Life Magazines (London editions) August 2019

A celebration of the River Thames with a creative and diverse programme that inspires, connects and enthrals.

1-30 September

6 AUGUST 2019

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FROM THE

T

EDITOR

otally Thames 2019 has announced their 2019 programme exploring the environmental importance and the rich and varied cultural heritage of the capital’s river.

The event encourages visitors to participate in artistic, historical and musical events in celebration of this iconic landmark. Its diverse culture and its connection to the rest of the world, Totally Thames 2019 is jampacked with exciting events bringing together local communities with visitors from across the globe. The most astonishing cars ever produced, a line-up of world-famous luxury brands, and one of the UK’s most beautiful historic settings. That’s the very successful recipe for the world-famous Concours of Elegance.

Presented by luxury watchmakers, A. Lange & Söhne, the Concours of Elegance first began at Windsor Castle in 2012 and has since hosted at St James’s Palace, Hampton Court Palace, the Palace of Holyroodhouse and Hampton Court Palace in 2017 and 2018 where it returns once more this year.

Opened in December 1969, Tramp in Jermyn Street has welcomed a who’s who of A-list celebrities through its unassuming doors and into the 300-capacity basement of bacchanalia.

Original members included Sir Mick Jagger, Sir Roger Moore, Sir Michael Caine and sisters Joan and Jackie Collins, but the club quickly became a magnet for movie stars, musicians and even royalty, and before long, Tramp became a byword for sophisticated debauchery.

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

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CONTENTS OUT & ABOUT

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ART 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 Beautiful artworks by a range of local and international artists

INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS GUIDE

115

THE LUXURY TRAVEL GUIDE

133

FASHION & BEAUTY

157

summer health & fitness guide

193

HOUSE & GARDEN

221

LUXURY bathroom GUIDE

265

The finest independent schools in the UK

Heading out of London to explore the rest of the world Fashion and beauty news to keep you looking and feeling your best Everything you need to keep fit, healthy and happy this summer

A collection of London’s finest interior companies Everything you need to create the perfect London bathroom

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“Books, files and documents”

“Clothes, shoes and boots”

“It’s liberated my house!”

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out & about – We put fantastic local businesses and exciting events in the spotlight each month – I M AG E : CONCOU R S O F E L E G A NC E

OUT & ABOUT

ANNOUNCES THE OPENING OF THE BERKELEY BAR & TERRACE

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he Berkeley has revealed a new addition to the landmark five star hotel, with the opening of The Berkeley Bar & Terrace.

This is the second bar at the hotel, joining the legendary Blue Bar which opened in 2000.

With a rich design story conceived by Irish interior designer Bryan O’Sullivan, The Berkeley Bar offers a finely curated menu of exemplary rare wines, champagne and dark spirits. The bar is intimate and refined, with a sense of old world glamour, with its own terrace for alfresco gatherings, and The Snug for private parties.

“I am honoured to have been asked to create this very special space for The Berkeley, famous for creating iconic bars” The Snug has been designed for more secluded occasions, set away from the main bar and seating up to nine guests. It features a spectacular mural, painted by New York-based artist TM Davy, in a concept developed together with Bryan O’Sullivan.

Davy was inspired by original snug spaces in public houses, usually reserved for women and their secret discussions, when men and women did not mix socially. The mural depicts gazing female faces with mysterious and knowing expressions, all connected with rhythmic lines to portray the connection and trusted relationships between them. With its own sound system and call-for-service button, The Snug provides visitors with their own bespoke space.

The Berkeley Bar & Terrace, will be a destination for wine connoisseurs and guests looking for expert, intuitive service. Exquisite wine – spanning a wide range of grape varieties and countries – plus exclusive champagne, whisky, cognac, rums and more make up the menu, from both under the 16 AUGUST 2019

radar producers such as Japanese whisky maker Ichiro, tequila producer Fortaleza, rum maker Trois Rivières and notable names such as Sassicaia and Macallan. A capsule menu of nine old time and modern classic cocktails such as the Sazerac and the Corpse Reviver are also being served. To mark the opening, The Berkeley team worked with Scottish whisky producers Gordon and MacPhail on the creation of a rare whisky from 1972, the year the hotel opened. There are only two bottles of this unique spirit sourced.

The menu includes small plates with dishes such as Cornish crab and lobster beignets, Iberico ham toast with manchego, apricot and salsa verde, and camembert chicken tulips, alongside classic caviar and oyster dishes. The bar is also home to an edit of fine cigars.

Bryan O’Sullivan said “I am honoured to have been asked to create this very special space for The Berkeley, famous for creating iconic bars.

The rich history of the building provided a spring board of inspiration for what we hope is a timeless yet contemporary new edition to this London landmark. We are delighted to introduce The Berkeley Bar to our guests and, of course, our local community,” says Knut Wylde, General Manager of The Berkeley. “The hotel continues to contribute to the vibrant London bar scene with this opening which will complement our much-loved Blue Bar, and add something extra special to the hotel.”

THE DETAILS Opening hours are 4pm – 1am, Monday to Saturday. www.the-berkeley.co.uk The Berkeley Wilton Place Knightsbridge, SW1X 7RL 0207 235 6000

ABOUT THE BERKELEY In leafy Knightsbridge, The Berkeley, sister hotel to Claridge’s and The Connaught, is the essence of contemporary chic and innovative luxury. With stunning rooms and suites, Michelin-starred cuisine from Marcus Wareing, fashion favourite afternoon tea Prêt-à-Portea in the Collins Room, cocktails in The Blue Bar and The Berkeley Health Club & Spa complete with rooftop pool, The Berkeley provides the ultimate urban retreat in the heart of London.

FEATURE

EPICUREAN DELIGHT: THE CHAMPAGNE CHEST

By Rolls-Royce Motor Cars

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he House of Rolls-Royce is delighted to present the Champagne Chest, the latest addition to the Rolls-Royce accessory portfolio. Rich in the understanding of true luxury and epicurean pleasure, the RollsRoyce Bespoke Design Collective envisioned an accoutrement intended to delight, suitable for the most extravagant of environments from a superyacht to the terrace of a private residence.

The Champagne Chest is distinguishably RollsRoyce, embodying the meticulous attention-to-detail and commitment to remarkable handcraftsmanship, characteristic of the marque. The chassis, made from machined aluminium and carbon fibre, is swathed in Natural Grain black leather embossed with the enigmatic Spirit of Ecstasy and flanked by Tudor Oak wood, materials found in the marque’s motor cars.

At the touch of a button a sense of theatre ensues as the case opens to reveal the finery of a perfectly appointed Champagne set for four guests.

The exterior lid metamorphoses into a beautiful serving tray made of Tudor Oak wood with a lasercut stainless steel inlay. Four cotton napkins with finely embroidered ‘RR’ monograms are discreetly hidden under the lacquered Tudor Oak table.

The Chest is illuminated from the central bay, presenting four hand-blown crystal champagne flutes arranged to evoke memories of a V12 engine.

The glass of each is masterfully joined by a polished aluminium base, etched with the ‘RR’ monogram.

The sides of the Chest automatically deploy, revealing two hammocks adorned in ‘Hotspur Red’ Rolls-Royce leather to cradle one’s preferred ensemble of either champagne, caviar or canapés.

Thermal Champagne Coolers made from black anodised aluminium and carbon fibre each proudly

18 AUGUST 2019

“The Chest is illuminated from the central bay, presenting four hand-blown crystal champagne flutes”

bear the ‘RR’ emblem, ensure the champagne is maintained at the optimum temperature.

A caviar configuration is available, whereby two thermal caviar caissons, each accommodating a 30g tin, are complemented by two blini caissons proving an irresistible accompaniment to chilled champagne. Two exquisite Mother-of-Pearl spoons with anodised aluminium handles are housed magnetically at the top of the hammock, designed so as not to impair the delicate flavour of the caviar.

An additional arrangement of three porcelain bowls concealed in a matching thermal capsule can be specified should patrons wish to present their guests with an alternative accompaniment to champagne.

Extending the scope for personalisation beyond the confines of automotive luxury, the Accessory Collection comprises exceptional collector’s pieces, designed to augment personal experiences to a Rolls-Royce standard.

The Rolls-Royce Champagne Chest is available to acquire through Rolls-Royce dealerships, with prices starting from £37,000.00 excluding local taxes. www.rolls-royce.com

OUT & ABOUT

Prêtà -Portea The Dior Couture Collection becomes a white velvet chocolate mousse finished with an appliquéd edible violet, while the Junon dress worn by model Theo Graham at Le Pré Catelan in Paris becomes an enticing ensemble of fromage blanc and cassis jelly encased in a scalloped edge of white chocolate, sprinkled with edible sparkle.

“It was important for me to respectfully emulate Monsieur Dior’s timeless and iconic fairy-tale gown”

T

o celebrate the arrival of the much anticipated Dior exhibition to London, this season’s Prêt-à-Portea at The Berkeley sees the iconic designs of the House of Dior take to the cake stand for an unprecedented solo show inspired by “Christian Dior: Designer of Dreams” at the V&A museum.

Working exclusively with Dior, this fashionista favourite adds an innovative twist to the traditional afternoon tea, and sees legendary Dior designs translated into creatively crafted cakes and patisserie.

Headlining this season’s Couture Prêt-à-Portea is the Bar Suit, synonymous with Dior since it first took to the catwalk in 1947 as part of Christian Dior’s debut collection. Celebrated as the New Look, it becomes a rich chocolate biscuit embellished with cream royal icing.

The collection also includes a red velvet cake inspired by the Lady Dior Handbag which shot to fame in 1995 when France’s first lady, Bernadette Chirac gifted it to Princess Diana, to a bottle of Miss Dior Eau de Parfum inspired by the designer’s own sister, Catherine, reimagined as a lychee and raspberry cake glazed with shimmering pink icing, complete with signature oversized silver bow.

Christian Dior’s 1954 Muguet dress, inspired and named after his favourite lily-of-the-valley blooms into a delicate pavlova topped with coconut marshmallow and a white sugar bow.

Dior’s timeless classic 1949 Miss Dior dress

20 AUGUST 2019

And finally, an edible homage in celebration of the imminent return of sling back season, Dior’s J’Adior shoe from the current collection by Maria Grazia Chiuri strides on to the cake stand as a vanilla biscuit with royal icing finished with its inscription bow in edible sugar ribbon.

The Berkeley’s Pastry Chef Mourad Khiat comments “It was important for me to respectfully emulate Monsieur Dior’s timeless and iconic fairytale gowns using ingredients that best celebrate these opulent and beautiful creations. Seeing the exquisite garments displayed in real life at the V&A really makes me appreciate the detail and precision that goes into these ingenious designs.”

Prêt-à-Portea – The Dior Couture collection is served in the Collins Room at The Berkeley from 1pm - 5.30pm every day priced at £58 per person; £68 including a glass of Laurent Perrier champagne, or £74 per person including a glass of rosé champagne. To make a reservation for Prêt-à-Portea call +44 (0)20 7107 8866 or visit www.the-berkeley.co.uk

ABOUT THE BERKELEY Amidst bustling Knightsbridge and leafy Hyde Park, The Berkeley, sister hotel to Claridge’s and The Connaught, is the essence of contemporary chic and innovative luxury. With stunning rooms and suites, Michelin-starred cuisine, The Berkeley Health Club & Spa complete with rooftop pool, The Berkeley provides the ultimate urban retreat in the heart of London.

Claridge’s The Connaught The Berkeley Maybourne Hotel Group; www.maybourne.com

OUT & ABOUT

The Secret Garden Bar at THE DETAILS For reservations (available daily from 11am to 9.30pm), please contact The Ritz London’s Reservation Team on +44 (0)20 7300 2370 or at dining@theritzlondon.com or online at www.theritzlondon.com/secret-garden-bar/ A minimum spend of £19 per person applies to all tables. Reservations may be cancelled on the day should weather conditions restrict the garden from opening.

Guests must be 16 years and over.

A smart casual dress code is in operation and sportswear, trainers or shorts are not permitted.

Follow The Ritz London @TheRitzLondon on Instagram.

22 AUGUST 2019

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eductively hidden and accessible from inside the hotel, The Secret Garden Bar is a secluded stylish oasis for guests to drink and dine al fresco and enjoy the English Summer Season in the centre of the city.

Located on the edge of Royal Green Park, The Ritz London’s new elegant Secret Garden Bar has been designed with trimmed topiary, verdant green foliage, vibrant flower boxes featuring colourful

“The Secret Garden Bar is the perfect spot for a sunny lunch on the patio” geraniums, olive trees and fragrant lavender pots.

Open daily (weather permitting) throughout the summer months, from 11am to 11pm, The Secret Garden Bar is the perfect spot for a sunny lunch on the patio sheltered by vast parasols or an afternoon spent sipping cocktails. During the evening, the garden is lit with twinkling lights and candles, and soft background music plays.

A bar menu is available throughout the day and evening, showcasing a collection of seasonal cocktails and an impressive selection of wines and Champagnes, as well as classic dishes designed by Executive Chef John Williams MBE, ranging from the Ritz Classic Club sandwich and the Ritz Caesar Salad to British Seafood platters to share, with dressed crab, oysters, lobster, shrimp and prawns.

A caviar menu is also available. For cigar aficionados, a collection of premium and limitededition cigars, including twelve different Ritz London Cigars, is also available for guests to enjoy in the garden.

OUT & ABOUT

Interactive dining at Claridges Reservations

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pen a door onto a world that few hotel guests are privileged to see. Meet the talented chefs behind Claridge’s menus – and witness the skill and creativity that go into making a select number of dishes.

Go behind the scenes The world-renowned 5*hotel is holding an interactive dining experience giving you an inside look at the culinary traditions of Claridge’s kitchens, where you are shown what it takes to prepare, cook and present a perfect plate from the Claridge’s menu. Members of the class get to provide practical assistance.

After seeing how the dishes are made, take a seat 24 AUGUST 2019

Interactive dining can be arranged any day throughout the year for groups of 10 people.

For further information and to book your place, please contact Barbara Poljak: Call: +44 (0)20 7409 6232 Email: bpoljak@claridges.co.uk www.claridges.co.uk Claridge’s, the Connaught, the Berkeley, Maybourne Hotel Group www.maybourne.com

for dinner, with complementary wines chosen by Claridge’s sommelier.

An interactive dining experience at Claridge’s includes: • Champagne reception with canapés • Four-course dinner • Paired wines • Coffee and petit-fours

OUT & ABOUT

The legendary Blue Bar at The Berkeley Lutyen’s Blue with additional colour touches of seductive reds with black and silver tones.

A blue bar, topped with onyx, dramatically takes centre stage set on a floor of white marble and dark crocodile print navy leather, mirrored by blue leather touches on the bespoke furniture.

Discover the Blue Bar’s contemporary side in the state-of-the-art glass extension, diffusing light throughout the bar for a sense of long, summer evenings and starry-eyed nights. As the sun sets, the Blue Bar comes to life.

The Blue Bar features a ‘Cocktails with True Colour’ menu, with drinks that “increase in potency depending on the colour chosen.

Spacious and impeccably stylish with its deep blue velvet sofas, this is a bar whose sparkling energy is sure to leave you spellbound.

T

here are plenty of places to have a drink or a cocktail in London. But few can match the luxuriously inviting Blue Bar for the wow factor. Drop in for some of the most colourful cocktails in the snazziest part of town. There’s nothing quite like a Minted Fizz, a Ginger Guru or a Smoke & Mirrors to ease you into the evening.

Originally created by the late Irish architect and designer David Collins, the bar was restored and extended by one of Collins’ former protégés Robert Angell. When it came to refreshing the design, he masterfully maintained its architectural features with its iconic wooden panelling coming from the original Berkeley on the corner of Piccadilly and Berkeley Street. Restored and painted in the bespoke

26 AUGUST 2019

Opening Hours Monday - Saturday: 12.00pm - 1.00am Sunday: 12.00pm - 11.00pm The Blue Bar operates a no reservation policy. www.the-berkeley.co.uk The Berkeley Wilton Place Knightsbridge, SW1X 7RL 0207 235 6000

OUT & ABOUT

A Classic Day Out

Concours of Elegance 2019 6-8 September, Hampton Court Palace

READER OFFER:

2-4-1

TICKETS

T

he most astonishing cars ever produced, a line-up of world-famous luxury brands, and one of the UK’s most beautiful historic settings. That’s the very successful recipe for the world-famous Concours of Elegance.

Presented by luxury watchmakers, A. Lange & Söhne, the Concours of Elegance first began at Windsor Castle in 2012 and has since hosted at St James’s Palace, Hampton Court Palace, the Palace of Holyroodhouse and Hampton Court Palace in 2017 and 2018 where it returns once more this year.

Concours of Elegance has a stunning collection of cars at its heart – morphing into a celebration of luxury goods, fine food and drink, wonderful music and superb displays of art.

The line-up is a feast of the most famous brands in the world; Ferrari, Rolls-Royce, Bugatti and Lamborghini. Each car in the Concours is by invitation only - your car must be extremely special - one-offs, rarities and models with incredible backstories.

On display is an impeccable and highly original Ballot 3/8 LC, hidden for many years and only recently rediscovered. It turned out to be even more momentous, as it came to light this Ballot was the exact car that won the first Italian Grand Prix back in 1921. An impeccable piece of motorsport history.

The line-up continues with a collection of fine Italian supercars from Pagani. Concours of Elegance will gather six examples, spanning its near-

28 AUGUST 2019

20-year production run.

In total, nearly 1000 cars will gather in the Palace grounds for a number of other features, including the sixth annual Royal Automobile Club Trophy.

The UK’s finest car clubs, from Jaguar, Ferrari, Aston Martin, enter their finest vehicles for an opportunity to win a much-vaunted place among the Main Concours collection of cars in the 2020 event.

A special feature will see a number of Ferrari 166 models – the only car to have won the Le Mans 24 Hours, the Mille Miglia and the Spa 24 Hours races.

Visitors can browse one example of each of its gorgeous masterpieces created in partnership with Aston Martin.

All of these cars provide a unique atmosphere for a whole host of luxury experiences at Concours of Elegance, including three-course luxury picnics, an on-site fine-dining restaurant by Tom Aikens and champagne by the original Champagne Charlie, Charles Heidsieck.

CONCOURS OF ELEGANCE READER OFFER The prestigious event are offering our readers 2 for 1 tickets.

Simply head to www.concoursofelegance.co.uk/ tickets and use the code LIFEVIP to claim your discount.

cover story

Totally Thames 2019 announces festival programme Sunday 1st – Monday 30th September 2019 Top left: Newly illuminated London, Cannon Street, Southwark & Millennium Bridges. Photo: Illuminated RI

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otally Thames 2019 has announced their 2019 programme exploring the environmental importance and the rich and varied cultural heritage of the capital’s river. The event encourages visitors to participate in artistic, historical and musical events in celebration of this iconic landmark. Its diverse culture and its connection to the rest of the world, Totally Thames 2019 is jam-packed with exciting events bringing together local communities with visitors from across the globe.

Illuminated River Boat Tours, various locations Tue 5th & Tue 10th Sept, 9.15pm – 10pm, Thu 12th & Thu 19th Sept, 9pm – 9.45pm. £4.50-£6.

Join official City Guides and experts from Historic England as they take you on a stunning journey under the newly illuminated London, Cannon Street, Southwark and Millennium Bridges.

Classic Boat Festival, St Katharine Docks, E1W Fri 6th – Sun 8th Sept, various times. Free.

Over 40 beautiful vintage sailing and motor boats will be on show for visitors to explore. There will be a programme of family-fun events including river trips aboard the Thames Sailing Barge Lady Daphne.

Highlights include: Foreshore Festival, Fulham Palace, SW6.

Sun 1st Sept, 11am – 3pm. Free.

Discover London’s past beneath the waves and underneath your feet. Visitors can celebrate the history of Fulham on the river, and get hands on with some of the objects found at the Palace!

Discover London’s Wildlife Secret with ZSL, The Riverside Walkway, 1 London Bridge, SE1.

Sun 1st – Mon 30th Sept.

Join ZSL on a virtual reality journey into the Thames. Peer into ZSL’s VR portal to discover the incredible wildlife. As you ‘swim’ along, you will join ZSL’s conservation team in discovering all the amazing species that call the River Thames home.

RNLI Tower Lifeboat Station Open Days, Lifeboat Pier, WC2R Thu 5th, Fri 13th, Wed 18th & Sun 29th Sept, various times. Free, pre-booked.

The Tower Lifeboat Station is opening up to encourage visitors to learn all about the RNLI’s amazing Lifeboat crew, their important and essential work, and to take a tour of the Station!

30 AUGUST 2019

“Discover London’s past beneath the waves and underneath your feet”

Regatta London, Hammersmith – Greenwich and Putney – Big Ben. Sun 29th Sept, 8am. Free.

The Thames’ newest and biggest river extravaganza features kayaks, canoes, stand up paddle boards and rowed boats, racing for environmental causes.

Join in the fun at the start of the race at Putney Riverside Festival, or mid-way through at Shadwell Riverside Festival.

Full details of the Totally Thames 2019 programme can be found online at www.totallythames.org @TotallyThames, #TotallyThames

OUT & ABOUT

50 YEARS OF TRAMP

London’s most iconic private members club, TRAMP is celebrating 50 years at the pinnacle of the nightlife industry

32 AUGUST 2019

Images: Getty

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pened in December 1969, the Jermyn Street club has welcomed a who’s who of A-list celebrities through its unassuming doors and into the 300-capacity basement of bacchanalia, below.

Original members included Sir Mick Jagger, Sir Roger Moore, Sir Michael Caine and sisters Joan and Jackie Collins, but the club quickly became a magnet for movie stars, musicians and even royalty, and before long, Tramp became a byword for sophisticated debauchery.

During the 1970s it wasn’t uncommon to see George Best on the dance floor while Sir Matt Busby frantically called the club’s front desk, trying to locate his absent star player; Marlon Brando holding court in the restaurant over a glass of scotch and Amaretto; and Frank Sinatra relaxing on his favourite seat in the lounge area, where guests would fall over themselves at the sight of Ol’ Blue Eyes as they emerged from the adjacent women’s toilets.

Sir Rod Stewart once said of the club: “I remember coming out of Tramp when I used to play Sunday morning football and I’d get home at about four or five in the morning and I’d get up about three hours later for an 11 o’clock kick off smelling of booze!”

The club’s original decor has been lovingly preserved, with beautiful, 17th Century oak panelling throughout and chandeliers from the Rothschild Palace hanging from the ceilings - save for one, memorable absence, where legendary The Who drummer, Keith Moon leapt from his table and brought the chandelier crashing to the floor before being escorted from the club screaming: “You can’t ban me from Tramp! Where else will I go?”

“During the 1970s it wasn’t uncommon to see George Best on the dance floor while Sir Matt Busby frantically called the club’s front desk, trying to locate his absent star player”

He was welcomed back 24 hours later, after apologising profusely and paying for the damage.

But while celebrity anecdotes undoubtedly helped to build interest in this mysteriously secretive club on the border of St. James’s and Mayfair, it has flourished through five decades thanks to its core principles: To offer luxurious service and fine dining in a relaxed and sociable environment; and to treat every member as a VIP. General Manager, David Fleming, says: “Tramp is more than just a members club. It is an intimate space with a limited membership and we pride ourselves on being able to welcome each and every guest by name, remember their favourite drink and where they like to sit in the restaurant or bar.

“The club was built on quiet word-of-mouth, with our details being passed on by members on film sets, in business meetings and between bands, and over the years it has almost become a ‘password’ around the world; members frequently tell me how they’ve been to a far flung place and been given the best table in a restaurant because the owner is also a member of Tramp.

“We talk about our membership as a family and in many cases, they really are - we have original members whose children and even grandchildren have grown up and joined the club and three generations can use it together.

“If these walls could talk, they’d have a lot of stories to tell; but of course, they wouldn’t say a thing - because that’s the Tramp way.”

The club launched its 50th anniversary celebrations with a star-studded party in May, attended by Sir Rod Stewart, Sir Michael Caine, Dame Joan Collins, Bill Wyman, Nathalie Dormer, Mark Ronson and many more, and members will enjoy further special events throughout the rest of the year.

Prospective members may apply via the club’s website at www.tramp.co.uk/memberships.

But remember: What happens in Tramp, stays in Tramp.

AUGUST 2019 33

FEATURE

Tea Time by Beauty of the Soul

Autumn Collection in-store from 31st August 2019

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einventing the ritual of teatime with endlessly renewed creativity and unparalleled savoirfaire…that’s the challenge that Pierre Marcolini sets himself each year!

This year the chocolatier explores an ingredient of exceptional delicacy: tea. Oolong, Gyokuro, Pu-Erh, Matcha, etc.

With the combination of grands crus of cacao and exceptional teas, teatime becomes an art form. The art of tasting and discovery of unexpected flavours.

PURE GANACHES These perfect cubes of ganache with no coating invite us to sample grands crus chocolate combined with rare and precious teas. Each recipe combines a crunchy base and soft ganache and conveys a sublime duality of tastes and textures.

Six creations take the spotlight: • Oolong tea, madagascan dark chocolate and Madagascan vanilla • Gyokyro hikari tea, sugar-free house milk chocolate, and saké • Orange valley darjeeling tea, house sugar-free Cameroon Ecuador dark chocolate, and crunchy almond and caramelised sesame • Matcha tea, yuzu, house white chocolate and crunchy hazelnut and caramelised sesame • Dark pu-erh tea, house cameroon-ecuador smoked dark chocolate and pumpkin and sunflower seed crunch • Smoky lapsang tea, house milk chocolate and crunchy hazelnut and caramelised sesame The ‘plumier’ of 18 pieces: €/£19.90 and The ‘malline’ of 36 pieces: €/£39.0 For You...

MATCHA HEARTS The House icon, adapted according to the seasons and the wishes of Pierre Marcolini, the renowned Heart takes on the colour of jade. It contains a ganache with matcha tea and yuzu in a shell of House white chocolate. An absolute must-eat, limited edition product.

The ‘plumier’ of 15 pieces: €/£19.90 State of Grace

Sweet Bubbles

MELOVE CAKE Marshmallow and tea go hand in hand with two limited edition recipes: Marshmallow with Smokey Lapsang tea, crunchy hazelnut and a shell of House dark chocolate and Marshmallow with Earl Grey tea, crunchy hazelnut, and a shell of House milk chocolate.

The ‘plumier’ of 8 pieces: €/£ 19.90 Connoisseur’s Delight

THE TABLET WITH MATCHA TEA House milk chocolate fondant, the subtle flavour of matcha tea and the crunch of sesame.

The autumn’s essential chocolate tablet is here.: €/£11 Like a Dream

CHOCOLAT BAR2 Irresistible treats on-the-go, chocolate bars are welcome at any time of day. This season, they take on the flavours of the Far East with two limitededition recipes.

• Ganache with Jasmine Chung Hao tea, House dark chocolate and crunchy pumpkin and sunflower seeds.

• Ganache with Smokey Lapsang tea, House Milk chocolate and crunchy hazelnut and caramelised sesame.

MATCHA TRUFFLES

Chocolate pastilles

When a great chocolate classic is offered at teatime… it gives a sublime fragrant truffle. An exclusive recipe based on matcha tea and House dark chocolate from Cameroon-Ecuador.

The ‘plumier’ of 18 pieces: €/£ 19.90

To nibble during a coffee break or to use in baking, their chocolate pastilles are available in two original beechwood-smoked recipes: Smoked dark chocolate pastilles:€€/£15 - Smoked milk chocolate pastilles: €/£15 Available at: Pierre Marcolini, 37 Marylebone High Street, W1U 4EQ Counters in Selfridges and Harrods.

Online at https://uk.marcolini.com.

Facebook.com/PierreMarcolini.

Twitter/ Instagram - @pierremarcolini

Tribute to Japan

GLUTEN-FREE CAKE WITH EARL GREY TEA The Japanese tea ceremony, also called Chanoyu, is always accompanied by a delicate pastry. Pierre 34 AUGUST 2019

Marcolini pays tribute to the land of the rising sun with this Earl Grey cake topped with a creamy yuzumatcha tea ganache. The recipe, based on rice flour, is gluten-free.

The House cake is available in a brand-new size, more elongated and easier to slice. €/£9.90

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GROUNDS FOR CELEBRATION AC C O M M O DAT I O N

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C E L E B R AT I O N S

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WEDDINGS

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C O R P O R AT E R E T R E AT S

Battel Hall is a truly unique medieval property on the edge of the Leeds Castle estate. For the first time in its long history, this luxurious, newly renovated manor house has opened its doors for bookings.

Ideally suited to group gatherings with friends or family, intimate weddings and corporate retreats.

Within easy reach of London, for further enquiries or to book please call 01622 767877 or email battelhall@leeds-castle.co.uk

battelhall.leeds-castle.com

OUT & ABOUT

‘Then and Now’ Afternoon Tea Menu launches

THE DETAILS InterContinental London - The O2 is a luxury hotel featuring 453 spacious guest rooms, a spa with a 17m swimming pool and 8 treatment rooms, as well as a collection of London’s finest destination inspired restaurants and bars, including the 3 AA Rosettes and Michelin Guide Peninsula Restaurant, the unique Clipper Bar with its own exclusive gin, the sophisticated Eighteen Sky Bar and the Meridian Lounge with a riverside terrace. The hotel has a 4,500sqm dedicated conference centre with a 3,100sqm pillar-free ballroom and 1,600sqm of prefunction space overlooking the River Thames.

1 Waterview Drive, Greenwich Peninsula SE10 0TW Tel: 0208 463 6868 www.iclondon-theo2.com @InterConTheO2

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at InterContinental London – The O2

I

n association with Chase Distillery, InterContinental London – The O2 invites you to experience ‘Then and Now’, the evolution of afternoon tea, a quintessential British pastime. The elegant selection of tea and pastries is available throughout the summer until 31st August, exclusively in Meridian Lounge. Chase Distillery and Amit Arya, Executive Pastry Chef at InterContinental London – The O2, have joined forces to create a delicious, summer infused delicacy with a hint of nostalgia.

The exquisite selection includes a choice of scones served with strawberry and champagne preserve as well as original Cornish clotted cream.

To complement, the sandwich selection includes; crayfish marie rose on whole meal bread, cauliflower and raisin coronation on carrot bread, honey roast ham with grain mustard on poppy seed bread, truffle egg mayonnaise on mini-brioche bun and goat cheese and leek tart with red onion chutney. To finish, a selection of lemon meringue choux, pistachio and raspberry roly-poly, caramelia chocolate delice and cherry and berry jubilee pastries complete an afternoon of pure indulgence.

In addition, InterContinental’s Tea Sommelier recommends a choice of four teas to enhance the flavours. These includes; a blend of traditional afternoon tea, premium milk Oolong, Darjeeling 2nd flush and Staunton Early Grey.

Recommended cocktails such as Queen Victoria’s Tipple, Bees Knees and Pink XXI, as well as a variety of Laurent-Perrier champagnes will simply enhance the experience even further.

Bastian Fischer, Food & Beverage Manager of InterContinental London – The O2, said: “We are delighted to be present the ‘Then and Now’ to our guests. We have brought our inspiration of summer to the table through the unique and exquisite tastes. We also have had the pleasure of working with Chase Distillery, who has been instrumental in assisting us to create an exceptional menu which will excite our guests to enjoy a perfect summer’s afternoon”.

Prices start from £37 per person.

For more information on ‘Then and Now’ contact 020 8463 6868 or email dining@iclondon-theo2.com or visit iclondon-theo2.com/dining/meridianlounge.

OUT & ABOUT

London Design Festival Announces its 17th Edition: A Citywide Celebration of Design

Clockwise from top left: Please Be Seated, Paul Cocksedge; Affinity In Autonomy at V&A; Iri-Descent, Liz West; Camille Walala, South Molton Street

14-22 September 2019

L

ondon Design Festival returns with an inspiring programme of events and installations, bringing together global designers, artists and architects with a vision to celebrate and promote London as the design capital of the world.

This year marks 11 years with the V&A as a collaborating partner and the official Festival hub. The world’s leading museum of art, design and performance will again host specially-commissioned projects by internationally-renowned designers and LDF’s leadership programme, Global Design Forum, which celebrates design with an inspirational line-up of talks, debates, daily tours and workshops.

There will be 10 official Design Districts, each organised locally and independently via the platform of London Design Festival. New for 2019 are Kings Cross Design District and Chelsea Design District, which join design districts in Bankside, Brompton, Clerkenwell, Marylebone, Mayfair, West Kensington, Pimlico Road, Shoreditch Design Triangle and Victoria Connections.

LANDMARK PROJECTS include: British designer Paul Cocksedge is transforming Finsbury Avenue Square, Broadgate with: PLEASE BE SEATED. The large-scale installation, fuses innovation and technology, and responds to the changing rhythm of the community: its design features curves for people to sit on and walk under, further enhancing London’s largest pedestrianised neighbourhood.

FESTIVAL COMMISSIONS include: • LIFE LABYRINTH by Patternity will be located at Westminster Cathedral Piazza. The heart of the installation will be based around a giant geometric labyrinth formation, a pattern-based journey proven to have positive health benefits for the user as they meander through the journey to the centre of the piece. Visitors are invited to immerse themselves in the sacred space, amidst the hustle and bustle of London life.

• Iri-Descent by Liz West is a suspended arrangement of 150 skeleton-framework cubes located in the atrium of the historic Fortnum & Mason store in Piccadilly. Clad with dichromatic film in two differing colour-ways, the cubes appear to change colour as visitors move around the atrium and between the floors above and below.

SPECIAL PROJECTS include: Camille Walala returns in a characteristically colourful manner. The designer has been commissioned by Grosvenor Britain & Ireland to energise and enliven South Molton Street, in the heart of the West End, with a bold and beautiful family of street furniture. Combining head-turning colour and geometric shapes, the 11 3D sculptural benches of Walala Lounge will give visitors something unexpected to look at – and to sit on.

PROJECTS AT THE V&A include: • Canadian designer, Matthew McCormick, 38 AUGUST 2019

presents Falling Sky, a multi-story design-art installation featuring countless deconstructed, frost-like formations, positioned over the heads of its onlookers. The asymmetrical fragments are seemingly frozen in time, offering observers a means to take pause and reflect on the effects of planetary change through global warming.

• Affinity in Autonomy - translating innovation into perceptual experiences is the theme for the creation of this interactive robotic pendulum. The independence and free-will of robotics is portrayed by its random movements. Human presence can be detected and recognition appears from within the kinetic motion, engaging visitors seeking an emotional and physical response.

For further details visit www.londondesignfestival.com #LDF19. Instagram: L_D_F_official.

Twitter: L_D_F. Facebook: LondonDesignFestival

FEATURE

Aston Martin recreates iconic James Bond Goldfinger DB5

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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”

FEATURE

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.

“The connection between Aston Martin and James Bond is something of which we are very proud”

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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

OUT & ABOUT

The Barbarians Return to Twickenham to Face Fiji in November

Tickets on sale now for first international to be held in the UK after Rugby World Cup

The last time the two teams met at Twickenham, in November 2013, more than 68,000 fans were treated to a mouth-watering spectacle of running rugby, with the Barbarians stealing the show in an electric 43-19 win.

This year’s fixture is not to be missed, with a bumper crowd expected to fill Twickenham again for their first taste of post-Rugby World Cup action.

Legendary former Ireland captain Brian O’Driscoll, who played for the Barbarians on three occasions, commented, “To be invited to play for the club is special. Flair, courage, spirit and passion spring to mind. The shirt has been worn by some of the greatest players who have played the game. n the only Autumn International of 2019 to “It’s about enjoying the camaraderie of the game be played at Twickenham, on Saturday 16th and playing attacking, adventurous rugby, without November the Barbarians will contest Fiji for the pressure of having to win.” the Killik Cup, just two weeks after the 2019 Tickets are on general sale now - Visit: Rugby World Cup final. Presenting UK fans in the www.ticketmaster.co.uk/barbarians grip of rugby fever with a golden opportunity to with a “Special Early Bird experience top-class international action at the Offer.” Save 50% off top price home of English Rugby. adult tickets for a limited EARLY BIRD The Barbarians, affectionately known time only from as little as OFFER: SAVE as the world’s most famous rugby club, £20 and Kids £15. Buy are renowned for their attacking flair and Now! (Booking fees apply). entertaining style and will meet a Fijian team also synonymous with fast-paced, thrilling rugby.

