Life Magazines (London editions) December 2017

being bond We celebrate more than half a century of James Bond films and compare how each of the six 007 actors fared in the role.

Roses Bernard Buffet (French 1928-1999) Oil on canvas, signed lower left, dated 1979 lower right Canvas size: 25.75 x 21.25 inches Provenance: Galerie Maurice Garnier, Paris; Galerie Longchamp, Nice; Private Collection, Japan, until 2016

FROM THE

T

EDITOR

his year, Cartier is celebrating the 100th anniversary of their iconic Tank watch. Created by Louis Cartier in 1917, the story goes that the watchmaker modelled the design of the watch on the heavy tanks of World War I: the brancards, the elongated flanks on the sides resemble the tracks that ran either side of the first military tanks. The case, or cockpit of the vehicle, is seamlessly integrated with the strap, creating a functional and sophisticated timepiece.

Once upon a time, two British icons came together at the most magical time of the year. The Savoy and Penhaligon’s, both favoured by the great and the good, and alike in their rich heritage, joined together to bring the scents of Christmas to the air of London.

As we celebrate more than half a century of James Bond films and wait with anticipation for Daniel Craig’s next instalment of stunts, style and stupendous womanising, film expert Damon Smith reveals how each of the six 007 actors fared in the role.

Claridge’s, London’s legendary Mayfair hotel has unveiled their 2017 Christmas Tree, designed by Karl Lagerfeld, widely regarded as one of the fashion world’s most influential creative forces.

Relocated to Belgravia’s best-loved high street for the festive season, Father Christmas is inviting guests into his new home on Elizabeth Street, for joyous storytelling sessions with photographs and seasonal treats.

Back for its 64th year, the London Boat Show returns in January celebrating everything you can do and enjoy on the water. Bringing a world of inspiration, stunning yachts and on-water experiences, visitors will be treated to five days of the very latest in the boating world.

Faye Manning Editor

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Editor Faye Manning ••••• Editorial Assistant Katie Miller ••••• Sub Editor Alex Lux ••••• Fashion Editor Lara Accison ••••• Design & Production Lisa Wade ••••• senior business development manager Vanessa Lane ••••• ACCOUNT MANAGERS Nicola Drew Lisa Westerman Anita Hill ••••• Directors Rory Smith Patrick Smith

CONTENTS OUT & ABOUT

11

INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS GUIDE

84

HOLIDAYS & TRAVEL

93

We put fantastic local businesses and exciting events in the spotlight each month, plus enjoy food and drink in the local area and investigate beautiful homes and properties The finest independent schools in the UK

Heading out of London to explore the rest of the world

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

113

HOUSE & GARDEN

155

FABRICS & FURNISHINGS

194

keep warm this winter

206

Fashion, health and beauty news to keep you looking and feeling your best A collection of London’s finest interior companies Offerings from gorgeous fabrics and furnishings companies in London and beyond We have everything you need to keep the cold out this winter

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out & about – We put fantastic local businesses and exciting events in the spotlight each month – i m a g e : S E L F RIDG E S

FEATURE

celebrates its Tank watch centenary in classic style

1917 – 2017

Tank Francaise Created in 1996, the new Tank Francaise comes on a bracelet with the famous brancards, dial with Roman numerals and ‘chemin de fer’. A new stainless steel version is available in small and medium, set with diamonds and powered by a quartz movement.

The Tank Américaine First introduced in 1989, it was the first of the Tank collection that offered a curved water resistant case.

The new 2017 Tank Américaine watches comes in stainless steel for the first time, in three sizes: small, medium and large. The small version has a quartz movement while the two other models come with an automatic movement.

T

his year, Cartier is celebrating the 100th anniversary of their iconic Tank watch.

Created by Louis Cartier in 1917, the story goes that the watchmaker modelled the design of the watch on the heavy tanks of World War I: the brancards, the elongated flanks on the sides resemble the tracks that ran either side of the first military tanks. The case, or cockpit of the vehicle, is seamlessly integrated with the strap, creating a functional and sophisticated timepiece.

To celebrate its centenary, the luxury brand has produced a series of new models based on three iconic designs – the Tank Louis Cartier, the Tank Américaine and the Tank Française; elsewhere the Tank Cintrée, that inspired the Américaine, also returns in a skeletonised haute horlogerie format.

Tank Louis Cartier

TANK LOUIS CARTIER LM WHT GOLD PAVED CASE MECH, £20,100

12 DECEMBER 2017

The new models come in small and large case sizes, both with the same manual-wound Cartier Caliber 8971MC movement. Ladies can choose from pink gold and white gold, set with diamonds. Then there are two pink gold models available in small and large size, without diamonds, for men and women.

TANK FRANCIASE MM STEEL DIAMONDS £7,200

TANK CINTREE 9917 MC MECHA LEGENDS PT, £63,000

Cintrée Skeleton Cartier has also introduced two stunning pieces coming in pink gold and platinum, both with the manual winding caliber 9917MC movement. Both watches are limited to 100 pieces. The skeleton movement follows the curves of the Tank case while the transparent dial shows some of the essentials of a Tank watch: the hands and the chemin de fer. Also available in a diamond set case.

The Tank has graced the wrists of some remarkable people during its first century. Louis Cartier offered one of the first models of the Tank watch in 1918 to General John Pershing - the commander of the American Expeditionary Force in Europe during the First World War – as a token of thanks. And for his final cinematic appearance, in George Fitzmaurice’s The Son of the Sheik, Rudolph Valentino demanded that he be able to wear his Tank watch in every scene.

From Clark Gable, Gary Cooper and Fred Astaire to Greta Garbo, Michelle Obama and Madonna.

The tank watch worn by Jackie Kennedy was sold at auction, and bought by Kim Kardashian for a staggering £300,000 at Christie’s in New York earlier this year. The purchase also broke the world record for being the most expensive Cartier Tank sold at auction. Andy Warhol famously said: “I don’t wear a Tank to tell the time. In fact, I never wind it. I wear a Tank because it’s the watch to wear.”

Princess Diana was frequently photographed wearing a gold Cartier Tank Francaise, a gift from her father, John Spencer. She bought William a similar timepiece from the famed French label,

TANK CINTREE 9917 MC MECHA LEGENDS PG, £57,000

Louis Cartier

which she had engraved for one of his birthdays. After her death in 1997, William chose to keep Diana’s Cartier Tank as a memento – and in 2014, he gifted the Duchess of Cambridge with the Ballon Bleu de Cartier watch for their third wedding anniversary. Not only was the watch on its own a beautiful way to connect his beloved mother and new wife, but William also went a step further by embedding a sapphire stone into the stainless-steel style to match Kate’s engagement ring — which also belonged to Diana.

Since the very beginning, it has appealed to free-spirited men and women – free to appreciate its fine, understated design, enhanced by harmonious lines; free to choose a watch for its perfectly proportioned composition rather than the status it symbolises. These visionary admirers sensed the power that emanated from this creation and formed a special bond with it.

BOUTIQUE CARTIER, 40-41 Old Bond Street, W1S 4QR, 175-177 New Bond Street, W1S 4RN; Jewellery Room, Selfridges, 400 Oxford Street, W1A 1AB; 143-144 Sloane Street, SW1X 9BL. Fine Jewellery Room, Harrods, Knightsbridge, SW1X 7XL. www.cartier.co.uk DECEMBER 2017 13

OUT & ABOUT

FAST & FURIOUS LIVE First ever global arena tour, Friday 19th to Sunday 21st January 2018, London

“Every performance will create an unforgettable experience for the live audience. twenty three cities across 14 countries is just the beginning for Fast & Furious Live”

U

niversal Brand Development, Fast Live Productions and tour producers Live Nation Entertainment have announced that Fast & Furious Live will premiere in London at the world famous O2 on 19 January 2018 before heading to Newcastle, Manchester, Birmingham, Sheffield, Belfast and Glasgow as part of the first leg of the global arena tour. The action and excitement from one of the most popular and enduring film series of all-time will come to life in this ground-breaking live-arena tour.

The adrenaline-fueled, two-hour show is set to be the most spectacular live arena production ever produced, featuring precision performance driving and newly created physics-defying stunts. Using favourite cars and locations that criss-cross the globe along with key scenes from the film series – created via state-of-the-art 3D projection mapping – fans will be transported straight into this immersive extension of the Fast & Furious movies.

Audiences will feel the heat from flaming exhausts and marvel at vehicular acrobatics as scene after scene unfolds enhanced by the most advanced digital projection technology imaginable. Featuring several original cars from the films, as well as exact replicas of fan favourites — from Dom’s legendary Dodge Charger to the flip car from Fast & Furious 6, Fast & Furious Live will evoke some of the boldest moments from the franchise.

Creative director and executive producer, Fast & Furious Live, Rowland French said: “It’s been years in the making, and we are beyond excited to finally show fellow fans what we have been creating in order to bring Fast & Furious Live to the global stage. With this mix of extraordinary stunts, special effects, cutting-edge 3D-projection mapping – as well as drivers pushing their own limits — every

14 DECEMBER 2017

performance will create an unforgettable experience for the live audience. twenty three cities across 14 countries is just the beginning for Fast & Furious Live.”

The European tour will debut with a ‘supercharged’ world premiere at London’s O2 before heading across the continent to the biggest and best arenas including Newcastle, Birmingham, Manchester, Sheffield, Belfast and Glasgow as well as massive shows in Belgium, Italy, Austria, Germany, Netherlands, France, Portugal, Spain, Switzerland, Sweden, Norway, Finland, and Denmark.

Fast & Furious Live tickets on sale now.

Prices start at £35 (subject to per ticket charge plus order processing fee) and are available from www.livenation.co.uk. VIP packages available at www.vipnation.com. Further details can be found at www.fastandfuriouslive.com

OUT & ABOUT

For further press information or images, please contact:

g a Christmas married Prince

Emma Allam, Director of Communications, The Savoy emma.allam@fairmont.com • +44(0)20 7420 2329

A S AVOY

Charlotte Faith, PR Manager, The Savoy C H7420 R I STM charlotte.faith@fairmont.com • +44(0)20 2372 AS

BY PEN H A L I G O N ’S

Aria Gianquitto, Communications Executive, The Savoy aria.gianquitto@fairmont.com • +44(0)20 7420 2374

CHRISTMAS IS IN THE AIR ...

C H R I S TM A S I S I N T H E A I R ...

Once upon a time, two British icons came together at the most magical time of the year. The Savoy and Penhaligon’s, both favoured by the great and the good, and alike in their rich heritage, joined together to bring the scents of Christmas to the air of London.

Christmas is in The Air is an ode to the time-old tradition of decorating a Christmas tree, a custom that became widespread in Britain when Queen Victoria married Prince Albert, who brought the tradition from Germany.

A Savoy Christmas by Penhaligon’s will feature a stunning showpiece in the Front Hall; a magnificent tree will be surrounded by whimsical features reminiscent of Christmas in Victorian London, created exclusively for Penhaligon’s by artist Kristjana Williams.

Fairmont Hotels & Resorts connects guests to the very best of its destinations ents.worldwide, A classicproviding travelers with memorable e exclusive travel experiences, thoughtful and attentive service and luxury hotels ntinue that are truly unforgettable.

yer, Thames Eachwith Fairmont property reflects the locale’s rackers energy, culture and history through locally inspired cuisine, spirited bars and lounges and distinctive design and decor.

This interactive installation will take the form of a beautifully illustrated pop-up story-book with a Christmas tale featuring Penhaligon’s festive characters. Layer upon layer of 3D design will fill the space, with elaborate arched gates opening to reveal a vintage car, with spinning wheels and glittering lights, on its way to deliver an array of beautifully wrapped presents. A classic tree will be adorned with limited edition Christmas baubles, featuring the exclusive Christmas print, and red velvet ribbons. Christmas is in The Air will continue throughout the whole of The Savoy, incorporating the Upper Thames Foyer, Thames Foyer and Savoy Tea window display, and will include Savoy Christmas crackers with miniature Penhaligon’s fragrances.

This is the story of a Cornish Barber who travelled to London and opened up shop next to Jermyn Street’s finest tailors.

Who received the royal warrant and trimmed the Shah of Persia’s beard.

The British fragrance house, Penhaligon’s, have this year bottled Christmas, with their Christmas is in The Air home spray and candles; and so The Savoy will be filled with notes of crisp fir balsam needles and cedarwood, recreating the green, woody atmosphere of the lush pine forest.

At a time when one’s toilette was of primordial concern and to be a gentlemen was an affair of great application.

The Savoy’s floral design team, will work tirelessly throughout the night on Saturday 25 November to transform the entire hotel. Hotel guests retiring to bed at The Savoy on Saturday night will wake up to A Savoy Christmas by Penhaligon’s on Sunday 26 November.

The Scents of Christmas Penhaligon’s Afternoon Tea will feature refined pastries crafted to highlight the aromas and flavours that stimulate the nostalgia of Christmas, with ingredients such as mulled pears, brandy mousse, gingerbread, chestnut, and clementines. Unique to the Festive Afternoon Tea offering, guests will have the option to enjoy a glass of Louis Roederer Vintage 2009. Priced at £68 per person for Festive Afternoon Tea, and £85 per person for Champagne Festive Afternoon Tea (featuring a glass of Louis Roederer Vintage 2009) and available from 27 November 2017 until 01 January, 2018.

as, with Victoria was Queen, antiseptic was making its With - andand ankles were considered nce uponand a time, two British iconsfirst cameappearance window display, includes Savoy Christmas y will bemore than 70 hotels globally, together at the most magical time titillating of crackers with miniature Penhaligon’s fragrances. many more in development, the Fairmont stuff.

It was 1870. e green, the year. The Savoy and Penhaligon’s, The British fragrance house, Penhaligon’s, have

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collection boasts some of the most iconic both favoured by the great and the this year bottled Christmas, with their Christmas W I T HAll C H R I S T M A S above I N T H EisA Itrue.

R, and distinctive hotels inand thealike world.

This Penhaligon’s good, in their rich heritage, joined togetherof the is in The Air home spray and candles;today and so T H E Y A L L L I V ED H A P P I LY E V ER A F T ER . extraordinary collection includes The Plaza in consults his recipe books (oh weofdo), and still to bring the scents of Christmas to the air of The Savoy is filled with notes crisp fir balsam London. cedarwood, green, woody New York, The Savoy in London, Fairmont producesneedles in theandUK, in the recreating original the bottle Christmas is in The Air is an ode to the time-old atmosphere of the lush pine forest.

Grand Del Mar, Dubai’s Fairmont The Palm, design.For Penhaligon’s is honored to hold further press information or images, please contact: tradition of decorating a Christmas tree, a custom The Scents of Christmas Penhaligon’s Afternoon Emma Allam, Director of Communications, The Savoy Fairmont Peace Hotel in Shanghai, Fairmont two long-standing Royal Warrants; emma.allam@fairmont.com • +44(0)20 2329 that became widespread in Britain when Queen Tea features refined 7420 pastries craftedfrom to highlight Charlotte Faith, PR Manager, The Savoy San Francisco and Victoria Fairmont Le Château HRH The Duke of Edinburgh (grantedthe1956) married Prince Albert, who brought the the aromas and flavours that stimulate nostalgia charlotte.faith@fairmont.com • +44(0)20 7420 2372 Aria Gianquitto, Communications Executive, The Savoy tradition Germany. of HRH Christmas, with ingredients such as mulled Frontenac in Québec City.from Fairmont is part of and from The Prince of Wales aria.gianquitto@fairmont.com • +44(0)20 7420 2374 A Savoy Christmas Penhaligon’s features a brandy mousse, gingerbread, chestnut, and AccorHotels, a world-leading travel &bylifestyle (grantedpears, 1988). stunning showpiece in the Front Hall; a magnificent clementines. Unique to the Festive Afternoon Tea offering uniquefeatures reminiscent tree surrounded by whimsical offering, guests have the option to enjoy a glass of d group and digital innovator experiences in more than 4,000 hotels, of Christmas in Victorian resorts London, created Louis Roederer Vintage 2009. exclusively Penhaligon’s artist Kristjana S Priced at £68 per person for Festive Afternoon and residences, as well as infor over 2,600 ofbythe Tea, and £85 per person for Champagne Festive sse, finest private homesWilliams. around the globe.

This interactive installation takes the form of

ea a beautifully illustrated pop-up story-book with or reservations, a Christmas tale featuring Penhaligon’s festive age For more information characters. Layer upon layer of 3D design fills the please visit fairmont.com son space, with elaborate arched gates opening to reveal a vintage car, with spinning wheels and glittering er Become a fan of Fairmont.

Follow us on

Afternoon Tea (featuring a glass of Louis This is the story of a Cornish Barber who travelled to London and opened up shop Roederer Vintage 2009.Available until 1 January, next to Jermyn Street’s finest tailors.

2018.

Fairmont Hotels & Resorts connects guests to the very best of its destinations worldwide, providing travelers with memorable travel experiences, thoughtful and attentive service and luxury hotels that are truly unforgettable.

Each Fairmont property reflects the locale’s energy, culture and history through locally inspired cuisine, spirited bars and lounges and distinctive design and decor.

lights, on its way to deliver an array of beautifully

With more than 70 hotels globally, and Facebook, Twitter,wrapped Instagram, presents.Pinterest, A classic tree is adorned with many more in development, the Fairmont collection boasts some of the most iconic limited edition Christmas baubles, featuring the and Fairmont Moments. and distinctive hotels in the world. This

extraordinary collection includes The Plaza in exclusive Christmas print, and red velvet ribbons.

New York, The Savoy in London, Fairmont Grand Del Mar, Dubai’s Fairmont The Palm, Christmas is in The Air continues throughout Fairmont Peace Hotel in Shanghai, Fairmont For career information and opportunities, Francisco and Fairmont Le Château the whole of The Savoy, incorporating theSan Upper Frontenac in Québec City. Fairmont is part of please visit fairmontcareers.com AccorHotels, a world-leading travel & lifestyle Thames Foyer, Thames Foyer and Savoy Tea

16 DECEMBER 2017

Who received the royal warrant and trimmed the Shah of Persia’s beard.

At a time when one’s toilette was of primordial concern and to be a gentlemen was an affair of great application.

Victoria was Queen, antiseptic was making its first appearance - and ankles were considered titillating stuff. It was 1870.

All of the above is true. Penhaligon’s today consults his recipe books (oh we do), and still produces in the UK, in the original bottle design. Penhaligon’s is honored to hold two long-standing Royal Warrants; from HRH The Duke of Edinburgh (granted 1956) and from HRH The Prince of Wales (granted 1988).

group and digital innovator offering unique experiences in more than 4,000 hotels, resorts and residences, as well as in over 2,600 of the finest private homes around the globe.

For more information or reservations, please visit fairmont.com

Become a fan•ofF Fairmont. us on 7240 6040 • fairmont.com/savoy The Savoy, Strand, WC2R 0EU • T +44 (0)20 7836 4343 +44Follow(0)20

THE DETAILS The Savoy, Strand, WC2R 0EU Tel +44 (0)20 7836 4343 www.fairmont.com/savoy

FEATURE

BEING BOND

As we celebrate more than half a century of James Bond films and wait with anticipation for Daniel Craig’s next instalment of stunts, style and stupendous womanising, film expert Damon Smith reveals how each of the six 007 actors fared in the role...

007: suave, devilishly charming and - at a strapping 6ft 2 - physically imposing. That incredible, bruising hand-to-hand fight sequence in a carriage of the Orient Express in From Russia With Love confirms this Bond knows how to handle himself. He’s equally adept at manhandling SPECTRE’s femme fatales, including Honor Blackman’s purrfectly suggestive Pussy Galore in Goldfinger. Their on-screen chemistry melts celluloid. In 1983, Connery came out of retirement as Bond after a 12-year hiatus for the unofficial Bond adventure Never Say Never Again. I felt it was a mission too far - Connery was in his early 50s by then, and his wit and weathered machismo couldn’t paper over cracks in the plot.

George Lazenby Sean Connery Successful missions: 6 (Dr. No, From Russia With Love, Goldfinger, Thunderball, You Only Live Twice, Diamonds Are Forever) Years of active service: 1962-67, 71, 83 He may not have perfectly embodied the “cold and ruthless” James Bond depicted in Ian Fleming’s books, but Sean Connery is, for me, the defining 18 DECEMBER 2017

Successful missions: 1 (On Her Majesty’s Secret Service) Years of active service: 1969 Anyone who followed Sean Connery was doomed to drink from a poisoned chalice, and Australian actor George Lazenby took a polite sip in his one and only appearance as 007. There’s a palpable absence of charisma to his incarnation of the secret agent and his introduction as Bond, which saw him

Anyone who followed Sean Connery was doomed to drink from a poisoned chalice

Roger Moore Successful missions: 7 (Live And Let Die, The Man With The Golden Gun, The Spy Who Loved Me, Moonraker, For Your Eyes Only, Octopussy, A View To A Kill) Years of active service: 1973-85 With a perpetually arched eyebrow and a flirtatious twinkle in his blue eyes, Roger Moore restored the roguish charm to Bond during his prolonged stint with MI6. He was a master at delivering innuendo with the hint of a smirk, like when he tells a wetbehind-the-ears female agent in Live And Let Die, “I’m sure we’ll be able to lick you into shape.”

However, even Moore couldn’t kindle a single spark of sexual tension with Grace Jones, his robotic co-star in his lacklustre swansong, A View To A Kill. Moore was less convincing as a brawler than Connery - he always looked like the kind of Bond who would apologise to an evil criminal mastermind for landing a punch - but he did get one of the classic showdowns with Christopher Lee’s triplenippled Scaramanga in a funhouse hall of mirrors in The Man With The Golden Gun.

Timothy Dalton Successful missions: 2 (The Living Daylights, Licence To Kill) Years of active service: 1987-89 Unlike his debonair predecessor in the role, Timothy Dalton left you in no doubt that his iteration of Bond was an expertly trained and merciless assassin.

His 007 is utterly relentless in Licence To Kill as an avenging angel for murdered CIA pal Felix Leiter, who is fed to a shark by sadistic drug lord Franz Sanchez played by Robert Davi. In response, Bond defies orders to mete out rough justice using a shredding machine, spilt petrol and a cigarette lighter.

When puns tumbled from Dalton’s lips, they weren’t delivered with obvious relish, and there wasn’t much room left for sensuality. It was always going to be difficult to take him seriously as a silver-tongued cad, when one of his first acts of chivalry as Bond in The Living Daylights is to rescue a beautiful cellist (Maryam d’Abo) from the KGB - by slaloming down wintry slopes with her astride her instrument’s case.

That’s the closest he comes to making sweet music in the role.

“In one of the series’ great love stories with the ravishing Diana Rigg. Lazenby almost milks a real tear in the tragic final scene”

“Roger Moore restored the roguish charm to Bond during his prolonged stint with MI6”

Pierce Brosnan Successful missions: 4 (GoldenEye, Tomorrow Never Dies, The World Is Not Enough, Die Another Day) Years of active service: 1995-2002 Pierce Brosnan had been mooted as Roger Moore’s successor, but the dashing Irish actor was obliged to honour contractual commitments to the TV series Remington Steele. When he finally got his hands on Bond’s Walther PPK, Brosnan made a spectacular entrance in GoldenEye, with a leap of death down the face of a dam, followed by the infiltration of a Soviet chemical weapons facility, replete with a tongue-in-cheek quip for one henchman in a toilet cubicle. For me, Brosnan comes closest to replicating Connery’s pleasing cocktail of seductive allure and brute force, and he is gifted some choice one-liners.

His erotically charged verbal sparring with Xenia Onatopp - played by Famke Janssen - in GoldenEye, is a rapid-fire masterclass in double entendres.

Brosnan left on a high in Die Another Day, feasting “like there’s no tomorrow” on Halle Berry’s Jinx, whose bikini-clad introduction is a cute throwback to Ursula Andress’ Honey Ryder in Dr. No.

Daniel Craig Successful missions: 4... so far (Casino Royale, Quantum Of Solace, Skyfall, Spectre) Years of active service: 2006-present Continuing the alternating sequence of suave and stoic Bonds, Daniel Craig jettisoned the warmth and charm embraced by Brosnan to portray Bond as a man who preferred to communicate with his fists and a scowl. Craig is certainly well-equipped for the physical rigours of the role, engaging in some of the series’ most brutal fisticuffs in an attempt to rival the breathless, bone-crunching fight choreography of Matt Damon’s Jason Bourne. He flaunted his impressive physique by emerging from the sea in Casino Royale, his first outing as 007, wearing a pair of tight-fitting blue swimming trunks that sent audiences into a swoon. If only Craig could convincingly have the same effect on his female costars. The tragic romance with Vesper Lynd - played

by Eva Green - in Casino Royale, is sexually inert because he’s solid ice to her molten lava, while his seduction of Monica Bellucci in Spectre is a lot of heavy breathing that eventually runs out of puff.

All images PA Photo/Handout

running into the sea to save a suicidal woman from drowning, followed by a fight on the beach with two gun-toting assailants, hardly sets pulses racing. In a memorable dinner party sequence, dressed in a kilt and surrounded by a bevy of lovelies, he famously quips that he feels “a slight stiffness coming on”.

Lazenby could be referring to his performance. He does get to show some of the character’s vulnerability though, in one of the series’ great love stories with the ravishing Diana Rigg. Lazenby almost milks a real tear in the tragic final scene, cradling his murdered bride in his arms after she has been shot by Blofeld’s henchwoman Irma Bunt. In that moment, he comes tantalisingly close to genuine emotion.

DECEMBER 2017 19

OUT & ABOUT

WITH LOVE FROM SELFRIDGES

O

n 19 October, Selfridges was the first department store in the world to unveil its Christmas windows and full in-store displays - with ‘With Love From’ as the theme.

The Selfridges Oxford Street windows for 2017 tell the story of a jubilant Christmas parade. Festive Floats decorated in luxurious Christmas embellishments reminiscent of the spirit of London’s most famous parades and carnivals transport their cast of characters as they merrily dance, sing and wave at the crowds.

Selfridges’ biggest triple-sided window at the corner of Oxford Street has ten Santas, his red suit adorned in pearly buttons, his style icon The Pearly Kings and Queens of London.

Selfridges unveiled a wondrous selection of exclusive gifts inspired by the vibrant spirit of the modern metropolis, spanning Beauty, Fashion, Accessories, Kids, Food, Home and Technology.

The Wonder Room boasts an extended exclusive offer online, allowing customers to receive delivery of the highest-priced pieces of jewellery and fine watches available to order online. Saying “With Love From…” while gifting a loved one a rare diamond ring, has never been easier.

20 DECEMBER 2017

Selfridges customers can enjoy a fun-filled shopping experience by relying on the store’s stress-busting services: • Selfridges gift giving experts to inspirational gift guides at selfridges.com • Gift wrapping experts • Personalised hampers • Menu planning services This year’s Christmas Events programme is bursting with a whole host of entertainment that will surprise and delight customers: • Santa and his helpful Elves are roaming and entertaining on the shop floor every day until Christmas Eve • Joining Santa is a roster of brilliant DJ’s until 24th December • The first ever Sink the Pink Camp Christmas choir, giving Selfridges customers a soundtrack to their Christmas • The Selfridges Ultralounge will transform into a traditional British Pub • Breakfast with Santa will return to The Corner Restaurant, with Mrs Santa making a rare appearance for storytelling with the children

THE DETAILS

For more information visit the website at www.selfridges.com/Christmas. #selfridgeschristmas

OUT & ABOUT

CLARIDGE’S CHRISTMAS TREE 2017

BY KARL LAGERFELD IS UNVEILED

Claridge’s, London’s legendary Mayfair hotel has unveiled their 2017 Christmas Tree, designed

by Karl Lagerfeld, widely regarded as one of the fashion world’s most influential creative forces.

22 DECEMBER 2017

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his year’s Claridge’s festive installation is inspired by Lagerfeld’s childhood memories of Christmas with a series of inverted spruce Christmas Trees placed around the hotel lobby. The centrepiece is a sixteen foot high inverted tree with silver gilded roots topped with a multi-facetted mirrored star which reflects rays of magical light across the art deco lobby. Reminiscent of a silver stalactite, the tree is hung with traditional silver lametta decorations, silver butter leather feathers and snowflakes handmade by craftsmen in Germany with tree candles giving a warm, inviting glow. Under the tree sits hand sewn white Icelandic sheepskin rugs to reflect a recent snowfall.

An inverted candle lit tree takes the place of Claridge’s famous central chandelier to add a touch of Christmas chic. The pure white linen cloths than cover the tables under the various trees are symbolic of a Christmas ritual that Lagerfeld’s mother would perform every year.

Commenting on the collaboration Karl Lagerfeld said “Christmas trees are the strongest ‘souvenir’ of my happy childhood.”

The Claridge’s Christmas Tree has long symbolised the start of the festive season in the capital. Drawing visitors and Londoners alike to admire its magnificent design. This is the eighth year that Claridge’s has invited a creative visionary to reinterpret the tree in their own distinctive style.

Claridge’s General Manager Paul Jackson said “We are honoured and delighted that Karl Lagerfeld agreed to design our annual Claridge’s Christmas Tree. We believe this magical take on his childhood memories captures the spirit of the season perfectly and adds a sense of fun and glamour to our lobby.”

“Under the tree sits hand sewn white Icelandic sheepskin rugs to reflect a recent snowfall”

ABOUT CLARIDGE’S In the heart of Mayfair, Claridge’s, part of Maybourne Hotel Group, embodies grand English style, timeless glamour and impeccable personalised service. It is London’s art deco jewel, and home to some of the capital’s finest rooms and suites.

From the creative cuisine of Michelin starred Fera at Claridge’s, to its legendary afternoon tea in the Foyer to vintage champagnes in the Fumoir and cocktails in Claridge’s Bar, all are part of the hotel’s unique splendour and charm.

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

ABOUT KARL LAGERFELD Fashion icon Karl Lagerfeld is globally renowned for his cutting-edge, aspirational and relevant approach to style. As one of the most celebrated fashion designers of the 21st century, his visionary creativity expands beyond fashion to include illustration, photography, interior design and publishing. In addition to being the creative director of the Chanel and Fendi fashion houses, he is also overseeing the creative direction of his signature brand, KARL LAGERFELD. www.karl.com

OUT & ABOUT

Christmas at Kew 2017 As twilight falls…the magic begins…

Until 1 January 2018

T

his winter, the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew will transform into an enchanted wonderland as the much anticipated Christmas at Kew returns. Kew has once again teamed up with entertainment promoter Raymond Gubbay Ltd to create a brand new illuminated trail, featuring over one million twinkling lights.

