London Life November 2015

“Designing shoes is magicians work - a shoe should be visible but sometimes needs to be invisible�

FROM THE

EDITOR

If you had to name one designer brand that every woman aspires to and desires more than any other it would have to be Christian Louboutin high heels. Worn by some of the most beautiful women on the planet, Christian Louboutin has become a byword for international glamour. Christian Louboutin has built one of the most successful shoe brands in the world with a blend of craftsmanship and a distinctive kind of glamour.

Christmas at Kew once again combines Kew’s breathtaking winter landscape with a new, glittering mile long trail, creating a magical after dark experience. Now in its third year, the winter light experience for 2015 focuses on the Christmas tree and Kew’s special part in its history. It was Queen Charlotte, a founder of Kew Gardens, who first dressed branches of a Christmas tree in one of the largest rooms at Kew Palace for all to enjoy in the 1790s.

Taste of London will be transforming Tobacco Dock for the festive edition of the much loved culinary event. The stunningly beautiful dockland warehouse at Tobacco Dock will be turned into a festive food heaven.

The Harrods Decadence hamper is a showcase of the most enticing and delectable flavours available from across the globe and carefully sourced by Harrods’ team of experts and suppliers.

The beautiful settings of Belgravia, on Grosvenor’s London estate, will be transformed into a fantastic winter wonderland for one of the most exciting events in London during the festive period.

This gives you just a small taste of exciting events & articles featured in this month’s issue...

Faye Manning Editor

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EDITOR Faye Manning EDITOR’S ASSISTANT Katie Miller SUB EDITOR Alex Lux FASHION EDITOR Rachel Gold DESIGN & PRODUCTION Toni Perry

SENIOR BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Vanessa Lane ACCOUNT MANAGERS Nicola Drew, Lisa Westerman, Anita Hill DIRECTORS Rory Smith Patrick Smith

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Frustrated by the uniformity of high-street jewellery, Rosita Heshmati’s discoveries inspired her to set up an online designer jewellery boutique.

Rosita’s craving for quality and expressive unique designs for everyday wear and special occasions led to her buying jewellery directly from small designers during frequent trips to southern Europe. “I soon had a jewellery box full of these wonderful creations and became the envy of my friends who started asking me to choose items for them whenever business or pleasure took me back to this beautiful part of the world. Nothing makes me happier

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than scouring the small streets of Venice or Istanbul for undiscovered creative gems.” The realisation that many other women desire the same thing - jewellery that sets them apart with its originality and finesse that comes from centuries of traditional jewellery-making, combined with a Mediterranean lyrical expressionism - prompted her to explore showcasing her collections and so Expressions Des Bijoux was born. “My mission is simple – to give women access to stunning jewellery, reflecting a variety of tastes and styles from refined simplicity to luxurious drama.”

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The Institute of Carpenters

48

GET YOUR SKATES ON

CONTENTS EDITORS LETTER

3

CONTENTS 13 LOCAL LIFE, ARTS & EVENTS

14

CHRISTMAS FOOD & DRINK

58

EDUCATION GUIDE FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

104 95

HOUSE & GARDEN

129

KITCHEN GUIDE

153

FLOORING GUIDE

171

EVENTS EVENTS

Burberry’s Christopher Bailey to design

The Claridge’s Christmas Tree 2015 Claridge’s, London’s legendary Mayfair hotel, has announced that this year its celebrated Christmas Tree will be designed by the hotel’s long-time friend Christopher Bailey, Burberry Chief Creative and Chief Executive Officer.

To be unveiled on 16th November 2015, this will mark the first time that Claridge’s will have a British designed Christmas Tree.

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his year’s Claridge’s Christmas Tree will be an innovative and modern contrast to the art deco design of the hotel, exploring the concept of light and shadow reflecting around the iconic lobby.

Drawing inspiration from Burberry’s longstanding heritage of providing protection against the elements, the Christmas Tree will comprise of over 100 umbrellas, each finished in bespoke gold and silver metallic fabric. The lights around the tree will pick up movement as guests walk by, sending thousands of twinkling lights into life to create a magical spectacle befitting this joyous time of year.

The Claridge’s Christmas Tree has long been a festive landmark in the capital, drawing visitors and Londoners alike to admire its magnificent design. This is the sixth year that Claridge’s has invited a favourite guest to reinterpret the tree in their own distinctive style.

Thomas Kochs, Claridge’s General Manager, commented, “Christmas has always been a truly special time of year at Claridge’s and we are delighted to welcome Christopher Bailey to add the enchanting Christmas magic and creativity of Burberry to our lobby. We are particularly proud to be flying the British flag this year with London being at the heart of both Claridge’s and Burberry, and it is this shared sense of heritage and the key part we both play in London life that makes Christopher’s collaboration with us so special.”

Christopher Bailey said: “Christmas is one of my favourite times of year so I was delighted to be asked to design the Claridge’s Christmas Tree - the iconic hotel celebrating a joyful time. We wanted the tree to reflect the playfulness of the season with a little bit of the English weather thrown in.

We also love the idea that the tree comes to life as guests pass by bringing a wonderful touch of festive magic to their stay.”

Claridge’s and Burberry’s longstanding relationship has been enjoyed by guests of the hotel for years, most famously with the offering of Heritage Trench Coats in all of the hotel’s suites. This festive season, ‘Burberry Bellboys’ will also be on hand to help guests with their Christmas wish lists.

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

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EVENTS

Christmas in

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Covent Garden

ovent Garden is set to become London’s most stylish Christmas destination on Thursday 12th November when the district unveils an all-new Christmas decorations scheme, ‘Meet Me Under the Mistletoe’, created by celebrated production designer Michael Howells. Credited with realising some of the most spectacular sets in fashion and film, Howells has designed fashion shows for the likes of Alexander McQueen, and collaborated with luxury megabrands including Louis Vuitton and Christian Dior.

The lights switch-on will take place on Thursday 12th November, when sparkling pea light will illuminate the district and 50 new mistletoe arrangements will appear above the cobbled streets and within the Market Building.

Be on the West Piazza by 6pm on the Thursday night to enjoy a special musical performance, sweet treats and Christmas cheer!

Covent Garden has Christmas all wrapped up this year, as the district launches London’s first Mulled Wine Festival in association with Yelp, offering visitors a range of irresistible takes on everyone’s favourite Christmas tipple. The festival will run from 12th to 14th November, and will be open from 12pm until 9pm every day. Entrance is free, but you will have to check-in on the Yelp App to get in. www.yelp.co.uk/yelpmobile GIFTMAS AT COVENT GARDEN 26th to 28th November Later in November, ‘Giftmas at Covent Garden’ will make Christmas shopping easy, with dedicated gift gurus on-hand to help visitors navigate the district and direct them to special offers through The Pass, Covent Garden’s smartphone app.

Many of Covent Garden’s retailers will be adding to the magic with later opening hours, exclusive discounts in stores including Kate Spade, Galeria Melissa, Edwin and Oliver Sweeney, and festive treats such as champagne at Burberry and complimentary embossing services at Aspinal. If that wasn’t enough, Wrapsody will offer a complimentary wrapping service on purchases in the neighbourhood.

THE DETAILS For more details, please visit www.coventgarden.london CoventGardenLDN

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Hyde Park

EVENTS

Tickets On Sale Now !

Winter Wonderland 2015

Tickets are now on sale for London’s spectacular Christmas destination - Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, returning for six exciting weeks of winter festivities with FREE admission and even more entertainment than before.

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WR Events and The Royal Parks are thrilled to announce the main attractions that will be making a welcome return to the capital’s most popular and dazzling winter event. The hugely successful sub-zero experience - The Magical Ice Kingdom will host even more fantastical snow and ice sculptures. This year children and adults are invited to walk through the fairy forest to discover a frozen lake and the ice queen, explore the ice palace, sit on the thrones and slide down the castle slide. Filled to the brim with awe-inspiring snow and ice sculptures including magical princesses, frozen animals and ogres the Magical Ice Kingdom is the biggest ice and snow sculpture experience of its kind in the UK. Next to the Magical Ice Kingdom, sits Bar Ice, an intimate ice bar back by popular demand. Enter the Arctic environment where a handcrafted bar, tables, walls and sculptures glisten with ice and Friday 20th enjoy a chilled cocktail.

November The Ski Zillertal Ice Rink will once again be located around the 2015 - Sund picturesque Victorian Bandstand, on which there will be live music ay, 3rd played throughout the day and night as skaters take to the ice for a January 201 6 spin. Stretching over 1,600m2 it is the UK’s largest outdoor ice rink. (closed on For those who want to gaze at the action from above, the iconic Christmas D ay) Giant Observation Wheel will illuminate the skyline.

Always a sell-out, the UK’s favourite - Zippos Circus returns with two shows - their ever-popular daytime show for all the family - Zippos Christmas Circus - The Perfect Gift, and an evening show for older thrill seekers, Cirque Berserk. Both housed again in the Mega Dome, the biggest circus venue in the UK. Other favourite attractions making a welcome return include Santa Land, a haven for young visitors where Father Christmas will be every day with his Elves and a sack of free gifts. For those Christmas shoppers, there’s the traditional German Christmas market with over 200 chalets. The Angels Christmas Market offers unusual and handmade gifts and crafts, including ceramics, candles, jewellery, wooden toys, nativity scenes and Christmas decorations.

The ever-popular Bavarian Village will be ready to serve even more bratwurst and mulled wine whilst hosting live music throughout the day and evening. In addition to the many restaurants and bars there will be delicious food available throughout the attraction to help you warm up on a cold crisp winter’s day. And for those thrill-seekers, there will be an array traditional and high energy rides.

Hyde Park Winter Wonderland is a huge hit with members of the royal family and the celebrity crowds, those who have been spotted enjoying the festive treats have included: Duchess of Cambridge & Prince George, Cara Delevingne, Kate Moss, Naomi Campbell, One Direction, Elle Macpherson, Damien Lewis, Penelope Cruz, Amanda ber Holden, Uma Thurman, Rod Stewart & Penny Lancaster, Chris Martin, Novem ens th 0 2 n o ly - op Tom Cruise, Liam Gallagher, Elizabeth Hurley and David Furnish.

2015 ont 5pm a So book early for the Ice Skating, The Magical Ice Kingdom, Bar Ice, Giant Observation Wheel and Zippos Circus to avoid disappointment and discover what 18 million visitors have already enjoyed.

Open o 10am try day ve 10pm e

THE DETAILS For details of show times and ticket prices, visit www.hydeparkwinterwonderland.com winterwonderlanduk

18 NOVEMBER2015

@winterwonderLON

EVENTS EVENTS

The Ultimate Jermyn Street

Christmas Hamper Competition 2015

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his Christmas, Jermyn Street is once again offering customers the unique chance to sample the luxury lifestyle of renowned Jermyn Street through “The Ultimate Jermyn Street Christmas Hamper Competition”.

Visitors to the street can pick up an entry postcard in participating stores, for their chance to win a fabulous Fortnum & Mason hamper filled with an array of luxury gifts of Jermyn Street retailers, bars, restaurants and hotels.

Luxury gifts and goodies found in the hamper include a cashmere tie

by Emma Willis, a scarf by DAKS, exclusive Benson & Clegg cufflinks, a Foster & Son shoe care kit, a customised suit by Hawes & Curtis, a waistcoat from Favourbrook, a £100 shopping voucher from Harvey & Hudson and many other exquisite accessories and menswear items.

The Ultimate Jermyn Street Hamper also includes Christmas gastronomy delights such as a Paxton & Whitfield Stilton jar, a ‘limited edition’ Christmas pudding from London’s most iconic hotel establishments, The Ritz London as well as a voucher for a Dinner for Two including wine selected by the House Sommelier at The Ritz Club.

The winner of this amazing prize will be able to experience Jermyn

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Street in true style with an overnight stay at The Cavendish London and afternoon tea at the Sofitel included in the prize. The competition will run until Monday 14th December 2015.

The winner will be announced by Friday 18th December 2015 and the hamper will be delivered to the lucky winner in time for Christmas.

For a full list of all of the participating retailers and gifts, please visit the Jermyn Street Association’s website www.jermynstreet.net.

For over 300 years Jermyn Street has been synonymous with quintessentially British men’s style, luxury goods and services. It has become the go-to destination for bespoke gentleman’s clothing from shirts, waistcoats, shoes and slippers to accessories such as cufflinks and ties.

Jermyn Street is also rich in its offerings of quality foods and fine dining; from afternoon tea at Fortnum & Mason to cheeses from Paxton & Whitfield and lunchtime dining at Rowley’s or Wilton’s.

THE DETAILS For more information about Jermyn Street Association 180 Piccadilly, London W1J 9HF telephone 020 7293 0922 www.jermynstreet.net

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FEATURE EVENTS FEATURE

The Decadence Hamper £20,000 at

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he Harrods Decadence hamper is a showcase of the most enticing and delectable flavours available from across the globe and carefully sourced by Harrods’ team of experts and suppliers. This hamper caters to those with genuine discernment for quality; an unparalleled gourmet experience.

Open this show-stopping hamper to reveal fine wines, spirits and champagnes, tea and coffee, cured meats and cheeses, tempting chocolates, 12 Christmas crackers, a delicious Christmas cake, Cherry & Armagnac Mince Pies, Martine Guerrand Hermès Histoire d’O Extra Virgin Olive Oil with 24 Carat Gold, Oscietra Caviar and even a Coravin 1000 Wine Access System - all housed in two leather trunks.

THIS CHRISTMAS,THERE ARE HAMPER OPTIONS AVAILABLE TO SUIT ALL HARRODS CUSTOMERS….

The Opulence (£10,000) - A festive spread for the whole family, this Harrods leather trunk comes filled to the brim with wines and spirits, tea and coffee, fresh foods and pantry staples, tempting chocolates, luxurious Christmas crackers and a Coravin 1000 Wine Access System.

The Ultimate (£5,000) - Filled with food and drink from the exotic to the traditional, this festive spread includes wines and spirits, tea and coffee, fresh foods including caviar and cheeses, pantry staples, chocolates and luxury Christmas crackers, all wrapped in a handsome leather trunk.

The Harrodian (£2,500) - Harrods’ bountiful namesake hamper comes filled to the brim with fine wines and spirits, tea and coffee, cured meats and cheeses and pantry essentials. Including Christmas pudding, chocolates and luxury Christmas crackers, it is a memorable addition to any festive spread.

The Supreme (£1.250) - This carefully curated Harrods leather trunk is filled to the brim with fine wines and spirits, fresh foods including smoked salmon and cheese, pantry essentials and delicious chocolates. Complete with six luxury Christmas crackers, it is a joyful indulgence for any household.

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this Christmas

The Gourmet Collection (£500) - With everything you need for a gourmet evening this festive season, find a party-perfect selection of wine and spirits, cheese, charcuterie, smoked salmon and crackers packed into this handsome leather-lidded basket.

The Knightsbridge (£250) - A sophisticated selection of favourites with a nod to the London home of Harrods, this handsome leather-lidded basket comes filled to the brim with a mouth-watering array of wines, tea and coffee, cakes, biscuits, confectionary and even a Christmas bauble to hang on your tree.

Cartwright & Butler, The Leyburn (£120) - Filled with nostalgic favourites, find tea and coffee, jams, cake, biscuits and more in this Cartwright & Butler wicker basket.

The Christmas Box (£45) - Find festive favourites including spiced black tea, jam, Christmas pudding and chocolate in this handsome gift box.

Exportable Hampers - Filled with tasty puddings and biscuits, fine tea, mouth-watering preserves and luxury chocolates, treat loved ones overseas with an enticing range of exportable hampers, perfect for enjoying now and over the festive season.

Bespoke Hampers - A Harrods hamper makes a wonderful gift and the Harrods extensive range has been expertly chosen to delight your friends and family. If you would like to create your own bespoke hamper, containing a special selection of products hand-picked by you, please contact the Food Halls Order Desk on 020 7893 8041/2.

For large scale orders, please contact the Corporate Service team at Harrods on 020 7225 5994 or e-mail corporate.service@harrods.com.

Please note, some products in Harrods Hampers may contain nuts.

THE DETAILS Harrods 87-135 Brompton Road Knightsbridge, SW1X 7XL www.harrods.com

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EVENTS

Selfridges reaches for the stars with

S IU AR TT GI SA

IO RP O SC

The world famous store’s festive theme this year is Journey to the Stars. Using the symbolic Christmas star as initial inspiration, Selfridges quickly settled on constellation and astrology as the main creative driver to run throughout the store.

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A Mystical Christmas

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US RI UA AQ

24 NOVEMBER2015

TO EY RS N TA UR S JO THE

says Linda Hewson

IES AR

We are very excited about our festive Journey to the Stars theme this year which has allowed us to creatively explore the realm of constellation & astrology.They are timeless and relentlessly fascinating to so many people.Above all the theme gave us the opportunity to design startling displays, in-store experiences and product collaborations full of sparkle, stardust and fun.We are sure our customers will love how we brought it all to life in our windows and in-store.

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he stars of the London store’s window displays are twelve windows on Oxford Street which feature the 12 signs of the zodiac. Presented in a highly stylised way, each window references the relevant planets influencing the zodiac signs.

Selfridges’ Journey to the Stars scheme was over a year in development, with the London window displays alone taking over 500 people to set up and the in-store decorations over 30,000 hours to install.

The London store’s largest window is triple-sided, at the corner of Oxford Street and Orchard Street, and showcases a giant, fully rotating orrery of the solar system made to scale with a little help from Greenwich Observatory. It is believed to be one of the largest ever made.

Journey to the Stars, which runs until 24th December, features online at Selfridges.com and across all Selfridges stores. From window displays, in-store decorations and special customer experiences, including the opening of a psychic and mystical adult grotto called the Astrolounge, on the lower ground floor of the London store. Psychic readings, a psychic school, mystic workshops, birth chart tee-shirts, and much more mystic is on offer from the Astrolounge whereas hundreds of exclusive zodiac and constellation-themed products are available online and in-store.

Above all, Christmas this year more than any other year is all about personalisation – whether through mystical gifts or Selfridges extraordinary product offer across all its departments from fashion to food. From the world exclusive personalised Mini Moet, or the personalised Nutella, to personalised gift wrapping paper or bespoke scent collections by Margate-based fragrance experts Haeckel’s, there are perfect and unique gifts at every price and for everyone.

Journey to the Stars continues at Selfridges.com where customers can ‘shop by star sign’ to find the gifts recommended for their zodiacal character traits or that of their loved ones, shop by gift categories (for him, for her, for kids, etc.). Customers can even book Elfridges (Selfridges’ free gift-list busting personal shoppers available to all) from the comfort of their smartphones or tablets.

THE DETAILS All information available at www.Selfridges.com and www.Selfridges.com/astrolounge

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A D D ICT E D T O AU D I O ?

C O M E A N D F I ND S ANC T U ARY KJ WEST ONE (020) 7486 8262

2 6 N E W C AV E N D I S H S T R E E T INFO@KJWESTONE.CO.UK

LONDON

W1G 8TY

W W W. K J W E S T O N E . C O . U K

EVENTS

The Christmas Forest This year, make your Christmas tree count more than usual

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he Christmas Forest has been selling Christmas trees in London since 1998, and is London’s largest independent Christmas treetailer, operating from eight sites in London over Christmas.

Their trees come in many different varieties and are all premium grade, meaning they last beautifully throughout the Christmas season.

They offer a wide range of varieties including the ever popular Nordmann non-drop fir with its soft luxuriant foliage, the heady aromatic Fraser fir, the classic traditional spruce as well as re-plantable living trees. All the trees are open and clearly displayed so you can find the shape of tree to suit your room.

The Christmas Forest brings the magic of visiting a country farm to the city and once you’ve chosen the right tree you can add a few more homely

festive touches by shopping for wreaths, holly, mistletoe Open all and beautiful wreaths for your door.You can also now December 8am buy online and have the tree delivered to your door 10pm. Monda y to (London only) and installation.

Sunday. Prices Since 2006, for every tree bought, The Christmas start at £18.

Forest has donated a tree to be planted in Africa through Tree Aid. So far, they have planted 150,644 trees to date. Trees provide a long-term, practical solution to poverty and environmental destruction. The support Tree Aid has received from the Christmas Forest over the last seven years has been a lifeline for African families using trees to battle poverty and climate change.

Trees mean life for many rural African families. Living with the effects of extreme poverty made worse by climate change, villagers are learning how to raise and care for trees thanks to these campaigns. Trees are not only good for the environment but also essential for the people. Trees often survive when other crops fail so families can rely on a sustainable, nutritious variety of foods including fruit, nuts and even leaves and flowers.

Trees give shade and shelter, food for animals, natural medicines, tools and fuel. www.treeaid.org.uk Every tree planted through the Christmas Forest partnership is a gift for an African family this Christmas, and for generations to come.

The Christmas Forest shops are based in...

Putney Richmond Dulwich

Highbury Kensal Green Stoke Newington Lavender Hill Ealing Lee Valley

Finsbury Park also available online

THE DETAILS For more information telephone 01865 427 067 visit the website at www.christmasforest.co.uk 26 NOVEMBER2015

EVENTS EVENTS

Christmas at Kew Kew Christmas at twilightfalls...the falls...the magic AsAstwilight magicbegins... begins...

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hristmas at Kew once again combines Kew’s breathtaking winter landscape with a new, glittering mile long trail, creating a magical after dark experience. Now in its third year, the winter light experience for 2015 focuses on the Christmas tree and Kew’s special part in its history. It was Queen Charlotte, a founder of Kew Gardens, who first dressed branches of a Christmas tree in one of the largest rooms at Kew Palace for all to enjoy in the 1790s.

Visitors can wander beneath bewitching tree canopies drenched in Christmas hues, and gaze at glowing waterside reflections as clusters of illuminated fountains dance in an explosion of colour, set against the iconic Palm House. Walk through playful ribbons of light, count the Christmas trees festooned with seasonal cheer, and listen to the Choir of the Holly Bushes as they twinkle in time to festive music. Stroll along a fairytale avenue of larger-than-life winter flora featuring much loved snowdrops and Christmas roses. Stop at the scented Fire Garden for a moment of reflection and take time with family and friends to contemplate

252th5th Noemb vemer Nov ber 2015- -2nd 2015 2nd January ary Janu 2 0 1 20166

the year almost gone and look forward to the year to come.

The younger members of the family can catch a glimpse of Santa and his elves putting the finishing touches to their Christmas preparations on the stage behind the Princess of Wales Conservatory. A Victorian Carousel and family rides, can be found at the White Peaks Cafe.

Keep warm under the stars with a mulled wine, spiced cider, or hot chocolate, as well as roasted chestnuts, toasted marshmallows, and other sumptuous traditional Christmas fare. Kew’s tastefully curated shops at Victoria Plaza and White Peaks are the perfect place to pick up unique gifts for the whole family.

To create this wonderful event, Kew Gardens is once again teaming up with entertainment promoter Raymond Gubbay Ltd, in collaboration with design team Culture Creative.

DURING THE DAY...

Create your own Christmas tree decorations for the festive season, with arts and crafts workshops taking place in the Princess of Wales Conservatory or create that special Christmas or Thank-you card in the Orangery. Workshops are included in the entry price and offered on a first come first served basis. (Workshops run from 11.30am – 3.30pm; Saturday 12 December 2015 – 03 January 2016) Catch a ride on the Victorian Carousel, or enjoy one of our family rides, which can be found outside the White Peaks Cafe. Rides are £1 per ride per child.

IN THE SHOPS...

There will be a fabulous selection of seasonal gifts available to purchase in our onsite shops and online – from quirky handmade robins and our exclusive cufflinks, to our Pagoda silk tie and children’s felt animal slippers. Highlights of the Christmas range will be available to buy at kew.org/shop THE DETAILS Christmas at Kew admission Advance Adult £16/Family £48/Child 4 - 6 £10 and under 4’s free Day tickets can be purchased for an additional £7, at the time of booking the trail To book tickets and for opening hours, visit www.kew.org/christmas or call 0844 995 9675.

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EVENTS EVENTS

Christmas in the

Village Make a date on the first Saturday in December to go Christmas shopping in Wimbledon Village, where businesses and retailers have planned a wonderful day for all the family.

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he Wimbledon Village Business Association (WVBA) proudly announces the return of ‘Christmas in the Village’ on Saturday 5th December, with an afternoon of family entertainment planned from 1.30pm.

Santa will arrive in the Village on horseback with his elf at 1.30pm, before arriving at his Grotto at the Dog & Fox for the rest of the afternoon so the children can give him their all-important Christmas Wish Lists Christmas in the Village is set to debut several new attractions this year as well as a welcome return to a Christmas Tree in the Village’s centre. The event will culminate with the switching on of the Christmas Tree lights at 4.10pm by a special TV guest, followed by mince pies, mulled wine and carols around the tree.

In addition there will be a special children’s reading of ‘Twas the night before Christmas’ as well as lots of free family fun and activities including Mrs Ballooniverse and gingerbread decorating.

There will also be mini fun-fair rides, entertainment and much more to get everyone in the mood for the beginning of the festive season.

Saturday 5th December 2015

Wimbledon Village is home to many treasured specialist independent shops selling fashion, organic skincare, fragrance, lingerie, jewellery, books, kitchenware, tennis equipment, interiors, tiles and specialist paints, art and antiques. There are also shops dedicated to selling children’s stationery, shoes and fashion. Every member of the family is welcome and catered for in the Village.

Many of the Village shops will be offering generous discounts, gifts with purchases, drinks and delicious nibbles on the day. You can purchase an array of delicious foods for your Christmas entertaining.

The WVBA is a not-for-profit organisation, committed to promoting Wimbledon Village as a commercial centre and organising community events to promote the interests of business and visitors.

THE DETAILS For more information on what is happening on the day visit www.wimbledon-village.com 3300 N NO OV V EE M MB BE ER R 22 00 11 55

est. 1983

NEW SHOWROOM NOW OPEN! VISIT US AT 10 PORTMAN SQUARE Tel: 020 7258 9990 firedearth.com Other nearby showrooms include Hampstead, Holland Park and Islington

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EVENTS EVENTS

National Trust

festive fun in London

Christmas is a time for traditions, from those passed down through families and friends, to new discoveries that become part of your festive celebrations. Sending cards, decorating trees, singing carols, advent calendars, mince pies and mistletoe.