Across their 129-year history, the Barbarians shirt has been worn by more than 5,000 players from over 30 different nations, including sporting legends such as Jonah Lomu, Brian O’Driscoll, Bryan Habana and England’s 2003 Rugby World Cup winning captain, Martin Johnson.

Fans can expect to see a number of this year’s Rugby World Cup stars pulling on the famous black and white shirt to play a Fiji team containing some of the most skilled players in the game.

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50%

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“This year’s fixture is not to be missed, with a bumper crowd expected to fill Twickenham again for your first taste of post-Rugby World Cup action”

AUGUST 2019 45

OUT & ABOUT

SOUTHAMPTON INTERNATIONAL BOAT SHOW 2019 Returns Friday 13 September – Sunday 22 September Indulge your passions… just add water

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outhampton International Boat Show, powered by Borrow A Boat, is Britain’s biggest festival of boating, with an exceptional line up of interactive attractions, the latest innovations, world launches and experts galore.

Set against a stunning backdrop of some of the world’s most luxurious and innovative boats, the Show boasts Europe’s largest purpose-built marina hosting thousands of guests and businesses over an action-packed 10 days.

This is their 51st Show and will once again showcase everything you need to enjoy time in, on or around water with expert advice and plenty of opportunities to get afloat!

Featuring live music, interactive attractions and the latest technological innovations, it offers visitors the perfect opportunity to indulge their passion

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for the water while meeting like-minded people.

Whether you’re a water sports enthusiast, boating beginner or a seasoned pro, there is something for everyone. With a host of beautifully designed boats and products from over 600 global marine brands, 2019 will be the biggest Show yet!

Key features at this year’s Show include: • Try-a-Boat – come aboard and glide through the waters in a high-speed RIB or float across the Solent under sail.

• Ocean Scene Mini Cruise – fully equipped with sundecks and bars, the Ocean Scene is the Show’s very own mini cruise ship • Andark Try-a-Dive – if you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to breathe underwater, the Andark Try-a-Dive tank is your opportunity to experience a

whole new world • Radio Sailing Pool –all visitors are invited to race their very own Dragon 65 yacht alongside other models, competing against family and friends in this hugely popular shore-based activity • Get Afloat – from dinghy sailing to paddle boarding, try something new or sharpen your existing watersports skills with the expertise of the Rockley Watersports team on hand • A practical boating stage – for both beginners and enthusiasts, meet some of the biggest sailing personalities and learn skills first-hand ahead of your next nautical adventure • Virtual Sailing – in partnership with the Royal Yachting Association (RYA), experience the thrill of competing against other visitors and users from around the world in a virtual reality experience to see if you’ve got what it takes • Rum & Gin Bar – relax and unwind with a rum or gin cocktail, tasting opportunities and demonstrations on offer • Seaside Storytime Ship – Listen to magical stories of on the water adventures and join readers from Southampton’s libraries There is so much to see and do. From kayaks to catamarans, SUPS to superyachts, there’s a boat for everyone. Find yours and more at this year’s Show! Book your tickets today and start planning your visit! General Tickets start from £16.50.

Concessions and Group discounts available.

HOSPITALITY

Enjoy the Show your way with a new range of hospitality and upgraded ticket options which include event admission through the VIP entrance at the iconic Kutis building:

Lounge With access to an airport-style VIP guest lounge and complimentary light refreshments throughout the day, the Lounge ticket will kick start your visit and provide an oasis whilst you catch your breath and contemplate which part of the Show to see next. Access to the VIP Lounge in Kuti’s and complimentary light refreshments all day* Mon-Thurs: £ 45.00. Fri-Sun: £ 55.00

Quarterdeck Club Raise the bar further and lunch in style at the all new Quarterdeck Club restaurant overlooking Europe’s largest purpose-built show marina. With access to an airport-style VIP guest lounge and complimentary light refreshments throughout the day. One meal voucher for the Quarterdeck catering area (valid for one main course and one beverage of your choosing) Mon-Thurs: £ 65.00. Fri-Sun: £ 75.00

well as use of the special VIP guest lounge with complimentary light refreshments throughout your visit, you’ll also be able to enjoy a sumptuous fine dining experience at our exclusive Captain’s Club restaurant, which overlooks the Show.

Mon-Thurs: £85.00. Fri-Sun: £95.00

Captain’s Club + Power No visit to Southampton International Boat Show powered by Borrow A Boat is complete without getting out on the water. Set sail for a quick trip around the Solent to feel the wind in your hair on one of their carefully selected craft and see the Show from a very different perspective! The Captain’s Club + Sail ticket also includes the fine dining experience in our exclusive Captain’s Club restaurant and complimentary light refreshments in the VIP guest lounge throughout your visit.

Mon-Thurs: £175.00. Fri-Sun: £185.00.

THE DETAILS To purchase all general and hospitality tickets visit www.southamptonboatshow.com Keep up with the latest news and announcements, follow the Southampton International Boat Show on: Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

Southampton International Boat Show 2019 13–21 September 10am – 6:30pm, 22 September 10am – 6:00pm Mayflower Park, Southampton, So14 2Aq

Captain’s Club Push the boat out with our new Captain’s Club ticket and enjoy a first-class day at the Show. As AUGUST 2019 47

OUT & ABOUT

BONHAMS ANNOUNCES MPH

FOR MODERN AND POPULAR COLLECTORS’ MOTOR CARS Thursday 26 September 2019, Bicester Heritage, Launton, OX26 5HA

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onhams, the international auction house, renowned for its sales of rare and significant collectors motor cars at some of the world’s most prestigious venues, is bringing its expertise to the growing modern and affordable classics market, with the launch of Bonhams MPH. Bonhams MPH is based at Bicester Heritage, the UK’s only hub for historic motoring excellence – where Bonhams will hold four drive-through sales per year to service the growing market for modern and popular classics.

The debut sale will take place on 26th September and Bonhams MPH will host monthly on-site valuation and photography days on the last Friday of the month, when potential sellers can show and discuss their cars with the MPH team.

The service will include a simple online consignment process, offering sellers and buyers an efficient way to sell or purchase a car, via the new MPH portal - a first for Bonhams. Sellers will be guided by a user-friendly step-by-step process, which includes a unique 100-point condition report detailing all aspects of the vehicle to provide buyers with as much advance information as possible.

They will then be contacted by one of the Bonhams MPH team to discuss the vehicle and finalise the consignment process for the next auction.

Sellers can choose one of three entry fee packages to suit their needs:

Bronze The simplest package, costing £125 + VAT, provides full display on the online catalogue and a half page entry in the printed edition.

Silver As Bronze, but with a full page in the printed edition at £175 + VAT.

Gold The ‘cover all’ package includes professionalquality photography of the vehicle by an MPH representative, as well as a minimum one-page entry in the printed catalogue and full online inclusion. In addition, the vehicle will be valeted at the sale venue, at £300 + VAT. mph.bonhams.com

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Auction Fees MPH offers Sellers and Buyers alike a modest fee structure with Sellers paying 5% + VAT and Buyers 12.5% + VAT. Buyers can bid the traditional way in person, by telephone, by submitting an absentee bid or online via the Bonhams MPH dedicated platform – at no extra charge.

Consignments are being invited for the debut sale on 26 September with confirmed lots including a unique collection of ex-SAS and military Land Rovers, including two of only 20 remaining iconic ‘Pink Panthers’, which are to be offered on the open market for the first time in 20 years; plus a private collection of a dozen popular classics ranging from a 1939 Ford V8 Roadster to a 2017 Morgan Plus 4.

Contact Rob Hubbard for further information on 07775 511825 or via email rh@bonhams.com For a full list of forthcoming auctions, plus details of Bonhams specialist departments, please visit bonhams.com.

OUT & ABOUT

piccadilly circus

OPEN FOR BUSINESS Hard Rock International has opened the doors to its newest flagship cafe and Rock Shop in the heart of London’s West End

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panning over 1,900 square metres on two floors, it combines the eclectic vibe of Piccadilly Circus with the spirit of rock synonymous with the Hard Rock brand.

The state-of-the-art cafe pays tribute to its unbeatable location with Victorian glazed tiling, fabrics and colours of the London Underground and tube station-shaped dining booths.

Hard Rock’s immersive dining experience seats 320 guests, a stage is centred in the main dining room, and a private events room for up to 40 guests.

Diners can feast on delicious foods exclusive to Hard Rock Piccadilly Circus, including: • 1 kilo Tomahawk Steak, seasoned and grilled to perfection, served with Hard Rock’s signature steak sauce, herb garlic butter and choice of two sides • Fresh Scottish Salmon oven-roasted and served with a mango & pineapple salsa, grilled corn on the cob and a fresh beet salad with toasted pepita seeds.

• BBQ Chicken, half roasted layered with signature spices and Hard Rock’s signature BBQ sauce, served with green beans and macaroni & cheese.

• Or favourites from Hard Rock Cafe’s worldfamous new menu, including the 24-Karat Gold Leaf Steak Burger™, One Night In Bangkok Spicy Shrimp™, New York Cheesecake and boozy milkshakes.

Exclusive thirst-quenching cocktails, including

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new cocktails blended from the latest mixology trends: • Pink Piccadilly Pimms - Beefeater PiNK Gin, Pimm’s No. 1, fresh lemon juice, prickly pear shaken frothy and cold finished with a signature London print.

• Old Fashioned – Jack Daniel’s Rye Whiskey, Angostura bitters and house-made brown sugar syrup.

• Expresso Martini– Grey Goose Vodka, Kahlúa, fresh brewed espresso shaken until frothy and chilled, finished with a signature London • House-Infused Gin & Tonic – Sipsmith London Dry Gin house-infused with fresh strawberries, cucumbers and fennel poured tableside with Fever-Tree Aromatic Tonic Water.

Be wowed by the walls adorned with authentic, one-of-a-kind memorabilia from decades of music history, with 70% never been on display at any other Hard Rock location worldwide, with pieces from UK legends Freddie Mercury, David Bowie and George Michael, alongside contemporary artists such as Ed Sheeran, Ellie Goulding, and Amy Winehouse.

The Rock Shop The largest in the world, spanning 7,500 sq. ft., features exclusive Union Jack and Piccadilly Circus inspired products, - including the Bus Guitar Pick Pin, a red double decker bus passing in front of the iconic Piccadilly Circus; the Go Go Girl Pin, a Swinging Sixties Girl against the backdrop of a Piccadilly Circus sign; or the City Tee Pin, a shaped guitar with a panoramic view of Piccadilly Circus and the London Eye. Hard Rock Cafe Piccadilly Circus, 225-229 Piccadilly W1J 9HR To book a table visit: www.hardrockcafe.com/ location/piccadilly-circus

“Hard Rock’s immersive dining experience seats 320 guests, a stage is centred in the main dining room, and a private events room for up to 40 guests”

OUT & ABOUT

From left: Buckingham Palace Breakfast Loose Leaf Tea Caddy - £12.95; Longest Reigning Monarch Biscuit Tube - 10 Double Choc - £6.95; Buckingham Palace Royal Birdsong Biscuit Tube - £7.95; Buckingham Palace Coronation Biscuit Tube - £8.95; Buckingham Palace Teabag Selection - £12.95 All from the Royal Collection and available from www.partridges.co.uk

Partridges celebrate 25 years as Royal Warrant holder to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II by launching

Tea & Biscuits from The Royal Collection

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artridges, the world-renowned and independent family-run food store, this year celebrates 25 years since being granted the Royal Warrant as Grocers to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. They are one of the few selected retailers stocking ranges of quintessentially British teas and biscuits. Each range of Royal tea-time treats come with Royal heritage designs making beautiful and delicious gifts.

Buckingham Palace Royal Birdsong Range Delicious biscuits and blended tea - one of the most popular in The Royal Collection.

• Tea Caddy - £9.95 - 50 teabags – Luxurious blend of Ceylon, Assam and Kenyan teas.

• Biscuit Tin - £10.95 - 24 shortbread biscuits.

• Biscuit Tube - £7.95 - 16 handmade chocolate chip biscuits.

Longest Reigning Monarch Range Commissioned by Buckingham Palace to celebrate Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II as the nation’s longest reigning monarch on 9th September 2015.

• Tea Caddy - £9.95 - 50 teabags - Royal blend tea.

• Luxury Biscuit Tin - £12.95 - 32 chocolate and double chocolate biscuits.

• Biscuit Tube - £6.95 – 10 double chocolate biscuits.

Buckingham Palace Luxury Range Inspired by the famous façade of Buckingham Palace, the official London residence of Britain’s sovereigns since 1837.

• Tea Caddy - £8.95 - 50 teabags - Luxury blend of Kenyan, Sri Lankan and Indian teas.

• Luxury Façade Biscuit Tin - £9.95 - Selection in 4 different flavours.

Coat of Arms Range Inspired by a hand painted plate found in the Royal

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China Pantry in Buckingham Palace, featuring the coat of arms of King George IV. • Tea Caddy - £9.95 - 50 teabags - Luxury blend of Kenyan, Sri Lankan and Indian teas.

• Shortbread Biscuit Tin - £12.95 - 33 shortbread biscuits baked in the Scottish Highlands Buckingham Palace Range • Shortbread Biscuit Tin - £10.95 - traditionally baked crumbly shortbread, with a rich buttery flavour.

• Breakfast Loose Leaf Tea Caddy - £12.95 – A bright, full flavoured blend of Indian and African teas, it is smooth and uplifting.

• Teabag Selection - £12.95 - Biodegradable pyramid teabags in 4 flavours: Breakfast, Afternoon, Earl Grey and Darjeeling tea.

• Loose Leaf Tea Selection - £14.95 – 3 x 25g blends of Breakfast, Afternoon and Earl Grey teas.

Buckingham Palace Coronation Range Commissioned by Buckingham Palace to celebrate the 60th Anniversary of the Coronation of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. • Tea Caddy - £9.95 - 50 teabags – Pure Ceylon tea.

• Biscuit Tube - £8.95 - 12 Golden Crunch and chocolate biscuits.

John Shepherd, owner and MD of Partridges, says…“Today, firms that hold the Royal Warrant include grocers like Partridges, wine merchants, chemists, plumbers, mole catchers and dressmakers. The distinguishing feature, no matter the size of the company, is to provide the highest standards of service. Many of them are family businesses, like ours, going back several generations and who form the fabric of this trading nation. We feel honoured to have held a Royal Warrant for 25 years.”

the details The Royal Collection is available in Partridges two central London stores and online at: www.partridges.co.uk 2-5 Duke of York Square, Chelsea, SW3 4LY Tel: 020 7730 0651 17-19 Gloucester Road, SW7 4PL Tel: 020 7581 0535 Opening Hours: Daily 8am – 10pm. Partridges Café: Daily 8am – 5pm Follow on @partridgesfoods and @partridgesfoods PartridgesOfSloaneSquare #PartridgesRoyal25

OUT & ABOUT

Stephen Cawston Sculptural Artist, Headlining the Internationally Renown

Art Nocturne Knocke Art fair 10-18 August

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he Conceptual Real Golden Skeletons by Stephen Cawston made an impression on the organisation team, of the 44th Art Nocturne Knocke Fair in Belgium.

As the interaction between the ancient and contemporary art scene is central to the fair, Cawston’s sculptures are being presented in our Theatre, with the combination of one of Cawston’s films showing at the same time.

The supple link to the origins of the creature combined with the precious aspect of real gold, makes us think of the relativity of life and nature, while creating an intimate atmosphere to reflect on.Alexander Tuteleers, Art Nocturne Knocke Bronze Sculptures now available.

Sculptures Available to Commission Because of the super rarity and value of some of the skeletons, Stephen will only create them via commission. The rarity of these skeletons cannot be stressed enough.

• Male and Female Bengal Tigers • An Adult Indian Elephant • Polar Bear • Hippopotamus • Rothschild’s Giraffe These skeletons, with full CITES licenses, are one-offs, unique!

Bronze sculptures are available soon!

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OUT & ABOUT

Somerset House welcomes a taste of Spain with

San Miguel summer terrace S

THE DETAILS Opening Hours: Monday – Saturday: 12pm – late Sunday: 12pm – 6pm Food served: 12pm – 3pm & 6pm – 9:30pm #sanmiguelterrace Somerset House West Wing The Strand WC2R 1LA Reservations: can be made for groups of 10-80 guests via email on terrace@compass-group.co.uk Or telephone 020 7845 4651 www.somersethouse.org.uk

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omerset House is embracing the summer sun with the launch of a terrace in partnership with San Miguel, located on the banks of the River Thames. In a prime position on the Victoria Embankment, Somerset House Terrace serves a selection of chilled San Miguel beers and a menu of Spanish-inspired snacks until the end of September.

With a relaxed and contemporary environment, the terrace has been furnished with comfortable seating and benches, summery florals and an outdoor swing. Open daily from lunchtime until late, the terrace bar features signature San Miguel beers such as their San Miguel Especial, San Miguel Selecta and 0% ABV San Miguel 0,0.

Also available is a selection of tap station beers exclusive to Somerset House and inspired by San Miguel’s journey around the world. These include the likes of San Miguel London, an amber colour beer, hoppy, aromatic and moderately bitter with a sweet touch of malt, and San Miguel Bilbao, an intense lager, with a good body, cereal flavours, and a well-balanced, moderate bitterness. A selection of beer-based cocktails is also on offer, including the Piscolinho, a refreshing mix of Pisco, Cointreau, agave syrup, lime, San Miguel Especial and Costa Del Chilli, combining Licor 43, lime, bitters, chilli, San Miguel Especial.

For an accompanying bite to eat, guests can enjoy a selection of tapas such as Padrón peppers, Choricitos al vino, and Albondigas with romesco sauce, as well as stone baked flatbreads topped with Spanish ingredients such as Chorizo, manchego and rocket and Tetilla, Piquillo pepper and chilli. Cheese and charcuterie sharing boards showcasing Spanish delicacies are also available.

An ideal place to make the most of the summer sun with colleagues, family or friends, Somerset House’s San Miguel terrace is open until 30th September.

E

Summer at Bocketts Farm

njoy a magical summer at Bocketts Farm Park! Children will love the enchanted trail filled with mythical magic. Get creative in craft corner and make your own magical wand before having a boogie in the fairies and dragons bubble disco. Cool off in the brilliant Water Wars Splash Zone, and enjoy launching water filled balloons at your opponent’s – great fun for all ages! Pan for gold in the last chance goldmine before digging and building in the giant sandpit. Other daily activities include pony rides, tractor rides, animal handling, goat milking and the famous pig racing. In addition, meet and feed all of the friendly farm animals in Little Hoppington and the new Animal Discovery Barn. With 2 large indoor play barns, trampolines, young driver’s area, pedal go-karts, treehouse towers and 2 giant jumping pillows, there’s plenty to keep the whole family amused. www.bockettsfarm.co.uk

AUGUST 2019 59

OUT & ABOUT

SAVAGE GARDEN GOES MUTTS FOR BOTTOMLESS BRUNCH The Details: The bottomless upgrade is available for £20 per person (including Pawsecco for your hound) with all a la carte brunch orders of 2 courses.

Due to popularity, Savage Garden now host their dog friendly brunches every 1st and 3rd Sunday of the month.

A reminder that you don’t need to have four legs to enjoy brunch, the usual Play Brunch offering is available every weekend.

To reserve your table visit www.savagegarden.co.uk or call 020 7709 1043.

Guests have a wide variety of savagely good brunch dishes to choose from off the a la carte menu that are as far removed from traditional brunch items as possible. Panko chicken cutlet, bacon and radish salad, cranberry, caper, siracha mayo and a sunny-side fried egg, as well as bourbon glazed beef short rib, charred sourdough and poached eggs’ are tipped to be some of the favourites. Not to be forgotten are the special pupcakes prepared by chefs for the guests of honour, all made with dog-friendly ingredients.

Bring your pooch to this sky high destination and enjoy a day out with your best friend with incredible views of the city. Both humans and dogs will go mutts for this one!

Top images: Rachel Oates

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avage Garden, one of London’s best rooftop bars, is elevating bottomless brunch to the next level by introducing the very first ‘Bottomless Brunch’ for dogs.

The wildly popular dog brunch first introduced its bottomless offering on Sunday, 7 July and now it runs every 1st and 3rd Sunday of the month.

VIPs (that’s very important pooches) will enjoy lapping up free-flowing Pawsecco, whilst their humans sip on deliciously ice cold Prosecco.

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About Savage Garden: London’s wildest sky-high destination, Savage Garden, brings decadent décor, jaw-dropping views, dramatic cocktails and savage menus to Tower Hill.

Located atop the DoubleTree

by Hilton, the ethos is focused on the unexpected. Two terraces provide 360-degree views of the London skyline including The Shard, Tower of London, The Gherkin and St. Paul’s Cathedral.

From dinner and drinks to the twisted Afternoon Tea, Savage Garden is a bar for all occasions. www.savagegarden.co.uk

OUT & ABOUT

FOCUS/19

AT DESIGN CENTRE, CHELSEA HARBOUR 15 – 20 September 2019

D THE DETAILS Focus/19 is a Design Destination at the London Design Festival.

For a list of all participating showrooms visit www.dcch.co.uk Trade preview: 15 – 17 September 2019 All welcome: 18– 20 September 2019 10am – 6pm Design Centre, Chelsea Harbour, London SW10 0XE

Social Media #Focus19AtDCCH @designcentrech

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esign Centre Chelsea Harbour’s creative landscape is constantly evolving with exciting expansion plans, events and experiences. As Europe’s leading design destination, it nurtures its vibrant design community and champions creative excellence.

For six days in September, Focus/19 is a dynamic platform dedicated to inspire, inform and deliver and the place where industry professionals and design enthusiasts come together at one address.

Expanding the show this year, an enhanced programme features more product launches and showroom openings than ever before, alongside an abundance of insider insights and specialist knowledge.

New collections from 600 international brands look to the future by showcasing fresh colour stories, original narratives and inventive techniques, while meet the designer sessions, workshops, discovery tours and artisan demonstrations further inspire and inform. At Focus/19 visitors can engage with established makers and emerging innovators at close hand. On the main stage, a stellar line-up of international speakers share their experiences at the acclaimed Conversations in Design series.

This season, the world-famous nexus of design adds another layer to the offering with an array of

guest pop-ups that will augment home-grown talent.

From lighting, flooring and furniture makers to carpet and fabric designers, it will be the first time they have been able to exhibit at Focus/19.

Specially commissioned installations and places to eat and drink, complement the event’s dynamic approach.

This wealth of experience is extraordinary and, what’s more it is a free resource for every visitor, reflecting Design Centre, Chelsea Harbour’s commitment to creativity and connection.

LONDON SHOWROOM 2 New Kings Road, London SW6 4SA Monday to Saturday 10.00am – 5.30pm 020 7736 9693 | info@bazaarvelvet.co.uk | www.bazaarvelvet.co.uk

Come to the home of luxury rugs.

OUT & ABOUT

Bbc music introducing live 2019 One of the biggest & most exciting events on the UK music industry calendar. Tickets on sale now!

Tobacco Dock, London, 31 October – 2 November 2019

Nile Rodgers at 2018 event

B Tickets: Early Bird Day Tickets from £10 + booking fee Early Bird 3-Day Tickets from £25 + booking fee Group ticket deals are available, for more information contact: info@introducinglive.co.uk BBC Music Introducing LIVE is produced by Get On Vision.

Thursday 31 October - 2 November 2019 Tobacco Dock, Tobacco Quay Wapping Lane, London. E1W 2SF

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BC Music Introducing LIVE is back, following an inspiring three days of talks, panels, performances, masterclasses and more last year.

Whatever your stage in your career, you can discover your next step at BBC Music Introducing LIVE 2019. As well as a rich and varied programme of panels, ‘in conversation’ chats, debates, advice and more from top industry names; attendees are invited to get involved with a range of practical opportunities including Songwriting Masterclasses, Industry Networking Sessions, and direct input A&R Feedback Sessions. BBC Music Introducing LIVE is the ultimate one-stop-shop for anyone looking for a career in the music industry, or those wanting to take their knowledge to the next level.

A whole host of major artists, BBC DJs and producers, keynote speakers, top names from record labels, brands and streaming services will gather to offer hands on, practical sessions and insider knowledge and guidance to help the next generation of artists find their inspiration. Official Partners for 2019 include Spotify, the world’s most popular music streaming subscription service, who will take up residence in The Discovery Theatre. Other official partners include Marshall, Yamaha and AIM, and other 2019 partners Shure, CD Baby and ACM. BBC Music Introducing supports unsigned, undiscovered and under the radar music across the UK, supported by the UK’s biggest music bodies including the BPI, Performing Rights Society and Association of Independent Music.

The event will provide multiple platforms for new musicians to showcase their talent in front of peers and industry experts alike. Attendees can also expect surprise performances from top talent, showcase slots and surprise appearances across the three days.

In 2018, 15,000 young people attended, with over 250 emerging and established artists participating in three days of activity. More than 700 speakers from the music industry took part in over 130 hours of talks, panels and masterclasses, including Adele’s manager Jonathan Dickins, Kano, Jax Jones, Nile Rodgers, and Zoe Ball with Glastonbury’s Emily Eavis.

James Stirling, Head of BBC Music & BBC Music Introducing said, “It was amazing last year to see the UK music industry come together to support the inaugural BBC Music Introducing LIVE event. BBC Music is dedicated to developing the next generation of artists and music industry professionals around the UK and this event is a true inspiration for all who participate.”

BBC Music Introducing LIVE is the ultimate event for young people looking to start their career in the music industry.

More information can be found at www.bbc.com/introducing

Jamie Cullum will be providing inspiration at this year’s event

BBC RadioO 2 DJ, Jo Whiley

OUT & ABOUT

Ready for a Fancy Flight?

I

The Coca-Cola London Eye has a jam-packed summer of surprises for lucky guests – could you be one of them?

t’s official, Summer is well and truly here in the capital! With longer sunshine-filled days, the London Eye has announced a host of exciting surprises in store for visitors throughout August.

With extended opening hours that will see the iconic wheel open until as late as 9.30pm, guests visiting during this time may find themselves in the lucky ‘foodie capsule’; with bespoke canapés created by previous MasterChef winners, Billy and Jack.

Guests will be able to sample food inspired by the city and enjoy a taste of London as they take in the panoramic skyline.

The team at the London Eye will also be surprising visitors with the fanciest of flights, as their rotation is upgraded to include a glass of Pommery Brut.

Sunny Jouhal, General Manager at the London Eye said: “This summer, we want to give back to our guests who visit us for the amazing views of London and make their experience even more incredible! I’m definitely hoping I find myself on one of the fancy flight capsules – pass the champers…’

Visitors are also encouraged to keep their eyes peeled for golden envelopes handed out by staff at the attraction and on the London Eye social media channels, both will be filled with exclusive prizes for them to enjoy on their visit – from a complimentary chilled glass of champagne in the Eye Lounge, to a private capsule for you and your friends.

With an unrivalled, panoramic perspective of the capital, guests can enjoy the closest views available of the Houses of Parliament and the vibrant Southbank community.

While on-board guests can share the experience with the hashtag #eyelovelondon for a chance to be included on the official London Eye Instagram.

For more information on opening times, ticket prices and fancy flights over the summer, please visit: www.londoneye.com The London Eye, Riverside Building, County Hall, Westminster Bridge Road, London, SE1 7PB

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“This summer, we want to give back to our guests who visit us for the amazing views of London “

OUT & ABOUT

HIDE AND SEEK IS BACK! Keep your wits about you as the London Dungeon’s demonic barber returns to hunt new customers!

Until 1st September 2019

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he London Dungeon’s resident barber Sweeney Todd has returned for a limited time only - in his very own Hide and Seek show. Following a narrow escape from his barber shop, terrified guests will seek refuge in a secret room within the walls, sharing with creepy crawlies and the menacing drip of the pipes – all in the hope of escaping Sweeney’s blade! Hold your breath and hide as he has his eye on one unlucky

“With 19 shows and 2 thrilling rides, you can come face to face with London’s scariest and most notorious characters including Jack the Ripper - who was he? where did he go? …and will he strike again?”

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customer so watch out as he grabs hold and delivers that infamous close shave!

And the rush doesn’t stop there, with 19 shows and 2 thrilling rides, you can come face to face with London’s scariest and most notorious characters including Jack the Ripper - who was he? where did he go? …and will he strike again?

The Tyrant Boat Ride is a right scream!

Experience the full force of Henry VIII’s wrath in a very dark and scary experience! The Jester has condemned you to death for conspiring with Anne Boleyn! You will join her on her final journey along the Thames to The Tower of London, where you’ll meet your fate. You may lose your head - or get wet!

Take on London’s only underground water ride Drop Dead, as you sail to certain death down the Thames, dodge the escaped convict from Newgate Prison and prepare for a ‘hangy’ ending as you plummet on the exhilarating vertical free fall drop ride.

Abandon all hope as you find yourself in the Torture Chamber. The Torturer is looking for ‘volunteers’. And don’t forget, you have an appointment with The Plague Doctor! Wander down the muddy alleys past houses with red crosses, rotting bodies and black rats!

Enjoy a thrilling and spine-chilling day out and experience an array of torrid tales and sinister shocks!

The Hide and Seek Show is included in the standard ticket price.

Book ahead to avoid horrible disappointment and save up to 20% online On the door £30.00 (adult), £24.00 (children). www.thedungeons.com/london The London Dungeon is located on the South Bank close to Waterloo and Westminster station.

OUT & ABOUT

The Langley, A Luxury Collection Hotel

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now open

he Langley, A Luxury Collection Hotel, Buckinghamshire has officially opened its doors, following an extensive multimillion pound renovation project in partnership with the award-winning Dennis Irvine Studio. Located in the heart of Buckinghamshire’s vast Langley Park, The Langley will offer 41 sumptuous bedrooms, spread between the grand and historic former hunting lodge of the third Duke of Marlborough, and adjacent Grade II-listed 18th century Brew House.

Built between 1756 and 1760, the main Langley Park House is a grand Palladian mansion situated within iconic Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown-designed gardens. The mansion house is home to The Langley’s most opulent accommodations, including the vast and exclusive Duke of Marlborough Suite.

The Brew House has acted as a stable, clock tower and brewery over the centuries. Guests today can see the historic spaces where previous owners concocted their local beers, sensitively restored and showcased as part of the building design.

“The restoration of The Langley has been an incredible process involving large teams of experts painstakingly regenerating this magnificent historic building to its former glory,” said Khalid Affara, developer of the hotel. “The whole estate is steeped in such rich history and heritage, so we are thrilled to finally open the doors to a truly unique property that successfully celebrates The Langley’s past whilst offering contemporary luxury and design alongside outstanding dining and cutting-edge spa and gym facilities.”

A 1,600 sqm wellness hub, The Langley Spa will offer advanced and results-driven treatments in partnership with Sisley. The spa will combine striking design elements with world-class facilities, including a private VIP suite, vitality pools, hammams, juniper-wood sauna with pink Himalayan salt walls,

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amethyst steam room and 16-metre marble-lined indoor swimming pool. There will also be a dedicated manicure and pedicure studio, hair salon, and the Spa Lounge, serving delicious and nourishing dishes, spa snacks and vibrant cold-pressed juices. The wellness experience will continue in nature, with a beautiful outdoor swimming pool by the banks of Langley Lake.

Boasting world-class training systems and equipment, the gym has been developed in partnership with renowned fitness guru Matt Roberts, offering bespoke one-on-one personal training using custom-made equipment and utilising the estate’s extensive grounds.

A stay at any Luxury Collection hotel offers an Epicurean Moment to showcase the best of the destination through a culinary lens. At The Langley, guests are treated to a complimentary cocktail demonstration of The Langley Spritz daily at the hotel’s Churchill Bar. Destination restaurant Cedar offers fresh, indigenous flavours and delightful dishes designed for sharing, using seasonal and locally-sourced ingredients. The neighbouring Drawing Room offers indulgent afternoon teas and light bites, whilst Churchill Bar serves complex and delicious cocktails plus a vast collection of cigars and cognacs. An extensive wrap-around terrace allows for al fresco dining with panoramic lake views.

The spectacular Winter Garden, added to the main house in 1894, has been restored to offer a unique space for weddings and events, with private terrace area and breath-taking views of the estate and lake beyond.

The Langley will offer a wide array of facilities and activities for guests to enjoy. Outdoor types can borrow wellington boots and set out to explore the wider estate, whilst the main house offers a private film screening room for up to six guests and a guest kitchen for cooking classes.

FEATURE

Laurent-Perrier launches Jeroboam of Cuvée Rosé

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riginally founded in 1812, the House of Champagne Laurent-Perrier is recognised as one of the foremost brands in Champagne.

This success is the outcome of a deliberate policy to honour traditional values: a respect for nature and wines, a passion for quality, and strong, lasting relationships among the people who drive the company both inside and outside of the House.

Laurent-Perrier’s success must also be attributed to the energy of the de Nonancourt family, headed by Bernard de Nonancourt. Working in a very demanding business environment, Bernard successfully avoided many pitfalls and managed to preserve the independence of his champagne house and its related values. These same principles guide the current management team headed by his two daughters, Stéphanie Meneux de Nonancourt and Alexandra Pereyre de Nonancourt.

This summer, Laurent-Perrier is set to launch a jeroboam of its Cuvée Rosé champagne in restaurants and bars across the country. The innovative new bottle, which is the size of two magnums, will be available to order in a range of premium venues for rosé lovers to enjoy as part of a special celebration, shared amongst friends and family.

Laurent-Perrier’s Cuvée Rosé has already proved popular in a magnum version, and the introduction of the jeroboam will offer an extra layer of induglence to celebrations. The eye-catching bottle is not only hugely ‘Instagram-worthy’, but will also make for a beautiful centrepiece at any dinner table.

Light and elegant on the palate, Laurent-Perrier Cuvée Rosé is the perfect pairing champagne with the red berry flavours beautifully complementing everything from fish, to poultry and of course, desserts. The brand new jeroboam will make for the ideal accompaniment to a luxury afternoon tea, to toast along with a selection of scones and patisserie.

Daniel Brennan, PR & Communications Director at Laurent-Perrier Champagne - “Our Cuvée Rosé has always proved hugely popular and as the appetite for rosé wine has grown, so has the demand for rosé champagne. We’re always looking to innovate across our range, and by launching the jeroboam we hope to offer lovers of the Cuvée Rosé something extra special.

We’re lucky to be supported by a fantastic range of on-trade accounts who also recognise the potential of the jeroboam to add another layer of indulgence to all celebrations, as well as encouraging people to come together to raise a glass of champagne.”

Laurent-Perrier’s Cuvée Rosé jeroboam will be launching at Hedonism with a retail price of £399. The Jeroboam will also be available at Jeroboams Wine Shop, The Champagne Company, and Champagne Direct from June 1st for £399. www.laurent-perrier.com

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PROPERTY OUT & ABOUT

NEW SHARK SNORKELING EXPERIENCE Shark Encounter enables guests to get closer than ever before to the ocean’s most amazing predators

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EA LIFE London has launched a newlook experience giving people a once in a lifetime chance to snorkel with sharks. Shark Encounter gives guests the opportunity to get nose-to-fin with a variety of the ocean’s most amazing predators and is the only experience of its kind available in the capital.

Featuring a new translucent snorkel cage, guests will can submerge themselves in the awe-inspiring underwater world of different shark species such as the sand tiger shark, nurse shark, black tip shark and a stunning bowmouth guitarfish, known as Betty.

