Life Magazines (London editions) September 2021

The Grove, London’s Inspiring Country Escape

Consultant Plastic Surgeon

Professional | Approachable | Bespoke

Inspiring Change Chris Abela is an experienced reconstructive and cosmetic surgeon. He has seen a large increase in people actively exploring surgical and non surgical options to address areas of new concern or which have impacted on their self esteem.

Common reasons for looking into surgery include: • Noticing a change in a mole, a new lump or bump, birthmarks on others including children and partners • Mothers who have completed their family and are looking to address abdominal protrusion or lower abdominal skin excess • Excess skin following weight loss • The ‘zoom’ effect with attention drawn to wrinkles, scars, eye-lid bags and jowls Chris prides himself on providing each individual with a professional, bespoke and compassionate approach with a gentle bedside manner and discretion at the heart of every consultation.

He has clinics in Marylebone, Chelsea and Wimbledon and in June 2021, he opened a brand new clinic at 84 Harley Street.

More information is available at www.chrisabela.co.uk

If you have any questions, please contact Chris at info@chrisabela.co.uk or on 0203 545 2990

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

Come to the home of luxury rugs.

LIFE MAGAZINES As summer turns into autumn, The Grove’s breath-taking 300 acres begin their seasonal shift. The leafy driveway is slowly transforming into a golden treelined welcome, the formal gardens are becoming more amber than verdant and the terraces are being prepped for twinkling lights. Inside, the newly-refurbished interiors are revealing cosy nooks, warming fireplaces and a rich colour scheme.

The London neighbourhood of Belgravia, known for its signature florals, will be transformed with a series of beautiful flower installations, unique displays and experiences with the return of Belgravia in Bloom. Celebrating its sixth year, the floral festival coincides with RHS Chelsea Flower Show, which was this year postponed from May to September. This year’s theme will be a ‘Floral Fairground’, inviting visitors to discover Belgravia’s outdoor spectacle and the joy of flowers.

As the Open House Festival returns, the London neighbourhood of Mayfair invites visitors to discover 38 Grosvenor Square. For the first time, the opulent Mayfair town house opens its doors to the public as part of the much-loved citywide celebration of architecture and landscape that sees hundreds of buildings across the capital open for carefully managed visits and tours.

Celebrate the Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games this summer by stepping back in history to 1964 in Japan House London’s new exhibition Tokyo 1964: Designing Tomorrow.

Faye Manning Editor

EDITOR FAYE MANNING EDITORIAL ASSISTANT KATIE MILLER SUB EDITOR NICHOLAS PETER FASHION EDITOR LARA ACCISON DESIGN & PRODUCTION LISA WADE SOCIAL MEDIA PARKER JONES ACCOUNT MANAGERS VANESSA LANE, NICOLA DREW, LISA WESTERMAN ACCOUNTS KATHY MANNING, ANDREE GEORGIOU DIRECTORS RORY SMITH, PATRICK SMITH PUBLISHED BY FISH MEDIA GROUP LTD 0844 800 8439 WWW.THELIFEMAGAZINES.COM © All Rights Reserved. Life Magazines are copyrighted and may not be reproduced in any form either in part or whole without written permission from the publishers. Whilst Fish Media Group Ltd. takes every reasonable precaution, no responsibility can be accepted for any property, services or products offered in these publications and any loss arising therefrom. Whilst every care is taken with all materials submitted to Life Magazines, the publisher cannot accept any responsibility for the loss or damage to such material. Fish Media Group Ltd. reserves the right to reject or accept any advertisement, article or material prior to publication. Opinions expressed are strictly those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views or policies of Fish Media Group Ltd. We accept no liability for any mistakes and no responsibility can be taken for the content of these pages.

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Excitement on Tap

Autumn Racing Weekend and Ascot Beer Festival Friday 1st and Saturday 2nd October 2021 Ascot’s penultimate Flat meeting of the season features two days of competitive racing, including the UK’s most valuable seven-furlong handicap, the £125,000 Challenge Cup, on the Saturday.

Off the track, racegoers are in for a further treat with BBQ enthusiasts from the acclaimed Smoke & Fire Festival featuring Deep South American style BBQ food.

To make sure this event truly has something for everyone Ascot’s Official Wine Supplier Hallgarten & Novum will be hosting a brandnew wine tasting bar in the Grandstand offering the chance to sample a wide selection of red, white or rose wines between races while live music on the lawns rounds off the day.

Thrilling racing, an outstanding selection of beers and wines and a mouth-watering BBQ feast combine to guarantee excitement on tap, and a seriously tasty start to a memorable weekend at Ascot.

Queen Anne Enclosure tickets from £20 and King Edward VII Enclosure tickets from £27 per person with discounts available for groups of 10 or more.

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et your weekend off to a great start by combining top-class Flat racing and a wide selection of real ales, ciders and perries to enjoy at the Ascot Beer Festival in association with CAMRA (Campaign for Real Ale)…

This hugely popular annual event returns to Ascot Racecourse for 2021 to transform the Grandstand Concourse into an avenue of British-brewed beers from CAMRA’s impressive roster of breweries.

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Covid-19 Reassurance With summer 2021 back on track and Ascot having such extensive outdoor spaces on offer, the racecourse has put additional measures in place to reassure customers and provide a safe environment for all racegoers.

To book tickets or for further information, please call 0344 346 3000 or visit ascot.co.uk.

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Belgravia in Bloom returns for RHS Chelsea Flower Show From 20-26 September 2021

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he London neighbourhood of Belgravia, known for its signature florals, will be transformed with a series of beautiful flower installations, unique displays and experiences with the return of Belgravia in Bloom. Celebrating its sixth year, the floral festival coincides with RHS Chelsea Flower Show, which was this year postponed from May to September. This year’s theme will be a ‘Floral Fairground’, inviting visitors to discover Belgravia’s outdoor spectacle and the joy of flowers.

Belgravia’s renowned, luxury florists will collaborate to create bespoke installations exclusively for Belgravia in Bloom. In Eccleston Yards, Moyses Stevens will unveil a spiralling Helter Skelter tower of colourful flowers, and in Halkin Arcade, an eye-catching floral carousel by Neill Strain and Judith Blacklock complete with spectacular fairground horses.

Further installations around the neighbourhood will include a floral Punch & Judy on Kinnerton Mews by Judith Blacklock, a botanical takeover of the Mocomb Street phone box by Neill Strain and a delightful hook-a-duck by Moyses Stevens on Elizabeth Street.

Brand new for the 2021 festival, Belgravia in Bloom will be brought to life via augmented reality, offering visitors the chance to explore an interactive map of the neighbourhood. The immersive AR experience will also include a floral themed Instagram filter.

Elizabeth Street, Motcomb Street, Pimlico Road and Eccleston Yards will be blooming with unique displays and floral themed promotions, products, dishes and experiences at the neighbourhood’s

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leading boutiques and landmark restaurants, with more details to be announced shortly.

Floral couturier, Neill Strain says: “As London comes alive with the cities passion for flowers for the Chelsea Flower Show, Belgravia in Bloom gives the local community their own opportunity to celebrate this iconic event in the floral calendar.

With the difficulties everybody has faced over the past year, the Floral Fairground theme will inject a sense of fun and child-like flair into Belgravia.

I am working closely with the other florists in the area to create some spectacular floral designs, to ensure this theme comes to life in the most innovative of ways!”

To discover more about Belgravia in Bloom, visit belgravialdn.com or follow @Belgravia_ LDN on Instagram.

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Discover the Open House Festival in Mayfair Until 12th September 2021

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s the Open House Festival returns, the London neighbourhood of Mayfair invites visitors to discover 38 Grosvenor Square. For the first time, the opulent Mayfair town house opens its doors to the public as part of the much-loved citywide celebration of architecture and landscape that sees hundreds of buildings across the capital open for carefully managed visits and tours.

During the Open House Festival, tours of 38 Grosvenor Square are hosted by former magazine and newspaper designer, David Thompson. A qualified London Blue Badge Guide and former City of London Guide, David specialises in architecture themed tours and lectures in the History of English Architecture. During the 50-minute tours, David is on hand to reveal the heritage and history of one of Mayfair’s most decadent and sought-after buildings.

Built in 1727 and transformed in 1776 by John Johnson for the Duke of Dorset, 38 Grosvenor Square is one of three original town houses located in Grosvenor Square. Highlights include discovering the four main event rooms, with multiple breakout rooms, the beautiful private courtyard and the elegant staircase - intended to evoke a sense of opulence and dazzle visitors.

Original features remain still, with fireplaces 24 SEPTEMBER 2021

flanked by sculpted marble figures emblematic of Music and Drama and ceiling artwork featuring painted images of Jupiter and Juno. With floor-toceiling windows and pristine white walls, this house continues to evoke status, wealth and culture.

The town house was part of the development of 51 terraced houses around Grosvenor Square and commissioned by Sir Richard Grosvenor in the eighteenth century.

From the eighteenth century to today, Mayfair has always been world class and welcoming, renowned as one of the most desirable places to live, shop and socialise, with world-class history and architecture. Uniquely London – yet a world away from the mildly chaotic hustle of the city just a few moments away. With international and British born fashion boutiques, Michelin-starred restaurants, and some of the capital’s most prestigious luxury hotels, seamlessly blending with street-side cafés and alfresco coffee houses, wellness and fitness hubs, galleries and Europeanstyle wine bars. Mayfair, London has something for every visitor.

To find out more about the London Open House Festival in Mayfair, visit mayfairldn.com and follow @mayfair_ldn on Instagram.

“From the eighteenth century to today, Mayfair has always been world class and welcoming, renowned as one of the most desirable places to live, shop and socialise”

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BELLMANS AUCTIONEERS Highlights in Asian Art

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s one of the UK’s leading regional auction houses, Bellmans holds specialist auctions as well as regular Home Interiors auctions, featuring sales of both Asian and European ceramics, silver, pictures and prints, jewellery, wristwatches and works of art. Each auction includes a wide range of remarkable items, with something to appeal to all, bringing a mouth-watering variety of treasures, consigned from Sussex, Surrey, Hampshire, London, the Home Counties and further afield.

Bellmans has seen the Asian Art market flourish in recent months as demonstrated by the strong results from August’s specialist auction. A Chinese hardwood altar table sold for £278,080* with phone bidders from Hong Kong and China battling it out with the eventual successful bid from the mainland. Made from Huanghuali wood, the table is likely to have been an Imperial Commission and as such a desirable piece Chinese collectors would covet.

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The table had been part of the local vendor’s family collection for many years. Philip Belcher, Senior Executive Director of Bellmans comments: “The vendor is absolutely thrilled by the rather unexpected result. The table had been an heirloom, but it had never been pointed out to him that it may be of particular importance. The ever-growing market in Chinese Antiques means that regional auction houses are still in the position to bring completely fresh objects from local British collectors to the world market.”

Other highlights included a Chinese blue and white YenYen vase which sold for £12,640* against an estimate of £2,000 - £3,000, a pair of Chinese blue and white ‘Three Friends’ bowls, estimated at £1,000 - £2,000, sold for £6,067* and a Chinese blue-ground robe with nine silvercoloured dragons set amid cloud scrolls, sold to a telephone bidder in China for £2,149* against an estimate of £1,000 - £1,500.

Bellmans’ regular auctions continue to see exceptional results and increasing numbers of registrations, indicating the strength and competitiveness of the current market, making it the perfect time to sell. Bellmans are actively welcoming consignments and offer complimentary valuations at both West Sussex and Mayfair location. Visit Bellmans’ website to find out more, subscribe to regular auction alerts or simply to browse and bid in Bellmans’ next auctions online at your leisure. *(including buyer’s premium) bellmans.co.uk

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SHAKESPEARE’S GLOBE

BEGINS ITS FIRST EVER NEIGHBOURHOOD TOUR

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hakespeare’s Globe first ever neighbourhood tour is underway, offering free performances to local community organisations in London.

Globe on Tour, which normally takes three productions across the UK and beyond, this year stays in London, partnering with local schools, community organisations and charities who are providing free tickets to their invited audience in the Globe’s home borough of Southwark and across the city.

These include, the Kensington + Chelsea Festival (which are inviting audiences from Grenfell Foundation and Outside Edge Theatre Company), Mental Fight Club (a charity founded, led, and delivered by people with mental health experience), Every One Every Day (a community support organisation in Barking & Dagenham) and Compass Collective (a non-profit theatre company

who are working together with the Red Cross and Refugee Youth to invite young refugees and asylum seekers).

Directed by Brendan O’Hea, the company of eight actors will perform their trio of plays – A Midsummer Night’s Dream, As You Like It and The Tempest – including some thrilling ‘Audience Choice’ performances, where the audience decides which show will be performed on that night.

Michelle Terry, Artist Director of Shakespeare’s Globe, said: “As we continue to navigate our way through these uncharted waters, we have to find ways to get to the many people who can’t get to us.

We’re thrilled that in these most challenging and lonely of times, we’re able to meet some of our closest neighbours and share time, space and these incredible stories with them.”

The full Globe on Tour cast comprises; Stephenson Ardern-Sodje, Tom Chapman, Anna Crichlow, Mark Desebrock, Emma Ernest, Colm Gormley, Sara Lessore and Katy Secombe.

Directed by Brendan O’Hea with Associate Director, Vanessa-Faye Stanley, Andrew D Edwards (Designer), Catherine Jayes (Composer) and Globe Associate Artist Sian Williams (Choreographer).

Confirmed venues so far include: • Ark Globe - Monday 13 September • Borough Academy - Friday 24 September • Mental Fight Club - Monday 4 October • Every One Every Day - Saturday 16 October • Compass Collective - Date TBC

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THE DETAILS More venues and dates are to be announced via the website and partnering organisations.

Please note: Tickets for Globe on Tour are only available to invited audiences via partnered venues, other charities, and community groups offering free tickets. shakespearesglobe.com

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Undercover Luxury Strongman Lifts sales@strongmanlifts.co.uk T: 0330 2233311 Strongman Lifts will be exhibiting at the CLASSIC CAR MOTOR SHOW 12-14 November 2021 NEC- Birmingham

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arking has been an issue in towns for years now, and certainly not getting better, and whatever happens, we all know it’s going to get more expensive!

Do we abandon our safe and trusted cars, get out bicycle clips, queue in the rain for the bus, or walk to the tube? Even if we go down that route, we’ll still need our cars for work, appointments, shopping and trips out visiting friends and family.

A dilemma: where to park the families’ cars?

This is where the clever people at Strongman Lifts can help out. They’ve been specialising in all sorts of different car parking solutions for 15 years, providing results to thousands of customers across the country, including Jaguar Land-Rover, Red Bull, and domestic homes, installing thousands of lifts, from monsters to micros.

They can’t manufacture space but get close.

Their years of experience of making the most of all available space to deliver maximum parking spaces presenting a bespoke service - ‘From inception with CAD drawings to completion package’, all in-house as well as aftercare service too.

Interested? What next? If you’ve got garage space, then in all probability you may be able to double or triple the space available.

If you don’t have sufficient headroom there are ways to simply convert garages to accommodate an extra vehicle or two, with opportunities go either

up or down or both!

Areas around the house too can be converted to park cars underground, and Strongman have options to park anything from an extra one to multiple cars underground.

Security considerations. Having your cars stored away in your garage or underground parking gives peace of mind knowing your vehicles are safe from theft of vandalism.

Whether it’s your everyday cars, or prized classic or super car, Strongman have the knowhow to deliver a storage solution and package for you.

Need to know more? ... website, email or better still give the guys at Strongman a call.

UNDERCOVER LUXURY Bespoke Parking Solutions

We design and install much-needed extra space for your luxury cars Keeping your vehicles safe and in mint condition A Complete Residential and Commercial Service from Start to Finish After Sales Maintenance

Contact the specialists to discuss your requirements visit www.strongmanlifts.co.uk For product enquiries: sales@strongmanlifts.co.uk For general enquiries: info@strongmanlifts.co.uk For all other enquiries, please call 0330 2233311

COVER STORY

Autumn at The Grove A

s summer turns into autumn, The Grove’s breath-taking 300 acres begin their seasonal shift. The leafy driveway is slowly transforming into a golden tree-lined welcome, the formal gardens are becoming more amber than verdant and – dare we say it - the terraces are being prepped for twinkling lights. Inside, the newly-refurbished interiors are revealing cosy nooks, warming fireplaces and a rich colour scheme.

Masterminded by Martin Hulbert Design, the refurbishments began with the reimagining

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of The Glasshouse restaurant in 2019 and have continued ever since, injecting a new lease of life into the whole hotel. With contemporary interiors featuring kinetic sculptures overhead and a new crittall-style orangery, The Glasshouse promises an international theatrical feast. This autumn and winter, the outdoor fire pit will make the perfect spot to cosy up under a blanket, cocktail in hand.

Just a short stroll across the terrace, the Lounges

have also been given a new look. As you step through from room to room, the interiors move from rich blue to comforting neutrals, ending with the wonderfully bold library. Each space boasts bespoke artwork and even some re-upholstered furniture, as a nod to the previous chapter in the hotel’s history. At the other end of the property, the warm and welcoming The Stables restaurant and bar has also had a design refresh, along with a new dining ethos. Taking a step beyond organic, regenerative agriculture is placed firmly at the centre of The Stables narrative – it’s all about small-scale farming as nature intended, resulting in nutrient-rich dishes that are as delicious as they are sustainable.

The largest part of the refurbishment is in the West Wing, where the bedrooms have been completely reimagined with luxurious modern touches and a scheme to reflect the rolling English countryside on their doorstep. There are two different colour schemes: one is a fresh green and the other a warm sepia, inspired by the British seasons. Bespoke, handwoven wall hangings sourced from Italy sit above king size beds, while soft velvet furnishings offer luxurious comfort and

“This autumn and winter, the outdoor fire pit will make the perfect spot to cosy up under a blanket, cocktail in hand” the ideal setting in which to unwind with a spot of Netflix after a day spent exploring the grounds.

Guests that visit The Grove this year will also discover the results of an extensive project outside too. As well a 200m2 extension to the putting green, all 90 bunkers on the 18 hole championship golf course have been renovated.

Elsewhere, Asher’s Woodland Trails have had a huge transformation, with a new archery area, new musical instruments and all manner of flora and fauna to marvel at when walking, cycling or onboard a Segway. thegrove.co.uk SEPTEMBER 2021 33

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PETROLHEADONISM LIVE LAUNCHES ULTIMATE FAMILY SHOW FOR PETROLHEADS AT KNEBWORTH HOUSE

10,000 people will be brought together in this celebration of all things Supercars, Classics, Americana, Highly Modified and more. Attractions include the Hypercar Enclosure showcasing a selection of exclusive cars worth over £50 million, the Lewis Hamilton Petronas Formula One Simulator, Superbike enclosure, Dream Rides, and special Guest of Honour, Richard Rawlings (Gas Monkey Garage / Fast ‘n’ Loud TV), who makes his UK automotive event debut.

Petrolheadonism Live is the brand new, ultimate celebration of all things automotive. The huge two-day family event, set in the beautiful grounds of Knebworth House in Stevenage on Saturday 18th and Sunday 19th September, will welcome up to 10,000 people per day and bring over 1,000 cars together, including Supercars, Classics, Americana, Highly Modified and much more. Guests will be awestruck at the Hypercar Enclosure with the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see a stunning selection of exclusive, cutting-edge cars worth over £50 million. With special guests including Guest of Honour, Richard Rawlings (owner of Gas Monkey Garage and star of Discovery’s Fast

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‘n’ Loud TV show) flying in from the USA for his first ever UK automotive event, the Lewis Hamilton Petronas Formula One Simulator, the Superbike enclosure, free entry to Knebworth’s adventure playground, and a host of other entertainment, this is an unmissable weekend for petrol heads and their families.

Petrolheadonism Live has well over 50 car clubs already confirmed to attend. Enthusiasts will be able to engage with car owners to learn more about the incredible array of classics and modern classics on show. Then the Hypercar Enclosure awaits, featuring cars such as the Koenegsigg Regera worth £3.5m, the Mercedes 300SL Gullwing worth £4m, and the Ferrari F50 worth £1.65m to name but a few. Totaling over a staggering £50m of unforgettable, breath-taking cars, the Hypercar Enclosure presented by Zach’s Garage is a true highlight of the Petrolheadonism Live weekend.

The Main Arena will provide entertainment throughout the event and hosts the ‘Petrolheadonism Elite 2021’ competition. Richard Rawlings will be on stage each day and will also judge the competition as seven incredible cars from seven different classes parade across the catwalk each day giving guests the chance to check out these elite cars up close.

EVENT DETAILS PETROLHEDONISM Live Knebworth House, Old Knebworth Lane, Stevenage, SG1 2AX Saturday 18th – Sunday 19th September 11am-5pm Tickets: Adult Two Day £39.50 + bf Kids £15 + bf Adult One Day £25 Kids One Day £11.50 + bf petrolheadonism.club/ petrolheadonism-live facebook.com/ Petrolheadonism instagram.com/ petrolheadonism.club

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The Rolling Stones Store CARNABY STREET, SOHO

Image: Claude Gassianc

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s the music world and fans across the globe mourn the sad passing of legendary drummer Charlie Watts (2 June 1941 – 24 August 2021) we bring you RS No.9 Carnaby – The Rolling Stones world-first flagship store on London’s famous Carnaby Street.

RS No.9 is a fully immersive experience, featuring exclusive collaborations, official merchandise, limited editions and one-of-a-kind pieces alongside the band’s classic records and latest music releases. One for super fans are the 10 limited edition signed and numbered framed artworks by John Pasche, the original creator of the iconic Rolling Stones logo, which was first used on the Sticky Fingers LP in 1971.

The store’s windows feature a world first soundwave installation – taken from the opening to the 1966 hit track ‘Paint It Black’. The audio of the beginning of the iconic song is visualised as a soundwave and reinterpreted into a striking red metal sculpture. Sound, vision, and lighting are key store components. Inside the shop, fans will discover many of the band’s lyrics displayed across the glass floor, while the fitting rooms are adorned with the artwork from the band’s albums ‘Exile on Main Street’ (1972) and ‘Some Girls’ (1978).

Five, 90 inch portrait screens display a film made exclusively for the store showing footage across the rich history of the band. The store also 36 SEPTEMBER 2021

features a bespoke T-shirt customisation station – choose from an array of exclusive designs on the touch screen menu to create something unique.

The Rolling Stones said at the time of opening in 2020: “Soho has always encapsulated Rock ’n’ Roll so Carnaby Street was the perfect spot for our own store. We are confident this exciting project will be an unrivalled experience for everyone to come to London and enjoy.”

Items are also available to purchase online to any fans who can’t visit the store in person.

Make sure to follow the store’s official Instagram @rollingstonescarnaby for updates carnaby.therollingstonesshop.co.uk #RSNo9

“Soho has always encapsulated Rock ’n’ Roll so Carnaby Street was the perfect spot for our own store”

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READER OFFER: SAVE

20%

Gorgeous gifts from Adagio A

THE DETAILS adagiolondon.co.uk Get in touch hello@adagiolondon.co.uk +44 (0)203 963 5388(Office) +44 (0)1244 399 500(Warehouse) Facebook: facebook.com/AdagioLondon Twitter: @adagiolondon Instagram: @adagiolondon 38 SEPTEMBER 2021

dagio London is a UK leader in luxury online lifestyle and gift retailing. They provide a range of beautiful items from unique and innovative brands.

With Head Office in Covent Garden, London, they have a commitment to ethical trading, and whenever possible source their stock in the UK, cutting their carbon footprint whilst still focusing on the luxury goods market.

Their men’s gift is a diverse range of curated products and for the hirsute male all manner of beard, moustache oils, balms and lotions suitably presented in vintage packaging. Cufflinks by Simon Carter, traditional or quirky but always stylish.

Italian leather teamed with British craftsmanship in wash bags, satchels, belts and wallets.

The Scarves on the Adagio website are of natural fibre but predominately of Silk, a myriad of designs and colours, modern and classic, Liberty Silk and William Morris amongst the designs on offer.

The Jewellery collection of earrings, necklaces and pendants range from precious metals to costume pieces. “Inspired by Art” celebrates great artists across the ages. Da Vinci, Klimt, Van Gogh, Kandinsky and Picasso. For aficionados of Danish

Design renowned for their edgy, unusual, chunky or delicate pieces, Dansk Copenhagen delivers.

Many of the jewellery pieces are matching sets.

Many types of games are available. From Jigsaw Puzzles, where they have one of the biggest and best selection in the UK, classic and family games including all the family favourites Chess, Backgammon, Dominos, Scrabble, Wembley and Sherlock Holmes to the television favourites The Chase, Millionaire, Popmaster, Catchphrase, University Challenge to name but a few. For those who like dexterity to their challenge, the brain teaser range is for you.

A great selection of greetings cards is available and for all occasions from humorous to serious, congratulations to commiserations, love to loss, from 18 year old to 100 years old birthdays, from anniversary to religious and cultural events. A choice of vintage to contemporary and art to artists.

To wrap it up their selection of luxury wrapping paper, gift bags, ribbons and bows add that finishing touch.

Shop online with them and until the 30th September get 20% saving on any order. Use the code MYLIFEMAG21 at checkout.

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London Transport Museum Depot

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or four days only from Thursday 23 to Sunday 26 September, London Transport Museum will be opening its doors to their Museum Depot in Acton, west London, for visitors to get a get a chance to see and explore over 320,000 objects in the Museum’s collection showcasing the Capital’s transport history.

The theme for this autumn opening is ‘Underground Uncovered’ exploring the often

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THE DETAILS For more information and to book a ticket visit please visit the Museum’s website: ltmuseum.co.uk/whats-on/ underground-uncovered

hidden history of the Underground network.

Visitors will be treated to a jam-packed programme of mini-talks and vintage vehicle displays, as well as a whole host of fun activities for all the family. Whether you fancy attending a talk about topics including art and poster history or station architecture, taking to the driver’s seat in a Victoria Line driving cab or exploring rare historic vehicles, there is plenty to keep you entertained.

For families, join the team for special make and take activity sessions where you can create your very own mosaic-style tile using collage and recycled material, or take part in interactive storytelling for under 5s about the Depot’s unique Milk van. Please check the Museum’s website for specific event times. Plus, a visit to the Depot wouldn’t be complete without a ride on the London Transport Miniature Railway!

During the day, make sure to stop by the London Transport Museum shop, packed full of stylish gifts including original signs, moquette Tube fabric and other authentic items for sale all at bargain prices and take a world deserved pitstop with a hot drink and cake at the Mini Bean speciality coffee bar.

Timed tickets to visit the Depot must be booked in advance online. Adult tickets cost £15 and tickets for children cost £7.50. Kids aged 3 and under go free. Concession rates are also available.

Local residents living in Ealing, Hounslow or Hillingdon can take advantage of reduced residents rate tickets - £10 for adult and £5 for children.

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Bond Street chief chocolatier reveals Queen’s favourite treat

By Alex Green

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he Queen’s favourite chocolates are the floral creams made by Charbonnel et Walker, according to the firm’s chief chocolatier.

Adam Lee said the monarch had “very floral tastes” and held a list with the company of her preferred treats.

He appears on Billion Pound Bond Street, which airs on ITV on Thursday night, in which cameras go behind the scenes in the exclusive London shopping area to see how high-end businesses are surviving during the pandemic.

Mr Lee said: “The Queen does have a list of favourite chocolates with us. But I’m not allowed to divulge that directly to you.

“However, I can just say that she has very floral tastes, which may become evident if we look at the chocolates a little bit later… but maybe we should start with our two most popular chocolates, which are rose and violet creams. I never said a word, never said a word.”

Charbonnel et Walker, where a box of

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chocolates can cost up to £280, opened in Bond Street in 1875 when Edward VII asked his favourite chocolate maker Madame Charbonnel to move from Paris to London.

It is one of the few chocolatiers to hold a Royal Warrant to the Queen, which allows the company to display the royal coat of arms alongside its own logo.

Mr Lee said: “King Edward VII, who is our current Queen’s great-grandfather … his favourite chocolate was made by Madam Charbonnel in Paris, and he persuaded her to come over here.”

He added: “We are so lucky to have Her Majesty’s Royal Warrant. We have lots of pictures of the Queen and the royal family around the shop, they were given to us by the palace.”

The ITV show, narrated by actress Jenna Coleman and directed by Michael Waldman, also features footage from inside luxury fashion brand Dior, jewellers Boodles and auction house Bonhams.

Billion Pound Bond Street is produced by Finestripe Productions for ITV and ITV Hub.

“It is one of the few chocolatiers to hold a Royal Warrant to the Queen, which allows the company to display the royal coat of arms alongside its own logo”

THE ULTIMATE E-RACING EXPERIENCE! Strap yourself in… get revved up and brace yourself for the test drive of your life!

Race Sim offer different simulators that meet the needs of those whose tastes range from weekend performance driving to amateur racing and even professional racing.

Whether you’re a professional driver, a pilot earning your wings, or a gamer looking for a more immersive way to play…

TAKE A LOOK AT OUR EXCITING RANGE OF RACING SIMULATORS WWW.RACESIM.UK Our Showroom is open to appointment visits only, please call or email to arrange a visit.

Race Sim Ltd. 120 Woodgrange Road, London, E7 0EW Tel: 0333 366 0 911 • hello@racesim.uk

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The Legacy of Japan’s first Olympic and Paralympic Games in 1964, exhibiting now at

Japan House London

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elebrate the Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games this summer by stepping back in history to 1964 in Japan House London’s new exhibition Tokyo 1964: Designing Tomorrow.

Just twenty years after the end of the Second World War, Japan became the first country in Asia to host the Games. Using this opportunity to mark the country’s recovery and catapult Japan onto the global scene, eminent designers, architects and engineers from across Japan pioneered a new kind of Olympic and Paralympic Games – a legacy that can still be seen today.

From the Games’ first ever use of pictograms, made to accommodate non-Japanese speakers with the world’s first emoji, to the soaring architecture and world-leading infrastructure that kickstarted Tokyo’s climb to the skies after the destruction of war, the Games helped project 1964 Japan into tomorrow’s world.

Japan House London’s exhibition Tokyo 1964: Designing Tomorrow delves into the stories behind the individuals and their works which contributed to this legacy. Displaying many objects and paraphernalia from the 1964 Games outside of Japan for the first time, the exhibition showcases the historic, innovative, and artistic collateral created for the Games against the socio-historical context of Tokyo at the time.

Discover more about the launch of Japan’s first shinkansen (bullet train) just ten days before

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the opening ceremony; the first unified design collateral for the Games, including employee uniforms, tickets, posters, and programmes; the world’s first live satellite television broadcast; SEIKO’s stopwatches, the first non-Swiss timekeeping mechanisms used in the Olympics, and the variety of pioneering architecture created.

The exhibition runs from August – November. Book your free visit today on the Japan House London website: japanhouselondon.uk

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Ahoy, sailor!

Balthazar London celebrates ‘Joie De Vivre’ in the heart of Covent Garden this summer with bespoke cocktails and entertainment series

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elebrating the joys of life, Balthazar is delighted to celebrate ‘Joie De Vivre’, bringing a touch of French sophistication and glamour to the heart of Covent Garden. Throughout the months of August and September, guests will be able to enjoy a number of limited-edition cocktails created in collaboration with Grey Goose Vodka and St Germain Elderflower Liqueur, weekly live nautical and cabaret themed entertainment, and a chic popup terrace bar to enjoy on sunnier days. Created by the restaurant’s talented bar team, five limitededition cocktails will bring a dash of delight to diners and can be enjoyed either on the terrace or inside the restaurant. Bespoke tipples include Le Piquant, (£11.00), featuring Grey Goose Vodka, Piment d’Esplette Liqueur, a splash of lemon juice, sugar syrup, Angostura, foam and chilli flakes, Mocha Highball, (£12.00), a combination of Grey Goose Vodka, coffee and chocolate

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liqueur, espresso, Chantilly foam and nutmeg, Grapefruit Negroski, (£12.00), Grey Goose Vodka, Grapefruit Aperitif and sweet vermouth, and the St Germain Spritz, (£16.00), complete with St Germain, soda water and sparkling wine, to name but a few. For those looking for something a little more ‘je ne sais quoi’, Balthazar will be hosting weekly live entertainment on Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings from 8pm, as well as performances from a live jazz trio from 11am – 2pm on Saturday and Sundays. Balthazar London says: “We are overjoyed to be working on such a bright and fun campaign towards the end of summer. We can’t wait to welcome guests into our restaurant and to relax on our wonderful terrace on warmer days.”