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or many, a day out to a National Trust house and garden is already a Christmas ‘must do’. Over the festive season, National Trust places will be festively decorated and decked out with Christmas sparkle, Father Christmas will pay a visit to special grottos and atmospheric estates will be packed full of festive traditions. Here’s a selection of top National Trust Christmas days out in London:

CHRISTMAS SUPPER CLUB 11 December 6:30pm

Enjoy a gourmet meal in our Orangery Café; includes 3 courses and a welcome drink. Price: £40 Booking essential 0844 249 1895 MORDEN HALL PARK Enchanted Christmas at Morden Hall Park 5,6,12,13 December 11am-5pm

FENTON HOUSE, HAMPSTEAD 28 and 29 Nov, 5,6,12,13,19 and 20 December 11am-4pm

Celebrate Christmas past and present at Fenton House. Escape the high street and revel in the quiet magic of Christmas in atmospheric rooms, decorated as they might have been over Fenton’s long history. Enjoy keyboard and choral music and a warming cup of mulled wine. Price: Normal admission prices apply HAM HOUSE AND GARDEN, NR RICHMOND Christmas Ghost Tours 2, 9, 16 December 7:30-9pm

Reputed to be one of the most haunted houses Britain, join in an afterhours ghost tour at Ham House; includes traditional festive refreshments.

Price: £22 Booking essential 0844 249 1895

Enjoy a festive day out with seasonal food and mulled wine, children’s games and activities and Father Christmas in his grotto. Additional costs apply. Booking essential for Father Christmas OSTERLEY PARK AND HOUSE Osterley’s Georgian Christmas 5,6,12,13 December 12-4pm

See how the Child family celebrated Christmas, witness the sights, sounds and smells of a Georgian Christmas as the servants prepare the basement.

Can you help our cooks create some sugar craft? Or maybe help preparing the perfect table plan? There’s plenty to prepare so come and help create the perfect Georgian Christmas. Price: Normal admission prices apply CHRISTMAS WREATH WORKSHOPS 8-10 December 10am-12noon or 2-4pm

VISIT FATHER CHRISTMAS AT HAM HOUSE 5,6,12,13,19,20,21,22 December 10am-3:30pm (last trail 3pm)

Follow a trail in the garden to Father Christmas’s grotto and receive a gift.

Price: £3.50 per child, normal admission prices apply

Make a traditional Christmas Wreath using greenery cut fresh from the Osterley estate. Step by step instructions and a variety of decorations to create the perfect wreath for your door.

Coffee and tea on arrival. Price: £25 Booking essential 0844 249 1895 FATHER CHRISTMAS VISITS OSTERLEY 5,6,12,13 December 10am-4pm

Bring the family to see Father Christmas in his decorated grotto. Price: Child £5 Booking essential 0844 249 1895.

THE DETAILS For more information on National Trust events, please visit our website at www.nationaltrust.org.uk/events Every single visit this Christmas will support the National Trust’s work as a charity looking after special places for future generations to enjoy.

For more information and ideas for great value family days out go to www.nationaltrust.org.uk 3 R 22 00 11 55 3 22 N NO OV VE M B ER

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EVENTS EVENTS

Christmas in Belgravia T

he beautiful settings of Belgravia, on Grosvenor’s London estate, will be transformed into a fantastic winter wonderland for one of the most exciting events in London during the festive period.

Highlights include...

3rd, th 5 & 6th December 2015

PIMLICO ROAD CHRISTMAS EVENT 5th December, 10am – 4pm Pimlico Road, London’s design district, will celebrate with a special Christmas event on Saturday 5th December. This will be an extension of the farmers market, with one-of-a-kind Christmas stalls lining the street in addition to live entertainment and music.

BELGRAVIA CHRISTMAS SUNDAY 6th December, 11am – 5pm Elizabeth Street will be transformed into a glorious winter wonderland comprising various boutique stalls offering a fantastic variety of seasonal treats from gastronomic delights to fashion accessories. This year will introduce a special new addition of a Taxi grotto photo booth. The London black cab will be dressed up with reindeer ears and there will be photo opportunities with Santa inside the taxi GROSVENOR FILM FESTIVAL PRESENTED BY THE NOMAD IN ASSOCIATION WITH CHESTERTONS 10th – 13th December For the first time ever Eccleston Place Courtyard, Belgravia, MB B EE R R22001155 34 4 N NOVEM

will host a series of Christmas film screenings presented

by The Nomad in association with Chestertons. The Grosvenor Film Festival will screen classics including Elf, Love Actually and It’s a Wonderful Life. The unique space will be transformed into a winter escape with heaters, blankets, seating, braziers, Christmas music and Christmas beverages such as mince pies and mulled wine.

In addition to these exciting events, the Belgravia Christmas Windows competition returns for its second year, which sees various retailers come together and celebrate the festive season with unique window displays.

THE DETAILS For tickets and further information please visit www.grosvenorlondon.com

EVENTS

Annibale Carracci,

The Holy Family with the Infant Saint John the Baptist

(‘The Montalto Madonna’)

T

he National Gallery houses the national collection of paintings in the Western European tradition from the 13th to the 19th centuries and admission to see them is free.

In 2004 the National Gallery acquired Carracci’s The Holy Family with the Infant Saint John the Baptist (on display in Room 37), thanks to a number of donations and gifts in wills.

In this painting the Madonna seems about to rise to greet the viewer, as she balances her baby on her lap, her wide-eyed gaze drawing us into the picture. Saint Joseph and the Infant Saint John the Baptist respond to the lively child with focused attentiveness.

ANNIBALE CARRACCI, THE HOLY FAMILY WITH THE INFANT SAINT JOHN THE BAPTIST (‘THE MONTALTO MADONNA’) ABOUT 1600. © THE NATIONAL GALLERY, LONDON. BOUGHT WITH THE SUPPORT OF A NUMBER OF GIFTS IN WILLS AND DONATIONS, 2004.

To donate

and for m The Madonna’s softly painted flesh and the Child’s informa ore plump forms, curly locks, and swirling drapery please vtiison it reveal the influence of Correggio. www.nati onalgaller This work was only discovered and attributed to y. org.uk/su pport-us Carracci in 2003 by the Curator of Italian and Spanish Paintings 1600-1800, Letizia Treves, who was working at Sotheby’s at the time. An export stop was placed on the painting after its sale at auction, allowing the National Gallery very little time to gather the necessary funds to save the painting for the nation. Thanks to supporters, the Gallery was able to secure the painting for the national collection. It is in circumstances such as these that the Gallery is so grateful for, and dependent upon, the generosity of its supporters.

Nearly a quarter of the Gallery’s paintings are on display thanks to gifts in wills. Remembering the Gallery by leaving a gift in your will, no matter what size, can help develop and maintain the collection and continue to enrich the lives of future generations.

THE DETAILS

Trafalgar Square, WC2N 5DN nationalgallery.org.uk/support-us 020 7747 5875 (Mon-Fri 10am-5pm) 36 NOVEMBER2015

KOMMA

THE ITALIAN SENSE OF BEAUTY

TETRIX design Michael Young

BATHROOMS - Rivo design Castiglia Associati

LIVING - Motus design Vittore Niolu

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EVENTS EVENTS

5th-6th December, 2015 Chelsea Old Town Hall, SW3

T

Do all your Christmas Shopping in one go!

he Chelsea Christmas Gift Fair returns this December 2015 to the Chelsea Old Town Hall by popular demand - bringing a refreshing alternative to Christmas gift shopping at the high street chains.

This exciting two day weekend indoor Christmas gift fair in Chelsea has fashion items for both men and women, beautiful items for your home, children’s toys and clothes, gifts for your pets and of course delicious food products. With over 70 hand-picked exhibitors, there are some really unique quality products that you could only see at our Chelsea Christmas Gift Fair at the Chelsea Old Town Hall.

The annual Chelsea Christmas Gift Fair returns this year bigger and better. This weekend shopping event in the heart of London is ideal for the Christmas shopper who wants something unique not found anywhere else. This popular London gift fair will again bring together a unique group of over almost 80 quality exhibitors under one roof, selling quality fashion, jewellery, accessories, childrens clothing and

38 BE ER R22001155 8 N NO V E MB

gifts, home ware, and yummy food & drink.

Tired of seeing the same old products from the high street chains?

Looking for something unique to give your friends and family this Christmas? Then this is the shopping fair is for you to attend.

So bring your Christmas shopping list and do all your Christmas shopping in one go!

The Chelsea Christmas Gift Fair Chelsea Old Town Hall, Kings Road, SW3 5EE Saturday 11am - 7pm, Sunday 12pm - 5pm FREE admission this year Nearest Tube: South Kensington, Sloane Square THE DETAILS For more information visit the website at www.chelseachristmasgiftfair.com

Help support our future Annibale Carracci, The Holy Family with the Infant Saint John the Baptist (‘The Montalto Madonna’) (detail), about 1600. Bought with the support of a number of gifts in wills and donations, 2004

As a charity the National Gallery needs your support to ensure we continue to be one of the world’s great art galleries.

To find out more about the various ways you can support the Gallery please visit: nationalgallery.org.uk/support-us or call 020 7747 5875.

EVENTS

28th December 2015 - 2nd January 2016 Royal Albert Hall

I

The Nutcracker on Ice

nternational ice dance sensation The Imperial Ice Stars return for a third triumphant season to 4000 square feet of ice at the Royal Albert Hall for 12 performances only. Over the last ten years the award-winning troupe has thrilled audiences across five continents with their adrenaline-rich performances, receiving nightly ovations and outstanding international reviews.

As midnight strikes on a magical Christmas Eve, a toy Nutcracker comes to life, sweeping young Marie to a winter wonderland of enchantment where she meets the Mouse King, the Nutcracker Prince and, of course, the Sugar Plum Fairy.

Over the last decade The Imperial Ice Stars have performed to almost four million people across five continents. The award-winning troupe has built a worldwide following and established an unrivalled reputation for their sophisticated portrayals of classic works, and for executing the most complex and daring manoeuvres on the ice.

Set against a backdrop of colourful projections, opulent costumes, magic tricks and special effects, the cast of World, European and National Championship level skaters dance to Tchaikovsky’s glorious

40 NOVEMBER2015

score performed by a live orchestra. The production has been specially redesigned to incorporate state-of-the-art projection, as well as spectacular flying sequences over the arena floor. Sumptuous costumes - including some stunning LED illuminated effects – have been designed by Elena Predvodeteleva, a renowned designer of costumes for theatre, film and circus. To create a 4000 square feet frozen stage, 12 miles of pipe-work chilled to minus 15 degrees are laid out on stage, six tonnes of crushed ice spread over the surface, and 14,000 litres of water sprayed over a period of 34 hours; while the auditorium is kept at a comfortable temperature.

Breathtaking leaps, heart-stopping throws and awe-inspiring acrobatics combine with sublime ice dance to make The Nutcracker on Ice a festive treat that will thrill and enchant all ages.

THE DETAILS For more information about The Nutcracker on Ice Telephone 020 7838 3100 or visit www.royalalberthall.com

EVENTS EVENTS

A TALE OF TWO FOXES © DON GUTOSK

THE SHARK SURFER © THOMAS P PESCHAK

Winning Wildlife Canadian physician takes Wildlife Photographer of the Year 2015 title. See the greatest nature photography show on Earth at the Natural History Museum

KOMODO JUDO © ANDREY GUDKOV

T

TO DRINK OR NOT © CARLOS PEREZ NAVAL

he winners of this year’s prestigious Wildlife Photographer of the he winners of thiswere year’s prestigious the Year Competition announced onWildlife TuesdayPhotographer 13th October atofan Year competition were announced on Tuesday OctoberCanadian at awards ceremony held at London’s Natural History13Museum. an awards ceremony held London’s History Museum. amateur photographer Don at Gutoski wasNatural named Wildlife Photographer Canadian Don Gutoski was named of the Year 2015 by amateur a panel ofphotographer international judges for his image A TaleWildlife of two Photographer of the 2015portrait by a panel international for his foxes, a beautiful but Year haunting of theofstruggle for life judges in the subarctic image ofChurchill, two foxes, a beautiful but haunting portrait of the struggle climes A oftale Cape Canada. for Beating life in the subarctic climesentries of Cape Churchill, more than 42,000 submitted fromCanada. across 96 countries, Don’s Beating than 42,000 submitted from across 96ofcountries, image takesmore centre stage at theentries fifty-first Wildlife Photographer the Year Don’s image takesopened centre at stage the fifty-first Wildlife Photographer exhibition, which the at Natural History Museum on 16 October.ofThe the Year exhibition, which the opened at theofNatural History Museum on its 16 acclaimed show celebrates rich array life on our planet, reflecting October.

The acclaimeditsshow celebrates rich array of lifethe onexhibition our planet, beauty and highlighting fragility.

After itsthe London premiere, reflecting its abeauty and highlighting its to fragility. its London premiere, embarks on UK and international tour, inspireAfter millions of people across the the exhibition embarks a UK and international world to appreciate and on conserve the natural world. tour, to inspire millions of people the isworld appreciate conserve world.

Capeacross Churchill wheretothe range of and the red fox andthe thenatural more northern Cape where the range of had the red foxthat andthethe more northern Arctic foxChurchill overlap. is‘The Churchill guides heard two species will Arctic fox overlap.

‘ThenoChurchill guidestohad that the species says will occasionally fight, but one we talked hadheard ever seen thistwo behaviour’, occasionally fight, but talkedand to interacting had ever seen behaviour’, Don. ‘I first noticed theno redone foxwe hunting withthis some prey and says Don.approach ‘I first noticed thethat redprey fox hunting and Arctic interacting with on closer realised was a white fox. By thesome time Iprey and on closer approach realised that prey was awas white fox.victor By the got close enough to capture the event, the fight overArctic and the wastime Ifeeding. got close enough to capture the event, fightuntil was the over I took a number of pictures of thethe event, redand foxthe hadvictor eatenwas its feeding.

I took aupnumber of pictures the event, fox had eaten fill, and picked the remains to findofa hiding spotuntil for athe laterred meal.’ its fill, picked upNational the remains to find magazine’s a hiding spot for aeditor later for meal.’

Juryand member and Geographic senior natural Jury projects, member Kathy and National Geographic magazine’s senior editor for history Moran says, ‘The immediate impact of this photograph natural says, out ‘Theofimmediate impact of this is that ithistory appearsprojects, as if theKathy red foxMoran is slipping its winter coat.

What might photograph is that it appears as if the between red fox ispredator slippingand outprey of itsstruck winter simply be a straightforward interaction the coat. might simply a straightforward between predator jury asWhat a stark example ofbe climate change, with interaction red foxes encroaching on and theThe jurybottom as a stark of climate withlevels. red foxes Arcticprey fox struck territory. line example is, this image works change, on multiple It encroaching on Arcticbehaviour fox territory. bottom line is, this image works is graphic, it captures and The it is one of the strongest single storytelling on multiple levels. is graphic, it captures behaviour and it is one of the photographs I haveItseen.’ strongest single storytelling have seen.’

Fourteen-year-old Ondrej photographs Pelánek from Ithe Czech Republic won the Young Fourteen-year-old Pelánek thehis Czech Republic Wildlife PhotographerOndrej of the Year 2015from title for image Fightingwon ruffs.the Ruffs Young Wildlife thewarlike Year 2015 title forduringcourting. his image Fighting are waders and Photographer are known for of their behaviour The

4 BE ER R 22 00 11 55 4 22 N NO OV VE EM MB

RUFFS ON DISPLAY © ONDŘEJ PELÁNEK

image was taken in Norway, on Varanger’s tundra, around 15 kilometres inland. ruffs. wading areweknown for their warlike ‘FarRuffs awayare behind thebirds polarand circle observed fighting ruffs,’behaviour says Ondrej. during courting, whereatthey can often bemy seen on the an area where ‘I took this photograph midnight when father waslek, sleeping.

I was too the males assemble the mating season to attract females. excited, sotraditionally stayed awake.’

‘This isduring a complex, beautifully layered photograph, The image was taken in Norway, Varanger’s tundra, around 15 kilometres a surprisingly sophisticated way of on seeing that immediately generated buzz inland.

‘Farjury’, awaysays behind polar‘Ruffs circleare wewading observed fighting ruffs,’ saysfor within the Kathythe Moran. birds and are known Ondrej.

‘I took this photograph at midnight when sleeping. their warlike behaviour during courting, where theymy canfather often was be seen on the Ilek, wasantoo excited, ‘Thisassemble is a complex, area where so thestayed males awake.’ traditionally duringbeautifully the matinglayered season photograph, a surprisingly sophisticated way of seeing that that immediately to attract females.

The photographer has captured a moment speaks to generated buzz within jury’, itsays Moran. powerful behaviour, yetthe renders as aKathy delicate dance.‘The Youphotographer could spend ahas captured a moment to powerful it as a career trying to makethat thisspeaks photograph.

That it behaviour, came from yet onerenders of the younger delicate could spend a career trying to make this photograph. entrants dance. was justYou a thrill.’

That it came from one the younger entrants wascategory just a thrill.’

The two images wereofselected from 18 individual winners, depicting The attwo weredisplays selected 18 individual winners, nature its images finest, from of from extraordinary animalcategory behaviour to sublime depicting at its finest, owned from displays of extraordinary animal behaviour landscapes.nature The competition, by the Natural History Museum, London, to sublimebylandscapes.

The competition, owned by the Images, Natural History is judged a panel of industry-recognised professionals. submitted by Museum, London,and is judged a panel of industry-recognised professionals. both professional amateurbyphotographers, are selected for their creativity, Images, submitted both professional and amateur photographers, are artistry and technicalbycomplexity. selected for their creativity, artistry and technical complexity.

EXHIBITION INFORMATION EXHIBITION INFORMATION Dates: Until 10 April 2016 Times:10.00-17.50 (last admission 17.15)

Dates: 10 April+44 2016(0)20 Times:10.00-17.50 (last admission 17.15) Visitor Until enquiries: 7942 5000 Visitor enquiries: +44*, child (0)20and 7942concession 5000 Admission: Adult £15 £7.50* *, family (up to two adults * Admission: Adult £15* , child and concession £7.50 , family (up to two adults and three children) £41 Free for Members, Patrons and children under four. and three children) £41* Free for members, patrons and children under four.

Nearest tube: Nearest tube:South SouthKensington Kensington Website: nhm.ac.uk/wpy Website: nhm.ac.uk/wpy wildlifephotographeroftheyear @NHM_WPY wildlifephotographeroftheyear @NHM_WPY NHM_WPY NHM_WPY * * These are Gift Aid prices and include an optional donation to the Museum.

These are Gift Aid prices and include an optional donation to the Museum.

THE THE DETAILS DETAILS The The 2016 Wildlife ofYear theCompetition Year Competition 2016 Wildlife Photographer Photographer of the is open is open for entries between December February 2016. for entries between December 20152015 and and February 2016.

Visit nhm.ac.uk for further information.

Visit www.nhm.ac.uk for further information.

The Times

. s e n’ bl re ila ly. ild avas app Ch ts dition ke Con tic

a CHRIStMaS tReat FoR all tHe FaMIly

A Royal Albert Hall, Lunchbox Theatrical Productions and Raymond Gubbay Ltd presentation.

Royal albeRt Hall 28 December 2015 – 2 January 2016

020 7838 3100

royalalberthall.com

10th ANNIVERSARY SPECTACULAR!

Written by and starring

Andrew Pollard

ALL N’S RE L CHI CDKETS TI

HALFE! PRIC

“Greenwich Theatre pantomime... still one of the best in the business”

British Theatre Guide

20 November 2015 - 10 January 2016 020 8858 7755 greenwichtheatre.org.uk

EVENTS EVENTS

Saturday 5th December 2015, Supernova, Embankment Gardens, 7pm

Join Ronan Keating at the

Emeralds & Ivy

10th Anniversary Ball Ronan Keating’s annual star-studded Emeralds & Ivy Ball is returning for its 10th year, in aid of Cancer Research UK and the Marie Keating Foundation.

T

he Emeralds & Ivy Ball is a truly magical night of dazzling worldclass entertainment and fine dining, which has become one of London’s top special events.

Hosted by Ronan Keating, the evening brings together over 500 VIP guests for one incredible evening. Past celebrity guests have included Rod Stewart, Frank Lampard, Alan Shearer and Rebecca Adlington.

With incredible guest performances from Alexandra Burke, Gary Barlow, James Corden, The Saturdays and Leona Lewis - all in support of Cancer Research UK and the Marie Keating Foundation.

A standard table of 10 costs £6,000 and includes a champagne reception, delicious cocktails and mouth-watering food. There are also luxury packages available upon request.

Since the event began in 2006 more than £6million has been raised which has funded two mobile Cancer Awareness Roadshow Units, staffed by specialist nurses and advisors.

These units play a vital role in helping to prevent cancer and save lives through earlier detection and diagnosis. These units are saving lives every day and hope to raise even more money at this year’s 10th Anniversary.

THE DETAILS For more information about The Emeralds & Ivy Ball please visit: www.cancerresearchuk.org/support-us/find-an-event/emeralds-ivy-ball To reserve a table please contact Eve Mitchell on 020 3469 8122 or eve.mitchell@cancer.org.uk For more information about the Marie Keating Foundation, please visit www.mariekeating.ie For further information about Cancer Research UK’s work or to find out how to support the charity, please call 0300 123 1022 or visit www.cancerresearchuk.org 44 NOVEMBER2015

REFLECTION IN BLACK © Petr Bambousek

Until 10 April Book now at nhm.ac.uk/wpy Free for Members

Contemporary Ceramics Contemporary Centre Ceramics Centre Contemporary

Ceramics C Centre o n t e misp oanr aexclusive ry Ceramics C e specializing ntre retail venue s inp e cStudio i a l i s Ceramics. e s exclusively British Situated inin the heart of Studio Ceramics.

An Bloomsbury, the gallery is exhibition program host to a comprehensive includes specially exhibition programme invited international and features national artists.

A large retail and international ceramic space displays over 80artists. of the countries

leading makers.

Image : Matt Horne ‘Dear Santa...’ A Christmas show 63 Great Russell Street, London, WC1B 3BF 26th Nov - 31st Dec 2015 Opposite the British Museum Image Paul Philp, Solo Show Oct 8th-Nov 7th 2015

Open Mon - Sat 10.30am - 6 pm Tel.63 0207 242 9644 Street, London, WC1B 3BF Great Russell Email info@cpaceramics.com

Opposite the British Museum

Web www.cpaceramics.com Open Mon - Sat 10.30am - 6 pm

Tel. 0207 242 9644 Email info@cpaceramics.com Web www.cpaceramics.com

EVENTS

Celebrities sing for the forgotten children of Sudan

C

elebrities, friends, Patrons and guests will be raising the roof at St. Peter’s in support of Kids for Kids, the only organisation created specifically to help the forgotten children of Darfur, Sudan where violence and starvation this year has been the worst ever. Only with the continuing support can Kids for Kids carry on bringing life changing opportunities to any of these children. Will you join us?

Celebrity readers welcoming in the Christmas spirit include the BAFTA award winning David Suchet who is currently on the London Stage as the formidable Lady Bracknell, “I am delighted to be able to help support Kids for Kids by reading at The Cadogan Tate Kids For Kids Christmas Concert this December. The charity does amazing work in raising awareness of the plight of the forgotten children in war torn Darfur, Sudan but what impressed me the most was the scope of the help the charity gave not only to individuals but to whole villages, lifting them out of abject poverty and helping families stay together”, Richard Wilson, a long term supporter of Kids for Kids and Patron The Lord Cope.

The evening will be hosted by ITN’s Julie Etchingham. “To be able to host this wondrous Christmas event, which gathers together so many people from all corners of the world under one roof, to sing and reach out for the forgotten children of Darfur, is a great honour”, says Julie.

“My heart goes out to mothers who, like me, have small children but are unable to feed them. We need to do so much more for these poor families.”

Eamonn Holmes’ Celebrity Choir will be joining us once again, as well as the extraordinarily angelic voices of the choir of Queen’s Gate School, one of the oldest girl’s schools in London, which numbers the Duchess of Cornwall and Jennifer

46 NOVEMBER2015

Thursday 3 December, St Peter’s Eaton Square, W1

Saunders amongst its alumni. The evening’s rd festivities will also see a guest appearance by Ruth Palmer described by ‘The Independent On Sunday’ as “the most distinctive violinist of her generation”. The trumpeters of The Thames Fanfare Brass once again will be raising the roof under their charismatic leader Roy Bilham.

Kids for Kids helps children the world has forgotten, children in Darfur, Sudan who live in conditions of inexcusable hardship, where starvation is a reality, and where just fetching water can take a child on a 14-hour round trip on foot.

Kids for Kids adopts whole villages, lifting them out of abject poverty, transforming whole communities and helping families to stay together.

To date they have adopted 78 villages, and by combining a range of simple grassroots initiatives, there has been an immediate difference to individual families – their children have goats milk to drink, a blanket to sleep under, a mosquito net to protect them from malaria, and much more – and transforming the lives of the whole village, providing health care, including trained village midwives and first aid workers, training in better farming techniques, long term environmental improvements, and, most important of all, hand pumps, so clean water is available nearby.

And in 2013 they opened their first Kindergarten. Mothers beg for help to educate their children and the fourth Kindergarten is in sight.

Doors open at 6.30pm for 7pm start with a mulled wine and mince pie reception after the concert.

To join celebrities and friends in this wonderful celebration of Christmas and help the children of Darfur, please contact: alex@kidsforkids. org.uk or call 07730 609446 or purchase online from mydonate. bt.com/events/kidsforkidschristmas2015/242722 Ticket prices are Adults £25 Children £15 THE DETAILS For more information visit the website at www.kidsforkids.org.uk

FEATURE

To disclose, or not to disclose?

That is the question!

Shilpa Mathuradas, partner in the property litigation department at Osbornes Solicitors, discusses when a vendor of a property should disclose any dealings which may affect a purchase and what the consequences may be if they do not.

I

n 2012 Ophelia and Hamlet purchased a flat for £325,000. The block consisted of two self- contained flats. At the time of the purchase their solicitors received the usual replies to Seller’s Property and Leasehold Information Forms. The vendors, Gertrude and Claudius, completed these forms themselves and replied “no” to all of the following questions: “Do you know of any disputes or anything which might lead to a dispute about this or any neighbouring property?”

“Have you received any complaints about anything you have, or have not, done as an owner?”

“Have you made any such complaints to any neighbour about what the neighbour had or had not done?”

“Have you either sent or received any letters or notices which affect your property or the neighbouring property in any way (for example from or to neighbours, the council or a government department?)”