Sharks play a vital role in the ocean’s eco-system and as well as snorkelling with these majestic creatures, guests will learn fascinating shark facts, the habitats in which they live and what we can do to protect them – as well as what they feed on.

• Sand Tiger Sharks can be found in subtropical and temperate seas, this shark species can grow up to 3.2m long and are the largest sharks on display.

• Bowmouth Guitarfish, a type of Ray, is a unique looking creature in the shape of a guitar

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which is where it gets its name. It grows up to 2.7m long and lives in Indo-Pacific oceans and can be found at the sea floor feeding on crustaceans.

• Nurse Sharks can be spotted in the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, nurse sharks are a slow and sedentary species of sharks which grow up to 3m long. They get their unusual name from the sucking sound they make when hunting.

• Blacktip Sharks can be identified by its distinct black colouring on its dorsal fin. It is a small shark at 1.5 metres and can even be found swimming in shallow mangroves.

Emily Hope, Aquarist at SEA LIFE London, said “We’re delighted to be bringing Shark Encounter to the famous London aquarium. “Sharks are amongst the most captivating creatures the underwater world has to offer, so we’re thrilled to be able to give our visitors the opportunity to get up close and personal to them. The unique experience, which can’t be found anywhere else in London, is perfect for thrill-seekers looking for their next challenge, or those with a passion for these fascinating species.

Whatever your interest, this experience is certainly not one to miss.”

Situated in the heart of the capital on London’s South Bank, Shark Encounter is one of a range of premium experiences available on offer at SEA LIFE London, which friends and family can enjoy together. Other experiences on offer include turtle feeding and a behind-the-scenes tour.

Visitors to SEA LIFE London can also enjoy the aquarium’s new 2019 experiences; Polar Adventure, an artic exploration of the poles, and Coral Kingdom, the UK’s largest living coral reef. SEA LIFE London also gives guests the opportunity to discover the Rainforest Adventure, Ocean Invaders: Enter the World of Jellyfish, the Ocean Tunnel and Shark Walk.

THE DETAILS SEA LIFE London is open seven days a week.

For the latest opening times, feeding times, prices and more, see www.visitsealife.com/london County Hall, Riverside Building, Westminster Bridge Road, London SE1 7PB Located on the South Bank close to Waterloo and Westminster stations.

FEATURE

The Royal Family of the Egg World

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larence Court eggs are patiently laid by traditional breed birds originating from rare breed ancestors. It’s a heritage that gives them a unique flavour evocative of a bygone era when all food was ‘slow food’.

The crème de la crème of the egg world, Clarence Court offer an extensive range of premium and speciality eggs, the widest sold in Britain. The distinct characteristics of their eggs have captivated renowned chefs and cooks across the country, starring centre stage on their menus.

You may have heard of their beautifully burnished deep brown shelled Mabel Pearman’s Burford Browns who have become stars in their

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own right, oozing with a taste of yesteryear. A descendent from the fabulous French breed, Poule de Marans, today their hens have been selectively bred to deepen the shell colour and the birds’ glossy dark plumage.

Fans of Burford Browns will also cherish the distinctive and delicious watercolour blue shelled Old Cotswold Legbar eggs. The Legbars’ ancestors include the famous blue-egg laying Araucana from Chile, brought to the UK in 1928 by botanist Clarence Elliott – when Clarence Court came to be. They have plump, creamy yolks with a decadent flavour, that are simply wonderful when poached.

There are also the beautifully bright white traditional Leghorn White eggs, which add a richness and flavour to everything from cakes and pastries to omelettes and sauces. Originally from Tuscany, Leghorns first arrived in Britain in 1800s, their hardiness, prolific laying, fast growth rates and striking beauty making them instantly popular.

Larger in size but similar to the Leghorns, the light, creamy yolks of their Braddock White and Cornish Blue duck eggs are a delight to bake with.

The high fat and protein content lend a wonderfully rich flavour to cakes, ice cream and custards.

Among their annual offering, Clarence Court’s small but perfectly formed bantam eggs make for a soft-boiled egg that the family will love dipping their soldiers into. Native breeds of South East Asian chickens, they have become the forebears of the birds the company raise today.

And as for the saying the best things come in small packages it couldn’t be more true for their free-to-fly quail eggs. The perfect canape dish whatever the occasion, they’re also found in picnic hampers, pasta dishes and salads.

Throughout the seasons, each with their own charming, charismatic shell and filled with fabulous flavour, Clarence Court supplies emu, goose, guinea fowl, pheasant, turkey, rhea and ostrich too.

All from their exclusive, well cared for family of traditional breed birds - for the best eggs, simply look for the crown. www.clarencecourt.co.uk

OUT & ABOUT

‘STRICTLY’ season,

Learn to dance with Karen Hardy Dance Studios at London’s only luxury private members’ Ballroom dance club

free taster lesson & SAVE

20%

Free taster Lesson

K

aren Hardy Dance Studios was established in 2008 by former world Latin American champion and Strictly Come Dancing Professional Champion, Karen Hardy. For the last 10 years, Karen Hardy Dance Studios – London’s only private members dance studio - has brought the ultimate in luxury and glamour to the experience of learning to dance.

An inspirational venue Located on London’s Thames waterfront in the Chelsea/Fulham district, KHDS has set the standard for first-class dance studios across the globe. This unparalleled sense of quality and excellence was solidified with KHDS recently joining forces with renowned international couture Ballroom dance clothing brand – Chrisanne Clover.

The riverside venue becomes your very own personal retreat. Members receive expert private tuition from some of the world’s greatest awardwinning teachers.

The Luxury Membership Experience Every new guest is invited to enjoy their favourite tipple in the stunning champagne bar and enjoy flexible programmes to suit even the tightest of

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To get in the mood for Strictly season why not book a complimentary 25-minute taster lesson at Karen Hardy Studios so you too can experience the joys of ballroom and Latin dancing?

The studio is offering a special discount of 20% off your first lesson packages.

Simply quote KHDSLIFE20 when booking. Subject to availability. Closing date 31st October 2019.

To book your taster today call 0207 731 7316.

Karen Hardy Dance Studios Imperial Wharf, 10-12 The Boulevard, Fulham, SW6 2UB www.karenhardystudios.com

schedules. Individual dance journeys mean that members are safe in the knowledge that whether they dream of simply dancing with a loved one socially at their next event, or they want to compete internationally – KHDS provides the personal retreat to make that dream a reality.

Let’s Party!

The studio boasts live music nights and celebrity masterclasses with world champions to television stars - the experience extends way beyond personal tuition. KHDS becomes a lifestyle as members dance the night away in their very own personal private members club – complete with passes for friends and family to make it a fully inclusive experience.

Non-Member Experiences Karen Hardy Dance Studios also offers a plethora of bespoke dance experiences for non-members.

Corporate packages are available, from ice-breaking boardroom to Ballroom workshops, to Christmas Parties hosted exclusively for clients. The ‘At Home’ service means KHDS can even visit your home or office. Gift experiences and Wedding packages mean that you can give the ultimate gift of dance to friends, relatives and colleagues, allowing them to learn the basics of their favourite dance styles, with a glass of champagne but a ‘quickstep’ away too!

OUT & ABOUT

CHRIS EVANS’

CARFEST SOUTH Returns to Laverstoke Park Farm 23-25 August 2019

F

ollowing the huge success of CarFest North at the end of July, Chris Evans is all geared up to return to Laverstoke Park Farm with CarFest South.

The UK’s most family-friendly festival returns for a super-charged weekend of cars, music and fundraising.

The brainchild of radio presenter Chris Evans, CarFest is a weekend packed to the brim with family activities underpinned by great music, celebrity chefs and plenty of cars!

As well as featuring more cars than ever before, breath-taking track shows and a host of top manufacturers showcasing their latest offerings, the festival will host a specially curated paddock by former Formula 1 Champion and owner of Laverstoke Park Farm, Jody Scheckter.

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South African-born Sheckter celebrates 40 years in F1 and winning the Drivers’ Championship with a showcase of amazing Grand Prix cars through the decades, including grand prix winning ERA, Coopers and Bugattis alongside a selection of other iconic grand prix cars.

CarFest South will also feature a host of interactive content for visitors alongside Car Clubs and major manufacturers showcasing a huge range of cars from Aston Martin, Lamborghini, BAC Mono, Toyota, McLaren and Caterham to name but a few.

Auto Trader is sponsoring the main stage and will be hosting a stand for visitors to check out the winners of this year’s Auto Trader New Car Awards and learn more about finding and buying brand new cars.

CarFest South will feature four new worlds packed with new and exciting activities for the whole family with fun and adventure including Eden, Kids Kingdom, Vintage CarFest and Car-Feast featuring the new BarFest Arms hosted by Timothy Taylor.

The Kitchen Stage will feature a lineup of celebrity chefs including Great British Bake Off favourites Candice Brown, TV chefs Glynn Purnell, James Martin, Jose Pizzaro and Prue Leith amongst a host of others.

The weekend will also see the sounds of musical legends, with performances from The Jacksons, Boy George & Culture Club, Jools Holland, Judge Jules, Kaiser Chiefs, Texas, The Human League, Rick Astley, Sister Sledge, Bjorn Again, Alex Horne & The Horne Section, Fisherman’s Friends, Jack Savoretti, Lissie, Tom Grennan, Tom Odell, Tony Christie, and the CarFest Supergroup featuring The Feeling, Sheridan Smith, Roger Daltrey, Rob Brydon and Sophie Elis-Bextor.

the details For further details and a full line-up of mainstage acts and chefs taking part visit www.carfest.org.

CarFest South Laverstoke Park Farm, Overton, Hampshire RG25 3DR www.laverstokepark.co.uk

Beautiful wardrobes and bookcases, manufactured in the UK, designed to complement any home.

4 door wardrobes starting from ÂŁ3,950.00 (double hanging, Middlesex door, delivered installed and hand finished, subject to location) Please contact to arrange design consultation mark@english-furniture.com www.wardrobeandbookcase.co.uk Tel: 01628 485512

OUT & ABOUT

Delight the senses at the RHS Garden Wisley Flower Show E

The annual floral celebration returns for the 27th year

xcitement is starting to build ahead of the highly anticipated return of the RHS Garden Wisley Flower show on 3-8 September 2019.

The six-day floral extravaganza is the place to go for any gardening enthusiast looking for inspiration, expert advice and unique shopping opportunities.

This year, more than 50 specialist nurseries will be attending, showcasing a tempting horticultural range, including hydrangeas, agapanthus, lilies, ornamental grasses, palm trees and chilli plants.

Additionally, more than 20 trade stands will be displaying a range of wares, from gardening tools to solar lighting, and raised garden beds to water fountains.

For a riot of colour, head to the National Dahlia Society Show’s floral marquee. Here visitors can view more than 100 vibrant competition classes of dahlias in all shapes, sizes and colours.

For those with a keen interest in floral art, magnificent creations by the Surrey area of the National Association of Flower Arrangement Societies (NAFAS) will be on display, with a special anniversary theme, taking a nostalgic look back at the past 10 years. Visitors are invited to get involved by taking their pick in the people’s choice award.

The Glasshouse will also be transformed during the show, with a special ‘RHS Garden Mars’ display, featuring a Martian-themed landscape with airplant planets and an astronaut.

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During the show, the Glasshouse Gallery will house an artistic photography exhibition by Susan Phelps, capturing the fascinating and often unseen details of nature in the world around us.

Admission to the RHS Garden Wisley Flower Show is free to RHS Members, normal garden admission applies to non-members.

For further information, including how to book tickets and travel advice, visit www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/wisley.

FEATURE

The Ultimate Toy Superior quality electric cars that children love to drive

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s the automobile came onto the scene, so did the pedal car, and for years it was the coolest thing on four wheels for youngsters. Today, tots can choose from oodles of plastic, mini toy cars… but unlike the pedal car, they aren’t exactly what you would call family heirlooms. These retro Jeep and Land Rover replicas most certainly are, however. They’re the pint-sized electric car designs from Toylander.

The UK firm began building the off-roaders in 1987, first with its debut ‘Mayfair’ model, and has since expanded to a number of variants in the present day, which include replicas of the Series I and II Land Rovers (Toylander 1 and 2), a vintage military Jeep (TL3 Army), as well as two tractors. All are designed to accommodate children, and an adult too if you fancy going along for the ride!

All Toylander cars enjoy the features of a real car in miniature including ignition key, forward, reverse, foot and hand brake, lights, horn, folding windscreen and opening tailgate. An additional advantage is that speed is fully controllable through a throttle pedal for a real driving response from crawl to top speed, which makes for a nice improvement on the typical On-or-Off switch pedal that can be found on basic electric cars. Interested?

Grab your tool box, because as well as being available as fully ready made cars to drive away, the Toylander can also be a do-it-yourself project. The company provides kits with all the essentials needed to build your own mini Land Rover – body kit, electric motors, controls, fuses, horn, wheels, axles and more.

The Toylander 1 is based on the iconic Land Rover Series 1 that started production in 1948 and The Toylander 2 is based on the 1958 Series 2 Land Rover®.

Their replica children’s Land Rover® gives firsttime drivers a taste of real-world motoring, and the tough monocoque body has room for one adult and 84 AUGUST 2019

“All Toylander cars enjoy the features of a real car in miniature including ignition key, forward, reverse, foot and hand brake, lights, horn, folding windscreen and opening tailgate”

two children, with a safe top speed of 5mph/8kph.

Choose the ready-to-drive option and your Toylander 2 will arrive fully built, painted and ready for your first road-trip. Ready built cars include 2 motors, 2 batteries, charger, spare wheel, number plates (chosen by you) and can be painted in your choice of colour. These are hand made to order and take 4- 6 weeks to complete, several version are available from stock please call or email to discuss your order.

A Toylander will guarantee years of fun for your little ones – they won’t quickly outgrow or get fed up with their latest ‘toy’. You can drive a Toylander around your private land or go exploring the outdoors by taking it out on a small trailer or in the back of your own Land Rover!

For more details visit www.toylander.com

• Superior handmade quality electric cars that children love to drive • Built in Great Britain with UK parts and components • Available as kits or ready built cars • Pre-cut panel sets & ready-made bodies available • Battery powered controlled speed

www.toylander.com

Email: sales@toylander.com Contact tel: 01291 626141

OUT & ABOUT

The Top Dog Film Festival comes to the UK! 1st & 2nd October Conway Hall, London WC1 30th October, Dorking Halls, Surrey

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alling all dog lovers! Following its sellout success internationally, the tour has started here in the UK for the first time ever! A film festival featuring a cinematic celebration of dogs and their people from all walks of life on the big screen.

The Top Dog Film Festival is a collection of canine-inspired short films, all celebrating the unbreakable bond between dogs and humans. From the scruffiest street dogs to the most pampered pooches, and all of our four-legged friends in between, these stories are moving, uplifting and inspiring.

Featuring a carefully curated collection of stories from independent film-makers all around the world, the Top Dog Film Festival originated in Australia.

It had its UK premiere in Edinburgh in May, and is continuing with dates around the country this autumn.

You’d be barking mad to miss it!

Film highlights include: ARTHUR On day four of a gruelling adventure race in Ecuador, Team Peak Performance from Sweden were closing in on the race’s leaders, when a surprise addition to the team changed their course. The athletes were approached by a then un-named stray dog, severely injured with a large wound on its back.

This chance encounter led to a 10,000km journey for one dog to join a team and find a home.

FOR THE LOVE OF DOG Why are dogs called man’s best friend? Filmed

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across parks in London, For The Love of Dog explores the age-old relationship with hilarious, heart-warming and sometimes very unexpected results. A tribute to our furry friends as told by their devoted owners and a fascinating glimpse into the incredible friendships between human and hound.

TRAIL DOG In the small village of La Motte-d’Aveillans in the South East of France we meet Gaëtan UgnonFleury and his dogs, Pépite and Jolyn, who remind us of some simple lessons that we often forget in the rush of life. Trail Dog is an ode to the beauty and happiness that can be found in the simplest of things - friendship “Humans and dogs share a precious, heartwarming bond, and this brand-new collection of films celebrates the canine companions that enrich our lives,” says tour director Nell Teasdale.

“Whether you’re a dog owner or just like dogs, these films are guaranteed to make you laugh, cry and fall in love with man’s best friend all over again.”

THE DETAILS For more information and to book tickets, see www.topdogfilmfestival.co.uk 1 & 2 October – Conway Hall, 25 Red Lion Square, Holborn, WC1R 4RL www.conwayhall.org.uk 30 October - Dorking Halls, Reigate Road, Dorking, Surrey RH4 1SG www.dorkinghalls.co.uk

PROPERTY

Knightsbridge announced as Number One on Property Rich List Average property prices of £15.6 million

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ith Harvey Nichols, Harrods, Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park and flagship stores of many British and international fashion houses, it’s no surprise that Knightsbridge has been confirmed as the most expensive London street on which to buy a property.

The latest report from prime property portal Vyomm has revealed Knightsbridge, running from Sloane Street to Hyde Park Corner, had an average sold property price of a whopping £15.6 million last year - over thirty times more than the price of an average London home.

The area is synonymous with the finer things in life - home to hidden squares and pretty mews, some of London’s most renowned restaurants and many exclusive hair and beauty salons, antiques and antiquities dealers, and chic bars.

Also in the top property hotspot is Ashburton Place, new street created by a new Mayfair housing development becomes the second most expensive in the capital. The glorious new building, Clarges, overlooks Green Park and Buckingham Palace., with the majority of the 34 super luxury apartments sold for an average price of £12.6 million.

London’s most expensive borough is of course 88 AUGUST 2019

“The area is synonymous with the finer things in life - home to hidden squares and pretty mews, some of London’s most renowned restaurants and many exclusive hair and beauty salons, antiques and antiquities dealers, and chic bars.”

Kensington and Chelsea, also home to London’s third most expensive street – Campden Hill, offering direct access to celebrity hotspot Holland Park with an average sold price of £8.5 million.

Nearby Bedford Gardens is fourth on the list with the average sold price of £7.4 million. The Beckhams, Jimmy Page and Robbie Williams all live in the highly exclusive location.

Belgravia’s Eaton Square, Burnsall Street off the famous King’s Road; Marylebone High Street; Millbank, home to Tate Britain; Lansdowne Road, also located in Holland Park and Elgin Crescent – the only street on the list with property prices below £5 million – made up the rest of the property rich list.

PROPERTY

London’s Most Expensive Gardens Properties will set you back £5m more than in neighbouring streets £7m, Wilton Crescent Garden is London’s second most expensive garden and comes in £3.6m more expensive.

Eaton Square (Westminster): £6,126,777 A short walk from Sloane Square, Eaton Square ranks third with properties reaching £6.1m, nearly £3m more than the average cost on the neighbouring roads.

Markham Square (Kensington and Chelsea): £5,389,286 The first in the borough of Kensington and Chelsea, Markham Square is home to property prices of nearly £5.4m, making it the second entry, more than double that of a home literally around the corner.

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ith longer evenings and warmer weather, many Londoners are flocking to their gardens, parks or any green space they can find.

Prime and super-prime property portal Vyomm have looked at the cost of living in ten of the capital’s most prestigious garden squares, revealing how they can cost as much as triple the price of a property around the corner.

Using data from Homesearch, Vyomm looked at average property prices within the City of Westminster and Kensington and Chelsea. The data shows that, on average, it will set you back a cool £5.1m to live within these leafy hideaways, averaging £2.1m more than a property in surrounding roads.

Carlton House Terrace Gardens (Westminster): £11,263,508 The most prestigious of all with an average house price of eight figures. Near to Trafalgar Square and St James’s Park, it is London’s most expensive garden, commanding a £5.2m price difference over surrounding properties.

Others include Thurloe Square (£4.4m), St James’s Gardens (£4.2m), Rosmead Garden (£3.9m) all in Kensington and Chelsea, Park Crescent (£3.3m) in Westminster, and Kensington Square (£3.3m) and Ladbroke Square (£2.5m), again in Kensington and Chelsea.

Founder of Vyomm, Utsav Goenka, commented: “London is one of the greenest capital cities in the world. In any large urban city, the mere presence of a park or green area is a very sought-after commodity, carrying a much higher property price tag. To have access to these private pockets of tranquillity is a huge status symbol. As a result, property prices will have much higher prices than the average prime London home, and that is really saying something.”

About Vyomm Recently launched in Prime Central London, Vyomm is the next generation Property Portal for Prime and Super Prime OffMarket Homes. London’s Leading Estate Agents are now using Vyomm’s Property Showcases and Magic Links to discreetly share and engage with their clients. www.vyomm.com

Wilton Crescent Garden (Westminster): £7,047,340 Nearby properties have an average price of over

Top left: Eaton Square Gardens; Far left: Carlton House Terrace Gardens; left: Wilton Crescent Grdens; above: Markham Square Gardens

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PROPERTY

THE MEWS AT THE CONNAUGHT W The legendary hotel has unveiled a three-story townhouse in the heart of Mayfair

ith its’ unrivalled reputation for legendary discretion and service, The Connaught, has announced its latest masterpiece with the unveiling of The Mews, a private three-story townhouse offering guests the best of both worlds; world class Connaught hospitality along with the keys to their own front door.

This one of a kind residence, accessed by its own mews-style front door on Adam’s Row is designed by influential architect Michael Blair from Blair Associates Architecture. The Mews has been built over three floors to look and feel like a private house in the heart of the city for the ultimate discerning urban traveller. The space makes the perfect spot for entertaining friends and family, with guests having full access to all elements of The Connaught’s hospitality, from the concierge’s “nothing is too much trouble” service, fresh from the oven truffle pizza delivery from Jean-Georges at The Connaught to a visit from the legendary Connaught Bar martini trolley.

As well as a 24hr butler service throughout The Mews, The Connaught has designed some additional service touches to elevate the experience and ensure guests feel at home in their Mayfair town house. From bespoke Smythson stationary including personalised Mayfair leather journals to a walk-in wardrobe complete with matching Burberry trench coats. There is even a Connaught Bentley on hand to help guests explore the capital or indeed the countryside in style.

Commenting on the unveil of The Mews, architect Michael Blair said “It was a very conscious decision to maintain a separate individual design ethos to the rest of the hotel to maintain the residential quality of the London Mews House yet create a very spacious and contemporary feel which is reflected in much of the purpose design details for the suite. adding a level of serene sophistication and yet a feeling that this is your London home.”

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THE DETAILS

The Mews at The Connaught can be booked directly by calling +44 (0) 20 7107 8945 or emailing signaturesuites@the-connaught.co.uk.

Price on application.

Claridge’s The Connaught The Berkeley Maybourne Hotel Group www.maybourne.com

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ART GUIDE

– Beautiful artworks by a range of local and international artists – I M AG E : ‘ G R A NNI E S ’ B Y B A N K S Y

ART guide

Sarah Pye: An artist’s “style”

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ometimes when I’m with fellow artists we talk about what it is to be a “true artist”.

We talk about our work, how our ideas are developing, and what our galleries and patrons think of our current work, our aspirations, and how our work is measured and defined as our own personal “style”. Must we have an identifiable “style” to be classified as an artist of substance?

Defining an artist by one particular genre is an obvious and very convenient way of describing their art. In the rush to categorise, it can be sometimes be forgotten that even the most influential artists of the ages usually passed through several stages of technical and expressive experimentation and development. Looking closely at the early twentieth century impressionists, post-impressionists and pointillists it is often surprising to not only see the link between these three genres, but also how the work of the renowned artists of the time spanned and deviated from these “styles” I do not have one specific style – but taking a moment to look back at the chronology of my work – I can see how my paintings have mimicked and reflected my life’s own patterns and meanderings.

A simple walk in the woods, a family holiday on the beach, or my days as a gardner, have infused my paintings; capturing those precious moments.

In my studio, eight hours a day, for five or six days a week, has given me the time and space to

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identify with these feelings, honing my skills, and my attempts to try and express these feelings and experiences through colour on canvas.

A few pots of pearlescent inks, every shade of green I can mix, a cerulean sky with cobalt seas coupled with dunes of sand. Surreal flowers and wild grasses blowing in the wind, dappled woodland lights hinting a hidden pathway to lose yourself in. Here in words I am trying to explain how my imagination fires the otherworldliness of my memories and glimpses of my dreams.

Addressing a blank canvas always gives me that pulse of excitement of what is going to happen next… and what happens next is my way of trying to give the viewer a moment of my life, which I hope might bring back happy memories from theirs.

I never think of my “style”. Just the stories and feelings I want to share. www.sarahsart.co.uk

“Addressing a blank canvas always gives me that pulse of excitement of what is going to happen next”

Julija Saler Julija Saler is an Austrian, self-taught, abstract artist and is working intuitively with the flow of energies. She started to paint 12 years ago, during her studies of art therapy in Vienna, where she learnt, how to let go of thoughts and focus on the “doing” itself. She says: “With my art, I try to catch the wonders in simplicity”.

She falls for everything old, especially old walls, because they remind her of us humans, with all our layers of experience, of situations in life that made us the way we are today. Old walls tell a story and have soul. The most vibrant colours would appear to sparkle through when some layers are removed. The scratching down of layers gives the paintings a vintage look which today is a perfect match to modern homes but also rural country houses. The variety of placing these special statement pieces into lovely settings is huge, either you prefer art on paper in a classy looking frame or art on canvas in a shadow box, the paintings will always bring a special kind of glow and impressive vibes into your home.

www.julija.saler.at

Caroline Bordignon

Art by MA

Butrint Marble oil on canvas 60cm x 60cm Price £450 For more work, including paintings and Giclée fine art prints see: www.fleurcowgillartist.com e:info@fleurcowgillartist.com

Caroline Bordignon is a Canadian fine artist and composer based in the UK. She explores aspects of colour, space, time and ways in which these interrelate through visual and musical expression synaesthetically.

Visit www.carolinebordignon.com Instagram @caroline.a.bordignon or email contact@carolinebordignon.com to buy or commission artwork.

ART guide

Christie’s presents Banksy this September and sold. Kissing Coppers (2004) was taken from the wall of a Brighton pub and sold for $575,000 in Miami in 2014.

Banksy no longer sells photographs or reproductions of his street graffiti, but his public “installations” are regularly resold or auctioned. A small number of Banksy’s works are officially, nonpublicly, sold through Pest Control.

There exists a cult-like following for the artist, heightened by the ambiguity of his identity. Banksy is regarded as a British cultural icon, with young adults from abroad naming the artist among a group of people that they most associate with UK culture, alongside William Shakespeare, Queen Elizabeth II, David Beckham, The Beatles, J. K. Rowling, Elton John, and Adele.

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etween 16th - 24th September, Christie’s are holding a dedicated online auction of Banksy prints, titled Banksy: I can’t believe you morons actually buy this sh*t in homage to the artist’s Morons screen print. The source image of the work is a photograph of the record-breaking sale of Van Gogh’s Sunflowers at Christie’s in 1987, with Van Gogh’s canvas replaced

by Banksy’s text. The sale is led by an extremely rare artist’s proof of Girl with Balloon (Gold).

But who is Banksy?

An anonymous England-based street artist, political activist, and film director, active since the 1990s. His name and identity remain unconfirmed and the subject of speculation. His works of political and social commentary have been featured on streets, walls, and bridges of cities throughout the world.

His work started appearing in London around 2004. By the late 2000s the art world had caught up with Banksy’s popular appeal, with many of his works removed from their original public settings

About Christies The world’s oldest fine art auctioneer, has sold fine art, furniture, jewellery and wine since James Christie conducted the first sale in London on 5 December 1766. Ever since Christie’s has continued to provide the perfect backdrop for the sales of the world’s finest collections and greatest works of art before their auction.

Christie’s, 8 King Street, St. James’s, London SW1Y 6QT Tel: +44 (0)20 7839 9060. www.christies.com

Far left: Banksy, Morons (Sepia), Screenprint in colours, 2007, signed. Estimated £12,000-18,000 Left: Banksy, Stop and search, Screenprint in colours, 2007, signed. Estimated £20,000-£30,000 Above: Banksy, Choose your weapon (Magenta, Screenprint in colours, 2010, signed.

Estimated £30,000-£50,000

Previous Banksy auctions at Christies have included:

NOLA Estimate £40,000 to £60,000.

Sold for £90,000

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NO BALL GAMES Estimate £20,000 to £30,000.

Sold for £35,000

FLYING COPPER Estimate £15,000 to £25,000.

Sold for £40,000.

GRANNIES Estimate £10,000 to £ 30,000.

Sold for £35,000

ART guide

Harnessing Light

Renowned glass artist Julia Mills has relocated to a larger studio and is now focusing on designing unique pieces of glass art to commission. Lucy Studley finds out more…

At her Newlyn workshop, glass artist Julia Mills is surrounded by the sights and sounds of a working harbour. The space, which she shares with celebrated potter Lincoln Kirby Bell and versatile ceramicist Lucie Sivicka, is reached up a set of time and weatherworn stone steps. Visitors follow in the footsteps of fishermen and merchants, sail-makers and artists of previous generations – those famous figures of the Newlyn School who captured scenes of coastal life in the heart of this bustling harbour.

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n these new spacious surroundings, Julia can be found hard at work, tools and materials of her trade to hand. Using the highest quality handmade glass sourced from around the world and enlivened by natural lines, tiny bubbles and intricate textures, she uses the techniques of acidetching and sand-blasting to manipulate and craft light as it falls onto the glass. Each piece is a unique marriage of the character of the glass itself and Julia’s designs – a constantly evolving experiment with translucence, colour combinations and organic forms.

These bright, contemporary glass artworks are a jubilant response to the forms and colours which Julia encounters during her daily life in West Cornwall, where she has lived and worked since 1999. Each carefully hand-made piece harnesses the astounding light of the peninsula, incorporating dynamic, abstract elements alongside shapes from nature and the coastline. “I love walking along the seashore,” explains Julia. “A lot of my inspiration comes from that constantly shifting interface between land and sea.”

Some of her pieces are reminiscent of gazing into a rockpool on a bright sunny day and watching light dance over the life contained within. Creatures of land, sea and air proliferate in various guises, including some mythological visitors, whilst humans also leave traces on the surface of the glass in the form of harbourside cottages and fishing boats.

Julia’s smallest pieces are framed glass hangings which can be hung anywhere in the home; most of these she sells via local galleries (her work can be found in The Lighthouse Gallery in Penzance, _).

However recently demand has been growing for her full-scale architectural commissions, and it is this which precipitated the move away from her own gallery and small workshop to this larger, shared space.

Julia is excited about this new phase.

“As much as I loved having my own gallery, it feels like the right time to dedicate myself to ambitious new projects,” she explains. “Working on large-scale pieces for private homes and commercial clients, such as restaurants, is giving me more freedom and my work has been developing in fresh and exhilarating directions.”

For these large eye-catching features, such as windows and doorways, Julia works with clients – and sometimes also their architects and interior designers - to produce a bespoke piece of glass which resonates with the individual person and setting. She uses colours and formal elements including landscape features, plants and animals - which have a particular significance for the patron. Her experience has given her a profound understanding of the impact that colour and the reflective properties of glass can have on a space.

Each piece transforms its surroundings as light passes through it, filling rooms with magical light and mysterious reflections.

Recent commissions include round ‘pilchard barrel’ windows, internal door panels and external glass features. Julia’s work featured in a prestigious development at Rock in North Cornwall, which has since been described as the fourth most expensive property in the world.

Julia’s new workshop is at Unit 4, Harbour Road, Newlyn (behind Trelawny Fish Shop & Deli). The public can visit to discuss commissions and make purchases from a selection of unique pieces in a variety of sizes.

Calling or emailing ahead is recommended. For contact details and more information visit www.juliamillsgallery.co.uk

ART guide

SPOTLIGHT ON… Howard Birchmore

An Artist is drawn to the light like a moth to a flame, I have tried to express myself in many different forms, styles and mediums almost since childhood, no matter where I am, I cannot resist the challenge to capture the elusive quality of light be it the dawn of a new day or the dazzling reflection off the sea.

Venice

The Ocean

Venice may have been painted a thousand times before but few Artists can resist it’s compelling combination of reflection, refraction and faded beauty, it is somewhere we are all drawn to, somewhere we feel we must visit during our lifetime. This compunction is even stronger in an Artist, where to find the most beautiful panorama, at what time of day are the vistas bathed in that turquoise light, where to find a space to sketch and paint in the of maze of canals, backwaters and pathways.

When you fly into Venice for the first time you will see the City laid out beneath you, the Terracotta roof tiling, the numerous churches and the many Palaces along the Grand Canal, it is a panorama like no other in the world. My first visit was in April, the light was wonderful and in the early morning the water simply shimmers like a thousand dancing diamonds beneath the dome of the Santa Maria della Salute, later with the sun setting you can capture that Golden light moment so beloved of artists and film makers as the sun drops behind the Salute.

I love to paint “En Plein Air”, that moment when you arrive at the beach, the wind in your hair and the sun with its playful light reflecting and refracting on the sea, challenging you to capture that moment in time. It is what I call “Being there” and there is no other way of living the subject, of course the light can change, the heavens may open and a canvas of any size can become a sail, but those moments, those days out of the ordinary are what makes us all truly feel alive and inspire an Artist to his most soulful work.

We are lucky in these islands to have some of the most varied and inspiring coasts and these colour sketches are like experiments along the way to the final work, large canvas works (up to 10ft by 3or4ft) are by necessity completed in the studio and can require specialised transport, 60 by 30 inches is the most popular size but whatever the clients requirements I love the challenge of producing their special reminder of the Ocean. www.howardbirchmore.co.uk

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“I love to paint “En Plein Air”, that moment when you arrive at the beach, the wind in your hair and the sun with its playful light reflecting and refracting on the sea”

Light and Water A modern look at a traditional vision describes Howard’s work. Time spent in the west of these Islands and abroad has provided variety and depth to his paintings from the wild seas of West Cornwall to the romance of Italy. Howard records intense colour, light and shade and the drama of the Mediterranean has resulted in some of his most evocative works, his paintings are in private collections throughout the world and his work has been exhibited with the Royal Society of Marine Artists.

Howards majestic seascapes are in Exhibition at Kendalls Fine Art in Cowes on the Isle of Wight.

Plus - Sheldon Fine Art in Newport, Rhode Island, USA No Naked Walls Chertsey, Surrey, UK, Mayne Gallery, Kingsbridge, Devon, UK

Howard Birchmore howardbirchmore.co.uk | tel 0-118 9625656 email - howardbirchmore@hotmail.co.uk

ART guide

Mike Bernard

Collage and Acrylic Contemporary Art Born in Kent in 1957 award-winning leading artist Mike Bernard trained at the West Surrey College of Art & Design, Farnham, followed by postgraduate studies at the Royal Academy Schools

Clockwise from right: Summer Rain, Trafalgar Square; St Paul’s; City Lights, London; Chelsea Potter, King’s Road

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ince then he has exhibited widely in London and the provinces. The artist was elected a member of the Royal Institute of Painters in Watercolour in 1997.

He moved to Devon in 2008 where he has been inspired by the amazing light.

Mike Bernard enjoys experimenting with media and techniques, often using mixed media incorporating collage and acrylics. Mike has used paper collage for several years and has developed a highly original and appealing style of his own. As a base to his paintings it has allowed him to create abstract structures that in turn develop into those “happy accidents” which come about from time to time. Random textures, colours and shapes suddenly fall into place. This method allows picture to evolve their own personality as they progress, which avoids them becoming over-representational.

Mike’s initial starting point was collecting on the spot sketches, with subjects varying from harbour coastal scenes to street and market scenes and occasional still life. He is selective when describing detail, wanting to portray only the essence of the subject.

Back in the studio he starts his paintings, (surfaces can include, paper, board and canvas), with layers of paper collage, newspapers, tissue, leaflets, magazines etc, glueing with acrylic medium.