To make a reservation, please visit balthazarlondon.com

“Guests will be able to enjoy a number of limited-edition cocktails”

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PULLMAN EDITIONS

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ullman Editions designs, commissions and publishes striking original posters which capture the enduring appeal of Art Deco. Their newly-commissioned posters feature glamorous travel destinations around the world, winter sports in the European Alps, and the world’s greatest historic automobiles on the road and track.

The last few decades have seen enormous growth in the vintage poster market, with prices growing steadily as demand increases for a product with only a finite supply. In the field of vintage Winter Sports posters for example, good posters from the 1920s and 1930s comfortably achieve five-figure sums at auction, with the finest posters reaching as much as £30,000 on the rare occasions they become available, excluding them to all but the wealthiest collectors.

“Their editions combine originality with the quintessential heritage and dramatic imagery of vintage posters” Posters – once described as ‘a visual shout’ – proved an attractive, effective means of promotion and ‘at-a-glance’ display. Poster display was never more inspired than in the Art Deco period when posters, largely produced by Swiss and French railway companies, graced station platforms and billboards to persuade affluent and adventurous travellers to enjoy the newly-fashionable modern luxury travel. The vast majority of these classic 48 SEPTEMBER 2021

posters were destroyed when replaced by other posters - it is the handful of surviving vintage posters that today fetch such dramatic prices.

Pullman Editions’ modern take on these Art Deco classics provide a more affordable way to decorate your home. Evoking memories of holidays and special occasions, their posters also make super original gifts. Having recognised the demand for stylish, decorative yet affordable posters, Pullman Editions is committed to designing and publishing new artworks to provide a modern alternative to the costly original Art Deco posters produced ‘in-period’. Executed by leading poster artists, each with their own unique signature style, their editions combine originality with the quintessential heritage and dramatic imagery of vintage posters.

Available in strictly limited editions of 280, the posters are printed using traditional techniques on the finest quality 100% cotton fine art paper.

They are signed, hand-numbered and bear Pullman Editions’ embossed stamp of authenticity.

Each poster is approximately 97 x 65 cms (38 x 26 inches), and they are supplied unframed in robust tubes, which can be shipped worldwide. A framing service is also offered for personal shoppers at the Chelsea gallery. Priced at £420 each including VAT (unframed), the limited-edition posters may be ordered online at pullmaneditions.com, or collected in person at the gallery near Sloane Square, open 10am until 6pm Tuesday to Friday and between 11am and 5pm on Saturdays.

Please visit pullmaneditions.com to view the current Art Deco poster collections.

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PENN & TELLER

ARRANGED MARRIAGE TO THE WRONG BOYS MAGIC GOES WRONG reappears in London this October, Penn Jilette talks about the initial trepidation and ultimate joy of collaborating with Mischief.

“W

hen I go to the theatre, I want to see long, slow, pretentious, and depressing. My family have different tastes and when in London wanted to see The Comedy About a Bank Robbery. I knew they were going to like it, the shock was that I loved it. Our family sees a lot of theatre together and this was our best experience ever.

The very next week we rushed off together to see The Play that Goes Wrong. I told Teller that he had to see it. He went, loved it and went backstage and met the cast. That’s where Magic Goes Wrong started. The first day of working together we could barely tell Henry from Henry.

Teller and I were referring to them among ourselves as ‘big guy’, ‘little guy’, and ‘other guy’, letting other people into our oblong circle was still kind of a new thing for us and very scary.

“Working with the Wrong Boys has been awe-inspiring joy. I’ve talked music with Bob Dylan. I’ve played in a band with Lou Reed. I’ve done magic with Amazing Randi, Johnny Thompson and Paul Daniels” Fortunately, on the first day of our arranged marriage – we fell in love. I’d like to believe they were on their best behaviour in front of us because they were perfect, and they can’t be that good all the time. They didn’t argue for anything unless they were right. They didn’t shoot down any idea unless it wasn’t wrong in the right way.

We knew they would be funny and smart because we’d seen their shows. We didn’t doubt they were geniuses. The surprise was that they weren’t assholes.

Working with the Wrong Boys has been aweinspiring joy. I’ve talked music with Bob Dylan.

I’ve played in a band with Lou Reed. I’ve done 50 SEPTEMBER 2021

magic with Amazing Randi, Johnny Thompson and Paul Daniels. And now I can add to that list that I’ve done comedy with the Wrong Boys.

To be in the room with that amount of raw skill and inspiration takes one’s breath away. What you won’t see is the sweetness, sanity, hard work and kindness of Shields, Jon and Henry but I promise you that’s even more impressive. I’m proud to say our business partners are now our friends.

Sometimes arranged marriages work out. magicgoeswrong.com

”

“To be in the room with that amount of raw skill and inspiration takes one’s breath away”

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THE GREATEST FLOWER SHOW ON EARTH RETURNS!

RHS CHELSEA FLOWER SHOW 21 - 26 September 2021

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he Royal Horticultural Society (RHS), has announced the garden line-up* for this year’s RHS Chelsea Flower Show sponsored by M&G. A first in its 108year history, the greatest flower show on earth will be held this September.

Following the decision to postpone the RHS Chelsea Flower Show, nurseries and garden

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designers have said they are relishing the unique opportunity to exhibit their work at the one-off autumnal event. Helena Pettit, RHS Director Gardens and Shows said “The change in season for the show will alter the look and feel of many of our exhibits, with designers adapting their plans for the time of year.”

The 2021 Show Gardens will be in full bloom with the very best garden designers showcasing their cutting-edge design and ideas with inspiration, colour and innovation.

These include: • The Florence Nightingale Garden - A Celebration of Modern Day Nursing - designed

by Robert Myers, it shines a light on the critical role nurses play in modern-day healthcare whilst celebrating the remarkable legacy of Florence Nightingale and the importance of gardens for wellbeing and recovery.

• The M&G Garden - by design duo Harris Bugg & Charlotte Harris, will be raising awareness of the increased need to introduce beautiful and restorative green spaces within our towns and cities.

The Florence Nightingale Garden, Designed By Robert Myers. Photo: Robert Myers

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Raymond Blanc At 2019 Rhs Chelsea Flower Show. Credit Designer, Tom Raffield

• The Yeo Valley Organic Garden – designed

by Tom Massey and supported by Sarah Mead.

Back on home soil, they will bring a slice of the Yeo Valley Farm in Somerset to SW3, inspiring visitors to adopt organic gardening practices and put nature first.

2021 SANCTUARY GARDENS • Finding Our Way – An NHS Tribute Garden – designed by Naomi Ferrett-Cohen. The garden is a celebration of the NHS and the relentless care and support it and its staff have provided during the Coronavirus pandemic – nurses, doctors, physiotherapists, pharmacists, porters, technicians, and other unseen and unsung staff who keep the health service running. It recognises the collaboration between UK university researchers and NHS staff to find new treatments and vaccines to counter Coronavirus.

• Finnish Soul Garden – A Nordic Heritage Seaside Garden by Taina Suonio • The Calm of Bangkok by Tawatchai Sakdikul and Ploytabtim Suksang • POTENTIAL NEW GARDEN FOR 2021: The Boodles Secret Garden by Thomas Hoblyn

THE GREAT PAVILION Awash with colour and scent to delight the senses, some of the world’s finest growers and nurseries return, offering stunning displays, plants for sale and expert advice. Home to the best plant nurseries in Britain and far-flung corners of the globe, you’ll find plants and flowers of all varieties – a paradise for every gardener. It’s also where they showcase the Product of the Year and Plant of the Year.

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OFFICIAL HOSPITALITY AT RHS CHELSEA FLOWER SHOW Let Raymond Blanc OBE take you on a journey through his enchanting garden paradise Jardin Blanc. Inside, discover the perfect atmosphere for dining and unwinding against a backdrop of outstanding horticulture and incredible works of art. With 8 menu packages to choose from designed by Chef Director, Raymond Blanc OBE, this magical place has its roots to create an experience befitting of the most prestigious flower show in the world. For more information on 2021 packages, please call 0845 268 0251.

HOUSE PLANT STUDIOS The growing popularity of indoor gardening will be reflected in the House Plant Studios, Get inspiration on how to green up your home, regardless of space or natural light. Stylists have the freedom to dress each studio to represent any room in a house.

THE RHS CHELSEA FLOWER SHOW EXPERIENCE Enjoy exclusive boutique shopping - all around the showground, you’ll find a host of exhibitors, both new and established, selling their innovative and desirable horticultural-themed products.

Mouth-watering food and drink offerings will be available with plenty to choose from, including gluten-free and vegetarian options.

To book tickets call 0344 338 7501 or visit rhs.org.uk/chelsea Below: Guangzhou China Show Garden Designed By Peter Chmiel With Chin-Jung Chen. Photo: Peter Chmiel

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CLARIDGE’S LAUNCHES ITS FIRST LIMITED EDITION PYJAMAS INSPIRED BY ITS ART DECO HERITAGE

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laridge’s, the legendary Art Deco London hotel, is launching its first limited edition collection of Claridge’s Pyjamas, inspired by its distinguished design heritage, reflecting the golden age of Art Deco motifs and details throughout the hotel.

Conjuring up the heady glamorous days of 1920’s life at Claridge’s, the bespoke pyjamas are a timeless design and can be perfectly paired with matching eye masks.

Available in the hotel’s signature jade green or in soft white, they are finished with mother of pearl buttons and contrasting piping trim, complete with Claridge’s historic crest on the top pocket. The final flourish is the elegant Claridge’s box they are smartly packed in. The pyjamas are a design collaboration with long time Claridge’s guest and friend, Rebecca Marks, creative director of Green Wolf Studio, and are produced exclusively for Claridge’s by Derek Rose, a family owned British company founded in 1926.

Commenting on the launch, Rebecca Marks said “This has been a dream project to work on with the team at Claridge’s. I’ve loved exploring the hotel’s rich design history, and pouring over every little detail to ensure these pyjamas - like everything else they do - are really perfect, stylish and of course comfortable which is so important

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in this new world of working from home! I am so excited that we are already planning our next set of designs.”

The 100% jacquard cotton Claridge’s Pyjamas are available for men and women in sizes small, medium and large, and are priced at £220 for women and £250 for men. Eye masks are priced at £65. They can be purchased directly from the hotel or online at the Claridge’s Shop at shop. claridges.co.uk.

ABOUT CLARIDGE’S At the centre of London’s Mayfair, Claridge’s, part of Maybourne Hotel Group, embodies grand English style, timeless glamour and impeccable, intuitive and highly tailored service.

It is London’s art deco jewel, and home to elegant rooms and suites.

From London’s finest afternoon tea in the Foyer, Michelin star dining from Daniel Humm at Davies and Brook to vintage champagnes and cocktails at Claridge’s Bar, all are part of the hotel’s unique splendour and charm.

Claridge’s, The Connaught, The Berkeley Maybourne Hotel Group claridges.co.uk

TILLY &

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Discover one of the largest collections of organic children’s clothing brands in one place, including: Toby Tiger, Frugi, Pigeon Organics, Little Green Radicals, Maxomorra, Kite Clothing, Piccalilly and more.

Organic Cotton isn’t just softer — it’s better.

We believe that offering 100% organic materials across our range provides customers with a far higher-quality product.

Visit tillyandjasper.co.uk and enjoy fast, free UK shipping on all orders.

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Some Guys Have All The Luck

O

ver 50 years since the release of Rod’s first album, Some Guys Have All The Luck - The Rod Stewart Story is returning to Richmond Theatre, bringing to the stage a fantastic live concert celebration.

It may not be Rod himself, but it might as well be. Frontman Paul Metcalfe is incredible as Rod and captures all the excitement, energy and charisma of the legendary performer including the infamous moves, showmanship, and sense of fun that have made Rod one of the most successful artists of all time. The first half of the

show features hits from Rod’s early career such as ‘Handbags & Gladrags’ along with favourites like ‘Stay With Me’ and ‘Twisting The Night Away’, interwoven with some interesting and amusing anecdotes, taking you on a musical journey through Rod’s career over the last five decades.

The second half is one big party including all Rod’s big hits such as ‘Maggie May’, ‘Da Ya Think I’m Sexy’ and ‘Sailing’.

This authentic production, now in its fourth year, includes a stunning stage set, a spectacular light show, and an impeccable live band.

THE DETAILS Richmond Theatre, Saturday 2nd October at 7:30pm.

Tickets available from atgtickets.com/Richmond or call 0844 871 7615

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THROUGH THE LOOKING GLASS COIN RELEASED BY ROYAL MINT

By Ted Hennessey

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new coin commemorating 150 years since Lewis Carroll’s Through the Looking-Glass has been launched by The Royal Mint.

The £5 crown is based on Sir John Tenniel’s original illustrations of the book, which was the sequel of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland.

It shows the moment protagonist Alice runs into mischievous characters Tweedledum and Tweedledee.

The Royal Mint collaborated with EL&N Cafe in London to create a limited-edition Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland cake selection to celebrate the new design.

The cake selection includes designs based on the Queen of Hearts from the original book.

It comes after a coin depicting the scene where Alice meets the Cheshire Cat was released last month.

Both coins were created by the mint’s designer Ffion Gwillim and sculptor Emma Noble.

Clare Maclennan, a director at the Royal Mint, said after the last release: “Inspired by Sir John Tenniel’s original illustrations, the beautiful £5 crown has been crafted to the finest quality, combining traditional minting skills with 62 SEPTEMBER 2021

innovation in design technology.

“I’m sure the Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland range will become a popular choice for collectors, capturing the imagination of people of all ages, and to launch at the awe-inspiring Victoria and Albert Museum during the 150th anniversary of Through the Looking-Glass is a fitting celebration.”

FEATURE

The Monaco Yacht Show I

n two months, the Monaco Yacht Show will return to the quays of Port Hercule and will unveil another outstanding fleet of superyachts on display for purchase or charter by the leading names in the yachting industry.

This list should be longer by September 22, the opening day of the show, with the participation of other stunning luxury vessels that brokers will confirm in the coming weeks.

Among the sixty or so superyachts published online, 37 are 2021 new deliveries unveiled by their builders in Monaco. Among them, 4 new models of more than 70m in length: ​​​​​​​The megayacht Viva, from the Dutch shipyard Feadship, is announced as the largest new build of the 2021 edition with her impressive 94 metres and – key environmental feature - her hybrid propulsion system, as required by her owner.

The MYS will also display Tatiana by Bilgin Yachts (80 metres). The project is as simple as audacious: Tatiana is the first of a series of 3 superyachts under construction, which characterizes the Turkish builder’s ambition to join the world’s elite of yacht builders.

Rossinavi will exhibit the largest construction in its history with ice explorer Polaris, ice explorer of 70.2 metres. The Italian large vessel is aptly named, as she can travel all seas, even in the most extreme polar regions!

These launches will join the 9 megayachts over 70m that will be showcased this year.

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22 September 2021

​​​​​​​For the moment, it is Kismet (95m, 2014, Lürssen) that will be the largest megayacht on exhibit at the 2021 MYS. The award-winning megayacht designed by Espen Oeino (exterior) and Reymond Langton (interior), will be exhibited by the US broker Moran Yacht & Ship with a selling price of €169 million.

A range of superyachts for all tastes!

Private owners wishing to change their yachts - or to purchase a new one! -, charterers or new hedonists tempted by a first superyacht experience, all will be seduced by the varied collection of large yachts on display in Port Hercule this year: vessels ranging from 22 to 95 metres, among which a luxury catamaran, five sailing yachts (exhibited in the brand new “Sailing Yacht Area” on Quai l’Hirondelle) and a wide selection of motoryachts with an average size of 49 metres! ​​​​​​​​​​monacoyachtshow.com

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SIR WALTER SCOTT’S PISTOL EXPECTED TO FETCH UP TO £20,000 AT AUCTION

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rare 19th Century silver pistol made for the Scottish novelist Sir Walter Scott is expected to fetch up to £20,000 at auction.

The engraved firearm will go under the hammer this Wednesday as it is auctioned live online by Lyon & Turnbull.

It is engraved with the Scott of Abbotsford family crest on one side, and coat of arms with the motto “watch weel” on the other.

It has been 250 years since the birth of Sir Walter Scott.

The author of novels like Rob Roy and Ivanhoe, he was one of Scotland’s most significant cultural figures of the 19th Century.

The pistol was specially made for him, and is expected to fetch between £15,000 and £20,000.

Colin Fraser, a specialist in arms and armour at Lyon & Turnbull said: “This is a remarkable Scottish belt pistol given its connection to Sir Walter Scott, one of the most successful authors of all time.

“The pistol was made by McLeod, the same maker of a pair of pistols, bearing a similar armorial engraving and still within Sir Walter Scott’s collection and on display at Abbotsford.

“Scott actually mentions commissioning the pair for King George IV’s visit to Scotland in 1822 in letters to McLeod.

“Sir Walter Scott organised this Royal visit, which not only had a huge impact on 19th Century Scotland, but had a long-lasting effect.

“It brought the wearing of full Highland dress, broad sword dirks (daggers) and Highland belt pistols, like the type referred to here, back into fashion.”

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“The pistol was specially made for him, and is expected to fetch between £15,000 and £20,000”

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020 3355 1555 info@forestrealestate.co.uk www.forestrealestate.co.uk

TRAVEL

LUXURY SKI SHOW 2nd October 2021. Luxury Winter Property and Travel to be showcased at exclusive virtual ski event

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inter sports lovers will have the opportunity to discover highend properties, luxury travel and the latest mountain trends from the comfort of their own homes at the brand-new Luxury Ski Show. The ticketed event will be hosted on the immersive virtual platform, vFairs.

Endorsed by the Ski Club of Great Britain, the Luxury Ski Show is the only virtual event dedicated to connecting discerning buyers with experts in high-end ski properties and lifestyle.

The show will offer attendees the opportunity to view incredible properties from over 100 of the world’s most sought-after resorts, including properties in France, Switzerland, Italy, USA, Canada and Japan. The virtual show will host over 40 premium exhibitors including international property agents, lifestyle brands and travel experts.

Visitors will have the opportunity to meet famous faces from the world of winter sports including Olympic medal-winning Laura Deas, Britain’s fastest skier Konrad Bartelski and Ski Sunday’s Jenny Jones. There’s also the chance to speak to the experts and get advice on your next holiday, the newest resorts, how to get the most out of ski property investment and much more!

Hannah Armstrong, Head of The Luxury Property Show portfolio, comments: “We are excited to launch an all-new virtual event 70 SEPTEMBER 2021

specifically designed for those looking to invest in their ski and snow lifestyle. The Luxury Ski Show will be the first event of its kind and couldn’t come at a better time. Despite the impact of COVID-19 on travel and global economies, property prices across the Alps have held firm and demand remains high. With more and more people recognising the appeal of ski resorts all-yearround, we anticipate demand for luxury winter homes will only continue to grow. The show offers a perfect opportunity to kick off the new season and connect those planning for future trips or more permanent moves with the world’s leading experts across all areas of winter sports, property and travel.”

READER OFFER The Luxury Ski Show are delighted to offer Life Magazine Readers half price tickets for this year’s event. Visit theluxuryskishow.com and use the code SNOW21 to secure your tickets for this exclusive experience.

TRAVEL

THE SECRET’S OUT decadent interiors with all the stylish mod cons found inside – more on those further on.

It has become a destination for proposals, celebrations and moments people want to mark due to the breath-taking surroundings Victoria has lovingly created. Secret Cabins has also embraced this and has a bespoke offering of additions people can add to their stay from private chefs, falconry experiences, rose petals, sweetie jars and balloons!

As Secret Cabins does not have a minimum night stay it allows people to come without being beholden to booking multiple nights.

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hat started as a passion project in 2018, Secret Cabins quickly grew into something much greater, and its popularity continues to soar. Utilising her gifts for interior design, owner Victoria, has created the perfect blend of luxury, privacy, style and serenity, making it the destination of choice for popstars, sports stars, TV personalities and the public alike.

Secret Cabins, has captured people’s imaginations with its unique signature ‘Copper’ styling. Every venue, although bespoke, has that Copper touch running throughout. It all began with ‘The Copper Cabin’ and most recently ‘The Copper Crib’.

What makes Secret Cabins so unique is its use of space and the fluidity between the outdoors and indoor spaces. Every venue comes with its own private outdoor area allowing its guests to become completely disconnected from reality and instead entirely immersed in the serene woodland surroundings. Secret Cabins creates a rarely found juxtaposition between the countryside and luxurious 72 SEPTEMBER 2021

“What makes Secret Cabins so unique is its use of space and the fluidity between the outdoors and indoor spaces” Secret Cabins’ latest venue ‘The Copper Crib’, offers a contemporary and sleek getaway, which has to be seen to be believed. The ‘Crib’ is a two-storey retreat with an indoor starlight ceiling, cinema projector, fire wall and a feature whirlpool Jacuzzi bath. In true Secret Cabins style, the garden of the ‘Crib’ rivals its exceptional interior as it features not only a hot tub with cinema projector but a swing tipi bed over your own private pond, a champagne gondola, neon lights and your own bar.

Situated on the edge of the South Downs, Secret Cabins has firmly launched itself as the staycation destination. The signature copper style, high-end facilities and tranquil seclusion has allowed it to become a retreat like no other. There are some very exciting announcements to come in 2021, so keep your eyes peeled on their website and social media pages.

For more information and all booking details please visit – secretcabins.co.uk or email info@secretcabins.co.uk

Secret Cabins Secret Cabins is a place where luxury meets serenity for the perfect getaway.

Located in the idyllic Sussex Countryside, we offer complete privacy in our luxurious accommodations, providing the setting for a truly unforgettable experience.

For all bookings and further information please visit

www.SecretCabins.co.uk or email us at info@secretcabins.co.uk @the.coppercabin

LOC AL TRAVEL

Remote working has driven demand for second homes closer to London

BUT WHY WOULD YOU BOTHER RENTING IT OUT TOO?

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he changes in working practices have made a second home far more desirable but if you’re going to go more frequently it really can’t be five or six hours drive away so Sussex, Hampshire & Dorset have all seen strong markets. One of the epicentres of demand is Sandbanks, famous for sandy beaches, watersports, eye watering properties and celebrity residents.

It’s easy to understand the rush to buy, but why do so many rent them out when they probably don’t need to put up with guests in their cherished holiday home?

1. They still know the value of money If you’re a self made entrepreneur, executive or professional who remembers just how hard you had to work for every £100 in your early life, it just doesn’t sit well to have an asset that runs up costs rather than deliver a return.

2. The incalculable value of taking the hassle away and free concierge services Of course they are not really free but renting means you have a service in place to ensure the property is ready for guests, linen and cleaning is sorted and there’s a 24 hour callout service.

This means that the owner is also treated like a

74 SEPTEMBER 2021

premium guest and can enjoy their stay without worrying about meeting tradesmen or anything elseand as the costs come out of rent received it feels like it’s not coming out of your pocket.

3. Extensive tax benefits Finally it may be a secondary benefit but just for good measure there are very significant tax benefits to take advantage of: • No council tax to pay as the property will be business rated and if it’s your only one you’ll get small business rate relief at 100% and pay nothing.

• 5-10 years of tax free income. Capital allowance rules allow for a huge write down of up to 25% of the purchase price plus other expenses so returns are tax free until this is used up regardless of the rate you pay at.

• Capital gains tax reduction. Second homes that have been rented out qualify for business asset disposal relief so you’ll pay just 10% tax on the gain instead of the usual 28%. (£1m lifetime limit per person).

A quality second home is a reward for achievement but may well prove to be a sound investment too. – Simon Tolson owns Rumsey of Sandbanks, a holiday letting agency. rumseyofsandbanks.co.uk 01202 707357

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Including our 10 Point Hygiene Promise

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You can stay in the home whenever you wish you’re fully in control of your availability

Simply become an UnderTheDoormat Homeowner quoting LIFESEP21 and receive a beautiful Fortnum and Mason hamper as a welcome gift* *Sign up before the 30 November 2021, and upon completion of your first booking you can redeem your hamper.

TRAVEL

A BEACH BREAK IN ANTIGUA Johnny Green tastes paradise through the Caribbean’s turquoise waters, golden beaches and lazy living.

“A

ntigua is beautiful. Antigua is too beautiful,” writes novelist Jamaica Kincaid in her 1988 essay, A Small Place. And it is, as my already sky-high expectations are quickly surpassed by the stunning natural beauty found here in abundance.

Nothing suggests paradise more than the Caribbean, and Antigua – one of the Leeward Islands – is as pretty as they come, laden with golden sands, gently swaying palms and turquoise waters. Barbuda, her sleepier sister lying 40 miles north, may rival her, promising idyllic natural riches and fewer people.

Arriving on the inaugural British Airways flight from London Heathrow to Antigua – the airline’s first for 30 years – we’re greeted by Antigua’s Minister for Tourism and Investment, Charles Fernandez, as well as national television, ensuring we make the evening news. Mr Fernandez tells me that with 70% of Antigua’s GDP coming from tourism, this flight – and those which follow – are crucial for the livelihoods of the islanders.

With Antigua and Barbuda currently on the UK’s green list and averaging just two new

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Covid cases each day, the island is currently a popular destination in the Caribbean for holidaymakers. Almost 70,000 Covid vaccines have been administered so far for a population of around 98,000 and the wearing of face masks is mandatory, including outdoor spaces, although beaches are exempt.

As a consequence I’m told that the island has full occupancy of its hotel rooms for what is traditionally Antigua’s low season, with most tourists seemingly happiest spending as much time as possible either on the beach or in the crystal like waters.

And it’s water, where I want to be. At Antigua’s National Sailing Academy in English Harbour, I receive a sailing lesson from Joshua Daniels aboard his Hobie Cat. The academy, aware that 80% of the island’s primary schoolchildren cannot swim, aims to fix this by using revenue earned through tourism and donations to give free swimming and sailing lessons. Joshua knows the perils only too well – he tells me how, at the age of eight, he almost drowned. He learned to swim and is now the academy’s Deputy Sailing Manager.

Aptly, our lesson concludes with a swim, before I clamber onto a rubber tube to be towed at speed. A distant memory of water-skiing from 30 years ago reminds me to lean in and out in order to build up speed and zip across the water, but I somehow allow the line to go slack and the sudden force of it tightening again catapults me through the air. After smashing violently into the water, the tube and I are separated. It is thrilling, stupid and enormous fun.

I manage to recover in time for a trip to Sheer Rocks at Cocobay Resort, run by British-born Alex Grimley who has lived in Antigua for 14 years.

While the restaurant excels at blending the best

Nothing suggests paradise more than the Caribbean”

TRAVEL

of Antiguan and Caribbean with international cuisine, it’s the ethos of providing jobs for school leavers and training them to progress to top positions that impresses me.

I sip on a rum punch topped with cinnamon and nutmeg as I gaze at the milky blue ocean. I ask Alex which is the most beautiful island in the Caribbean after learning of his extensive travels in the region.

“Hands down, Antigua,” he replies without hesitation. “I just think it is stunning.”

That beauty is reflected in our not so humble lodgings, Tamarind Hills, just a stone’s throw from Sheer Rocks and overlooking two of the island’s 365 gorgeous beaches, Ffryes and Darkwood, located on the sheltered, sunset-facing west coast.

Ten years old, Tamarind Hills is currently undergoing a refurbishment with an additional 42 suites, restaurant, swimming pool and beach club due to open in November.

My suite is simply four-poster heaven. Looking out across the sea from the huge balcony area, the sense of paradise outside is mirrored when I turn and walk back inside. I don’t want to leave.

Typically, the island would be preparing for carnival now, falling each year in late July and running until the first Tuesday in August. How I would love to see such a sleepy isle transformed into beautiful chaos, when different worlds collide. For now, I must make do with pre-recorded Antiguan soca reverberating from the speakers of Dennis’s Bar on Ffryes Beach, since live music and dancing are forbidden between the 11pm until 5am curfew.

For now, the focus is on long days so I awake early for a swim, watching in awe as Antigua’s famous frigate birds fly overhead. It’s not easy to

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How to plan your trip Suites at Tamarind Hills start from £250 per night. Visit tamarind-hills.com British Airways now fly to Antigua from Heathrow and Gatwick with prices starting from £378 return.

Visit britishairways.com For further information, see visitantiguabarbuda.com

leave the water, but I’m eager to visit the capital, St John’s, for its market day.

Saturday morning is the new Saturday night, providing a sensory riot of colours and fragrances.

As I explore the various market stalls, I realise why Antigua is considered to be one of the safest and friendliest countries in the Caribbean.

My final visit is to Antigua’s new 22ft sculpture Boonji Spaceman, standing at the end of a small pier at Hodges Bay resort on the north coast.

The piece, designed by Malibu-based artist Brendan Murphy, aims to lift the human spirit and highlights the artist’s fascination with space.

As I walk towards it, I hear music and spy a rather energetic dancer who later tells me his name is Tango. The sky darkens, rain falls, then stops before the sun beams back down again.

Tango dances throughout, pausing only briefly when I thank him. As I walk away, Tango and the spaceman are still going for it. Not even a global pandemic is going to stop them.

Heading back to the Tamarind, I think about the laid-back Caribbean phrase “soon come”.

Although nothing here happens in a hurry, it’s all in good time. Yet for anyone toying with the idea of visiting this chilled, stress-free corner of the globe, there’s really no reason to hold back. With sun, sea and sand this glorious, the only message is: “come soon”.

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Discovering Malta & Gozo

local cuisine while gazing across unrivalled views from one of the many local restaurants scattered across this stunning island. If you are feeling active, clifftop hiking, kayaking and boat trips are popular, alternatively a beautiful beach won’t be hard to find! San Blas Bay, one of the islands most picturesque spots, is perfect for you to make the most of a truly peaceful escape.

Gastronomic Delights

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estled in the Mediterranean Sea between Sicily and the North African coast, the beautiful yearround islands of Malta and Gozo offer an enthralling combination of variety and charm, filled to the brim with sun-soaked beaches, intriguing history, picturesque towns and gastronomic delights. With so much on offer, read some of our favourite highlights that are sure to whet your appetite…

Historic Malta With over 7,000 years of history, Malta is the ultimate holiday destination for any history buff!

A highlight of any holiday here is Valletta, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site with a plethora of impressive bastions, forts and the remarkable St John’s Co-Cathedral, where you’ll be able to view Caravaggio’s striking 12ft by 17ft painting of The Beheading of St John the Baptist. With such a rich history, it’s hardly surprising there’s an abundance of museums to wander. Whether your interests lie in war history, archaeology or science, one of Malta’s many museums is sure to appeal.

Sun-drenched Gozo Renowned for a more relaxed pace of life and just a 25-minute ferry from Malta, delight in delicious 80 SEPTEMBER 2021

Discover the culinary delights and tastes of Malta and Gozo as you explore this small archipelago to understand why food is such an important part of Maltese culture. Sample charming local treats and unique wines by the Mediterranean Sea, explore Marsaxlokk fisherman’s market, local vineyards and Michelin star restaurants, or delve further into rural Malta to unearth tiny villages with a textured gastronomic tradition.

So whether you’re looking for sun and sand or history and culture, put Malta and Gozo at the top of your holiday list. trailfinders.com

TRAVEL

Enjoy an Autumn Break in Wales Whether you’re looking for a romantic retreat, a holiday with friends or a family getaway, Wales Cottage Holidays has the ideal stay for you.

