Mayfair & St James Life Magazine October 2012

MAYFAIR & ST JAMES’S LIFE

MAYFAIR LIFE & ST JAMES’S T H E

Q U A L I T Y

L I F E S T Y L E

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WWW.THELIFEMAGAZINES.COM THE QUALITY LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2012

LONDON FASHION

WEEK HIGHLIGHTS

LOCAL LIFE | HISTORY | EVENTS | WALKS | BEAUTY | HOME INTEREST

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MUSWELL HILL THE AVENUE N10 2QE CALL 020 8482 3000 MILL HILL HALL LANE NW4 4TJ CALL 020 8457 3300

Welcome to our October issue...

The vibrant and internationally renowned London Fashion Week is always exciting and inspirational, and last month’s event proved to be just that.

If last year was all about one big white dress, 2012 has been a showcase of Kate Middleton’s entire wardrobe. With a demanding diary of Diamond Jubilee celebrations, Olympic spectating, state dinners and charity engagements, the Duchess of Cambridge has stepped up her role as fashion queen.

Design

Build

Calling all rugby fans! You are invited to join a host of Lion legends including Martin Bayfield, Phil Vickery and Matt Dawson at The Pink Lion, for a week of rugby fuelled entertainment as Thomas Pink unveils it’s British & Irish Lions Collection as new Official Outfitters for the iconic rugby team.

Regent Street Motor Show takes place on the world renowned shopping thoroughfare Regent Street. A revised 63 mile route has been selected with the finish line moved to Regent Street. The show is a unique platform for manufacturers to display and demonstrate their new and future ‘green’ vehicles and developments to members of the public.

The thin, delicate skin around our eyes is a tell tale sign of age! Harley Street’s Dermatologist Dr Ariel Haus has an array of Eye-Tech solutions to quash speculation and banish those blinker GET THIS bugbears…

EDITION ONLINE

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

Faye Manning Faye Manning Editor

PUBLISHED BY THE FISH MEDIA GROUP LTD, THE RIDINGS, WOODFIELD LANE, ESSENDON, HERTS , AL9 6JJ.

0844 800 8439

www.thelifemagazines.com EDITOR Faye Manning EDITOR’S ASSISTANT Katie Miller SUB EDITOR Alex Lux FASHION EDITOR Rachel Gold SENIOR BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Vanessa Lane DESIGN & PRODUCTION Toni Perry ACCOUNT MANAGERS Jacqueline Westhead, Sinead Sheil, Anita Hill SALES James Marshall DIRECTORS Rory Smith, Patrick Smith

rano build innovative homes and specialise in bringing style and perfection to all areas of the Design and Build process.

Please call to arrange a free consultation.

020 7624 7517 www.grano.tv London Offices: 79-81fairfax Road, London, NW6 4DY

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TOBERR30th OCV EMBE 2nd NO

2012

THE PINK LION A pub for the sporting gentleman, brought to you by Thomas Pink The Pink Lion’, 25 King Street, St James’, London, SW1Y 6QY

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alling all rugby fans! You are invited to join a host of Lion legends including Martin Bayfield, Phil Vickery and Matt Dawson at The Pink Lion, for a week of rugby fuelled entertainment as Thomas Pink unveils it’s British & Irish Lions Collection as new Official Outfitters for the iconic rugby team.

Thomas Pink will be turning The Golden Lion on King Street, into The Pink Lion, to celebrate the launch. The venue will be transformed into a mecca for stylish rugby fans featuring a stellar line-up of evening entertainment.

Kicking off the celebrations on 30th October, new Lions head coach Warren Gatland will make a special guest appearance as pub landlord, where he will be serving pink pints behind the bar before unveiling the new Thomas Pink Lions Collection.

Supporters are invited to take part in a unique ‘Question of Sport’ pub quiz night on 31st October, hosted by Matt Dawson and friends. Members of the public can apply to have a team at the evening via the Thomas Pink blog from 8th October. Each team will then be given a famous sports personality as a VIP ‘ringer’.

On 1st & 2nd November, you can sit back and enjoy exclusive screenings of historic matches with commentary by rugby greats. There will also be an opportunity to meet former Lions, as players gather for an intimate ‘Pink Lion Lock-

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In’ to share rugby anecdotes and dressing-room tales.

Following his success on Celebrity Masterchef, former England Rugby Captain, Phil Vickery has created a special menu to celebrate. You are invited to tuck into signature dishes inspired

by UK and Ireland such as cockle and bacon tartlets, colcannon and sausages or mini Yorkshire puddings with rare beef, horseradish & watercress. You might even catch a glimpse of the rugby legend donning his chequered apron from the kitchen!

Thomas Pink has created an exclusive menswear Collection which will be available to the public from October 8th 2012. Signature items include a velvet smoking jacket, vintage print merino wool and silk scarf as well as gold plated cufflinks, socks, ties and boxers.

A Thomas Pink tailor will be at The Pink Lion throughout the week to take customer measurements on request.

The Lions Collection by Thomas Pink will be available to purchase across all Thomas Pink stores, thomaspink.com, and select John Lewis stores and online from 8th October 2012.

For more information and to secure your place at The Pink Lion, please visit blog.thomaspink.com

emmet t l on don .c om

Shir tmakers Eldon St

Jer myn St

Kings Road

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31ST R OCTOB4ETH L UNTI BER NOVEM

2E0AR1LS2 T COUR

The eagerly awaited 2012 Ski and Snowboard Show is back with exciting new activities and an amazing free lift pass giveaway; it’s set to be the best yet!

The UK’s largest consumer winter sports show returns to Earls Court and takes place in the October half term - making it the perfect day out for all the family.

The centerpiece of the show is the Trespass Skills Slope where free ski and snowboard lessons from the renowned instructors of the Warren Smith Ski Academy will be available for kids and adults, beginners and experts alike. Thrill-seekers can learn jumps and spins under expert guidance on the have-a-go airbag kicker and everyone can get active in the ice rink and curling area. What’s more, it’s all free!

For the younger ones there’s snow tubing and soft play in the crèche, as well as the chance to meet the nation’s favourite penguin, Pingu. Santa will also be making some guest appearances to give out presents or kids can post a letter to him with parents safe in the knowledge of a guaranteed reply from his North Pole hideaway.

Adults can also enjoy a more relaxed time with boutique wine and beer appreciation sessions, après ski at the Norway Resorts Bar and films featuring some of the best freestyle skiers on show.

With a late night opening on Thursday 1st November, it’s an ideal after-work evening out.

This year the Ski and Snowboard Show is going the extra mile and rewarding everyone who 8 O C TO B E R 2 0 1 2

S K I A N D

SNOWBOARD

SHOW Celebrate the start of winter with a great snow-themed day out

books a ticket in advance with one of 10,000 free day lift passes from resorts such as Chamonix and Verbier. To claim the pass, visitors simply choose a participating resort on the ‘Extras’ page in the ticket booking process and take the printed ticket and reference number to the relevant stand at the show.

Over 60 top winter destinations, including the resorts participating in the lift pass promotion, will be represented at the show alongside respected tour operators, independent holiday companies and a variety of winter sports brands and retailers. This makes it the best place to prepare for the upcoming winter holiday season whether visitors are looking for the comfiest ski boots, the ultimate powder location or the smoothest transfer from home to the mountains.

READER OFFER

GET 25% OFF ADVANCE ADULT TICKETS *

Just quote ‘SAVER74’ when booking tickets online. *Discount valid for advance adult tickets only until 30/10/12. Limited availability.

Booking fee of £1.95 applies.’

For more information visit www.skiandsnowboard.co.uk

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9th -11th ER NOVEMB

012, 2 OLYMPIA LONDON

Good Food Show comes back to the capital!

The BBC Good Food Show will be coming back to the capital once again and we can’t wait!

The show will see some of the biggest names in TV together under one roof including James Martin, John Torode, Gregg Wallace, Paul Hollywood and Mary Berry.

We caught up with celebrity chef James Martin who said “The BBC Good Food Show is coming back to London and it’s going to be fabulous! I, for one, can’t wait to catch up with all the chefs and to have a wander round the Producers’ Village – I always discover something new for Christmas – See you there!”

BBC Good Food Show London boasts the city’s largest indoor speciality food market plus some of the nation’s favourite TV programmes brought to life!

Highlights of the show will include...

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Celebrity Chefs A NEW 600 seat super theatre, sponsored by Plenty in the West hall of London Olympia will host sessions from some of the country’s finest chefs and will bring to life some of the nation’s favourite TV programmes including Saturday Kitchen hosted by James Martin, MasterChef: The Professionals with Michel Roux Jr and Monica Galetti and The Great British

Bake Off with Paul Hollywood and Mary Berry Shopping With over 300 expected food and drink exhibitors, You can make sure to choose something indulgent for the festive season including World Champion Cheese 2010, Cornish Blue from the Cornish Cheese Company, smoked salmon from Inverawe Smokehouse and single estate

teas from Luponde Tea! The Wine Show The Wine Show is back again this year so stock up your drinks cabinet and discover something new to impress friends and family with, this Christmas.

Plus visit the Fine Wine experience to taste, try and buy some of the finest wines from around the world.

For more information and to book tickets... please visit bbcgoodfoodshow.com or call 0844 581 1361

Live TV shows

Celebrity chefs

Sample + buy

Fantastic shopping

Save 15% on tickets to London’s tastiest show Olympia London, 9-11 November 2012 London’s tastiest show is back. Shop from 100s of the UK’s finest producers, sample dishes from some of London’s top restaurants, then feed your imagination at our new Supertheatre featuring Michel Roux Jnr, MasterChef: The Professionals, Saturday Kitchen Live and The Great British Bake Off. It’s the ultimate foodie experience and with 15% off for Life Series readers, it’s more tempting than ever.

Life Series readers save 15% – quote LS15 Book before 05/11/2012 at bbcgoodfoodshow.com or call 0844 581 1366

London

Follow us on: Twitter: @bbcgoodfoodshow or at facebook.com/bbcgoodfoodshows

*£1.75 booking fee per ticket applies. 15% valid on advance adult and over 65s general admission tickets only. Not valid on VIP tickets. Offer expires 05/11/2012. Not all celebrities appear on all days, check the website for details.

BBC and BBC Good Food are trademarks of the British Broadcasting Corporation and are used under license. BBC Good Food Shows are organised and presented by BBC Haymarket Exhibitions Ltd.

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T 30TH & 31S

OCTOBER

2012

THE LUXURY PROPERTY SHOW RETURNS TO THE HURLINGHAM CLUB

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showcase of the finest properties from around the globe, The Luxury Property Show offers guests the opportunity to view and buy some of the world’s most unique and luxurious properties. Set within the stunning grounds of The Hurlingham Club, The Luxury Property Show introduces guests to some of the finest properties on the international market.

Whether you are looking for a scenic retreat in the Great British countryside, a city apartment in New York or a luxurious beachfront home in Dubai, they will be showcasing the most celebrated estates from around the world, not to mention some hidden gems, and will have experts on hand to help you find the perfect property.

Event hostess Melissa Porter will be discussing all aspects of buying, selling, renovation and relocation. Melissa is best known for her BBC lifestyle and property shows including ‘To Buy or Not to Buy’, ‘Put Your Money Where Your House Is’ and ‘Own Britain’s Best Home’. With an extensive background in travel writing and premium property development, Melissa will be returning to host The Luxury Property Show and to answer all your questions regarding the future of the luxury property market.

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The two day event will also include interactive workshops and seminars run by a number of industry experts. These sessions will offer insight and insider knowledge of the property market.

Alongside this, guests will also have the chance to meet with specialists involved in all aspects of the property industry, including currency brokers, architects and interior designers, who all share their own specific perspective on how to create the perfect home.

The Hurlingham Club is a stylish and sophisticated venue and is the ultimate backdrop to enjoy some of the world’s most exclusive properties, whilst relaxing in the magnificent drawing rooms and grounds. The event will be an ideal destination to entertain clients, socialise with friends or network with like-minded people whilst enjoying coffee or an afternoon tea.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

The Hurlingham Club, Ranelagh Gardens, Fulham, SW6 3PR (Nr. Putney Bridge Tube)

Website: Facebook: Twitter:

www.theluxurypropertyshow.com facebook.com/theluxurypropertyshow @LuxPropertyShow

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H 26TH & 27T

OCTORBSEER A BATTE

ER POW TION

Public Enemy, DJ Shadow, Grandmaster Flash and Mark Ronson vs Zane Lowe to perform

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he UK’s biggest Winter Sports Festival and Apres Ski Party is returning for the fifth year, with over 35,000 expected to enjoy world class winter sports action on the slope during the day and electric performances by Public Enemy, DJ Shadow and Mark Ronson vs Zane Lowe by night.

The UK’s only ski, snowboarding and music festival will return in all its glory with American Hip Hop pro DJ Shadow headlining the main stage on Friday night. Made legendary by his 1996 debut, Endtroducin, DJ Shadow is set to raise the temperature on Friday night.

When the sun sets on the slope on Saturday, Hip Hop

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trailblazers Public Enemy will be headlining the main stage. Public Enemy’s single Harder Than You Think is the current soundtrack to Channel Four’s acclaimed ‘Meet The Superhumans’ Paralympic campaign.

Also taking to the main stage will be a new project from two of the most respected names in the music industry. A-YO! will be energizing the crowd with their critically-acclaimed electronic music set. This formidable musical force sees internationally renowned producer Mark Ronson and the UK’s biggest tastemaker Zane Lowe come to Battersea as part of their current tour.

Hip hop legend Grandmaster Flash, whose trailblazing turntable techniques inspired a generation of DJ’s also appears on the bill.

Acts performing are below and more names will be added to the line up shortly: In addition to the music, the world’s best skiers and snowboarders will be jetting in for the international snowboarding and ski big air competitions.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION AND TICKETS VISIT

www.relentlessfreeze.com Tickets are priced at £40 for a day pass, £65 for a season pass for both days, with a child’s day ticket at £20 and a child’s season ticket at £35.

DJ Shadow Public Enemy Grandmaster Flash A-YO! (Mark Ronson v Zane Lowe) Stanton Warriors DJ E-Z Snatch The Wax Swami Barracus Riz Mc Smiler Astroid Boys Future Disco Vagabondz

CRANBROOK BASEMENTS B a s e m e n t D e s i g n C o n s t r u c t i o n a n d To t a l P r o j e c t M a n a g e m e n t

Family room 6 Guest suite 6 Media room 6 Gymnasium 6 Wet room shower 6 Kitchen 6 Swimming pool

c B Cranbrook Basements

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11TH 9THE–MBER

NOV

2012

London Golf Show RETURNS TO EARLS COURT F ollowing the most successful year ever in Britain for holding sporting events, golf moves back into the spotlight with the return of The London Golf Show to the capital.

Sport has so much to celebrate in the wake of London 2012, this year is especially significant, as golf is destined to be an Olympic Sport for the first time in Rio 2016.

Now in its 8th year, the London Golf Show is the longest running golf show in the UK, and this year’s show will see the largest indoor demo and equipment days in the UK, with more brands, more offers and more fun!

The 2012 show is designed to provide a truly interactive experience for golfers of all ages with informed technical advice, free PGA tuition and education, guest interviews, 16 Driving bays, Custom fitting, Club testing, Custom build truck, Simulators and the latest golf gadgets.

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The show will again be supported by retail partner the Internet Golf Store and all the world’s top golf brands such as TaylorMade, Callaway, Mizuno, Cleveland, Nike, Titleist, Wilson, Cobra and Yonex. This year will be the first time that ALL the brands will attend, so visitors will be able to test, try and learn about all the latest club innovations.

TaylorMade will be bringing their Tour Truck, where visitors will not only be custom-fitted for their clubs, but be able to have them built there and then

by TaylorMade’s professional staff. You can seek expert advice on the brands products that are right for you and your swing, with over 50+ PGA Professionals ready to discuss your passion.