Mike can create shapes which relate to the abstract structure of the subject. When the glue is dry, he applies acrylic ink in bold random strokes which encourages wonderful colour and textural ‘happy accidents’. From this state of chaos he endeavours to definite the subject through various

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drawing techniques, to a finished stage where the subject has recognisable passages, but at the same time retains a semi- abstract, impressionistic feel, engaging the viewers imagination.

Mike now paints almost exclusively in mixed media, combining collage, acrylics and pastel. He enjoys the way textures, shapes, colour and ‘happy accidents’ steer the direction of his paintings. Mike’s favourite subjects continue to be harbour scenes, market and street scenes both in Britain and abroad.

If you would like to enquire about purchasing one of Mike’s paintings, please email him with the painting you are interested in and he will be able to confirm availability, price etc. Commissions are also undertaken.

For more details of Mike’s work visit www.mikebernardri.com or email mikebernardri@gmail.com

Rino Friio. Born in Italy in 1955 .

This painting is full of interesting movement and splashes of colour to produce an Impressionistic scene of a Street Cafe.

Its open atmosphere is what attracts my involvement.

Titled....Vancouver Cafe Oil on Canvas.

www.rinofriioart.com

ART guide

Marc Chagall A modern master with a unique language

“I

don’t know where he gets those images....” said Picasso, “he must have an angel in his head.”

Marc Chagall was born in Vitebsk, Russia in 1887. After studying in St Petersburg he went to Paris where he befriended the avantgarde circle of artists. In 1917 he returned to his native Vitebsk where he was made Director and Commissar of Fine Art. However, his fantasy-based work irked the conservative authorities so he left for Moscow to design for the new Jewish Theatre.

Returning to Paris in 1923 he met the art-dealer Ambroise Vollard. Between 1941-47 he moved between occupied France and the USA, eventually settling near Nice. Chagall was a prolific artist, his work reminiscent of Jewish life, bible stories and of the folklore from his early years in Russia. He died in 1985.

During a 75-year career, Chagall made an astonishing 10,000 works of art, many of which were prints. He was a prolific lithographer and etcher and these more affordable artworks are as collectible as any of his paintings.

The legendary Fables of la Fontaine…

Chagall’s Fables are among the very best illustrations of La Fontaine’s moral tales. Published in 1952, the naive imagery and extraordinary breadth of tones achieved in each etching convey the simple power 106 AUGUST 2019

of La Fontaine’s text, a mixture of cautionary allegories from the ancient Greek fabulist Aesop and La Fontaine’s own invented fables.

Vollard commissioned Chagall’s etchings to accompany La Fontaine’s Fables some 20 years before they were published.

Chagall began by painting preparatory gouaches which were to be translated to the etching plates for printing. Realising that even the master printers could not match the gradations of tone he desired, Chagall elected to prepare the etchings himself, using a drypoint technique to work his designs directly into the metal plates.

Throughout the suite, scenes rarely share direct parallels with the text, Chagall instead choosing to try and capture the essence of each moral tale, with an emotional range that reveals the cruelty and the melancholy as much as the ease and the joy of La Fontaine’s stories.

Widely regarded as one of the great print suites of the 20th century, Chagall’s Fable etchings were finally published in 1952 in an edition of just 200, with 85 special sets which were hand-painted by Chagall himself. An enduring series which embodies the humanity and the humility that is so typical of his work, the Fables remain one of Chagall’s most treasured endeavours.

Clockwise from top left: The Wolves and the Ewes; The Funeral of the Lioness; The Sick Stag; The Sculptor and the Statue of Jupiter; The Bitch and her Friend

ART guide

SEE THE SEA

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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

Caroline Boff is a self taught modern and conceptual artist. Powered by a desire to explore the definitions of an idyllic paradise she creates wonderous compositions filled with energy,

movement and colour. Tiger’s Eye was born out of a poetic affection with animals as well as an appreciation of their power and strength. The cubist aspect portrays the artist’s own battle for peace, simplicity and spiritual resolution with the vibrant multicolour depicting the the pros of expression.

Thai Boat was inspired by Boff’s love of travel, time in Thailand and an adoration

of tropical seascapes. The boat in the painting represents a ride to freedom, connection to the artist’s roots and journey of self discovery. Boff has recently exhibited in London and New York.

Find out more at www.carolineboff.co.uk and 01204 911 943

FRAN CES LEE CERAM IC ARTIST

• Hand built and illustrated ceramics • Semi functional contemporary designs • Where the ceramic is a canvas for the art

www.francesleeceramics.com frannymarylee@yahoo.co.uk also on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Linked In And Pinterest

ART guide

Helene Schjerfbeck

Discover a pioneering painter at the Royal Academy of ArtS Until 27 October 2019

Helene Schjerfbeck, The Convalescent, 1888. Oil on canvas, 92 x 107cm. Finnish National Gallery/ Ateneum Art Museum; photo: Yehia Eweis.

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iscover the mesmerising paintings of Helene Schjerfbeck, one of Finland’s best kept secrets, in the UK’s first major exhibition of her work.

Helene Schjerfbeck (1862–1946) is a Finnish national icon. From her early naturalistic style – honed during her studies in France – to her highly abstracted self-portraits, this exhibition

Helene Schjerfbeck, Self-portrait, 1912. Oil on canvas, 43.5 x 42cm. Finnish National Gallery/Ateneum Art Museum; photo: Yehia Eweis

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Helene Schjerfbeck, Alarm, 1935. Oil on canvas, 71 x 58cm. Private collection; photo: Finnish National Gallery/Hannu Pakarinen

will present Schjerfbeck for the first time to UK audiences.

Talented and widely travelled, Schjerfbeck found artistic success at a young age. In the 1880s she connected with artists’ colonies in Pont Aven, Brittany and St. Ives, Cornwall. In her later years, she left the Finnish capital for a quieter life that allowed her to concentrate on her work.

Nonetheless, keeping in touch with artist friends and the seismic shifts in modern art, she produced some of her most raw and radically abstracted paintings in these years.

Through over 60 portraits, landscapes and still lifes, this long-overdue survey traces the evolution of her remarkable career. Among the highlights will be a sequence of self-portraits, which demonstrate Schjerfbeck’s lifelong fascination with the physical and psychological process of ageing. In the age of the selfie, her engagement with masks and masquerade – the superficial appearance we present to the world and what lies beneath – is more relevant than ever.

Overlooked for too long, Schjerfbeck’s unique vision and painterly invention will be a revelation.

Exhibition organised by the Royal Academy of Arts, London, and the Ateneum Art Museum / Finnish National Gallery, Helsinki.

Helene Schjerfbeck runs from 20 July until 27 October at the Royal Academy of Arts, London. Find out more: www.royalacademy.org.uk/schjerfbeck

Helene Schjerfbeck, Self-portrait, Black Background, 1915. Oil on canvas, 45.5 x 36cm. Herman and Elisabeth Hallonblad Collection. Finnish National Gallery/Ateneum Art Museum; photo Yehia Eweis

“Imagine the life of Frida Kahlo yoked to the eye of Edvard Munch, and you’ll begin to get the measure of this oeuvre.”

– The Independent

ART guide

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

M

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

INDEPENDENT

SCHOOLS GUIDE – The finest independent schools in the UK –

EDUCATION ATION EDUC

Benefits of the independent school W

ith options ranging from boarding schools to modern alternative curricula, there is almost certainly a school to suit each and every child. Here are some of the reasons why parents are choosing to give their children the unique experience of private school and why it’s worth the financial investment.

Enriched academic opportunities One of the accepted benefits of private schools is that they provide exceptional and challenging educational experiences through extracurricular activities, Advanced Placement courses, and the International Baccalaureate programme, just to name a few. The IB programme focuses on school work and on developing you as a whole person.

Private school students constantly score top marks on standardized tests and college entrance exams, and many schools have a 100 per cent rate of students attending their university of choice.

Controlled class sizes A comprehensive study on class size made by educational researchers Bruce Biddler and David Berliner in 2002 showed that the smaller the class size, the better the average student performs on academic achievement tests. The gains from smaller class sizes are stronger the longer a child 116 AUGUST 2019

is exposed to them. Private schools vary greatly in size, but depending on their teaching style, almost all focus on the importance of small class sizes to individually help students’ weak areas and advance their strengths.

Dedicated teachers In a study completed by the Fraser Institute in 2007, 91 per cent of parents surveyed said the dedication of the teachers was their main reason for choosing private school. Instructors are both qualified and passionate about their subjects, often holding advanced degrees in their field. Within the tight-knit school community, students have close relationships with their teachers who commonly act as role models. In addition, small class sizes make staff members more readily available for extra help or to further challenge individual students.

Parental involvement Private schools are built around open communication between parents and administration, and they make it a priority to involve parents in the community. From frequent parent-teacher meetings, social events such as parent breakfasts and family camping weekends, and the participation of parent committees in fundraising initiatives, families become an integral part of the child’s education. This common ground also helps strengthen parent-child relationships.

“91 per cent of parents surveyed said the dedication of the teachers was their main reason for choosing private school”

A safe environment

Development for today’s and tomorrow’s world

Private schools have reputations for maintaining high standards for discipline and respect. Lower staff-to-student ratios allow for more effective observation and control of school grounds. The strong sense of community found in private schools also discourages dangerous behaviour.

In the Fraser Institute study, around 72 per cent of parents surveyed with children in the private school system strongly agreed that their school was safe, which greatly improves the quality of the child’s educational experience and achievement.

The discipline they learn also improves their rates for success in post-secondary education when they are in control of their class attendance and achievement.

Private schools go beyond offering the mandatory subjects required by provincial curriculum; they can offer students a wide range of specializations including arts programs, athletics, maths and science.

Private schools are responsible for producing many leaders in politics, business and society, with a history of adapting quickly to changes in technology and culture. And today, they are also sought by parents of children with special needs such as behaviour problems or learning disabilities.

Ample resources At private schools, you’ll find incredible resources to support student learning in the classroom, sports field, art studio, and beyond. Quality resources provide students with the opportunity to fully explore their interests and talents.

Extracurricular activities While academics remain the priority for most private schools, many also place a strong focus on a well-rounded education and encourage participation in extracurricular activities such as sports, music, arts or clubs. This involvement helps stimulate students in their studies, as noted in a study at Stanford University that found that students involved in the arts are more motivated to learn and are three times more likely to win a school attendance award. Extracurricular activities can provide a much-needed break from the stresses of academics while developing skills and engaging in valuable social situations.

“At private schools, you’ll find incredible resources to support student learning in the classroom, sports field, art studio, and beyond”

AUGUST 2019 117

EDUC ATION

Committed to Sporting Excellence words: Rob Rawlinson,

Head of Sport The Performance Sports Programme at QE Specialist high-level coaching, as part of a Performance Sports Programme, is provided for those students wishing to pursue their chosen sport and represent for that sport at county level or above. Students can follow the programme in; basketball, cricket, football, rugby, netball and hockey.

A

ll of Queen Ethelburga’s students follow a sports programme with the values of fair play, honesty and determination at its heart. Our motto of ‘be the best that I can, with the gifts that I have’ is never more evident than through the work we do as TEAM QE. Students at QE have access to an impressive number of sports and activities each week, including ever popular sports such as rugby, hockey, football, netball, cricket, swimming, basketball, rounders, tennis, dance, gymnastics, trampolining, climbing, athletics, badminton, and volleyball.

Our team of sports staff cater for all abilities and encourage each student to make the most of all the fantastic opportunities on offer during their time here. We have a well-honed mix of physical education teachers and specialist sports coaches, many of whom are ex-professional sportspeople themselves. This means there really is no limit to the level to which our students can train.

Health and fitness is so central to school life for students that many continue with sport and exercise, either recreationally or as a route of study, long after they have left us.

What enables us to deliver all this sporting activity so successfully of course, is the outstanding range of high-quality facilities on campus. We are unique in that we have a dedicated Sports Village, opened by Yorkshire sporting champions Alistair and Jonny Brownlee in 2016, to which all students have access to both inside and outside of formal school hours.

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The Village is home to a 25-metre swimming pool, triple court sports hall, 100 station fitness suite and free weights centre. Outside we have a six-lane synthetic cushioned running track and over 30 acres of both grass and 4G artificial pitches. We also have a number of specialist studios used for: martial arts, wrestling, dance, gymnastics, table tennis, cycling, archery, fencing and boxing.

A Sports Science Centre onsite provides a movement-analysis testing and monitoring facility, designed for assessing a broad range of health and fitness indicators. A Sports Treatment Centre includes world class equipment, ranging from underwater treadmills to cryotherapy cold spa baths, to support rehabilitation and post-training recovery.

In addition to all of this, the students can make use of an eight-metre climbing wall at the campus activity centre, which also houses an assault course, BMX track and additional tennis courts.

There really is something for everyone, whatever their interest or ability.

To find out more about what Queen Ethelburga’s has to offer, visit www.qe.org

Each students’ Programme follows a unique scheme of work including the latest tactical, technical, physical and mental training. They are designed with individual talent development as the key component and present opportunities for students to develop their skills through to UK and international competition.

Importantly, all QE Performance Sport students are enrolled within The Faculty, where the flexibility of the curriculum allows them to combine their sporting programme with a range of options in GCSE, A level and BTEC courses in both Key Stages 4 and 5. This enables them to maintain a well-rounded education whilst pursuing their passion. They also have access to a strong network of pastoral and academic support including Tutors, Heads of Year, and Academic Learning Mentors.

Students are taught responsibility, resilience and leadership skills, and challenged to achieve at the highest level at all times.

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, I hope it feels more like a village school.” adds Mr Ellis. Size

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matters to St John’s Wood Pre-Prep. By limiting 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 2018/2019 class received offers from: Bute House, North Bridge House, South Hampstead High School, St Anthony’s for Boys, St Paul’s Juniors, 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

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”

A

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 124 AUGUST 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

EDUC ATION

Prince’s Gardens Preparatory School opens in September 2020 N estled in the heart of Kensington, a stone’s throw from some of London’s most acclaimed institutions, Prince’s Gardens Preparatory School for boys and girls aged 3-11, is due to open its doors in September 2020.

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 the inspirational museums along 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.

Alison Melrose, Headmistress, told The Life Magazines about their exciting plans to renovate four Victorian townhouses at 10-13 Prince’s Gardens. “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

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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.

Details about the plans will be held at an information event on Monday 23rd September at 10am on the premises of the Royal Geographical Society.

Go to www.princesgardensprep.co.uk/London to reserve a place at this event.

“A tremendous opportunity, which places the school firmly in the academic hub of London”

EDUC ATION

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Thursdays 09.10-10.40 by appointment with the Registrar Bursaries available

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

A

ddressing the needs of children from the age of six, 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.

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THE LUXURY

travel GUIDE

– Heading out of London to explore the rest of the world – i ma g e : A M A GIC A L K E N YA N K INGDO M

EDUC ATION LUXURY TRAVEL

An American Icon at 100

Limestone, a river and Theodore Roosevelt. Luke Rix-Standing peels through the layers of one of nature’s mightiest sites

F

irst of all - confession - the Grand Canyon is not actually 100 years old. Its cliffs and crags were forged by water erosion over the course of millions of years in fact, and it’s existed almost unchanged since the dawn of human history.

It is for this reason that recording the histories of giant Proterozoic rock formations is often not a rewarding enterprise, but for the Grand Canyon we’ll make an exception.

It’s 100 years since it was made a national park in 1919, in the first wave designated by Theodore Roosevelt and Woodrow Wilson, and the canyon has carved a unique niche in the consciousness of modern America and, to a lesser extent, the world.

Consider the words of Ron Swanson - the gruff, hyper-masculine patriarch of hit NBC show Parks And Recreation. “Crying,” he says, “[is only] acceptable at funerals, and the Grand Canyon.”

Larger than Rhode Island, and high enough to affect the weather, the Grand Canyon is one of nature’s rock stars. Here, very briefly, is how it came to be...

A very big hole in the ground We’ll try and skip through this bit quickly, which shouldn’t be difficult - though we know the canyon was carved by the Colorado River, different dating techniques suggest this started anywhere from five million to 70 million years ago.

As the current drove deeper into the valley it exposed different strata of sedimentary rock - mostly limestone, sandstone and shale - leading to the canyon’s heavily layered look. The oldest rock at the bottom formed around 1.8 billion years ago, while 134 AUGUST 2019

the newest clocks in with a sprightly 250 million.

With so many exposed layers, the Grand Canyon is a geologist’s dream, showcasing more than a billion years of formation. It also contains one of the clearest examples of ‘the Great Unconformity’ - a geological phenomenon in which the youngest rocks lie back-to-back with rocks from 1.2 billion years ago. Where the intervening 950 million years went, no one knows.

The Colorado River is as forceful as ever, and the eroding and weathering is ongoing. Check back in a few million years to find out more.

Human habitation Evidence of human activity dates from a much more approachable 12,000 years ago (near the end of the last ice age), but these were likely nomads passing through in search of game.

Various indigenous groups have called the canyon home down the millennia - most notably the basket people and the ancestral Puebloans - and Native Americans settled there around the 13th century AD. America was ‘discovered’ in 1492, but landing in Virginia was a far cry from the Arizona wilderness, and it wasn’t until 1540 that conquistador Garcia Lopez de Cardenas became the first Westerner to set eyes on the majestic ravine.

Two centuries passed before American explorers picked up the mantle. When an adventurer named Joseph Christmas Ives wrecked his steamboat in the river in 1857, he famously called the canyon a “valueless... profitless locality”. With him was John Newberry, a geologist thought to be the first to study the canyon’s walls.

Theodore Roosevelt

Woodrow Wilson

Badlands hunter, his obsessive exercise bordered on masochism, and his weekly boxing matches left him virtually blind in his left eye.

In one oft-quoted passage, he condemned the “emasculated, milk-and-water moralities admired by pseudo-philanthropists”, instead eulogising the “stern, manly qualities that are invaluable to a nation”. He hated being called Teddy.

It is no surprise that the canyon’s brutal beauty so beguiled this man of nature. On his first visit he declared it “beyond comparison; beyond description; absolutely unparalleled throughout the wide world”, and in 1908 he used a legal loophole to bypass Congress and declare the site a National Monument.

It was his successor, Woodrow Wilson, that officially made the canyon a National Park, but it was Roosevelt who’d fought and won the battle.

In an unfortunately familiar narrative, the US military followed with guns, germs and steel.

The Havasupai were deprived of their lands; the Hualapai were decimated in a three-year war; the Paiute people were depopulated by disease and forced assimilation; and the Navajo were rounded up and forced to trek 9,000 miles to internment camps at Fort Sumner. Enduring populations of all four tribes now live on reservations.

In 1901, the completion of the Santa Fe railway turned a $20, 12-hour stagecoach ride to Diamond Creek into a $3.95, three-hour train journey from Williams. Unsurprisingly, tourism increased.

Today’s canyon is not well-equipped for modern living, but contrary to popular belief, it does contain one settlement. Supai Village, in the Havasupai Reservation, is inaccessible by road, has a population of only 208, and is the only place in the United States that still receives mail by pack mule.

The canyon has a fearsome reputation and has claimed around 700 lives since 1919, from whitewater rafting accidents to helicopter crashes, rock falls and suicides. There’s still roughly 250 searchand-rescue incidents a year.

“Today’s canyon is not well-equipped for modern living, but contrary to popular belief, it does contain one settlement”

An American icon Over the last century, the canyon’s fame has steadily grown. Last year, it fielded 6.38 million tourists both domestic and international, and development has skyrocketed since the first hotel opened in 1905.

Recent additions include the Grand Canyon Skywalk - an unsupported, horseshoe-shaped, glassbottomed bridge that extends 70ft out over the cliffs. The drop beneath is almost a mile, but staff assure nervous visitors that the bridge could take the weight of 70 fully-loaded passenger jets.

Many Americans call the canyon one of the seven natural wonders of the world, but they might be shocked to learn that it is not the world’s largest by some way. That honour goes to the Yarlung Tsangpo Grand Canyon in Tibet - 17,567ft to its namesake’s 6,093ft - which is also around 30 miles longer.

Ah well. Give it another 70 million years.

A presidential champion If Americans have one man to thank for the canyon’s enduring status, it is two-term President and all-round macho man Theodore ‘Teddy’ Roosevelt.

Nicknamed the ‘Bull Moose’ - he was famously shot in the chest before an address and insisted on giving his speech in full before treatment - Roosevelt was, to say the least, outdoorsy. An accomplished AUGUST 2019 135

LUXURY TRAVEL

Curating Memorable Italian Villa Holidays For Over 46 Years

I

taly is not so much a nation as a masterpiece, undoubtedly a country of interest, diversity, beauty and charm, passion splendour, art and style. Our love affair began with Italy in 1973 ago when Barry & Christine Pearson began renting villas around Lucca and on the Tuscan coast. 46 years on, Bridgewater’s Idyllic Italy remains family owned and managed by the Pearson sisters: Nicola and Lucy.

We are delighted to offer luxury villa rentals throughout Tuscany, Umbria, Amalfi, the Italian lakes, Siciliy and beyond but Lucca and the Tuscan coast remains ‘Our special part of Italy’ which year round offers an interesting and varied holiday Imagine a holiday where you can step back in to the 15th century, to visit the Medieval city of Lucca, take in Italy’s Renaissance art cities or simply relax on Tuscany’s golden beaches. Experience the relaxed pace of local life, cycle through olive groves and mellow countryside taking in the sights and aromas of Tuscany. While away the evenings in the local trattorias, where some of the best food in Italy is to be found or dine at world famous restaurants and sophisticated pavement cafes. Watch and learn how to ‘passegiare’ through Italy’s stylish and historic streets and shop for some of the best designer names.....this is just some of what the Lucca area of Tuscany has to offer.

A tranquil part of Italy with few foreign tourists but plenty of stylish Italians. As with the rest of Europe, July and August are the busiest month’s when even the sleepiest villages can become crowded - Generally the best time to visit is April, May, June and September when there are fewer tourists and the weather is warm and pleasant. the days are long and scents of rose and jasmine fragrance the air. Autumn is another perfect time to discover the towns and countryside of Lucca and the Tuscan coast -mellow with tones of russet and ochre and fields full of ripened grapes ready to be harvested Wintertime is usually crisp, mild bright and can be a delightfully relaxing time to explore as well as to take in some Christmas shopping in Florence or Lucca itself.

Your Bridgewater team recognises that holidays are the most important time of year for all of us, a time to relax and take home previous memories to treasure. Your holiday is important to us and by understanding your requirements we can arrange the rental that will meet with your dreams - whatever time of year you choose to travel. When we do this - which we usually do we know that we will see you again in the years to come.

We look forward to hosting you in Italy soon. www.bridgewatertravel.co.uk italy@bridgewater-travel.co.uk 0161 787 8587

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es e at l D ilab 20 va 20 A ow N

You Deserve a Reward.

Treat yourself to a luxury villa holiday.

Visit somewhere you may not have thought of, The Western Algarve.

In an exclusive Spa resort with the benefit of a 24 hour reception, this villa is completely remodelled for the 2019 season.

This is luxury at a price you can afford.

relax@myvilla6.com | www.myvilla6.com Follow us on

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LUXURY TRAVEL

Sicilian Luxury

We are a team of enthusiastic experts, each with lots of experience in the tourist industry. We founded Travel Sicilia in 2005 to specialise in creating personalised holidays in prestigious villas

We are all Sicilian

Vast choice of luxury villas

We are all Sicilian and we focus exclusively on Sicily. With a firsthand knowledge of our history, traditions and customs, our aim is to share our passion for Sicily with you and help you plan a perfect holiday in one of our prestigious villas. We are always ready to share first-hand information with clients about our selection of handpicked, regularly inspected villas.

Efficient local services are also on hand, to assist you in making the most of your stay in a luxury villa in Sicily.

Our program includes a vast choice of luxury villas scattered throughout Sicily and its minor islands.

All are unique in size, details and location but are all linked by exhaustive research and exacting standards.

Our experts are skilled in meeting the needs of individual clients, offering a bespoke service to help you choose the villa and services you need to create the ideal holiday in Sicily.

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Magnificent Villas Selections We have devoted fifteen years to creating an outstanding collection of luxury villas in Sicily.

Knowing this land and its people as only Sicilians can, we have compiled a portfolio of villas to meet every taste.

There are historic villas and contemporary villas; romantic villas and family villas; and splendid villas where we can organise celebrations of a lifetime.

Most villas have swimming-pools and many of them are by the sea. We even have villas with open

fireplaces perfect for discovering just how blue Sicilian winter skies can be. Whether your interests are art and culture, sea and watersports, wine and food, or enjoying the landscape‌ We will help you find the villa that is perfect for you.

Made to measure Sicily Alongside our portfolio of beautiful Sicilian homes, Sicily Luxury Villas offers clients the opportunity to experience the island as few travellers do. We provide guests with a personal concierge, who is at your disposition for any and every question long before you arrive in Sicily, to help you make sure that you create the kind of Sicilian holiday that is perfect for YOU. Whether you are interested in having cooking lessons with a Michelin-starred chef, going swordfishing on a traditional felucca, climbing Mount Etna or touring a chocolate factory, we at Sicily Luxury Villas are here to help you discover just what an amazing and multifaceted place our island really is! www.sicilyluxuryvillas.com

A family business providing exclusive valet parking at Gatwick Airport since 1992.

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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.

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A Magical Kenyan Kingdom

A remake of The Lion King will reignite our passion for a species in worrying decline. Sarah Marshall finds a glimmer of hope in the Masai Mara

O

verrun by his offspring, Olerai grunts, growls and grinds his chiselled jaw, but is far too weary to summon a roar, as excitable lion cubs tug at his tail.

Raising an eyelid to survey the granite outcrop where his restless pride has gathered, wind rustles through the formidable male’s mane and sun glints where crown jewels should shine. But ruling a dominion is tiring work, and a king surely deserves his sleep.

A source of daily drama in Kenya’s Masai Mara, pride politics are fascinatingly complex. Love, loyalty, betrayal and deception frequently shape nail-biting plot lines, which resonate with all the poignancy of a Shakespearean tragedy.

When Disney’s The Lion King animation was released in cinemas 25 years ago, audiences quickly identified with young lion Simba and his quest to reclaim the Pride Lands from his scheming uncle Scar. The film spawned a franchise of TV shows, video games and one of Broadway’s most successful musicals. Featuring the voices of Beyonce and comedian Donald Glover, a new live-action version is set to be a box office hit, fuelling our love of Africa’s lions once again.

Although scenes of Simba and his father Mufasa surveying their homeland from an escarpment are life-affirming, in reality, the future of his species is dangling precariously from a precipice.

In two decades, Africa’s lion population declined by an alarming 42%, and the king of the jungle is currently classified as vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature.

Loss of habitat has been the biggest culprit, leading to increased conflict with communities when lions attack their livestock.

It’s a bleak picture, but one pocket of success is Kenya’s Masai Mara ecosystem. Home to the Marsh pride, who starred in Jonathan Scott’s Big Cat Diary and David Attenborough’s Dynasties, it’s thought to have one of the highest lion densities in Africa.

Scott, who was in the Mara last year filming for Big Cat Tales, admits most of the footage was captured in the Mara’s conservancies, communityowned land surrounding the National Reserve, where tourism is carefully controlled.

I also find myself tripping over muscular golden cats when I visit Olare Motorogi Conservancy, where I’ve joined Kelvin Kamango, a research assistant at the Mara Predator Conservation Programme (MPCP), on an early morning game drive.

An initiative supported by The Kenya Wildlife Trust, MPCP conducts a lion count twice a year. Their data shows numbers in the Mara ecosystem have risen from 418 in December 2014 to 464 in 2017.

Using an app on his mobile phone, Kelvin records the GPS co-ordinates of sightings and identifies individuals by their whisker count - a unique ID akin to a fingerprint. Other distinguishing features also

140 AUGUST 2019

“An initiative supported by The Kenya Wildlife Trust, MPCP conducts a lion count twice a year”

help to classify characters. Olerai, for example, has a gash on his nose.

In this conservancy, the Oldikdik pride is flourishing, and brothers Olerai and Olekiti are enjoying a supreme and largely unchallenged reign.

Sons of legendary warrior Notch, the pair migrated from the Reserve in 2015 and took control of three different prides. Now their energies have been focused into one big powerful dynasty, the Plantagenets of the bush.

For starters, they have the best hunting ground in the conservancy. Prowling a rocky gully where animals like to drink, a lioness sneaks behind a croton bush and waits for her moment to strike.

Later that afternoon, when I return on a game drive, the pride is feasting on a fresh wildebeest carcass presumably secured by their leading lady’s patience and skill.

A complicated family tree with fruitful boughs and tangled branches, the Mara’s network of characters is a stand-alone study. MPCP has created a photobook to help safari guides identify key feline players, a tool used by the excellent team at Kicheche Bush Camp, who have followed many of the resident animals through various stages of their lives.

There have been births, deaths, brawls and nail-biting showdowns. Males have battled for supremacy and impassioned mothers have fought to protect their young until the bitter end. It’s a soap opera set amidst spirited plains and foreboding skies, with episodes unfurling a matter of minutes away from camp.

Guests staying with Kicheche have an opportunity to visit MPCP’s HQ on the OMC border, where computers whirling with data and graphs illustrate the research team’s findings to date.

The success of lions in the Mara’s conservancies is largely due to healthy habitat and co-operation

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from surrounding communities. Senior Programme Scientist Niels Mogensen shows me a new type of boma (enclosure), which MPCP is encouraging pastoralists to use for corralling their livestock.

Made from recycled plastic bottles, the sturdy poles offer a far better line of defence than traditional enclosures made from branches and thorns.

Poisonings are a common form of retaliation for slaughtered sheep and cattle, so proving lions are a valuable resource, rather than a threat, is key to safeguarding the future of the species. Changes in attitude are best illustrated by a series of sketches from local school children. In 2013, their artistic interpretations of wildlife showcase lions and cheetahs getting speared; five years later, safari vehicles dominate the frame.

Along with education and awareness, the concrete reality of cash flow has been the lions’ saving grace.

Providing improved healthcare, clean water provision and livelihood opportunities for women, several projects have been implemented by the Maa Trust, a non-profit organisation receiving financial support from Kicheche and other camps in the conservancy.

A new visitor centre will be open soon, but for now, it’s possible to visit their workspace and handicraft shop neighbouring MPCP. The employment of Maasai in the safari industry has also helped communities forge a connection between wildlife preservation and financial reward, and many have adapted their lifestyles accordingly.

Kicheche guide Johnson, who works at Valley Camp in neighbouring conservancy Naboisho, admits he now has less cattle - a response to the increasing pressure grazing puts on wild habitats.

Like the rest of us, he’s also grown extremely fond of lions. Sat alongside a shallow stream, we spend an hour quietly watching lioness Simaloi and her suckling brood of cubs - with no-one else around.

Detached from the main Enesikiria pride, the skilled hunter and mother has chosen to live alone.

It’s an idyllic scene, and I half expect a gospel choir to appear, singing Lion King classic the Circle Of Life. But happy endings are only guaranteed in Disney scripts and the future of Simaloi’s male cubs is uncertain. When old enough, they’ll be pushed out to find their own prides - a task made harder by a booming human population, blocked wildlife corridors and shrinking space.

The Maasai Mara is home to some of the continent’s oldest lions, but Niels suggests their 142 AUGUST 2019

unchallenged hegemony could pose bigger problems further down the line; without new blood to maintain a healthy gene pool, prides all over Africa are at risk.

Endowed with near legendary status, many of these old timers are now celebrities - and the truth is, it’s hard to let them go.

MPCP will continue to conduct their census, but counting predators has become much more than a numbers game; fleshed out with history and heritage, a sleeping lion is no longer a lazy twodimensional cat.

For now, Simbas roar all over Africa, but their grip on the jungle is slipping. They are no longer the undisputed kings.

The Ultimate Travel Company (theultimatetravelcompany.co.uk) offers three nights at Kicheche Bush Camp and three nights at Kicheche Valley Camp from £4,459 per person (two people sharing). Includes full board, shared game drives, services of a highly qualified guide, laundry, conservancy fees, British Airways economy class flights, Nairobi transfers, bush flights and an overnight stay in Nairobi.

“The employment of Maasai in the safari industry has also helped communities forge a connection between wildlife preservation and financial reward”

UNWIND IN COMPLETE COMFORT

For a superb glamping experience, Wigwam® Holidays offers luxury cabins, campfires and the chance to unwind in complete comfort Where are our sites?

Wigwam® Holidays has sites across the UK, the nearest being just a 90-minute drive from Central London. We also have sites in the South West, Wales, the Midlands, Yorkshire, Scotland and at other locations.

What is a Wigwam® Cabin?

Our fully heated, insulated timber cabins are made in Scotland from sustainable timber.

Many cabins are en-suite, some with outdoor hot tubs.

Each site has been carefully selected for its spectacular location.

accessible cabin, perfect for wheelchair users and carers.

What is unique about Wigwam® Holidays?

Affordable luxury in handcrafted, spacious cabins.

We’ve been offering glamping accommodation for over 25 years and continue to surprise our ‘Wigwamers®’!

Wigwam® Holidays - What will your story be? www.wigwamholidays.com Photos used for illustrative purposes.

What can I expect from a Wigwam® Holiday?

A warm welcome, spotlessly clean cabins and the majority of sites accept four legged friends.

Who can go?

Go with friends, family or both … enjoy quality time with your loved one or savour some solo travelling.

Some of our sites are also offering the brand new

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MAKEOVER IN MALLORCA Ibiza’s famous ‘transformation’ retreat has opened with a new - slightly more relaxed programme in Sencelles. Abi Jackson gives it a go

I

t’s 11am at a secluded villa in Sencelles, Mallorca. The sun’s shining, palms are softly rustling in the breeze and from somewhere in the distance, the faint crow of a peacock tumbles through the hot Mediterranean air.

Then, bang on cue, the Baywatch theme tune starts blasting from a speaker. I begin doing squats, as one of my teammates starts running laps and the other dances on the grass. “Good work teams, keep moving,” head trainer Rick Parcell yells above the music. “Don’t forget to high-five your teammates!”

I’m at The Body Camp’s brand-new Mallorca retreat, tackling an outdoor workout known as the ‘Baywatch Challenge’. The squats are the first of 20 tasks, with each set interspersed with running and dancing (the moves can be as questionable as you like, as long as you keep moving), and already my legs are burning.

To be fair, it is the third workout of the day. We’ve already ticked off sunrise yoga before breakfast, followed by a gruelling ‘Gladiator’ session (an hour of high-octane HIIT). And this is the last of four action-packed days - which have somehow seen me do more burpees than I’ve previously managed in my entire 37 years. Yet somehow, we crunch and pressup our way through all 20 tasks, with energy left over for a celebratory leap into the pool.

That’s the thing about The Body Camp. However daunted you feel by the size of the activity list when you arrive, and doubtful you’ll be able to complete even half of it, by the end your stay you’ll have absolutely smashed it - and the buzz will outdo any aches and exhaustion a hundredfold.

So what’s new at The Body Camp Mallorca?

Since launching in Ibiza three years ago, The Body Camp has quickly established itself as a leader in the field of fitness/wellness retreat travel. Mallorca is the brand’s second exclusive location and is billed as a slightly more relaxed ‘Essentials’ version of Ibiza’s intense ‘Life Transformation’ programme.

Instead of Ibiza’s mandatory ‘All In’ full-day itineraries, here, it’s ‘All In’ for the mornings, then afternoon activities are optional, meaning guests have the choice to top up their fitness even more, 144 AUGUST 2019

or take time out to lounge by the pool, or read or snooze in one of the villa’s peaceful hammocks.

The doors officially opened earlier this summer, and I was once of the first guests to try it out. As a retreat virgin, I had no idea what to expect.

It’s instantly clear why The Body Camp insist they’re not a boot camp, though. Yes, you’ll be put through your paces, but it’s all tailored to be fun (Body Camp doesn’t have a gym - it has a ‘Disco Gym’), not to mention luxurious. The stylish yet cosy villa - surrounded by peaceful grounds, a 30-minute transfer from Palma Airport - has been gorgeously kitted out, and all guests get en suite bathrooms and heavenly comfortable beds (well, no one can ‘transform’ without decent sleep!).

