to finish your staircase, making a statement the moment you open the front door. They can also be joined to create wall to wall carpets and highly distinctive rugs of any dimension, finished with a simple edge or bound in linen tape. The Abigail Ahern for Roger Oates Design collection comprises 4 designs in existing colours from the Roger Oates yarn chain, woven to create a different, moody ambiance. www.rogeroates.com Tel 020 7351 2288. 1 Munro Terrace, Chelsea, London SW10 0DL
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“Roger Oates Design has been seduced by ‘the dark side’, collaborating with Abigail Ahern”
FLOORS, DOORS & WINDOWS
First impressions T
he front door can make or break how good your property looks from the outside. It takes just eight seconds to decide whether or not you will buy a house, according to the latest research. And at least four of them will be spent waiting at the front door. People look at a front door before they look at anything else - your front door reflects what you think about the house. A door can sell a property A front door must be in keeping with your property planked doors can work well on barn or warehouse conversions or new-builds. But there is no escaping the universal charm of the Georgian front door - solid, well-constructed, but at the same time curiously domestic and welcoming. The classic Georgian combination of solid, panelled door with a glazed fanlight over the top, , is just magic. In fact, No10 Downing Street, Britain’s most famous front door, has changed in appearance only once in 300 years. It was an “unlucky” dark green for a brief spell at the beginning of the 19th century, when Herbert Asquith was prime minister. Number10 has been black ever since. It even bears a wonky “0” in the number 10 - a tribute to the original door, which had a badly fitted zero.
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THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF FRONT DOORS There are three main types here. Firstly you can opt for a front door made from solid wood. These are heavy and built to last, but they do require some upkeep. You’ll need to sand them down and repaint them periodically to stop the wood from rotting. However they do give you the opportunity to change the colour of the door whenever you want a change. Secondly you can get a uPVC front door. These tend to be a lot cheaper and some people buy them at the same time as getting their windows done. They’re easy to clean and never need any upkeep other than the odd wash and dry to rinse off any dirt and dust. And finally you could opt for a composite front door. As the name may suggest, they are made from a variety of different materials. The best material is chosen for each part of the door, providing the best overall performance as a result. Door knobs, knockers and letterboxes should be in keeping with one another and sympathetic to the size and style of the door. Simple brass ring knockers and “Doctor’s” door knockers, popular in the late 18th and early 19th centuries, are two simple styles that suit both panelled and plank doors. Octagonal or round door knobs and handles and plain letterboxes work well with this simple look. Lionhead knockers and knobs with ornate embellishment are typical of the Queen Anne period while reeded (ridged) door furniture was used in late Georgian and early Victorian times. Edwardian door furniture is plain, with simple reeding, while Victorian is slightly heavier. Traditional-style door furniture coated in brushed and polished chrome and nickel creates a more contemporary look and works well with flatter, lighter colours.
FOCUSING ON SECURITY Clearly security will be an important element of any front door you choose. Ideally you should opt for one that offers multipoint locks. This essentially means the door will be locked into place at more than one point by a series of strong bolts. Your front door should ideally always have a split spindle design. This means when you close the door from the outside, the only way of getting back in is to use a key. It also means a thief cannot get into your house by opening the door by the handle from the outside (unless you have locked it from the inside). Multipoint locks should always have bolts that move into place by an upward turn of the handle from inside or outside your home. You then use the key provided to keep them in place. In some cases compression bolts are also provided in the door, to further secure it into the frame. Clearly the more bolts you have the more secure it will be.