The festive adventure will begin with a path lit by hundreds of illuminated globes winding through glittering trees festooned with silvery shards of light, snowflakes and stars. Children and adults alike will delight at the sight of an enormous glowing Sledge Tree constructed from over 360 wooden Santa’s sledges. Families will then be greeted by the enthralling sound of a chorus of Singing Trees as they head towards one of Kew’s most stunning attractions, its glistening lake, with an ethereal spectacle of light and sound with the lake’s two islands slowly coming to life as angelic voices call and respond across the water.

The trail will feature many new and unique installations by a range of artists; an ephemeral ultraviolet walkway of thousands of continuously moving bubbles, trees wrapped in ever-changing ribbons of light, and a majestic weeping beech tree dripping with sparkling lights. An installation from French art studio TILT, will form an enchanted promenade of hundreds of huge glowing peonies, giant grasses and coloured reeds.

Along the trail, there will be the chance to stop for delicious roasted chestnuts, mulled cider and other tasty offerings, while kids will be thrilled at the chance to toast their own marshmallows.

24 DECEMBER 2017

The Great Broad Walk Borders, the world’s longest double herbaceous border, will for the first time form part of the trail. The stroll along the borders will culminate in a host of giant trees, made from thousands of colourful, sparkling flowers complete with holographic petals, from creative studio PITAYA. Of course, it wouldn’t be Christmas at Kew without the show-stopping Palm House finale. The pond and magnificent glasshouse will spring to life with an explosion of colourful criss-crossing laser beams, jumping jets of light, and new for 2017, kaleidoscopic projections playing across a giant water screen.

Youngsters will delight in spotting Santa and his elves performing along the trail, and White Peaks will once again become a festive fairground with a Victorian carousel and helter-skelter rides for the little ones. As the winter trail comes to an end, visitors will be greeted by the scent of mulled wine, mince pies and other festive foods from a variety of enticing stalls at Victoria Plaza.

For further details and to purchase tickets visit www.kew.org

“The festive adventure will begin with a path lit by hundreds of illuminated globes winding through glittering trees festooned with silvery shards of light, snowflakes and stars”

OUT & ABOUT

Father Christmas lands in Elizabeth Street, Belgravia Until 20th December 2017

R

elocated to Belgravia’s best-loved high street for the festive season, Father Christmas is inviting guests into his new home on Elizabeth Street, for joyous storytelling sessions with photographs and seasonal treats.

An immersive, sensory experience, Father Christmas’ Belgravia residence is an authentic adaptation of his North Pole abode, with gloriously nostalgic Christmas scents, sights and sounds. Upon entry, guests are greeted by Little Helpers who guide them through to an opulent front door straight into Father Christmas’ cosy living room, complete with roaring fire, lavish sofas and a Victorian Christmas tree. Children sit back and listen to Father Christmas read one of his favourite Christmas tales.

Sessions conclude with a photograph taken with Father Christmas, and a deliciously festive treat provided by neighbour and award-winning cake designer, Peggy Porschen.

Grosvenor Britain & Ireland (‘Grosvenor’) is sponsoring Father Christmas in Residence and are donating all proceeds from ticket sales to national charity Beanstalk which provides one-to-one literary support to children who struggle with their reading ability and confidence.

Tickets are £5 per person, with free admission for adults accompanying children, and can be booked via www.grosvenorlondon.com.

Father Christmas in Residence complements a vibrant festive season with Belgravia retailers get into the Christmas spirit and competing to animate their windows. Visitors can nominate their favourite windows on social media by tagging the retailer and using the hashtag #BelgraviaChristmasWindows.

About Elizabeth Street With a history dating back to the 1860s, Elizabeth Street and the surrounding area, including Ebury Street and Eccleston Street, continue to provide a memorable shopping and dining experience for visitors and local residents. The Belgravia neighbourhood has more than 300 niche boutiques and businesses, offering everything from sumptuous Chesterfield sofas to champagne cupcakes, couture hats and beautifully packaged bags of Mayan hot chocolate. Located between stylish Chelsea and vibrant Victoria, it has retained its own unique village ambience.

26 DECEMBER 2017

SOCIAL MEDIA #FCinElizabethSt Instagram: @Belgravia_Ldn Twitter: @Grosvenor_Ldn Facebook: Grosvenor London

THE DETAILS Father Christmas in Residence Opening times: Monday-Friday 3.30pm – 6.30pm; SaturdaySunday 10am-4pm Timings: 30 minutes sessions; includes reading, chat & photograph with Father Christmas Address: 141 Ebury Street, Belgravia SW1W 9QW

FEATURE

& David Beckham launch

The Capsule Collection

D

avid Beckham has made many headlines and graced hundreds upon hundreds of magazine covers due to his football-defining career and impeccable sartorial choices. Known the world over as one of the sport’s biggest stars, the British cultural icon’s journey has seen him representing some of the best teams in the world, including Manchester United, Real Madrid, A.C. Milan and Paris Saint-Germain.

Now adidas Football have launched a new footwear collection designed with one of its most iconic partners, David Beckham.

It all started with a handwritten letter that David Beckham wrote when he was 18 years old. He had just scored his first goal and was looking for someone to sponsor him with some free boots. adidas accepted the talented, but at the time pretty unknown player’s humble request and if you fast forward two decades, their relationship is still going

28 DECEMBER 2017

strong. The launch of the Capsule Collection celebrates the 20 year partnership between them.

The David Beckham Capsule Collection features three new adidas shoes in three iconic colours (white, black, red) for three specific arenas (stadium, street, cage). The first of these is the stadium boot, a ‘remastered’ version of the Predator Accelerator which comes in a triple-white colour scheme. The decorated midfielder wore the Predator Accelerator for the majority of his career, creating history for club and country in the process. Beckham won various trophies at club level – including six Premier League titles and one Champions League with Manchester United – while wearing the famous boots. Some of these moments were chosen by the player and stitched into the collar of each item of the collection. His success while wearing the boots proved to be a vital part in launching the collection, with the former midfielder playing a central role in the design process.

“It all started with a handwritten letter that David Beckham wrote when he was 18 years old. He had just scored his first goal and was looking for someone to sponsor him with some free boots”

David Beckham said: “When I look back on the best moments of my career, the one defining theme of them all is the adidas Predator. It has always been there, helping me play my best when it mattered most. That’s why when adidas offered me the chance to design an updated version of the boot for on-pitch, in the cage and on the street, I absolutely jumped at the chance.”

The three shirt numbers synonymous with Beckham’s career are marked on the heel of each shoe – 23 on the triple-white ‘Stadium’ boot, 32 on the triple-black ‘Street’ shoe and the famous number 7 on the triple-red ‘Cage’ shoe. Even the lettering blends the original Predator typeface with Beckham’s name and number to produce a modern twist on a classic.

The power of the Beckham influence continues to pull strings long after his playing days, evidential by the hype stirred up by his appearance in London for the launch. Beckham kicked it off by surprising a group of young footballers by joining their 5-a-side game in East London. The players, from the adidas Tango Squad, initially believed that they were simply testing out the new Cage footwear from the adidas x David Beckham Capsule Collection, until the man himself turned up for a kick a round!

Sam Handy, Adidas Vice President Product Design said: “Our limited-edition capsule collection releases are designed to pay homage to the rich history of adidas while introducing modern technology that keeps pace with the requirements of peak performance. There are few more longer-standing partnerships in sport than David Beckham’s with adidas and so working with David on his own footwear collection was something we were all extremely excited about. We know that these will be iconic products for so many fans and collectors.”

Prices for each of the shoes in the David Beckham Capsule Collection vary - the triple-white remastered Predator Accelerator boots are £299.95 in the UK, with the triple-black street shoes less at £219.95, while the triple-red cage or astro-turf shoes are the lowest at £179.95.

The new collection is available from selected stores and can be purchased via adidas.com/ Predator.. For further information please visit www.adidas.com/football or follow @adidasfootball on Instagram or twitter to join the conversation.

DECEMBER 2017 29

OUT & ABOUT

[ SHO P P ING ]

FESTIVE FINDS DECADENT DINING

Star Glass Tray, £16, Sophie Allport www.sophieallport.com

Klevering Anouk Golden Star Plates set of 3, £56.25, Printer & Tailor www.printerandtailor.com

Tracy Christmas Tea Towels Taupe (Pack Of 2), £6, RAGGED ROSE LTD www.raggedrose.com

beautiful blooms Fresh from the fields of Holland, bloomon delivers beautiful bouquets direct to your door. By working directly with growers – eschewing middlemen, lorries, and supermarket stands – bloomon offers the freshest and most seasonal blooms available. Within 36 hours of being cut and hand-wrapped with love, flowers arrive in your home. That means: they last up to 10 days longer than bouquets you’d buy down the street. This festive season, bloomon has created a collection of bouquets inspired by fashion, interior and design trends. We’re upgrading the wreath with rebellious abandon, giving the traditional a twist with muted pastels and zingy greens paired with cool whites. www.bloomon.co.uk

Flower Candlestick, £195, THE SHOP FLOOR PROJECT www.theshopfloorproject.com

IT’S A WRAP! Christmas gifts have never looked more enticing with this collection of personalised festive wrapping. Printed on premium art paper, there are more than 30 designs to choose from and each can be personalised with your loved one’s name. £5 per sheet, £10 for three sheets or £15 for five, www.handmadechristmasco.com

christmas cushions

Robin and Holly Napkins, £44.95, Annabel James www.annabeljames.co.uk

30 DECEMBER 2017

We love these high quality embroidered Christmas Cushion cover in a variety of festive designs, sure to brighten up any room over Chrsitmas. The cushion covers are 43cm or 16 inch square and zipped.

Holly & berry embroidered wreath cushion cover, £8.99, Robin & tree postmark Christmas cushion cover, £7.99, www.easycaretablecloths.co.uk

OUT & ABOUT

ONE EVENTS O

ne Events embodies London’s leading luxury event spaces. With a portfolio of spectacular dry hire venues located throughout Central London, they can deliver anything from the intimate to the extravagant!

Heading up the collection is One Marylebone; built in 1826 and lovingly refurbished to the original designs of Sir John Soane. The deconsecrated church is set over two stunning contrasting floors. The Upper Galleries are light and airy, whilst Soane Hall is dramatic with high vaulted ceilings. One Marylebone is a truly unique and versatile setting. Able to host standing receptions for up to 800 and sit-down dinners for 400 or intimate parties for under 100.

Next is One Embankment, a less traditional venue. Situated directly under Waterloo Bridge, it is the epitome of London cool. The venue is laid out over two floors with a mezzanine that stylishly surrounds the ground floor, boasting a unique ‘amphitheatre’ type event space. It is able to host seated dinners for up to 250 guests and standing receptions for up to 750.

Last but not least, is One Belgravia, a short walk from Hyde Park Corner. It is a classically timeless blank canvas, perfectly complimented by crystal

32 DECEMBER 2017

“It is a classically timeless blank canvas, perfectly complimented by crystal chandeliers and ornate architecture”

chandeliers and ornate architecture. Spanning two floors which are connected by an exquisite white marble staircase. The Oak Room, located on the ground floor, has full-height oak panelled walls; which is the perfect setting for an intimate drinks reception. The contemporary Grand Gallery, on the first floor, with floor to ceiling windows, elaborate mirrors and beautiful terrace overlooking Buckingham Palace gardens, makes the perfect back drop for a dinner with dancing for up to 150 guests.

Whatever the event and whatever your style, One Events can offer you something spectacular. From standing parties with up to 800 guests, to intimate weddings, One Events has the finest venue hire London has to offer.

Please contact the One Events team to find out about last minute Christmas deals and special offers. Email info@one-events.co.uk.

Telephone 020 7380 1663. www.one-events.co.uk

OUT & ABOUT

All Aboard for Christmas family fun at

London Transport Museum

Christmas Lights vintage bus tours 21 and 22 December Get into the festive spirit with a special Christmas Lights vintage bus tour. See London at its sparkly best and enjoy stories of Santa’s adventures in the city.

Each adult passenger will receive 10% discount to spend in the Museum’s shop. Tours start at London Transport Museum, and go along Shaftsbury Avenue, Regent Street, Oxford Street and Pall Mall, finishing outside the Museum where you can visit the Christmas shop for some great gift ideas. Tour tickets from £10 (concessions £5). You can book tickets at www.ltmuseum.co.uk

THE DETAILS

Visit the Museum’s Hot Chocolate Bar to make a bespoke hot chocolate drink with edible glitter and enjoy tasty waffles

All aboard for Festive Fun at London Transport Museum in the heart of Covent Garden. Families can visit Santa’s Secret Hideaway or track him down in one of the Museum’s historic vehicles, as well as enjoy singing and storytelling sessions, and make simple origami Christmas tree decorations or craft candle holders to take home.

Kids go free and will receive a free Christmas badge. Adult tickets allow unlimited daytime admission to the Museum for a whole year.

V

isitors can also enjoy a lovely display of Christmas themed posters from the Museum’s iconic collection of graphic art, and get some great gift ideas including posters and prints - in the Museum’s shop.

Late night shopping will be on week nights from 13 to 22 December.

34 DECEMBER 2017

Check out the full Christmas programme at www.ltmuseum.co.uk

Kids go free and adult tickets allow for unlimited daytime entry for a whole year.

Save money by booking online in advance: Adults £16.00 (Concessions £13.50) For advance booking information, call +44 (0)20 7565 7298 or visit www.ltmuseum.co.uk On the door: adults £17.50 (Concessions £15.00)

London Transport Museum Covent Garden Piazza, London WC2E 7BB

OUT & ABOUT FEATURE

“It has been wonderful designing new pieces for Mayfair. We are using the best gemstones of the finest quality and creating unique pieces for our new clients”

Catherine Best FIPG F

rom an early age Catherine Best was determined to find a vocation she could do with her hands and enjoy every day of her life. Knowing in her heart that jewellery design was her calling she attended a night course in Guernsey and after only an hour she was hooked. She then went on to do a jewellery design course at Medway College in Kent for 4 years.

After winning the prestigious Goldsmiths Designer Award, she returned to Guernsey in 1987 to launch the Catherine Best brand with a passion for creating unique jewellery of the very highest quality. Many awards and successes later Catherine has become a world known jeweller and she has created three luxurious showrooms and workshops in Guernsey Jersey and now London. Many celebrities have worn her pieces with pride. Catherine is also very passionate about animal conservation and is active in helping fundraise for Born free foundation and many other charities worldwide. Her recent expansion to London is one of her proudest moments and lifetime ambitions. Catherine’s business is a family run business of two generations with her daughters Vikki and Penelope having inherited the creative passion for jewellery that she has.

Taking inspiration from Gemstones and Diamonds Catherine brings them to life in the most interesting ways possible. She combines her contemporary designs with a practicality that allows the wearer a beautiful piece of designer jewellery, unique and individual.

36 DECEMBER 2017

Catherine also draws inspiration for designing from her love for life and the natural world that surrounds her island home and head office in Guernsey.

The workshop and studio in Mayfair London, offers stunning pieces and a bespoke service for clients worldwide.

“It has been wonderful designing new pieces for Mayfair. We are using the best gemstones of the finest quality and creating unique pieces for our new clients.

I am looking forward to being invited to create personal, bespoke designs for the London market “says Catherine.

Bespoke services There is nothing as special as receiving a truly personal gift. Catherine Best can create any pieces for you with their bespoke service. Using precious gemstones and metals of your choice, they can design anything your heart desires. The designers will work closely with you on every aspect of your individual commission. Or, if you have any old jewellery that is sentimental to you, but simply not to your taste, they will create some stylish ‘old for new’ designs that you will be proud to wear time and time again.

Catherine’s team can also repair any items and bring them back to life using her expert craftsmen based in every workshop. Engraving is also offered to give your items that personal touch.

OUT & ABOUT

A world of inspiration at the London Boat Show 2018 Wednesday 10th – Sunday 14th January, ExCel London

B

ack for its 64th year, the London Boat Show returns in January celebrating everything you can do and enjoy on the water. Bringing a world of inspiration, stunning yachts and on-water experiences, visitors will be treated to five days of the very latest in the boating world.

Incorporating the all-new Boating & Watersports Holiday Show, visitors will be able to get into the holiday spirit and plan their next water-based getaway. Whether seeking new adventures on the open ocean, a family-boating holiday on the UK’s inland waterways or checking out the latest in watersports gear, this brand-new Show will offer it all.

Over 300 exhibitors will be showcasing the best the marine world has to offer with debuts to the World and European stage.

38 DECEMBER 2017

The event will also offer exciting attractions including: • Classic Boat Collection – a stunning collection of beautiful boats presented on a raised deck will greet visitors as the first thing they see when they enter the Show. Curators will be on hand to talk about their history, whilst visitors can get up close to view the detail of this remarkable collection.

• Practical Boating Theatre – using the deck of a boat as a setting for this brand-new attraction, expert advice and live, practical demonstrations will allow visitors to brush up on their knowledge or learn a new skill • The Legends Theatre – the place to see, hear and meet the legends of the sailing world, plus a few surprise guests along the way. Featuring films and stories of adventure, the Theatre will be hosted

by Sky TV’s, Alec Wilkinson

“The place to see, hear and meet the legends of the sailing world”

• Yachtsman’s Champagne Bar – the centerpiece of the Show, the Yachtsman’s Bar will offer visitors a meeting point and a place amongst the beautiful boats to have a drink with friends and soak up the atmosphere of this world-class event • Beach Club & Activity Pool – featuring a reallife sailing school on the sand, visitors can learn the art of dinghy sailing, kayaking or Stand Up Paddleboarding before having the opportunity to put their skills into practice on the Show’s stunning pool.

• Lock & Waterside Pub – the inland network and the Broads in Norfolk offer great family holidays and the opportunity to get active or simply chill out. The event’s very own Lock & Waterside pub, surrounded by narrow boats and river cruisers, kids play area and its own lock, is the best place to have a drink and think about your next family adventure.

• The Black & White Bar – with live music over the course of the five days, this is the London Boat

Show’s signature attraction. Remaining at the core of the Show’s social scene, it’s the place to swap stories, trade tips and plan the season ahead • Moët & Chandon Vintage Bar – Moët & Chandon Vintage Bar - enjoy an elect of luxury whilst indulging in a glass of premium champagne.

Alongside some fantastic attractions and thrilling entertainment, the show will bring together the great and the good from across the British and global market to the heart of the capital city. Whether you love boating, want to experience something new, or just want an enjoyable day out, the world-famous London Boat Show has something for everyone.

The London Boat Show at ExCeL London is organised by British Marine Boat Shows, a division of British Marine.

For more information visit www.londonboatshow.com

DECEMBER 2017 39

OUT & ABOUT

Your Own Boat

See us at London Boat Show, Excel, 10-14 January Stand LD200, near Bespoke London A life of pleasure and luxury on board a magnificent boat of your own. A dream for many. But how to achieve it? Are there any pitfalls? How can you avoid them and achieve your dream?

I

t is true that buying a boat is more complex than buying a car or house. There is so much to consider, both practical and aesthetic. Is the galley all that you desire? What about

40 DECEMBER 2017

the engines and other systems? Is there sufficient room on board for you and your friends, business colleagues or clients. Does the style meet your aspirations? Do you want a luxury machine, or a speed machine, or maybe both? What is your budget?

Go Earth Limited offers a unique, bespoke service for those who aspire to owning their first, or maybe their next, boat. In the leisure marine industry, there are very many people who want to sell you a boat. Go Earth, however, is on the side of the buyer. You are our client. We guide you through

the process of selecting, surveying and procuring a boat. Importantly, we can handle the pricing negotiations for you – and can often achieve very substantial savings.

Have a conversation with us. We are delighted to provide clients with complimentary Special Guest tickets to the London Boat Show at Excel in January (strictly limited supply). Just email us.

A call to us at 0 33 33 05 8424 or an email to info@boatsearch.earth or a visit to our website at www.boatsearch.earth are reasonable first steps

OUT & ABOUT

The National Army Museum T

he National Army Museum in London has four floors of interactive fun. It tells the story of the British Army and asks questions about its role and purpose.

The whole family can explore its 2,500 objects and interactives.

Soldier gallery looks at what it’s like to serve as a soldier from joining-up and training to daily life and returning home. You can try out your marching skills with our interactive marching drill and crawl under a Dingo Scout Car. Army gallery addresses fundamental questions such as ‘Why do we have an army?’. It goes right back to the origins of the army in the British Civil Wars. Don’t miss our display of British Army badges where you can create your own rubbing.

Society gallery explores the army as a cultural and military force in our everyday lives from toys, to games and films. You can also pop on a bearskin, don a red coat and have a go at changing into one of the guards.

42 DECEMBER 2017

Battle gallery shows how the British Army fulfils its most challenging task – fighting battles. It covers the entire history of the army at war. There is even a chance to climb into an interactive life-size tank.

Insight gallery examines the countries and cultures the British Army has encountered and interacted with. It has been created with the help of British communities from around the world.

For children aged 0-8, there is Play Base - an educational soft play area styled as an army base camp. Inside, kids can tackle an assault course, drive an armoured car, get messy in the cookhouse and sort provisions in the quartermaster’s store. The baby area includes a soft, padded space for the youngest visitors. Play Base sessions last an hour and cost £4.50 per child.

The Details National Army Museum is free to enter. To plan your trip visit www.nam.ac.uk

OUT & ABOUT

BIG GAME 10

This month, Harlequins will celebrate an exhilarating decade of Big Games at the home of rugby; Twickenham Stadium. Since its beginnings in 2008, the Big Game series has rapidly risen in popularity and is now a firm fixture in the festive sporting calendar.

O

Saturday 30th December 2017

n Saturday 20th December, Harlequins will face off with Northampton Saints and there is something of a score to settle between the two teams with Saints beating Harlequins in Big Game 7 back in 2014. In the first of the Big Game series 50,000 supporters descended on Twickenham Stadium to watch Harlequins and Leicester Tigers play out a 2626 draw thanks in no small part to the last-minute try of Ugo Monye and subsequent conversion of Nick Evans. Big Game 4 against Saracens famously set a global rugby union attendance record for a regular season club fixture when Twickenham Stadium was at a full 82,000 capacity. Over the nine matches played so far, attendances have averaged out at 75,000 as rugby goers get their Christmas fix.

As Big Game comes to its tenth birthday, Harlequins and England scrum-half Danny Care one of only two players to play in them all - can’t wait to run out at Twickenham Stadium. “Big Games are huge moments for the players, the Club and the fans. Every Christmas it’s the one special game you look forward to and it’s an awesome opportunity for us to go and play at Twickenham with your club side. The Club always puts on a massive spectacle and we can’t wait to get to Big Game 10. The first one seems like a long time ago but we’re really excited about this one. The fans love it and it’s a great opportunity for families around Christmas to come and watch a great sporting event.”

Big Game, however, is not just about the rugby

44 DECEMBER 2017

“Big Games are huge moments for the players, the Club and the fans”

- there is something for everyone whether you’re a rugby lover or not. In the week between Christmas and New Year, Big Game has prided itself on being a day out for all the family as the rugby and entertainment world collide with spectacular musical performances, jaw-dropping pyrotechnics and entertainment for all the family. Last year’s chapter – Big Game 9 – took home the Best Sports Event Award at the 2017 Sports Business Award, seeing off competition from British Cycling, EA Sports and the Professional Darts Corporation.

Over the years, acts including EXTREME Sports, Olly Murs and Rudimental have all performed at Big Game where television personalities Mark Wright and Vernon Kay have both MC’d the event. Big Game 10 is the perfect opportunity to round off Christmas by bringing together your family, friends or colleagues for a full day of entertainment both inside and outside the stadium.

As kick-off approaches, make your way into the stadium for the famous ball delivery, last year the ball was parachuted in by base jumper Gary Connery who was the body double for the Queen at the 2012 Olympic Games opening ceremony in London. This year Harlequins have gone bigger and better. All that’s left to do is sit back and watch the nail biting match with 80,000 other supporters unfold.

Tickets start from just £24 for adults and £14 for children and can be purchased by calling the Harlequins Ticket Office on 020 8410 6010 or on their website at www.quins.co.uk.

OUT & ABOUT

CLARIDGE’S LAUNCHES ITS FIRST EVER SERIES OF

CHRISTMAS HAMPERS F

or the first time in its 151 year old history, Claridge’s, the iconic art deco hotel in the heart of Mayfair, has created a series of Claridge’s Christmas hampers, bringing the magic of its time-honoured traditions, and its secret recipes of the festive season to be enjoyed at home.

Claridge’s has long been a beacon of Christmas celebrations in the Capital and the Claridge’s Christmas Hampers are full of the gastronomic treats that make the hotel such a popular haunt, from the famous Christmas puddings in their eau de nil boxes to the wax sealed bottles of aged Negroni from the Fumoir.

Presented in handmade willow baskets with the distinctive Claridge’s livery and chevron art deco details, the carefully-curated artisan treats include everything you need to create a little piece of Claridge’s distinctive style at home. From Claridge’s moreish vanilla shortbread biscuits, to the homemade raspberry and rose jam served on scones in the Foyer, to a time-honoured Dundee cake steeped in Scotch Whisky and of course their ultimate olives to be served with a chilled bottle of Sancerre, nothing has been forgotten.

Commenting on the Claridge’s Christmas Hamper, Executive Chef Martyn Nail said “For so many years our guests have been asking us to guide them on festive ingredients and open up our secret address book, so this year we have carefully handpicked some of our true favourites, and hopefully brought a little extra Claridge’s Christmas cheer!”.

To create the all-embracing Claridge’s experience, in the larger hampers you will even find the distinctive Fornasetti candles that nightly flicker in the hotel lobby, a set of Claridge’s bone china mugs inspired the art deco design and of course a signature Claridge’s teddy bear in full bellboy uniform.

Christmas is a favourite time of the year at Claridge’s, where the unveiling of its annual Christmas tree in the hotel lobby has become a festive landmark, and its glamourous decorations and famous Christmas afternoon tea draw visitors from around the world.

“To create the allembracing Claridge’s experience, in the larger hampers you will even find the distinctive Fornasetti candles that nightly flicker in the hotel lobby, a set of Claridge’s bone china mugs inspired the art deco design and of course a signature Claridge’s teddy bear in full bellboy uniform”

THE DETAILS The Claridge’s Christmas Hampers can be ordered by visiting www.giftshop.claridges.co.uk

The hampers are available in three sizes; The Davies Hamper priced at £295, The Brook Hamper priced at £495 and The Mayfair Hamper priced at £895. www.claridges.co.uk

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

46 DECEMBER 2017

OUT & ABOUT

HARRODS AND DOLCE & GABBANA

ANNOUNCE FESTIVE PARTNERSHIP Harrods and Dolce & Gabbana partner on a programme of activity including:

This year Harrods and Dolce & Gabbana have joined forces to celebrate the 2017 festive season with an unparalleled partnership. Until 28th December a traditional and festive Italian atmosphere is the main focus of the world’s most famous department store. The partnership features special window displays, dedicated popup spaces, a traditional Italian street market, as well as a dedicated Dolce & Gabbana Christmas Tree.

48 DECEMBER 2017

• The windows on Brompton Road & Hans Crescent take inspiration from the Sicilian puppet theatre, whose protagonists will be two very special guests in the form of marionettes: Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana. The two charming puppets will recount the world of Dolce & Gabbana and all the inspirations that animate it, from fine tailoring to fragrances to the poetry of everyday life.

• The Harrods Christmas Tree will be designed

by Dolce & Gabbana and situated outside door 5 on Hans Crescent. The tree will be decorated with gold ribbons illuminated by colourful lights symbolising Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana’s holiday cheers.

• An exclusive collection designed

by Dolce & Gabbana including ready-to-wear across menswear, womenswear,

childrenswear and accessories are featured, together with a collection of Dolce & Gabbana Men’s Fine Jewellery including cufflinks, rings and pendants.

• An exclusive pair of Dolce & Gabbana sunglasses for Harrods that recall a night full of stars.

The frame is encrusted with bright crystals that illuminate the corners of the frame in a semi-lunar shape whilst the lenses are a dark blue.

• The new Dolce & Gabbana Make up collections: Emotioneyes and Royal Parade, exclusively sold at Harrods in the UK; along with the two new Velvet fragrances: Amber Skin and Amber Sun and the recently launched The One Eau de Toilette.

• Every floor of the department store is custom decorated for the occasion, starting on the ground floor with a special pop-up boutique and a Christmas market on the 4th floor displaying accessories, ready-to-wear, toys and gift ideas, many created exclusively for Harrods.

“We put our personal [selves] in everything we do,” Gabbana says of this year’s partnership. “For me, Christmas is the tree and the nativity, friends and love and all of the most warming things… and now we are [bringing] it to Harrods.”

This is not the first time Harrods has invited a single brand to deck its halls for the holiday. Last year, Burberry installed “A very British fairy-tale” in the store’s windows, with items designed just for Harrods available for purchase inside.

For further details visit www.harrods.com/dolce-and-gabbana

OUT & ABOUT

READER Offer

We are offering all our readers a special 20% discount on all tickets online. Enter code - MAGS20 to redeem the discount.

The Magical Lantern Festival Until 1st January 2018

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he Magical Lantern Festival enters its third year in London following two hugely successful years at Chiswick House & Gardens.

This year’s Christmas themed Lantern Festival will illuminate the gardens turning it into a spectacular fusion of dual culture, vibrant colours and artistic sculptures!

Prepare to enter a magical experience and discover life-sized and large-than-life lanterns in all shapes and forms, from ‘Santa and his Reindeers’ to a magnificent giant lantern recreation of an ‘Ancient city from the Song Dynasty’.

The Magical Lantern Festival promises visitors a truly amazing experience, a visual feast of light and illumination, hidden amongst the grandeur of the 18th Century Gardens, which lends itself perfectly

50 DECEMBER 2017

to the layout of the lanterns with its combination of lakes, woodland, gardens and pathways.

The festival will not only wow visitors with its beautiful hand-sculpted lanterns, the entertainment area adds another dimension to this wonderful night out with a food and drink area, bar, Santa’s Grotto, handful of fairground rides for children and merchandise marquee where visitors can buy a souvenir of their experience to take home.

Along the route visitors will uncover vibrant colourful lanterns at every twist and turn of the trail, offering amazing family photo opportunities and vividly lit scenery, making for a magical, cultural experience. There really is no better family-friendly festival to visit this Christmas.....

The festival will be open until 1st January 2018.

Open five days a week from Wednesday to Sunday each week and open every day during the school Christmas holiday period, apart from Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and Boxing Day. The festival is open from 5pm to 10pm with last entry at 9pm.

It is strongly recommended that visitors use public transport as the venue does not have a car park.

