Life Magazines (London editions) January 2019

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FROM THE

T

EDITOR

o mark its 10th anniversary at the heart of the London bar scene, The Connaught Bar is celebrating the past while enjoying a taste of the future with the unveiling of its very own crafted-in-house gin.

Since its inception in 2013, London Shooting Club has introduced hundreds of Londoners to the world of shooting and helped many experienced shots to improve their shooting and get the best out of their sport. “Until now it has been difficult for the experienced sportsman visiting London or the UK to find a satisfying and thrilling shooting experience. The London Shooting Club can meet this demand and provide its members with a great days shooting not just in London but, if required elsewhere in the UK and abroad” says Clive Hetherington, Director of London Shooting Club.

The Riding Club London is a private members club organising fantastic events and socials for adult equine enthusiasts in and around London.

Partridges customer and photographer to the stars, John Stoddart, has mounted an exhibition of 12 stunning black and white photographs on the gallery wall at Partridges’ café in its flagship store at Duke of York Square, Chelsea, SW3.

The London Landmarks Half Marathon returns to the capital after a hugely successful inaugural edition in 2018. Sunday 24th March 2019 will see 13,000 runners tackle the 13.1 mile course, which weaves through the Capital’s most famous landmarks as well as some of the more quirky and hidden ones.

Snoopy, Charlie Brown and Co. have arrived at London’s Somerset House for an exhibition exploring the world’s most influential comic strip, Peanuts.

Faye Manning Editor

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Editor Faye Manning ••••• Editorial Assistant Katie Miller ••••• Sub Editor Nicholas Peter ••••• Fashion Editor Lara Accison ••••• Design & Production Lisa Wade ••••• senior business development manager Vanessa Lane ••••• ACCOUNT MANAGERS Nicola Drew, Lisa Westerman Anita Hill ••••• ACCOUNTS Kathy Manning, Andree Georgiou ••••• Directors Rory Smith, Patrick Smith

CONTENTS LOCAL LIFE

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LUXURY WEDDING GUIDE

67

INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS GUIDE

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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 From gifts to venues, we’ve got the big day covered The finest independent schools in the UK

THE LUXURY TRAVEL GUIDE

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FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

145

HOUSE & GARDEN

195

LUXURY bathroom GUIDE

223

Heading out of London to explore the rest of the world Fashion, health and beauty news to keep you looking and feeling your best A collection of London’s finest interior companies Everything you need to create the perfect London bathroom

0844 800 8439

www.thelifemagazines.com

LOCAL LIFE

– We put fantastic local businesses and exciting events in the spotlight each month – i ma g e : t h e a r t o f t h e su r r ea l at c h r i s t i es

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London Fashion

Week Preview Autumn/Winter 2019 Collections, 15th – 19th February 2019

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ondon Fashion Week is one of the highest profile fashion events in the world – and one of the ‘big four’ international catwalk influencers alongside Paris, Milan and New York. It presents an unrivalled opportunity to showcase some of the world’s leading fashion talent, with the schedule packed with shows, presentations, showrooms, events and parties from the best and brightest names in the industry.

While most of us are not even thinking about our summer wardrobes, designers will be showcasing their Autumn/ Winter 2019 Collections. It’s a week where designers are free to create at will and experiment with new trends, with the world watching as fashion history is made. Returning to the show are luxury designer brands including Burberry, Jasper Conran, Aspinal of London, David Koma, Pringle of Scotland, House of Holland, Peter Pilotto, Belstaff, Julien Macdonald, Pam Hogg and Temperley London.

Fashion retailers, hotels, restaurants and bars across London join in the celebration of London Fashion Week by hosting special events and promotions both in-store and online.

Designer Showrooms, located at The Store Studios, 180 Strand, is home to over 150 British and international designers. The international element of the showrooms illustrates that the doors to London are truly open, with designers showcasing

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from Dubai, Finland and South Korea. The pull of London on a global scale is undeniable. The UK continues to be an attractive and fertile home for an array of designer businesses of any size.

Of the four fashion capitals, London is the only city that hosts the Designer Showrooms in the same venue as the official British Fashion Council (BFC) Show and Presentation Space. The LFW Designer Showrooms have launched many global brands, including a number of on-schedule designers.

The magic of London Fashion Week is not merely thanks to the fashion designers’ and fashion stylists’ cutting-edge collections but the media excitement that accompanies them. The allure of the show is exceptional and London Fashion Week continues to be the top fashion event pulling visitors from every corner of the globe.

For more information about London Fashion Week including up-to-date schedules, news, video and much more go to www.londonfashionweek.co.uk

“London is the only city that hosts the Designer Showrooms in the same venue as the official British Fashion Council”

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BLUE PLANET II LIVE The O2 Arena London, 17th March 2019, 3.00pm & 7.30pm

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ollowing the incredible success of the BAFTA award-winning BBC ONE television series Blue Planet II, presented

by Sir David Attenborough, BBC Studios and FKP Scorpio are proud to present a 13 date UK & Eire live tour.

The tour will bring the wonders and mysteries of the planet’s oceans and wildlife to the UK arena stage. A fantastical journey from icy polar seas to pulsating coral reefs, from the luminous deep sea to enormous kelp forests: immerse yourself with Blue Planet II – Live In Concert, a simply breath-taking and epic show that you will never forget.

The concert will present a selection of incredible visuals from the series, highlighting the amazing natural wonders of our blue planet in breath-taking detail, projected on a giant state of the art 4K Ultra HD LED screen. The concert will feature exciting visuals from the show including the now infamous Tusk fish, the Crab and Eel rock pool chase and the ‘folklore-turned-reality’ Sea Lion tuna hunt, to name but a few.

The concert will be hosted by BBC presenter Anita Rani, a highly-respected TV personality. Anita is a household name as one of the presenters of the BBC One series Countryfile, and regularly appears in and presents the BBC’s One Show. She has also presented programmes including Bollywood: The World’s Biggest Film Industry and Watchdog. In 2015 Anita was also a contestant on Strictly Come Dancing.

Live accompaniment comes from City of Prague Orchestra, conducted by Matthew Freeman. Music is by Hans Zimmer, Jacob Shea and David Fleming for Bleeding Fingers Music.

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Rani said of narrating Blue Planet II – Live In Concert: I am really honoured to have the role of host on the Blue Planet II Live In Concert arena tour. The TV series was such a fantastic and enlightening show and has really empowered society to view our oceans and environment with a great deal more care. I can’t wait to stand on stage with an 80-piece orchestra and huge screen showing some of that incredible Blue Planet II footage, it should be an amazing experience!”

The Blue Planet II television show was the most watched TV programme of 2017 in the United Kingdom, reaching 37.6 million viewers. During the four-year filming, the teams embarked on 125 expeditions, travelled to 39 countries, filmed on all continents and in every ocean. They spent 6,000 hours deep-sea diving, 1,000 of which were on underwater boats. Logistically, some of these expeditions could be compared to a trip into space – such was the effort. In the process, the camera teams encountered creatures that appeared so strange that they really did seem to come from a different planet!

“The concert will present a selection of incredible visuals from the series, highlighting the amazing natural wonders of our blue planet

THE DETAILS To purchase tickets visit www.blueplanet2live.co.uk or Eventim.co.uk and Seetickets.com

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Partridges, the Queen’s grocer, holds exhibition of iconic portraits by renowned

Photographer John Stoddart Until 4th February 2019

ABOUT PARTRIDGE’S Partridge’s, the independent family-run food store was founded in 1972 in Sloane Square and in 1994 was granted a Royal Warrant as Grocers to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth. In 1998 Partridges second shop opened on Gloucester Road, Kensington and in 2004 the original shop was relocated to Duke of York Square, Chelsea and includes a wine bar and café with a terrace and indoor seating.

Partridges devotes the back wall of its café ten months of the year to help local artists promote and sell their work. Last year these included internationally renowned portrait painter and war artist Arabella Dorman, Chelsea wildlife photographer Sarah Cheesbrough, Cissy Cook who produces intricate paper cut artworks and Tom Flint who paints stunning London skylines. www.partridges.co.uk

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artridges customer and photographer to the stars, John Stoddart, has mounted an exhibition of 12 stunning black and white photographs on the gallery wall at Partridges’ café in its flagship store at Duke of York Square, Chelsea, SW3.

Many of the images were shot close to the Partridges store including those of Daniel Craig, photographed at the Royal Court Theatre; Hugh Grant, photographed in John’s studio in Jubilee Place, Chelsea; Jeremy Irons, photographed in a taxi in Sloane Square and Anthony Hopkins who was photographed in John’s studio at the Bluebird.

Liverpool born John Stoddart lived in Chelsea from 1985 –2009 and is a self-taught photographer.

He has photographed an extensive A-list of celebrity names, some at his studio in Jubilee Place, Chelsea throughout his illustrious career. He has published four photography books, two of which explore the elusive world of fame and his work has been exhibited in galleries and museums around the world. His subjects have included Tony Blair and Princess Michael of Kent as well as Hollywood film stars such as Martin Scorsese and Lauren Becall plus superstar pop icons and supermodels. John has also been a contributor to nearly every magazine in the UK and internationally, including Vanity Fair, Harper’s Bazaar, The New York Times and Vogue.

EXHIBITED WORKS • • • • • • • • • • • •

Daniel Craig Catherine Zeta-Jones Hugh Grant John Hurt Izabella Scorupco Pierce Brosnan Arnold Schwarzenegger Jeremy Irons Martin Scorsese Anthony Hopkins Famke Janssen Tilda Swinton

The photographs are for sale: Unfamed - £500 each. For sales enquiries please contact: E: johnstoddart@btinternet.com www.johnstoddartphotography.com

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CHRISTIE’S ‘PETER PETROU: TALES OF THE UNEXPECTED’ A

30th January 2019, 10.30am

n eclectic sale comprising early sculpture, decorative arts, science and natural history, Japanese, Chinese and Indian works of art, alongside the ethnographical and the plain unusual.

Estimates will range from £300 to £100,000 and will comprise around 150 lots in total.

Three of the pieces on offer are these amazing glass models of jelly fish by renowned sculptors and modellers the Blaschka brothers, whose glass models were made for natural history museums worldwide. One of the models represents the most famous of jelly-fish, the Portuguese Man of War, whose long tentacles can deliver the most painful of stings, enough to kill most fish and in rare cases, humans. It’s vivid blue tentacles are perfectly represented in this model in swirling glass and it is almost impossible to believe how delicate the model is, and that it has survived for almost 150 years of turmoil within Europe.

Renowned for their ingenuity and craftsmanship, their work from 1863-80 is a magical moment where art meets science. Working in Dresden, the brothers, who were formerly jewellers, turned their hand to natural history, created over 10,000 models during their years of business, representing over 700 invertebrate species.

Benedict Winter who is Junior Specialist, Furniture and Works of Art, Christie’s London, has shared some specific insights below which I thought could be helpful. “I first came across Peter

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“One of the models represents the most famous of jelly-fish, the Portuguese Man of War”

Top left: A Polychrome papier mache didactic model of a bumble bee. 20th Century.

Estimate: £3,000 - £5,000 Top right: Sasha Sykes, Caliology Studies. Natural twigs, moss and lichen encased in resin Estimate: £2,500 - £4,000 Right: Peter Petrou Bottom left: Italian, Probably Florence, 17th Century fountain mask.

Estimate: £6,000 - £10,000 Bottom right: Three glass models of jelly fish by Leopold Blaschka, Circa 1877.

Estimate: £15,000- £25,000 Per Model

Petrou several years ago with his wonderful stand at Masterpiece, the most venerated of London’s art fairs and was immediately struck by the vibrant and diverse display of nearly every category of ‘human creation’. I hope to welcome you to Christie’s in January to celebrate not only Peter’s unparalleled and often curious collection, but also human history in all its forms and the never-ending voyage to the unexpected.”

For more details contact: BWinter@christies.com or visit www.christies.com

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The Winter Decorative Antiques & Textiles Fair 22-27 January 2019, Battersea Evolution, Battersea Park SW11

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he Winter edition of The Decorative Antiques & Textiles Fair, the first of three taking place in 2019, will raise a glass to the new year when it opens in Battersea Park.

More than 150 dealers from the UK and Europe will take part, bringing a beautiful variety of antique and 20th century design drawn from sources around the world. Find unusual interior decoration dating from the early 1700s to 1970, by designers and makers from the British Isles, Europe, Scandinavia, the Americas, Africa and Asia. The breadth of choice is unbeatable, encompassing furniture, lighting, textiles, ceramics and porcelain, glass, natural history items, architectural elements, and garden artefacts and seating. Works of art from all periods to the contemporary – paintings, prints and sculpture – are an important element in the mix.

The Cocktail Hour – Foyer Display Inspired by fashionable 1950s and ‘60s nightspots, with a touch of deco glamour, the Winter Fair will present as its foyer display, The Cocktail Hour – showing visitors how to create a contemporary space for parties or a modern club room vibe. The Cocktail Hour will incorporate diverse seating, side tables, lighting and decoration of all periods for a fresh look, beautifully accessorised with 20thcentury cocktail sets and antique drinking paraphernalia.

Bar carts and trolleys are still enormously popular, and stylish examples will feature, alongside cocktail cabinets, serving trays, champagne buckets and glassware. All items in the Fair display come from exhibitors and will be for sale.

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Current Trends As well as the eco-friendly credentials of antiques, buyers can see how easily the rich, lived-in patina of antique wood can work with modern interior schemes, complementing both soft and rich colour schemes. The warm tones of wood also work wonderfully well with patterned wallpaper without distracting from it.

Painted antiques continue to be a strong theme at the Decorative Fair; their popularity has continued unabated since the Fair launched in 1985 and made its name as the go-to event for decorative pieces, and in particular painted furniture. Dealers continue to offer an unparalleled mix of fine and rare pieces with original paint and decoration from the 18th and early 19th centuries, alongside more practical everyday items presented in what the trade terms “country house condition” (i.e. retaining an un-restored state) that have been well-loved over the years, and thus retain a lifetime of character.

Find Unique Accessories The Decorative Antiques & Textiles Fair is also the perfect place to find a wealth of accessories: mirrors of every style, lighting from antique to mid-twentieth century table lamps, floor lamps, wall lights, modernist ceiling lights and crystal chandeliers. The finishing touch is as important as the furniture and buyers love the choice of collectables often presented by dealers in an inspirational fashion on their stands.

Enjoy delicious home-cooked food and baking at The Kitchen upstairs on the Mezzanine.

Two Fairs in One! Visitors to the Winter Fair can enjoy a double-event experience as LARTA The London Antique Rug & Textile Art Fair takes place on the Mezzanine throughout the week. Tickets to the Decorative include free entry to LARTA. The Decorative Antiques & Textiles Fair takes place three times a year in Battersea Park: Spring Fair: 9-14 April & Autumn Fair: 1-6 October For further details visit www.decorativefair.com £10 at the door (catalogue gives re-admission throughout the week), or register online to join the mailing list for free tickets Battersea Evolution, Battersea Park, London (the venue has no postcode, for Satnav use SW8 4NW for entry via Chelsea Bridge Gate) L-R: Drinks table c1955 by Mathieu Mategot, France; French deco decanter set in a leather holder; 1960’s Italian walnut cabinet with geometric design; Chairs by Howard Keith, British, 1950s

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THE ART OF THE SURREAL EVENING SALE 27 February 2019

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eading the sale is René Magritte’s masterpiece Le Lieu Commun, 1964, one of the finest and largest examples of his iconic bowler-hatted men. With an estimate sale price of between £15,000,000£25,000,000.

Never before offered at auction, and poised to set a new world auction record for the artist, the work offers a unique vision of the wandering icon in that it offers a view of the figure both full-face and hidden behind a column in an ambiguous landscape of either impossible or multiple reality.

The large scale (39 3/8 x 31 7/8 in. and 100 x 81 cm.) oil on canvas, signed ‘Magritte’ in the upper right corner, will be on view from 22 - 27 February 2019 ahead of the auction.

Le Lieu Commun was formerly owned

by Gustave Nellens, the great collector who commissioned the ‘Le Domaine Enchanté’ series of eight paintings by Magritte, and owned many great works by the artist, as well as the Fuji Museum in Tokyo. It is one of four paintings featuring the bowler-hatted man from 1964 that mark the culmination of this theme in Magritte’s work.

The others are Le Fils de L’Homme, made for Harry Torczyner and which previously set the world record for the artist when auctioned in 1999, La Grande Guerre and L’Homme au Chapeau Melon.

The three other paintings featured a simpler image of a single bowler-hatted man standing in front of a seascape and facing the viewer. In each of these works the face of the man has been obscured by an object: either an apple or a white dove. For the first time, Magritte makes use of a strip-like play with perspective and a forest view in a technique that anticipates one of the greatest paintings of his very last years – Le Blanc Seing of 1965, held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art, Washington - in which the image of a horse and rider are ambiguously intertwined with the tree trunks of the surrounding forest.

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

8 King Street, St James’, London, SW1Y 6QT For more details visit www.christies.com

Above: René Magritte (1898-1967) Le lieu commun, oil on canvas 39 3/8 x 31 7/8 in. (100 x 81 cm.)

Painted in 1964.

Estimate: £15,000,000-£25,000,000 Right: René Magritte (1898-1967) Les barricades mystérieuses, gouache on paper 7 1/2 x 9 7/8 in. (19 x 25 cm.)

Executed in 1960.

Estimate: £350,000 – 450,000

Olivier Camu, Deputy Chairman, Impressionist and Modern Art, Christie’s: “In subject matter, rarity and scale, Le Lieu Commun is the most important painting by René Magritte to be offered at auction since 1999 when the painting Le Fils de L’Homme, created for Harry Torczyner, the great friend and patron of the artist, was sold for a then world record price. The everyman figure of the bowler-hatted man was used by Magritte as a pictorial cypher, moving between layers of reality. The present work is highly enigmatic and inventive. In Le Lieu Commun Magritte subverts the traditional genres of portrait and landscape painting and challenges our understanding of reality and representation; he plays with the viewer’s sense of what is real and what can be perceived. Uniquely we see this figure both in front of and behind the column so that he is at once revealed and obscured. We are thrilled to offer this as the leading work of our 18th edition of the dedicated The Art of the Surreal Evening Sale.”

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The untold story of the greatest artist of the 20th century

‘Young Picasso’ P

On limited release in 250 UK cinemas from 5 February 2019

ablo Picasso is one of the most famous names in art history, his image and his art are everywhere, yet few know the remarkable story of his rise to greatness.

Young Picasso takes an in-depth look at the journey of Picasso’s life and traces his path to genius.

EXHIBITION ON SCREEN, the awardwinning and much-loved cinematic series that explores the biographies of history’s most revered artists, returns with Young Picasso in cinemas from 5 February 2019 .

Directed by Phil Grabsky ( The Boy who Plays on the Buddhas of Bamiyan, In Search of Beethoven, I, Claude Monet ) this extraordinary detective story looks in detail at the elements that drove one small boy from southern Spain to such heights. Three cities play a key role: Málaga, Barcelona and Paris. Young Picasso explores each and illustrates why they were so significant.

In close collaboration with five major European museums - Museo Picasso Málaga, Fundación Picasso-Museo Casa Natal, Málaga, where he was born; Museu Picasso de Barcelona, where the most extensive collection of his early works is held; Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya, Barcelona and the Musée national Picasso-Paris, in the city Picasso called home - Young Picasso offers unique insight into the artist’s masterpieces at each of these remarkable institutions as well as additional insight from historians, curators, letters from friends and lovers, and Picasso’s grandson Olivier Widmaier Picasso.

This carefully crafted documentary, filmed over two years, includes two critical periods in Picasso’s life - the Blue and Rose Periods - but does not overlook the years before those which are, though much less well-known, absolutely formative. The

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film culminates in New York, at the Museum of Modern Art where one of Picasso’s works has been on permanent display since the 1930s: Les Demoiselles d’Avignon. Painted by Picasso when he was just 25 years old the painting is now considered ground-breaking yet at the time it was scorned and rejected.

Malén Gual, Senior Curator at Museu Picasso de Barcelona comments: “This film brilliantly shows what a solid artistic training Picasso had and what remarkable paintings he produced from an early age. I have worked for decades on Picasso and I was so impressed and excited by seeing his works – and the whole thrilling story – revealed on the big screen”

THE DETAILS Screenings can be found at www.exhibitiononscreen.com Facebook: @exhibitiononscreen Twitter: @artonscreen Instagram: @exhibitiononscreen #EOSPicasso

Top left: Bullfight, 1900 (pastels), Picasso, Pablo (1881-1973), Museo del Cau Ferrat, Sitges, Barcelona, Spain, Photo © AISA. Bridgeman Images © Succession Picasso, DACS, London 2018 Top Right: La Vie, 1903 (oil on canvas), Picasso, Pablo (1881-1973), Cleveland Museum of Art, OH, USA. Gift of the Hanna Fund, Bridgeman Images © Succession Picasso, DACS, London 2018 Right: Pablo Picasso (1881-1973), 1904 (b:w photo), French Photographer, (20th century), Musee de Montmartre, Paris France.

Archives Charmet, Bridgeman Images © Succession Picasso, DACS, London 2018

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MINISTRY OF SOUND PRESENTS

THE ANNUAL CLASSICAL Royal Festival Hall, London, 26th January

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he world’s most iconic dance brand Ministry of Sound have announced The Annual Classical, an orchestral tour which celebrates and reimagines their legendary dance music compilation The Annual.

23 years on from the debut compilation release, The Annual Classical will see Ministry of Sound taking out a 50 piece classical orchestra to tour the UK. There will be a world premiere at London’s Royal Festival Hall on 26th January, with a full sixdate UK tour starting in May 2019, calling at major cities across the country.

The tour will include some of the biggest dance tracks from the 90s, which have featured on early chart topping The Annual compilations. It will see the likes of The Chemical Brothers, Fatboy Slim and Dario G all reimagined with an orchestral makeover.

To celebrate Ministry of Sound’s The Annual, a documentary has been made celebrating the compilation series. It features interviews with the DJs who launched their careers at the club and became Ministry of Sound legends, including Judge

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Jules, Paul Oakenfold and Brandon Block. The documentary explores the history of The Annual, the club and features never before seen footage with a live orchestral accompaniment. The film will be screened exclusively at The Annual Classical performances across the UK. Compiled and mixed by a series of superstar DJs including Boy George, Pete Tong, Judge Jules and Tall Paul to name a few, The Annual quickly became THE dance compilation of choice each year for dance fans. Over the course of 23 editions since its 1995 inception, The Annual has achieved six chart topping albums, and 16 Top 10 releases.

Recognising the cultural significance of the tour, Classic FM has been announced as media partner, which sees the UK’s most popular classical music station team up with The Annual Classical for this classical crossover project. Classic FM will be promoting the orchestral tour to its 5.2 million weekly listeners on air, online and on social media.

Classic FM’s managing editor Sam Jackson says, “We passionately believe that classical music is for everyone – regardless of age or background – so The Annual Classical is a great fit for us. We’re excited that a new audience will experience the sound of a live symphony orchestra through what promises to be a ground-breaking tour.”

Tickets for The Annual Classical are available to purchase from www.ministryofsound.com/theannual-classical and Southbank Centre, See Tickets, Ticketmaster and TicketCo

2019 UK Tour 26th January London, Royal Festival Hall 18th May Birmingham, Symphony Hall 31st May Cardiff, St Davids Hall 6th June Nottingham, Royal Concert Hall 8th June Glasgow, Royal Concert Hall 14th June Manchester, Bridgewater Hall 21st June Liverpool, Philharmonic Hall

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FROM CAPE TOWN TO KENSINGTON The voyage of the critically acclaimed Darwin drama, The Wider Earth

David Morton and Nicholas Paine, founders of the award-winning theatre company Dead Puppet Society, share their experiences of bringing their new show to the Natural History Museum.

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n 1831 Charles Darwin joined the voyage of HMS Beagle, setting off on a life-changing journey of discovery. Almost two centuries later, we found ourselves in a similar position. In place of a tall ship we had a small theatre company, which has taken us on our own adventure. The Wider Earth began when we were under mentorship in South Africa with Handspring Puppet Company. Their stunning puppets were the centrepiece of the National Theatre’s War Horse. One night, one of the founders, Basil Jones, mentioned that Charles Darwin had stopped in Cape Town during HMS Beagle’s voyage - while he was only in his midtwenties. This vision, of a young Darwin setting off to see the world, wasn’t what we were used to. Like most people, we just imagined the elderly gent with a long grey beard. We decided we just had to tell this young man’s story.

So what was the best way of following in the footsteps of Darwin? By going to the Galápagos!

Over the last five years we’ve both slept in our share of odd accommodation, but nothing compared to

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the Green Castle - an idyllic stone turret built out of volcanic rocks, tucked away on one of the central islands. These islands were like nothing we had ever experienced before. We encountered schools of baby hammerhead sharks, basked with marine iguanas, and were followed up and down a beach by a sea lion pup.

It was here that the script began to take shape.

But the story doesn’t end there. Following an initial residency at St Ann’s Warehouse in Brooklyn, New York, we rented a studio in an old leather factory across the Hudson River, where we started creating the puppets that define our show. This was followed by a development reading at the Lincoln Center in Manhattan and a run at the Sydney Opera House as part of Sydney Festival, before UK producer Trish Wadley offered us the chance to stage the show at the Natural History Museum in London.

In 1836, five years after he set sail on HMS Beagle, Charles Darwin returned home to England. One hundred and eighty-three years later, six years after we set out on our own adventure, we can’t shake the feeling that The Wider Earth has finally come home.

The Details Kids go free* to see The Wider Earth, currently playing at a new theatre at the Natural History Museum. Must end 24 February.

Tickets from £19.50.

Book at www.TheWiderEarth.com or call 0844 815 7141** *See website for full details. **Calls cost 7p per minute plus your standard network rate.

Production photography by Mark Douet

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Home, I’m Darling 26 January – 13 April 2019

‘Mixes feminism and 1950s nostalgia with pastel precision.’

– Sunday Times

“An amusing, affecting, inspiring evening of soft gingham and hard truths” – The Times

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ollowing a sold-out run at the National Theatre, Laura Wade’s ‘piercingly funny’ (Time Out) new play transfers to the West End for 11 weeks only. Katherine Parkinson (The IT Crowd, Humans) reprises her acclaimed role as Judy, in Laura Wade’s fizzing comedy about one woman’s quest to be the perfect 1950’s housewife.

How happily married are the happily married?

Every couple needs a little fantasy to keep their marriage sparkling. But behind the gingham curtains, things start to unravel, and being a domestic goddess is not as easy as it seems.

26 January – 13 April 2019 HomeImDarling.co.uk. Tickets from £18 Duke of York’s Theatre, St Martin’s Lane

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‘A superb exploration of gender and nostalgia’ – Radio Times

‘A fizzing drama of gender, homes and housework through the decades’ – Time Out Photography of original cast by Manuel Harlan

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THE SONGS. THE SOUND. THE STORY. Motown the Musical Celebrates 60 Years of Motown!

“Motown the Musical tells the thrilling tale of the man who broke barriers and fought against the odds to define the sound of a generation”

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ixty years ago – on 12 January 1959 - a man with an unstoppable dream invented a sound that would be remembered forever. Motown the Musical follows the legendary career of Berry Gordy and the creation of his musical empire, Motown Records. The story begins with the young Berry dreaming big, hoping one day to make people as happy and proud. After a few years on Detroit’s automobile assembly line he sets his sights on bringing a socially charged, racially divided country together with music. With an $800 loan from his family, Berry founds a music making factory. Motown is born!

Berry not only had a great eye and ear for talent,

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but he was also able to nurture that talent, helping to create an incredible array of superstars - from Diana Ross and the Supremes, to Michael Jackson and the Jackson 5, Stevie Wonder, Smokey Robinson and the Miracles, Marvin Gaye, The Temptations, and many more. But with the Vietnam War looming and America at a cultural turning point, Berry realised the time had come to push for something bigger than he ever dreamed of: to make music that could get the whole world moving to the same beat.

Motown the Musical tells the thrilling tale of the man who broke barriers and fought against the odds to define the sound of a generation – complete with the ups and downs of the personal relationships, the professional struggles, and – of course – the music that made history. Discover the story behind the beat that changed minds, touched lives and took the world by storm. Motown the Musical shows how one label and its roster of legendary artists created the soundtrack that transformed America and gave the world a new musical vocabulary – the Motown Sound. With over 40 classic songs such as “My Girl”, “Stop! In The Name of Love”, “Dancing in the Street”, “I Heard It Through The Grapevine” and “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” played by a 15-piece orchestra, this explosive event is the next chapter of Motown’s incredible 60-year history. An experience you’ll never forget, celebrate Motown’s phenomenal anniversary before the final performance in London’s glittering West End this Spring.

Shaftesbury Theatre.

MotowntheMusical.co.uk. 020 7379 5399

LOC AL LIFE

Prototyping in Tokyo:

Illustrating design-led innovation 16 January - 17 March 2019

F

orget Alexa, Siri and driverless cars, Japan House on Kensington High Street offers the latest glimpse into the future with its exhibition Prototyping in Tokyo: Illustrating design-led innovation (16 January 17 March 2019). Showcasing the innovative designs created by world-renowned design engineer and The University of Tokyo Professor YAMANAKA Shunji, the exhibition explores the potential of prototypes to act as a link between cutting-edge technology and society.

An example of such prototypes is ‘Ready to Crawl’, a series of robots which are ‘born’ fully formed just like a living thing. Their parts are created all at the same time, fully assembled, and with form and movement that closely mirrors living things.

Visitors have the opportunity to learn stories about the prototypes, as well as get more insight into the structures and textures of the future, by touching and interacting with select displays.

The exhibition presents three core themes for visitors to explore: ‘Prosthetics’ is a range of interpretations of the “expanded human body”; ‘Bio-likeness Robots’ are robots with life-like motion and behavior, giving the impression of intelligence; and ‘Additive Manufacturing’ is the taking of prototyping to the next level with 3-D printing which has allowed engineers and designers to create infinitely more complex prototypes.

Prototyping in Tokyo: Illustrating design-led innovation is on display in the Gallery, on the lower ground floor of Japan House; but there is much more to discover at the cultural centre. Spread over three floors, Japan House is home to The Shop and a café stand on the ground floor; an exhibition gallery, events space and library on the lower ground

38 JANUARY 2019

floor; and Japanese restaurant AKIRA on the first floor.

The Shop at Japan House Upon entering Japan House guests dive into the cultural retail experience that encompasses the entire ground floor. The Shop at Japan House blurs the boundaries between shop and gallery, adding learning and appreciation to the retail experience. It introduces Japanese products: their provenance and the artisans and designers who make them.

The Shop presents a carefully edited inventory of Japanese products ranging from crafts and design goods through to cutting-edge technology. Each product has a story to tell, introducing the cultures of Japan, and what makes it such a captivating nation.