FLOORS, H OUSE & DOORS GARDEN & WINDOWS
BRITAIN’S FINEST TIMBER WINDOWS & DOORS S ince 1954 Mumford & Wood has established a hard-won reputation for timber windows and doors that combine cutting-edge technology with traditional aesthetics. From landmark refurbishments to residential developments, Mumford & Wood’s design team have been instrumental in helping architects, developers and aspirational homeowners to achieve the highest performance and quality for their properties. Mumford & Wood’s stunning range of engineered timber windows and timber doors appeal to both the aesthetic and functional requirements of architects, planning authorities, preservation societies and end-users alike. These products, including timber sash windows, use the best of traditional features with a choice of deep moulded profiles, advanced timber section design and timber material. With a variety of glazing options, including double, slim and single glazed, all of the products are hand crafted with a series of sanding processes to achieve a traditional look. The resulting timber windows and doors offer the impressive performance of a high-end modern window or door, with the unique traditional aesthetic that Mumford & Wood is renowned for. Possessing a rich heritage of more than 60 years, Mumford & Wood has been delighting commercial and residential customers with its product range throughout its history. The Mumford & Wood Conservation™ range was selected for the restoration and transformation of a converted grain store in Essex. Built during the Napoleonic wars in 1799, the Collins’ purchased the property in 2011 and undertook a large scale, 3-year project to transform it from a “complete wreck” into their family home. It took a year to fully satisfy all the requirements set out by the local conservation authority. Mr Collins comments “There were 39 different hurdles that we had to overcome before any building work could commence. For example, all of the windows had to be finished in Black to complement the oak
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and original beams.” A range of French doors, casement windows, tilt & turn windows and a stable door from Mumford & Wood have helped give this spectacular property a new lease of life. The range of windows and doors helped Kylemore House on the Coombe Estate, Royal Borough of Kingston-upon-Thames win the ‘Best Out of London Home’ award. A selection of beautiful, bespoke sash and casement windows, French doors, bi-fold doors and entrance doors were selected, letting in lots of natural light and providing stunning views of the magnificent grounds. Working closely alongside architectural firm Hoban Design, Gary Hoban comments “The quality of the Mumford & Wood windows and doors was to the highest standard and enhanced the elegant detailing of Kylemore House. We were delighted with the craftsmanship and look forward to working with Mumford & Wood on our next project.” Mumford & Wood also work closely with many architects and developers, helping to re-develop character properties in need of higher performance windows and doors that suit the architecture of the local area. For a beautiful arts and crafts property in the West Midlands, Mumford & Wood worked alongside Simon James, a local architect, to completely transform the rear of the property. As the front of the property needed to remain untouched due to its listed status, the homeowners had a desire to completely transform the rear. They explain “We really liked the designs Simon drew up. He has used Mumford & Wood products before so we trusted his judgment and decided to move forward with all his plans. The doors work perfectly, look lovely and let in a lot of sunshine. We are very happy with Mumford & Wood, and highly recommend them.” Mumford & Wood’s range of engineered timber windows and doors can be explored at www.mumfordwood.com or you can speak to one of the friendly, knowledgeable team by calling 01621 818155.
“The quality of the Mumford & Wood windows and doors was to the highest standard and enhanced the elegant detailing of Kylemore House. We were delighted with the craftsmanship and look forward to working with Mumford & Wood on our next project”
FLOORS, DOORS & WINDOWS
SPACERS TILE AND WOOD FLOORING LTD
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pacers Tile and Wood Flooring have been supplying high quality Engineered Oak floors, Porcelain Wall and floor tiles, mosaics, glass and Natural Stone tiles to the retail and commercial sector for over 25 years. We have worked closely with our factories to produce a range of wood flooring and Porcelain Tiles that not only mirror current trends but is technically and environmentally the most advanced available. All our Engineered Oak is thoroughly tested, is EUTR compliant and SVLK certified. The top layer is genuine Western European Oak. None of it is Chinese or Siberian so you are assured of its source and quality. The ‘Core” (the important bit) is constructed of single species Plantation Hevea (Rubberwood). It doesn’t grow naturally in South East Asia so is farmed for this purpose. As the Hevea tree nears the end of its rubber producing life it is felled and immediately replaced with a younger sapling that not only uses up more harmful CO2 but also produces more rubber. The Hevea used for the core of all our wood flooring has a density similar to Oak giving our floors unsurpassed stability in all different climates and environments. Hevea will always outperform any plywood or softwood cored material found in so many cheaper alternative wood floors. The back layer construction is also a locally grown plantation pine species, which again adds to the already excellent stability of our flooring. The vast majority of our wood flooring has