In addition, England Golf Coach, Gary Smith will be providing his golfing advice on the main stage, and European Tour accredited putting coach Andy Gorman will be offering top putting tips, along

with many other experts from the fields of Health, Exercise, Travel and Holidays. Plus Trick shot specialists Geoff Swain (World Champion) and Kevin Carpenter will be performing for the first time in London as ‘The Trick Shot Boys’.

There will be prizes galore to be won, with free entry into “The Golf Show Lottery” for all, and EVERY visitor to the show will receive TWO free rounds of golf courtesy of the Altonwood Group**, who’s clubs include The Addington (a GB & Ireland Top 100 course), Surrey National, Woldingham, and Westerham.

The national radio station, talkSPORT, will be the show’s first ever headline sponsor, with opportunities to win prizes and equipment in the run up to the show. The event is also a day out for all the family, as there is a designated Kids Zone. One Junior (under 14’s) is admitted free when accompanied by an adult ticket holder.

even more golf

In order to celebrate its return to Earls Court, we at the London Life Magazines have got together with the team at the Golf Show Group, to bring you a unique VIP ticket offer…

ALL Life Magazine readers will qualify for FREE entry to the VIP Lounge at the show, where you can relax and take a break from the hustle and bustle of the event before heading back out to see more.

In order to quality for this bespoke offer, all you need to do is book your tickets at www. londongolfshow.com and use the following code: LL2. (You will then be contacted by email ahead of the show to arrange your place in the VIP area)* Tickets to the show are available in advance at £12 each or two for £18 (£15 on the door) *Bookings must be made by Monday 2nd November. * Terms & Conditions apply.

For more information on The London Golf Show please contact the Golf Show Group on 01732 836100 or follow us on Twitter @GolfShowGroup

loNDoN eveNTS

D e sti ne d to cr ea te the w o rl d ’s m ost b e a u ti ful ba thr ooms

Battersea

Wandsworth

Mayfair

Knightsbridge

Clerkenwell

Selfridges

Kent

East Sussex

t. 020 7720 9333

t. 020 8704 4000

t. 020 7499 1845

t. 020 7584 7002

t. 020 7324 0780

t. 0800 123 400

t. 01892 548 111

t. 01342 822 422

‘At Home Design Service’ available

see website for details

September 2012

13

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30TH TO R OCTOBE BER 4TH NOVEM

2 1 0 2 N D N AT LO O OLYMPIA

LONDON’S EXCLUSIVE

WILLOW CASHMERE

Shopping Experience

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he Spirit of Christmas Fair in association with House & Garden is London’s exclusive shopping experience, packed full with exquisite, unique gifts and treats you will rarely find on the high street. With over 650 companies carefully hand-picked for their quality and originality, firm festive favourites combine with irresistible debutante brands from the worlds of interiors, fashion, food, gifts and lifestyle, it provides the most discerning of shoppers the chance to shop, dine and socialise in style. Browse Christmas decorations to children’s products, jewellery and art, and ensure all your Christmas shopping gets done early!

The food hall is a gastronomist’s delight with carefully selected, mouth-watering fine food & wine. Experts at the Great Taste Awards Theatre are on hand to inspire and educate about Christmas tipples and other delicacies, offering the opportunity to taste and buy the country’s finest produce including full English country cheddar cheeses, smoked salmon, Christmas puddings to fine chocolates, wines and champagnes.

The ever stylish Mosimann’s dining space located in the new upper west hall provides the perfect place to unwind with friends and soak up the festive atmosphere. Enjoy the delicious menu exclusively created for the Fair and is an ideal opportunity to socialise over a glass of wine, Grand Cru champagne or even afternoon tea.

The House and Garden Workshop is one of the hugely popular features of the fair and has interactive sessions from a Louis Roederer Champagne Masterclass to a gift wrapped scented Christmas with style guru Jane Means and Jo Malone London. Create your own fabulous

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flowers with top tips from The Florist at the Dorchester and mouth watering Christmas Canapes with Leiths. Take advantage of the new late night opening until 8pm and enjoy the buzz of the workshops and learn to create the Perfect Party with leading caterers Rhubarb.

Great gifts come in all shapes and sizes - spoil family and friends with inspired ideas – be creative with a limited edition art poster from Antikbar, a stylish Debretts diary, or wrap up and relax on Christmas Day with a luxurious throw from Pure Lana. Finally, the perfect Christmas party season would not be complete without an exquisite outfit – children can sparkle in hand-made outfits from Damselfly, whilst the adults can shimmer in the latest Autumn looks from Girl in the Green Scarf.

Visitors can also expect fabulous gifts from interior specialists such as Indigo and Rose, Charcoal & Grey and Lily Matthews, or the latest must have fashion accessory from talented handbag designer Anouk and stylish accessory brand Lily Gardner.

Browse Christmas decorations to children’s products, jewellery and art, and ensure all your Christmas shopping gets done early!

Visit the Great Taste Awards Theatre to sample, compare and buy from a selection of gold award winning food and drink all designed to make festive entertaining a real feast of the senses.

Enjoy a superb day out at Spirit of Christmas Fair – the home of Christmas shopping; the perfect place to shop, dine and socialise in style.

Fair is now open for 6 days and take advantage of the new late night Thursday opening to ensure a comfortable and leisurely shopping experience after a hard days work.

JANE MEANS

EMILY READETT-BAYLEY

SNOWDONIA CHEESE

CHILDRENSWEAR BY ILOVEGORGEOUS

ITALIAN CHOCOLATES

BY BARUZZO

Life Magazine readers can get 15% OFF advance tickets, please quote Code: SD3A when booking.

To book tickets visit www.spiritofchristmasfair.co.uk or call 0871 230 1089* *Calls cost 10 pence per minute plus network extras.

Booking fee applies. Box office closes 29 October 2012.

THE HOME OF CHRISTMAS SHOPPING A hand-picked collection of unique gifts you simply won’t find on the high street

BOOK YOUR TICKETS TODAY AND RECEIVE A SPECIAL ADVANCE OFFER CALL 0871 230 1089* OR VISIT WWW.SPIRITOFCHRISTMASFAIR.CO.UK QUOTING ‘SC9Z’

SHOP

DINE

SOCIALISE

*Calls cost 10 pence per minute plus network extras. Booking fee applies. Box office closes 29 October 2012.

Presented by

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REGENT STREET

MOTOR SHOW

egent Street Motor Show takes place on the world renowned shopping thoroughfare Regent Street. A revised 63 mile route has been selected with the finish line moved to Regent Street. The show is a unique platform for manufacturers to display and demonstrate their new and future ‘green’ vehicles and developments to members of the public.

The event, which is owned by the Royal Automobile Club, and sponsored

by RAC Motoring Services, was first introduced in 2010 to showcase low energy use vehicles. It features competitors driving electric, hybrid, hydrogen and low-emission conventional petrol and diesel cars on a 63-mile route from Brighton to London. Now recognised as the world’s leading low-energy driving challenge, the event is unique in being free to the public to spectate and a real-world test of current and future vehicle technology.

The RAC Future Car Challenge is increasingly important as awareness of low energy use and low emission vehicles begins to grow rapidly.

There has been a significant growth in sales of hybrid petrol-electric, electric-only and range-extended cars. A spokesman for the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) said: “Every car manufacturer is going to have a hybrid model on its lists by the end of this year, even Ferrari.”

Electric car charging experts British Gas return this year as the official 2 0 O C TO B E R 2 0 1 2

energy and electric vehicle charging partner, helping those taking part in the Future Car Challenge to charge their cars easily, quickly and safely.

The RAC Future Car Challenge is one of three flagship events owned by the Royal Automobile Club taking place on the weekend of 3rd & 4th November 2012. The other two are the London to Brighton Veteran Car Run, the world’s longest running motoring event, and the Regent Street Motor Show. Together they make for the largest free-to-spectate annual motoring spectacular in the UK, if not the world.

For more information visit www.regentstreetmotorshow.com www.regentstreetonline.com

125 years of motoring in one street separated into 5 distinct zones Veteran Motoring over 100 magnificent machines from pre-1905 era showing the earliest in pioneering motoring ahead of the traditional London to Brighton Veteran Car Run Exhibition Area stands from our sponsors, partners and associates, see the latest in EV charging from British Gas, learn more about RAC Motoring Services and the work brands are doing in new automotive technology Feature Display celebrating ‘Best of British’ cars from the last 60 years to commemorate the Queen”s Diamond Jubilee Manufacturer Zone see the latest EV, Hybrid, E-REV and low emission cars from leading car makers RAC Future Car Challenge Cars see the latest technology and prototype cars that have completed the event Ceremonial FINISH line of the 2012 RAC Future Car Challenge LIVE area test drive the latest technology cars on a 1 mile test drive route.

Loans up to ÂŁ5 million

TEL: 0203 1501072 Email: info@mayfairloans.com www.mayfairloans.com

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14TH – 18TH

NOVEMBER

2 1 2E0 L AR S COURT

COUNTDOWN TO CHRISTMAS BEGINS WITH THE

Ideal Home Show at Christmas 2012

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH DANCING ON ICE FOR 2012

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he Ideal Home Show at Christmas, winner of Best Consumer Launch is to create the first ever Dancing on Ice pop-up

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ice rink, at this year’s event.

The Dancing on Ice Skating Rink will be the centrepiece of this year’s Ideal Home Show at Christmas, the first Christmas

home event of the season, and will feature daily performances by the show’s pro-skaters and their celebrity partners from previous series, offering an

exciting opportunity for fans and visitors to see and experience world class professional skating live. Visitors will also be able to take to the ice themselves in a series of public sessions each day. This year’s opening day will also mark the launch of the latest Dancing on Ice Live Tour 2012 DVD, in time for the Christmas shopping season.

Ideal Home Show Christmas will be split across six different sections and featuring over 400 exhibitors, offering everything you need to plan and create your perfect Christmas at home.

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Visitors will be able to explore the traditional Christmas market with gifts and crafts that cannot be found on the high street, or sample a variety of festive food and drink, wine and champagnes, or even indulge in a traditional Christmas dinner in the show’s feature restaurant.

This year’s Christmas Craft Theatre will offer workshops and advice on how to decorate your home’s interior, from making your own decorations, table settings and Christmas cards to getting your home ready for Santa’s annual visit.

Or take a trip to the How to Theatre to get advice and ideas for those last minute Home Improvement DIY jobs you’ve been putting off all year.

The show will also see a variety of Fashion and Beauty to help you get ready for the party season, as well as Technology & Gadgets galore to entertain the whole family.

Myleene Klass will be joining the star studded Celebrity line-up with Gino D’Acampo, Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen, Suzi Perry, and Olly Smith.

The celebrity ambassadors will be at the show on scheduled dates to host sessions on their respective theatres, as well as meet and greet visitors or participate in book signings in the pop-up book shop, perfect for that personalised Christmas present.

If all that wasn’t enough, visitors will also be able to enjoy more fun and festive entertainment than ever before with a bandstand filled with Christmas Choirs and live performances by a range of West End Musicals, which will celebrate the start

of the Christmas season and provide a great festive day out for the whole family.

Open daily from 10am-6pm, Late Night Thursdays open until 9pm.

Tickets can be either booked online or by calling the Ticket Hotline on numbers 0844 209 7330.

Group bookings can be made by calling the Groups Hotline 0844 412 4650, Or for further information about the show visit the website www.idealhomeshowchristmas.co.uk

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‘Still Life with Tulips and Figs’, Acrylic on Canvas, 76 x 76cm by Relton Marine, £1950 at Colourbox, Affordable Art Fair Hampstead

ART

IN THE PARK

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‘Two Pears’, oil on board 3x30cm,

by Robert McPartland, £860 at Fiumano Fine Art, Affordable Art Fair Hampstead

R28KTH A P H 5T

2

AFFORDABLE OCTOBER ART FAIR 2012 HAMPS TEAD DOUBLE BILL HEATH RETURNS TO 1ST THE CAPITAL NOVE–M4BTHE THIS AUTUMN 201 R

he Affordable Art Fair’s formula is simple yet unique: a relaxed, inspiring environment and lots of good quality contemporary art. In 1999 when Will Ramsay founded the fair in London, he transformed the model of the traditional art fair with his fun and friendly approach. By introducing a price ceiling and the compulsory labelling of artwork, customers were able to see exactly what they could afford. His aim was to make contemporary art accessible to everyone, and to show you don’t need to be an art expert or a millionaire to enjoy and buy art.

Since its launch, the Affordable Art Fair has grown globally and now hosts 17 fairs in 14 cities across four continents. Across the world over one million people have visited an Affordable Art Fair, buying over £155 million of art, and it all started right here in London!

This Autumn, the Affordable Art Fair returns to London with two separate events showcasing contemporary collections from household names and some of the best emerging talent, all priced from £40 to £4,000, set in the scenic surroundings of Battersea Park and Hampstead Heath.

At both Battersea and Hampstead there will be over 100 exhibiting galleries, and the most of the galleries will be different at each fair, with different artwork on display. Whilst the majority are from the UK, there are also a number of international galleries participating.

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A BATTERSE

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Artwork for sale includes paintings, photography, prints and sculptures, meaning there really is something to suit every taste.

Founder of the Affordable Art Fair, Will Ramsay, comments, “At each fair we try and make the experience exciting, captivating and above all, fun, for our visitors. We want them to discover art they love and inspire confidence in them so they leave with something that resonates with them personally, that hasn’t emptied their pockets. We want people to lose themselves in the galleries, ask questions and learn about art, and even try their hand at producing their own works of art at one of our many workshops.”

Whether you are a young professional on the hunt for your first piece of art, a seasoned collector out to spot the next big thing, a student seeking inspiration, or family looking for a fun day out, the Affordable Art Fair has something for everyone to do and see!

FOR MORE INFORMATION Visit www.affordableartfair.co.uk to sign up for email updates and to purchase gift vouchers for any of the fairs Information: 020 8246 4848 Join us on Facebook: The Affordable Art Fair, UK Follow us on Twitter: @aaflondon

BATTERSEA PARK LONDON 25 – 28 OCT 2012

CONTEMPORARY ART £40 – £4,000 AFFORDABLEARTFAIR.CO.UK

HAMPSTEAD HEATH LONDON 1 – 4 NOV 2012

Fair sponsor

EV E N TS

1ST – 4TH NOVEMBER

1P2IA 0 2 M Y L O LONDON

The Luxury

Travel Fair IN ASSOCIATION WITH CONDÉ NAST TRAVELLER

CONDÉ NAST TRAVELLER PRESENTS THE LUXURY TRAVEL FAIR, NOW LOCATED IN OLYMPIA’S BRAND NEW UPPER WEST HALL.

I

t is London’s unrivalled, comprehensive event to discover some of the most captivating places on earth and the very latest recommendations on where and when to go in 2013. Showcasing thousands of travel experiences, the Fair is the place to create your next tailor-made luxury experience.

With a selection of the best experiential and luxury travel companies, all approved by Condé Nast Traveller - there’s plenty to please even the most discerning and experienced of travellers.

Presenting the most exclusive travel experiences and special Fair offers, exhibiting companies include tourist boards such as Greater Miami and Beaches and the British Virgin Islands; tour operators such as Elegant Resorts, ITC Classics, Bales Worldwide and Cox and Kings; and luxury Cruise specialists Star Clippers, AmaWaterways and Avalon Waterways.

What’s more, to fuel the travel imagination further, the Fair provides expert advice and recommendations in the Meet the Experts Theatre. Hear direct from inspirational speakers such as Herbert Ypma, founder of HIP Hotels on what makes a hotel hip; Tom Marchant of Black Tomato on their latest unusual discoveries and Sarah Walter of style-passport.com with practical advice

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on how to travel in style and beauty to a variety of destinations.