AKIRA for sushi and robatayaki The restaurant, created by and bearing the name of Japanese chef SHIMIZU Akira, offers an authentic Japanese dining experience based on Chef Akira’s trinity of cooking principles – food, tableware and presentation. Akira has big ambitions for the restaurant and is striving to create “an innovative Japanese restaurant like no other ever-before-seen in London”. Guests are immersed in Japanese-style omotenashi hospitality and experience the theatre of cooking as chefs prepare dishes reflecting Japan’s surprisingly diverse food offer, using seasonal ingredients over roaring robata (charcoal grill) flames.

Prototyping in Tokyo: Illustrating design-led innovation is a free exhibition; on show from 16 January - 17 March 2019. Visit the Japan House London website at www.japanhouselondon.uk to find out more.

“Visitors have the opportunity to learn stories about the prototypes, as well as get more insight into the structures and textures of the future”

Clockwise from top left: Apostrph (Image © KATO Yasushi); Ready to Crawl (Image © KATO Yasushi); Additively manufactured running specific prosthetics (Image © KATO Yasushi); Archer on a Boat - Skeletal automation (Image © SHIMIZU Yukio); Clockoid (Image © NISHIBE Yusuke)

LOC AL LIFE

London

Shooting Club L

ondon Shooting Club provides members with access to the best shooting experiences in the UK and abroad and a schedule of great social activities and events which bring together like-minded sporting enthusiasts.

Since its inception in 2013, London Shooting Club has introduced hundreds of Londoners to the world of shooting and helped many experienced shots to improve their shooting and get the best out of their sport “Until now it has been difficult for the experienced sportsman visiting London or the UK to find a satisfying and thrilling shooting experience.

The London Shooting Club can meet this demand and provide its members with a great days shooting not just in London but, if required elsewhere in the UK and abroad” says Clive Hetherington, Director of London Shooting Club.

London Shooting Club also offers a concierge service for private and corporate members and their guests providing high quality shooting throughout the UK and abroad. The Club’s uses its extensive network of contacts and experience to give its members peace of mind. Whether you are London-based or just visiting the UK, the Club can offer the best in shooting facilities throughout the year. Members can book events shown on the Club activities schedule directly or use the concierge service to organise bespoke shooting days or weekends.

40 JANUARY 2019

Shooting clinics and training sessions for all levels of competence take place regularly as other shooting-orientated activities in and around London ranging from specialist presentations by shotgun manufacturers to dinners with guest speakers from the world of shooting. The Club has access to some of the finest venues in London for members to socialise and meet new friends.

The Club also offers members private visits to venues of special interest to shooters such as workshops, collections, proofing houses and exclusive shops accompanied by shooting professionals. The Club’s team of expert coaches and advisors include Olympic, National and World Champions. Their guides and instructors are some of the best in the field.

What better way to treat your family and friends or get to know corporate clients than a driven day on a country estate or a private clay pigeon shoot followed by lunch.

The London Shooting Club was started in 2013 offering its members a complete shooting and sporting service within the UK and abroad. The Club has a growing network of suppliers, facilities and venues around the world.

For more details visit www.londonshootingclub.com. Telephone 07737 744950 or email clive@londonshootingclub.com

“Until now it has been difficult for the experienced sportsman visiting London or the UK to find a satisfying and thrilling shooting experience”

LOC AL LIFE

New Year - New You

H

ere we are again, another New Year!

Many of us do an annual life appraisal, reviewing our aims and desires. We may consider if our work/life balance is as we would wish or if we are spending too much time working and not enough enjoying ourselves.

Perhaps we would like to be more physically active.

Or we want to spend time outdoors in beautiful countryside and be more at one with nature. We might wish to improve our social life and meet new friends. If any such aspirations apply to you, 2019 could be the year you revolutionise your life. You could add a whole new dimension by starting horse riding at Wimbledon Village Stables.

Situated in the heart of Wimbledon Village, the stables is the oldest in the country. Close to Wimbledon Common and Richmond Park, it has some of the best horse riding in London, with over 1,600 acres of beautiful woodland tracks as well as open parkland; the WVS website shows the wonderful rides and scenery that you could enjoy.

The stables benefits from a team of experienced, professional instructors, along with two arenas on Wimbledon Common where you can have lessons designed to suit your ability.

The stables also offers a state-of-the-art equine simulator. If you are a total beginner, it can enable you to learn to ride in complete safety, allowing you to feel how a horse moves and to understand and learn the various aids you will need, giving you confidence and experience before you even get on a real horse. If you are a more experienced rider, the simulator provides the opportunity to practise and perfect your technique and allows you to ride advanced school movements.

The WVS social diary is always active. Given the mix of Members from all walks of life, you will be able to meet wonderful like-minded people, so by participating in WVS’s wide range of events you may join others in making new, lifelong friends.

Visit the website at wvstables.com

“You could add a whole new dimension by starting horse riding at Wimbledon Village Stables”

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Ahura Collectables UK Ltd.

Cradle Telephones

Compasses

Sextants

• Antique & Vintage Telephones • • Compass • • Telescopes • • Sundials • • Kaleidoscopes • • Key Rings • • Nautical & Surveying Instruments • • Assorted Items •

Retail Locations: Wall Telephones

Telescopes

Candlestick Telephones

Kaleidoscopes

Sundials

Key Rings

Covent Garden - 33 Apple Market, WC2E 8RF (Monday) Covent Garden - Jubilee Market, WC2E 8BD (Saturday & Sunday) Portobello Road - Red Lion Arcade, W11 3DY (Saturday & Sunday & all week) Piccadilly Market - St James’s Church, W11 9LL (Wednesday to Sunday)

Contact Us: Viraf Doomasia Mobile: 07956 225 048 | Website: ahuracollectables.co.uk | Email: ahuracollectables@gmail.com | VAT no. GB 696 921 970

LOC AL LIFE

The London Classic Car Show ExCel London, 14-17 February 2019

T

he London Classic Car Show returns to ExCel London on 14-17 February 2019, with tickets now on sale. The fifth edition of the event will celebrate the incredible career of Ian Callum, Jaguar’s Director of Design; the man acknowledged as one of the world’s foremost automotive design talents.

The London Classic Car Show has become a firm fixture on the UK event calendar with 37,000 classic car owners, collectors, experts and enthusiasts flocking to ExCel for last year’s four-day classic car extravaganza.

For 2019, Ian Callum’s prolific career will be honoured with The London Classic Car Show Icon Award and a celebratory exhibition of his work.

This will feature some of the most notable and career-defining cars that he has designed over his illustrious career, including the Aston Martin DB9, Jaguar I-PACE, F-TYPE and XK and the Ford RS200 rally car. There will also be a Q&A with the man himself at the show.

Further show exhibits include a collection of historical Aero Engine cars, a celebration of the

46 JANUARY 2019

50th anniversary of The Italian Job, the Historic Motorsport area and, of course, The Grand Avenue runway show, where classic cars are fired up and driven for visitors to see, hear and smell these iconic classics in action. Brand new for 2019, The London Classic Car Show will be offering grandstand seating ‘trackside’ for the Grand Avenue parades.

In addition to the event being jam-packed with classic cars and features, there will also be a number of esteemed guests taking to the stage in The Supagard Theatre to discuss a wide variety of classic car themed topics. Previous years have been attended by personalities such as Nigel Mansell, Derek Bell, Jacky Ickx, Sir Stirling Moss, Ari Vatanen, Vicki Butler-Henderson, Suzi Perry, Jonny Smith and Quentin Willson.

Tickets are now on sale for The London Classic Car Show. Advance ticket prices start from £25 per adult, £20 per child (6-15) and £75 per family (two adults, two children). Entry for children under the age of six years is free. VIP package upgrades are also available, starting at £55 per adult, which include fast track entry, hospitality, show guide and Grandstand access for one Grand Avenue show.

For further information and to purchase tickets for The London Classic Car Show, visit www.thelondonclassiccarshow.co.uk

“Show exhibits include a collection of historical Aero Engine cars, a celebration of the 50th anniversary of The Italian Job, the Historic Motorsport area and, of course, The Grand Avenue runway show, where classic cars are fired up and driven for visitors to see, hear and smell these iconic classics in action”

LOC AL LIFE

E.J. Churchill

E

dwin John Churchill established Churchill Gunmakers in 1891. Over one hundred and twenty-five years on, E.J. Churchill continues to produce the highest quality shotguns and is the only privately owned company in Britain with its own Gunmakers, Shooting Ground, Sporting Agency, Country Outfitters and Events Business all under one roof.

In 1989, Sir Edward Dashwood created the shooting ground at his West Wycombe Estate in the Chiltern Hills, just 30 miles from London. Six years later, corporate and private events business, gun room and country outfitters extended E.J. Churchill’s business further.

The shooting ground has 150 shooting stands, six clay shooting disciplines, ‘The Pit’, three high towers and five purpose-built grouse butts and offers extensive practise and tuition opportunities. It is regarded as one of the finest facilities of its kind in the world and played host to the World English Sporting Championships in 2014 and 2016 and for a record third time in 2018.

E.J. Churchill’s recent appointment of George Digweed MBE as Global Shooting Ambassador heralds new developments at the shooting ground, with the proposed British Shooting Centre of Excellence and UK and Overseas business expansion opportunities. As 26-time World Champion, George is considered unequalled in the shooting world and is one of the finest game shots in the country.

E.J. Churchill’s Gun Room sells new and secondhand shotguns and rifles with a full range from Blaser, Browning and Perazzi, alongside their own gun portfolio and is proud to be appointed the only Beretta Premium Dealer within 40 miles of London.

Customers are encouraged to try the guns at the shooting ground and, before making a decision, E.J. Churchill’s skilled craftsmen offer a professional gun fitting service and undertake gun servicing, repairs and alterations, from simple overhauls to complete rebuilds, re-barrelling and re-stocking. There are secure on-site storage facilities and they can provide a personal carriage service throughout Britain.

E.J. Churchill’s respect for the traditions and

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“In 1989, Sir Edward Dashwood created the shooting ground at his West Wycombe Estate in the Chiltern Hills, just 30 miles from London”

etiquette of the sport prevail in everything they do, and this is mirrored in their impeccable range of shooting wear for game and clay sports, outdoor footwear, equipment and lifestyle clothing together with beautiful accessories. Available both in store at the shooting ground and online, they stock a number of carefully chosen brands along with their own collection of country attire and accessories.

Crow and Jester, the epitome of Men’s British Couture Tailoring, have created E.J. Churchill’s new tweed range using only the finest fabrics.

E.J. Churchill organises exceptional sporting experiences with exclusive access to some of the most prestigious sporting estates, from Scotland for grouse to Spain for partridge and Hungary for wild boar.

With an unrivalled reputation E.J. Churchill also creates exciting events for private and corporate clients, from multi-activity days and product launches to family fun days and simulated game days. It is especially proud to have raised millions of pounds for charitable causes through its mobile charity shoots.

The club membership allows individuals to enjoy the grounds, extensive shooting, social facilities, country outfitters and a wide range of E.J. Churchill services and cartridges at preferential rates. Social events are held throughout the year, from shopping and Christmas carols in the Winter, to a members’ shoot and late-night shooting in the summer.

Led by passionate sportspeople, E.J. Churchill is designed for shooters by shooters, providing a superior service in a friendly environment that encourages participation at all levels, from Olympic hopefuls to beginners. E.J. Churchill is proud to keep the sport thriving and to introduce a new generation with Young Guns sessions during school holidays to encourage youngsters from as young as nine. It also runs novice days, parent and child, ladies-only, university and school events.

E.J. Churchill’s awards include the CPSA ‘Shooting Ground of the Year’ 2017 award, Shooting Industry Award ‘Best Shooting Ground 2017’, The Rural Business Award for ‘Best Rural Business 2016’ and ‘Best Rural Recreational or Outdoor Pursuits Business 2018’. www.ejchurchill.com

LOC AL LIFE

The Riding Club London T

he Riding Club London is a private members club organising fantastic events and socials for adult equine enthusiasts in and around London.

They can cater for all abilities, but specialise in providing opportunities for the more experienced rider, covering a range of disciplines including dressage, show-jumping, cross-country, polo, sidesaddle and hunting. With access to quality horses, exclusive venues and experienced instruction, you’re guaranteed to have a memorable experience.

Members of The Riding Club London also have the privilege of riding the Household Cavlary

50 JANUARY 2019

horses at Knightsbridge Barracks and King’s Troop horses in Woolwich, with supervision from military instructors. This is a rare opportunity for civilians to ride military horses, and get some quality evening riding in a central location.

The club has a busy social calendar, from monthly club drinks, to BBQs, dinners, balls and equine art exhibitions, which provide a relaxed environment for making like-minded friends.

Benefits include: • Weekly rides with the Household Cavalry in Knightsbridge and King’s Troop in Woolwich, with supervision from a military instructor.

• Regular riding events in a range of disciplines, with excellent tuition so that you’re sure to develop your equitation skills.

• From relaxed hacking out in beautiful countryside to exhilarating beach rides, fun weekends away and adventurous riding holidays overseas, the variety of opportunities is impressive.

• Members get a 10% discount at numerous yards and stables, so they can book additional group and private lessons to their convenience.

• Exclusive discounts from partner organisations, including discounts on riding equipment and clothing, magazine subscriptions and reduced membership of other clubs.

• Complimentary rider consultation on joining to discuss your individual riding goals and advice on how to make best use of your membership.

• Regular social events, behind the scenes tours, trips to equine events, gallery openings and the like.

• Social membership option available for those wanting to keep their feet on the ground, and a two-month Ticket to Ride, which is ideal as a gift or for those getting back in the saddle.

“Members of The Riding Club London also have the privilege of riding the Household Cavlary horses at Knightsbridge”

READER OFFER: SAVE

20%

20% off joining fee valid until 15 Feb 2019 using code life2019

THE DETAILS For more information about The Riding Club London, visit www.ridinglondon.com, email info@ridinglondon.com or telephone 020 3589 2385

TO P 1 0 A RT E X H I B I T I O N S TO V I S I T O N A E U RO P E A N CITY BREAK #Relithkwie by Jolande van Lith Va n L i t h s h o w s a n e n o r m o u s d e s i r e t o c re a t e a n e w memor y and attention for situations, to change t h e m t o d i f f e re n t c o n t e x t s .

I t ’s a b o u t p e rc e p t i o n , r a i s i n g q u e s t i o n s a n d p u s h i n g boundaries.

A f i ve o u t o f 5 s t a r s e x h i b i t i o n a b o u t t h o s e w h o a re o n t h e s i d e l i n e s o f s o c i e t y. .

I n s t a l l a t i o n v i e w J o l a n d e v a n L i t h | S h o w d e t a i l s w w w. j o l a n d e v a n l i t h . c o m

Blossom, 90 x 130 cm

Autumn Trees 60 x 80 cm

Welcome to Shadi Mahsa Art Gallery Visit her showroom, at 45 Circus Road, St Johns Wood, London NW8 for more information visit her website: Shadimahsaart.com Email: shadimahsa@yahoo.com

‘We have art so we don’t die of truth’ (Nietzsche). Surrealism has been described as being at the epitome of artistic imagination. This quality is reflected in the art of Gia Strauss.

Her work offers a thought-provoking and highly evocative perspective of our times.

Visit www.giart.co.uk and follow on social media Gia Strauss to explore more of her art. straussgiart@gmail.com

‘Freudian Slip’ (71cm X 51cm) oil on canvas.

PROPERTY

An oasis on your doorstep A guide to London’s most expensive garden squares

L

Park Crescent, W1

iving or working in London can create a buzz like no other.

Commuters, residents, prestigious stores, vibrant bars and restaurants - the atmosphere for some can be electric.

In contrast, in some of the most exclusive areas of London are private, tranquil green spaces….the city’s garden squares.

They’re a protected species, some accessible only with a key and surrounded by some of the most expensive homes on the market.

Many are period properties often constructed in crescents, terraces and squares. So important are they that, in 1931, the London Squares Preservation Act was introduced to protect more than 400 from being built over.

Let’s take a look at the most expensive and how much its privacy and exclusivity will cost you…

Eaton Square, Belgravia £5.88million

One of the most prestigious addresses in London.

Famous residents include Prime Ministers Neville Chamberlain and Stanley Baldwin. More recently, advertising mogul Charles Saatchi and football managers Jose Mourinho and Sven-Goran Eriksson are all thought to have lived there. Eaton Square is a stone’s throw from Sloane Street – home to luxurious brands such as Gucci, Cartier, Dior and Versace.

Wilton Crescent Garden, Belgravia

£5.35million

Eaton Square Gardens

Carlton House Terrace Gardens, Westminster

£8.79million

Kensington Square, W8

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Top of the list is this exclusive road just a short stroll from Buckingham Palace. A property will cost you an average of £8.79million. Former residents include Prime Ministers William Gladstone, Earl Grey and Lord Palmerston. It is the location of what is thought to be Britain’s most expensive home, with rumours six years ago that a Saudi prince had sold 18 Carlton House Terrace for £250million.

Wilton Crescent was named after Thomas Egerton, 2nd Earl of Wilton. It has been home to royals, political leaders and celebrities ever since.

Surrounded by a semi-circle of graceful whitestucco houses, it’s a calm and tranquil place. Among its most famous residents were Louis Mountbatten, 1st Earl Mountbatten of Burma, a British Royal Navy officer and uncle of Prince Philip, who was infamously assassinated by the IRA in 1979.

St James’s Gardens, Notting Hill £3.81million

The gardens are laid out in an informal woodland style, dominated by fine chestnut and lime trees dating back to the 19th century. The garden is in the heart of the Norland Conservation Area, with the premiums surely pushed up by its close proximity

PROPERTY

to the open spaces of Holland Park, attracting many wealthy businesspeople and celebrities such as Sir Richard Branson and David Beckham.

Thurloe Square, Brompton £3.76million

The square is named after John Thurloe, an advisor of Oliver Cromwell, who owned the land in the 17th century. Sir Henry Cole (1808–1892), the first Director of the V&A Museum, lived at No. 33. The building is marked with a blue plaque.. Not only is the square dog-friendly, it also has a children’s playground and a stroll from the shops, restaurants and museums of desirable Knightsbridge.

St James’s Gardens, W11

“These exclusive gated gardens are steeped in history and treasured sanctuaries”

Rosmead Garden, Notting Hill £3.64million

Perhaps one of London’s most famous garden squares, having featured heavily in the Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts film Notting Hill. The space is quite unique among its contemporaries, with many of the homes surrounding it having direct access onto the green via a backdoor, making it a rear garden of sorts.

Kensington Square, Kensington £3.16million

With an average property price of £3.16million, it was originally known as King’s Square, built in honour of the reigning monarch at the time, James ll. The garden is private and not open to the public, though it has taken part in the annual Open Garden Squares Weekend. Former residents include composer Hubert Parry, philosopher John Stuart Mill and John Simon the sanitary reformer.

Park Crescent, Marylebone £3million

This crescent is among the most prestigious in the capital, in a desirable location at the north end of Portland Place and south of Marylebone Road.

It comprises beautiful stuccoed terraced houses designed by the architect John Nash, and forms into a semi-circle. The original plan was to build a circular building, but only the bottom half was completed. Between the arms of the crescent is a private garden, recognised as being of historic interest.

Hanover Gardens, Notting Hill £2.97million

This peaceful woodland garden is situated within the Ladbroke Estate. Among its famous former residents was Dame Sylvia Crowe, the noted landscape architect. This communal garden used to be known as Hanover Terrace Garden, Hanover Terrace being the old name of Lansdowne Walk.

Markham Square, Chelsea £2.73million

One of Chelsea’s finest garden squares, situated north of King’s Road, and a short walk from Sloane 56 JANUARY 2019

Markham Square, Chelsea

Square. The building of the original square began in 1836 on the site of the old Box Farm orchard – owned by the Markham family. In 1935 the garden was laid out as a cherry orchard. After WW2, the square was redesigned by the Royal Hospital Chelsea’s head gardener to resemble a private country garden.

These exclusive gated gardens are steeped in history and treasured sanctuaries amongst the hustle and bustle of our capital. Wealthy buyers from around the globe continue to be attracted to London’s squares, mainly due to their scale, style and timeless beauty.

PROPERTY

The Listed Property Show

in association with Historic England Olympia London, 9-10 February 2019

TICKETS Tickets are available now and cost £10 in advance, or £15 on the door. Under 16’s go free.

The Advance Day Ticket Membership offer allows new members to join the Club with one-year’s membership for the reduced fee of £48 (normally £60) and includes TWO free Tickets to the show amongst a host of other benefits and services.

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T

he Listed Property Show, organised by The Listed Property Owners’ Club (LPOC), is back for the 13th year with the biggest ever flagship show at Olympia London - with more talks, experts and exhibitors than ever before.

The show has brought together the biggest collection of specialist conservation suppliers and experts all under one roof, whether you need advice on damp, energy efficiency, planning, law, house history or you simply need a conservation architect or contractor for restoration project, they will all be there.

There will even be a team of independent conservation officers on hand to give free advice on any plans you may be considering.

Find out more in one weekend than you can through months of personal research!

Historic England will join the independent conservation officers and panel of experts that will

be available throughout the show and during the programme of talks that have been organised to specifically target the key issues faced by owners: • Ask the Experts - led by LPOC’s Conservation Advisor and joined by a Historic England representative, Chartered Surveyor and Historic Building Consultant, Conservation Architect, Property Lawyer, LPOC’s VAT Advisor and Insurance Advisor • The Do’s & Don’ts of Finding a Restoration Builder • Control of Dampness • House History • An Owners’ Guide to Obtaining Listed Building Consent • Re-pointing Stone and Brick by Head of Building Conservation & Research at Historic England • The Importance of Considering Bats in Buildings • Timber Frame Buildings • Energy Efficiency in Listed Properties • Surveys • Conservation Architects Great Expectations from a Bleak House • Building Performance: Keeping your home warm and dry by Dr Robyn Pender, Senior Architectural Advisor at Historic England • Paints for Listed Buildings For more information or to buy tickets visit www.lpoc.co.uk/the-listed-property-showlondon

UNLOCK THE HISTORY OF YOUR HOUSE Have you ever wondered when your house was built or who lived there?

Perhaps you want to trace the history of an ancestral home?

Do you want to know more about the rich social history of your local area?

Sticks Research Agency, the organisation responsible for the genealogical research for previous series of the BBC hit ‘Who Do You Think You Are’, is delighted to provide you with a professional research package. Our team of experts include qualified historians, architectural experts and archive researchers across the UK and Ireland.

For information about our services, visit us at www.sra-uk.com where you will find details about our House Detectives service or contact us on admin@sra-uk.com

FOOD & DRINK

THE CONNAUGHT BAR GIN Born, blended and bottled in Mayfair

T

o mark its 10th anniversary at the heart of the London bar scene, The Connaught Bar is celebrating the past while enjoying a taste of the future with the unveiling of its very own crafted-in-house gin.

Fronted by master mixologist Agostino Perrone, every element of this one-of-a-kind spirit has meticulously been created at the heart of The Connaught. With a nod to traditional gin methods but a character all of its own, its singular blend of botanicals is inspired by a decade of cocktail craftsmanship.

The multi-award winning Connaught Bar designed by David Collins Studio and known for its landmark cocktails and daring new mixes has truly become an institution for cocktail lovers.

An established classic London gin recipe forms the foundation of the Connaught Bar Gin blend. Its base botanicals are drawn from the classics: handcrushed juniper berries, coriander seeds, liquorice,

60 JANUARY 2019

THE DETAILS The Connaught Bar Gin priced at £95 is blended and bottled at The Connaught and available for purchase online (T&C apply) and at The Connaught Bar. The Connaught, Carlos Place, W1K 2AL Claridge’s The Connaught The Berkeley Maybourne Hotel Group www.maybourne.com

angelica root and orris root. Two unique botanicals distinguish this Gin: the famous Amalfi lemon, renowned for its sweet flavour and served with The Connaught Bar’s celebrated martini, and red wine from the vineyards of Bordeaux.

Reminiscent of a 1920’s cocktail shaker, the glass bottle design takes inspiration from the glamorous cubist interiors of The Connaught Bar and is ready to be enjoyed shaken, stirred and straight up or on the rocks.

Agostino Perrone, Head of Mixology at The Connaught says: “The Connaught Bar Gin has truly been a labour of love and an unforgettable experience. When we first sat down to discuss producing a one-of-a-kind spirit, our main effort was to put together all the essences that we believe encapsulates the bar to create an exceptional gin.

We hope The Connaught Bar gin celebrates the creativity we’ve been injecting since we opened 10 years ago!”

RESTORATIONS LTD

WE SPECIALISE IN THE RESTORATION AND CONSERVATION OF FINE PERIOD FURNITURE • Traditional Hand French Polishing • Wax Polishing • Re-upholstery • Marquetry • Carving • Gilding • Leather Desk Lining • Rush and Cane Seating • Bespoke Cabinet Making Shown here A fine quality early 18th century Pietre Dure Ebony veneered cabinet on a later 19th century stand.

Please visit us on stand G8 at the Listed property owners club exhibition at Olympia 9-10th February 2019 ACCReDiTeD MeMBeR oF THe BRiTiSH AnTique FURNITURE RESTORERS’ ASSOCIATION LiSTeD in THe ConSeRvATion ReGiSTeR

104B HIGH STREET MALDON ESSEX CM9 5ET TEL (01621) 857890 FAX (01621) 850753 info@clivebeardall.co.uk www.clivebeardall.co.uk

Daniel McKinley wants the viewer understand his work by looking beyond and asking what is going on behind the scenes.

Every picture tells a story, and he would like to hear yours.

www.danielmckinleypaintings.com

FOOD & DRINK

What will we be eating and drinking this year?

Chilli Bees thoughts on what will be served up for a truly tasty 2019!

C

hilli Bees are obsessed with researching the latest food trends so they can reflect the most fashionable ingredients and concepts in their seasonal menus.

Keeping their food fresh and innovative is a key ingredient to their success.

Whilst keeping food and packaging wastage to a minimum, Chilli Bees are mindful of where their food comes from. They predict the trend of ‘Farm to Fork’ will continue to grow and they are making the most of ugly vegetables! Spare vegetable cuts form the base of their delicious stocks for sauces and hearty soups. With the demand for Vegan menus rising, they are naturally finding more interesting things to do with vegetables. Jerusalem artichokes have been the star of the season – finely sliced and deep fried until crisp, sandwich with

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truffled brie and drizzle with honey as a winning canape option.

Instead of pairing wines or bubbles with your food, Chilli Bees expect to be serving more sophisticated non-alcoholic cocktails with bold flavours and a rise in Artisanal mixers. Nonalcoholic spirits like Seedlip also seem to be on the rise.

The food industry is rapidly developing technologies and artificial intelligence programmes to meet our demands for fast deliveries and increased accuracy in orders. Chilli Bees recently helped with an event were Amazon’s Alexa designed the whole evening from theme, to menu. The Artificial Intelligence created 3 canape recipes for the team to create, which on the surface sounded bizarre but in practice were incredibly tasty. The Chilli Bees team think they will see more Aritificial Intelligence this coming year in creating food recipes, especially for those who are looking for changing their health and diets. Whilst restaurants and retailers are capturing our data and monitoring our food habits, Chilli Bees will continue to personalise experiences to deliver a different kind of convenience to their customers. One thing Chilli Bees are sure of is that artificial intelligence can never replace a helpful voice at the end of a phone or building relationships in face to face meetings when planning something so personal as a party!

When it comes to beating the January Blue’s Chilli Bees have found that more and more people are skipping trying to compete for the most popular December evenings and opting for parties in January, swapping the mulled wine with Bentley’s (unalcoholic Cocktails) and Christmas themed food with delicious Slow cooked Shepherds pies and heart warming cauliflower cheese with Crispy Onion & Thyme. We cant wait! www.chillibeescatering.co.uk

“Chilli Bees recently helped with an event were Amazon’s Alexa designed the whole evening from theme, to menu”

FOOD & DRINK

LUXURY WEDDING GUIDE – From gifts to venues, we’ve got the big day covered – i ma g e : b at h ’ s h i s to r i c v e n ues

WEDDING GUIDE

THE WEDDING SHOP T

he Wedding Shop is the UK’s longest established dedicated gift list service, with over 28 years in the industry.

Offering couples over 350 leading and boutique brands, they can also provide honeymoon contributions, personalised cash funds, memorable experiences, subscriptions and charity funds. The Wedding Shop are also the only UK wedding gift list service with an app, with a barcode scanner to offer customers unlimited choice by simply scanning products from any UK store and adding them to their lists.

Gift lists can be created entirely online or within one of their showrooms, including the brand-new wedding gift Townhouse on Fulham Road, as well as in Selfridges Oxford Street, The Wedding Gallery, Dublin and Edinburgh. Whichever way they choose to shop, The Wedding Shop assigns every couple with their very own gift list advisor, giving expert advice, flexibility and a seamless and stressfree experience to help build a list that is entirely personalised.

Opened at the end of 2018, the new Townhouse offers four floors of inspiring, unique and practical gifts, packed with over 3,000 products carefully curated to help couples kick-start their wedding gift journey. With 11 different rooms available to explore - including a fully furnished front reception, back reception with bar, open-plan kitchen, dining room, snug room, master bedroom,

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master bathroom, travel room with ensuite and a garden area - couples are given time and space to roam around each room and discover all the products on offer. Being located on Fulham Road, the Townhouse boasts a central location in the heart of one of London’s key wedding shopping hubs, surrounded by florists, wedding dress shops, bakeries, tailors and salons to make the wedding planning process even more seamless.

Exclusive brands found in the Townhouse (unavailable through any other gift list service) include Casa Carta, Como Audio, House of Hackney, Missoni Home, One Nine Eight Five and Summerill & Bishop. The Townhouse also showcases some household favourite brands including Jo Malone London, Soho Home and The White Company to Scalextric, Le Creuset and Sonos.

The Townhouse will also welcome couples to a ‘House-Warming Party’ on Sunday 27th January 2019, where they can explore the space and enjoy some bubbles, canapes, gorgeous interiors inspiration and wedding planning advice from the experts, helping get their wedmin off to a flying start.

“Gift lists can be created entirely online or within one of their showrooms, including the brandnew wedding gift Townhouse on Fulham Road”

THE DETAILS House-warming tickets are available for free via Eventbrite, or you can book an appointment at the townhouse at www.weddingshop.com.

WEDDING GUIDE

WEDDINGS WITH A WOW An elegant location for every occasion. One of the most impressive and flexible wedding venues in the South East.

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rom small family gatherings to large lavish banquets, wedding packages may include a Civil Ceremony in one of Ascot’s iconic or historical rooms plus a reception, or a ceremony at another venue followed by your wedding reception and celebrations at Ascot.

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Ascot is proud to be the Royal Racecourse, a place made truly special and totally unique by over 300 years of patronage by twelve monarchs, with the five days of Royal Ascot a pinnacle of the British horse racing and social calendars. Renowned for its hospitality, fine dining and sense of style, Ascot’s heritage and prestige make it an inspirational setting for any occasion, especially a wedding.