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undergone some degree of hand finishing ensuring a consistent high quality, high performance wood floor. This hand finishing gives each of our floors a ‘bespoke’ feel. Our ‘Antique’ finished floors all feature textures and surfaces produced entirely by hand rather than automation that gives each style a unique feel in terms of grain and colour. All of our Oak floors are treated with the specifically designed Extreme Matt Oil. Using German technology from Klump Coatings in Stuttgart these oils, as long as the floor is kept clean during installation and undergoes some form of regular basic domestic cleaning, will require no further applications throughout the floors life. Our own range of Porcelain is given the same level of commitment in its design and manufacture as our wood, reflecting our commitment to bringing our customers the best possible products available. But its not only Porcelain tiles and Wood flooring our showrooms can offer you…. We have vast displays of Natural Stone, Glass Tiles, Mosaics and wood effect tiles from most of the biggest names in the business. Not only that but we are also main dealers for Amtico and Karndean with the most up to date ‘studio design’ stands in house that display their products beautifully. When you choose to buy your tiles or flooring from Spacers you are assured that it is among some of the best available in the world….Our staff are helpful and vastly experienced and will assist you throughout the design and selection process in a modern friendly environment. Visit our website for a virtual tour of the showrooms or to see a selection of some of the remarkable products we can supply. Alternatively simply pop into one of our showrooms to meet our staff and let them guide you through the extensive displays and discuss your project. We look forward to seeing you very soon…. Spacers Tile And Wood Flooring 1A Brickwall Lane, Ruislip, Middlesex Ha4 8Jr 01895 621651; www.spacers-uk.com info@spacers-uk.com Maidenhead – Tile and Wood Flooring Showroom:, 18 King Street, Maidenhead, Berkshire SL6 1EF; 01628 624546
“The vast majority of our wood flooring has undergone some degree of hand finishing ensuring a consistent high quality, high performance wood floor”
sale NOW ON
Aspen Porcelain Wood Effect Tile
1A Brickwall Lane, Ruislip, Middlesex, HA4 8JR - 01895 621 651 18 King Street, Maidenhead, Berkshire SL6 1EF - 01628 624 546
info@spacers-uk.com
FLOORS, DOORS & WINDOWS
Floors
of Stone W
ith an influx of new products, it’s safe to say the start of 2019 has been an exciting and busy one for Floors of Stone. Their extensive range now offers a choice of natural stone, porcelain and handmade tiles, as well as wood flooring. Floors of Stone are extremely proud to announce a new addition to their Handmade Tiles collection – the Mayan Sand Handmade Tiles. Hannah, Floors of Stone’s talented ceramicist, has spent months toiling away in her ceramic studio to produce this gorgeous, industrial-inspired tile, created from a coarser clay, to give a grainer look to the sandy, biscuit tones. Hannah then uses a black copper oxide wash over the tiles to create the look of charred edges and give an aged, industrial vibe to the ceramic. Available in two sizes to allow customers to create their own unique layout. Terracotta is bang on trend, and customers are loving the warm, rich tones of these tiles to bring a feel of the Mediterranean to their homes or to add to some old world charm to more traditional interiors. Floors of Stone already sell square terracotta tiles, but have now added a 300x75 size, which can be laid in stylish herringbone pattern, as well as an ornate fleur design. Perfect for adding a touch of rustic opulence to a hall, orangery, kitchen or boot room. Marble has always been a popular choice in homes, for its classic longevity and elegance. When Floors of Stone discovered the Breccia Antiqued Marble, they fell in love with it instantly and knew it would make a perfect addition to their range. A completely unique marble, it has stunning dappled
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brown, ecru and amber tones throughout. The antiqued finish gives it a weathered appearance, meaning it could easily pass for an original floor. Whilst they believe nothing can beat the look and feel of natural stone, it’s not always practical for everyone, so Floors of Stone have a great range of porcelain tiles as an alternative. The new Pico Grey and Pico Beige Porcelain tiles beautifully replicate the look of natural stone, but with all the practicality of porcelain, making them ideal for a kitchen floor or as a feature in a bathroom. For further advice, guidance or free samples, please get in touch with Floors of Stone via phone or email or visit their Cotes Mill showroom. Cotes Mill, Nottingham Road, Loughborough, Leicestershire LE12 5TL. enquiries@floorsofstone.com. 01509 234000
FLOORS, DOORS & WINDOWS
Step into parquet with Natural Wood Flooring Co Oak Aged Parquet Ebony with an Oiled finish, from The Natural Wood Floor Co.