The small A4 car park at Chiswick House is strictly reserved for disabled blue badge holders, drop off and pick up only. Nearest tube stations are Turnham Green and Gunnersbury. The venue is approximately a 15-minute walk from these stations.

Tickets are selling fast, for more information and to book tickets today, please visit www.magicallantern.uk We are offering all our readers a special 20% discount on all tickets online. Enter code MAGS20 to redeem the discount.

“Along the route visitors will uncover vibrant colourful lanterns at every twist and turn of the trail”

OUT & ABOUT

The Director’s Lounge

A stunning, new venue is proving itself a star attraction for parties, events and gatherings a stone’s throw from Euston Station, one of London’s fastemerging areas.

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he Directors Lounge, close to Euston Station, has already played host to film and music industry events as well being a go-to club for hosting private parties or for friends to relax in the evening.

It offers a fabulous atmosphere with five-star luxury design and can accommodate anything from ten to 100 guests with sofa seating, dance floor, DJ, stage, a buzzing bar and chilled areas. The space is flexible and easily adapted for live music, launches, photo shoots, fashion shows, after parties, comedy clubs, birthday parties and more.

Bespoke packages are available seven nights a week from 8pm until 1am, with extended hours by arrangement.

The Directors Lounge was born in March 2016, a new venture by Stephen Less, a London leisure and property entrepreneur who is celebrating his 50th year in the club scene by investing in his 40th London club venue.

Rachel Baker, Event Organiser for The Directors Lounge says: ‘’I have looked after this fantastic venue since its launch last year and we have hosted many events and we have many new exciting events planned for next year. We are currently working with some special event partners which incorporate ‘up close and personal’ Q & A evenings with personalities from sport and the music business which will be enormously exciting. I am also looking forward to hosting regular ‘ladies party nights’ with

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a guest DJ which are always fabulous fun. “My passion is tailor-making extraordinary events and I thoroughly enjoy being the point of contact from initial enquiry, to being there on the big night to see the event through until the last guest leaves. ’We have worked with companies such as Sugarbabes Modelling Agency and held press events and played host to several celebrities while also collaborating on tribute events and charity parties.’’

Rachel adds: “Whether its Summer or Christmas, I work closely with our clients to create special events for all types of parties all year round. I am fortunate to have the support from some great staff, who work efficiently and diligently and seemingly effortlessly, respond to our many varied events and always give fantastic customer service.’’

No room hire charge, bar cost starting from £1,000. The Directors Lounge, Doric Way next to Euston Station, NW1 1DA. For all enquiries please contact Rachel at info@directors-lounge.com or call 0203 887 4635 www.directors-lounge.com

“It offers a fabulous atmosphere with five-star luxury design and can accommodate anything from ten to 100 guests with sofa seating, dance floor, DJ, stage, a buzzing bar and chilled areas”

An event to remember D

o you want your special event to be the most wonderful, stress-free, smooth running experience ever? Chadwick Events, with over 15 years’ experience in event planning, can make this a reality.

As a close-knit team, we are totally committed to ensuring that your special occasion is just perfect - from concept, design, sourcing and project management.

We listen.

Whether you are getting married, celebrating a special birthday or anniversary, or looking to promote a product or organise a launch, Chadwick Events go that extra mile in offering a full-service solution, private or corporate.

We pride ourselves by working closely with our clients in order to obtain a clear insight of your requirements, in order to make your event happen, right down to the last detail.

We work closely with carefully sourced suppliers, and operate to the very highest standards of integrity and professionalism, whether the event is in the country or the city.

Whether your event is large or small, or if you just require assistance with a specific area of your planning, please do not hesitate to contact us and let our dedicated team create an occasion to be remembered forever.

Let’s make the impossible happen!

Please contact Katie at kate@ChadwickPR.com or 0778 672 3958

OUT & ABOUT

Aashni + Co Wedding Show 2018 Comes to Somerset House on 21st January 2018

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ollowing its continued success year on year and an ever increasing demand for tickets, the UK’s leading, South Asian high fashion extravaganza, Aashni + Co Wedding Show 2018 will return bigger and better than ever before.

After three successful residencies at The Dorchester, Mayfair and continuing to surpass itself each year, Aashni + Co Wedding Show 2018 will transform one of the UK’s leading cultural venues, Somerset House, into a wonderland for discerning brides and fashionistas alike, setting a landmark precedent in the South Asian fashion and bridal sector in the UK. Some of India and Pakistan’s most celebrated designers will once again descend on the Capital to present their latest bridal and couture collections on one high-end platform, from established, A-list fashion houses to the most sought after new-gen talents.

Showcasing alongside them will be the leading names in fine jewellery, accessories and wedding/ occasion services, with visitors having the opportunity of meeting their favourite and wish list designers and suppliers in person, accessibility being key to the show.

The full line-up of participating brands to exhibit in the Department of Clothing will be: Sabyasachi, Tarun Tahiliani, Gaurav Gupta, Rimple & Harpreet Narula, Astha Narang, Bageecha, Elan, Gaurang, Mishru, Samant Chauhan, Shantanu & Nikhil, Shehla Chatoor, Shyamal & Bhumika and Varun & Nidhika.

Exhibiting brands in the Department of Fine

54 DECEMBER 2017

Jewellery include: Amrapali, Araaya, Jaipur Gems, Jewels by Queenie, Khanna Jewellers, Moksh and Sunita Shekhawat.

Participating names in the Department for Jewellery and Accessories include: Aamir Naveed, Ahujasons, Amishi London, Chakra, Isharya, Outhouse, Rani Pink, Rusaru, RWS, Shaan Mu and The Wedding House.

Aashni + Co Wedding Show 2018 will also curate the latest bridal, occasion wear and couture collections from the top tier of the South Asian design spectrum, alongside the leading brand names in jewellery, accessories and wedding services.

THE DETAILS Aashni + Co Wedding Show Somerset House, Strand, WC2R 1LA 21st January 2018, 10.30am – 6.30pm

Standard Tickets: £25 via www.wslondon.com For more details of Aashni & Co visit www.aashniandco.com

Email: weddingshow@aashniandco.com Facebook: Aashni & Co. Official Twitter: @AashniUK #aashniweddingshow Instagram: @aashniandco

OUT & ABOUT

LONDON ART FAIR 2018 30TH ANNIVERSARY EDITION 17 - 21 January 2018

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aunching the international art calendar, London Art Fair offers exceptional modern and contemporary art from leading galleries around the world.

Alongside this, it continues to provide insight into the evolving international market through specially curated spaces Art Projects and Photo50, presenting innovative developments in contemporary art and photographic practice.

London Art Fair 2018 invites collectors and visitors to discover work by artists from the 20th Century to today, ranging from Modern British masters to exciting new talent. In celebration of their landmark 30th year, London Art Fair will feature a unique exhibition in partnership with Art UK. Bringing together thirty artworks from the nation’s public art collections, Art of the Nation: Five Artists Choose will recognise the extraordinary diversity and importance of the UK’s publiclyowned art.

131 exhibitors will participate in this year’s Fair, attracting galleries from across five continents to the capital. New international exhibitors for 2018 include Stoney Road Press (Ireland); Artco Gallery (Germany); Galeria Miquel Alzueta (Spain) and La Lanta Fine Art (Thailand). Returning for this year is Maus Contemporary (USA), who will exhibit within the main Fair having debuted in last year’s Art Projects. Other highlight stands include a collaboration between Skipwiths (UK) and Berwald London (UK), contrasting the work of contemporary Asian artists with a collection of

THE DETAILS LONDON ART FAIR 17 - 21 January 2018 Business Design Centre, 52 Upper Street, Islington, N1 0QH For more details and to purchase tickets, visit www.londonartfair.co.uk Standard ticket, £15.95 in advance. £23 on the door.

For the latest news, follow @LondonArtFair on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram (#LAF18) Left: Grayson Perry, Britain Is Best, 2014. Courtesy Of Castlegate House Ltd; Top: Banksy, Kate Moss (The Original Colourway) 2005. Courtesy Of Gormie; Above: Foundland Collective, The New World Episode 1, 2017 Video Still

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Chinese ceramics carefully built over thirty years.

The Fair will also feature work by a host of renowned artists including Andy Warhol, Joan Miro, Pablo Picasso, Frank Auerbach, Banksy and Damien Hirst.

Over the past three decades, London Art Fair has continued to evolve to reflect the changes in contemporary practice and collecting within the art world, as presented in the critically acclaimed Art Projects and Photo50.

Established in 2005 to support emerging galleries and encourage innovative presentations at the Fair, Art Projects will include 33 exhibitors presenting solo and group shows.

Photo50, launched in 2007, provides a critical forum to examine and debate some of the most innovative and distinctive elements of contemporary photographic and lens-based practice.

This year’s Photo50 exhibition, entitled Resolution is not the point, is curated by Hemera, the first collective to take on this role. The exhibition will explore photography and lens-based media as a catalyst for interdisciplinary exchange and collective action, featuring a number of collectives, including (play)ground-less and Foundland Collective, as well as acclaimed artists Larry Achiampong and David Birkin.

OUT & ABOUT

THE BERKELEY RELAUNCHES ANNUAL FESTIVE ROOFTOP WINTER CINEMA Until 31st December 2017

ABOUT THE BERKELEY

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hidden gem overlooking the rooftops of Knightsbridge and Hyde Park, The Berkeley’s Health Club & Spa has once again transformed its secret garden into a festive forest cinema this winter. Hotel guests and Londoners are treated to Christmas classics on the big screen whilst nestling between warm down feather Moncler blankets and hot-water bottles.

Accompanied by homemade hot chocolate, mulled wine and mince pies the magical atmosphere is complete with twinkling lights and heated lamps for when the cold really sets in. Screenings at the Berkeley’s rooftop Winter Cinema will take place until 31st December 2017.

Adding a stylish sprinkle of rustic chic are four handmade wooden chalet-inspired cabins, custom made to cosily fit two guests. With a warm mulled wine in especially created hand warming mugs and wrapped up in a Moncler blanket, guests are sheltered from the cold whilst watching festive classics such as ‘Miracle on 34th Street’ and Elf ’.

Towering high above bustling Knightsbridge and overlooking Hyde Park, this pine-lined outdoor theatre is London’s only rooftop private cinema intimately accommodating just eight guests per viewing.

The Winter Cinema at The Berkeley offers two evening viewings at 5:15pm and 7.30pm available at £70 per person and includes mulled wine, hot chocolate with melted marshmallows and cream and home-made mince pies. Children are welcome with tickets priced at £50 and can also enjoy some specially created Christmas biscuits. A festive movie 58 DECEMBER 2017

menu has been especially created for guests should they wish to choose some additional goodies before the show begins, offering home-made Christmas market nibbles such as Bratwurst, Pretzels, Christmas Cookies and a variety of hot and cold beverages from Champagne to hot toddies.

To make a reservation please call The Berkeley Health Club & Spa on 0207 201 1699 or email wintercinema@the-berkeley.co.uk and for more information please visit www.the-berkeley.co.uk/winter-cinema

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, two Michelin-starred cuisine from Marcus Wareing, a fashion favourite afternoon tea at 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.

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

Christmas at Bocketts Farm E xperience a Magical Christmas at Bocketts Farm, as Father Christmas returns. From 23rd November to 24th December, children will love to hop on board the Santa Express to his magical and traditional hay barn workshop. Once inside, each child will meet Father Christmas and receive a gift!

Visit bockettsfarm.co.uk for times and availability and to buy your tickets in advance.

Please note that Father Christmas tickets (£8.50 per child) can only be purchased in addition to a farm entry ticket. There’s lots to explore on the farm park this December with gorgeous baby lambs to see and a full programme of fun farm activities including Animal Handling, Goat Milking, Tractor Rides, Pony Rides and Pig Racing. Children can also discover their ‘Inner Elf ’ with the fun Christmas trail and get creative in the festive craft corner. Plus, experience a ‘white Christmas’ in the giant snow globe and enjoy endless amounts of indoor play.

Great fun for all the family! www.bockettsfarm.com

OUT & ABOUT

ARTLOCALATLONDON THEARTBRIDGE #8: ON DISPLAY IN TOWER BRIDGE’S FAMOUS ENGINE ROOMS Until 31 December 2017 Perkin, Imogen Demolition

Rooms interpretation, unveiled this spring, which explores the social history of the Bridge.

Art at the Bridge #8 draws inspiration from a city continuously in flux. The work of 13 artists explore the theme of ‘Construction – Destruction – Reconstruction’ through a variety of media, including paintings, photography, drawing and sculpture.

“The collection will be on display in the atmospheric Engine Rooms” Chris Earlie, Head of Tower Bridge Exhibition, says: “We are excited to be working with Agenci for the eighth edition of Art at the Bridge. With over eight hundred thousand visitors to the Bridge a year from across the globe, Tower Bridge Exhibition is a fantastic platform to showcase the talented artists living and working in the local Southwark borough.”

Admission is included in the entry for Tower Bridge Exhibition. For ticket prices and opening hours visit www.towerbridge.org.uk #InsideTowerBridge

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ower Bridge Exhibition has launched Art at the Bridge #8, the eighth exhibition to be held in collaboration with leading local arts charity, Agenci (formerly Southwark Arts Forum). This successful partnership was established in 2011 as part of Tower Bridge’s on-going commitment to engage with, and acknowledge the talents of the local creative community.

The collection is on display in the atmospheric Engine Rooms, from where the mighty bridge lifts were once powered, offering the perfect chance to explore the exhibition theme at the heart of one of the London’s most famous symbols of industry. This year’s theme perfectly complements the new Engine

60 DECEMBER 2017

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OUT & ABOUT

‘Out Of The Blue’

A bar experience like never before.

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he Blue Bar at The Berkeley has created ‘Out Of The Blue’ to take guests on an explorative journey of taste by stimulating the senses through a combination of the finest ingredients and bespoke technology. In partnership with Bacardi Limited, ‘Out Of The Blue’ allows up to four guests the exclusive opportunity to try curated cocktails in a secret space within the heart of the hotel where tailored technology, culinary science and mixology will meet to enhance the perception of flavour through sight, sound and scent.

Guests will be collectively immersed through a first of its kind technological collaboration between projection experts Igloo and sensory reality specialists Sensiks. Guests will enter a 360-degree projection environment where specially-designed film and molecular scents combine with bespoke cocktails, to craft a bar experience which blurs the lines between scent, sight and taste, creating a synesthetic immersion completely new to the London cocktail scene.

Taking inspiration from the Blue Bar’s True Colours menu, a set menu of four taster-sized cocktails has been created by the Blue Bar team

62 DECEMBER 2017

using select premium spirits from Bacardi Limited portfolio (BOMBAY SAPPHIRE gin, GREY GOOSE vodka, BACARDÍ OCHO rum and ABERFELDY single malt scotch whisky) with the addition of Laurent-Perrier bringing an effervescent effect to one of the four. The cocktail sequence will interlock to create a coherent flavour experience, tantalising the taste buds through a journey where light acidity and sweetness is balanced by potency and depth.

By stripping away the traditional cues, the ‘Out Of The Blue’ experience will bring a focus on ingredients, allowing connoisseurs the chance to explore taste through a blank canvas and experience cocktails like never before.

Out Of The Blue’ is available with hourly slots between 5.30pm – 11pm, priced at £200 (inclusive of VAT) for up to four guests to experience privately.

To make a reservation please email the team directly on outoftheblue@the-berkeley.co.uk or via the website www.the-berkeley.co.uk/ knightsbridge-bars/out-of-the-blue. Claridge’s, the Connaught, the Berkeley. Maybourne Hotel Group; www.maybourne.com

“Guests will be collectively immersed through a first of its kind technological collaboration”

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OUT & ABOUT

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 controlled through a linear potentiometer for a real throttle response from crawl to top speed, which makes for a nice improvement on the typical ‘binary’ On-or-Offswitch pedal that can be found on basic electric cars.

Interested? Grab your tool box, because the Toylander can also be a do-it-yourself project. The company provides kits with all the bare essentials needed to build your own mini Land Rover – electric motor, controls, fuses, horn, wheels, axles and more – you simply order everything else you need and nothing you don’t.

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 64 DECEMBER 2017

“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”

tough monocoque body has room for one adult and 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 your choice of colour. These are hand made to order and can take 4- 6 weeks to complete, 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

OUT & ABOUT

London Art Antiques & Interiors Fair returns 12 - 14 January 2018, London ExCel

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hose looking for inspiration for their homes amidst the post-Christmas weeks rejoice as the London Art Antiques & Interiors Fair returns to ExCeL for a second year.

London Art Antiques & Interiors Fair is a new style art and antiques Fair bringing together 100 specialist dealers showcasing over 30,000 unusual and desirable items from classic to contemporary. The fair is an ideal shopping destination for those searching for that perfect piece to add to their collection or simply looking for a statement piece; as well as those on the hunt for items to decorate their home.

After a successful launch in January 2017, the event will return to London ExCeL for three days, where visitors will discover all types of exhibitors and designs including furniture of all periods, ceramics, glass, prints, paintings, jewellery, silver and vintage textiles. Priced from £50 to £50,000, there is bound to be a piece that every visitor will fall in love with!

A series of Celebrity Talks will include experts, Mark Hill and Judith Miller from BBC Antiques Roadshow, as well as recognised names from the world of interior design such as the British Institute of Interior Design. The event is expected to draw a number of avid collectors, seasoned shoppers and first time buyers looking for something truly unique, and with the eclectic range on offer, the fair is sure to suit a variety of tastes – young and old.

Every item on sale will be vetted by a team of vetting experts to ensure that all pieces are authentic and correctly labelled, giving buyers every confidence in their choice.

Mary Claire Boyd, Fair Director of London Art Antiques & Interiors Fair says: “Our first year of the fair proved hugely successful with shoppers travelling far and wide to meet dealers and browse for that one of a kind piece of art or antique.

For 2018, there will be an even broader range of

66 DECEMBER 2017

exceptional pieces for guests to discover including an array of decorative and mid-century pieces to inspire, ensuring the fair remains a must-attend event in the New Year.

“People come not only to shop but to learn.

Visitors have the opportunity to hear first-hand from some of the UK’s best and most well-known antiques experts, so those making their first foray into the antique world need not feel daunted as help is on hand throughout!”

Tickets are priced at £16 on the door and £12* in advance.

For more information please visit artantiquesinteriorsfair.com. *A transaction fee of £1.20 applies.

“Visitors have the opportunity to hear first-hand from some of the UK’s best and most well-known antiques experts”

Smoking Lady, 2016, 61 cm x 50 cm, Acrylic on canvas Website : www.ronnie-jiang.com • Facebook : www.facebook.com/ronni3.mat • Email : jiangronnie@yahoo.com

OUT & ABOUT

THE MAYFAIR ANTIQUES & FINE ART FAIR Thursday 4th - Sunday 7th January 2018, London Marriott Hotel Grosvenor Square, W1K 6JP

Flying Colours Gallery

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he first London antiques fair of 2018, The Mayfair Antiques & Fine Art Fair will be opening its doors for the sixth consecutive year at the five star London Marriott Hotel Grosvenor Square, Mayfair.

This prestigious boutique event brings together some 40 expert dealers, mainly members of BADA or LAPADA The Association of Art & Antiques Dealers. This popular fair had people jetting in from abroad from the start and continues to woo collectors, interior decorators, the trade, Londoners and visitors to the capital at the end of the festive season.

Tanya Baxter Contemporary returns since debuting at this fair in 2017, this time bringing Lynn Chadwick’s bronze Maquette V, 2 Winged Figures, initialled and stamped, POA; a vibrant acrylic on canvas New York [VI.1970], 1970 signed by John Hoyland, £48,000; Study for Arnolfini Poster 1973

by Bridget Riley, POA, as well as original hand signed lithographs by Henry Moore and Tracey Emin.

Atelier Limited has gained a reputation for offering views of London that reveal its hidden past, but convey all its unique atmosphere. To this end, Atelier is launching The London List, a quarterly catalogue offering original oil paintings, watercolours and etchings of the different aspects of the 610 square miles of Greater London, some of which will be shown at The Mayfair Antiques & Fine Art Fair.

Paul Mayhew Fine Art is returning to exhibit, after a two year break. Pride of place on the stand will be Venetian Festival widely regarded as one of Sir William Russell Flint’s best watercolours, priced at £99,000. Other art dealers exhibiting include

Atelier, Ltd.

THE DETAILS The Mayfair Antiques & Fine Art Fair, supported by Wetherell, Bold & Reeves, The Clubhouse and NFU Mutual Godalming Tickets are £10, including catalogue (and re-admission) on the door or through Eventbrite: http://tinyurl.com/yadxn8ur The Antiques Dealers Fair Ltd +44 (0)1797 252030 or info@adfl.co.uk www.mayfairfair.com Twitter & Instagram: @ADFLfairs

Cambridge Fine Art, Saunders Fine Art and Haynes Fine Art - London and Cotswolds.

Jewellery from different eras includes a pretty 19th century English tiara with over 20 carats of old mine cut diamonds, with a ticket price of £25,000, from Anthea AG Antiques’ stand. Hickmet Fine Arts has three Lorenzl cold painted bronzes from the 1930s that were part of racy romance novelist, Jackie Collins’ collection, bought in the 1970s and 1980s.

BBC Antiques Roadshow horological specialist, Richard Price, returns with his fine selection of clocks, Other timepieces come in the form of vintage watches from high-end manufacturers including Rolex, Patek Philippe and Vacheron Constantin on the Timewise stand. This dealer also stocks military timepieces with particular emphasis on watches from the British and German armed forces. One of the few surviving Lemania series III chronographs, issued to Royal Navy nuclear submarine personnel between 1957 and 1970, is priced at £11,000.

Facebook: www.facebook.com/ AntiquesDealersFairLtd

Wimpole Antiques

68 DECEMBER 2017

OUT & ABOUT

THE INTERNATIONALLY ACCLAIMED THEATRICAL SPECTACULAR

SLAVA’S SNOW SHOW Enter a joyous dream-like world, unlike anything you have seen before. A world in which a cobweb envelops the audience and one tiny piece of paper begins a heart-stopping blizzard of snow…

“Slava’s Snowshow is to clowning what Cirque du Soleil is to the circus… as theatrical as it is simple, as involving as it is inspiring” – Variety

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he multi-award winning international sensation SLAVA’S SNOWSHOW returns to London’s Southbank Centre for an unprecedented fifth season of festive magic from 18th December – 4th January.

A combination of theatrical clowning and stunning visual spectacle, SLAVA’S SNOWSHOW is performed by a world-renowned company of clowns led by Slava Polunin, Artistic Director of the St Petersburg Circus.

SLAVA’S SNOWSHOW is the internationally acclaimed winner of the Time Out, Olivier and Drama Desk awards for most unique theatrical experience. Now in its 25th year since its inception, it had its UK premiere at the Edinburgh Festival in 1994, and has since toured all over the country, delighting audiences of all ages and winning an Olivier Award for Best Entertainment during its run at the Old Vic in 1998. The show’s popularity overseas has seen it performed in 80 cities around the globe including New York, Los Angeles, Paris, Rome, Hong Kong, Rio de Janeiro and Moscow.

“SLAVA’S SNOWSHOW is performed by a worldrenowned company of clowns”

70 DECEMBER 2017

Ahead of the opening of UK Slava Polunin visits the UK to launch his new book Alchemy of Snowness. The publication explores Slava’s role as an artist, a creator, a performer, and of his Snowshow, the theatre spectacle that has entertained, enchanted and touched audiences worldwide. The book traces Slava’s artistic journey and exhilarating exploration in his creation of “a show that would bring us back to our childhood dreams; a show which would help spectators be released from the jail of adulthood and rediscover their forgotten childhood”. With 27 stunning illustrations throughout by artist Quint Buchholz punctuating Slava’s poetic storytelling this book is a must-read for anyone intrigued by the creative process and for those longing for a little magic in their lives. The show’s triumphant return to the Royal Festival Hall after four highly successful winter seasons will mark the culmination of the latest stage in an extraordinary journey, which has seen it become a key part of the UK cultural landscape.

Influenced by artists such as Chaplin, Marcel Marceau and Engibarov, Slava and his company have taken clowning out of the world of circus, and brought it to theatre lovers, fellow practitioners and families worldwide.

18 December - 4 January; www.slavasnowshow.co.uk

“Overwhelming, invigorating, terrifying, delightful…it brings us back to the lost Eden of our childhood” – Financial Times

“Theatrical brilliance” - Sunday Times

“A magical work of wonder” - Evening Standard

“Simply thrilling…an unforgettable comedy masterpiece” - The Independent

OUT & ABOUT

LLANGOED HALL Llangoed Hall is a true country house hotel, with 23 bedrooms, that commands magnificent views of the Black Mountains and beyond, nestled into the Wye River Valley.

THE DETAILS To book a stay, lunch or dinner at Llangoed Hall, call 01874 754525 or email enquiries@llangoedhall.com

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hen you arrive there is no reception desk, just friendly and professional staff to look after you. The spacious reception rooms are full of antiques, complimented by a superb collection of original 18th and 19th Century paintings and drawings including works of art by Edwardian artists Walter Sickert, Augustus John and Rex Whistler.

A sweeping staircase leads up to the large sumptuously appointed bedrooms, each with its own style, charm and thoughtful extras. A library, complete with window seats and snooker table adds refinement and, for those with the inclination, a gentle game of croquet is available on a specially designed lawn.

Gravelled pathways wrap around the building and through the gardens, so guests can stroll and take in the beautiful surroundings. There’s even a 72 DECEMBER 2017

If you would like to enquire about an event, conference or Wedding, please contact our Events Manager, Stacey Johns on eventsmanager@llangoedhall.com or call 01874 754525.

path down to and along the River Wye. The walled gardens and it’s beautifully designed flower beds and fruit tree alleys bring you into your own private secret garden, and there’s even a hedged maze to explore! Adjacent to the walled garden is our vegetable and herb gardens. Llangoed Hall also keeps its own chickens and ducks for fresh eggs for your breakfast in the morning, along with bee-hives from which we produce our own honey!

The hall was originally a Jacobean Mansion of 1632, Sir Clough Williams-Ellis, redesigned Llangoed Hall in 1912. In the 1980s the hall was bought by Sir Bernard Ashley (husband of Laura Ashley) who rescued the property with the clear vision of creating the ambiance of the Edwardian country house party. Largely as a result of Sir Bernard Ashley’s foresight, much of the house and gardens remain as they were then but complimented, today, with modern conveniences to provide an idyllic location for holidays, weddings, conferences, lunches, afternoon teas, special occasions and any other celebrations.

Llangoed Hall’s head Chef Nick Brodie’s awardwinning cuisine has flair and imagination and only the finest local produce is used to create outstanding gourmet dishes. Nick has also recently appeared on BBC2’s the Great British Menu, so pop in to sample one of his delicious creations.

The outstanding lunch, dinner and afternoon tea menu, on offer at Llangoed Hall make it the perfect setting to relax, unwind and enjoy mouth-watering food.

Llangoed Hall, Llyswen, Brecon, Powys, Wales LD3 0YP

FOOD & DRINK

magnificent

MAGNUMS

Magnums make a great first impression and these five look and taste impressive.

WORDS: Sam Wylie-Harris

J

ust in time for the festive season, we’re fizzing with delight that so many of our favourite bubbles are available in bumper size.

Helping to deliver the wow factor, a magnum makes a great first impression and, not only do they feel special and look impressive, they’re also hugely practical on a grand scale. The next size up from a 75cl bottle, 1.5 litres is the equivalent to two standard bottles and will serve 12 x 125ml glasses, and create some wonderful theatre while keeping your guests happy. To help guide you through the supermarket’s spectrum of sparkle, we caught up with five of our favourite retailers to hear their thoughts on how to double the drinking pleasure...

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San Leo Prosecco DOC Magnum, Italy “We’ve seen an increase in magnum sales over the last few years and not just at Christmas. Magnums of red, white and fizz are all popular at this time of year, with the San Leo Prosecco topping the list of bestsellers,” says Becky Hull, champagne and sparkling buyer, Waitrose. “It’s the perfect party drink. A show-stopping bottle bursting with citrusrich character and bundles of charm.” £20.99, Waitrose M&S Prosecco Magnum, Italy “Magnums are the perfect party piece, they add that extra sparkle to the festive dinner table and really set the tone of a special occasion,” says Emma Dawson, M&S wine buyer. “Any wine ages more slowly in a magnum, which also means you can count on them to show wines at their best. With sparkling wines this means they preserve their fruit flavours really well.

“Prosecco without a doubt will be our biggest seller this Christmas. Our customers love that fizz in any shape or size. But why stop with a magnum when you can also buy a jeroboam (the equivalent of four bottles or three litres)?” However, you may need a strong person to lift the bottle and pour. £18 from £21, December 5-January 1, Marks & Spencer Tesco Finest Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore DOCG Magnum, Italy “We are excited to offer two of our fantastic proseccos in magnum format,” says Rob Dixon, champagne and sparkling buyer, Tesco. “Large

format bottles will bring excitement and show to any party this season, and our Tesco Finest Valdobbiadene Prosecco Magnum is cheaper than buying two bottles, and you can still fit it in your fridge, unlike some of the larger formats” A quality prosecco, it’s utterly delicious with plenty of white orchard fruits and pretty aromatics. £19, Tesco, in-store only Taste the Difference Cremant de Loire NV, Magnum, France Sainsbury’s Cremant de Loire launched last autumn in time for the Christmas party season and this year they’re selling it in a magnum - it makes an affordable French alternative to Champagne. The chenin blanc based bubbles are made in the same way as champagne using the methode traditionnelle and it’s rich on the palate, yet has a zesty apple freshness. Perfect served as an aperitif with canapes and party bites. £22, Sainsbury’s, in-store only Henri Delattre Champagne Magnum, France For an attention seeker that boasts good lineage, Lidl have it nailed with their Henri Delattre champers. “If an occasion is made more special by a bottle of champagne, imagine the impact of a magnum. Perfect for Christmas festivities, this is an attractive, tasty champagne with a dry finish - great on its own or with savoury canapes,” says Richard Bampfield, master of wine consultant. Chin, chin! £29.99, in-store from November 30, Lidl, in-store only

FOOD & DRINK

Jamie Oliver Why we should Cook With Just five Ingredients words: prudence wade

T

he celebrity chef also tells Prudence Wade why he’s so keen to help halve childhood obesity - and what he’d do if he was the prime minister.

I had been forewarned that Jamie Oliver is as hyperactive in person as on screen, which turns out to be no exaggeration.

Ask one question and Jamie is off, easy charm in full flow, at a million miles an hour. The celebrity chef, restaurateur and household foodie favourite, is set to continue his culinary domination with a new cookbook, 5 Ingredients - Quick & Easy Food. Not content with reducing our cooking times to a mere 15 minutes in previous tomes, he’s now trimming our shopping lists with dishes that require just five ingredients (give or take some additional seasoning).