Create the bespoke wedding of your dreams with Ascot’s experienced Events Team and specialist caterers, all of whom take pride in delivering outstanding and memorable experiences, matched by exemplary service.

Hosting up to 1,100 guests Ascot Racecourse specialises in Asian weddings Set in 179 acres, with views over Berkshire and the Crown estate, Ascot Racecourse is easily reached by car and/or train from London, its airports and major road networks, with free parking for mini buses, coaches and 6000 cars. Its Preferred Hotels partnership provides a wide range of hotels to suit all budgets, with 950 rooms within a 10 minute drive of the venue (transport options can also be arranged).

Ascot’s Wedding Suites range from traditional to the contemporary, in terms of architecture and style, and from intimate to epic in terms of size. The contemporary On 5 Suite is located on the fifth floor of the Grandstand and offers spectacular views over the track from the panoramic windows and balcony that span its length. Situated opposite the Royal Box, the sophisticated Parade Ring Suite has beautiful interior finishes and a balcony overlooking the Parade Ring itself. The Furlong Suite is an ideal summer venue (July-October) comprising a luxury trackside marquee with a large private terrace.

The Pavilion Suite is made up of three sections, which may be used individually or together, and occupies its own standalone building overlooking the beautiful Plaza Lawns and Bandstand.

Being able to host such large numbers makes Ascot a superb choice for Asian weddings. The various suites can be easily transformed to provide either classic layouts (dinner, dinner dance and cabaret) or more informal arrangements (buffet, lounge, sofa-style and reception). Suites with blank canvas spaces are able to be fully personalised to suit any theme and preferred style of decor. All offer natural daylight and views over elegant lawns, while the racecourse itself provides a perfect location for stunning wedding photography and filming.

Ascot also works very closely with dedicated caterers to provide authentic dining for a range of cuisines, up to whole event management packages, for observance of cultural traditions and the enjoyment of clients and guests alike.

THE DETAILS To discuss your wedding requirements or arrange a more detailed tour of our facilities please call 0344 346 3611 or email conferenceandevents@ascot.co.uk www.ascot.co.uk/wedding-venue

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WEDDING GUIDE

Overseas weddings & honeymoons

by Connoisseur Travel control of every aspect of your honeymoon from the start. Great honeymoons don’t just happen – they take careful planning. Pass on the task of arranging your special trip to Connoisseur Travel, specialists in providing tailor-made holidays and honeymoons worldwide. Their experts do all the hard work so you can relax and enjoy your once-in-a-lifetime trip.

With Connoisseur Travel, you will experience a level of quality and service unmatched in the industry. They will work with you to plan the trip of a lifetime and fulfil your dreams.

Everything is taken care of for you, throughout your entire journey.

For more details visit www.connoisseurtravel.co.uk. Email info@connoisseurtravel.co.uk. Tel: 01403 272143.

All travel is covered by fully bonded ABTA/ ATOL tour operators

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onnoisseur Travel have specialised in overseas weddings and honeymoons for 22 years and are passionate about providing the highest quality service with the most luxurious locations.

Their friendly and approachable team have extensive knowledge and expertise in this area of travel and pride themselves on providing a tailormade wedding or honeymoon in the worldwide destination of your choice, meeting all the requirements and desires you want for your once-ina-lifetime experience.

Connoisseur Travel’s honeymoon and wedding specialists take the time to get to know you, so your dreams really do become reality. You choose exactly where and what you want and they will plan every aspect of your wedding or honeymoon from start to end down to the minutest detail. They even have previous honeymoon clients returning for family holidays!

Your idea of the perfect honeymoon might be sitting on a white sandy beach or incredible wildlife encounters, whatever your wishes, a honeymoon with Connoisseur Travel is right for you.

If you are like most couples you will have gone to great lengths to plan and prepare for a perfect wedding, whether an intimate affair or a lavish event.

Don’t forget your honeymoon – it is just as important and needs careful planning.

No two couples are alike, so no two honeymoons should be the same. They understand that it is your honeymoon….. so no-one should tell you how to go about enjoying that very special time away. That’s what makes Connoisseur Travel unlike anyone else.

Choose exactly what you want. They put you in

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“Choose exactly where and what you want and they will plan every aspect of your wedding”

Providing bespoke honeymoons for discerning travellers since 1994

Tel: 01403 272143 info@connoisseurtavel.co.uk www.connoisseurtavel.co.uk

Let our expert planners bring your wedding dreams to life! From a simple ceremony for 2 to an elaborate soiree with friends and family, we handle all of the details for you!

Elegantweddingsoforlando.com

Fox Wedding Cars and Limousines Established over 20 years .Catering for your Special Day for Luxury Travel Areas covered: London, Surrey, Sussex, Middlesex, Buckinghamshire, Hertfordshire, Berkshire, Kent, Essex Wedding Cars, Including Latest White Rolls Royce Phantom VIII, White Series 2, Rolls Royce Phantom, Vintage Cars and limousines for Hen and Stag parties

Wedding Cars or Fleet 0208 406 3758 or 0844 856 5466 info@foxlimousines.co.uk www.foxlimousines.co.uk

WEDDING GUIDE

Bath’s Historic Venues Roman Baths & Pump Room • Assembly Rooms • Victoria Art Gallery • Guildhall

Amy Sanders Photography

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ecognised as one of the most beautiful cities in the world, Bath is the only city in Britain to enjoy UNESCO World Heritage status. It is the perfect location for a wedding, with its stylish combination of beautiful architecture, breath-taking scenery and luxurious accommodation. Only 90 minutes from London, Bath is both an exceptional and accessible city.

Bath’s Historic Venues are integral to the city’s history and include some of the country’s most iconic buildings:

Roman Baths & Pump Room Situated at the heart of the World Heritage site, the Roman Baths and Pump Room was voted Best Historic Wedding Venue in the 2017 UK Wedding Awards, and has won gold two years running for best venue in the Bristol, Bath & Somerset Tourism Awards. It is without doubt one of the most distinctive and unique buildings in the country.

Not only is there nothing like it in the world, it also provides a fantastic opportunity to be married in the open air but remain under cover, safe from the unpredictable British weather. What could be more romantic than exchanging your vows next to the torchlit, steaming waters of the Great Bath in one of our Sunrise or Sunset ceremonies?

The Great Bath is continuously filled with hot flowing water which rises up bubbling from deep underground, warmed by the heat of the earth’s core. Surrounding this bath is 2000 year old paving, where couples can exchange their vows amid the flickering torchlight and rising steam. Beyond the classical statues on the Terrace above, Bath Abbey will be illuminated whilst guests can gather and enjoy a stunning and atmospheric wedding.

The grand Pump Room, built in the 1790s was the focal point of Georgian society and Jane Austen observed people and fashions from within the 76 JANUARY 2019

Lee Niel Photography

THE DETAILS

Bath’s Historic Venues: Pump Room, Stall Street, Bath, BA1 1LZ bath_venues@bathnes.gov.uk 01225 477786 bathvenues.co.uk/life www.facebook.com/ BathsHistoricVenues @bathvenues (twitter) @bathshistoricvenues (instagram)

Bhavesh Chauhan Photography

building. This elegant room is a perfect location to continue celebrations, with a seated wedding breakfast and dancing. There is a choice of rooms, and the venue can cater for intimate groups as well as much larger wedding parties for up to 200 guests.

Assembly Rooms The Assembly Rooms is one of Bath’s most prestigious venues and has been at the heart of the city’s social life since the 18th century. Voted Best City Wedding Venue in the UK Wedding awards 2017, the venue houses stunning crystal chandeliers, impressive architecture and everything necessary for a stylish city wedding. There are four inter connecting rooms of varying size providing versatile space for weddings with 50-300 guests.

Searcys, our esteemed in-house caterer at the Pump Room and Assembly Rooms, have an enviable reputation. Since 1847, they have been one of the UK’s most prestigious catering companies.

With a passion for quality and an ability to execute an event to the very highest standards, they have developed a world-famous reputation for catering and hospitality at their iconic, exclusive venues which include Blenheim Palace, the Gherkin and St Pancras Grand.

“I know everyone says it’s the best day of their lives, but it was and this is down to the beautiful venue, amazing staff and perfect food. You don’t deliver a wedding; you deliver an experience of a lifetime!”

– Gemma Davidson Wedding ceremonies and receptions can also take place in the Guildhall and Victoria Art Gallery, both in the heart of Bath.

For further information about all of our venues, visit our website: www.bathvenues.co.uk/life.

WEDDING GUIDE

The perfect wedding:

Necker Island…

luxury personified Virgin Limited Edition welcomes you back to paradise!

We are delighted to share the first images of Necker Island, following its reopening in October 2018

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uests have been welcomed back to a newly restored Great House, now with 11 guest rooms, boasts amazing panoramic views of the Caribbean, the Atlantic and neighbouring islands. Each of the bedrooms has a balcony and all come with king-size beds and en-suite bathrooms. There’s also a bunk room sleeping up to six children. Whilst on the upper level you’ll find the stunning Master Suite, complete with private outdoor Jacuzzi and sundeck.

Turtle Beach has been transformed and is the perfect spot for relaxing and watching the sunset, in a hammock of course, and for the more energetic there’s the sunken trampoline!

Necker Island is one of the world’s most secluded and romantic spots for newlywed couples wanting the ultimate luxury for their honeymoon – picture yourselves together holding hands with your toes in the sand on the most luxurious island in the Caribbean!

Their specially designed ‘Celebration Weeks’ provide the perfect opportunity to escape, and are held throughout the year. Couples can hire an individual room on the island for a 7-night stay.

Celebration Weeks are a great way to experience all the Island has to offer by booking an individual room with rates starting from $5,000 per room per night based on a minimum of 3 nights. All stays are inclusive of all meals and drinks (including all alcoholic beverages), return transfers, a dedicated team and watersports activities. Rates are subject to

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group size and numbers.

Can you think of a better place to get married than Necker Island?

Sir Richard Branson arrived on his island for his wedding clinging to the struts of a helicopter... now that’s making an entrance!

Necker Island is used to ‘unusual’ requests, and because every wedding is by definition unique and personal, they will tailor each request especially for the Bride and Groom. This is your chance to let your inspiration run riot, as they delight in pulling

off the seemingly impossible! For a wedding or special occasion, Necker Island can host weddings for as many as 200 people. They can work with your wedding planner and organise a marquee and accommodation with neighbouring resorts.

Following the wedding ceremony there are many options to choose from for your reception. They can organise a six-course gala dinner or a more informal gathering on the beach with the sound of the waves breaking on the shoreline. The Beach Pool Pavilion alongside Main Beach has a Jacuzzi for up to 30 guests, so the party is sure to continue late into the night!

They can also help you with all the trimmings, from hair stylists and flowers to entertainment and fireworks – the sky really is the limit!

THE CLASSIC WEDDING

...covers all the fees to get married at Necker Island and includes a few essential extras…

• Personal assistance in obtaining your marriage license and all the associated fees and transportation of the local pastor to the island • All the ceremony arrangements for the ceremony in your preferred location including decorations based on beach, garden or formal theme • Spectacular wedding meal in your preferred location • Selection of canapés after the ceremony • Pressing and steaming of all resident guest outfits prior to the ceremony • An extra special turndown service on the wedding night for the bride and groom, including a bottle of Dom Pérignon champagne and breakfast in your room the following morning • 60 minute couples massage for the bride and groom

THE PREMIUM EXCLUSIVE

...includes everything from the Classic Wedding as well as the following…

THE DETAILS Please contact reservations for more information on 0800 716 919 (toll free) or +44 (0) 208 600 0430 or visit www.virginlimitededition.com for more details.

• Bouquet of 24 white roses for the bride and a boutonnière for the groom • 3-tier wedding cake prepared by the Necker Island chefs • Five-hour photography package • Selection of extra wedding accessories including keepsake fans, parasols and place cards for individual seats at the tables • Case of Dom Pérignon to be served after the wedding ceremony • Steel band at the ceremony playing as the bride walks down the aisle • 90 minute couples massage for the bride and groom and a 30 minute bespoke skin polish

WEDDINGS SUPPLEMENTS Applicable on the day of your wedding only and added to the nightly exclusive use accommodation rate.

Classic Wedding: $3,600 Premium Exclusive Wedding: $11,450 The Wedding supplement rates include ceremonial costs: Marriage License ($110) and Ceremony cost ($100) Jon Brown, Managing Director for Virgin Limited Edition commented: “It is wonderful to see Necker Island’s beauty restored and welcomed back our first guests. 2019 is already a busy year and we are looking forward to the reopening of further accommodations; including a new and improved Bali Hi complex which will feature an extended pool and outdoor lounge as well as a private plunge pool in each of the individual Bali Houses.”

JANUARY 2019 79

Armonia understands the challenges you face as you plan the live entertainment for your special day. Our expert Music Consultants’ are renowned for the tailored advice and one-to-one support they provide so, you can effortlessly create the perfect ambience.

Wear high heels 4x longer with Vivian Lou Insolia weight-shifting insoles. Designed by a podiatrist and engineered by a rocket scientist, our insoles ever-so-slightly rotate the heel bone up and back to shift weight off the forefoot.

They will forever change the way you wear high heels.

www.vivianlou.co.uk

Dedication, organisation & flexibility are a priority for Armonia. We aim to ensure that your personal planning journey is exciting and empowering. And finally, our equivocal promise is you will have total peace of mind, remain stress free and save valuable time.

Call us on 033 3011 8222 or visit www.armoniamusicconsultancy.co.uk to find out how Armonia can help make your special day memorable.

WEDDING GUIDE

Platinum by Prezola

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our wedding day is one of the most special days of your life but planning all the details can be stressful - cue Prezola, the UK’s premier wedding gift list specialists. Since it’s launch in 2010, Prezola has assisted thousands of style-savvy couples with creating their ultimate wedding gift list completely unique to them, their homes and lifestyles.

The best-kept secret in luxury wedding planning, Platinum by Prezola is their highly exclusive service available by invitation only through a carefully selected network of wedding planners, boutiques, venues and honeymoon providers.

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On hand to deliver you a truly tailored service, each Platinum account holder will have their own personal shopper to assist with everything from style advice and trend inspiration, to sourcing the perfect bespoke item. All of Prezola’s personal shoppers are interior design experts who offer one-to-one consultations by phone, email or in person to fit in with you and your schedule. They can also organise exclusive personal consultations with specialists from London’s finest boutiques and stores to ensure you have access to those extra special items not available on any other gift list.

Thanks to Prezola’s extensive hand-picked

“Wedding planning is notoriously stressful, so to feel that you have Prezola on hand to help and guide you is so reassuring. Choosing a gift is often the first time that a guest will interact with your wedding and having the lovely concierge team at the end of the phone or email made a wonderful first impression.”

– Hannah & Tom

collection of over 50,000 gifts from 500 retailers, you’ll have the ability to combine timeless heirlooms from well-known heritage brands, with alternative boutique lifestyle gifts all on a single list. Your guests will have plenty of choice as you have the flexibility to add charity donations, unique romantic experiences and even personalised contributions towards your dream honeymoon. What’s more, if you see something you’d love to add to your list from any retailer anywhere in the world, just send the details to your personal shopper and they will source the items and add them to your list for you.

The superior service is also extended to your wedding guests, with a dedicated multilingual concierge team to assist with anything from purchasing to gift advice. Advisors are on hand to personally guide your family and friends through the whole process, making it quick and simple to purchase the perfect gift from your registry.

Begin married life in style as well as create amazing memories and experiences by starting your dream gift list with Platinum by Prezola. Get in touch personally or via your wedding planner to register your interest.

Find out more at platinum.prezola.com. Email platinum@prezola.com or telephone 0203409 3051 or 02034093052

JANUARY 2019 83

WEDDING GUIDE

NATURAL BEAUTY:

Stunning Floral design from petal & wild Josephine Stevens speaks to Alana Watts, Owner and Floral Designer of Petal and Wild.

The company specialises in wild, pretty and romantic wedding floral design covering, London, Essex and surrounding areas Tell me a bit about yourself and your company.

I’ve always been creative and loved the outdoors.

As a child I’d spend hours outside in the garden helping my parents prune the roses and plant tulip bulbs. I trained at Italia Conti Academy of theatrical arts and performed in West End shows as a singer/ dancer for a number of years. I was frequently sent the most beautiful bouquets during the run from a florist stand outside the theatre on Seven Dials. Once I left the theatre world I struggled to find something that gave me the same passion.

By chance a leaflet was popped through my door advertising a floristry course at my local university which caught my attention. I enrolled and am delighted to say it reignited my creative fire and reminded me how much I love working with natural materials. It was totally fate looking out for me and I’ve never looked back.

I created Petal and Wild flowers to appeal to the bride who wants something completely unique and elegant on their wedding day. My style is romantic and natural, like flowers just picked from a country garden. I enjoy working with a loose brief so I can really be creative and design something stunning and enchanting for the big day.

Where do you get inspiration from?

I get inspiration from so many sources, including the natural beauty of the English countryside.

Pinterest and Instagram are great online tools too as they give you access to amazing floral designs from around the world.

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What is your favourite part of being a wedding florist?

I love the early morning trips to Covent Garden Flower market shopping for my blooms and the excitement to see what’s new in and what is in season.

I also love seeing the bride’s reaction to her flowers on the wedding morning. It’s such a wonderful feeling after months of planning to know you’ve been a part of making someone’s special day look beautiful.

What plans do you have in the future?

More weddings and more beautiful flowers! I’ve got some gorgeous weddings booked for next year at amazing venues, it’s a privilege and I’m very grateful to work with such lovely brides. www.petalandwild.co.uk; 07976 881505

top tips for brides Let your florist know your budget from the very start.

It’s much easier to advise on designs and flowers to achieve the look you are after if we have this information. If you love expensive flowers such as peonies, ask your florist to use them in your bouquet and find a more economical substitute for the table flowers if your budget will not stretch.

Ask your florist to choose flowers that are in season, it doesn’t mean they are necessarily cheaper but means they are better quality and at their best. It will also help to encompass the time year you have chosen to get married in.

Choose a few larger arrangements, rather than lots of smaller vases or jars if you really want to make an impact on your wedding day.

Pedestal arrangements and pew ends can be re-used from the ceremony and repositioned in the reception area afterwards to help make the most of your flowers.

Top left & centre: Irena K Photography.

Top right & left: Helen Elliott Photography / Venue - The Old Parish Rooms, Essex

LBWG18 Quote LBWG19 to receive a 10% discount on our Wedding Packages

C AT ER I N G & E V E N TS

passion for perfection

passion for perfection

From the moment you start planning your big day, Jamies Catering and Events guarantee our professional and passionate team will help to make your wedding perfect.

We believe every wedding is completely unique and our approach will be tailored around you. We will help remove the stress from complex arrangements.

As well as designing your perfect menu to suit all budgets, our sister company Jamies Events can assist with all elements of your reception including the venue or marquee, bar hire, design, flowers, cakes and entertainment. It will be completely down to you just how much or little is required from Jamies Catering to make your perfect day.

From the moment you start planning your big day, Jamies Catering and Events guarantee our professional and passionate team will help to make your wedding perfect.

We believe every wedding is completely unique and our approach will be tailored around you. We will help remove the stress from complex arrangements.

As well as designing your perfect menu to suit all budgets, our sister company Jamies Events can assist with all elements of your reception including the venue or marquee, bar hire, design, flowers, cakes and entertainment. It will be completely down to you just how much or little is required from Jamies Catering to make your perfect day.

01753 424944 • info@jamiescatering.co.uk • www.jamiescatering.co.uk • www.jamiesevents.co.uk

01753 424944 • info@jamiescatering.co.uk • www.jamiescatering.co.uk • www.jamiesevents.co.uk

This is where our story begins...

The Glasshouse on the Lock is the ideal setting for your special day, with an outdoor terrace ideal for photographs. We are licensed for civil ceremonies and can cater for up to 220 guests.

Wedding Fayre | 17th24th September 11.00am - 3.00pm Wedding Fayre | Sunday February| 2019 | 12pm - 3.30pm Holiday Inn Camden Lock 30 Jamestown Road, London, NW1 7BY | 0207 482 8074 | events@hicamdenlock.co.uk

www.hicamdenlock.co.uk |

HILondonCamdenLock |

CamdenWeddings

WEDDING GUIDE

Image credit: Taylor & Porter

Hales Hall & The Great Barn

“There’s also outdoor seating and a pergola terrace for you and your guests to enjoy throughout the day along with the estate walled gardens for postceremonial drinks and games”

Wedding Venue Award-winning Hales Hall & The Great Barn is a romantic medieval country estate, restored to fivestar luxury, with a magnificent thatched Tudor Barn seating 200 guests or up to 300 standing, within the walled grounds and a collection of unique boutique properties.

Licensed for civil ceremonies Hales Hall & The Great Barn is the perfect fairy-tale setting with a top-rated events manager and award-winning catering team. The quintessential heritage estate offers an abundance of elegant backdrops and ceremony locations with acres of idyllic part moated grounds, wildflower meadows, topiary walled gardens, woodlands and scented avenues to enjoy.

Exclusively yours Just 2 hours from London Hales Hall & The Great Barn offers an exclusive wedding and party venue on the cusp of Norfolk and Suffolk. Available for three day hire the whole estate is yours to enjoy.

With acres of scented gardens and meadowland there are numerous exquisite settings for champagne moments; simply everything you need for your perfect wedding.

The Great Barn The breath-taking vaulted barn features 180 candlelit loophole windows and beautiful rose-coloured Tudor bricks with stunning original beams and a spacious elegance for your special occasion. Set within the walled gardens and just a toddle from the boutique accommodation the Grade-I-Listed thatched Tudor barn boasts a fully-licensed bar, 88 JANUARY 2019

integrated lighting and sound system, a 4-metre projection screen, underfloor heating and a further Gallery reception room upstairs with stunning views across the surrounding meadows. The bespoke lighting and sound system can be tailored to create the ambience you desire with outstanding acoustics for live music and DJs. There’s also outdoor seating and a pergola terrace for you and your guests to enjoy throughout the day along with the estate walled gardens for post-ceremonial drinks and games.

Family & friends Imagine saying ‘I do’ in picture perfect surroundings with your nearest and dearest for a three-day celebration. You’ll fall in love with Hales stylish accommodation elegantly furnished with a quirky selection of antiques, cosy open fireplaces, feature chandeliers, beds piled-high with velvet cushions and top-notch bathrooms.

Making memories Hales Hall and The Great Barn offers a truly unique venue for a bespoke wedding celebration tailored to your dreams. www.haleshall.com. 07740 081994.

WEDDING GUIDE

The Perfect Setting for a Magical Wedding Say ‘I Do’ within the stunning grounds of Leeds Castle in Kent…

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ncircled by the still waters of its historic moat, Leeds Castle is an elegant venue set within 500 acres of parkland and formal gardens. Only an hour’s drive from London, the Castle offers grand drawing rooms, romantic interiors and exquisite on-site accommodation for you and your guests; making it the perfect setting for your wedding day.

With 900 years of history, the Castle has a roll call of previous royal owners and has even been a palace once owned by King Henry VIII and his queen Catherine of Aragon. But in the early 20th century it was the last private owner Olive, Lady Baillie, who transformed it into a grand setting for glamorous parties with high society guests including the Kennedys and Charlie Chaplin.

Today, couples can take over the entire Castle Island and all its luxurious bedrooms, with flexible use of the Castle, Maiden’s Tower and walled garden as well as the croquet lawn in front of the Castle. Say ‘I Do’ in the beautiful Ceremony Room adjoining the Library, before enjoying a wedding breakfast in the Henry VIII Banqueting Hall, with breathtaking views across the moat.

There is yet more to discover, with a number of other charming yet equally spoiling venues nestled within the grounds to choose from. The most recent to open its historic doors is the newlyrestored Battel Hall, a 14th century country house on the edge of the estate. Standing in secluded gardens, the manor offers complete privacy, yet is still only a short walk from the Castle and all it has to offer. Couples can marry in the oak-panelled ceremony room, before moving onto the warm and

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welcoming drawing room and De Gournay morning room for champagne drinks receptions. Wedding packages include a 3-night stay for up to 14 people, with exclusive use of the manor and individually designed en-suite bedrooms. In the warmer months, couples can even be married under a romantic old English Bower and celebrate with up to 100 guests on the marquee terrace beside enchanting wisteria vines.

An alternative venue suitable for larger wedding celebrations of up to 200 is the timber-framed Fairfax Barn, located in the heart of the estate and overlooking the Castle moat. But for couples who prefer a more secluded setting still with all the romance of the Castle Island, there’s the Maiden’s Tower, a 16th century self-contained venue offering its own private garden.

Wedding packages at Leeds Castle include everything you could wish for when planning your wedding: from dedicated wedding co-ordinators and experienced caterers, to the in-house floristry team led by the RHS award-winning Louise Roots.

Visit one of the many Wedding Showcases held throughout the year to see the Castle rooms beautifully dressed for a wedding and be one of the first to view the new and exclusive Battel Hall.

Please visit www.leeds-castle.com/weddings for more information or call the team on 01622 767877 to book a private appointment or to visit the next Wedding Showcase event.

“In the warmer months, couples can even be married under a romantic old English Bower and celebrate with up to 100 guests on the marquee terrace beside enchanting wisteria vines”

INDEPENDENT

SCHOOLS GUIDE – The finest independent schools in the UK – i mag e : A LL E Y N S S C HOOL

EDUC ATION

Equipping girls to be critical thinkers School websites abound with buzzwords and slogans related to critical thinking. But what is it?

Why is it relevant? What does it look like? And how can it be nurtured? Dan Jameson, Assistant Head of Kensington Prep School explains

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t Kensington Prep School in Fulham we pride ourselves on being a ‘thinking school’ which actively seeks to develop the intellectual bravery, depth and stamina of its pupils. We believe in equipping our girls for a changing world – a fast-paced, information-driven world where finding the time to pause, reflect and engage objectively with evidence and ideas is only increasing in importance. Critical thinking is at the heart of the school and we have created ground-breaking new learning spaces with an immersive Explore Floor, spacious classroom breakout spaces, multi-media studio, and an ecogreenhouse to accommodate this.

Critical thinking is not a skill in itself, but rather a skill set – an umbrella term for a whole host of higher-order cognitive skills such as analysis, interpretation and logical reasoning. Yet the idea of critical thinking as a series of unseen intellectual processes, actually leads to some schools doing very little about it.

At Kensington Prep a typical day might see Reception pupils design lock mechanisms to keep Goldilocks from The Three Bears’ house; Year 3 pupils construct their own rollercoasters as part of a STEM engineering project; Year 5 pupils model and code robots in ICT; or the Year 6 Science Fair, the culmination of weeks’ worth of independent research and experimentation into areas of personal scientific interest.

Asking the right question is as important as finding the right answer; sometimes there isn’t a right answer. We want our girls to think confidently, to embrace challenge, and to take calculated risks.

We help them not to be afraid of making mistakes, and to learn quickly from them. We value the thinking process as much as the end product.

Iteration and evaluation skills are taught explicitly in DT for example, and philosophy sessions are embedded throughout the curriculum from Year 1.

Open-ended activities and project-based learning further promote a sense of discovery. An example of this is our annual Open Homework challenge, where no academic homework is set and girls can explore a theme in any way they like. Girls interpreted the most recent stimulus ‘3’ in a myriad 94 JANUARY 2019

of ways: among the triptychs, triathlons and 3D shapes, responses included an investigation into the symbolism of the number three in Fairy tales, and how the three valves of the trumpet ‘make all the music in the world’.

Critical thinking is not an add-on, but an immanent part of the curriculum, one as relevant and vital in Year 1 maths as it is in Year 6 PE; personal intellectual qualities such as inquisitiveness, persistence and reflectiveness permeate learning across all age-groups.

It is not just about teaching pupils to think for themselves. At Kensington Prep we enable our girls to think better, smarter, more deeply. To think faster and slower. To think more. To have reasons for their thoughts. To understand why they think the way they do, and how their thoughts relate to those of others. This is what a thinking school should do.

In providing pupils with a critical thinking toolkit, we are not only helping them to make sense of the changing world around them, but helping them make increasing sense in it.

Registration for 4+ entry to Kensington Prep School in Fulham for 2020 is now open. See www.kensingtonprep.gdst.net for further details.

“We want our girls to think confidently, to embrace challenge, and to take calculated risks”

EDUC ATION

Rosemead Prep

Inspiring Brilliant Futures

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hat a highly successful and inspiring term had at Rosemead Prep this Autumn! Whether it be artistic, sporting or dramatic, there have been fabulous opportunities to participate and excel across both regional and national arenas.

Recently children from the school have scooped two national awards at the Independent School Association (ISA) Art competition, after achieving much recognition at regional level. They also had around 80 children take part in the Beckenham Festival as part of their Speech and Drama curriculum, with all gaining Merits or Honours, 11 children being awarded medals in the various age groups.

And in the sporting arena they have yet again surpassed their stature. Having been successfully shortlisted in the top 3 for the ISA Award for Outstanding Sport, children then went on a spree of National qualification and representation. The U11 Football team reached the ISA National finals for the second year running, finishing second in London South. They took 11 swimmers through to the ISA National Swimming Gala at the London

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Aquatic Centre, after another record breaking showing at the regional event. The swimmers came away with 3 bronze medals and a gold medal, giving a National Swimming champion at Year 4 level.

If you want to know more about how your children can benefit from the emphasis that they place on a balanced curriculum producing balanced children, look out for one of our Open Mornings or informal Show-rounds. www.rosemeadprepschool.org.uk

“The U11 Football team reached the ISA National finals for the second year running�

EDUC ATION

Happy, Gentle & Stimulating

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n a happy, gentle yet stimulating environment, Le Hérisson School provides the opportunity for the youngest citizens to be immersed in the French language.

Le Hérisson is a small and friendly, family run school where children thrive in the care of dedicated teachers and support staff; where everyone knows each other and are treated as individuals.

In addition to an AEFE (www.aefe.fr) accredited French education for 3 - 6 year old children, Le Hérisson School is proud to offer an option of bilingual education for 2 - 4 year olds. This incredible opportunity allows Le Hérisson families the choice to further their children’s education in the French Maternelle curriculum by moving smoothly to the French system of education.

As an école homolguée, children from Le Hérisson are guaranteed a place when entering a French primary school; either in the UK or abroad.

Alternately, for Le Hérisson families who wish to follow a British or international education, in the UK or perhaps further afield, the school provides guidance and support including access to a wealth of knowledge and experience. Le Hérisson enjoys full membership of the prestigious Independent

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“Le Hérisson is a small and friendly, family run school where children thrive in the care of dedicated teachers and support staff”

Schools Association (ISA) www.isaschools.org.uk.

The Early Years curriculum at Le Hérisson is a carefully considered balance between learning through play, child initiated activities and formal learning. As they progress through the school, the children’s teaching and learning experiences extend and build upon the sound foundations of the early years.