READER OFFER: SAVE

£50

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ales Cottage Holidays, part of the Original Cottages family, are an independent family run business with a huge array of properties throughout Wales.

Sleeping 1 to 38 people, across coast and country, they specialise in finding customers their ideal home from home. Here are three of our favourites to stay in while enjoying a fantastic Welsh holiday.

Woodridge Court (Ref: HH1425) Less than 3 hours from London by train lies the beautiful fishing village of Mumbles. Bustling with independent bars, restaurants and galleries visitors can expect days out and evenings enjoying a cocktail by the water. And where better to explore it from than Woodridge Court. With breath taking views across Langland Bay, this modern apartment sleeps 2 and has a balcony ideal for watching the sunset with a glass of wine in hand!

The Pines (Ref: HH3200) Close to Swansea, this stunning modern property is a perfect place to get your family and friends together for a holiday to remember. Sleeping 9 in 5 bedrooms, there’ll be late nights in the hot tub, competitions in the snooker room, and memories 82 SEPTEMBER 2021

made in the generous grounds guaranteed.

South Beach Hideaway (PW9216)

A little further along the South Wales coast is the popular town of Tenby. With bars and restaurants aplenty and lots to do in the surrounding area, this seaside town is a great place to take a break. South Beach Hideaway, which sleeps 5, is a private retreat in the heart of the action. Enjoy the last of the sun in the hot tub or cook up some fresh fish on the BBQ. An ideal base for couples, families and friends.

If none of these are the right stay for you, don’t worry! With over 1,200 properties across the country, Wales Cottage Holidays will have the holiday home for you.

READER OFFER London Life readers can also receive an exclusive £50 off their holiday by using code WALES50 when booking at walescottageholidays.co.uk or calling 01686 628200 (T&Cs apply. Offer valid until 31/12/2022 on bookings made before the end of 2021).

FEATURE LOC AL

Discover the Wonders of Japan at Kew Gardens this Autumn Saturday 2 October – Sunday 31 October 2021

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his October the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew invites visitors to immerse themselves in the art, plants and culture of Japan with a brand-new autumn festival in Kew’s majestic Temperate House, the world’s largest surviving Victorian glasshouse.

Art installations…

In a year when travel has been limited, Kew Gardens is celebrating the fascinating culture of Japan, with a large-scale artistic installation, One Thousand Springs by Japanese artist Chiharu Shiota forming a magnificent centrepiece to the festival. The piece will be suspended from the roof of the Temperate House.

Horticultural installations…

Stunning horticultural displays will be seen in the Temperate House Octagons with a specially commissioned Chalk Garden, a striking contemporary response to a Japanese garden, showcasing native plants including grasses, shrubs and trees.

Kew’s own horticultural team have designed a spectacular display celebrating the magnificent Chrysanthemum, Japan’s national flower.

Chrysanthemums are culturally important in 84 SEPTEMBER 2021

Japan and feature on passports and banknotes.

The display will feature six varieties of chrysanthemums with yellow, orange and white blooms to evoke the setting sun in autumn and create a cheerful blaze of colour.

Visitors will also encounter an emotive, immersive soundscape by sound artist Yosi Horikawa, capturing the harmonious natural sounds of the rivers and waterfalls of Kagoshima and bird calls set across the waves of the Philippine Sea.

Weekends and After Hours…

Visitors will be able to enjoy a lively programme of weekend music and performance throughout the festival. Mornings, Japanese busker ICHI will be taking the notion of a one-man band to new limits, combining his handmade instrument inventions with steel-drums, ping-pong balls, a typewriter and toys! Afternoons, Japanese shodō master KASHUŪ will present giant calligraphy performances, demonstrating this age-old Japanese tradition.

The Temperate House will be illuminated for a series of After Hours events on Friday 8, Saturday 9, Friday 15 and Saturday 16 October.

For more information visit kew.org

“Kew Gardens is celebrating the fascinating culture of Japan, with a large-scale artistic installation, One Thousand Springs by Japanese artist Chiharu Shiota”

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L AW

RIAA Barker Gillette and Tibber Marks Solicitors join Forces

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IAA Barker Gillette and Tibber Marks Solicitors merge creating a mid-market powerhouse for private individuals and ambitious businesses London’s West End multi-service law firm RIAA Barker Gillette and North London residential and commercial property lawyers Tibber Marks Solicitors have merged.

The merged firm, called RIAA Barker Gillette incorporating Tibber Marks, creates a full-service law firm with 80 staff to meet all the legal needs of high-net-worth individuals and entrepreneurial businesses across London’s West End, North London and Hertfordshire.

RIAA Barker Gillette, with 14 partners and 52 staff, is recognised for its commercial property, company and commercial, dispute resolution, employment, family, private client, regulatory and serious crime practices. The firm has a strong international client base with global alliances in Afghanistan, China, Iran, Pakistan, UAE, and the USA. Tibber Marks Solicitors, with 2 partners and 15 staff, prides itself on its in-depth market knowledge and experience in residential, property investment and development deals. Their clients

include first time buyers, property companies and high net worth individuals.

Alex Deal, Managing Partner at RIAA Barker Gillette, said: “This is an exciting development which brings significant benefits for both firms and clients. RIAA Barker Gillette and Tibber Marks have complementary strengths and aspirations that enable the merged firm to provide a wide range of services to a broader market both in the UK and internationally. The merged firm strengthens our real estate offering and widens the services we can offer to our clients.”

Ben Marks, Director of Tibber Marks said: “Alan and I joined forces just three years ago, jointly strengthening Alan’s well-established practice that he had been running for 10 years.

Tibber Marks has seen significant growth and demand as a result. This merger gives Tibber Marks’ clients access to a full range of specialist support and services they may need. We are very much looking forward to growing our joint offering to individuals and businesses in North and Central London the surrounding areas with our RIAA Barker Gillette colleagues.”

For more information visit riaabarkergillette.com.

“RIAA Barker Gillette incorporating Tibber Marks – a mid-market powerhouse for private individuals and ambitious businesses”

SEVEN COUNTRIES. ELEVEN CITIES. MANY CULTURES. ONE CONTACT 86 SEPTEMBER 2021

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HAS COVID-19 CHANGED HOW WE MANAGE OUR PRIVATE WEALTH? consider the impact on their normal freedoms, issues of mental and physical incapacity and their mortality.

Increased difficulties have arisen when someone has been isolating, shielding, in a care home or in hospital during the pandemic. This is hopefully a temporary and an unprecedented situation, but it does emphasise the importance of planning for documents such as Wills and Powers of Attorney in good time. This would invariably avoid a lot of stress and anxiety for the person in the future.

Choosing the right individuals The pandemic has highlighted the importance of choosing your executors, trustees and/or attorneys wisely.

Wherever possible, we recommend that more than one person is appointed and/or there is a substitute. Choosing individuals from different households has, in some cases, proved to be invaluable. This is especially true in the case of attorneys where one attorney has been unable to act temporarily such as when required to selfisolate. Attorneys are appointed so they may act separately if required.

Sadly, we have seen increased deaths too. Choosing someone from a different generation, even if they are substitute for the relevant role, can be important.

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ovid-19 has inevitably forced some temporary measures and accelerated some changes in how we manage and protect our wealth for future generations.

Will signing – emergency changes There has been a temporary change to enable a Will to be validly executed where the two required independent witnesses are present by video call instead of in person.

Scotland announced its emergency powers in April 2020 to allow for remote witnessing, but in England and Wales, this took until 25th July 2020 for a similar announcement to be made. The legislation for England and Wales is retrospective to 31st January 2020 and will, unless altered, remain in force until 31st January 2022.

This is the biggest change to the formalities of Will signing in the best part of 200 years, but the view of most professionals is to treat this option with caution. The video call should ideally be recorded to clearly show the testator signing their Will. However, this is only too easy to capture unclearly. In addition, there is a particular danger of a later accusation of undue influence if someone else is present but is simply out of the camera’s view. Although as a measure of last resort, this has been invaluable in allowing the opportunity to see a client, when it has been impossible otherwise.

Ensuring the right documents are in place Covid-19 has prompted individuals of all ages to

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Daniel Milano

THE DETAILS Contact Daniel Milano, Senior Associate in the Wills tax and trusts team, daniel.milano@moorebarlow.com 01483 464244 moorebarlow.com

Tax planning Covid-19 has not altered the fundamentals of tax planning especially when it comes to inheritance tax. Good forward planning has always been important and continues to be vital to maximise inheritance tax benefits.

The future We are now hopefully navigating our way out of this pandemic and there can be optimism for the future.

Many of the measures we have all had to endure are, hopefully, once in a lifetime events. However, Covid-19 has been a driving force to encourage the use of technology and brought into sharp focus the importance of having appropriate legal documents in place.

At Moore Barlow we can advise you on all aspects of managing your estate from tax planning to making a will to protect your wealth.

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CHISWICK NURSING CENTRE Offers high quality rehabilitation, convalescence & respite care

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estore your strength and health after an illness or operation by letting us take good care of you with individually tailored nursing care and our in-house physio, excellent chef and expert hairdresser.

The Chiswick Nursing Centre’s physiotherapists work seamlessly with nursing staff to provide the highest levels of integrated care.

As a part of the rehabilitation programme, the Centre’s qualified physiotherapists work closely with nursing staff to help patients achieve their goals. Highly experienced in the treatment and management of numerous conditions, the Centre’s physio team are experts in the field of rehabilitation. We support convalescence after surgery and to aid cancer recovery, including care of those with a range of other complex needs. We have particular expertise in rehabilitation following hip replacements and knee replacements.

The physiotherapy sessions are tailored to help recover mobility and the physio team aims to provide early detection of any movement related problems. Through their treatment the Centre’s physios help patients and residents to regain their confidence and independence to promote an excellent quality of life through improved health and wellbeing. Sessions take place in the Centre’s physiotherapy gym which has state of

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the art equipment including an interactive video ‘exer-cycle’ suite – which lets you ‘cycle’ through ‘country lanes’ and ‘town areas.’

A sister of a resident at the Chiswick Nursing Centre has seen the impact of care first-hand, she said, “ My sister (86) was admitted to this home during the virus crisis. The staff have been so caring and compassionate! She told us the carers were so kind and that the food was wonderful.

The staff meet her every need and she feels that nothing is too much trouble for them. There are doctors, nurses and physiotherapists who help her daily.”

Chiswick Nursing Centre offers high quality rehabilitation, convalescence, respite & nursing care. We also offer holiday stays for carers who need a break – with maximum peace of mind – so they can take time for themselves. Respite care should be a proper break for you. Short term or long term, we can take care of your loved one so that you can rest, recuperate and re-energise, or simply catch up on your to do list.

With free parking on-site, the care home is a convenient location to be treated for a range of conditions including post-surgical rehabilitation and orthopaedic and musculosketal conditions.

So, whether its physiotherapy, rehabilitation or convalescence, respite care, dementia care, longterm complex nursing care or general residential care, rest assured your loved one will be in safe hands at the Chiswick Nursing Centre.

Please email enquiries@chiswicknursingcentre.co.uk or call 07568 106258. chiswicknursingcentre.co.uk

“The staff meet her every need and she feels that nothing is too much trouble for them. There are doctors, nurses and physiotherapists who help her daily”

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92 SEPTEMBER 2021

PROPERTY

12 Palace Court - £1.5million – 4 Bed

VITA PROPERTIES

60 Aberdare Gardens - £875 per week – 3 Bed

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pecialising in high-end, luxury properties across some of the most highly affluent boroughs in North, West & Central London, Vita properties is a small independent company that prides itself on our strategic and hands-on approach to agency.

Comprising of a dedicated team of local experts, every transaction is unique and they tailormake a bespoke strategy plan for every property they look after.

Considering all elementals of a transaction Vita Properties contemplate not only current value, but can also offer expert advice and resources on how to fully maximise earning potential, with the aim to always exceed expectations. They adhere to a robust qualifying system with all of their clients to ensure a highly personable and efficient service, and utilise the latest technology and Artificial Intelligence to create their bespoke property packages for both Sales and Lettings.

The ideal position of their target areas offers easy access both into the City and out into the local suburbs, which have exploded in popularity over the

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12 Viridium - £875 per week – 2 Bed

110 Belsize Road – £1.25million – 3 Bed

last year since the introduction of work from home, and ensures the preservation of their market.

Their family-orientated areas are more likely to offer those features that have become even more desirable throughout the pandemic; stand-alone houses, outside space, secure gated developments and proximity to well-regarded schools and green spaces. In fact, Vita Properties have achieved some of their most impressive and most lucrative deals within the last year, as their niche, luxury section of the industry has been less affected than the more traditional agent.

They foresee the market continuing to stabilise over the coming year, particularly within their demographic, and are primed ready to offer expert advice and assistance to more people within the community.

For expert advice on Sales, Lettings or Property management please feel free to get in touch.

Vita Properties look forward to hearing from you. vitaproperties.uk Enquiries@vitaproperties.uk Tel: 0207 759 2199

51 Regency Lodge – £1.15million – 3 Bed

19 Arkwright Road – £1.575million – 4 Bed

PROPERTY

New homes with history in south west London M ore than 175 years since it was first built, City & Country, the UK’s leading heritage developer, is breathing new life into the majestic Grade-II listed building on the site of the former Springfield Hospital.

The 1840 is a distinctive local landmark, comprising a collection of luxurious one, two-, and three-bedroom conversion apartments in the heart of South West London, perfectly designed for modern 21st century living.

The hospital was originally built on a 97acre site owned by Henry Perkins, a wealthy brewer who obtained the freehold from the 2nd Earl Spencer, and the extensive surrounding landscape, which also shares the building’s Grade II status. The Elizabethan styled building was centrally located within a parkland designed with sweeping drives, avenues and large parkland trees.

Victorian in age but with Tudor influences, this grand three storey building with its gabled roofs, parapets and embattled towers stands as a significant and well-preserved example of architecture from this time.

Blending heritage architecture with contemporary style, each unique apartment has been individually designed by City & Country’s specialist inhouse design team. Luxurious

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materials have been paired with beautiful colour palettes that are modern but pay homage to the past to create chic and elegant interiors fit for its discerning residents.

Homes feature a premium specification, including marble worktops, Siemens appliances and underfloor heating. Smart features include intelligent home-energy technology to maximise efficiency and minimise bills, alongside integrated security systems in every apartment.

Residents also benefit from an on-site concierge, secure parking, electric car charging points, a communal room and on-site cycle storage.

Combining period grandeur with modern city living, The 1840 boasts a prime location with the sought after neighbourhoods of Tooting, Earlsfield, Balham and Wandsworth Common all within walking distance.

Beautiful outdoor space is at the heart of the offering at The 1840, with over five acres of private landscaped gardens providing a welcome retreat from busy city life. A magnificent 32-acre park extends beyond the development, providing local sports fields, outdoor play areas and walking routes.

Prices for new homes at The 1840 start from £440,000. For more information visit cityandcountry.co.uk/the1840 or call 01279 817 882.

PROPERTY

A Full Property Service from Supernova Real Estate

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upernova Real Estate is a group of driven professionals specialising in the Central Market of London. Combining over two decades of experience in sales, lettings, valuations, and property management their team will guide you through every stage of service required to achieve your expectations to the highest standard. Constantly striving to do things better and create a sense of custom and personalised approach that best suits each of their clients.

THEIR MISSION: To offer a comprehensive range of services whilst remaining continuously up to date with the property climate and all legislations, is essential to their unique work ethic, giving accurate valuations and striving to maximise your income along with ensuring your assets reflect desired outcome in a shortest time frame possible. Working with a reputable tenant and client base is what makes all of the above possible!

THEIR VALUES: Uncompromised client service, retention of long-term relationships, welcome diversity, operate with transparency, there is no problem that can’t be solved, act with integrity and accountability, support our team, have an innovative attitude, deliver results and most importantly passion for what they do.

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WHY SUPERNOVA? • Their ability to tailor their service into a special package that will reflect your requirements individually.

•They make sure that your property is proactively marketed, as well as being made highly visible online through a number of major property websites and portals.

• They use trusted partners allowing them to confidently guarantee prospective tenants and buyers.

• Always have time for you and are only one call away from delivering you the service you require!

• If it is just advice, you are looking for don’t hesitate to reach out for them, they will do their best to refer you to a relevant department that will look after you.

SALES, LETTINGS, COMMERCIAL, MANAGEMENT, CONSTRUCTION, PLANNING & DESIGN Supernova All in one place at your service! snestates.com sales@snestates.com Telephone 0203 371 7273

PROPERTY

HAREFIELD PLACE – explore an exclusive development of luxury apartments

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et in 8.5 acres of landscaped grounds, Harefield Place in Ickenham is an elegant Grade II listed Georgian manor house with an illustrious history, which has been transformed into a gated development of 25 converted and newly built two and threebedroom luxury apartments.

With the first residents now settled into their new homes here and the impressive leisure suite complete, interest has surged. Ready to move in to and with stunning show homes available to view (by appointment), Harefield Place offers a rare mix of both classic and contemporary apartments.

The exclusive development is approached via a sweeping driveway, which opens onto a forecourt and parterre garden in front of the manor house.

The restored manor house provides nine two and three-bedroom apartments, whilst the new build wing offers 16 two and three-bedroom apartments.

With thoughtful layouts to each home, generous ceiling heights and tall windows, the apartments have fully fitted custom design kitchens and luxurious bedroom suites.

Following a 2-year restoration project by leading Buckinghamshire housebuilder Manorgrove Homes, in association with Jade Development Enterprises, HAP Architects and Concept Interiors, the estate has been returned to its prestigious residential origins. The apartments and

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development are now ready for buyers to move in.

Harefield Place is situated in Ickenham, just off The Drive - one of the most desirable private roads in Middlesex. Positioned alongside the Colne Valley Regional Park, many of the apartments here boast spectacular views out across the valley, while all the homes offer access to the development’s own private grounds and facilities. Residents here can access their own private spa, gymnasium, swimming pool and tennis court.

The development includes an on-site Estate Manager, whose role is to ensure that Harefield Place is maintained to the highest level. There is secure allocated parking, in addition to individual store rooms for each property. The homes enjoy their own private outside space ranging from large terraces and balconies to roof terraces.

The homes are well connected by both road and rail, located close to Ickenham Railway Station and the A40/motorway network.

Prices from £850,000 up to £1,575,000.

Viewings are available seven days a week by appointment. Please call us on 01895 733523, email enquiries@harefieldplace.com or visit harefieldplace.com

“Ready to move in to and with stunning show homes available to view (by appointment), Harefield Place offers a rare mix of both classic and contemporary apartments”

PROPERTY

Embassy Gardens champions modern urban living with launch of

The Courtyard Collection N

ew riverside apartments for sale at leading Nine Elms neighbourhood, home to world-first Sky Pool The leading neighbourhood Embassy Gardens, home to world-first Sky Pool located in London, has just launched The Courtyard Collection.

Complementing the final existing residential offering at the mixeduse development, The Courtyard Collection is the final release at the Modern, marking the final chance to become a part of Zone 1 central London’s most significant regeneration project at the heart of everything.

The Courtyard Collection offers 153 apartments designed with a bold take on 21st century city-centre living. The new building comprises a unique selection of river and garden facing suites, one bedroom, two bedroom and three bedroom apartments, with starting prices from £635,000. Completion is expected this autumn, allowing its community of young urban dwellers and families to take advantage of quick occupancy.

spaces with the new mile-long Linear Park – a zigzagging ribbon of green inspired by the High Line in Manhattan – that passes directly under the apartments.

Neighbourhood Vibe

The Sky Pool – a new icon for modern London Residents receive Eg:le membership, giving them and guests access to the highly anticipated Sky Pool, a world-first transparent pool 35m in the sky that recently opened to Embassy Gardens residents on 22 May. Filled with 148,000 litres of water, the Sky Pool spans 15 metres between two residential apartment buildings and is constructed out of thick acrylic, taking inspiration from some of the world’s most impressive aquaria. Further cementing Embassy Gardens’ global reputation for its high-end amenities, the Eg:le membership’s additional curated menu of services includes access to a 24-hr concierge service, club lounge, two workspace suites, a private cinema, an indoor pool, spa, sauna/steam rooms and one of London’s best health and fitness club offerings.

Designed with a vibrant contemporary lifestyle in mind All apartments at The Courtyard Collection have been designed by internationally influential duo Benningen Lloyd to facilitate a luxury yet vibrant lifestyle; blending bold colours to complete the spirit of nearby New Covent Garden Flower Market and South Bank, maximise spacious living and uphold an ethos of craftsmanship at their core. With an Instagram-worthy backdrop of the Thames, every apartment comes with its own private balcony, connecting its living 102 SEPTEMBER 2021

Home to the U.S. Embassy and Penguin Random House, Embassy Gardens’ established status as a leading lifestyle and commercial hub for London where people work, live and socialise is ever growing. It is already home to a diverse selection of thriving lifestyle brands, including Robin Gill’s Darby’s restaurant, artisanal District cafe, beauty and lifestyle concept Linnaean, well known craft cocktail bar the Alchemist, Irish cocktail bar Homeboy and boutique cycle studio static. The shops, culture and nightlife of Pimlico and Chelsea are just across the river.

City-Centre Living Walking distance from key transport hubs like Vauxhall station, The Courtyard Collective is well connected with travel to the West End in 15 minutes when the new Nine Elms Station opening in September. The nearby riverside walkways offers a scenic route along the Thames, and a new Thames Clipper service allows for an 11 minute journey to Embankment For sales enquires for Embassy Gardens, please visit embassygardens.com or call 02039443362 and email sales@embassygardens.com

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Banksy confirms he was behind streetwork in Suffolk and Norfolk Banksy has confirmed he was behind some street art which appeared in Suffolk and Norfolk.

By Ted Hennessey

I

n a video posted on his Instagram account, the elusive artist could be seen working on the creations, dubbed A Great British Spraycation, while wearing a hoodie to cover his identity.

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“The artist confirmed another work spotted on a wall outside the former Lowestoft Electrical shop on London Road North, which appears to show a child next to a sandcastle”

Among them are a rat sitting on a deckchair with a glass under an umbrella, a grabbing machine situated above a bench, and one of a seagull on the side of a building.

Another, in Nicholas Everitt Park, shows three children standing in a boat which appears to have been fashioned out of a piece of scrap metal.

It features one child looking ahead as though out to sea, another child behind looking over their shoulder, and a third child at the back of the boat appearing to be leaning over the side holding a bucket.

Writing above the artwork says: “We’re all in the same boat.”

The metal part of the artwork has since been removed, and pictures show a man in fluorescent

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overalls appearing to drag it way.

He also worked on a statue in King’s Lynn, putting an ice cream in its hand while making a tongue appear from its mouth.

The artist confirmed another work spotted on a wall outside the former Lowestoft Electrical shop on London Road North, which appears to show a child next to a sandcastle.

A slab next to the sandcastle seems to have been raised from the pavement and is sitting out of place next to where it appears it should be.

He also depicted a musician playing an instrument above a bus stop, while two people dance beside him.

Banksy also wrote “Go Big Or Go Home” on the side of a small building in Merrivale Model Village.

Earlier this year, Banksy raised more than £16 million for health projects with the auction of a

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“Banksy also wrote “Go Big Or Go Home” on the side of a small building in Merrivale Model Village”

painting offering an “image of hope”.

Game Changer appeared at Southampton Hospital during the first wave of the pandemic.

The anonymous graffiti artist auctioned the original canvas, with the reproduction of the work remaining in the hospital.

The painting fetched £16.7 million, which is a world auction record for the artist, according to Christie’s.

Sandra Hraba had been a long time in Australia and travelled there from North to South. Besides all the beautiful beaches, coasts and cities she saw, she also visited the Ayers Rock, also called Uluru where she met an Aborigini. He told her a lot about aboriginal beliefs and some old legends and Myths. She visited many cave paintings in Down Under which got her inspired to create this colorful and unique paintings today. Sandra is an Austrian artist and inspired by the Australian natives she wants to brighten up your home with her colorful and creative paintings and she want to raise awareness to take care of our environment.

Contact details: www.sandras-malereien.com • Instagram: sandras_malereien

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Bridget Davies Fine Art

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ayering personal experience with ideas taken from literature and conversation, Bridget Davies uses the genre of fashion painting to create scenarios, and within these, characters, that would be best described as visual anecdotes; blended fact and fiction that tell secret stories drawn from her own experience and desires.

Inspired by the amazing fashion illustrations of the Forties and Fifties, the main protagonists are usually female because she is herself a woman, and there is an element of self-projection in all her work.

The ladies in Bridget’s paintings are elegant and confident, but they are also

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playful and have a definite sense of mischief about themselves; they are used to stealing the show.

As such, they are part comment on her personal relationships, part a documentation of her moods and emotions, but pieces of visual fiction as well, which hopefully will charm and intrigue the viewer.

Also, for Bridget, the glamour of eveningwear is an expression of desire: just look at the lengths we go to in order to attract others and express our desire for them. Metaphors and allegories: scratch beneath the surface to expose the fragility of our psyche.

She adores the flow and freedom that comes from using water and ink; the chaos for her is the random element in life that represents unpredictability and the constant unfolding of the unexpected.

Bridget also has an interest in modern fashion and the wonderful creations designed by today’s fashion designers and uses her ideas and different mediums and substrates to paint more modern pieces to capture the ever- changing face of contemporary fashion.

Bridget’s original works can be found not only in her representing galleries but also in hotels and theatres in London and overseas and she exhibits her work regularly at Art Fairs both in the UK and in major cities internationally.

THE DETAILS bridgetdaviesart.com 07866 086976 me@bridgetdaviesart.com

Polo ponies and bloodline horses, are meant to race in grounds and courses.

Yet what simple joy to see them graze and slowly pacein meadow, field or open space.

TONY FANDINO For more paintings visit: tonyfandino.com I will display and attend Parallax Art Fair 23-24 October

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Steve Sly Japanese Works of Art

S

teve Sly Japanese Art are world renowned specialist dealers in Japanese Meiji period works of art (1868-1912), a golden era spanning forty-five years across the late 19th to early 20th century where arguably some of the finest artworks known to man were produced.

In particular mixed metal masters like Hagiya Katsuhira, Suzuki Chokichi and the Ozeki company, together with the enamellists of the Hayashi and Namikawa studios and the ceramic artists Kinkozan, Yabu Meizan and Makuzu Kozan have become synonymous with that period.

Steve has built a solid and demonstrable record of supplying some of the aforementioned artists finest pieces to world renowned collectors and museums, as well as curating a number of highly valuable but discreet private collections.

Now after eighteen months of worldwide pandemic uncertainty, Steve is delighted to be showcasing some of his finest inventory from Volumes I & II of his exhibition books “ 2020 Vision of an Enlightened Ruler” at the iconic Chelsea Town Hall - Sept 21-26th 2021.

At Steve Sly Japanese Art we are constantly seeking to acquire the finest Japanese works of art, as well as high value artworks of any genre. For an immediate, discreet, no obligation appraisal contact steve@steveslyjapaneseart.com 07774 635918 Web: steveslyjapaneseart.com

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DANNY JOHANANOFF

“GIRL IN DUNES” INDIA 2018 www.danjohananoff.com

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Exhibition at MAMAG Museum

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AMAG Museum in Austria is showing a new exhibition in the Castle Hubertendorf from September 15 to December 20, 2021. The exhibition features abstract works of art from Cynthia Nouhra from Lebanon, Almas Kabani (USA) to Pop Art from MONA Ballesteros (Colombia) and Nati / Anastasiya Yanchuk (Italy) and playful surrealist works by Mar de Redin (Spain). In the works of art by Almas Kabani you can feel the expression and the sensitive movement of the strokes. The artist, who lives in the USA, shows the deep movement of colors in her works of art. Thick textures of the lines reinforce the open character of her works. Art by Tanzi Massimo from Italy can also be seen in the exhibition. His works of art have a mythological character and impress with the elegance of the expression and the composition.

When looking for inspiration the artist Sylviya Spencer (USA) very fascinated by the human face and capturing and projecting the emotions within, especially the emotions hidden behind the eyes.

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Her aim is to turn a still shot into original artwork that captures the life or a feeling and give it a lasting life in an art piece.

Works of art by the artist Michal Avrech from Israel can also be seen in the exhibition. Works of art

by Michal Avrech have an impressionist touch. You can see landscapes in delicate, colorful contrasts.

The main painting genres of the artist Lusie Schellenberg (Switzerland) are marine, urban landscapes, people and still life. She describes her artistic expression as being a reflection of reality as it truly is. In the works of art you can feel movement and at the same time calm character.

The selection of the composition gives the works of art a charming flair.

The art of Isamu Shimada (Japan) can also be seen in the exhibition.Isamu Shimada expresses the nature of neutrinos in his works by learning the four dimensions from the theory of the German philosopher Heidecker and using this theory as a composition. This is the same as the mechanism of human cell composition. However, it is exaggerated as a figurative expression.

For fans of Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein, originals and prints by Pop Art artist Tanja Playner will be interesting. Besides Banksy, Tanja Playner is one of the few living artists who have shown their art in the Musee du Louvre Paris and who were present with their performance during the La Biennale in Venezia 2019. In addition to numerous exhibitions in Miami, New York, Los Angeles, Oxford, Munich, Vienna, Dubai and Tokyo, her works of art were exhibited at the Fine Art Cannes Biennale during the Cannes Film Festival and at the Contemporary Art Biennale Basel during Art Basel. mamag-museum.com

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Susan Fowler Fine Art Gallery Cornwall

Art with Gravitas

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usan is a leading UK contemporary pressed flower and mixed media artist based in Penzance. She is self taught.

Her natural, uncontrived raw style is original and unique. Susan’s work is inspired by Cornwall and it’s coastline.

Her artistic journey has been an unusual and inspiring one. Susan first trained as a lawyer in Coventry, UK. After contracting meningitis which left her with head injury after effects, Susan says the experience was the catalyst for her artwork.

This resulted in her creating designs which are truly unique. She explains that she cannot visualise the finished design when she begins. The artwork literally evolves whilst she works on it. The design can be inspired for example, by the shape of a water current or the unusual shape of a flower.

Susan moved to Cornwall in 2005 where she immersed herself in the Cornish community and way of life. Her time spent kayaking on the coast inspired her interest in the shapes and colours visible in the sea and sky.

She combined working as a lawyer whilst developing and experimenting with her artwork and designs. Finally in 2012 she left her day job as a lawyer to pursue her dream of becoming a full time artist. Having successfully sold her artwork through galleries in St Ives and at events in Padsow, she has now set up her own gallery in Penzance. This is where she works from her studio and releases any new artworks.

She selects flora from her Cornish garden and windswept local seaweed which she lays on luxurious silks and satins with lightcatching mixed

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media including precious stones and metallic threads. Her designs include abstract, intricate collages, sunsets, sunrises and coastal views.

Her statement pieces are known to mesmerise the viewer with their impact, flow and sense of depth leaving a lasting impression. Her work is held in private collections in the UK and worldwide.

Looking to the future, Susan’s work continues to evolve and grow. She is excited to see what future designs Cornwall will inspire her to create and continues to expand her stock of luxurious, unusual fabrics to use in her pictures. Her studio continues to fill with pressed flowers which she picks, presses and dries herself. She is currently working on some new original artworks which she will be releasing in November 2021. susanfowler.co.uk Instagram: @SusanFowlerArt

“Susan moved to Cornwall in 2005 where she immersed herself in the Cornish community and way of life. Her time spent kayaking on the coast inspired her interest in the shapes and colours visible in the sea and sky”

Above, from Left: Agenti Grace; Night’s Round; Videre Left: Lost in the Beauty

Eminently modern and free spirited, British artist Elizabeth Waggett’s artwork focuses on the confusions of today’s society. She challenges the viewer to confront the relationship between humanity’s preconceived notions of value and worth in a consumable world, using perhaps surprising creatures as her subjects.

With solo exhibitions in Los Angeles, London and New York and art fairs such as Basel, Miami and Hong Kong, her work has grown in popularity amongst luxury brands, resulting in collaborations with Saks and Soho House among others.