“Some books just want to be written,” Jamie enthuses. He originally wrote the recipes with four ingredients in mind, but added an extra when he realised something was missing.

“I wrote 70% of that book but then realised it was just ‘good’ and I don’t think people want to buy a ‘good’ Jamie Oliver book,” he explains. “So the extra ingredient is that balance between creativity and getting straight to the point.”

With fewer ingredients, Jamie is hoping to make people more aware of what’s going into their food - something he’s keen to do himself. He embarked

“My personal goal - what gets me up in the morning - is to help halve childhood obesity in 10 years” on a nutrition course three years ago and is now studying for his masters.

With the rise in health and wellness fads, Jamie wanted to be able to debunk much of the misinformation being circulated. He says: “You’ve got people who are taking 200g of butter out of a brownie and putting 200g of coconut oil in and saying it’s healthier. It’s just not true. I knew I had to go to school.”

And he’s absolutely loving it. “It’s literally one of the coolest things I’ve ever done,” he exclaims.

Discussion of education and learning about food inevitably leads Jamie to what he calls his ‘life’s passion’: child health. “My personal goal - what gets me up in the morning - is to help halve childhood obesity in 10 years,” he says.

With nearly a third of children aged 2-15 76 DECEMBER 2017

overweight or obese, he is justifiably concerned about this issue, especially given its links to middleaged mortality, mental health and an increase in type 2 diabetes. No wonder Izzi Seccombe of the Local Government Association calls it a “major public health time bomb”.

For Jamie, tackling this is not going to be easy given his relationship with the present government.

He worked closely with the previous four prime ministers on child health but things haven’t gone so smoothly with Theresa May. “We exchanged a few letters and I’ll keep writing them but there’s not much coming back really,” he says.

He is particularly angry about the changes the prime minister made to the anti-obesity strategy formulated under David Cameron. May’s version failed to include restrictions on advertising and promotional deals on junk food, two actions that would have a huge impact on childhood obesity, he says.

“What that lot get up to baffles me. It baffles me economically and it baffles me morally.” He believes we can halve childhood obesity in 10 years but only if we tackle education and advertising, and generally make it easier for people to be healthy.

That’s not the only matter that needs to be dealt with, Jamie believes. When asked what he would do if he was in charge of the country, the chef is uncharacteristically tongue-tied, but after a brief pause he returns to the conversation with gusto.

If elected prime minister, first and foremost he would tackle education. He says: “Teachers need to be re-incentivised, they need to feel like they’re on the front line of our country and, therefore, they need to be paid accordingly.

“It’s a very complex thing to tackle but I think losing great teachers because they’ve had enough is just not what we need right now.”

He firmly believes children need to be better educated about food to be able to make healthier choices. “You don’t die young because you didn’t do your geography homework.”

Don’t expect Jamie to stop talking about childhood obesity anytime soon. He says: “It doesn’t matter where I could be, if I was in front of the Queen and she asked me about it, I’d just go off on one.”

5 Ingredients - Quick & Easy Food by Jamie Oliver is published by Penguin Random House.

Recipe (c) Jamie Oliver Enterprises Limited, Photography (c) Jamie Oliver Enterprises Limited, by David Loftus (2017 5 Ingredients Quick & Easy Food).

PROPERTY

And the winner is…

The Birchwood by Fusion Residential

F

usion Residential has scooped double honours in the 2017 UK Property Awards with The Birchwood, their new six-apartment, super luxury, conciergeserviced development in Ealing.

The talented team from the Letchmore Heathbased design house has picked up awards for Best Apartment and Best Architecture in the 26th year of what is the largest and most prestigious property awards programme in the country.

Fusion Residential Managing Director Antoine Christoforou is delighted at this early recognition and reward for The Birchwood.

He said: “Everyone in the studio has been excited about The Birchwood. It seems our peers in the highend property market have been excited about it too.

“The Birchwood is one of the most visionary luxury living projects London has seen in years.

“It offers a masterful blend of design, technology and sophistication and pushes the boundaries in terms of exquisite finish, attention to detail, high specification and classical styling.

“To receive not one, but two honours for The Birchwood at this early stage is truly astonishing and it is an endorsement of the effort, expertise and endless pursuit of excellence exhibited by the team.”

Perched neatly in Park View Road, Ealing W5, The Birchwood takes its name from the birch trees planted in its landscaped gardens.

The west facing apartments boast expansive and

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exquisite wrap-around terracing while the penthouse comprises the entire top floor, and has a stunning “skyhall” and 360 degree panoramic views towards London’s Shard and beyond. Downstairs the garden apartment features a spacious courtyard garden in which to while away the days. This apartment has already sold off-plan.

Residences at The Birchwood aim to uplift and enrich – from the gated underground car parking, lift access to each level, Comfort Cooling and the very latest life enhancing electronic adornments.

Each residence features bespoke hand-crafted accoutrements, luxuriant marble kitchen and wet-room surfaces, rich natural wood architectural features and tantalisingly tactile wall and floor coverings.

Ealing – Queen on the Suburbs – will also see Crossrail launch next year offering access to Bond Street in just 11 minutes – another big plus point for The Birchwood.

The 2017 UK Property Awards assessed design, quality, service, innovation, originality, and commitment to sustainability - no wonder Fusion Residential and The Birchwood caught the eyes of the panel of 70 industry experts who judged the competition.

A flag announcing the win is now set to be raised at The Birchwood and the Fusion Residential team are now looking forward to the launch in January next year.

To find out more about The Birchwood, visit www.fusionresidential.co.uk or call 01923 216 535.

PROPERTY

Tower

A new level of luxury living has arrived in the heart of London

I

n an exclusive partnership with Versace Home, the global symbol of opulence, AYKON London One brings you the ultimate in branded living experiences.

Versace Tower is about to light up the multibillion pound Nine Elms regeneration zone, in the shape of a designer piece of property for those who love a label. Thanks to a collaboration with Italian fashion house Versace, 50-storey Aykon London One will be the glitziest tower on the block.

The £600million tower, dubbed the ‘Jenga tower’ because of its appearance, is due to open in 2020.

A studio can be bought for £747,000, with onebedroom apartments from £1,116,000, and twobedroom flats from £1,877,000. As the floors start to rise, so do the prices. A top-floor duplex would set you back £13 million.

Choose from studios to one, two and three bedroom arrangements, finished to the highest standards, with special ‘winter gardens’, offering stunning panoramic views of the city. Even the

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“Residents will enjoy in-house dining, a concierge, a cinema, a state-of-the-art gymnasium plus a luxury swimming pool and spa all tricked up in Versace’s trademark maximal style of opulent colours and fabrics”

chandeliers in the residents’ lounge are gold-plated filigree, while “V” for Versace Home is in marble patterns inlaid into the walnut floors at the entrance to each apartment.

For their money, buyers certainly get plenty of Versace branding in their homes. The style house’s trademark Greek key decorates splashbacks, kitchen islands and mirrors in the white marble bathrooms, while master bedrooms are decorated with lavish amounts of pale gold-and-cream Versace wallpaper.

Residents will enjoy in-house dining, a concierge, a cinema, a state-of-the-art gymnasium plus a luxury swimming pool and spa - all tricked up in Versace’s trademark maximal style of opulent colours and fabrics. Even the children’s playroom has a patchwork Versace carpet in primary colours, plus a double-height yellow slide and designer chairs.

Each of the building’s outdoor spaces will be unique, with its own focal sculptures, water features and landscaping aesthetic, all complemented by stylish furniture and specialist lighting.

Nine Elms is already home to the New Covent Garden Market, the brand-new US Embassy and Battersea Power Station, a cherished feature of the London skyline. It’s also blessed with almost two miles of Thames river frontage, and will be lined with cafés, bars, restaurants, cultural attractions and public space as part of the planned regeneration.

Since construction work on “Versace Tower” began in August, 170 of its 360 homes have sold.

Unsurprisingly, many overseas buyers have taken the bait, from the Gulf States, Hong Kong, Russia, Iran and Pakistan. Developers have come under fire for selling highly priced flats at Nine Elms to overseas buyers before addressing the British market. www.aykonlondonone.com

PROPERTY

A collection of stylish newbuild homes on Fulham High Street D

eveloper Meyer Homes are delighted to announce the launch of their latest residential development in one of West London’s most desirable enclaves.

Bishops Gate is set to become SW6’s most coveted new address, comprising an exclusive and architecturally striking collection of 42 high specification, stylish apartments and ten townhouses, punctuated by two magnificent historic gatehouses, in a prime position just moments from historic Bishop’s Park - whilst forming a new focal point for Fulham High Street.

The development seamlessly integrates the utmost levels of design and finish with striking architecture, alongside beautifully crafted interiors, by critically acclaimed London-based interiors designers, WISH London. The site sits scenically adjacent to Bishop’s Park, spanning over nine hectares and features sprawling gardens, riverside walks, family play areas and tennis courts.

The contemporary homes are elegant and stylish, reflecting the enduring cachet and appeal of genteel Fulham, which is consistently popular as an upmarket leafy residential location with outstanding local amenities, excellent transport links, bustling high-streets and child friendly nature – all against the inimitable back drop of the River Thames.

Comprising one, two and three bedrooms, the apartments are exquisitely designed, merging tailored and luxurious materials, with outstanding contemporary craftsmanship to provide the perfect ‘homely’ oasis. The ten contemporary-styled townhouses have been inspired by the traditional London townhouse that has been revered for centuries, Nick Jordon of Wish London, comments “subtle, classical details thoughtfully make references to the heritage architectural elements of the site, providing a seamless and elegant connection between old and new”. Bishops Gate reflects the demands and needs of today’s modern family living; spacious, thoughtfully designed with usability in mind and specifically crafted for family living.

Jordan, commented: “The interiors blend understated luxury with a clean and contemporary aesthetic showcasing a modern and purist backdrop, consisting of a fresh, light palette paired with crisp

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“The contemporary homes are elegant and stylish, reflecting the enduring cachet and appeal of genteel Fulham” and refined detailing. Touches of opulence such a herringbone porcelain tiles and K soul composite worktops enhance the feel of modern luxury. The light filled, spacious open plan living and kitchen area fulfils the requirements for modern family life, whilst the bedrooms act as relaxing retreats.”

Richy Almond, Founder of Novocastrian who designed the Staiths shelving unit, comments “the Staiths complement the marketing suite, designed by Wish, with their clean lines and rigid geometry they provided shelving via its elegant industrial structure, finished in tactile patinated steel as if the units fit seamlessly into Wish’s approach to understated luxury.”

The juxtaposition of the apartments, punctuating the front of the development, with the carefully staggered townhouses to the rear creates an exclusive, secure feel, whilst attractive landscaping and paving seamlessly link the different elements of the development allow residents to feel part of the new neighbourhood and wider community.

Both residents of the apartments and townhouses will also benefit from a bespoke concierge service located in one of the gatehouses.

The Meyer Homes team, led by several leading industry veterans, has a wealth of experience and expertise in the successful development of high quality and design led properties. Creating new, vibrant environments and local communities showcases their intent to partner with awardwinning designers and builders to create stylish homes of distinction whilst ensuring sustainable and considered developments.

James Moody, Managing Director of Meyer Homes comments “We are delighted to bring our expertise and development vision to such an iconic location in Central London, we have a great team crafting something new and unique for the area”.

THE DETAILS The marketing suite, furnished show house and apartment is now open.. Apartments available from £725,000 and townhouses from £2,235,000.

EDUC ATION

Shirley Perrin

Shirley Perrin

What will your journey be with Adult Learning Lewisham? printmaking and more.

Shirley Perrin has been attending courses at ALL for a number of years and her confidence and skills have grown immensely. She has taken a wide variety of courses, including machine embroidery, embellishment techniques and hand-knitting, and is currently enrolled on the new hand-stitched textiles class.

‘I have always been creative. I used to be a florist and have always enjoyed working with textiles. Being creative and making something new that I feel is beautiful is what really motivates me’.

‘Working with my hands is definitely relaxing and therapeutic, and I do this every day. I’m a long term sufferer of depression and anxiety, and doing something creative and enjoyable really helps with this and gives me optimism’.

‘The classes have enabled me to focus and develop my skills in a really supportive environment, and I have been encouraged to show my work along with other learners at events such as the Sydenham and Catford Artist’s Trails’.

Why not get started on a course in January, what better way to start the New Year?

Learn a new skill, enhance your health and wellbeing and meet new people who share similar interests at ALL.

I

f you are thinking about taking a course and need some inspiration, Adult Learning Lewisham (ALL) has over 700 part time of courses on offer to suit all lifestyles and interests. Courses run from a day to a year so learning a new skill doesn’t need to be a big commitment.

Discover and develop your creativity at the Lewisham School of Arts and Design. You will receive specialist tuition from artists, designers and experts practising in their fields across a wide range of subjects such as drawing and painting, clothes making, jewellery design, glass work, pottery, illustration, upholstery, interior design, tailoring,

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“Working with my hands is definitely relaxing and therapeutic, and I do this every day”

THE DETAILS Centres are located in Brockley, Lewisham, and Grove Park; ten minutes from Forest Hill, Honor Oak Park, Lewisham and Grove Park stations. For a full list of courses and online enrolment: www.lewisham.gov.uk/ adultlearning

EDUC ATION

Excellence in the Heart of London:

Introducing Kensington Park School Key Application Date 11+ and 13+ Entry Exam Saturday 24th February 2018 Regular sixth form open evenings held throughout the term.

If you would like to register for either of these events, please contact Jane Lovell, Registrar at j.lovell@kps.co.uk.

K

ensington Park School is a new academically rigorous independent school for boys and girls aged 11-18.

It boasts some of the country’s most experienced teachers and offers excellent cultural and sporting opportunities, all in the heart of London.

While the school is new, its leadership and core teaching team have long successful track-records at some of the best independent schools in the country. A large contingent come from St Paul’s School, including Dick Jaine, the former acting High Master, and senior teachers for subjects such as Mathematics, Chemistry and Economics. Between them, these superb teachers have decades of experience delivering outstanding grades at GCSE and A Level as well as guiding entry into the world’s top universities.

KPS operates from two buildings either side of Kensington Gardens: • KPS Sixth Form, in Queen’s Gate, which opened in September 2017 for pupils aged 16-18

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Contact details: Kensington Park School Sixth Form 59 Queen’s Gate London SW7 5JP Kensington Park School Seniors 40-44 Bark Place London W2 4AT T: +44 (0)20 7225 0577 E: j.lovell@kps.co.uk www.kps.co.uk

• KPS Seniors, in Bark Place, opening in September 2018 for pupils aged 11-16 The school also has exceptional boarding facilities in South Kensington providing a comfortable and secure home-from-home environment.

Excellent sporting and cultural opportunities KPS is about much more than academics. The school has partnered with providers of world-class sports facilities in and around its West London home. These include Imperial College’s Ethos Sports Centre with its state-of-the-art gym, pool and climbing wall; expert coaches, including former Olympians, in fencing and riding; and Fulham Reach Boat Club, a superbly equipped new rowing facility on the Thames. There will be an exciting outdoor education programme, including the Duke of Edinburgh award scheme. Similar partnerships are in place for music and drama.

EDUC ATION

Why are so many students choosing DLD College London?

D

LD College London is one of the oldest and most prestigious sixth form colleges in the UK. Since its foundation in 1931, it has built a strong reputation both locally and globally among students, parents, schools and universities.

DLD is an independent, co-educational, boarding and day school that operates from an iconic purpose built campus in the heart of London overlooking Westminster and the River Thames. The College has on-site boarding accommodation as well as exceptional teaching and learning facilities, and a dedicated and caring pastoral team that provides outstanding support for all students.

DLD offers a unique alternative to traditional school life, maintaining a strong academic ethos as we prepare our students for university. We aim to build confidence within a happy, supportive and friendly atmosphere and we expect high personal and academic standards from our students. Many students surprise both themselves and their parents by their achievements.

Our large sixth form enables us to offer a wide range of subjects and we have a flexible approach to subject choices for GCSE, A-levels, BTECs and International Foundation Programmes. We also

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offer a diverse enrichment programme which forms an integral part of the all-round, holistic education and college experience. Our vision is to create global citizens, who excel academically and develop their emotional, interpersonal and social skills.

In 2017 our students celebrated an outstanding set of results with an A-level pass rate of 99% (87% A*-C Grades); GCSE pass rate of 99% (72% A*-C Grades) and BTEC past rate of 100% (fourth year in a row). Our International Foundation Programme students also achieved 100% pass rate in Engineering and 84% pass rate in Business & Economics.

We are delighted to announce that Mr Irfan H Latif has been appointed as the new Principal and will join the College on 1st January 2018 from his current role as Headmaster of Sexey’s School in Bruton, Somerset.

Of his appointment, Irfan said, “It is a tremendous honour to have been appointed as the new Principal of DLD College. I am inspired by the history of this school as well as the genuine warmth of the students and staff I have met. It will be a privilege to build on Rachel Borland’s legacy and to lead the founders’ inspiring vision for educating young people. I look forward to working with colleagues to build on the strengths of DLD in the years to come.” www.dldcollege.co.uk

“DLD is an independent, coeducational, boarding and day school that operates from an iconic purpose built campus in the heart of London overlooking Westminster and the River Thames”

HOLIDAYS & travel – Heading out of London to explore the rest of the world – i m a g e : R E E F E NCOUNT E R - AUSTRALIA

H OLIDAYS & TRAVEL

A Day in the Life of

E sprit S k i E

sprit Ski looks after the childcare with flexible or seamless all day options, so you can enjoy your skiing – but what does that mean?!

Esprit Childcare gives you the ability to spend as much time on the slopes as you desire, with all and part-day care available. Babies and toddlers go to the exclusive Esprit Nursery, whilst older children are taken to ski school…This is just part of our super-convenient ‘Seamless Service’ that helps you maximise your time on the mountain.

2.00pm Snow Club! Now it’s time for a fun afternoon of games, treasure hunts, igloo and snowman building, arts and crafts, snowball fights, bum boarding and more! This takes us all the way through to…

We follow an Esprit Sprite (aged 6) to see exactly what happens on a typical day….

7.30pm Cocoa Club starts whilst parents enjoy Adult Dining. Every night has a different theme and involves games, story-telling or quiz nights. Every night can be ‘date night’ as FREE Baby/ChildListening is also available every night in all Esprit Chalet Hotels, Xtra Chalets and larger chalets, and in all properties on staff night off.

8.30am Esprit Snow Rangers escort all the excited children to ski school, who follow behind chanting ‘repeat after me’ songs! Then it’s time to clip on the skis and spend the next few hours with the ski instructors, learning to zip down the mountain.

Meanwhile Mum and Dad get to head for first lifts!

Esprit Sprite lessons (ages 5-12) run for all abilities with a 1:8 ratio. Our younger guests aged 3-4 have Spritelet lessons in the afternoons, when it’s generally warmer and snow is softer.

11.30am Skis off, and it’s back home for a supervised lunch after all that skiing. Parents can lunch up on the mountain and catch some rays on a sun terrace.

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5.30pm High Tea - fully supervised by the childcare team, with lots of yummy and healthy food to fill those tummies. Mum and Dad can come and join too and catch up on their children’s high energy day.

Esprit Ski offers catered chalets and Chalet Hotels in top resorts including Courchevel, Val d’Isère and St Anton. Packages include flights, transfers and chalet board - a full breakfast, afternoon tea, and three or four course dinners with wine. Esprit’s youngest guests can enjoy Nursery from 17 weeks - 40 months.

The Nurseries are run by qualified English-speaking Early Years Practitioners and have strict ratios.

Call the Esprit team on 01483 915 274 or visit www.espritski.com for more details.

H OLIDAYS & TRAVEL

REEF ENCOUNTER Sarah Marshall visits

the world’s largest coral reef system and finds out what’s really going on with Australia’s biggest tourist attraction.

A

black-tip reef shark wriggles to the silent safety of a shadowy jetty, white-spotted eagle rays flap their wings to pick up speed and giant clams appear to purse their thick blue lips in a concertina of disgust.

It’s restaurant rush hour off the shores of Heron Island, a coral cay sprouting with dense pisonia forest and ringed by a brilliant white halo of sand, off the east coast of Australia at the southern end of the Great Barrier Reef.

Yet, lifting my head out of the water to gasp air, I’m met with silence and calm.

Teeming with wildlife and natural wonders, our oceans are a noisy place. And right now, they’re crying out for help, a reality we’re only just tuning into.

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Marine conservation is a central theme of BBC One’s Blue Planet II series, narrated by Sir David Attenborough, and the naturalist is urging us to protect an environment we know woefully little about.

Earlier this year, Australia’s Great Barrier Reef was the subject of controversy when scientists warned that more than 90% of the planet’s largest living organism might have been destroyed. Having narrowly escaped being listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site in Danger, a recovery plan is now under way - both for the reef and its worldwide reputation.

Sir David has been to Heron Island several times and describes it as one of the most magical places on earth. After his last visit, the 300-person resort was at full capacity. “We call that the Attenborough effect,” says general manager Sandy McFeeters.

Located 81km from Gladstone, Queensland, the island is reached by a two-and-a-half-hour boat journey or, as in my case, by a 20-minute seaplane ride, wading to shore in clear, warm water with luggage hoisted overhead.

There’s no phone coverage, no disturbance and no locking system on doors. At sunset, a burning ember fizzles below the horizon, singing the sky

with charcoal streaks, and nightfall invites a starlit 40-minute circumnavigation.

An important nesting site for loggerhead and green turtles, the peaceful island has a grim past as a turtle and mutton bird canning factory. Over the course of two summers, 128,000 cans of turtle soup were produced, but an alarming drop in numbers meant the business was no longer economically worthwhile.

A resort opened in 1932, although any ecotourism was crude, and gasp-inducing photos from the 1950s show holidaymakers riding on the back of carapaces.

Now the island, part of the Capricornia Cays National Park, is heavily protected. Of the 1,500 species of fish living on the Great Barrier Reef, 60% can be found in the 21 dive sites at Heron island, says blond tousle-haired scuba and snorkel guide Rick.

Passing the wreck of HMAS Protector, one of Australia’s first naval vessels which will be declared a preservation site in 2018, we snorkel to Heron Bommie, a heaving tower of coral not far from the shore. (None of Heron’s sites are more than a tenminute boat ride away.)

Two blacktip sharks (Rick’s “pussy cats of

the reef ”) relentlessly chase a whitetip around spiral-ridged brain coral, while a green turtle makes himself a comfortable bed on cushioned plates, blinking only a disgruntled eye as we free dive to observe him.

Most corals on the Barrier Reef are hard, meaning the underwater scenery is a swirl of camouflage hues, rather than the bold neon brights associated with soft corals. “Besides, below five metres, you lose any colour,” explains Rick.

Even during winter (August) when I visit, the water is a pleasant 21C and the visibility is excellent.

Cooler temperatures partially explain why coral has survived much better here than in northern reaches of the reef. Anything above 30C causes the organisms to expel their zooxanthellae algae, leaving behind a frail white skeleton, a phenomenon known as coral bleaching.

Investigation into the effects of climate change is being carried out at the island’s Research Centre, built in 1951 and partly funded by the University of Queensland.

“The scientific community is divided,” explains Education Officer Lauren Bailey. “Some researchers say it’s too late and others are confident the reef will survive - it might just look a little different.”

Innovative projects in development at the centre include Professor Peter Harrison’s plan to funnel spawning to affected reefs, and Professor Bernard Degnan’s groundbreaking solution for controlling crown of thorns starfish (a potential threat to reefs) - by replicating a natural pheromone to lure them in.

“We have to redress all these negative messages,” stresses Lauren. “We can’t give up hope.”

A similar outlook is shared by Peter Gash, manager of the eco resort on Lady Elliot Island, at the southern tip of the reef.

Mined for guano in the 1860s, the wind-whipped coral cay was left barren and desolate. Many years later, it opened as a resort and when Peter visited in 1979, a love affair began. Since taking over the lease in 2005, Peter has installed solar panels, cut fuel burn by 90% and replanted much of the original casuarina forest, bringing back a cacophony of screeching bridled terns and white-capped noddies.

“Not everyone is happy about that,” he tells me. “But we make sure there are earplugs in every room.”

Although no spring chicken, Peter is a dynamo.

On a guided tour of the resort’s back room operations, I’m lost in a muddle of mathematics as he details engineering innovations with vigour.

Swept away by his energy and enthusiasm, it’s impossible not to smile.

And he’s obviously making a success; bookings for Lady Elliot need to be made at least six months in advance.

Simple rooms curve around the fringes of the island, and drift snorkel sites have been clearly marked out. Like Heron, the underwater spectacles are outstanding, and all within easy reach.

One afternoon, I spend several hours wallowing

in a shallow lagoon, only accessible at high tide.

“Look out for Buddy, our resident turtle,” shouts resort manager Andreas Supper, from the restaurant decking. “He likes having his back scratched.”

Within 45 minutes, I’ve seen 14 turtles.

Distracted by filling their stomachs, none are perplexed by my presence - although I don’t receive any invitations for tummy tickling.

The best time to explore is at dawn, Peter tells me, so I nervously agree to a 6.30am snorkel. As we walk across the island in semi-darkness, gloomy pandanus trees appear to be lifting their sinewy roots to join us and flitting bats are in a rush to reach home.

Leaving the shadow of the beaming lighthouse behind us, we dive into another reality and Peter guides me on an underwater safari of his favourite sites. Polyps finishing their night’s feed sway with the tide, sage loggerheads drift over ancient living columns and mantas glide elegantly with wind in their sails.

We’re the only two-legged land mammals out of their depth; down here it’s a real democracy.

As much as the sights are enticing, so too are the sounds.

An undulating whine wends into my headspace and I realise I’m listening to humpback whale song.

Even though the migrating animals are probably a long distance away, their stirring voices are penetrating.

Yet, there’s nothing melancholic or mournful about their cry. Instead, it’s graceful and uplifting, striking a chord with hope.

Travelbag (travelbag.co.uk; 0207 001 5252) offers a 9-day trip to the southern Great Barrier Reef, split between Brisbane, Heron Island and Lady Elliot Island on a mixed board basis, for £2,999pp. Includes flights from London Heathrow. For more information on the destination, visit www.australia.com and www.queensland.com

“Some researchers say it’s too late and others are confident the reef will survive”

DECEMBER 2017 97

H OLIDAYS OUSE & GARDEN & TRAVEL

The Ultimate Family Luxury Christmas Gift

S

hepherd huts have become the musthave item for homes and gardens for year-round luxury retreats. Blackdown Shepherd Huts creates specially designed huts as family dens, relaxation rooms or garden offices, and many other reasons!

Idyllic as a garden office, inspirational as a writer’s nook, calming as a meditative space, and a joy for children to play in, these are many of the uses Blackdown Shepherd Hut have created huts for.

Nothing says ‘luxury outdoor living’ more than a shepherd hut, and Blackdown Shepherd Huts have been inspired by the traditional shepherd huts of yesteryear to create the ultimate dream huts for the English garden. Built to last for generations to come, they provide a perfect legacy for family members.

After all, the English garden is a place that people feel is an extension of their home and shepherd huts are the ultimate celebration of a quintessentially English style to share down the family line.

Shepherd huts provide the perfect place to escape in order to unwind and relax and

98 DECEMBER 2017

Blackdown huts are specially designed to make the best out of the room they have for a fabulously luxurious experience. Your garden could be the unique retreat location for creating something very special for the family.

Blackdown Shepherd Huts is based in Ilminster in Somerset and create their Shepherd’s Brace (double hut), Heritage, Turnkey, and Towby Huts with the home leisure lover in mind. Think cosy winters, throwing the doors open for spring, outdoor BBQs in the summer, and a place to embrace the great outdoors - these year round retreats are a perfect family addition.

Every hut has a story....what will yours be?

Telephone: 01460 929 774; Mobile: 07711 489717; Email: info@blackdownshepherdhuts.co.uk; Website: www.blackdownshepherdhuts.co.uk

“Idyllic as a garden office, inspirational as a writer’s nook, calming as a meditative space, and a joy for children to play in”

H OLIDAYS & TRAVEL

Which ski resort to choose?

If you are looking for the best ski resorts with the best slopes in Europe, we have selected those that really will take you to new heights!

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resh mountain air, wide-open spaces and stunning views… not to mention après-ski! You no doubt understand the allure of the mountains, and may want to start planning your next snowy adventure.

Val Thorens is the highest resort in Europe (at an altitude of 2,300 metres) and the highest point of the largest ski area in the world, the 3 Vallées (600 kilometres of interconnected runs). It’s a New World resort that combines the best of skiing with the best of atmospheres so that each holidaymaker feels unique and enjoys their very own Val Tho experience! Reinventing enjoyment to give its guests the best possible holiday is Val Thorens’ credo. Val Thorens is a sporty, innovative, ski in- ski out carfree resort, built in pure mountain style.

Alpe d’Huez is a true paradise for those who love snow and the great outdoors. The Winter/ Summer sports resort is well known for its very sunny climate. The village sits perched on a full south facing plateau at 1860m altitude in the Grandes Rousses mountain range. The ski area called ‘Alpe d’Huez grand domaine Ski’ links up to the resort villages of Auris-en-Oisans, Huez, Ozen-Oisans, Vaujany, Villard-Reculas, La Garde and Le Freney. Its summit, the Pic Blanc is 3,330 metres at its highest point and offers an exceptional panorama stretching over one fifth of French territory. The resort is endowed with facilities that harmonise with the natural features of the resort to offer holiday makers a whole host of indoor/ outdoor, sports and cultural activities.

La Plagne is a family winter sports and summer resort located in the French Alps between 1250 and 3250 metres. For over 50 years, the destination has become internationally renowned for its huge ski area with 225 kilometres of runs for all levels of skier.

The atmosphere and architecture are diverse and recount over 50 years of the history of winter sports!

St. François Longchamp is nestled on the mountainside between 1450m and 1650m altitude.

The resort welcomes you to an exceptional setting,

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protected between the Mont Blanc mountain range on the north and the Pic l’Etendard on the south. Children, couples or tribes, everyone can find their place at Saint François Longchamp.

Between four season sledge, dog sled riding, ski lessons for the toddlers or thrilling descents of the ski slopes in the “Snakegliss”(group sledging) at nightfall, or moments of relaxation in the Balneotherapy Centre for the parents. At Saint François Longchamp and its surroundings you can explore or practice in peace Nordic skiing or snowshoeing.