Plus, to celebrate 15 years of Condé Nast Traveller, visitors can enjoy photography at its best with the Condé Nast Traveller 15th Anniversary Travel Gallery.

The ever stylish Mosimann’s dining space provides the perfect place to unwind, and enjoy the delicious menu exclusively created for the Fair. It’s an ideal opportunity to socialise over a glass of wine, Grand Cru champagne or even afternoon tea. Alternatively, visitors can toast to their exciting new trip over a glass of Champagne in the stunning Louis Roederer Champagne Bar.

FOR MORE INFORMATION Advance tickets for The Luxury Travel Fair are £14.50 per adult and £7.50 per child. Tickets bought on the day are £19.50 each.

Children aged 12 and under go free.

Tickets can be booked online at www.luxurytravelfair.com or on the ticket hotline number 0871 230 1091*.

Follow us on twitter @LuxTravelFair *Advance box office closes 31 October 2012.

Calls cost 10 pence per minute plus network extras. Booking fee applies.

gallery

CALKEN gallery is renowned for its emphasis on figurative bronze sculpture, and is home to the exquisite artwork of Royal Academy, Landseer Prize winning sculptor, Michael James Talbot.

The sculpture is presented in relaxing, elegant surroundings, together with a refreshing variety of paintings from established and emerging artists.

The gallery is situated in Kensington Church Street, one of London’s destination streets and only a short walk from neighbouring Kensington Palace and Kensington Gardens.

‘Ophelia’ by Michael James Talbot

117 Kensington Church Street London W8 7LN Telephone: +44 (0)20 7998 6446

Email: info@calkengallery.com

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EV E N TS

INTERNATIONAL WIMBLEDON

MUSIC FESTIVAL ANNOUNCES 2012 PROGRAMME

10th NOVE -25th MBER

2012

In an Olympic year, the 4th International Wimbledon Music Festival celebrates a ‘Musical World Fair’, filling Wimbledon with music and musicians from around the globe.

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he Brazilian pianist Christina Ortiz will play music by Debussy and Villa-Lobos, and Chinese guitarist Xuefei Yang will perform both Spanish and Chinese music. In addition, the young Russian super-star violinist Alina Ibragimova will be performing an allItalian concert with her father, double bassist Rinat Ibragimova.

One of the highlights will be the return of the celebrated Russian pianist Mikhail Rudy, who will give the premiere of a new production by the International Wimbledon Music Festival and the Little Angel Theatre of Stravinsky’s Petrushka, combining live projections and puppetry to create a truly interactive and immersive performance.

Since its launch, the International Wimbledon Music Festival has been pioneering new music and on November 24th, the European premiere of composer Benjamin Wallfisch’s Chopin’s Waterloo will be given during the festival’s ‘Gala Concert’.

American soprano Christine Brewer will perform Wagner’s Wesendonck Lieder with pianist Roger Vignoles, and a dazzling list of singers including Mark Padmore, Susan Bickley, Malin Christensson, Njabulo Madlala, Robin Blaze, James Bowman and the Gramophone Award-winning Cardinall’s Musick all perform at this year’s festival.

PIERS LANE AND PATRICIA ROUTLEDGE CREDIT GUSSIE WELCH

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A regular feature is the composer Messiaen, whose Quatuor pour la fin du temps will be performed by the Nash Ensemble, and exploring the conditions under which Messiaen’s great Quartet was composed, novelist and journalist Jessica Duchen will present her play; A Walk Through the End of Time. Alongside this poignant work, ‘cellist Anita Lasker-Wallfisch, who survived Auschwitz, tells the extraordinary story of the Women’s Orchestra of Auschwitz.

Other string quartets include the Kopelman Quartet performing works

by Borodin, Shostakovich and Tchaikovsky; and the New Zealand String Quartet who are celebrating their 25th year. Oboist Nicholas Daniel, who was awarded the Queen’s Medal for Music in 2011, will perform with the Britten Oboe Quartet on 18th November.

With an exciting jazz concert; ‘Homage to Django Reinhardt’ and a performance by actress Patricia Routledge with pianist Piers Lane that will explore the life and work of Dame Myra Hess, this November is one to look forward to!

The Festival opens with A Purcell Pageant featuring an exciting performance of Dido and Aeneas. Tickets are available from www.wimbledonmusicfestival.co.uk and from 0844 8781 7671.

MARK PADMORE

CREDIT MARCO BORGREVVE

XUEFEI YANG CREDIT NEIL MUIR

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EV E N TS

Satur day

10t h 2012

NOVE MBER

THE LORD MAYOR’S SHOW The Lord Mayor’s Show is like no other procession in the world. It is 3 miles long and nearly 800 years old...

Its 6000 participants will spend months preparing floats for the hundreds of thousands of people who line the streets of the City to watch them go by.

In 1213 a grateful King John awarded the City of London the right to choose its own Mayor, but he had a condition: every year, when a new Mayor took office, he had to make his way upriver to Westminster and pledge loyalty to the Crown. The Lord Mayor of London is one of the world’s oldest elected officials, and the Lord Mayor’s Show is the public festival that has grown up around his journey.

The modern Lord Mayor no longer goes by boat, or by horse, but he must still travel out of the City to pledge his loyalty to the Crown. Nowadays he does that at the Royal Courts in Aldwych and just as in the middle ages, he is accompanied by military displays, marching bands, acrobats, dancers, displays of pomp and charity and symbols of London’s ancient strength and resolve. It’s only 1.7 miles from Mansion House to the Royal Courts but the Lord Mayor’s procession is 3 miles long. It will take over an hour to pass you, and when the first floats reach Aldwych most of the procession is still waiting to set off. The Show is always on the second Saturday in November which is often but not necessarily the day before Armistice Day. It starts at 11am, give or take a couple of minutes depending on the timing of the RAF flypast.

The processional route goes from Mansion House via Bank, St Pauls and Fleet Street to Aldwych, and the tail of the procession will get to the Royal Courts at about 12.15pm. There is a short break during the ceremony, then the whole procession sets off again at 1pm to take the new Lord Mayor back to Mansion House. The procession finally ends at about 2.30pm when the last floats reach the city. At 3pm you are invited to take a guided walk or sample some of the other activities in the city, or just have a cup of tea, and then at 5pm the new Lord Mayor starts a magnificent firework display over the Thames. The fireworks are launched between Blackfriars and Waterloo bridges. For the full experience and best view possible, by the river is amazing, but you can see them from all over London.

On the day of the Show, roads are closed in most of the City. If you live or work in the area, please see the website to find out how your day will be affected. The Show organisers do everything possible to minimise disruption. www.lordmayorsshow.org 3 0 O C TO B E R 2 0 1 2

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Since starting the company we have held a number of contracts within both the NHS and Private Sector, and supplied a number of Homecare Clients with support, promoting independent living and giving families a helping hand. This experience enables us to provide our clients with a fast, efficient and reliable service, at extremely competitive rates. So whether you need someone to support you in your home, someone to assist you after an operation, a daily visit from our nursing staff, or help with a family member, you can be sure that we will be able to help you each and every time.

As one of the UK’s fastest growing Homecare and Nursing Agencies for the provision of both Medical and Non-Medical staff, we can guarantee to meet the needs of our clients efficiently, 24hrs a day 7 days a week, with highly skilled, experienced and professional staff. So if you need 24 hour Nursing care, a Healthcare Assistant with experience in Dementia, a Domestic Assistant who can run your errands, or a Nanny to help out with the little ones, we are the ones to call.

And finally, with all categories of general nurses, specialised nurses, allied healthcare staff, healthcare assistants, homecare support workers, and childcare specialists, throughout London, the UK and internationally, you can be assured that the team at Ashbourne Healthcare Services can match your specific criteria will have the staff they have for both short term solutions and long term contracts. So whether it’s for a hour, 24 hours, 3 months or permanently, a last minute bookings or emergency cover, give us a call today and let us help.

Ashbourne Healthcare Services is registered, and therefore licensed to provide services, by the Care Quality Commission, member of the REC. Our company policies, procedures and practices are in line with the latest legislation and best practice guidelines and all our staff undergo a stringent recruitment process, assessments, checks and training, before and during their time with us.

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echnology plays an increasingly vital role in all our lives. Whether we’re writing emails to friends, doing a spot of research into family history, or running a busy small business, not much gets done without the help of a computer and an internet connection.

So it can be incredibly frustrating – even disastrous – when it all goes wrong. Often it is difficult to know what to do and where to turn for help.

Until now, solving computer and technology issues could be expensive and confusing. However, a new service launched this summer is determined to change that.

Student@Home is a call-out service that provides expert tuition and technology support for homes and small businesses. Offering an innovative and affordable solution to all those computer problems, it is delivered by a team of talented and friendly IT students from the top computer science courses in London.

The idea originated in the Netherlands, and has been brought to the UK by young social entrepreneur Kelly Klein. Hearing about Studentaanhuis.nl, based in the Netherlands, Kelly was intrigued by their unique concept of using top-notch students to deliver quality, value for money IT support – and so she decided to explore it further.

“All of this makes my daily life so much easier. I don’t know how I went without the internet for so long!”

59 YEAR-OLD PSYCHOLOGIST DORIT DOWLING

Aware of the high unemployment rates, and the number of people who still find technology intimidating, Kelly, who has always has an entrepreneurial spirit, developed this unique concept to deliver a much needed service in London.

It’s not just individuals like Dorit who can access the Student@ Home service. Those running small businesses at home or in offices will know only too well how critical their IT is, and what a challenge it can be to find help when it goes wrong or when they don’t understand how to make best use of the technology they have.

“A lot of technology and computer support is expensive and inaccessible,” says Kelly. “At the same time there is a pool of gifted IT students out there struggling to get work experience.

We’re taking two problems here and making them into solutions. We’re creating jobs for these students and a cost efficient, knowledgeable and friendly service for customers.”

“Working with small businesses is really important for us,” says Kelly. “Small businesses are often the life-blood of local communities and we want to support them as much as possible. It’s also fantastic for our students, who gain great experience for when they graduate and want to use this to forge their future in the world of employment.”

Dorit Dowling, a 59 year-old psychologist from Hammersmith, recently used Student@Home. Before accessing the service, Dorit had never even turned a computer on. Now, she is more in touch with family members and is also taking advantage of benefits such as online shopping.

“The student was really friendly and supportive,” says Dorit.

“Katie came to my house and in a few sessions she taught me how to use the internet and Skype.”

Upon graduation many students struggle to get their foot on the employment ladder due to a lack of work experience. Student@ Home aims to provide students with the relevant experience necessary to help them gain sustainable, long-term employment after university, while helping the community at the same time.

Dorit adds: “Being able to use the internet means I am able to stay connected with my family overseas. I’m starting to learn about social media and online shopping, all of this makes my daily life so much easier. I don’t know how I went without the internet for so long!”

Katie Pemberton, now in her second year studying computing at Roehampton University, is aware of this pressure. Katie says: “I’m studying to be a web developer and until now, like so many other computer students, I’ve found it really hard to get any kind of IT work experience. Working for Student@Home is great because I get to put my knowledge to good use, solving lots of different problems. And helping people like Dorit makes me feel like I’m making a difference. I am excited to see what computing challenges I will face in the future.”

To get help with your IT needs, get in touch with Student@Home on 0844 880 2584 or email info@studentathome.co.uk. www.studentathome.co.uk

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FA S H I O N

LONDON FASHION

WEEK HIGHLIGHTS

SPRING/SUMMER 2013 COLLECTIONS A world of celebrities and famous people, beautiful and expensive clothes and general fashion glitz.

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FA S H I O N

The vibrant and internationally renowned London Fashion Week is always exciting and inspirational, and last month’s event proved to be just that.

London Fashion Week presented another unrivalled opportunity for both established designers and newcomers to present their latest collections. A constantly buzzing key event for those who haven’t got the patience to wait until the latest fashion designs and stylish fashion trends make it into the fashion magazines. 62 catwalk shows and 20 presentations took place across the 5 days.

Burberry Prorsum Show Shines On London Fashion Week A-listers packed a marquee in Hyde Park for the Burberry Show, with Harry Styles and Samantha Cameron among those in attendance. The Burberry Show is more of an experience than a fashion show. Over 1,000 people attended for what has become one of the most exclusive and talked about events at London Fashion Week. Samantha Cameron, Anna Wintour, Mario Testino, Dita Von Teese, Harvey Weinstein, Dev Patel, Harry Styles of One Direction and Andy Murray took their seats on the front row. They also unveiled a flagship store on London’s Regent’s Street, boasting a multimedia experience for the customer.

Vivienne Westwood welcomes us into her British Royal garden Dame Vivienne Westwood’s Red Label Collection was awash with punky

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prettiness. Westwood’s 80s muse, model and actress Sara Stockbridge took to the mic rocking out with her bleach blonde locks, green eyes and tartan two-piece underneath the gorgeous arches of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office to set the scene for the outrageous show entitled ‘Climate Revolution’.

Keeping things green, the Red Label collection was inspired by British royal gardens which became clear with Charlotte Free debuting an avantgarde flower headpiece at the start of the show. From Renaissance style to the Victorian era, the garden has catered bowling to tennis, picnics to weddings and even the humble garden party, which Westwood took as inspiration for her micro checks, fine wools, lily pad fluid jersey, metallics and regal midnight blues.

Headpieces were a real focus, from simple straw hats to flower garlands and printed silk head-scarves, whilst point toe heels and boots were a footwear feature point. Models sauntered down the runway with bright painted faces, heavy blue eyelids and tight 50s curls in true Westwood style.

As the show drew to a close, it was sad to see the end of the luxurious fabrics and sequinned wonders, but we knew something was around the corner. The lady herself skipped onto the catwalk with Alice Dellal and Charlotte Free in toe draped in rich bronze opening out a sign saying ‘Climate Revolution’.

FA S H I O N

Lady Gaga opens Philip Treacy’s show Milliner Philip Treacy marked his return London Fashion Week with a show opened by Lady Gaga and featuring only black models. Treacy, the designer whose hat caused a stir at last year’s royal wedding, was used the Royal Courts of Justice for what was his first show in the capital in a decade. Gaga was on hand to open proceedings – although she surprisingly declined to sing at the event. Instead she took to the catwalk in a pair of towering platforms by Alexander McQueen and a pink flowing gown which covered her face, declaring Treacy to be ‘the greatest milliner in the world’. The show paid tribute to Michael Jackson, with one hat featuring a mini fairground based on the late singer’s Neverland ranch. Featuring models Naomi Campbell and Alek Wek and singer Grace Jones, all models on the catwalk wore items from Jackson’s wardrobe teamed with a Treacy hat.

Christopher Kane Day 4 of London Fashion Week, saw one of the most high profile designers take to the spotlight to present his Spring / Summer 2013 offering.

The Central Saint Martin’s graduate is known for his attention to detail in the form of embellishment which tends to really step outside of the fashion box, pushing boundaries in a forward thinking, yet somewhat sinister, way.

The show set up, portrayed this, rebuffing all the fashion week front row nonsense, with a super long holographic catwalk with only one single row.

Beginning on white (like so many of the Spring / Summer 2013 collections this London Fashion Week), focus lay quite clearly on texture and shape, with zips, cut outs, tailoring and detail. Moving on to powder pinks and neon yellows, in super simple and minimalist shapes, there was a focus on origami style fold-over texture. Then came the detail; ruffled modern textures made an interesting highlight alongside embellished lace and sheer organzas. Stand outs for me included the perspex style ruffles in pastel shades and ultra modern embellishments.

Mulberry With a star-studded front row and clothes inspired by an English garden.

Eleven Mulberry handbags lined the floor in front of the company’s celebrity front row at Claridge’s. There were fashion show regulars including Kate Moss, Alexa Chung and Olivia Palermo.Jessica Ennis was there too, sporting a Bayswater bag. They can usually be found wearing tight restrictive corsets for their roles in hit BBC show Downton Abbey. But Joanne Froggatt and Elizabeth McGovern opted for something more comfortable as they made an appearance at the Mulberry show.The pair led the way for famous faces attending the highly-anticipated show.