WHERE DO YOU GET YOUR INSPIRATION?

I use the natural world around me as a muse and choose subjects which inspire something within me. I have travelled to and lived in many cities around the world and these cultural experiences feed into my work.

WHAT MESSAGE ARE YOU GIVING WITH YOUR ART?

I seek to illuminate the arbitrary value we place on useless and culturally devoid items, while simultaneously devaluing things with innate value. My artwork makes me personally question the relationships, behaviours and patterns of humanity.

DO YOU ONLY CREATE ORIGINALS? I create Commissions, Originals and Editions of my artwork, but even my editions are hand embellished with charcoal and 22K gold, so each is unique and my personal touch is on every single piece.

WHAT MATERIALS DO YOU USE?

I predominantly use graphite and charcoal; flat, matt materials which draw in the light. I accent this with 22K gold intentionally to reflect light opposites dancing together on the page.

www.elizabethwaggett.com Follow Elizabeth on Instagram: @elizabeth_waggett instagram | facebook | LinkedIn studio@elizabethwaggett.com

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Chelsea Antiques Fair Reborn For 2021

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he Famous Chelsea Antiques Fair, London’s longest-running art and antiques event, returns to the King’s Road this month from 21-26 September.

The Chelsea Antiques Fair first opened its doors to collectors and connoisseurs in 1950. Now, once again, Chelsea’s magnificent Old Town Hall will be transformed into a treasure trove of the rare, the fabulous and the decorative at prices from £100 to more than £500,000. This year, new organisers, 2Covet, mark the fair’s relaunch with an assembly of top specialist dealers to make this the most exciting Chelsea Fair for years.

Organiser Sophie Wood says. ‘The return of the Chelsea Fair means so much to many collectors.

The current interest in antiques and interiors has never been stronger and the fair will have an inspirational appeal for anyone looking for unique and interesting pieces.’

There will be many highlights across the entire

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range of art and antiques. An extremely rare glass goblet, ten inches tall, will be an eye-catching piece with Fileman Antiques.

Engraved with depictions of the Greek gods Bacchus and Minerva surrounded by musicians, it has many historic associations dating to the early 1700s. It is priced at £28,000.

A bronze working model by Henry Moore dating from 1978 will be on sale from Bowman Sculpture. furniture specialists Hansord promise a superb 17th century Italian table cabinet at £15,800. An elegant walnut games compendium on the stand of Mark Goodger Antiques comes complete with a variety of parlour games including chess, cribbage and draughts.

Modern British artists will be on sale from Freya Mitton, with works by Mary Feddon, Fred Yates and John Bratby while The Hunt Gallery will show pictures by the renowned artist Michael Hunt.

There is so much more: fine silver, jewellery, vintage watches, pottery, porcelain, Japanese sculpture, Chinese ceramics and works of art, traditional 18th and 19th century paintings, Art Nouveau and Art Deco, 20thcentury Studio ceramics and all kinds of objets d’art.

The fair will be supporting The Edward Guinness Appeal in aid of Queen Elizabeth’s Foundation for the disabled.

Tickets and details: chelseantiquesfair.co.uk

“A bronze working model by Henry Moore dating from 1978 will be on sale from Bowman Sculpture”

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Wick Antiques B RI TAI N O N TH E H I G H SE AS Merchants and Mariners

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Charles Wallrock

harles Wallrock started Wick Antiques 40 years ago, in the traditional way, as a ‘runner’. This meant scouring the smaller dealers, warehouses and local auction houses for pieces he could buy and pack into his van. Then he would drive to Bournemouth, Winchester and London and sell on to more senior dealers who had high street shops and galleries.

His ‘lucky break’ came when he was recommended to the Head of the Antiques Department at Harrods. Within a couple of years, he was their main supplier. At this point his wife, Caroline, entered the business and they launched a hard-back catalogue to accompany the annual selling exhibition at Harrods. She also added Islamic and Japanese works of art to Charlie’s already extensive range of stock.

Initially he focused on the 19th century; furniture, bronzes, marble sculptures, clocks and works of art, both English and French. Over the years, as he has become more established, Charles has been able to create further collections in areas close to his heart – globes and maritime works of art. He has added Georgian pieces from the late 18th and early 19th centuries and is especially passionate about w.wickantiques.co.uk furniture from the firm of Gillows from Lancaster and London.

When Harrods, under new ownership, closed their antiques department, Wick Antiques turned to the prestigious Masterpiece Fair in Chelsea and LAPADA in Berkeley Square for their annual exhibitions and continued to produce an accompanying catalogue.

This year, as other shows have been postponed for the second time, they will be at The Chelsea Antiques Fair from September 21st. This latest catalogue Merchants and Mariners is the third in the series Britain on the High Seas. The first section includes artefacts and paintings related to the Battles of Trafalgar and Waterloo. The middle section highlights the inward trade in both 118 SEPTEMBER 2021

BRI TAIN O N T H E H IG H SE A S Merchants and Mariners

CH A R LES WA LL RO C K exotic timbers and colonial furniture - from an IndoPortuguese contador to a ‘Brighton Pavilion’ bamboo daybed. There are also several pages showing pieces created by Gillows, using many imported woods, for both the domestic and export markets.

The final section celebrates 170 years since the Great Exhibition at Crystal Palace and its off shoot, the America’s Cup, with trophies and paintings of yacht racing.

Catalogues and tickets for the show are available from charles@wickantiques.co.uk.

The fishermen of Hastings man their boat.

When the last haul is done up the shingle they float.

King Henry the VIII decreed them a Cinque Port.

These Kentish men gave this retort: ‘Sire, we’ll keep our waters clear from Frenchies and the Spaniards too!’

Here we are in 2021 and still this we cannot do!

TONY FANDINO For more paintings visit: tonyfandino.com I will display and attend Parallax Art Fair 23-24 October

Beautifully bespoke bridal and eveningwear reimagined by designer and dressmaker Daniel Chu. “Feel extra special. Be one a kind. Go bespoke.”

Enquiries@danielchu.co.uk Instagram @danielchustudio www.danielchu.co.uk

Photo by @emily_robinson_photo

THE

WEDDING GUIDE

– Making the most of the great outdoors this summer – I M A G E : B AT H ’ S H I S TO R I C V E N U E S

WEDDINGS

The National Wedding Show Autumn 2021 18-19 September London Olympia. 16-17 October London ExCeL

W

ith an anticipated 200,000 weddings due to take place in 2021 and 2022, in addition to the 280,000 weddings that take place in the UK each year, figures suggest that we’re entering record years for the Weddings industry.

Recent surveys by The National Wedding Show in partnership with Confetti* have revealed that 93% of couples have postponed their wedding to a later date, with 67% of those couples saying their wedding budget has not been impacted by the pandemic and 13% of couples saying the pandemic has meant they now have a bigger wedding budget than originally planned.

The UK’s leading wedding event, The National Wedding Show goes ahead this Autumn at London Olympia, London ExCeL and NEC Birmingham.

With restrictions now eased, couples are desperate to resume their planning. The Autumn shows are set to be the most well-attended to date, with ticket sales already tracking significantly ahead of previous years.

The National Wedding Show has established itself over the past 25 years as the ultimate 122 SEPTEMBER 2021

THE DETAILS The National Wedding Show Autumn 2021: 18-19 September London Olympia, 16-17 October London ExCeL & 29-31 October NEC Birmingham.

For more details on all events, please visit nationalweddingshow.co.uk *Based on x5,353 responses collect through surveys run by The National Wedding Show in partnership with Confetti in February and August 2021

destination for wedding planning, with thousands of couples visiting the shows every season.

Featuring over 450 wedding suppliers already confirmed, the Autumn 2021 Shows will also continue to include a stunning Catwalk, WEDTalk stage, the Inspired Bakes Gallery and the Viktor & Rolf Champagne Bar. The Destination Wedding & Honeymoon Show will run alongside the ExCel show, showcasing venues and services from beautiful locations all over the world.

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We are a wedding dress cleaning specialist based in Kilmarnock, Scotland. With over 25 years’ experience within the bridal industry, we have achieved an unrivalled reputation for our quality craftsmanship, outstanding service and meticulous attention to detail.

Through our preservation service, we offer the latest wedding dress cleaning methods and a commitment to quality every step of the way. We’ll professionally clean, repair and pack your wedding dress, underskirt, veil, and other accessories into a beautiful, personalised box for you to safely store for the future.

www.thedresscleaningcompany.co.uk @thedresscleaningcompany |

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WEDDINGS

[NEWS]

WEDDINGS SWEET ON YOU

COUNTRY STYLE FLORAL AFFAIR An accessory set for a rustic, country style dried flower wedding, comprising a handmade dried flower crown and matching buttonhole in natural colours. Wonderful for bride and groom and the whole wedding party to create a cohesive style for a country-chic wedding. Made using real dried and preserved flowers, foliage and grasses these can be kept as lasting keepsakes of your wedding day. They can be used and worn again and again for other events, including your future anniversary celebrations. maryelizabethflowers.co.uk

PILLOW TALK A pretty porcelain Indian silk douppion cushion decorated with a 1920’s white Jacquard with embroidery and trapunto in gold French ribbon.

The lining is in white silk with matching zip at the back. nataliawillmott.co.uk

TAKE A SEAT Style each of your tables with this personalised wedding table name sign. Personalised with the name or number of your table, choose from gold or silver foil to suit the style of your wedding day. marthabrook.com 124 SEPTEMBER 2021

Emma has always sought to push boundaries by creating, elegant bespoke cakes and exquisite hand-painted macarons to make your wedding day special.

These Emma Dodi Signature Floral Fancies Hand Painted Macarons are just gorgeous.

Above - peonies hand painted on macarons filled with rose water ganache, a bespoke design for de Gournay for their design show in Paris 2020. She also makes beautiful bespoke wedding cakes. emmadodicakes.com

WHY SETTLE FOR AN ORDINARY CEREMONY? … WHEN YOU CAN HAVE ONE THAT IS

EXTRAORDINARY, WRITTEN JUST FOR YOU AND UNFORGETTABLE UK WEDDING PLANNING AWARDS 2021 WINNER Amanda is a modern quirky celebrant creating fun unforgettable ceremonies without limits. Offering a range of ceremonies she works with you to create a personalised ceremony that says everything about you as a couple.

Amanda guarantees to only officiate one ceremony a day so she is totally focussed on your special day – because you deserve the best.

And after all… the day should be all about you. www.amandasceremonies.com awhealcelebrant@gmail.com 07311 431754

Exclusively yours, to bring the wedding of your dreams to life.

Photography by www.lottiephotography.com

www.wasing.co.uk/weddings 0118 907 0199 wasingpark@wedding-venues.co.uk

Bodleian Library Weddings Set in the heart of the dreaming spires

Instagram: @bodleianlibraryweddings Facebook: @bodleianlibraryweddings W: https://visit.bodleian.ox.ac.uk/venue-hire/weddings W: https://visit.bodleian.ox.ac.uk/venue-hire

T: 01865 277224

E: weddings@bodleian.ox.ac.uk

WEDDINGS

Introducing ‘Blossom With Me’ The Happy Blossoms dried wedding flowers

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he Happy Blossoms are over the moon to introduce their NEW dried wedding Baked Blossom range: ‘Blossom With Me’. Known for their Insta-famous Baked Blossoms; The Happy Blossoms wanted to create a beautiful collection of romantic, enchanting and stunning dried wedding flowers, perfect for your special day. Each wedding palette has been carefully designed with the highest quality dried flowers in strikingly unique designs. Due to these flowers being completely dried, ‘Blossom With Me’ dried baked blossoms have been created to bring happiness on your wedding day and beyond. The collection features a variety of new bunches including Bridal Bouquets, Bridesmaid Bouquets, Boutonnière’s and Table Centre Bunches.

Choose from five romantic colour palettes: Enchanted Meadow, Runaway with Me, Pastel Fairy Tale, Wildest Dreams and Pink Haze to build your own wedding package.

• Enchanted Meadow: This whimsical wedding palette will transport you straight to a tranquil setting...think picturesque, rolling countryside.

If you’re after a pretty arrangement with subtle, romantic colours, ‘Enchanted Meadow’ will make your dreams come true. Featuring fluffy dried

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grasses, painted wheat, blush phalaris and white protea.

• Runaway With Me: Prepare to be whisked away to the day of your dreams by this alluring white and cream wedding palette. More traditional in style, made with captivating dried honesty, dried wheat, graceful dried white nigella and fennel.

• Pastel Fairy Tale: Let us take you on a journey to a faraway fantasy land with our pastel wedding palette. Perfect if you’re looking to add a splash of delicate colour to your day. Featuring soft dried cape blooms and pastel phalaris, this long-lasting dried bouquet will be a special reminder of your special day for time to come.

• Wildest Dreams: This alluring wedding palette is a stunning mix of deep colours.

Featuring enchanting dried blue thistles, dried mini artichoke and dried eucalyptus.

• Pink Haze: If you’re after a simple, yet stunning wedding palette ‘Pink Haze’ is perfect for you. A beautiful keepsake of wheat and phalaris, dotted with dreamy lavender. It’s a real-life fairy tale!

The Happy Blossoms ‘Blossom with me Wedding Flowers’ are available to purchase through thehappyblossoms.com

“If you’re after a simple, yet stunning wedding palette ‘Pink Haze’ is perfect for you”

Wedding Planning Courses WITH SIOBHAN CRAVEN-ROBINS

UK Wedding Industry Leader and Influencer Siobhan Craven-Robins, leads on a suite of exclusive Wedding Planning courses for The Event School London. Siobhan is widely acknowledged as the UK’s first wedding coordinator, and she brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her wedding planning courses and masterclasses.

Diploma in Wedding Planning Part-time, Live Online Classes START 22 SEPTEMBER 2021 Ideal for those new to the role and offering extensive training and guidance to only 10 participants per class.

An exclusive opportunity to train with one of the UK’s most successful wedding planners. Learn how to professionally plan beautiful weddings from start to finish, and the business startup skills needed to set up and promote your own wedding planning business.

MasterClasses and Workshops IN LONDON OR IN VIRTUAL CLASSROOMS Take your career to the next level and accelerate the development of your luxury or destination wedding planning consultancy.

www.eventschool.london/wedding-planning-courses call 0203 239 0950 | email info@eventschool.london

WEDDINGS

TOP TIPS FOR A PERFECT WEDDING W

With Celebrity Wedding Planner, Siobhan Craven-Robins

idely credited with bringing the concept of wedding planning to the UK in the 90s; Siobhan Craven-Robins’ elegant, stylish and uniquely creative approach has attracted Celebrity clients including Joan Collins, Des O’Connor, Greg Kinnear, Barbara Windsor, Ronni Ancona and Joey Tempest. In 2003 Siobhan became a household name herself as GMTV’s Wedding Expert. She also regularly features on Sky, BBC and radio offering her views on topical (usually Royal) weddings and other industry news.

Having trained professional wedding planners from as far afield as Europe, India, South America, Africa and across the UK, Siobhan knows what makes a successful wedding. Here she shares 128 SEPTEMBER 2021

her top tips for couples dreaming of the perfect wedding day:

SET A BUDGET. Your perfect day will not necessarily be dictated by your spending parameters. However, as you start planning your wedding, you may discover expenses that you had not considered such as bridal underwear, wedding insurance (always advisable) or a catering service levy. Create a spreadsheet of your wedding ‘items’ and their estimated costs and this will help you create a realistic budget.

MAKE A GUEST LIST. As soon as you have prepared your budget, make your guest list. The number of guests is the factor

“As soon as you have prepared your budget, make your guest list.

The number of guests is the factor that most affects your total spend”

that most affects your total spend. You have to know you can afford to ask everyone you want before you start spreading the word!

BE REALISTIC. If you will be travelling on major roads to get to your ceremony location, a horse and carriage is not an ideal mode of transport! Similarly, if you are set on an outdoor wedding ceremony, choose a reliable month for fine weather but ALWAYS have a wet weather contingency plan.

DECIDE ON A THEME OR COLOUR SCHEME.

through narrow country lanes, your guests may struggle to find it and arrive late. It is always best to view appropriate reception venues within a sensible proximity to the ceremony location before you confirm your booking. If they are quite far apart or difficult to find, consider laying on coaches to transport your guests in comfort.

There is not just your dress to consider. flowers, stationery, table linen and the wedding cake can all be designed to complement one another and co-ordinate the look of your wedding. You can take inspiration from your venue’s décor, favourite flowers or the colours you would like your wedding party to wear.

GIVE YOURSELF ENOUGH TIME.

DECIDE WHO WILL ORGANISE YOUR WEDDING. This can be a crucial, and sometimes, diplomatic decision! There will be no end of advice and offers, but ultimately it is your special day and the organisation should fall upon the best person to realise this. In the event of a possible permanent family rift, hiring a wedding planner is a sensible option.

DO YOUR RESEARCH. Prices and quality of service can vary hugely, and the selection can be overwhelming. If you can go on referrals or friends’ experiences, these provide a safe bet.

ENSURE YOUR WEDDING DAY IS NICELY PACED. Although you would like your day to last as long as possible, this does not work in practice. If the day goes on too long, guests will get bored or tired - and leave early. It’s best to end the party before it fizzles out. Your drinks reception should be no longer than 90 minutes and dancing for up to 3 hours is plenty.

A successful wedding is one that flows with guests never being bored, hungry, or thirsty.

Creative with strong organisational skills?

There’s never been a better time to train as a wedding planner.

With rescheduled post-covid weddings causing calendar congestion for wedding venues, organisers and suppliers, professional planners are now in demand.

A wedding takes time to organise, a dress can take up to 8 months to be made, popular venues often have to be booked around a year in advance and invitations should ideally go out 6-8 weeks prior to the big day. Ensure that you have a realistic timeframe and then you can enjoy all the preparation at a steady pace instead of in one mad rush!

If, like Siobhan, you’d love to become a professional wedding planner and help others create their dream weddings, visit eventschool.london/wedding-planning-courses

CONSIDER THE VENUES. If your chosen reception venue is a long drive SEPTEMBER 2021 129

YOUR DREAM DAY W

e all want that wedding day we’ve always dreamed of, but knowing where to start or how to bring all those ideas to life can be a daunting task. Sheleena, owner of Coco Blush Events, knows all about creating luxury weddings and events, as she has over 10 years’ events experience and high net worth client management expertise.

With weddings picking up again, there is no better time than now to start getting your plans underway. The industry is excited to create your

most special events, and Sheleena works with the best suppliers to ensure that everyone works meticulously hard and your events run seamlessly.

From caterers to décor, event production to live entertainment, there are a million and one things to think of when planning a wedding. It takes on average, 250 hours to plan a wedding from start to finish. Your time is precious and life gets in the way. Why not let a professional take the stress away, whilst you relax and enjoy the lead up to your big day and get involved in the best bits!

Sheleena is known for her passion, creativity and organisation, and she will be the ideal planner for you. She works very closely with her clients, to understand their vision and make their wedding dreams come true.

Offering a range of planning packages, Coco Blush Events has something to suit all budgets and Sheleena always goes the extra mile for her clients.

For a unique wedding planning experience, contact Sheleena today! cocoblushevents.com

Coco Blush Events Luxury Weddings & Events

A unique wedding planning experience for luxury clientele.

London, Hertfordshire, Essex • Full wedding planning • Bespoke wedding planning • On the day coordination • Wedding PA services • Inspiration Sessions Over 10 years’ events experience and luxury client management expertise.

Book a complimentary consultation NOW! Contact: Hello@cocoblushevents.com | 07746 355477 | @cocoblushevents | www.cocoblushevents.com

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READER OFFER: SAVE

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dagio London is a UK luxury online lifestyle and gift retailer. They provide a range of beautiful items from unique and innovative brands.

With Head Office in Covent Garden, London, they have a commitment to ethical trading, and whenever possible source their stock in the UK, cutting their carbon footprint whilst still focusing on the luxury goods market.

The wedding day, your very special day when you become husband and wife, husband and husband, wife and wife. Your married life together begins witnessed by family and friends, a tide of love surrounding you both. Adagio have special touches to make the day memorable. Beautiful parasols to shield you from the sun but hopefully not the rain. Very fetching in those pictures you will both look back on in frames also stocked by Adagio. For the groom, best man, ushers, cuff links. A memento of the day, also hip flasks should a little nerve calming influence be required. The Flameless candles, which have all the ambience and aesthetics of a real candle with the added benefits of safety and the convenience of a timer and remote control.

The journey to the day would have begun with planning and the inevitable lists and although the focus is the day itself so many other factors needing to be considered. Social stationery, Adagio have a comprehensive selection of cards, gift bags and bows, envelopes of many styles and colours. Jewellery for the bridal party, a gift for the bridesmaids to wear on the day and as a token of appreciation. Luxury hand sanitisers for each 132 SEPTEMBER 2021

ADAGIO LONDON WEDDING GIFTS

table at the reception to protect your very special guests. Favours for the select few who would have played a role in getting you both together and/or to the day itself, browse the gift section to choose something different for each of these special people.

For anyone at the party with mobility issues, a selection of canes, modern and classic but decorative enough for a special occasion.

Whatever, wherever, whenever, may your day be magical and may you live happily ever after.

Shop online with them and until the 30th September get 20% saving on any order. Use the code MYLIFEMAG21 at checkout.

THE DETAILS adagiolondon.co.uk Get in touch hello@adagiolondon.co.uk +44 (0)203 963 5388(Office) +44 (0)1244 399 500(Warehouse) Facebook: facebook.com/AdagioLondon Twitter: @adagiolondon Instagram: @adagiolondon

Hintlesham Hall… the perfect place to say ‘I do’

H INTLE SHAM H ALL SUFFOLK

A luxurious country house hotel, built around a magnificent mansion dating back to 1448 and now a Grade 1 listed building.

Hintlesham Hall is widely recognised as one of the most prestigious and romantic wedding venues in Suffolk and has everything you require for your perfect day.

Every wedding is unique and our experienced Events Team will passionately work with you from your initial enquiry to the day itself to create your dream wedding.

Coupled with the Hall’s reputation for excellent food, friendly and attentive service, luxury surroundings and memorable photo opportunities, all blend together to ensure you have a truly special day.

We offer a flexible range of Wedding Packages including Exclusive Use of the Hall.

Book an appointment to tour this beautiful wedding venue with Tracy or Zoe to discuss your personal requirements.

Hintlesham, Ipswich, Suffolk IP8 3NS Telephone: 01473 652334 www.hintleshamhall.co.uk

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WEDDINGS AT ROSEWOOD LONDON

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hether it is an intimate celebration or a grand dinner & dance, Rosewood London is a charming and stylish choice for an unforgettable party in the heart of the capital.

Moments from Covent Garden, Rosewood London is housed in the original headquarters of the Pearl Assurance company, showcasing a sensitive renovation of a 1914 Edwardian, Grade II-listed building. Offering the sophisticated comforts of a contemporary private residence, the hotel envelops guests in a world of impeccable style and refinement. The hotel’s beautifully appointed accommodations are amongst the most spacious in the city and include 45 unique luxury suites and houses enhanced with personalised butler service.

Unique to London, the hotel’s extraordinary Event Studio is a visual and tactile showcase of exclusive event accessories where you can connect with London’s leading purveyors of floral decoration, couture designers, entertainers, and toastmasters. It is the place for guests to personalise each distinctive event from cutlery and linen to flowers and glassware, allowing for fun and creative brainstorming sessions with their professional planners.

The Grand Ballroom is a spacious and flexible venue for celebrations. The majestic space can accommodate up to 280 for a lavish seated event or 430 guests for a cocktail reception.

Two dramatic staircases lead from the hotel’s bustling lobby to the balcony, which overlooks the Ballroom’s spectacular foyer, perfect for wedding 138 SEPTEMBER 2021

ceremonies and pre-dinner receptions.

Curated to the highest standards with large windows that flood the space with natural light, the Dining Room and Living Room can accommodate up to 30 guests each for more intimate celebrations, often popular for rehearsal dinners, bridal showers and post-wedding brunches. As the only private dining space with a show kitchen in a five-star London hotel, the Dining Room offers unique opportunities for interactive culinary experiences such as wine and food pairings.

With a dedicated team of professional planners devoted to the success of your event, their experience stems from all corners of the world offering multi-cultural insights to your planning.

Rosewood London’s extensive and valuable relationships, with both local and international partners, allow them to work together to deliver an unforgettable occasion for you and your guests. rosewoodhotels.com/london

WEDDINGS

AS SERVED AT

Where Dreams Are Made…

An elegant backdrop for every occasion. One of the most impressive and flexible wedding venues in the South East.

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et hearts racing at Ascot Racecourse, an iconic Berkshire venue with a rich sense of heritage, elegance and romance to make your wedding day truly magical.

Founded by Queen Anne in 1711, Ascot Racecourse remains a pillar of British sporting and social culture. A place made truly special and unique by the patronage of 12 monarchs over the course of more than 300 years, with Royal Ascot the pinnacle of the British sporting and social calendar. Renowned for its hospitality, fine dining and sense of style, Ascot is an inspirational setting for any occasion, especially a wedding where guests are given a special ‘bowler hat’ welcome as they sip chilled champagne or a refreshing Pimm’s on the lawns.

Wedding packages can include a ceremony and reception, or alternatively you can hold your ceremony at another venue before continuing the celebrations at Ascot, where the creative Events Team and specialist caterers take pride in delivering outstanding and memorable experiences with a royally British welcome.

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accommodating everything from small family gatherings to large, lavish banquets. The various suites can be easily transformed to suit individual requirements, creating a blank canvas that can be fully personalised to suit any theme and style of décor. All spaces have natural daylight and views over elegantly manicured lawns, whilst the racecourse itself provides a perfect location for stunning wedding photography and filming. All wedding packages include a welcome from Ascot’s very own ‘Bowler Hats’, and the couple gets an invitation to celebrate their first anniversary at the racecourse on selected racedays.

SOMETHING TRULY WONDERFUL Set in 179 acres, with views over Berkshire and the Crown Estate, Ascot Racecourse can transform your personal vision of your perfect wedding into glorious reality with wedding suites that range from traditional to contemporary in terms of architecture, style and size. The realisation of the perfect day is all in the detail; those small yet expert touches that the right look and feel can provide. Ascot’s experienced wedding team work closely with specialist suppliers and experts to provide unique and tailored experiences brimming with elegance, heritage and romance.

For something contemporary and striking, the ON 5 Suite is located on the fifth floor of the iconic Grandstand and is the perfect place to wow guests, with panoramic views over the race track from floor-to-ceiling windows and a sprawling balcony and private terrace.

Situated opposite the Royal Box, the sophisticated Parade Ring Suite has beautiful interior floral finishes and a balcony overlooking the famous Parade Ring and provides a little bit of racing magic and splendour, whilst The Furlong Suite is an ideal summer venue (July to October), comprising a luxury trackside marquee with a large private terrace for leisurely drinks receptions in the sunshine.

Perfect for larger numbers, The Pavilion Suite is a standalone building made up of three sections, which may be used individually or together, and overlooks its own beautiful Plaza Lawns and famous Ascot Bandstand.

Easily reached by car or train from London, its airports and all major road networks, Ascot Racecourse really is one of the South East’s most impressive and flexible wedding venues,

THE DETAILS: For further information, simply visit ascot.co.uk/wedding-venue, and to discuss bespoke wedding options or request a personalised event proposal, please contact us on 0344 346 3611 or events@ascot.co.uk.

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Couture

WEDDINGS

Jaine Briscoe-Price

Wedding Photographer

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ow do you plan your “Dream Wedding”… whether a large stately home with amazing grounds and decadent reception rooms, a field full of tipis, straw bales and wellies or a beach setting in the Mediterranean…? There’s so much choice!

Now, after that decision, how do you find the right photographer to capture all those moments that really will fly by whilst you have a perfect day to remember?

Jaine Briscoe-Price, a highly respected, professional, national award-winning image maker, paired with her equally enthusiastic reportage photographer is the perfect choice to focus on your day.

Jaine ensures your Bridal preparations are documented in a fun, relaxed manner, whilst the guys get their suits on, shot by her male counterpart, before subtly combining viewpoints to capture the emotions of your ceremony with no angle left uncovered!

“Jaine Briscoe-Price, a highly respected, professional, national award-winning image maker, paired with her equally enthusiastic reportage photographer is the perfect choice to focus on your day” Spend time socialising with your friends whilst they record these unseen moments, too often overlooked, before beautiful, timeless imagery of you now as Mr & Mrs, utilising all that your chosen venue has to offer.

The stunning Italian albums designed by Jaine beautifully memorialise this momentous day as they sweep the viewer, chapter by chapter, into the atmosphere and emotions captured in a calm, relaxed manner.

Commissions for 2022 & 2023 are being taken for UK & destination weddings, so please do get in touch to meet/ zoom and discuss how Jaine can enhance your special day.

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Bridge House Studio, Bangor on Dee, LL13 0BU 01829 271933 / 07760 256575 jainebriscoe-price.co.uk @jainebriscoepriceweddings

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Unique Weddings in Bath Bhavesh Chauhan Photography

“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 Rebecca Faith Photography,

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ath is the perfect location for a wedding, with its stylish combination of beautiful architecture, breath-taking scenery, luxurious accommodation and less than 90 minutes from London.

Bath’s Historic Venues are integral to the city’s history and include some of the country’s most iconic buildings. Be part of that history and hold your wedding in one of the award-winning and unique venues.

In addition to incredible venues, you can enjoy flexibility in the type of wedding you can have. Choose from a Champagne breakfast in the morning, drinks, bowl food, buffet or seated dinner. However relaxed, formal or grand you would like your day to be, there will be a venue to suit you.

Elope into 2000 years of history at the Roman Baths If a magical location combined with no fuss, no stress and no guests match your vision of the perfect wedding, this is the venue for you.

Immerse yourself in the romance of an intimate torch-lit ceremony, where you will exchange your vows on the Roman paving alongside the thermal waters. You can enjoy an outdoor wedding by flickering torchlight with the security of being 146 SEPTEMBER 2021

undercover, always safe from the unpredictable British weather.

Following your ceremony and photographs, you have the freedom to celebrate as you wish. Why not experience a special wedding breakfast in the iconic Pump Room above, book a private boat on the River Avon or take a dip in the naturally hot spring water at Thermae Bath Spa? Bath has so much to offer and the choices are endless.

The Roman Baths has been organising elopement weddings for many years and offer a professional and personal experience.

Marianne Taylor Photography

THE DETAILS

Larger celebrations For intimate weddings with just a select number of guests, you can enjoy a Roman Baths Sunset Wedding, to include evening dining. The venue can also accommodate much larger weddings for up to 200 guests with space for dining and dancing.

Alternatively, the impressive Assembly Rooms, in a leafy area of the city, provides everything necessary for a stylish city wedding. Frequented

by Jane Austen, the building still houses stunning crystal chandeliers and its impressive architecture is a perfect backdrop for wedding photographs.

There are four inter-connecting rooms of varying size providing versatile space for weddings with 50-300 guests.

For further information about all of Bath’s Historic Venues, visit their website: bathvenues.co.uk/life Bath’s Historic Venues: Pump Room, Stall Street, Bath, BA1 1LZ bath_venues@bathnes.gov.uk 01225 477786 facebook.com/ BathsHistoricVenues @bathvenues (twitter) @bathshistoricvenues (instagram)

Beautiful Beachfront Boutique Villas Grace Bay, Turks & Caicos Islands

For more information call (+1)800-234-0346. or visit www.villarenaissanceturksandcaicos.com

An under-the-radar rustic bolthole with bucket-loads of charisma and countless Insta-perfect spots, The Courti Estate is a family-owned 18th century manor house, nestled within 10 acres of ancient olive groves. From its position on a hill top, Courti enjoys 360 degree views over the sparkling waters of the Ionian Sea to one side, inland to towards the mountain and gloriously fertile Corfiot countryside to the other.