Saint-Gervais Mont-Blanc Over the past few years the resort has undergone a facelift. The Belle Epoque architecture has regained its splendour and the village its original charm. Dominated by the Mont-Blanc range, the Evasion Mont-Blanc ski area, the third largest in France, has been extended to the centre of the resort. This winter SaintGervais revives the magic of the night, increasing its evening activities outdoors: skiing, ski touring, snowshoeing etc. A new dimension that procures a change of bearings, a feeling of heightened speed and the awakening of senses.

Saalbach Hinterglemm - Welcome to Austria’s largest ski resort: 270 piste kilometres and 70 modern lifts are waiting. Ski-In/Ski-Out on well-

“A change of bearings, a feeling of heightened speed and the awakening of senses” groomed slopes and masses of powder fascinate skiers, snowboarders and offpiste fans. Perfectly shaped funparks attract freeskiers. Over 50 cosy mountain huts serve local specialities.

Kitzbühel - the most legendary sports

destination in the Alps: this self-confident slogan stands for a town that effortlessly combines tradition with sophistication. The legendary Hahnenkamm, a long sporting tradition and pioneering ventures in Alpine golf and winter sports have all contributed to Kitzbühel’s worldwide reputation. Today Kitzbühel remains a place of contrasts, where rustic Tyrolean guesthouses rub shoulders with international designer boutiques.

Visitors can experience Kitzbühel in many ways, from the alleyways in the medieval old town and the breathtaking pistes to the town’s elegant hotels and scenic hiking trails.

Gstaad - The combination of the special experiences for which Gstaad is so famous is unrivalled. It cannot be found anywhere else and makes Gstaad the ‘last paradise in a crazy world’ The prestige value of the brand Gstaad comes top of the list. The internationally renowned brandwhich is associated with luxury and high society creates a value that resonates far beyond the actual main target group.

Baqueira Beret is a complete resort, divided in 3 areas: Beret, Baqueira, and Bonaigua with their respective characteristics, a network of modern installations and carefully maintained pistes, will satisfy all skiers. Beret is ideal for beginners and families. You’ll have easy access to all amenities, its pistes are very wide and of moderate inclination.

Although, paradoxically, it is there that the permanent Stadium hosting competitions of high level is located. Åre in Sweden is Northern Europe´s largest and most advanced and diverse alpine sport resort, with skiing and a wide variety of other sports and activities to suit every possible preference and level of skill. There is everything from aweinspiring black pistes and highly challenging off-piste slopes to an abundance of easy skiing for children and beginners. Åre and adjacent Duved also offer world-class slopes for snowboarding, telemark and carving. Extreme adventures such as heli-skiing are also available.

TUSCANY/UMBRIA BORDER Exceptional Umbrian farmhouse villa to rent

Centuries-old farmhouse villa • Sleeps 11 • Near Citta di Castello, Umbria Large heated pool • Total privacy • Stunning views • Therapeutic atmosphere

Our luxurious centuries old farmhouse villa, one time Customs post and our home for half the year, sits secluded in its own gently sloping grounds astride the old border between Tuscany and Umbria in the heart of Renaissance Italy. The garden merges seamlessly into the surrounding countryside. While the house is by no means isolated, it is completely private and has a special aura of peace and tranquility.

Roses, lavender, honeysuckle and rosemary scent the air. Wild flowers abound - with many varieties of orchid in early summer. Birds galore - goldfinches, harriers, redstarts, buzzards, long tailed tits and many more. Butterflies, lizards, fireflies, hares, black squirrels, hedgehogs, porcupines, deer and wild boar share the property.

Steps lead past rose clad pergolas, shade giving trees and flower beds to the 10x5m. ‘no goggles needed’ swimming pool. There are exceptional views over the painting studio and up across a patchwork of fields and woods to the hilltop village of Monte Santa Maria Tiberina.

The weeks before and after summer school holidays are brilliant - weather and price wise.

Main Features of our much loved home • 5 twin/double Bedrooms • 1 single Bedroom • 5 Bath/Shower rooms • Sitting room + open fire • Kitchen + large Dining area • Alfresco eating • Games/Ping Pong room • Stone built Barbecue • Wifi Internet + Telephone • Smart TV, CD player, iPod dock • Books + Games • Linen + Towels (incl. swimming) • Dishwasher + Clotheswasher • Cleaning twice weekly • Pool + Garden maintenance • Cooking, Babysitting, Ironing

www.ladogana.co.uk

OUT H OLIDAYS & ABOUT & TRAVEL

DOG FRIENDLY FESTIVE ESCAPES S Celebrate Christmas with all your loved ones - including your pets. WORDS: Sarah Marshall ometimes more cherished than family members, for many people, a holiday without their dog is unthinkable.

Anyone booking beaks for Christmas and New Year needn’t worry though, because specialist dog-friendly holiday company PetsPyjamas (petspyjamas.com) have come up with a selection of pooch-pleasing getaways.

The Fish Hotel, Worcestershire Why should two-legged revellers have all the fun?

Get into the spirit of the festive season with the one-night Presecco & Pawsecco package, which includes dinner for three (you, your loved one and the dog, of course) accompanied by a bottle of Italian fizz and a Woof & Brew tipple for your pooch. Cure any hangovers the following morning with a walk though the Cotswolds countryside. £230 (for two), until March 31, 2018

The Cary Arms, Devon Winter walks along the beach are invigorating, and at Babbacombe beach in Devon, dogs are welcome too. A shell’s throw from the sand, this laid-back boutique hotel is offering a Betwixt & Between package for before or between Christmas - including a three-course dinner, breakfast and a massage (for the humans).

From £360, from December 17-29

The Devonshire Fell, Yorkshire Dales Yorkshire breakfasts, candlelit dinners, festive lunches and mulled wine are on the menu for the Christmas House Party or New Year Celebration packages. Go for long walks in the Yorkshire Dales or relax in the Devonshire Spa on the Bolton Abbey Estate. There’s even a Midnight Mass. £400pp, from December 24-30 All trips can be booked through PetsPyjamas.

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“A shell’s throw from the sand, this laidback boutique hotel is offering a Betwixt & Between package”

H OLIDAYS & TRAVEL

THE MOST DELICIOUS HOLIDAY EVER Every 3 star Michelin restaurant in the world…in six months

£182,000.00

La Pergola, Rome

for excellence to only a select few each year. Those awarded the coveted 3 star accolade, are deemed the supreme in fine dining and ambience.

The trip is for 6 months and together with business class flights, staying at some of the finest 5 star hotels in the world, including: Trump International, New York; Conrad, Tokyo; Hotel De Paris, Monte Carlo and Claridges, London.

You will spend two nights in each location where you will have time to relax and savour the delicious experiences at each restaurant and enjoy a luxury stay in the surrounding area. Restaurants include Lung King Heen (Hong Kong); Sushi Yoshitake (Tokyo); Per Se (New York); The French Laundry

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Dessert at Per Se, New York

t reads like the ultimate dream holiday for any culinary aficionado. This never been done before trip will give fine food enthusiasts a one of a kind experience to dine in every restaurant worldwide that has received the ultimate culinary award of 3 Michelin stars.

You will visit 16 different countries ranging from the United States to countries across Europe and then to China and Japan. There are not many people in the world (if any!) who have experienced all 117 3 Michelin star restaurants. Michelin awards their stars

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“You will spend two nights in each location where you will have time to relax and savour the delicious experiences at each restaurant”

Trump International Hotel, New York

Le Meurice, Paris

(Napa Valley, California); Meurice (Paris); El Celler De Can Roca (Spain) and La Pergola (Rome) Fine food highlights include: ‘Salmon Poached in a Liquorice Gel’ at experimental chef Heston Blumenthal’s The Fat Duck in England: the delicacies of legendary chef Alain Ducasse in Monaco: and Arzak’s ‘Pineapple Bubbles’ in the mountainous Basque country.

The price includes the organisation of: travel, accommodation and restaurant reservations; and costs of flights; hotel rooms and meals at the magnificient Michelin restaurants. The meal costs have been estimated at an average of £250 per head including house wine. You will pay the restaurants directly and the meal cost will obviously depend upon what has been ordered.

A donation of £1,500 will be made to charity The Prince’s Trust, that helps change young lives, once you have purchased your trip.

The list of 109 Michelin 3 star restaurants has been collated by the VeryFirstTo research team and is the full list of current Michelin 3 star restaurants globally to its knowledge.

Departure dates are flexible and can be tailored to your schedule, with 8 weeks notice required.

The cost of the holiday including an estimated cost of all your meals and wine is £182,000.

A final pricing will be provided once Holidaysplease receive your exact requirements. www.veryfirstto.com

Heston Blumenthal’s salmon poached in a liquorice gel

ABOUT HOLIDAYSPLEASE Holidaysplease is an online luxury holiday company, selling tens of millions of pounds’ worth of luxury holidays to customers across the UK and the world.

Recently voted “Online travel agency of the year” in the UK and is the No.1 rated UK holiday company for customer service according to Trust Pilot. www.holidaysplease.co.uk

El Celler De Can Roca, Spain

Lung King Heen, Hong Kong

DECEMBER 2017 107

HOLIDAYS H OLIDAYS & TRAVEL

This winter’s hottest

Holiday Destinations With the cold months of UK winter upon us, we all dream of warm and sunny climates. If you’re looking to escape the bitter, cold weather and indulge in some winter sun, you’ll want to check out some of these destinations and leave the cold behind you.

COSTA RICA With a coastline facing both the Caribbean Sea and Pacific Ocean, Costa Rica is an ideal destination for some winter sun. Misty waterfalls, rugged rainforest, exotic wildlife, deserted beaches and adventures abound. Try kayaking, white water rafting or scuba diving, or simply sit back and relax.

MOZAMBIQUE The Quirimbas archipelago off the coast of northern Mozambique mingles 34 islands, many of which are uninhabited, with the Indian Ocean. Sand bars, coral reefs and mangroves make this area rich with marine life, and snorkelling and sea-kayaking are ideal pursuits.

BORACAY, PHILIPPINES Surfers have been keeping Boracay their little secret for years, but a new airport on the island means Boracay is now easier to get to. Less than an hour from capital Manila, and quieter than some of the larger islands, Boracay has endless stretches of white sand beaches, and a new hotel designed by Philippe Starck and John Hitchcox make this the perfect time to go.

INDIA If you’ve seen the film of The Jungle Book, starring Bill Murray and Scarlett Johansson, you might want to visit India. Writer Rudyard Kipling was inspired by the Madhya Pradesh landscape in central India where you can try and spot a wild Bengal tiger for yourself in one of the area’s national parks.

108 DECEMBER 2017

SEYCHELLES Long known for their breathtaking beach beauty and opulent marine life, the 115 islands of the Seychelles provide postcardperfect solace from a dismal winter. With six marine national parks protecting turtles, spinner dolphins and over a thousand fish species, it is a scuba diver’s dream.

NEPAL Warm weather and clear skies make winter the ideal time to take in the incredible mountain vistas of Annapurna and Everest on a trekking holiday.

Visit the Kathmandu Valley, which has the largest concentration of UNESCO heritage sites in the world, many of which had to undergo serious restoration projects after earthquake damage. There are also many picturesque villages to visit along the way.

H OLIDAYS & TRAVEL

“I Talk to Strangers Everyday and I love it”

“There’s over 100 socials a month in London and the surrounding areas alone, not to mention holidays and weekend breaks”

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few years ago, I was feeling in a difficult place about life in London. My sister had recently emigrated to Australia and I felt like my social circle in London was getting smaller and smaller by the day. I wasn’t meeting new people at work in the city and my local pub in Surrey wasn’t a hub of new faces either.

I love to ski but many of my friends aren’t into it or it’s impossible to find a week where everyone can go together. And you can’t go skiing on your 110 DECEMBER 2017

own, right?

Well that’s what I thought until I discovered Spice. A nationwide network of people looking to meet locally, discover new places together both here and abroad and most importantly for me ski trips where you can sign up on your own and get a wonderful group to meet at the airport. Amazing.

There’s over 100 socials a month in London and the surrounding areas alone, not to mention holidays and weekend breaks. I just got back from 10 days in Cuba which was a life changing trip and I’m hosting a ski trip in March. I can’t wait. From pottery classes and the latest theatre shows to walks and museums, you name it I’ve probably tried it over the last few years, and any activity is aimed at beginners.

I’ve never looked back since joining all those years ago and have met some of my best friends in the world via the community. It’s a ready made social life on a plate that you can dip in and out of when your friends are busy or when something takes your fancy. Everyone is really friendly and you never know what you might end up trying or who you might meet.

I loved it so much I now work for the community and host many of the events. Most days I meet and talk to strangers and even though Londoners sometimes get a reputation for not being friendly, I find the exact opposite. It’s a lot of fun.

If you’re looking for a change in 2018 or to expand your social circle then I would definitely recommend giving Spice London a try. What have you got to lose.

You can find out more about Spice at www.spicelondon.co.uk or call Karen on 02089732355.

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fashion, HEALTH

& beauty

– Fashion, health and beauty news to keep you looking and feeling your best – i m a g e : PARTY S E ASON B E AUTY SURVIVAL GUID E

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

[NEWS]

BEAUTY & FASHION NAUTICAL GIFTS With Christmas fast approaching, we handpicked a few beautiful gifts for the nautical and coastal enthusiast www.thenauticalcompany.com

Breton Sweater, Navy Blue, £95

KEEPING TIME Created by the award winning UK Designer Kirsty Whyte and built to last using a 5-Jewel Swiss Made Ronda movement and soft italian dark walnut brown leather, the sophisticated rose gold fte3003 watch merges the classic detailing of vintage watches with a modern minimalist finish.

Small Rose Gold & Brown Watch, £155, Freedom To Exist www.freedomtoexist.com

Classic Captain hat, in wool, £39

TOTALLY TROPICAL

STOCKING FILLER

Handmade in Jaipur, India, these bird of paradise viscose scarves have been lovingly made using traditional techniques. £16.99, www.iansnow.com

Your special someone will love this beautiful handcrafted resin and silver ring – home to their very own penguin. £240, www.madebyhandonline.com

THE BIRDS Featuring the iconic work from John James Audubon’s Birds of America, the Birds collection takes the detailed life-sized watercolours and brings the artwork to life on varying canvases including ceramics, cushions and incredible wall hangings. Each of the fascinating 19th-century illustrations took Audubon around sixty hours to complete and the historic book features over four hundred breeds, some of which are now extinct. www.magpieline.com/shop 114 DECEMBER 2017

&

SWIMWEAR

aubade.com Ph: Thierry LE GOUĂˆS Agence: Mazarine Mlle NoĂŻ

LINGERIE

The ultimate combination of fit and fashion in sizes A to I La Perla, Aubade, Stella McCartney, Marie Jo, Prima Donna, Empreinte, Lise Charmel, Pleasure State, Feraud, Transparenze, Nicole Olivier, Maison Lejaby, Wacoal, Marjolaine, Luna di Seta, Gotex, Banana Moon and Andres Sarda For free bra fitting and styling contacts us on 020 7243 0003

Maison SL 53 Ledbury Road, Notting Hill, London W11 2AA

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

Lisa Eldridge

shares her make-up rules to live by One of the world’s most famous make-up artists is happy to pass on some of her vast beauty knowledge. words: Katie Wright

Guerlain Terracotta Bronzing Powder, available from John Lewis

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ashtags like #ad and #spon (short for sponsored) are rife in the beauty blogging world, but you won’t find them on Lisa Eldridge’s YouTube

channel.

The 42-year-old was already one of the world’s most in demand make-up artists when she started uploading videos in 2009.

“I think that’s why they’re popular, because the products I use are never paid for or sponsored by brands. I have never taken a penny through sponsorship,” says Lisa, whose celebrity clients include Kate Winslet and Kim Kardashian.

And, unlike most vloggers, Lisa, who is also creative director for Lancome, didn’t have ads on her videos - until recently, when she decided to turn them on for the first time for altruistic reasons.

The revenue will be going to children’s rights charity Plan International.

Lisa figured that since 93% of her 1.7 million subscribers are women, they wouldn’t mind enduring a few ads in order to support a femalefocused charity.

“I have got a really nice group of people... I don’t really get weirdos, I get the people who like to answer each other’s questions and talk to each other.

It’s a very affirming community,” she says.

A few days ago she posted a photo on Instagram, declaring: “You think I’m listening but I’m really doing your make-up in my head.”

So what does a make-up legend think are the most common make-up mistakes - and what can we do to correct them?

Here are Lisa’s top 10 do’s and don’ts, and the products she says you can’t go wrong with.

1. Do use SPF50 every day “A really good SPF that works for my skin tone, 116 DECEMBER 2017

Image: PA Photo/Lisa Eldridge; Right: Lisa Eldridge at the Letters Live Black Tie Gala Dinner, at the V&A, London. (image courtesy of Matt Crossick/PA Photos)

Bioderma Sebium Pore Refiner, available from Escentual.com

that is probably what I spend most of my money on. Heliocare do a tinted version which is gorgeous and it’s not that expensive.”

Heliocare Gelcream Colour SPF50, £23.50, EffortlessSkin.com

Lancome Teint Idole Ultra Wear Camouflage High Coverage Concealer, available from lancome.co.uk

2. Don’t overdo your eyebrows “I don’t like the really ‘blocked’ brows where you don’t see the natural hairs. I personally hate the way it looks. I much prefer when the brows are more feathered and lighter so you have a sense of the hairs.”

3. Do apply mascara from the roots “I aways apply as much as I can at the roots first.

Get down to the roots and hold [the wand] there and massage very slowly as long as you can. It’s all about getting the bulk on first, otherwise the lashes can get very heavy at the end.”

Lancome Hypnose Doll Eyes Mascara, £24.50

Heliocare Gelcream Colour SPF50, available from EffortlessSkin.com

Bourjois Matt Illusion Bronzing Powder, available from FeelUnique

Koji Dolly Wink Eyelash 09, available from YesStyle.com

4. Don’t forget to blend your contour “Contouring looks really bad when it’s badly applied - when it’s the wrong colour and it’s too heavy. The edges should be blended.

When it’s done really well, it’s amazing.”

5. Do use concealer sparingly “I like to have more coverage where I need it and less where I don’t, because it tricks the eye. The person is looking at you and thinking, ‘You’re not really wearing a lot of make-up’, when actually you can get away with wearing quite a lot when it’s not heavy all over.”

Lancome Teint Idole Ultra Wear Camouflage High Coverage Concealer, £22

clients underneath make-up.”

Bioderma Sebium Pore Refiner, £15.10, Escentual

8. Do use face masks liberally “I am obsessed with face masks so most days I will wear one. I love Susanne Kaufmann, which is a natural Austrian brand. That is probably my favourite at the moment.”

Susanne Kaufmann Moisturizing Mask, £41, Naturisimo.com

9. Do go easy on the bronzer “The thing with bronzer is that it’s always hard to take it down once you’ve done it. Apply it with nice light layers over your cheekbones, cheeks, temples, across the top of the forehead and a little bit on the neck.”

Guerlain Terracotta Bronzing Powder, £36.50, John Lewis; Bourjois Matt Illusion Bronzing Powder, £5.95, FeelUnique

10. Do buy Japanese false eyelashes “They are just so much better and so much cheaper in Japan than they are anywhere else.

There are so many incredible eyelash brands out there, like Dollywink. And they stick on so much easier because the band is light not heavy.”

Koji Dolly Wink Eyelash 09, £10.73, YesStyle. com Watch hundreds of makeup and beauty tutorials on Lisa Eldridge’s YouTube channel.

6. Don’t overload your eyes if they’re small “Sometimes people can really close their eyes down with very heavy eyeliner and very heavy lashes. If you have naturally quite small eyes, that type of make-up will make them look smaller.”

7. Do use a primer Susanne Kaufmann Moisturizing Mask, available from Naturisimo.com

“I discovered Bioderma in Paris when I lived there in the Nineties. The thing I like from them is a Pore Refining Primer, a pore refiner that I use on

Lancome Hypnose Doll Eyes Mascara, available from lancome.co.uk

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FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

3 St. James’s Square

As London’s most luxurious private members’ wellness club opens, 3 St. James’s Square, we look in to how the industry has evolved, benefitting members like never before.

I

t’s an industry worth over 4 billion in the UK, with more people than ever turning to gyms to help them get them fit and healthy. Such is the demand to secure lucrative membership, competition amongst gyms is fierce in an attempt to seduce customers with incentives such as reduced joining fees, complimentary training sessions or even free months’ membership. Securing loyalty is big business for gyms but there is an increasing customer demand for membership that delivers on its promises of better health, not just for the initial honeymoon of the first few months, but as a longterm, life-style commitment. So how do you choose a gym worth investing in?

As the fitness market has evolved, so has the choice of gyms and health clubs, each offering a fitness experience that will appeal to their desired customer sector. Making exercise a staple part of life comes down to many factors, but perhaps the most binding one is establishing an achievable routine that fits with everyday demands, something which can be notoriously difficult against a backdrop of long business hours and balancing time with family. Location is often a critical factor in choosing a gym, as is ease of convenience regarding opening times and availability of trainers and classes.

But for those seeking more than just location or convenience, the last 10 years has seen a surge of exclusive, luxury gyms in the City like Third Space and Equinox, all of which have pushed hard to differentiate themselves in a market where unique settings, award-winning design and celebrity-endorsed trainers come as part of the package. As expectations around customer service

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have continue to rise, the high-end market has also wrapped an array of customised, concierge-type services around their fitness offerings for anything from dry-cleaning to alternative therapies.

The reality, however, is that the success of any gym business comes down to membership numbers, which can’t drop below a certain level.

This is why gyms go to extraordinary lengths to attract new customers, a key part of which is the on-boarding process. Depending on the quality and standard of the membership, on-boarding consultations are normally undertaken with a professionally qualified trainer who might specialise in areas such as fat loss or strength training, depending on what the client is interested in. After this, a programme is then written up for the customer to follow and progress is checked periodically. Personalised training sessions are often encouraged as part of the on-boarding, representing a highly lucrative form of income for gyms and one which they keen to promote.

At best, this process represents a calculated guess by the trainer about how to work with their client to achieve the results they want. Basic indicators such as BMI score are routinely used but these can only give a crude estimation of what is really going on.

Whilst motivation might be higher at the beginning of any fitness agenda, this reliance on guesswork from the outset means that many members can become disillusioned or frustrated with their lack of progress. Personalised training might sound like the ideal solution to achieve your fitness goals, but aa standard gym programme rarely secures longterm success, simply because it is not differentiated enough to deliver desired results.

Done the right way, an on-boarding programme can secure long-term health and fitness by offering targeted information and advice, based not on chance and guesswork but on unique scientific insight. 3 St James Square promises a new benchmark in fitness and wellbeing that seeks to deliver something exceptional for those serious about upping their fitness game. Led by the Head of Fitness, the on-boarding consultation starts with a detailed 360 degree image of the client, with cross section measurements captured by 100 SLR cameras. Every millimetre of the body can be scanned in meticulous detail and clients are able to pinpoint areas they wish to target. This gives an accurate base point from which progress can then be matched against a later scan. Full Body Composition Analysis, including body fat percentage and visceral fat levels are taken and a DNAfit swab analysis can help determine every client’s genetic disposition towards key fitness and nutritional markers.

Whilst it might sound like something from a sci-fi movie, the reality is that fitness technology is revolutionising the way people can learn from their unique genetic make-up about how their bodies respond to training and diet. This fusion of technology and fitness has been successfully used to hone the performance of professional athletes, but by making it part of an on-boarding process, everyone – regardless of their fitness levels – can benefit from a smarter way to train their bodies.

With typical drop-out rates from gyms around 40%, a smarter way to keep motivated could be just the thing you’re looking for. www.3sjs.club

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

How to find the perfect skincare products for you

I

n order to ensure your skincare products are working to their full potential, you need to make sure you are using products that are best suited to you and your skin.

Some products are helpfully labelled as best suited to ‘combination skin’ or ‘dehydrated skin’, but how do we find out which skin type we have?

What does ‘dehydrated skin’ look like and how do we know which products are best for us? There are hundreds of thousands of products available, so it can be hard to find the perfect skincare regime.

Luckily, Urban Veda has simplified the process of finding the perfect skincare products, through a personalised analysis. Urban Veda is a natural skincare brand, based on the ancient and holistic principles of Ayurveda, and looks at each person as a whole, rather than just their skin.

Urban Veda products are packed with clinicallyproven Ayurvedic extracts and antioxidant-rich botanical extracts to pollution-proof skin and protect it from damaging environmental factors. As the brand is certified as both cruelty-free and veganfriendly, the products are also suitable for everyone.

To discover your personalised product recommendations, simply visit www.urbanveda.com to find your dosha (body / personality type) and the perfect products for you.

Your dosha is determined by your personality traits, physical appearance, skin type and even your behaviours, so it is also a fantastic way to learn more

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“Urban Veda products are packed with clinically-proven Ayurvedic extracts and antioxidant-rich botanical extracts”

about yourself and about the ancient principles of Ayurveda.

When looking for the best quality skincare products, most of us assume that the more expensive a product is, the better it is. Sadly, that isn’t necessarily true. Instead, we should be looking a little more closely to ingredient lists, accreditations and awards. It’s generally best to opt for natural ingredients over harmful chemicals such as Sodium Lauryl Sulphate (SLS) and to keep an eye out for award-winning products. info@urbanveda.com; @urbanveda #letyourskinbreathe. Stockists: Waitrose, www.urbanveda.com

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

PARTY SEASON BEAUTY

We asked the experts what we can do to prevent total complexion meltdown in the run-up to Christmas.

WORDS: Katie Wright

W

ith fizz flowing, cheesy tunes blaring and mince pies aplenty, there’s a lot of indulgent fun to be had at the seasonal shindigs. But if you’re not careful, by December 25, your face will end up looking like a turkey that’s been left in the oven too long.

“Christmas parties mean a lot of alcohol, very little sleep, and possibly smoking as well,” explains Dr Penelope Tympanidis, consultant dermatologist and owner of the Dermaperfect Clinic. “And as a result of wearing too much make-up (or from non-meticulous make-up removal) the results can mean puffy eyes, dark circles, dull looking skin, dehydration and spots.”

But help is at hand. We asked a gang of gurus known as the Harley Street Emporium Skintellectuals for their top tips on how to protect your complexion against the ravages of party season. Here’s what they had to say...

122 DECEMBER 2017

Try a raw egg face mask To brighten dull skin, whip up a quick home-made face mask, says Dr Tympanidis. “Beat a whole egg and apply it to all areas of your face and leave ‘til it dries. Remove it with olive or almond oil.” Egg whites contain albumin, a protein which is great for tightening pores and helping control oil production, and the yolks contain proteins and fatty acids that can help moisturise your skin.

Schedule a few early nights “Try and catch up on sleep in between the late nights,” says Dr Adam Friedmann from the Harley Street Dermatology Clinic. Why? “At night, the skin relaxes. It’s not under any stress, so can recuperate after a hard day. Your skin cells go into regeneration mode, replacing damaged or dead cells with new ones. When sleep is reduced, due to lots of late nights, so is the body’s ability to carry out these functions. A bare minimum of six to seven hours but ideally nearer to eight hours - would suit.”

Pop on a couple of eye masks For Dr Anjali Mahto, Consultant Dermatologist at Skin55, a hydrating eye mask is a must, but she says there are some ingredients you should look

“Try and catch up on sleep in between the late nights”

SURVIVAL GUIDE out for to make sure they’re effective. “Eye masks are a good, quick, temporary fix for puffiness and dark circles, which can occur after lots of late nights. They are usually gel-like treatments, which are formulated with hydrating and plumping ingredients, such as hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, caffeine and colloidal gold. Must-have ingredients to look out for in eye creams include hyaluronic acid, ceramides, retinol, neuropeptides and vitamins C and E.” Skin Republic Brightening Eye Masks, £4.99 for three pairs, LookFantastic

Make a camomile compress A cheaper alternative for refreshing puffy eyes is a camomile tea bag compress, which Dr Tympanidis says is “great for reducing swelling and inflammation”. Make yourself a pot of this soothing tea and once the tea bags have cooled, squeeze the excess liquid out and spend a good ten minutes or so relaxing with them on your eyes.

Don’t forget your 5-a-day “It’s tempting to over indulge during the festive season, but try to remember to eat well in between the excess,” says Dr Friedmann. “It’s important to eat a healthy and balanced diet to maintain all one’s minerals and natural oils. Eating lots of vegetables and salads will soak up the free radicals and help the look and feel of your skin.”

De-stress not distress Throwing a party yourself ? All that planning and prep can send your stress levels soaring. “It’s a known fact that stress and exhaustion lower the immune system and can make skin worse,” explains Dr Friedmann. “So, try and take some time out for yourself and do something you know helps you relax.” Dr Rupert Critchley, founder of Viva Skin Clinics, adds: “Feeling stressed or having breakouts?

Meditation and mindfulness both have a positive impact on the stresses and strains of the Christmas period. They reduce the bodies circulating stress hormones, such as cortisol, which can trigger breakouts.”

Always remove your make-up thoroughly

a few seconds, to help dissolve the product, before wiping it away.”

Eucerin DermoPurifyer Miccellar Water, £9.50, Boots

Go easy on the booze “Excess alcohol consumption can cause blood vessel dilatation, which can make the face look quite red. This is because alcohol dilates the blood vessels and increases the cardiac output, so that everything gets redder,” says Dr Friedmann. “Anyone who already has skin disease (such as dermatitis or psoriasis) will often notice it worsening.” So on the nights you haven’t got a party in the diary, stay off the sauce and quaff plenty of water or herbal teas to rehydrate.

Murad City Skin SPF 50, £45, available from Murad

Up your antioxidants Give your seasonal tipple a virtuous twist with an antioxidant-rich ingredient. “Add a teaspoon of organic matcha green tea powder to your festive gin and tonic,” Dr Critchley suggests. “It takes mere seconds, but it will give you a potent antioxidant boost, which protects the skin from free radicals.”

Watch your water intake “Try and switch over to water or a soft drink in between alcoholic beverages, and pace yourself, as alcohol can cause dehydration of the skin and lead to facial bloating,” Dr Critchley recommends.

Dr Tympanidis adds: “As well as drinking lots of water, have some citrus juices to help keep your antioxidant levels up. The water will help keep your skin looking plumper, while the vitamins in the juice will help combat the damage caused by free radicals that can age our skin.”

Skin Republic Brightening Eye Masks, £4.99 for 3 pairs, available from LookFantastic Eucerin DermoPurifyer Miccellar Water, £9.50, available from Boots

Slap on the sunscreen “Don’t forget your sunscreen - even if it is cold and grey outside,” insists Dr Mahto. “Sunscreen isn’t just for the summer and should be worn throughout the year, as there is still damaging ultraviolet radiation around. Sunscreen should be offering protection against UVA and UVB, and at least SPF 15. Regular sunscreen use will help prevent against skin cancer and premature ageing.”