Ophelia and Hamlet purchased the property based on these responses. The owner of the flat downstairs Voltimand, who they consider has mental health issues, has issued proceedings against them claiming that water has leaked from Ophelia and Hamlet’s flat causing damage to his flat and claiming trespass over land which he considers belongs to him. He also claims that the lease to Ophelia and Hamlet is flawed and has made various allegations of harassment against Ophelia and Hamlet. The litigation has been considerably expensive as Voltimand has been acting in person making numerous applications which Ophelia and Hamlet have had to respond to. They have recently obtained a civil restraint order against him preventing him from making any further applications without permission however the matter has not yet reached a conclusion and it is causing significant stress to Ophelia and Hamlet.

It has now come to light that Votimand had written to Gertrude and Claudius as well as the estate agents who were dealing with the sale of the property before contracts of sale had been exchanged. The letters revealed a series of complaints that Voltimand had against Gertrude and Claudius but also included allegations of trespass and harassment.

ISSUES TO CONSIDER ON BEHALF OF OPHELIA AND HAMLET If the letters from Voltimand suggest a series of complaints then it appears that Gertrude and Claudius have made representations which are factually incorrect. It is also possible that if Gertrude and Claudius knew them to be untrue or were reckless as to whether they were untrue or not then they were made fraudulently.

Ophelia and Hamlet could potentially claim damages for fraudulent misrepresentation at common law and for negligent misrepresentation at common law and under section 2(1) of the Misrepresentation Act 1967.

I f Gertrude and Claudius did not make these representations would Ophelia and Hamlet have purchased the property anyway? (i) If they would have purchased anyway then there has been no reliance on the misrepresentations and no loss caused. There would therefore be no claim. On the other hand, if Ophelia and Hamlet would have refused to purchase the property and bought elsewhere, or successfully negotiated a discounted price instead, then reliance is made out and there would be a good claim against Gertrude and Claudius provided Ophelia and Hamlet could make out that they have suffered some loss. (ii) If Ophelia and Hamlet would have continued to purchase the property but at a discounted rate then they could potentially claim the difference between the price they paid and the price that they would have paid with the discount. This is likely to be difficult to prove but the court would have regard to how many properties Ophelia and Hamlet looked at, whether they engaged any estate agents, whether there was a pressing need for Ophelia and Hamlet to move out of their previous property and whether they had dealings with problem neighbours before and how they dealt with them. (iii) It may be that Ophelia and Hamlet can claim the costs they incur in any litigation against Voltimand and which they are unable to recover from Voltimand. (iv) Fraudulent misrepresentation may also give rise to damages for worry and inconvenience although this may be nominal. ny proceedings issued would need to be within the limitation A period otherwise they will be time barred. The limitation period for negligent misrepresentation is six years and time would begin to run from the point at which the loss is suffered. If this date is approaching the Ophelia and Hamlet would need to consider entering into a standstill agreement which would suspend time for the purposes of limitation.

In light of the potential advice that Ophelia and Hamlet will receive, the answer to the question “To disclose, or not to disclose?” is if in doubt, it should be disclosed or at least Gertrude and Claudius should have sought advice on whether the previous dealings should have been disclosed.

Shilpa Mathuradas is a specialist property litigator specialising in all aspects of property law in a residential & commercial context.

To speak with Shilpa about a property issue you are having you can e-mail her on shilpamathuradas@osbornes.net THE DETAILS Osbornes Solicitors LLP. Livery House, 7-9 Pratt Street London NW1 0AE Telephone 020 7485 8811 or email shilpamathuradas@osbornes.net www.osbornes.net NOVEMBER2015 47

FEATURE

EY LO ESK N AT D EA O T N T EY HE E

Get your skates on this winter!

The capital’s outdoor ice rinks are some of the most magical locations you’ll see all season.With Christmas lights and trees set to the backdrop of London’s stunning institutions, a trip to an ice rink is a must-do for the views alone.

EYESKATE AT THE LONDON EYE From 14th November 2015- 3rd January 2016 The open-air London Eye ice rink is situated in front of the big wheel itself, its pods gently floating past you as you glide. You don’t need to book a flight on the Eye in order to skate but various packages are on offer for those who wish to do so. Sessions last 45 minutes. KIDS GO FREE on the Early Bird Family offer, if you book online before 30th November.

Visit www.londoneye.com to make bookings.

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SWAROVSKI ICE RINK AT NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM Until 3rd January 2016 Set amongst one of the most stunning and iconic settings in the capital, the Natural History Museum. Experience the thrill of skating surrounded by fairy lights nestled in frost-covered trees, with the smell of mulled wine and toasted marshmallows in the air. Make it an essential stop during your visit to meet friends and warm up with tea, coffee, hot chocolate and mulled wine. Or take your pick from a range of delicious meals and a variety of wines, beers and soft drinks. A visit to the Museum’s Ice Rink is a must this festive season.

Vsit www.nhmskating.com to book tickets.

WESTFIELD LONDON SHEPHERD’S BUSH 19th November 2015 – 4th January 2016 Kick off the festivities this year with a trip to the Ice Rink at Westfield London, Shepherd’s Bush. Skate along to the sounds of live music and enjoy special themed sessions at Westfield London’s stunning 160-capacity indoor ice rink. in its central atrium. Listen to soundtracks from resident DJs and live acts on the stage while gliding across the ice. There will be themed sessions to enjoy and extra-long sessions available for those who can’t get enough of the wintery fun!

Visit www.uk.westfield.com R TE IN D W N RK LA PA DER DE N HY WO

HYDE PARK WINTER WONDERLAND From 20th November 2015 - 3rd January 2016 (except Christmas Day) Skate on the UK’s largest and most magical open-air ice rink. Set around Hyde Park’s picturesque Victorian bandstand, it’s illuminated with a canopy of over 100,000 sparkling lights! It’s a great family activity which the kids will love; come along for a spin with friends; or bring that special someone for a romantic date and glide hand-in-hand around the ice. Ideal for all ages and abilities, whether you’re a complete beginner or are looking to practise your skating moves and get serious. Open 10am to 10pm. Ice skating sessions tend to sell-out in advance, especially at weekends and evenings, so booking ahead is highly recommended. www.hydeparkwinterwonderland.com

A guide to London’s coolest ice rinks

F O ER N W DO TO ON L W C HA A RF NA IC RY E RI N K

CANARY WHARF ICE RINK Until 26th February 2016 Ice Rink Canary Wharf offers the chance to skate amongst the twinkling trees beneath Canary Wharf’s striking architectural backdrop and experience London’s only skate path, a glittering trail beneath fairy-lit trees around the capital’s largest outdoor rink. Ice Rink Canary Wharf is the perfect place for a romantic date, a family day out or to have fun with friends. After your skating, indulge in some delicious winter warmers at the Ice Rink bar and terrace, offering you the best of artisan food and drink.

For more information or to book email events@icerinkcanarywharf.co.uk

HA PA MP LA TO CE N IC CO E U RI R N T K

ICE SKATING AT THE TOWER OF LONDON 20th November 2015 – 3rd January 2016 Located in the building’s dry moat, the Tower of London ice rink offers a grand historical setting for seasonal skating sessions, along with views of London’s ancient fortress. As with fellow Historic Royal Palace Hampton Court, sessions last an hour and wheelchairs are welcome on the ice except during the last session of the day. Online booking is advised.

For more information visit www.toweroflondonicerink.com

D IEL N TF O ES D W ON L

RY O ST HI M AL U N SE IO U AT M N

ICE SKATING AT HAMPTON COURT PALACE 20th November 2015 – 3rd January 2016 Put on your ear muffs, gloves and skates, grab a steadying hand (if needed!) and have some festive fun on the ice in glorious Tudor surroundings. The outdoor ice rink offers spectacular views of the red brick Tudor front of King Henry VIII’s magnificent palace, on the banks of the historic River Thames. Book an evening session to see the stunning palace lit up after dark while you skate under the evening stars! The Ice Bar & Café provides a welcome place to warm up after your skate, serving a selection of winter drinks and festive snacks.

For more information visit www.thehamptoncourticerink.co.uk

SSO O HHOMMEE OU RRSS USS EET EE T

SKATE AT SOMERSET HOUSE WITH FORTNUM & MASON 18th November 2015 - 10th January 2016 Skate at Somerset House with Fortnum & Mason offers a host of seasonal experiences on and off the ice. By day, skate in the splendour of the stunning Somerset House courtyard, or join us after dark, when the rink hosts some of the best international clubs and festivals at exclusive Club Nights. Après-skate, treat yourself to a cocktail, indulgent Welsh Rarebit or hot chocolate from Fortnum’s Lodge or the Skate Lounge. Everyone can brush up their skills at Skate School and young children can take their first steps on the ice with Polar Cub Club..

Skaters and spectators can enjoy live festive entertainment, traditional yuletide treats and late-night shopping at The Christmas Arcade, transformed into a pop-up version of the classic Fortnum & Mason Piccadilly store.

Book online at www.somersethouse.org or call Ticketmaster on 0844 847 1520

NOVEMBER2015 49

EVENTS

OLYMPIA

15 th-21 st Decembe r 2015

The London International Horse Show 2015 The world’s biggest equestrian Christmas party, Olympia, The London International Horse Show, has announced an impressive line-up of displays for this year’s show. French Horse Whisperer, Jean-François Pignon, will return to centre stage this year and wow the crowds with his skills of natural horsemanship with his Liberty Horses.

T

he 90,000 visitors will also be treated to performances from The Household Cavalry Musical Ride and all the old favourites including The Shetland Pony Grand National, The Kennel Club Dog Agility and The Olympia Finale.

Jean-François Pignon said: “I’m so excited to be returning to the UK with my horses to showcase our skills for the crowd at Olympia.

London is such a special show with a wonderful atmosphere and I can’t wait to return and perform our latest routine.”

Living up to its reputation as one of Europe’s premier indoor equestrian events, Olympia 2015 will once again host three FEI World Cups™ in Carriage Driving, Dressage and Show Jumping. The Reem Acra FEI World Cup™ Dressage leg takes place on 15 and 16 December, the FEI World Cup™ Driving leg presented by Dodson & Horrell on 18 and 19 December and the Longines FEI World Cup™ Jumping leg presented by H&M on 20 December. The climax of the seven day equine extravaganza will finish with the Olympia Grand Prix on Monday 21 December.

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Show Director, Simon Brooks-Ward said: “Olympia, The London International Horse Show, is the ultimate celebration of equestrianism. Every year we endeavour to bring the very best horsemen and women from around the world to London for this truly special occasion. “The enormously talented Jean-François Pignon has been a real crowd pleaser in the past and I’m sure he will once again dazzle the audiences with his magical performance.”

THE DETAILS For more information on Olympia and to purchase tickets to this year’s show please go to www.olympiahorseshow.com or telephone the box office on 0871 230 5580

Creekside Cottages Cornwall

Individual waters-edge, village & rural cottages set in enchanting & picturesque positions.

Sleeping 2 – 8.

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Available throughout the year.

Dogs welcome.

Telephone: 01326 375972 www.creeksidecottages.co.uk

We still believe in Santa

HOUSE h ous e && GARDEN ga r d e n FEATURE

PriNciPal Security coNSultaNtS So much more than just security!

N

ow in our 5th year of existence, Principal Security Consultants are going from strength to strength.

We are a St Albans based company and we love being part of all the great festivals and events that help make the city such a great place to live and visit. But we now feel the time is right to expand further afield. We aim to take our philosophy of putting the clients first to a

In these days of social media, you might want to make sure that your son or daughter’s party is attended only by their invited guests! They won’t want Mum and Dad acting as gate keeper but a Professional Door Supervisor is way cooler and gives you total confidence!

Because our team members are SIA licensed and CRB checked, you can feel confident about giving them access to your home. If you want someone to keep an eye on things while you are away or wait in for tradesmen or deliveries, give us a call.

Our Chaperone Service is ideal when you want to make sure your family are safe while travelling or during a night out. We’ll accompany you on shopping trips where we not only make sure everyone and their purchases stay safe, we can also arrange restaurant tables, taxis and even handle incidental payments with prior-arrangement- anything to ensure a safe and enjoyable day out.

Our Chaperone Service is ideal when you want to make sure your family are safe while travelling wider audience & have therefore decided to set our sights on London & the surrounding areas.

We put our success down to two things: hard work at the pre-planning stage and our uncompromising approach to customer care. Our team members are often the first point of contact at any event or site where we provide security. So they not only represent the face of our company but also our clients. So in these circumstances our Operatives must always be polite, well-mannered and well informed.

Principal Security consultants was started by two experienced security professionals who were disillusioned with the industry and its reputation. “We wanted to do something different.” says Sid, “It’s not all burley doorman!

It’s more about customer service & approachability”. That’s why we developed a range of different services, aimed much more at helping our community feel safe and secure:

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THE DETAILS The Old Electricity Works, Campfield Rd, St Albans, Hertfordshire AL1 5HT ••••• 01727 701038 www.principalsecurityconsultants.com

“Prevention is better than cure” We here at Principal Security Consultants believe in protecting the things which are most important to you, your loved ones, your properties & your businesses.

After years of protecting our clients professionally, we find ourselves increasingly asked to extend our services to their families and their homes so we’ve developed a new range of services to keep the things that matter to you most safe and secure!

If there is one place where you and your family should always feel safe, it’s your own home and if that sense of basic safety is violated, there’s more at stake than just physical damage and financial loss.

Residential Security

That’s why we encourage our clients to take preventive action rather than waiting until it’s too late. We start with a full external security review to highlight and prioritise potential risks and our recommendations will include the right mix of technology and physical on site presence to give you the peace of mind you deserve.

We cover the London and Hertfordshire region. Please contact us today to discuss your securty concerns.

• Residential Security • Family Security • Private Functions Security • Close Protection

Family Security

Private Functions Security

All our staff are fully regulated & licensed by the SIA (Security Industry Authority) & are vetted to BS7858 standard.

01727 701038

admin@principalsecurityconsultants.com www.principalsecurityconsultants.com

Close Protection

Principal Security Consultants Ltd, The Old Electricity Works, Campfield Road, St.Albans, AL1 5HT

Securing your peace of mind

Christmas

FEATURE

Phoebe Joan

Phoebe Joan specialises in limited edition, fully lined silk robes and kimonos. Stunning heirloom pieces for lounging in luxury, or be the envy of all your friends by adding an extra layer of glamour to your outfit ready for an evening of cocktails and canapes. Designed and made entirely in England using vintage silks and exclusive artwork, a unique beautifully finished pure silk robe is a gorgeous addition to the wardrobe and makes the perfect gift this Christmas.

View the collection online or contact us personally for shopping advice and bespoke options.

Telephone (020) 8133 5227 or email contact@phoebejoan.com www.phoebejoan.com

Love & Light Love & Light are makers of beautifully designed, hand painted and handcrafted bespoke lamps and shades.

All of our lamps are created to compliment their surroundings; from traditional vintage to contemporary.

Our Harlequin range is just one of a collection of stunning ranges featured on our website and would make an ideal Christmas gift.

Visit the website at www.loveandlight.me.uk where you can find more information on all of our products.

Contact Nicky on 07990 567572 or email loveandlight.me.uk@ gmail.com to arrange a consultation.

The eBean Tablet Cushion

A practical, attractive and thoughtful gift for any tablet user.

The eBean Tablet Cushion is a specially shaped beanbag which securely supports your tablet, iPad or e-reader. Ideal for use around the home or at work on a variety of surfaces. Made in the UK to a high standard using superior quality fabric.

Visit us at ebean.co.uk to view the range & pick up a Christmas bargain!

Easily adjust the angle of your tablet, iPad or e-reader for the perfect view. Ideal for browsing, typing and general hands-free use. www.ebean.co.uk

READER OFFER! Enter LIFE2015 at the checkout to get 10% discount on your order (excludes postage). PLUS: FREE MINI CUSHION with every order of 3 tablet cushions while stocks last (offers valid until 31/01/2016).

Club Petit Pierrot,

London’s leading French club for children

Price

£20

Club Petit Pierrot has launched an exciting educational French CD with 36 original songs & rhymes, which children of all ages will enjoy. It includes a booklet with all the French lyrics, a full English translation and tips on how to practise at home. Children will soon be singing along and, without realising it, will effortlessly be absorbing French vocabulary, grammar and linguistic patterns.

The funky, contemporary music has been arranged and recorded by Alex Grigelis (keyboard-player in Disney’s hit West End musical “The Lion King”).

“An inspiring new CD of songs. I couldn’t recommend this highly enough for any family wanting to embrace the beautiful French language.”

A&U magazine Available to buy on amazon.co.uk

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Gift Guide CLASSIC CAR DRIVING VOUCHERS

Why not indulge a loved one with a fantastic session driving beautiful selection of British Classic cars round the famous racetrack at Goodwood in Sussex? Put them behind the wheel of 3 iconic classics; the svelte Jaguar E With MITHRIL RACING at Goodwood Circuit. type, the racy Lotus Cortina and the amazing

Fly a REAL jet simulator at Flight simulators Midlands Choose between a Boeing 747, 737 or an Airbus 320 and Fly anywhere in the World from Heathrow to Hong Kong.

Flight Simulators Midlands have been awarded the 2015 Certificate of Excellence

by Trip Advisor – come and see why

Aston Martin DB4! All theses 1960s classics are wonderful to drive, especially at the most famous historic circuit in the world!

For more details visit mithril.co.uk or call us on 01243 528815.

PalmerSport driving event A PalmerSport voucher is the ultimate Christmas gift for lovers of fast cars and fast driving. In one unforgettable day, guests take the wheel of six high-performance vehicles, with superb instructors on-hand to help push them to their limits!

The formidable line-up includes: • Ariel Atom 3 • Jaguar JP-LM (Le Mans-style prototype) • BMW M4 GTP • Caterham 7 Superlight • Formula 3000 (Grand Prix-style single-seater) • Land Rover Defender

All instructors are qualified professional pilots Telephone 08454 747 737 or book on line www.flyfsm.co.uk

The experience takes place at Bedford Autodrome, a purpose-built driving venue comprising four circuits with acres of run-off and a superb mix of high-speed straights and flowing corners designed by former Formula 1 driver Jonathan Palmer. Live timing for each track activity adds a fun competitive element, and prizes are awarded for the best performances at the end of the day.

Christmas Special Offer

There are also kart racing and head-to-head Caterham Pursuit autotest activities to keep the competitive juices flowing! PalmerSport’s first-class VIP hospitality includes full catering, with breakfast on arrival, lunch and tea.

To celebrate 500 five star Trip Advisor reviews, enter promo code TA500 on booking page and get £50 off all flights

PalmerSport gift vouchers can be purchased from £545 with full and half-day options available – for more information call 01403 733 999 or visit www.palmersport.com.

NOVEMBER2015 55

CHRISTMAS FOOD & DRINK

Toba Dock,Wacco pping 19th- nd Novem2b2e r 2015

Taste of London:

The Festive Edition After the tremendous success of Taste of London 2015 in Regent’s Park, get ready for incredible chefs, award winning restaurants, fantastic food, shopping and more at Taste of London: The Festive Edition!

T

aste of London will be transforming Tobacco Dock for the festive edition of the much loved culinary event. The stunningly beautiful dockland warehouse at Tobacco Dock will be turned into a festive food heaven.

The winter edition offers a more boutique feel, but with all the incredible features you would expect from Taste Festivals. Brimming with exciting, original and hands on features with something for every die-hard food fanatic to enjoy.

The AEG Taste Theatre will host world-class chefs as they divulge their festive tricks and tips. The first chef names to take to the AEG Theatre have been confirmed as possibly the greatest pub chef of all times, and all round nice man Tom Kerridge, the incredibly talented Monica Galetti and extremely gifted chef and restaurateur Marcus Wareing. At AEG Let’s Taste Live Cooking Experience get up close and personal with world-

56 NOVEMBER2015

class chefs as they show the finest ways to serve up festive food.

This year Taste of London: The Festive Edition will bring the theme ‘the best of London’ to life. The event will showcase the best restaurants, chefs, artisan producers, baristas, mixologists and food our great city has to offer.

Super star chef Marcus Wareing said “London is the greatest city on earth.

For me it is simple, we have an incredible choice or diverse food, something to suit every palate and budget. The city is forever evolving and you can see this in the standard of the food and restaurants. I love the little pockets of different food and cultures dotted around the bustling city. What better place to celebrate food than at the foodie event of the winter, Taste of London: The Festive Edition. This year will be a celebration of London, and a showcase of the best our incredible city has to offer. I for one can’t wait to be at the event, host a demonstration and support my restaurant, Tredwell’s!”

Tastebuds will tingle as the event showcases some of the latest, greatest and most innovative restaurants in London, who will all be serving taster size portions of their incredible dishes. Several of the capital’s finest establishments have already signed up including: Hix, Café Spice, Pont St, Tom’s Kitchen, Club Gascon, Action Against Hunger and Tredwell’s. with further restaurants to be announced. Making a welcome return after a successful run at Taste of London’s summer event is The Daily Special, with a rotating selection of top restaurants showcasing their specialities.

Taste of London isn’t just about food; delicious drinks will play a vital part in bringing the show to life. Laurent-Perrier will be bringing its world famous pink Champagne Bar to the rustic setting of Tobacco Dock. Those who don’t fancy a glass of bubbly can indulge in all things cider at Weston’s Cider Bar. For the beer lovers, there will be a Craft Beer Hub featuring a selection of fantastic beers and ales from some of the UK’s best breweries.

The festive edition of the world’s greatest restaurant festival will also feature 100’s of exhibitors offering an array of delicious, interesting and beautiful gifts perfect for that special someone this Christmas. Music will fill the halls of Tobacco Dock, ensuring your ears get as much love this winter as your tastebuds.

Eat, drink, shop, laugh, experience and learn at Taste of London, the festive edition!

THE DETAILS Tickets on-sale now priced from £15 www.tasteoflondon.co.uk

Truma Brewern 27th - 2 thy, Novem 9 be 2015 r

CHRISTMAS FOOD & DRINK

Foodies Festival Christmas Retro recipes in the Chefs Theatre, vegan treats in the Artisan Christmas Market, a Champagne Ski Bar and a London Gin Theatre are just some of the festive features food-lovers can look forward to at Foodies Festival Christmas.

F

ollowing the popularity of last year’s event, East London’s Truman Brewery will once again be transformed into a culinary winter wonderland, as Foodies Festival Christmas brings London’s top chefs, award-winning artisan producers and international street food together under one roof for a fabulous festive feast.

Acclaimed London chefs and celebrity cooks will swap their aprons for Santa hats in the Aga Rangemaster Chefs Theatre, sharing their favourite recipes and top tips to help visitors create the perfect Christmas banquet.

CONFIRMED CHEFS INCLUDE… Adam Simmonds - Great British Menu Winner & Michelin starred chef Omar Allibhoy - Tapas Revolution David Degiovanni - Union Street Cafe Kim Woodward - Savoy Grill Anna Haugh - London House Matt Robinson - Bluebird Michael Weiss - Quiglanos Richard Kirkwood - The Wright Brothers Steve Drake - Drakes Jesse Dunford Wood - Parlour

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Retro Recipes in the Chefs Theatre will transport festival-goers back in time to the 1960s when green piped potato, glacé cherries and multi-coloured cheese and jellies were all the rage. Inspired by infamous TV chef Fanny Cradock, several chefs will recreate classic recipes such as Prawn Cocktail, Baked Alaska, Sherry Trifle, vol-au-vents and Duck a l’Orange in their own signature style.

Artisan Christmas Market boasts over 150 of the finest producers selling locally produced cheeses, chutneys, chocolates, sauces and jams, biscuits and crackers, cakes, puddings and more for visitors to sample and shop from; perfect for picking-up those little extras that make Christmas extra tasty and special. A Vegan area in the Christmas Market offers a range of delicious and healthy vegan, veggie and gluten-free treats for visitors to indulge in.

Gin lovers will rejoice as London’s gin producers host daily Christmas Gin Cocktail masterclasses. Wine experts Charles Metcalfe and Neil Philips are also on-hand helping visitors match wines with Christmas flavours in the Drinks Theatre, and beer expert Melissa Cole champions craft beers as an alternative to wine and champagne this Christmas in masterclasses with local brewers.

Other features of the festival include an outdoor Street Food Courtyard and a Cake & Bake Theatre hosted by London’s top bakers, chocolatiers and Great British Bake Off contestants. An accompanying Pudding Hall provides a haven of sweet treats selling festive favourites such as eggnog and mulled wine, Christmas cake and mince pies, marzipan bonbons and macaroons.

While parents can enjoy a chilled glass of bubbly from the Champagne Ski Bar, children under 12 can enrol in the Elf Cookery School With Kiddy Cook, where they can bake and decorate snowballs, gingerbread men, cookies and cupcakes to leave out for Santa.

THE DETAILS Tickets are on sale now and are available at www.foodiesfestival.com or by calling 0844 995 1111

DELICATESSEN

We have an Aladdin’s cave of Italian products ranging from cupboard essentials to artisan meats and cheeses. Browse around our shop for cooking inspiration or indulge in nostagia with the flavours of Italy.

GIFTS

The season of giving is upon us. We have our award winning Valentina Panettone and Prosecco gift box available to purchase in-store and online. We also have a variety of gift hampers that suit all budgets.

VALENTINA PANETTONE AND PROSECCO HAMPER

RESTAURANT

We believe that good food starts with good ingredients.

We source only the best produce to use in our restaurants to deliver the best quality food whether it is a pizza or a plate of lobster linguine.

WINES

Our in-house sommelier has handpicked over 150 wines coming from vineyards throughout Italy. You will be surprised at the quality of wine that you can get for less than £10. Our top quality wines like Sassicaia and Tignanello offer remarkable value for money that will make you smile.

BERLINO

IL RE TARTUFO

LONDRA

SHEEN | PUTNEY | SEVENOAKS | NOTTING HILL | WEYBRIDGE | REIGATE | CHISWICK | TOWER BRIDGE | BATTERSEA

CHRISTMAS FOOD & DRINK

Family owned italian delicatessen and restaurant

Valentina Fine Foods Opening in Clapham Junction, Battersea on Saturday 21st November

Valentina Fine Foods, the authentic Italian delicatessen, restaurant, cafe and wine shop which currently has eight branches in London, Surrey and Kent, is opening their ninth shop in Clapham Junction on 21st November 2015.The location is at 281 Lavender Hill, London SW11 1LP, one block away from the bustling Clapham Junction Railway Station.