A gated estate offering the utmost privacy, Courti provides a luxurious and unspoilt world where guests can escape from the stresses and strains of modern life. There are nine chic en-suite bedrooms, a wow-factor infinity pool, state-of-the-art kitchen, indoor and outdoor dining areas and breath-taking views. The décor is elegant and fresh, with the period features adding a Corfiot charm.

Book the venue for your big day and you’ll have access to the whole property including a stunning shaded courtyard and a spectacular renovated olive press that doubles as a private dining area. The estate has played host to rock concerts and festivals, and is now available for weddings of any size. With a number of indoor and outdoor areas to choose from, Courti hosted both intimate weddings of 20 people and wedding parties of 300.

Whether you decide to choose one of Courti’s in-house packages, or bring in your own vendors for your special day, a dedicated and brilliant team of staff will be there with you every step of the way to make sure you and your guests have everything you need. With frequent flights from most destinations in Europe throughout the summer season it’s super easy to get to (only 30 minutes from Corfu airport), as well as excellent connections via Athens airport for long-haul destinations.

Just Married at The Courti Estate

Contact details: www.thecourtiestate.com reservations@thecourtiestate.com Socials @thecourtiestate Tel: +44 7716638500

INDEPENDENT

SCHOOLS GUIDE

THE FINEST INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS IN THE UK C L AY E S M O R E S C H O O L . S E E PA G E 1 8 2

EDUC ATION

Preparing Sixth Formers for life beyond school Hurst College explains to our Editor why it is important to encourage Sixth Formers to step outside their comfort zones from day one

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he last two years of a student’s educational journey are key to providing opportunities and experiences to complete their passage of selfdiscovery. By the time they complete their A-levels, students will have developed a sense of self and have made the right decision about their purpose in life.

Hurst’s Sixth Form is focused on preparing students for their next step after school and the journey begins on day one with off-site adventure training. The fun continues with a Lower Sixth dinner and quiz, followed by the first Mystery Bus Tour of the year.

The Lower Sixth year is a careful balancing act - students are assisted and monitored by their tutors to ensure they get it right. The priority is completing their core academic responsibilities to the best of their ability and to make time for wider intellectual enrichment as they engage fully with all that is on offer beyond the classroom.

Students move into St John’s when they enter the Upper Sixth - the co-ed hall of residence to begin their transition to post-school life as undergraduates. Hurst prides itself on a unique system of academic tutoring. Each student is allocated a subject specialist who can support UCAS applications to be the best they can be.

Students often see their tutors daily, to discuss subject-specific matter for A-levels and are encouraged to widen their knowledge base beyond the syllabus.

All students recognise that membership of Hurst’s Sixth Form is a privilege. They are

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given multiple opportunities to make a wider contribution to the wellbeing of their community and the wider world. Many work towards the Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award, with its emphasis on leadership, community service and personal development. Others take command roles in the Combined Cadet Force or lead the school’s own community service programme. The Lower Sixth Young Enterprise Programme provides an opportunity for students to create and run their own business from scratch, plus lead the many intellectual clubs and societies.

The Sixth Form is a time when significant decisions are made, and Hurst is unashamedly ambitious for its students. The priority is to ensure the next step is perfectly suited to each student’s aspirations and aptitudes. Sixth Form tutors are trained executive life coaches, investing time and expertise to draw out an individual’s values and motivations. Most students choose to apply for a place at a leading British university, but the college also embraces the alternatives.

Pastoral care is second to none, with a huge focus on wellbeing. Students have easy access to their housemaster/mistress, school counsellors and student guardians. The aim is to ensure that they leave Hurst as happy, well-rounded young adults, ready for the challenges of life beyond school. hppc.co.uk

“The priority is completing their core academic responsibilities to the best of their ability and to make time for wider intellectual enrichment”

EDUC ATION

Top of the Class...

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LD College London has concluded a multi award-winning academic year with historic, record-breaking results, and here Principal Irfan Latif, reflects on the school’s remarkable achievements.

An exciting and innovative, 14-19 co-educational day and urban boarding school situated in the heart of London, DLD College London is exceptionally unique. We are the only school in the country to achieve multiple awards in one year, with eight national accolades secured in recognition of our wellbeing and boarding provision, innovation in pupil voice and international student experience.

At DLD we have an inclusive and respectful community, where our core values of tolerance, respect and kindness are the foundations on what our school is built on and permeate through everything we do. Student voice is key to our development and our Student Council oversees specific areas of the school including, academic, wellbeing, community & charity and events.

Student leadership opportunities have enabled the students to develop and shape various initiatives that have led us to enhance our positive culture of care. Furthermore, we believe in the importance of young people having a strong moral compass which encourages all students to engage with the local community.

This year, we celebrated the best ever set of A Level results in the school’s 90-year history.

Students achieved a 100% pass rate with 82% of grades at A*-B. Of those students that took three or more A Levels, over a third achieved straight A*-A grades and almost two thirds achieved all A*-B grades – a true reflection of our students’ tenacity, adaptability and sheer determination to succeed, even in the midst of a global pandemic.

Additionally, our BTEC students once again

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“At DLD we have an inclusive and respectful community, where our core values of tolerance, respect and kindness are the foundations on what our school is built on and permeate through everything we do”

achieved an outstanding pass rate of 100% with 50% of BTEC Extended Diploma achieving the equivalent of three A*-A grade A Levels.

These results are testimony to the hard work and resilience of our staff and students over this challenging period and has enabled our students to now attend some of the most prestigious universities in the world.

Offering an all-round, holistic education leading to a variety of qualifications, our values and ethos here at DLD are strong, our activities are wideranging, and our pastoral care and wellbeing is robust and student-centred. We are a school which sets out to nurture self-confident and responsible young people who are full of character and creativity and are well-equipped to meet future challenges.

DLD College London is hosting an Open Evening on Thursday 30 September at 5:30pm.

Register to attend at dldcollege.co.uk

EDUC ATION

Taunton School at 175:

A rural school with a global outlook

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his year, Taunton School marks its 175th anniversary. It will be a time of celebration for pupils past and present as they commemorate a major milestone in the history of a school which helped shape their lives.

From its foundation in 1847 as a traditional boys’ boarding school, Taunton has constantly adapted to the needs of an ever-changing world.

In the 1970s it was one of the first to become coeducational. In 1996 it was the first to set up its own international school on site.

Today, it is the only UK educational institution to offer a two-year alternative pathway to leading universities, alongside A-levels, the IB and BTECs. When the world throws out new educational questions, Taunton School seeks to find answers.

That’s why, at 175, Taunton School is still a pioneer with one central aspiration: to inspire and nurture young people so they succeed in a global community.

And that global community starts at Taunton with its long tradition of welcoming overseas students. Today a quarter of pupils hail from 45 different countries, creating a unique environment.

With a staff student ratio of 3:1 for international visitors, no-one is allowed to fall by the wayside.

“Our children have made friends from all over the world,” says one London parent. “Its diverse international community is a major strength and yet Taunton still manages to feel like a close-knit and approachable rural school. It’s the perfect combination.”

At the heart of everything the school does is pupil well-being. Even during lockdowns, parents praised Taunton’s pastoral care as ‘off the scale.’

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As the world emerges from the pandemic, noone needs reminding of the importance of nature and open spaces for young people’s mental health.

Far from the stresses of city life Taunton’s pupils enjoy a 56-acre site which nestles in some of the UK’s most beautiful countryside.

And with one of the most extensive cocurricular offerings of any UK school there’s always a reason to get outdoors.

Taunton School may be 175-years-old, but its forward-thinking approach to education remains, as ever, a breath of fresh air. Come and see for yourself.

Our next open mornings are on Saturday, 25th September, 2021 and Saturday, 12th February, 2022. We are 1 hour 45 minutes away from London by direct train. tauntonschool.co.uk

EDUC ATION

F I N D YO U R S PAC E

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hoosing where to go to university is a big decision, especially when Covid-19 has made the world such an uncertain place.

So why not let Swansea University be part of your success story?

At just three hours away from London Paddington, Swansea University is committed to making your move as easy and enjoyable as possible. In choosing us, we want you to feel confident when you join our close and supportive university community, that your safety is our top priority.

At both our Singleton and Bay campuses, extensive safety measures have been introduced to give you peace of mind and whether you live on or off campus, you will be able to live and socialise with your housemates, while also staying safe.

Our campuses’ enviable position on the

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beautiful Swansea Bay provides ready access to the beach, and our Singleton Campus is set against a backdrop of rolling parks and botanical gardens.

Here you can chase the adrenaline rush when surfing on our beaches, explore and relax with new friends, or simply find peace, reflection and solitude in the natural world.

As a Swansea student, we want you to feel supported, both personally and academically and our teaching, our facilities, and our support services, have all been adapted to this ‘new normal’ to help you settle quickly into university life.

While there have been many changes this year, we are confident you will find studying here a transformative experience. The opportunity to meet new people, study new concepts and ideas and engage in new experiences expands horizons and that will pave the way for you to become a talented and skilled graduate of the future. You have already proved your resilience, adaptability, and optimism in the face of difficult circumstances, and we look forward to welcoming you to our friendly and supportive university community.

In this socially distanced world where we still long for connections – Swansea University can offer you a balance of both.

Find your space at Swansea University.

Learn more at swansea.ac.uk

“As a Swansea student, we want you to feel supported, both personally and academically and our teaching, our facilities, and our support services, have all been adapted to this ‘new normal’ to help you settle quickly into university life”

EDUC ATION

‘Little people day nursery knew they were good, but how did they become

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‘OUTSTANDING?”

his was a question posed after the last Ofsted inspection at Little People of Fulham. Like many nursery managers, Jane Gleasure concentrated on the “foundations…which lay with the quality of staff and their skills” focusing on keeping them motivated, well qualified, develop in-house and external training, regular team meetings and following best practice

THE DETAILS If you would like to know more about what makes Little People Day Nursery outstanding please call Alison Truss – Manager on 0207 386 0006 or email alison@littlepeople.co.uk.

Fulham Nursery 250a LIllie Road, Fulham, London, SW6 7PX 020 7386 0006 info@littlepeople.co.uk

“Jane believes you can see the improvements in the happy contented children at play” Jane believes you can see the improvements in the happy contented children at play. Recent achievements such as achieving Bronze & Silver awards by the Healthy Early Years Partnership and the Millie’s mark for excellence in First Aid training and practice result from inspirational and passionate leadership. All settings will follow the Early Years Foundation stages of learning, but inspectors are looking for the children to be truly engaged with the learning process. Much of this you can see in the children’s work, development folders or on the display boards. One recent practical improvement by Dawn Cove at Little People of Willow Vale was the introduction of “Forest School’- trips in wellies and wet weather gear, to local parks to see and learn about the natural environment, taking calculated risks like climbing trees, identifying birds and insects.

Children make their own decisions about their 174 SEPTEMBER 2021

play and their environment in an adventures way.

School trips to the local farm, fire stations, local markets and a small children’s theatre excite not just the children but energise staff too.

At this age learning is fun and the Montessori method of teaching helps “Children learn their early number, writing and reading skills brilliantly.

They are extremely well prepared for their next stage of learning” - Ofsted. What must never be lost is putting the children first. Safeguarding policies and procedures together with regular reviews and training ensure that an Outstanding nursery’s primary focus is always the children in their care.

Shepherds Bush Nursery 29 Willow Vale, Shepherds Bush, London, W12 0PA 020 8749 2877 Hampton 10 Tangley Park Rd, Hampton, London, TW12 3YH 020 8941 7666

Fulham 020 7386 0006 or Shepherds Bush 020 8749 2877 or Hampton 0208 941 7666

EDUC ATION

Harnessing Creative Talents at Queen Ethelburga’s

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estled in 220 acres of the artistically inspiring North Yorkshire countryside, Queen Ethelburga’s (QE) is an excellent rated Collegiate (ISI 2019), welcoming students from 3 months to 19 years.

QE has a very dedicated approach to the Arts across the Collegiate, believing that they are a key ingredient to healthy, happy and creative students.

They provide their students with the expertise, the environment and passion to enable students to develop and succeed.

QE’s rural location provided the perfect back drop for creative Year 12 student Leon to indulge his passion for photography. He commits every weekend to exploring the medium of photography in extraordinary depth expending the curriculum beyond his basic studies.

Using their historic and traditional Armorial Hall, built by renowned York architect Walter Henry Brierley, Leon took a rare quiet moment to set up photo shoot of fellow student Valentina. He took inspiration from photographer Tim Walker and elements of Alexander McQueen can be seen in the styling. This creative pursuit took place as part of the Queen’s Academy, a weekend extracurricular provision, allowing students to realise and extend their ideas and creative passion.

Head of Creative Arts, Helen Woodcock, established this provision for students, supported by their drive to express creativity in all opportunities. Helen said, ‘The Queens Academy

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THE DETAILS For more information about how Queen Ethelburga’s can support your creative child to flourish, visit qe.org or contact their friendly admissions team to book your private campus tour on admissions@qe.org

is very much student led. Our excellent facilities are very much in demand by both our day and boarding students. This allows them the time and space to be able to work on their own projects both independently, and with staff support. We have also been able to offer an amazing set of weekend workshops as well as master classes and talks from industry professionals. It was great to see Leon use this as a creative opportunity to produce such inspirational work.”

The Creative Arts Department at QE combines the skills and resources of the Art and Design department and the Design and Technology department to offer a fantastic learning experience and a range of subject routes that go beyond the traditional subject choices. Facilities include dedicated spaces for fashion, fine arts, 3D design and design technology workshops as well as in photography, a dedicated studio space and darkroom.

EDUC ATION

OUR CHILDREN AND THE FOURTH INDUSTRIAL REVOLUTION

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aith Hagerty, Head of More House School in Knightsbridge, writes on the importance of empowering young people to be agents of change if we are to prepare them for the Fourth Industrial Revolution.

Our schools are in the middle of the most significant transformation we have seen for hundreds of years. Faith believes that “This is the moment as leaders, to harness this window of opportunity and press on with transforming our education system into something that will serve the fourth industrial revolution and its future inhabitants.”

There is a mountain to climb, but what many schools have proved through the relatively instantaneous move to online learning during the first Covid 19 lockdown, is that all things are possible with the right leadership. Those leaders who felt empowered to sail their school ship into unknown waters with courage, resolve and willingness to take a risk, turned necessity and circumstance into an opportunity. It is this kind of leadership that we must model for the next generation.

We are exposed daily to examples of the impact of the global climate crisis and must empower our young people to understand how to lead, in order to bring about change. Schools can do more than provide opportunities for eco committees, but can and should involve pupils at a strategic level. What better way to let our children witness the lead up to Cop26, than from a position of influence in their own school spheres?

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At More House, Faith works closely with the More Green group led by sixth formers, involving them in meetings in which finance, logistics, health and safety and of course the school’s carbon footprint are interrogated. They are empowered to challenge the Bursar, whose agenda is of course to save the school money, but from these discussions, the pupils understand that there is more to sustainability than recycling paper and plastics.

Faith states “We have a choice at this pivotal moment in the development of our education system, and we must shape up and seize the day if we are to equip young people with the tools they need to drive us through the fourth industrial revolution”.

THE DETAILS: For more information about More House School, please contact registrar@morehousemail.org.uk or visit morehouse.org.uk

EDUC ATION

CLAYESMORE HAS THE ‘LEX’ FACTOR

The school standing out from the crowd, with a progressive re-envisioning of a thoroughly modern education

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layesmore, a leading co-educational, all through day and boarding school, launch LEX this Autumn term.

This bold and ambitious weekend programme will equip every Clayesmorian with the essential skills to live their lives well.

Clayesmore has torn up the rule book of a traditional 6 day a week independent education, and replaced academic lessons on a Saturday with a supercharged weekend of trips, experiences and events. All designed to enable pupils to seize new opportunities, develop new skills and provide them with memories and mastery to draw upon forever.

‘It has become abundantly clear that alongside a strong core academic curriculum, young people need more than ever to be outdoors; developing an appreciation and a passion for the environment with all the opportunities for physical fitness, exhilaration, adventure and sheer good fun that includes!’ Jo Thomson, Head of Clayesmore It will aim to ignite new interests, enable meaningful accomplishments and equip young people positively to thrive in this modern world.

LEX will also combine practical and theoretical

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learning with emotional and physical wellbeing, adventure and achievement.

LEX aims to provide a bridge to adulthood, and give pupils the edge they need to prosper in this increasingly challenging world.

LONDON CALLING With the introduction of a ‘Capital to Clayesmore’ boarding package which includes transport at a flat fee, it is an exciting time for London families to consider a Dorset education for their sons and daughters. The London offer enables families to join the school knowing that every aspect of their child’s school life is taken care of, including transport to and from home. From centralised points along the M3, Clayesmore will transport boarders home on Fridays or Saturdays (dependent on sporting commitments) and collect them again on a Sunday, allowing families to spend quality time together rather than time travelling.

LEX is a landmark moment for the school, its pupils and parents, and is set to frame the next phase of Clayesmore’s remarkable history.

Read more about LEX at clayesmore.com/lex

“Clayesmore has torn up the rule book of a traditional 6 day a week independent education, and replaced academic lessons on a Saturday with a supercharged weekend of trips, experiences and events”

EDUC ATION

Reflecting on life after Covid-19 – Lessons for the Future Jonathan Holmes, Deputy Head Academic at St Dunstan’s College, reflects on what the future holds following the last 18 months.

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think it’s fair to say that the Covid-19 pandemic has been the most significant shift to schooling in generations; not since the Second World War did teachers, students, and families have to make such monumental adjustments to the ways in which they accessed learning and adjust to a totally different way of education.

Classrooms went from collective physical spaces to online fora, and teacher stock phrases such as ‘stand behind your chairs’, ‘with the person next to you’, and ‘pass your answers to the person next to you’ were soon replaced by ‘I’m going to share my screen with you all now’, ‘can you turn your camera on’, and ‘I think you’re muted.’ During the two periods of lockdown in 2020 and 2021 respectively, I sometimes wondered whether we would ever revert to teaching ‘as normal’; would we need to have students all learning back in a classroom together when they could be ‘beamed in’ from home? Could we adopt more flexible approaches to teachers ‘teaching from home’, and allow education to catch up with other career paths that have been able to embed flexible working well before the pandemic? Would the pandemic spell the final death-tolls for cursive writing, exercise books, and paper-based learning resources?

Yet nothing beats the classroom experience for learning; humans are designed to be social creatures, and children need to experience physical community and a structural routine for development. There’s a reason why teenagers (and

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teachers!) physically get up and move around a secondary school from lesson to lesson, why we teach children to be able to write cursive script and feel a physical connection to learning. We did our absolute best as a professional to continue education online, and the ingenuity and creativity of my colleagues was truly astounding, yet I can’t tell you the relief I feel, as a teacher, being able to physically teach in a classroom again, without a mask and able to relate to students as a present

“Nothing beats the classroom experience for learning; humans are designed to be social creatures”

person for them, with me able to affirm their learning as individuals in real time and space.

It’s absolutely true that teachers have undergo a rapid up-skilling of their own technological skills; in some ways the covid-19 pandemic gave teachertraining a real jolt into practical-based training and way from theoretical webinars on assessment for learning. Covid-19 forced me to engage with educational software and apps that I might have heard of before, but certainly hadn’t truly got to grips with. I’ve taken many of these back into the physical classroom, with students self- and peerassessing learning online through their devices during my lessons, and we’ve gone paperless for our Additional Curriculum lessons entirely, a move I wouldn’t have felt confident enough to make without the skills I was forced to acquire during the pandemic.

But I’ve also learnt that the future of education must remain one rooted around personal, physically present, relationships between students and teachers, relationships that are rooted in

trust and respect that can best be forged through in-person experiences. Whilst we might continue to meet with parents online, what the pandemic has shown to me is that children and teachers need to be physically present to get the best out of one another, to see the fulness of each child as individuals, and to develop positive relationships with learners as human beings in four-dimensions.

The futuristic image of a purely online education for a child from nursery to university is surely one that is now firmly put to bed, ironically done through the temporary realisation of such an image for learners across the world.”

Find out more about St Dunstan’s College at their upcoming Whole School Open Day on Saturday 25 September, 9.00am – 3.00pm and Sixth Form Open Evening on Thursday 7 October, 6.00pm – 8.00pm.

Bookings can be made at stdunstans.org.uk

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EDUC ATION

Full STEAM ahead!

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Jill Walker, Headmistress of Maltman’s Green School, explains the importance of an innovative approach to STEAM. Maltman’s Green has a rich history of preparing girls for the future and a strong reputation for being a school that is forward thinking. I believe that this approach will be more important than ever, with the Fourth Industrial Revolution already upon us. Characterized by a fusion of technologies that is blurring the lines between the physical, digital, and biological spheres, disruptive technologies and trends such as the Internet of Things (IoT), robotics, virtual reality (VR) and artificial intelligence (AI) are changing the way we live, work and communicate.

At no time has this been more keenly felt than in the recent coronavirus crisis, with us all having to find new ways to work and connect.

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t is against this rapidly changing and unpredictable backdrop, that the World Economic Forum Future of Jobs Report came up with the top 10 skills that are needed to drive success. Along with promoting academic excellence, developing skills and aptitude in areas such as problems solving, critical thinking, people management, decision making, negotiation,

flexibility, innovation, creativity and emotional intelligence, will all be more important than ever.

And this is where the STEAM curriculum (Science, Tech, Engineering, Art and Maths) comes in. Learning needs to reflect what is going on in the real world - where scientists, engineers and mathematicians work collaboratively with designers and the creative industries, harnessing

the power of technology to find innovative and novel solutions to problems. Teachers can provide active learning opportunities through a variety of approaches, such as children exploring their ideas with others as they work together on a group project to design a musical instrument or house made out of recycled materials with a built in security system, or be offered the freedom to go off-piste and explore their own ideas independently in a termly ‘creative homework week’, as well as the school developing extra-curricular activities to include a DT and engineering programme with access to a specially designed ‘Maker Space’.

In these unprecedented times, where home learning has been an integral part of what we offer our pupils, we have seen how important it is to provide an evolving, innovative learning environment with ubiquitous access to technology.

Digital technology can transform learning, bringing it to life, making it relevant and fun. From using green screens, micro bits, floor robots, or a virtual learning environment, it is important to empower children to move from being passive consumers of information and technology, to active creators and innovators.

Here at Maltman’s green our vibrant and carefully crafted STEAM programme nurtures creativity and adaptability, builds self- confidence, the ability to work flexibly with others and fosters empathy and a socially responsible and outward looking mind-set. These are the key skills and attributes our children will need to rely upon in the future. maltmansgreen.com 01753 883022 office@maltmansgreen.com

EDUC ATION

HERNE HILL SCHOOL OPENS NEW, DEDICATED KINDERGARTEN

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t the top of Herne Hill, a mere threeminute walk away from its main site, Herne Hill School recently opened its new, state-of-the-art Kindergarten dedicated to optimising the development of its youngest children (two and three years old). The 188 SEPTEMBER 2021

stately Victorian mansion has been completely refurbished to the highest standard to create a warm, welcoming ‘home from home’ environment.

It is conducive to stimulating the children’s creativity and maximising their learning through an expertly devised play-based curriculum.

The site also boasts a large garden with an amazing ‘sand land’ and nature-centric activity areas such as water play, mud kitchen and herb growing. Later this year, the ‘Bach’, an additional tumble space building opening onto the garden, will also become available at the back of the property.

Children can attend term-time once they have turned two years old, for full-day provision two to five days per week. They are grouped into four small classes (Heather, Lavender, Rosemary and Sage), for each of which a patch with multiple varieties of their namesake is planted in the

“The children have instantly felt at home and are visibly thriving and fully engaged in the wide array of learning activities”

ABOUT HERNE HILL SCHOOL

garden. This helps the children appreciate the whole cycle from growing, harvesting, preparing and eating seasonal produce to repurposing food waste back into the ground through composting.

In the latter part of the academic year, the children are gradually introduced to the school’s main site and its woodland area to enable a smooth progression through the five-year continuous curriculum. There, they transition from play-based learning to more formal learning and then move on to their next schools at a natural Year 3 entry point - with a spark in their eyes and equipped with a comprehensive set of life skills.

Initial feedback on the new facilities and expert provision has been overwhelmingly positive, with some parents comparing 99 Herne Hill to a Soho House for children.

OPEN MORNING Saturday 25 September 2021 Visit hernehillschool.co.uk to register

In the latter part of the academic year, the children are gradually introduced to the school’s main site

Herne Hill School was founded in 1976 as a nursery school in the deceptively large grounds of the Old Vicarage behind St. Paul’s Church. In response to parental demand, it expanded ten years later to also become a pre-preparatory school.

Today, it is the largest stand-alone independent school in the country focusing exclusively on 2+ to 7-year old children, i.e. the period of Early Childhood Education and Development (ECED) research has unequivocally established as the most formative in a child’s life. At the same time, it is sufficiently small to enjoy a warm and friendly family community atmosphere in which the children benefit from strong relationships with loving, caring and expert staff. They guide the children in a highly individualised manner on their ‘whole child’ development journey through play, exploration, creativity and learning through music, singing, dance, art, drama, movement, woodwork as well as the use of the outdoors.

The ECED period, which naturally ends at about seven years old, is so crucial because of how the human brain develops. Lasting values and skills are laid in all domains of development – not just the historically emphasised physical and cognitive but also the social, emotional and executive function/self-regulatory skills. It really is these early years that matter the most!

The school’s ethos of “Love · Care · Excellence” provides a pervasive cultural umbrella for all activities and relationships.

It encapsulates the school’s commitment to excellence and conviction that love and care are prerequisites for the young child’s optimal development. They are essential to awakening their innate curiosity and establishing a virtuous cycle of learning, success, confidence and happiness.

Last year’s quality of education ISI inspection report provided an exceptionally strong endorsement of the school’s provision by rating it ‘excellent’ in all categories. Herne Hill School has also been continuously recommended in the Good Schools Guide since 2013. hernehillschool.co.uk

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EDUC ATION

START SCHOOL SUCCESSFULLY

By Mr Huw May, Headmaster Eaton House Belgravia

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tarting school in September can be daunting at any time, but this year presents a special challenge due to COVID. All schools will aim to ensure that 4-year-olds joining the Kindergarten (what some schools call Reception) year feel comfortable enough to enjoy what is undoubtedly one of the most exciting moments of their school life.

Hopefully, over the summer, they have built confidence and developed their personal independence to start school being able to get dressed, use a knife and fork and go to the bathroom by themselves.

Staggered school starts can also help. Eaton House Belgravia, which takes boys aged 4-11, begins its autumn term on Thursday 9 September, when the Kindergarten new boys and parents will have a gentle ‘Welcome Morning’ lasting an hour and a half. The next day also ends early and, for the first term, the youngest Kindergarten boys have the option to leave at 11.50am on Fridays.

Our Eaton House The Manor Pre-Prep School in Clapham has a similar school introduction.

On the first day, pupils may be suffering from a degree of separation anxiety, so it will be helpful for them to know who is collecting them. Expect the children to be tired when they come out – it’s a lot to take in.

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“Starting school should be exciting and fun”

At Eaton House Belgravia, all Kindergarten boys are allocated a Year 3 pupil (7/8 years old) as a ‘Buddy’ who helps him settle in, sits with him at lunch time and generally keeps an eye out for him.

Form teachers help everyone to make friends and all boys enter one of four ‘Houses’, similar to a club, which gives them a firm sense of belonging.

Eaton House Belgravia, like most schools, will make contact with parents prior to and during the first week, and information is posted outside the classroom and on the School Portal. Keeping surprises to a minimum for the boys can help in the first few weeks when so much is new.

Listening to your child’s experiences, praising their achievements and commenting in any homework books provided are all good ways to make things run more smoothly.

If you follow this guidance, you may find that the first week flies by and the whole family will soon be settling into the new routine – and enjoying it!

To learn more about entry to Eaton House Schools contact the Head of Admissions, Miss Sam Fielding, on 020 3917 5050.

THE DETAILS Since 1897, Eaton House Belgravia has educated boys aged 4-11. It is a Westminster and St Paul’s feeder, and 30 percent of boys receive offers at 7+ and 8+ to these schools from a non-selective entry at 4+.

All boys receive places at a range of top schools. Boys can also stay on at Eaton House Belgravia for 11+ examinations. The Good Schools Guide (2021) calls it ‘excellent and nurturing.’ eatonhouseschools.com Mr Huw May

EDUC ATION

DISCOVER ST MARY’S SCHOOL, CAMBRIDGE

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t Mary’s School is the leading independent day and boarding school for girls aged three to eighteen in Cambridge. Our nurturing environment, state-of-the-art facilities and dedicated teachers encourage every girl to reach her fullest potential.

Recently shortlisted in the national Independent School of the Year Awards for ‘Independent Girls’ School of the Year’, we offer the best British schooling. Cambridge, known for education, is the ideal location to inspire a passion for learning in every student, and to offer reliable pathways to some of the best universities and careers in the world. Our school has formed part of the fabric of Cambridge since 1898, immersing our students in local culture.

Boarders enjoy weekend punting, visits to Evensong at King’s College and cream teas on the lawn by the River Cam, while Cambridge’s worldleading museums inspire learning beyond the classroom. Surrounded by Cambridge buildings named after women who have changed the world, like the Cavendish Laboratory, our pupils know that there are no limits to what they can achieve.

Situated next to the Cambridge University Botanic Garden and the picturesque meadowland of Coe

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Fen, but only a forty-five-minute train ride from London, St Mary’s School has become an even more desirable location for students and parents looking to move away from the city during the pandemic.

While academic results open doors for our girls, it is their self-belief, persistence and motivation that carry them even further. As a faith-based school, our core values of courage, respect, compassion, and integrity support all aspects of our students’ growth. Happiness and wellbeing are a priority, and our tailored pastoral care ensures that each girl knows her voice will be heard and valued.

Equipped with an award-winning Art department, state-of-the-art sport facilities, including a boathouse, a new Junior School STEM lab, and a brand-new Preschool, our school continues to broaden students’ opportunities, both in the classroom and beyond.

Discover what St Mary’s can offer your daughter by booking a personal tour, attending our virtual or in-person open events, or by accessing an ondemand open event.

Find out more: stmaryscambridge.co.uk/visit Contact: admissions@stmaryscambridge.co.uk

UK admissions Preschool and Junior School Debbie Hodson +44 (0)1223 224 177 Preschool, Junior School Year R-6 Day & Boarding UK admissions Senior School & Sixth Form Tracey Headland +44 (0)1223 224 167 Senior School Year 7-11 Day & Boarding Sixth Form Year 12-13 Day & Boarding

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TLISTE OR

DENT INDEPENS OF SCHOOL R 2021 A YE ence THE ing student experi Celebrat

Inspired girls make great women Open

Events Saturday 2 October

stmaryscambridge.co.uk/visit

EDUC ATION

A brighter future Katharine Woodcock, Headmistress of Sydenham High School GDST, takes the positives from the pandemic

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s we head towards what we hope is the light at the end of what has been, at times, an extremely dark tunnel and into a new world that reflects some kind of normalcy, we have to be thankful for what this time has taught us. The importance of community, values and caring for one another.

The new ways in which we have adapted and evolved: technology at the forefront of much of what we do, balanced with a deeper focus on mindfulness and staying active away from devices.

Innovative teaching and more efficient working practices has meant that ahead of the new term in September, the school and its pupils are perhaps in a better position to thrive than ever before.

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As it stands, our pupils have the best chance in nearly two years of having an uninterrupted year of learning and being around their peers. Mental health has become a bigger priority across the board, and we welcome athletes role-modelling the importance of mental fitness alongside physical health. Something we have long heralded.

Though moving towards familiar behaviours and routines at the end of last term helped to provide stability, the necessary adaptability required by the pandemic has fostered key skills of resilience and problem-solving which will stand pupils in good stead for the future.