With the added benefit of a high adult to pupil ratio, the Le Hérisson children are getting not only the best possible care and attention at this vitally important first stage of their learning journey but they are also receiving excellent immersion in the French language.

Le Hérisson School is the first step on the international and the British education ladders for children of the future. Maria Frost, the proprietor, and the staff look forward to welcoming you to Le Hérisson where you can see first hand the opportunities available to you and your child at this lovely school. www.leherissonschool.co.uk

Nursery and Preschool offering French and Bilingual education for 2-6 year olds Registration for 2019 now open

“I would like to thank you and the staff at Le Hérisson school for giving (our son) fantastic 4 years of education and discovery.

My wife and I are thankful to the high educational standard the school has.”

Please call +44 (0) 20 8563 7664 or email administration@leherissonschool.co.uk Le Hérisson School, Rivercourt Methodist Church, Rivercourt Road, London, W6 9JT

www.leherissonschool.co.uk

EDUC ATION

Portland Place School Unveils Plans for Impressive Pupil Facilities and Extended Scholarship Programme Image by Getty Images

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eading Marylebone-based independent school, Portland Place School is investing heavily in changes which will transform its educational offering - creating an unrivalled centre of creative, academic, sporting and technological excellence in the heart of London.

Portland Place School was founded with a particular purpose in mind: to be an alternative to the intense, large, examination focused independent day schools of which there are many in London.

The school ethos is to be small, nurturing and inspirational, encouraging and enabling their pupils to achieve their very best academically, with space to develop and express their creativity and athleticism.

The school is currently introducing both new and upgraded specialist facilities and bespoke spaces in its drive to offer a second-to-none environment and much coveted opportunities for its pupils.

The recently announced investment includes the creation of a new studio to benefit their Graphics, Photography, Film and Media department, and a new flexible workshop space for superior Creative Arts provision, allowing for a more integrated offer, specifically through Art & Design where students will be able to work and submit their projects in a variety of media – 3D Design, Fine Art, Textiles, Graphics and Photography.

Portland Place is also building a contemporary dining facility and developing a larger multifunctional performance area.

Moreover, as part of a drive to “tech enable” teaching in many subjects taught at the school, Portland Place will also be supplying iPads to students in Years 6 - 8, with a tablet model for older students to follow.

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Notably, to consolidate its offering further and continue in its drive to attract and develop talented pupils, the school has also extended its scholarship programme, offering a host of very appealing Sport, Music, Drama and Art scholarships from Year 7 upwards. Applications for scholarships are welcomed from 2018 for the 2019/2020 academic year.

For more information on the school or the scholarship programme call 020 7307 8700 or visit www.portland-place.co.uk

“The school ethos is to be small, nurturing and inspirational, encouraging and enabling their pupils to achieve their very best academically, with space to develop and express their creativity and athleticism”

EDUC ATION

Step into the most exciting school in England “We have had four children through the public school system and I think that Hurtwood House is the only one which has really delivered what it promised”

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lthough it has all the facilities of a typical public school, Hurtwood House specialises exclusively in the sixth form and the age range 16-18. Changing schools at 16 opens up a whole new world of fresh experiences and challenges and provides the perfect steppingstone between school and university.

Hurtwood House is young, exciting and dynamic and, most importantly of all, it is exceptionally creative with drama, media, art, textiles, dance, music and singing to die for.

Famous former students include Oscar-winner Hans Zimmer (music for Gladiator, Rain Main, Lion King) and Golden Globe winner Emily Blunt (The Devil Wears Prada, Gideon’s Daughter) and watch out for Hollywood hot-tip Jack Huston (Factory Girl). Zara Brownless (winner of the first Young Apprentice). But marvellous as the performing and creative arts are, this school is definitely not a one-trick pony. It also caters for the budding entrepreneur, doctor, lawyer, architect, etc etc etc with a range of subjects which, though less eyecatching, are no less successful and inspirational.

Small wonder, then, that the world is beating a path to Hurtwood’s door, and one of the first things to strike visitors is that it has a completely different “campus” feel about it – not like school at all. That’s because there are no juniors – everybody here is 16+ and they all join after they have taken their GCSE’s.

In many ways, it defies definition - more public school than sixth form college, but smaller and less institutional – more boutique than department store.

At the moment it’s in a class of its own but one suspects that one day soon there will be more schools like this, because five years is a long time 102 JANUARY 2019

to be in one public school, and so many boys and girls are now ready at 16 for a fresh challenge and a more stimulating life. A lot of parents agree wholeheartedly. As one satisfied customer puts it: “We have had four children through the public school system and I think that Hurtwood House is the only one which has really delivered what it promised.”

Indeed, Hurtwood has a file of letters as thick as your arm from grateful parents, and clearly what they appreciate most is that Hurtwood has given their children the confidence to cope with anything in life and has fired up their enthusiasm. “Her mind was turned on,” says one, “and her appetite for learning is voracious. I want you to know that you lit the fuse.”

Who could ask for anything more?

THE DETAILS Hurtwood House, Holmbury St Mary, Nr Dorking, Surrey RH5 6NU Tel: 01483 279000 www.hurtwoodhouse.com

EDUC ATION

OPTIMUS LAUDUM With ‘Felices Erimus’ as its motto, happiness is at the heart of the philosophy at St John’s Wood Pre-Preparatory School and it works

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ducating 3-7 year-old boys and girls in a friendly and caring environment for over 35 years is its strength.

Principal & Proprietor Adrian Ellis believes that the excellent ratio of staff to pupils allows each child to reach their full potential. “Of course, together with parents, we look to recognise each child’s unique qualities and particular talents and aim to develop them as fully as possible,” says Mr Ellis. “We want our children to move on to the right schools for them. As a result, St John’s Wood Pre-Preparatory has been since 1982 a ‘feeder’ to many of London’s top preparatory schools, including St Paul’s Juniors, Highgate, South Hampstead High School, University College School and Westminster Under School.

“The sense of a whole-school community is evident in this small school, we become an extension of home and family” adds Mr Ellis. Size matters to St John’s Wood Pre-Prep. By limiting

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its numbers, most children know the rest of their fellow pupils throughout the school – an important element in building confidence and developing social skills.”

There is never a time when prospective parents aren’t welcome and there are frequent tours bookable via the website.

Latest Leavers List: The Year 2 class of 11 pupils joined the following schools in September 2018: 2 girls to City of London School for Girls and 1 girl to South Hampstead High School, 2 Boys to St Paul’s Juniors; 2 boys to Westminster Under School; 4 boys to University College School For more details visit www.sjwpre-prep.org.uk Tel 020 7722 7149 or email info@sjwpre-prep.org.uk. St John’s Hall, Lord’s Roundabout, London, NW8 7NE

“We want our children to move on to the right schools for them. As a result, St John’s Wood Pre-Preparatory has been since 1982 a ‘feeder’ to many of London’s top preparatory schools”

EDUC ATION

The GOLD Standard

Fairley House School, described by the Sunday Times as the ‘Gold Standard’, is London’s leading day school for children with Specific Learning Difficulties

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ddressing the needs of children from the age of five, who require assistance due to dyslexia and dyspraxia, the school has a staff/ pupil ratio of 1:3.5 and the average stay at the school is between two to three years.

Children then return to mainstream schooling with a new ‘can do’ attitude. Fairley House now offers Key Stage 4. This enables pupils to carry on their education in an environment that ensures that their

needs are fully met. While our intention is to enable your child to re-join mainstream education as quickly as possible, our provision now offers the possibility of remaining in our school to undertake the first major examinations that a pupil will face.

Many of our alumni have enjoyed great success at GCSE and A-Level and they have progressed to top universities and have successful careers in a range of professions.

London’s leading day school for for specific learning difficulties 020 7976 5456 fairleyhouse.org.uk JANUARY 2019 109

l

1619 2019

EDUC ATION Alleyn’s

400

Celebrate Participate

An Auspicious Anniversary l

Alleyn’s School celebrates its past and heralds the future

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New Year is always an exciting prospect, but this year leading coeducational school Alleyn’s has more to look forward to than usual.

2019 sees the School marking 400 years of history, as it celebrates Edward Alleyn’s foundation of his College of God’s Gift in 1619.

Alleyn; one of the most successful actors in the golden age of English theatre and a regular performer of Masques for the Court of England.

His vision for exceptional education has developed into several schools across South-East

London, including Alleyn’s, and also comprises almshouses and his original chapel in Dulwich.

Headmaster Dr Gary Savage said: “At Alleyn’s, we want to celebrate this story, and to work to build a legacy that echoes our Founder’s own.”

The School will begin the anniversary year with a flagship service of thanksgiving and commemoration at Westminster Abbey.

Free community events To mark the occasion, Alleyn’s is launching the All@Alleyn’s series; an engaging programme of events that are free and open to all.

Taking place throughout the year, the series will include talks on art, literature and sport as well as hands-on workshops including design and technology, food and family history. The first event will be delivered by Alleyn’s Senior Deputy Head Mr Andy Skinnard on Tuesday 22 January.

Entitled 1619: A World of Ideas, the talk will explore the thinking that flourished during the time that Edward Alleyn was establishing his College of God’s Gift, including the contributions of Francis Bacon, Thomas Hobbes and Rene Descartes.

One session that is expected to be particularly popular is the pasta-making workshop, which will see staff from the Alleyn’s Food and Nutrition department teaching attendees how to make fresh pasta, recognise some of the many different varieties, and use it as part of delicious seasonal dishes.

An ambitious new vision for bursaries Alleyn’s is also poised to unveil a major fundraising campaign early in the anniversary year, spearheaded by ambassadors from the Alleyn’s community, past and present.

With the 2019 milestone as its rallying point, the School is expected to state its ambition to grow its available bursary funds in order to double the number of pupils to whom it can provide financial assistance in the future.

Learn more at www.alleyns.org.uk/celebrate400 110 JANUARY 2019

The All@Alleyn’s Series All@Alleyn’s events are free to attend, but booking is essential.

22 January 1619: A World of Ideas 26 February The Psychology of Evil 27 March Pasta-making Workshop 24 April Shakespeare: A Potted History 16 May The Elizabethans 17 June Camille Pissarro at Work in Dulwich 26 June Letterpress Workshop 16 July Family History Workshop 23 July Family History Drop-in Surgery 8 October Holistic Development through Sport

EDUC ATION

Opening the door to

your child’s future A

A guide to School Open Days

s we approach the new term, it is now when thoughts turn to Independent School Open Days - allowing you to get a genuine feel for the school and whether on first impressions it is right for your child.

TOP TIPS FOR GETTING THE MOST OUT OF A SCHOOL OPEN DAY… • Check on the school website if you need to make an appointment prior to visiting • It is vital that you are prepared so read their school brochures thoroughly • Take your child with you – their opinion is the most important. Children will get an idea whether they feel comfortable there.

• Talk to as many people as you can: pupils, teachers and the headmaster ideally • Take an independent walk around with your child and chat about any reservations you might both have.

QUESTIONS TO ASK AT A SCHOOL OPEN DAY….

Some questions will differ according to your child’s age and whether you are visiting a day or boarding school.

• How selective is the school academically and what is the current pass rate for the common entrance exam?

• Are there high expectations and high academic achievements?

• Is the curriculum broad and well balanced? (you want your child to be successful but not too compelled in pressure) • What are the classroom sizes?

• What is expected of my child with regard to homework?

• Is there a healthy balance of fun and academia?

• Is there a bullying policy?

• What lunchtime meals are available?

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• What sports and music facilities are available?

• What after school clubs and trips are available?

• How many pupils branch out into further education?

After the tour, you may have the opportunity to meet other parents and children on a more informal footing whereby the teachers and the head can answer queries over coffee and biscuits.

“Take your child with you – their opinion is the most important”

THE LUXURY

travel GUIDE

– Heading out of London to explore the rest of the world – i mag e : W ING E D BOOT S

LUXURY TRAVEL

dinoski: Cool for Kids L

ooking for kids skiwear that’s fun yet technical and can stand up to the harshest climates? Meet Dinoski, a children’s winter wear brand guaranteed to make your little one the envy of everyone from the playground to the mountains.

Dinoski noticed that every kid on the slopes looked the same when wearing their helmets and goggles. Parents place huge importance on being able to easily spot their children from a distance, but they had limited options for any distinct skiwear.

Children between the ages of 2-7 love dressing up as their favourite characters/superheroes at home, yet when they get to the mountains (the most heroic landscape on the planet!) they were made to look like everyone else. Magic was being missed.

They had to do something about it.

They set themselves the challenge of designing a ski suit which was a cross between a super-hero and an animal and started to reimagine the boring ski suits you see on kids up and down the mountains.

To bring their suits to life they recruited the help of an amazing children’s illustrator who they found on Instagram, called Jane Foster and asked if she could create a character and storybook for each suit design which would be included with every order.

More important than looking cool, they needed their suits to do the job. They like to say that they put the fun in functional as their suits have all of the technical requirements to keep the kids warm and dry after long days in the snow.

All suits are unisex and fully waterproof, including microfiber insulation, taped seams and aqua seal zips. The skiwear has breathable lining and outer fabric, quick dry spandex thumb mitts, inner-boot covers and outer-boot zips, as well as adjustable hoods which can be worn with, or without a helmet.

Considering the fact that their whole brand revolves around the great outdoors, it’s important to them that they do what they can for the planet.

They use eco-friendly dyes, PVC free clothing treatments and faux-fur on our hoods.

They also want to make parents lives easier, so they added secret pockets for mountain snacks as well as a special coating to prevent stains. All of

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their suits are machine washable and tumble dryer safe too!

The founders at Dinoski told us that ’as a startup, we are constantly having to find solutions to unexpected problems, and juggling tight budgets is always tough, but the funniest issue we faced was probably during our first shoot.

We went to St Anton with only a handful of samples, no kids, one cameraman and an extremely optimistic blind faith that everything would go to plan.

Darius (our mad cameraman) turned up at the airport with a small backpack of cameras and drones but no ski gear and we found out on the plane that he couldn’t even ski! If that wasn’t enough, we had to convince a whole kindergarten of Austrian kids into doing what we wanted through a mixture of pantomime acting and broken English!

It could have been an absolute disaster, but the kids were actually brilliant, and Darius managed to get some awesome footage by sliding around on his backside while flying his drones so it all worked out well in the end!’

We asked Dinoski what their ‘message’ was…

‘It’s easy to get stuck to screens these days, on mobile phones, video games and TVs so we want to remind people that we can all have fun outside too. The world is a beautiful place, especially in the mountains so we want to capture the imagination of children and adults alike and encourage outdoor play.’ www.dinoskiwear.com

“More important than looking cool, they needed their suits to do the job”

LUXURY TRAVEL

What is personal travel management?

Winged Boots’ bespoke approach to booking travel could help save you time and money

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hether you’re planning your annual family holiday or a once-in-alifetime honeymoon, travel costs more than money… it also has a time price tag. From hunting down the perfect hotel to checking-in for your flight, planning a seamless holiday or business trip doesn’t come quickly. So why not ask the experts to lend a hand?

Personal travel managers are well-versed in booking flights, making hotel reservations and putting together bespoke itineraries that are tailormade to the traveller’s wants and needs. They take away the additional stress of organising transfers and extra baggage while offering free advice and restaurant recommendations, including those off the beaten track. With a personal travel manager by your side, you can forget hours of needless internet searching for a central area to stay and instead put your trust in the experts who utilise their experience and wealth of knowledge to offer a first-class trip, time after time.

But where can you find one of these wonderful travel experts whose black book of worldwide contacts rival that of an encyclopaedia? Enter Essex-based luxury travel agency Winged Boots, who specialise in personalised travel solutions.

Its team of personal travel managers eat, breathe and live all things travel and have their finger on the pulse when it comes to unreal offers, trending destinations and the top places to be and be seen.

Collectively, the team have more than 230 years’ experience in the travel industry and have racked up enough air miles to fly around the world… twice.

Expertise and jet setting aside, Winged Boots’ team of personal travel managers also offer 118 JANUARY 2019

5 MINUTES WITH… David Ox

We caught up with the founder and managing director or Winged Boots to discover how the company came about and what’s next for the travel brand

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“Collectively, the team have more than 230 years’ experience in the travel industry and have racked up enough airmiles to fly around the world… twice.”

unparalleled customer service as well as a one-toone experience throughout your booking journey.

Available out of hours, when booking through Winged Boots your travel concierge is always just a phone call or email away.

Personal travel management doesn’t mean expensive. On the contrary, in some cases it can mean the opposite. At Winged Boots, the team leverage their contacts in the industry to offer customers preferential rates and exclusive offers which cannot otherwise be found on the internet.

So, if you’re looking to organise your next family holiday stress-free, or are in need of corporate travel arrangements, give the team a call today on 0207 319 4404 or email info@wingedboots.co.uk. Alternatively, visit www.wingedboots.co.uk to browse some of the company’s hotel recommendations from around the world.

inged Boots is servicing time-poor customers who want a safe bet - a five-star luxury resort with great restaurants, knowing the kids will be looked after, and that there won’t be any issues. However, what our customers demand from us is for us to turn things around ‘yesterday’ as well as an out-of-hours service.

“Our customers want us to cover all the bases: making their restaurant reservations, booking excursions and their seats on the flight as well as checking them in and ensuring transfers are on time and large enough for the party with car seats where necessary.

“Winged Boots came about from my own black book of contacts and clients. I started booking holidays for a lot of loyal people but it was all through word of mouth, networking and recommendations. It grew steadily, and we were soon dealing with Premier League footballers, hedge fund managers, city traders and successful local businessmen.

“The company has steadily grown and is now a 20-strong team dealing with some very unique clients including wellknown A-List celebrities as well as local families.

“We sell anything from easyJet to private jet and everything in between. Our roots are very much in leisure travel however we also have a booming corporate wing, Winged Boots Business, who look after business travel, incentive travel and large group bookings.

“For 2019, Winged Boots will be making a noise on the events scene, as we pledge to go the extra mile for our customers and aim to meet as many as possible face-to-face at a Winged Boots organised event. Whether that’s an evening at the O2 Arena, London in our private 20-seat box or at a private dinner in a top London restaurant, we love to get to know our customers on a personal level to ensure we can tailor every trip to their exact needs.

“January will also see volume two of Winged Boots: The Lifestyle Brochure be distributed to 20,000 homes and businesses. This is our own concept magazine that fuses travel editorial, customer interviews and inspiration articles with a traditional brochure listing, highlighting the trends for the year ahead and also our top picks of hotels from around the world. It’s a great read, so if you haven’t already got a copy, visit our website www.wingedboots.co.uk to request yours for free today.”

LUXURY TRAVEL

The other South of France

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f you are planning your summer holidays and you are looking to go to the South of France, just remember it isn’t all about St Tropez, Nice and Cannes.

There are some absolutely stunning regions with fantastic beaches, beautiful scenery and everything else to cater for families, the golf enthusiast or the wine lover. You can discover a rich variety of places to visit, from chic resorts, sleepy old villages and astonishing historical monuments dating back to Roman times. It really is the perfect French holiday destination.

In terms of the best time to visit the South of France, from May through to September you can usually guarantee good weather. June is usually very pleasant up in the late 70F’s/mid 20C’s. In July and August you can expect to get many days around 30C/90F.

Aquitaine coast. Outside the summer, it’s a haven for surfers and golfers.

Arcachon On the shores of the stunning Bay of Arcachon, a beautiful tidal lagoon and summer ‘playground’.

Chic boutiques, sailing clubs and restaurants sit alongside traditional oyster-fishermen’s shacks.

Child-friendly sandy beaches ideal for families and a ‘must’ visit is Dune du Pilat - Europe’s biggest sand dune! A Parisien favourite, still a relatively undiscovered holiday destination by ‘Brits’.

Pyrenees For a peaceful summer holiday alternative why not try the Pyrenees? A natural and dramatic wilderness where mountains, lakes and forests combine to create a landscape which nature and wildlife enthusiasts will admire. There are plenty of outdoor activities to choose from including walking, mountain biking, rafting & canoeing, horse-riding.

Pau is a genteel, gem of a city, and there are many market towns and villages to explore too.

Here are some ideas for you to discover the alternative South of France…

Basque Coast The Basque coast of south west France is a wellkept secret and a more authentic option than the Med coast. Chic Biarritz, charming St Jean de Luz and lovely seaside villages in between such as Bidart.

It’s where France meets Spain with large sandy bays, cuisine with a Spanish touch, and all overlooked by the dramatic Pyrenees. Whether you are surfing, exploring or eating out, it’s distinctive & memorable.

Bordeaux

Hossegor The surfing capital of Europe but with so much more – a beautiful lagoon, excellent shopping & restaurants, cycle trails through the pine forests and stunning golf courses. Hossegor is hard to beat for active families and is the most popular resort on the 122 JANUARY 2019

Top left: Bordeaux Top right Arachon; Hossegor Circles, from top: Pyrenees; Biarritz; St Jean De Lux

On the banks of the Garonne, Bordeaux boasts wide boulevards, majestic squares and elegant architecture and surrounded by ancient chateaux and vineyards that house some of the most valuable chateaux and vineyards in the world. Beyond Bordeaux is the Atlantic coast where you can sample some of the best seafood in France and explore the dunes of this beautiful coastline. With the Medoc to the north and famous St Emilion within an easy drive, this is a perfect destination for a gourmet break, a visit to carefully selected vineyards, or the perfect starting point to explore the magic of Dordogne.

LUXURY TRAVEL

The Best Luxury Cottages for a Cosy Northumberland Mini Break

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e all suffer from post-festive blues to some extent, which is made worse when there are no future holidays to look forward to. Summer is still so long away, but it doesn’t stop us dreaming of sunny morning beach walks and late-afternoon trips to the beer garden, which we visit all too frequently which the temperature nudges above 20 degrees.

But before we pack away our thermal-wear and turn down the heating for good, isn’t it tempting to relish in the cosiness that winter provides?

After all, dark mornings equal longer lie-ins and cold evenings are an excuse for long hot baths and early nights, especially during a weekend away in a gorgeous, boutique holiday cottage.

But really, the winter after Christmas isn’t as bad as we all make out. We forget about the blue winter skies and the crunch of frost underfoot. We forget about the guilt-free indulgence in ‘hearty’ winter food and the copious amount of hot chocolate that’s acceptable to consume. We forget about the crisp January mornings when you can wake at a reasonable hour to watch the sunrise over dunes.

All the beaches in Northumberland are on the east coast, so the sunrises are unbeatable.

But what’s the best thing about winter in the UK? We may not realise it, but the first 3 months of the year are actually the most relaxing. The festive 124 JANUARY 2019

madness has died down and you actually have a weekend to yourself. This time is to focus on you and to recharge your batteries, ready for spring to hit and for your social calendar to fill.

It’s the perfect time to enjoy a change of scenery, and what better way to do this than to book a cosy cottage on the Northumberland coast or in the Northumbrian countryside. You can tuck away in an ancient stone cottage or enjoy the friendly buzz of a traditional market town. Whether sea air or rolling hills are your thing, we have a divine selection of hand-picked holiday cottages across Northumberland that will tick your boxes and soothe your summer cravings.

We’re a team of just 6 passionate Northumbrians who know our area and have an eye for quality. If you have any specific requirements, no question is out-of-bounds. Whether you’re looking for a romantic escape for 2 or a celebration house for 14, we can tailor-make your holiday for those lasting memories and well-needed retreats.

We’d love to indulge you, so please get in touch to see how we can help you plan that perfect minibreak. www.coquetcottages.co.uk

“We may not realise it, but the first 3 months of the year are actually the most relaxing”

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

Try our hotel…

Have your car collected from the Terminal Forecourt and walk direct into check-in. On your return your car is delivered to the Forecourt and you can drive straight home.

No Buses – No Waiting Our customised car park is only 3 minutes from The terminal enabling a prompt and reliable service. Car Park vetted annually by Surrey Police and holder of Trading Standards ‘Buy with Confidence’ award.

Book online at: www.tudorrose.co.uk or telephone 01293 822844

10% Discount Code TRLM010

LUXURY TRAVEL

S The Sweet Life - Barbados Exhale in a tropical paradise with lush vegetation perfect for weddings, special occasions, girlfriend getaways or simply relaxing with your loved one.

Pavão Courtyard Dining

weetfield Manor is a plantation home of bygone days beautifully restored and upgraded to an elegant boutique hotel on the vibrant South Coast of Barbados.

Located on the upper ridge above the UNESCO World Hertiage Garrison Savannah site, Sweetfield Manor Boutique Hotel is classified as a “Listed Building” and displayed on the Barbados National Trust tour. This amazing sanctuary is truly your pretentious colonial retreat on the other side of the pond.

Come and exhale in a tropical paradise with lush vegetation and hidden gems inclusive of a day spa, lagoon pool with cascading waterfall feature, secret garden, monkey deck, sprawling lawn and a courtyard shaded by century old mahogany trees.

We are immensely proud of our product offering and not only is the peacock a part of our logo and branding, but we are renown as the Boutique Hotel with the greatest number of free roaming peacocks in the world! Why peacocks?

The peacock is revered for many things in many cultures, but undeniably one of its greatest attributes is pride. Pride based on substance.

With ten fabulous and uniquely decorated suites

“With ten fabulous and uniquely decorated suites on the property you are certainly not lost in the masses”

Afternoon tea & beach transfers available

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Spa treatments by our koi pond

on the property you are certainly not lost in the masses. Rejuvenate and be pampered by Mascioni luxury linens and l’Occitane amenities while enjoying some truly delicious food. Our infamous six course gourmet breakfasts can only be surpassed by our fantastic fine dining experience at Pavão (Portuguese for peacock) – Barbados’ newest and most popular restaurant.

Celebrate love, life and all things fabulous by staying at the Manor.

As a winner of multiple awards from Trip Advisor and TripExpert and being named as, “One of the top five great Caribbean Hotels” by the Times.co.uk, Sweetfield Manor is not just an amazing place to stay and celebrate life, but it also a fantastic location for weddings, business meetings and lunch.

Who knew life could be so sweet?

Call Tropic Breeze on 017 5288 0880 or visit tropicbreeze.co.uk or book direct at sweetfieldmanor.com.

LUXURY TRAVEL

THE BRIGHT SIDE OF LIFE Discover authentic Greece though a highly curated private villa, says Natasha Martsekis, Founder of Bright Blue Villas

film stars. Nicknamed as “the King of parties”, it is also the perfect place for strolling around the narrow marble alleys where some of the most famous brands display their luxurious goods. If you happen to visit Mykonos, Bright Blue Villas will welcome you to step in the legendary world of luxury comforts and amenities, as well as the panoramic vistas to the Aegean Sea. These Mykonos luxury villas are definitely the perfect place to enjoy the Mykonian dream!

A

h! The perfect Greek holiday. Close your eyes. You are surely dreaming of an infinity pool overlooking the Mediterranean blue sea or a romantic dinner on the beach, the most colourful sunsets and exceptional gourmet dishes.

“Privacy and personalised service is key for a luxurious and relaxing holiday” says Natasha Martsekis, the Founder of Bright Blue Villas, an ex investment banker with a career in London and NY. “In our villas you can stay totally connected to all the action or completely unplugged if you wish to discover our hidden gem destinations. So if you have marked Greece on your map for next summer, the best way to make this dream come true is to rent a private villa in the Greek Islands!”

Bright Blue Villas represents one of the finest, vetted collections of luxury villas in Greece. Select among 150 villas in 15 destinations that all cater to different needs and holiday aspirations. The trophy properties are set in the most beautiful locations in the Greek islands and the Peloponnese and welcome guests to experience an unforgettable stay.

With dedicated concierge teams on the islands, each client is treated according to his personal requests, based on a 24/7 service.

Get ready to experience summer life at the best beachfront holiday villa! Explore the local art. Experience a range of water sports and fun activities and treat your taste buds to the most delicious culinary creations. Visit the local wineries and taste wines that are rare to find!

Villas with stunning views in Santorini Santorini is globally known for its unique, breathtaking, volcanic scenery that offers some of the most amazing sunsets on the planet. The awe-inspiring Caldera and its multi-colored volcanic beaches will cast their spell on you. Such a unique island deserves nothing less than a unique stay at the Bright Blue Villas. Choose one of the best villas in Santorini perched on the top of the cliffs and indulge in fine dining, at one of the best culinary and wine destinations in Greece.

Ultra luxurious villas in Mykonos Mykonos is the glamorous island of celebrities and 128 JANUARY 2019

“Privacy and personalised service is key for a luxurious and relaxing holiday”

Beachfront Villas in Paros or Antiparos Want to treat yourselves to family memories of a lifetime? Paros and Antiparos in Cyclades islands are ideal for you and your children. These islands combine natural beauty and golden sandy beaches with watersports and many other activities with emphasis on windsurfing. Choose to stay at one of the Bright Blue Villas in Antiparos or Paros with easy beach access and children facilities and enjoy an unforgettable family break in Greece!

Select one of the above destinations in Greece and set off, for a one-of-a-kind luxury vacation in the private villa of your choice!

Natasha Martsekis concludes; “our company mantra is to deliver inspiring holiday experiences for the independent savvy traveller who wishes to discover the authentic and intimate Greece through the vetted offering of a luxury villa” www.brightbluevillas.com

MYKONOS | SANTORINI | CORFU | CRETE | PAROS | SIFNOS PATMOS | SERIFOS | ANTIPAROS | AND MORE

www.brightbluevillas.com

info@brightbluevillas.com

Tel: +30 6944 796 796

CRAFTED lUxURY vIllAS IN gREECE

LUXURY TRAVEL

RETURNS TO OLYMPIA LONDON WITH THE KING OF ADVENTURE, LEVISON WOOD 19th - 20th January 2019

SEMINARS AND EVENTS NOT TO BE MISSED

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ow in its 23rd year, the Adventure Travel Show will be bringing a star-studded line-up of inspiring seminars, leading workshops and talks from professional explorer Levison Wood Visitors can discover a breadth of once in a lifetime travel experiences from small group adventures; overland and sea expeditions; volunteering and career break projects; walking and trekking routes; Safaris; Eco adventures and more.

Famed as the UK’s only dedicated exhibition for off the beaten track travel experiences, the aweinspiring show will unite world-leading adventure travel specialists, explorers and adventurers from across the globe under one roof, inspiring the next set of budding adventure travellers. Travel experts and explorers from around the globe will be on hand to inspire visitors face-to-face, including the king of adventure himself Levison Wood.

WHO’S THERE? From tourist boards to tour operators, travel guides and magazines. Olympia will become a global home to all things adventure. Spanning the entire globe, from deserts to oceans, expect the likes of Belize, Botswana, The Cook Islands and Nepal tourist boards alongside an eclectic range of tour operators from Aurora Expeditions, China Adventure Tours, G Adventures, Hurtigruten and Expedition Leaders.