I

nspired by three generations of culinary tradition and Italian pride, Valentina caters to the Italian and the Italian at heart! Their delicatessens are stocked full with hard-to-find Italian meats and cheeses, antipasti, homemade sauces and pasta dishes to take away. Make sure that you try their award-winning own label range of pastas, sauces, antipasti, jams, honey and olive oils. They also stock more than 150 Italian wines, which have been hand selected by their sommelier, alongside a wide range of fantastic Italian gifts and treats. Why not visit for a morning espresso and pastry, a quick lunch or a relaxed evening meal. Experience Valentina, they are, after all known as the place where the Italians eat and shop.

This newest addition to the Valentina family boasts an estimated 5000 square ft. site area and will be able to cater to a total of 110 covers. True to all Valentina sites, Clapham Junction branch will house 1500 Italian products including fresh hams and salami, cheeses and traditional antipasti.

Alongside this is a complete range of store cupboard essentials, including Valentina’s own branded pasta, olives and oils as well as specials, cooked freshly every day. All of the produce in the delicatessens have been carefully sourced and imported from Italy by their very own buyers.

Valentina Fine Foods is jointly owned by the Zoccola and Arcari families, both of whom originate from Sant’Elia Fiumerapido, a small village near Monte Cassino southeast of Rome, and the influence and heritage is apparent across the group.

Bruno Zoccola said “We are very excited about the latest addition to our family business. Clapham Junction has a vibrant atmosphere with a great mix of young families and professionals. All of our other sites are known as “where the Italians eat and shop” and we are hoping that at Clapham Junction, our guests will feel as though they are experiencing Italy when they walk into our store and restaurant” The grand opening day on Saturday 21st November will have food and drink tastings, everyone is welcome to come and say hello to Father Christmas and his team of reindeer. The Event is from 12-4pm. We look forward to seeing you!

Valentina Fine Foods restaurants are located in Sheen, Putney, Sevenoaks, Notting Hill, Weybridge, Reigate, Chiswick and Tower Bridge.

Store hours are Monday to Sunday from 8:30 am to 10:30 pm serving breakfast, (hot breakfast only on weekends) lunch and dinner every day.

THE DETAILS For more information about Valentina visit the website at www.valentinafinefoods.com

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LOVE LOC FOOD AL CHRISTMAS & DRINK

Laura Ashley, The Manor

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he Manor Hotel, Elstree is a beautifully proportioned, classic timbered Tudor revival mansion, nestled within lushly colourful landscaped gardens, surrounded and protected by ten acres of completely natural woodland. It offers a completely unique haven, deep in the heart of the Hertfordshire countryside, a remarkably peaceful retreat yet barely twenty minutes from all the attractions of central London’s theatres, museums and shops. Those not wishing to venture too far from the comforts of the hotel are also well

assistance, answers to any questions you may have and service perfectly paced to your needs. Cuisine is an award-winning blend of seasonal English dishes with carefully chosen ingredients freshly sourced from a trusted team of local producers. The extensive and well-chosen wine list, ranges from new world options to premier traditional old world varieties and there is always sound advice on hand as to which wine will best complement which dish.

The range of delicious choices on the menu are changed quarterly during the year, allowing Chef to work with seasonal selections. The choice changes also provide fresh fare for those guests and visitors who have become faithful regulars. Private dining here is also an option, should you have a special celebration for family and friends which you’d prefer to be more intimate, with your own designated dining room.

Guests or visitors seeking a lighter menu or simply tea, coffee, drinks or snacks are not forgotten and are exceedingly well catered for in the elegant LA Bar and Terrace which, with the same stunning views, offers cosy comfort and cushions in the winter months and sunshine and sun-umbrellas outside when its warmer.

It offers a completely unique haven, deep in the heart of the Hertfordshire countryside, a remarkably peaceful retreat catered for, with a number of famous local attractions to visit, including the Warner Bros Studio and Hendon Air Museum.

As well as providing a picture-perfect hideaway, The Manor is an idyllic venue for a wedding or indeed for any kind of celebration to be enjoyed with family and friends.

Of course, however delightful the surroundings, wining and dining play a large part in the enjoyment of any stay and here again, the Manor does not disappoint.

The impressive AA Rosette, Cavendish Restaurant, invites you to sit back, relax and relish some delicious meals, whether it’s breakfast, lunch or dinner. The Cavendish is a beautifully proportioned, wood-panelled delight of a room but your eye will be drawn to the windows overlooking the carefully manicured gardens, (look out for the magnificent giant chess board on the lawn) as well as the stretches of countryside beyond and, in the distance, some of London’s most significant landmarks. The view during the day is spectacular, once night falls, it’s magical as the lights of London sparkle before you.

The well-trained restaurant staff offer unobtrusive, NCOTVOEBMEBRE R 2642 O 2 02 10 51 5

THE DETAILS Laura Ashley The Manor, Elstree Barnet Lane, Elstree WD6 3RE ••••• 020 8953 8227 www.lauraashleyhotels.com/The-Manor

LE SA W O N N O

Ultimate Style.

Ultimate Luxury.

Welcome to an experience to savour, where every moment is to be treasured.

Laura Ashley - The Manor Elstree with it’s AA Rosette Cavendish Restaurant is now open.

Hertfordshire’s New Luxury Hotel with breathtaking views over London

FEATURE

The Ultimate Luxury Chocolate Gift for Christmas The Chocolate was born with a vision for the perfect synergy. A fusion of British Artisan & Italian Passion.

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hey use award winning chocolate – Toscano Black, Amedei, Armand de Brignac champagne(Ace of Spades) voted No.1 Champagne in the world and create bespoke, handmade, champagne truffles. They have them enrobed, by hand, in pure 24 carat gold flakes and present them in contemporary, chic, Swarovski adorned boxes. “Thus providing the most luxurious chocolate experience in the World”.

WHAT IS IT ?

In its simplest form we are talking about an amazing ‘experience’.

Handmade truffles using an award winning, Italian chocolate, filled with champagne, flaked with edible, pure 24-carat gold all enclosed within bespoke handcrafted boxes encrusted with Swarovski Crystals inside and out.

As all Swarovski are applied by hand no two boxes will ever be the same.

The chocolate itself is 63% Toscano Black sourced from a tiny artisan chocolate maker based just outside historic Pisa. The cocoa beans are refined using a traditional granite stone mill and the result has been judged by the Academy of Chocolate as officially the best in the world.

What experts call the ganache - basically the mixture of cocoa, cream and a variety of other ingredients to form what consumers think of as, well, the chocolate – that forms ‘the Chocolate’ is a closely guarded secret but the Chocolate are happy to confirm that there are several glasses of champagne added to the normal recipe. “As we make everything freshly to order we can, of course, produce ‘the Chocolate’ without alcohol if required.”

YOU EAT THE GOLD? It’s the world’s most expensive foodstuff and has been eaten for millennia. Although the Ancient Egyptians believed it gave them immortality no such claims are made for ‘the Chocolate.’ (yet).

However other authorities do claim that gold has many attributes when eaten, including generating a higher IQ, managing rheumatoid arthritis, developing mystic power and contributing to a long and healthy life. More seriously it is authorised for use in food products in both Europe and the USA. High quality chocolate also has its enthusiasts. They claim that chocolate with over 60% cocoa content (‘the Chocolate’ has 63%) reduces blood pressure, decreases the chance of both diabetes and heart attack, improves the memory and even eases a persistent cough amongst a plethora of other attributes. Be that as it may the fact remains that ‘the Chocolate’ has a fantastic taste that will exceed the expectations of the wildest choccie enthusiast. And the memory of the experience will last and last.

THE PRODUCTS The large Boxes contain 15 chocolates with a minimum weight of 200 grammes. Large boxes start from £70 including postage and packing.

Delivery of this unique hand-made product is within five days or can be expressed for specific delivery date.

THE DETAILS For more information and to purchase please visit www.the-chocolate.com 64 NOVEMBER2015

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Learn about the story of the RAF, aviation and the men & women who transformed our world.

The Royal Air Force Museum London, Grahame Park Way, Colindale, London, NW9 5LL T: 020 8205 2266 Email: london@rafmuseum.org

Candles and Diffusers The Perfect Gift www.fenttiman.co.uk

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FEATURE FEATURE

There are many reasons we find it hard to organise our lives.

Mostly there simply isn’t enough time...

F

or many of us, Christmas can be overwhelming. With events to plan, cards to send and presents to buy, it is often hard to find the time for all the things you need to do. Wouldn’t it be great to have someone help you prepare for Christmas? An extra ‘you’ to hand over all those jobs, big and small, that you don’t have the time or energy to deal with.

That’s where Amanda Powell and her team of Private PAs come in.

From West London with over ten years of PA experience, Amanda started boutique company Private PA Ltd in 2006 after being inundated with requests for her services. Her aim in founding the company was to offer more clients an efficient and stress-free way to manage their lives.

“I often feel as though I stand between my clients and the rest of the world,” she explains. “It can be overwhelming for them with so much to do and so little time. But with focused support and organisation, we can keep

the chaos in check. The aim is to take the weight off our clients’ shoulders and put them back in control.”

The service provides you with a dedicated assistant from a small team of PAs, all of whom are specifically chosen for their experience. After an initial free one-hour consultation, your Private PA will create a plan specifically tailored to your needs and, before you know it, will be carrying it out whether on- site or virtually.

WITH AN INNOVATIVE AND INTIMATE STYLE OF WORKING, THERE’S NOT MUCH THEY CAN’T DO FOR YOU, INCLUDING: Event planning, personal shopping and wrapping, essential at this time of year Household management, from dealing with insurance claims to overseeing maintenance work to getting household paperwork in order Small business support, including setting up home offices or existing office overhauls.

National and international relocation: house sales, removals and shipping, children’s educational needs As Amanda explains, it’s a flexible service. “Every client is different so we do anything that is needed of us, whether managing a diary or helping those in their golden years maintain their independence in the world. Our aim is to keep things moving forward while freeing up clients’ time so they can get on with more important things.”

The team do not promote themselves as indispensable, they create personalised systems that allow clients to lay their hands on anything they need when the PAs are not around. Whether supporting an executive or a family, they meet every task, large or small. With excellent focus and the highest standards they satisfied clients across London and the Home Counties. Book them on a regular basis or for a one off job just to clear the decks.

THE DETAILS To find out more, visit www.PrivatePa.co.uk, email info@PrivatePA.co.uk or call Amanda Powell on 07714 100 370.

66 ER R 22 00 11 55 7 0 N NO OV E M B E

EDUCATION

GUIDE

TH E FINE ST I NDEPENDENT SCHO O LS

EDUCATION GUIDE

“Life was a constant struggle with no apparent end.”

Everyone knows that being a mother is a demanding role. Add dyslexia to it and things can start to get quite daunting very quickly. Yet, while our children’s education, improvement and long term sustainability is important to us, we are not always as vigilant in accepting help for ourselves. Mandy and Craig’s brave story shows how a wise investment significantly helped Mandy – Mother of 3, to carry out her role a lot more effectively.

L

ife was a constant struggle with no apparent end. I would get overwhelmed with too many things to do, so ended up doing nothing! I was struggling with helping my children, they were overtaking me. Then I spoke to some friends that had done a treatment program and decided that it was the thing I needed to do. The Alison Lawson Treatment Program was not complicated. The therapists were easy to work with, and helped you through every step of the program. I felt that I had to put everything into the program to get the best out of the treatment. Which I did.

SURPRISES…

I used to experience ‘cloudy headaches’ but this lifted during the treatment. I thought this was normal until I had the treatment. It was amazing to experience differences and improvements so soon during the treatment. My spellings & handwriting visibly improved within the 2 weeks of treatment.

The biggest change that my husband saw was the increase in confidence. I will now attempt to do something completely new, that before I would have told myself I couldn’t do. I will attempt to try it and do it very well.

Writing was another big problem. I would never write a cheque in front of anyone because I was too embarrassed and I thought that I was probably spelling it wrong.

When I used to read, the lines looked like they were jumping into each other. So I used audio books instead. I don’t use them at all now, and I don’t have to put my finger under the line when I read, to keep track any more.

I feel a lot more confident to help my children with homework.

Before I didn’t understand what they should have been doing.

Taking in what their teachers are saying at parent’s evenings is much easier now. My husband says I’m more forthcoming with questions on the children’s educational progress and am able to take in the different levels they’ve got to. Registering what they mean, rather than just being a number and a letter.

I have always enjoyed cooking, but now I will try complicated new recipes with good results rather than a disaster which would have happened before. I might even have missed out the vital ingredient!!!

68 NOVEMBER2015

I recently prepared, filled and painted my youngest son’s room all on my own!

IF ONLY…

If this had happened 10 years ago, we’d much further on and things would still be getting continually better. I can definitely say the program was worth every penny of it. I haven’t looked back.

Watch Mandy and Craig’s story Now the children are back at school, don’t you deserve a little time to improve yourself?

Be wise and contact the Alison Lawson Centre about completing a program before the October holidays. After all it won’t be long before your children are asking you for help on homework and you have to face those upcoming Parent Consultation evenings again…

Reach them on 01935 403260 or treatment@dyslexia-treatment.co.uk.

Just 10 Power Sessions Configured in anything from 1-5 days a week – you chose.

Tackles the Root Cause Not just the side effects. With the root cause fixed, anxiety and frustration decrease. While understanding increases.

Far Reaching Effects Reading, Spelling, Maths, Confidence, Handwriting, Tiredness, Headaches, Motion Sickness and much more.

Fast Results Often seen within days or weeks of completing treatment.

One off Life Time Investment “You mean I don’t have to come back?”

No, that’s right!

THE DETAILS Contact us at

admin@dyslexia-treatment.co.uk or on 01935 403260

www.alisonlawson.com

Independent Sixth Form College

YOUR GOALS, OUR FOCUS YOUR SUBJECTS, YOUR INTERESTS, OUR OPEN DAY With a truly personalised approach to GCSE and A-Level study, our dedicated team will help you gain entrance to a leading university. Find out how.

Discuss your goals with our academic team at our Open Day on 21 November

020 3725 3172 Visit www.lansdownecollege.com Call

EVENTS EDUCATION GUIDE

E

Something’s amiss with my child

ver heard of Retained Reflex Syndrome? No, me neither, until I began to notice slight problems with my boy Joshua age 6, mostly with movement and speech. He had walked early and was always very lively. But I put that down to him being a boy.

Speech had been slow- but then we’re all different. After some searching online about his symptoms, I came across RRS and learnt that these reflexes can sometimes become stuck, hindering the next stage of development and locking the child into immature patterns of behaviour and response.

Sceptical yet interested, I visited the David Mulhall Centre and met with Alex. After doing some simple tests he clarified for me the issues Joshua was having and briefly explained why these difficulties were happening.

We went on to book a full diagnostic test at the centre and started the programme. The treatment is really straightforward but has to be a part of a daily routine – come rain or shine! We noticed big changes a few months after starting, then progress began to slow. We were told that this was normal, but naturally questions arose. Alex

70 NOVEMBER2015

reassured us and gave us confidence to continue and we are all so glad we did. Joshua made another leap and even began to run ahead of his peers at school! Best of all, he’s a much happier child.”

Children may be bright, yet underachieving and lacking in concentration. They may find reading and writing tricky, have trouble committing thought to paper and not enjoy reading. They may suffer from low self-esteem and frustration and be emotionally and socially immature. Excessive talking, a short temper, hearing problems, hypersensitivity and clumsiness.

DOES ANY OF THIS SOUND FAMILIAR? At the David Mulhall Centre, after a personal assessment and diagnosis, patients are given a tailor-made treatment plan. This is carried out at home, with subsequent check-ups at the Centre. The process is natural, non-invasive and drug-free.

THE DETAILS Please visit www.davidmulhall.co.uk for more information.

David Mulhall Clinic Ltd 31 Webbs Road, London SW11 6RU Telephone 020 7223 4321

OPEN DAY 2015

Saturday November 28 9.30am - 12.30pm Sprules Road • Brockley • SE4 2NL As a long-established, high-performing Sixth Form College, we’re very proud of student achievement.

At Christ the King: Aquinas, you’ll find that we’ve created a structured, caring learning environment in which young people can flourish at this crucial stage in their education.

So do take this opportunity to visit us and find out more.

For further details on our courses and open days, please visit www.ctksfc.ac.uk or email us at admissions@ctksfc.ac.uk.

YOUR FUTURE STARTS HERE London’s leading independent college offers outstanding teaching, expert UCAS advice and emphasis on exam preparation, so you can be assured of a place at a leading university.

Come and meet our academic team at our Open Evening on November 18th - book your place now.

020 3667 6640 GCSE

I

A-LEVEL

I

R E TA K E C O U R S E S

www.duffmiller.com |

OX B R I D G E A N D M E D I C A L P RO G R A M M E S

An Award-winning Sixth-Form College In the Heart of Central London

Principals James Eytle and Beverley Mellon receiving the award for Best London Independent Sixth-Form College 2014 from Les Webb of sixth-form.com.

• Small group sizes – max class size of 8.

• Excellent location – in the heart of Mayfair in central London close to Hyde Park and Oxford Street.

• Excellent results

– 89.4% of A-level students gained A*, A, B grades in June 2014.

Wide Subject Choice

A-level & GCSE courses covering a wide range of subjects across Sciences, Humanities, Social Sciences, Arts and Languages.

Specialist Programmes for University Entry

Specialist programmes for university entry onto competitive degree courses including Medicine, Dentistry, Law, Economics, Psychology, Architecture and Engineering.

For enrolment enquiries please contact the College Administrator, Julia Millar on 020 7409 7273 or by email admin@albemarle.org.uk

www.albemarle.org.uk

EDUCATION GUIDE INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS GUIDE

Optimus Laudum

W

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

Educating three to seven year-old boys and girls in a friendly and caring environment for over 30 years is its strength and proprietor Adrian Ellis believes that the excellent ratio of staff to pupils allows each child to reach their full potential.

“Of course, together with parents, we look to establish each child’s unique qualities and particular talents and aim to develop them as fully as possible,” says Mr Ellis.

“We want our children to move on to the right schools for them.”

As a result St John’s Wood Pre-Preparatory has since 1982 been a ‘feeder’ to many of London’s top preparatory schools, among them Colet Court, Highgate, South Hampstead High School and University College School.

“The sense of a wholeschool community is evident in this small school,” adds Mr Ellis. “Size matters to St John’s Wood Pre-Prep. By limiting its numbers, most children know the rest of their fellow pupils throughout the school – an important element in building confidence and developing social skills.

Visit www.sjwpre-prep.org.uk or Call 020 7722 7149 7 BB ER 2 02 10 51 5 1 40 0N O NV OE VM EM ER

Motivation • Inspiration • Excellence

ST. JOHN’S WOOD PRE - PREPARATORY SCHOOL

Over 30 Years of Happiness & Success in Education Congratulations to the Year 2 class of 2014/2015 for receiving offers from schools including: Bute House School, City of London School for Girls, Highgate Junior School, Latymer Prep School, North Bridge House Prep School, North London Collegiate School, South Hampstead High School, St Mary’s School, Queen’s College Prep School and Wetherby Prep School Visit our website and book a tour of this small happy and successful school on during a normal school day.

020 7722 7149 info@sjwpre-prep.org.uk www.sjwpre-prep.org.uk

SARUM HALL SCHOOL 75 VANESSA Located in the heart of Belsize Park in Hampstead, Sarum Hall is a modern and successful school in which pupils are motivated to learn, inspired to fulfil their potential and encouraged to achieve excellence.

Natural talents and enquiring minds are nurtured, allowing girls to explore new horizons with confidence. We are proud of our academic, scholarship and examination success; the foundations laid at Sarum Hall last a lifetime.

Means-tested bursaries are available for a limited number of pupils.

Please contact the school for further information.

Headmistress: Mrs C Smith 15 Eton Avenue London NW3 3EL Tel: 020 7794 2261 Email: admissions@sarumhallschool.co.uk www.sarumhallschool.co.uk Charity number: 312721 Company Registration number: 0666444

Preparatory School for Girls aged 3 to 11 years

WIN

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Across London OPEN WEEK rd Friday 27th November Monday 23 -

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EDUCATION GUIDE

Helping young people achieve complete inclusion within the community

P

eople usually associate Westminster School with academic success. While it’s indeed true that almost half of Westminster’s leavers have for many years gone to the universities of Oxford or Cambridge, for many pupils their happiest and most significant memory is of the week they were members of Phab (Physically Handicapped Able Bodied).

Westminster School Phab’s 39th annual course was our biggest yet as 47 pupils welcomed 32 wonderful guests to spend a James Bond themed week in London. Phab’s aim is to promote and encourage people of all abilities to come together on equal terms, to achieve complete inclusion within the wider community and the Westminster School Phab aims to do just this right in the heart of Westminster.

The week was packed with 007 themed workshops and activities in London, including a day trip to Hampton Court, and ended with a ‘Casino Royale’ dinner on the Saturday night. We then welcomed friends and family to celebrate our achievements at the show before some emotional goodbyes. We now look forward to the 40th year of Westminster School Phab in 2016!

The Phab course is just one week in the summer but Westminster’s community partnership programme continues throughout the year.

Over 250 of our pupils are involved in volunteering placements,

76 NOVEMBER2015

many directed towards supporting education in the community.

Our pupils support primary school pupils in literacy, language development and numeracy. At St Andrew’s boys club, Westminster House and the Rugby Portobello Trust, some of our senior boys and girls are providing homework support for boys and girls who attend in the evenings. A number of our Sixth Formers are now working with SE1 United, a South London charity, acting as academic mentors at their highly successful homework club in the Southbank Centre.

The autumn term is now well underway and there have already been some sporting successes. The First XI Football defeated Birkdale School 6-0 in the Boodles Independent Schools Cup. In the next round they have to play Millfield which will be a tough match.

The Girls’ Football Team also started the season strongly with a 3-0 victory over Charterhouse. Meanwhile the Westminster netballers faced Francis Holland (Sloane Square). After a fiery first quarter, the team slowly pulled away to take a thrilling 16-12 victory with the captain Sophie Hubbard deservedly being named Player of The Match.+ Entry for Girls and Boys 2017.

THE DETAILS For more information look at www.westminster.org.uk

“Teaching is excellent”

ISI REPORT 2015

For a school tour please contact Miss Ollie o.baskett@thehampshireschoolchelsea.co.uk

The Hampshire School C H E L S E A

EARLY YEARS, PRE-PREPARATORY & PREPARATORY

15 Manresa Rd, London.

SW3 6NB. Tel: 020 7352 7077

www.thehampshireschoolchelsea.co.uk

EDUCATION GUIDE

The Gold Standard

defines the learning at Fairley House School

F

airley House School, described by the Sunday Times as the ‘Gold Standard’, is London’s leading day school for children with Specific Learning Difficulties. Addressing the needs of children from the age of five, who require assistance due to dyslexia and dyspraxia, the school has a staff/pupil ratio of 1:3.5 and the average stay at the school is between two to three years. Children then return to mainstream schooling with a new ‘can do’ attitude.

From the start of this academic year, an exciting new development is that Fairley House is offering Key Stage 4. This will enable pupils to carry on their education in an environment that ensures that their needs are fully met.

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

Many of our alumni have enjoyed great success at GCSE and A-Level and they have progressed to top universities and have successful careers in a range of professions. We are certain that this new development will enhance the provision that Fairley House can offer.

THE DETAILS

For more information about Fairley House School 30 Causton St, London SW1P 4AU Telephone 020 7976 5456 www.fairleyhouse.org.uk

London’s leading day school for specific learning difficulties

...and all of a sudden, nothing is impossible.

1023 FH FIRST ELEVEN Half Page 129mm x202mm.indd 1

020 7976 5456 fairleyhouse.org.uk

07/09/2015 14:08

L0nd0n’s M0st Creative Preparat0ry Sch00l

C0me t0 0ur

0pen Days Friday 29th January 2016 at 10.15am Saturday 19th March 2016 from 10.30am - 12.30pm To register a place please contact our Registrar on 020 8992 5189 or email admin@falconsgirls.co.uk

www.falconsgirls.co.uk

020 8992 5189

11 Woodborough Road • Putney • London • SW15 6PY

EVENTS EDUCATION GUIDE

The Best of Both Worlds

The Study Preparatory School, Wimbledon

T

he Study Preparatory School is a long established prep school for girls aged 4-11, based on two attractive sites on the borders of leafy Wimbledon Common. Founded in 1893, the school prides itself on offering an exemplary education for young girls, combining the traditional values of a village school with the facilities and achievements of a leading London Prep.

Proudly non-selective, the Study encourages each girl to strive for academic, creative and sporting achievement whilst ensuring that they become well-rounded, confident, caring girls with a broad outlook, good manners and a real zest for life. Creativity is at the heart of the school, and its excellence in music, visual art, drama and dance has been recognised by Arts Council England with Artsmark Gold status since 2009. Sport is both inclusive and ambitious; plenty of opportunities exist for fitness and fun, whilst the elite teams excel at both regional and national level. The academic curriculum is broad and enhanced by a wide range of extra-curricular clubs, school trips, workshops and visitors to the school.

The Study’s traditional values of respect, courtesy and hard work are the foundation on which its approach to education is based. However, the school embraces state of the art technologies, new teaching methods and educational advances without losing its caring and nurturing ethos, an approach that has proved a winning combination. The Study girls go on to leading senior schools with a significant number each year winning scholarships. The School offers the best of both worlds - a welcoming, caring environment for its girls, combined with excellent teaching, academic rigour and impressive results at 11+.

THE DETAILS Regular tours are held throughout the year, and may be booked by calling 020 8947 6969. www.thestudyprep.co.uk 80 NOVEMBER2015

“One school, two buildings, great teaching and tip top facilities.” The Good Schools Guide

Alleyn’s

Preparatory School for girls aged four to eleven

Co-educational, academic excellence is closer than you think.

14 minutes from London Bridge; 12 minutes from Victoria.

Westminster 3 miles

Surrey Quays 4 miles

Marble Arch 5 miles

Knightsbridge 6 miles

Greenwich 4 miles

Registered Charity No.271012

Fulham 6 miles

Founded 1893

Clapham 3 miles

You are warmly invited to visit the school on one of its regular tours. For further details and to book a visit, contact Jane Davis on 020 8947 6969 www.thestudyprep.co.uk

Balham 3 miles

We offer an assisted places scheme for girls aged 7+

The City 5 miles

• High academic standards with scholarships and places at top senior schools at 11+

Chelsea 5 miles

• A happy, supportive community with excellent opportunities in music, sport and the performing and creative arts

Independent HMC day school for boys and girls 11–18.