With all the front-row attention Emma Hill’s collection had to compete, but it did by lining the way into Claridge’s with acid pastel garden gnomes and garlanding the catwalk with climbing roses: the show was themed around an English garden. From racy, oversized biker jackets to staid long peacoats

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FA S H I O N

via side-pleated skirts and gardening-unsuitable booties, most everything featured kooky floral or gecko motifs. Pleated-at-the-neck shirts in apricot and sunflower yellow (motif-free) were demure yet devastating, there was a beautiful Windsor-collar gecko jacquard suit, and a three-year old poodle named Max made his London fashion week debut wearing a matching jacquard ‘dog peacoat’.

Jasper Conran Jasper Conran lit up London Fashion Week with a tropical inspired show, combining floral patterns and vibrant colours. The show gave a hint of Spring as he paraded his multi-coloured creations down the runway amongst neon lights and a catwalk made to look like grass. Walking barefoot, models sported the light-hearted creations which came in summery shades of orange and pink, with bold bright patterns and vibrant accessories.

Conran revealed that he drew inspiration for his latest collection from cowboy boots and other aspects of American culture. I’ve done denim for the first time on the catwalk, so it starts quite sort of blues and whites and silvers. And then it explodes,’ the designer told Reuters. Everything has a reference back to Americana, so it’s all logically done, with a healthy dose of illogicality’ he added. Conran showed his playful side during the show, which was attended by the likes of TV presenter Christine Bleakley Jodie Kidd and Lady Victoria Hervey.

House of Holland The catwalk was House of Holland was not in the usual setting, Holland’s collection was held in a car park transforming it into a clubbing paradise.

Titled, ‘Buzz Kill’ the collection was full of vibrancy and full of fun, Cue the cropped jacquard trousers, embellished beanies, nineties grunge dress, oversized plaid shirts and bomber jackets – this collection did not stop giving.While most designers would make do with just one big name,

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the 29-year-old fashionista had his front row graced by the likes of Kelly Osbourne, Alexa Chung, Nicola Roberts, Pixie Geldof and Poppy Delevingne.

Known for his bold, colourful and irreverent pieces, the designer recently said: ‘I design with a London girl’s aesthetic in mind and love to see girls wearing my designs in their own unique way”.

John Rocha John Rocha proved his fashion idol status with his new Spring/Summer 2013 collection. The designer unveiled an ultra-feminine range that featured frills, demi-couture textures and layers of organza in his signature voluminous style.

Rocha has stuck to his forte of creating ladylike designs, making his garments resemble a beautiful garden of pale lavenders, mints, and lemons. He also offered contrast in the form of gun metal, champagne, and black and white ensembles in an array of luxurious fabrics. He played with proportions and experimented with strips of frilled cotton lace without moving too far from his trusty colour palette. To complement the whimsical theme, models took to the catwalk in large, matching cloud-like hats sculpted from folds of organza.

Catwalk designers for Spring/Summer 2013 Collections also included David Koma, Fred Butler, Issa London, Louise Gray, Matthew Williamson, Nicole Farhi, Osman, Paul Smith and Temperley London.

New exhibitors for SS13 include: Archibald Optics, Carla Fernandez, Danielle Romeril, E.Tautz (Womenswear), Hemyca, Honest By, Imogen Belfield, Jerome Allen Lorico, Loup Noir, Marques ‘Almeida, Mich Dulce, Modern Love, Negarin, Paper London, Rosantica, Richard Braqo, Sophia Webster, White Tent and Willow.

Rag & Bone showed their collection on the official schedule for the first time, with Philip Treacy and Preen making a welcome return London Fashion

FA S H I O N

Week. New presentations to the schedule include Lucas Nascimento and Marques Almeida as part of the NEWGEN sponsored by Topshop scheme, Huishan Zhang and Willow. Official catwalk shows are: J.W. Anderson, Michael van der Ham and Simone Rocha.

The newly renovated West Wing housed a brand new dedicated shoe collective showcasing a cross section of brands including Cordwainers graduate Joanne Stoker, French Sole, architectural shoe designer Julian Hakes and Kat Maconie; the eco sustainable platform Estethica; BFC Rock Vault sponsored by International Palladium Board and the new buyer’s liaison point supported by Samsung.

This season’s Fashion Forward is sponsored by eBay Fashion and the Mayor of London, supporting Henry Holland, Louise Gray and Mary Katrantzou.

In a first for London Fashion Week, Jonathan Saunders has worked with the BFC to create bespoke visual event branding and marketing materials that was used across London Fashion Week for the Spring/Summer 2013 season – based on an adapted version of his ombre print from Resort 2013.

The magic of London Fashion Week is not merely thanks to the fashion designers’ and fashion stylists’ cutting-edge collections but the media excitement that accompanies them. The allure of the show is exceptional and London Fashion Week continues to be the top fashion event pulling visitors from every corner of the globe, with international press attending from 42 countries.

It’s a week where designers are free to create at will and experiment with new trends for clothing. The world watches as fashion history is made. While we are all thinking about our autumn wardrobes and digging out our winter

jumpers in an attempt to stay warm, designers were showcasing next year’s Spring/Summer collections during last month’s London Fashion Week.

The direct value of the UK fashion industry to the UK economy is £21 billion (source: BFC Value of Fashion Report 2010) The UK fashion industry is estimated to support 816,000 jobs and is the largest employer of all the creative industries. The sector also provides opportunities to minority groups to a greater extent than most other creative industries (source: BFC Value of Fashion Report 2010) ‘2012 has been an unforgettable year for our city and the serotonin is still flowing with the launch of the talentfest that is London Fashion Week. We have astonishingly creative people working in the capital, bringing energy and ideas as well as generating business. Over just a few days Fashion Week showcases our best fashion designers, puts London’s creative industries on the front pages and brings in over £100 million of orders alone” The Mayor of London Boris Johnson Fashion Week is one of the highest profile fashion events in the world and one of the ‘big four’ international catwalk influencers. The event is organised by the British Fashion Council (BFC) and funded by a number of sponsors (including Canon Europe current headline sponsor for seven consecutive seasons). London Fashion Week puts London and British Fashion firmly on the global stage, generating orders in the region of £100m; the event itself contributes £20 million to the London economy in terms of direct spend and attracts visitors from over 25 countries including US, France, Italy, Russia, Middle East, China and UAE. www.londonfashionweek.co.uk

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FA S H I O N

If last year was all about one big white dress, 2012 has been a showcase of Kate Middleton’s entire wardrobe. With a demanding diary of Diamond Jubilee celebrations, Olympic spectating, state dinners and charity engagements, the Duchess of Cambridge has stepped up her role as fashion queen.

Little wonder her high street, vintage and second-hand buys have been upgraded to designer pieces thanks to a reported £35,000 clothing allowance from Prince Charles.

Luckily, you don’t need a royal budget to emulate her regal style.

The high street is quick to leap on her every elegant fashion move with affordable options.

REPLI-KATE

Duchess Style

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Middleton mania is rife - style search engine ShopStyle.co.uk experienced a 114% increase in hunts for ‘red dresses’ following the outing of Kate’s Alexander McQueen scarlet frock for the Jubilee pageant.

There’s even a phone app, Kate’s Style List, which tracks her outfit decisions for diehard Duchess admirers.

Here’s how to copycat Kate. Get her look and then accessorise with your very own Prince Charming...

FA S H I O N

Casual Kate Kate proved to be a good sport during London 2012 with a string of supportive outings in her capacity as official Olympic ambassador. She looked relaxed in Team GB tracksuit tops, and white fitted polo tops were one of her favoured spectator pieces. Try Esprit’s stretch polo top, £13.99.

Team with Kate’s current penchant for coloured skinny jeans, which show off her slender legs. Sales of coral jeans soared when she sported them to play hockey during a GB team training session.

George at Asda has a similar pair for just £14.

The Duchess often smartens up a casual outfit with a fitted navy blazer. Pull on Peter Hahn’s gold button blazer, £59, for some instant princess chic.

Swimmer Rebecca Adlington was caught on camera during a meet-and-greet admiring Kate’s Stuart Weitzman navy wedges. Raise your game (and height) with Dune’s Ghita closed toe wedges, £75.

When it comes to everyday dog walking and food shopping, Kate tends to veer towards a neutral palette. Channel her on-trend countryside style with John Lewis’s cashmere toast v-neck jumper, £69.

Formal Kate Occasionwear is where Kate really excels with her wardrobe choices. Refined and elegant, her choice of knee-grazing hems, long sleeves and demure necklines make her a fashion icon for any age. Kate guaranteed she could be spotted on the Thames from a distance during the Queen’s Jubilee river pageant in eyepopping red. Fashion Union’s belted dress has the same peplum waist and skater skirt detail, £22.

Continuing the colour theme, Kate regularly wears cobalt blue. Replicate her familiar shift silhouette with BHS’s bargain blue dress, £25. She uses blush and nude shades to ooze chic for special occasions. Cinch your waist like Kate in her ladylike lace Alexander McQueen number by adding a belt to Lipsy’s Amy

Childs lace pencil dress, £65.

The Duchess isn’t afraid to recycle outfits and her blue collarless Missoni coat is one of her repeat favourites. Transform any dress with Marks & Spencer’s Autograph sequin collarless coat, £135 (available October).

Whatever the outfit, you can bet a plain pair of court shoes will be involved. Step out in Kate’s actual leg-lengthening accessory staples, L.K. Bennett’s taupe patent Sledge heels, £195.

Glamour Kate The Duchess doesn’t work a red carpet very often but when she does she knows exactly how to transform into red-hot royal. Reminiscent of her Grace Kelly-esque wedding dress, Kate loves lace and the Temperley masterpiece she wore to the War Horse premiere echoed the same

V-neckline - Madame Tussauds used the very same gown to dress her waxwork model. Get the look for a fraction of the price with Kaliko’s lace maxi dress, £180 (due September).

She wowed the crowds looking like a goddess in emerald green wearing a flowing Jenny Packham gown at an Olympics gala dinner. Get the regal jewel look with Mango’s green chiffon maxi dress, £89.99.

Floor-sweeping dresses may be Kate’s red carpet paparazzi pleaser but she isn’t adverse to a shorter shape. Her Matthew Williamson dress dazzled at another premiere with its bejewelled collar and sleeves. Try French Connection’s Winter Gems tunic dress, £165.

Contrasting with her voluminous blow dry, Kate maintains her style crown by keeping her shoes and evening clutches minimalistic so the focus is all on her and ‘The’ dress that’s just about to join her impeccable fashion archive.

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10th to 27th nuary

2012 October Ja 2013

“I don’t dress movie stars. I dress actors who are playing characters.”

ANN ROTH, ACADEM AWARD-WINNING Y COSTUME DESIGNE R

AT THE

H

ollywood Costume, the V&A’s major autumn exhibition, will gather together over one hundred of the most iconic costumes designed for unforgettable cinema characters over a century of film-making. For the first time, Hollywood Costume will unite classics from the Golden Age including Dorothy’s blue and white gingham pinafore dress for The Wizard of Oz, Scarlett O’Hara’s green ‘curtain’ dress designed for Gone with the Wind and the ‘little black dress’ designed for Holly Golightly in Breakfast at Tiffany’s, with the latest Hollywood releases including costumes for Meryl Streep in The Iron Lady.

The exhibition is a three-gallery journey from early Charlie Chaplin silent pictures to the motion capture costume design for Avatar, from Joan Crawford’s blue gingham waitress uniform in Mildred Pierce, these costumes are united by their one purpose of serving the story. Using montages, film clips and projections, the clothes will be placed in their original context, alongside interviews with key Hollywood costume designers, directors and actors.

Deborah Nadoolman Landis, Hollywood costume designer and senior guest curator, said: “This landmark exhibition will provide a once in a life-time opportunity to explore the most beloved characters in Hollywood history and gain insight on the role of the costume designer and their vital contribution to cinema storytelling.”

The exhibition will be divided into three sections to tell the story of costume design.

clothes are “On every film, the ating the cre in ttle half the ba great deal of a ve ha I r. cte ara ch my people are opinion about how a great deal by presented. We show r bodies.” ou on t pu what we MERYL STREEP

MUSEUM

SPONSORED BY HARRY WINSTON

well as specially-commissioned interviews, it will explore four key director/ designer pairings: Alfred Hitchcock and Edith Head who worked on films including The Birds; Tim Burton and Colleen Atwood whose films have spanned Edward Scissorhands to Alice in Wonderland; Martin Scorsese and Sandy Powell who have teamed on films from Gangs of New York to the recent Hugo; and Mike Nichols and Ann Roth who have worked together for almost 30 years from Silkwood to Closer.

Dialogue will conclude with the ‘Art of Becoming;’ two case-studies on the award-winning Robert De Niro and Meryl Streep. In specially commissioned interviews, both actors, will discuss the importance of costume in developing and playing a range of their characters.

Act Three: The Finale will present the best known costumes in cinema history in a spectacle of Hollywood heroes and femme fatales. Roxie Hart in Chicago, to Catherine Tramell in Basic Instinct, will be seen alongside fantasy, sci-fi and superhero characters including Bram Stoker’s Dracula, Twilight: New Moon and the latest high-tech suit for Batman in The Dark Knight Rises. With the uniform design for Harry Potter to the sheer white chiffon cocktail dress worn by Marilyn Monroe, these examples will show the most memorable costumes, characters and stories that continue to inspire generations, fashion trends and enrich international popular culture.

Advance booking advised. Visit www.vam.ac.uk/hollywoodcostume or call 020 7907 7073 (booking fee applies). Tickets are £14 (concessions available)

Act One: This section will explore the link between clothing and identity and look at how designers create the unique individuals in the script whether for modern, period or fantasy films.

Harry Winston has been an integral part of Hollywood’s glamorous history. A true icon of international glamour, creating infinitely beautiful jewels of unsurpassable style. Today, Harry Winston operates 22 global retail salons worldwide in locations including London, Paris, New York, Beverly Hills, Tokyo, Beijing and the Middle East.

Act Two: Will examine the intimate creative collaboration among great filmmakers, actors, and costume designers. Using archival film footage as

www.harrywinston.com

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COLLARS & COATS GALA BALL 2012 8TH

THURSDA Y

FOR BATTERSEA DOGS & CATS HOME Battersea Evolution, Chelsea Bridge Entrance, Battersea Park, London, SW11 4NJ

Battersea Dogs & Cats Home, one of the UK’s best loved animal welfare charities, is proud to announce the return of its annual, star-studded fundraising event, Collars & Coats Gala Ball, at Battersea Evolution, an exclusive venue set in the grounds of Battersea Park.

The Collars & Coats Gala Ball will celebrate the organisation’s unparalleled work in the field of animal welfare.

This year’s star-studded event continues to promise a spectacular night of glitz, glamour and spectacular entertainment. The event will be hosted by TV personalities Amanda Holden and Paul O’Grady MBE, and attendees include David Gandy, Neil Fox, Danielle and Gary Lineker, Joanna Page, James Thornton, Nicky Clarke, Esther Rantzen, Paul Ross, Dame Jacqueline Wilson, Amanda Mealing, Cheska Hull, Ollie Locke and Brix Smith Start . The event is also supported by the fashion world elite, including Stella McCartney, Philip Treacy and Hilary Alexander.

Previous supporters have included Simon Cowell, Dame Judi Dench, Catherine Tate, Alexandra Burke, Peter Andre, Status Quo, Nicky Clarke, Roger Daltrey CBE, Prunella Scales, Brian May, Craig Revel Horwood, Jeremy Hackett, Mark Foster, Louie Spence, Donna Air and Lulu.