To find the full exhibiter list, please visit www.adventureshow.com/exhibitor 130 JANUARY 2019

The show will feature a host of unmissable seminars and workshops designed to inspire experienced and first-time travellers. The Adventure Planning Seminars with Duncan Milligan, world leading expert in ‘Tour de Force’ adventure logistics, will be on hand to deliver guidance, tips on preparation and logistics. Additionally, The Adventure MultiMedia Seminars hosted by industry experts from Wanderlust magazine, will offer essential tips on writing about, photographing and filming travel adventures. The Adventure by Motorcycle Seminars will offer a wonderful insight into the world of touring by bike. To book your seminar, please visit adventureshow.com

Levison Wood Photo: Tom McShane

LEVISON WOOD Professional explorer, writer and photographer Levison Wood will be in attendance as a key note speaker on Saturday 19th January 2019, highlighting crucial moments from his momentous career and travels in Arabia during his talk “Journeys through the Badlands and Beyond”. Best-known for his epic expeditions, ‘Walking the Nile’, ‘Walking the Himalayas’ and ‘Walking the Americas’, all of which turned into best-selling books and four critically acclaimed documentary series, Levison is a true ambassador for adventure travel, granting visitors exclusive access into his world of intrepid travel and exciting launches for 2019.

WHAT’S NEW AT THE SHOW? For the very first time, the show will introduce the new Cicerone Trekking Workshops, connecting visitors with breath-taking multi-day trekking trips from Europe and beyond. Presented by Cicerone Guides’ highly experienced panel of authors, visitors will become immersed in ideas of where to go, advice on how and when to do it and everything from logistics to kit and fitness.

Whether it’s trekking in the Alps or in the depths of the Himalayas, Cicerone Trekking has it all to help create that magical trekking experience.

HOW TO BOOK Advance day tickets cost £9.00 per person and advance weekend tickets cost £16.00 and can be booked at www.adventureshow.com

LUXURY TRAVEL

EXPERIENCE AFRICA IN STYLE New group travel company TAKE ME TO AFRICA unites affordable luxury with authentic African adventures

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f Africa is on your 2019 holiday bucket list but you don’t want to the break the bank, then why not join a small group travel trip with Take Me To Africa.

The company, which launched last year, will be exhibiting at the Adventure Travel Show later this month. Take Me to Africa offers an unbeatable introduction to the continent. Its extravagant 15-day Ultimate African Taster group tour spans Zimbabwe, Zambia, Botswana and South Africa, with a great balance of scenery, safari and city.

The tour begins at the magnificent Victoria Falls (on the border of Zimbabwe and Zambia) and Botswana’s Chobe National Park, home to Africa’s largest elephant population. After a few days you then fly to South Africa to explore The Greater Kruger and the Panorama route, with highlights including the legendary Kruger National Park and a trip to a luxury private reserve complete with open vehicles, dirt roads and a tracker/ranger duo.

Following an adrenalin-filled safari, a couple of nights in the beautiful wine region of Stellenbosch is the perfect spot to relax and unwind. The final stop on the tour is the bustling city of Cape Town, with three days to explore the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront and the surrounding sights on the way to Cape Point.

The itinerary has been expertly designed to ensure travellers see the best of Africa in the time they have there, connecting with like-minded people and locals, as well as reconnecting with themselves. Accommodation includes unique 4and 5-star boutique hotels and lodges.

Prices for the Ultimate African Taster tour start at £3750 per person (excluding flights), based on two sharing and no single supplements, with departures between February and April 2019 allowing guests to visit each destination at the best time. Also available are tours showcasing the Wonders of South Africa and the Magical Migration & Beach which ventures across Kenya and Tanzania (www.takemetoafrica.co.uk).

Tour groups are divided into ages 30-50 and 50+ and limited to 8-12 people, ensuring people don’t just get along, they make friendships that last well beyond the end of the trip.

The founder of Take Me To Africa, Sam Sellers (aka Safari Sam) has been travelling to Africa for the past 25 years, having spent her early years living in Phalaborwa, a small bush town town on the edge of Kruger Park. After 15 years on the corporate ladder, she turned her back on London city life to share her passion for Africa with the wider world.

“Africa burrows into your soul and changes the way you see things…” says Sam. “I want people to experience the Africa I love with the friends they haven’t met yet, with the best itineraries, good food and great accommodation – at a price that won’t completely break the bank!”

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About Take Me To Africa Take Me To Africa is a uniquely African focused group tour company for the champagne backpackers of the world who want to balance travelling in style with value for money. Founded in 2018 by Sam Sellers, the company was built on a passion for Africa and a desire to create epic adventures across Africa with all the fun and comradery of group travel, but without any of the compromise. www.takemetoafrica.com Visit Take Me to Africa at the Adventure Travel Show, Olympia London, 19-20 January. Stand number: A4

LUXURY TRAVEL

Nautilus Maldives THE DETAILS Telephone: +960 660 0000 Email: hello@thenautilusmaldives.com.

Web: thenautilusmaldives.com

W

hat if a holiday in the Maldives could be done differently?

Meaningfully? The Nautilus was created to answer that question. A bohemian hideaway set in the otherworldly beauty of Baa Atoll, a UNESCO biosphere reserve, The Nautilus is an immensely private resort of only 26 beach and ocean houses, where every detail, from what’s in the minibar to bathroom toiletries, is tailored to the guest, who should feel as if staying on their own private island.

The vision of one man, a Maldivian entrepreneur with over 30 years in hospitality, The Nautilus is his ultimate project, created to express his personal vision of the best that can be – not just in the Maldives, but worldwide.

His vision? The Nautilus is a celebration of the individual spirit, offering liberation; freedom unconditional; space to share, to meet, to be yourself and shape your own personal journey. And, most of all, to celebrate the people you’re with, in any way you choose. Because in the end, it’s these simple, elemental pleasures – that ability to simply be – that form the greatest luxury of all.

Houses and residences offer all the comforts of home and a space to call your own - each a personal sanctum with its own separate living room and private pool, hand-picked materials, and customdesigned furnishings infused with a bohemian whimsy that invites you into the barefoot life. Your personal butler takes care of all cares.

Here, time has no meaning. The three restaurants and two bars (not to mention 24-hour room service and destination dining) welcome you to a world of unscripted dining; of free-spirited culinary journeys guided by your tastes. Eat when you’re hungry, have breakfast for dinner, drink Champagne in bed. This is a world where a menu is just an inspiration and meals are designed for you, whenever you want 134 JANUARY 2019

Social media: www.instagram.com/ thenautilusisland www.facebook.com/ thenautilusisland www.twitter.com/nautilusisland

them, anywhere you please. No set opening times, no fixed breakfast hours, no dress codes. Come as you are, enjoy great company and indulge in a shared passion for extraordinary cuisine.

The Nautilus is a world of elemental freedoms, a million miles from the nearest care. Picnics by the pool, a vintage brut on the beach, dinner for two as you sail through the moonlight. Enjoy the freedom of discovery: go sky-gazing and catch a falling star; explore underwater kingdoms shimmering just offshore; walk along the beach at night and see the waters glow phosphorescent. Discover beauty here, deep in nature. The UNESCO Biosphere Reserve lies just outside your door – a kaleidoscopic wonderland of incredible marine life. Snorkel the rich house reef at the edge of the lagoon, or immerse yourself in the world-renowned Hanifaru Bay and swim amongst whale sharks and whirling manta rays.

LUXURY TRAVEL

Stay calm and kickstart your holiday at The Connaught The Connaught offers the ultimate stress-free “The Night Before” sleepover to eliminate pre-holiday travel tension

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his summer, The Connaught in Mayfair, known for its legendary five star Butler service, has launched ‘The Night Before’ the ultimate pre-holiday sleepover to ensure early rising globe-trotters experience the smoothest, stress-free start to their holiday. ‘The Night Before’ carefully thought out series of rituals, turns the dreaded early morning flight call into a joyous holiday start.

The Connaught takes charge from the moment guests are collected from their homes by chauffeur driven car armed with the essential 10 point travel check list; passport...check, sun-cream... check, iron off...check.

Arriving at the hotel, guests are met by their butler who whisks their suitcases away to be pressed and repacked using secret Connaught techniques honed over the years, ensuring the wardrobe arrives spick and span ready for the beach club – no travel irons necessary. Guests are then escorted to the legendary temple of relaxation, the Aman Spa, deep in the heart of The Connaught where a series of treatments and rituals ensures the stress of travelling is gently massaged away allowing them to return to their rooms for a light evening supper and early turn down and a good night sleep.

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ABOUT THE CONNAUGHT In the heart of London’s Mayfair, The Connaught, part of Maybourne Hotel Group, blends contemporary style, classic English character and impeccable service to create the ultimate in sophistication. Rooms and suites to suit every mood, exquisite cuisine from Hélène Darroze, the charm of The Connaught and Coburg Bars, and Europe’s first Aman Spa make this the perfect place to rest, relax and dine in style.

ABOUT MAYBOURNE HOTEL GROUP Early next morning ensuring no flights are missed, a gentle wake-up call with soothing cup of morning tea and a destination bound weather forecast, wakes guests who are then tucked into airport bound chauffeur car, complete with take away breakfast and a warm farewell from The Connaught doorman.

The holiday can officially begin…Connaught style. ‘The Night Before’ includes, a one-night stay for two people, chauffeurdriven car from home to The Connaught within a 40 miles radius, pre-travel checklist, treatments for two people at the Aman Spa, Butler to re-pack suitcase, early morning takeaway breakfast with chosen reading material and chauffeur-driven car to London airports or railway stations. Rates start from £1,060 per night for a Deluxe King Room (inclusive of tax). Offer must be booked two days in advance.

Maybourne Hotel Group owns and manages Claridge’s, the Connaught and the Berkeley, three of the world’s most legendary five-star hotels, located in the heart of London. Maybourne Hotel Group is committed to delivering authentic and unique guest experiences that reflect the individual nature of its hotels, its guests and its staff whilst maintaining a timeless elegance and intuitive service style that are the hallmarks of its properties.

THE DETAILS To book “The Night Before” please call the Reservations Team on +44 (0) 20 7107 8945 or email reservations@the-connaught.co.uk www.the-connaught.co.uk

LUXURY TRAVEL

Destinations:

The Holiday & Travel Show

D

Olympia London – 31st January – 3rd February 2019

estinations: The Holiday & Travel Show, the UK’s leading and longestrunning travel exhibition, is returning to London for its biggest event to date.

With a host of new exhibitors, experiences, expert speakers, and its first ever dedicated authentic travel section, ‘Destinations Discovery’ the show is set to provide visitors with unlimited inspiration for their travels in 2019 and beyond.

There will be over 600 brands alongside over 70 global tourist boards and an array of travel experts from leading tour operators and travel companies on hand to provide visitors with indepth knowledge and expert advice. New exhibitors for 2019 include: South African Tourism, Visit Asia, Travelbag, Polar Routes, Flight Centre, Visit Florida and Celebrity Cruises.

The show will see the return of ‘Stanfords Travel Writers Festival’– a programme of inspirational and entertaining talks from explorers, adventurers, historians, novelists, TV personalities and travel writers, all included in the price of the ticket.

Celebrity authors at the 2019 event will include Levison Wood, Kate Humble, Alev Scott, Monisha Rajesh, Nicholas Crane and Sir Don McCullin.

More inspiration will be provided at the two ‘Meet the Experts Theatres’ with invaluable travel advice from key speakers who will share some of their own fascinating travel stories. Visitors will also have the chance to visit the ‘Experience the World’ stage which will showcase vibrant entertainment

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through culture, international street food and performances from around the globe.

Led by professional photographers Steve Davey, Paul Goldstein and Jamie Marshall, visitors can discover how to capture those breath-taking views and memorable travel moments in dedicated Travel Photography Masterclasses. From an introduction to photography to shooting travel portraits, participants will learn tips and techniques from the experts.

Classes are small, hence subject to availability and are priced from £30 which include entry.

Habitat for Humanity, the show’s official charity is one of the world’s leading housing charities.

They will be informing and inspiring people to volunteer and support a range of home building and community projects – to make a real, tangible difference. Talking about overseas volunteer programmes, they will be advising on the best way for people to support local communities when travelling.

To ensure visitors are prepared when travelling overseas, the show will host the MASTA (Medical Advisory Service for Travellers Abroad) Travel Health Clinic, led by television doctor, Dr James Logan and a team of expert nurses who will be able to advise on any holiday health concerns.

For more details and to purchase tickets, visit: www.destinationsshow.com Ticket prices: Adult advance ticket price: £11 (or £15 on the door). Child: 12 and under go free when accompanied by a paying adult.

ReadeR oFFeR

€75 off every week booked by 15 February 2019

Family-friendly self-catering cottages in Normandy

www.toddlerholiday.com

luxury travel

Some food for thought for your next getaway

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he historic harbour town of Fowey, on the Southern Cornish coast is guaranteed to delight food lovers looking to sample the ultimate taste of Cornwall. From picturesque beach front restaurants serving up the freshest catch of the day, cosy local pubs offering hearty home cooked fare or some of the best Cornish pasties around, Fowey is guaranteed to offer something for everyone. And with all those local delicacies on offer, the surrounding countryside provides the perfect place for cliff top walks and forest jaunts to work up an appetite for the next meal!

Fowey Cottages, a family owned business based in the heart of the town offer a range of properties for your next getaway to Cornwall. With a wide selection of properties, you are guaranteed to find the perfect place for you. From modern townhouses with stunning views across the harbour, charming seaside sanctuaries on the coast or cosy rural retreats, just minutes outside the main town.

Fowey Cottages truly provides guests with a slice of Cornish heaven to suit all tastes. www.foweycottages.com

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LUXURY TRAVEL

THE LONDON CRUISE SHOW Saturday 16th - Sunday 17th February 2019, Olympia

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lympia London will welcome the return of Europe’s biggest cruise showcase, The London Cruise Show next month. Whether it’s the offbeat destinations, once-in-a-lifetime expedition voyages or small specialist ships, The London Cruise Show is the perfect place for visitors to start their next cruising expedition. Packed full of information and inspiration, The London Cruise Show will unite the best specialist operators and holiday providers all under one roof.

The event is designed to inspire, offering insight into what’s new for a cruise in 2019 and beyond.

With the biggest collection of world-leading cruise lines and specialist operators on hand to answer those all important questions, visitors are given unique face-to-face opportunities with the very best in the industry. Cruise Critic, Aurora Expeditions, Radisson Blu, Star Clipper and Oceania Cruises are just some of the many key partners who have signed up to exhibit at the show.

Introducing the New to Cruise Theatre, the show will host free talks, aspirational talks and seminars from a range of cruise lines and travel experts Hurtigruten

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aimed at beginner cruisers. With cruising becoming the fastest growing sector in the travel industry, innovative tailored cruises are more important than ever to future travellers. Designed as an introduction to cruise, it will provide visitors with a choice of luxury, adventure and expedition, sail, ocean, river, family, gourmet and all-inclusive cruising options.

The Destinations Theatre will also be readily available to those in search of a specific destination voyage, highlighting popular cruise options in a country or continent of their choice. From Africa, Antarctica to Asia, Oceania, the Baltics and the Caribbean plus many more, tourist boards, cruise lines and industry experts will be on hand to showcase cruising options across nine different destinations.

The London Cruise Show welcome its sponsors Cruise Critic, Luxury Travel Guide, Vikings Cruises and Escapism, alongside new partners Travelzoo and Lonely Planet, each offering guests of the show access to informative talks and seminars, including expert tips and destination insight and education.

Every visitor attending will also receive a free goody bag on the day worth over £10 – a result of The London Cruise Show partnering up with leading brand activation agency, Brand Planet.

Matt Gatfield, Event Director at The London Cruise Show said, “The London Cruise Show is a fantastic place to discover what’s new in one of the most important pillars of the travel industry.

Our thriving community of specialists alongside our new to cruise theatre will no doubt inspire and inform the next generation of cruisers for 2019 and beyond.”

Standard tickets start from £6.50 per person and can be booked at www.theticketfactory. com/cruise-show-london. For more information on The London Cruise Show please visit: www.cruiseshow.co.uk/london

“The show will host free talks, aspirational talks and seminars”

fashion, HEALTH

& beauty – Fashion, health and beauty news to keep you looking and feeling your best – i mag e : M A R C O D E LL’ O M O

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

Hawes & Curtis

Jermyn Street

Quintessentially Stylish J “Historically, Jermyn Street’s shops outfitted the aristocracy at The Court of St James’s”

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ermyn Street is an air of elegance, class and distinction for which it has been very well known for over 300 years.

Jermyn Street dates back to 1664 when Charles II authorised Henry Jermyn, the Earl of St Albans, to develop an area close to St James’ Palace.

It has flourished ever since and holds a worldwide reputation for high quality British artistry and craftsmanship.

The street is home to London’s finest men’s tailors, shirt makers, suppliers of leather goods, food and wine merchants, restaurants, hotels and art galleries.

Historically, Jermyn Street’s shops outfitted the aristocracy at The Court of St James’s with bespoke shirt makers; tailors; boot makers; hatters: everything for the elegant gentleman. That tradition continues today with Jermyn Street known throughout the world for its prestigious shirt makers offering a wide range to suit every age and taste.

Now ladies can also find exquisite clothing in many shops and, of course, there are numerous other shops punctuating the street selling jewellery; cigars; fine wine and food, especially cheese; perfume; fine art; objets d’art and tapestries, as well as outfitters, hatters and boot makers: in fact everything one would expect of the street synonymous with British style, luxury and service.

Over the years Jermyn Street’s distinguished residents have included the likes of Sir William Stanley; Sir John Churchill, 1st Duke of Marlborough; Sir Isaac Newton; William Pitt; Sir Walter Scott; the poet Thomas Gray; William

Gladstone; and W. M. Thackeray.

Hawes & Curtis, Benson & Clegg, Church’s, Crockett & Jones, Dunhill, DAKS, Emmett, Favourbrook, Floris, Foster & Son, Hackett, Harvie & Hudson, John Lobb, Links of London, New & Lingwood, Paxton & Whitfield, Thomas Pink and Turnbull & Asser, welcome you to their prestigious stores.

In its 300-year history Jermyn Street has always retained its distinctive character. This applies to the ambience of the street, the services it offers, and to the shops and businesses and the people who own and run them. Inevitably there have been changes in the architecture over the years, with the old houses converted into shops and some facades modernised.

However, much of the original essence of Jermyn Street lingers on and it still provides a quintessentially British experience.

For more information about Jermyn Street visit the website at www.jermynstreet.net twitter.com/JermynStShopper. facebook.com/JermynStreet

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

[NEWS]

BEAUTY & FASHION From design, to print to packaging, everything at Wilful North is rooted in slow fashion and sustainability.

VERY VELVET A fun-loving designed wash bag

by Elizabeth Scarlett, decorated with hand illustrated gold pineapples onto mauve velvet fabric. Whether it’s makeup, toiletries or just bits and bobs you don’t want to lose when travelling - this travel pouch is just for you! www.sweetpeaandwillow.com

A LITTLE SPARKLE getting the skinny Wilful North is a colourful collection of luxury silk scarves and accessories for bold, creative souls who love to express themselves. Designer Holly is inspired by a love of vivid colour, nature and an ever present feeling of wanderlust. She creates eclectic designs based on her own hand-drawn artwork, turning it into handmade silk scarves and gift-able goods.

From design, to print to packaging, everything at Wilful North is rooted in slow fashion and sustainability. We love this quirky silk skinny scarf. This one is all about the hand drawn “charlotte dolls” and vintage keys. Printed on silk satin in a skinny size which looks great knotted around your neck or to create a bow for your hair. www.wilfulnorth.com

A wonderful art deco style ring crafted from sterling silver with a beautiful opal cabochon gemstone framed with handset sparkling marcasite and black enamelling. www.gemondo.com

ENCHANTED Welcome to the enchanting world of Sara Miller London – a luxurious lifestyle brand celebrating a love of playful prints, vibrant patterns and exquisite use of colour. She is an award-winning British designer, inspired by her adventures around the globe. We just love these beautiful watches. www.saramiller.london

when it rains, it pours These folding umbrellas are lovingly made and assembled in England. The canopies are manually cut and each umbrella is hand finished. All the components come from reliable and skilled suppliers. The scorched maple crook handle is made in Italy, while the polyester fabric is sourced from Japan. The sturdy auto open frame makes this compact umbrella an essential accessory for the city lover. Each umbrella comes with matching sleeve. www.heating-and-plumbing.com 148 JANUARY 2019

FLY LIKE A HAWK

The Hawk moth was originally used in a ring design for Sansa Stark on the game of thrones, here the designer Lucy Sylvester has used it in a necklace design. www.lucysylvester.com

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

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

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

JAMES LUCY WATCHES

James Lucy, a brand new Social Enterprise, is attempting to do to the humble wristwatch, what TOM’s did for the espadrille

T

he James Lucy ethos is that they will website: www.JamesLucy.com. donate at least 50% of all profits to James Lucy currently offer 3 watch designs, charities around the world as voted for each in Gold, Silver or Bronze, and a range of by their customers, so that they can have interchangeable quick-release straps, including the a say in the way the money is allocated. The unique Gaucho strap based on Argentinian 3 charity sectors customers can vote on gaucho belts - totalling over 100 possible include Medical, Environmental and combinations, to help their customers Humanitarian charities, and can be find a look that will suit anyone’s taste.

READER seen on the ‘Charities’ tab of their James Lucy have seen other similar OFFER: SAVE watch brands make over $100m in profit in just one year alone. They would like to see this money being given back to good causes.

James Lucy’s long-term mission is to change the way that people think about consumerism. They plan to launch other popular consumer products, at affordable prices, and continue to give their profits to charities.

They believe that money should be put back in to saving our planet, and the people and animals that are on it, through the profits made in day-to-day consumerism. They know this won’t be easy, but believe that if someone can buy a similar product to one that they like, at a similar price point, they are

likely to go for the one that is made by a company that gives its profits to charities, and it is on this belief that the company is being built.

For an exclusive 20% off their range, please visit their website and use code LIFE20 at checkout. James Lucy can be found on all maor social media handles: @JamesLucyLondon Website: www.jameslucy.com

20%

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www.MarcEllaLondon.com

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FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

MAKING A GOOD SENSE OF SCENTS How to start the new year with fresher scented home?

In the Bedroom Maximise the calmness of this space with scents like lavender and jasmine. Put some jasmine oil in a bedside aroma diffuser or sprinkle a few drops on lavender on your pillow. Use pure organic essential oils.

In the Kitchen You can bring either citrusy scents to your kitchen or spicy cinnamon with a hint of vanilla. This is tricky area as to whether you wish to mask the cooking smell or want to introduce gourmand scents into your kitchen and bring childhood memories. Scented candles and reed diffuser work well in the kitchen.

In the Bathroom Keep fresh scents in the bathroom like green fresh notes with limes and lemons. Room sprays are great and handy in the bathroom.

Let home fragrances bring joy to your life through candles, room sprays and reed diffusers

“In the hallway your home’s first impression. Make it stand out”

“The power of scent” We either like certain scents or dislike. We all experience that certain scents evoke memories and arouse an emotional reaction. Our sense of smell is linked to the limbic area in brain that is connected with memory and emotion says Zaga Colovic, founder of Beauty Handmade, a scent consulting firm based in Chelsea, London Scents affect our mood Scents can reduce stress, enhance sleep and help you be more energetic or you can just have your home smell as inviting as spas and your favourite department stores. Peppermint is invigorating. Jasmine helps with sleep. Lavender induces calm.

In the Living Room Bring some brighter fresh notes of a green, sparkling citrus with honey to your living space through a soy natural scented candle. If your living room is large you can add a hint of sweetness like caramel or vanilla through a reed diffuser.

“Gently scented candles can bring quiet moment”

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The Hallway or entrance is important space in your home as it is the area where first impressions are made.

This place requires a special attention and I almost always suggest that every home should have a signature fragrance. This place should have a scent that is unique and welcoming – says Zaga Colovic. Who doesn’t like unique fragrance with no associations? If you wish your home’s first impression to be remarkable like you why not get in touch and learn how Zaga Colovic can assist you making sense of your home scents.

Written by Zaga Colovic, founder of Beauty Handmade, a scent consulting company that also provides workshops to those wishing to embark onto candle making & home fragrancing business.

THE DETAILS Beauty Handmade Chelsea, London Telephone 0203 475 4821 E: hello@beautyhandmade.co.uk W: www.beautyhandmade.co.uk

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

marco dell’omo PRESENTS OCEAN DROP, GOLD AND DIAMONDS THE DETAILS Shop online at www.marcodellomo.com.

Ship worldwide.

Marco Dell’Omo

M

arco Dell’Omo, fine jewellery brand born in 2017, presents “Ocean Drop, Gold and Diamonds”, the new exclusive collection Made in Italy, made in 18kt gold and shiny diamonds.

Uniqueness, excellence and timeless beauty are the pillars of the Brand that want to express throughis jewels, the highest expression of purely Italian elegance.

The claim “Wear it and be unique” is a true hymn to the wonderful uniqueness that belongs to each of us. Marco Dell’Omo draws the inspiration for Ocean Drop fine jewellery collection‚ from the idea that each of us is an unrepeatable drop of the Ocean, that brings within the entire Ocean.

The collection presents a wide and sophisticated selection of colliers, bracelets and earrings made in gold 18 kt.

Bracelets are available in the version with the small, medium drop and also a model with the three small drops.

Shiny and sophisticated, the collier enlightened by a breathtaking diamonds pave, is the most precious piece of the collection. To celebrate love, there is Ocean Drop Love, the ultimate symbol of love, two drops getting together, free to move, without separating ever. A longer and stylish chain holds six precious small 18k gold drops. Earrings, elegant and refined, are available in the pendant or lobe version.

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Born in Milan on July 5th, 1987, Marco has cultivated since childhood a strong passion for travel, art and beauty, visiting the most beautiful places in the world and acquiring, that deep sense of freedom that only the traveller can have and love.

He began working in fashion at 19 years old for Armani, an experience that will forever define his sense of elegance. He graduated in Fashion Design after a period of work and study in New York, his second home. Back in Italy, he started working as creative creator of several digital projects for important international clients.

In 2017 he founded Marco Dell’Omo fine jewellery Brand.

Instagram: @marcodellomofinejewellery

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

Affordable Luxury at The Laboratory Spa & Health Club Providing the elements of wellbeing

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uxury, style, space and elegance create the perfect environment to escape the many pressures of a hectic London life. Relaxation is essential to both the body and mind and the Laboratory Spa and Health Club provides a gateway to undisputed tranquillity.

The Laboratory boasts an effortless and peaceful ambience in drawing you in and leaving you wanting more.

Twice winners of the UK Health Club of the Year award (National Fitness Awards) and previously voted best private Health Club and

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Spa in London by Time Out. No expense has been spared at the Lab from fresh flowers in the changing rooms, to the finest cutting-edge workout equipment. The flawlessly finished workout areas complement the stunning swimming pools, personalised fitness and well-being programming and the choice of over 100 different fitness classes at each club.

Innovative, motivational and led by some of the UK’s finest and most-respected fitness professionals, the Lab offers an unrivalled and envied timetable of group exercise classes to cater for every age, interest, and schedule. Schwinn cycling, BodyPump, salsa, aquatics, yoga, pilates, qi gong and so much more! Regular courses are also held, from meditation to Zumba and hula hooping workouts, pole-dancing and motivational talks.

Tight for time? Their experienced fitness team will ensure your workout programme gets you tip-top results safely before you head off to work or why not squeeze a class into your day for a super-fast, super-intense workout that will leave you positively buzzing with renewed energy and vigour!

The Juice Bar is the ideal place to enjoy fresh and healthy snacks, and catch up with other members of the Club, home-made light meals and refreshments made from the highest quality ingredients make for

“Twice winners of the UK Health Club of the Year award (National Fitness Awards) and previously voted best private Health Club and Spa in London by Time Out. No expense has been spared at the Lab from fresh flowers in the changing rooms, to the finest cuttingedge workout equipment”

a scrumptious menu.

In each Club there is a spectacular 25 metre swimming pool. These beautiful award winning pools are cleansed with the latest UV light technology, ensuring the highest possible standards of hygiene with minimal levels of chlorine. This enables members to bathe in comfort in the finest water possible. Whether it’s a few gentle lengths before a steam or serious lane swimming as part of your cardio-vascular workout, it’s heaven for anyone who enjoys a swim. Each pool area incorporates twin spa baths, a wonderful relaxation area, marble steam rooms and Scandinavian saunas to help completely unwind.

The Lab’s philosophy is to not just treat the body on its own, but the mind and soul as well.

The Day Spa at The Lab is a haven of peace and calm that provides a chance to escape the stresses of daily life. The stylish treatment rooms are the perfect backdrop for the exceptional team of highly-qualified spa therapists and holistic therapists to deliver a broad range of exceptional treatments including facials, massage, body care therapies , hot stone and reflexology, to name but a few.

The Laboratory Spa & Health Clubs are one of the few remaining independent, privately owned Clubs in London. The original flagship site opened in 1995 with the impressive backdrop of Alexandra Palace in Muswell Hill. The Club is surrounded by its own luscious and secluded gardens where you can sun-bathe or chill out in private.

At The Laboratory, unlike most other clubs, there is no annual contract. Seb Barre, General Manager says “Our members stay with us because they value what we offer and love what we do. We provide an oasis of calm in a busy life. We aim to help you achieve your goals and increase your individual wellbeing. At the Lab you will be transported to a world of serenity, where muscle tension and the

“The Lab’s philosophy is to not just treat the body on its own, but the mind and soul as well”

mind’s concerns simply melt away allowing you to emerge refreshed, balanced and energised.”

Lab members have full use of all facilities. Nonmembers are welcome to use the Day Spa. For further information call: 020 8457 3300 (Mill Hill) or 020 8482 3000 (Muswell Hill) Mill Hill: 1a Hall Lane, NW4 4TJ. Muswell Hill: The Avenue N10 2QE. www.labspa.co.uk

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FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

TESS HEADLEY DESIGN I

t was New Year’s Eve with Tess already late for a party. Neither her cherished string of pearls nor her favorite opal and diamond pendant on a gold chain were perfect for her outfit. Then came her “Aha” moment. She removed the chain and discretely and invisibly tied the pendant to the pearl necklace with dental floss and got the wow-factor she was looking for. She had created the perfect ensemble. This was her epiphany; her inspiration to study the art of goldsmithing, and to create a system of interchangeable jewelry.

Flash forward nineteen years and twelve patents later, including one in the United Kingdom, Tess’s unique line of interchangeable jewelry has been aptly dubbed the “Legos” of fine jewelry.

A pilot at eighteen and an accomplished painter, Tess combined her bent for engineering and artistic design, and after hours of meditation and a lot of head-scratching, she invented her two-part coupling device. It is unseen from the front or sides, making possible complex combinations that result in the appearance of a solid, unalterable piece of jewelry with unlimited design options.

From a menu of cords, chokers, chains and beads, bails, connectors and enhancers, you can create an endless number of combinations. You can wear a favorite pendant on a leather cord with jeans by day and on a string of pearls at dinner.