Battersea 5 miles

• A leading South West London Prep School on the borders of Wimbledon Common

Dedicated daily coaches serving inner and outer London w: alleyns.org.uk t: 020 8557 1478 Townley Road, Dulwich, London SE22 8SU

EDUCATION GUIDE

Nurturing intellectual curiosity and independence of mind UCS was founded to promote principles of liberal scholarship. That remains our first and over-riding aim. Intellectual curiosity, breadth of study and independence of mind combine to achieve academic excellence; they are not subordinate to it.

S

electing children with no regard to race or creed, UCS fosters in them a sense of community alongside a tolerance of and a respect for the individual. By offering the fullest range of opportunities for personal and for group endeavour, it teaches the value of commitment and the joy of achievement. It is a place of study, but also of self-discovery and self-expression; a school that places equal value on learning with others as on learning from others.

The UCS Foundation comprises three schools providing an excellent education to children aged 3 – 18.

The Phoenix School (ages 3 – 7) aims to provide a happy and stimulating environment for the 130 pupils who attend. Intellectual curiosity and independence of mind are developed, self-discovery and self-expression are fostered, and learning co-operatively and collaboratively is highly valued.

Around 240 boys attend the UCS Junior Branch (ages 7 – 11) which is set in the heart of Hampstead Village. The JB provides each student with the opportunity to mature steadily so that he develops the academic and personal disciplines, self-confidence, and thoughtfulness to enable him to transfer smoothly to the Senior School. Both the Phoenix and the Junior Branch have their own excellent facilities, and enjoy full use of those at the Senior School, Sports Centre and Playing Fields.

82 NOVEMBER2015

Around 850 pupils (aged 11 – 18) attend the Senior School, and each year around 40 girls join the Sixth Form. The aim is to produce students who can progress to university with the confidence and motivation to stand alone as independent learners, with a love of learning for learning’s sake. Academic endeavour is supported by a wide range of co-curricular activities, including excellent provision for Sport, Music, and Drama. In 2015, A level pupils achieved impressive results (65% A*-A, 89% A*-B) and 50% of the cohort achieved three A grades or better. GCSE pupils secured the school’s second best ever results with 87% A*-A and nearly 60% of exams graded at A* alone; over half of the cohort secured ten or more A grades.

UCS is firmly committed to promoting wider access to the unique education provided through fee assistance. The School has grown this programme over a number of years and consistently ranks at the top of independent schools in London for the number of full (100%) bursaries awarded each year. Currently, funding is available to pupils applying to the Senior School (11+, 13+, and 16+ entry points). Assistance is also granted in the form of competitive Music Awards.

THE DETAILS To learn more about the UCS Foundation and its admission requirements, please visit www.ucs.org.uk

CE 4187 Fulham Life Advertisement:Layout 1 12/4/14 12:53 PM Page 1

Fulham Prep School

Is your child a high flyer, or looking to find their feet in an inspiring learning environment?

Find out how your child can reach their full potential by calling 020 7371 9911 (reception to year 2) or 020 7386 2444 (years 3 to 8) www.fulhamprep.co.uk

F

S

EDUCATION GUIDE

New scholarships available at Independent Sixth Form Colleges WORDS JAMES WARDROBE

F

or independent sixth form colleges, formerly known as “crammers”, times have changed dramatically over the past 20 years. There are currently over 100 such colleges in the UK, located nationwide from Exeter to Edinburgh, and significantly the majority of the A-level courses that they run nowadays are of the traditional two-year variety, rather than the shortened retake courses for which they were renowned. Most still run resit and revision courses, but this sector is now firmly established as a provider of the standard postGCSE two-year programme.

Most of the best colleges are members of the Council for Independent Education (CIFE). CIFE, founded in 1972, is a national association whose colleges each offer individual features but are all subject to high standards of accreditation. Details of each college can be found at www.cife.org.uk.

This year CIFE colleges have launched a scholarship programme that offers up to 15 potentially fully-funded places covering all tuition fees at some of the most exclusive independent sixth form colleges in the country.

CIFE Chairman, Stuart Nicholson, who is also Principal of the Cambridge Centre for Sixth-form Studies, said of the scheme: “CIFE

84 NOVEMBER2015

colleges have a uniquely individual approach to A-level education, teaching in groups that are exceptionally small even for the independent sector. Usually classes average only 5 or 6 students per group and this provides a remarkable opportunity for learning in depth and to the highest standards in your subject. It is inevitable that few people can afford the fees that are necessary to sustain this sort of provision, but CIFE colleges have made a commitment to widen participation and we invite enquiries from bright and ambitious students who would value this sort of opportunity. For the most academically able, CIFE colleges are even offering full tuition fee remission and we hope to see some of the beneficiaries of these awards following our existing alumni into top posts.”

CIFE colleges’ alumni include the current Immigration Minister James Brokenshire, London mayoral candidate Zac Goldsmith and the designer Jade Jagger.

THE DETAILS For more information go to www.cife.org.uk or telephone 020 8767 8666.

CIFE A-Level scholarships C

IFE (the Council of Independent Education) is an association of 20 private A level colleges in the UK which has sent over 50% of its graduates to Russell Group universities over the past two years.The quality of its education is in further evidence from the list of this year's CIFE academic award winners shown here.

GRADES A* A* A* A* A A* A* A* A* A* A* A B A* A* A* A A* A* A* A A* A* A* A* A* A A A A A* A* A* A (AS) A* A A A* A A A* A* A* A B A* A* A A* A* A* A A* A* A A A* B B A* A A A* A* A A A* A* A* A*

ERSITY DESTINATION UNIV – mb Ca s, St Edmund UCL ford Ox , ge lle Co ty rsi Unive mbs Ca , Sydney Sussex College rsity ive Un ng Hong Ko ford Ox , ge lle Co w Ne LSE ty rsi ive Un h Edinburg Leeds University City University l UCL, Kings and Bristo UCL LSE am B'H of University a gli An st Ea of ty Universi LSE mbridge Robinson College, Ca

DEGREE COURSE Medicine Engineering Economics Maths Economics Economics English Law Phil & sh Engli English Media Studies & Soc French & Russian Economics Law Biology Acc & Finance Management Psychology

To promote this vibrant sector many of Cife's colleges offer very generous scholarships.

For details call 020 8767 8666 or visit www.cife.org.uk WWW.CIFE.ORG.UK

A level Scholarships

APPLY NOW FOR 2016 SCHOLARSHIPS

One of London’s best private college for A levels offers full or partial scholarships for: • maths • science • economics • humanities • art • performing arts • Emphasis on study skills, independent thinking and individual attention has produced excellent exam results and university destinations • Informal, university-style approach and wide range of cultural activities Telephone: 0207 937 3858 admissions@ashbournecollege.co.uk

ashbournecollege.co.uk

EDUCATION GUIDE

A

Uncover Your Child’s Potential It’s well known that children learn best when they are having fun and are confident in their environment and with their peers.

86 NOVEMBER2015

t Active Learning, which is now part of the Bright Horizon’s family, it’s all about discovery, discovery about the world and what we can do within it. The children can do anything. They have outlets for boundless energy and the chance to develop a life-long love of learning from a very early age. It’s a place of fun where each day is different.

Active Learning provides a holistic approach to nursery education that picks out the best of many pre-school teaching techniques, centering around education through a unique programme of continuous science and IT exploration, music, art, performing arts, nursery teaching and specialist small group activities.

Alongside all of that, Active Learning teach children all about the world around them and in different nurseries teach various languages which reflect the needs of the area. Currently, across all Active Learning schools, they teach French, Spanish, Japanese and even Mandarin. Sport and outdoor life is also a crucial element to them and plays a central role in much of what they do. Artists in residence and visiting musicians create a hive of creativity and colour in the daily lives of the children who go to school there.

At Active Learning, they promote the development of the all-round child and introduce them to a broad, exciting programme of learning through some of the best recognised forms of interactive teaching and through our truly innovative studio programme which focuses on art, music and performing arts, language, literacy, science, IT and sports. The results have been outstanding.

THE BEST TEACHERS AND STAFF IN THE INDUSTRY With the dedicated team of specialist teachers in the studios who are supernumerary to all their wonderful nursery mentors, children are nurtured and looked after as unique and individual children, ensuring that they bring out the best in each and every one.

BUILDING CONFIDENCE AND SOCIAL SKILLS Active Learning work with children on building the confidence and social skills necessary to stand on stage in front of and alongside their peers to speak aloud, sing and dance creating essential new language skills and above all self-belief, fundamental to success in literacy and new knowledge acquisition in every subject later on.

THE DETAILS To find out more about Active Learning, or any of their nurseries, please email parentenquiry@brighthorizons.com call 020 3031 4700 or visit www.activelearningchildcare.co.uk

Speak the Truth • Be Generous and Kind • Be Your Best

School Tours with the Headmistress for details contact the school

020 7348 1793 www.stjamesjuniors.co.uk

ST JAMES Junior School

Earsby Street | London W14 8SH Registered Charity No. 270156

for girls and boys fishmedia ad NOV 2015:Layout 1

3/11/15

13:57

Independent Co-educational 3-11 years. Founded 1942. ISA & IAPS

Inspiring Brilliant Futures

Open Mornings Thursday 28th January 9.30 - 11.00 Tuesday 8th March 9.30 - 11.00 Tours of the school are held on Tuesday mornings Bursaries available

020-8670 5865 email: admissions@rosemeadprepschool.org.uk www.rosemeadprepschool.org.uk

Page 1

The Roche School Ofsted Outstanding independent co-ed primary and nursery schools at 11 Frogmore SW18 1HW off Putney Bridge Road and at 42 Keswick Road, East Putney SW15 2JE. Clear teaching and small class sizes ensure pupils develop their academic, sporting and artistic talents in a lively, friendly atmosphere.

You are welcome to visit us at any time – please call the school office to make your appointment 2013|2014

Please contact our office on 020 8877 0823 email admissions@therocheschool.co.uk www.therocheschool.com

EDUCATION GUIDE

North London Collegiate School

Excellence in Education N orth London Collegiate School, one of Britain’s leading schools, was founded by the great Victorian education pioneer, Frances Mary Buss. From its inception over 160 years ago, the School has provided an exceptional education for girls. Set in the grounds of the former home of the Duke of Chandos, the School provides a first-class education in a parkland setting within London. The School’s extensive coach service enables girls aged 4 to 18 from across London and the surrounding counties to attend.

Whilst ensuring academic excellence, equal attention is given to supporting the development of the whole person, inspiring confidence, individuality and self-esteem. Consequently, the school is a positive and energetic community where girls are encouraged to take advantage of the opportunities open to them, with around 36 productions, 40 societies and 30 foreign trips offered each year. In this friendly, supportive environment, the girls are highly motivated and develop self-belief, independence of mind and an appetite for learning.

The School offers students a wide academic choice, with A Levels,

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Pre-U and the IB Diploma offered in the Sixth Form. A report by The Sutton Trust placed the School first nationally for the proportion of students gaining places to highly selective universities, in keeping with the fact that around 40 girls go to Oxbridge and Ivy League schools each year.

North London has a highly international perspective that is unique amongst London day schools. The opening of its sister school in South Korea benefits pupils through exchange opportunities and internships and creates an important connection with the ever-growing economies of the Far East.

Central to the ethos of the School is offering bursarial help to as many girls as possible, making available the best education to bright and able pupils irrespective of their backgrounds.

North London Collegiate School holds a number of open events throughout the year, but also welcomes families by appointment.

THE DETAILS For further information visit www.nlcs.org.uk

Possibly the best advertisement for girls only education in the country Good Schools Guide Review

We will be holding a number of Open afternoons and Taster mornings in the Spring Term. Please visit our website for further details. www.nlcs.org.uk

@nlcs1850

nlcs1850

Choice of A level and International Baccalaureate Bursary places and Scholarships available An independent school for girls aged 4 –18

Project1_Layout 1 09/11/2015 11:56 Page 1 54369 NLCS Life ad 98x130mm 3_11_15.indd 1

03/11/2015 13:44

EDUCATION GUIDE

The Walhampton Express Stressful school runs, crowded schools and academic hot houses, make up the over familiar education experience for many families in large cities.

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growing number of London based parents have begun to look further afield for a school that offers wide-open spaces and strong academic rigour that is set within an educational environment that allows children to remain younger for longer.

Walhampton Prep School in Lymington, Hampshire, provides all of the above but with the added bonus of a boarding approach that suits modern day life.

From 7-13 years, pupils have the option of choosing from three different types of boarding: flexible, weekly and full-time.

Flexible boarding allows parents to pick and choose when their child boards. For many children, the flexibility of staying at school for two or three nights a week gives the opportunity to gradually build confidence in a secure ‘home from home’ environment.

A growing number of families are seeing the value of using the Walhampton Express service: a weekly boarding package that brings this remarkable country school closer to London. Boarding Sunday night to Friday offers convenience and peace of mind for many working parents.

The service removes the daily grind of the school run, the need for out-ofhours childcare and gives practical access to an ideal country education.

When children come home after a fulfilled and busy school week, space has been created for quality family time.

The Walhampton Express ensures that children are an hour and a half train journey away from one of the country’s ultimate school settings.

The ‘Express’ service includes a 6 p.m. Sunday pick up from London Waterloo station by a designated member of staff. Having boarded the ‘Walhampton Express’, the children are provided with a healthy homemade tea, while their homework, reading or catching up with friends is carefully supervised by a member of Walhampton’s staff.

As the train makes its way into the New Forest, the school minibus will be waiting to collect the children from Brockenhurst to arrive back at school for 8p.m.

On Friday afternoon, the children board the ‘Walhampton Express’ at Brockenhurst accompanied by a member of staff. Homemade teatime hampers are also loaded onto the train, with everyone making a beeline for the pastry chef ’s shortbread or moreish flapjacks!

Parents meet their children at London Waterloo, happy in the knowledge that during the week their child has enjoyed wide-open spaces, fun with friends and an academic approach that nurtures growing and enquiring minds.

The strength and quality of boarding at Walhampton has always been 92 NOVEMBER2015

rooted in the school’s choice of boarding parents.

Richard and Kate Cullum are responsible for boarding at Walhampton and run a vibrant and active boarding house.

“Our boarding ethos is to create a warm and caring family community in which every child can achieve a true balance between academic work, rest and play. Children from 7-13 years learn the benefits of integrating into an extended family, and begin to understand how these dynamics work. Each boarder learns how to fulfill their own potential and develop genuine life skills that go with them to their Senior School and beyond,” said Head of Boarding, Richard Cullum.

Understanding the benefits of boarding is a question that many parents ask. Walhampton understands that there is often nervous apprehension when considering boarding as part of a child’s education journey.

“The boarding team work closely together to ensure that each experience adds to our pupils academic and pastoral development.

Whether it is learning to plan for a Science project, helping a friend who is having a bad day or simply enjoying the freedom of camping in our school grounds, each opportunity contributes to a well-rounded education. As well as learning to be more independent, we often find that our boarders will have a more mature level of emotional intelligence and can read social situations with more accuracy, ” said Houseparent, Kate Cullum.

The Cullum’s pastoral focus fosters a genuine teaching that kindness, care, empathy, manners and respect are fundamental within boarding at Walhampton. These pastoral building blocks are mirrored throughout the school and ensure complete integration between day and boarding pupils. As a Prep school, Walhampton clearly demonstrates its dedication to teaching each child to develop an innate moral compass thus knowing how to choose right from wrong.

So why are Walhampton’s boarding numbers on the up? Is it because of the hundred acre grounds, the spectacular view of the Solent and Isle of Wight, or the sailing and riding facilities? The setting does enhance this truly unique country school. However, happy pupils and parents will put it down to an ethos of a dynamic school where teaching is exemplary and children develop both the discipline of study and the love of learning.

THE DETAILS

To find out more, families are invited to our Open Morning on 29th January and 6th May 2016. Please call the School Registrar on 01590 613 303 or email registrar@walhampton.com www. walhampton.com

FASHION,

HEALTH & BEAUTY

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FASHION

Liberty in fashion

Fashion and Textile Museum has launched a major new exhibition, exploring the iconic Liberty brand in fashion to celebrate the 140th anniversary of the company.

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ver 150 garments, textiles and objects demonstrate Liberty’s strong relationships with designers from Arthur Silver of Silver Studio to collaborations with Jean Muir, Cacharel, Yves Saint Laurent and Vivienne Westwood.

The exhibition charts Liberty’s history as ‘the’ fashionable place to shop as well as its role as the source and originator of key trends in fashion history, from Orientalism and Aesthetic dress in the 19th century, through Art Nouveau and Art Deco in the early 20th century, and the revival of these styles since the 1950s.

Liberty Art Fabrics and the textile design studio take centre stage, as the internationally recognised leader in floral, patterned and paisley prints and dress fabrics.

At the cutting edge of design and the decorative arts since 1875, Liberty is celebrated throughout the world both as a department store and for its distinctive textile prints.

Founded by Arthur Lasenby Liberty, the store began on Regent Street in 1875, soon becoming one of ‘the’ shops in London. Arthur Liberty’s clients and friends included the artists and aesthetes Dante Gabriel Rossetti, Frederic Leighton, Oscar Wilde, Dame Ellen Terry and James McNeill Whistler. The Liberty dress department opened in 1884 and Liberty style soon became firmly associated with a unique ‘fashion’ look.

Liberty continued to adapt to changing taste whilst maintaining its identity. The Twenties and Thirties saw the development of the floral prints that are still associated with the company and were a mainstay of these decades. ‘Young Liberty’ was introduced in the 1950s, showcasing the best of new British and international design. A wave of young designers in the Sixties embraced Liberty fabrics and the textile design studio continued to produce up-to-date, innovative designs. Designers such as Mary Quant, Foale and Tuffin, Gina Fratini and Jean Muir contributed to the company’s key role in the fashion of the 1970s. Liberty continues to inspire fashion today as designers around the world feature the brand’s distinctive textiles.

Ed Burstell, Managing Director, Liberty London, said: “Liberty is one of the last great emporiums of its kind and I am thrilled that this exhibition is being organised by Zandra Rhodes and the Fashion and Textile Museum London, a museum which has pioneered displays on the relationship between fashion, fabric design and innovative British retailing.”

until 28th February 2016 Fashion and Textile Museum, SE1

THE DETAILS For more information about The Fashion and Textile Museum 83 Bermondsey Street, London SE1 3XF. Visit the website at www.ftmlondon.org #libertyinfashion Fashion-and-Textile-Museum @FashionTextile @FashionTextileMuseum FashionTextile

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FASHION

behind the gift The True Importance of Jewellery and the Sentiments

When words are not enough...

Say it with jewellery

You may be surprised how easily the deepest feelings can be expressed with Jewellery; Jewellery speaks directly from the heart. What makes a piece of Jewellery truly remarkable are the beautiful memories and emotions of the occasion that it will forever embody.

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ome struggle to express themselves with words or don’t communicate often enough how they feel about a special person.

Sometimes it’s just not possible to find the ideal way to articulate those feelings. The perfect piece of Jewellery, long lasting, says so much more than words ever can. True sentiment behind a thoughtful gift of jewellery is often under estimated. Whether the jewellery boldly declares I Love You; I Need You; Well Done; Thank You; Congratulations; You’re Special to me or just celebrates a moment in time, it always does a brilliant job of reflecting heartfelt emotions.

For jewellery to have emotional impact, one doesn’t need to spend zillions.

Choosing a winning jewellery gift that best conveys your sentiments may not be easy or obvious. When visiting Michael Platt, Goldsmiths and Jewellers in Wimbledon Village a magnificent array of sparkling rings, earrings, pendants, necklaces and bracelets that beautifully express the subtlest of messages can be found within a wide selection of silver, gold and platinum ranges.

It may not matter exactly what the jewellery piece is, whether small or large or what the cost may be. A specially selected item, thoughtfully chosen, is all the more likely to capture priceless sentimental and emotional value. If you

100 NOVEMBER2015

The Perfect Gift at Michael Platt

are unsure of what to choose and feel the need of some assistance, Michael Platt’s friendly and knowledgeable sales associates and Goldsmiths have a wealth of experience in aiding customers with such special choices.

A custom made Bespoke Piece of Jewellery is the ultimate jewellery gift. With some thought and just a little effort, a wonderful unique piece can be tailor made to suit personal requirements and budget. Michael Platt specialise in working directly with customers, guiding them through the bespoke jewellery process from start to finish, bringing ideas to life in their onsite workshop operated by only the finest Master Craftsmen.

Working together with Michael Platt on a bespoke piece, from new or re-design, can be an extraordinarily exciting journey that does not need to be complex or necessarily expensive. Commissioning a bespoke item presents an opportunity to take part in creating a truly original outstanding piece of jewellery that directly reflects the personality of the recipient and, once given, will always mean so much.

Michael Platt specialises in the re-design of dated, worn out or inherited jewellery often giving broken yet cherished family heirlooms a new life whilst retaining sentimental value. Diamonds and gemstones can be used in a new setting or an exact replica piece can be recreated to pass on to future generations.

Jewellery that is weighted with meaning and thoughtfulness will be highly appreciated, enjoyed, valued and forever treasured.

THE DETAILS For more information about Michael Platt Goldsmiths and Jewellers 1 Church Road, Wimbledon Village, SW19 5DW Telephone 020 8947 4774 Open Tuesday-Sunday www.michaelplatt.co.uk

open Mon - Sat 9.30 - 5.30

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FASHION EVENTS FEATURE

Fellows Auctioneers:

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from bicycles to auction house jewels

he prospect of visiting an auction house can provoke anxiety in a first time bidder; thankfully modern auction houses like Fellows are fun and friendly places. Established in 1876, Fellows & Sons Ltd is one of the oldest and most respected firms of Auctioneers and Valuers in the UK, with a wealth of specialist experience and regular auctions of antiques, jewellery, watches. The company’s origin can be traced back to the collapse of an order for bicycles. When William Henry Fellows was left with the unwanted order he decided to sell the bicycles by auction along with his wife Louisa, who was a Pawnbroker and used auctions to sell uncollected pledges.

AUCTIONS AT FELLOWS Fellows holds more than 120 sales a year, with over 50 jewellery Auctions ranging from fortnightly jewellery sales, to glittering monthly Antique & Modern Jewellery auctions, as well as niche sales in markets such as coins, vintage jewellery, and silver. The continuing change in inventory at Fellows means that the auction house is surrounded by a hub of excitement for lovers of antiques, watches and jewellery all year round THE WATCH SALE The specialist ‘Watch Sale’ launched in 2015 and continues to be a tremendous success for both watch vendors and buyers alike.With highstreet prices heading skywards, it makes sense to take advantage of the

significant savings that are possible when you buy your ‘new’ watch at auction. With a roll-call of famous makers appearing each month, with watches from Audemars Piguet, Breguet and Vacheron Constantin, along with jeweller-watchmakers such as Cartier, there is something to suit all tastes. The next Watch Sale takes place at Fellows on the 1st December.

JEWELLERY AUCTIONS The Fellows Antique and Modern Jewellery sale shows off the most interesting jewels, with many lots featuring designer and branded pieces alongside gems from across the ages; this monthly sale is the perfect place to find something unique.

Fortnightly Jewellery auctions are a fantastic first port of call and a great way to find one-off pieces which cannot be found on the high street – ranging from statement diamonds, to quirky and affordable items of jewellery. With these sales held on a fortnightly basis throughout the year, they are tailored to meet the needs of a varying and broad market.

Silver and high quality costume jewellery finds its place in the eclectic Vintage Jewellery & Accessories sale. A mix of designer handbags and vintage trinkets can be picked up at the auction which takes place 8 times a year and is packed with pieces ranging from under £100.

The head office and saleroom are based in Birmingham’s historic Jewellery Quarter, with an office located in Mayfair for London valuations and viewings.Viewings of Antique & Modern Jewellery take place every month in Mayfair prior to the auction.

NOVEMBER AUCTION... 12th November at 11am Mayfair viewing Tuesday 3rd November from 11am, Wednesday 4th November from 10am DECEMBER AUCTION... 10th December at 11am Mayfair viewing Tuesday 1st December from 11am, Wednesday 2nd December from 10am Free valuations are taking place at Fellow’s Mayfair office on the 18th November between 10am – 6pm. If you would like more information regarding free valuations and consigning your items to an auction at Fellows, please call 020 7127 4198 or email London@fellows.co.uk

THE DETAILS For the upcoming auctions calendar and online catalogues, visit www.fellows.co.uk @FellowsAuctions

10 0 22 N NO OV VE EM M B E R 22 00 11 55

Auctioneers & Valuers Antiques | Jewellery | Watches

Monthly auction of Antique & Modern Jewellery

Featuring in the November auction Lot 163, a diamond three-stone ring. £10,000-15,000 Lot 460, an early 20th century 18ct gold spinel and diamond four-stone ring. £2,000-3,000

Thursday 12th November at 11am Thursday 10th December at 11am On view in Mayfair 3rd & 4th November, call 020 7127 4198 or email london@fellows.co.uk to make an appointment.

FREE VALUATION DAY IN MAYFAIR, WEDNESDAY 18TH NOVEMBER 10AM - 6PM Mayfair Office | 2nd Floor, 3 Queen Street, London, W1J 5PA | 0207 127 4198 Jewellery Quarter Saleroom | 19 Augusta Street, Birmingham, B18 6JA | 0121 212 2131

fellowsauctions

FASHION

Until 31st January 2016

Shoes: Pleasure and Pain at V&A

Supported by Agent Provocateur

The transformative power of extreme footwear will be explored in the V&A’s summer 2015 fashion exhibition, Shoes: Pleasure and Pain

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ore than 200 pairs of historic and contemporary shoes from around the world will be on display, many for the first time. The exhibition will explore the agonising aspect of wearing shoes as well as the euphoria and obsession they can inspire. The V&A’s shoe collection is unrivalled, spanning the globe and over 2000 years.

Curator Helen Persson has delved into other international collections and the wardrobes of private individuals to select an exceptional range of shoes.

Shoes worn by or associated with high profile figures including Marilyn Monroe, Queen Victoria, Sarah Jessica Parker and Kylie Minogue will be shown as well as famous shoes, such as the ballet slippers designed for Moira Shearer in the 1948 film The Red Shoes. Footwear by 70 named designers including Manolo Blahnik, Christian Louboutin, Jimmy Choo and Prada will be on display.