This year’s very special ‘Best of British’ themed event promises to deliver an evening like no other as fashion and finely groomed dogs come together for a once in a lifetime Dogwalk. Battersea’s best fashionista dogs will strut their stuff down a Dogwalk, sporting uniquely designed dogcoats, collars and leads by some of the most influential and respected iconic designers around the world. What’s more, guests will have the opportunity to bid in auction on these one-off pieces of fashion history.

To book, please visit www.collarsandcoats.org.uk or telephone 0207 627 9309.

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NOVEMBE R

2012

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7TH

NOVE–M11TH BER

2012

BUSINE SS DES IGN CE NTRE

ISLING TON

Goods and gifts, food and frivolities, pampering and party wear from many of the best and most original British companies have been selected to delight visitors. Do all your Christmas shopping in a day, then relax and enjoy the festive season.

Deck your home with beautiful and original decorations, as well as garlands and sweet smelling swags the festive season features gourmet food, family feasting and everything for parties. Preparation is key to make sure there are gifts under the tree, charming stocking fillers, delicious treats on the table and that you are relaxed and looking fabulous.

CHRISTMAS

FAIR The Country Living Magazine comes to life at its very own Christmas fair.

Yuletide is the time for family and friends to gather and share goodwill. Enjoy the delicious foods from regional producers; stir senses with the smells and tastes of Christmas; and allow a little time for personal indulgence too. A visit to the Country Living Magazine Christmas Fair offers a huge variety of gifting ideas for everyone – young and old alike.

You will find absolutely everything you could wish for to make the holiday season special. So get ready for the Christmas and New Year celebrations with a visit to the Country Living Magazine Christmas Fair.

Every element of Christmas can be found under one roof at the Country Living Magazine Christmas Fair so don’t waste any time in buying your tickets in advance.

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Business Design Centre

Upper Street, Islington, London N1 0QH Nearest tube Angel – Northern Line (Bank branch)

SPECIAL LIFE MAGAZINE READERS’ TICKET OFFER...

Special price of £12.00 quoting CLX2. (normal ticket price on the door which is £16.00) Tickets must be booked no later than 1pm on the day before the due visit.

Telephone 0844 848 0160 or book online at www. countrylivingfair.com/xmas/ tickets

THE VIP

TREATMENT

VIP

TICKET PR ICE

IS £49.50 IN ADVANC E

A limited number of VIP tickets for the London Fair. With lots of great benefits, it’s a chance to treat yourself or a friend, and make your day at the Christmas Fairs extra special.

Here’s what included in the ticket package: icket to the Fair T Fast-track entrance Free show guide Access to the Country Living VIP lounge where you can relax away from the crowds and enjoy the complimentary refreshments A goody-bag worth over £40, including products from Caroline Zoob and Ogario London.

Exceptional Bespoke Designs

Exceptional Furniture and Interior Design Interiors and Exteriors Bespoke Furniture Kitchens Bathrooms Bedrooms Styish Living +44(0)207 118 0149 +44(0)122 583 2211

info@clairerendall.com w w w. c l a i r e r e n d a l l . c o m

L O N D O N

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S Y D N E Y

•

N E W

Y O R K

F E AT U R E

WHO, AT SOME POINT IN THEIR LIVES, HASN’T DESIRED

THEIR OWN ISLAND? The Osros floating Island is designed to offer the billionaire super-yacht lifestyle, for mere millionaire money.

It’s hard to give a name to this unique structure — is it a boat or an island? The Osros floating island was designed as a way to have the best of both worlds. It is over 20 metres wide and more than 37 metres in length, and with about 400 m² on three floors, the Island offers up to 1,000 m² of living space. It boasts six luxury double bedrooms, with space for 12 residents and accommodation for up to four staff members.

Buyers can tailor the interior and design to their individual needs.

The sun deck area features sun roof loungers, a BBQ area, Jacuzzi, and a bar with seating for up to 15 people. There is storage for water sports and diving equipment and a mooring for motor boats along with a handy hatch for loading and unloading of provisions. The main deck hosts a spacious living room and lounge with exotic aquarium, regulated lighting and air supply.

But let’s get into the details; they’ll have you mouth-watering in no time…

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F E AT U R E

Hungry guests can also take advantage of a small kitchenette with a bar and restaurant area with option to expand the space by opening the doors to the adjoining terrace.

of US$100 million, but Orsos Island creator Gábor Orsós aims to combine the positive aspects of mainland real estate and luxury yachts at much reduced cost, albeit in comparison to superyachts.

Six 20m² state rooms, with en-suite bathrooms, are accessible through the living room, half a level lower, and boast large windows that afford a panoramic view of the surrounding area.

He explains: ‘In the beginning, my goal was to create an exclusive, high-quality hotel chain based on floating platforms. With the progress of the project it became clear that the attractive and unusual concept of Orsos Islands should not be limited to only a selected group of people.’Orsos Islands should reach a much broader audience, people with an awareness of modern life and a feeling of responsibility towards the environment.’

There is what the manufacturers describe as an ‘autonomous power supply based energy system’ powered, both day and night, by a noiseless wind energy system, as well as more than 120 m2 of solar panels making the most use of daylight. Heat recovery from sea water is the basis for heating and air conditioning.

Previous floating island designs have come with price tags in excess

The Austrian-based company has begun manufacture of the prototype in Germany and Hungary and hope show it to the public at the end of 2013.

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CHARITY

FLYING TRADER

GIVES PROFITS TO CHILDREN’S CHARITIES This year, internationally renowned forex trader Greg Secker, took to the skies of London, raising money for charity in a series of five Flying Trader events.

L

ast summer, Secker made money from thin air as he hovered above the City as the Flying Trader. A trained helicopter pilot, Secker flew above London whilst trading on the foreign exchange markets, sending down live trades and tips to an audience of over 500 Knowledge to Action traders. All brokerage commissions were donated to the children’s charities Barnardo’s and Ubuntu Education Fund, and a staggering total of over £160,000 was raised.

Following the success of 2011’s events, from April to August this year, Secker held five more Flying Trader days, reaching a grand total of £250,000.

In early 2011 Secker and his partner Katherine established the Knowledge to Action Foundation to help improve the quality of life for disadvantaged children around the world. For the past year, they have organised a variety of events raising money to support this.

Last year’s Flying Trader funds were used by Ubuntu Education Fund to help launch their Early Childhood Development Programme (ECD) in Port Elizabeth, a project aimed at enabling disadvantaged children under five to enter primary schools with the same skills as their peers in London and New York.

The ECD has already given 43 children the opportunity to be involved with reading, writing, singing, art, movement and story-time, three days per week.

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The Funds also went towards supporting Barnardo’s “Hub” project. “The Hub” is a constructive workshop for youths based in East London and provides training and education for young people who are care leavers, young people who are disadvantaged by poverty, disability and abuse.

They are trained within carpentry, plumbing and decorating with the students then receiving nationally accredited qualification and the opportunity of contraction apprenticeships. The £60,000 they received through The Flying Trader allowed them to keep their doors from closing.

This year, as well as continuing to support these charities The Knowledge to Action Foundation will also be working with Sir Richard Branson’s Virgin Unite and Pride ‘n Purpose charities, helping disadvantaged communities around South Africa’s Sabi Sand Reserve, and improving their access to food, water, health and education services.

Proceeds raised will be tracked daily on the Flying Trader website barometer and participants will be able to follow stories online of how the money helps each charity’s chosen project. Go to www.theflyingtrader.org to join in and watch as Secker as he trades from the skies as the Flying Trader.

FOR MORE INFORMATION www.knowledgetoaction.co.uk www.gregsecker.co.uk

A Professional Service from start to finish.

With over 1,000 basements completed to date London Basement has an outstanding reputation for being professional, trustworthy and quality driven.

020 8847 9449 sales@londonbasement.co.uk www.londonbasement.co.uk

F E AT U R E

IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF FLEMING ST JAMES’S AND THE JAMES BOND CONNECTION When Ian Fleming created the refined character of James Bond over 50 years ago, he drew from many of his own personal preferences to add substance and authenticity to the now iconic fictional creation. When dressing Bond and establishing his elegant style, every detail was subtly highlighted. The double shirt cuff, the handmade shoe, the cigarette case, the cologne – all in keeping with his role.

‘Agent 007’ became the fictional embodiment of Fleming’s impeccable style, fashioned by the bespoke gentleman’s outfitters of St James’s.

One such outfitter, Turnbull and Asser of Jermyn Street, created bespoke shirts for Fleming himself, a connection which made Hollywood history as they went on to design shirts worn by successive Bond actors, including Sean Connery, Pierce Brosnan and, most recently, Daniel Craig.

The style and elegance of a well-cut suit is central to the character of Bond, underlined by the fact that in 1962 on the set of Dr. No, director Terence Young suggested that Sean Connery sleep in his suit, made

by Turnbull and Asser especially for the film, to better inhabit the character. 2012 sees the 50th anniversary of Dr No, marking a cinematic half-century of British style and sophistication on the silver screen.

Bond’s connection to St. James’s doesn’t stop with Turnbull and Asser.

In Casino Royal, Bond wears shoes designed by St. James’s shoemaker John Lobb, who holds a royal warrant to Prince Charles and The Duke of Edinburgh, both of whom, like Fleming, served in the Royal Navy.

Fleming cut a fine figure amongst the fashionable elite of SW1 and was a 5 4 O C TO B E R 2 0 1 2

great appreciator of sartorially cut suits, a hangover from his time as a naval Intelligence officer. When he wasn’t in uniform, Fleming naturally gravitated towards St James’s for his fix of shirts, shoes and suits and to find inspiration in the bespoke tailors of London’s cultural quarter.

He was also a regular at Dukes Hotel, where he would sit at his favourite corner table, scribbling away at his latest James Bond thriller. Here he would discreetly meet associates and contacts from his time at MI5, while sipping his personally created “shaken not stirred” Vesper Martini, named after Vesper Lynd, Bond’s girlfriend in Casino Royale. To this day, the Dukes’ house martini is delivered naked at a glacial -18.3c, straight from the chiller and mixed right in front of your eyes, just as Bond demands. Ian Fleming was born in 1908 – the same year that the Dukes Hotel opened.

From the fashionable to the fragrant, Fleming also adored Jermyn Street perfumers Floris for their No. 89 cologne. The Floris museum of 89 Jermyn Street highlights a letter dated from 1958 to Ian Fleming from Michael Bodenham, the grandfather of the present Floris family members. They have records of the purchases that he made during the 1940s and 1950s and Floris also features in the Dr. No novel. Further links to St. James’s include the ubiquitous casino scenes of the Bond novels, carefully-researched in Les Ambassadeurs club and casino In the 21st century, St James’s and Jermyn Street both continue to offer the quality and heritage appreciated by Ian Fleming and his alter ego Bond. It is testament to Fleming’s own impeccable tastes and skill as an author that his ultimate creation is still being dressed and brought to life by the same historic tailors and shoemakers of St James’s.

A bed made just for you, naturally.

Handcrafted with the finest natural materials, every Marshall & Stewart bed is a testament of our dedication to excellence, ensuring you experience the best night’s sleep, every night.

www.marshallandstewart.com | 0800 002 9564 Kings Road, London | Crawford Street, London | Walton-on-Thames, Surrey

F E AT U R E

Aston Martin DBR 1/2

World famous car goes on sale for record-breaking £20million.

A

n Aston Martin regarded as one of the finest cars of all time, has been put up for sale. The Aston Martin DBR 1/2 is the company’s most successful race car having dominated motorsport in the late 1950s. It thrashed the Ferraris and Jaguars of its day and is the only Aston Martin to ever win Le Mans when it took the chequered flag in 1959.

“This DB 1 is the hoR y grail of motlo and is t ring recogni he most valuablsable and e MartinAi ston history”n

The 1957 sports car has now come onto the market for the first time in 20 years. It is being sold by Ascot-based Talacrest for a staggering £20million – four times as much as any British car ever sold publicly.

The only cars known to have fetched more than this are the Bugatti Type 57C and Ferrari 250 GTO - with these changing hands behind closed doors.

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And while there were 39 Ferrari 250 GTOs built, the green Aston Martin is one of just four cars to come out of the factory - and it’s the most successful of all of them.

Built by Ted Cutting, the Aston Martin DBR 1/2 is fitted with a 3-litre engine which developed around 250bhp. The roadlegal sports car triumphed at the 1957 Nürburgring 1,000km race, 1957 Spa Grand Prix and the Goodwood Tourist Trophy in both 1958 and 1959 when Stirling Moss drove to victory.

And at Le Mans in 1959, with Carroll Shelby and Roy Salvadori behind the wheel, the car averaged 112.5mph over the 24-hour period in its finest moment.

It completed 323 laps of the track, thundering down the Mulsanne Straight at speeds in excess of 160mph. The three men behind the victory - Cutting, Shelby and Salvadori - all passed away this year within ten weeks of each other.

Aston Martin historian Brian Joscelyne described the sports car as a “revelation” and “astonishing”. Mr Joscelyne watched as the car stormed to victory at Le Mans from above the Aston Martin team’s pit lane. He said: “It is a joy whenever I see the car because it means so much to me. I watched it race in its heyday.

F E AT U R E

It was at the top, top level of motorsport and is the most famous racing Aston Martin with the best record. “Unfortunately it is still the only Aston Martin to win at Le Mans. It handles so well and with the right drivers can slide around corners in spectacular fashion.

The road handling and brakes were brilliant.

“This is the model to have, it is an astonishing all round car. I am so admiring of the current owner and the way he has maintained the car. It is a joy to see and hear. I have the greatest admiration for Ted Cutting and his achievements and this was his piste de resistance.

In historic sports cars driving, this car has been a revelation”

A PROUD HISTORY The model is called the Aston Martin DBR1. The /2 denotes the second of four factory models. A fifth DBR1 was built for a private individual.

DBR stands for David Brown Racing, with David Brown the businessman who owned Aston Martin The £20 million Aston Martin DBR1/2 was a formidable race car during the late 1950s, winning a host of important races.

1957: Winner - Spa Sportscar Race - driven by Tony Brooks Winner - 1,000km Nürburgring Race - driven by Brooks and Noël CunninghamReid Winner - Spa Grand Prix - driven by Brooks 1958: Winner - Goodwood Tourist Trophy - driven by Stirling Moss and Brooks 1959: Winner - 24 Hours of Le Mans - driven by Roy Salvadori and Carroll Shelby Winner - Goodwood Tourist Trophy - driven by Moss, Shelby and Jack Fairman 1960: The car was sold to Major Ian Baillie - and as a privateer entrant the following results were achieved: Winner - Rouen Grand Prix - driven by Jack Fairman

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SENSATIONAL

60’ s EXPERIENCE Step back in time and relive the Swinging Sixties when pop music was at its very best!

This brand new production for 2012/2013 makes this without doubt the most explosive 60’s show touring the UK. This quintessential line up is packed with nostalgia, and with over 25 hits performed by four of the most influential bands of their time such as….

The Tremeloes “Silence is Golden, Twist and Shout, Here comes my Baby, Do you Love Me, Helule Helule, Even The Bad Times Are Good, Angel Of The Morning”

The Union Gap UK “Young Girl, Lady Willpower, Woman Woman, Over You & This Girl Is Now A Woman”

Herman’s Hermits “I’m Into Something Good, Something Is Happening, No Milk Today, I’m Henry The 8th, Silhouettes, Mrs Brown You’ve Got A Lovely Daughter. The Union Gapuk, Young Girl, Lady Willpower, Woman Woman, Over You.”

The Ivy League “Funny How Love Can Be, Tossing & Turning, That’s Why I’m Crying” The show is appearing at the following venues, and across the UK. G Live in Guildford on Thursday 1st November.

FOR MORE INFORMATION The concert commences at 7.30pm. Tickets are available from the box office on 0844 770 1797 or online www.GLive.co.uk New Wimbledon Theatre on Wednesday 21st November.