If another lockdown occurs, our pupils are well equipped to deal with, and overcome, the implications that come with that. The foundations of wellbeing at Sydenham High come from the three pillars of Body, Mind and Soul. Interwoven into all that we strive to achieve for the wellbeing

“If another lockdown occurs, our pupils are well equipped to deal with, and overcome, the implications that come with that”

It’s been said countless times but the past 18 months have not been easy for any of us, especially not for the children whose learning and childhoods have been interrupted. But now is the time to look forward. Now is the time to roll up our sleeves and get back to work, building something better than what came before.

The summer holidays provided a time for rest, relaxation and reflection and enabled all facets of the school to be able to go full steam ahead come September. The new term brings with it something of a new beginning and here at Sydenham High School, we are more than ready for it.

Sydenham High School is part of the Girls’ Day School Trust, a family of 25 schools helping to shape the future of girls’ education. Discover more at open events throughout the autumn. admissions@syd.gdst.net, 020 8557 7004 sydenhamhighschool.gdst.net

of our whole community, when the pandemic hit, we used these pillars to ensure that we were truly looking after our mental and physical health, adapting our co-curricular programme so that it could be just as beneficial in a home environment.

Another positive change brought about by the pandemic is the transition to, and embracing of, digital processes. Teachers have been creative and designed innovative solutions to provide outstanding learning despite the constraints of remote teaching and virtual experiences of the school site provided a new perspective for visitors.

These are things that we can assess, adjust and take forward into the new academic year and beyond.

Throughout the pandemic our pupils learned to “keep finding joy in small things and remember for every negative situation, if you look hard enough, you can always find a positive!”, which is a lesson we all can learn.

“Another positive change brought about by the pandemic is the transition to, and embracing of, digital processes.

Teachers have been creative and designed innovative solutions to provide outstanding learning despite the constraints of remote teaching and virtual experiences of the school site provided a new perspective for visitors”

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FASHION

& BEAUTY – Fashion and beauty news to keep you looking your best –

I M AG E : L O N D O N FA S H I O N W E E K P R E V I E W S P R I N G / S U M M E R 2 0 2 2 C O L L E C T I O N S

FASHION & BEAUTY

[NEWS]

FASHION & BEAUTY STAYING IN CONTACT

SQUARE UP We love these colourful and unique art design silk pocket squares inspired by sailing, the power and beauty of a perfectly executed shot for six in cricket and by figurative movement in rugby, including the dynamism of the scrum. These beauties are created by Otway & Orford in collaboration with artists and printmakers. Made and hand-sewn in Macclesfield, England. otwayorford.co.uk

This is a fashionable secret weapon for fast, secure, touchfree payment, wherever you see the contactless symbol. Perfect for everyday groceries, grabbing a coffee, commuting on public transport, travelling abroad and more. Never needs charging or batteries. And say goodbye to rummaging for your wallet!

Responsibly sourced genuine snakeskin leather bracelet with gold-plated surgical stainless steel magnetic clasp. tovisorga.com

GLAM UP How gorgeous is Sequin maxi dress?

Mimi’s Edit hosts a beautiful collection of affordable, versatile clothing and accessories. They aim to be a little bit different from the high street and help you feel good and look great.

This all over sequin fabric maxi dress has pleated puff sleeves and high neck. mimisedit.co.uk 210 SEPTEMBER 2021

A TOUCH OF BOHEMIA This unisex Handwoven Cotton Jacket in natural and charcoal stripe is perfect for summer evenings as the temperature starts to fall, is oh so comfy for lounging at home, and is the perfect bohemian cover-up at the beach or poolside. bohemiadesign.com

WE LOVE This gorgeous straight edge cuff with gold plated metal edging by Natalia Willmott. This cuff has been hand-carved from a solid piece of rosewood to the highest quality. nataliawillmott.co.uk

FASHION & BEAUTY

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The Biohacking Gadgets you need to know!

iohacking might sound like a practise reserved for scientists and wellness experts, but the fundamentals of the health movement is actually a lot simpler than you think. A term originating amongst scientists and wellness specialists, Biohacking, simply put, is the focus on manipulating biology to achieve greater mental and physical health and wellbeing.

Dasha Ivanova (@dashaivanova_repose), founder of London’s Repose Space, one of the first and only London health and beauty destinations to provide a dedicated Biohacking lab, has been studying the advantages of the 212 SEPTEMBER 2021

practise since she began her wellness journey.

As well as specialist labs offering cutting edge therapies there are also ways in which you can achieve results and practise Biohacking through at-home gadgets. Dasha has rounded up a few of her favourite must-have products to improve health and well-being from home.

Technology is a huge factor when it comes to Biohacking and there are so many exciting and innovative devices on the market that can greatly improve the body and mind. Health trackers such as FitBit are very effective in using the principles of Biohacking to improve the bodies health.

One of my other top picks is the Sensate.

The relaxation device works by tuning into the bodies breathing and relaxation to promote a sense of tranquillity by soothing nerves and guiding mediation sessions using infrasound.

The results are a deep and impactful mediation experience that reduces stress and promotes profound relaxation in just one ten-minute session.

The Somadome is a more advanced biohacking device that we offer at Repose Space but can also be purchased for home treatments.

The dome immerses the user in healing light, colour, sound and energy to offer the ultimate stress reducing session and put the body in a state of extreme relaxation, improving wellbeing, relaxation and overall mental and physical health.

Another great Biohacking gadget is the Oura Ring. Using advanced sensor technology, the wearable device delivers a precise and personalised insight into the body. When worn on the finger, the discreet ring provides an extensive reading of temperature, pulse, calorie burn and daily activity in order to develop a comprehensive knowledge of the body.

Biohacking encompasses many treatments, devices and methods, for more information on how the practice can be used in your wellness journey visit Repose Space where Dasha will be happy to discuss Biohacking in more detail and how it can work for you.

For more information about biohacking in London visit repose-space.co.uk

“Technology is a huge factor when it comes to Biohacking and there are so many exciting and innovative devices on the market that can greatly improve the body and mind”

BLUE VELVET SHOES Blue Velvet, the home of contemporary and Luxury footwear direct from the heart of Europe.

Always one step ahead, they have established themselves on their quality and first-rate service.

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

FASHION & BEAUTY

[CYBER:EARTH]

Koziko London’s first collection

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ntroducing Koziko London’s first collection [Cyber:Earth]. Inspired by the dystopia we live in- by the current state of the world, and the irony of it. As a sustainable and genderneutral high fashion brand we hope to shed light on the affairs of the world through the founders creative design and vision while also providing luxurious, high-end garments crafted from some of the finest certified organic fabrics sourced by the founder himself.

Each garment is expertly crafted on a made to order basis in our London based sustainable and ethical high-end design studio which is led solely by women that hope to preserve the old ways of tailoring.

Our collections have a focus on quality, uniqueness, versatility and durability. With each colour and design being completely interchangeable to ensure you have a wardrobe fit for any occasion but also a wardrobe that will last a lifetime- hopefully being passed down through generations (this is why we offer a repair service on all of our garments).

Our suits are available to be tailored on special request with the rest of our collection being made to order for each individual.

INSPIRATION FOR THE COLLECTION While half of the world burns, the other half live in freedom, over-consuming that which they don’t need, indulging in fine and fancy things 216 SEPTEMBER 2021

“Each garment is expertly crafted on a made to order basis in our London based sustainable and ethical high-end design studio”

Photography by Sharon Cheng

without a care in the world. The bright colours and luxurious organic fabrics throughout our collection symbolise this irony, with one outfit symbolising a silver lining, that silver lining being the new generation of entrepreneurs hoping to save the world. The design as well as the values behind the fabrics focus on the founders personal style, while also keeping in mind a new world free of judgement, destruction and pollution. A world where equality shines, and the environment is enriched rather than destroyed. kozikolondon.com

CALLEIJA.COM | LONDON | GOLD COAST | S YDNEY

FASHION & BEAUTY

Burberry Prorsum

London Fashion Week Preview Spring/Summer 2022 Collections

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he world famous London Fashion Week will mark the exciting reopening of catwalks, celebrities, glitz and glamour, this month. While some events will still take place digitally, many are making their return with physical showcases, now restrictions have been eased following the vaccine rollout.

It 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 and the best and brightest names in the industry.

The event will incorporate catwalk shows, presentations, appointments, events, digital content and activations throughout London, with the main

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17th – 21st September 2021 action taking place at 180 Strand. The international element of the showrooms illustrates that the doors to London are truly open, with designers worldwide descending on the capital.

In partnership with its Principal Partner Clearpay, London Fashion Week will celebrate the reopening of London by relaunching a CityWide Celebration programme across the capital, making the best of British fashion accessible to consumers, supporting retail to get back on its feet and opening London Fashion Week to new audiences and communities.

The dynamic schedule, open to all, will include events and activations in partnership with key retailers, cultural institutions, and businesses.

And while most of us are planning our Autumn/Winter wardrobe, designers at London

THE DETAILS

special events and promotions both in-store and online.

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. London Fashion Week has been running twice yearly since 1983 and has since become one of the city’s most exciting, creative and coveted events.

Stream the shows, explore the collections and discover the designers.

PLEASE NOTE: Images are for visual purposes only to represent London Fashion Week

Kate Moss and Cara Delevingne on front row at Burberry Prorsum

All productions on the LFW schedule and associated events will adhere to the British Fashion Council’s stringent Covid secure guidance.

Fashion Show Live SS22 Fashion Show Live Spring/Summer 2022 Coinciding with London Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2022, on Saturday 18th September 2021, Fashion Show Live will present collections from a host of exciting designers on independent runway shows The show takes place inside the newly built Duchy Suite at the world famous Kia Oval Cricket Ground, Kennington Oval London, SE11 5SS

London Fashion Week Backstage

Fashion Week will be showcasing their Spring/ Summer 2022 Collections. It is a week where designers are free to create at will and experiment with new trends - whether colourful, crazy or controversial - the world is watching as fashion history is made.

The line-up currently sees over 100 confirmed participating designers who will present their new collections. Designer brands include: A.W.A.K.E. Simone Rocha, Victoria Beckham, Banshee of Savile Row, Huntsman, Vivenne Westwood, Bad Habits London, Qasimi, ERDEM, David Koma, Halpern, Burberry, Temperley London, Labrum London, Mulberry, Ravensbourne University College, Charles Jeffrey LOVERBOY..

The magic of London Fashion Week is not merely thanks to the designers’ and fashion stylists’ cutting-edge collections, but the media excitement that accompanies them. Celebrities swarm to attend the fashion event of the year – past attendees include Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, Dame Helen Mirren, Bradley Cooper, Brigitte Nielsen, Yasmin Le Bon, Kate Moss, Naomi Campbell, Elle Macpherson, Cara Delevingne, Eva Herzigova, Craig David, Pamela Anderson, Calum Best, Jude Law, Pixie Lott, Daisy Lowe.

Fashion retailers, hotels, restaurants and bars across London will do what they can to join in the celebration of London Fashion Week by hosting

For more information about London Fashion Week including up-todate schedules, news, and tickets go to londonfashionweek.co.uk Follow on @LondonFashionWk and join the conversation #LFW

Fashion Show: Between 3pm-6pm Doors open at 2pm

Burberry Prorsum

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FASHION & BEAUTY

THE RISE OF ACTIVEWEAR AND WHAT IT MEANS FOR YOU

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he sportswear industry is clearly a winner in 2021 as consumers continue to spend time at home exercising or on long dog walks.

With the majority of business meetings taking place in front of a screen at home, leggings, tracksuit bottoms and loungewear have quickly become inherent pieces of our professional wardrobes. The U.S. sports apparel market will reach $113bn in 2021. This translates to a worldwide expectation for the industry of nearly £400 billion by 2024. 400.

Billion. Pounds.

Data confirms that athleisure orders jumped 84% during the pandemic with sales of leggings five times higher in December 2020 than they were in April 2020. And order volumes for men’s athleisure clothing sales were 20% higher than in 2019.

Sustainability, a long-time trend in fashion, has also arrived in the athleisure market. Consumers continue to discover and invest in new products with sustainable, durable and high-quality materials. Girlfriend Collective - available at boutique-8.com – is ethically made activewear made from plastic bottles and fishing nets. You wouldn’t know it from the look and feel, but you’re diverting waste from landfills. Boutique 8’s top selling brand Alo Yoga is sweatshop-free, with their High Waisted Airlift Legging being particularly popular.

Brands and the boutiques that house them must adapt to cater for the new reality and needs of their consumers. It is no longer enough for brands to create a functional or even aesthetically appealing product — many consumers expect ethical manufacture and debate on social and political issues. This stays true within the shop environment and at Boutique 8 in Radlett plastic bags are a thing of the past and the store is cashfree.

Ultimately, brand performance will continue to thrive around those who understand their goals and leverage the right voices to reach the right consumers on the right channels in order to achieve their objectives and communicate their brand values. Positioned in the middle of the high-street, Boutique 8 aims to do this with

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a hyper-local approach whereby service and that all important morning coffee are key in Radlett.

Customers become friends and friends are rewarded for their loyalty.

The approach extends to online sales with motivational messages in packages, tiered VIP discounts and personalised emails.

The boutique does not stock your standard activewear but rather focuses on highquality brands sourced directly from Los Angeles, New York and Sydney. New customers online get 10 per cent off their first order and along with Alo Yoga, Koral are the headliners with Boutique 8 founder Alice-Emma Starr commenting: I’ve been passionate about activewear for years and as a regular gym-goer plus busy mother, I’ve selected products that look great in the gym but then last the whole day - from coffee and lunch through to school pick up and relaxing on the sofa.”

Loungewear from Varley and Onzie with tennis gear from Lija and Lucky in Love are available as well as many other handpicked exclusive brands.

There are small collections of menswear and girls too along with accessories such as high-quality protein supplements, gym and yoga mat bags, barre socks and bath salts.

Make sure you look good for that next gym session or Zoom meeting.

“Data confirms that athleisure orders jumped 84% during the pandemic with sales of leggings five times higher in December 2020 than they were in April 2020. And order volumes for men’s athleisure clothing sales were 20% higher than in 2019”

THE DETAILS The boutique is open 9.30am – 5.30pm Monday to Saturday in Radlett, WD7 (next to Wenzels) and online at boutique-8.com.

LOW RES

Free UK delivery & returns!

POP IN AND SEE US! We’re here: 289 Watling Street (in between Wenzels and Home Needs), Radlett, Hertfordshire, WD7 7LA. Our opening hours are: Monday – Saturday 9.30 - 5.30pm

www.boutique-8.com

FASHION & BEAUTY

THE PRACTICAL AND STYLISH NEW WAY TO CARRY YOUR THINGS

H

ave you ever been on your knees at the airport with your suitcase fully open, showing the world what you’ve packed to take on holiday? Here is

the solution.

FARINO’s unique new carrier loads from the top and glides effortlessly by your side on 360 rollerblade spinner wheels, rendering your luggage virtually weightless and right at your fingertips too. Just pack those tiny bottles, tickets, your passport and other essentials last and experience the real joy of negotiating those unavoidable travel checkpoints without all the usual frustrations.

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Made of weatherproof neoprene, this ingenious top-loader is both enviably chic and practical. It has an adjustable telescopic handle, a lockable laptop compartment, handy side pockets and meets most airline cabin requirements too - not to mention that rollerblade wheels are designed to support the weight of a human, so you won’t find anything sturdier on the market.

But that’s not all, most of us carry around the equivalent of at least two house bricks (2.5kg+) on a daily basis and that’s not good for our shoulders, backs or posture. A bag, carried by hand or over the shoulder, should ideally be no more than 1kg, any heavier and our bodies start to suffer.

Physiotherapist Jehan Yehia, says: “Regularly carrying heavy bags can contribute to shoulder pain, low back pain and neck stiffness. We are seeing more and more of these issues as our bags grow heavier.”

Measuring 35cm x 23cm x 54cm (inc. wheels), the FARINO Carrier comes in four colours: Black, Midnight Blue, Green and Purple, with the option of either a rose gold or gunmetal silver frame.

“My approach to life has always been one of practicality – if I can find a way to make something more efficient, I certainly will and why can’t practical be pretty? Everything we create at FARINO is considered and designed to be interchangeable and evolving – we didn’t invent spinner wheels, but have combined the joy of rollerblading with a movement efficiency in luggage that is second to none.”

Paola Farino

“My approach to life has always been one of practicality – if I can find a way to make something more efficient, I certainly will and why can’t practical be pretty?”

“I LOVE MY CARRIER, IT’S SUPER STYLISH AND UNBELIEVABLY PRACTICAL. I COULDN’T BE WITHOUT IT NOW!”

“MY CARRIER IS GREAT AS HAND LUGGAGE. IT FITS INTO THE OVERHEAD LOCKERS WELL. IT’S VERY VERSATILE, VERY STYLISH AND I LOVE HOW EASILY IT MOVES!”

Website: carriedbyfarino.com | Instagram: carriedbyfarino or call us on 020 7207 0858

FASHION & BEAUTY

DIPII STARK

Sleepwear & accessories designed to make you look and feel beautiful

D

ipii Stark, based in London launched her accessories & sleepwear brand in 2019.

This brand is focused on all things natural and pure - just as mother earth intended!

A trip to Italy and a visit to a Textile Museum showcasing fashion and textiles in the bygone era sparked her need to start designing seriously.

She set out to create her designs by sourcing her inspiration from flowers, nature and feelings that were captured while on holiday or off the beaten trips around the world. Each piece is unique and special and the vibrant colours are a reminder that life should be joyful.

Dipii Stark produces in the UK allowing the brand to be able to do strict quality checks on its products. Keeping manufactures in the UK also means a good working relationship and ease of communication with the suppliers. Visiting them regularly to oversee the production process allows for the garments to be made properly and ethically.

Each design is hand illustrated onto pure and natural fabrics making each piece unique. Her

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silk scarves are made from 100% silk and edges hand rolled to give the scarf versatility and stylish elegance when draped. These chic and classic keepsakes will also make unique gifts for a loved one. These are like memory postcards that attach a special meaning to a loved one. The use of robust silk ensures that each piece is easy to maintain and will last a life time of the wearer.

When designing, she keeps her customers in mind so when they wear each piece, they feel special and cared for. Most people struggle to find sleepwear that is not only comfortable but also kind to their skin. So, the range that will launch in October will be made from pure lightweight silk, designed for comfort to bring the customers a feeling of luxury and the need to celebrate life even when at home.

As the brand is evolving, we will see more addition of sleepwear for men and women in pure silk and cotton material, a lifestyle brand that aspires to bring joy to its customers.

You can see their products on Instagram @dipiistark, Dipiistark.co.uk

“Each design is hand illustrated onto pure and natural fabrics making each piece unique”

FASHION & BEAUTY

QP JEWELLERS: Luxury with confidence

Q

P Jewellers are established purveyors of fine gemstone and diamond jewellery. With a commitment to honest, ethical service and an appreciation for timeless designs.

Passionate about protecting and showcasing the unique effusions of each and every gemstone in their collection, and promoting the organic beauty of the natural world alongside the finest lab grown stones, the QP collection features an array of unique designs, distinguishable for their rarity and elegance.

Recognised by the Retail Jeweller UK Jewellery Awards and the Digital Entrepreneur Awards, QP Jewellers diamond & gemstone jewellery is the epitome of excellence. Designed to offer you a lifetime of elegance, all of their designs are handcrafted by their master jeweller and hallmarked at the Edinburgh Assay Office.

Made to accentuate beauty and character, their selection of fine jewellery features ethically sourced diamonds and gemstones, crafted, and arranged into a variety of styles. From timeless classics to cutting edge modern designs, their refined collection is an extraordinary showcase of masterful creations.

Immerse yourself in class and elegance with sapphire, indulge in rubies rich red hues or add a touch of allure to your ensemble with amethyst.

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Whichever precious stone you choose, their selection of natural gemstones offer breathtaking qualities that transform the elemental into the extraordinary.

Gift a lifetime of elegance, with jewellery designed for life. Each QP Jewellers item is dispatched in an individual gift box featuring velvet underlay and silk lining, and comes complete with a luxurious white gift bag.

Recognising that the search for the perfect piece of jewellery can be daunting, QP Jewellers have tailored their services to offer you guidance and support at every turn. With expert customer service on hand and an informative, user-friendly website, they’re confident that no matter the occasion, you will find a piece to love forever. qpjewellers.com

HEALTH

& FITNESS

– Everything you need to keep fit, healthy, and happy – I M A G E : S T J O H N & S T E L I Z A B E T H H O S P I TA L

H EALTH & FITNESS HEALTH

Vegan Aromatherapy Products

“A

What We Put In : 100% Pure Essential Oils & Nutrient Rich Plants Oils What We Leave Out : Synthetic Fragrances, Artificial Scents, Sulphate, Chemicals.

s a busy family in a modern world, anxiety causing events are commonplace. We have found from personal experience

230 SEPTEMBER 2021

that repeatedly ignoring the effects on our minds and bodies of this stress and not taking time out to Pause and Reset had a hugely detrimental effect and inevitably takes its toll on our physical and mental health, to combat this and make sure we take some time out for a little self-care we created an affordable range of therapeutic essential oil blends in a growing range of products.

Lock & Latch came about when my husband in 2017 suffered an adrenal fatigue breakdown, we began to blend oils specifically to ease many of his symptoms such as - anxiety attacks, fatigue, brain fog and insomnia (helping to complement not replace his medical treatment) and found them extremely effective. Visitors remarked on how our home was beautifully scented and felt like a spa and asked for products for themselves, thus Lock & Latch began and grew... lockandlatcharomatherapy.co.uk

H EALTH & FITNESS

THE KENSINGTON WING T

“To ensure the safety of women and their birth partners, The Kensington Wing have important infection control procedures for staff and visitors to adhere to, but remain welcoming to your chosen birth partner for all stages of your pregnancy, birth and postnatal stay”

232 SEPTEMBER 2021

he Kensington Wing is the dedicated private maternity unit at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, providing women with around-the-clock clinical care, comfortable en-suite private rooms and hospitality services.

Being located in the heart of Chelsea and Westminster Hospital - one of the UK’s safest hospitals - the safety and wellbeing of mother and baby are reassuringly supported at all times. The Kensington Wing is immediately located next to the hospital’s outstanding and newly expanded Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and a consultant anaesthetist remains on site at all times, 24/7, dedicated to the needs of women on the Kensington Wing.

In these uncertain times, expectant parents can have additional anxieties or concerns about childbirth or going into a hospital. To ensure the safety of women and their birth partners, The Kensington Wing have important infection control procedures for staff and visitors to adhere to, but remain welcoming to your chosen birth partner for all stages of your pregnancy, birth and postnatal stay. Your individual room and en-suite facilities are a haven in these times and the catering and hospitality team ensures your stay is relaxing as well as safe.

On the Kensington Wing the consultant obstetricians, midwives, nurses and maternity support workers provide care as a team. And are delighted to offer both consultant-led and midwife-led maternity packages.

The Kensington Wing’s highly experienced team of midwives welcome enquiries from prospective women and the opportunity to discuss midwifeled care in more detail. These ‘meet the midwife’

sessions are always a relaxed and special time to talk and discover more without any obligation. For those women who are appropriate for midwife-led care, the team provide full support throughout your pregnancy and the midwifery team are available 24 hours seven days a week for advice or concerns throughout your pregnancy, birth and postnatal stay.

The consultant-led care package allows you the choice of one of our experienced consultant obstetricians to personally guide you through your pregnancy and birth. Your consultant provides continuity and individualised expertise throughout your journey. They build a relationship with you and your partner through the antenatal period to give you confidence to birth safely with them in line with your birth preferences. They remain to support you through the postnatal period including your 6 week postnatal check. All consultants are available to meet you and your birth partner without any obligation.

The Kensington Wing enquiry team are always happy to support with these arrangements and answer any questions.

If you would like to talk to one of the team email kensington@chelwest.nhs.uk or visit our website thekensingtonwing.co.uk

The Kensington Wing offers you and your birth partner a safe, warm and welcoming private maternity experience in the heart of Chelsea and Westminster Hospital.

Around the clock clinical care and hospitality services complement the expertise and peace-of-mind afforded by one of London’s leading teaching hospitals.

The Kensington Wing provides: • Midwife and consultant led packages of care • Private consultation rooms for antenatal appointments • 24/7 onsite consultant anaesthetist support • Immediate proximity to the hospital’s neonatal intensive care facilities • Postnatal en-suite private rooms for you and your partner • Luxury postnatal suite, The Kensington Suite • Bespoke antenatal classes • Lactation consultant • Water birth workshops • Complimentary therapy • Postnatal support in your home by our dedicated team of midwives • Full range of catering services including afternoon tea, fine wine and champagne For more information about the packages and services that are available please contact the team on 02039 938 683 or email kensington@chelwest.nhs.uk.

All private care income is reinvested into our NHS services. The Kensington Wing is part of Chelsea and Westminster Hospital NHS Foundation Trust. © 2020 Chelsea and Westminster Hospital NHS Foundation Trust. thekensingtonwing.co.uk

SAFETY COMFORT PRIVACY

H EALTH & FITNESS

Erectile Dysfunction after

Prostate Cancer Surgery

O

ver 48,500 men in the UK are diagnosed with prostate cancer each year, with many of them needing surgical treatment. Although not all men experience them, side effects from prostate cancer surgery are common, including erectile dysfunction.

While there are many cause of erectile dysfunction, having prostate cancer surgery is a common cause in over 60% of men experiencing it. For many men these problems improve within 12 months after surgery, but for others it continues. We spoke to King Edward VII’s Hospital Consultant Urologist Professor David Ralph who discusses how surgery for prostate cancer can cause erectile dysfunction and what can be done to treat it.

234 SEPTEMBER 2021

How does prostate cancer surgery cause erectile dysfunction?

Surgery to remove the prostate is usually offered to men who have prostate cancer that hasn’t spread outside of the prostate, or has only spread a small way. Surgical options such as radical prostatectomy (which removes the prostate plus the surrounding lymph nodes and tissue) and nerve sparing prostatectomy (where the surgeon aims to leave the nerves on either side of the prostate behind) can lead to the nerves being damaged or removed, resulting in either temporary or permanent erectile dysfunction.

Other treatments for prostate cancer such as radiotherapy, brachytherapy, cryotherapy and hormonal treatments can also cause erectile dysfunction. The type of treatment you have for

“Surgery to remove the prostate is usually offered to men who have prostate cancer that hasn’t spread outside of the prostate”

your prostate cancer will be determined by the stage and speed of growth of your cancer, while the effects of erectile dysfunction afterwards, such as duration and severity, will also depend on the type of treatment you have.

Can erectile dysfunction be treated?

Having prostate cancer is an upsetting and stressful experience – having erectile dysfunction as a consequence of treatment to help treat your cancer can feel like a cruel twist of fate. But the good news is, in most cases, erectile dysfunction can be treated, and often, erectile dysfunction will improve with time and require no further treatment.

There are numerous treatments for erectile dysfunction including: • Tablets • Creams • Injections • Pellets • Vacuum pumps • Implants

prostate surgery. A pump is placed over the penis to encourage blood flow and then a plastic ring is put over the base of the penis to maintain your erection.

If none of these treatments prove successful, you may be suitable for a short surgical procedure to insert an implant into your penis. Some implants are semi rigid and others are inflatable.

How you manage your erectile dysfunction should be tailored to your circumstance. There are plenty of different treatments so don’t lose hope if one doesn’t work for you — another type of treatment may work instead.

What can I do to help my erectile dysfunction?

Eating well, not smoking, reducing your stress levels, maintaining a healthy weight and exercising regularly can all help to improve erectile dysfunction.

Communicating with your partner and sexual counselling can also help the situation.

More information If you’re concerned about erectile dysfunction or urinary incontinence after prostate cancer surgery, speak to a specialist team at The King Edward VII’s Hospital Prostate Cancer Survivorship Centre on 0203 930 1392 Mon – Fri 9am – 5pm kingedwardvii.co.uk

Tablets for erectile dysfunction include Viagra, Cialis, Levitra and Spedra. These drugs help relax the penile muscles and help improve the blood flow to the penis, and therefore an erection. They need to be taken an hour or so before you plan to have sex and can work for up to 36 hours depending on the type of tablet offered.

Vitaros cream to help treat erectile dysfunction works by placing a small amount on the opening of the penis, up to half an hour before you plan to have sex.

Injections for erectile dysfunction, called Caverject, Viridal Duo or Invicorp, need to be injected into the penile shaft. Pellets need to be inserted into the opening of the penis.

Using a vacuum pump is a physical way of achieving an erection and can be particularly useful if you have had your nerves removed during SEPTEMBER 2021 235

H EALTH & FITNESS

Focus On…

MENOPAUSE

T

he menopause is a normal process that women experience, when the ovaries stop producing eggs, leading to a drop in hormone levels.

There are 3 stages: • Perimenopause – this occurs a few years before menopause when the ovaries gradually make less oestrogen.

• 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 is 51 years.

Menopause prior to the age of 40 is defined a premature ovarian insufficiency.

SYMPTOMS Some women may 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 where periods become lighter or heavier with a change in frequency, until the period stops altogether.

Common symptoms include hot flushes and night sweats, vagina dryness, reduced libido, joint pains, difficulty sleeping and mood changes such 236 SEPTEMBER 2021

as irritability and anxiety.

There are also long-term health problems associated with a lack of oestrogen which include the risk of cardiovascular disease and osteoporosis which is a weakening of the bones making them fragile and increasing the risk of fractures.

TREATMENT Treatment options include hormone replacement therapy (HRT). HRT is 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.

HELPFUL SUGGESTIONS 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.

Dr Angela Rai

THE DETAILS The London General Practice 114a Harley Street, London W1G 7JL Tel: 0207 935 1000

Private GP services thelondongeneralpractice.com

H EALTH & FITNESS

Focus On…

WELLNESS OVER AGE FIFTY A

s we get older, we need to be more aware of our health. Although some of it is down to our genes, advancing age, exposure to environmental factors and the cumulative effects of our lifestyle choices have an impact on our wellbeing.

‘Our team will work with you to maintain your best possible health and wellbeing, so that you can continue to enjoy life to the full, whatever your age,’ People in their 30s, 40s and 50s tend to be running around between work, home and family, leaving less time for exercise, relaxation and taking care of health issues. At The Practice, we encourage you to take a step back, take time out to have you health and risk factors assessed and to take timely action.

Through a combination of the latest screening techniques and technology, and expert diet and lifestyle advice, we can help you to be proactive about your health.

Essential cancer screening Most cancers become more prevalent as people age – the vast majority are diagnosed in people over 60. Unfortunately, too many cancers are Dr Catrin Bevan

238 SEPTEMBER 2021

still diagnosed late. With modern treatments and surgical techniques, early detection can often make a significant difference to the outcome so it makes sense to undertake regular screening to spot these cancers at a very early stage.

At The London General Practice, we offer comprehensive cancer screening, including colon, prostate, breast, ovarian and lung cancers. We can access the latest, high tech, cutting-edge diagnostic tests available in Harley Street and its environs, arranging your tests efficiently so that you can get everything done within a day.

‘The London General Practice cancer screening programme gives you complete peace of mind.’

‘Maintaining a healthy heart is the key to health and wellbeing as you move into the middle age and beyond.’

Heart health Heart disease is still a big killer in the UK. Although women are protected to some extent before menopause, that protection ends as levels of oestrogen drop. Women in the 50+ age group are just in need of cardiovascular risk assessment and screening as men of the same age.

At The Practice, we offer comprehensive screening, either to identify problems early, or simply to put your mind at rest.

THE DETAILS The London General Practice 114a Harley Street, London W1G 7JL Tel: 0207 935 1000

Private GP services thelondongeneralpractice.com

H EALTH & FITNESS

CHOOSE EXCELLENT HEALTHCARE AND AVOID WAITING TIMES AT

ST JOHN & ST ELIZABETH HOSPITAL

Excellent Private care in the heart of the community As one of London’s best private hospitals, St John and St Elizabeth Hospital offers streamlined access to some of the UK’s finest consultants. With full diagnostic services on-site and impeccable levels of care, there really is no need to wait for the treatment needed to get you back to being yourself, pain-free.