The exhibition will be shown over two floors. The luxurious, boudoir design of the ground floor gallery will examine three themes: transformation, status and seduction.

‘Transformation’ will present shoes of myth and legend, with different cultural interpretations of the Cinderella story. It will explore the concept

of shoes being empowering as passed down through folklore, illustrated by the Seven League Boots from the ‘Hop o’ My Thumb’ tale, and how this feeds into contemporary marketing for such things as football boots and the concept of modern-day, fairy-tale shoemakers, whose designs will magically transform the life of the wearer.

‘Status’ will reveal how impractical shoes have been worn to represent privileged and leisurely lifestyles – their design, shape and material can often make them unsuitable for walking.. Shoes on display will include the now infamous Vivienne Westwood blue platforms worn by Naomi Campbell in 1993. ‘Status’ will also demonstrate how historically shoe fashions originated from the European royal courts, while today the focus has shifted to famous shoe designers. Desirable shoes such as the ‘Pompadour’, worn by women in the 18th-century French court will sit alongside designs by the some of the most well-known names in fashion today, including Alexander McQueen and Sophia Webster.

Within ‘Seduction’, the shoes represent an expression of sexual empowerment or a passive source of pleasure. Like feet, shoes can be objects of fetishism. Extreme heels and tightlaced leather boots will be on display as well as examples of erotic styles channeled by mainstream fashion in recent years.

In contrast, the first floor gallery is dedicated to dissecting the processes involved in designing and creating footwear, from concept to final shoe, peeling back the layers and revealing how they are made, combining traditional craftsmanship with technological innovation and how they unite function with art.

Designer sketches, materials, embellishments and shoe lasts, such as the lasts created by H. & M. Rayne for Princess Diana, will be on show, alongside ‘pullovers’ from Roger Vivier for Christian Dior.

THE DETAILS Tickets £12 (concessions available). Available to book from the end of January 2015 visit vam.ac.uk/shoes or call 0800 912 6961 (booking fee applies) Support for the V&A is more vital than ever. Please help by acknowledging the exhibition supporters Clarks, Agent Provocateur and the Worshipful Company of Cordwainers. www.vam.ac.uk/shoes #vamShoes

104 NOVEMBER2015

FASHION

“Designing shoes is magicians work - a shoe should be visible but sometimes needs to be invisible”

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f you had to name one designer brand that every woman aspires to and desires more than any other it would have to be Christian Louboutin high heels. Worn by some of the most beautiful women on the planet, Christian Louboutin has become a byword for international glamour.

Christian Louboutin has built one of the most successful shoe brands in the world with a blend of craftsmanship and a distinctive kind of glamour. From razor sharp stilettos and lace-up boots to studded sneakers and bejewelled pumps, Louboutin’s designs carry his unique signature. After leaving school, Louboutin worked at the famous Parisian music hall, the ‘Folies Bergere’. He watched the showgirls, captivated by their flamboyant costumes in which they performed effortlessly in towering heels. He would show up with drawings of shoes for all

the dancers. “Ever since I was very young, I have been obsessed with spike heels. It’s all about the legs, how they carry themselves, the embellishment of the body. They are the ultimate icons.”

Christian Louboutin established himself as a freelance designer working for Chanel, Yves Saint Laurent and Maud Frizon, before launching his own first boutique in 1992, in Galerie Vero Dodat, Rue Jean Jacques Rousseau, close to the Louvre Museum.This was followed by New York in 1994, and in 1997, his first London boutique on Motcomb Street.

Many more glamorous boutiques and top-end concessions followed.

The designer’s goal has been to “make a woman look sexy, beautiful, to make her legs look as long as [he] can” While he does offer some lower-heeled styles, Louboutin is generally associated with his dressier evening-wear designs incorporating jewelled straps, bows, feathers, patent leather and other similar decorative touches. He is most popularly known for his red-bottom high heel shoes, commonly referred to as “sammy red-bottoms”.

The coloured nails, sequins and leather clasp are a playful interpretation of vibrant floral pattern and pastel hues.

THE DETAILS To see Christian Louboutin’s full range, and list of boutiques and stockists, please visit www.christianlouboutin.com

106 NOVEMBER2015

HEALTH & BEAUTY

COSMETIC DERMATOLOGIST, DR ARIEL HAUS INTRODUCES

Triniti Plus Trinity Plus is a new 3 in 1 treatment to improve skin tone, texture and wrinkles, in one transforming treatment!

Triniti Plus is non-invasive, effective and provides ongoing results...

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razilian Dermatologist, Dr Ariel Haus explains the features of Triniti Plus, which is a technologically advanced laser treatment that combines three of today’s most effective technologies for colour correction, contouring and wrinkles in a single session. Save time and get beautiful results!

The Triniti Plus features combined bi-polar radio frequency and light energies to apply targeted heat to the skin tissue to eliminate brown and red spots, fine lines and wrinkles. Dr Haus will create a personalised treatment plan designed for the needs of each patient, but significant visible improvement can typically be seen over a course of 3-5 treatments.

Dr Haus says, “Being able to offer my patients the ultimate skin technology of Triniti Plus allows them the opportunity to walk away with skin that they only remembered from their youth. It gives me great pleasure to see the difference in not just their outer appearance but their inner confidence too; they step out of my clinic with a bounce in their step.”

EACH TRINITI PLUS TREATMENT SESSION INCLUDES Colour Correction: improve uneven skin tone, sun damaged skin, spider veins and brown spots;

Contouring: firm and contours the skin to treat fine lines and wrinkles for smoother skin; Wrinkles and Texture: target the telltale signs of aging, including around the jowl & neck, brow lines and nasolabial folds so that skin becomes smoother with increased elasticity.

WHAT’S THE ‘OUCH FACTOR’?

Topical anesthetic cream is applied prior to treatment to ensure no discomfort and most patients can return to their normal activities post treatment.

WHO CAN HAVE THE TREATMENT? Triniti Plus is safe and effective for most skin types and colours.

HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE? The treatment is 40-60 minutes per session for the face plus 15-30 minutes extra if the neck area is treated.

HOW MANY SESSIONS WOULD I NEED? Each patient has differing needs, but typically three to five sessions spaced three to four weeks apart, are required for optimum results. A touch up session may be required after 6 months.

THE DETAILS

For Appointments Telephone 020 7323 6559 www.drhausdermatology.com AFTER ONE TRINITI PLUS TREATMENT

108 NOVEMBER2015

AFTER THREE TRINITI PLUS TREATMENTS

Our new address is: 140 Harley Street, London W1G 7LB

CHELSEA AND WESTMINSTER HOSPITAL

Private Patient Care

Chelsea and Westminster Hospital is one of the safest hospitals in the UK* and provides private patient services through The Chelsea Wing, their dedicated private patient ward.

Services available include:

Cosmetic Surgery Fertility General Medicine Women's Health Services Maternity Cancer Care Sports Medicine Ophthalmology

* Dr Foster Hospital Guide 2011 and 2012.

For more information please contact us:

0203 315 8484 E:

chelseawing@chelwest.nhs.uk

W: www.chelwest.nhs.uk Chelsea and Westminster Hospital 369 Fulham Road London SW10 9NH

HEALTH & BEAUTY

Bupa Cromwell Hospital launches new

‘Memory Clinic’ for early diagnosis of dementia

‘Dementia’ describes a set of symptoms that may at first include minor memory loss and later difficulties with thinking, language and reasoning.

It is caused when conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease or a series of strokes damage the brain, and leads to a gradual decline over time.

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ccording to the Alzheimer’s Society there are around 850,000 people with dementia in the UK, including 40,000 younger people, but it still goes undetected for many, with less than half of sufferers in England receiving a diagnosis.

As dementia can have such a huge impact, not only for the person directly affected, but also family members and other carers, an early diagnosis can enable treatment and effective management of symptoms to improve quality of life.

Bupa Cromwell Hospital, Kensington, has launched London’s first Memory Clinic in a private hospital setting. Led by consultant Psychiatrist Dr Justin Sauer and consultant Neurologist Dr Angus Kennedy, the Memory Clinic offers assessment of memory impairment and early diagnosis of dementia and memory related conditions.

An initial consultation is followed by comprehensive, same day diagnostic tests including brain imaging to enable a swift diagnosis. Patient care is personalised and may include treatment with medication and risk factor modification, including cardiovascular and lifestyle factors, to limit the impact of symptoms.

Dementia investigation at the Memory Clinic is covered by health insurers, and an all-inclusive ‘self pay’ package is also available. A GP referral isn’t necessary for ‘self pay’ patients, but this is required for those using health insurance.

Bupa Cromwell Hospital is a 5 minute walk from Gloucester Road and Earls Court, or 10 minutes from Kensington High Street.

All hospital services are available to everyone, whether using health insurance or ‘self-paying’, and the Hospital offers absolute discretion and privacy.

THE DETAILS For further information about the Memory Clinic please ring 020 7460 5773 or email memoryclinic@cromwellhospital.com www.bupacromwellhospital.com

110 NOVEMBER2015

Helping you take care of yourself World class clinical care in west London Bupa Cromwell Hospital in Kensington has a global reputation for excellence and offers an exceptional healthcare resource for Londoners. Whether using private health insurance or ‘self-paying’, our services are available to everyone, and just a five minute walk from High Street Kensington, Earl’s Court or Gloucester Road.

We offer:in-house private GPs with walk-in appointments the latest diagnostic technology, with no waiting times and quick test results London’s leading consultants, with appointments available at short notice health screening packages to suit every budget Women’s Health Centre with female-only specialists We are currently offering great savings to self-paying patients on all diagnostics*. From blood tests to X-ray, MRI, CT or PET CT scans, we offer same day appointments and quick referral to a specialist if required. bupacromwellhospital.com *Please quote code TLM when booking

HEALTH & BEAUTY

THE LABORATORY Winner of the UK Health club of the Year Award in 2012 & again in 2014!

L

uxury, style, space and elegance create the perfect environment to escape the many pressures of a hectic London life. Relaxation is essential to both the body and mind and the Laboratory Spa and Health Club provides a gateway to undisputed tranquillity. The Laboratory boasts an effortless and peaceful ambience in drawing you in and leaving you wanting more. Winner of the UK Health Club of the Year award 2012/13 (National Fitness Awards) and Voted Best Private Health Club and Spa in London by Time Out; ‘the Club exudes an air of sophistication that strikes you the minute you walk through the feng-shui lobby. The Lab offers a unique atmosphere rarely enjoyed in other clubs’.

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

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

In each Club there is a spectacular 25 metre swimming pool. These beautiful award winning pools are cleansed with the latest UV light technology, ensuring the highest possible standards of hygiene with minimal levels of chlorine. This enables members to bathe in comfort in the finest water possible. Whether it’s a few gentle lengths

before a steam or serious lane swimming as part of your cardio-vascular workout, it’s heaven for anyone who enjoys a swim.Each pool area incorporates twin spa baths, a wonderful relaxation area, marble steam rooms and Scandinavian saunas to help completely unwind.

The newly-refurbished treatment rooms are the perfect backdrop for the exceptional team of highly-qualified spa therapists and holistic therapists to deliver a broad range of exceptional treatments including facials, massage, body care therapies , hot stone and reflexology, to name but a few.

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

At The Laboratory, unlike most other clubs, there is no annual contract. Vas Hava, Director says “Our members stay with us because they value what we offer and love what we do. We provide an oasis of calm in a busy life. We aim to help you achieve your goals and increase your individual wellbeing. At the Lab you will be transported to a world of serenity, where muscle tension and the mind›s concerns simply melt away allowing you to emerge refreshed, balanced and energised.”

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

The Lab’s philosophy is to not just treat the body on its own, but the mind and soul as well. The Day Spa at The Lab is a haven of peace and calm that provides a chance to escape the stresses of daily life.

112 NOVEMBER2015

GET A HEAD START ON YOUR new year’s RESOLUTION Muswell Hill

Mill Hill

020 8482 3000

020 8457 3300

The Avenue N10 2QE

1a Hall Lane NW4 4TJ

– labspa.co.uk –

HEALTH & BEAUTY

The Royal Marsden partners with Ralph Lauren Corporation to develop

A WORLD CLASS BREAST CANCER RESEARCH FACILITY

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he Royal Marsden, the largest and most comprehensive historic Royal Marsden hospital which will be developed to the highest cancer centre in Europe, and Ralph Lauren Corporation specification to provide a world-class facility for breast cancer research. are proud to announce a new The Centre’s overall goal will be to identify partnership to fund a state-of-themolecular differences between tumours that art breast cancer research facility. The Ralph allow the optimal treatment of individual breast Lauren Centre for Breast Cancer Research cancer patients and thereby reduce recurrence will be housed in a new facility at The Royal and mortality from the disease as well as Marsden’s Chelsea hospital. eliminate unnecessary toxicity.

Staffed by a team of world-renowned It continues the pioneering work carried clinicians and scientists working with the out at The Royal Marsden into personalised latest in cancer research technology, the medicine, translating advances in the centre will be dedicated to advancing breast molecular profiling of breast cancer into major cancer research with the goal of improving improvements in personalised breast cancer early diagnosis and the development of new treatment. treatments for breast cancer.

Cally Palmer, Chief Executive of The Royal “I am so pleased and honoured for our Marsden, said, “The support of Ralph Lauren Company to partner with The Royal Marsden, Corporation will be of immense benefit to The a truly remarkable institution with a global Royal Marsden’s pioneering cancer research reputation for ground-breaking research and strategy. It has the potential to change clinical pioneering the very latest in cancer treatments practice and contribute significantly to the and technologies. It is my great hope that this international knowledge basis. “Philanthropic partnership advances cancer treatment options support such as this is vital to continuing to Ralph Lauren at Royal Marsden Hospital and outcomes for patients around the world.” allowing The Royal Marsden to go above and picture by Carter Berg The Ralph Lauren Centre for Breast Cancer beyond, funding world-leading equipment, Research will take up a whole floor in the facilities and projects. “I would like to thank Ralph Lauren Corporation for their generosity and investment in our work, and their commitment to breast cancer research.”

This partnership continues a long-standing relationship between The Royal Marsden and Ralph Lauren Corporation, after The Royal Marsden has benefited from the Ralph Lauren Corporation’s Pink Pony for many years.

Fighting breast cancer has been a long-standing goal of mine

SAID MR RALPH LAUREN, CHAIRMAN AND CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER OF THE RALPH LAUREN CORPORATION. 114 NOVEMBER2015

THE DETAILS For more information, visit www.royalmarsden.nhs.uk and www.ralphlauren.co.uk

HEALTH & BEAUTY

A

t her Harley Street clinic, Dr Helen McCarthy offers consultations in Delicious Dieting, a radical alternative to conventional diets which focuses on maximising your enjoyment of food.

“I had been trying for years to lose the extra pounds that kept creeping on and never managed to shift them. With Delicious Dieting something just clicked. With just a couple of easy changes to my daily eating pattern, I hit my target. I feel in control of my eating and my weight, which feels wonderful. I feel fitter and ten years younger”.

DELICIOUS DIETING CAN HELP YOU LOSE WEIGHT IF YOU: Eat more than you need Eat when you’re not hungry Delicious Dieting does what it says on the tin. It helps you lose weight whilst eating delicious foods. What maximises your enjoyment is that the foods you eat are the foods you already love and that you eat them when you are hungry.

When you ignore the natural hunger and fullness signals in the body, you eat more than you need. By re-learning to tune in to these signals and to use them to guide your eating, you learn to eat just the amount that your body needs to burn fat and lose weight. Food tastes better than ever.Your body works much better when it gets just what it needs. Delicious Dieting helps you achieve this by making stepwise changes to your eating habits until you eat just as much as your body needs.

EXPLAINS DR MCCARTHY

(DELICIOUS DIETING CLIENT MRS B)

To arrange an appointment with Dr McCarthy at 10 Harley Street please phone 0207 467 8470 or email info@deliciousdieting.co.uk THE DETAILS For more information visit the website at www.deliciousdieting.co.uk DeliciousDieting

R 22 00 11 55 11 1 64 N NO OV VE M BE R

@DeliciousDietUK

YOUR NEW LOOK STARTS HERE

Choosing to undergo cosmetic surgery can be a difficult decision to make.

With the increase in information in the media and on the internet, it is essential that you have access to accurate information to help you make the right choice. Mr Roblin will listen to your concerns and wishes, then advise you on the most suitable procedure that will benefit your individual needs, with no obligation to proceed. Before you embark on any procedure he will ensure that you fully understand what he is aiming to achieve and what the procedure entails.

Mr Roblin’s expertise lies in both non-surgical and surgical facial cosmetic surgery. He is also one of the country’s leading breast reconstruction surgeons and has a particular interest in cosmetic breast surgery and body contouring surgery (e.g. tummy tuck and liposuction).

SURGICAL & NON SURGICAL PROCEDURES NON-SURGICAL: BREAST:  Botulinum toxin, fillers & fat injection  Reduction  Mole assessment & removal  Augmentation  Uplift (mastopexy) FACE:  Gynaecomastia (male)  Facelift    

Browlift Eyelid surgery Rhinoplasty Ear reshaping

LABIAL REDUCTION

BODY CONTOURING:  Liposuction  Abdominoplasty  Total body lift  Arm/thigh reduction

Mr Paul Roblin  MSc FRCS (Plast)  NHS Consultant  BAAPS & BAPEAS member  GMC Specialist register for Plastic Surgery

HEALTH & BEAUTY

Comfort, confidence and, of course

a beautiful smile...

with Harry Shiers Dentistry

H

arry Shiers Dentistry is a boutique general practice, established in Mayfair in 1989 practicing a range of specialist disciplines, including orthodontics, implant, cosmetic and general dentistry. Their aim is to provide painless, stress-free treatment in a relaxed and contemporary environment and to this end they seem to have achieved their goals.

Tucked away in an elegant mews on Harley Street, this newly refurbished surgery is the latest in a series of three practices that Harry Shiers has run in this street. With a comprehensive patient list encompassing politicians through to Hollywood Glitterati. Harry Shiers Dentistry is regarded as “the place to go for those in the know”. Twinned with a practice in Chelsea Harbour, his team of experienced considerate staff, move purposefully in their blue and white uniforms, recognisable at either practice, the staff, have been a part of the team for a combined total of almost sixty years. “Consistency” says Harry, “Is one of the hard things to find in the modern world. Like the work we put into people’s mouths, we expect both to last a long time.”

Equipped with and using the latest dental technology Harry Shiers Dentistry transforms broken, uneven and discoloured teeth into pleasing natural smiles. The treatments they provide range from hygiene and periodontal treatment, to dental implants, cosmetic and general dentistry, such as all ceramic veneers, crowns, orthodontics, Invisalign and Incognito (invisible braces), root-canal and teeth whitening.

“The philosophy of Harry Shiers Dentistry” says Harry “has always been to provide the most relevant and suitable treatment for the individual patient” based on Harrys experience and education which, judging by the number of educational certificates hanging on the wall, is considerable.

Harry Shiers Dentistry exudes a relaxed, calm and assuring environment which, for anxious and dental phobic patients can only be a good thing. They also offer intra-venous sedation, carried out by their consultant anaesthetist.

“Comfort and confidence is very important for the wellbeing of the patient when faced with a situation that most see as nerve wracking to a greater or lesser degree.” says Harry “Intravenous sedation is a marvellous way of allaying a patients anxiety, providing a sleep akin to that which one experiences when going to bed at night. Intra-venous sedation is not a general anaesthetic and does not carry the associated risks of general anaesthesia.”

Since starting his implant training in 1989, Harry has gone on to be accredited with three diplomas from the Royal college of Surgeons, the Eastman Dental Institute and his Master of Science in Implant dentistry from Guys Hospital. Currently sitting on the editorial and advisory board of a range of professional journals and having lectured nationally and internationally on this specialist interest subject (implant dentistry). Harry is one of the most experienced and qualified professionals in this field in London.

This charming practice offers same day appointments for hygiene visits and emergencies THE DETAILS

To book a free non-clinical consultation with Dr Harry Shiers you can telephone 0207 580 2366 or email harryshiersdentistry@gmail.com Website: www.harryshiersdentistry.co.uk 118 NOVEMBER2015

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

Get Ski Fit How to get fit for your skiing trip

I

f you want to seriously get into the sport, you need to make sure your skiing fitness is up to scratch. So, to make sure that you’re not left nursing aching muscles - or worse - after your first day careering down the slopes, check out our guide to getting ski-fit.

Flying down the slopes all day on two narrow strips of fibreglass with only a pair of thin poles for support will place unique demands on your body. To cope with these demands, you’ll need to focus on the following three key areas for your training to boost your skiing fitness: SKIING STRENGTH Skiing demands specific training for improving your strength. The primary areas to focus on for skiing fitness strength are: Legs. Focusing on the quadriceps muscles at the fronts of the thighs is particularly important, because maintaining the correct skiing position means that the quadriceps will be loaded the whole time.

Triceps. To maintain your balance when skiing, you will have to continually drive your ski poles back into the snow - and the specific muscles that facilitate this are the triceps at the back of the upper arms.

Core muscles. Your core muscles will keep you upright and help you to balance. Without good core strength, you will have no control on the slopes.

CARDIOVASCULAR SKI FITNESS You won’t be running or moving forward under your own steam for most of the time when you’re skiing, but that doesn’t mean you won’t need good cardiovascular (CV) fitness. Skiing requires total body control in order to stay upright - and this will place a continual demand on your CV system as you employ every muscle group in order to remain balanced.

120 NOVEMBER2015

FLEXIBILITY TRAINING If you’re flexible, you will have a good range of movement, which is extremely important when it comes to skiing fitness. Additionally, being flexible in the calves and Achilles tendons (at the backs of the lower legs) is vital, because your ski boots will force you to ‘hinge’ at the heel, thereby stretching both the calf and the Achilles in each leg. If you’re tight in either of these areas, your risk of injury will be much higher.

HOW TO AVOID SKIING INJURIES The last thing that you want to do on your skiing holiday is get an injury - so the best thing to do is prepare your body correctly by building up your skiing fitness. For injury prevention, your main focus should be on flexibility training, particularly in the legs. As we have mentioned, the calves and Achilles tendons are important to your flexibility - but you should also ensure that you are loose and supple in the following two areas: Quadriceps (front of the thigh).

Hamstrings (back of the thigh).

However good your preparation is, though, one thing is certain when you go skiing: at some point or other, you’re going to fall over. So, to avoid common injuries such as broken collarbones, work on your all-round mobility as much as possible. This way you will be in control of your body, and so when you do fall over you will be able to position yourself quickly and easily - rather than be awkward and stiff in your movements - which will make you less liable to suffer an injury.

Additionally, try to have a couple of sports massages as part of your après-ski routine, as these will flush out the waste products in your muscles from your day’s skiing and help to keep your muscles in tip-top condition throughout your holiday. Skiing is all about fun, and you certainly don’t have to be an elite athlete to enjoy the sport!

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

Convenience guaranteed in the heart of Chelsea

Chelsea Pharmacy Medical Clinic is the only private medical clinic in Chelsea to open until 9pm with a walk in doctor service 7 days a week. Add to this that it also incorporates a well established pharmacy and you can see the convenience that the clinic provides with both medical and pharmaceutical care under one roof open late 7 days a week.

T

he pharmacy has been established for over 50 years whereas the medical clinic is new and has been open for 2 months and is already popular with the locals of Chelsea who enjoy the fact that a first class friendly medical service is available on their doorstep till late every night of the week. All the GP’s are experienced and dedicated to providing an excellent service with a range of special interests between them such as dermatology, gynaecology, diabetes and sport injuries to name a few.

The clinic also has a number of eminent specialists who offer their services in London via the clinic. These include a Hand and Wrist specialist, Chronic Pain specialist, Gynaecologist, Psychiatrist, and a Paediatrician who has a regular surgery on Wednesday afternoons as well as by appointment on other days and evenings.

The medical doctors are joined by a range of allied health professionals who are all well known in their respective fields. Acupuncture, Functional Medicine, Nutrition, Podiatry are services all available at a time to suit you up to 9pm, 7 days a week.

A travel clinic has also been incorporated which allows you to obtain your vaccines, immunisations and malaria medicines all under one roof with the latest up to date advice being provided by doctors and pharmacists. So whether you be travelling to the deepest jungle in Borneo or trekking along the Inca trail, our experienced medical team will ensure your immunised and prepared for all eventualities.

With the rise in sexual transmitted diseases across all sectors of the population the clinic offers a very private STD testing service for the whole range of STD’s. Again, having the pharmacy under the same roof ensures that treatment if needed can be commenced immediately without delay.

Another specialised area of medicine that the clinic offers is Aesthetics, with all treatments being provided by experienced aesthetic doctors and dentists. All the products used are from the number one brands and all the treatments are available with a no obligation 15 minute consultation for free.

The aesthetics treatments include, anti wrinkle injections, dermal fillers , face sculpturing and teeth whitening, with treatments also including a free review after 2 weeks.

Anti ageing solutions are also provided using bio-identical hormone therapy by our ‘TATLER’ endorsed and recommended aesthetic doctor and GP. Chelsea Pharmacy Medical Clinic is dedicated to providing an exceptional health care experience over a wide range of clinical areas, with accessibility and convenience guaranteed all in the heart of Chelsea on Sloane Avenue.

Please call or visit our social media sites for further information and other services available.

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

Deep in the heart of Mayfair lies the entrance to another world...

Lunchtime Meditation Classes at The Connaught with The Aman Spa therapists

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s Londoner’s continue to strive for the perfect work and life balance, the Aman Spa at the Connaught, part of London’s prestigious Maybourne Hotel Group are offering complimentary daily 20 minute mindfulness meditation classes over lunchtime to raise awareness on the benefits it has for coping with stress and anxiety in the workplace.

Mindfulness meditation is an adaption of Buddhist meditation which encourages one to focus on the moment rather than being consumed by the pain of the past or anxiety over the future.

Aman therapists have been practicing daily meditation since the launch of the Spa in 2009 to find a personal balance as it helps them sense and craft the most unique and tailored treatments for their guests. This will be the first time their therapists open their doors and welcome guests to participate in their daily habitual.

Guests will be welcomed in the lobby by an Aman representative and ushered to the spa into a cool and dim-light treatment room where they will be asked to remove their shoes and turn off any technological equipment.

Aman Spa Manager Rene Van Eyssen explains “Meditation encourages you to observe your emotions, which improves awareness of the present moment, bringing clarity and peace. The result is a total renewal of mind and spirit.”