Oak Aged Parquet, from the Natural Wood Floor Co.
Oak Aged Parquet Natural, from The Natural Wood Floor Co.
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he lean towards real wood flooring in the home has brought with it a big trend for parquet – a look that is as comfortable in contemporary settings as it is in a classically styled property. Creating an elegant and sophisticated look, parquet blocks have been back in fashion for a while, but they couldn’t be hotter right now, with dark, warm finishes and tumbled blocks being particularly popular options. Whatever colour and finish chosen, the combination of colour, wood detailing and pattern make this a real statement floor. Natural Wood Flooring Company manufacture parquet wood flooring to the highest standard and are experts in the field, advising on all aspects to maximise this dramatic look. From herringbone and basket weave to brickwork and chevron, how the parquet blocks
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are orientated will have a big impact on the overall effect and will differ depending on the style of property and the size of the space. Often, blocks are laid in the direction of the light, but positioning them at an angle to a corner gives the look a quirky twist, while opting for 600mm sized blocks gives a contemporary update to a design classic. Tumbled designs, meanwhile, are ideal for adding extra character and creating a reclaimed look without the cost and can be used with underfloor heating to suit modern day needs. For all your parquet flooring needs, talk to the experts. Call Natural Wood Flooring Co on 0208 871 9771 visit the website at www.naturalwoodfloor.co.uk or the showroom at 20 Smugglers Way, Wandsworth, SW18 1EG.
FLOORS, DOORS & WINDOWS
[ SHO P P ING ]
FABULOUS floorS REVAMP YOUR ROOM Mylands, Britain’s oldest familyowned and run paint and polishes manufacturer, has launched a new Floor Paint available in a comprehensive range of colours. Expertly created for use on interior floors using decades of paint and colour expertise, Mylands Floor Paint combines exquisite looks with outstanding performance for a low-maintenance, flawless result. Specially developed for use indoors on wooden floors, Mylands Floor Paint is easy to apply, low in odour and hardwearing. Extremely durable, it resists soaps, detergents, grease and oil, making it an attractive and practical choice with easy after care and longstanding beautiful results. Available in all 120 Colours of London® palette, Mylands new Floor Paint transforms old, tired or bare floors into a stylish addition to your interior space. Its classic satin finish has an elegant mid-sheen (40%) which smoothes and hides small imperfections whilst providing a tough, scrubresistant surface. www.mylands.com
STEP BACK IN TIME We just love the selection of flooring options at Tile Mountain, particularly this striking Comillas range. Evocative of the colourful and charming Victorian mosaic-style floor tiles synonymous with the likes of Thomas Minton, Comillas offers a refreshing take on a classic design aesthetic in a durable, easy to install single tile format. £24.99 per sqm, www.tilemountain.co.uk
MAKE A STATEMENT For statement flooring, look no further than the Tuscany floor tile in Cotto. Part of the versatile Tuscany collection, this tile will bring warmth to any room thanks to the use of classic brown shades. A fantastic start in which to base an entire room around. £48 per sqm, www.bakedtiles.co.uk
QUICK FIT This is an easy to lay click fitting system. Water resistant, extremely durable and easy to clean it’s ideal for any room of the house except the conservatory. Can use with underfloor heating £27 per sqm, www.diy.com 262 APRIL 2019
Vega Designs Beautiful bespoke metal doors and internal screens. Made in aluminium and steel.