You can suspend it vertically, horizontally or diagonally or hang another pendant from it with an endless number of options to dress it up or dress it down, empowering the user to be the designer.

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“A pilot at eighteen and an accomplished painter, Tess combined her bent for engineering and artistic design”

Tess credits her beautifully classic but contemporary geometric designs to her lifelong fascination with mathematics. “Geometry is pure.

It’s true, it’s powerful, and undeniably timeless.” she says. Her pieces are recognizable in their elegant simplicity, made from Sterling Silver and 18 Karat Yellow (or Rose) Gold, together with precious or semi-precious stones and pearls.

Now Tess is introducing a new line with a message. Troubled by the lack of compassion in today’s world, and wanting to make a difference, she has created a new line of pendants with the hidden words “We Are One” or “Love is the Answer”, promoting the message of tolerance, empathy, and hope. These sterling silver unisex pendants can be worn with a leather or rubber cord or chain, and with or without a stone enhancer.

A philanthropist, Tess feels it’s important to “pay it forward”, and is concerned that in this time of great wealth, there are more and more needy people and families. Tess Headley Design will donate 10% of all UK sale proceeds to London charities for the homeless.

You can find Tess Headley Design at tessheadley.com and on Facebook and Instagram.

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

A collection of the world’s finest and rarest exotic oils

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ure indulgence, for a healthier, younger looking skin. The Püre collection’s brand PÜRE, founded by Robbie and Steff, is an award winning luxury all natural, Certified organic line of beauty products, using only the rarest, purest exotic oils, now available in the UK. “We started sourcing top quality oils exclusively for our boutique hotels and Spas in Marrakech. With the success and reviews these oils achieved over the years, we recognised that our clientele craved the opulence and skin benefits of the products beyond the four walls of their spa experience, we then decided not only to share the oil’s secret richness and benefits, but also create and expand a range of luxury beauty products which became the birth of The PÜRE Collection”.

“In the process of creating and developing PÜRE, Steff was diagnosed with cancer making us think about the chemicals and impurities found in everyday products. We were horrified to find that even many of the most expensive and well known brands use non natural chemicals and potentially harmful ingredients as a matter of course. We were determined to develop PÜRE as pure and natural as possible, we never use manufactured fragrances, essences or scents and never man-made chemicals, only natural oils”.

PÜRE is at the forefront of cosmetic design, working not only with experts, in the beauty industry, but also with our in-house Aromatherapist sourcing the rarest oils available, such as Prickly Pear, Tamanu, Sea Buckthorn, Oud and Rose Otto to name just a few. We develop in our own laboratory, combinations that work harmoniously together to maintain healthy, vibrant skin and enhance overall experience.

“Our packaging is also a reflection of our indulgence and design with Gold plating on our

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premium glass bottle to 22-carat gold flakes in our 100% certified organic Argan oil. We have spared no expense to ensure our customers receive the “Gold Standard” in skin care, while also enjoying the beauty of our products on their vanity or dressing table.” says Steff.

Despite a huge growth in sales of natural and organic beauty, the government still has no regulation regarding the use of these words for skin care.

There is no legal definition or requirement to label a product as natural, organic or vegan.

“It is a technical and intellectual challenge on a whole different level to deliver verifiably certified organic skincare that is authentically focused on the benefits for your skin” says Robbie.

The best way to do so in the UK is to look for brands that are Soil Association’s COSMOS certified. “ We do not just sell the odd organic product as many of our competitors do, but we have gone that extra mile obtaining the COSMOS certification so you know exactly what you are buying when you buy from us” says Steff.

We are both believers in giving back to the community, so a percentage of our profits go to “Education for All”, a charity based in Morocco which has been established to help provide the opportunity for educating girls from rural communities.

The PÜRE Collection, a luxuriant brand that is not altered in any way other than how nature intended it to be.

READER OFFER: SAVE

10%

www.thepurecollection.com.

10% discount by using code FMG10.

Iuri Shublaze, Inc. creates handmade, one of a kind accessories for an upscale international clientele. Our bags, clutches, wallets, and scarves combine textures and geometrics in a daring and playful way. Each piece is an individual expression of the designer’s vision – graphic, touchable, and effortlessly stylish. As a result, our collection resonates with people whose sense of style is matched by their sense of fun and who seek out accessories as unique as they are.

Our fashion design company was established by Iuri Shubladze in New York in 2013. While most of our accessories are designed with women in mind, many are created to be unisex. www.iurishnyc.com

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

Skincare Products that deliver…

I

s your skin misbehaving? Do you or a family member suffer with problematic skin that’s exacerbated by the season, or perhaps you have been disappointed with the results from your usual regime and feel its time for a change.

Well what if we told you expert help was just a click away, you don’t even need to leave the house?

Unlike most over-the-counter skin care ranges Regentiv offer you something rather special….. not only are their formulations at the cutting edge of excellence but the care and attention Regentiv give to their customers is testament to the results they see.

From first contact with a Regentiv advisor it’s very clear that they understand skin, they know their products and how to target specific skin concerns, enabling you to enjoy the optimum results. This cosmeceutical skin care range incorporates the highest quality, natural ingredients within their formulas to provide the most effective results, enabling you to achieve your skins best potential.

Two of their most sought after products worldwide are The Specialist Serum with Retinol, the unchallenged super ingredient clinically proven for dramatically improving skin, reducing lines, wrinkles, crepey skin, enlarged pores, sun and skin

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damage. Regentiv’s The Specialist Serum is available from £29.95 - £149.

For optimum results combine with Regentiv’s Hyaluronic Active Collagen Boosting Hydrating Cream to lock in moisture, giving optimum hydration and skin plumping. This beautiful light cream’s unique formula incorporates hyaluronic acid, retinol, vitamins C&E, peptides and SPF 15+, available from £34.95 - £99.

For a complete, skin transforming regime the Regentiv’s discovery sets are a great introduction to the range and are available for all skin concerns from Problematic, Acne kits to Essential daily care to keep your skin looking younger, these are available from £79.

Why not get in touch and see how Regentiv can help you, you too could be saying “my skin has never looked better” and “Regentiv have helped me transform my skin”.

Advice is available either online via their website or by telephone.

Visit www.regentiv.co.uk and either use the online skincare guidance request or you can live chat with one of the Regentiv advisors.

Alternatively you can speak personally with an advisor on 01923 212555.

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FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

Born to Run Reinvigorate your run regime for 2019 with one of these inspiring reads, says Liz Connor

W

hen it’s cold and wet outside, a runner’s motivation can easily wane. The lure of the couch along with back-to-back Christmas films and endless amounts of chocolates can be enough. Factor in the grey skies and miserable weather, and those good intentions to get moving can fast disappear.

If you’re struggling to lace up your trainers, an easy (and winterfriendly) way to get your fitness mojo back on track is by delving into a great read about running success.

From gruelling tales of ultramarathon success, to hilariously relatable memoirs, there’ll be something here to get you going - whether you’re training for a big race, or just starting out on the track. Here’s our seven top picks...

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What I Talk About When I Talk About Running by Haruki Murakami (£8.99, Vintage) As if training for the New York City Marathon wasn’t enough, celebrated Japanese novelist Haruki Murakami decided to put pen to paper and write about the experience as well. In this beautiful memoir, the title of which is a play on Raymond Carver’s What We Talk About When We Talk About Love, he documents his four-month training journey, while reflecting on the mental and emotional struggles that come with long-distance jogging.

The joy of getting out on the road, the excruciating pain of the hardest miles, and the euphoria of seeing the finish line in sight - if you’re as obsessive about running as Murakami is, or just really want to chase that marathon dream, you’ll be able to relate to it all.

Let Your Mind Run: A Memoir Of Thinking My Way To Victory by Deena Kastor (£17.99, Crown Archetype) Deena Kastor was a gifted runner from a young age, but her fear of failure meant her career almost ended after college, when she ran herself to the edge of mental fatigue. Instead of throwing in the towel, she travelled to Colorado, where she trained with legendary coach Joe Vigil who had just started the first professional distance-running team. In this intimate memoir, she explains how training her inner voice to be kinder and more compassionate to herself ultimately improved her running and eventually led her to scooping up America’s first Olympic medal in the marathon for 20 years.

Born To Run by Christopher McDougall (£9.99, Profile Books) Award-winning journalist McDougall has earned high praise for his bestselling tome, that looks at how Mexico’s mysterious Tarahumara tribe have developed the incredible endurance to run hundreds of miles without rest or injury, often barefoot and in treacherous conditions.

Combining human biology and personal stories, alongside some history of the trainer industry, this fascinating investigation asks what it takes to be a good runner and explains how our bodies are naturally programmed to run. More inspirational that instructional, it’ll make you question everything you think you know about running so far.

Eat And Run: My Unlikely Journey To Ultramarathon Greatness by Scott Jurek with Steve Friedman (£8.99, Bloomsbury Paperbacks) As one of the most celebrated ultramarathon competitors of all time, plant-based Jurek is living proof that you don’t need to fuel yourself on meat to achieve sporting greatness. Attributing his vegan diet as the key to his success, he explains how and why he transitioned from a Midwestern childhood of hunting and fishing to a life of veganism - not merely for ethical reasons, but because he believed it helps him to run faster. A mixture of practical advice, anecdotal wisdom and genuinely thought-provoking science, this book is for anyone who’s rethinking their meat-based marathon meal prep.

Running Like A Girl by Alexandra Heminsley (£8.99, Cornerstone) Affectionately referred to as ‘the Bridget Jones of running’, Alexandra Heminsley’s hilarious retrospective is a relatable running companion for anyone who’s more likely to spend Sundays hungover in bed than tackling a 10K. She’s not a professional athlete, but a retired couch potato that went from wheezing her away up and down her street to smashing a casual five marathons. Funny, warm and brutally honest, this is a totally down-to-earth read that will resonate with any new starter who worries they’re a bit rubbish at running.

How To Lose A Marathon by Joel Cohen (£11.99, Abrams Image) Any wannabe marathon runner knows that the worst thing about signing up for a big race is the expectation to be good at it - and indeed, able to complete it. In this book for non-athletes, The Simpsons writer Joel Cohen (who proudly ‘barely’ completed the New York City Marathon) gives step-by-step advice about how to go from couch potato, to a couch potato that can run a marathon.

An antidote to the many worthy running manuals out there, this is an ultimate guide for anyone who isn’t looking to run a marathon in a particular time, but just make it through those 26.2 miles.

Finding Ultra by Rich Roll (£13.99, Three Rivers Press) At age 39, Rich Roll was 50Lbs overweight and barely able to climb up the stairs without stopping to catch his breath. That’s why, on the night before turning 40, he decided he needed to make a major life change for the sake of his health. Adopting a plant-based diet and a daily training routine, Roll shed the excess weight and took on the Ultraman 2008, a seriously gruelling three-day event that involves a 320-mile ordeal of swimming, biking and running. With only six months to get into shape, he amazingly scored the second fastest swim and finished 11th overall. In this book, Roll reflects on how he managed to turn his life around overnight, and why it’s never too late to change your destiny.

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FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

Beat the winter blues...

Boost your happiness this winter Many people experience feelings of sadness, depression and lethargy once the winter months kick in, often due to the change in weather, the shorter days and long periods of being cooped up indoors. If the winter blues are starting to set in, check out these ways to boost your happiness.

GET CREATIVE ABOUT FITNESS Exercise is a great way to beat the blues as it releases mood-boosting endorphins and will also leave you looking great. However, many of us find our workout routine takes a hit when the cold weather sets in. To stay inspired to exercise through the winter months, try searching for something new such as an unusual exercise class or sport. If you can’t face heading out into the cold, find fun ways to exercise at home such as dance fitness DVDs. GET AN INDOOR HOBBY We often give up or postpone many of the activities we love when it gets cold. However, just because you are spending more time indoors, that doesn’t mean your interests and activities have to be reduced to browsing the TV guide for what’s on next. To keep your mind occupied and add some fun to your evenings, try taking up an indoor hobby for the winter. There are many to choose from, such as reading, writing, painting, growing indoor plants, baking or learning a new language.

EAT MOOD-BOOSTING FOODS It is tempting to reach for comforting, stodgy foods during the winter; however, research reveals that regular consumers of fast food are 51% more likely to develop depression. Instead, try to fill your diet with nutritious healthy foods; particularly those rich in B vitamins, which help the brain produce serotonin; Omega-3 fatty acids, which can help lift depression; and vitamin D, which you may be short of in the winter months.

PERK UP YOUR SOCIAL LIFE As some people retreat more indoors to the warmth of their homes, it can feel as though your social life has gone into hibernation, expect it is Christmas!

Spending time with others can be one of the greatest mood boosters. You can’t always rely on other people to make plans, so if your social life

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could do with a boost, it’s time to get pro-active.

Pick up the phone and make plans to spend time with friends and family. Alternatively, take up a hobby or join a club to find some new people to spend time with.

LAUGH MORE OFTEN Laughter is an extremely effective mood booster, and studies have found that even the anticipation of laughter can help to lift our spirits and reduce stress.

However, many of us don’t laugh nearly enough.

While it may seem like a regimented approach to such a laid back and seemingly frivolous activity, try to make sure you dedicate at least 20 minutes a day to something that makes you laugh, such as chatting to a friend, reading a funny book or watching a funny DVD. LIGHTEN UP For many people, the lack of sunlight over the winter months can bring on strong feelings of depression and lethargy. To help improve these symptoms, try to make sure you spend as much time exposed to natural light as you can, leaving your curtains or blinds open, sitting close to windows where possible, and spending some time outdoors each day. It may also be worth investing in a SAD light box which can help to reduce the negative effects caused by the lack of natural light.

TREAT YOURSELF To boost your happiness over the winter, it is important to make time for those little things that boost your mood. Make a list of the day-to-day things that make you happy – such as having a catch-up with a friend, having a scented bubble bath, or listening to your favourite song – and make sure you schedule one of these treats into every day.

Planning regular treats not only gives you something to look forward to, it can also subtly improve each day.

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

Psycle

& mobility and solid nutrition are all important.

It’s also important to recognise that you may want or need to train differently in different phases of life. Psycle has designed workouts that are truly complementary to one another, and support people throughout those phases.

Why you need to have a 360 approach to fitness to be truly healthy

What is Psycle’s philosophy on wellbeing?

Psycle believes in the transformative power of movement. Exercise is fundamental to living a happy, healthy and balanced lifestyle, and it can radically transform your mood, your day and your life as a whole. It makes you feel strong, confident, energised - and Psycle is incredibly passionate about delivering this to people every day. They understand that wellbeing is about building a lifestyle that is more than just a temporary solution, it’s about creating a lifestyle that has longevity in looking after your body and mind.

Psycle has recently expanded from its core Ride concept to include Yoga, Strength, and Barre. Why is it important to have a balanced approach to fitness?

In order to be truly healthy, you need to have balance. Strength, cardiovascular fitness, flexibility 168 JANUARY 2019

“Wellbeing is about building a lifestyle that is more than just a temporary solution, it’s about creating a lifestyle that has longevity in looking after your body and mind”

What’s the best way to stay motivated?

The best way to stay motivated is to connect how you want to feel and what type of life you want to live. When Psycle launched, the dialogue around fitness was still heavily focused on aesthetics, but it is such a flawed approach to have the single reason for exercising to be about how you look. Everyone wants to look good, but fitness does more than that; it improves your mood, balances hormones, prevents injury, decreases stress, helps with motivation, prevents a host of chronic illnesses, lowers risk of certain types of cancer.... the list goes on. It’s also the key to being resilient, adventurous and confident.

How do the different types of exercise affect your mood?

All types of exercise have a beneficial effect on your mood, but you can tailor your workouts to support the results you want to see. Cardio is incredible for stress release - but it’s also the best for flooding your brain with the positive, mood-boosting endorphins that make you happy, motivated and calm. In addition, it’s one of the best things for improving memory, concentration, and productivity, while also being an appetite suppressant and regulating blood sugar levels. Yoga has been proven to reduce stress levels and nourish your hormonal and nervous systems - so it’s a great way to combat excess cortisol, stress, anxiety and boost your immune system when you are run down. Strength workouts are the most effective at increasing growth hormone and testosterone levels, and raises your metabolic rate while building lean muscle mass.

Psycle has four studio locations in London – Mortimer Street (Fitzrovia, W1), Shoreditch (Whitby Street, E1), The Wharf (Crossrail Place, Canary Wharf E14) and Clapham (Battersea Rise, SW11). For more information visit www.psyclelondon.com.

“How can you say thank you for somebody who changed your life?”

I came to simplyweight not so much as a last resort but more of a last cry for help. It’s actually sad how we have all learned to suppress our feeling of helplessness just to keep on living for the sake of it. I always thought that as a successful and educated professional I was doing everything right. I certainly thought I have all the tools and skills required to make a significant change in my life. I was wrong.

And through my plan I learned things about myself and the world, things I thought i already knew but I couldn’t have been further from the truth. Today I stand here not just 4 stone lighter and healthier, but equipped with the skills that will stay with me for the rest of my life.

Dora

Book a Consultation Today The London Obesity Clinic (Division of simplyweight Ltd.) 10 Harley Street, London, W1G 9PF Phone: 0208 903 4819 Email: hello@simplyweight.co.uk Website: www.thelondonobesityclinic.com

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

Adidas Believe This High-Rise Wanderlust Tights We all know there’s nothing worse than feeling uncomfortable in your gym gear, and this is especially true when you’re bending and stretching in a yoga session. Thankfully, these figure-hugging leggings have a moisture-wicking fabric that works to keep the body cool and dry during power work, while the stretchy material can handle even the most challenging inversions. £84.95, www.adidas.com

FWE Kennington 2.0 Windproof Glove

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Is there anything worse than trying to cycle while your hands are being battered by the elements? Keep your fingers warm and dry with these insulated cycling gloves, which feature a thick Velcro cuff that traps heat at the wrist.

And if you are prone to getting the winter sniffles too, there’s also a nose wipe on the thumb that’ll eliminate fumbling around for a tissue. £24.99, www.evanscycles.com

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1 TOP WORKOUT BUYS Treat yourself to some ace new kit this January. Liz Connor selects 10 best buys.

Garmin Vivosmart 4 Sleek and slim, the great thing about this unisex fitness bracelet is that it doesn’t look as imposing as other fitness trackers on the market. But despite being small, it’s still mighty, delivering all the metrics that any gym fan might geek over; from heart rate and step count, to sleep analysis and stress tracking.

There’s no need to worry about taking it off before showering (it’s completely waterproof) and it can be programmed to gently vibrate when the wearer receives a text or a call too. £119, www.garmin.com

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Opti Skipping Rope with Counter and Calorie Burn Display Skipping is a full-body workout that you can do pretty much anywhere, so this easy to carry rope is great for anyone who travels a lot or struggles to get to the gym regularly. It’s height adjustable and has a handy digital counter that clocks up how many rotations you’ve done. It’ll also show how many calories have been burned in a single session too. £11.99, www.argos.co.uk

“This pair of noisecancelling headphones from Sony can block out any irritating background sound”

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Sony WH-1000XM3 Headband Style High-Resolution Audio Wireless Noise-Cancelling Headphones Finding a quiet spot to sit and meditate isn’t easy, especially if you live in a busy, urban environment. This pair of noise-cancelling headphones from Sony can block out any irritating background sounds such as street noise, chatter and crowds, making them ideal for anyone who wants to zone out on their train ride to work. Handily, they also have a nifty ‘Quick Attention’ mode that allows you to easily tap off your music, so you can place your coffee order without having to pull off your cans. £329, www.sony.co.uk

7 Phantai Yoga Mat

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Anyone who’s ever done a downward dog on a mat with poor grip will know how annoying it is to slide down it. Phantai mats (which also feature 4mm of cushioning) have far more grip than a lot of varieties out there. They’re also a great option for beginners looking to start their practice, as the design features alignment guidance to help place feet correctly and stay balanced in difficult poses like Warrior II. £80, www.phantai.co.uk

Fabletics Ellery Bra If you’ve got a friend or loved one that’s a fan of lowimpact sports, this supremely soft sports bra will keep her comfortable and supported during a Sunday stretch. It’s made from a soft loungewear material that’s comfortable enough to snooze on the sofa in, while the seamless design will eliminate any uncomfortable underarm chafing. £26, www.fabletics.co.uk

“Whether you’re a seasoned marathon runner or just a casual park jogger, no runner’s kit is truly complete without a decent armband for their smartphone”

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Nike Lean Armband

Asics Gel Nimbus 20 Men’s Running Shoes If you are going for a personal best this year, set yourself up for success with the right running footwear. These lightweight trainers have had a cult following for over 20 years - and for good reason too: The bouncy internal cushioning provides a responsive ride that will power any runner through those difficult final miles.

From £150, www.asics.co.uk

“These lightweight trainers have had a cult following for over 20 years - and for good reason too”

Lululemon Men’s Pack It Down Jacket Trudging to the gym in January is notoriously grim; the mornings are dark, it’s cold outside and it’s pretty much guaranteed to be raining. Make sure you stay warm and dry with this travel-ready down jacket that nips in closely at the neck and wrists to insulate body heat.

Best of all, it folds into its own pocket, so can easily be rolled up and packed away when the sun comes out. £198, www.lululemon.co.uk

Whether you’re a seasoned marathon runner or just a casual park jogger, no runner’s kit is truly complete without a decent armband for their smartphone. This one fits snug and securely on the arm, so it won’t slip down during a furious sprint session. A clear panel on the front allows for picking the right tunes while on-the-go, and there’s a rip-tape closure to keep devices protected from any sudden rainy spells. £18, www.johnlewis.com

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FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

Clubbercise!

Just when you thought the words ‘fun’ and ‘exercise’ couldn’t possibly go together, meet the latest fitness trend that’s worth reading about! If you’re looking to try something that actually makes you forget you’re doing exercise in the first place, then Clubbericise could be for you!

WHAT IS CLUBBERCISE? If the thought of going to an exercise class is enough to send shivers down your spine, then Clubbercise could be the one for you. The dance aerobic work-out is so fun that it feels more like you’re going out dancing with you friends than it does a gruelling exercise regime. Fun, easy-to-follow dance fitness routines using rave glow sticks to club anthems from 90’s classics to the latest chart hits taught in a darkened room with disco lights. And guess what? You’ll be having such a whale of a time that you’ll barely even notice you’ve worked up a sweat! It’s all about fun, not about perfection. Take it to your level, keep it simple and enjoy the music!

WHO CAN TRY IT? Absolutely anyone! The beauty of the easy-to-follow routines is that it doesn’t matter if you have two left feet; you don’t need to be a dancer to join in. As it’s held in a dark room it also means you can totally let go and no one will even be able to tell. Because of the high and low impact options Clubbercise dance fitness classes are great if you’re just starting out on a fitness regime or if you’re already a fitness freak!

SO, WHAT’S THE BENEFIT THEN? The most exciting part is that just an hour long class can burn up to 500 calories in one go. But there’s 172 JANUARY 2019

more - the benefits of a dance based work outs are super toning for your muscles and helping with flexibility - so you’ll soon be noticing the difference.

WHAT SHOULD I WEAR/BRING? No heels! Just trainers and sportswear/streetwear/ fitness clothing...something you can dance in... and make sure you bring some water.

To find your local Clubbercise venue, please visit www.clubbercise.co.uk

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

Love Handles - AAARGHH!

Dandelions on your lawn. Gremlins. Those are both things that are notoriously hard to get rid of. But not quite as hard, I think, as getting rid of love handles…

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f you’ve tried losing weight, it’s quite likely that you’ve slimmed down all over – but those bulges around your gut are still there, spilling over the tops of your jeans and making it hard to wear fitted clothes. It’s similarly possible to whittle away every ounce of spare body fat through exercise – and yet still keep your love handles.

They are usually the last thing to go, and for many people, never go at all.

Why ARE they so incredibly difficult to shift?

Two reasons.

First of all, some people simply have a genetic predisposition to storing fat around their love handles – just as others are predisposed to storing fat around their tummies or thighs. That’s their natural body shape, and it has nothing to do with weight. You can be extremely lean, but you still have to store fat somewhere.

Often, hormones are a factor too. High levels of oestrogen are associated with body fat being stored around the love handle area - in men as well as women.

Second of all, it’s impossible to target your love handles with specific exercises, like you might target your arms, glutes or abs. Sure, you can do exercises that burn fat all over your body – but if your love handles are where your body likes storing fat, they’re not going anywhere.

I know how frustrating this is from personal experience. I played squash at competitive level, was 174 JANUARY 2019

very careful with what I ate and yet my shirts never fitted me right because I just could not get rid of my love handles.

I cannot tell you how many times I considered giving up my exercise and diet, because after all that effort – and despite being very fit – I still didn’t like my shape.

Ultimately I realised that my love handles were not going away on their own, and that the only solution was to get some help from aesthetic medicine. (I chose Vaser, but as you already know, there are terrific non-surgical options.)

If you, too, have tried diet and exercise but are still plagued by your love handles, it may be the best solution for you as well.

If that is an option you would like to explore further, why not book a consultation with me at our Harpenden or London clinic.

We will take a medical history, discuss what kind of results you want to achieve, and review the options to find the treatment that best fits with your goals, lifestyle and budget. If you’re already pretty sure you know which procedure you want, we’ll confirm you are a suitable candidate and put together your bespoke treatment plan.

We are more than happy to work with your personal trainers as well to optimise your outcomes.

We also have our in house personal trainer Ros Jaffa who will help you put together a long-term plan to maintain your results – and get the most out of any treatment.

Dr Ravi 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

Is Your Dad Bod In-Style or Unhealthy?

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en have been working out to increase muscle mass for decades. Every generation comes up with new phrases that refer to this phenomenon, such as getting “ripped” or “swole” or “yoked,” as a result of men searching for the optimal physique that has been influenced by athletes, movie stars and other public figures. In recent years, a new opposing trend has emerged in pop culture known as the Dad Bod. Instead of marvelling at the muscular look, celebrities and every-men alike have embraced a rough-around-the-edges approach to the male aesthetic.

The term Dad Bod has been used to classify men who are slightly overweight and don’t possess a sculpted frame. The positive attention this new trend has received could be seen as an effort to promote a positive self-image in men who otherwise may have had some insecurities about the way they look.

Society embracing an archetype that is more attainable by a higher percentage of the male population is an uplifting occurrence and allows men to realise that you don’t have to have the perfect body to be considered healthy and attractive.

The human body does need a certain level of fat to survive, as fat serves as an insulator for your core body temperature and aids with hormone production. However, with obesity rates higher than ever, it’s important to emphasise weight management and metabolic health, so recognising body types that are close to the optimal body fat range is a good start to improving general health.

The focus on Dad Bods have provided a positive shift in visual standards and self-image, which is very beneficial for the male population, but they can also promote dangerous habits as well. Here is how you can tell if your Dad Bod is a good look or evidence of an unhealthy lifestyle:

Avoid These Behaviours Dad Bods are thought by many to be caused by typical “dad” activities: eating a lot, drinking a lot, and exercising very little. You have probably seen on multiple occasions the “TV Dad”, sitting in his arm chair with a big plate of food and a beer, glued to his big screen. Making these activities an everyday routine can be a recipe for disaster on your health.

While having the chiselled muscle tone of a bodybuilder seems like a far cry for TV Dad and other regular blokes, moderation is almost always the way to go, and achieving your Dad Bod look shouldn’t exclude you from living a healthy lifestyle.

Find a Happy Medium The magic of the Dad Bod is that imperfections are appreciated instead of judged. Perfection is a goal 176 JANUARY 2019

“The term Dad Bod has been used to classify men who are slightly overweight and don’t possess a sculpted frame”

that can’t be reached, but a healthier lifestyle is easily attainable. In order to have a Dad Bod that is also healthy, you must find a happy medium between positive body image and healthy body composition.

The formation of the Dad Bod trend has addressed a troubling side effect of social media, in which individuals work to develop the appearance of a successful life, instead of actually doing the work to create that success.

Embracing your Dad Bod means separating the stigma of working out, which is now viewed as obsessive and self-involved. Exercise should be viewed as a therapeutic activity which is used to improve emotional and physical health. Working out doesn’t have to completely transform your appearance. It can just transform your quality of life.

The Dad Bod trend is an encouraging development in the world of self-image. If used correctly, a positive shift in social norms and overall health can occur. Strive for regular improvement, not perfection. That’s what the Dad Bod is all about. www.alevere.com

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

Put your health first this year with a meaningful GP relationship

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ave you ever wished for a relaxed consultation with your GP so you could discuss all your health concerns in one comprehensive visit? Or perhaps you’ve been frustrated that you can’t always see the GP you want to see when you make an appointment? If so, this year, invest in your health with the new Concierge Choice UK membership programme.

The new service offers access to experienced GPs who care for NHS patients with the time and convenience that can sometimes be hard to secure. For an annual membership that costs just £100 per month, you have exclusive access to your hand-picked GP. This includes special hours each week dedicated to members so you can always secure a same-day/next-day appointment, and even your GP’s private email and mobile number for convenient and direct after-hours communication.

This bespoke programme is perfect for anyone who wants to better manage their health this year, especially anyone with chronic or multiple health concerns. The annual membership includes an annual comprehensive health MOT that lasts up to an hour which gives you the opportunity to spend uninterrupted, meaningful time with your GP to discuss all your health concerns, establish your starting point and help you develop wellness goals

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to work towards for the coming year.

Perhaps most importantly to patients, you get peace of mind knowing you always have access to the GP you want. Your appointments will always be scheduled with the GP you choose, the doctor who knows your whole health history. These appointments are scheduled for 30 minute intervals, ensuring you can take your time and ask all the questions you need to feel comfortable.

Another benefit of membership is that children of members receive complimentary membership.

For many busy families, knowing they have their personal GP’s private mobile for any after-hours concerns that may arise, or even the convenience of emailing their GP for simple questions, is invaluable.

There are participating GPs available throughout London and the home counties. Patients are able to select whichever GP they prefer, as long as they are not registered with that GP on the NHS. Concierge Choice UK GPs are dedicated to their service with the NHS. Their concierge membership programmes are limited in nature so as not to impact their service to NHS patients. Customer service representatives are available to discuss eligibility and programme benefits.

Patients are urged to call 020 7776 9065 or visit www.ConciergeChoice.co.uk to secure their spot before the spaces sell out.

“The new service offers access to experienced GPs who care for NHS patients with the time and convenience that can sometimes be hard to secure”

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

Could an annual health MOT from Concierge Choice UK help you stick to your new year’s health resolutions?

Why starting the year with a comprehensive health MOT could help you achieve your 2019 health goals

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very January 1st, following the overindulgence of the festive season, most of us wake up determined that this year we are going to be better, healthier, and generally look after ourselves more.

For some people this might be about getting fit or losing weight, but for others it could also mean committing to prioritising their mental wellbeing, reducing their cholesterol or stopping smoking However, by February, this resolve has usually slipped and we fall back into old habits.