124 NOVEMBER2015

The 500-square metre spa features five treatment rooms, a 60-square metre pool, a fitness studio and an extensive spa menu, which reflects the renewing traditions of China, Thailand, India and the Americas. The Aman Spa Meditation Classes are available weekdays at 1:00pm and last 20 minutes. Classes are complimentary and must be booked in advance.

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

THE DETAILS To book please call the Aman Spa on 0203 147 7305 or email amanspa@the-connaught.co.uk The Connaught Aman Spa Carlos Place, Mayfair, W1K 2AL www.the-connaught.co.uk/aman-spa

HEALTH & BEAUTY

Insight into

Look Younger Longer R

eviewed as “one of skin care’s best kept secrets” Regentiv’s The Specialist Serum is the ultimate in skin care minimising the visible signs of ageing; lines, wrinkles, puffy and crepey eye tissue.

Working with leading Harley Street Skin Specialist and Plastic Surgeons the Specialist Serum was originally developed to help repair traumatised skin caused by sun damage, uneven pigmentation, open pores and the ravages of acne and acne scarring. Through continued development Regentiv discovered its ability to minimize the visible signs of ageing.

A luxuriously rich textured serum containing Retinol Palmitate – Pure Vitamin E – Natural concentrated Aloe Vera + SPF. The Specialist Serum is undoubtedly the ultimate care for all skin types – no skin should be without it.

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Combining a harmony of advanced science and nature Regentiv has become one of the world’s finest skin care collections.

Your skin changes throughout the year with the passing of time and every day stresses. Offering a dedicated, bespoke and personalised service is Regentiv’s pleasure. Never the hard sell, only recommending what’s right for you.

Regentiv have developed their products with exclusive hypoallergenic formulae that are interactive and builds healthy skin step by simple step. They also do not use raw materials or ingredients derived from or tested upon animals.

“Regentiv is a beautiful range of Specialist preparations containing highly regarded, potent ingredients to deliver the best possible results for your skin.”

You can be confident that with Regentiv, you are in very caring hands.

The sheer elegance of the Hyaluronic Active creates an invisible defence against pollution, sun damage and stress by boosting the collagen content of the skin, locks in moisture, creating the optimal conditions for skin’s natural renewal. Actively plumping skin cells, reducing UV induced wrinkle formation and giving optimum hydration to help preserve a youthful, healthy and supple skin in and out of the sun. A unique combination of Hyaluronic Acid, Retinol Palmitate, Vitamin E&C and SPF 15+ helps preserve the most important characteristics of youthful healthy skin – suppleness, elasticity and tone.

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THE DETAILS

To see complete collection www.regentiv co.uk Telephone 01923 212555 Regentiv Ltd Po Box 400, Herts, WD17 3ZW

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HOUSE &

GARDEN

CLOUDBERRY LIVING PAGE 132

HOUSE & GARDEN

Window shopping

BY SAM WYLIE-HARRIS

Whether you’re blessed with good, natural daylight or lumbered with a dark space that needs brightening up, window treatments should never be overlooked. Not only will they enhance what’s often billed as the most important feature in the room, curtains, blinds and shutters can provide an ideal balance of light and privacy.

In need of a new outlook? Follow our guide for creating rooms with great views from the inside out...

CURTAIN CALL “It’s important your curtains reflect through your home interior and this can be easily achieved with simple ideas. Keeping your curtains in fresh, tonal hues, for instance, will instantly brighten your room, creating a more spacious feel, even when closed. Lightweight fabrics will allow for a softer, more gentle movement. Surprisingly, wool, with its natural crimp and spring, retains its shape well, creating a sleek look when hung. Although wool is often considered to be a winter fabric, its insulating properties mean it ventilates the home equally as well.

There is a definite trend for dual dressing - applying two co-ordinating fabrics at windows, with Roman blinds within the recess and curtains as an additional feature. It creates a very opulent look, whether this is in a modern home or period property, and is a design feature in itself.

STYLISH SHUTTERS Unusual shaped windows fitted with made-to-measure plantation shutters can create fantastic features in living spaces that enjoy the sunshine flooding in. They’re ideal for minimalist sun rooms, loft conversions or converted garages too, delivering a clean, modern and 130 NOVEMBER2015

almost European holiday home look. Shutters are a stylish alternative to curtains in bedrooms and living rooms, especially during the summer months. They are easy to fit, flexible and can help to transform a room, letting in as much or as little light as you like.

BRILLIANT BLINDS Blinds make a very effective and eye-catching alternative to curtains, as well as being practical, durable and cost-effective. They maximise the light that comes in through the day, and blackout blinds can help block out the early morning sunrise.

Perfect for each season, blinds will help brighten rooms through summer, while keeping in warmth during winter. A Roman blind is a great fuss-free option for any window style, particularly if you have a bay window with a seat that makes curtains a little tricky to hang. It’s also good to think about your chosen fabric for the back of your blinds too, making sure your window is just as good-looking from the outside as it is from within, for added curb appeal.

THE FINAL FLOURISH Choosing plain over patterned fabric gives scope to play with easily changeable hardware, as tastes or decor changes. There’s been a revival of the use of finials to give the finishing touch to a window dressing.

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HOUSE & GARDEN

WALK INTO

PURE LUXURY

O

ne walk-in wardrobe may seem like a luxury in space-efficient city homes, but London’s high-flying couples are now demanding one each... For the woman with too little space to store all her shoes, or the man in happy possession of 50 Armani suits, the advent of the walk-in wardrobe-come-dressing room is the answer to a truly first world problem.

The very best come in all shapes and sizes and can be made to suit your lifestyle.

No top-end developer would market a property without a dedicated space for clothes. It’s a trend born in America, fuelled by Carrie Bradshaw’s overflowing trophy room in Sex and the City, which has now firmly crossed the Atlantic.

When heiress Tamara Ecclestone was renovating a £47 million house in Palace Green, Kensington, she included a dressing room featuring a mechanical handbag carousel, a dedicated evening wear aisle to store party outfits, and a cabinet lined with Hermes leather for her sunglasses and jewellery.

Back in the real world, Tina Mahony, director of Go Modern (www.gomodern.co.uk), recommends budgeting between £600 and £800 a metre for an Italian-made wardrobe with doors that are either wooden, lacquered, or, best of all, folding glass. This price does not include fitting. “They are amazing because you can see the whole contents of your wardrobe at once, and they are much lighter than a normal wardrobe,” she says.

132 NOVEMBER2015

Interior designer Laura Hammett (www.laurahammett.com) says that walk-in wardrobes have become a vital element of large London houses; whether they work in smaller properties, however, is a matter of personal taste, since you may need to forsake a bedroom to create an all-singing, all-dancing number. “If you are doing up a property with resale in mind then I think it is fine to go from five to four bedrooms, but if you are at four bedrooms or less then it might not be the best way to go,” says Hammett. “If you’re creating the best home for you then it is a matter of what works best for you.”

The great benefit of going bespoke is that your wardrobe can precisely fit your lifestyle. You need to assess what you need to store and make sure you get the right balance of hanging space, drawer space and cupboards. Decide between hinged and sliding doors, mirrors can be inbuilt, and tilted shelves for shoes and boots are very practical.

At the very top end Joe Burns, managing director of interior designer/ developer Oliver Burns (www.oliverburns. com), says that his clients are now demanding not one but two dressing rooms — his and hers.

Despite this excess, Burns feels that a more pareddown approach can work well, too. “My own home is more regular, but I have one in a spare room,” he says. “It means my wardrobe is organised and it takes less time to get ready in the morning. It is definitely time-efficient and the other good point about walk-ins is that they do not take forever to fit — Mahony tells clients to allow between half a day for a small wardrobe to two days for a full-scale dressing room.

HOUSE & GARDEN

Time for tea There can be no such thing as a 17th century Caddy Spoon, that little shorthandled spoon that grandma used to keep for doling out the tea leaves into the pot; one for each cup and ‘one for the pot’.

W

hile tea was introduced to England in the early 1600’s it wasn’t until towards the end of the century when Samuel Pepys declared it was good for his wife’s “defluxions” that it became popular.

Even then it still arrived in the form of somewhat broken leaves which were sprinkled over the surface of the water in the pot. Very much in the same way that it was reputedly first discovered.

The story goes that many centuries ago in China, a holy man was boiling water in a cauldron in the shade of a tree. Some leaves fell into the water and, being an adventerous sort he drank the water and felt it did him good, rather than harm. Tea, called cha or chaw, was imported in small metal boxes of a certain weight known in China as a Kati, about one pound avoirdupois. For presentation to the English table our cabinet

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makers were not slow in making attractive caskets in fashionable shapes and our name for them was corrupted from the Chinese Kati to ‘Caddy’.

Despite it’s high cost, approximately £25 per qtr lb, over 6,500 Chinese lacquered tea table were imported in the four years either side of 1700. Obviously our furniture makers were competing in this trade and can then surmise how many extremely wealthy people there were, able to afford such luxury. The prosperous family had the first brew, next came the servants, then came the poor at the gate and finally what was not given away was used when still damp to sprinkle on the carpets to absorb the dust and clean the pile.

The most popular type of tea table we recognise today is the circular-top version on a turned centre column and tripod base.

Most are fairly plain but a variety of luxury models were made with tray tops, some with a carved base and many were made to revolve as well as tilt, in order to stand at the side of the room when not in use. The first known order for one such was in the 1720’s after which they became standard household equipment in even the more modest home.

The first person recorded as carrying the leaves of tea from the caddy to the pot was Lady Walpole who is shown in a family portrait as using the cover from the sugar bowl, some years before tea was finally decimated into small pieces in the early 1740’s, so that is how we know that if you are ioffered a 17th century caddy spoon, it’s a fake.

THE DETAILS For more information John Bly Antiques 533 Kings Road, Chelsea email john@johnbly.com www.johnbly.com

w w w. c a s t r a d s . c o m 020 3397 7295

Wa l l p a p e r b y F a r r o w & B a l l , H o r n b e a m B P 5 0 0 7

Bespoke cast iron radiators | Made in England w w w. c a s t r a d s . c o m | 3 8 H i g h S t r e e t W i m b l e d o n V i l l a g e L o n d o n S W 1 9 5 B Y

HOUSE & GARDEN

BATHROOMS DESIGNED BY RIPPLES WWW.RIPPLES.LTD.UK

5

things you need to know before planning an ensuite bathroom.

Lisa Kyme, Owner of Ripples’ London Showroom talks us through the 5 things you need to know before planning an ensuite bathroom.

1. Lighting: as the ensuite is a room that’s placed next to the bedroom, then lighting should be considered carefully, you don’t want bright lights flashing on in the middle of the night; it’s not comfortable for the person taking a trip to the bathroom, or especially for the person asleep in the attached bedroom. I would suggest that you consider having different levels of lighting, so that when someone is taking a late night trip to the bathroom, you can turn on the low level lighting, it makes for a more comfortable level of lighting. Some of the lighting could be operated by a movement sensor, meaning there is no fumbling around for a light switch.

2. Noise: when it comes to the ensuite, noise is a major element to consider before planning your bathroom. Talk to a Designer who will suggest which products will work best, I’d look at putting an aerated shower head in to a bathroom, so that rainfall is softer and noise lessened. Various products will have sound insulation systems built in.

3. Storage: personalization is a huge factor when it comes to the ensuite, generally customers take a little more time factoring in the practical uses of this bathroom, be clever with the storage and truly factor in your use and lifestyle. Mirrored cabinets will allow for you to store products, as well as charge toothbrushes and electric razors. Niche storage in the walls will also ensure that you can store bottles discreetly when in the shower.

4. Extraction: you certainly don’t want for the bathroom to become damp, especially as it’s placed so close to the bedroom, which is why extraction should be considered fully. Make the room well ventilated, you certainly don’t want steam flowing in to the bedroom, nor do you want your extraction to be too loud.

5. Space: make the most of the space you have available and think practically about exactly how you want the ensuite to look and feel. A wall hung WC and basin will maximize space and make a bathroom feel more spacious.

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THE DETAILS 26 England’s Lane, London, NW3 4TG 0207 4499 594 www.ripples.ltd.uk

Indefinable quality For expert advice and installation of all Schueco systems: 9 9 9 9

Bi-Fold Doors Sliding Doors Conservatories Winter Gardens

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Curtain-walling Structural Glazing Windows Glass Sky Lights

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FACTORY

0844 358 2227 info@bifolddoorfactory.co.uk www.bifolddoorfactory.co.uk

HOUSE & GARDEN

UR S O W D A PA R M FD PO T O LE ES CH

LE UR O D PA M ED PO B

UR O LE D B PA TA M G PO SSIN LE RE D

The metallic look is making a dazzling come back in the home for Autumn/Winter 2015, although last year’s copper tones are still about, this year there is a marked move towards the warmer and arguably more glamorous sparkle of gold. Metallics add a touch of allure, bringing warmth to any room especially during the longer nights of the colder autumn and winter seasons through elegant and shimmering detail.

T

he best thing about this metallic trend is that it is flexible enough to suit any room in your home and works well with both modern, minimalist interiors as well as retro, vintage style homes. By adding key pieces either large or small you can instantly revamp your home to create focal points or areas of interest within your chosen room scheme. Choose one or two key pieces to totally transform a room safe in the knowledge that the interior you have created is on trend for the season ahead without requiring a total room makeover. In the bedroom try a gilded French Bed such as the ‘Le Pompadour’ or ‘Bonne Nuit’ from Newtons. Exquisite, handmade and exclusive designs proving that all that glistens is indeed gold.

If a large statement piece is not for you try creating a shimmering feature with clever placement of a golden dressing table, your own little oasis of calm

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D BO RE N SS NE IN N G U TA IT BL E

Get the Midas touch

to pamper and soothe away the stresses of the day or a sultry make up station where you can enjoy a cocktail whilst preparing for that special evening out.

With Gold becoming the accent du jour the key to pulling it off is to aim for a luxe and yet lived in vibe, glamorous without being ostentatious, think less is more and you won’t go wrong. Compliment larger pieces with the odd golden trinket throughout the room scheme to carry the theme through. And when it comes to colour combinations Gold works well with so many hues we don’t know where to start but you can’t go wrong with neutrals, for the bolder amongst you try shades of grey, inky blues and dark dramatic reds.

Online retailer, Newtons, the French Bedroom Specialists, have a wonderful selection of exclusive, gorgeously glamorous French Beds and Bedroom Furniture all designed and handmade by Newtons at surprisingly affordable prices. A family business, Newtons strive for excellence, constantly tweaking and adding to their Collections which have grown and evolved over time.

Whilst always keeping a keen eye on current interior trends their designs remain true to classic French elegance with an emphasis on design and attention to detail, each piece being handmade by a master carver and finished in a variety of hues. Each craftsman has spent many years honing and perfecting their skills in time honoured fashion to be amongst some of the most accomplished in the world.

At Newtons things are done a little differently, they design all their own furniture, they make all their own furniture and they sell only their own furniture. Designer Style at surprisingly affordable prices!

THE DETAILS For more information about Newtons Furniture, 123 Queen Street, Newton Abbot, Devon,TQ12 2BN Telephone 01626 333 006 www.newtonsfurniture.co.uk

HOUSE & GARDEN

Cloudberry Living.

Life. Scandi. Style.

What’s that you ask? Named after the rare handpicked picked jewel like fruit, mainly found in Scandinavia.

The cloudberry is representative of the unique, quality treasures we have chosen for you in our online boutique.

With our passion & background in creating homes, interiors & design it was a natural progression for Steve & myself in to Cloudberry Living.

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e showcase pieces we truly love, believe in & have in our own home. Curating the best quality brands, specializing in home accessories, furniture & gifts, for you, the discerning home owner. Inspired by Scandinavia’s rich design heritage, their eye for function, form, craftsmanship & sustainability, combined in simple & timeless designs with contemporary clean lines & understated elegance. Selecting from iconic brands like, Iittala with

lasting designs such as the Aalto Vase, Oiva Toika collectable glass birds & timeless Teema tableware, the staple dinnerware of Finnish homes.

Handfolded lights by Le Klint, timeless yet modern, or the fun vibrant narrative of Marimekko, known worldwide for fashion & home accessories with a unique feel. Natural luxury materials, pure woollen blankets & organic cotton textiles from family run companies like Klippan to modern Danish designs from much loved Ferm LIVING. Contemporary handmade rugs by Linie Design and Pappelina, furniture from &Tradition & Normann Copenhagen & designer Scandinavian wallpapers to name a few.

Home & personal accessories, it’s all here! Eye catching umbrella’s, toasty hot water bottles from Finland or handmade natural felt slippers from world famous Glerups, to luxury baby alpaca wool scarves, you will find that timeless piece for your home or a gift as unique as your friends family & little ones.

Alongside these iconic design houses, we also select the newest talent & products from up & coming Scandinavian designers, as well as sourcing other brands from around the globe, each fitting the ethos & style we associate with timeless Scandinavian design.

We are constantly adding new brands & expanding and will soon be launching our blog, sharing creative ideas, recipes, culture & background stories of our brands to help enhance your buying knowledge & experience.

Cloudberry Living is about quality, craftsmanship & functionality, pieces which last a lifetime, from brands with a conscience. We endeavour to bring you a great buying experience with personal customer service all the way.

We believe you can enrich your life, with beautiful functional objects for everyday modern living & hope you are inspired by our selection,helping you to make choices you will love & treasure, creating your narrative to express your own unique personality, in your home. The choices you make today, create your ambient home of tomorrow, a place where you make those precious moments & memories living each day. Home is where the heart is, so please share your choices from Cloudberry Living & share your story with us, on our blog & social media. From myself & all the team at Cloudberry Living, we look forward to sharing your style story soon.

THE DETAILS For more information visit the website at www.cloudberryliving.co.uk or call 0330 123 3301

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bespoke STAIRS & BALUSTRADES

| By Canal Engineering Limited Tel: +44 (0)115 986 6321 www.canal.gb.com

Clerkenwell Architectural Showroom 11-12 Great Sutton St. London. EC1V 0BX Ecobuild | Clerkenwell DW | 100% Design

British engineered stairs, balustrade and handrail for residential and commercial environments. Visit our London Showroom located in the heart of Clerkenwell.

HOUSE & GARDEN

Make sure your home is protected when you are on your winter holiday

Winter conjures up images of cosy warm pubs with log fires, crisp bright days in London parks and even the distant promise of a snowy white Christmas. For many it’s also a time for planning a winter getaway either to sunnier climes or chillier winter retreats to enjoy a spot of skiing.

H

owever, winter also brings its own set of potential issues that can affect your home and many of these don’t cross people’s minds, until it’s too late. From weather damage caused by storms and floods, to burst pipes, and the darker days which can also increase the risk of burglaries.

If something happens to your home it’s imperative to sort it out as quickly as possible, especially with problems like burst pipes which can cause a lot of damage or fences that have blown down in the wind leaving your home more vulnerable.

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For those planning a winter holiday having someone in situ looking after your home, garden and pets whilst you are away can give you comfort and peace of mind. If something should go wrong they can deal with things straight away.

Homesitters Ltd has been offering such a service to homeowners in London and across the UK for the past 35 years and we’ve seen a steady increase in the numbers of people choosing to leave their homes and pets in the hands of a Homesitter when they are on holiday.

A Homesitter will ensure your pets have the same routine as usual so they don’t fret too much when you are away and they make sure your home is secure. Having a light come on at the same time each day to convince a potential burglar you are home is not the same as someone living there.

Equally if you do get a burst pipe, you can be confident that a responsible person on hand to deal with it.

We encourage our clients to have an introductory meeting with the Homesitter before the assignment to brief them on how the home runs, including where the stop cock is for switching off the water, and to give them emergency heating or boiler policy numbers. They can also introduce them to their pets and discuss their routines and how much food, exercise and grooming is needed.

Homesitters employs over 1,000 Homesitters, many of whom have been with the company for many years. They are experienced, reliable and trustworthy and during their assignments they will have dealt with all sorts of issues, so very little fazes them.

THE DETAILS For more information about Homesitters visit www.homesitters.co.uk or call us on 020 7084 6320

content

I stay while you’re away

HOMESITTERS 143 NICOLA

Whilst you’re away, who will pamper your pets, secure your home, baffle the burglars and reduce your insurance premium? Homesitters will. We have over 35 years experience, endorsed by all leading insurance companies. Contact us for more information, and importantly, peace of mind. www.homesitters.co.uk

Book online: www.homesitters.co.uk For a free brochure, or to book by phone call: 01296 630 730 Email: admin@homesitters.co.uk

HOUSE & GARDEN

Willow & Hall’s

Rather Remarkable New showroom

Willow & Hall design and sell inspirational living & bedroom furniture, lovingly handmade in Britain using the finest materials, for exceptional value.

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illow & Hall understand the importance for some customers to have the opportunity to try before they buy. Therefore, whilst their focus will continue to be as an online retailer, their new showroom expands their offering to those customers. Willow & Hall design and sell inspirational living and bedroom furniture, lovingly handmade in Britain using the finest materials, for exceptional value.

All designs come with a large selection of fabrics and leathers and a choice of seat fillings. Sofa Beds include three mattress options, all with a depth of 14cm, meaning they’re perfect for occasional or everyday use.

Their much-anticipated, rather remarkable showroom is now open and is situated in a unique period Victorian property in London’s chic and prestigious Chiswick. This intriguing space, situated over two floors and full of sunlight, offers the opportunity for customers to immerse in the wonders of their high-quality, handmade British furniture.

Upon entering, Willow & Hall guarantee that this immersive shopping experience is like no other... one where the many facets of handcraftsmanship are brought to life in a fun and engaging, yet informative way. The whole family can indulge in their sumptuous designs, experience an array of customisable options and handpick a perfect fabric or leather in a curious haberdashery room.

Simply put, this showroom is somewhere a smile is created and at every turn there is something unexpected. The friendly showroom team will provide a cuppa or a refreshing drink so you can feel at home right away, and talk you through their designs or leave you to comfort test their selection.

Customers can purchase via their website willowandhall.co.uk or over the phone, or at the showroom. From swatches to delivery, Willow & Hall guarantee that their friendly customer services team will be able to assist at all stages of purchase. Customers also benefit from free delivery in around four weeks to the UK Mainland and a no quibble 14-day free returns policy included on all purchases, whatever the customisation.

To find out more about visiting the showroom, simply visit willowandhall.co.uk/contact-us. Alternatively, for further information, contact the friendly customer services team by phoning 0845 468 0577.

THE DETAILS Visit www.willowandhall.co.uk or call 0845 468 0577 Orchard Place, 1A Thornton Avenue, Chiswick, London, W4 1PL Mon,Tues,Thurs 10:00-19:00;Wed 10:00-20.00; Fri, Sat 10:00-18:00; Sun 10:00-17:00 By tube:Turnham Green, 5 min walk; Stamford Brook, 10 min walk; Chiswick Park, 15 min walk By train: Gunnersbury, 20 min walk By car: On-street pay meter parking is also available close to the showroom.

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Incredible natural fibre bedding, for naturally incredible sleep.

Here at Penrose Products, it’s our aim to become Europe’s leading producer of all natural fibre bedding. And, thanks to our outstanding range of products and dedicated people, we believe that we’re well on our way to achieving that goal.

Our UK suppliers provide us with some of the best quality fibre in the world, or as we call them ‘Penrose Preferred People’. All the fibre in our products originates from the paddocks and dales of the UK and are products are then constructed using traditional skills and techniques that ensure the highest of finished product quality.

To discuss how we can help you with your individual requirement or if you simple wish to order one of our standard products please do not hesitate to contact us by phone or email below:

info@penroseproducts.com

08451 257 222 www.penroseproducts.com

The natural way to sleep

HOUSE & GARDEN

6

tips to choosing and caring for window blinds from blinds2go

T

he window is often the last element to be considered when decorating a room, but it can actually make a big difference to a room’s overall style. Blinds have continued to be a popular alternative to curtains, providing a fashionable and versatile option, maximising living space and allowing homeowners to control the degree of sunlight, shade, heat reflection and privacy in a room.

There are many types of blinds to choose from including Rollers, Romans, vertical blinds, venetians in both wood and metal and pleated blinds including those used in conservatories to control the heat. The versatility and range available makes window blinds an informed choice for any room in the house.

The key to buying the right blind is to identify your specific requirements.

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HERE ARE SIX TIPS TO SELECTING, MEASURING AND CARING FOR WINDOW BLINDS: 1. Is the blind for a bedroom where you require a dark room? For bedrooms look at roller or roman blinds which are available in room 5.

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darkening fabrics and linings, which have no holes or slats in the blind to let in the light.

Are you choosing for a humid room, such as a kitchen or bathroom?

Avoid natural materials such as linen, silk and wood which can rot, twist or fade in humid conditions, instead opt for an aluminium Venetian blinds which don’t rust, faux wood blinds or fabric blinds made from manmade materials such as PVC and polyester.

Is your room overlooked or lets in a lot of bright light? Venetian and vertical blinds are excellent at directing away bright sunlight yet allowing light into the room.

How do I measure my own blind? Decide whether you want your blinds to fit inside or outside the window recess. For outside recess measuring the width and drop of the area over the window you want to cover and provide these exact measurements. For a blind to fit inside the recess take three measurements across the width in millimetres (top, middle and bottom) and three measurements for the drop (left, middle and right) and use the smallest measurement taken for both width and drop.

Always use a metal tape measure! when taking measurements as fabric tapes can stretch and be inaccurate and always take your measurements in millimetres and not inches or centimetres as there is nothing worse than ordering a blind that then does not fit your window!

Keep your blinds clean and free from dust by vacuuming them regularly with a brush attachment on low suction brushing across the slats for venetian and pleated blinds and down the fabric or slats for vertical and roller blinds. You can also spot clean any stubborn stains by blotting with a mild detergent solution or alcohol free wipe but never spray cleaner directly onto the fabric.

THE DETAILS For further information hints and tips and a stunning range of beautiful, affordable window blinds visit www.blinds-2go.co.uk 0800 862 0464

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HOUSE & GARDEN

Blank Canvas A blank canvas isn’t always the treat you anticipate it will be. Suddenly the choices are infinite and this can be very daunting.Where to start?

WORD BY SUSAN BOTTOMLEY

O

ur goal when taking on a project is, once finished, to leave the house perfectly reflecting its owner’s taste. For me the beginning is sub-conscious. There are a myriad of factors that come into play. Obviously chatting with the clients, understanding their plans and the direction they want to take. The style of the house, architecture, architectural details, focal points in the rooms, the size of the rooms, the height, the shape of the windows, the orientation of the rooms, their use, formal, informal, the way the owners want to live in the house, the natural light, any existing art work or loved furniture that needs to be accommodated. The list goes on.