The concert commences at 7.30pm.

Tickets are available from the box office on 0844 871 7646 or online www.atgtickets.com/wimbledon

BOOK EARLY TO GUARANTEE YOUR SEAT 5 8 O C TO B E R 2 0 1 2

Parties & Venues Guide 2012 T H E

U L T I M A T E

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eVentS

CELEBRATE LONDON COCKTAIL WEEK SeveN DIALS, cOveNT gArDeN 8TH - 14TH OcTOber 2012

B

ook the week off work, London Cocktail Week the biggest drinks festival in the uK - is back and this year will be basing its main hub in the beautiful Seven Dials area of Covent Garden. Get ready to shake, sip and party your way to a fantastic celebration of our capital’s unrivalled cocktail culture.

Within the historic Seven Dials you’ll find our very own London Cocktail Week shop filled with must-have cocktail making equipment and from which you can collect your wristband. From there, you can go on to visit the area’s mix of high end luxury hotels, underground bars, retail spaces and exclusive members clubs, which will be buzzing with tastings, masterclasses, pop up shops and cocktail parties. These seven streets will be the must-visit of the week so sign up online, reserve your wristband in advance and see you there.

Outside of Seven Dials, the London Cocktail Week Cocktail Tours will onceagain be taking place, with some of the best bars in the city throwing open their doors to offer a bespoke London Cocktail Week cocktail

98

september 2012

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for just £4 to wristband wearers. With the new London Cocktail Week bar accreditation system, every venue will be really upping their game so take some time out to explore the city and discover some new hangouts.

The London Cocktail Week vintage Routemaster buses will be offering free transport out to the areas not within walking distance of Seven Dials and will be leaving from Centre Point at 7pm and 9pm - expect to be entertainedduring your journey.

Registrations for the £4 London Cocktail Week wristband and bus pass will open in August 2012 at Londoncocktailweek.com.

These will then be available to collect from our London Cocktail Week shop in Seven Dials from Sunday 7th October. Once the week gets going, they will go up to £10 - so sign up now. Details of activity at Seven Dials’ participating bars, hotels and restaurants will be published in Autumn 2012 at Sevendials.co.uk ■ For more information, exclusive recipes, tips and interviews please contact Kirsty Taylor on 0207 632 4800 or email sevendials@ threepipe.co.uk, or Siobhan Payne on siobhan@londoncocktailweek.com

Located in the Heart of London, the RSA House offers Georgian grandeur with contemporary style to create a number of fabulous spaces under one roof.

The RSA is a beautiful venue for an event. The staff are exceptional and helped make the day run smoothly, the quality of the food was fantastic and all of our guests had a great time

A short walk from the River Thames, Covent Garden and Trafalgar Square, it’s an unrivalled location in the heart of London.

Our talented and dedicated team will create your perfect event in a truly memorable setting.

gallery

8 John Adam Street London WC2N 6EZ T: 020 7930 5115 E: hospitality@rsa.org.uk W: www.thersa.org/house

CALKEN gallery is renowned for its emphasis on figurative bronze sculpture, and is home to the exquisite artwork of Royal Academy, Landseer Prize winning sculptor, Michael Talbot.

The sculpture is presented in relaxing, elegant surroundings, together with a refreshing variety of paintings from established and emerging artists.

The gallery is situated in Kensington Church Street, one of London’s destination streets and only a short walk from neighbouring Kensington Palace and Kensington Gardens.

117 Kensington Church Street London W8 7LN Telephone: +44 (0)20 7998 6446

Email: info@calkengallery.com

www.calkengallery.com

EV E N TS

The 80s are back!

A boutique 80s inspired nightclub

Still in their 20s, young entrepreneurs, Charlie Gilkes and Duncan Stirling launched Maggie’s: an exclusive 1980s inspired boutique club in the heart of Chelsea.

Their other high-profile venues share unusual themes; with their hidden speakeasy bar, Barts, which opened to rave reviews in February 2009 and most recently Bunga Bunga, an Englishman’s Italian, Bar, Pizzeria and Karaoke, which launched in September 2011.

As children of the 1980s, Duncan and Charlie have created a kitsch and amusing tribute to this great decade in which they were both born. It is exactly thirty years since this vibrant era began and they felt the time was right for a club of this nature.

Maggie’s is named after 1980s Prime Minister Maggie Thatcher, who was in power throughout this ten year period. The club is walking distance from Thatcher’s present home, though whether she chooses to visit remains to be seen! A bottle of vintage Champagne signed by Thatcher herself (with letter of authenticity) is the centrepiece of the diverse Maggies menu - which is depicted through classic 1980s view masters.

The music is a mixture of classics from the 1980s, and stars from the era play regular DJ sets. The Maggie’s bar tenders are dressed as

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Tom Cruise from the 80s cult movie, Cocktail, and serve a range of delicious drinks and cocktails from Pina Coladas and Daiquiris to the unforgettable Babycham. Club-goers can surround themselves with walls of iconic 80s images and paraphernalia, and can sit and relax in either a Madonna or Wham! Booth.

Charlie Gilkes says: “Both Duncan and I love the general style and music of the 1980s, but have always found 80s nights to be very cheesy and naff. We wanted to create somewhere upmarket which totally encapsulates the period from its history to its music, drinks and style, where people can re-live or indeed live this amazing decade for the first time’’.

Duncan Stirling says: “There is no doubt the 80s was ahead of its time and elements are creeping back into our popular culture today. You only need to turn on the radio to hear new bands playing 80s inspired synthesizer music or walk down the street and see the ladies all wearing big shoulder pads from Topshop.”

For more information

Maggie’s, 329 Fulham Road, London, SW10 9QL www.maggies-club.com Follow on Twitter: www.twitter.com/Maggies_Club

‘TIS NEARLY THE SEASON TO BE MERRY …

Champagne & Canapés When your December diary just looks too cluttered, enjoy a simple gathering with friends and/or colleagues from £25 per person

Office Party Nights The ultimate annual event– the staff Christmas Party!

Celebrate this year in style from £45 per person

Gala Party Nights Indulge a little more with Champagne, a sumptuous 5‐course and fine wine for £75 per person

Christmas Day Lunch with Santa Let us take the stress out of Christmas while you sit back and enjoy the fantastic food, entertainment and atmosphere for £69 per person

New Year’s Eve in Brasserie Centrale Start your New Year celebrations in style with a 5‐course meal in the restaurant for £39 per person. Families with children welcome.

Simply call Alicia now on 020 7449 4412 to get Christmas ‘all wrapped up’!

LONDON MARRIOTT HOTEL REGENTS PARK 128 King Henry’s Road, London NW3 3ST LondonMarriottRegentsPark.co.uk

L EV O NE N DTS ON EVENTS

One Events

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eemingly discreet, yet renowned for hosting some of London’s premium events the One Events venues are the ultimate party spaces.

Both Grade I listed deconsecrated Churches, One Marylebone and One Mayfair have been lovingly restored to their former grandeur, with a twist of contemporary flair, putting them at the top of the wish list for the world’s leading luxury brands and Private clients alike, hosting unforgettable weddings and celebrations.

The religious backgrounds are where the similarities stop however, and each venue has its own unique character. Tucked away on a quiet street in the heart of Mayfair is one of London’s hidden treasures, One Mayfair; a spectacular event space, which opened its doors late 2009 post major restoration after years of neglect. The location has since become the venue of the moment with the likes of Stella McCartney, The Black Eyed Peas, Kylie Minogue, Robert Downey Junior, Tom Jones and even a host of GB Gold Winners attending either as guests or performing.

One Mayfair is a rather quite breathtaking venue, with a glass balustrade Mezzanine overlooking the Grand Hall, and a two-tiered secluded Roof Terrace adorned with French style vintage garden furniture.

Its most recent restoration has been to

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transform the 200 year old basement into a versatile after party space with exposed brick work and Venini chandeliers; perfect for something a little different....

One Mayfair’s sister venue, One Marylebone, has been hosting parties for a while longer and it’s very rare to find a weekend that is not booked with a wedding or Private celebration. “With the addition of the two tiered Basement space we have created the perfect chic inner city Wedding venue”, explains Alicia Barron, who heads up the Private Events Department: “to be able to host your entire day under one roof, keeping your guests entertained with the wow factor at each new space, there really is no other venue like it. Hosting your ceremony and reception in the contemporary white Galleries on the first floor, moving down to the glamorous Soane Hall for dinner, followed by the industrial looking club in the basement for dancing, your guests will be suitably impressed!”

Most impressive of all is the flexibility these venues bring; they are completely empty and allow you to play with and personalise the spaces without compromising on anything in situ already.

Both licensed to host your wedding ceremony with dinner dances for up to 350 guests, and parties up to 1200 guests. ■ For further venues information contact; www.one-events.co.uk info@one-events.co.uk 020 7380 1663

ONE MAYFAIR GRAND HALL; BESPOKE EVENTS LONDON

ONE MARYLEBONE SOANE HALL; BESPOKE EVENTS LONDON

ONE MAYFAIR; EX EVENTS & CHAMBORD

EV E N TS

THE MOST

EXPENSIVE WINE IN THE WORLD

AT FIRST GLANCE IT MAY NOT SEEM LIKE A WINE BOTTLE BUT THIS GLASS AND METAL CONE CONTAINS THE MOST EXPENSIVE WINE. The world’s most expensive bottle of wine has gone on sale for a staggering £109,000 - making the cost of just one small 150ml glass of this rare tipple a bank-breaking £21,000, enough for 5,250 glasses of wine in a pub.

Australian winery Penfolds has released 12 special bottles of the 2004 Block 42’ Cabernet Sauvignon - a rare single-vineyard wine which is only released in stellar vintages.

The red wine, comes in an Ampoule which is hand-blown by Nick Mount, a famous glass artist from Adelaide. The ampoule has no cork or screw cap, and can only be opened by a trained wine expert. The ampoule is designed to provide the ideal environment for the wine - and even the most cavalier of millionaires cannot just whip the top off the bottle and quaff the contents.

The Block 42 vines were 6 6 O C TO B E R 2 0 1 2

transported from France to Australia in the 1830s and are now located in South Australia’s Barossa Valley, northeast of Adelaide. Penfolds said the vines are thought to be the oldest continuously producing Cabernet Sauvignon vines in the world.

Penfolds chief winemaker Peter Gago said: ‘There is something really magical about the 2004 Block 42 Kalimna Cabernet. ‘It has an ethereal dimension and a saturated blackness on the palate, it’s extraordinarily perfumed with layer upon layer of flavour.’

Penfolds’ chief winemaker Peter Gago said that if any buyer wished to drink the exclusive wine, a Penfolds winemaker would travel to wherever the buyer was in the world and open and decant the ampoule using bespoke equipment in a special ceremony. He said: ‘The Ampoule Project is typical of the pioneering philosophy behind Penfolds’ winemaking evolution.

‘The collaboration with South Australia’s finest artists has been a fitting tribute for one of South Australia’s finest wines.’

PENFOLDS

For further information and stockist please email theampoule@penfolds.co.uk

DELICATESSEN RESTAURANT

WINE GIFTS

Family owned and run, Valentina is a very popular delicatessen and restaurant, with branches across London, offering the finest Italian specialities, award-winning food, wines and gifts.

Our families hail from Sant’Elia Fiumerapido, a small village near Monte Cassino, southeast of Rome, where we have farmed the land for generations. We still return home annually to harvest olives from the family grove for the Valentina own-label olive oil and source our other fresh ingredients from the native soil.

Valentina is our way of bringing an authentic taste of Italy to the UK - to serve recipe dishes in our restaurants that have been handed down through the families.

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Valentina

Weybridge

10-12 High Street, Weybridge, Surrey KT13 8AB Telephone: 01932 218 062 Email: weybridge@valentinafinefoods.com

Valentina

210 Upper Richmond Road West, East Sheen, SW14 8AH Telephone: 020 8392 9127 Email: sheen@valentinafinefoods.com

Valentina

75 Upper Richmond Road, Putney, SW15 2SR Telephone: 020 8877 9906 Email: putney@valentinafinefoods.com

Sheen Putney

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Valentina

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Sevenoaks Notting Hill

F E AT U R E

LONDON… A MAGNET FOR THE BILLIONAIRE

HOW THE SUPER RICH CAN HELP THE LONDON ECONOMY

F

rom the mid-1990s, the British authorities set out to lure the foreign rich – and their money turning London in particular, into what Forbes has described as “a magnet for the world’s billionaires”.

Let’s look at the benefits the 1% bring to society. In particular, focusing on those super-rich foreign tycoons who have chosen to settle here in Britain.

To be in the top 1% in the UK, you need to earn over £150,000 a year, and the super-rich: the magnates and tycoons with wealth ranging from the hundreds of millions to the tens of billions of pounds, dollars or euros.

Clearly, the financial elite don’t come to Britain to enjoy year-round sunshine and blue skies, so why do they live here and what benefits do they bring to the table? Here are five gains that spring to mind: *The top 0.5% of the world’s population – perhaps 30 million people – own nearly two-fifths

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(38.5%) of its total wealth. What’s more, the UK accounts for less than 0.9% of the world’s population, yet has over 6% of the world’s millionaires. *The super-rich are attracted to the UK for many reasons, including our solid legal system, strong property rights and political and social stability. As a result, many decide

to settle in Britain permanently, with some choosing to invest part of their wealth here.

Obviously, the UK benefits enormously when foreign moguls and industrialists pour their wealth into establishing and expanding businesses within these shores, not least from job creation and higher tax revenues. * The super-rich often employ large numbers of people, either in the companies they own and manage or as their personal staff.

This is especially the case for those who choose to build businesses in London or locate and manage their wealth here. The more people these magnates employ, the more the UK benefits from higher employment and a bigger tax haul. *The rich like to dress expensively, look great and have (expensive) fun.

Accordingly, they spend fortunes on luxury items, as well as paying out large sums for everyday pleasures. For example, many of the super-rich are huge fans of British brands, so they spend freely on goods from the likes of Asprey, Barbour, Burberry, Dunhill and Mulberry. As well as splashing out on designer clothing and high-end brands,

F E AT U R E

the rich spend wildly on beauty treatments, hairdressing, flowers and cosmetic surgery.

Also, they like to own fast cars from marques such as Aston Martin, plus the obligatory ocean-going yachts and private jets.

have received had these rich folk chosen to live elsewhere. While this is only a tiny fraction of the £155 billion of income tax to be collected in 2012/13, it is better than nothing.

Of course, when these upmarket items are bought in the UK, they attract VAT at 20%.

Therefore, for every £1 million the superrich spend before VAT, the Treasury collects £200,000 of VAT on top.

*According to upmarket estate agents Knight Frank, London is the most attractive city for the world’s tycoons. This is partly thanks to a 25% to 30% decline in the value of sterling, which makes UK property much cheaper for foreign buyers.

*Another reason why the super-rich come to the UK is our extraordinarily generous tax treatment of foreign non-domiciled residents. Instead of demanding taxes on all their global income and gains, we choose to tax only on their UK-generated earnings.

Alternatively, they can opt to pay a yearly tax levy, which started at £30,000 and was increased to £50,000 recently.

Of course, living in London isn’t cheap, especially if you’re after a top-end mansion.

Partly due to demand from Greek, Italian, Russian and Far Eastern buyers, asking prices in the City of Westminster have risen by nearly half (49.6%) in the four years to February 2012. These days, £1.5 million won’t get you much more than a two-bedroom flat in the City, Mayfair or Kensington & Chelsea.

In 2010/11, this non-dom tax levy came to £153 million, which the Treasury would not

It’s worth pointing out though that these sharply rising house prices are a good thing

only if you already own property in Central London. If you’re looking to buy, then steeply higher prices spell bad news. By lifting prices, the super-rich make owners of premium properties richer, but also make it tougher for everyone below to climb the property ladder.