Whether you want to bring the outdoors in or to partition a room, our custom made metal doors and room dividers can effortlessly transform your living space, creating an area bathed in natural light and modern elegance. Providing a premium service to the South of England. info@vegadesigns.co.uk | 07393 676 525 | www.vegadesigns.co.uk
Interior Facelift‌
Breathing new life into a home need not involve starting from scratch‌
Do you have a tired home in need of a facelift? www.interiorfacelift.co.uk
LUXURY FABRICS & FURNISHINGS GUIDE
– A collection of London’s finest furnishing companies – i m a g e : K RIS TURNBULL
FABRICS & FURNISHINGS
KATHERINE RICHARDS DESIGN
This image: Outdoor metal sculpture Below: ‘BELLA’ Part of the new collection of limited-edition lamps & detail
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hatting to Katherine Richards about her work is inspiring and uplifting, her naturally informal but passionate way of describing her feelings about design, refreshing. “I came to interior design 20 years ago, having been a London theatre stage designer where we believed that anything is possible. Briefs can be lifted from the page as though they were a script. The designers task is to consider the most interesting and imaginative way of delivering the directors’ (clients’) dream. It’s such fun gaining knowledge of how the inhabitants of the stage use their space”, she waves her arms about as if living the experience right there. “It’s not so much a service (what a boring word),” she goes on “but an exciting collaboration into which we both (client and me) invest. In order for me to deliver the best for them, I have to be completely emotionally and artistically invested too. I was a creative beast long before I was a business woman so every project I work on is an imaginative journey. I’m often hands on, playing with colour,
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shape and texture. I break so called rules, throw curve balls (gently) to see how my clients will react to a new way of thinking and I love watching their excitement grow as they see our ideas played out. The candid way in which she speaks is so refreshing and I am struck by her fearlessness. “Frankly, I don’t see the point of a client employing a designer if they can’t take you on a journey of exploration, fun and excitement! Surely the most important factor is for you to be introduced to new ideas, ones you might never have considered on your own. That’s the beauty of the ‘service! Our homes are one of the most important elements in our lives, so it’s critical that we aim to create the
“I was a creative beast long before I was a business woman so every project I work on is an imaginative journey”
most perfect environment in which to raise our children, live with our partners and friends” Katherine runs her business efficiently like most good quality interior designers, employing a team of experienced trades and craftspeople and can deliver anything from the reupholstery of a favourite old chair to building an entire house. What sets her apart perhaps is her bespoke work. Welcoming commissions, she has created amazing outdoor sculptural seating, patterns on exterior walls, unique shelving designs tailored to her clients taste and requirements, beautiful hand-woven rugs and most recently a stunning range of table lamps unlike anything I have seen before. They are large, theatrical and fantastically detailed. Katherine sculpted them and after the casting process, she applies gold leaf. The team she chose to help deliver these pieces are renowned in their own field of expertise which shows in the finish of the product. “I’m particularly excited about my range of lamps. It’s a new venture for KRD. I spent all of last year creating them and launched them at Boodles in New Bond Street. Already the Saatchi Gallery selected one to show on the Saatchi Screen which was a fantastic endorsement.” As we sit in Katherine’s small studio in Hove, East Sussex, I am struck by the amount of colour surrounding me and how comfortable I feel there. She is running several projects so the place is full of sampling, architects’ drawings, rugs pieces, a bursting library of fabric books and photos of completed works. The walls are covered with working schemes, trimmings and wallpapers. It feels like a joyful work space with a thoroughly professional edge. Clearly, they are working for discerning clients and whilst she is informal and fun, she takes her work very seriously which is admirable. www.katherinerichardsdesign.co.uk 01273 386560. 07814 283611
“I’m particularly excited about my range of lamps. It’s a new venture for KRD”
‘CUENCA’ selected by Saatchi Part of the new collection of limited-edition lamps Sculptural outdoor seating with decorative inlaid tiles
Bespoke commission silk rug
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FABRICS & FURNISHINGS
The Velvet Underground R