Murad City Skin SPF 50, £45

It sounds obvious, but it’s not just the make-up residue that causes problems, according to Dr Friedmann: “If you haven’t removed your make-up properly, you tend to be heavier handed to try and remove stubborn make-up that’s been on the face a while. This firm wiping action can irritate the skin and encourage flare-ups,” he says.

“The very act of rubbing will usually cause blood vessels to dilate, causing redness. The under-eye area especially is very delicate, so you want to avoid harsh rubbing of this area. When removing mascara and eye make-up, it’s best to gently place a cotton ball with remover over your lid and hold it there for DECEMBER 2017 123

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

ONE OF A KIND I

uri Shubladze is an innovative American fashion designer. He creates handmade, one-of-a-kind accessories for an upscale international clientele. His clutches, bags, scarves and wallets are designed with women in mind, but many are created to be unisex. His pieces combine materials in daring and playful ways – such as rich suede is paired with antique equestrian hardware, iconographic images with leather. Each piece is an individual expression of his vision. His work has found a following among people from all over the world whose sense of style is matched by their sense of fun and who seek out accessories as unique as they are.

Iuri is also a mixed media artist and painter. He was born and raised in Tbilisi, Georgia and now lives and works in New York City. He graduated magna cum laude from New York’s elite Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT), with a major in fashion design. While at FIT, Iuri was selected to study international fashion design in a special yearlong program at the Politecnico de Milano in Milan, Italy. He also holds a masters degree in science from Georgian Technical University.

Upon graduation from FIT, Iuri worked as a fashion designer under haute couture designer Ralph Rucci, at Chado Ralph Rucci in New York.

Iuri left to launch his own company, Iuri Shubladze, Inc., in 2013.

Iuri’s work is regularly featured in shows and galleries. A collection of his bags was the

124 DECEMBER 2017

centerpiece of a well-received show during New York fashion week for Spring 2015 at the RePopRoom Gallery. One critic, drawn to Iuri’s”large tote bags in black with a stripe of color on each,” wrote of one piece that “really caught my eye because it looked so badass. The texture of the bag itself with the square really made the whole thing work.” (“Natalya Egorova and Iuri Shubladze Fashion 2015 Show,” Manhattan With a Twist, Sept.

11, 2014 (available on internet).)

Iuri’s installation at the Agora Gallery in the White Space Chelsea during New York fashion week in September 2015 also received an enthusiastic reception. In this show he presented a mixed selection of his accessories, fashion and artwork. A reviewer wrote that “I fell in love with Iuri’s accessories,” and “I am very attracted to the edgy theme” that animates all of Iuri’s work. (“Iuri Shubladze Fashion Installation,” News Cult, Sept. 3, 2015 (available on internet).)

Iuri’s luxury accessories have been sold at Henri Bendel’s in New York, and featured at the Tranoi trade shows during New York fashion week and Paris fashion week in 2016, as well as at the VOID trade show during Paris fashion week in 2016. His designs have appeared in promotional spreads in Life Magazine, London, British Vogue, GQ, and Collezione. Stunning images of Iuri’s bags and clothing can also be seen in the 2016 book, An Embarrassment of Riches – Photographs, by leading American photographer, Adrian Buckmaster.

“His pieces combine materials in daring and playful ways – such as rich suede is paired with antique equestrian hardware, iconographic images with leather”

THE DETAILS For more information about Iuri, see www.iurishnyc.com

Models: Nino Gomarteli and Elene Shubladze Photographer: Lana Fidanian

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

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

Christmas Gifting with Apatchy Apatchy London has been heralded as one of the go-to brands for gifting. With Christmas fast approaching, finding the perfect gift can be quite daunting. Apatchy London has mastered the art of gift giving; becoming a destination brand for personalised products.

READER OFFER Enjoy an exclusive 10% discount when you shop at Apatchy London. Use code APATCHYLIFE at checkout.

Offer is available until 31st December 2017 on full priced products only.

F

ounded in 2009 by Georgie Stacey and Sam Tolhurst, Apatchy London has become the lifestyle gift brand. With its exclusive range of instantly personalised makeup and wash bags to gym and weekend holdalls, there is something for everyone.

For her, Apatchy have designed and created two exclusive collections this season. The Silver Collection; both playful and eye catching, is instantly personalised with their dazzling silver sequin gripper patches. There is a choice of a makeup bag, beauty and wash bag, which all makes for a unique gift for ladies of any age. The collection also includes a kit bag and weekend holdall, ideal to use every day or to just take away with you.

If the understated look is more your thing, the Grey Velvet Collection will be perfect for you.

In Autumn of this year, Apatchy launched a new method of personalisation; a permanent adhesive patch in a shimmery silver with grey lettering. This bespoke service reflects a subtler manner of Apatchy whilst keeping in tune with their brand aesthetic. The collection includes a makeup and beauty bag as well as a beauty box in a soft, sumptuous velvet. For those on your list this year that love something luxurious, this will make for the perfect gift.

For him; Apatchy have launched not one, but two collections in 2017. The Waterloo Collection for men, consists of a stunning holdall and matching wash bag with a brand-new method of personalisation. Instantly personalised with their new and exclusive steel tags, engraved with your

126 DECEMBER 2017

“In Autumn of this year, Apatchy launched a new method of personalisation; a permanent adhesive patch in a shimmery silver with grey lettering”

initials makes this the ultimate gift to place under the Christmas tree this year. In a dark navy waterproof canvas; the Waterloo is both stylish and practical, taking you from office to airport. Be part of the jet set with this luxurious and unique travel set.

For the trend-setting man about town, Apatchy give you the Portland Collection. This collection consists of both a holdall and washbag in a robust waxed cotton, in an industrial grey tone with red detailing. To keep in line with Apatchy’s brand DNA, the product is personalised with their permanent adhesive patches in grey with red lettering. All in all, the Portland Collection maketh the man. Inspired by what’s traditionally British; from the streets of London to the heritage of the countryside, the collections are created and designed with this influence in mind.

Not only have Apatchy revolutionised the marketplace for gifting, they remain both innovative and current. The new year will be a very exciting time for Apatchy as they launch their new sport luxe clothing collection. So, watch this space!

You can visit Apatchy online at www.apatchylondon.com

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

About Mr Amer Khan

GET BACK TO FULL HEALTH THIS winter Don’t suffer in pain any longer, Mr Amer Khan is here to help

Knee Pain Knee pain affects most individuals at least once in their life time. Causes range from simple sprains to severe debilitating degenerative conditions such as osteoarthritis. Knee injuries as a result of sporting activities are a common cause for knee pain and are often associated with swelling, giving way and locking (an inability to straighten the knee) or catching.

Many causes for isolated knee pain are transient and will go away without the need for consulting a specialist. However, persistence of pain and associated swelling, feeling of instability or locking should be further reviewed by a consultant orthopaedic surgeon specialising in knee disorders.

Patients most frequently require x-rays or an MRI scan, to assist in the diagnosis of the problem. If an injury is acute with associated swelling it is best treated by Protecting the knee from further injury, Rest with the use of crutches to mobilise, Ice to reduce swelling, Compression – a splint or brace and Elevation – PRICE. Seeking medical advice following an acute injury is recommended.

Shoulder Pain The shoulder is one of the most complex joints in the body. It is a very mobile joint, allowing you to 128 DECEMBER 2017

“Patients most frequently require x-rays or an MRI scan, to assist in the diagnosis of the problem” undertake a wide variety of activities from washing your hair and brushing your teeth you racquet sports. Unfortunately it is this wide range of motion that makes it more susceptible to injury.

Shoulder problems vary from the joint being unstable and “popping out” in the very young age, to tendon problems in the middle age and arthritic conditions in the older age group. Or the problem could stem from an injury at work, whilst exercising or playing sports.

Historically shoulder problems were largely neglected by clinicians due to limited understanding, this has now changed. Many shoulder conditions, once diagnosed usually through X-ray and MRI scan can be treated non-operatively with physiotherapy and appropriate injections. Recent advances in shoulder surgery mean that almost all shoulder surgery is now performed through keyhole and patients are usually able to go home the same day.

Mr Amer Khan completed his undergraduate training at Kings College, London and then undertook his sub-specialist training in the South-West of England. He is dual Fellowship trained in both knee and shoulder surgery. He is a leading Orthopaedic Surgeon who specialises in all aspects of knee and shoulder surgery including advanced pioneering keyhole (minimally invasive) techniques and non-interventional treatments such as injection therapy.

He was lead clinician for Orthopaedic &Trauma and also Sports & Exercise Medicine at the Homerton University for several years and was accredited for being the first surgeon to perform an arthroscopic meniscal transplant in North East London & Essex.

He now practices entirely privately. During this tenure he treated a large number of injured athletes during the London 2012 Olympic & Paralympic Games and continues to routinely treat world class athletes.

Mr Khan adopts a strong patient orientated approach and is a firm believer in effective and empathetic communication with patients before undergoing any form of surgical or non-surgical treatment, which is key to achieving a good outcome in the short and long term.

han Mr Amer K

020 7394 6614 info@sportsmedlondon.uk www.sportsmedlondon.com

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

LIMITED EDITION STYLE G

ladstone London celebrates their new Neo-Vintage Collection by releasing these two limited-edition designs giving you an opportunity to exclusive leathers

of the past.

Handcrafted in their factory on Lake Como, the rare soft vegetable dyed through leather was originally tanned in the 1980s and sat undiscovered in a warehouse, until their founder unearthed it.

With age; replicating the aging of antique wood, the tanned leather acquires a rich patina and due to the climate affecting the oils, an exquisite mellow tactile colouring has matured resulting in this remarkable one of a kind.

Crafted using the raw edge construction method, a timely and labour-intensive procedure but gives the designs strength and longevity, adding to its desirability. Suitable sized for one’s laptop and paperwork these lightweight bags are perfect; in functionality and style, for the cities businessmen who seek elegance and sophistication along with

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something totally exclusive.

This collection is dedicated to the classic business man longing for a design that holds tradition with a modern twist. The two pieces coincide with the label’s SS18 launch giving broader assortment of menswear accessories to the businessman working in ‘The Square Mile’ Due to the rarity of this particular leather only a limited number of 20 pieces can be created, each one uniquely numbered and commemorated.

Therefore, this one-off opportunity cannot be repeated.

Gladstone’s stud collection features iconic double decked handle bases with contrast hand stitching; a skill that requires an apprentice to train for six years until they achieve the level of competency necessary to reach their exacting standards of craftsmanship to start working on stitching.

Their lock collection consists of Gladstone’s distinct diamond cut lock which is handcrafted by a jeweller in Florence, renowned for their meticulous eye for detail, the hardware will only be used if it is up to the jeweller’s perfectionist standard.

Gladstone London believes the interior of the bag is just as important as the exterior, all their bags are lined with Alcantara; which is cleanable and stain resistant as it is resin backed. Used in the Art Deco period of glamour by many famed artists and architects and to this day two of the most prestigious car brands use it to line their interiors.

This material truly does stand the test of time.

Visit Gladstone London at its Mayfair Store at 11 Shepherd Market, London W1.

Tel: 0207 493 0664 or go to www.gladstonelondon.com

“Gladstone’s stud collection features iconic double decked handle bases with contrast hand stitching; a skill that requires an apprentice to train for six years until they achieve the level of competency necessary to reach their exacting standards of craftsmanship to start working on stitching”

THE MIDAS TOUCH

T

he new Sylvia Kerr Jewellery Burghley Gold Collection is a beautiful jewellery collection which bridges the gap between contemporary and classic fine jewellery design effortlessly. Created for the woman that demands beauty and versatility from her jewellery, this stunning collection with its timeless appeal unites 9ct yellow gold with the finest pavĂŠ set white diamonds, each individually selected for their fire and brilliance. The Burghley Necklace takes inspiration from a simple snaffle horse bit and weaves this high fashion iconic symbol into a breathtaking design that hangs gracefully from a long chain that can worn at two different lengths. Beautifully designed and handcrafted by the designer herself, Sylvia Kerr Jewellery also offer a personalised, bespoke service across existing designs or for those who wish to push the realms of their imagination the ability to create a piece like no other before. A hugely popular designer worldwide, Sylvia Kerr Jewellery returns glamour to jewellery design.

RRP: ÂŁ2,340 www.sylviakerrjewellery.com

open sundays

Bespoke Fine Jewellery

Sparkle & Dazzle

Exception pieces for every occasion Specialist in re-design of dated or inherited jewels Complex Restoration Work & Valuations undertaken in-store by Master Goldsmiths Friendly professional service.Visit website for full details.

www.michaelplatt.co.uk Goldsmith & Jewellers

No 1 Church Road, Wimbledon, London SW19 5DW 020 8947 4772 | info@michaelplatt.co.uk

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

Andre Van Nierop, Urgent Care Centre Clinical Lead in Casualty First

A

ndre van Nierop, Clinical Lead, in the walk-in urgent care centre Casualty First ensures that patients and families receive first class care 7 days a week, from 8am-8pm.

Andre, and the Hospital of St John & St Elizabeth set up Casualty First 5 years ago, he comments, “The urgent care centre is truly unique in that our team of A+E Doctors provide care for adults and children from the age of one year, we see patients instantly and provide diagnosis and treatment on the same day.

I’m proud to say that our average waiting time in now only 8 minutes!”

diagnosed serious conditions and been able to refer next or same day treatment, which in some cases has potentially been life saving due to early diagnosis. It is so rewarding to see the difference that it makes.”

“A large amount of the patients we see are children, we provide treatment from the age of one and our child friendly waiting area and consulting rooms disperse any anxiety the kids might have from seeing a doctor. I see worried and concerned parents come in to see us who within minutes are able to see a doctor and the children, and their parents, are smiling and laughing again.”

Putting patients needs first

Visit Casualty First

Casualty First provides an ease of access to treatment that is essential when you are juggling a busy schedule, Andre explains “The urgent care centre is a fantastic facility for people to access our first class care, with no waiting time and the option to receive treatment on the same day or at a convenient time. We often refer patients to see a specialist Consultant or receive imaging and diagnostics on site, in the state of the art hospital facilities” “We have seen patients come in with minor complaints, where after our investigation we have

Located at the entrance of the world famous Hospital of St John & St Elizabeth in London, Casualty First is a self pay service with treatment available for all the family, including children from the age of one year. The experienced A&E doctors treat all minor accidents, injuries and illnesses.

If you think you are having a heart attack, stroke or have serious head injuries please phone 999 or go to A&E. www.casualtyfirst.co.uk; 0207 432 8300; Open 8am – 8pm everyday; 60 Grove End Road, London, NW8 9NH

132 DECEMBER 2017

“We see patients instantly and provide diagnosis and treatment on the same day. I’m proud to say that our average waiting time in now only 8 minutes!”

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

Get ‘Ski ready’ this Winter

Bupa Cromwell Hospital’s Therapy team share some top tips for keeping safe on the slopes.

Image above: photo asoggetti on unsplash Below: photo by urban sanden on unsplash

Snow sports are hazardous by nature, but while it’s impossible to remove the risks completely, there are things we can do to minimise them.

tumble (these will likely be available to hire if needed when in the resort, but are inexpensive to buy if not).

Get the right equipment

Take lessons

Make sure you have the right equipment and that it is appropriate for your skill level. Incorrectly adjusted bindings often cause leg and knee injuries, so be sure to visit a suitable ski shop to get your bindings set correctly, and use the right length skis or snowboard for your size and experience. If you’re hiring equipment in a resort, the staff will do this for you.

Always wear a helmet when out on the slopes – typical piste speeds get up to 30mph and snow can be as hard as tarmac. If you’re snowboarding, ensure you use wrist guards in case you take a

Advancing your technique when skiing or snowboarding is an excellent way to reduce muscle and joint injuries. Whether you are an experienced skier/ snowboarder or have only been a few times, take a lesson or two to sharpen your skills on the slopes.

Get ‘ski ready’ with some exercise prior to your holiday Getting stronger and fitter prior to your holiday is important in allowing you to enjoy your time away to the maximum. Not only will you be able to fight off fatigue until later in the day, but by improving your muscle strength and endurance, you’ll be able to maintain better technique for longer. In your exercise plan, you should aim to build your lower limb strength as well as your cardiovascular fitness to better cope with being active at high altitude.

Have a wonderful time if you are heading off to the slopes. Should the worst occur while you are away, the Physiotherapy department at Bupa Cromwell Hospital is here to assess and treat all of your musculoskeletal injuries.

For more information about the physiotherapy services at Bupa Cromwell Hospital, please visit www.bupacromwellhospital.com/physio.

Treatments are available to both insured and self funding patients.

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FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

Playing Golf With Arthritis F

Osteoarthritis and Golf

or golf-lovers, being diagnosed with osteoarthritis can be a devastating blow.

In osteoarthritis, the cartilage in joints has worn away, usually causing pain in the knees.

Which any keen golfer will know is the absolute worst.

In golf we walk long distances, traverse uneven surfaces and repeatedly squat and bend to line up a putt or pick up a ball. It’s a challenging hobby that puts pressure on our muscles and joints. But an osteoarthritis diagnosis doesn’t always mean hanging up the golf clubs – there are other options.

The two main treatment options for meniscal injury and chronic knee complaints are surgery, or conservative management. Normally, medical practitioners will do their best to exhaust all conservative management options for before opting for surgery. Surgery comes with risks, sometimes complications or lengthy recovery periods – and it should be treated as a last resort.

Conservative treatments for knee injuries focus on muscle strengthening combined with balance and coordination training. The goal of this treatment is to regain function, reduce pain and achieve normal levels of activity – whether that’s returning to walking, standing – or, in this case, playing golf with your buddies again. But the success of these conservative treatments can be limited. So what else can we try?

Regenerative Medicine like LipoGems offer a new alternative for non-surgical approach for treating osteoarthritis degenerative meniscal injuries.

Clinical tests have shown that LipoGems can reduce pain and improve the stability, movement patterns and quality of life with osteoarthritis – which means for golfers, you could get back to your best without the need to resort to painful, complex surgery.

With any injury it’s important to work out which specific treatment plan is right for you. Weighing up all the options and choosing the correct course of action to suit your needs will give you the best chance of getting back on the golf course.

136 DECEMBER 2017

For more details visit www.RalphRogers.com.

The London Sports Injury Clinic, 108 Medical Chambers, 108 Harley Street, London W1G 7ET Tel: 0207 1125400 Email: PA@ralphrogers.com

“The goal of this treatment is to regain function, reduce pain and achieve normal levels of activity”

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

Botox Myths ! ed t s u b The patient furrowed her brows, clearly uneasy.

“Botox? Really? I’m not sure…”

T

he irony was that the more concerned she got, the more clearly I could see how treatment with botulinum toxin (aka Botox) would benefit her. The frown lines between her eyebrows were deep, and so when she frowned, she looked unnecessarily severe.

Botox, which relaxes the muscles that cause facial creases and wrinkles, would soften her look considerably.

It is easily one of the top 5 cosmetic procedures in the world, used both by men and women to get rid of wrinkles and lines. It also has over 20 medical applications from preventing migraines to stopping excessive teeth grinding.

Yet it is also one of the most misunderstood, with several myths persisting despite being completely untrue.

Let me set the record straight on three of the most common ones I hear.

1. MYTH: Botox makes you look frozen and unnatural. You end up looking like a plastic mannequin…

This usually happens when patients are given very large doses meant to last six months or longer.

It’s not the approach we generally take here at Riverbanks. The aim with Botox is to soften lines, making you look younger, smoother and more relaxed – not to stop your face from moving.The key is to use small amounts of Botox relatively often. When you give subtle doses which last three or four months, the result will be completely natural. You will still be able to express surprise and smile (…in fact, you’ll do so often, because you’ll look so great!), and no one will be able to guess that you have had any work done.

2. MYTH: It hurts to get Botox. Hardly: You will experience far more pain plucking your eyebrows.

That’s even truer for patients here at Riverbanks.

The smaller the needle, the better it is tolerated.

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Over the past year, we’ve started using a new type of needle which is just 1/10 the size of a blood test needle. To the best of my knowledge we are the only clinic in the UK to use them. They are so effective that often, patients ask me when I’m going to treat a certain area, and are shocked to hear I’ve already finished it. They never even noticed!

3. MYTH: When you stop using Botox, your wrinkles look worse than before.

If you’ve only had one or two Botox treatments, your skin will revert to its previous condition a few weeks after the Botox has worn out. If you have been using Botox long-term, your wrinkles will start reappearing over three-to-six months. More importantly, you will look healthier and smoother than before your started the Botox. There is no evidence whatsoever that they will look worse than before you started. More likely, people who have become used to having smooth, wrinkle-free faces have simply forgotten what they looked like beforehand…. : -) Any Botox questions of your own? Just email me on ravi.jain@riverbanksclinic.co.uk and I’ll get back to you!

Dr Rav i Jain

THE DETAILS For more information visit my informative website www.riverbanksclinic.co.uk and subscribe to my email list. Or if you would like to schedule a consultation with one of my aesthetic doctors call 01582762877 to book in.

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

FIND YOUR STRENGTH W

ith more and more of our lives spent sedentary, cultivating strong, resilient, pain-free bodies that move as well as they look has never been more challenging. Pilates equipment sessions, personalised to your unique needs, are one of the most effective ways to realign and restore the whole body to a place of inner and outer balance, improving muscle tone and strength, posture, flexibility and resilience against the stresses of 21st century life.

Unlike many of today’s fad-driven forms of exercise, specialised Pilates sessions provide a holistic approach to your body, and a more effective method for achieving lifelong health and wellbeing.

Popular forms of exercise such as high intensity interval training, spinning, and gym workouts can help strengthen specific muscles, build cardiovascular endurance, or aid in weight loss. However their focus on intensity at the expense of quality of movement means that they can all too often lead to imbalances in the body.

With imbalance comes poor movement, exercise plateaus, and almost inevitably pain and injury. Last year the Washington Post, amongst others, linked the rise of hip injuries in the under 35s to the rise in popularity of activities such as Crossfit and endurance events like Tough Mudder.

Meanwhile, our sedentary and deskbound lifestyles are also taking their toll. Sitting and standing for too long in one position weakens muscles needed to support the weight of the body,

140 DECEMBER 2017

compressing the spine, placing undue pressure on joints, the supporting muscles and ligaments, and creating pain and tension.

At Ten Health & Fitness, a team of expert Pilates Teachers understands that as no two bodies are the same, neither should any two workouts be. Combining extensive Pilates training with years of expertise in areas as diverse as physiotherapy, martial arts, dance and fascia therapy, Ten’s Teachers use a personalised programme of targeted exercises on specialised equipment to support your body in rediscovering its natural movement patterns. In turn, specific imbalances are addressed, relieving pain and tension, whilst restoring musculoskeletal alignment. As balance is restored, muscles are strengthened and lengthened, sculpting a leaner, more toned physique.

Whether you are injured, suffering from back pain, want to regain strength after giving birth, offset the impact of sports and other exercise, wish to improve how you look and feel, or simply want to try a more focussed, immersive and empowering form of exercise, tailored equipment Pilates sessions are one of the most effective ways to cultivate a strong and balanced body that both looks and feels good.

If you’d like to find out more about how equipment Pilates sessions at Ten can help you achieve your goals visit ten.co.uk or find them at in Chiswick / 020 886 1710, Fitzrovia / 020 7637 0555, Maida Vale (Little Venice) / 020 7286 5000 and Liverpool Street (City) / 020 7247 8895

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

Have you been considering plastic surgery recently?

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here are a number of reasons someone may consider plastic surgery, for many it’s to boost self-esteem in their own appearance and this can be achieved through various cosmetic surgical procedures to reshape, enhance and lift. For those reluctant to undergo surgery, there are a number of non-surgical cosmetic treatments to bridge the gap between the results cosmetic surgery can offer and generalist beauty treatments, enabling you to still achieve the look you desire.

Parkside Hospital in Wimbledon offers an array of cosmetic and reconstructive surgical procedures, carried out by a team of highly-qualified, registered Consultants who are BAAPS/BAPRAS accredited.

They currently have 26 cosmetic surgeons, each renowned for their expertise in the field, so whether you want to banish the bags under your eyes, rid your face of wrinkles or reduce the size of your breasts, they have an expert there to help.

Why Parkside?

Having any form of cosmetic procedure is a big decision to make, naturally you will have a lot of questions and queries when deciding on your treatment, during the treatment and post treatment. At Parkside Hospital, they ensure you meet with the cosmetic surgeon who will be carrying out the desired procedure for an in-depth initial consultation. This ensures you receive the information, level of experience and knowledge you deserve from the expert themselves when making your decision (there are non-surgical options to be discussed too!). During your initial consultation with the cosmetic surgeon, you will be given the 142 DECEMBER 2017

“Parkside Hospital in Wimbledon offers an array of cosmetic and reconstructive surgical procedures”

opportunity to discuss your requirements, learn about various treatment options, and have any queries answered.

Parkside Hospital are renowned for their high standards of care and friendly environment and are fully registered and reviewed by the Care Quality Commission. Their Cosmetic Surgeons are leaders in the field and take pride in the level of service provided throughout the whole patient journey.

If you’re looking for more information on the procedures offered or to arrange a consultation with one of their expert surgeons visit the website on www.parkside-hospital.co.uk/ cosmetic-surgery or call 020 8971 8026.

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

Respite Packages at the Hospital of St John & St Elizabeth T

First class care when you need it most

he caring and dedicated team The Hospital of St John & St Elizabeth are acclaimed features of their respite care.

Excellent medical care and five-star luxury accommodation create an exceptional experience that is tailored to the needs of your loved one and to give you peace of mind.

The Hospital takes pride in its homely and comfortable surroundings combined with round the clock care from experienced staff and world class physicians that can be built into personalised packages to suit all needs. The respite break starts with understanding the required levels of support and ensuring everything is in place from the moment of their friendly welcome, throughout the stay to the moment you are reunited.

Elderly respite care packages include daily consultant visits, blood tests, physiotherapy, health checks and complimentary ambulatory transfer if required. The care plans are drawn up in consultation with all involved with the aim of providing a seamless transition into hospital and a comfortable, restful stay. Each package is

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constructed with attention to detail that covers medical, physical, personal and spiritual needs.

“We provide both patients and family with assurances that the right care is delivered by a dedicated, expert team,” says Chief Nursing Officer, Andrew Gallini, of HJE. “Every part of the respite stay is important to us, from the medical and nursing support to balanced meals with a wide selection of food choices each day.

We recognise that caring for a loved is rewarding but a break can be important and we ensure that everything is in place so you can both make the most of the time.”

That assurance is built on decades of experience providing respite care and a determination to maintain high standards of service along with creating a warm environment. The Hospital attracts highly-rated physicians and their input guarantees the best levels of medical care that match exacting standards and a friendly atmosphere.

The award-winning Hospital, in St. John’s Wood, is an independent charity and has a heritage of excellence across 160 years.

THE DETAILS Packages are for 3, 5 & 7 nights, contact their dedicated team for more details.

Email info@hje.org.uk.

Telephone 020 7806 4075 The Hospital of St John & St Elizabeth 60 Grove End Road, London, NW8 9NH www.hje.org.uk

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

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FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

FASHION NOW: A perfect partnership Hotel Café Royal have introduced ‘Fashion Now’, an in-room wardrobe service and personal shopping experience in partnership with MATCHESFASHION.COM.

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aunched in September 2017, and exclusive to residents of Hotel Café Royal, the new ‘Fashion Now’ service was initially created for guests who have had the disservice of lost or delayed luggage to eliminate the immediate need for panic buying.

Guests have access to a selection of key pieces available across three tiered levels – Active, Formal and Evening wear for both men and women, all delivered within 90 minutes once the order has been placed with the hotel concierge.

As part of ‘Fashion Now’, guests staying in the hotel’s suites can request an additional specialised in-suite personal shopping experience. After a telephone consultation with a MATCHESFASHION.COM stylist, a curated wardrobe, chosen from over 450 brands will be delivered to the resident’s room accompanied by an expert stylist to run through the pieces. The perfect solution for those in need of style advice or those who are simply time poor, updating one’s wardrobe can now be done from the comfort of their hotel room. The in-room wardrobe service can also be pre-booked to allow for an array of designer clothing to be waiting in the hotel room ready for when guests check-in.

As a suite guest of Hotel Café Royal, not only do residents have use of their in-room wardrobe service during their stay, they also have private access to MATCHESFASHION.COM’s flagship store in Marylebone, entitling them to a global team of experts, who provide a seamless and personalised shopping service in-store.

Francois Xavier Schoeffer, Hotel Manager for Hotel Café Royal, comments, “Travelling can be full of surprises - whether it’s mislaid luggage or simply the desire to try something new. In an era of experiential luxury, we aim to provide an

exceptional level of service for our guests and ‘Fashion Now’ offers residents the luxury of a shopping trip without ever having the need to step foot outside the hotel.”

Both synonymous with impeccable style, Hotel Café Royal has chosen MATCHESFASHION.COM as its first retail partner to offer a one-of-a-kind wardrobe service for hotel residents in this leading fashion capital. This unique partnership showcases the hotel’s continued commitment to provide the highest level of luxury service to its guests.

For further information please visit www.hotelcaferoyal.com and follow @hotelcaferoyal on Instagram and Twitter and Hotel Café Royal on Facebook.

“Residents have use of their in-room wardrobe service during their stay”

15 50 0 D DE EC CE EM MB BE ER R 22 00 11 77 1

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

Focus on…

menopause In the ninth of our regular features from The London General Practice, Dr Angela Rai discusses the menopause

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he menopause is a normal process that women experience, and can greatly affect the quality of a woman’s life. The menopause occurs when the ovaries stop producing eggs, leading to a drop in hormone levels in the body. There are 3 stages: • Perimenopause – this occurs a few years before the menopause when the ovaries gradually make less oestrogen. The fluctuation of hormone levels leads to the symptoms of menopause.

• Menopause - is the point when it has been at least one year since the last menstrual period.

• Post menopause – these are the years after the menopause. As oestrogen drops it can affect different systems in the body, such as skin, bones, heart and vagina.

The average age of menopause in the UK is 51 years. Symptoms can start earlier at around the age of 45. Menopause prior to the age of 40 is defined as premature ovarian insufficiency.

Symptoms of menopause vary greatly between women. Some women may only experience symptoms for a few months, whilst others may suffer for many years. Around one in four women have no symptoms. The first sign of menopause is usually a change in the normal pattern of your periods.

They can become lighter or heavier with a change in frequency, until eventually the period stops altogether.

Common symptoms are hot flushes and night sweats.