However, there is another benefit to their house buying, although it’s one that’s been hotly debated. Following the Government’s move in this year’s Budget to increase the top rate of stamp duty, the super-rich will now pay 7% on purchases of £2 million+ properties to 7%.

There’s also the introduction of the whopping 15% for properties bought via a company or similar bodies. Although whether this raises significant extra revenue remains to be seen.

So while many of us, may envy the super-rich and envy their lifestyles, we can say that their wealth produces some ‘trickledown effect’ that benefits the UK as a whole.

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F E AT U R E

SOLD FOR £4,200

A large and impressive oil on canvas portrait of Philip Percival (1685-1748), son of Sir John Percival

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Going, going, gone!

Try a new auction experience at High Road Auctions in Chiswick.

ince setting up shop on Chiswick High Road over a year and a half ago, High Road Auctions has stood out from others in the industry. Combining a welcoming auction house with a relaxing café bar, High Road Auctions is a unique location to explore antique treasures, vintage finds and unique interiors.

High Road Auctions has deliberately created a laid back and sociable atmosphere with items displayed in user friendly domestic settings, debunking the idea of stuffy and intimidating auctions. Sale nights in particular buzz with excitement. Last week’s sale saw the room cheer as a surprise pair of Indian miniature paintings sold for £23,000, achieving a new record for the auction house. But with lots selling from £20, there is something for all tastes and pockets and guarantees a good evening out for everyone, whether visitors want to place a bid or simply watch from the café bar. “Our aim is to make everyone feel welcome, from members of the trade to auction novices” comments auctioneer David Porter. ‘We hope people will come in, have a glass of wine, a look around, and want to join in themselves”.

Antiques, Interiors & Collectables auctions take place every Tuesday at 6pm and the sale can be viewed from Saturday to Tuesday in the room and online.

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SOLD FOR £1,200

A pair of 18ct designer yellow gold earrings by Tiffany & Co of stylized flame designs

SOLD FOR £2,650 A silver tea service

The range of items each week is astonishing and includes over 600 lots of silver, ceramics, glass and jewellery, and embracing furniture, fine art and carpets, with stock changing every week. David is the first to take the rostrum on a Tuesday night, taking bids from the room, the internet and the telephone as well as any absentee bids that have been left by those who visited the auction house over the course of the four days viewing.

It’s not just buyers who get to join in the excitement. High Road Auctions’ knowledgeable and helpful staff provide an excellent service for sellers as well.

They are able to appraise and value a huge range of items while spotting some treasures too. “Only last week a woman brought in a box of what she thought was silver plate which she hoped would fetch around £50” remembers David, “but when I got to the bottom of the box I found some beautiful 18th century silver cutlery and sold it for several hundred pounds!

She was absolutely thrilled I had spotted it!” High Road Auctions provide free and confidential valuations seven days a week, no appointment necessary, so always pay them a visit when thinking of selling items. Of course, this open door policy has allowed a few of the more unexpected items to slip in too. “A German WWII incendiary bomb dropped on Elstree railway tracks in 1941, one of Churchill’s cigars and a full set of armour – you name it, we have seen it!” laughs David.

For more information: Visit: 30-34 Chiswick High Road, W4 1TE Call: 020 8400 5225 Email: info@highroadauctions.co.uk Look: www.highroadauctions.co.uk

Stand 802 at the Independent Schools Show 2012

Free Admission

High Fliers Wanted!

don’t let this autumn fly by without a visit. only 30 minutes from Charing Cross, 25 minutes from Kings Cross, 25 minutes from euston stations royal Air Force museum London Grahame Park Way, London, nW9 5LL T: 020 8205 2266 london@rafmuseum.org

www.rafmuseum.org

F E AT U R E

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At least Shades richer How EL James made £20million in 18 months

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ighteen months ago no one had heard of Londoner Erika Leonard – or EL James to use her pseudonym – but the woman who invented “mummy porn” is now raking in almost £1million a week. Yes, that’s £1million a week. So, how did she do it?

Last month ‘Fifty Shades of Grey’ became the best-selling book in Britain of all time. More astonishing is that it began as a “self-published” book, a route to market traditionally taken by less-talented authors who failed to secure a publishing deal.

James’ story goes to show that the enhanced royalty rates offered by self-publishing can mean successful writers can end up very rich very quickly.

Leonard formerly worked as a television executive, and lives in West London with her husband of over 20 years, screenwriter and director Niall Leonard, and their two teenage sons. Raised in Buckinghamshire and privately educated, Leonard read history at the University of Kent, before becoming a studio manager’s assistant at the National Film and Television School in Beaconsfield.

She began writing erotic stories in 2009 when she posted ‘Twilight’ fan fiction online.

Originally titled “Master of the Universe” under the pen name Snowqueen’s Icedragon, the stories featured Twilight characters Edward Cullen and Bella Swan. As the stories became more erotic James

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removed the work from fan fiction sites and published them on her own website.

These stories became ‘Fifty Shades of Grey’ and sequels ‘Fifty Shades Darker’ and ‘Fifty Shades Freed’, an erotic trilogy about a female college graduate and a billionaire businessman featuring bondage, dominance and a spot of sadism/masochism.

Fifty Shades of Grey’ was first released as an e-book and print-on-demand paperback in May 2011 by The Writers’ Coffee Shop, an Australian virtual publisher.

James went on to self-publish the book on Kindle Direct Publishing, a self-publishing business run by Amazon with e-books being sold for reading on Kindles. It was a strategy that worked – readers that might have been embarrassed to be seen with a ‘racy’ novel, bought it online and read it electronically.

Paperback versions of the book only hit the shelves in April after the ‘Fifty Shades’ trilogy was the subject of a bidding war and James signed a seven-figure deal with Vintage books, part of Random House.

The novel remains more popular as e-book than a hard copy; the Kindle edition of ‘Fifty Shades of Grey’ is currently outselling the print book at a rate of more than two to one.

James has also been paid £3.2million from Universal/Focus Features for the film rights to the ‘Fifty Shades’ trilogy.

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FRIeze aRT FaIR 11-14th octoBeR 2012, Regents paRK

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rieze London is one of the world’s most influential contemporary art fairs, and brings an international focus to the dynamic art scene in London, taking place each year in October.

Frieze London will see a total of 175 exhibitors from 35 countries making it the most international edition of Frieze London; confirming its position as one of the world’s leading contemporary art events with participants from territories including Argentina, China, Columbia, Hungary, India, Korea and South Africa. The fair also includes specially commissioned artists’ projects and a prestigious talks programme.Frieze London is a carefully

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selected presentation of the most forwardthinking contemporary galleries from around the globe, and takes place in a bespoke temporary structure, designed this year, again by Carmody Groarke.

This tenth edition, features a new section, Focus, for galleries established after 2001, showing up to three artists. Focus was first introduced at Frieze New York, which took place in May 2012. This year to coincide with the London fair, Frieze also introduces Frieze Masters, a new fair with a contemporary perspective on historic art.

Together the crossover between the two fairs will make London the focus for a broad international art audience. ■ Tickets are on sale now via www.frieze.com

beautiful timber multi-fold windows timber doors

Come and visit us at the showroom: 406 Merton Road, London SW18 5AD Telephone 0208 877 8920 www.ayrtonbespoke.com

H E A LT H & B E AU T Y

D

uring the month of October our minds turn to Breast Cancer Care and its awareness. At Eloise Lingerie they are trying to impress the importance of having a good fitting bra after surgery.

Whether in the case of a full mastectomy or a lumpectomy, having a good bra immediately after surgery and in the future is vitally important. A properly fitted bra will: Reduce backache.

Bear the weight of silicone prostheses.

Help combat strap discomfort like straps slipping off your shoulder or cutting in.

Most importantly, having a bra fitted before you have your prosthesis fitting appointment helps determine the right size and shape of prosthesis for you.

If you are unable to see a fitter and want to try fitting yourself at home, here are a few pointers to help you.

U sing a tape measure, measure directly underneath your bust fairly snugly.

Please remember the support comes from the band of your bra, so this should be fairly firm to keep the weight off your shoulder straps.

O nce you have that measurement in inches, measure across the fullest part of your bust with your bra on. This will give you a rough idea of what cup size you require.

S ubtract the under-bust measurement from the over-bust measurement to get the cup size. For instance, if your under-bust measurement is 34 inches and over-bust measurement is 39 inches; 39-34= 5 inches. Starting from 1 which is equivalent to cup size A, 2 is B, 3 is C, 4 is D so 5 would be E. So the final bra size would be 34E. A lternatively, instead of measuring across your whole bust, measure from the centre of your chest bone across the fullest part of one breast and round to your spine. This should be done with your bra off and the breast lifted slightly with the hand. Once you have this measurement, double it.

A s before, subtracting the under-bust measurement from this figure will give you an idea of the cup size.

Please remember that this is not a definitive measurement, it is simply to give you a general idea of your bra size. All bras come up differently depending on make, shape and material.

If you need any assistance or have questions, simply give Eloise Lingerie a ring on 0845 2255 080 or visit www.eloise.co.uk.

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Breast Cancer Awareness Month

2012

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H E A LT H & B E AU T Y To support the 50,000 people who are diagnosed with breast cancer every year in the UK, Breast Cancer Care is encouraging people nationwide to take part in the charity’s Pink Friday fundraising campaign by wearing pink, eating pink or partying pink at work, home or school.

Money raised will help fund vital services, such as the charity’s helpline, information points in hospitals and face to face services for people who have been diagnosed with breast cancer.

Having a Pink Friday is easy to do and can include anything from wearing pink in the office with pink food and drinks, to a pink pamper party with your mates at home or getting your class to wear pink to school.

TURN YOUR FRIDAY PINK!

This October Breast Cancer Care is encouraging people to liven up their Friday by turning the day pink!

Breast Cancer Care patron Geri Halliwell said: “I’ve had the privilege of being Breast Cancer Care patron for over 12 years. Breast Cancer Care still needs your help - it’s getting worse. Every 10 minutes someone is diagnosed with breast cancer in the UK so it’s Pink Friday all of October. Dress pink, eat pink, party pink and think pink. With your support you’ll be really helping Breast Cancer Care to take care of others. Thanks” Register now for a free Pink Fridays fundraising kit, full of party ideas and fundraising tips. Visit www.breastcancercare.org.uk/ pinkfridays or call 0870 164 9422.

About Breast Cancer Care When breast cancer and its treatment overshadow everything, we see the woman underneath. Breast Cancer Care is the only UK-wide charity dedicated to providing emotional and practical support for anyone affected. Our free helpline, information-packed website and online forums offer a friendly ear and expert information to those dealing with this life-threatening disease. Across the UK we offer a range of confidential, face-to-face services for people living with and beyond breast cancer. We campaign for better support and care and promote the importance of early detection, involving people with breast cancer in all that we do.Visit www. breastcancercare.org.uk or call our free helpline on 0808 800 6000.

108 Medical Chambers at 108 Harley Street is a consultant-led and delivered independent clinic offering the highest standards of professional care with a minimum of delay in relaxing and friendly surroundings.

MEDICAL CHAMBERS 108 HARLEY STREET LONDON WIG 7ET

The specialist clinics located at 108 Harley Street are:

The London Breast Clinic – Fully integrated breast care service for all benign and malignant disease with on site digital mammography, ultrasound, cytology and core biopsy allowing rapid diagnosis. Breast screening, genetic and family review also available on site.

The London Skin Clinic – Experts offer same day consultation and surgery under local anaesthetic for conditions including melanoma, skin cancer, cysts and other benign lesions, together with diagnosis and treatment of general dermatological conditions.

The Gilmore Groin and Hernia Clinic – Over 30 years’ experience of the diagnosis and treatment for sportsmen and sportswomen with Groin Disruption / Sportsman’s Groin (Gilmore’s Groin) and adductor injuries, together with herniae of all types both primary and recurrent. Both open and laparoscopic repair are available as appropriate.

The London Rectal Clinic – Expert opinion and treatment of inflammatory bowel disease including ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease, malignant and benign disease of the colon and rectum including rectal bleeding, haemorrhoids, pilonidal sinus, fissure and fistula. Bowel cancer screening is also available.

The London Sports Injury Clinic – A cutting edge, multidisciplinary service that specialises in non surgical solutions for sports and orthopaedic injuries. In addition the clinic focuses on human performance and wellness. “You don’t have to be a professional athlete to be treated like one”.

108 X-ray and Imaging – Rapid access to full field digital mammography, ultrasound and where appropriate needle aspiration cytology or core biopsy.

A full range of plain film investigations, general ultrasound including abdominal, gynaecological and small part imaging. A full breast screening service is also available.

For more information visit: www.108harleystreet.co.uk Telephone

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Email

Web

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info@108harleystreet.co.uk

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H E A LT H & B E AU T Y

I THINK I’VE FOUND A LUMP IN MY BREAST...

WHAT DO I DO? It is completely understandable that you might worry about the possibility of breast cancer if you find a lump, but remember; most lumps are not cancer. The most likely cause for a lump depends on your age.

Women from 20s to 30s In women from 20 to 30 a definite lump is most likely to be a fibroadenoma. These are benign lumps that can sometimes be painful or enlarge but they are not cancerous and do not turn cancerous.

Women between 40s and 50s Between 40 and 50 breast cysts becom more common. These are also entirely benign. They are collections of fluid within the breast and although they can also be painful they are not dangerous.

Women aged 30 and onwards From the age of 30 onwards the gland tissue in the breast changes and it becomes more fibrous and nodular. The way the breast feels has been described as like a scaled down packet of frozen peas and occasionally, in just the same way that frozen peas can stick together to form a clump, so breast tissue can “stick together” to form definite nodular areas. These areas are also often tender but, once again, are not a sign of cancer.

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The rate of breast cancer begins to rise after the age of 40 and increases with age. Of course, breast cancer can occur at any age and I have seen cases in women as young as 19 and in their early 20s, but they are very, very rare.

The important message is, if you notice a change in your breast please get it checked. Let’s go through what you need to do.

The first thing to do is to see your GP and explain what you have noticed. They will examine you and in some cases may suggest a further check at a different time of your menstrual cycle. Some of the nodular areas can change with the cycle and this is actually a reassuring sign. If a discrete nodular area persists or your GP finds a definite lump, or is unsure, they will refer you to a breast clinic for a full assessment by the breast team. The team should consist of several consultants working together, and includes a surgeon a radiologist and a pathologist.

The investigation of any breast problem revolves around, what is

H E A LT H & B E AU T Y

called, the triple assessment. It is like doing a jigsaw puzzle; pieces (of information) are collected and put together until the whole picture (the diagnosis) becomes clear. Indeed, this is often termed “the diagnostic jigsaw”. In some cases only 2 pieces may be needed, in others 4, but 3 (the triple assessment) is most common. Let’s have a look at what the pieces are.

The first specialist you meet will often be the breast surgeon. They will ask questions about your symptoms (called taking your “history”). They will also ask about previous medical problems and your family history. They will then examine both breasts. How the breast feels when it is examined is the first part of the jigsaw.

If there is a definite area of change then a fine needle aspiration may be carried out. This test uses a normal sized syringe and needle.

The needle is placed into the area of the breast and “jiggled” so that a small amount of material is sucked into the syringe. This is sent away to be looked at under the microscope. More commonly now a test known as a core biopsy is done. A core biopsy takes a core of breast tissue about 1.5 cm long and 2 mm in diameter. The core biopsy is carried out by first putting some local anaesthetic into the skin of the breast. Once this has worked (it is quite quick) a small nick is made in the skin to allow the core biopsy needle, attached to the biopsy “gun”, to be placed into the breast. When the “gun” is “fired” (it is painless, but does make a noise rather like a large stapler) the needle takes the sample. This is often repeated a few times. The appearance of the cells that have been removed with a fine needle aspiration, or the result of the core biopsy, is the second part of the jigsaw.