enowned for her love of opulence and vintage glamour, ex songstress-turned iconic fashion and textiles designer, Pearl Lowe, has added sumptuous velvets to her interiors collection for British wallpaper company, Woodchip & Magnolia. Suitable for curtains, blinds and upholstery, the Pearl Lowe velvets follow her coveted debut wallpaper line, launched in Autumn 2018 at London’s prestigious Design Fair. The velvets are now available in all Pearl’s unique, vintage inspired designs and colourways: Ditsy, Dawn Chorus, Va Frome and Wisteria. Manufactured in Lancashire, the heart and home of indy Brit brand, Woodchip & Magnolia, it was a no-brainer that Pearl should introduce velvets: “I’ve always coveted velvet, even from a very young age. To me, it epitomises a bygone age of decadence and glamour because of its centuriesold association with royalty and the aristocracy. My own home is filled with a mix of new and antique velvets, many thrifted! I also love working with it in my clothing designs, one of my favourites being our Velvet Magician’s Cape. I’m so excited to be launching my own velvets collection, and I can tell you that we have more designs in the pipeline…watch this space!” Woodchip and Magnolia founder, Nina Tarnowski, added: “We always intended to bring out velvets with Pearl, but we wanted to wait until we had truly nailed it. The great thing about luxury “Some of our younger customers, who are just starting out on
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their interiors journey, want the look – but on a more modest budget. They might pick up a salvaged footstool, say, and want to revamp it with something totally luxe. Same applies to scatter cushions – a little glamour and opulence goes a very long way.” “We don’t work like most other design houses. There are no fixed rules on when and how we should launch new products and bring out collections, we just develop ideas and share them when we’re ready to rock! You could call it organic…we just call it spontaneous.” The Pearl Lowe for Woodchip & Magnolia Velvets Collection is priced at £120 per metre, available now at www.woodchipandmagnoia.co.uk
“We always intended to bring out velvets with Pearl, but we wanted to wait until we had truly nailed it”
BLUE ISLE Timeless style for town, coast and country…
retains its grey-white oak appeal. Oak pieces are based on classic French and British styling but with a more pared-back feel, and more contemporary, industrial metal and wood parquet tables add a touch of glamour. Four different and unusual table lamps complete the look, such as the metal ‘weathered grey urn and tall turned lamps’, with a whitened matt surface . Hand-sewn bed throws and cushions bring a splash of colour: all very stylish and understated. Based in the New Forest, Hampshire. Visit www.blueisle.co.uk
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lue Isle’s online boutique home interiors store offers furniture, lighting and accessories in a classic and timeless style with a contemporary twist. Furniture is individually sourced for its simplicity of detailing and style using solid wood, metal, reclaimed timber and crisp linens. White-oiled weathered oak is the mainstay of the traditional collection and blends seamlessly with both contemporary and more traditional interiors, and
“Oak pieces are based on classic French and British styling but with a more pared-back feel”
BLUE ISLE ONLINE BOUTIQUE STORE An eclectic mix of modern and traditional furniture, lighting and accessories. Classic, stylish furniture for Town, Coast and Country www.blueisle.co.uk Contact us on sales@blueisle.co.uk
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FABRICS & FURNISHINGS
CITY LIVING: Space saving furniture at Cuckooland
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ransform your city living space into a practical and cosy home with the Vox range from Cuckooland. The Vox range design family and kids furniture that is not only stylish but also storage-focused. The range is ideal for flats with limited space, smaller homes and apartments that crave that space value. This stylish scandi range has everything from multi-functional bedroom furniture, lustful living room furnishings to space saving office appliances. Dive into this range to inject contemporary vibes into your humble abode. The Vox 4You range showcases statement pieces designed to dazzle your guests. Modern and practical, this range is ideal to freshen up your living room or open plan living area. The Vox 4You range has a variety of furniture from drawers, cupboards and wardrobes. This range is ideal for tidying up your home and giving your living space a crisp new look. If you have always craved a luxurious bed but lack the space, then 4You have practical four-posters, singles and king-sized beds. The Vox 4 You 4 Poster Bed has a raised mattress mechanism for hidden storage. This bed has the option to add a projector screen, meaning you don’t need to find extra space for a television. The Vox Lori range focuses on studies and living rooms. This range allows you to escape into a classy and cosy office room or living space. With sleek black and white accessories, this range provides trendy and modern storage ideas, perfect to create a striking but functional look in your home. A statement piece from the Lori range would be the Vox Lori Coffee Table with Storage in Cashmere. This coffee table opens up to provide a multi level table for your laptop and office necessities. The Nature Collection boasts a selection of unique and functional furniture for all living sizes. This stunning simplistic range is finished in a natural oak effect, bringing a cosy, earthy feel to your home. The Vox Nature Tall Display Cabinet features five shelves with LED lights at the back of the middle shelf. With a variety of different furniture from cabinets to bookcases in all shapes and sizes, this range is the perfect investment to give your hallway or living room the glow-up it desires. www.cuckooland.com