Neither is it a weight-loss camp. You’re welcome to take your own ‘before and after’ measurements if you want, but it’s not something the team pushes as that’s not really what it’s about. Mindfulness and positive self-talk are all in the mix too, so expect to flex those thought processes as much as your quads and abs.

“We’ve already ticked off sunrise yoga before breakfast, followed by a gruelling ‘Gladiator’ session (an hour of highoctane HIIT)”

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Hitting the reset button The Body Camp is essentially a chance to escape day-to-day stresses and give your lifestyle and selfcare regime a bit of a boot up the backside - while soaking up some sun and having an awesome time.

Most guests come for the full week-long experience, although shorter stays are also an option.

After getting settled, Rick talks us through the programme. We’re each given a ‘Life Transformation Planner’, where we can plot our goals, values and progress - and write notes.

As well as the multiple daily workouts, the menu is 100% plant-based. While dietary requirements will be catered for, everybody is generally expected to eat the same things at set times. There’s strictly no booze, and while there’s an endless supply of fruitinfused water and herbal teas, coffee is limited to breakfast time. Portion sizes come in three options (you can go regular, slightly more calorie-reduced, or ‘bulk up’ with more generous servings).

The idea of restricted food and caffeine is what concerns me most - but at no point do I feel deprived. In fact, chef Ben Whale and his team blow us away with their creations. We tuck into a filling sun-dried tomato and walnut ragu, fuel up with stacks of steaming blueberry pancakes, and a chocolatey nut and cacao protein shake - one of the post-workout treats - is so thick and creamy that I can’t finish it.

Fitness with a big dose of fun The programmes start with warm-up jogs around the grounds and drills on the villa’s custom-built training lawn. Rick and fellow fitness coach Anthony Richmond are clear about the rules: It’s not a race and it really doesn’t matter whether you can do a full press-up or only manage a few on your knees. So long as everyone supports each other and embraces the ‘opportunity’ (at Body Camp, a workout is a gift, not a chore!), you’re winning.

You’ll be dancing (100% sober) a lot, sometimes well before 10am - but Rick and Anthony’s comedy act capers make it impossible not to get on board. A few hours in, I’m having so much fun it’s impossible to tell whether it’s the exercise or laughing so hard that’s caused the stitch in my side. And although I’m with a group who were 99% total strangers just a day ago, we’re now whooping and exchanging congratulatory hugs like old friends.

Not all the exercise takes place on site. One of The Body Camp highlights is a hike. We trek 12km along a coastal path, stopping at a dreamy secluded bay in Santanyi for a picnic lunch and quick dip in 146 AUGUST 2019

the sea. The next day, we explore the scenery for a few hours with an afternoon bike ride. Guests can also borrow the bikes for longer rides if they want; Mallorca has some fantastic long open roads to get those legs working.

The inside gets some work too In terms of the mind-based exercises, we start each morning with a quick boogie in the villa (Body Camp doesn’t have alarm clocks; instead music starts blaring shortly before 7am), taking turns to read out a series of positive mantras to set the tone for the day ahead.

Rick also leads us on a mindfulness and positive-thinking session, and we do an hour-long breathwork workshop with Sapphire Brown, who guides us through the circular breathing technique as we lie on our backs in the yoga studio. It takes me a little while to get to grips with the technique, but very quickly the effects are intense and overwhelming - in the most welcome and cleansing way. It feels like an emotional purge (tears are totally normal and Sapphire tells us to just go with whatever we’re feeling), and I cry like all my periods have come at once - yet afterwards feel incredibly energised.

Everybody’s experience at a retreat is slightly different, and that’s really the idea. After a few days, my muscles are noticeably more defined and the whole group is glowing from within. Despite the 890,000 burpees, I feel rested and relaxed. People say The Body Camp is life-changing - and it’s easy to see why.

THE DETAILS A week’s stay at Body Camp Mallorca (thebodycamp.com) starts from £950 (programme runs Friday-Friday), which includes the programme, accommodation and all food and drink. Shorter stays of three nights (Fri-Mon) or four nights (Mon-Fri) cost from £600. Day passes are also available for £150.

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Patience is a virtue…

How to survive when you’re stuck at the airport

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ew figures have revealed the most delayed airlines, and some operators have had an absolute shocker. Spanish operator Vueling was found to have the worst punctuality of major airlines flying from UK airports with an average delay time of over half an hour, according to the analysis of Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) data by PA news agency.

Thomas Cook (24 minute delays on average) Wizz Air (23 minutes) and Norwegian Air UK (22 minutes) also fared poorly in the investigation. The ranking features the 43 airlines with more than 2,000 flights from UK airports last year. The average delay across all flights was 16 minutes.

That passengers are often left fuming in airport waiting rooms is probably not all that surprisingly, but now we know just how common, and how significant the delays can be.

Here’s how to pass the time if you’re one of the millions left stranded. Your options range from visiting the dentist, to Celine Dion...

Stay fed and watered Your flight is delayed, it took you hours to find a public plug, and you’ve probably had it up to about here. It’s not the moment to quibble with overpriced airport food, and start feeling ‘hangry’ too. Airport grub is rarely gourmet, but we’d recommend it over a shopping spree. Recent research by finder.com found that some duty-free purchases can cost up to 150% more than ordering online.

“Consider the passenger that danced her way through a fourhour wait in Atlanta Airport” Take a nap

Google the airport Sounds facetious, we know, but bear with us. There are no laws governing what airports should or should not contain, so different airports take radically different approaches to in-house entertainment.

Singapore’s Changi Airport includes a butterfly garden, Vancouver a multi-storey aquarium, while an airport near Sao Paulo features an on-site dentist.

Hong Kong International hosts a 4-D cinema, while Tokyo tourists can enjoy ‘flavoured breathing’ in Narita Airport’s fabulously surreal ‘oxygen lounge’.

And how could you forgive yourself for passing through Calgary Airport, without clocking that the third floor contains a real, bona fide moon rock.

Enjoy the people watching Airports are one of the world’s great equalisers - family holidays, frantic business trips, and beachbound stag dos, all packed in together. Everyone is in transit, so you can just sit back and watch. Grab a cappuccino, plug in some Coldplay, and enjoy life’s great tapestry.

Locate a public plug Universal sockets are the unsung heroes of every airport lobby, because long delays will throw your battery life plans right off. Unfortunately, you’re going to have to earn your airport movie, as plugs are often mystifyingly hard to find. We hope you like hide and seek, because, by the time you’ve located one, your delay might already be over.

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Admittedly a bold gambit if your delay is half an hour, but for longer holdups there are those that have turned the airport sleep into an art form. We’ve all seen them - beleaguered backpackers with eye masks, camping pillows, makeshift blankets and impressively few inhibitions.

For most of them, it’s clearly not their first rodeo. There is even a dedicated website sleepinginariports.net - with detailed guides on which lounge to snooze in, how to protect your luggage, and why you should ‘act innocent’ when woken by staff.

Make a viral video Consider the passenger that danced her way through a four-hour wait in Atlanta Airport, and woke up the next day to nine million views, or the unfortunate Australian that went viral after struggling with her luggage trolley. Yet more compelling is the tale of Richard Dunn, who touched the hearts of millions when he lip-synced his way through Celine Dion’s All By Myself, while trapped on his lonesome overnight in Las Vegas Airport. Delayed flights and smartphones seem a sure-fire recipe for internet fame. Just for the love of all that is airborne, keep your high jinks away from security.

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an American

adventure Winding forest trails and peaceful lakeside tracks make a trip through Maryland and Virginia feel actively wonderful, says Emilia Harris

T

he afternoon sun pierces through the canopy of trees above me, casting a golden dappled light on the narrow track ahead. As a tree root comes into view, I hear my tour guide’s voice repeating in my head: “These bikes can go over anything on the trails!”

But when a long black object slinks onto the path, I hit the brakes, nearly ejecting myself over the handle bars. My heart thuds. It’s a Northern Black Racer snake, unfazed by the near miss.

I’m guessing my guide wasn’t referring to snakes in her remit, so I wait for it to cross, in all its silken splendour.

I’m in the Capital Region USA, an area encompassing Maryland, Virginia and Washington DC (the gateway to the region). The landscape is diverse; horses graze peacefully on emerald pastures, and lush, fertile hills roll into mountains, with dense forests covering their rugged terrain. Outdoor pursuits are limitless and include hiking, horseriding and biking trails.

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YOUR LUXURY ITALIAN HOME-

VILLA OL

Virginia’s Blue Ridge (or VBR as it’s known by the locals), is a mountain biker’s paradise. Bordered by the Appalachian Mountains to the west and the Allegheny Mountains to the east, it’s recently been designated a Silver-Level Ride Centre by the International Mountain Bicycling Association (IMBA), and draws thousands of global biking enthusiasts to its trails each year.

Carvins Cove in VBR is the second largest municipal park in the USA, and boasts 40 miles of multi-use trails for all abilities. I pick up my bike from Roanoke Mountain Adventures (roanokemountainadventures.com) and begin by tackling The Enchanted Forest, a half-mile singletrack trail with conditions as charming as its name.

Pine needles scatter the dusty surface in a thick blanket, perfect for cushioning your landing, should a particularly large tree root knock you off balance.

I continue my ride keeping my eyes peeled for black bears and bald eagles who call the area home (sightings are rare but not unheard of), as well as the more common serpentine sorts nestling in the undergrowth.

Roanoke, VA is the largest city and main hub of the VBR region, with an excellent selection of restaurants and bars - perfect for refuelling after a long day on the bike.

It’s also home to the Hotel Roanoke (hotelroanoke.com), a historic hotel with 330

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rooms recently restored to their original 19th century splendour. Unsure where to find it? No fear, locals will point you there with pinpoint accuracy - it’s towered over the city since 1882 and is a treasured landmark. Make sure to dine in their opulent Regency Room, the perfect setting to try peanut soup and spoon bread. Peanuts are one of Virginia’s most illustrious exports, and rumour has it that the hotel’s soup recipe has remained unchanged for over 100 years.

For picture-perfect views of the city, hike the 1.3mile Star Trail up Mill Mountain to The Roanoke Star, the iconic symbol of Virginia’s Blue Ridge.

Originally built in 1949, it’s the largest free-standing star in the world and is illuminated every night, casting a yellow glow across the hillside. (Your visit to VBR isn’t complete without a game of ‘spot the star’ from downtown Roanoke). Once at the top, I admire the panoramic view of the sprawling city below, lovingly embraced by the surrounding mountains.

All this exploring is making me hungry, so I head for an early dinner at El Jefe (eljefesalem.com), in Salem, VA (a 20-minute drive from Downtown Roanoke). Their cinnamon-braised pork carnitas are spicy, succulent and delicious. I pair them with a jalapeno cucumber margarita while stretching out my aching legs in the warm evening sun.

Sundowners at Twin Creeks Distillery (twincreeksdistillery.com) in Franklin County, VA, are perfect to offset all the exercise. After all, life’s about balance, right? Franklin County, aka the ‘moonshine capital of the world’, got it’s nickname during 1920s Prohibition, and it was rumoured that most residents were tied up in the illegal moonshine industry, distilling and distributing hundreds of thousands of gallons of the corn-based alcohol across a five-year period.

Now, Twin Creeks Distillery serves legal moonshine, fruit brandy and white whiskey. Master Distiller Chris Prillaman’s roots run deep in the industry; his great-grandfather was indicted in the Great Moonshine Conspiracy Trial of 1935 which saw the local government try to recoup an estimated $5.5 million in lost whiskey taxes.

Gaining his licence to distil in 2015, Chris was the first person to sell a legal bottle of moonshine in the county. The irony isn’t lost on him and he delights in sharing anecdotes with me throughout the evening.

Bright and early the next morning, I’m crossing the state border into Allegany County, Maryland, zipping past eastern red bud trees which line the highway, their blossom reminding me of candy floss 152 AUGUST 2019

THE DETAILS Purely Capital Region USA (0844 80 444 80; purelycapitalregionusa.com) offers a 10-night self-drive trip to the Capital Region USA from £1,699 per person, based on a September or October 2019 departure.

Includes return economy flights with Virgin Atlantic from London Heathrow to Washington Dulles International, car hire in Virginia and Maryland, and room-only accommodation (Rocky Gap Resort, Maryland, Hotel Roanoke in Virginia and Eaton DC Hotel in Washington DC), based on two sharing. For more information on the Capital Region USA, visit capitalregionusa.co.uk.

on wooden sticks (good timing - I’m told they’re only in bloom for two weeks of the year in May).

Kitted out by Get Out & Play Outfitters (getoutandplayoutfitters.com), I spend the afternoon riding a section of the Great Allegheny Passage.

Advanced riders can tackle the 150-mile ride from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, to Cumberland, Maryland, but I’m after a relaxed amble.

The path is paved smooth for most of the ride, and I’m flanked by a gentle stream, its trickle providing a peaceful soundtrack to my exploration. I glide into the town of Frostburg, MD, an hour later, having crossed both the Eastern Continental Divide and the Mason-Dixon Line (the original boundary of the Northern and Southern US states).

It would be easy to while away an afternoon exploring Frostburg’s historic downtown, admiring the church spires which tower over the brown stone buildings and enjoying it’s fresh mountain air. But I’m here for caffeine - a pick-me-up ahead of our next expedition. There are no Starbucks to be found here, because the downtown is a hub of familyowned businesses, and the cosy Clatter Coffee (15 S Broadway), owned by friendly John and his wife Lesley, is just the ticket. Not for the first time, I relish in the community spirit running through this town’s veins - just like the caffeine working its way through mine.

The clock rolls round for the next activity, but this time, I ditch my wheels and head on foot to explore the Lakeside Loop Trail at Rocky Gap State Park. I mosey along the scenic quarter-mile route to the Canyon Overlook. The vista at the top is a treat, revealing mountains covered in dense hemlock forest stretching to the horizon. Turkey vultures glide above like kites, occasionally diving back to earth for a lunchtime snack.

Back on the Loop Trail, I’m captivated by the brilliant blue waters of Lake Habeeb, glistening in the late afternoon sun. An impromptu dip is tempting, but I resist. There’s been quite enough exercise this week, I conclude, continuing my stroll and breathing in the now familiar smells of the forest.

Summer just got a whole lot Smoother

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100% NATURAL FORMULA, SAVVISAND IS THE MUST HAVE SUMMER 2019 BEACH ACCESSORY • Insect Repellent • Body Buffing • Anti-Fungal • 100% Natural Formula • Anti-Bacterial • Skin Calming • Anti-Inflammatory • Easy use for children SavviSand is a lightweight, reusable, applicator that eliminates sand irritation from dry and wet sand, leaving smoothed, soothed and sand-free skin.

For only £19.99*

ntroducing the newest, must-have Summer 2019 beach accessory, SavviSand, a unique lightweight, sustainable and durable applicator that contains a 100% natural formula.

SavviSand’s unique bristle composition gently removes sand from delicate areas; in-between toes and fingers, leaving skin smoothed and effortlessly sand free with just a few strokes.

The compact device is a one-time buy, being completely re-usable! It is ergonomically designed to promote independent use for children, simply point SavviSand to the areas with unwanted sand and gently squeeze the soft push buttons to release the natural formula. Simple and savvy: SavviSand sweeps sand softly away.

routine that eliminates sand irritation, skin feeling buffed. Sweep off. Smooth out. Soften up.

SavviSand was designed by two sisters from Northern Ireland after ‘one too many’ trips to the beach with a daughter who has sensitive skin. They could not remove irritable, itchy, wet sand from the kids quick enough. Nothing seemed to work and they could not find anything on the market, that was natural, safe, simple or quick to use. After extensive research, endless hours in the lab and several prototypes later, SavviSand was created.

Contact us for further information: hello@savvisand.com. www.savvisand.com

The Re-fillable 100% Natural formula*** The powder formula consists of naturally sourced ingredients including plant, mineral and eucalyptus extract. The individual ingredients contain properties, which attribute to a natural insect repellent, anti-fungal, anti-bacterial and antiinflammatory skin care benefits.

The combination of the natural powder formula that is applied onto the skin with gentle strokes, sweeping the sand off and invites a skin calming

remoVeS weT SaND 100% NaTural Formula

SavviSand is the new innovation that gently removes scratchy sand from the skin. The formula is made from 100% natural plant and mineral extracts and leaves skin softened and soothed.

Summer juST goT a whole loT SmooTher… www.savvisand.com AUGUST 2019 153

LUXURY TRAVEL

tropical modernism: Bawa’s hotels with style On July 23, Sri Lanka celebrated 100 years since Geoffrey Bawa was born.

Here are some of his greatest works.

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amous for bringing the outdoors inside, Sri Lankan architect Geoffrey Bawa designed buildings to blend in with their environment and enhance the natural world. His style of “tropical modernism” can be seen in properties all over the Indian Ocean island, including several hotels which are now sought after places to stay.

Sri Lanka celebrated 100 years since Bawa’s birth on July 23, and even though most of his work was completed decades ago, his style is still as fresh as the rivers and forests of his beloved homeland.

Experience his art firsthand by staying at one of these hotels...

Jetwing Lagoon, Negombo Bawa’s first foray into hotel design is located in one of Sri Lanka’s first beach resorts, a 30-minute drive from Colombo International Airport. Built in 1965, it was originally known at the Blue Lagoon Hotel until it was purchased by Jetwing in 2009. Wanting to create a sense of space, Bawa imagined the low-

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rise resort as a series of villas. Sculptor and artist Laki Senanayake was responsible for the hotel’s sketches of twisted trees and vines.

Heritance Kandalama Hotel, Dambulla Making the most of natural features in a rocky area, Bawa insisted no earth-moving machines were used to construct this property. Exterior walkways run along the cliff face and vegetation climbs the walls.

Views extend to the Unesco world heritage site Sigiriya rock, where an ancient citadel was built in the 5th century.

Jetwing Lighthouse, Galle Set on the coast close to Galle, Bawa’s final hotel project features an elaborate staircase designed in collaboration with Laki Senanayake. The granite walled entrance mirrors Galle’s 17th century Dutch fort.

The Experience Travel Group (experiencetravelgroup.com) can tailor-make holidays to Sri Lanka.

AGUAS ARRIBA LODGE

HOSTERIA DE MONTAñA - MOUNTAIN LODGE Lago del Desierto - El Chaltén - Patagonia - Argentina

Enjoy yourself trekking in Patagonia

El Chaltén - Patagonia - Argentina Tel (+54 9 11) 61348452 info@aguasarribalodge.com www.aguasarribalodge.com

Awareness Is Power Early detection can save lives.

If you have any concerns you would like to discuss, I am here to help.

Fast access to a one stop clinics offering assessment and diagnosis of all breast symptoms Any breast lump, nipple discharge, dimpling should be investigated and management is offered for problems with breast pain, family history, breast feeding Also provide screening and a second opinion Miss Tena Walters, Consultant Breast Surgeon MBBS, FRCS, MS 22 years experience in Breast Surgery For appointments please call 01622 873058 For more details call Tena’s PA Helen on 07982 249612 Or email tenakerrywalters@gmail.com

fashion & beauty – Fashion, health and beauty news to keep you looking and feeling your best – i ma g e : S E L E C T E D B Y K AT E M O S S

FASHION & BEAUTY

[NEWS]

BEAUTY & FASHION

LADY IN RED A SPLASH OF COLOUR Fizz Goes Pop is the colourful brainchild of Lizzie Iafrate, a creative with a penchant for all things colourful and shiny, there is in fact every chance she was a magpie in a past life. Her background in graphic design pokes through into everything she does, be it wearable art in the form of juicy mirror perspex jewellery or her beautifully bold monogram and letter plaques. Her work is designed for ALL, not just colour lovers and not just women. In fact her mission is to make her art accessibly enjoyed by all people and for there to be no boundaries for who it is worn and used by. www.fizzgoespop.com

SUMMER SCARF

PERFECT pair

We love this beautiful silk twill Totty scarf. Finished by hand with silk thread. 100% Silk Twill. 160cm x 20cm. The ‘Poppy Neon’ is from a Charles Tottenham original illustration Printed and made by hand in England. www.charlestottenham.com

MIRROR MIRROR… This pretty Fox Badger pocket mirror featuring the Foxley Wood illustration is 3 inches diameter, so it’s the perfect size mirror for being small enough for your bag but big enough to see what you’re doing! These also make great gifts and favours for any occasion and perfect stocking fillers if you are already thinking ahead to Christmas. www.kraftspace.co.uk 158 MARCH 2019

We love this Polly Red Gipsy Dress from Dollydagger. www.dollydagger.com

We love these high waisted straight leg trousers by Cecile Jeffrey. All their knitwear is machine knitted and finished by hand and each garment is made in the UK. www.cecilejeffrey.com

TIME TO TRAVEL IN STYLE A pretty perfect, playful pouch designed by Elizabeth Scarlett.

This travel pouch is colourful, inspired by and features several toucan birds; the birds are hand illustrated and embroidered onto a teal velvet base. The pouch has a gold zip with an embossed lotus flower; peace, purity and perfection! www.sweetpeaandwillow.com

www.MarcEllaLondon.com

FASHION & BEAUTY

You could be hair free this time next year…

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f you have struggled with hair removal this and we can help to put you on the best programme summer, let us help you get ready for summer for you.

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160 AUGUST 2019

Dr Ravi Jain

THE DETAILS For more information visit my informative website www.riverbanksclinic.co.uk and subscribe to my email list.

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FASHION & BEAUTY

Italian Style

just a few miles down the road in Gonzaga. This small town in Northern Italy, is not far from the medieval town of Mantova, a town in which Romeo once sought refuge in Shakespeare’s famous play and which lends its name to the MANTUA brand offered in the UK. MANTUA’s diverse range of knitwear, are crafted in Cashmere, Merino, Silk, Cotton and Linen and are all prepared with a “no compromise” approach when it comes to quality. The yarns used are spun and supplied by long-standing partners, Filatura Papi Fabio and Zegna he Italian family owned Baruffa, each of which have over READER and run operation behind 100 years experience serving the OFFER: SAVE MANTUA, has been Italian and global textiles industry, producing exceptional contributing to the authenticity of knitwear for the Italian fashion the garments which bear the Made in industry for over 50 years, and is now Italy hallmark of quality. offering their exquisite garments to the The brand’s Signature Collection UK market under the MANTUA brand. includes luxurious wraps and styles (such “Our business started out by knitting garments as the Firenze, Siena, Antonella and Giulia) which for the major Italian fashion houses, but under have been the building blocks of the family’s their brands” reputation for exemplary quality. Increasingly, they Such was the trust in the quality of have sought to offer each style in a variety of blends the yarns, the craftsmanship and the which provide greater accessibility to customers at garments produced by the Alberini different price points, from 100% Cashmere, to the family business.

SettantaTrenta 70% Merino / 30% Cashmere, to a The emphasis has also always 10% Cashmere blend. been on the knitting rather than “We want to provide flexibility for everyone to woven garments, a simple nuance enjoy wearing our product, and we are also trying which adds complexity to the to keep to natural yarns only, which led to us production but creates a very developing the SettantaTrenta line with our different feel with a much more partners” supple, sculpted and forgiving With a vast range of colours available in a fit on the body. multitude of yarns, MANTUA is also able to Nowadays, a discuss bespoke made to order versions of some of second generation their best garments, with colours chosen by their offer their own customers, due to their highly flexible production. innovative knitted “We produced some exquisite bespoke 100% garments, having Merino, ribbed knit blankets in a striking cobalt moved out of the blue for one customer, which were incredibly workshop building comfortable. We have a long history and back next door to the family catalogue of garments which we continuously rehome and into a custom, visit as we think about bringing a modern twist to designed-for-purpose facility our knitwear”

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20%

THE DETAILS MANTUA’s garments are currently exclusively available online at their website www.mantuaitaly.com, and they are delighted to offer our readers a 20% discount across the range with code LIFE20.

FASHION & BEAUTY

A history of the

bikini

The bikini. While it’s a holiday essential now, life hasn’t always been so simple for the humble two-piece. In fact, it’s got quite the history.

What started off as the ultimate in scandalous dressing was slowly accepted, at first by Europe and eventually across the pond in the US too, eventually ending up the beachfront fixture that it is today.

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n 1913, 13 years after women were first allowed to compete in the Olympics, the first two-piece bathing costume was designed in a bid to improve performance.

It was basically just a tight vest and shorts, but eyebrows were still raised due to the previously unseen tight fit.

During the 1930s and 1940s in Europe, fabric rationing means that women started to wear a split bathing suit. Film stars including Ava Gardner, Rita Hayworth, and Lana Turner were all wearing the two-piece, and it was seen frequently on American beaches. However, showing the belly button was still unchartered territory!

On July 5 1946, the bikini as we know it today was born. Inspired by seeing women in St Tropez rolling up their swimsuits to get a better tan, engineer Louis Réard designed the first bikini.

He named his design ‘bikini’ after Bikini Atoll, where post-war testing on the atomic bomb was happening. His reasoning? Réard hoped that his invention would be as explosive as the testing was.

It certainly was and initially, no models would wear his design – it was the first garment to ever expose the belly button and this was considered seriously scandalous. The two piece was banned from the 1951 London Miss World Competition as the one-piece still reigned supreme. The bikini was later also banned in Belgium, Italy, Spain and

Australia, and was declared sinful by the Vatican.

In 1959, Kirk Douglas was spotted frolicking on the beach in Cannes with actress Bridgette Bardot who had boldly chosen a bikini as her beachwear. Bardot was seen from that moment as part responsible for popularising the bikini.

However, America still wasn’t keen and Anne Cole, a US swimsuit designer, said about a Bardot bikini, “It’s nothing more than a G-string. It’s at the razor’s edge of decency.”

Also in 1959, the mayor of Benidorm convinced Spain’s General Franco to legalise the bikini to draw more tourists to the town – he agreed and Benidorm joins Cannes as key in popularising the bikini. Marilyn Monroe confirmed the trend, appearing in a bikini in a number of photoshoots during the 1950s.

Despite the National Legion of Decency pressuring Hollywood to keep bikinis from being featured in Hollywood movies, bikini history was made in 1962 when Ursela Andress emerged from the sea playing Honey Rider in the James Bond film Dr. No. Also in the 1960s the bikini made it’s Playboy debut but early American bikinis tried to cover up the belly button and when modelled in magazines, the belly button was airbrushed out.

Seriously.

In 1964, America finally buckled and Sports Illustrated featured Berlin-born fashion model Babette March on the cover wearing a white bikini.

For better or for worse, we’ve come a long way since the bathing dress and, for that, most women are thankful.

FASHION & BEAUTY

Holiday Beauty T

aking make-up away when you travel is fraught with risks. Will your beloved Ruby Woo lippie melt in the heat? Will that tube of BB cream explode in your luggage? Will your favourite Huda Beauty highlighter smash and cover everything else in a fine dusting of holographic powder?

Plus, when you add it all up, that stuff is heavy, and no one wants to have to pay for excess baggage or - heaven forbid - downsize at the check-in desk. We can’t solve all these conundrums, unfortunately, but one way to take the hassle out of packing for a summer trip is with a make-up palette. With a range of brands now offering customisable trays, you can curate your perfect holiday kit, or choose from the season’s coolest new edits for eyes and cheeks.

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Here’s our pick of the best space-savers for summer...

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1. Misslyn Travel Kit All In One Teint Palette, £14.50, Beauty Bay Housed in an adorable Parisian-themed palette, this great value skin-enhancing quartet features bronzer, highlighter, blush and fixing powder, making it ideal for trips to humid destinations.

It’s available in two shades, peachy Globetrotter for warm-toned complexions and Jetsetter for cool tones.

2. Make Beauty Nude Palette, £32, Net-aPorter An expert does-it-all edit from NYC-based brand Make, the Nude Palette features eight eyeshadows in neutral tones (half matte, half shimmering) plus a pair of sheer cream colours in pink and coral, that can be used on your lips or cheeks.

3. Revolution Pro Colour Focus Palette in Black Earth & Stone, £12 All of Revolution’s eyeshadow palettes come with round pans that snap in and out, so you can tailor the selection to suit your trip. The gorgeous metallic and pinky hues of the new Earth & Stone palette are ideal for a romantic Mediterranean getaway, but you might want to swap in some brighter shades if you’re heading for a week of partying in Ibiza with your girl gang.

4. Guerlain Terracotta Contour & Glow Palette, £45, Escentual Guerlain’s bronzers are second to none and this chic compact contains everything you need to enhance your holiday glow,

These handy product edits are so useful for travelling, says Katie Wright

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combining matte contour and bronzing powder with shimmering rose blush and highlighter.

5. Zoeva Soft Sun Voyager Eye Palette, £15, Beauty Bay This small but perfectly formed palette from Zoeva is designed to enhance your eyes, but thanks to the pink and tan shades, the matte powders could easily double up as blush, contour or bronzer, meaning fewer products for you to pack.

6. Benecos It Pieces Refillable Makeup Palette in Freaking Hot, £26.45, Pravera With the new It Pieces collection from affordable eco brand Benecos, you start with an empty palette (£5.65) then fill it with interchangeable refills, choosing from pressed powder, contour, blush, highlighter, bronzer and eyeshadow. Can’t decide what to go for? There are also two pre-filled palettes, the warm-toned Freaking Hot and cooltoned Pretty Cold.

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FASHION & BEAUTY

‘SELECTED

BY KATE MOSS’ makes UK debut

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isitors to last month’s Festival of Fashion Pure London, were the first in the UK to view ‘Selected by Kate Moss’ the new collection from one of Scandinavia’s fastest growing labels, NIKKIE. Created by Dutch designer Nikkie Plesse in 2012, the collaboration with British supermodel Kate Moss debuted for the first time in the UK at London’s inspirational festival of fashion. It’s the first time the collection has been seen in Moss’s home market and is likely to have a huge impact.

After modeling for years for her own fashion brand, NIKKIE decided she wanted something new and different and asked the one and only top model Kate Moss. In 2017, NIKKIE launched the first ‘Selected by Kate Moss’ collection and now Kate Moss is the international face of NIKKIE. The collection represents the tough yet feminine style of Kate, and features jackets, dresses, skirts, trousers and tops. For its SS20 season, the collection has a strong focus on ‘country’, impactful in black and white, with embroidered materials and feminine shapes.

The high-end designs are offered in lavishing materials combined with statement details. This 168 AUGUST 2019

ABOUT KATE MOSS

strength, combined with a vast array of stylish looks and polished silhouettes makes NIKKIE the solution for women who are looking for something between high-end and high-street fashion.

Nikkie says of the collaboration; “Kate Moss has always been the ultimate embodiment of style. She personifies precisely what I want to express through my fashion label; she is strong and tough but at the same time feminine and sexy. We are growing NIKKIE worldwide and couldn’t wait to present it to the UK market at Pure London.” I am incredibly proud of the fact that supermodel Kate is the face of NIKKIE. Seeing how we immediately got on so well during our first meeting and knowing that she is now the face of NIKKIE, is a dream come true.“ NIKKIE has shaken up the European and Asian fashion industry with her feminine, sexy, elegant and cool designs, and is one of the fastest growing Dutch fashion brands. NIKKIE has a retail and showroom network of over 600 high-end boutiques, brand stores, and shops in department stores across Europe and Asia. With her luxury fashion collections, NIKKIE provides modern women with the right look for every day-to-night occasion. NIKKIE is now distributed and sold in over 15 countries.

After spending decades posing in front of the camera, Moss began working behind the camera as well. And she’s still making a major impact on fashion with numerous deals across both the mass and premium markets. Kate Moss also launched her own talent agency in 2016. www.selectedbykatemoss.com www.purelondon.com

Katherine Ann Moss was born 16 January 1974 in Croydon, Surrey.

She was discovered in 1988 aged just 14 by Sarah Doukas, founder of Storm Model Management, in New York City. Corinne Day shot black-and-white photographs of her for The Face when she was 16. Moss then featured in the Levi’s campaign ‘Levis for Girls’ with great success and went on to become the “anti-supermodel” of the 1990s in contrast to the models of the moment, such as Cindy Crawford, Elle Macpherson, Claudia Schiffer and Naomi Campbell, who were known for their curvaceous and tall figures. She has been on front covers and in fashion spreads for most magazines around the globe.

She has been on the cover of British Vogue 30 times.

In 2012, Moss appeared in the video of George Michael’s White Light and performed with Naomi Campbell in the closing ceremony of the 2012 London Olympic Games on 12 August 2012.

She posed nude for the 60thanniversary issue of Playboy in December 2013 and that same month, she received a Special Recognition award at the British Fashion Awards to acknowledge her contribution to fashion during her 25-year career.

Kate has been praised for her involvement and support to a number of charities. She helped launch the SamandRuby charity in March 2006. The charity was to provide funding for the education and shelter of Thai children. The charity is named after a friend of Moss’s, Samantha Archer Fayet, and her 6-month-old daughter Ruby Rose who were killed by the tsunami while visiting Thailand.

Moss also supports the Elton John AIDS Foundation, the Hoping Foundation, the Lucie Blackman Trust, Make Poverty History, Comic Relief and Homes of Hope.

From left: Runa Top £110 + Betty Studio skinny £110; Jominy Dress £210; Rihanna top £135; Rihanna Dress £160 + Dalia Belt £50

Kate, now 45 has been with her partner Count Nikolai von Bismarck since 2015 and her daughter Lila Grace with Jefferson Hack is now 16.

AUGUST 2019 169

FASHION & BEAUTY

FAKING IT

As we reach the sunny days of summer, women want to look and feel their best

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hat also includes carrying that bronzed look, but the thought of burning our skin on the beach is a horrifying thought.

With sunbeds also reportedly carrying a huge risk on developing skin cancer, we are turning to fake tans – whether it be a spray tan at a salon or a DIY job at home. Of course, everyone knows that perfect, even fake tanning is, like so many things, all about the preparation. Here are some tips to prevent that patchy look!

1. Always exfoliate before you apply your self-tan.

Exfoliating will create an even skin surface, and thus minimise the chance of an uneven tan and streaks.

It will also remove any leftover tan from your last application.

2. Moisturise, moisturise, moisturise….especially hands, elbows, knees and feet before you apply your tan. The moisturiser will act as a blending agent in these areas, and stop the tan from clinging in between your fingers, toes and knuckles – imagine the skin in these areas is like a sponge, it just drinks tan - so less is more. If you’re fairhaired, take a cotton bud and sweep a small amount of moisturiser over your eyebrows and hairline.

3. Always apply with a mitt. A mitt is to tan what a hairbrush is to hair - essential. The mitt stops your tan from clinging to your palms and also delivers an even application.

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4. Post application, remove the tan from anywhere you don’t want it to stay. So wipe your nails, your palms, in between your fingers and your finger nails. Then put a pea-sized amount of moisturiser at the bottom of your palms and rub your wrists together to blend the tan and reduce the appearance of a tanning sleeve.

5. Don’t use cheap tan. In the world of tanning you get what you pay for. Invest in tanning products with advanced formulations that are infused with other ingredients to balance out the orange and deliver golden.

6. The darker your tan, the more tanning ingredients it contains. Darker tans are harder to remove than lighter ones. If you’re nervous, opt for a lighter shade, build your confidence and then move into dark tanning.

“Moisturise, moisturise, moisturise…. especially hands, elbows, knees and feet before you apply your tan”

FASHION & BEAUTY

Five steps to perfect legs How to get legs worth showing off inclining surface – this will boost your metabolism, burn fat and tone your thighs.

Exfoliate and de-fuzz Before you start your hair removal regime, remember to exfoliate first. While you take a bath or shower, apply an exfoliating leg scrub (or mix sugar and olive oil together for a natural, pursefriendly option) and scrub your skin in a circular motion. Do this to open your pores and sloth off dead skin cells before carrying out your hair removal regime – this minimises the risk of ingrowing hairs. Say hello to smooth, sexy legs!