Nestled within the St John’s Wood community of North West London, St John and St Elizabeth Hospital is famed for its first-rate clinical services and compassionate care, serving the community since 1856.

With over 25 specialist clinics, the hospital combines established settings with state-of-the-art facilities – and its about to get even better with the phased opening of its £35m new wing beginning in Summer 2021.

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The human-side of private health care With its promise of ‘putting people first’, many patients love the ‘human’ side of the hospital.

Their endeavour to achieve the best possible outcome for every person who chooses them for their treatment and care, is palpable – from its on-site call centre for any patient concerns and enquiries, its Urgent Care Clinic, through to its Hospice – more on that later.

Getting back in-control has never been so important With waiting times lengthening across the National Health Services because of the pandemic, it can be frustrating to put your life and work on hold – a recent NHS Referral to Treatment report highlighted that 46.8% of patients face an 18-week delay before starting treatment.

Choosing to self-pay for healthcare is safe, easy

“Choosing to self-pay for healthcare is safe, easy and an efficient way to get treatment for injuries and illnesses so you can return to work and family life as soon as possible”

and an efficient way to get treatment for injuries and illnesses so you can return to work and family life as soon as possible.

No need to wait St John and St Elizabeth Hospital offers next day - and sometimes same day – appointments so you do not have to put off dealing with any medical issues because of daunting waiting times.

If you’re concerns are more general, you can see one of their private GPs, or utilise the walk-in Urgent Care Clinic, Casualty First (appointments are currently required due to COVID). Treating anyone from age 1+, you can see a highly experienced doctor, often within an hour, for around £100. Check availability via casualtyfirst. co.uk or call 020 7432 8300. If there is something concerning you, there really is no need to wait.

The hospital is recognised as a COVID Green Zone for its safe environment, and does not treat COVID-19 patients.

You always have options You can ask your GP for a referral to St John & St Elizabeth Hospital and you can also mix and match between the NHS and the Hospital, choosing either for such elements as diagnostics, surgery and physiotherapy.

The Private Hospital, with a difference.

Unique amongst its peers, St John & St Elizabeth is an independent institution with no shareholders.

100% of profits help fund the on-site St John’s Hospice. Literally, every single treatment contributes to providing free care and support for over 4,000 terminally ill patients and their families every year. You can see why the particular hospital is at the heart of the NW London Community.

THE DETAILS St John & St Elizabeth Hospital is located at 60 Grove End Road, London, NW8 9NH To discuss self-pay or enquire about a treatment, call their team on 020 7806 4060 or email on info@hje.org.uk.

Further information can be found via hje.org.uk

Self-pay or Private Insurance Many people will have private healthcare from the likes of BUPA, Vitality or AXA etc. Many of the Consultants and procedures are accessible via the insurance portals directly, where you can elect to have your treatment at St John & St Elizabeth’s Hospital.

For the increasing number of people considering self-pay, fees are competitive and transparent with a variety of packages on offer. A recent patient commented: “I was given quotes for a broad spectrum of scenarios and this was before they’d even had a chance to review my scans. I knew exactly how much I’d have to pay from best-case to worst-case scenario; it was incredibly reassuring.”

SEPTEMBER 2021 241

H EALTH & FITNESS

Get fast treatment for minor accidents, injuries and illnesses with no waiting times Casualty First provides excellent urgent care for all the family

C

asualty First is the urgent care clinic at St John & St Elizabeth Hospital in St John’s Wood, providing first class care and treatment for all the family for a range of minor accidents, injuries and illnesses with safe, efficient consultations without the wait.

No waiting times – just book an appointment The urgent care clinic is open Monday to Friday 8am to 7.30pm, weekends 8am to 5.30pm and has same day appointments and no waiting times so patients are seen quickly and are guaranteed to receive tailored care promptly.

The highly valued service is currently operating on an appointment only basis but booking is easy and made over the telephone, allowing patients to choose convenient times for their consultations.

A wide range of treatments The clinic offers a wide range of treatments for 242 SEPTEMBER 2021

urgent injuries and illnesses, including: sports injuries; fractures, soft tissue injuries, sprains and strains; ear, nose and throat conditions; eye conditions; stomach, bowel and bladder problems; gynaecology; travel vaccinations and general medical conditions. Instant referrals are also available within their fully equipped onsite private general hospital to over 500 expert Consultant specialists.

Safety assured The Hospital has been recognised by Bupa as a COVID-19 Green Zone for complying with the UK guidance on COVID-19 infection control.

Visit Casualty First Located at the entrance of St John & St Elizabeth Hospital in St John’s Wood, North London, Casualty First is a self-pay service with treatment available for all the family, including children from the age of one year.

THE DETAILS Book your appointment by phone on 0207 432 8300 casualtyfirst.co.uk Open 8am - 7.30pm Monday to Friday 8am - 5.30pm Saturday and Sunday St John & St Elizabeth Hospital; 60 Grove End Road, London, NW8 9NH

Leading private Urgent Care Clinic in St John’s Wood

Open Monday to Friday 8am to 7.30pm, Saturday & Sunday 8am to 5.30pm, with same day appointments and no waiting times so you can be seen quickly.

Open Monday - Friday: 8am - 7.30pm. Saturday and Sunday: 8am - 5.30pm

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H OUSE & GARDEN

COUTURE COMFORT FOR EVERY ROOM IN THE HOME trend and contemporary seating options. We added new ranges and we sourced fabrics from fantastic British designers. Now we have a collection of chairs and bar stools that will suit every room in the home.

Today, Cheeky Chairs is now recognised as a luxury bespoke Chairmaker and every chair or bar stool the company creates is individually made to order in the customer’s own choice of fabric or in an array of colour and luxury textile combinations.

It’s specialist polishing team can create any finish or colour to match an interior and all seat heights can be adjusted to ensure a perfect fit.

Felicity adds: “Our frames are carefully chosen for their design and quality. They are traditionally crafted to the highest standard of joinery and hand-finished in England. Each seat is meticulously upholstered using 100% natural materials, and we are one of the first British Chairmaker’s to add a deep layer of pure organic latex to every seat for added comfort and support.”

She continues: “Most of all, it is our aim is to put fashion into furniture. To bring a splash of runway excitement using designer fabrics on beautifully crafted chairs and bar stools. To create statement pieces that will last a lifetime and bring a smile to your face each time you sit on them.”

W

hether you are seeking stylish bar stools to sit beneath your kitchen island or sumptuous dining and occasional chairs in beautiful fabrics, finding luxurious seating solutions for your beautiful new kitchen or dining room can often be a challenge.

When Felicity Randolph was researching fashionable seating solutions for her own kitchen diner, she identified a gap in the market. With a keen interest in fine furniture together with a passion for textile design she decided to combine the two and Cheeky Chairs was established in 2017, initially from her barn in Kent, moving to a craft workshop two years later.

Felicity says: “The business grew quickly because we were answering a real need for on246 SEPTEMBER 2021

THE DETAILS For more information or to view the collections please visit cheekychairs.com or call 01233 756 740.

H OUSE & GARDEN

[NEWS]

INTERIORS GOING FOR GREEN This luxurious armchair is perfect for adding a touch colour and a retro feel to your interior space.

With Mid-Century Modern undertones, this classic piece is the perfect occasional chair for any setting. sweetpeaandwillow.com

SCANDI STYLE The Harlow by Furniture Choice sofa has a stylish, Scandi-inspired design. Its smart yet casual shape invites you to sit back and relax. Modern and sophisticated, this versatile sofa works well in any contemporary home. The Harlow is upholstered in soft, grey velvet for a stylish feel and features simple button-back detailing and supportive foam and fibre-filled back cushions. furniturechoice.co.uk

DO THE FANDANGO With open and closed door storage for easy access, our Fandango Media Unit has a distinctive whitewashed mango wood finish with brass-plated legs and handles for a stunning luxury detail. atkinandthyme.co.uk

GOING FOR GOLD The Intricate Gold Lace Nest of Side Tables are a charismatic duo that we think are absolutely dropdead gorgeous. Perfect for bringing out another side table when you have visitors, or use them separately to bring twice the glamour. audenza.com 248 SEPTEMBER 2021

WE LOVE The new offerings from Oka, who never fails to deliver on classic style. We particularly like the Kaishu side table (left) and small Flavian side table. oka.com

WINNER OF OUTSTANDING POOL OF THE YEAR 2020 Family Company celebrating 55 years of excellence.

• Heating & Environmental Specialists • Service & Maintenance Contracts • Pool Refurbishments • Chemicals, Equipment, Safety Covers

• Moveable Floors • Saunas & Steam Rooms • Hot Tub Showroom • Supporters of Make a Wish Foundation

H OUSE & GARDEN

Sleep Organic S

leep Organic is an online family-run business specialising in finest quality, ethically sourced organic bedding.

Founded in 2018 by Richmond residents Nisa Shah, originally from Pakistan and Dr Chris Murphy, a former leading Oxford research scientist, Sleep Organic is already making its mark in sustainable fashion and textiles as evidenced by its recent award for Best of Organic Fashion Brands by the Soil Association. This prestigious national award was made in recognition of their pioneering work in bringing genuine sustainability to the bedding sector, and ‘demonstrating a commitment to certified organic products as

well as working creatively and innovatively with materials, design and communicating the benefits of organic’.

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THE DETAILS Enjoy 20% off Sleep Organic’s entire luxury organic bedding range using discount code LONDONLIFE20 at www.sleeporganic.co.uk For expert bedding advice you can reach Sleep Organic on 020 825 55914 or email them at customer.service@sleeporganic.co.uk

Luxury meets sustainability at Sleep Organic Sleep Organic’s ethos of ‘luxury meets sustainability’ addresses a largely unmet need in providing fully sustainable, ethical and importantly traceable bedding without any compromise in quality. From their long staple cotton from India to their select finest British wool, they use only the best organic natural fibres. All of their bedding is 100% organic to the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS), certified by the Soil Association. Globally, GOTS is recognised as the gold standard for organic certification and enforces strict environmental and social criteria in both farming and textile manufacture. In addition to their organic credentials, Sleep Organic is also Fairtrade-certified, and importantly each of their cotton bedding products is labelled GOTS-organic and Fairtrade enabling customers to verify their eco and ethical credentials.

Nature-inspired Bedding Designs Sleep Organic takes its inspiration from Mother Nature herself. Working with local artists in west London they cater to the British market - from their elegant lavender floral embroidery to their loveable robin red breast, bunny, cat and dog embroidered pillowcases. They also make the traditional favourite of classic piping while their stylish double cord line embroidered bedding sets come in moonlight silver, regal gold and emerald green. Their full range of luxury organic bedding (duvet cover sets, pillowcases and sheets for adults and children) and finest British wool duvets and pillows is available exclusively on their website and comes with free home delivery (and returns).

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H OUSE & GARDEN

Designing a bathroom in an awkward space Discover top tips for creating a bathroom in an awkwardly-shaped room with Senior Designer at Ripples bathrooms, Jo Sangster.

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any of us aim to maximise the space and value of our homes and one key way of doing this is by converting unused space in lofts or under the stairs. Whilst converting these areas can be more cost effective and practical than extending, creating a bathroom in a space which wasn’t purpose built does present its challenges. Sloping ceilings, tight corners and hidden pipework can all be problematic but by working with a bathroom designer, it’s possible to create a bathroom which is thoughtfully designed and beautifully finished.

Compact cloakrooms The most popular location for a new cloakroom is under the stairs. Generally, this is a very poorly used space but it can be renovated into a cloakroom by utilising space under the slope for the WC, with the basin at the other end of the

“Lofts lend themselves to bathroom conversions due to being tucked away at the top of the home offering a space to retreat”

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room.

There are many design-led products available on the market to suit small spaces. Generally speaking, a ‘good’ space is approximately 800x1200-1400mm and there are lots of options for inbuilt WCs, compact basins and slimline vanity units which maximise space but don’t compromise on style. Your product choices will be dependent on head heights and door positions and I would always recommend that a door opens outwards to ensure that floorspace is maximised.

Relaxing lofts Lofts lend themselves to bathroom conversions due to being tucked away at the top of the home offering a space to retreat. It’s best to work with the existing architecture in order to reduce the need for structural work and to showcase original features such as beams. If you have velux windows, your loft space may benefit from natural light, but if you don’t, try combining ceiling lights with indirect lighting in recesses and at floor-level to make the room feel bright and consider using light, reflective tiles to bounce light around the room.

Visit Ripples London to speak to a specialist bathroom designer about your project: 26 England’s Lane, Belsize Park, London, NW3 4TG Tel: 020 7449 9594 ripplesbathrooms.com

H OUSE & GARDEN

A BEAUTIFUL WOODEN FLOOR FOR LIFE Oak Parquet Silver White Oiled

T

he surface you walk on provides the backbone of an interior scheme. Get it right and it will make a dramatic difference to the overall feel of a room. Wood flooring is a wonderful option as it introduces colour, texture, pattern and character.

It’s easy to live with being practical, hardwearing and a cinch to maintain. There are endless design options too.

“Wood flooring is brilliant for bringing a scheme together,” says Peter Keane, Director of The Natural Wood Floor Company. “Dark floors create a luxurious look, while rustic floors with lots of knots enhance a casual, country scheme. Rich colours will add warmth, while pale colours will go with just about anything and introduce plenty of light into a room.”

The grade of wood will also create a different look. Prime grades have minimal knots and colour variation, so create a contemporary feel. Natural grades have more feature marks so lend themselves to more traditional looks. “Don’t be constrained by this though,” Peter advises. “A rustic board with plenty of knots, shakes and detailing can soften modern schemes.”

When it comes to the latest trends, darker hues are gaining in popularity. “Although there will always be a demand for light wooden floors, darker shades are about to step into the limelight and have their moment. The dark rich shades found in our Smoky Mountain and Baked Oak flooring introduce a glamorous, dramatic look and can’t fail

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to get noticed.”

Parquet blocks have been back in fashion for a while, but couldn’t be hotter right now. The combination of colour, wood detailing and pattern makes for a real statement floor. For an up-todate look go large with 600 mm sized blocks.

Alternatively, aged blocks are great for adding extra character as they look like reclaimed blocks but can be used with underfloor heating.

It always pays to buy a good quality floor from a reputable supplier, as the right wooden floor will improve your property, add to its value and last for years. The Natural Wood Floor Company manufacture most of the floors they sell and are also valued for their expertise. The full flooring collection can be viewed on large display boards at their Wandsworth showroom or on their new-look website.

THE DETAILS The Natural Wood Floor Company, 20 Smugglers Way, Wandsworth, London, SW18 1EG. 020 8871 9771. naturalwoodfloor.co.uk

Photography by Paul Craig

Engineered Walnut Pre-lacquered

Beautiful flooring, designed to last

Photography by Paul Craig

Engineered Walnut Pre-lacquered

Beautiful flooring, designed to last

Over 100 designs | Expert advice | 20,000m 2 of stock | Express delivery SHOWROOM 2 Over 100 designs | ExpertWay, advice | 20,000mLondon, of stock | Express delivery 20 Smugglers Wandsworth, SW18 1EG

020 8871 9771 SHOWROOM 20 Smugglers Way, Wandsworth, London, SW18 1EG w w w.naturalwoodfloor.co.uk 020 8871 9771

w w w.naturalwoodfloor.co.uk

H OUSE & GARDEN

SCULPTURAL WALL LIGHTS

by Hannah Woodhouse

Hannah’s plaster casting workshops - London Craft Week

Browns Hotel, refurbished front hall (Photo Credit: Arwen Steglich)

L

ocated in the heart of London’s Mayfair, Brown’s Hotel is an elegant and quintessentially British institution with a long and venerable history.

All of the rooms at Browns are designed and decorated by Olga Polizzi, sister of Sir Rocco Forte.

It was here that the artist Hannah Woodhouse and Olga Polizzi first met, when Hannah was invited by Olga to design lights for the Donavan Bar. Further collaborations have included Hannah making bespoke bronze lamps for Olga’s London mews house and supplying her trademark Shell and Tulip wall sconces for the dining room of Polizzi’s Tresanton Hotel on the Cornish coast.

More recently, Hannah has been commissioned to provide lighting for Olga Polizzi’s freshly remodelled springtime-inspired floral front hall at Brown’s Hotel, featuring Adam Ellis’s hand painted wallpaper. Evoking a sense of purity and calm, Hannah’s hand sculpted and moulded Serenity wall lights provide a soothing counterpoint to the rich and ornately crafted patterns in which they sit.

Hannah also created special Egg Wall Sconces for The Star in Alfriston, Sussex, a new hotel venture for Olga and her daughter Alex. The Star opened recently to rave reviews, and the enormous challenges of transforming this dilapidated 15th C pub into a stunning hotel can be seen in Alex’s

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Hannah’s sketch book and plaster egg mould, next to shell wall sconce (Photo Credit : Hannah Woodhouse)

Dining room at Tresanton Hotel

Channel 5 TV show My Hotel Nightmare.

Describing her approach to working with plaster, Hannah explains “I sculpt with liquid plaster, building up layers onto an armature, to create the form I am looking for. This is quite unusual - a lot of sculptors will cast a block of plaster and carve it, as one would with marble or stone. I like working with the wet, elastic material; there is an urgency and a vitality in this method - you have to work quickly as the plaster sets in a few minutes. It feels primitive and alive”.

Hannah is inspired by artists such as Rodin, Brancusi, Alberto Giacometti and Henry Moore, who all worked in plaster, both as a transitory material (to make casts and moulds) and to create finished sculptures and objects: “I love the way you can achieve a bone like smooth finish, or you can carve it and scratch or inscribe the surface, giving a rough texture. We can create super smooth organic forms, or rough, bronze-like surfaces - it works really well for every application we are looking for.”

Hannah has enormous respect for Polizzi: “Working with Olga has always been a pleasure, because she clearly knows how to work with and get the best out of her designer/makers, having made it her business to work with many creatives over the years. I love her subtle, natural sophistication - this is a woman with an enormous sense of style, a warm, unpretentious presence, and a real generosity of spirit”. artwalllights.com

H OUSE & GARDEN

Reclaimed Encaustic F Tiles from Floors of Stone

loors of Stone launched their beautiful collection of Reclaimed Tiles just over 2 years ago now and they are just as popular now as they were back then.

We’ve worked with experts to source and collect the very best tiles to offer to our customers, true treasures in a myriad of beautiful patterns and colours.

These exquisitely unique tiles have been rescued from Spain; tracked down, salvaged and given a new lease of life. They are so special and full of personality, perfect for injecting a little character into any home.

Every tile has a story to tell, gently aged and weathered from years of people walking across them, the odd nick or missing corner, despite being carefully excavated. Each has a character that can never be recreated. Some of these tiles come from long-forgotten buildings and abandoned renovation projects and given a new lease of life.

They might be the only ones of their kind in the whole world – how amazing is that to think they could have a new life in your home!

The possibilities of these tiles are endless – they are such a fun way to be creative! Although the patterns are ornate they are still classic and have longevity. You could use them in a porch, a boot room, downstairs loo, as a splashback, fire hearth, feature border, even a whole kitchen floor if you’re brave enough! Each 200x200 tile is a little work of art in itself.

You can see a selection of our Reclaimed Tiles displayed on our website and you can also come and view our stock at our Cotes Mill showroom.

As we hold the stock here in the UK, we can have them delivered to you within a matter of days. floorsofstone.com

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H OUSE & GARDEN

THE HOTTEST INTERIOR DESIGN TRENDS TAKING OFF RIGHT NOW As the sun starts to set on summer, interior design hub Houzz shines a light on the next big looks. By Sam Wylie-Harris.

W

hen it comes to trends in the home, it’s safe to say the past 18 months have revolved around desks and workstations

– but what next?

“As we move into the latter half of 2021, interiors look set to take a softly, softly approach, with a renewed focus on wellbeing and versatility,” says Amanda Pollard, senior editor for home renovation and design platform, Houzz.co.uk.

To get a feel for what the future holds, Pollard shares what’s popular, and which of these trends design professionals in the Houzz community predict you’ll be seeing more of in the coming months…

Goodbye open-plan “As homes have worked harder than ever over the last year, renovators are searching for stylish ways to divide up space for multiple uses,” says Pollard.

“Fewer homeowners have been searching for

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‘open plan living’ on Houzz this year.

“Instead, as people search for ways to find a balance between separation and connection, search terms like ‘internal glass door’, ‘room dividers’ and ‘pocket door’ have seen a rise in interest (up by 109%, 29% and 15% respectively during 2021, compared to 2020).”

Spathrooms “Bathrooms were already taking a step away from the classic, functional white space, with homeowners making bolder decisions for their wash spaces in recent years. However, 2021 is definitely the year of the ‘spathroom’,” says Pollard, “with homeowners creating spaces that are perfect for a little rest and relaxation.”

Contemporary and chic, these large format tiles mirror precious stones, especially with threads of gold and a shiny surface.

“To create a zen atmosphere, designers are turning to tactile natural materials, with stone, marble and wood all featuring heavily, as well as plenty of plants. We’re even seeing luxurious steam showers, deep Japanese-style soaking baths and ‘smart’ bathrooms cropping up in the most popular photos.”

“As homes have worked harder than ever over the last year, renovators are searching for stylish ways to divide up space for multiple uses”

H OUSE & GARDEN

Utilizing unused space “As homes take on more tasks, it’s perhaps not surprising homeowners have been making sure they’re using every inch of theirs. ‘Loft conversion’ saw a massive 107% increase in searches during the first half of the year, compared to the same period in 2020,” Pollard notes.

An added bonus, loft conversions lend themselves perfectly to decorative wallpaper, which accentuates the height and makes a real feature of the eaves.

A multifunctional space, Pollard says the surge in using up all possible space is happening for a variety of reasons, whether it’s to create a home office, zen relaxation space, playroom or even a guest room that can be called on for any selfisolation needs.

Comforting colours, earthy tones and tactile textures “Over the past year, many of us have sought solace in the outdoors, and we’re seeing this translate into design trends, with homeowners favouring shades and materials we associate with the natural world,” adds Pollard. “Comforting colours such as nudes, beiges and browns are a staple in many of the new featured photos, as well as textures like bouclé.”

Green is also having a moment, particularly in the kitchen, overtaking blue as the hue of choice. “It’s not just the kitchen getting the green treatment though, as the search terms ‘green bathroom’, ‘green living room’ and ‘green bedroom’ have increased in popularity since 2020,” adds Pollard.

COAT’s newest collaboration with Dan Lovatt features a limited-edition paint colour with muted undertones in a ‘grubby greyish green,’ available in a range of COAT’s paint finishes, suitable for indoors and outdoor use.

COAT Paints x Dan Lovatt Darlington Green works like a dream with neutral accents to channel 262 SEPTEMBER 2021

the mid-century vibe, which is all about reviving old classics – also trending big time.

Panelled surfaces “Panelling has become more and more popular, up by 48% in searches this year – and within the most saved photos on the platform, we’re seeing walls adorned with a variety of styles.”

Surprisingly versatile, Pollard says there’s a style to suit any room or home, from subtle shiplap, traditional shaker styles, or more modern linear cladding designs. Also, interior designers report a rise in enquiries requesting panelling, especially for bedrooms and hallways.

Curves and fluting “With a move towards a more comforting aesthetic, curved and fluted designs are rising in popularity, with designers and architects on Houzz using them to add softness to spaces otherwise filled with hard surfaces.”

Pollard also says archways, rounded furniture and curved kitchen islands all feature heavily within the most popular photos on Houzz this year.

Outdoor living rooms “Where 2020 saw an interest in grow-your-own and gardening tasks, this year it’s all about creating a relaxing outdoor room, with spaces set up for cooking, dining, relaxing and socialising,” notes Pollard. “Recent photos uploaded to Houzz feature cosy garden seating areas, kitted out with rugs, comfortable sofas, layered cushions and heaters.”

Last but not least, Pollard says landscape designers are seeing a spike in enquiries (up by 116% in January versus the same period last year), and report clients are looking to their garden as an extension of their living space to use it into the evening and cooler months. We’re happy to say, the future’s looking bright and beautiful.

“Panelling has become more and more popular, up by 48% in searches this year”

TROJAN CONSULTANCY SPECIALIST SECURITY CONSULTANCY AND DELIVERY

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Residential Security Our residential security package is designed to provide a layer of security to our Principals daily lives, reducing the risk of criminal activity and undesired attention against their family, home and possessions. We utilise our many years of experience and knowledge in personal security to secure the home in a variety of effective and practical ways. We offer 24/7 physical and technical security solutions for our Principals at their main residential property , as well as their weekend or overseas vacation residences. We undertake a full assessment, taking into account many factors such as personal and professional profile, lifestyle, local geography ,crime trends and law enforcement response. To create a complete bespoke security solution and give peace of mind.

WHO WE ARE Founded in 2011 and based in Mayfair London, Trojan Consultancy are a genuine and unique Team of security professionals.

We have served in SO14(2) Royalty Personal Protection the branch of the Metropolitan Police Service, responsible for the security of the British Royal Family, in the UK and overseas.

We have an unrivalled level of experience and knowledge which allows us to deliver a professional and discreet style of security.

Through our dedicated team, we offer a variety of security services that has attracted High Net Worth clients, Government and non-government organisations and Royalty from around the world. Having delivered security all over the globe, we have experienced all types of environments and varying levels of threat.

We design, resource and deliver a security plan that ensures that the operational objectives are always achieved. Our levels of professionalism, integrity and experience is available to discerning Clients, of wealth, visibility and status who require a security resource who are used to delivering at the very highest level.

Our mission is to deliver the same standard of service to private Clients, that we delivered to The British Royal Family. The Royal Standard in Security.

Our Services Include » Security Consultancy

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» Venue Security » Security SME T : +44 (0)208 1668 140 E : info@trojanconsultancy.co.uk

W: trojanconsultancy.co.uk 11 Maddox St, Mayfair, W1S 2QF

H OUSE & GARDEN

Take your home entertainment to the next level With the latest technology, every night can be movie night – right in your own home.

it away until you want that big screen experience.

Using motorised projector screens and projector lifts that recess flush with your ceiling you can maintain your usual living room aesthetic. Then with the touch of a button or a voice command they can appear to reveal a true cinematic experience.

This is all possible with the help of Pure Theatre technology. Home Cinema Experts Pure Theatre have engineered unique lightweight projector lifts which are easy to install, quiet and super sleek. Fully encased the projector lifts look just as great down as they do up. Manufactured right here in the UK for the highest quality products and service.

M

any people think a home cinema is not an option in their homes because they don’t have the space.

This is particularly true in London where space can come at a premium. Creating a dedicated home cinema room isn’t always feasible but what if you could create the same immersive experience in your lounge.

With the right technology you can integrate a home cinema right into your living room, hiding

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Case Study: Integrating home cinema technology into a 1930’s renovation A project, which shows the potential of including home cinema technology into your home is this one by Emma @mybigfat1930snest.

A drop ceiling has been used to house a projector, screen and inceiling speakers. This transforms this snug living room into an entertainment space for the family to use. Due to their recessed nature this 1930’s renovation was brought up to date without losing any of its charm.

To get an idea of how this technology could work in your home you can book a Free no obligation demo on their website: puretheatre.com

020 8050 2483 or 020 3026 0103

www.englishfireplaces.co.uk

020 3179 9700

info@englishfireplaces.co.uk

MAKE SPACE FOR BETTER LIVING

www.justinwhite.org.uk

Every building project – no matter its scale – offers opportunities to create value that should not be missed. I help you realise those opportunities – to enrich the quality of daily living, future-proof your property, and boost its market value.

Based in Greenwich, I provide design services for homeowners, developers and boutique hotel operators across Greater London and the Home Counties.

I’m a Chartered Architect with decades of experience – from designing home extensions to five-star hotels (including London’s Savoy) and luxury houses in Beverley Hills and continental Europe. Closer to home, since 2017 I’ve been representing RIBA at The Grand Designs Live Show and Home Building Show, providing free 15-minute ‘design clinics’ for visitors.

NASO Candles At NASO Candles, we turn joyful, peaceful and creative moments into beautiful pieces for your home. We handcraft eco-friendly soy candles made with luxury fragrance and essential oils.

Proceeds go towards people empowerment projects through our iEMPOW3R community initiative.

Shop exclusively at nasocandles.com and join us @naso_candles on Instagram!

Just Artificial are UK’s leading suppliers of high quality artificial plants, trees, silk flowers and related accessories, which we offer at competitive prices.

Just Artificial work with interior designers, decorators, set dressers, architects and more to set your home apart from the rest. Our artificial plants, flowers, and trees are highly realistic to look and touch, as well as being durable and attractive. We offer Fire Retardant and UV Protected ranges too.

Call today on 01524 858888 or email sales@justartificial.co.uk

www.justartificial.co.uk

WATERPROOF TRAVEL BED Robust and Waterproof Dog Bed Waterproof

Comfortable supersoft filling

Removable fully washable cover

Available in 5 standard sizes

Light and easy to carry

Bespoke sizes available

See our full range of luxury dog beds @ www.onyourbed.co.uk www.onyourbed.co.uk | info@onyourbed.co.uk

H OUSE & GARDEN

THE ART OF STYLISH LIVING J ones Furniture is a family run independent retail and online store since 2005, offering furniture for their customers home, from bedrooms to lounge furniture they have been at the forefront of helping customers make the perfect choice of furniture for their homes.

They have beautiful Handmade beds all made in the UK, whether it be storage with gas lifts or drawers on the sides, in some incredible fabrics to go with any design that the customer is looking for, with a choice of orthopaedic mattresses from specialist foam, waterproof, contract for Landlords and spring with comfort being the most important when purchasing a bed from Jones Furniture they can advise you on which is best for you.

Jones Furniture offers a wide range of furniture for your home, including the very popular mirrored furniture and marble furniture, which gives the room a clean fresh and elegant look, along with their sliding wardrobes which sizes start from 90cm so even the smallest room they can measure and fit this for you up to 250cm for the more larger bedrooms.

Jones Furniture are very proud of their customer service skills which they pride themselves on and are extremely passionate about making sure their customers decision is the right choice in look and feel for that room, even down to a measuring

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THE DETAILS

Tel: 0207 987 3233 20 Market Square, London E14 6AQ jones-furniture.co.uk Email: jonesfurniture09@gmail.com

option to help the customer with their purchase.

Their main showroom is in East London and have three warehouses around the UK for easy distribution. They are a great team that work with their customers and love what they do in finding the perfect products for their customers beautiful homes.

Jones Furniture are looking forward to welcoming you again to their store or their website to purchase more products from them.

Delivery for most items is from next day to a few days so, please call to have a chat directly with their experienced super friendly team, or you can have a live chat directly on their website.

H OUSE & GARDEN

THE ART OF STYLISH LIVING

J

ones Furniture is a family run independent retail and online store since 2005, offering furniture for their customers home, from bedrooms to lounge furniture and they have been at the forefront of helping customers make the perfect choice of furniture for their homes.

Jones furniture now specialise in all flooring, carpets, wooden, vinyl flooring, to make the whole experience of purchasing from them easier to furnish your property with carpets will be fitted by their professional fitters.

Along with flooring they also have beautiful Handmade beds all made in the UK, whether it be storage with gas lifts or drawers on the sides, in some incredible fabrics to go with any design that the customer is looking for, with a choice

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of orthopaedic mattresses from specialist foam, waterproof, contract for Landlords and spring with comfort being the most important when purchasing a bed from Jones Furniture they can advise you on which is best for you.

Jones Furniture are very proud of their customer service skills which they pride themselves and are extremely passionate about making sure their customers decision is the right choice in look and feel for that room, even down to a measuring option to help the customer with their purchase.

Their main showroom is in East London and have three warehouses around the UK for easy distribution. They are a great team that work with their customers and love what they do in finding the perfect products for their customers beautiful homes.