Starting the year with a comprehensive health MOT could help you stay on track and prioritise your health and wellbeing. For an annual fee, alongside other benefits, Concierge Choice UK members are entitled to an annual health MOT with their GP, lasting up to an hour, which includes blood tests and urine analysis. If you are between 40 and 74, you are also entitled to a free NHS Health Check every five years, designed to spot early signs of stroke, kidney disease, heart disease, type 2 diabetes or dementia.

Check your baseline

history to identify what you need to focus on changing (e.g. diet, exercise, smoking), in your health MOT you have the opportunity for an unhurried conversation about how you will make these changes. Your GP can help you set achievable goals with actionable first steps towards them, so you leave feeling empowered to get started, not overwhelmed with information.

The tests included in a Concierge Choice UK health MOT can give you an idea of your baseline health indicators, so you can set your goals and also monitor your progress. For example, the blood test can check cholesterol levels, kidney function and liver function, and test for diabetes and anaemia.

Monitor your progress

Set achievable lifestyle goals

Concierge Choice UK members can hand-pick their GP from a network of experienced local GPs who have signed up to offer the service, so you can choose a GP who is right for you. The service is available to all; however, a patient can only register at a practice with a participating GP if they are not registered as an NHS patient at that practice.

Once signed up, you will see the same GP every time you visit the surgery, allowing you and your GP to form a long-term, personal relationship and ensuring continuity of care.

Your first annual health MOT, carried out by your chosen GP, is a chance for them to really get to know about you and understand your health priorities.

As well as the annual health MOT, Concierge Choice UK membership provides patients with access to same-day or next-day face to face relaxed consultations (up to 30 minutes). Members also receive their Concierge Choice GP’s mobile number and email for out of hours concerns.

As well as looking at your lifestyle and medical

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Going for follow-up consultations means your GP can really support you in monitoring your progress towards your goals, helping you to adjust your behaviour to stay on track where needed.

Choose a GP to support you

“Concierge Choice UK members can hand-pick their GP from a network of experienced local GPs” THE DETAILS The membership service is currently available in a number of London areas, including Bayswater, Earl’s Court, Golders Green, Kensington and Chelsea, Knightsbridge, Notting Hill, South Kensington, St John’s Wood, Westminster and Winchmore Hill; and in Bushey and Radlett in Hertfordshire. For more information on the programme and a full list of participating GPs, visit www.ConciergeChoice.co.uk

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

A major advance in prostate cancer diagnosis

BY PROFESSOR HASHIM AHMED BUPA CROMWELL HOSPITAL

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men in the UK, with over 40,000 new cases diagnosed every year. It often causes no symptoms, but men who are worried about it can request a prostate specific antigen (PSA) test.Your doctor will explain the pros and cons of this, as an abnormal level isn’t specific to prostate cancer (it can also indicate urine infection or inflammation of the prostate), and many men have unnecessary invasive tests as a result

“I

Professor Hashim Ahmed, PhD, FRCS(Urol), BM, BCh (Oxon), MA Consultant Urological Surgeon, Bupa Cromwell Hospital

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f your doctor does suspect cancer, the usual next step is to take tissue samples through a rectal biopsy, but there are problems with this; the needle might need to be pushed through the prostate several times to find cancerous tissue, and there is a risk of infection.

Transrectal biopsies can also find cells that look like cancer but do not grow or spread in the vast majority of cases. These mean that men commonly die with prostate cancer, not from it. However, many men have unnecessary treatment ‘just in case’, when these so-called cancers can be safely watched for years via active surveillance.

Also, once a man is diagnosed with prostate cancer, and advised to have treatment rather than active surveillance, the entire prostate is treated with radiotherapy or surgery. Both cause damage to surrounding tissue, which leads to side-effects.

5-20% of patients can become incontinent, and 30- 60% suffer from impotence. So the benefits of invasive treatment need to outweigh the risks, but it only leads to a 5% improvement in survival over giving no treatment at all for those with medium to high risk cancers.

Things are finally changing for the better. We can now find significant cancers in the prostate by carrying out an MRI scan. If the MRI is clear then men can avoid a biopsy altogether, and if they do

need a biopsy (to confirm a cancer flagged up on the scan), they can now have a MRI guided biopsy through the perineum rather than rectum. This is more accurate, can be done under local anaesthetic, and has a lower risk of infection.

If cancer is found many men can now benefit from ‘focal therapy’ treatment, which has a far lower risk of side-effects as only the tumour is targeted, not the whole prostate. Focal therapy can use a number of energy sources to destroy the cancerous tissue precisely. Men return to normal activities 2-4 weeks after treatment, whereas recovery from surgery and radiotherapy can take over three months.

Advanced imaging, and minimally-invasive biopsies and therapies mean men will have fewer and better biopsies and treatments that have a lower rate of side-effects. So, the outlook for men who are worried about prostate cancer, and those who are then diagnosed, is improving significantly.

I have been working with Bupa Cromwell Hospital and Bupa’s London Health Clinics to create a new patient pathway for prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment, whether you have health insurance or are self funding. This provides a seamless journey from the first abnormal PSA result through to MRI, biopsy and treatment as required.”

For more information about this see www.bupacromwellhospital.com/prostate

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

A shining light for breast cancer M

any things have changed since Miss Walters was appointed as a consultant breast surgeon in 1996.

• Mammograms are now performed by tomosynthesis and are three-dimensional, increasing accuracy and decreasing false positive, abnormal results caused by overlapping of the breast tissue.

• Contrast enhanced mammograms, which will be as accurate as MRI will soon be available in London. Improved digital analysis of the images has resulted in less compression of the breast tissue during the procedure and therefore much less discomfort for the patient.

• Microscopic areas of calcification can now be targeted and biopsied under mammographic control with stereotactic vacuum biopsy and X-rayed immediately with a device called a faxitron to ensure that the correct tissue has been sampled.

• Biopsy of lesions no more than a few millimetres in size can be undertaken under ultrasound control and are now commonplace.

• Immuno-histochemistry of the specimens provides greater accuracy of diagnosis and therefore prognosis and treatment can be tailored to fit both the nature of the disease and the needs of the patient.

• Genomic tests of the tissue of breast cancer tumours is now able to improve selection of patients needing chemotherapy and that chemotherapy is better tolerated and more effective in preventing the spread of the disease to more vital organs where it can cause decreased function.

• In the past all of the lymph glands were surgically removed in patients with breast cancer, but now with radioactive isotope and a gamma probe only the Sentinel or’ the guardian’ lymph node needs to be removed and this can be analyzed for abnormal cells while the patient is still under anaesthetic and with the identification of smaller earlier tumours by screening often the tumour needs

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to be marked with a wire before surgery and the surgeon would be unable to see or feel it. This can then be examined by X-ray in a faxitron machine, again while the patient is still asleep.

• Keeping patients warm during surgery has reduced the risk of bleeding post-operatively and improvements in anaesthetic agents her meant less nausea is experienced.

• Radiotherapy is now more focused on the treatment area, which has reduced the side effects from this treatment.

• There are now several drugs available to treat hormonally sensitive breast cancers, although Tamoxifen remains a powerful anti-hormonal therapy. Problems with decrease in bone density, post chemotherapy and hormonal therapy are now better monitored and treated and bone strengthening drugs also reduce the risk of breast cancer spreading to the bones.

With more women surviving breast cancer for longer periods, therapy is also better directed at supporting their needs post therapy and the mental health sequelae of a diagnosis of cancer.

Some of the genes causing breast cancer have been identified and it is possible to detect these genes in embryos, pre-implantation genetic diagnosis means that genes carriers do not need to pass these genes onto their children and grandchildren.

So why do we still read in the newspapers of 40 year old women dying from the disease? It is still the most common cancer. At the age of 40 the risk of breast cancer is 1/250 women and at the age of 47 it is 1/50. Many other countries screen at an earlier age than the NHS BSP and more frequently.

For appointments please call 01622 873058. For more details call Tena’s PA Helen on 07982 249612. Or email tenakerrywalters@gmail.com

“Biopsy of lesions no more than a few millimetres in size can be undertaken under ultrasound control and are now commonplace”

Awareness Is Power Early detection can save lives.

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

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

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

Access to Private Health Care is easier than you think

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hen you or a family member is unwell it can be a distressing time.

Waiting for the treatment or care you need can be unbearable. Avoid long queues and waiting times with the Hospital of St John & St Elizabeth, London’s leading private hospital with an international reputation for the finest patient care.

Home to some of the world’s leading Consultants and specialists, the charitable Hospital of St John & St Elizabeth is one of the capital’s best

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kept secrets; able to treat almost any illness whist providing ultimate standards of care.

With same day consultations available in their specialist units including Urology, Spine, ENT and Dermatology, patients can enjoy immediate referrals to imaging and diagnostics where treatments and surgeries can be scheduled for the next day.

Patients enjoy luxurious surroundings, state of the art technology and the reassurance of being treated by some of the best consultants and nurses in the world.

Based in St John’s Wood, minutes from Central London, services include Casualty First, a walk in urgent care centre, which is able to treat children from the age of one.

Uniquely, profits support their on-site Hospice, St Johns, which provides care to 4,000 terminally ill patients and their families each year for free.

So while enjoying the best care you giving something back to the community.

Contact the dedicated patient services team today to find out more about appointments and care at the Hospital of St John & St Elizabeth.

60 Grove End Road, London, NW8 9NH; www.hje.org.uk; 0207 806 4000

“Home to some of the world’s leading Consultants and specialists, the charitable Hospital of St John & St Elizabeth is one of the capital’s best kept secrets; able to treat almost any illness whist providing ultimate standards of care”

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

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

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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

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“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

Above: Image courtesy of BBC

V

An Extraordinary Place

anessa Feltz, journalist, TV and radio broadcaster has publicly paid tribute to St John’s Hospice after attending a dinner on Wednesday 14 November to thank supporters.

During her BBC2 morning show Vanessa referred to the event and said. ‘Yesterday evening I attended a dinner to give a short speech. A short braising speech at The Royal College of Physicians which is on the edge of the beautiful Regents Park in the heart of London. And in the most exquisite book lined library there was a dinner to thank people for all their hard work on behalf of the St John’s Hospice.

I’m sure if any of you have had any contact with hospices in your life, you’ll know they are places of great joy, and places of calm, and a place where there’s a wonderful feeling that patients can really, really be themselves – in whatever way they feel they can. St John’s Hospice is such an extraordinary place. And this is what the dinner was about, to thank all those who work so hard to make it what it is. A fine time I must say was had by all’.

St John’s Hospice is an independent charity located in St John’s Wood within London’s leading private charitable hospital, The Hospital of St John & St Elizabeth.

The hospital is one of The UK’s only private charitable Hospitals, where profits and surplus funds are put back into the hospice to help provide crucial palliative care to more than 4,000 terminally-ill patients and their families every year. - serving those living in Westminster, Brent,

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“The Hospice runs a range of services and includes an Inpatient unit, Therapies, Day services, Community support and Hospice@Home”

Camden, Islington, Barnet, Kensington & Chelsea, Hammersmith & Fulham.

The Hospice runs a range of services and includes an Inpatient unit, Therapies, Day services, Community support and Hospice@Home which enables patients to be cared for in their own home.

St John’s Hospice aspires to a time when every individual can approach death informed, supported and free of pain; a time when the needs of the individual, and of those close to them, are met with personalized care at the end of life.

It really is an extraordinary place.

For more information on how to support the Hospice visit www.stjohnshospice.co.uk.

Tel: 020 7806 4040. Email hospice.info@hje.org.uk St John’s Hospice, 60 Grove End Road, London, NW8 9NH

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

Focus on…

menopause Dr Angela Rai from The London General Practice 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

Sense of our planet Beyond sight :: Aesthetic insight SENSEGRAPHIA PHOTOGRAPHIC FINE ART Sensegraphia is a conceptual redefinition of photography, in which the visual aesthetics of the photograph are used to develop and express a sense of nature that enables us to recognise that humans are a part of nature. www.sensegraphia.jp Left: Zebra- Life Circulation ŠEriko Kaniwa Above: Nautilus Universe ŠEriko Kaniwa

HOuse & garden – A collection of London’s finest interior companies – I M AG E : FA B C O S A N C T UA RY

H OUSE & GARDEN

WHY USE A PROJECT MANAGER?

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oing a large extension or a complete renovation of your home is a big decision. You may have been recommended a shortlist of contractors by your architect or for budget reasons you have decided not to employ an architect during the construction phase… whatever your reasons the choice of builder and making decisions thereafter can be very stressful.

You are 2 weeks into the contract demolition and strip out is complete (that’s the easy bit) and you are already due to pay the 2nd installment of money having already paid 15-20% upfront before works started.

You may be lucky and have a contracts manager on site every day who you can dialogue with but if the work is valued at less than £100,000 then there probably wont be. Who is your point of reference?

Do you trust that source to give you objective answers to difficult questions?

What if you have concerns about the quality of work or if gaps start appearing in the schedule and progress seems to slow down?

This is where the role of a project manager comes in.

The PM is independent of the builder and acting for you – he is checking the quality of workmanship, has sight of the cost schedule and works programme and crucially will not approve payment of invoices until he is satisfied the work invoiced is up to standard. The PM is also your interface with the builder able to ask questions or raise concerns on your behalf and ensure answers

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and actions are put in place.

There is much trade language associated with building, codes and descriptions of materials and products that it is not reasonable to expect the person in the street to understand. It is relatively easy for an unscrupulous contractor to convince you that specialist works are required at additional expense if there is no professional standing on your side.

A good project manager will more than cover his costs with close cost control, oversight of budgets, recommending cheaper alternatives from his myriad of contacts and time management.

The mantra of every project manager is ‘on budget, on time’. Building and renovation can throw up a host of variables but at the end of the day, you the client, want a good job well done – and to remain sane in the process!

Chris Green heads up Apex Project Management in Wimbledon. He has 25 years of experience in construction including the last 16 years as a PM.

THE DETAILS 86 Daybrook Road, London SW19 3DH. Phone: 07932 601 071.

Email: chrisj4g@gmail.com. www.apex-pm.co.uk

Delivering quality build and project management chrisj4g@gmail.com

Let us build your grand design

Project management • Build • Structural alterations Specialising in delivering high end loft conversions, bespoke kitchen extensions and whole house conversions in SW London postcodes and North Surrey

H OUSE & GARDEN

[NEWS]

INTERIORS ANIMAL MAGIC

TOTALLY TROPICAL

Wallsauce.com is proud to announce its latest collection of tropical wallpaper murals by Di Brookes. For over 15 years, Di has worked as an illustrator and designer (and cake decorator) with a passion for all things decorative. She has developed her skills with watercolour, pen and ink and Photoshop and finds inspiration from her children, flowers and butterflies.

From designing and illustrating ceramics for Royal Worcester to working for a major greeting card company, you can now adorn your walls with some of her tropical masterpieces in the form of made-to-measure wallpaper murals. The 7-piece mural collection features a variety of vibrant jungle designs that are sure to help you fulfil the tropical trend in your home. www.wallsauce.com

STAR STRUCK

Take a look at this fabulous new range of gorgeous neon artwork.

Choose from David Bowie, Blondie, George Michael & Kanye West! This impressive artwork has a vintage feel to the prints combined with a contemporary edge with the neon words. The artwork features a vintage style print onto board with neon letters threaded through and comes complete with a high quality wood frame finished in gold. www.limelace.co.uk

A TASTE OF THE EXOTIC

Environmentalism and the desire to travel to exotic places are behind British soft furniture brand Icon’s latest collection for Spring Summer 2019. Inspired by the opulent palm houses of the Victorian era and combined with modern, urban living, the range offers vibrant colours and vivid botanical prints. www.beanbagbazaar.co.uk 198 JANUARY 2019

Make the elephant in the room something to talk about! The collection features 5 unique designs, each simultaneously being incredibly cute, yet surprisingly low key and stylish. Who’d have thought a sheep would be that one element that ties the room together? Whether you’re pairing them with your favourite sofa set, or just providing your youngest with a best friend, we think this range is an absolute winner! www.redcandy.co.uk

LOOK FORWARD TO SPRING The stylish Daphne chair has been catapulted into Spring, with nine gorgeous new fabric coverings from renowned fabric & wallpaper designers, Harlequin. Bursting with colour and style, these beautiful new lounge chairs are just the thing to inject some life into your home, after the dreary Winter season. www.my-furniture.co.uk

H OUSE & GARDEN

Marrakech

Design I t all started fifteen years ago. Inga-Lill and Per went to Marrakech for their honeymoon.

The riad that they were staying at was full of beautiful patterned tiles which turned out to be handmade cement tiles. They were so intrigued by the special feel and patina of these tiles that they decided to go and visit a factory in order to get a better understanding of the production process.

Two years later the Swedish couple had founded Marrakech Design which has since grown to become one of the world leaders in designer tiles.

What is unique about the company is the focus on combining contemporary Scandinavian design with the traditional production method of cement tiles.

Marrakech Design has launched design

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collaborations with three of Sweden’s most well known designers and design studios: design veteran Mats Theselius, the architect trio Claesson Koivisto Rune and Monica Förster Design Studio who have all created several different collections for the company. More is to come – in 2019 Marrakech Design plans to launch new collections by two other Scandinavian designers.

Several of the company’s tiles have won design prizes, the most prestigous being the Elle Deco International Design Award which was given to ”Dandelion” in Milan in 2013. ”Dandelion” has since become a real design icon and is Marrakech Design’s bestselling tile.

The designs are both bold and elegant at the same time. A unique feature of most of the designs is that there are multiple laying methods to the tiles thereby creating different macro patterns. Another common feature is the cool Scandinavian colour palette.

However, most importantly the designs are timelesss which make them particularly relevant in todays world of sustainability focus. The special production process guarantees that the tiles wear nicely obtaining a beautiful patina over time. www.marrakechdesign.se Locally in London: Kent & London 5 Hackney Road, London, E2 7NX telephone +44 (0) 20 7739 365 or email info@kentandlondon.co.uk www.kentandlondon.co.uk. Tiles Etc. 4 Shillingford Street, Islington, London, N1 2DP telephone +44 (0) 20 7607 270 or email Showroom@tilesetc.com www.tilesetc.com

H OUSE & GARDEN

Mastering the Arts C

lassic works of art by the old masters have never gone out of style and today, traditional fine art is seeing a significant resurgence. This revival of styles such as Renaissance, Romanticism and Neoclassicism has introduced a burgeoning trend; reproduction painting.

Brights of Nettlebed have commissioned many hand-painted duplicates of fine art masterpieces, allowing customers to admire their favourite paintings in their own homes. One example of a classic reproduction the company has available is The House of Commons 1833.

Based on a 19th century painting by Sir George Hayter, this is considered one of the most important representations of the Reform Act of 1832, an event which changed the political landscape of Britain.

The original, which covers 170-square feet of canvas and took over 10 years to complete, depicts the opening of the first Reformed Parliament in the House of Commons. Some 375 identifiable figures are captured in this portrait, including MPs, Whigs and tory peers. Today, it hangs in the National Portrait Gallery where it holds the title of ‘portrait with the most identifiable sitters.’ Brights of Nettlebed’s near-identical reproduction is displayed in a handmade English swept frame.

Another example of a fine art reproduction at Brights is the portrait of Horatio Nelson. In this duplicate of a 1798 portrait by Guy Head, Nelson appears with a young midshipman moments after victory at the Battle of the Nile. Two battlescarred ships can be seen flying white ensigns in the background as Nelson’s companion hands him a sword wrapped in a captured flag. This reproduction has been stretched and mounted in reeded moulding.

These are just two of the museum-quality commissioned pieces that Brights of Nettlebed

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have in stock, which are replicas of important works dating as far back as the 15th century. The company is associated with a small studio of highly accomplished artists, each of whom has been specially selected for their technical skills and for their ability to faithfully replicate originals.

Brights calls upon these artists for their bespoke ordering service, allowing customers to commission the oil painting of their choosing. Whether customers would like their own oil-painting reproduction of a classic masterpiece, photograph or personal family portrait, they are welcome to visit Brights of Nettlebed at their showrooms in Nettlebed, near Henley-on-Thames – where all of the existing paintings can be viewed in classically furnished rooms.

Alternatively, call on 01491641115 or email enquiries@brightsofnettlebed.co.uk.

“Another example of a fine art reproduction at Brights is the portrait of Horatio Nelson. In this duplicate of a 1798 portrait by Guy Head, Nelson appears with a young midshipman moments after victory at the Battle of the Nile”

Designers and producers of fine bespoke metalwork specialising in filigree ironwork, curving stair balustrades, interior gates, ornamentation and sculpture. Over 20 years Matt Livsey Hammond Ltd have established an impressive portfolio of work undertaken for a wide range of interior designers, architects and private clients.

Telephone: +44(0)7932 698 747 Email: matt@mattlivseyhammond.co.uk

www.mattlivseyhammond.co.uk

H OUSE & GARDEN

London’s finest contemporary furniture dealer

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ram is London’s finest contemporary furniture dealer. From the origins of the company in 1964, their mission has been simple: to bring the very best modern design to London from around the world. At the heart of the business is the Aram building - their home in Drury Lane, Covent Garden. At 20,000 sq. ft. Aram Store occupies four floors showing the largest range of contemporary furniture, lighting, rugs and accessories in the UK from leading international manufacturers as well as the complete range of Eileen Gray’s designs, for which they hold the worldwide licence. The vast space allows them to show a wider range of designs than any other store in London and affords their customers the luxury of a huge calm environment in which to make private, unhurried decisions.

Their expert contract sales team dedicated to professional projects is based there too and works with the best architects, interior designers and decorators across Europe on large scale commercial and more intimate domestic projects. Recent work includes the refurbishment of The Royal Opera House in Covent Garden and The Hayward Gallery Café, Southbank.

The third floor is where Aram continues its tradition for experimentation. The Aram Gallery is an independently curated, non-commercial space where they hold regular exhibitions exploring new and experimental work with some of the world’s most exciting young as well as established designers.

They are still a family business dedicated to bringing their passion for design to their customers.

Since Zeev Aram, who trained as an interior and furniture designer, opened his first showroom in London’s Kings Road they have led the market in London for contemporary design. They were the first to introduce the designs of, among others, Marcel Breuer, Le Corbusier, Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, Eileen Gray, Achille Castiglioni, Shiro Kuramata and Jasper Morrison to the UK. 204 JANUARY 2019

Aram’s daughter Ruth worked alongside him as head of retail and marketing until 2018 when at the age of 52 she passed away following a courageous fight against cancer. Aram’s son Daniel is Managing Director and head of contract sales. Zeev Aram, Chairman, continues to encourage up and coming talent and is Director of The Aram Gallery. In 2014 he was awarded an OBE for services to design and architecture and was recipient of the Homes & Gardens Lifetime Achievement Award. He received the XXV ADI Compasso d’Oro Award for Lifetime Achievement in 2018. www.aram.co.uk

Top left: Montana Free shelving by Montana; Top right: Aram Store interior, photograph by Paul Raeside; Right: CH33 chair and CH006 dining table by Hans J Wegner for Carl Hansen; Above: E1027 adjustable table by Eileen Gray; Below: Restaurant Level 5 with furniture supplied

by Aram Contracts, photograph by Veerle Evens

H OUSE & GARDEN

Steel Framed Glazing from Fabco Sanctuary Unique designs and unparalleled performance values

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etal-framed windows are on-trend at the moment, and can make a real design statement, both inside and outside your home. They also have a much longer life-span than uPVC windows, meaning that they’re a real investment. But not all steel windows are the same. Fabco Sanctuary, based in West Sussex, has one of the most advanced manufacturing facilities in the industry, enabling it to provide some of the highest thermally performing products.

All Fabco Sanctuary windows and doors are supplied with toughened glass, filled with Krypton gas, which gives more insulation than the standard double glazing. They also feature laser-cut hinges, which are machined through the frame rather than added on afterwards, for a more secure hinge. This attention to detail at every stage of the process ensures that your bespoke windows and doors are both durable and attractive.

“All Fabco Sanctuary windows and doors are supplied with toughened glass” 206 JANUARY 2019

A whole house renovation took place in Clapham Common, August 2017 (below). The home owner was keen to apply an industrial style throughout the property and chose to install Fabco’s bespoke steel doors throughout the ground floor of their home. With the help of their architect they looked at several steel window companies, but Fabco stood out straight away. Their pricing was competitive, lead times were workable, and the builders chosen to complete the renovation had worked with them in the past.

All of Fabco’s products are engineered on specialised CNC machinery. This ensures higher degrees of accuracy and allows them to work within much smaller tolerances. The benefits are numerous.

Fabco frames perform better, last longer and have shorter manufacturing times.

Visit Fabco Sanctuary’s website (www.fabcosanctuary.com) or call them on 01903 718808 for more information.

Above: Interior Designer: D H Design, Photography: Guy Lockwood Photography

H OUSE & GARDEN

How to Avoid Desserting your Pudding!

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nd so dear reader once again we hear the call for a dry January.

I shall respond in time-honoured fashion by taking no more than two Dry Martini cocktails of an evening. This is really an excuse to bring in my drinks tray, laden with the necessary bottles – such a lovely holly-green colour – ‘v’ shaped glass, mixing jug full of ice, the strainer and a long-handled stirring spoon, and place it on the coffee table in front of the fire.

Even before beginning the ritual of preparing the drink I feel better just watching the sparkle of reflected candle and fire light in the worn but still-bright surface of Old Sheffield Plate. Oval or rectangular, silver or plate any such tray will create the same effect. In summer I like to use an 18th century mahogany one, with a brass banded border. These also come in all shapes and sizes, ages and price range, and the deep brown timber can look so evocative of the past in the early evening light of the garden.

Trays have been with us for a long while and can give us a fascinating insight into our social history as far back as pre-Tudor times when they were called Voiders, sometimes spelt with a ‘y’. This was because formal meals in great households were held in the main Hall followed by dancing, and the time it took to clear the dining accoutrements was called the ‘void’ – Old French for ‘empty’ – and the trays the staff used took their name from that. During this interval

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the revellers would take their sticky pudding, also known as ‘the void’, and stroll around the house or walk along the roof tops depending on the season.

And here we come to the point. During the reign of Queen Elizabeth I we adopted the New French vocabulary, wherein the term for ‘empty’ was translated as ‘dessert’. What with Entrée and Dessert it’s a wonder we don’t have a French word for Menu.

Anyway my first drink today will definitely be an English Dry Martini, as an aperitif naturally.

For more information about John Bly Antiques: 533 King’s Road, Chelsea, email john@johnbly.com; www.johnbly.com

Trays have been with us for a long while and can give us a fascinating insight into our social history as far back as pre-Tudor times”

H OUSE & GARDEN

A new floor for the new year J anuary is traditionally the month when thoughts turn back to our homes. The chaos of family and friends has passed and those long talked about projects are finally put into motion. Now is the time to make some important decisions on the fixtures and fittings of your new extension or renovation project. The earlier these decisions are made, the easier (and more cost effective!) it is later on.

At Floors of Stone, we do everything we can to assist and try and make the decision on your new floor a lot easier. We have a large selection of natural stone, porcelain and wood flooring, which you can see in our expansive showroom at Cotes Mill, Loughborough (which we share with our sister company deVOL Kitchens). Just over an hour on the train from St Pancras, we have all of our flooring, gifts, antiques and kitchens displayed conveniently in one place, and 12 acres of grounds full of wildlife for you to explore. If you’re not able to make the trip to the showroom, then you can call or email our knowledgeable sales staff for more information. We also send out free samples of our flooring, so you can get an idea of the colour and finish of the stone, wood or porcelain in your own home before placing an order.

We are always looking for exciting new products to add to our range, and 2019 is no different. We have introduced two new limestones – the Moleanos Blue Limestone and Moleanos Beige Limestone, which are both great neutral, hardwearing stones, ideal for use in kitchens. As well as this, we have a new slate which has beautiful, earthy copper tones and a slight shimmer to make for an interesting feature floor.

We are particularly excited about developing our handmade tile range throughout 2019, and Hannah, our talented ceramicist, is already working on some exciting ideas. Her latest creation, the Indian Peacock Blue Tiles, have rich shades of jewel-like blue, they make a stunning splashback or feature wall. We’re also introducing a new range of Indian handmade tiles called Raku. These tiles are completely unique and utterly beautiful, and their distinctive glaze would create an exquisite splashback in a stylish kitchen.

For further advice, guidance or samples, please get in touch with our knowledgeable sales team via phone, email or in the showroom.

01509 234000. enquiries@floorsofstone.com.

Cotes Mill, Nottingham Road, Loughborough LE12 5TL

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“We are always looking for exciting new products to add to our range, and 2019 is no different”

H OUSE & GARDEN

HOW TO MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR OUTDOOR SPACE As we deepen into the Winter, we start dreaming about sunnier and warmer days spent in the garden

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e have asked garden design expert Barbara Samitier to give us some tips on how to create the perfect outdoor room so that you can make the most of your outdoor space when the time comes.

PLANNING IS KEY When it comes to creating a garden, even the smallest ones, you need indeed to plan ahead.

“Small gardens are the trickiest as you are having to cram a lot into a small space but of course it mustn’t look or feel cramped. This means that every inch counts, attention to detail is crucial as everything is under close scrutiny and a well thought through plan is paramount.

FORGET PINTEREST Samitier says Pinterest can be a trap. “It is a very useful tool and I actually use it a lot early in the process, during the brainstorming phase. It’s great to refine the design brief and understand what my clients like and don’t like. However you need to create a garden that works for YOU and forget about Pinterest when developing the design otherwise you will end up with a “copy and paste” 212 JANUARY 2019

garden that doesn’t feel anchored and integral to your property and your needs.”

important for small urban gardens and will make your interior feel bigger.

SCALE

EARLY INTERVENTION

“Think BIG. Some people think small place, small everything. I tend to do the opposite and use large pots or features in small spaces as I find it lifts the space and gives it scale.”

In order to achieve the above, if at all possible, Samitier recommends to commission a garden designer at an early stage. Getting your architect to collaborate with a garden designer at the start of a big refurb project or new build will save costs and will achieve a more harmonious end result.

Finally we’ve asked her to deconstruct a couple of her urban gardens and share a few ideas and features with us.

• Top left: 1. Giant outdoor blackboard; 2. Outdoor kitchen; 3. Encaustic tiles • Bottom Left: 4. Lanterns; 5. Bring indoor accessories out into the garden; 6. Fragrant planting near seating • Top right: 7. Mirrors; 8. Ornamental specimen tree that bears edible fruits 9. Aromatic and edible planting mixed with ornamental planting 10. Cloches to punctuate a border and provides interest when herbaceous die down in Winter; 11. Built in hammock www.barbarasamitiergardens.co.uk

LIGHTING “If you get it right”, Samitier points out, “garden lighting will bring a little magic to your outdoor space.

It will also of course increase security. Above all it will allow you to enjoy your garden all year long. Instead of staring at a black hole at night and during the winter, you will be enjoying a stunning and calming spectacle.

It will also bring depth to your interior.”