Other symptoms include vaginal dryness, reduced libido, joint pains, difficulty sleeping, mood changes

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such as irritability and anxiety.

There are also long-term health problems associated with a lack of oestrogen. These include osteoporosis which is a weakening of the bones making them fragile and increasing the risk of fractures. The risk of cardiovascular disease also increases after the menopause.

Treatment options include hormone replacement therapy (HRT). HRT can improve can both symptoms and quality of life. HRT is also recommended for women who have gone through an early menopause and should take it until around the time of natural menopause. HRT can reduce the risk of osteoporosis, however it may also be associated with a small risk of developing breast cancer and women need to be assessed on an individual basis.

HRT is available as tablets, skin patches and gels.

Oestrogen creams can help symptoms of vaginal dryness and discomfort. There are also over the counter vaginal moisturisers that can be used that do not contain oestrogen.

Wearing lighter clothing, keeping the bedroom cool at night, using a fan, having cool showers or having a cold drink may be simple measures that help the symptoms of hot flushes and night sweats.

Following a healthy lifestyle, reducing alcohol consumption and giving up smoking are beneficial.

Regular weight bearing exercises and safe sun exposure for Vitamin D production helps protect the bones against osteoporosis.

There is limited evidence on ‘natural’ supplements and safety may be uncertain due to lack of data. Some woman experience benefits from alternative treatments, however you should seek medical advice if you have troublesome symptoms and before starting treatment.

If you would like to speak to a Doctor please contact the practice.

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

www.magnadi.com

Where history and tradition meets fashion. www.magnadi.com

Where history and tradition meets fashion.

Bespoke fashion for experienced shoppers

www.houseofbotta.com info@houseofbotta.com @houseofbottauk

magnadiscarves@outlook.com.gr www.magnadi.com

HOuse & garden – A collection of London’s finest interior companies – I M AG E : r o c ke t t s t g e o r g e

H OUSE & GARDEN

Drifting off to dreamland in comfort and style

156 DECEMBER 2017

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ooking for the bed of your dreams? Look no further than Westend Bed Company in East Sheen who offer a wide collection of high quality, luxury beds from worldrenowned bedmakers. Great sleep starts here.

Every day new research is published finding that the key to a good night’s sleep is what you eat, what you do before you go to sleep or how you behave during the day but the true way to achieve a restorative night’s sleep and to enjoy the endless benefits this brings is down to your bed.

The bed is the most important and undervalued piece of furniture in the home but accounts for your wellbeing during the third of your life you spend asleep and the two thirds when you are awake.

Westend Bed Company is run by the Cooper family who have more than a century of combined experience in the bed industry. Brent Cooper, Managing Director, has worked in the luxury bed industry for more than three decades leading bedmakers including Marshall & Stewart, And So To Bed and Hästens to popularity and success in the UK. With a wealth of experience and knowledge, Brent and the team provide the best advice to help you drift off to the Land of Nod in pure comfort and style. As part of the bespoke service, the team also offers every customer a complimentary Sleep Consultation to help you find the perfect bed, whatever your requirements.

Westend Bed Company is home to the largest collection of Hypnos beds in the UK. The team at Hypnos proudly hold a Royal Warrant from Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and design beds for the Royal households. Using traditional skills and working with the finest natural materials, Hypnos creates collections ranging from Royal, Natural, Orthos and Pillow Top. Browse the entire Hypnos collection at Westend Bed Company.

The showroom is also the flagship store for Marshall & Stewart’s exclusive Diamond Collection. Every bed in this luxury collection has been specially designed to create a sanctuary for restorative sleep. Each bed is hand made in the UK by master craftsmen using the best natural materials and comes with a 25-year guarantee.

Over the past 80 years, Treca Interiors Paris has

become a world renowned brand synonymous with luxury through its high quality French design and customised approach. With the Supercad adjustable bed, the technology is elegantly discreet with silent motors which smoothly move the independent sleeping surfaces, allowing you to find your ideal position. The ability to easily move the bed using a remote control (which remembers favourite positions) provides practical and comfortable sitting positions when reading, working on a laptop or watching television. The Supercad adjustable bed is exclusively available at Westend Bed Company.

Designed and handmade in Italy, the Nottinblú PBS Fluid is the world’s most advanced bed system and is only available at Westend Bed Company.

The revolutionary design uses a friction-free, hydraulic circuit which automatically self-adjusts to the weight, shape and movements of the body.

No matter where you move in your sleep or how you lay, a Nottinblú bed will adjust to you and will ensure your spine is always in full alignment, allowing you to drift into the deep sleep stage of the Sleep Cycle.

Not sure if an adjustable bed is for you?

The purpose-built Sleep Room at Westend Bed Company includes a specially designed simulator to help demonstrate the difference between the support an adjustable bed base provides compared to a regular base. Experience the difference in store for yourself.

The details: Browse through our collection of high quality, luxury beds and speak to our expert team at Westend Bed Company at 215 Upper Richmond Road West, East Sheen, London, SW14 8QT or call 020 7723 2925. For more information, visit www.westendbedcompany.com

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[NEWS]

INTERIORS TILE OF THE YEAR Original Style UK is proud to present the Tile of the Year 2018 - Heath by the Winchester Tile Company. Heath is a shade drawn from nature with deep, warm tones that elicit a real sense of indulgence. This lilac hue paired with the artisanal vibe of the Winchester Tile Company’s Residence collection is brilliantly versatile with a spirit of Avant-garde. www.originalstyle.com

putting on the ritz The Art Deco movement – characterised by geometric designs, gold accents, and ornate silhouettes – is a trend that has shown no signs of slowing down. Living It Up takes inspiration from the era in their new range of Milano accent chairs. Art Deco appeal is given a thoroughly 2017 spin, by putting velvet and brass centre-stage. The first thing you’ll notice about the Milano is its striking geometric frame, made of stainless steel coated in brass, this year’s hottest metal.

It’s highly stylized, sleek and luxurious frame is accompanied by plush navy or pink velvet upholstery and a beautiful buttoned back. The chair is made even more desirable through the addition of a high-density foam seat, for the utmost comfort. As an accent piece, Milano Chair is perfect for adding ‘ritz’ to otherwise neutral interiors, or teaming with a mid-century sofa for full on retro appeal. Its clean lines, simplicity, geometrics and sharp angles will never fail to impress, making it the ideal focal point for a pared-back living space. £599, www.livingitup.co.uk

OUTDOORS IN

urban interiors

Bring the outdoors in and create a botanical theme in your living room with this stylish range of pendant lights from Escapology Inspired by the rattan frames of vintage Lloyd Loom furniture, this range of Vincent Shephard pendant lights are perfect for adding a contemporary Scandinavian twist to your home. £268, www.escapology home.com

Urban interior design stems from the modern designer lofts in the major cities. Taking cues from its cosmopolitan environment, urban modern is a fusion of various opposing and complementary traits.

Minimalist modern, glamorous chic, mid-century inspired, and edgy experimental designs all collide in a distinctively 21stcentury setting.

Nabila Floor Lamp, £649, www.urbanavenue.co.uk

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cottage chic

This new Hemmingway range of reclaimed wooden furniture is ideal – with a resurgence of country style furnishings being more popular than ever it’s right on trend. Interior designers are increasingly turning to exposed materials and matt finishes to create chic and contemporary designs. By incorporating bold, simplistic shapes with raw materials My Furniture have created this new Hemmingway collection. www.my-furniture.co.uk

H OUSE & GARDEN

Antique York Stone

American Oak wood effect Porcelain

The Beauty of Natural Stone W

hether you want a country farmhouse look or a sleek metropolitan style, natural stone and the new-generation lookalike porcelains offer countless different options and solutions for any location.

Look to native English stone flooring to give a traditional feel of luxury and permanence. Probably the most perfect expression of this would be reclaimed antique York stone, used in Britain for centuries. Rescued from old buildings and given a new lease of life, it provides an authentically aged finish. It’s just one of many new and antique English flagstones available, including Cotswold, Portland, Purbeck and Lincoln limestones. Each has its own distinctive character and look.

Natural stone is an obvious choice for period houses, whether you are restoring original glories or creating a new, modern space. Many classic floors were laid in geometric designs, which look just as sophisticated and relevant today as in Victorian or Georgian buildings. Whether you opt for a classical chequerboard or something more complex, both the pattern and the stones used to create it can be tailored to suit the style of your space.

If you have altogether more minimalist leanings, look for large format tiles in a calm limestone or marble. Available in a wide palette of colours from white and cream through to soft greys, many varieties offer a consistent colour with little or no veining or fossil inclusions. Classic Italian marbles such as Carrara bring a crisp, modern look to a wide variety of settings.

Natural stone is a versatile material with many decorative uses, from floors and fireplaces to large slabs used as wall cladding. In some locations 160 DECEMBER 2017

however, stone may be too weighty or unwieldy for floors or walls - making the new generation porcelains such a great solution. Improvements in 3d and digital printing have made vast improvements in the quality of both stone and wood lookalike porcelains, making it possible to get the authentic look of a natural material with the advantage of a thinner, lighter tile.

One hidden secret of any floor (stone or porcelain) is the installation. There are many horror stories of builders laying floors upside down, using three different colours of grout in the same floor and staining floors with engine oil. For floors or walls, always use an experienced fixer, who will select tiles properly mix the variation of colour to provide the most pleasing effect and add that expert touch that transforms a good tile into a great floor.

Martin Moore Stone; T: 0330 311 6574; www.martinmoorestone.com Black and White Slate

Cartmel White Limestone Bolection Fireplace in Bath Stone

Sound • Vision • Control • Convenience • Ambience Effortless integration of technology into your home with Simply Sound and Vision.

Call our West London office for more details Unit 12, Teddington Business park, Station Road, Teddington TW11 9BQ

Tel: 020 8977 8633 Smart solutions since 2005

info@simplysoundandvision.co.uk www.simplysoundandvision.co.uk

blucube loudspeakers

H OUSE & GARDEN

The New England Shutter Company Ltd

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he New England Shutter Company makes shutters as a traditional joinery company would have done years ago, using time honoured methods and fine craftsmanship. Attention to detail goes beyond our design process through to the personal service we provide to ensure complete customer satisfaction.

From Monaco to Zanzibar, New York to Paris, our shutters are the first choice for architects, designers, discerning homeowners and commercial clients. They combine traditional elegance with contemporary style, designed for modern living. We deliver and install around the world.

TNESC is the only UK Company to design and manufacture shutters from responsibly sourced timbers. Our Tulipwood comes from the Appalachian Mountains in the eastern New England region of America. Our shutters are caringly hand sanded and hand sprayed to give a fine furniture grade finish which allows you to see the wood grain on the final finish.

To produce truly bespoke shutters, we employ only skilled craftsmen in the joinery workshop we own in Dubai. This enables us to offer customised manufacturing and flexibility in every component of your shutter and a short lead time.

As pioneers in shutter design, we were the first to design and manufacture shutters with a concealed tilting mechanism. We continue to create innovative shutter designs as we are the only company that can vary every element within the design of a shutter; from the blade size, the distance between the blades, rail and side stile sizes, to the depths and height of a midrail. This flexibility allows us to design a shutter that is made to fit, not made to measure.

A unique variety of finish types are available from TNESC: painted (colour match service), fire

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retardant, sandblasted, limed wax, fabric and natural woods. To preserve the natural look of the timber, stained, oiled or lacquered finishes are applied by hand to a variety of solid woods such as Ash, Oak, Walnut, Maple, Tulipwood, Iroko and Teak.

Beautiful stitched faux leather and suede shutters are exclusive to The New England Shutter Company. Our experienced tailors machine stitch the fabric and hand cover each tulip wood shutter with incredible attention to detail offering both luxury and durability.

Investing in shutters is as rewarding as investing in a piece of bespoke furniture as we design to enhance the architectural and interior design features within your living areas or commercial space. Whatever your specific needs are, we can design and manufacture shutters to meet them.

Visit their Showroom: 16 Jaggard Way, London, SW12 8SG www.thenewenglandshuttercompany.com/idy t: (0)20 8 675 1099 e: enquiries@tnesc.co.uk

“Investing in shutters is as rewarding as investing in a piece of bespoke furniture�

H OUSE & GARDEN

Rasch Log Pattern Wallaper Rustic Wood Stripe Motif Faux Effect, £16.99, I Want Wallpaper.

WALLPAPER TRENDS FOR

2018

Want to wake up your walls? Gabrielle Fagan speaks to those-in-the-know about the hottest wallpaper looks.

Vixen Couture Wallpaper from a collection by Julien Macdonald, made to order from £180 per roll, Graham & Brown

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alls - like presents - look their best when well-wrapped. And there’s now a huge choice of wallpapers out there, so they can shimmer, sparkle or stun with texture, pattern and colour.

Papering a single feature wall, or a whole room, is also a ‘fast’ way to embrace a trend. After all, we’re increasingly following home fashion just as closely we do clothes - and a winning combination of cutting-edge digital technology and brilliant designs makes it possible to literally transform a setting with just a roll of paper. Here, two experts in the field reveal their wallpaper wisdom and trend predictions for the year ahead...

Create drama and personality “Wallpaper has observed tradition for too long and people are starting to acknowledge its potential in their homes,” says Catherine Jacob, head of design at Murals Wallpaper, who offers a range of designs and can create bespoke wall murals from images, designs or photographs supplied by customers.

“Platforms such as Pinterest and Instagram inspire people and help empower them to experiment, while the rise in personalisation means 164 DECEMBER 2017

people are enjoying creating unique designs for their walls.

“Generally, patterns are becoming more daring, with large-scale dark florals, jungle prints and bright coloured geometrics enlivening the landscape of walls once dominated by a conventional neutral palette of paint.”

For 2018, she predicts large-scale images or repeat patterns will offer a punchy alternative to the small, ditsy patterns of yesteryear.

“Millennial pink reigns as the new black and has become a staple base colour, but lilac tones are gaining popularity,” Catherine adds.

“Faux texture wallpapers are recognised as a brilliant way to change the character of a space, with brick for a rustic look or concrete for a chic industrial feel, or even wool for softer luxury. The craft/handmade movement is inspiring design, so look out for more free-flowing painterly styles, merging the look of artisan skills with digital-age technology.”

Top tip: To enhance a setting and ensure a beautiful wall covering is the focus of a room, pick out key colours from the design and repeat them in plain fabrics and painted woodwork.

“Platforms such as Pinterest and Instagram inspire people and help empower them to experiment”

(and below) Bugs Silver Wallpaper, £50 a roll, Graham & Brown

Play with pattern “These days, people can choose a look which totally reflects their personality and taste. Whether you prefer a bold colour palette with pops of bright colour, linear or geometric patterns, or shimmering metallics, there’s literally something for everyone,” says Paula Taylor, colour and trends specialist for Graham & Brown.

“For 2018, we’ve identified key trends which form the backdrop to our new collections. We’re focusing on raw beauty - tactility, texture and fresh white forms, which bring purity to a home - think weaves, cane work and wood grain with layered,

“We’re also honing in on gentle, subdued shades, such as millennial pink, arctic blue and cool heather, as well as offering dramatic, dark backdrops”

natural finishes.

“We’re also honing in on gentle, subdued shades, such as millennial pink, arctic blue and cool heather, as well as offering dramatic, dark backdrops. Our Gothic Damask Flock Cobalt Wallpaper (£75 per roll) comes in a rich cobalt.”

“Vibrant tones of turquoise, parakeet green and fuchsia which will burst onto the scene next year, reflecting the desire for botanical opulence and luscious vegetation,” Paula adds. “We’re also focusing on nature in our Bugs Silver Wallpaper, featuring butterflies and insects.”

“Global influences are here to stay, with an appreciation of intricate mark-making, weave dying and bold graphic elements. This trend will be a statement look, with sapphire, crimson and papaya colours, underlined by earthier rusts and greys in celebration of highly-coloured pattern.”

Top tip: For a stylish statement wall that conjures an eclectic traveller look, consider a bright tropical wallpaper featuring animated creatures and layered forest leaves, paired with natural wood furniture, bamboo accessories and wicker accents. For a modern feel, pair patterned wallpaper in a calming sage green with clean lines and contemporary furniture, and contrast vivid colours with glossy white finishes.

Gothic Damask Flock Cobalt Wallpaper, £75 per roll, in a rich cobalt, Graham & Brown

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Buyers & Cellars

Sebastian Riley-Smith, founder of Smith & Taylor’s Chelsea Bridge Cellars examines the importance of fine wine storage, home and away, in adding value, to your wine, and fun to your entertaining.

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utankhamun knew how to protect wine.

On the discovery of his tomb deep underground more than 3000 years after his burial, its contents included forty wine storage jugs for red, white and fortified wine, to ease the boy Pharaoh king’s arduous journey to the afterlife. Today’s wine storage receptacle, glass bottle and cork on its side, certainly does the same, but rather for the living not the dead.

Cellaring away from home: The governing rule for storing your treasured bottles away from home, only cellar direct with a specialist independent cellarage company, so avoiding conflicts of interest. Each portfolio cellared must carry insurance, ownership identification, in a controlled secure environment.

Wine is a treasured chattel. Nobody can care more about your wine reserves than you. Once you have embarked on buying, keep on top of it!

Through imagery Smith & Taylor have expressed the key canons of fine wine storage - Temperature, Humidity, Darkness, Provenance, Stability, Timing.

Each of these aspects play their part in giving each bottle the best chance to develop against the vagaries of nature.

Lovers of wine need a reliable extended cellar for their treasured bottles, when the constraints of suitable space, moving home, business travel or postings abroad demand it.

Smith & Taylor have consistently provided fine wine storage for private clients from their cellars at Chelsea Bridge, London, since their founding in 1986. As independent cellarers Smith & Taylor pack, move, deliver and bank wine reserves from a single bottle to an entire collection, to and from their temperature & humidity controlled cellars.

Cellar portfolios show unparalleled detail for each

Temperature: Constant and cool at 55F

Humidity: Enveloped in 70% humidity and stored in a quarter turn, ensures the corks are kept moist and tight

THE DETAILS Smith & Taylor Chelsea Bridge Cellars, 1c Broughton Street, London, SW8 3QJ E: cellar@smithandtaylor.com W: www.smithandtaylor.com T: 0044 (0)20 7627 5070

bottle stored including insurance values and Master of Wine commentary. Wine cellared perfectly and drunk at its optimum is the consummate gift Cellaring in the home: The profound change from half a century ago is a wine’s resting place has gone from underground to over-ground as living space has risen, and the wine label has become as much a domestic accessory as the room in which it is stored.

The entry point for home cellarage has to be The Wine Cabinet. It is hardly surprising that an invention that creates the environment of a subterranean cellar, in a space a fraction of the foot print and the price, was going to bring wine home, which it undoubtedly has.

If the wine cabinet is restrictive by its nature, the full blown wine cellar or wine room is certainly not, though with space at a premium, it is the ultimate luxury. Fine wine bottles are made to reflect a wine maker’s craft. Put a thousand together in a room and you have a liquid art collection. There are not many finer aspects to life, than choosing and tasting the very best of your wine collection, with others in your own home.

For over thirty years Smith & Taylor, has been designing and making some of the finest town and country house wine rooms in Europe and Asia. The service includes scale drawings, bespoke joinery and project management above and underground.

Each cellar crafted is unique combining single bottle racking, with bottle binning, original wooden case storage and large format displays. The finished wine rooms and cabinets, encompass the aesthetic, the practical, the versatile and the ordered. Today’s experience of wine storage under or over ground for the living, rather beats the Pharaoh’s alternative!

Smith & Taylor’s Wine Corridor. A fine wine bottle alley can be a very good use of space, though ideally, best be chilly to perform. The best corridors have the bottles all on an angle directing you through the passageway.

Smith & Taylor’s Wine Rooms are a museum piece to wine with stunning lighting and columns of large format floating display bottles, amidst traditional individual bottle and case storage. A triumph to wine and showmanship.

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A Smith & Taylor Country House Cellar with eighteen bevelled solid oak pillars and tasting table, and restored running stream, creates the perfect theatre of wine.

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THINKING ABOUT WOOD FLOORING?

TALK TO TURGON

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f you’re thinking about buying and installing a wooden floor in the new year, you’re probably about to embark upon a journey that will see you in the Priory Clinic by the time you’ve finally made a decision. The choice isn’t just huge, its mind bogglingly humongous. No longer are we happy with a choice of planks in 10 different widths and 400 different colours, we now want designer finishes in metallic paints, floor designs in Rubik cube formation and, wood species that can only be found in the most remote parts of Zorgasmanistan.

Exactly. But wood is a fascinating natural product that we are falling in love with all over again. A study commissioned by ‘Planet Ark’ says that ‘’being surrounded by wood at home, work or school has positive effects on the body, the brain and the environment and can even shorten hospital stays through reduced recovery times” Er, well, I’m a wood lover and that’s perhaps a little far fetched, but there is no doubt that wood brings a certain kind of peace to a home, unless of course you have a large dog that resembles Scooby Doo, in which case he’ll probably smash the place to pieces. Not much fun for dogs, but hellishly easy to keep clean.

And if you really want to talk wood, what about

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the Kizhi Pogost Church, the worlds tallest entirely wooden building, down to the last nut, bolt and hinge. This stunning masterpiece was apparently the brainchild of a dozen or so drunken Cossacks.

Vodka can make you quite creative.

But if you’re serious about a wooden floor, then it’s a decision you’ll only ever have to make once, because there’s no question that if you take care of it, it will grace your home and hopefully keep you happy, calm and relaxed till you finally shuffle off this mortal coil. www.turgonflooring.co.uk

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Maximise Your Space

W

ith space in London and the surrounding areas at a premium, it has become more important to maximize every inch of available space. Many people do not want to move as they are settled in their home, with children at a nearby school, have neighbors as friends and an easy commute to work. In these kinds of circumstances, it makes sense to extend your current home if additional space is required, and these are typical scenarios that Capital Basements help people with on a regular basis. At Capital Basements we have many years of experience in excavating beneath existing properties. With our own in-house design team along with structural engineers, we can take care of your project from start to finish. The layout of a successful basement is very important, the need to maximise natural light and minimise dead circulation space is something that we are highly experienced in as we drawn our wealth of experience from previous projects.

We offer a free no obligation survey and quotation, to explore the possibilities of what can be achieved. People have very varied different needs, 170 DECEMBER 2017

and the additional space can be utilised for a wide array of uses including, bedrooms, utility space, self-contained flats, media or music rooms, living or entertaining space, home office, gym or something a lot more ambitious like a swimming pool.

The structural design of the proposed basement is of utmost importance and our senior structured engineers have many years of experience and have designed hundreds of basements. They are involved throughout the build process, ensuring that the works are carried out to the highest standard and in the most efficient manner.

At Capital Basements we offer a truly personal service and I look forward to meeting you to discuss your project further.

Andrew Maddocks: info@capitalbasements.co.uk; www.capitalbasements.co.uk

when you need more living spaCe, look down.

We offer a complete basement design and construction service.

Add value and space to your existing home.

enlarge your home without moving house

Contact us for details as to how we can give you more space.

020 8099 8450

www.capitalbasements.co.uk 295 Chiswick High Road, Chiswick London W4 4HH For further information or to book you free survey email info@capitalbasements.co.uk

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WOOD FLOORING STRAIGHT FROM THE EXPERTS Oak Ebony Pre-Oiled

Smoky Mountain

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wood floor is hard to beat. Not only for the way it looks, but also for how it performs. You can have any colour and the natural beauty of the knots and grain of the wood will transform your home by adding texture and character. Wood flooring is an investment so it’s vital you make the right choice.

This is where The Natural Wood Floor Company come in. They are a family run business who have been manufacturing and selling the best quality wood flooring around for the past 26 years.

They are now one of the leading wood flooring manufacturers in Europe. Their expert staff have been with the company for a minimum of 10 years, so they know their stuff inside out. From the actual look of the floor, to fitting, sealers, sanding options, style, and design - they can help with it all.

At their showroom in Wandsworth, you’ll find over 140 different styles of wood flooring to choose from. You can handle it, walk on it and examine it right down to the tiniest detail. You can also

discover which varieties suit your needs and tastes.

“If you want a classic floor that’s going to be huge next year, look no further than parquet wood flooring,” says Peter Keane, Director of The Natural Wood Floor Company. “The days of just a plain oak block have long gone. These are still immensely popular, but now if you want to be more adventurous the choice is there. From dark finishes like our Ebony oiled blocks to the lighter Silver White and Coastal, there’s plenty of choice. They can all be used to add interest, texture and warmth to any room, all you need is a bit of imagination.”

All of The Natural Wood Floor Company’s products are manufactured from sustainable timber from FSC sources. With most products in stock, deliveries can be made the next working day or are available for immediate collection.

The Natural Wood Floor Company, 20 Smugglers Way, Wandsworth, London, SW18 1EG; 020 8871 9771; www.naturalwoodfloor.co.uk

“They are a family run business who have been manufacturing and selling the best quality wood flooring around for the past 26 years” 172 DECEMBER 2017

Silver White Parquet

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STUNNING STYLE by decor experts

Angelus Shadow Black wire chandelier, £1,550, Rockett St George

Jane Rockett and Lucy St George share their vision for imaginative, inviting interiors with Gabrielle Fagan.

Deco female head/ bust figurine, £65, Rockett St George

arge decorative natural wooden hand ornament, £39, Rockett St George

I

nteriors emporium Rockett St George, is renowned for its quirky eye and distinctive, glamorous look - and capturing these vibes in your own home has never been easier, as brand founder Jane Rockett and Lucy St George have shared their secrets in a new book, Extraordinary Interiors. Here, Jane and Lucy talk to us about how it all began, staying inspired, and how to recreate their style in your own home...

was sealed when we discovered we not only shared a passion for black clothes, but for flea markets, Manchego cheese, travel, actor Tom Hardy and, of course, interiors. 10 years ago, we joined forces to make a career out of our passion and Rockett St George was born.

Our mantra is: Make it personal, be brave, style one step at a time, and enjoy every minute.”

How did you two meet?

How do you create a really unique interior?

“We met at a fancy-dress party. I was wearing a red sequin dress, a blonde wig and a sash saying ‘Miss Leading’, while Lucy was a beautiful funky fairy in a white mini-dress,” recalls Jane. “Our friendship

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“Our answer is always the same - you are completely individual in every way, so the secret to creating a unique look is simply to express your personality in your home,” says Jane. “Perhaps the easiest way to achieve this is by displaying carefully curated favourites in a creative way. Whether it’s objects you have made yourself, family pieces, vintage kitchenware or precious children’s art, it can all look fabulous when displayed well.”

TIP: Always curate (sort the wheat from the chaff) and display your chosen pieces well, and remember, less is more. Feel free to change collections to reflect

Black & White wool cushion, £60, Rockett St George

gold octopus candlestick holder, £32, Rockett St George

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says Lucy. “A lovely dark wall will make all your favourite accessories pop - wood looks gorgeous against a strong backdrop, bright colours sing and plants simply glow.”

TIP: Wood-clad walls add warmth and texture, but wood-effect wallpaper or wallpaper is also an option. Always consider the direction of your room before choosing a paint colour, as the light will affect the look. South-facing rooms enjoy warm, natural light and can take most colours, while north-facing rooms need a warm-based colour with underlying brown and yellow tones, rather than cool, blue-based hues.

“We talk a lot about ‘style spots’ - a focal point that grabs the eye. It’s a grouping of furniture, artwork and lighting that fits beautifully together and creates impact”

How do you choose a focal point for a room?

different seasons, or just because you want to shake things up.

How do you decide on a decor theme?

“We love white rooms with beautiful monochrome accessories - they are stylish, calm and timeless. But nothing gets us more excited than gorgeous dark walls, which conjure a brooding, inky colour palette.

Historically, dark paints were at their most popular during Victorian times, but they look fabulous in modern, traditional, rustic and urban interiors,” 176 DECEMBER 2017

“We talk a lot about ‘style spots’ - a focal point that grabs the eye. It’s a grouping of furniture, artwork and lighting that fits beautifully together and creates impact,” explains Jane. “When planning a room, we encourage people to split the space up into sections, such as the fireplace, the seating area, the entrance and so on, then to consider each one as an individual style spot. This is much easier and less daunting than designing a whole room. Bear in mind, the flow of a space is important. It’s always worth shifting furniture around and trying out different combinations for a week or so, to see if a new arrangement works better. It’s amazing how this can change the energy in a space and create a fresh, positive atmosphere.”

TIP: Display a collection of pictures, photos, album covers or even handbags on a wall. Before hanging framed pieces, lay them out on the floor to devise a layout and make sure they work well together. Space artworks at least 4cm apart to give each one room to breathe, and put your favourite (or largest) in the middle at eye level, then build outwards from there.

THE BOOK Rockett St George Extraordinary Interiors: Show-stopping Looks For Beautiful Rooms by Jane Rockett and Lucy St George, photography

by Debi Treloar, is published by Ryland Peters & Small, priced £19.99.

Available to readers for the special price of £14.99 (inc p&p). Call Macmillan Direct on 01256 302 699 and quote ref: LZ9

p r o j e c t s Refurbishment – Extensions – Basements nu: is your one-stop-shop for all your luxury design , construction and architecture needs. Whether you’re looking for help with a loft conversion or need an experienced professional to take on a larger basement project We work on the following properties • Grade I & II Listed Buildings • Victorian Houses • Georgian Houses Regency Houses • Edwardian Houses

020 7731 6841

info@nuprojects.co • www.nuprojects.co

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Half the Room… Double the Space A

s everyone knows, space is at a premium in London and the average home has decreased in size in recent years. Utilizing every square foot and making the most of the available space has never been so important. Compact homes require clever design and space-saving solutions to maximize the living space without compromising on quality or functionality.

Flexible living spaces that serve more than one purpose are becoming increasingly popular. One way to add flexibility to a space is with dual-purpose furniture – the same room can be used for two functions even if it would otherwise be too small.

A StudyBed is an innovative dual-purpose piece of furniture that combines a huge desk and a normal bed all within the same compact footprint.

A StudyBed allows a spare room to become a home office and a comfortable guest bedroom at the same time. It easily converts from a desk to a bed in just 3 seconds – there is no need to remove anything from the desk or the bed. The bed is totally hidden away when in desk mode making the most the often under-utilized vertical space.

“In a box room a StudyBed transforms the space allowing for a proper work and sleep solution within a confined space” In a box room a StudyBed transforms the space allowing for a proper work and sleep solution within a confined space. The increased floor space makes a small room much more usable and desirable, and really can make a huge difference especially if the matching under-desk units and top box are used to provide in-built storage too.