Tackle cellulite

Get perfect pins to be proud of with our top leg-toning exercises and leg-enhancing beauty tricks. We’ve got the only five tips you need to get legs to rival Angelina Jolie so take note and then prepare to bare, ladies!

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Leg-beautifying exercises The first step to perfect pins is toning them up.

Perfectly smooth, moisturised legs probably look great but perfectly smooth, moisturised and toned legs will look even better. The best way to achieve this? Squats, leg lifts and good old fashioned walking.

What and how?

• Squats – for hips, glutes, quads and hamstrings Place your feet a little wider than shoulder-width apart with your feet facing forward and extend your arms out in front of you with your palms to the ground. Inhale into your stomach and start moving your hips back while slowly bending your knees.

As your bottom sticks out, make sure you keep a straight back with your shoulders upright. Exhale as you reach the ground and then rise up again, using the strength of your legs and core to support you.

• Leg lifts – for mainly the thighs and bum Lay down on your right side on top of an exercise mat or carpeted surface and rest your right elbow on the ground. Take a deep breath and then exhale as you move your left leg up towards the sky as high as you can. Repeat on your other side and do two sets per day for optimum results.

• Walking – for inner and outer thighs and fat burning Walking is the perfect leg toning exercise if you favour cardiovascular work over strength training.

For maximum results, walk up a hill or another

Cellulite manifests itself onto the pins of even the skinniest catwalk models and experts say that around 90% of us have it (lucky 10%!). The ‘orange peel’ effect is caused by fat deposits just below the surface of our skin, causing the skin’s surface to appear dimply and uneven. The gold standard treatment for getting rid of cellulite?

Dry body brushing. By sweeping over your skin up towards your heart with a firm body brush on a daily basis, you stimulate the lymphatic system to disperse the fatty pockets built up under the skin. This takes dedication as you will need to repeat your body brushing routine daily but the result is soft legs with less dimples. Resistance training and cardio workouts are great exercises to blast the cellulite if you decide to go down the training route or – if you’re looking for a quick temporary fix – fake tan can dramatically reduce the appearance of cellulite.

Moisturise After all of that exfoliating, hair-removing and dry body-brushing, the next step on our road to perfect pins is of course moisturisation. We don’t just mean you should slap some moisturiser on and call it a day – invest in a good body oil to apply while you’re showering or bathing as this will give your legs a much needed moisture-boost. Once you’ve finished showering, pat your legs dry and apply a moisturiser that’s right for your skin type. By applying your moisturiser when your legs are still slightly damp, it’s easier for the lotion to sink in.

Perfect legs, Step 5: Natural-looking tan There’s no doubting that a bronzed glow can make you feel healthier, sexier and thinner and what better way to achieve this look than with a fake tan? Not only are UV rays harmful to your skin, a natural tan from the sun can also be a timeconsuming process. Instead, use a fake tan such as the Dove Summer Glow build-up moisturiser.

This keeps your legs hydrated and smooth while covering minor imperfections and adding a sunkissed glow to your pins.

Beautiful!

FASHION & BEAUTY

The Island, The Life, The Label

L

et’s set the scene. Welcome to the magical world of Mustique, nestled under a jungle of palm trees and surrounded by waters so clear it could only be the Caribbean, this is the little island we call home to ‘The Pink House Mustique’. Sitting in pride of place on the island, the iconic ‘Pink House’ is a mermaid’s treasure trove and most importantly, the HQ to the Pink House Label. Here you will often find the designer and owner herself, Lotty Bunbury, brimming with new ideas, chatting to those who have sought out The Pink House especially for her designs and making sure everything is just-so.

Lotty is one of the recognizable faces of Mustique, having lived on the island since 1993.

Arriving with just a small roll of silk and silk paints, Lotty launched what was to become her eponymous collection. Initially hand-painting every individual silk sarong, she could hardly keep up with the demand, and soon took on the island boutique, growing her collection to provide for all of the island’s visitors.

And for those who have not visited Mustique, but still want a taste of this exotic island hide-away, the creative cornucopia of all things Pink House has extended to a worldwide audience online, and in the most exclusive boutiques and hotels across the globe.

The timeless style, individual print designs and Lotty’s attention to the finest details produce pieces which can be worn for years to come. The lifestyle brand offers luxury resortwear to take

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you comfortably from a beach picnic to evening cocktails, outfitting your unforgettable family holidays and rosé tinted summer memories. No vacation suitcase is fully-packed without the vibrant splash of a Pink House print.

Never one to have less than 10 projects on the go, 2019 for Lotty, has seen the launch of the debut activewear collection for women inspired by the wild fan-palms which grow in abundance on the island. The flora and fauna of the 2019 designs take inspiration from aquatic species, life-rings and the beautiful flaming flamboyant trees which explode into bloom in the summer season. The Pink House Mustique only continues to grow in 2020 with design ideas already flowing and the ‘Pop-Ups’ planned in London for those tropical Christmas getaways. www.pinkhousemustique.com

“The timeless style, individual print designs and Lotty’s attention to the finest details produce pieces which can be worn for years to come”

FASHION & BEAUTY

Make a splash with your summer swimwear!

S

hopping for swimwear is enough to bring a woman really out in a sweat.

But there’s such a great range of styles, colours and flattering cover-ups available that everyone can look hot on the beach, no matter what their shape or size.

IF YOU’RE VERY SLIM: If you have no waist and shoulders the same width as your hips, you can get away with pretty much anything bikini-wise, but make sure you go for one that makes you look feminine. Triangle bikinis look great on slim women, as do bikinis that

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fasten around the back of the neck (they flatter shoulders and rectangular shapes). Plus, tie bottoms look great on svelte legs. If you prefer a one-piece, go for one with geometric motifs to highlight your waist and give you shape. Choosing a simple style in an attentiongrabbing colour is a good way to stand out from the crowd.

IF YOU’RE FULL-FIGURED: And no waist, go for a onepiece swimsuit in a matte colour to highlight your décolleté. Onepieces camouflage little sins like tummies and flab. Balcony shapes are glam and sexy. If you go for a two-piece, avoid bikini shorts or high-cut bottoms

“If your shoulders and hips are the same width and you have a slim waist, you’re lucky enough to be able to wear pretty much any kind of swimwear”

which will weigh down your figure. Whether you’re slim or full-figured, avoid: Square décolletés and horizontal stripes, which can make you look bigger than you are.

IF YOU’VE GOT A BOYISH, TRIANGULAR SHAPE: If you have large shoulder and slim hips, balance out your figure and make it more feminine in high-waisted short bikinis that lengthen your legs (these are also great at hiding any hint of a tummy!). They widen your hips and make you look more in proportion. If you have a small chest, try push-up plunge bras to give you a bit of oomph. One-piece costumes suit you well, especially V-neck ones which widen your figure in the right places. Think Bond Girl!

Avoid: Plain, shapeless ‘swimming’ costumes that make your figure look boyish. Low waists which highlight slim hips and wide shoulders.

“One-piece costumes suit you well, especially V-neck ones which widen your figure in the right places. Think Bond Girl!”

IF YOU’RE PEAR-SHAPED: If you have big hips and slim shoulders, definately go for a bikini. Weigh out your bottom half with a balcony top that draws attention to

your chest. Triangle tops tied behind the neck show off good shoulders, while lowwaisted bottoms with little ties balance out your shape well. One-piece swimsuits highlight your waist, but they make your legs look shorter - or even heavier - than they really are.

Avoid: High waists. They don’t flatter heavy hips and thighs.

IF YOU HAVE WELL-PROPORTIONED CURVES: If your shoulders and hips are the same width and you have a slim waist, you’re lucky enough to be able to wear pretty much any kind of swimwear.

Take care with one-piece costumes, though. They have to fit perfectly: if they don’t hug your curves in the right places they flatten your shape and make you look heavier than you are. If you have little love handles, avoid tight strings that make you look like you’re squeezed into your bikini.

Avoid: Bandeau tops if you’re big-busted. They only flatten out your assets! Accessorise with simple jewellery and classic sunnies for a shortcut to A-List style!

AUGUST 2019 177

FASHION & BEAUTY

Akasha Holistic Wellbeing Centre at Hotel Café Royal Cleopatra Inspired Gold Treatments

F

ollowing in the footsteps of legendary beauty Cleopatra, Akasha Holistic Wellbeing Centre at Hotel Café Royal is offering an indulgent Hammam treatment centred around the rejuvenating qualities of gold.

Created exclusively for London’s Hotel Cafe Royal by cosmetic artisan spa brand La Sultane de Saba, the 23 Carat Gold Signature Hammam prevents the signs of ageing and leaves skin glowing.

Playing a part in ancient beauty rituals, with the ancient Egyptians as its most famous fan, gold was used in Ayurvedic medicine for its healing qualities and ability to bring elasticity to the skin.

The four-step ritual, which lasts 90 minutes, will use a combination of 23 carat gold, mother of pearl and caviar extract which adorn the face and body throughout.

The 23 Carat Gold Signature Hammam ritual commences on the hammam plinth surrounded by copper bowls filled with rose petals and flickering candles, which fill the air with an opulent

and corundum extract to soften and smooth the complexion. The experience is complete by a Pure Lava Clay & Gold hair treatment to remove impurities, smooth and condition the hair and scalp.

GOLD BACK MASSAGE OR MINI GOLD FACIAL

fragrance. The sound of softly played Morrocan music and aromatic steam creates a fitting ambience for the welcome ceremony, which uses a mist of orange blossom, rose and rose geranium on the body alongside gemstones – to promote harmony throughout.

Once this is completed the Akasha therapists perform the following treatments..

GOLD INFUSED BODY AND FACE EXFOLIATION The exfoliation starts with a full body cleanse using black soap blended with gold minerals. A traditional kessa glove is then used with a technique that massages the body whilst providing the most invigorating exfoliation with immediate and visible results. The face is then cleansed with a 23 carat gold jelly and exfoliated with 23 carat gold anti-ageing scrub combining micronised pearls 178 AUGUST 2019

Following the exfoliation guests are given the choice of an indulgent massage or decadent facial. The Gold Back Massage uses 100% pure shea butter which is melted and combined with an oil of the guests’ choice which is steeped with gold minerals. The massage is an exceptional anti-ageing and nourishing skin treat whilst the deeply relaxing and muscle melting techniques provide the ultimate back massage.

The first step of the Mini Gold Facial is an anti-ageing massage using a luscious honey and gold balm. The silky texutured balm is placed on the face, neck and décolleté using hypnotic moves that gently lift, smooth and plump the skin. Hot towels, infused with a facial tonic, remove the balm before a 23 carat gold liquid mask is applied during which the therapists starts the head and scalp massage.

The final part of the facial is a gold exlixir serum, enriched with caviar and argan oil, which is applied to the face alongside a 23 carat gold anti-ageing cream infused with mother of peal and hyaluronic acid.

The ritual is completed with a ceremonial mist, after which guests are invited to spend time in the relaxation room with an invigorating fresh mint tea and sweet pastry. www.hotelcaferoyal.com

Treatments cost £190 for 90 minutes £245Back for 120 “The and Gold minutes.

Massage uses 100% For reservations please call 0207 pure 406 3360shea or emailbutter akasha@ hotelcaferoyal.com which is melted and For further information please combined with an oil visit www.hotelcaferoyal.com/ of the spa-and-gym guests’ choice Follow @AkashaWellbeing on which is steeped Instagram and Twitter with gold minerals” and Akasha Holistic Wellbeing Centre on Facebook Hotel Café Royal 68 Regent Street,W1B 4DY Tel: 0207 406 3333

BEAUTIFUL JEWELLERY FROM Aktaie

T

he idea behind Aktaie, the new British jewellery brand, was born during long beach walks with the dog along the shores of the North Sea in Norfolk.

Fluidity of the waves, their movement and cleanliness of lines inspired many of Aktaie designs. The waves would often bring beautiful stones such as quartz and carnelian that were tumbled by the ocean over many years making them smooth and rounded. There was such beauty in those natural stones and their flawed shapes that it gave the inspiration for jewellery that is simple, where nothing detracts from the beauty of the gems, jewellery that is perfectly imperfect.

Name Aktaie was not chosen by chance. Being

one of the fifty Neireids, Aktaie is the Greek goddess of the seashore, it seemed like Aktaie herself gifted the idea that has inspired the creation of the brand.

Most of the stones come from India and are cut and faceted by hand. There is great beauty in slight imperfections and variations in colour, because just like it is in nature – nothing is ever absolutely perfect. All pieces are handmade in a small studio in Norfolk by the designer and founder, Ksenia. Every gemstone is completely unique and there will be no other like it in shape, size or colour which makes each Aktaie piece one of a kind.

Discover more at www.aktaie.com. info@aktaie.com. Instagram: @aktaie_jewellery

“Most of the stones come from India and are cut and faceted by hand”

Aktaie Jewellery offers a range of perfectly imperfect pieces crafted by hand from precious metals and natural gemstones.

The collection is frequently updated with unique, one of a kind designs, where nothing detracts from the beauty of the stones.

Website: www.aktaie.com Instagram: @aktaie_jewellery

AUGUST 2019 179

FASHION & BEAUTY

QMS MediCosmetics words: lauren naylor

Q

MS MediCosmetics was founded by trauma surgeon Dr. Erich Schulte in 1986; he became involved in researching wound healing, and at that time surgery could reconstruct the shape of the face/body, but then the skin remained scarred and damaged.

He discovered that by topically re-introducing collagen to the skin would help with elasticity, skin quality and appearance.

Collagen is the building block of bouncy skin and pretty much dips rapidly with age, and when the levels start to deplete (after 30), we produce around 70 percent of what we did in our 20’s.

Dr. Schulte’s brainchild products are born in the form of The Collagen System­, £199, a combination of day and night collagen serums with three different molecular weight hyaluronic acids (nature’s own water magnet), all of which contain 70% of the Neotec A15 which is the complex of Collagen, 3x Hyaluronic and Matrixl 3000) and can be used over the face, neck, and eyes and work from the lower levels up to the surface.

These serums are the hero products in the range; (the set have the clinical trials) they’re clinically proven to reduce signs of ageing by 42 percent in just 12 weeks and improve elasticity by 28 percent.

If you’re an avid shopper at Liberty’s London, you may be familiar with the facials or the product collection in the beauty hall. Before sampling a QMS facial I’d never used the products and have never looked back.

In Germany, QMS is rumoured to outsell Creme de la Mer and La Prairie, and is stocked in over 600 locations worldwide including iconic buildings such as the Burj Khalifa Spa. QMS Medicosmetics has recently rebranded all

180 AUGUST 2019

their products, showing corporate responsibility through reducing waste and preventing excessive packaging by up to 50 percent on some products, making their cartons smaller so that they fit the exact size of their bottles.

They’re also contributing to a German scheme which supports the costs of material recycling and works on improving sustainable beauty packaging.

If you are unsure what products are the most efficacious for your skin type, I’d highly recommend trying one of the QMS facials in Liberty’s, they are ‘ready to wear,’ and all the therapists are so knowledgable in their field.

Rowan Hall-Farisse is the head educator for the brand and is jetting around the world educating Spa’s and individuals on the benefits of the skin systems.

The QMS facials are like no other, and completely tailored to your needs, with components of blackhead removal, gentle AHA acid exfoliator, and my favourite part; the algae mask.

The advanced facial also uses 95 percent pure oxygen concentrate - an element that helps boost cell renewal and help with inflammation and helps to increase the skin’s vitality and radiance.

An educational facial starts at £60 for 30 mins, an 02 Boost and Recharge Facial, £80, whereas a Skinspecific need (50mins) is £120.

One of Dr. Schulte’s favourite sayings is ‘logic, not miracles, makes great skincare.’

He combines his passion for science with his vast experience as a surgeon in the fields of trauma and cosmetic surgery, and he sees the future of skincare as being intertwined with the development of modern technologies (such as the 02 element) used to transport ingredients deep into the epidermal layer.

Facials available at Liberty London. www.qmsmedicosmetics.com

“Collagen is the building block of bouncy skin and pretty much dips rapidly with age”

FASHION & BEAUTY

Isabel Manns: ethically conscious Photographer: Austin Gill. Model: Layla Harris

D

id you know that the UK produces 1 million tonnes of textile waste in a year, which is enough to fill up Wembley stadium? As fashion becomes cheaper, in line with the trend for disposable fashion, so does the labour that produces it. Along with the use of cheap fabrics that are not environmentally friendly, the consequence is poor treatment for the employees making the clothes.

As prices drop in a bid for brands to remain competitive, it’s invariably the production workforce that bears the brunt of these cuts. Many times these individuals are children, with estimates citing 170 million children work in the clothing industry.

With increased awareness of the environmental and ethical pitfalls of the fashion industry, sustainable, ethical fashion is on the rise. While the concept is nuanced and there are numerous ideas about what exactly constitutes “ethical fashion”, utilising eco-friendly fabrics and supporting factories with high standards for employee care is paramount. As is minimising transportation; it is not environmentally friendly to have clothes imported from distant destinations. At a global level, shopping

182 AUGUST 2019

alone amounts for 2% of greenhouse gas emission.

In response to these growing issues, Isabel Manns wanted to build a brand dedicated to making a difference, and resolved to be part of the solution, not the problem.

Isabel Manns strives to be ethically conscious in every step of the process. With production based in the UK, it enables the brand to adhere to a higher standard of working conditions and reduces the brand’s economic footprint.

Working with sustainably conscious seamstresses in London ensures the fabric is cut economically, minimising waste. Any leftover fabric is then turned into scarves.

As part of this sustainability ethos, each item is reversible, offering a plain and printed side, providing customers with timeless, trans-seasonal pieces that can be worn to just about any occasion.

Through offering customers ‘two outfits for the price of one’, the brand encourages consumers to move away from disposable mass fashion and invest in higher quality pieces, designed to last a lifetime.

Driven by a desire to deliver ethical, high quality clothing at an accessible price point, customers do not have to choose between style and ethics. Isabel Manns endeavours to bridge this gap and support customers in shopping more mindfully, buying fewer, better quality clothes.

The original prints from the Autumn-Winter 2019 collection were inspired by aerial landscape views and all of the prints were designed by Isabel herself, then printed onto the finest silks and cottons. With a clientele spanning all ages, the creation of clothes that flatter all generations and sizes is integral to the brand. www.isabelmanns.com Instagram: @isabel_manns

Be Battle ready #BeBellUM Shop our new summer prints 20% discount code: BELNEWS20 Activewear that enables women to perform. www.bellumactive.co.uk

Website: www.hepaudrey.com Contact: contact@hepaudrey.com Facebook and IG:@hepaudreyjewellery Twitter: @hepjewellery

er 20 d N r O to D s N r fir LO u e yo od ff rc o te 0% En t 2 ge

to

Be Your Sparkly Best with Hep Audrey, an upcoming British jewellery brand. Hep Audrey are the creators of exquisite designer pieces made from high quality metals like Sterling Silver or Gold featuring only handpicked natural gemstones. Their collections are suitable for both everyday use and special occasions. They will make great birthday, anniversary and wedding presents.

Be sure to check out the Amore, Artisan, Aurora, Corona and Hema collections on their website. Seen here is the stunning Peridot and Amethyst pendant chain from their Aurora Collection.

Free global shipping and returns.

FASHION & BEAUTY

Love, Romance

…and Marriage?

Let Specialist Jeweller, Michael Platt, guide you at this magical time

I

s this the right time to make it happen for you and your partner? Only YOU can know the true answer, but......if you’re reading this, there’s a good chance YES is the right answer!

Proposing marriage to the person you love could be a most cherished, romantic and significant moment; intimate and private, just the two of you, or perhaps very public - all singing and dancing.

Each proposal, memorable for its chosen time and place, is symbolised by that one important question and… the box, containing a beautiful enduring Engagement Ring. Feeling a little nervous about the detail? Let Goldsmith & Jeweller, Michael Platt be of assistance.

Where to start when it comes to the ring: gemstone or diamond? and what shape? modern or traditional? single or multi stones? simple or intricate? gold or platinum?

SO many decisions to make.

Michael Platt, specialist jeweller in Wimbledon Village, know selecting the perfect engagement ring is an exciting but, possibly, daunting experience. With years of knowledge, they readily guide customers through the maze of information.

Firstly set yourself a realistic budget, be comfortable about what is affordable. Take note of a partner’s style and current jewellery. The team at Michael Platt will show a range of Engagement Rings, outlining all facts that affect the price. Michael Platt love being involved in a surprise proposal, and listen carefully to customers’ suggestions to ensure that the very best choices are made and excellent value achieved in finding the ideal ring.

The usual choice for the setting is either gold

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or platinum. White gold and platinum, when new, look identical, but will wear very differently. Gold rings will wear down over time and usually need more maintenance whilst platinum is stronger, more durable but usually commands a higher price.

Setting the wedding date may not be a priority at this stage but some thought should be given to the wedding band to ensure it will fit well against the engagement ring and both look good together on the hand. Wedding rings, whether plain, fancy or diamond set, should complement the engagement ring and not overwhelm.

An inherited gemstone or diamond can be transformed into a wonderful new engagement ring. If the setting is dated or worn or isn’t exactly what’s required, Michael Platt specialise in Bespoke Jewellery, made onsite in their Workshop. An in-house designer and working Master Goldsmith will be hands on in designing and making the ring. The team take customers through the steps of the Bespoke Jewellery Process. Commissioning an exclusive unique Engagement Ring is an exciting and romantic journey that does not need to be complex or necessarily expensive.

However, if selecting a ring feels too risky or complicated, consider proposing with a loose gemstone or diamond. In a beautiful presentation box, it’s a very touching, thoughtful and romantic gesture followed by all the excitement of choosing exactly the right setting together, as a couple. .

Make getting engaged a truly magical occasion at Michael Platt, Church Road, Wimbledon Village SW19

“Michael Platt, specialist jeweller in Wimbledon Village, know selecting the perfect engagement ring is an exciting but, possibly, daunting experience. With years of knowledge, they readily guide customers through the maze of information”

For more information, contact iurish@hotmail.com

FASHION & BEAUTY

be inspired, be adventurous,

be yourself M oving across the world to live in China with five children might seem crazy - and it was! Founders Lonnie and Michael Wadley attribute living 4 years in China and traveling to many parts of the world to their love of life. It has filled their world with adventure, and a passion for traveling to exotic places and experiencing different cultures.

In their travels, they were continually drawn to the gorgeous fabrics they found in local markets. The idea for Mila Roads began when they realized that incorporating these fabrics into daily use items such as a beautiful leather bag - creates a direct connection with these cultures and the lives of artisans that make them.

They dreamed of offering the same love of culture to everyone, through limited edition luxury leather bags incorporating the fabrics from found around the world. True pieces of art that you can carry with you.

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In 2016 Mila Roads was founded with a simple mission: make and sell products that help you be inspired, be adventurous, and be yourself.

Caring for Earth and the people in it are top priority to the founders. They do this by using responsibly tanned, recycled or handmade fabrics.

Using full grain vegetable tanned leather also allows for a more organic method. They even use a small U.S. maker for manufacturing to also support local makers.

When asked what they love most about creating their company, Lonnie states, “Every Mila Roads piece comes with its own story which, over time, will become part of your own story. We love that connection, and helping to make this world a smaller place.”

Website: milaroads.com instagram @milaroads

“Every Mila Roads piece comes with its own story which, over time, will become part of your own story”

FinAL REdUction

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 & BEAUTY

S K I N N YJA B C

aroline Balazs tried all the diets and fads but, like millions of people, found her weight didn’t drop. But not giving up, the mum of two discovered a new slimming method that could be the saviour of a generation.

In six weeks, she dropped from a size 16 to a 10 losing 24lbs and finding a new purpose in life.

The hard-working previous Nurse Practitioner now runs her own successful business, SkinnyJab, with a flagship Harley Street clinic, and two others, one in Brentwood Essex. She employs registered CQC prescribers who are experts in obesity management.

Caroline is the founder of a revolutionary dietary system that combines a repurposed diabetes drug and a supportive dietary and lifestyle programme.

Hundreds of clients have experienced sustainable weight loss and enjoying a healthy life.

Skinnyjab, approved by worldwide medical authorities and UK regulatory bodies, is a daily, self-administered injection into the abdomen with a purpose-built pen that carries a 28 day supply.

Initially used to treat morbidly obese diabetic patients but now approved for weight loss. The drug mimics the natural hormones that signal to the brain that you are full and the cravings that derails most diets are controlled. Weight loss is gradual over a 1-3 month period with potential for long lasting results.

“I’d put some weight on at 45 and just couldn’t shift it” says Caroline. “I was working at a GP surgery in Manchester and moaning to

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the pharmacist about not being able to lose the weight - she mentioned a drug that had just got its licence for weight loss.” Caroline then researched diet, exercise and lifestyle factors to construct a programme that could use the power of liraglutide – marketed under the brand name Saxenda – as a springboard for weight loss and improved health.

“SkinnyJab is not just the injection; it is the proprietary programme built around it that support and guide you to significant weight loss. We have had people on the brink of diabetes who have been able to turn their lives around.”

Its aim is to shed 12 - 16lbs in the first month and then up to two to three stones if used over a three-month period. Each pen costs £200 with two to three recommended for most people.

Clients are only prescribed SkinnyJab after detailed consultations and subject to regular clinical review.

Liraglutide can be prescribed by NHS doctors but GPs do not have time to offer the support or dietary planning that makes SkinnyJab so effective, she adds. At the moment, it is only prescribed as a last chance drug for people with a BMI over 40 but we should be using it earlier when we have a chance to help people before they get into a damaging phase of obesity,” “We have big plans for the future. I’m proof that it works. I want anyone who is feeling down about their weight to have the same opportunity to revitalise their lives.”

For more details visit www.skinnyjab.co.uk

“Caroline is the founder of a revolutionary dietary system that combines a repurposed diabetes drug and a supportive dietary and lifestyle programme”

MarviN NoNiS UK Marvin Nonis UK is an exclusive London-based designer label. Nonis brings years of invaluable experience showcasing his luxurious and elegant style in Europe and the US. He seamlessly pairs this style with a passion and drive that breathes new life into all he does.

Marvin Nonis is highly charismatic, and this coupled with his stunning style, make this world-renowned designer very much sought after throughout Europe. He creates gorgeous pieces for day, work or evening wear. Each design is as unique as the designer himself, and they’re full of sleek lines, exquisite details and a breathtaking mix of fabrics and colour.Â

His designs will make you stand out, showcase your figure and help you shine no matter what your company. Elegance, class and a timeless look: Marvin Nonis brings all of these elements together to create truly awe-inspiring pieces that are chic and perfect for modern times.

www.marvinnonis.co.uk

FASHION & BEAUTY

The Tone Factor

T

he eponymous brand Virginia Stone has smashed the mold and exceeded expectations with the release of their innovative and cutting-edge concept ‘The Tone Factor’. Their coveted, multi-award winning ‘Eyes’ collection now available internationally, is a feast for the senses.

The founders disruptive and inspired approach to skin care has turned the industry on its head.

As she has stated with conviction ‘The skin care industry adheres to a broken and outdated model. The ‘dry/normal/ oily’ classification system is incomplete and does not address the differences found within varying skin tones or the need to approach and treat each skin tone independently. The most important factor to consider when designing skin care is tone.

Your tone determines your skin personality, which inherently defines unique characteristics like skin density, sensitivity, SPF requirements, and potency tolerance levels.’

This unique and innovative approach has been recognized the world over, and the brand just in its infancy, now carries the title of ‘Best New Sustainable Brand’ as well as ‘Best New Design & Packaging’ with 21+ more international awards and acknowledgements.

Eyes, is their first release, and has garnered rave reviews and shown amazing results. Custom designed and formulated based on skin tone, this avant-garde eye cream is not typical and is as unique as the packaging it is housed in. Lush, decadent, and a powerhouse 3-in-1 concentrate – Eyes is both a moisturizing cream and an antioxidant rich serum, that offers anti-pollution benefits, natural SPF protection, and perfectly primes the eyes for makeup application.

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TESTIMONIALS Testimonial ‘Excellent Product! It is absolutely amazing inside and out’ Testimonial ‘Innovation all the way! This product is one of a kind. You’ll never see something quite like it. Its avant-garde packaging, the philosophy behind it, its texture and natural scent’ Testimonial ‘Best eye cream I’ve ever had! I have worked in the Beauty industry for many years and have had the luxury of trying some of the most exclusive and famous eye creams in the world.

Never before has the skin around my eyes and actually entire eye health, been so great. This product has a significant and fast effect, way more than any ‘anti-age’ product has ever delivered.

I look rested and healthy and can honestly say, years younger. I’m hooked! Thank you!’

The first of its kind, Eyes is available in 3 luxe skin tone collections: Kavesi, for fair skin; Jasari for medium skin; and Odaja for dark skin tones. Each carefully crafted formula is housed in a visually stunning stone jar, known as the Luxador, offering natural and exclusive luxury at its finest. The stone Luxador naturally protects the precious active ingredients within the formula, maintains the stability of their rich creams, and prevents UV damage that can compromise the potency and quality of a skin care formula.

This is the future of beauty, and Virginia Stone is leading the way as an innovator and disruptor within the space of skin care and the New Luxury.

Keep an eye out for the much anticipated waiting list for their next release due to be revealed early this Fall 2019, which will include a Limited Edition collection. www.virginiastone.com/collections Instagram/Twitter/Facebook/YouTube/ SoundCloud: @myvirginiastone

Founder Quote: “Virginia Stone was built on a foundation of passion, purpose, and an unyielding desire to innovate and inspire – offering uncompromising excellence in sustainable luxury”

NanaLola Couture is changing the way that the world views Fashion. By designing one of a kind bespoke garments that cater to her clients’ needs and wants, she has made diversity a point in her brand presentation – both in print and on the runway.

She is showing fashion houses and the world alike that despite your height, weight, size, shape or race we are all individuals, and beautiful in our own right.

“Elevate Your Style, Elevate Your Life“ Model: Mabel Lynn | Photographer: Reggie Bell

www.nanalolacouture.com

SUMMER HEALTH &

FITNESS GUIDE

– Everything you need to keep fit, healthy and happy this summer – I M AG E : YOU H A V E T H E P O W E R !

summer health & fitness

YOU HAVE THE

POWER!

Are you looking to sculpt and tone your body?

B

ox clever because throwing a few punches is the way to go - Top model, Victoria’s Secret Angel Adriana Lima recommends it - she has boxed for more than 10 years and combines it with skipping. And we can certainly see the results!

It strengthens your core Boxing is an amazing sport for strengthening your core muscles as it uses a lot of power from your hips and waist. The stabilising you have to master in order to keep your balance really works your core muscles, helping you to tone and strengthen up.

Your muscles are always working and your body is tight, in anticipation of being It improves your balance Boxing is great for improving both your mobility and stability as it requires you to move quickly and fluidly, and think fast with excellent hand-eye coordination in order to keep sharp and on your toes It’s a cardio work-out Boxing fitness is high intensive interval training (HIIT) that really utilises your upper body, combining a number of different inter linked disciplines and movements. Due to this it is incredibly tiring but totally worth it as unlike some sports it conditions the whole body whilst teaching you fun techniques.

It’s a low cost sport All you need is a pair of gloves and a skipping rope and you are set to go, which makes the sport low cost.

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It’s good for your mental health Aside from the physical benefits, boxing has been acknowledged to be great for your mental health as it can help reduce stress by physically relieving your body of any built up tension, releasing positive endorphins and the same time. It’s a great opportunity to blow off steam and punch a bag for 45 minutes!

It’s about body composition not weight loss As boxing is a full body workout, you’ll see an improvement in your body composition. It’s not about weightloss - results should be driven by a lower body fat percentage, tighter body, and better definition.

Quick results!

Due to the combination of exercises when boxing, you should expect to see results quickly.

“Boxing is great for improving both your mobility and stability as it requires you to move quickly and fluidly”

summer health & fitness

Introducing the Mi Eye at 108 Harley Street

T

he “Mi Eye” which works as an alternative to MRI scans is an arthroscopy diagnostic tool that not only works quicker than an MRI but can also be used in the treatment process.

Mr Alun Yewlett the Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon at 108 Harley Street and one of the front runners of the Mi-Eye in the UK describes it as a game changing innovation for patients suffering from sports related injuries and arthritis – a truly portable “one-stop clinic” solution.

What is the Mi-Eye? The Mi-Eye device is a needle that contains a camera attached to an iPad sized device. It allows expert surgeons through just a “mini” keyhole operation in an outpatient clinical setting, to see a dynamic view of what is going on in the said joint by using only a local anaesthetic.

How does the Mi-Eye work?

The surgeon will anaesthetise (local) a small area of the skin and then make a small stab incision to pass the needle into the joint in question.

This needle is then retracted and a full inspection of the joint can be performed while the patient sits upright or lies flat depending on their preference.

Patients can be asked to move the shoulder while looking inside the joint to look for dynamic problems.

The whole process takes about 10 minutes which is quicker than most MRI scans.

Is it just a diagnostic tool?

No, it is also a very helpful for a number of treatments.

We now treat some shoulder pain patients (ex: frozen shoulder) instantaneously by using the device to very accurately guide injections and in some cases to perform simple keyhole procedures all in an office setting.

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How does it compare to to an MRI? The problem with most MRI scans from a surgeons’ perspective is an MRI scan provide a static image of something that may be a dynamic problem.

It’s Time consuming with constant doctor’s appointments and scans.

Patients find it claustrophobic or they find it very noisy and unsettling. Some larger patients find it difficult to fit into conventional scanners easily.

Cardiac patients who have pacemakers or patients who have had previous sports injuries and have implants may be unable to have MRI scans.

Many MRI scans require the use of a contrast agent to be injected into the joint, which has a very small risk of allergic reactions.

The Mi Eye is a portable device which allows an expert surgeon to travel to a patient if need be thereby avoiding the need for patients to travel.

The Details The London Sports & Orthopaedic Clinic 108 Harley Street London W1G 7ET

info@108harleystreet.co.uk 0207 563 1234 www.108harleystreet.co.uk

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Steer clear of Summer sports injuries

Sport can be a dangerous business, even on a bright summer’s day - preventing injuries or treating them is not always a straightforward task. Always consult a medical expert, but here are some helpful hints to help you steer clear of some summer sports injuries ACHILLES TENDONITIS...

pain in the elbow being felt when gripping or turning items.

Prevention - Commitment to forearm strengthening - wrist curls, reverse wrist curls, and squeezing a rubber ball with a proper warm-up and cool down prior to and after playing should go some way to helping.

When the Achilles tendon (at the back of the ankle) is overused, inflammation and pain can occur. Left untreated, it can become chronic and can worsen until it becomes near impossible to run.

Prevention - Stretching and strengthening exercises for the calf muscles can help prevent injury. A tight and inflexible calf muscle puts undue strain on the Achilles. Ensure you have the correct shoes for your form of exercise.

GROIN STRAIN...

Groin strain is a strain or rupture of the adductor muscle, which is situated in the upper thigh.

Symptoms include sharp pain, swelling and sometimes even bruising. Groin strain is common in football and racket sports.

Prevention - As with most muscle pulls, the best way to prevent injury is stretching before exercise.

Proper warm-up, gradually increasing the intensity of the activity may help prevent injury, as will strength work on the inner thigh muscles.

LOWER BACK PAIN Lower back pain comes in many guises — from slipped disks to back spasms, and sciatica. Sportsrelated back pain is often caused by improper stretching. It is most common in runners, cyclists, golfers, and tennis players.

Prevention - Some lower-back injuries cannot be prevented and are often just bad luck, but you can minimise the risk by warming up properly.

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ANKLE SPRAIN

HAMSTRING PULL This is caused by tears to the fibers of the hamstring located at the back of the thigh. A hamstring injury produces a sudden sharp pain or ache. The degrees can be minor to severe, but both will make running or even walking difficult and in some severe cases, near impossible. Common in sports involving explosive bursts of pace such as football, basketball and tennis.