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FABRICS & FURNISHINGS
BEAUTIFUL
LIVING K
ris Turnbull Studios is a high-end architectural & luxury interior design studio specialising in residential projects for private clients & property developers throughout the UK & abroad. Set within a stunning converted Grade B listed church; Kris Turnbull Studios is the only one of it’s kind in the country. The impressive 5,000 square foot luxury interior showroom, features a fashionable blend of the finest furniture, most luxurious elegant fabrics & exquisite home decorations in a selection of lifestyle rooms. Dedicated to designing through the eyes of each client, Kris & his creative team approach every commission in a tailored fashion, backed by extensive property and design experience, awardwinning developments and a natural eye for luxury; they take a hands-on approach to every project ensuring each is delivered with love & care to suit each clients’ desires, needs & requirements. Friendly & highly knowledgeable interior designers are welcoming & passionate about design – offering a truly personal service to each & every client. The boutique-style showroom exhibits more than 200 world renowned suppliers, full of magnificent finishes in every colour, texture & patterns, housing the latest collections & movements from exclusive design houses and carefully selected mill partners sourced from around the world. The studio offers a relaxed, yet very personal service. The designers create a seamless journey from concept through to completion, always aiming to exceed expectations. Combining exacting standards with warmth & informality makes the whole process enjoyable & rewarding.
272 APRIL 2019
“The boutique-style showroom exhibits more than 200 world renowned suppliers”
The extensive sample library provides a wide range of the most luxurious elegant fabrics & wallpapers made in exquisite materials that give interiors a sophisticated allure and a stylish decorative signature. Our experienced & highly skilled curtain makers offer a bespoke curtain & roman blind making service, using high quality materials & the finest techniques to achieve the highest standards. Kris & his extremely talented team are renowned for being one of the most desirable & esteemed design studios in the UK and throughout Europe & The Middle East. The creative team offers the full complement of design services: architecture, interior architecture, interior design & home styling. Our stylish projects reflect our extensive experience in creating luxurious and livable spaces for national and international private clients, residential developers & boutique hoteliers. Building relationships and understanding the clients’ lifestyle & tastes, working together to create individual design briefs, is the foundation and starting point for the perfect project. The success of design relies on seamlessly integrating the component parts considering furniture layouts, ambi-task lighting, electrical design, finishing schedules for hard finishes, bathroom and kitchen design. The holistic design approach by our designers will translate into design proposals that combine the hopes, dreams and desires of clients for their home, holiday retreat or even simply that special room! The Kris Turnbull Studios ethos is to create a more beautiful living environment for everyone. Kris Turnbull Studios. +44 (0)28 9068 8600. www.kristurnbull.com
FABRICS & FURNISHINGS
Sophie Allport Releases Her First Bedding Collection
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nspired by nature and the quintessential British countryside, homewares brand Sophie Allport launches into bedding with a collection from her best-selling ranges. Designed with a clean and modern aesthetic in mind, the charming and unique collection personifies effortless and sophisticated style - perfect for any modern country home. Sophie Allport explained; ‘“We are best known for our kitchen homewares so it’s very exciting to see some of our popular designs moving into the bedroom onto duvet covers, throws and cushions.” There is a range of single, double, king and super king duvet sets plus cushions and throws. Designs include Sophie’s popular Flamingos, Bees, Hare, Woof and Safari. The collection is now available from sophieallport.com and selected retailers including John Lewis, House of Fraser and Next.
ABOUT SOPHIE ALLPORT
Sophie Allport is a British Homewares and lifestyle brand with over 1,300 stockists internationally. Sophie runs the business with her brother Jem from their head office in Bourne, Lincolnshire. Her designs are inspired by nature and the countryside and range from Pugs, Pheasants and Chickens to Flamingos, Bees and Birds. www.sophieallport.com 274 APRIL 2019
www.drenchshowers.co.uk +44 (0) 2380 274 945 sales@drenchshowers.co.uk