StudyBeds are manufactured in the UK. They are designed for everyday use and come with a 5 year guarantee. With over 7,000 units sold The StudyBed Company receives hundreds of glowing testimonials each year highlighting just how StudyBeds can transform small spaces into highly functional rooms: “The wonderful StudyBed has changed our small untidy, cluttered spare room into a superior office/ studio/bedroom which in moments can change into whichever you require. Worth every penny. We love it.” ST, Devon.

“For a small room like mine, this product was a great investment. I now have a comfortable bed and the best computer desk I have ever had, plus lots more room.” Gary, Stroud.

As well as many happy customers The StudyBed Company even has some famous fans. Having been featured in George Clarke’s Amazing Spaces programme on Channel 4 the presenter and architect was particularly impressed by StudyBeds and described them as “one of the best ways of changing space in a small room.”

To find out more, visit www.studybed.co.uk.

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BERRIES & BIRDS

Shrubs producing a feast of vibrant berries could be the answer for drab winter gardens, says Hannah Stephenson.

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s autumn leaves fall and the days become shorter, many gardens are plunged into gloom.

One saving grace is berries - from reds and oranges to blacks - which brighten up the often colour-free winter garden, and provide vital food for birds. Many of them stand bold against evergreen leaves, providing an impressive display of contrast.

easy-to-grow, low-maintenance cotoneaster, which provides a wealth of colour in winter. Its nutritious berries are feasted on by blackbirds, waxwings and thrushes. Big-berried varieties include C microphyllus - the berries are as big as the leaves which look even better if the frost clings to them, while C lacteus red berries will endure the harshest winter and C Rothschildianus produces bright yellow berries.

Rosehips last through winter

Deter intruders

Berries, or hips, are a must for anyone who wants colour in their garden in the coldest months. And the first place to look is roses, some of which produce wonderful hips such as Rosa ‘Scharlachglut’ and Rosa x jacksonii ‘Max Graf ’, which both produce a profusion of red hips. Bright orange and red hues also come from Rosa moyesii, while darker hips, ranging from a deep chocolate colour to black, come from the burnet roses, Rosa pimpinellifolia.

When you are buying roses, do remember that not all of them produce hips, so you need to ask at your garden centre.

A slightly harsher but no less colourful addition to the winter garden is the pyracantha. And if you’re security-conscious, you might plant a few of these sharp-spiked plants in vulnerable spots to deter intruders. But the berries will provide you with a wonderful show of colour. Try ‘Orange Glow’ for a splash of cheer against a drab backdrop, or ‘Golden Dome’ if you prefer yellow berries.

Keep it low-maintenance Other common berry-producers include the 180 DECEMBER 2017

Check plant gender for berry success Although holly berries are often ripe by autumn, birds such as song thrushes, blackbirds, fieldfares and redwings don’t usually feed on them until late winter. Many gardeners complain that their shrubs do not produce berries, and this is likely to

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be a problem of gender rather than any disease or weakness in the plant.

Most varieties of holly, for instance, carry the male and female flowers on separate plants, so one of each is required for fertilisation to take place. To pollinate, the female has to have a male nearby. Many of the variegated cultivars are male and will never bear berries - and some of the names are misleading, such as ‘Golden Queen’, which is a male, while ‘Golden King’ and ‘Indian Chief ’ are both female. But there are varieties that are self-fertile, with male and female flowers, where one plant is therefore capable of producing berries. These include Ilex aquifolium ‘J.C. van Tol’, which produces bright red berries, and I. a. ‘Pyramidalis’, which is similar but with pale green leaves.

Display skimmias Another wonderful shrub producing berries in autumn and winter is Skimmia japonica, but that also needs both male and female plants to produce its vibrant red berries, apart from the hermaphrodite S. japonica ssp. reevesiana, which has both male and female parts. For a fabulous display of purple fruits, you need to grow a male variety near Gaultheria mucronata ‘Stag River’.

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“Darker, more dramatic colours can be obtained from the berries of the berberis”

Others which require a male to pollinate the fruitbearing female include sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides), Aucuba japonica and Viburnum davidii, while trees and shrubs that bear ornamental fruit without needing two plants include Arbutus unedo, crataegus, malus, sorbus, pyracantha, cotoneaster, euonymus and berberis.

Dark and dramatic Darker, more dramatic colours can be obtained from the berries of the berberis. Try B darwinii - it produces masses of blue-black fruits and is particularly suited to a light spot in the garden.

Other winter wonders - both for their delicious scents and their flowers and berries are viburnums.

V tinus has deep blue berries which contrast effectively with its evergreen leaves, while V opulus Xanthocarpum provides us with big bunches of yellow berries and makes a good hedging plant, and provides food for birds throughout winter. Many viburnums do grow to quite a size, but you can get more compact versions which will give good shows of red berries, such as the slow-growing V opulus Compactum.

Winter doesn’t have to be so drab after all.

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Nordic Mood:

Bringing a Koselig lifestyle to the UK

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riven by a desire to bring a ‘Koselig’ lifestyle to the UK, new online homeware retailer Nordic Mood offer a wide selection of Scandinavian style furniture and home accessories that capture the cosy contentment of a traditional Norwegian way of life.

Based in Manchester, Nordic Mood was set up

by Emma Knowles and her Bergen-born partner Vemund, as they set about furnishing their new house and struggled to find the right pieces on the British high street to recreate the warmth and intimacy of the Vemund’s childhood home.

Passionate about design and quality, Emma and

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Vemund have curated a Nordic-inspired selection of furniture and home accessories that place an emphasis on function and form, focused on strong organic shapes that are both ergonomic and aesthetically pleasing, and tactile natural materials that add a comforting warmth and cosiness to the edit.

Further inspired by family holidays at their summer house in Sognefjord and the soft muted colour palettes of its natural surrounds, the Nordic Mood collection includes furniture, lighting and accessories that encapsulate the cosy, congenial mood of traditional Nordic home life, while promoting emotional wellbeing.

From timeless Lloyd Loom furniture designs by Vincent Sheppard that are both comfortable and cocooning, to contemporary woven textiles by Anna Lisa Smith that are pleasingly soft to the touch, and geometric plywood lampshades that recreate the twinkling shimmer of candlelight, Nordic Mood have everything you need to create a Koselig Nordic vibe in your own British home. www.nordicmood.co.uk

“From timeless Lloyd Loom furniture designs by Vincent Sheppard that are both comfortable and cocooning”

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Experts in steel windows We design, manufacture and install bespoke frames throughout the world.

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ur creative designs and sophisticated engineering mean we can provide a complete bespoke service. We find solutions, no matter what your needs.

All of our products are engineered on specialised CNC machinery. This ensures higher degrees of accuracy and allows us to work within much smaller tolerances. The benefits are numerous. Fabco frames perform better, last longer and have shorter manufacturing times.

Our products are manufactured differently.

Professionally-designed to your requirements, they are engineered to the highest standards. This means our frames look just the way you imagine and perform at unrivalled levels.

Windows Manufactured to the highest standards and to your exact specifications, our windows are both practical and aesthetically pleasing. All come with a certified B-thermal rating as standard. Steel windows have the slimmest of sightlines allowing maximum light into your home. A range of styles is available from cutting-edge to traditional. And, thanks to our engineering capabilities, our lead times are some of the shortest in the industry.

Doors Our doors share all the same benefits as our other products. Slim sightlines mean they are beautiful to look at - and look through. On a functional level, Fabco is the only firm to achieve a certified B-thermal rating which means you’ll stay warmer in winter. A number of style options are available, from modern to traditional.

Internal Screens Our internal screens lend a fresh feel to any property. Incredibly versatile - they allow you to 186 DECEMBER 2017

partition a room without sacrificing any light.

Whether you want to use them as a stylish focal point or to create a separate space, we will make them bespoke to your individual needs. Acousticglazing is also a possibility.

Shower Screens Our shower screens can be crafted to fit any space allowing you countless design possibilities. The end effect is clean and sleek and establishes a look that cannot be achieved with a high-street purchase.

Roof Lights All roof lights brighten and transform a space allowing natural light to flood in. However, Fabco’s roof lights are manufactured from slim-section mild steel, allowing even more glass area and more of the outside into your home. www.fabcosanctuary.com; 01903 718808

Picture credits: Windows: The Science Lab, www.madewithvolume.com Doors: Wandsworth Commons, www.btlpropertyltd.co.uk, www.granit.co.uk, www.abeasley.com Internal Screens: Sherbrooke Road, www.tomsullam.co.uk Shower Screens: Inchmery Road, www.designsquaredltd.co.uk, www.chrissnookphotography.co.uk

TIMELESS STYLE AT CELINE ESTATES Celine Estates headed by Director Noor Charchafchi is fast becoming one of the most esteemed London residential interior design firms. Noor’s attention to detail and focus on luxury service has distinguished her company and allowed her to excel in the world of residential interiors. Asking Noor about her preferred design style she explains that she she chooses not to pinpoint a particular style but a contemporary home that supersedes trends and is curated for each particular client until the space can truly be unique to them. Noor explains that working with her clients is the most important part of her business and a part of the business she relishes.

Showcasing one of her recent prime central London projects shown she says, I feel flattered that the business gets the attention that it does but the real business is the passion for design and the realisation of our clients aspirations for their spaces. Celine Estates works alongside an in house architectural and construction team and she explains that she is therefore involved in every part of the design process starting from where it must necessarily begin with the architectural drawings and space planning.

Believing in a hands on approach Noor explains that early entrance into the design stage always gives her team an incredible advantage and as she herself oversees every aspect of the project her clients really get full exposure to the woman who is fast becoming a permanent fixture on London’s interior design scene.

Celine Estates Ltd, Unit A 27, Jasmine House, Juniper Drive, Battersea Reach, London SW18 1GJ Tel: 02073513659 Tel: 020 8032 2911 Web: www.celineestates.com

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COMPETITION TIME Slab Tiles and Stone in Beaconsfield have teamed up with Life Magazines to give one lucky reader the chance to win £5000 to spend in-store.

Transform your home in 2018 with Slab Tiles and Stone.

HOW TO ENTER

S

lab Tiles and Stone import fine Italian Porcelains and natural stone from across the globe. Our service is second to none and with over 30 years’ combined experience in the industry we are well placed to answer any query you may have, whether technical or design based.

Most of the Italian porcelain factories are located in the North East of the country, in and

WIN

£5000 to spend in-store.

around Modena. Our marble and limestone comes from as far afield as Turkey, Egypt and Oman.

We specialise in bespoke stone work and flooring but whatever your project size we guarantee you will always receive the very best personal service.

Recently completed works range include a full bathroom refurbishment in Beaconsfield using Brazilian marble, a luxury apartment complex in Covent Garden and a Hollywood ‘A’ List client’s private residence in Knightsbridge (hush hush...!). We apply the same attention to detail and comprehensive customer service and after care, whoever and wherever you happen to be. www.slabtiles.co.uk

To enter, simply choose the correct answer to the following question from the options below: Which Italian city hosts many of the porcelain factories from where we source our products? a) Naples b) Modena c) Bari Entry via email comp@slabtiles.co.uk. Please include the words ‘Bucks Life Comp’ in the subject header

MORE INFORMATION For a free consultation, call in at our Beaconsfield showroom or call 01494 670 866.

We work across London and the Home counties.

Trade Inquiries and Accounts welcome 1. The decision of the Directors of Slab Tiles and Stone Limited is final 2. No cash equivalent.

3. Entries close midnight 31 December 2017.

4.A winner will be drawn on 4 January 2018 and notified by email.

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slab Italian Porcelain Natural Stone Bespoke Fabrication

01494 670 866

sales@slabtiles.co.uk www.slabtiles.co.uk 2 The Broadway, Beaconsfield Buckinghamshire HP9 2PD

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Evolvia By Evolve ‘The gift of great taste, in both flavour and design’

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volvia Organic Fine Food was founded in 2015 by husband and wife team Alex and Rute Theodorou, combining their passion for food with well designed, British crafted products.

A former luxury brand consultant, Rute grew up in the Douro Valley Portugal and has olive oil in her blood, returning to her childhood home to source the olive oil for Evolvia. Alex, who studied at Central Saint Martins Art College London, was inspired by the purity of the oil. He designed the Keep-Forever Pourer, which is crafted in flawless precisionengineered glass, to showcase the oil’s rich hue. ‘We wanted to create a timeless piece, something that you can keep and treasure, an object to hand down to future generations’ explains Alex.

Evolvia is about combining the finest organic foods with the best of British manufacture. The Keep-Forever Pourer is produced in England by a family-run glass-making factory who manufactured the world’s first X-ray tubes and laboratory glassware. The solid brass lid is made in Birmingham by a company with almost 100 years’ experience in metal turning and combines traditional techniques with the latest in innovation.

The Keep-Forever Pourer, meanwhile, has received attention in the global design community and an invitation from the German Design Council to take part in its prestigious German Design Awards 2017, joining a hand-picked selection of brands recognised for their pioneering contribution to the international design landscape.

The oil is sourced from a family owned single estate grove, native Portuguese Galega and Cobrançosa olives are picked during late autumn when the fruit is still young green and fragrant.

The gentle cold-pressing process releases an oil of intense colour and exquisite complexity, combining an aroma of fresh floral notes, green apple and wild

190 DECEMBER 2017

“Evolvia is about combining the finest organic foods with the best of British manufacture”

THE DETAILS Evolvia Keep-Forever Pourer comes with a 400ml pouch of Evolvia Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil (£135) available online at www.by-evolve.com

herbs, it has a layered well-balanced flavour, rich yet smooth and with a delicately peppery finish. It’s this unique character that caught the judge’s attention and saw the oil presented a Great Taste Award in 2016.

“We care about creating honest products with soul,” says Rute. “The region of Douro is famed for its Port, but what many people don’t know is that the area has a strong heritage of producing incredible olive oil. We want to share this secret while treating the land with the respect it deserves and we are also supporting British jobs and showcasing homegrown, traditional crafts and skills in a contemporary way.”

Evolvia have now added to their product collection, bringing a range of organic olives together with a range of fine organic herbal tea infusions.

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Passion For Luxury S

heree Davenport - Passion For Luxury has ‘full flair’ of various styles from delicate and muted minimalism to eye-popping, era-hopping fancies, she knows how to mix, match, edit, illuminate, decorate any space from one bedroom apartments to enormous mansions houses, hotels and commercial buildings.

“Harmonious interiors, with a distinctive ambiance that will be timeless and enjoyable for many years” Passion For Luxury – creates harmonious interiors, with a distinctive ambiance that will be timeless and enjoyable for many years.

Our selection of sumptuous space makers in queen rich materials and wall coverings that enhance any dull space or home, Sheree is a master of luxury, furnishing the most beautiful homes that was once uninteresting and lacked luster.

Our projects reflect our extensive experience in creating luxurious and livable spaces for national and international private clients. www.passionforluxury.co.uk 192 DECEMBER 2017

Passion for Luxury

The Finest World Class Interior Design Service

T: 07961 380929 | E: info@passionforluxury.co.uk | W: www.passionforluxury.co.uk

FABRICS & FURNISHINGS

Make your bedroom

a winter sanctuary

A snug bedroom is the perfect place to retreat to on cold winter nights.

Even the most hale and hearty types have surely been tempted to linger under the bedcovers, or take a ‘duvet day’ in these freezing, snowy times.

After all, our natural reaction when cold winds blow outside is to stay where we feel snug and safe, and the ultimate retreat is our bedroom.

WORDS: GABRIELLE FAGAN

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ut you’re missing a trick if you’re only using your bedroom for snoozing and loving, as ideally this space should also be a stylish sanctuary where it’s easy to relax and unwind. You can really let your imagination take flight here with decoration and furnishing as it’s the perfect private location for decor ideas or fantasies that may not be practical to indulge in anywhere else in the home.

If you’re uncomfortably aware your bedroom’s not matching up to your interior dreams, there couldn’t be a better time for a revamp as you can plunder the sales for bargains in beds and bedding.

Before you spend though, try to have a concept of the room and the effect you desire.

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

Bedroom decor and furnishings can, with a little thought, be versatile enough suit all seasons. You don’t have to play it safe with neutrals but bear in mind that even if you love dark, closeting colours and heavy fabrics in the winter you might find them overpowering on bright, sunny days.

A bed’s obviously a focal point, and currently an oversized, padded headboard is fashionable for contemporary beds, but you will see a trend for functional headboards which double as storage or a place to display photos or treasured items. Four posters are the ultimate boaster bed, while the more rustic or ornate metal bedsteads are still hugely

popular. But be aware that you need to stack this style of bed with oversized cushions, so you’re not lounging back against a hard metal frame.

At the end of the day, it’s the finishing touches that will turn a bedroom into the ultimate personal comfort zone…layer a bed with a throw, a runner, and cushions and bolsters in soft-to-thetouch fabrics, and make space for an easy chair and small table where you can sit and daydream. To avoid any more rude awakenings choose a dreamy new look for your bedroom that will turn it into a beautiful sanctuary.

ELEGANT RETREAT This should be a sophisticated room where the decor is understated and restful and the overall effect is light and airy. Use soft paint colours on walls for a soothing atmosphere, like soft blues and lilacs. Monochrome is on trend and its classic purity would be an ideal partner for this style. Alternatively, take a more funky, masculine approach with the black, white and citrus yellow.

GLAMOROUS BOUDOIR Don’t spare the colour and texture in this room, because it demands a full-on approach so that it’s indulgent, luxurious and opulent. Rich berry colours, reds, plums and purples are ideal for a space that cocoons and comforts.Have this bedroom as a gorgeous retreat, purely for rest and relaxation. There’s no room here for a home office or ugly technology. Add extra feel-good factor to the bed by using sumptuous bedspreads and throws made of silk or faux fur. And have dimmer switches and lamps so you can easily lower the lights for intimacy.

FABRICS & FURNISHINGS

DELCOR: flying the flag for British Craftsmanship

If you love beautiful things that are made to last a lifetime, you’re probably already familiar with family furniture business Delcor.

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ince 1967 Delcor has been flying the flag for British Craftsmanship. Their stunning made-to-measure sofas and chairs are made entirely in beautiful Northumberland by master craftsmen and women with over 200 years’ collective experience.

Delcor are now proud to have partnered with Spink & Edgar, one of Britain’s leading mattress providers, to create a new range of beautifully crafted beds. With exquisite design and endless comfort, you can be sure to find the bed you’ve been dreaming of.

Every single Delcor creation is the definition of a masterpiece, a highly personal piece of furniture not an ‘off-the-peg’ purchase. If you want your chaise longue a little longer or your high back sofa a little higher, a deeper seat or a wider arm, they will make it to your every specification. And this attention to detail is the secret to their success – not to mention their appealing 50-year guarantee on frames.

Showroom at 638-640 Kings Road, Fulham, London, SW6 2DU. Other showroom locations at Stamford, Northumberland and Cheshire.

You can order a brochure or request fabric samples from www.delcor.co.uk or call 0207 352 5551 for more information.

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“Every single Delcor creation is the definition of a masterpiece”

Interior Design at its best Vicarage House, 58-60 Kensington Church St, London W8 4DB 0207 368 1633 | joanne@interiorsbyjoannemills.london | www.interiorsbyjoannemills.co.uk

FABRICS & FURNISHINGS

The foundation for perfection with Abbotswood Flooring

New flooring for beautiful homes Starting in 1959 and following in the footsteps of his father, Ted Thomas, the man behind Abbotswood Flooring, has been providing flooring services for over 50 years. During this time, Ted has travelled extensively throughout Europe gaining an enormous knowledge of wood and all types of flooring, specialising in solid hard wood, parquet, engineered wood and laminate.

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rom large commercial projects working alongside designers and architects to smaller domestic installations, Ted still receives great pleasure from working with his customers in designing and laying floors.

They offer a truly bespoke service; from the initial design through to the completion, they offer expert advice, designing the correct flooring system to meet your requirements and budget.

Abbotswood Flooring is based in Wimbledon but cover most areas of London and the South East. They offer free no obligation planning and estimates for both wooden flooring and carpets.

You are welcome to visit their showroom where they have a large range of samples for you to choose from or they are happy to arrange a home or site visit with samples.

Abbotswood Flooring offer a carpet supply and bespoke fitting service, designed to meet the exact needs of your home. Once you’ve chosen your

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“Abbotswood Flooring is based in Wimbledon but cover most areas of London and the South East.

They offer free no obligation planning and estimates for both wooden flooring and carpets”

perfect style, they will make sure it fits into each corner of the room snugly.Their extensive range of carpets include 100% wool, synthetic fittings, striped runners, velvets, sisals, and so much more.

If you’d like to turn your home into a work of art, you might want to choose from the Amtico tile range.

With a range of beautiful laying patterns available, you can create a look you’ll enjoy seeing every day.

For beautiful new flooring that will last, contact Abbotswood Flooring, and they will cater for all your flooring needs.

For more information about Abbotswood Flooring Ltd, 258 - 260 The Broadway, Wimbledon SW19 1SB; Telephone 0207 938 1000 or 020 8543 9083 Download the app or email info@abbotswoodflooring.co.uk www.abbotswoodflooring.co.uk

Beautiful flooring for beautiful homes

BESPOKE WOOD FLOORING LUXURY VINYL TILES STYLISH CARPETS EXPERT FITTING SERVICE For beautiful new flooring that will last,contact Abbotswood Flooring, and they will cater for all your flooring needs.

Abbotswood Flooring Ltd

258-260 The Broadway, Wimbledon SW19 1SB Telephone: 020 8543 5083 or 0207 938 1000 Download the app or email: info@abbotswoodflooring.co.uk www.abbotswoodflooring.co.uk

FABRICS & FURNISHINGS

Beautiful rugs from Aaron Nejad Gallery

Detail from an English Needlework panel, Circa 1750, £4000

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aron Nejad has been dealing in antique rugs, carpets and textiles for over 20 years. During that time, he has developed a fascination for the relationship between colour, space and design in the woven arts, and has dedicated his life to discovering rare and unusual examples that delight the eye.

Aaron has travelled extensively to the markets and weaving centres of the East, and has gathered eclectic collections of tribal rugs and weavings. He also had the opportunity to set up a weaving project in China to produce carpets in the traditional methods. Aaron has also written several articles on rugs and carpets, and is a contributing editor of ‘Hali’ Magazine, the leading international journal of antique carpet and textile art.

At his newly opened gallery in Church Street London NW8, you will see an exciting collection of rugs, carpets, textiles and kelims from all the major weaving centres of the East and Europe. There are decorative Persian carpets in all sizes, including oversize and palace carpets. There are tribal rugs and artefacts from the Persia and Central Asia, magnificent silk rugs, many types of kelims, runners and much more. Aaron has also started his own range of silk cushions from Uzbekistan in abstract 200 DECEMBER 2017

designs and bold colours.

The use of colour and design is an essential part of interior decoration. Luxuriant textiles, rugs and carpets are ideal. They can add an accent to a very minimalist space, or they can be the essence of the space creating an exuberant interior garden. A visit to Aaron Nejad Gallery will inspire you to make those choices. www.aaronnejad.com Detail from a Fine Silk Chinese Embroidered Costume, Late 19th Century, £1750

“At his newly opened gallery in Church Street London NW8, you will see an exciting collection of rugs, carpets, textiles and kelims from all the major weaving centres of the East and Europe”

Kashmir Shawl, 19th century, £1250

• Decorative Carpets in all sizes • Tribal rugs and weavings • Kelims and other flatweaves • Runners of all lengths • Tapestries and textiles

Aaron Nejad Gallery 4 Church Street, London NW8 8ED E: anejad@talktalk.net • www.aaronnejad.com 0203 489 5370 • 07976 826218

FABRICS & FURNISHINGS

THE LINEN LOOK

Introducing the latest ranges of Linen Look blinds from Blinds 2 Go

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inen is the Rolls Royce of fabric choices for the home, but along with pure silk it is a very difficult fabric to manage.

It looks fantastic and adds texture and luxury to your interior, but it is also a very delicate fabric that can shrink and fade very easily when subjected to strong sunlight and humidity.

For window blinds, it is not a good choice in its natural form, however Blinds 2 Go have developed a range of Polyester/Linen mix roller and roman blinds which have the look and feel of real linen but without the drawbacks.

For a window treatment that unites colour, texture and pattern, look no further than a patterned linen look roller blind. Roller blinds give a simple finish to a window and are a practical choice as well as being ideal for compact rooms such as kitchens and bathrooms as they are easy to wipe clean. They are also available with standard, thermal or blackout lining making them a great choice for bedrooms.

Linen look Roman blinds are a more decorative choice and fold up into pleats as they are raised.

They also add dimension and warmth to an

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otherwise cold looking room and are the perfect choice for living rooms and bedrooms.

With free fabric samples available you can find the perfect linen look blind for your home. Visit www.blinds -2go.co.uk or call freephone 0800 862 0464. www.blinds-2go.co.uk

“For a window treatment that unites colour, texture and pattern, look no further than a patterned linen look roller blind�

KEEP Warm this winter

[NEWS]

radiate style

bathroom beauties A TOUCH OF CLASS This designer radiator on the left will make a stunning focal point and is almost a piece of art in its own right. On the right is a classic styled towel warmer with a chrome finish, available in varying heights to suit both the small bathroom and the larger family. Also available in a white finish.

L-R: Alide Radiator Anthracite by Frontline Bathrooms, £425, www.frontlinebathrooms.co.uk; Straight Radiator

by The Pure Bathroom Collection from Smiths Briten, £75, www.purebathroomcollection.co.uk

“Carefully proportioned to function secondarily as a console table, creating an additional storage and display surface”

COVER-UP A unique, adjustable radiator cover featuring hand cut, bevelled mirror panels. Will accommodate radiators measuring up to 79cm (from ground level once installed), up to 183m in width and 14 cm in depth. Carefully proportioned to function secondarily as a console table, creating an additional storage and display surface.

Simply fix to wall with integral, rear mounted keyhole fixings.

Pewter effect paint finish.

Antoinette mirrored radiator cover large, adjustable from MY Furniture, www.my-furniture.co.uk 206 DECEMBER 2017

We love these stylish contemporary-style radiators.

Clarissa Radiators, The Pure Bathroom Collection from Smiths Briten, £269-£349, www.purebathroom collection.co.uk

toasTy towels Keep cosy in the bathroom with this gorgeous Salzburg Traditional Victorian Chrome and White Towel Rail Radiator with a chrome finish. £159.97 www.bathroomtakeaway.co.uk

KEEP Warm this winter

[NEWS]

BY THE FIRESIDE “The Cocoon Terra delivers a beautiful ambient heat, approximately 3.6 kW, about the equivalent of a small to medium gas or electric heater”

FIRESIDE ACCESSORIES Leather Kindling Bucket by Decorator’s Notebook, £89.95, www.decoratorsnotebook.co.uk

Hand-Forged Iron Standing Fire Set with Brush, Shovel & Poker £105, www.iansnow.com

KEEP WARM IN STYLE Cocoon Terra is a beautiful free-standing ethanol-based fire on a 3-legged base. It’s available in stainless steel or carbon black - suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. It uses denatured ethanol, also known as ethyl alcohol, which is a denatured alcohol or grain alcohol. As it is a biofuel, derived from plants including corn, wheat, barley and sugarcane, it is a sustainable resource. The Cocoon Terra delivers a beautiful ambient heat, approximately 3.6 kW, about the equivalent of a small to medium gas or electric heater. Its 1.5 litre chamber provides the capacity to burn for up to 6 hours. Flueless, smoke free, environmentally friendly.

Cocoon Terra Fireplace in Carbon Black, £1,990, www.wharfside.co.uk

we love The Hearth HF440 from Haddonstone. Made from cast stone, it can be used in conjunction with your own stove. £299, www.haddonstone.com

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LOVELY LUDLOW The Charnwood Skye is a new stateof-the-art stove with a remarkably efficient combustion system. It’s innovative burn technology ensures efficiencies of up to 86% and exceeds the new Eco Design standards and Defra exemption limits; allowing wood to be burnt cleanly in smoke control areas. As thoughtful in style as it is in function the Skye has a refreshing design aesthetic; classically minimal with landscape proportions and a soft modern edge.

Charnwood SKYE Ludlow Stoves Ltd, £1,650, www.ludlowstoves.co.uk

Coal Storage Bucket from The Contemporary Home, £20, www.tch.net

KEEP Warm this winter

Contemporary PVR cylinder stove ready for Eco design 2022

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n the continuous pursuit of excellence in stove combustion technology, Charlton & Jenrick are proud to introduce the PVR panoramic stove models to the Purevision™ range. Refining the stove heating experience with maximised flame exposure, the new range extends the Purevision™ portfolio into three dimensions.

The rationale behind the design is to showcase a pure, uncluttered panoramic fire view without compromise on glass width and height, in particular eliminating fixed side window frames whilst providing 2022 Ecodesign Ready certified ultraclean combustion.

Having achieved the original brief, the stove layout lends itself equally to corner, flat wall or fireplace locations in providing a superb circumference of fire view from a single Schott Robax™ glass panel. Using the 180 degree combustion chamber, up to 12 different models can be built using combinations of heat exchanger, pedestal stand, log store and wall mounting options.

Fireboxes are sized as 5kW nominal output and whilst designed primarily for wood burning are multi-fuel equipped with optional 100% direct external air kit available for maximum installation flexibility. Depending on how they are fired, PVR models will typically operate within a heat output range of 3.2-6.8kW whilst fully complying with DEFRA exemption requirements.

Designed and developed in Shropshire and approved in Gloucestershire, our Purevision PVR stove models contain innovative, technologically advanced and patented design features resulting in ultra-clean burning performance and high thermal efficiency of up to 87.2%. DEFRA exemption for burning wood in smokeless zones was a formality with test results a mere fraction of the limit values required under all conditions. To achieve this performance consistently for the end user, a very easy to use single cool touch operating lever is provided to control total air distribution and enable the changeover from wood to smokeless fuel types.

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“The stove layout lends itself equally to corner, flat wall or fireplace locations”

The huge, powerfully air washed Robax™ glass panel is mounted within a substantial laser profiled steel door assembly operated by a machined stainless steel cool touch handle and closed by an automatic latch system for ultimate ease of use.

Only premium materials are used throughout, including the contoured ceramic firebox liner set, produced from micro-detail tooling specifically for these stoves. This material is superbly tough and self cleaning in service yet able to be cast into exquisite and intricate detail for the patented tertiary air profiling. Stainless steel is used for the convenient laser etched single control lever and generously proportioned door handle.

As expected with a premium product, several complimentary accessories accompany the stove.

These include a heavy stainless steel operating tool and laser profiled stand, a stainless ash rake, a branded pair of heavy duty stove gauntlets and a branded quality tool set for future servicing or adjustments.

Prices from £1950; www.ludlowstoves.co.uk