Prevention - The chances of a hamstring injury occurring can be minimised with a proper warm-up and with a thorough stretching of the hamstring (touching your toes with straight knees).

TENNIS ELBOW Tendons in the elbow get stretched beyond their capacity by a repetitive action and become inflamed.

It is common to tennis players and golfers, with

Ankle sprain occurs due to a false movement when the ligaments that hold the bones become overstretched, with a throbbing pain in the ankle, and potentially lots of swelling, bruising and tenderness.

Prevention - Wear supportive shoes and strengthen your ankles by doing exercises, as well as taping the ankle or wearing a lace-up brace, but these measures won’t guarantee you won’t be injured if you fall hard.

RUNNER’S KNEE This occurs when overuse leads to irritation of the tendon below the kneecap or when underneath the kneecap is worn. It does not just affect runners, with cyclists and football players among those who can also be affected.

Prevention of runner’s knee: Remember to stretch well. Strengthening work focusing particularly on the quadriceps will help as will the correct running shoes, which should be replaced regularly.

summer health & fitness

Focus on…

FATIGUE Dr Angela Rai from The London General Practice discusses fatigue

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atigue is an extremely common symptom seen in General Practice. Feeling tired is a normal part of life, but it can also be a symptom of illness. There are numerous causes of tiredness including poor sleep, dehydration and stress as well as medical causes.

The symptoms of ‘tired all the time’ (TATT), can be difficult to manage, however seeing your doctor can help rule out more serious conditions. Here are a few common conditions seen in General Practice that are known to cause tiredness or fatigue.

Anaemia- one of the most common reasons for feeling constantly run down is iron deficiency anaemia. Women with heavy periods are prone to anaemia, this can be easily confirmed on a blood test and treated with iron tablets. Anaemia may also occur in pregnancy. Anaemia in men or postmenopausal women is more likely to be caused by other disorders such as intestinal bleeding due to stomach ulcers, colitis or possibly bowel cancer.

Hypothyroidism- an underactive thyroid is when the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone (thyroxine) and this slows down metabolism, leading to tiredness, weight gain, increased sensitivity to cold, constipation and many other symptoms. A blood test can diagnose an underactive thyroid.

“A noticeable sign of obstructive sleep apnoea is snoring, awakening abruptly gasping or choking” Diabetes- is a metabolic disorder where there is a high level of sugar in the blood for prolonged periods of time. This can lead to tiredness, excessive thirst and frequent urination. There is a risk of complications with diabetes especially if left untreated, such as cardiovascular disease and kidney disease.

Glandular Fever- is a common viral condition that usually affects teenagers and young adults.

Symptoms include fever, sore throat and swollen glands. A blood test for Epstein- Barr virus can be performed to diagnose glandular fever. Most people recover in 2-3 weeks, but the tiredness symptoms may linger for several weeks or months.

Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA)- is a breathing problem that occurs whilst asleep. The throat 200 AUGUST 2019

muscles intermittently relax and the throat narrows interrupting normal breathing. A noticeable sign of obstructive sleep apnoea is snoring, awakening abruptly gasping or choking, observed episodes of breathing cessation during sleep and daytime sleepiness. OSA can have a significant impact on quality of life as well increasing the risk of problems such as hypertension and cardiovascular disease.

Depression and Anxiety- mood disorders can make you feel sad and anxious as well as disrupting sleep, causing difficulty in falling asleep and early morning wakening. Feeling drained of energy and tiredness are common symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Vitamin B12 and Folate deficiency- these vitamins help perform important functions in the body including keeping the nervous system healthy.

Deficiency can lead to symptoms such as extreme tiredness, sore tongue, mouth ulcers and pins and needles. It is important for these deficiencies to be diagnosed and treated as soon as possible. Although many of the symptoms improve with treatment, some problems caused by the condition can be irreversible if left untreated.

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

summer health & fitness

In a class of their own...

L ooking for a new way to keep fit? You have made the decision to get in better shape, and like the idea of doing so in a group environment or fitness class. The camaraderie along with the motivation, instruction and expertise of the instructor – can help to ensure you get the most out of your workout.

Here is a guide to the fitness class – which one is for you?

Zumba Originating from Latin dance styles, Zumba is a cardiovascular and aerobic exercise routine that infuses exercise with dance and choreography.

The workout alternates between fast-paced and slow-paced dance moves which are practiced in time to Latin rhythms. Among the dance form’s influences are salsa, hip-hop and rumba. This South American workout tones the body through its use of resistance exercises which effectively amount to interval training due to the varying speeds at which they are carried out.

or teaming up with a partner to punch or kick focus pads. Both are considered one of the best all-round high intensity exercise classes to get you in great shape. One study found that people felt more calm, more focused and less anxious after a kickboxing class. Taking out all that aggression on a punch bag can be a great stress reliever!

Pilates Pilates is a form of exercise which works on restoring correct posture and alignment, strengthening the muscles that stabilise the joints, and working particularly strongly on the abdominals and back. Pilates is named after Joseph Pilates, who developed a series of exercises to help dancers with injuries and muscle imbalances and weaknesses in the 1930s. The movement exercises are very precise, focused and controlled, and performed on an exercise mat in a class context.

Yoga

Circuit training Circuit training involves a number of exercises – or ‘stations’ – which are performed one after the other, with a short rest in between. The whole exercise circuit is usually repeated a few times. Exercises vary, but tend to include aerobic exercises such as shuttle runs, star jumps and burpees, along with strength moves such as push-ups, squats and lunges.

The nature of a circuit training class means that, rather than raising your heart rate and keeping it high for the duration of the class, it gives you more of an ‘interval training’ effect, where you mix intense bursts of activity with recovery periods. It is a very effective way of improving aerobic fitness.

Boxercise/Kickboxercise Derivatives of boxing and kickboxing, they use the drills and techniques of their respective sports in a non-contact setting. For example, you might find yourself shadowboxing, skipping, using punch bags 202 AUGUST 2019

Yoga strengthens muscles, improves joint flexibility, and enhances balance, coordination and posture through a series of diverse poses (or ‘asanas’).There are many types of yoga. For example, ashtanga yoga is more energetic than viniyoga. Yoga works on the whole body without favouring one side, and includes forward and backward bending, twists, balances and inversions. Movements are coordinated with the breath. Different types of yoga have very different focuses and approaches – so it’s best to watch a class or speak to the instructor before you take part.

“Derivatives of boxing and kickboxing, they use the drills and techniques of their respective sports in a non-contact setting”

summer health & fitness

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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“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”

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

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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

summer health & fitness

A Revolution in Hip Replacement Surgery

Why do we need a robot to replace the hip?

Hip replacement surgery has been previously voted as one of the most successful procedure of the previous century. With time, there has been a study evolution with advancements in both material science as well as the minimally invasive, less disruptive approaches into the hip joint bringing the success rate to almost 95%. Since the 1970s, what has not evolved is the way surgeons plan and execute the surgery. Variation in human anatomy is endless and for the majority of patients the traditional implantation would adequate.

We now finally have a valuable addition to the surgeon’s armamentarium that introduces precision engineering to the implantation process.

What is a Mako Robot?

The Mako Robot is a robotic arm that allows the surgeon to implant a hip replacement in a position best suited to that individual patient. A detailed plan is devised before the surgery starts using a CT scan. At the start of the procedure the hip is then mapped in real time. The mapping is then matched with the CT scan producing a highly accurate simulation of the individual patient’s hip. This allows bespoke implant positioning and implantation by the surgeon using the robotic arm to ensure extreme accuracy. We are confident that this will translate to better outcomes and quicker recovery times.

Does the Mako robot provide any other benefits?

The ability of the surgeon to constantly crossreference every step with the pre-operative detailed plan in real time means that the margin for error is significantly reduced. The robot also knows where the patient’s pelvis is in 3D space irrespective of 208 AUGUST 2019

how they have been positioned on the operating table. The amount of bone resected in order to allow implantation is therefore measured more accurately to within a millimetre. All these added features equate to a safer procedure which is key.

What are the short and long term benefits over standard surgery?

In the short term, we would expect a quicker recovery with an accelerated return to daily activities in addition to driving, work and sport. This is due to the robot providing extra references that allow the surgeon to reduce the amount of tissue dissected and pulled about. Long term, by providing more accurate component placement, we would expect a reduction in the wear rate of these components and therefore longer survivorship.

“In the short term, we would expect a quicker recovery with an accelerated return to daily activities in addition to driving, work and sport” Are the results good?

Early results are hugely encouraging and we are increasingly confident that the use of robotics will improve the overall success of hip replacement surgery. The new technology adds no extra risk and promises to produce better short and long term results for the vast majority of patients.

The leap from progressive evolution to a revolution in Hip Replacement Surgery has finally arrived.

Omar Sabri Mr Sabri is a highly experienced hip and pelvis reconstruction surgeon that consults at Parkside Private Hospital. He specialises in complex hip and pelvic injuries and has pioneered a variety of surgical reconstruction modalities for these injuries. In addition to Robotic Total Hip and Total Knee replacement for a variety of pathologies, Mr Sabri also specialises in simple and complex lower limb trauma cases. Mr Sabri also has a special interest surgical technology and has co-developed a Hip replacement Virtual reality simulator to teach other surgeons how to perform the procedure.

For an appointment call: 020 8971 8026 or Email: info@parkside-hospital.co.uk www.parkside-hospital.co.uk

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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 210 AUGUST 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

summer health & fitness

Getting back on your feet faster and safer after knee surgery

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nhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) is a new approach to the way that care can be delivered to patients having certain operations, such as knee replacement surgery.

The aim of the programme is to enable patients to be well enough to go home two to three days after their knee replacement by following a specialised pathway of care.

Early mobilisation of the joint is a key part of the programme contributing to a shorter stay in hospital, meaning a faster return to a patient’s usual activities. It is getting back to normal activity quicker which is the main objective of ERAS as it is beneficial in both the rehabilitation process and in reducing the risk of developing blood clots after surgery.

Desmond Runganga is the Clinical Nurse Specialist for Orthopaedics at King Edward VII’s Hospital: “Working with the surgical, nursing and physiotherapy teams, patients are actively encouraged to work towards achieving their daily goals. The more involved they are in the programme, the more successful it will be and the faster their recovery from surgery.”

King Edward VII’s Hospital has one of London’s only purpose built hydrotherapy pools, providing patients with non-weight bearing enhanced rehabilitation on-site. Hydrotherapy is part of the ERAS as Desmond explains: “Hydrotherapy is the use of water in rehabilitation. The warmth and support of the water helps to decrease pain, increase muscle strength, improve mobility of stiff or swollen joints and enhance balance and co-ordination, making it ideal for patients recovering from knee replacement surgery.

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Hydrotherapy sessions usually start on day 2 post-surgery. The benefit of including hydrotherapy in a patient’s ERAS is to help increase strength and range of motion in the knee post-surgery.”

If you are suffering constant pain and restricted movement in your knee, or in any of your bones, joints or muscles, the musculoskeletal specialists at King Edward VII’s Hospital can provide an expert diagnosis and advise on a treatment plan to get you back to enjoying day to day life.

To enquire about paying for treatment or using your private medical insurance at King Edward VII’s Hospital, 5-10 Beaumont Street, Marylebone, London W1G 6AA, contact the dedicated patient services team. www.kingedwardvii.co.uk; 020 7467 4344.

“Patients are actively encouraged to work towards achieving their daily goals”

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Sponsor a Veteran THE DETAILS To help raise funds towards this appeal King Edward VII’s Hospital will be hosting a Gala Dinner on 1st October 2019 at Fishmonger’s Hall, City of London EC4R 9EL. Tickets are priced at £150 per person or £1,350 for a table of 10 and can be purchased via www.tickettailor.com/events/ kingedwardviishospital/255068

F

ounded in 1899, King Edward VII’s Hospital is an independent charitable hospital combining world-leading expertise with impeccable standards of nursing care.

Since sisters Agnes and Fanny Keyser opened their home 120 years ago to help injured soldiers, King Edward VII’s Hospital has been more than just a hospital for veterans, it has delivered medical care with kindness and compassion.

This tradition continues to this day as the Hospital delivers life-changing surgery and treatment to the men and women who have served this country. That commitment is widely acknowledged through the creation of their Centre for Veterans’ Health (CVH) in 2014, running grants programmes and the ground-breaking Pain Management Programmes (PMP).

“The Hospital delivers lifechanging surgery and treatment to the men and women who have served this country” Up to 60 veterans each year are able to participate in the PMP, giving them the tools to reduce their pain medication, to manage their pain, to feel more confident and to be more engaged with their family and friends. Since 2014 (when the programme was introduced) the CVH has helped 447 veterans by providing grants and subsidies in order that they 214 AUGUST 2019

may benefit from an extensive range of surgeries, and 187 veterans have attended a PMP. Through the launch of the ‘Sponsor a Veteran’ appeal the Hospital aims to raise £360,000 to increase the number of veterans helped by 40%.

“The practices and techniques combined with the knowledge learned during this 10-day Pain Management Programme, have given me back to myself, a husband to my wife, and a father to my children. It’s nice to be off medication, optimistic about the future, and full of life again. I will always be grateful to the team. Thank you from me and my family.”

To donate directly to the appeal either send a cheque to The Fundraising Department, King Edward VII’s Hospital, 5-10 Beaumont Street, London, W1G 6AA or via www.cafdonate.cafonline.org/ 10370#/DonationDetails

summer health & fitness

Putting the Spotlight on Preventative Healthcare Offering a unique approach to patient-centered care

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ith more than 150 years of combined experience in delivering high-quality healthcare, Mayo Clinic and Oxford University Clinic are joining forces to open a new preventative healthcare facility in London’s renowned Harley Street district.

Two world-renowned names in healthcare - Mayo Clinic and Oxford University Clinic have partnered to bring a state-ofthe art preventative healthcare facility to London’s 15 Portland Place. Both endowed with rich individual histories, together these institutions bring an unparalleled wealth of experience in the delivery of high-quality patientcentred care. Founded 130 years ago, Mayo Clinic is a US-based not-for-profit organisation that serves more than 1.3 million patients worldwide, investing more than $1bn in clinical research and education each year. On the other side, Oxford University Clinic is itself a partnership between Oxford University and Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation trust, delivering cutting-edge research that brings innovation from the lab to the bedside. Based on the legacy of its two parent organisations, the new clinic will see its profits reinvested to boost research, medical care and education, extending this collaboration to the delivery of innovation in the healthcare space.

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Opening its doors in September, the new clinic will be the first physical manifestation of this partnership.

Taking a unique approach to preventative medicine, the clinic will offer premium screening and diagnostic services, delivered through personalised healthcare plans. Tailored to the needs of both individual and corporate clients, the Health and Wellness plans provide clients with a highly coordinated healthcare journey, supported by the partners’ combined network of over 4,000 health experts.

The individual plan recognises the importance of taking a proactive approach to your health, enabling clients to invest in their future wellbeing.

The clinic’s executive plan is designed with the stresses of today’s corporate environment in mind, understanding that the health of a businesses’ senior team is imperative to sustaining a company’s success.

Through the delivery of tailored care, the clinic will offer clients the opportunity to explore various health concerns – from stress-related conditions to family medical history. Every client is guided through a comprehensive preventative

health assessment by a dedicated personal doctor, including a physical examination and lifestyle review. The standard protocol includes a physical examination, laboratory work and cardiovascular counselling, allowing specialist physicians to explore any of the client’s concerns. Dependent on the individual’s unique health needs, additional services such as an exercise ECG, bone density scan and abdominal aortic ultrasound may be carried out to ensure a comprehensive healthcare review.

A premium concierge-style service Located in the heart of London’s Harley Street Medical Area, the clinic is easily accessible to patients travelling from within the UK and overseas.

Looking beyond the realm of health, the clinic’s clients will also be able to enjoy a suite of premium amenities, such as the on-site Executive Lounge and Business Hubs. Dedicated concierge staff are on hand to provide guidance on accommodation, restaurants and the local area to ensure clients enjoy a seamless experience from the moment they enter through the clinic’s doors. www.mch-ouc.co.uk

summer health & fitness

Affordable Luxury at The Laboratory Spa & Health Club Providing the elements of wellbeing

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uxury, style, space and elegance create the perfect environment to escape the many pressures of a hectic London life. Relaxation is essential to both the body and mind and the Laboratory Spa and Health Club provides a gateway to undisputed tranquillity.

The Laboratory boasts an effortless and peaceful ambience in drawing you in and leaving you wanting more.

Twice winners of the UK Health Club of the Year award (National Fitness Awards) and previously voted best private Health Club and Spa in London by Time Out. No expense has been spared at the Lab from fresh flowers in the changing rooms, to the finest cutting-edge workout equipment. The flawlessly finished workout areas complement the stunning swimming pools, personalised fitness and well-being programming

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“No expense has been spared at the Lab from fresh flowers in the changing rooms, to the finest cuttingedge workout equipment�

and the choice of over 100 different fitness classes at each club.

Innovative, motivational and led by some of the UK’s finest and most-respected fitness professionals, the Lab offers an unrivalled and envied timetable of group exercise classes to cater for every age, interest, and schedule. Schwinn cycling, BodyPump, salsa, aquatics, yoga, pilates, qi gong and so much more! Regular courses are also held, from meditation to Zumba and hula hooping workouts, pole-dancing and motivational talks.

Tight for time? Their experienced fitness team will ensure your workout programme gets you tip-top results safely before you head off to work or why not squeeze a class into your day for a super-fast, super-intense workout that will leave you positively buzzing with renewed energy and vigour!

The Juice Bar is the ideal place to enjoy fresh and healthy snacks, and catch up with other members of the Club, home-made light meals and refreshments made from the highest quality ingredients make for a scrumptious menu.

In each Club there is a spectacular 25 metre swimming pool. These beautiful award winning pools are cleansed with the latest UV light technology, ensuring the highest possible standards of hygiene with minimal levels of chlorine. This enables members to bathe in comfort in the finest water possible. Whether it’s a few gentle lengths before a steam or serious lane swimming as part of your cardio-vascular workout, it’s heaven for anyone who enjoys a swim. Each pool area incorporates twin spa baths, a wonderful relaxation area, marble steam rooms and Scandinavian saunas to help completely unwind.

The Lab’s philosophy is to not just treat the body on its own, but the mind and soul as well.

The Day Spa at The Lab is a haven of peace and calm that provides a chance to escape the stresses of daily life. The stylish treatment rooms are the perfect backdrop for the exceptional team of highly-qualified spa therapists and holistic therapists to deliver a broad range of exceptional treatments including facials, massage, body care therapies , hot stone and reflexology, to name but a few.

The Laboratory Spa & Health Clubs are one of the few remaining independent, privately owned Clubs in London. The original flagship site opened

in 1995 with the impressive backdrop of Alexandra Palace in Muswell Hill. The Club is surrounded by its own luscious and secluded gardens where you can sun-bathe or chill out in private.

At The Laboratory, unlike most other clubs, there is no annual contract. Seb Barre, General Manager says “Our members stay with us because they value what we offer and love what we do. We provide an oasis of calm in a busy life. We aim to help you achieve your goals and increase your individual wellbeing. At the Lab you will be transported to a world of serenity, where muscle tension and the mind’s concerns simply melt away allowing you to emerge refreshed, balanced and energised.”

Lab members have full use of all facilities. Nonmembers are welcome to use the Day Spa. For further information call: 020 8457 3300 (Mill Hill) or 020 8482 3000 (Muswell Hill) Mill Hill: 1a Hall Lane, NW4 4TJ. Muswell Hill: The Avenue N10 2QE. www.labspa.co.uk

“The Lab’s philosophy is to not just treat the body on its own, but the mind and soul as well”

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In StoRE CA PIEtRA StudIo now oPEn

1A Brickwall Lane, Ruislip, Middlesex, HA4 8JR - 01895 621 651 18 King Street, Maidenhead, Berkshire SL6 1EF - 01628 624 546

info@spacers-uk.com

HOuse & garden – A collection of London’s finest interior companies – I M AG E : T HO M A S S A ND E R S ON BLIND S

H OUSE & GARDEN

[NEWS]

INTERIORS Seek Inspire Create Part of the new series this new collection explores the coastal landscapes & botanics of Sri Lanka. Hand embroidery sits delicately on linen weave, organza and handwoven fabrics. www.etsy.com/uk/shop/ ovobloom

FLORAL BEAUTIES

Katy Clemmans joins Wallsauce.com with a beautiful floral watercolour mural collection. Discovered in Wallsauce. com’s recent competition to find the next best creatives, Katy was a favoured runner-up with her delicate, floral designs.

Featuring clever watercolour blends and simple silhouettes, these uber-stylish designs are perfect for pretty much any room in need of a statement wall. Nominated for a TV ‘craft’ BAFTA, in the Graphic Design category for her work on the BBC Sport title sequence for the Athens Olympics, Katy works across both print and screen-based media. www.wallsauce.com

METALLIC MADNESS Scandinese We love metallic furniture, mirrors and home decor! Melody Maison boast a stylish collection of Gold, Silver and Copper toned home accessories, so check out their collection now! www.melodymaison.co.uk

THE NEW BLACK Joining the iconic Chalk Paint™ by Annie Sloan collection of mixable decorative paints, Athenian Black offers a velvety matt finish and can be applied to almost any surface including furniture, walls and floors without priming or sanding. www.anniesloan.com 222 AUGUST 2019

Japan and Scandinavia are superpowers when it comes to style and, while miles apart geographically, their aesthetics share a close connection that’s influenced by sleek silhouettes and authentic materials. Co-existing with a mutual respect, the Scandinese trend from Oak Furnitureland is a serene union that brings the best of both worlds to your home. www.oakfurnitureland.co.uk

AUTUMN COLOURS

Autumn is soon to be upon us, and you know what that means!

It’s time to dress our homes in essential plush blankets and warm burnt orange hues to curate a delectable warm and cosy cove of autumn goodness to snuggle up in. Hurn & Hurn have prepared us for the temperature drop with a variety of products that will have your house radiating, ‘Autumn vibes’ all season long. www.hurnandhurn.com

Cargo West END OF SUMMER SALE!

50% OFF OUR RANGE OF HAND MADE INDIAN FURNITURE

www.cargowest.co.uk jean.tony@cargowest.co.uk 07808 312525 07584 493933

H OUSE & GARDEN

A BEAUTIFUL WOODEN FLOOR FOR LIFE Oak Parquet Silver White Oiled

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he surface you walk on provides the backbone of an interior scheme. Get it right and it will make a dramatic difference to the overall feel of a room.

Wood flooring is a wonderful option as it introduces colour, texture, pattern and character. It’s easy to live with being practical, hardwearing and a cinch to maintain. There are endless design options too.

“Wood flooring is brilliant for bringing a scheme together,” says Peter Keane, Director of The Natural Wood Floor Company. “Dark floors create a luxurious look, while rustic floors with lots of knots enhance a casual, country scheme. Rich colours will add warmth, while pale colours will go with just about anything and introduce plenty of light into a room.”

The grade of wood will also create a different look. Prime grades have minimal knots and colour variation, so create a contemporary feel. Natural grades have more feature marks so lend themselves to more traditional looks. “Don’t be constrained by this though,” Peter advises. “A rustic board with plenty of knots, shakes and detailing can soften modern schemes.”

When it comes to the latest trends, darker hues are gaining in popularity. “Although there will always be a demand for light wooden floors, darker shades are about to step into the limelight and have their moment. The dark rich shades found in our Smoky Mountain and Baked Oak flooring introduce a glamorous, dramatic look and can’t fail to get noticed.”

Parquet blocks have been back in fashion for a while, but couldn’t be hotter right now. The combination of colour, wood detailing and pattern makes for a real statement floor. For an up-todate look go large with 600 mm sized blocks.

Alternatively, aged blocks are great for adding extra

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character as they look like reclaimed blocks but can be used with underfloor heating.

It always pays to buy a good quality floor from a reputable supplier, as the right wooden floor will improve your property, add to its value and last for years. The Natural Wood Floor Company manufacture most of the floors they sell and are also valued for their expertise. The full flooring collection can be viewed on large display boards at their Wandsworth showroom or on their new-look website.

The Natural Wood Floor Company, 20 Smugglers Way, Wandsworth, London, SW18 1EG. 020 8871 9771. www.naturalwoodfloor.co.uk

Oak White Mist Oiled

“When it comes to the latest trends, darker hues are gaining in popularity”

H OUSE & GARDEN

A TREE HOUSE For Your Children

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t’s a dream of many children to own their own tree house where they can escape and immerse themselves in fantasy and imagination. The tree house has long been a symbol of the freedom of youth, and of creativity running wild.

Tree houses have changed over the years, from rickety and unsafe structures, to modern designs that now even incorporate swings, slides and climbing frames. Despite their evolution, their popularity has remained consistent.

When you really want to give your kids the ultimate custom tree house or wooden playhouse for the garden, getting a bespoke timber building from skilled craftsmen guarantees you get exactly what you want! The shops are full of playhouses

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“The tree house has long been a symbol of the freedom of youth, and of creativity running wild”

All images courtesy of Cheeky Monkey Treehouses

barely big enough for the children’s toys and with a similar limited shelf life!

If you really want to give your children a playhouse or tree house that lasts their whole childhood, bespoke wooden buildings are ideal.

Bespoke treehouses are a big trend in many gardens; with elaborate designs built high up on stilts, within and around branches. They can take on many different shapes sizes, colours and themes, too, and feature a number of cute accessories and fun activities to keep kids entertained throughout the summer!

And you don’t need a tree to have a tree house. It can be built in the right location for you. The areas surrounding your tree house could be landscaped with shrubs, trees or a lawn - whatever is needed to enhance the appearance of your treehouse.

Your children’s safety is of paramount importance. The construction process of a treehouse can be demanding - not kids’ stuff at all; requiring a great deal of planning and ensuring European safety standards are met.

Approach specialist tree house companies and get recommendations from friends. It is crucial that you receive professional advice and guidance, with construction and installation done by experts to keep your child safe. Provide them with a fantasy hideaway in natural surroundings by making a part of the garden their own. www.cheekymonkeytreehouses.com

Bespoke design & build treehouses, playhouses and elevated platforms.

Commercial & International commissions welcomed

TEL: +44 (0)1403 732452 www.cheekymonkeytreehouses.com

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Beautiful

bespoke storage T

he London Alcove Company is dedicated to delivering high quality interior cabinetry in a clean and efficient way.

With the aim to improve the lifestyle of all its customers, providing a top quality service on time and as specified, in an honest and reliable way.

The variety of products is pretty much endless as everything is custom made, bespoke. The main work that The London Alcove Company does includes alcove units, wardrobes, bookcases, radiator covers and window seats but there is also a substantial amount of work that involves making custom pieces to match modular items produced by other companies as well as something completely different, like a hanging display unit for 18th century loots or a changing table addition to convert existing chest of drawers into nursery furniture.

Return business is a major part of all work undertaken by The London Alcove Company. Very often the job will involve few items after which the customer would come back for more and more to be done around their home as the space that gets created by the installation of high quality alcove units, wardrobes and bookcases can be called life changing. One of the customers has referred to it as “London Alcove addiction”.

The London Alcove Company has been built into a thriving business that employees are proud and excited to work for. The company consists of a small team that specialises in design, construction, spray booth operation, installation, and on-site decoration. The director of the company, Cameron Riddell, is the head designer and oversees almost

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every job personally.

The process in getting a quotation is very easy.

Customers can ether call up the office and book a time for Cameron to come out and see them at a time to suit or alternatively visit www.londonalcove. com and click on a Get a Quote link to fill in a form with some rough measurements and details to get a quotation sent out via e-mail. The company does not employ sales people or do pressure sales. The quote includes a price and a technical drawing and is left with the customer who may then decide to alter the idea in which case the process will be repeated until the design is perfectly suited and all of the questions are answered.

The London Alcove Company offers a 50-year guarantee on all of its work. This covers all aspects of cabinet making work, parts and fittings. With that in mind the company’s mission statement reads: “We promise our customers transparent pricing, a high quality product and a fantastic service, with an understanding that we are working in your home for you respectfully and diligently. We believe the work well done today will bring us future work for years to come and our reputation for delivering our promise is something to be proud of.” www.londonalcove.com

H OUSE & GARDEN

Ventrolla SASH WINDOW SPECIALISTS

Things to Consider When Planning your Sash Window Project

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imber sash windows add original character and heritage charm to a period property, but they also require maintenance to combat the common problems such as draughts, rattles, rot and heat loss.

With over 35 years’ experience, Ventrolla is the expert in repairing, draught proofing and double glazing sash windows. Here, Ventrolla help clarify 3 things we need to know when considering a window renovation project.

What condition are your existing windows in?

If you feel you’re windows are in need of some TLC then you’ll most likely already know the main issues you experience with the ones in your home. Are they draughty? Rotten? Do they rattle and let in water? Are they Readers get 5% stiff to operate or painted shut? discount & free Knowing these main issues before you hardware per window approach your window renovation by quoting code project will help you and the experts ‘TIMBER19’ when find the appropriate solution. enquiring.

Can you repair or would you prefer to replace?

Before considering replacement, it is worth noting that many original wooden windows, despite extensive deterioration, can be repaired.

Renovation services start with removing the decaying timber and replacing with new. The main culprit for this is usually the external window sill, which gets the brunt of the weather. A new sill and lower box can be installed to replace the old, rotten timbers, providing a new, weather-tight seal.

Draughts can be eliminated by installing an effective draught-proofing system, and further energy improvements could be achieved by installing new slim double glazed sashes within your box.

Complete new bespoke timber windows can be made to replace windows that are deemed beyond repair – or where your preference is to buy new.

With new windows, a draught-proofing system should also be installed, adding to the energy saving measures, with the timber profiles matching the existing windows as closely as possible to retain

before

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after

their character.

If noise is a problem, discrete secondary glazing can be installed to dramatically reduce noise whilst combatting draught problems too.

Are there any planning laws or rules to consider?

If your home is in a conservation area, or listed, then there will be restrictions on what you can do with your original timber sash windows. Speaking with your local planning department will help to clarify what you can and cannot do with your timber sash windows, before you obtain quotations.

Whether you have restrictions on your home or not, it is still worth considering replacing like for like. Installing windows that aren’t in keeping with the original period of your home will affect the character of the property and could devalue it too.

Doing a bit of research on your home’s history can pay dividends – knowing when it was built and what the windows would have originally looked like will help you when choosing new windows (or opting for replacements).

Ventrolla offer a free survey and quotation, with local teams in your area on hand to help and offer advice. Visit www.ventrolla.co.uk or Call 0808 301 9684.

“Complete new bespoke timber windows can be made to replace windows that are deemed beyond repair – or where your preference is to buy new”

H OUSE & GARDEN

THE BEAUTY OF THOMAS SANDERSON BLINDS Thomas Sanderson have moved away from the dated valet service to a premium product offering, where customers expect the “Extraordinary”

The beauty of expertise There is a 3-step process to every Thomas Sanderson order; firstly, a design consultant will take time to discuss your design ambitions, providing the opportunity to view the full range of premium hand crafted shutters, intuitive PowerView® smart powered blinds and luxury curtains in the comfort of your own home. They work collaboratively on every last detail to create custom-make window furnishings to your exact specifications.

The Beauty of bespoke shutters Thomas Sanderson specialise in handcrafted shutters measured and manufactured with expert precision using only the finest material to fit even the most complex window shares. From classic plantation style, to Tier on Tier or café shutters, which create privacy without compromising on daylight, they handcraft bespoke shutters to exact requirements.

The Beauty of smart blinds Transform how you control light in your home with our exquisite collection of smart blinds and marketleading PowerView® system. Automatically control multiple blinds throughout your home with a simple voice command or touch of a button on your mobile App or remote, even when you are not at home. The perfect solution for hard to reach windows in areas like conservatories or extended living spaces.

The Beauty of luxury curtains Hand finished with a luxurious fullness and hand steamed in your home, Thomas Sanderson curtains are the perfect finishing tough to any room. Choose from rich chenilles, soft velvets, delicate embroideries and contemporary plains.

A local design consultant will work closely and collaboratively on every last detail, to create custommade luxury curtains.

0800 6888118. www.thomas-sanderson.co.uk 232 AUGUST 2019

“Thomas Sanderson specialise in handcrafted shutters measured and manufactured with expert precision”

H OUSE & GARDEN

Clever Kitchen Storage When planning a new kitchen, having good storage is usually one of the main requirements.

There are plenty of excellent storage solutions and by planning the space carefully from the start you will ensure your kitchen is both beautiful and functional.

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THE DETAILS To arrange a design meeting with Sola Kitchens: Fulham Showroom 121 Munster Road, London SW6 6DH Hampstead Showroom 83 Heath Street, London NW3 6UG Tel: 020 3004 0898 | Email: info@solakitchens.com Website: www.solakitchens.com

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With this integrated pop up shelf you can raise a large section of the worktop to expose storage inside. This can be extremely convenient in an island or in a kitchen without any wall units to store eg items for cooking. For a more fun application, it can also be designed as a pop-up bar!

hen planning a new kitchen it is crucial to consider how the kitchen will be used to ensure it looks amazing and is functional.

The kitchen is the main hub in the house where we meet, eat and entertain, as well as doing work and homework. Carefully considering the requirements for your new kitchen is key to create a dream kitchen that really works!

Planning a new kitchen can be daunting. Get the best result by using the expertise of an experienced kitchen designer who will help to untangle all aspects of the kitchen design, from the look to the storage requirements and make sure you don’t do costly mistakes.

Good and practical storage is usually a top requirements for a new kitchen. There are excellent storage options available, the trick is to work out how to best plan them in. When planning storage for your new kitchen, the points below are useful as a start: • List everything that needs to be stored in the kitchen and what items are most regularly used.

Don’t forget non-kitchen related items such as pet food, keys, phones and children’s toys. If these end up in the kitchen, they will need to be stored. Doing a list ensures that practical storage can be planned for everything.

• Also list everything that does not work in your kitchen so that this can be changed.

• Consider how you use your kitchen so items are stored close to where they are needed. Pots, pans, cooking utensils as well as spices and condiments that are used for cooking are practical to store close to the cooker. Daily crockery and cutlery are good to store close to the dishwasher so they can be easily moved from the dishwasher to drawers and cupboards.

• There are plenty of really clever storage solutions but they can be expensive. Consider what you really need so your budget can be spent wisely. Some items look really cool but you may not actually need them. As an example, the integrated pull up shelf shown to the left enables you to raise a large section of the worktop to expose storage inside. This can be extremely convenient in an island or in a kitchen without any wall units to store eg items for cooking but maybe not necessary in other layouts.

The experienced design team at Sola Kitchens will help you to consider all options for your new kitchen and storage considerations is key. Sofia Bune, CEO at Sola Kitchens’ says: “the best feedback we get as designers is when clients say they love their new kitchen because it combines a stunning look and perfect functionality! That’s when we know we have succeeded!”

Small drawers with the family names are great for small personal items such as keys and phones

The interiors of larders can be completely personalised.

With pocket doors tall cabinets can be transformed to hidden work stations such as breakfast areas

Drawers are very practical to store everything from pots, pans, utensils and cutlery. Making them bespoke ensures perfect fit

Workspaces can also be hidden behind shutters or bifold doors, enabling easy access for small appliances such as coffee machines and toasters.

Where the cooking zone is positioned in the island, planning drawers for spices and condiments enables easy access while cooking.

Clever mechanisms for base units provides easy access for tricky corner spaces or heavy items such as large mixers

A bespoke kitchen company can design completely personal solutions such as those integrated glass jars and bespoke chopping boards

Plinths can be designed to include useful storage, here for plinth ladder and the dog bowls

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JUNGLE

FEVER Romantic Jungle Wallpapers by Andrea Haase

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ungle vibes have been the talk of interiors for a few seasons now, but Wallsauce.com’s latest designer collection introduces romantic tones to update the jungle look.