Jones Furniture are looking forward to welcoming you again to their store or their website to purchase more products from them.

Delivery for most items is from next day to a few days so, please call to have a chat directly with their experienced super friendly team, or you can have a live chat directly on their website.

Tel: 0207 987 3233 20 Market Square, London E14 6AQ jones-furniture.co.uk Email: jonesfurniture09@gmail.com

“Along with flooring they also have beautiful Handmade beds all made in the UK”

INTERIOR DESIGN

PROJECT MANAGEMENT Hamilford Design 0203 887 6900 hamilforddesign.com

REFURBISHMENTS

OUTDOOR LIVING

[NEWS]

OUTDOOR LIVING WATER WORKS The Inea Black Metal Watering Can is ideal for easy watering of indoor and outdoor pots and planters - constructed in iron.

It will make both you and your plants happy. beaumonde.co.uk

PUT YOUR FEET UP

SHADES OF GREY We love the look of this Thorndown RAL 7016 Anthracite Grey and Greymond Wood Paint on a Forest Garden Bar. A deep grey that visually works incredibly well with other colours and materials, it is stylish yet unobtrusive. Satin finish with a soft sheen. The paint is fade resistant and conveniently disguises any dirt build up, and works equally well on modern or classic buildings and timber products and is suitable for any application inside or outside. thorndown.co.uk

CHAIR WITH A CONSCIENCE Join the fight against plastic pollution and help save the planet with this hard-wearing, fully recyclable and stylish DuraOcean® chair. An innovative product development that is built utilising ocean plastic waste such as recycled ropes collected from the oceans. lifestylegarden.com

PERFECTLY POTTED A beautifully designed set of three hand made and hand painted tortoise plant pot feet finished in antique bronze colour. The pot feet sculptures will support any weight of pot or planter and are suitable for indoor or outdoor use. Frost proof and UVA protected to minimise fading. annabeljames.co.uk 274 SEPTEMBER 2021

Sustainable production has never been more present in today’s world and each of Lemon Made’s products are made-to-order contributing to a more responsible way of manufacturing. This cheery footstool design is by Susie Lidstone. Folds flat for convenient and space saving storage, the fabric slings are digitally printed and have a sturdy Acacia hardwood frame. lemonmade.co

LONSEP

OUTDOOR LIVING

Distinctive Lighting Outdoors O ver the past two years we have come to appreciate the great outdoors more than ever. Many having the time and opportunity to design and develop an outside living area and landscape their gardens so that they can enjoy the peace and beauty of plant life around them no matter how big or small the space.

How to light an outdoor dining area?

Distinctive Lighting offers several outdoor chandeliers and pendants in the range to hang from a pergola beam or overhead shelter. They are supplied with adjustable chain or rods to accommodate different heights so that they can hang at the perfect height over a dining table.

All these outdoor chandeliers are IP44 and are constructed from suitable material to withstand the British weather all year round.

Light and Breezy?

You may also like to consider an outdoor ceiling fan to hang over a dining table so that you can relax on those warm summer days with a gentle breeze over the table and the integrated light source on many of the fans provide additional functionality.

Are your steps and pathways safe?

Many homes have steps and long pathways leading to a front door or down to a garden feature at the bottom of the garden. Distinctive Lighting offers many options to safely light steps and to have a decorative path light or bollard to guide you safely along.

Do you have a grand entrance?

If you are lucky enough to have a gated property 276 SEPTEMBER 2021

a pair of decorative pedestal lanterns on the gate posts offer a first good impression. Then follow the line of bollards to the doorway that is lit with a pair of the finest decorative lanterns that complement the building. Be it traditional or modern architecture – Distinctive Lighting has a great range of lanterns, posts and lamp posts to choose from to brighten up the entrance to your home.

Visit the Distinctive Lighting showroom in Alton, Hampshire where you will find more than 500 outdoor lighting models on display. The variety of choice is unrivalled and our staff are on hand Monday to Friday 9-5pm to provide a friendly advisory service. distinctivelightinguk.com

“Distinctive Lighting offers many options to safely light steps and to have a decorative path light or bollard to guide you safely along”

OUTDOOR LIVING

How to get your dream

OUTDOOR KITCHEN

O

utdoor kitchens have become a must-have element of luxury homes and gardens. They create the perfect atmosphere for al fresco entertaining with larger groups or the ideal setting for supper on a warm evening. Hosting becomes easier and a lot more sociable when you’re able to entertain without running indoors to check on the food.

In addition, they look fantastic and create a luxurious outdoor living space you’ll love for many years to come.

If you want your own outdoor kitchen, how do you begin to choose materials, designs and appliances? There are so many options out there and it’s hard to know where to start. CENA Outdoor works with customers across London and the UK to create their dream alfresco cooking space, and here they share our design process with you.

Start with your lifestyle The CENA team spends valuable time learning how customers like to socialise and relax. For some, having the latest cooking technology outdoors is key. For others, it’s the whole outdoor

living experience - the kitchen is part of a carefully designed space with seating, tables and shelter.

Some love entertaining most of all and want theatrical lighting, cocktail bars and a brightlycoloured kitchen.

Then consider your outdoor space All the gardens and homes CENA works in are slightly different, with some customers constrained by a smaller city space and others by sticking to an existing garden aesthetic. CENA’s outdoor kitchens are totally made to measure, so people can choose the layout, materials and appliances which fit their space, budget and personality.

Finally, the CENA difference Totally bespoke means a chassis-up build that’s specific to every customer. To date, no two of CENA kitchens are the same, and the company offers some exciting options that no one else in the UK can bring to the table. For example, CENA can craft your outdoor kitchen from powdercoated stainless steel in any Pantone colour you like, from sleek white to tropical azure. They work with innovative composites and lightweight, backlit stone to create visual masterpieces.

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THE DETAILS Contact CENA today to book a design consultation and learn more about their bespoke outdoor kitchens. Visit cenaoutdoor.co.uk or call +44 (0)1455 825 403

Nova Cambridge Firepit Corner Sofa Set £2199.00

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UK FAMILY BUSINESS FREE DELIVERY To view our Full Collection visit www.blakesleys.com Tel 01308 287677 sales@blakesleys.com

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H OUSE & GARDEN OUTDOOR LIVING

Nothing Else Is A Hartley

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artley Botanic is a historic English business, specialising in luxury, bespoke and handmade aluminium Glasshouses and Greenhouses.

Operating from the same factory in Greenfield, Lancashire since 1938, the company has earned an unrivalled reputation for crafting ‘the finest Glasshouses and Greenhouses money can buy.’

The business has been selling internationally for over 20 years, enjoying a strong following in more than 30 Countries over the past 3-years, including the USA, Germany, Scandinavia, and Australia.

Hartley Botanic’s Greenhouses and Glasshouses are all made to order and range from small patio models to imposing Glasshouses. Designs are available from three product ranges (Victorian, Heritage and Modern) or customers can create a totally bespoke design, with all models available in a variety of colours and sizes, along with options for ‘glass to ground’ installation, free-standing or lean-to and internal glazed partitions. Hartley Botanic are so confident of the structural integrity of their Greenhouses and Glasshouses; a 30-year Lifetime Guarantee is offered.

Founded by brothers Vincent (RHS fellow) and Norman Hartley, the company was (to its knowledge) the first to develop and make entirely aluminium Greenhouse structures, marking a huge improvement on its wood and wrought iron Victorian forerunners. Since then, Hartley Botanic has built a name and reputation synonymous with excellence, thanks to its incomparable range, its structurally superior Greenhouses which ‘last a lifetime’ and its exceptional service. In February 2017 Hartley Botanic became the only aluminium

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Glasshouse and Greenhouse manufacturer to be endorsed by the Royal Horticultural Society. It is the Greenhouse manufacturer of choice for leading horticulture organisations, institutions, architects, designers, and garden enthusiasts in the UK and worldwide.

In 2021 Hartley Botanic were recognised with the prestigious Queen’s Awards for Enterprise for its work growing sales Internationally. Its presence and position in the USA has helped American customers fall for both the businesses’ quintessentially English-looking Victorian and Heritage Greenhouses and its contemporary Modern Horticulture range.

For more information, please call 0800 783 8083 or visit the website: hartley-botanic.co.uk Bespoke 3/4 Lean-To Glasshouse, Midlands

Above: Bespoke Glasshouse, Hampshire Below: The Tradition 8 Planthouse

“In 2021 Hartley Botanic were recognised with the prestigious Queen’s Awards for Enterprise for its work growing sales Internationally”

H OUSE & GARDEN OUTDOOR LIVING

Extend your home and enjoy outdoor living all year round with a stylish awning or pergola from

The Great British Awning & Blind Company Come and meet us

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ake the most of our great British weather, despite changeable conditions. Enjoy Indian summer evenings and time outdoors whatever the season. Providing shelter from the sun, rain and wind, their stylish designs offer shade and a comfortable temperature. A place to relax, enjoy eating alfresco or entertain friends.

The Great British Awning & Blind Company offer a wide choice of products and finishes, from fully automated patio awnings, automated blinds as well as beautiful pergolas. Innovative enhanced features can include heating and ambient lighting.

Helping to make the most out of garden areas, come rain or shine.

Arrange your complimentary design consultation today. Call 0800 048 7700 or visit thegreatbritishawningandblindcompany.co.uk

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The Best in British Standards and Service As their name states, they strive to offer the very best in British service and experience to each and every customer. All of their British manufactured innovative products are constructed caringly using only the finest materials to ensure they suit all styles and budgets. Weatherproof and built to last, with a 10 year warranty.

A perfect fit every time Each product is designed to fit perfectly in your home. With a free site survey, their experienced designers ensure every detail is correct. Their dedicated professional installation teams pride themselves on installing every job to the very highest standard. They also operate strict covid guidelines to keep their team and clients safe at all times.

The Great British Awning & Blind Company will be exhibiting at Grand Designs Live from 6th-10th October at the NEC in Birmingham. Their friendly and knowledgeable team are on hand to provide product demonstrations and showcase some of their best sellers. “We are proud to have recently been announced as a Grand Designs Premium Partner. This coveted endorsement is testament to our high quality, innovative product range and exemplary service.”

OUTDOOR LIVING

TOWN & COUNTRY GARDENS & PONDS

create beautiful traditional gardens all over London So all of that experience speaks for itself, and all of that experience is available to you whatever the size of your project, although small projects do start from £15,000 upwards. And also note that they only create traditional gardens, which take far more skill than minimalist /contemporary gardens.

They have worked in the most prestigious of clients gardens and have been honoured with two one to one lengthy audiences with her Majesty Queen Elizabeth!

And if you have a holiday home in the UK or overseas, they will travel anywhere to create traditional gardens – just take a look at their website and you will see 500+ pictures of gardens that they have created all in house including overseas, Barbados, Brazil, France, Spain, Jersey And Italy Back home they work from Highgate to Central London, to West London and to Wimbledon. all-london-greater-london-landscapegardeners.com

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hey offer a “one-stop” one resident designer and their own landscapers (so no sub-contractors) to start and finish your projectile skills in house. So you do not have to find and pay huge fees to a garden designer, who then has to find a landscaping team, which you also then have to pay more fees to the designer to oversea them.

But engage with town & country gardens & ponds (london) and you get a package all inclusive of the design and such is their vast experience always at a set price with guarantees of five years So why would you choose them over the dozens of other landscape companies in London, you may well ask...Well “go compare” as the saying goes on: No other design and build companies or separate garden design practices have designed, built and planted anywhere near the amount of gardens and exhibits that have won ten royal horticultural society gold medals at the Chelsea Flower Show, plus six Royal Horticultural Society gold medals at Hampton Court Show, two best in show, one silver gilt, twenty silver medals and more!

And for clients they have created 5000+ gardens since 1990 and all of those are Royal Horticultural Society awards not trade awards.

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“If you have a holiday home in the UK or overseas, they will travel anywhere to create traditional garden”

ALL LONDON and GREATER LONDON LANDSCAPE DESIGN, BUILD and PLANTING SERVICES by ROYAL HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY MULTI AWARD WINNING GARDENERS

GOLD MEDAL

10 GOLD MEDAL GARDENS AND EXHIBITS CHELSEA FLOWER SHOW SINCE 1992 2 GOLD MEDALS and BEST IN SHOW AWARDS HAMPTON COURT SHOW

TOWN & COUNTRY SPECIALISTS GARDENS & PONDS HIGHGATE - CHELSEA - WINDSOR - ENFIELD - STANMORE Please view our huge website with 500+ images of our work www.all-london-greater-london-landscape-gardeners.com CALL THE DESIGNER DIRECT ANYTIME FOR AN INSTANT RESPONSE 7 DAYS 8AM TO 8PM: 07949 120397 Head Office 14 Castle Hill Windsor SL41 PD Email: officeoftownandcountry@yahoo.com

OUTDOOR LIVING

Shading accessories to enhance your outdoor space for autumn

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any of us have spent time and effort enhancing our gardens so as to maximise outdoor living during the pandemic while we were forced to ‘holiday at home’, including investing in some form of external shading solution. Now, as the summer starts to fade and the nights draw in, it’s time to add some accessories to our shading options, or upgrade them completey, to enable us to be able to continue to sit ‘outside’ right through the winter.

AWNINGS Patio awnings are fast becoming the external shading product of choice for many residential properties as they provide a quick, easy and affordable solution to transform any outdoor space.

Practical and stylish, awnings offer instant shade, shelter and privacy and can be designed and built to a bespoke brief to suit all applications, requirements and budgets. Installing any additional features such as LED lighting and infra-red heating will enhance year-round enjoyment and functionality.

If your awning is motorised, not only will you be able to extend and retract at just the touch of a button, but lighting and heating can be operated from the same hand-held remote. The latest bi-directional motors enabling you to view the exact position of the awning via an app on your smartphone and adjust it to suit your needs.

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PERGOLAS These premium structures are highly durable due to their solid construction and are able to withstand heavy rain, gale force winds (and even snow), and can be installed with multiple features which will allow for year-round use.

Sliding glass, zip screens and separate entrance doors combined with accessories such as weather sensors, LED lighting and infra-red heaters will provide extra shielding from the elements and create a cosy and pleasant environment during the colder months, as well as provide privacy from nosey neighbours.

Caribbean Blinds has designed an exclusive pergola canopy branded the Outdoor Living Pod™. Created for those who want to ‘live life outdoors’, the innovative rotating louvered roof permits the user to play with light and shade, offering an open-air alfresco feel when left fully open, and ensuring a completely water, wind and even snow-tight roof when closed. Optional windproof screens, ambient LED perimeter lighting and instant infra-red heaters provide the ultimate luxury, all-weather, outdoor living space that gives the customer complete control of the elements, 365 days a year.

For over 30 years, Caribbean Blinds has been exclusively designing, manufacturing and supplying the very finest external shading systems that transform the use, functionality and enjoyment of all types of spaces. cbsolarshading.co.uk

H OUSE & GARDEN

Reclaim your home: How to fall back in love with your space, so it feels like a sanctuary again From tactile textures to sink-in sofas, serene scents to calming colour palettes, Sam Wylie-Harris shares some expert tips.

their home now more than ever before, compared to 36% when MADE asked the same question at the end of 2020. More than a third (38%) also plan to spend more time at home than they did prior to the pandemic.

With this in mind, and an overwhelming majority (86%) wanting their home to be a place of sanctuary and relaxation once again, we’ve enlisted the help of Nicky Line, the brand’s product and sourcing director, to share a few simple tips to help promote wellbeing within your own four walls…

Colour yourself calm

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s the old adage goes, home is where the heart is. And as we attempt to get back into the ‘normal’ swing of things, we’re realising our work-life balance is more important than ever – craving creature comforts just as much as we’re craving freedom, Our social calendars may have been filling up at a rate of knots as lockdown restrictions ease, but we’re still feeling emotionally connected to our sanctuaries – our homes.

According to a recent survey by online home lifestyle brand MADE.com, who polled 1000 UK adults, more than a third (38%) say they’re already feeling the burnout from increased social activities, and almost half (48%) want to slow down their schedule, compared with pre-pandemic life.

Nearly 60% of those surveyed say they value 290 SEPTEMBER 2021

“Homes have the power to keep us feeling happy and healthy, if harnessed well. An easy place to start is the colour palette.

Colour yourself calm with neutral tones, without overstimulating the senses. It’s amazing the difference some light furniture and upholstery can have, or for a lower cost but still large spatial impact, opt for an off-white paint or Berber [Moroccan] style rug.”

“Also, try to bring in a bit of contrast with warm, neutral accessories and textiles, in particular earthy tones that are muted and grounding.”

Looks good, feels better “Is there anything more inviting than the ultimate sink-in sofa? MADE is bringing comfort and quality to the forefront with its new Fernsby Sofa, complete with extra softness, a plump feather filling and sustainable materials. Designed in collaboration with Italian trio Busetti Garuti

“An easy place to start is the colour palette.

Colour yourself calm with neutral tones, without overstimulating the senses”

H OUSE & GARDEN

Redaelli and made in the UK, Fernsby is a modular sofa made for luxurious lounging, and flexing to suit any size of living space.”

“Added to that, layering is key for cocooning, so it’s time to add tactile throws and textural cushions,” says Line. “Mix everything from bouclé and velvet, to linen and cotton to keep the senses occupied.”

Inspired by her love of pattern, Orla Kiely’s latest furniture collection features four new ranges, including the Laurel Small Sofa, available in a range of colourways, with an array of scatter cushions in signature Orla Kiely designs.

Right on trend and made from pearl-coloured Australian and New Zealand curly sheepskin, imagine sinking into this Sheepskin Chair (£1100, The White Company).

“Don’t forget timber pieces too; carved woods and exposed grains offer a homely, crafted feel,” says Line. “New from MADE and designed by Andy Boyce, Abbon has been created to engage curiosity and trigger a desire to touch, for a real connection to natural materials and handcraft that’s sure to ground the soul.”

Sensual healing “Scents can instantly transform the mood of

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a space, stimulating the senses and bringing therapeutic qualities. Unsure what to go for? A favourite brand of mine, EYM Naturals, produces 100% natural soy candles and diffusers aimed to harness the power of aromatherapy,” says Line.

“Try the brand’s The Grounding One candle or diffuser, which help restore inner balance while relieving anxiety through its blend of rose, geranium and chamomile essential oils.”

Alternatively, check out Jo Malone’s Townhouse Diffuser collection, available in Wild Berry & Bramble, Fresh Fig & Cassis, and Lilac Lavender & Lovage. Deluxe and ever so deserving.

“Take it one step further and indulge in a spa treatment at home. It’s universally accepted that technology can play havoc when it comes to our mental wellbeing, so set up a screen-free zone, add some soft mood lighting and dedicate it to some self-care rituals. Think a face mask, meditation space, or even an at-home beauty treatment from the likes of wellness app, Urban Massage. Nothing says comfort like a pre-bedtime pamper,” says Line.

Which will leave you relaxed and ready to snuggle up in this knitted throw from Peru. Made from the finest alpaca wool blend, you’ll be cosy and contented, with all bases covered.

“Scents can instantly transform the mood of a space, stimulating the senses and bringing therapeutic qualities”

H OUSE & GARDEN

HODKIN & JONES F

The Finest Quality

ounded in 1868, Hodkin & Jones have been the specialists in the design, manufacture and installation of high quality, fibrous plaster mouldings for over 150 years.

The Hodkin & Jones range of mouldings offers one of the most comprehensive selections of fibrous plaster covings available. With traditional elegant cornices from Georgian, Victorian, Gothic, Regency and Art Deco periods right through to popular modern day contemporary stepped cornices.

Popular in many of their residential, retail and commercial projects, Hodkin and Jones are able to produce cornices that can incorporate modern LED uplighting, creating a discreet glow and enhancing a room’s ambience.

“Involving a specialist supplier like Hodkin & Jones, from the very beginning of a project helps to ensure the smooth running of an operation”

294 SEPTEMBER 2021

Other plaster products in the range include decorative ceiling and wall panels, centre pieces, door surrounds, fire surrounds, arches and columns, all of which are delicately handmade by their dedicated and highly skilled craftsmen.

The Hodkin & Jones contemporary cornices range reflects current market trends with their minimalist, geometric, flat design and they are suitable for any size modern renovation. Although modern in design, the contemporary covings are still designed and manufactured in house with the same high quality finish as the traditional range.

Often Architects and Interior Designers create designs not available from standard ranges, which is where Hodkin & Jones can offer a bespoke service. From drawings they are able to manufacture mouldings to exact dimensions specified, whether it is a bespoke ceiling design to create a grand space or a cornice specific to the particular project they are working on.

Restoration of Listed buildings and historical properties is also a speciality of Hodkin & Jones with many buildings requiring surveys and needing existing mouldings to be exactly matched where they can’t be repaired. Hodkin & Jones can match any plaster moulding no matter how complicated the design is, mouldings are then reproduced and installed by their team of fixers, all of which is overseen by a dedicated contracts manager.

Hodkin & Jones have a broad project portfolio that includes 10 Downing Street, Harrods Knightsbridge, the Royal Armoury, the Victoria and Albert Museum and the o2 arena to name but a few. Involving a specialist supplier like Hodkin & Jones, from the very beginning of a project helps to ensure the smooth running of an operation while providing cost and time benefits.

Hodkin & Jones undertake projects both nationwide and overseas with installers working on a daily basis in London and the surrounding counties. By using their installation service you can be assured that products will be fitted correctly with an exquisite finish, maximising the plaster mouldings longevity. The company also have their own transport department to ensure all products are delivered safely and on time.

For clients looking for a fast turnaround Hodkin & Jones also have a large quantity of cornice and mouldings in stock, ready for delivery or collection. Their standard range of mouldings are available to view and purchase on their website.

“Hodkin and Jones are able to produce cornices that can incorporate modern LED uplighting, creating a discreet glow and enhancing a room’s ambience”

Get in touch For more information, visit the company’s website on hodkinandjones.co.uk For a free hard copy of the brochure or to discuss your project requirements, call the technical sales team on 01246 641214 or email info@hodkin-jones.co.uk.

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LUXURY

KITCHEN GUIDE

– Everything you need to create the perfect London kitchen – I M AG E : C O N T E M P O R A RY H O M E D E S I G N U K

KITCHENS

[NEWS]

KITCHENS SPLASH OF COLOUR This Radiance Decorative bowl, from Anton Studio Designs, is a really versatile, decorative piece.

The bright contrasting colours add freshness and vitality to any home. The unusual design is sure to catch the eye and leaves plenty of room for your decorative ideas. Let your creativity run wild and give your home a unique look. Giving the place a makeover every now and then can be so much fun, and it gives your home a more personal touch. notjustjugs.com

MAKE A SPLASH! Country Living’s Storm Grey Matt Splashback is an ideal addition to any kitchen as greys continue to dominate lifestyle choices and interiors. The unique matt finish enhances its timeless beauty, coordinating perfectly with matt cabinetry or creating a stunning contrast against a gloss finish. Stylish and sophisticated this splashback complements a broad range of kitchens. Easy to install using innovative Peel, Stick & Seal technology. splashback.co.uk

SUPER SIZED

NICELY NAUTICAL

Made from sustainable mango wood and with its own hanging hemp hanging rope and showing the most beautiful grain, this is a 77cm must have!

Use as a chopping board, a serving platter for your table or just to look the part in your kitchen. priceandcocointeriors.co.uk

The Nautical Grey Double Oven Glove is inspired by the seas and oceans. Designed with a boat on one mitt, and a lighthouse on the other, printed onto cotton. aquabydesign.co.uk

BUSY BEES Ideal for brightening up your kitchen, this gorgeous range includes a mug, a breakfast bowl, two planters, a set of coasters and a handy bamboo travel mug. joyceandjoan.co.uk 300 SEPTEMBER 2021

KITCHENS

Kitchens by Amberth

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mberth is a bespoke Interior Design Specialist based in Islington.

With over 15 years of experience in designing and crafting unique Kitchens, Bathrooms and Fitted Interiors, their attention to detail allows them to create beautiful spaces, perfectly suited to their clients’ lifestyles.

Amberth will take on projects of any size, from taking a compact kitchen and maximising the space available, to project-managing a full home renovation. Their design department and team of in-house fitters allow them to manage a project from the initial vision, right through to completion, creating a stress-free experience for their clients.

The kitchen is the heart of the home and Amberth put their heart and soul into designing classic and contemporary spaces that are both functional and beautiful. From custom-made cabinetry to feature walls, Amberth’s bespoke kitchen interior designs combine beautiful natural materials with functional appliances and handpicked worktops to create the perfect space.

The process begins with a free consultation at their Studio in Islington, where the experienced designers work with the client to establish what they want from their ideal kitchen.

Two to three design options are presented 302 SEPTEMBER 2021

during a second consultation, and a quote is given.

Once the client and the designer are happy that the design is perfect, a site survey is carried out to take photographs and measurements and a schedule of work is put together. This gives the designer and project manager a visual sense of the space they are working with.

Amberth have recently introduced an exciting element to this process, an interactive virtual reality experience to enable clients to visualize, design and shop with confidence, to style their dream space, and to ensure that both the designer and project manager execute their desired vision successfully.

With their dedicated design process and by using only the highest quality materials from around the world, Amberth is able to achieve extraordinary results with the space you have.

If you are ever in their neighbourhood, why not stop by for a quick chat? There is always someone on hand to help.

Amberth are a reputable business which is family-run and so they pride themselves on building long lasting relationships with their clients.

Amberth, 311 Essex Road, London N1 2BD Tel: 020 7354 8958 amberth.co.uk

“Amberth have recently introduced an exciting element to this process, an interactive virtual reality experience to enable clients to visualize, design and shop with confidence”

020 7354 8958 www.amberth.co.uk

bathrooms kitchens interiors

KITCHENS

High quality, modern kitchens do not have to be expensive A s many people consider new kitchen designs following lockdown, it is more important than ever to understand that high-quality models can be cost-

effective.

Ashraf Meza, director of Contemporary Home Design UK (CHDuk), in East London, which offers high specification German and Italian kitchens, explains why…..

Q: Does high quality have to mean expensive?

“While it is always worth choosing the best possible, modern kitchen option for your home, no, high quality does not have to mean expensive.

A good kitchen will certainly cost more initially than a low-quality option, but it will not need to be repaired or changed as frequently and so will be more cost-effective in the long run. Whether you are looking at small kitchen ideas or something larger, there are some very reasonable, goodquality kitchen designs to consider.”

Q: What else should customers consider?

“Whatever style you are opting for – from a shaker kitchen through to a Scandinavian kitchen – choose a reputable company, which is renowned for its customer service. For us, high levels of

“Whatever style you are opting for – from a shaker kitchen through to a Scandinavian kitchen – choose a reputable company, which is renowned for its customer service”

customer service begin at the concept and design phase of kitchen planning and continue right through to installation and beyond. As we offer bespoke kitchens, good communication with our customers is essential and allows us to provide perfect kitchen solutions” Q: What kitchen trends are you seeing in 2021?

“Current trends continue with modern minimalist designs, featuring neutral color shades and complementing wood effects and abstracts.

Most importantly, we are still seeing ideas that incorporate social space within the kitchen design, with kitchen islands and peninsulas; kitchen dining ideas and open-plan spaces remain popular.”

Q: What is your advice for people considering a new kitchen?

“Research your options thoroughly but also take expert advice. Whether this is your first kitchen project or not, beginning it may initially seem daunting and overwhelming, but the right company can guide you. At CHDuk we have over 25 year’s experience and passion for all projects we undertake. We can help, advise, provide direction and actively manage complex projects to ensure smooth progress through to completion. We pride ourselves on problem-solving and creating innovative new design solutions. With the wide range of brands and products we have, we are able to produce unique designs that would not be possible in other studios” 120 Woodgrange Road, Forest Gate, London E7 0EW Tel: 0208 472 1144 chduk.com

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LIVE // LIFE // LUXURY

www.chduk.com

“No. 1 in Germany”

0208 472 1144 CONTEMPORARY HOME DESIGN, 120 WOODGRANGE ROAD, LONDON E7 0EW

@chd_uk

ashchd

ESTABLISHED 25 YEARS

OUTDOOR LIVING

HOME COMFORTS A

s the lazy summer days draw to a comforting close and we swap our sandals for wellies, our homes become a warm retreat from the autumnal elements.

If you need help creating a stylish and cosy sanctuary, pay a visit to Angela Reed. With branches in Saffron Walden and Cambridge, the family business sells a beautiful range of garden and home furniture and accessories in-store and online.

There’s plenty to tempt in the autumn range – from hall benches for those muddy boots, to log baskets and cosy throws. One of this season’s favourite products is the Jacaranda sofa from Tetrad. In your choice of colour, the fabric features a stunning handprinted Bagru design that will bring Eastern charm to your home. This sofa is handmade in the UK with Serpentine sprung seat and a super loop back, giving plenty of support and comfort.

As we begin to entertain more indoors, ensure that you don’t have to strike anyone off the invitation list with a large Henley dining table – able to seat up to 10 people. The Henley dining collection offers a range of contemporary oak tables, benches, chairs and kitchen units to suit any

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style of kitchen.

Perhaps you like the idea of staying outside, toasting marshmallows and making memories around a fire? If so, check out Angela Reed’s firepits – they come in a range of sizes to fit any garden. When it comes to adding finishing touches, browse the huge range of accessories to bring a unique touch to your garden, including Moroccan-style lanterns and handmade sculptures made from recycled material.

Whichever products take your fancy – and whether you’re purchasing in-store or online – you can shop with confidence knowing that Angela Reed values the highest quality and excellent service above all else. And with more than 140 years in business, it seems to be a winning formula.. angelareed.co.uk @angelareedshop

“The family business sells a beautiful range of garden and home furniture and accessories in-store and online”

ICELAND HAS A LOT TO OFFER, SO DO WE. Contact us for fantastic year round Iceland holidays and Greenland cruises, special offers and more.

For Iceland & Greenland bookings and special offers visit our website: www.icelandprotravel.co.uk contact us at memo@icelandprotravel.co.uk or call us: 0800 032 1630 www.icelandprotravel.co.uk www.icelandprocruises.co.uk

ABTA No. Y6096 Image: Hermann Helguson

RELAX & RECHARGE WITH NEFELI NINE RETREATS Panoramic hikes, daily yoga classes, gourmet meals using the best and morning fresh, locally sourced ingredients, massage treatments and lots more.

Every possible comfort provided for you, the toughest decision you’ll be asked to make while you are with us is whether you want coffee or tea in the morning.

We take care of every little detail for you.

www.nefelinine.com

Our MAYD IN CHYNA pieces are circular fashion, vegan, classic and minimal in design, with impeccable construction and offer the softness and silkiness of certified organic pima and naturally coloured cotton fibre.

Our suppliers, from our farmers to our sewers are all located in North America and we have visited and sat down with each and every one of them. This makes our supply chain not only truly transparent but accountable. Our processes are either GOTS certified, Oeko-tex certified and/or adhere to these production standards

Our message to our customers is that our Brand is not just a fashion statement but that it is a vehicle to put us on the road to quantifiable societal and political change…to change the way companies do business so that people, plant and animals are considered in every decision; and to underscore the importance of citizen involvement so that there is a strong collective activism to push for doing things right. www.maydinchyna.com

Our MAYD IN CHYNA pieces are circular fashion, vegan, classic and minimal in design, with impeccable construction and offer the softness and silkiness of certified organic pima and naturally coloured cotton fibre.

Our suppliers, from our farmers to our sewers are all located in North America and we have visited and sat down with each and every one of them. This makes our supply chain not only truly transparent but accountable.

Our processes are either GOTS certified, Oeko-tex certified and/or adhere to these production standards.

Our message to our customers is that our Brand is not just a fashion statement but that it is a vehicle to put us on the road to quantifiable societal and political change.…to change the way companies do business so that people, plant and animals are considered in every decision; and to underscore the importance of citizen involvement so that there is a strong collective activism to push for doing things right. www.maydinchyna.com

panypramata

ceramic art

panypramata.com

@panypramata