So what’s important to consider?

The look. What do you want to create? Smart, smart comfortable or relaxed? Plain, patterned, small colour palette, large colour palette?

The bone structure of the room.

Would the room benefit from changing its proportions, heightening doors, lowering window sills, adding or taking away a fireplace, cornice or dado, extending.

The view from the room.

Internal and external vistas.

The window is probably the biggest picture in your room so include it in your scheme.

Lighting, natural and artificial is very important when creating the atmosphere you want, so think about the layout /use of the rooms before embarking on the lighting design.

First impressions - Lasting impressions High initial visual impact or a 148 NOVEMBER2015

more subtle approach that takes time for people to settle into, notice and appreciate. The Hotel/Showhouse look has been in fashion for many years now in private homes. Usually a more limited colour palette, plain with accents, lacquer or dark wood, shiny and new. A few carefully chosen decorative pieces will add areas of interest bringing the room alive, but leaving areas of calm for the eye to rest. This isn’t always conducive to a busy family home where signs of life will not stay hidden. For me a room that unfolds gradually is much more interesting. A room that takes time to get to know. A room that reflects it’s inhabitants.

Colour colours our moods.

Colour and pattern are coming back into interior design as the taupe era finally passes. Colour is incredibly personal and immensely important to most of us.

Patterns and Plains The more beautifully proportioned the architecture, the simpler the colour palette can be. If the architecture is pure and what the room is about, then plain fine fabrics will sit comfortably taking second place on first impressions, but subtly enriching and winning your attention on closer acquaintance. Patterns bring interest and can be used to great effect.

I love to play with scale. A large pattern on a small piece can be a show stopper, but you have to get it right. Scale, colour and pattern mixing is difficult to achieve.

Interior design is all about the detail. All the big design decisions of course, but also the little details like the depth of a valance or the thickness of a piping cord, depth of a seat cushion or the size of a lampshade or scatter cushion. All these things have to be right for a room to be balanced, inviting and comfortable.

Trying to give a room an eclectic mix while keeping it harmonious can be challenging, but if done well is a recipe that is timeless, very pleasing, relaxing and easy to live with. Every decision individually right with no clear winners. Harmony and tranquility. Home.

THE DETAILS For info please go to www.janebottomleyinteriors.co.uk

NORDIC WOOD fully insulated timber frame garden buildings

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HOUSE h ous & e &GARDEN & GARDEN ga r d e n HOUSE

Boho Flower

Lilium Curtains

salon collection

salon collection

MAKING YOUR HOME

F

SPECIAL

abric World is a family business that has been established for nearly 40 years. Specialists in curtain fabric, interior design, making up and fitting, they have two fabric shops in Epsom and Croydon, Surrey. Stocking over 4000 designer fabrics for curtains, blind, soft furnishings and upholstery where their experienced staff will discuss your requirements and advise you on measurements, fabrics, fittings and accessories.

Their expert interior designers offer an excellent personal service covering Surrey and London. Designers visit your home with a huge range of designer fabric samples and discuss with you curtains, blinds and your tailor made interior design scheme. Also offering a complete fitting service so that your curtains and blinds are fitted to a professional standard.

The Epsom fabric shop has curtain making workrooms where a professional and expert team of curtain makers create all styles of curtains and blinds. They have collectively worked for Fabric World for nearly a century.

measuring up, estimating fabric, choosing fabrics, trimmings, blinds, poles and tracks. They also make the curtains and blinds in their workroom at the Epsom shop and provide a professional fitting service. An interior design consultation only costs £50 and if your total order is worth £500 or more the cost is refunded. The Designer works on the curtain and soft furnishing interior design aspects, and also work in partnership with other Designers and Architects who take on complete house renovations and need to outsource to companies such as Fabric World for soft furnishings.

With a wealth of experience they have helped and advised thousands of customers who come back repeatedly!

InterIor DesIgn

To make your home really special, a complete home consultation interior design service is offered in Surrey and London. Using mobile design vans, interior Designers will visit your home bringing with them over 1500 samples of designer fabrics, 500 samples of wallpaper, paint charts and blind and curtain books so you can touch and feel samples to help you achieve the look that you have always wanted. They share and advise on exclusive curtain, interior design and soft furnishing ideas and listen to your ideas to create your own unique style. Sourcing fabrics from all corners of the world, including their own suppliers in China and India, and specialising in custom-made furnishings for people who want something different, special or simply unique ‘ The library of books and samples are enormous ,and if you can’t find what you are looking for, it probably doesn’t exist!’

The interior design service covers everything, including 5 0NN EM E R22001155 51 2 OO VV EM BB ER

Boho Flowers

THE DETAILS 15 West Street, Epsom, Surrey KT18 7RL Opposite Station Approach (parking for 20 cars) 01372 723640 ••••• 6-10 Brighton Road, Croydon CR2 6AA 020 8688 6282 ••••• www.fabricworldlondon.co.uk

BS&C A5 LANDSCAPE ADVERT_V5_London_MAY2015.pdf

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Specialist Manufacturers of SPIRAL & STRAIGHT STAIRCASES BALCONIES GATES & RAILINGS Crafted by Hand; Designed for You

CAST IRON BALUSTRADE

www.britishsc.co.uk

British Spirals & Castings Crafted by Hand, Designed for You 305 Archway Road, Highgate, London, N6 5AA T 0208 3415975 E sales@britishsc.co.uk

Our rather remarkable showroom in Chiswick, London is now open!

W&H Over 35 years of quality British craftsmanship

Sofa Beds | Sofas | Beds

Extensive fabric and customisation options

Luxury 14cm deep mattresses on all our sofa beds

Exceptional value compared to the high street

Call us on 0845 468 0577 or visit willowandhall.co.uk/life for showroom information or to request free samples or a catalogue

KITCHEN

GUIDE

TILES WITH STYLE PAGE 162

HOME RENOVATION GUIDE KITCHEN GUIDE

The laTesT in German TechnOlOGy from moneyhill interiors

by Celia WarbriCk

O

ctober is always an exciting time in the kitchen calendar - all the major German kitchen manufacturers open their Factories and showcase their latest designs inhouse in various different locations. Whilst all the manufacturers are dependent on various manufacturing factors such as new veneers,and carcase materials, they are also desperate for the latest in technology for such boring components as hinges and soft close mechanisms that we just take for granted now.

I simply love the new designs from Pronorm, combining the lacquers and laminates in subtle colours ( that you never grown tired of ) with stunning oak and white glass units. The use of pocket doors whilst not a new invention have become very sophisticated and glide with ease and the new interiors from Pronorm show just how easy it is to be totally organised in the kitchen. The versaltity of designing with a German range is also reflected in the price. It is possible to achieve the same design look and indeed colour using a door finished in a coloured laminate for a fraction of the price when using a high gloss lacquer. Concrete laminate doors for example are also proving that you can have texture and colour without blowing the budget.

Although the kitchen has always been at the centre of family life, it has now also become the dining room, study and TV area all into one. The fact that all the food storage, prepping and cooking also takes place means that design needs to be simply tailored to individual needs. A couple with no children or animals have very different needs to a family with children. Its really lovely that so much can be stored away such as coffee machines, toasters and blenders,

leaving clutter free worktops. It is also possible to hide away Ovens, Steam Ovens and Microwaves with specially designed cupboards that bleep if machines are left on and the doors closed.

THE DETAILS For a fabulous design individually tailed to your specific requirements please call for an appointment or visit the Showroom at Moneyhill Parade.

••••• Moneyhill Interiors Ltd.,, 1 Moneyhill Parade, Uxbridge Road, Rickmansworth, Herts. WD3 7BQ ••••• 01923 773906 www.moneyhillinteriors.com celia@moneyhillinteriors.com

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KITCHEN GUIDE

Join the

Country Club Fancy a farmhouse kitchen with a modern twist? The country-style look is bang on trend for kitchens this year so no matter where you live or what style your home is, you can create the ideal country kitchen.

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f you’re planning a whole kitchen revamp, or simply would like to introduce some personality to your space, check out these smart kitchen design ideas...

For the archetypal country kitchen look, choose generously proportioned pieces made in solid timbers with distressed and painted finishes. Freestanding items, such as butcher’s blocks and wall-hung plate racks, are also key ingredients. If you’re lucky enough to have any original features in your kitchen make the most of them by turning them into a focal point.

Modern country kitchens are relaxed and informal: the heart of the home. While fitted furniture uses every inch of space in a kitchen brilliantly, it does have the tendency to look a bit too sleek and uniform. Always choose kitchen cupboards made from wood and pay a little extra for classicstyle fittings like cup handles and simple doorknobs for a more authentic look.

Shaker kitchens are distinctive thanks to the ‘picture frame’-style design on cabinet doors, this type of kitchen is characteristically country. From beech wood for a light look, to walnut for a darker feel, wood kitchens are a great way to achieve a country look. Solid wood kitchens are expensive but definitely worth the investment for that authenticity.

A Kitchen island can be a great way to maximise on the space in your kitchen as it can not only house storage, appliances and fittings, but create a real luxurious feel.

A range cooker will provide the wow factor for the ultimate country kitchen. A Belfast sink is a must, you don’t want a modern stainless steel sink that will ruin the overall effect. A stylish Welsh dresser would make an attractive addition to house your country style crockery.

Kitchen flooring like real stone tiles, terracotta, travertine or slate will provide the country feel under your feet, with authentic wall tiles completing the style.

Pastel colours work brilliantly in country style kitchens. As with duck egg blue, mint green rings a change from cream and white, but does not overpower the interior scheme.

You don’t need to steer clear of overtly modern touches - a country kitchen can have all the mod cons and be evenly balanced by other features.

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THE SMALLBONE

AUTUMN PROMOTION

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KITCHEN GUIDE

Tiles with Style

Selecting the right wall tiles for your kitchen can be a real challenge.

T

he range of colours, designs, shapes and textures is simply vast.

Get professional advice and guidance from a tiling specialist so you can purchase with total confidence the tiles that will add real style and value to your home.

Here are a few hints and tips to think about when deciding on the tile that is right for you‌.

So begin by looking at three aspects - colour, design/shape and texture.

Look for wall tiles that complement these features. Clashes of colour design or texture can make the room look far too busy and can even strain the eyesight, especially if you choose brightly-coloured and different patterns and shapes. A simple working principle is this: if you have busily-patterned flooring, go for plainer wall tiles.

When choosing a colour for your wall tiles, there used to be a principle that small rooms should have lighter colours, while larger rooms can cope with darker colours. Generally speaking, darker colours do absorb light. So, used to excess, darker colours can have the effect of appearing to reduce the size of the room.

However there are some exceptionally attractive darker-coloured tiles available these days and, by mixing these darker shades with light colours, you can overcome this issue while at the same time adding some real eye-catching elegance and charm to your kitchen. On the other hand, if you want simplicity combined with brightness, then the lighter shades will reflect more light giving an appearance of space, especially in smaller kitchens.

Patterned tiles, those with individual patterns on their faces, can sometimes be arranged so as to create a larger design and this can be especially effective in a larger kitchen. However, you can also create your own colour designs by carefully selecting differently-coloured tiles, perhaps to complement the colours of your existing flooring.

Another option that can look dazzlingly attractive is to use a patterned or a differently-coloured plain tile to create a border or edge to walls that are predominantly tiled in a plain colour. The choice of shapes now available is amazing, ranging from the classic square shape through mosaic, rectangular and random shapes. But again, take care to avoid clashes with any shapes on your existing flooring in the room.

The range of finishes now available for tile faces is quite remarkable. From smooth and glossy polished marble, through the soft feel of limestone to the rougher texture of other types of real stone, the choice again is yours.

But a note of caution: some tiles, like limestone, may be less water- or stainresistant: please check before making your final decision.

So, whether you are seeking to create a kitchen in a modern, minimalist style or a traditional, elegant style, think about the size of the room itself, your style requirements, and how your choice of wall tiles should complement your existing flooring and vice-versa.

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19 High Street, Wimbledon Village, SW19 5EG +44 (0)20 8946 3539 info@konigkitchens.com www.konigkitchens.com

KITCHEN GUIDE

SAMOA GRANITE SINK WITH COVERS

VISION 40 BY ALVEUS UK

Everything

C

but the kitchen sink

hoosing a stylish sink is just as crucial as the rest of your kitchen. Even if you and your dishwasher are joined at the hip, you’ll still rely on your kitchen sink for soaking your largest baking trays, washing out your most delicate glassware and rinsing your fruit and veg, Although quality sinks can last 15 years or more, they do wear out. Finishes start to dull or chip, and annoying leaks appear mysteriously around the rim and drain. And if you’re planning a kitchen remodel, it makes sense to replace your sink and taps.

CONSIDER THESE FACTORS BEFORE BUYING: 1. Size matters: Most people favour a one-and-a-half or two-bowl setup with a drainer, which lets you wash up and prep food simultaneously.

2. Materials: Make sure you consider the materials before buying...

Ceramic is enjoying a renaissance, being a materials with wow factor, but remember it can stain and scratch, so consider buying a sink mat for protection.

Synthetic sinks are a better choice as they are more durable, reasonably inexpensive and come in a range of colours.

VILLEROY & BOCH

166 NOVEMBER2015

S tone composites are even more hardwearing, and super-hygienic as they are non-porous. They also give you more choice in terms of colour and texture.

Stainless-steel sinks score the most brownie points for practicality, easy maintenance and affordability, but modern designs can look out of place in a traditional setting.

3. Inset or undermounted? As the name suggests, undermounted sinks are fixed to the bottom of the worktop, freeing up more workspace, and giving you a sleek look (but no drainer). They’re a no-no for laminate surfaces, as you won’t be able to seal the edges of the cutout. Inset or drop-in sinks are the easiest to fit, particularly if you have a wood surface - granites, slates and composites will need to be templated for the sink cut-out.

The plumbing for a new sink is fairly straightforward there’s not a lot of choice involved. But how and where the sink is attached to the countertop is a decision you’ll need to make before you order your new basin.

You will be living with your new sink for a long time, so choose carefully. A well-made sink will last as long as you need it and maintain its good looks as well.

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FLOORING

GUIDE

TED TODD HARDWOOD FLOORS PAGE 178

FLOORING GUIDE

ABBOTT’S FLOORING

Stylish Designs and Dedication

“I

have been using Abbotts for nearly 40 years, The first thing that hits me every time I visit, is that they are always updating their showroom to not only reflect their amazing range of flooring, carpeting, shutters and blinds, but also to illustrate the latest designs and trends on the market.

The staff are incredibly experienced, knowledgeable and friendly, and most importantly - available to advise and guide me as to the most suitable range for my property.

With Abbott’s being a traditional family business, you get that personal service and the same fitting team each time.

This makes it all the more a pleasant experience.

The addition of a blind, shutter and curtain department is a master stroke. It is run by another of the Abbott team so the family connection continues.

Abbott’s is definitely worth a visit; allow at least 2 hours if not 3 as you enter a world of stylish flooring and carpet displays and the most impressive blind and shutter department I have seen. This is upstairs where you get the Amtico, Karndean engineered wood, laminate display areas, and the high quality and desirable materials for your curtains; it will take your breath away.

172 NOVEMBER2015

Recently, we decided to go retro and lo and behold Abbotts came to the rescue! There were some stunning William Morris designs to choose from, but wanting to go for a quirky retro feel; Tom in the showroom was able to present their range of superb fifties and sixties designs.

They really can cater for all your tastes whether traditional or modern. We chose a modern take on an old theme by using an Alternative Flooring Quirky design that looked amazing, it could not have worked out better.

“For high-quality and a dedicated and experienced team that go that extra mile for you to achieve your dream interior, definitely head to Abbott’s.”

MRS A MASON-PHILLIPS. A LOYAL AND VALUED CUSTOMER FOR 40 YEARS.

THE DETAILS For more information about Abbott’s 470-480 Roman Road, London E3 5LU Telephone 020 8980 4158 Email info@abbottsflooring.co.uk Or visit www.abbottsflooring.co.uk

FLOORING GUIDE

Ted Todd Hardwood Floors

Our DNA is simple T

Design, Manufacture andTransform

ed Todd has been making quality hardwood floors for over two decades. We started off reclaiming floors from Victorian mills and along the way have learnt about sourcing, crafting and supplying beautiful hardwood floors that last.

Our wood floors are simply transformational; they look exceptional and stand the test of time. The reason for our success is simple - great design, superb craftsmanship and the finest woods, responsibly sourced.

Even if you’re not familiar with our name, you’ve probably walked on our floors. From 5 star hotels, to prestigious luxury and multi-unit residential schemes, as well as award winning public spaces, we inspire leading designers worldwide to deliver exceptional projects.

Many of our customers are homeowners looking for hardwood floors for their homes. Choosing the right hardwood floor can initially seem like a daunting task. To ensure that you get the expert help and advice needed, we work with a network of carefully selected retail partners around London, covering everything from choosing to fitting and maintaining your hardwood floor.

There are over 500 products across all our collections, giving an unrivalled choice of colours, finishes, textures, shapes and sizes. Our

174 NOVEMBER2015

wood floors are impeccably made right here in our UK workshops with many of our techniques and finishes unique to Ted Todd. We supply both solid and engineered floors as well as offering a bespoke service to ensure that you find the perfect floor for your space.

Our love of wood from the past is matched only by our concern for the forests of the future. Ted Todd are dedicated to only use wood that is sourced from responsibly managed forests and we take great pride in being Europe’s No. 1 for FSC certified hardwood flooring. Every species of wood that we use has been scrupulously checked, with 95% of all our floors FSC® certified.

We really believe that it is important to see a large format sample of the hardwood floors you are considering. You can either visit the Ted Todd Design Centre in Mayfair or find your nearest retail partner on our website.

THE DETAILS For more information about Ted Todd Hardwood Floors and to find your nearest retail partner visit the website tedtodd.co.uk Or visit the Ted Todd Design Centre 4 Farm Street, Mayfair W1J 5RD Telephone 0207 7306957

All over London you’ll find our hardwood floors

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Over 500 to choose from www.tedtodd.co.uk

First for choice, first for quality.

For more information about Ted Todd Hardwood Floors or to find your nearest Retail Partner go to www.tedtodd.co.uk See large format samples at our Central London Design Centre 4 Farm Street, Mayfair, London, W1J 5RD (2 minutes from Green Park tube) Call us on: 020 7730 6957

HOUSE & GARDEN

Beautiful Floors for

Beautiful Homes L

ondon’s favourite supply and fit flooring specialist, Robert Clements, has launched a series of new collections in the build-up to a hectic Christmas period. A respected name with decades of industry experience behind it, Robert Clements has had a profound effect on London homes for years, and this is set to continue with 2016 just around the corner.

Robert Clements prides itself on taking the hassle out of your flooring purchase, delivering one of the most rounded services available while breathing life into properties across the capital. Whether a lustrous wool carpet or textured oak board is your option of choice, Robert Clements is on hand to measure, specify and install your latest underfoot pride and joy.

If a statement floor is required to grace your living spaces for many Christmases to come, then waste no time in getting in touch with the friendly RC team. A service covering simple wall-to-wall fittings to the trickiest of stairway projects, you can rest assured a Robert Clements floor will add beauty and value to any home or project, with the unique bonus of totally free measuring and quotations.

The company’s fitters boast unrivalled experience and help set the benchmark for bespoke service in flooring, however this is not to ignore the magnificent products in themselves. As we head rapidly towards 2016, the brand has continued to innovate with new eyecatching ranges added to its entire portfolio, namely in carpet.

From the two-tone loop pile stripe of Hurlingham to the traditional grey and beige designs of Newlands or Clifton, homeowners need look no further for the ultimate in style versatility, suited to all members of the family including allergy sufferers. True to form, these are the most beautiful of floors, for the most beautiful of homes.

THE DETAILS For further information about Robert Clements and its underfoot inspiration, telephone 020 8556 6595 or email info@robertclements.co.uk www.robertclements.co.uk

176 NOVEMBER2015

01509 234000 - www.floorsofstone.com Cotes Mill, Nottingham Road, Loughborough, LE12 5TL

TREEHOUSE HARDWOOD FLOORING

QUALITY ENVIRONMENT FOR QUALITY OF LIFE Specialists in high quality solid and sustainable hardwood flooring We carry a huge range of woods from around the world, displayed at our Notting Hill showroom in large sample boards to assist clients, designers and architects, in planning interiors.

Board and strip flooring wood block and decking, bespoke floor production.

Other services, special project installation, wall panelling, staircases, doors, worktops, cabinetry, natural stone & many other interior related products.

Exceptional value, experienced craftsmen, quality installation.

Showroom : 116 Talbot Rd, Notting Hill, London, W11 1JR E-mail sales@treehouseflooring.co.uk Tel: 020 7460 0376 www.treehouseflooring.co.uk

New White Mist & Antique Grey Flooring W

AN TI Q UE

The Natural Wood Floor Company’s

GR EY

FLOORING GUIDE

ith its beautiful open grain patterns and hard wearing nature, oak is the most popular species when it comes to flooring. If you want to go for a current look, think soft white washes and subtle grey tones. These are of the moment, but are also classic choices, which won’t date.

The Natural Wood Floor Company’s two new pale wooden floors, White Mist and Antique Grey, hit the mark and have already proved to be bestsellers. Both of these floors give a fresh take on the trend for white and grey hues, mixing these staple colours with the natural beauty of oak and all that it has to offer.

White Mist is a relaxed, easy-to-live-with floor with warm, pearly white and pink undertones, combined with interesting light grey grain patterns. Priced from £56.40 per sq m (including VAT).

Antique Grey is a darker floor featuring smoky ash tones with a warm mid-brown base colour. Additional mellowed oak tones enrich the wood, giving the impression that they have gradually worn into the wood, slowly, over time. With a tactile feel, this floor has plenty of depth and tonal variation for a super stylish look. Priced from £57.00 per sq m (including VAT).

Large display boards of all The Natural Wood Floor Company’s products can be found at their Wandsworth showroom. Wood flooring experts are also on hand to discuss your personal requirements, so you can find your perfect floor. With most products in stock, deliveries can be made the next working day or are available for immediate collection.

All of The Natural Wood Floor Company’s products are manufactured from sustainable timber, so are kind to the environment.

THE DETAILS

TE HI W IST M

1 1 7882 N NO OV V EE M MB B E R 22 00 11 55

For more information about The Natural Wood Floor Company 20 Smugglers Way, Wandsworth, London, SW18 1EG Telephone 020 8871 9771 www.naturalwoodfloor.co.uk

Manufacture rs of Engineere d, Solid, Pre-finished and Parquet floori ng all from sustainable ti mber

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020 8871 9771 www.naturalwoodf loor.co.uk e Natural Wood Floor Company, 20 Smugglers Way, Wandsworth London SW18 1EG • FrEE parkiNG • MoSt produCtS iN StoCk

FLOORING GUIDE

Feel the Luxury beneath your feet E

Rugs Direct specialises in providing the best quality oriental handmade traditional rugs. They have a vast range of both traditional and modern rugs in a selection of different styles, colours, sizes and designs to suit your needs.

When it comes to rugs, E Rugs Direct are the experts.

They pride themselves on providing an honest, trustworthy and approachable service throughout every aspect of their business.With a large range of different styles, you are sure to find the perfect rug for you. All of their prices are competitive and fair and this coupled with their hard work and dedication to the client is what has helped them rise to becoming the market leader in which they are today. They also offer a range of others services like oriental rugs valuation, rugs cleaning, rugs repair and rug restoration services.

E Rug Directs commitment with their customers is to provide the right rugs with the right prices and quality. Oriental Rugs Direct offers high quality range rugs to our clients from modern to funky designs, best known nomadic groups and leading producers of hand made rugs from all over the world.

As one of the many services they offer, eRugs Direct can provide you a full and concise valuation service from one of our team of experts who between them proudly bode several decades of experience in the rug trade around the globe. Not only do they assess the current market value and replacement value of your rug but also a recommended valuation for insurance purposes. This service comes totally free of charge upon request.

This is the third generation in this business providing great services to the world. They also work with museums and art organisations in order to promote art work in rug industries.

THE DETAILS For more information about E Rugs Direct 24 Aylmer Parade, Aylmer Road, London N2 0PE Telephone 0208 341 9191 email info@erug.co.uk www.erugsdirect.com

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property FLOORING GUIDE

Desirable Homes Developed by Design

Miram House is due to launch in early 2016 and is already the talking point of Hadley Wood.

Paul Artemi’s passion, desire and attention to detail are evident in every corner of Miram House. The specification, which is far too long to list, is jaw dropping; only the best of the best make it in to Miram House.

Artemi & Gibbs have been successfully developing properties in London for over nine years. Priority is given to the design and construction of all their developments, creating the kind of home we all aspire to live in. Homes that are thoughtful in design, friendly to the environment and built by craftsmen with modern skills and traditional values. Both Paul Artemi and Stephen Gibbs work ‘hands on’ in the business and many of their skilled team have been with them for many years.

They do not sub-contract to third party construction companies and they personally manage each one of their developments from the initial design right through to the handover at completion Unlike many other developers, Artemi & Gibbs are also the builders. They do not sub-contract to third party construction companies and they personally manage each one of their developments from the initial design right through to the handover at completion. This approach ensures they are in full control of every detail of the build, for their peace of mind and yours.

A

rtemi & Gibbs were awarded Best Residential Development (Hertfordshire) for Miram House, at the 2015-2016 UK Property Awards held at the London Marriott Hotel Grosvenor Square, Mayfair on the 9th October. Nick Staton and Jenna Dooley of Statons joined Paul Artemi and Stephen Gibbs to help celebrate their success. The developers have always known their development is a cut above the rest, so it was a real honour to be awarded such an accolade to affirm what they already knew.

Miram House (Miram from the Latin word for amazing) is a development of six stunning and spacious apartments in Hadley Wood. With bespoke floor-to-ceiling doors, elegantly designed interiors and Hadley Wood’s golf course as its backdrop, these apartments are luxury personified.

0800 809809 www.artemi-gibbs.com 1 12 882 NNOOVVEEMMBBEERR 22 00 11 55

simply the best the award winning

any thing else is a compromise

ar temi-gibbs.com 0800 809 809 Computer generated i l lustrat ion is ind icat ive on ly.