Keen traveller and inspiring illustrator, Andrea Haase is one of the latest talents to join the designer wallpaper collection at Wallsauce.com. Discovered in its recent competition to find the next best creatives, Andrea was a favoured runner-up with her layered, jungle designs.

Featuring vintage-style maps underneath intricately illustrated jungle scenes, these impactful wall murals have a delicate romantic feel to them.

Made to your dimensions and available on a choice of wallpaper materials, discover the full Andrea Haase collection at www.wallsauce.com.

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H OUSE & GARDEN

Don’t let your Apple world let you down

We talk to Paul Richardson of Inception Support about how they help businesses and home users get the most from their devices Paul, why should people seek your advice?

Don’t Apple devices ‘just work’?

Well yes, but with people often using multiple devices it’s important to make sure that they all talk to each other correctly. I often come across situations where the devices are technically working correctly but something isn’t quite right.

This is especially critical for businesses needing reliable access to shared data but the systems in place sometimes aren’t as efficient as they perhaps could be. The impact upon the efficiency of the computers themselves and the business as a whole cannot be understated.

Shouldn’t we just go to an Apple Store?

Problems can’t always be taken in isolation and being fully certified engineers in Mac support and maintenance with more than 15 years’ experience in the industry often gives us a deeper insight into how to solve them. In addition to this, we are very often able to attend site and resolve the issue (sometimes including a follow-up visit) before you would even get an appointment with a Store.

What’s wrong with simply waiting until things break before calling you?

Yes, we can step in to repair or troubleshoot a problem but maintaining devices regularly saves our customers a lot of unnecessary stress and potential 238 AUGUST 2019

loss of earnings.

That said, we can’t stop things from going wrong as phones, laptops etc. do simply break down sometimes. We can however minimise the impact it has on you or your business.

OK, you’ve convinced me, I need your help.

What services do you offer?

We support you using email, telephone, remote access via the internet or in person and offer flexible pricing from pay as you go to monthly subscriptions based on your individual requirements.

Our popular home support package covers up to five people per household including students away at university whereas our business packages are charged per-device-per-month and offer guaranteed responses accordingly.

All of our packages include a consultation service on how best to avoid costs later on - spend your money once and spend it wisely.

Any final comments?

We believe technology should be invisible, running seamlessly and smoothly to make our client’s lives easier. If that’s not the case, Inception Support can put that right - it’s all about providing a quick, honest and efficient solution that works for the customer.

0203 876 1103. www.inceptionsupport.com

“Our popular home support package covers up to five people per household including students away at university”

H OUSE & GARDEN

Never The Same

Always Unique

“Veedon Fleece’s experienced weavers face a different challenge each time they start a new carpet”

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ounder Adam Gilchrist spent five years researching and defining the right place and people to oversee his ethically run carpet looms in the Kathmandu Valley, with a founding statement to create the best quality carpets without the use of child labour.

Veedon Fleece still stands by its original concept and creates purely bespoke carpets and rugs to exacting standards of quality craftsmanship for their international client base of leading interior designers wishing to create individuality for their own clients.

They own one of the largest carpet looms in Nepal which is capable of weaving carpets to a size of 8m by 20m.

Presented with a design or asked to create a design for a home or a commercial interior, first colours are agreed generally after a site visit to see just how the light and space will work with the design. Importantly, at this stage, measurements can be checked to make sure that the very best is being made of the space.

Once the size, design and colours have been chosen and budget approved, Veedon Fleece makes samples for the client’s approval. The point paper

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is then drawn up; a 1:1 cartoon/graph paper and it is this which the weavers will follow to tie the many thousands of knots to complete the commission.

Whilst the point paper is being drawn, the yarns, be they Best Tibetan wool, veedon, silk or pashmina are selected from Veedon Fleece’s stocks, weighed and sent to the dye works for colour matching to the final approved sample. The warp threads are carefully stretched onto the empty steel loom frame and an air of both excitement and anticipation overcomes the chosen weavers.

Veedon Fleece’s experienced weavers face a different challenge each time they start a new carpet.

Having complete control and responsibility for the creative process, this could be two people working together on a small rug for six to eight weeks or as many as twelve people working on a large palatial silk carpet for anything up to a year. The responsibility is great, especially for large carpets; a momentous undertaking.

Working in both the contemporary and classical sectors of the interior design oeuvre, Veedon Fleece holds a large archive of designs, historic and contemporary and their brochure can be viewed at www.veedonfleece.com.

Instagram: veedonfleececarpets.

H OUSE & GARDEN

Pickle Pot Home P

ickle Pot Home is an eclectic fusion of products, filled with wood, stone, rattan, organic cotton, silk, glass and many different forms of ceramics.

Before opening Pickle Pot Home, owners Lesley and Richard designed, restored and sold furniture and soft furnishings from their showroom and workshop in Surrey.

Lesley sources beautiful products from all over the world and Richard creates bespoke pieces from ancient driftwood, harvested from the South Island shores of New Zealand.

They are advocates of a relaxed and natural home style. Passionate about colour, texture and bringing the outside in, their Driftwood is the perfect outdoor or indoor accessory.

Each piece is unique and whether Richard is

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making a bespoke dining room table, shelf, hanging rail for clothes or an enormous statement piece for inside the home or garden, the same attention to detail and planning goes into each design.

Richard enjoys working with his clients and gets great joy in turning their visions into reality.

“The key is to let the wood speak for itself, it’s age, texture, patination and shape make it so interesting; New Zealand Driftwood is not only wonderful to look at but also evokes different emotions in people as it invites you to engage with its form and structure.”

With Richard originally being from New Zealand and Lesley having lived in Africa for many years, it’s difficult to categorise their style.

Greatly influenced by the interior styles of the Southern Hemisphere, they strongly believe that ones house and garden should feel connected and they exhibit this ethos throughout their shop and online business.

Plants, faux flowers and natural organic materials are a key part of their image.

Scandinavian and African influences sit alongside and complement items that have a Mediterranean feel; no coincidence that their first ‘on line’ sale was to a design team, responsible for many a beautiful landscape garden, based on the island of Ibiza.

“Each of their products inspire emotions; their white ceramic pots for example, are so stylish and interesting to look at, due to their texturised finish, that when filled with luscious greenery they can’t help but make you feel ‘happy and summery!’

Most of the products and pieces they sell can be found in Lesley and Richards own home, as they only select items that truly inspire them. Their hope is that this inspiration and passion is passed onto their customers and clients.

“A home should be a sanctuary, far away from all the everyday stresses and this can only be achieved through selecting pieces that you truly connect with.”

Pickle Pot Home is a haven for people looking for something that little bit different and wanting a home that feels effortlessly stylish.

Visit www.picklepothome.co.uk or call +44 (0)1342 822151

“Scandinavian and African influences sit alongside and complement items that have a Mediterranean feel”

H OUSE & GARDEN

All Stitched Up…

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he idea of painting by numbers on to a pre-drawn design is far from new and is often assumed to have begun with embroidery rather than paints when printed paper panels were published in Berlin and first appeared in England in 1805.

These showed a squared pattern with each representing a stitch. To begin with, the cross or tent stitch was used, and the wool which came from Gotha before being dyed in Berlin came with the patterns. A complete DIY kit.

The firm of Wilks of Regent Street recognised the potential of this merchandise and by 1831 were retailing the complete range of materials and accessories required. By 1840 there were some fourteen thousand different Berlin patterns available incorporating wool, silk, glass beads and cut steel buttons. However the true story is much older.

During the last quarter of the 18th century in England, pictures created with wool embroidery onto a prepared silk background became increasingly popular. The subject matter knew no bounds: allegorical tableaux, popular prints of the day, mourning, scenes from the classics and the

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Bible, pastoral - shepherds and shepherdesses were much in demand as were depictions of pretty young women in a country setting.

Among the most interesting are the narrative pictures, usually based on a fable or folklore often showing a family group with animals and a building or two. Unlike Berlin needlework the silk panel was hand drawn with watercolour paint to show the main outlines while the faces and hands of the figures were painted in the finest and most beautiful detail for the embroidery to be worked into the silk around them.

Long or knotted stitches were most commonly used to create different effects to trees and fields, thatched roofs and flowers. The pictures were professionally done and could be bought in shops specialising in millinery, so pre-empting the Berlin needlework that swept the board for much of the 19th century.

For more information about John Bly Antiques: 533 King’s Road, Chelsea, London SW10 0TZ email: john@johnbly.com; www.johnbly.com Above: Two examples of wool on silk embroidery, the larger narrative with a monogram WRB and date 1794 for sale at John Bly.

“By 1840 there were some fourteen thousand different Berlin patterns available incorporating wool, silk, glass beads and cut steel buttons.

However the true story is much older”

H OUSE & GARDEN

While most of us cannot afford the luxury of owning a roof terrace, while the sun is out in London, it is hard not to look up and dream about spending an afternoon basking on your own luxurious roof terrace

A roof with a view F

or full-scale entertaining or quietly admiring the sunset in the evening, there is no doubt that a good roof terrace can be the main attraction of a property.

Rooftop gardens provide an oasis of calm from the hustle and bustle of London. They say that typical urban Georgian and Victorian streets have the potential for roof terraces, while modern apartment blocks need them to compensate for the lack of private gardens.

They are the ultimate refuge from the stresses of city life and can raise the value of your property.

You might be after an entertaining space with a comfortable seating or alfresco dining area and a hot tub, or plants, shrubs, and even a lawn! All of which can be enhanced by soft lighting.

“They are the ultimate refuge from the stresses of city life and can raise the value of your property” If you’re considering creating your own oasis above the eaves, however, there are vital considerations to take into account. If the space overlooks other properties or you want to build substantial walls, for example, then planning permission is likely to be required even if you are converting an existing flat roof.

Whatever layout you choose, take account of the view. Whether you are looking out across the Thames or have an attractive view of the city, make the most of it in your design. Organise your area to maximise good views, maybe framing them with tall container plants or pencil junipers.

Decking is a good choice for a roof terrace or balcony because it’s warm underfoot, easy to work 246 AUGUST 2019

with and lightweight for carrying up several flights.

Choose western red cedar or hardwoods such as ipe or balau (from a sustainable source). They retain their colour, last much longer than softwood decks and look better too. If your roof terrace abuts a room with wooden flooring, use decking of a similar colour to help blur the boundaries between the two.

Most roof terraces are covered in a waterproof membrane, while others have a fireproof layer, so be careful not to puncture them with fixtures and fittings.

A rooftop terrace in the capital allows you to enjoy London from a completely different perspective.

H OUSE & GARDEN

The lowdown on lawnmowers

There are so many lawnmowers on the market these days - rotary and cylinder, corded electric, cordless petrol, battery-powered and state-ofthe-art robotic types. But which one is right for your budget, and right for your lawn?

WORDS: HANNAH STEPHENSON

BATTERY POWER

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awnmower prices range from under £100 to thousands for elaborate sit-on types, but expect to pay at least a few hundred if you have a fair sized lawn and want something that will last. In our environmentally-conscious world, battery-powered options - once dismissed by lawn lovers because of the batteries’ dubious staying power and need to replace them after a winter in storage have become more sophisticated as Lithium-Ion batteries don’t lose power like the old ones.

Bosch stopped manufacturing petrol mowers in 2010 to go eco-friendly and has long been extolling the virtues of Lithiumion batteries which, it claims, perform as petrol equivalents but with low noise, low vibrations and savings on running costs.

So which lawnmower will cut it with you?

Battery-operated mowers are generally lighter machines, don’t pump out carbon monoxide and are much quieter than their petrol counterparts. You don’t have to worry about a cable or expend energy pulling a cord to start them either, as they start at the touch of a button. The disadvantages of battery mowers are that you have to remember to recharge the batteries and they won’t stripe your lawn as effectively as a heavier machine.

PETROL POWER Petrol-driven motors may be better for bigger lawns and where you need plenty of power on slopes or uneven surfaces. There are push and self-propelled varieties, having throttle control which eases the pushing ability of the user. Petrol mowers give a good striped effect as they are heavier and, although they need servicing, it could be argued that a wellmaintained, good quality petrol mower will outlast most electric ones. Users also won’t encounter the cumbersome cables of electric models and the need for safety cut-out plugs.

ELECTRIC POWER A corded electric mower is fine for a smaller suburban garden, if you’re not bothered about keeping the cable out of the way of the blades.

Electric ‘hover’ mowers are the cheapest, but can produce a disappointing finish, often require a spanner to adjust the mowing height and don’t always collect grass efficiently. Ultimately, your choice should depend on your lawn type and size. If you have a small or medium-sized lawn, a batteryoperated mower or light electric type should be fine for your needs.

CYLINDER OR ROTARY? Cylinder mowers are for the lawn perfectionist who wants a finer cut and bowling green finish. They are ideal for flat lawns and short grass, but struggle 248 AUGUST 2019

with long or wet grass. If you want the exercise, opt for a push variety. If you don’t, self-propelled is the way to go. Rotary mowers are better all-rounders, cut better in wet or long grass and cope well with uneven, bumpy surfaces. Their blades can be easily changed to boot.

OR THE LAZY WAY… Imagine never having to mow your lawn again! With Automated Robot Lawn Mowers all the hard work is done for you allowing you to sit back, relax and enjoy your garden, rather than working in it. The principle behind the robotic mower is simple. It cuts the grass little and often in an irregular pattern.

Because the grass clippings are so small they quickly dissolve back into the lawn, adding nutrients back into the soil, for a thicker, greener, healthier looking lawn. If it finds any objects in its way, it will stop, turn and cut the lawn in another direction. Prices can range from about £500 up to about £4,000.

But real gardeners may relish the exercise that goes with a mower they can push, and the pleasure of seeing the well-groomed green carpet they’ve created at the end of their workout.

H OUSE & GARDEN

Gorgeous Greenhouses walled with timber or bricks. This holds heat well but means you can’t grow plants at ground level.

Glazing

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ou may think that greenhouse design is nothing to get excited about, but a keen gardener would beg to differ! A greenhouse is a must – it’s ideal for sowing seeds, taking cuttings, growing crops and overwintering tender plants. Before you do anything else, decide on position – this will determine the size of greenhouse you can purchase. You need to decide whether you are able to lay the foundations and build the greenhouse yourself, or prefer to get it installed by a specialist.

There are a huge array of options when it comes to choosing a greenhouse, and prices will vary from a few hundred to many thousands of pounds. The greenhouse you eventually choose will come down to two main factors – the area you have available and your budget.

Size Greenhouses come in a range of widths and lengths, in 2’ increments. It’s best to go for one that is at least 6ft wide; 8ft wide will enable you to put staging (shelves) on both sides. The eaves should be at least 1.5m (5ft) tall to let in plenty of light. Most gardeners wish they had a bigger greenhouse, so choose the biggest you can afford and have room for.

Shape There are three main greenhouse shapes – traditional, lean-to and octagonal. Newer shapes such as domes are also available. Lean-tos takes advantage of an existing wall, for example a south-facing house or garage wall. The bricks hold the heat of the sun, especially at night, ideal for growing. An octagonal or dome shape is useful if you have an awkward space.

Materials Aluminium is cheap, low maintenance and can be powder-coated in a range of colours. Timber, usually cedar, is much more attractive, obviously more expensive, and needs more upkeep. It is better at maintaining a constant temperature. Wooden models can be glazed to the ground but can also be half250 AUGUST 2019

“Horticultural glass lets in the most light, is long lasting and is easily replaced if broken. Toughened glass is more expensive but a better option in hightraffic areas or if you have kids”

Horticultural glass lets in the most light, is long lasting and is easily replaced if broken. Toughened glass is more expensive but a better option in high-traffic areas or if you have kids. It still breaks, but shatters more safely. Polycarbonate is cheaper, doesn’t break and has better insulation properties, but lets less light through and can pop out of its frame in high winds

Vents Ventilation is essential in summer. Ideally, a 6ft x 8ft greenhouse would have two hinged roof vents, as well as a side vent. It is worth paying for an automatic vent opener, or you can fit your own.

Greenhouse floor A firm, level floor, such as paving slabs or gravel on top of hard core and sand, allow for easy access and drainage and can be wetted in summer (damped down) to keep the air humid. A soil border, is a good way to grow greenhouse crops. A gorgeous greenhouse can add further elegance as well as a practical addition to your luxury outdoor space.

H OUSE & GARDEN

SPACERS TILE AND WOOD FLOORING LTD

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“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…”

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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

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

H OUSE & GARDEN

Stunning Live Edge Tables

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ames Pillier is an artist and a true artisan, boasting nearly 20 years in the business. He now specialises in Live Edge Table for all occasions, coffee tables, dining, consoles, boardroom tables, just to name a few. With a studio and showroom under one roof, all the tables are bespoke and handmade by James Pillier in South Oxfordshire.

By working with responsible sawmills and tree surgeons, that specialize in salvaging diseased or felled trees, James offers his clients the finest wood with the least environment impact, very rare and huge pieces, for example James has a English Walnut slab 4 meters long and it is over 1 1/2 meters wide, most of the wood comes with provenance and history, like diamonds, no two are the same and with more than 100 slabs in stock ready to go, quite the collection. Working with all sorts of different materials and being very cautious about the design.

James Pillier tables are custom made or ready to go, signed, dated, ready to be the hallmark of your home and a true family heirloom. www.liveedgetable.co.uk 01491680227 or 07540532111.

The Old Forge Yard, Main Street, Checkendon, South Oxfordshire, RG8 0SP, visitors welcome by appointments.

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H OUSE & GARDEN

Luxury kitchens brought to the UK by Roccia in £1.5 million showroom expansion

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occia is celebrating its 25th year of supplying creatively unique tiles and bathrooms to the UK, by investing £1.5 million into an extension to bring luxury kitchens to Lancashire. Roccia’s Preston showroom, already the largest tile, bathroom and kitchen showroom in the UK, will be extending further to include over 20 different kitchen displays. Roccia will be bringing prestigious brands to the North of England which were formerly only available in London. Roccia’s impressive kitchen showroom showcases bespoke displays from innovative German engineering brands Next 125 and Schuller to fearless Italian flair via Cesar and Stosa. The Roccia Preston kitchen showroom will be a UK landmark for anyone wanting to add an exclusive elegance to their home and will be one of the biggest kitchen showrooms in the UK. Roccia’s award-winning kitchen design team is on hand in the showroom to offer you their expertise throughout every aspect of your kitchen. Come in store and book a free showroom consultation to discuss your ideas and how to best utilise the space in your house throughout every stage of the design, create, build and layout process.

Roccia is already having a fantastic year celebrating its 25th anniversary, winning a 2019 national Tiling Association Award for (best commercial project up to 250m²) following on from winning a Biba (Be Inspired Business Award) award for ‘Medium Business of the Year’ in October.

There has never been a better time to visit the Roccia Preston or Bolton showrooms which already offers the most comprehensive range of tiles in Europe, from luxurious brands such as Italian giants Versace to timeless brands such as Imola and everything in between. Roccia’s innovation and unparalleled approach to design are showcased in over 400 room settings throughout the largest independent showroom in the U.K. Their tiling experts are made up of some of the

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most experienced tiling members in the industry and can offer you advice on any of your tiling needs. Roccia will be offering preferential rates for tiles, bathrooms and in the new kitchen area with up to 40% off selected items to celebrate their 25th anniversary.

Roccia’s inspiring Bathroom department offers an extensive range of luxury bathrooms with cutting edge Italian elegance from Gessi and Milldue to the classical traditional charm of Burlington. The award-winning bathroom design team will help you tailor your ideas into exclusive bespoke designs. To find out more information call 01772 258998 today and book a free showroom consultation.

The £1.5 million Preston showroom extension will also be creating up to 30 jobs so there has never been a better time to join the Roccia family. Follow Roccia on twitter @rocciatiles or visit www.roccia.com to keep up to date with Roccia news.

“Roccia’s awardwinning kitchen design team is on hand in the showroom to offer you their expertise throughout every aspect of your kitchen”

H OUSE & GARDEN

boutique

interior architecture S

quare Design Interiors is a boutique interior architecture studio founded by interior architect Sandra Korka in 1996. Located in London, the studio undertakes residential, commercial and hospitality projects globally.

The process of working on a project is based on listening very carefully to the clients in order to transform their vision into well-designed spaces that reflect their personalities and their lifestyle or expertise, in the case of a commercial project.

Fully accustomed to the national and international market, Square Design Interiors takes pride in the well-established co-operations with carefully selected worldwide contractors, suppliers and artisans to ensure the highest level of precision and quality of the design creation.

Square Design Interiors being a boutique studio, Sandra works directly with every client, who might have a clear vision of their project or might leave it up to her to create a vision for them resonating with their needs and requirements.

This means that every project designed by Square Design Interiors is unique, mostly bespoke and across a range of design styles, always paying the highest attention to details and the highest quality of the materials used. In parallel, the produced attractive and engaging interior environments combine excellent, timeless craft with the latest technology tools.

Emphasizing on the harmony of the space and the balance of volumes, using lavish textures and intriguing colours, Square Design Interiors create timeless and sophisticated environments for the end users. Environments wherein they would feel tranquil and inspired to create lifetime memories.

Square Design Interiors travels, works, delivers interior architecture projects all over the UK and internationally and provides a full e-design service with an exciting variety of design packages.

Square Design Interiors 20-22 Wenlock Road, N1 7GU London, UK design@squaredesigninteriors.com squaredesigninteriors.com

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BEspoKE fuRnituRE ManufactuREs sincE 1948

REH KEnnEdy, 32 WHitEHousE Road, ipsWicH, suffolK ip1 5lt t: 01473 240044 E: EnquiRiEs@REHKEnnEdy.co.uK WWW.REHKEnnEdy.co.uK

H OUSE & GARDEN

Rundum Meir Facade Integrated & Mews Style Garage Doors in London Designs Rundum Meir celebrated its 50th anniversary last year and supplies garage doors to discerning clients around the world, from London to New York, Colorado to LA and Dubai to Sydney.

The company’s innovative side sliding and over head garage doors are often architect specified to integrate into the facade of buildings or to satisfy local planning regulations whether on Grade 1 or Grade 2 listed buildings or to satisfy Estate Management rules.

Automated side sliding or overhead Rundum Meir multi-user garage doors have been designed to blend in with the facade of buildings or to make match the overall design of a building often to hide a car lift behind it.

Of interest to architects and their clients is also the ability to realise door systems into curved or unusual shaped buildings offering advantages such as minimal intrusion on interior space and quiet operation. Rundum Meir frequently works with architects on listed buildings as well as minimalist designs offering virtually no width restriction. The sliding doors are available in a choice of high quality timbers or aluminium with individual bespoke finishes.

Notable has been the opportunity to have supplied bespoke door systems on many award winning buildings in the UK ranging from RIBA regional winners to a RIBA Sterling Award as well as having been on Grand Design projects.

Methodology – “a one stop shop” Rundum Meir were the first company in Germany and in the UK to develop an automated slide a round garage door where the door curtain, tracks, gearing and door mounted remote controlled automation come from one company allowing a comprehensive warranty for the whole system.

This reduced potential disputes between three separate parties that are usually required to realize side sliding garage doors - such as joiners, track manufacturers and automation companies.

Clients make use of an extensive range of designs and materials to enhance the overall look and feel of garages that often form an integral part of the overall design of a property. Therefore materials such as european oak, anodised aluminium or even glass can feature heavily in the garage door design. Even ventilated garage doors are sometimes required.

Rundum Meir’s comprehensive services include the ability to offer technical and creative direction within the parameters of their door systems to 260 AUGUST 2019

effect the implementation of any given design requirement.

Having many years of experience Rundum Meir can advise on the interface of their door systems with reveals, ceilings, lintels, and walls.

Architects, specifiers and contractors are invited to obtain literature and a specification, and or quotation from Rundum Meir, based upon a complete supply and installation package. Doors are supplied throughout London and the UK. Contact: t: 0151 280 6626. e: info@rundum.co.uk. www.rundum.co.uk

“Rundum Meir were the first company in Germany and in the UK to develop an automated slide a round garage door as complete systems”

Studio 29 Architects and Interior Designers

in the country & in the city

www.studio29architects.co.uk

LUXURY

BATHROOM guide

– Everything you need to create the perfect London bathroom – i mag e : t i l e m o u n ta i n

B ATHROOM GUIDE

[NEWS]

BATHROOMS MAKING ME BLUSH We love these tiles from Claybrook Studio. Hayek Hex Blush tiles shown on the wall, Renzo Hex tiles shown on the floor with Charon MarbleForm freestanding bath. www.claybrookstudio.co.uk

Form meets functionality

Part of the Holborn collection. Beautifully combining form and function with sumptuous styling, this exquisite model is twin-skinned and double-ended with a traditional bateau-style shape. Available in classic white or statement graphite, complete the opulent feel with an optional plinth in black, white or brass for a truly centre-stage look. www.frontlinebathrooms.co.uk

URBAN INTERIORS

Doblo Polished Porcelain represents the pinnacle of urban interior style, oozing understated finesse thanks to these tiles’ rectified edges and sleek polished finish. We love these tiles from Tile Mountain. They are massively on-trend right now, with rectified edges for clean, sleek look.

Their large format means less tiles used and therefore a quicker installation process. Long lasting and durable construction, also suitable for commercial installations. www.tilemountain.co.uk

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shower in style

Merlyn’s Arysto quadrant door is truly one of a kind, the smoothest gliding quadrant door on the market. This door is the ultimate luxury solution for a Bijoux bathroom. Bespoke options available, lifetime guarantee. www.merlynshowering.com

MIDCENTURY MODERN Break with the norm and embrace a fresh take on iconic, Midcentury Modern design. It features a classic 1950s vintage design offset finished in a soothing oak and matt white blend.

Boasting an innovative, wall-mounted design that’s perfect for increasing the illusion of space in narrow areas.

Perfect for anyone looking for creative and retro-inspired bathroom furniture. www.frontlinebathrooms.co.uk

SCANDINAVIAN LUXURY Lapuan Kankurit is a Finnish jacquard linen and wool weaving mill, where weaving skills, production technology and material know-how have been refined into excellence within the same family since 1917.

Sold around the world through renowned and independent retailers, Lapuan Kankurit is one of the finest Scandinavian brands of contemporary, high quality soft furnishings. www.lapuankankurit.fi

B ATHROOM GUIDE

Beautiful bathroom storage ideas to maximise your space “The Mobel Oak single door sink unit not only brings order to the bathroom it also makes for an eye-catching feature”

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mart storage solutions are an essential ingredient in creating a stylish, organised bathroom no matter what size it is. The Wooden Furniture Store’s best selling Mobel Oak furniture range has now been expanded to include a stunning bathroom collection. So, whether you have a small cloakroom or large ensuite, the range of compact, slimline, corner and double oak vanity units will fit perfectly into your bathroom and make a gorgeous, contemporary statement.

For a designer feel to a bathroom, the Mobel Oak single door sink unit not only brings order to the bathroom it also makes for an eye-catching feature with its contemporary, curvaceous, ceramic basin and modern single tap fixture. Its clean, simple lines would work well with any type of tile or colour scheme.

The dual sink fixture is perfect for those with a large family bathroom, the stylish Mobel Oak square sink unit will transform your space whilst practically offering a “his and hers” ceramic basin area with modern single tap fixtures above each sink. With plenty of space for bathroom essentials

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in the cupboard and shelf, you can keep clutter to a minimum and let the beautiful washstand take the design spotlight.

Ideal for the storage of your bathroom products, the Mobel Oak two door sink unit is equipped with plenty of drawer and shelf space for your linens and cosmetics. Both functional and elegant, its style is characterised by the warm tone of the wood and sophisticated lines.

The range includes matching mirrors and wall mounted cabinets with plenty of practical bathroom storage which are all delivered fully assembled with a five year guarantee.

Since it’s launch launch 10 years ago, The Wooden Furniture Store’s promise is simple – the best wooden furniture, great prices, easy and secure on-line ordering, considerate, friendly delivery and exceptional customer service. www.wooden-furniture-store.co.uk

B ATHROOM GUIDE

a new look

The Shower Lab introduces a brand new logo, product brochure and website in line with their goals for an innovative future

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eading UK shower designer and manufacturer, The Shower Lab, has launched a newly modernised brand complete with re-designed logo and website. The entire business rebrand has paved the way towards a more innovative placement amongst the competition. In line with their plans for growth, this new brand is the first step towards a more comprehensive marketing strategy for The Shower Lab, including heightened digital marketing activity, product development and a keen customer service focus.

The company has worked in collaboration with an acclaimed marketing consultancy, to create the new, modern brand. The goal was to move away from classic styling towards something that highlighted the company’s passion for high-quality products and exceptional customer service.

Today’s bathroom industry is looking for much more than just a wide range of products; they’re demanding cutting edge technology and unique solutions for all of their showering needs.

“The world is growing and changing so rapidly, evolution along with current trends and customer requirements continues to be a driving force behind our success. The new brand speaks to our customer’s needs for exceptional service and innovative design. We’ve looked to transform the

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shower ‘enclosure’ into a desirable ‘space’, designed for every home and client to fit their exact needs.

This is our passion and something that will inspire our growth moving forward.” - Max Finaldi, MD The rebranding represents a new era for The Shower Lab. One where the showering space can be redeveloped and designed for every single customer.

One where innovation is the driving force behind every single decision. And one where customer service and quality are the backbones that drive company success. In line with this launch, The Shower Lab will shortly be releasing a new product brochure which will be shipped to all partner showrooms. A new, more user-friendly website is now live and available for viewing at www.theshowerlab.com.

About The Shower Lab The Shower Lab is one of the UK’s leading designers and manufacturers of well-made shower spaces. We work closely with interior designers, specifiers, home builders, developers and architects alongside our key partner showrooms. The Shower Lab strives for innovation offering numerous glass colours, component finishes and digital glass printing in any design while creating showering spaces that fit every home. Our collections provide custom solutions for residential and commercial projects alongside an in-house designed shower tray, soon to be available in an array of colours.

Information about The Shower Lab and the full product range can be found at www.theshowerlab.com

THE DuLwiCH KiTCHEn & BaTHrOOM COMpanY

It’s our 100th BIrthday !

Family-run, independent business since 1919

t: 020 3544 4002 e: sales@ajp-bathrooms.co.uk w: www.ajp-bathrooms.co.uk

t: 020 3544 4002 e: sales@ajp-bathrooms.co.uk w: www.ajp-bathrooms.co.uk

For more details contact our team on 020 8693 2223 visit www.bellsbathkit.co.uk | email info@bellsbathkit.co.uk 169 - 171 Lordship Lane, Dulwich, SE22 8HY Open Monday – Saturday 8.30am to 5.30pm Closed Sundays and Bank Holidays

B ATHROOM GUIDE

GET STEAMED UP!

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ecause your bathroom always has the usual constant fixtures - shower, bath, toilet, basin and bidet – it is the accessories that can give the room warmth and character.

Luxurious touches such as a stylish mirror can make a huge difference to the comfort of your bathroom. And remember, if you place the mirror in the correct position, it can reflect off the rest of your bathroom giving you the illusion that it is bigger than perhaps it is.

What bathroom vanity mirror works best for me?

Do you need it to double as storage with a medicine cabinet, or are you looking for something more decorative? Your needs may change depending on which bathroom you’re looking to outfit. Is it the master bath, which will get a lot of use from two people, or a guest bathroom, used only on occasion?

Draw on these factors as a guide to help you make a decision.

What style should my bathroom mirrors be?

If you have a contemporary bathroom, consider a sleek square design or one with a stainless steel frame — or no frame at all. If you’re going for a more eclectic look, add a mirrored face to an antique piece or choose a vintage-style Venetian option. Your walls should also help dictate your choice: are they tiled or painted? Panelled or wallpapered? Depending on your design style, your mirror frame can offer a bold contrast, or complement an already-there pattern or hue.

What size vanity mirrors should I consider?

This is based both on preference and available space in your bathroom. Generally, the larger the better, particularly if you have a double vanity with a shared mirror. This is also true for small spaces —

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“If you have a contemporary bathroom, consider a sleek square design”

if you have a tiny bathroom, a large, shiny surface will make the space seem larger and reflect more light. The size can also help reinforce style; if you have a smaller, more traditional vanity, you may prefer the look of a decorative option no wider than the sink. The key is to strike the balance with the piece and its surrounding elements while also achieving the function you desire.

Should I buy a lighted mirror?

Lighted mirrors are great because they don’t require you to compromise on lighting. Overhead lighting can create shadows, so side-lit mirrors provide even distribution of light. For a trendier version of the side-lit approach, try backlit mirrors — they are more contemporary, offer plenty of sunshine, and make for an interesting bathroom focal point.

B ATHROOM GUIDE

Shower IN STYLE Stepping under a cascading shower can be one of the most luxurious feelings in the world. But turning the shower on to be greeted with a pathetic little trickle can be one of the most frustrating and disappointing experiences! words: sam wylie-harris

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ndeed, the power of a good shower should not be underestimated. So much more than a means of getting clean, the right one can encourage us to break into a chorus of Singin’ In The Rain, awaken the senses and leave us invigorated and ready to face the demands of the day. Nearly 90% of UK households, according to AMA Research (www. amaresearch.co.uk), have at least one shower in their home, and with demand for super-stylish systems continuing to grow, leading bathroom specialists now offer an array of solutions for both traditional and contemporary interiors.

“The bathroom continues to be a key element of our homes, playing a much greater role beyond that of its traditional function as just another part of the daily routine,” says Robin Levien, international designer at Ideal Standard. “It has become both multi-purpose and multi-functional, an oasis of escapism and relaxation. A place for reinvigoration, transformation and even somewhere to pose, ponder and play.”

Dreaming of a shower upgrade? The first stage in the planning process is to address a number of key issues, such as water pressure, the fabric of the building and ceiling height. “ The most important thing is to ensure you choose a shower system that’s compatible with your water supply, to make sure you have sufficient water pressure to give optimal showering experience,” notes Joe Stephens, product designer at Roper Rhodes. Once the practical points have been addressed, you can drench yourself in the fun bits...

“Style and ambience can make a big difference in a bathroom”

Dark Depths Style and ambience can make a big difference in a bathroom; an uncluttered spa style, and chic, minimal designs are ever-popular. And while lighter colour schemes may be most traditionally associated with this part of the home, don’t rule out moody hues, which can work especially well. “There is a trend for using dark colours on the walls and floor, which with good lighting, can actually make a small space seem bigger, as well as delivering a boutique hotel feel,” says Levien. Think different shades of greys, particularly darker tones, which are very on trend and great for creating a tranquil feel of luxury and relaxation.

Wet & wild Oversized shower heads can - literally - wash our woes away and make us feel like we’re in Club Tropicana. Large, 300mm shower heads, which can be ceiling-mounted for a dramatic effect, are perfect for this as they create a cascading rain shower effect. Diverter valves are very popular, as they give the ability to switch the flow of water between two or even three different outlets, such as the main overhead shower, a handset and a bath filler.

Thermostatic shower valves are another popular choice, particularly for families, as they are safe and easy to use.

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Show-stopping ceiling-fed shower heads are a huge trend, because they look great, and they provide a really luxurious showering experience.

‘Wow’ shower head features, such as waterfall settings and LED mood lighting, which create a sense of total relaxation are also hot this year.

The Wow Factor When space is at a minimum, often it’s all about finding inventive and user-friendly ways of fitting in the essentials - but those lucky enough to have lots of bathroom space to play with can tap into trends on a larger scale. Bathrooms are moving from the functional into the decadent. Colour, texture, shape and size have moved from being ‘safe’ to almost stretching the boundaries of good taste. There has never been so much choice and product variation, and trends are very fast moving.

Giving a traditional bathroom an up-to-date facelift, you could remove the bath and replace it with a large format slim tray and wet room. This totally transforms both the look, life and function of the bathroom. Think about coloured glass, as this can offer a ‘wow’ factor and also delivers some privacy, if the bathroom is used by more than one person at a time.