TIE IN WITH INSIDE Samitier goes to great lengths to tie in the interior and architecture of the house with the garden. The palette of colours and materials as well as the feel, the lines and scale of the house should be taken into consideration so that there is a seamless connection between inside and outside. This is particularly

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H OUSE & GARDEN

Rooms without roofs

A garden design concept that’s increasing in popularity year on year - is the garden designed as an “outdoor room”

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n extension of the internal living space, these are gardens that flow directly from the home into the garden, not only in terms of the physical transition from indoors to out, but also with in terms the style and feel, and it is widely regarded as the “go to” garden trend for 2019.

Harrington Porter’s Creative Director Chris Harrington MSGD sees this trend gaining popularity for a number of reasons.

“We’ve been designing gardens like this for over 15 years, but the number of enquiries for this type of project is definitely on the increase. The popularity of side return conversions with bi-fold doors was a significant catalyst a few years ago as it meant that the outside space was viewed all year round and became an integral part of a home’s style.

It really helped to build our business. There was no hiding place for the garden and suddenly projects were incomplete without a great outdoor space to compliment their refurbishment. We have managed to gain a reputation for this style of garden and it is something we are hugely passionate about.

“But I think another significant reason for the recent upturn is the range of products available to us these days. From firepits, to outdoor kitchens, to heating, to weatherproof fabrics and rugs, to sustainable maintenance free products like porcelain paving and composite decking. Trends are coming over from the US, Australia, SA - countries with warmer climates and a larger appetite for alfresco living - and the options available to make a space not just aesthetically pleasing, but also useable year round, is fantastic. Both ourselves and our clients have this really have this amazing opportunity to maximise the use of whatever space is available - big or small - and create something really special.

“The objective is to design and build gardens that our client’s love. And we really believe the connection between the home and the garden is key. And that concept applies whether we’re designing a chic, minimalist balcony without a single living plant on it.

Or a classic contemporary family garden with luscious lawns, deep borders and beautiful uplit pleached trees.

It’s about picking up on our clients sense of style and taste, how their home connects with the garden, and acknowledging how they like to spend their time outdoors. And in turn, creating an “outdoor room” for our clients and their friends and their families, to enjoy for as much of the year as possible. www.harringtonporter.com 216 JANUARY 2019

CAROLINE COBBOLD DESIGN – INTERIOR DESIGN – Caroline Cobbold has developed an undeniable wealth of experience from over 30 years in the design world, borrowing cultural influences across her experiences in the film industries.

Her impeccable taste and attention to detail sourcing props has evolved organically over the years leading her to work on beautiful interior projects in the UK and abroad.

Caroline’s skills lie in her versatility as she adapts her instinctive style to bring the client’s vision to life with her striking aesthetic and dedicated professionalism.

Caroline prefers to layer different genres of styles so it appears that the client has built up their own collection of treasured items over time, without looking or feeling too overdesigned. Antique furniture sits alongside contemporary pieces, merging modern with vintage to create an innovative, original style bespoke for every project. Caroline focuses on the client’s needs, taking into account practical requests yet bringing her own unique ideas to create an undeniably beautiful space.

carolinecobbold@mac.com • www.carolinecobbolddesign.com

H OUSE & GARDEN

A HIDDEN GEM O

riental Rugs of Bath, is a hidden gem just outside of Bristol. Taking the stairs to the mezzanine of Bookbarn International, one emerges into a space bursting with the colours and textures of the Middle and Far East. Handmade rugs fill the space, rolled against the walls providing snatches of luxurious patterns and intricate designs and spread out on large displays showing-off majestic fields that conjure the elegance and grace of the nomadic artisans who weave these masterpieces.

Hanging on the walls and, like the leaves of beautiful books, on several large racks, are examples of this ancient art form in hardy wool and delicate silk. From floral and geometric Persian and Afghan patterns, pictorial Chinese Pau-Tao and shaggy Tibetan rugs, to the spectacular curls and arches of a breathtaking “Mosque Ceiling” carpet fit for a palace, one could lose oneself for hours in this Aladdin’s cave, this treasure trove.

Nestled between the larger pieces are numerous other delights; jewellery in Jade and Lapis Lazuli, throws and scarves of Himalayan wool and curios: inlaid wooden boxes and brightly coloured bottles,

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pairs of charming, embroidered boots, kilim handbags and backpacks.

Dotted around the store, shining in deep reds and greens are Anatolian mosaic lamps, subtle rainbows of glass that spiral around their bronze coloured pillars.

They cast their light across sumptuous and unique cushions, kilim covered, embroidered, piled or chain stitched, and saddle bags perfect for banisters and chair backs. Armchairs, stools and sofas transform afghan kilim into a textile, lovingly used to upholster furniture, unique in its originality and appeal.

Nothing there is machine made, nothing mass produced, every item, each of the more than eight hundred rugs, runners and kilims, speaks of craftsmanship of the highest order. Their designs read like a woven atlas of the Middle and Far East, bringing geography, time and the movement of people to life through woven art.

It is easy to fall in love with the carpets on display, finding surprising colour combinations and patterns that bring one’s inner interior designer to the fore. The staff are eager to play the joint roles of design assistant and museum guide, to help one find the perfect rug for any room. From fifty centimetres to over five meters, oriental rugs can last a lifetime, transforming any space into a place of homeliness and warmth or of grandeur and sophistication.

Above an award winning Café in the world famous Bookbarn International, Oriental Rugs of Bath is the largest handmade rug emporium in the West Country. It provides a welcoming opportunity to discover the beauty and depth of authentically handcrafted artisan rugs, textiles, furniture and accessories from Iran , Afghanistan, India, Turkey and Uzbekistan and beyond. www.orientalrugsofbath.com

“Hanging on the walls and, like the leaves of beautiful books, on several large racks, are examples of this ancient art form in hardy wool and delicate silk”

H OUSE & GARDEN

Oak Antique Brown Lacquered

Engineered Oak Clear Lacquered

THE NATURAL WOOD FLOOR COMPANY T he wood flooring experts

W

ood is the first choice for many when it comes to flooring. It has timeless appeal, is easy to maintain and is available in an abundant choice of styles, designs and colours. With so many products of varying quality on the market, it definitely pays to buy from a reputable company with an established reputation.

Founded 27 years ago, The Natural Wood Floor Company is a family owned and run business which has grown to become one of the leading wood flooring manufacturers and suppliers in Europe.

Run by three brothers, the company now employs 1,450 staff at its Wandsworth warehouse and European manufacturing centre.

“We hold over 20,000 square meters of wood in stock in London” explains Director Peter Keane, “so we can deliver flooring to projects running to extremely tight deadlines. There’s plenty of choice too, with over 100 different designs on offer.”

In terms of styles, you can’t beat a parquet floor. ”Parquet has always been popular”, says Peter, “but it really is flying off the shelves at the moment.

Our range caters for all tastes, from our aged blocks with tumbled edges to larger contemporary parquet in 400 mm and 600 mm lengths” Antique floors are another popular option. The Natural Wood Floor Company manufactures several products to create this look, which are sealed with mid brown tones to produce a rich, warm patina.

At The Natural Wood Floor Company, you are buying direct from the experts. With the specialist advisors’ time at the company averaging 13 years, they know everything there is to know about wood flooring. So if you want to find the perfect wooden floor for your home, The Natural Wood Floor Company is the place to go.

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With environmental issues high on their agenda, The Natural Wood Floor Company’s products are all FSC certified.

The Natural Wood Floor Company, 20 Smugglers Way, Wandsworth, London, SW18 1EG. 020 8871 9771. www.naturalwoodfloor.co.uk

“Founded 27 years ago, The Natural Wood Floor Company is a family owned and run business which has grown to become one of the leading wood flooring manufacturers and suppliers in Europe”

Oak Aged Parquet Ebony Oiled

H OUSE & GARDEN

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LUXURY

BATHROOM guide

– Everything you need to create the perfect London bathroom – i ma g e : TH E K NIGHT S BRIDG E B ATH F RO M F RONTLIN E B ATHROO M S

LUXURY B ATHROOM GUIDE

[NEWS]

BATHROOMS DREAMING OF HAVANA

Old Havana Cabanas floor tiles and Metro Deco Columbus Circle wall tiles. Double ended freestanding nickel bateau bath, painted in colour black grey.

This tile with a distinctive crackle glaze continues to feel modern and relevant in any location. The tiles have been laid in a brick bond pattern for visual interest.

Our Old Havana cement tiles, in vibrant shades and playful designs, are based on our travels in this fascinating country, and look consistently fresh whilst standing up to the climate here in the northern hemisphere. www.claybrookstudio.co.uk

CLASSIC DESIGN, RE-IMAGINED

Established in 2010, Porter Bathroom was born from a passion and conviction for quality, design and craftsmanship, Porter’s ethos is to combine these elements to create timeless pieces, made using sustainable timbers, natural stone and metal combined with meticulous attention to detail creating individual pieces which are designed for lasting beauty and value. Create refined, relaxed grandeur with ornate materials, oversized elements and precise finishes. Porter Bathroom brings a fresh take to classical design whilst creating a feeling of new-age luxury. www.porterbathroom.com

MARVELLOUS MOSAICS The soft tones and subtle pink and grey veining of this marble will immediately create depth in rooms where they are used. Particularly when tiled in bathrooms, they are a practical but beautiful anchor to the scheme. www.claybrookstudio.co.uk

FINISHING TOUCHES

Lapuan Kankurit is a Finnish jacquard linen and wool weaving mill, where weaving skills, production technology and material know-how have been refined into excellence within the same family since 1917. One of the finest Scandinavian brands of contemporary, high quality soft furnishings. www.lapuankankurit.fi 224 JANUARY 2019

a touch of luxury

Exclusive to Frontline as part of the Aquabathe bath collection, the Linear Bath will add a touch of luxury to any bathroom.

Whirlpools and under water lighting available. www.frontlinebathrooms.co.uk

LUXURY B ATHROOM GUIDE

TILE STYLE

We showcase some of our favourite tiles on the market to give your bathroom the perfect finish

Luxury Marble Effect Tiles Formentera Geo Grey Formentera range offers a vast array of design possibilities. This tile can be used individually or mixed with other coordinating tiles in the range.

For a patterned combination, mix with any of the following: Formentera Aged White, Formentera Geo Blue, Formentera Petal Blue, Formentera Petal Grey, Formentera Trellis Blue or Formentera Trellis Grey. You can also pick all the blue or all the grey designs and mix them together for a truly stylish and unique look. www.tilegiant.co.uk

Get the luxurious look of marble for less with our range of ceramic and porcelain marble effect tiles. Choose from a selection of natural colours with matt or glossy finishes, perfect for a stylish bathroom, kitchen or living space. www.londontile.co.uk

Black Salon Porcelain Tiles Made from durable porcelain, these Salon Porcelain Tiles are black in colour, which exudes a luxurious and high quality finish. They can be used on both walls and floors, and are large format, which is a growing trend - particularly on wall spaces. They’re also suitable for use with underfloor heating. Full size sample tiles available with Free Delivery. www.wallsandfloors.co.uk

Original Style Tileworks Steel Midnight Blue Midnight Blue is Original Styles Tile of the Year 2019. This tile encourages the embrace of darkness.

Its deep, rich colour tones provide a sense of indulgence and its size and drama creates an absolutely stunning visual. www.originalstyle.com 226 JANUARY 2019

Antique mirror bevelled wall tiles These tiles have an aged affect.

A Victorian (brick size) Antique mirrored tile with a bevelled edge.

These tiles can be used in any room in your house including the bathroom. They add sparkle and glamour as well as offer a useful reflective mirror surface. Although it can be used in the bathroom, we do not recommend its use in areas such as wet rooms or shower enclosures. They look great on their own or around mirrors or even mixed in a mosaic with other type of tiles. www.my-furniture.co.uk

LUXURY B ATHROOM GUIDE

Introducing

Palazzo

A new decorative tile range from Original Style Pettina

P

alazzo, Original Style’s new large format tile range, features decorative patterns that have been designed and printed in the heart of Devon, England. Introducing six glamorous designs, all inspired by the grand palatial buildings of Italy, the patterns in this collection look as if they have been inlaid on classical Carrara marble, bringing a touch of luxury to any space.

Palazzo provides a practical alternative to wallpaper, appealing to those who are looking for stylish, decorative wall designs for a bathroom or kitchen. Designed in pale grey and crisp white, the tile in this collection have a neutral colour palette, so coordinate with most colour schemes.

Arabo Prisma

Piazze

The collection comprises the following designs: Arabo: Depicting a lantern shape pattern, Arabo represents grandeur and opulence; perfect for those who are looking to create spectacle.

Cubo: As its name implies, Cubo is made up of a series of square and rectangular shapes. Geometric in style, the pattern has a three-dimensional feel whilst its marble base is classy and sophisticated.

Filigrana: A ‘Fleur de Lis’ pattern features within the Filigrana tile with accompanying swirls for that added graceful touch.

Pettina: Pettina radiates style and class. Resembling the design of the popular ‘scallop’ shape, Pettina is essential for those who wish to make a statement.

Piazze: The interweaving diamond pattern within the design creates dimension and structure. Two different marble effects are cleverly combined to make a grand statement in any interior setting.

Prisma: Whilst gazing at the Prisma tile, you’ll see an array of shapes from triangles and hexagons to stars and pyramids. When integrated, these simple shapes achieve a gorgeous finish for an optical sensation.

To find your local Original Style retailer, please visit www.originalstyle.com/showrooms 228 JANUARY 2019

Cubo

Filigrana

LUXURY B ATHROOM GUIDE

Over

35 years of Edwins Bathrooms

E

dwins Bathrooms celebrated their 35th year in 2018 with a complete re-brand and a major renovation to their flagship bathroom showroom situated on All Saints Road, W11. The new layout has allowed them to showcase even more of the very best high end bathroom product on the market and includes brands like CEA Design, Dornbracht, Vola, Fantini, Samuel Heath, Duravit, Not Only White, Effegibi, Villeroy & Boch, Falper, Inbani, Swadling, Bette, Graff, Armani and Axor to name but a few.

Edwins have also incorporated some exciting new surface display areas where the most innovative Corian, Hi-Macs, porcelain, waterproof wallpaper and Silestone are shown and available fully bespoke to suit your space in as little as 3 weeks.

Edwins believe that bathrooms and home spas should be a wellness sanctuary and a place of personal retreat to relax and rejuvenate. Their dedicated wellness showroom located on Westbourne Park Road, W11 offers an insight into product that brings treatments in the form of hydro-massage spa baths, steam, sauna, hydrotherapy, aromatherapy and infrared into your bathroom and home to get that private real spa like experience.

Edwin’s dedicated Lefroy Brooks showroom also located on All Saints Road continues to go from strength to strength with all of the original favourites the brand has to offer plus all of their exciting new additions and finishes including fully IP rated lighting and marble consoles. Some of the ranges are exclusive to Edwins.

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The beginning of 2019 is set to be an exciting time for this long established company. A new website is imminent and they have just launched an ecommerce platform dedicated to all things rustic and industrial for the bathroom and beyond called Rustic-Life.

Edwins remains a one-stop shop within the Plumbing & Heating, Bathroom, Surfaces and Wellness Industry and is one of the UK’s best kept secrets.

For more information, visit edwinsbathrooms.co.uk or call 0207 221 3550; for Rustic-Life visit rustic-life.co.uk

LUXURY B ATHROOM GUIDE

GLASS TRENDS Frameless showers, bath screens, sliding doors, glass splash backs, mirrors, interior glass doors.

G

lasstrends has a wealth of experience in the supply and installation of frameless shower enclosures steam and sauna screens, glass doors and decorative wall

cladding.

The company employs its own specialist installation teams to manage each project which ensures work is completed on time and to the highest possible standard.

Working closely with leading specialist processors, Glasstrends can supply the widest possible range of glass products.

A forward thinking team of professionals passionate about the use of glass in interiors.

Glasstrends products are refined, elegant and always a step above the rest. Attention to detail, superior product quality and excellent customer service is what positions Glasstrends as a market leader.

FULL DESIGN AND INSTALLATION SERVICE Glasstrends offers a full design service to ensure showers integrate into bathrooms in a stylish and functional manner. With our bespoke service, space is never an issue. Our experienced staff are also happy to work with architects, specifiers and interior designers as part of larger project teams.

THE PROCESS Supply and Install. After listening, discussing and advising Glasstrends will provide you with a quotation and installation detail. Upon acceptance of the quotation and receipt of a deposit payment they will attend site to finalise fixing details, obtain working dimensions and ensure all details are as you expect them to be. They then manufacture the glass and return at a specified time and date to 232 JANUARY 2019

carry out the installation using their own in-house professional installers.

Supply Only. For customers who do not require our Supply and Install service simply contact the company and they will discuss your requirements, provide you with a quotation and manufacture the shower to your own dimensions.

They will then arrange delivery of the shower to your property.

Contact Glasstrends where their experienced advisers will be happy to discuss your requirements.

You’ll be amazed at the difference a stylish frameless shower will make to your home.

THE DETAILS Glasstrends GUARANTEE quality and durability. All Glasstrends showers are professionally installed and covered by a 10 year guarantee.

Call: 020 7223 4017

GLASSTRENDS

BESPOKE FRAMELESS GLASS Shower - Steam - Sauna Tel: 0207 223 4017 www.glasstrends.co.uk

LUXURY B ATHROOM GUIDE

Beautiful Bathrooms Stow Tall Boy

Chester Double

Stow Tall Boy Combining a cool and contemporary aesthetic with a tall and sharp shape, our Stow Bathroom Tallboy is a smart storage centre ideal for bathrooms or even hallways. The unit’s two central shelves offer a wonderful opportunity to display fancy toiletries and candles, whilst two large cupboards, top and bottom, are convenient for hiding unsightly bathroom clutter. A compact drawer is handy for storing smaller items, such as cotton buds and makeup. Easy to slot into small spaces, wherever you choose to place the Tallboy it’s guaranteed to add a fresh and modern angle. www.noaandnani.co.uk

CHESTER DOUBLE The Chester vanity proves that practicality and elegance can co-exist within one considered design.

Ample storage is achieved with a large open shelf.

Vanity includes; base unit painted in moher, carrara stone & basin(s) as standard. Taps, knobs, mirrors &

River Thames Bathroom Suite, Vintage Reclaimed Wood Furniture

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Knightsbridge Bath

lights all sold separately. www.porterbathroom.com

Knightsbridge Bath Luxury twin skinned double ended freestanding bath with a matt aluminium finish. www.frontlinebathrooms.co.uk

“The Chester vanity proves that practicality and elegance can co-exist within one considered design” River Thames Bathroom Suite, Vintage Reclaimed Wood Furniture This eye-catching reclaimed wood bathroom suite is available with sink vanity, Wall cabinet, Tall dresser and mirror and drawer cabinet, its constructed from reclaimed oak and teak timber used from old boat wood. This is a solid reclaimed with planks from Eco friendly boat wood. The battered look offers a vintage style, whilst the modern day design is built to perfection with original, unique patina. The recycled wood we use is from vintage shipping boats in Bali - its eco-friendly, looks fantastic, and also helps to reduce the carbon footprint associated with tree-felling and deforestation. Smither’s bathroom Units are handcrafted, offers a good amount of storage, is totally unique thanks to its repurposed materials and will add bags of retro charm to your bathroom. Sporting traditional, vintage mid century panels, the cabinet is an intense and solid design that compliments many other pieces in this range, resulting in an absolutely stunning bathroom suite. www.smithersofstamford.com

FINISHING TOUCHES: Curve Display Shelf Adeluxe range of bathroom furniture crafted from a unique mixture of Quartz and Limestone and a premium matt finish. Choose from the Bath Companion, Cube, Display Shelf and Display Unit – all designed with simple yet sleek curves to elegantly frame your accessories. www.watersbaths.co.uk

Organic Cotton Bath Mat A delightfully luxurious waffle weave bath mat designed to complement a modern, minimal bathroom scheme, whilst still bringing softness and comfort.

The mat can easily be hung from the integral strap. www.whiteblackgrey.co.uk

At Kallums Bathrooms we showcase only the highest quality luxury boutique bathrooms.

High end brands include Villeroy & Boch, Catalano, Victoria & Albert, Hansgrohe, Bisque and Imperial.

Our bathrooms possess excellent design quality, style and sophistication with practical solutions, ranging from modern to traditional. If you are looking for contemporary, period or something completely different, you are sure to find your dream bathroom in our state-of-the-art showroom. We also have a range of beautiful natural stone on display, including nero marquina, calacatta, black and gold marble, and carrara.

As an independent company, you will receive a personal, one-to-one, hassle-free service.

Come and have a chat with us, whatever it is that you’re looking for, we can meet your needs and requirements with prices that can’t be beaten. And with our four-day delivery service, you will have your new luxury bathroom in no time by taking advantage of our efficient installation service.

For more information visit www.kallumsbathrooms.co.uk or call 0203 620 2076 email enquiries@kallumsbathrooms.co.uk 100 Lower Richmond Rd, London, SW15 1LN

KALLUMS Bathrooms

Weekdays & Sat: 9:30am – 6.30pm Sunday: Closed

t: 020 3544 4002 e: sales@ajp-bathrooms.co.uk w:t:www.ajp-bathrooms.co.uk 020 3544 4002

e: sales@ajp-bathrooms.co.uk w: www.ajp-bathrooms.co.uk

LUXURY B ATHROOM GUIDE

A bathroom crafted

around your lifestyle

I

magine experiencing a bathroom that has been handcrafted around your lifestyle. A bespoke bathroom isn’t just an investment in your property. Its an investment in lifestyle to create the perfect space for you and your family to relax.

Amberth is a bespoke Interior Design company based in the heart of London, who specialises in bespoke bathrooms, kitchens, and interiors.

Over 10 years, they have established an unrivaled reputation for designing, supplying and installing exquisite bathrooms for their clients. To guarantee the bathroom is a perfect fit they will take their time to understand your lifestyle, as well as your personal preferences to design and decor. As every bathroom is unique in size and shape, Amberth only design and make custom sized bathroom cabinets. Every cabinet in the room will be made just for you.

Their team of specialists will take on your project from initial concept through to completion, whilst project managing the entire process for a truly stress-free experience. You can start by heading to the studio for a complimentary consultation, where their designer will showcase two to three 3D visuals designs in response to your requirements and preferences. Being consultative in nature, means they are more than happy to tweak and

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refine the design to ensure complete satisfaction.

Once you have approved the design, a detailed space assessment is taken at the property to give the designers and project manager an accurate visualisation of the bathroom space. This is followed up with a site survey where measurements and photographs are taken.

Exclusive access to an array of high-quality suppliers globally means a complete specialist design, finish or look, can be achieved with ease.

Their dedicated team of designers works closely beside a project manager to produce high standard designs with top quality finishes. Every bathroom makeover has been approached with a dynamic embrace of contemporary and traditional design techniques, in order to create an exquisite space you are bound to fall in love with. Amberth is a familyrun business, so they pride themselves on building long-lasting relationships with their clients, and this has led to more work from the recommendations made.

Next time you are in Islington feel free to pop into the studio for a coffee; there is always someone on hand to help.

You can contact Amberth by telephone 020 7354 8958; or head to their website www.amberth.co.uk

“My bathroom was carried out to a high standard and problems were dealt with swiftly.

They were also very helpful during the design process and offered ideas when needed but were happy to accommodate my requests” – Tom from Downs Road, London

#wherelifemeetsstyle

Bathrooms Kitchens Interiors

We create unique bathrooms and kitchens with your lifestyle in mind

020 7354 8958

studio@amberth.co.uk

www.amberth.co.uk

LUXURY B ATHROOM GUIDE

New Integra Designed for All Bathrooms Designed to suit every size and style of bathroom, VitrA’s new Integra collection is a one-for-all addition that will be part of the VitrA Signature Collection.

T

he Integra range really does meet every need and has something for both domestic and commercial settings.

Basins are available in vanity options (as pictured) in sizes 45-65cm as well as standard models. Offering both a simple, elegant circular and square basin design with depths of 185mm and in sizes to suit cloakrooms, family bathrooms and commercial use. The vanity unit basin offers generous space either side of the bowl area to store essential bathroom items. There is also a double bowl option.

“The choice of basin shapes combined with the two-tone furniture options gives our retailers endless scope for creative design, and the ability to offer their customers choice” comments Marketing Manager Margaret Talbot. “We feel that Integra is one of the most complete collections on the bathroom market. Its simple contemporary style has appeal for everyone from first-home consumers, families, multigenerational households and older

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couples looking to update and futureproof.”

Water saving dual flush WCs are available in wall hung, back to wall and close-coupled designs, all can feature VitrA’s innovative Rim-Ex technology and there is a hidden fixings option. VitrA Rim-Ex WCs are specially designed for easy cleaning. The bowl is rimless so there is nowhere for dirt and limescale to collect.

Furniture has become an essential element in home bathroom design. Integra includes a choice that combines space saving storage with style.

Basin units are available in a single drawer design with coordinating mirror cabinets, that incorporate touch-sensitive lighting, in 60, 80, 100 and 120cm sizes. A choice of wall and tall units, which offer flexible and adaptable storage solutions including a shallow depth for small spaces, add an array of design options. Each piece of furniture comes in a combination of dual colourways: high gloss white/ bamboo, cashmere/metallic walnut, and grey elm/ gritstone (shown) and there are co-ordinating mirror cabinets.

To find your local VitrA retailer visit www.VitrA.co.uk Photography: VitrA Integra 100cm wall hung bathroom vanity unit incorporating hi-gloss white vanity basin shown in grey elm front/ gritstone body. RRP £645. Integra tall wall unit (50cm wide) £494. 100cm, triple door mirror cabinet also in grey elm front/gritstone. £645.

“Furniture has become an essential element in home bathroom design.

Integra includes a choice that combines space saving storage with style”

LUXURY B ATHROOM GUIDE

STUNNING BATHROOMS A

s you can see in the images below the Hurlingham classic bath range is a beautiful option to give any bathroom a stunning look. The Hurlingham Dark Mother of Pearl Chaise Bateau is a copper bath in a stainless steel finish and can be clad in a glamorous array of the mother of pearl squares, having over 10,000 semi precious gems produce a sensational aura. It is an extremely striking floor mounted bateau bath made from copper that has a highly polished nickel plated interior with the hand applied mosaic on the outer bath body. The size is 1730mm x 710mm wide.

The Hurlingham Galleon Bath is an amazing cast iron design and can be produced in a variety of finishes such as painted, fabric, hand polished or leather options. This is a truly classically styled floor mounted , double slipper, roll top bateau bath with a gently sloping skirted plinth.The size is 1675mm x 695mm wide. Visit freestanding-baths.co.uk or call 0208 530 7555.

Depending on the style of the bath, you can choose to have the complete bath, the bath body, the rim or just the plinth covered in a high quality leather or fabric in an array of styles and patterns

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which is cut and stitched by hand. This is then bonded to the bath and treated with a waterproof coating to fully protect the fabrics from water ingress.

Traditional Bathrooms have never been more on trend and Burlington Bathrooms have an extensive range which does not break the budget.

The Hampton shower bath is indeed ticking all the boxes with allowing the home owner to indulge the freestanding bath fantasy with the functionality of showering in some of the most compact bathrooms.

With Olives and Greys ever popular, the range satisfies the current demand..

Visit www.simply-burlingtonbathrooms.co.uk or email sales@theradiatorgallery.com

www.theradiatorgallery.co.uk www.simply-burlingtonbathrooms.co.uk www.freestanding-baths.co.uk

QUOTE OFFER19

140 Hermon Hill South Woodford London, E18 1QH 0208 530 7555

5-7 Coptfold Road Brentwood Essex, CM14 4BN 01277 233378

S hower with love

LUXURY B ATHROOM GUIDE

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I

Stepping under a cascading shower can be one of the most luxurious feelings in the world. But turning the shower on to be greeted with a pathetic little trickle can be one of the most frustrating and disappointing experiences! words: sam wylie-harris

ndeed, the power of a good shower should not be underestimated. So much more than a means of getting clean, the right one can encourage us to break into a chorus of Singin’ In The Rain, awaken the senses and leave us invigorated and ready to face the demands of the day. Nearly 90% of UK households, according to AMA Research (www. amaresearch.co.uk), have at least one shower in their home, and with demand for super-stylish systems continuing to grow, leading bathroom specialists now offer an array of solutions for both traditional and contemporary interiors.

“The bathroom continues to be a key element of our homes, playing a much greater role beyond that of its traditional function as just another part of the daily routine,” says Robin Levien, international designer at Ideal Standard. “It has become both multi-purpose and multi-functional, an oasis of escapism and relaxation. A place for reinvigoration, transformation and even somewhere to pose, ponder and play.”

Dreaming of a shower upgrade? The first stage in the planning process is to address a number of key issues, such as water pressure, the fabric of the building and ceiling height. “ The most important thing is to ensure you choose a shower system that’s compatible with your water supply, to make sure you have sufficient water pressure to give optimal showering experience,” notes Joe Stephens, product designer at Roper Rhodes. Once the practical points have been addressed, you can drench yourself in the fun bits...

Dark Depths Style and ambience can make a big difference in a bathroom; an uncluttered spa style, and chic, minimal designs are ever-popular. And while lighter colour schemes may be most traditionally associated with this part of the home, don’t rule out moody hues, which can work especially well. “There is a trend for using dark colours on the walls and floor, which with good lighting, can actually make a small

space seem bigger, as well as delivering a boutique hotel feel,” says Levien. Think different shades of greys, particularly darker tones, which are very on trend and great for creating a tranquil feel of luxury and relaxation.

Wet & wild Oversized shower heads can - literally - wash our woes away and make us feel like we’re in Club Tropicana. Large, 300mm shower heads, which can be ceiling-mounted for a dramatic effect, are perfect for this as they create a cascading rain shower effect. Diverter valves are very popular, as they give the ability to switch the flow of water between two or even three different outlets, such as the main overhead shower, a handset and a bath filler.

Thermostatic shower valves are another popular choice, particularly for families, as they are safe and easy to use.

Show-stopping ceiling-fed shower heads are a huge trend, because they look great, and they provide a really luxurious showering experience.

‘Wow’ shower head features, such as waterfall settings and LED mood lighting, which create a sense of total relaxation are also hot this year.

The Wow Factor When space is at a minimum, often it’s all about finding inventive and user-friendly ways of fitting in the essentials - but those lucky enough to have lots of bathroom space to play with can tap into trends on a larger scale. Bathrooms are moving from the functional into the decadent. Colour, texture, shape and size have moved from being ‘safe’ to almost stretching the boundaries of good taste. There has never been so much choice and product variation, and trends are very fast moving.

Giving a traditional bathroom an up-to-date facelift, you could remove the bath and replace it with a large format slim tray and wet room. This totally transforms both the look, life and function of the bathroom. Think about coloured glass, as this can offer a ‘wow’ factor and also delivers some privacy, if the bathroom is used by more than one person at a time.