The final part of the triple assessment involves taking images of the breast. In ladies under 35 an ultrasound scan is the commonest way of doing this. In ladies over 35 they will have a mammogram as well. Full field digital mammograms are the most sensitive type available at the moment. What an area of the breast looks like on a mammogram or an

ultrasound scan is the third piece of the jigsaw.

If the triple assessment produces the same answer at each stage the result is said to be concordant and no further tests may be needed. For example, a lump in a 30 year old lady may feel like a fibroadenoma, look like one on an ultrasound scan and a core biopsy shows pieces of a fibroadenoma.

What if the pieces don’t quite fit and the picture (diagnosis) is not initially obvious (the triple assessment is then said to be discordant)? For example, in a 50 year old lady a lump may feel like a benign nodular area but look odd on an ultrasound with a normal mammogram. In this case another piece of the jigsaw may be needed, such as an MRI scan or even, occasionally an operation to remove an area for full examination under the microscope.

An important part of the triple assessment that is not commonly mentioned is to watch how things change (or not) with time. It would not be unusual to check things a few months later, repeating some, or all, of the assessment to make sure nothing has changed.

A thorough triple assessment may actually be a quadruple assessment!

Once again it should be emphasised that in the majority of cases a triple assessment (or a quadruple one) will reveal that cancer is not present. Most symptoms are age related changes or benign lumps.

However, it is important that any new change is thoroughly investigated by a specialist to make absolutely sure that all is well.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Mr Simon Marsh MA MD FRCS is a Consultant Breast Surgeon at The London Breast Clinic, 108 Harley Street, London W1G 7ET. Email enquiries@108harleystreet.co.uk or visit the website at www.108harleystreet.co.uk.

O C TO B E R 2 0 1 2 8 1

H E A LT H & B E AU T Y

DR. HAUS’S

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What?

Restylane Vital is a natural beauty treatment that gently replenishes Hyaluronic acid, reversing the tell-tale signs of ageing and creating a fresh, replenished & youthful skin appearance.

How? The clear gel is gently introduced into the skin in tiny amounts with an extra-fine needle creating a fresh, natural & more youthful appearance. The site is injected several times to ensure full coverage of the treatment area.

What?

The under eye treatment for treating dark circles commonly known as bags or panda eyes.

How? Carboxytherapy involves the injection of a small amount of carbon dioxide gas just beneath the skin’s surface delivering results by increased oxygen flow to the area.

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8 2 O C TO B E R 2 0 1 2

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How? Dr. Haus prides himself on his unique technique of strategically placing the muscle relaxant in this area, giving the client natural, discreet results- avoiding both the ‘frozen’ look and down time.

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The CO2RE Madonna eye lift is the non-surgical solution to improving drooping skin, wrinkles and signs of ageing around the eyes - in a single treatment.

How? The CO2RE fractional laser works on the upper dermis tightening the skin, reducing dark circles and elevating the eyebrow.

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H E A LT H & B E AU T Y

Could acupuncture help you?

Acupuncture used to be a treatment tried when all else fails - but no longer.

F

rom the fringes of alternative medicine, acupuncture has made its way up the ranks and is now considered a beneficial treatment choice for a myriad of health complaints and conditions, from the aches and pains of old age to fertility issues and pregnancy ailments.

One Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioner from the Harley Street Acupuncture Clinic, explains why it has a place in everyone’s life….

Maureen Cromey MBAcC MRCHM, told us the list of ailments acupuncture improves is endless, but also stressed that you don’t need to have something ‘wrong with you’ to benefit from the ancient medicine.

Chronic pain, aches and stress Chronic pain is an area where acupuncture can make a vital difference, sometimes enabling patients to stop taking a string of medications that treat their symptoms. This is often the case in late middle age and for elderly patients, where there can be several things wrong that manifest as one pain point or medical complaint.

“It’s very good for older people because it’s gentle but very effective,” explains Maureen. “It’s rare for older people, or anyone really, to have just one thing wrong with them that they can put their finger on. “As we get older, in addition to injuries and pain, there’s the weakening of the digestive system and quite often some sorrow and anguish at getting older. Painkillers will numb the end symptom but don’t address many of the combined underlying causes.”

“I treat many people with chronic pain, including migraine, chronic headaches, neck and back pain, and

8 4 O C TO B E R 2 0 1 2

also hormonal problems, depression, panic attacks and just generally being strung out and stressed.” She continues: “It really boosts the immune system so it’s ideal for keeping you healthy.”

Does acupuncture actually work?

“It’s not a placebo,” Maureen assures us. “So it doesn’t really matter if you believe it will work or not. It’s a proven medical practice. But like all medicine, it will work better if you have a positive attitude towards it.”

How it works is more mysterious.

“It’s a very old system of medicine, 2,000 years, maybe more,” explains Maureen. “There’s a system of energy that flows through the body, and in traditional theory, this sometimes gets blocked by an energy or organ dysfunction and that’s what creates pain and illness. Acupuncture uses pressure points in the body to release the blockage and encourage the energy to flow normally again.”

“I would recommend it to anyone. Young, old, middle aged, there’s no age discrimination. All those niggles, aches, pains and stresses you get from working long hours and being stressed out can be helped by acupuncture. All these annoying things that we take for granted as just part of life don’t have to be. They’re all little signs and symptoms of the lack of balance that acupuncture can help restore.”

To find a registered practitioner in your area call the British Acupuncture Council on 020 8735 0400 or visit www.acupuncture.org.uk.

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H E A LT H & B E AU T Y

LUXURY PAMPERING I N L O N D O N

T

he heavenly Dorchester Spa at the prestigious Dorchester Hotel in the heart of Mayfair is a haven for those in search of a little peace and tranquility. The famous Dorchester Spa reopened its doors in May 2009 after a complete transformation bringing an exclusive new pampering destination to London.

The Dorchester Spa features nine tranquil treatment rooms (all soundproof) including two double suites all with heated treatment beds for extra luxury. Exclusive to The Dorchester Spa is the ‘Spatisserie’, an opulent, but intimate space for a light bite to eat and if desired to also indulgence in a glass of champagne or spa cocktail.

Exuding 1930s Art Deco glamour combined with a contemporary edge, the design is inspired by the iconic British style of The Dorchester.

A sophisticated environment with emphasis on style and exclusivity, the colour palette features strong accents of deep blue and ivory complimented with sumptuous velvet, silk, leather and satin. Low – level lightening assures an atmosphere at once elegant and discreet.

Three of the best skincare product partners have been appointed to enhance the treatment menu available at the spa. Joining Carol Joy and Aromatherapy Associates is the results-driven Kerstin Florian range. Fusing the very best of European spa tradition with the earth’s richest natural ingredients and the latest cutting edge scientific research, Kerstin Florian is available in some of the world’s best spas.

8 6 O C TO B E R 2 0 1 2

The indulgent Kerstin Florian Caviar facial is a relaxing and pampering treat that also relaxes, firms, tone and hydrates the skin. The ultimate anti-ageing treatment harnesses the benefits of nutrient-rich caviar and powerful antioxidants. Skin is left with an immediate luminescence, looking not only more supple but healthy and hydrated. Complimented with a hand and nail massage it’s the perfect regenerating treatment.

To book a treatment at The Dorchester Spa call +44 (0) 20 7319 1709 or alternatively e-mail spa@thedorchester.com For further information on Kerstin Florian please visit www.kerstinflorian.co.uk

west london’s ultimate club for health, & relaxation

sports

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www.theparkclub.co.uk For further information and to arrange a club tour

call 020 8740 4599

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H E A LT H & B E AU T Y

Energise yourself with Reiki

BY LEVANAH REYES-WAINWRIGHT

Today everyone is so busy and taken with wanting to achieve all that is possible within the shortest amount of time; we forget to actually take care of ourselves. Why not try booking yourself in for a Reiki Treatment; you might be surprised at the effects.

What is Reiki?

Reiki pronounced Ray-key is a Japanese word for Universal Life Force Energy. Reiki is an ancient healing system that can be experienced by either ‘hands on’ or by distance (remote) healing. A Reiki treatment encourages physical, mental and emotional healing and spiritual growth.

becomes easy to “do unto others as you would have others do unto you”.

This unique gift of healing is learned by a process of attunements. A person who has been attuned to Reiki has experienced a very ancient technology for fine tuning the physical and spiritual bodies to a higher vibrational level. The individuals energy centre’s (chakras) are also opened up to enable them to channel higher amounts of Reiki energy. Reiki is not a religion or a belief system because it holds no creed or doctrine. Reiki is designed to work whether you believe it or not. Reiki energy is drawn through the practitioner, and the recipient’s body will draw the energy to those parts of the body that require it.

Simultaneously the practitioner is also treated whilst giving the treatment. Energy enters through the practitioner and passes out through the hands to the recipient. Reiki healing not only works on a physical level; it can relive pain but also promotes total relaxation and works to restore mental well-being and spiritual equilibrium. After being attuned an individual can also perform self healing, with daily self treatment to encourage the body’s natural healing abilities and reduce stress.

By practising the five Reiki principles daily and using them continually they will become a habitual part of life and compliment your Reiki treatments.

Your participation in your own life healing process is of paramount importance, in order to achieve the perfect balance you must give back for what you receive.

THE FIVE REIKI PRINCIPLES Just for today: I will not worry Remember that there is a divine and universal purpose in everything. Living each day to the best of your abilities is all that can be asked of anyone. To worry about the past or future is futile.

Just for today: I will not anger Every situation is a mirror, a direct reflection of cause and effect created by ourselves. Those who cause anger in us are teaching us a lesson about ourselves. Witnessing your weaknesses gives you opportunity to grow.

Just for today: I will respect my family, employers and friends Respect those around you for their wisdom and experience and show gratitude. Feel thankful for what you have received and trust it will always be provided.

Just for today: I will earn my living honestly If we are honest with ourselves then we project honesty to others, it then

8 8 O C TO B E R 2 0 1 2

Just for today: I will show gratitude to every living thing.

We must not try to control nature, but harmonise with nature and show love and respect for all life forms.

What happens during a treatment?

Treatments can vary from 30 – 45 minutes and prices vary according to practitioner as do types of Reiki, but the healing element is the same. You will be fully clothed and lying down on a bed akin to a massage. Reiki practitioners often practice ‘hands on’ healing on or around the head area and will channel energy through them to you. However, if you are uncomfortable being touched Reiki is still as effective with the practitioner placing their hands above the area about 6 inches away from the head or body. The practitioner should ask if you are comfortable for them to treat other areas of the body, such as feet, legs and stomach.

The practitioner’s hands may be placed lightly over your eyes, sides and underside of your head and/or your neck depending on where they feel you need treatment.

During a treatment some people experience nothing whereas others may experience feelings of hot cold, tingling and sometimes even light headed dizziness or seeing colours. However on the most part, people experience a feeling of well-being and deep relaxation.

Most people have Reiki treatments, and may even be attuned to study Level 1 and 2 for everyday self treatment and care for family members and/or friends. If you want to move forward with Reiki as a hobby or profession you must do Level Three Master/Teacher.

A certified practitioner can be found via The Reiki Association www.reikiassociation.org.uk/ who apply rules, regulations and standards to treatments, as well as offering membership and practitioner insurance.

ENJOY TWO FANTASTIC OFFERS TO CELEBRATE YOUR LOCAL WALK IN SELF PAY URGENT CARE CENTRE’S FIRST BIRTHDAY! l Treatment for children from age one l Able to treat minor injuries, accidents & illnesses l Avoid NHS queues. Shortest waiting times l Patient parking and 2 mins walk from St John’s Wood tube station l Consultations with specialist A&E doctors l Walk in specialist ski injury service - on the spot diagnosis and treatment l Instant referrals to Hospital l Open 8am - 8pm Mon-Fri, 10am-6pm weekends l Rapid on-site blood tests and results

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18/09/2012 18:17

Laban’s Pilates Studio is one of the largest fully equipped Pilates facilities in the UK Open 7 days a week

*We Neprovide w* Reformer classestailored and Pilates sessions to your specific needs Mat classes available

TELEPHONE 020 8469 9482 EMAIL PILATES@TRINITYLABAN.AC.UK ONLINE WWW.TRINITYLABAN.AC.UK/PILATES Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance LABAN BUILDING, CREEKSIDE SE8 3DZ

Photography: Kyle Stevenson

For further information or to make a booking:

HEALTH BEAUTY

THE FINER THINGS IN LIFE PROVIDING THE ELEMENTS OF WELLBEING

Luxury, style, space and elegance create the perfect environment to escape the many pressures of fast London life. The Laboratory Spa & Health Clubs boast an effortless and peaceful ambience drawing you in and leaving you wanting more.

Voted best private Health Club and Spa in London by Time Out - The Lab offers a unique atmosphere rarely enjoyed in other clubs.

No expense has been spared in the Clubs, from fresh flowers in the changing rooms, to the finest cuttingedge workout equipment. The flawlessly finished workout areas complement the inviting 25m UV treated swimming pools, personalised fitness and well-being programming and the choice of over 100 different fitness classes at each club.

Innovative, motivational and led by some of the UK’s finest and most-respected fitness professionals, the Lab offers an unrivalled and envied timetable of group exercise classes to fit every age, interest, and schedule.

Schwinn cycling, BodyPump, FE 9 0 O C T2O B EBRU2A 0R 1 2Y 2 0 1 2

salsa, aquatics, yoga, pilates, qi gong and so much more!

Regular courses are also held, from meditation to Zumba and hula hooping workouts, poledancing and motivational talks.

TIGHT FOR TIME?

Our experienced Gym Team will ensure your workout programme gets you tiptop results safely before you head off to work or why not squeeze a class into your day for a super-fast, superintense workout that will leave you positively buzzing with renewed energy and vigour!

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 sanctuary of peace and calm that provides a chance to escape the stresses of daily life. The newly-refurbished treatment rooms are the perfect backdrop for the exceptional team of highlyqualified spa therapists and holistic therapists to deliver a broad range of treatments.

To further complement the Day Spa, you can relax and unwind in the twin spa baths, Scandinavian saunas and custom-made marble steam rooms. Non- members are

welcome to the Day Spa. Time Out... ”It exudes an air of sophistication that strikes you the minute you walk through the feng-shui lobby. By far the smartest club in the borough.”

The original flag-ship site opened in 1995 in the picturesque shadows of Alexandra Palace in Muswell Hill with acres of its own luscious and secluded gardens where you can sun-bathe or chill out in private. The sister club is in Mill Hill and this year celebrates 11 years of club excellence.

At The Laboratory there is no annual contract – you are not tied in. Vas Hava, General Manager says “Our members stay with us because they value what we offer and love what we do.” Lab members have full use of all facilities. Non members are welcome to use our Day Spa. 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 Or visit the website at www.labspa.co.uk

Occasional habit getting out of control?

When an occasional habit gets out of control it can quickly become an addiction. It can wreck your life and the lives of those around you – but fortunately addictions can be treated.

Addictions patients who completed The Priory’s 28 day programme had a 98% chance* of showing improvement in their mental health and social functioning.**

Daily routine?

One too many?

Losing stre

ak?

Contact The Priory today to speak to an adviser or to arrange a confidential, free addictions assessment.

You’ve come this far, don’t back out now.

Scan with a QR reader for a direct link to our website

Tel: 0845 2 774679 Email: info@priorygroup.com www.priorygroup.com/addictions The Priory Hospital Roehampton Priory Lane, Roehampton, London, SW15 5JJ The Priory Hospital North London Grovelands House, The Bourne, Southgate, London, N14 6RA * Based on a sample of all patients during 2010/11 with completed HoNOS data. ** Improvements as measured by The Health of the Nation Outcome Scales (HoNOS). HoNOS is the most widely used routine clinical outcome measure used by English mental health services and is also used in services around the world. It is a highly validated tool for the measurement of mental health and social functioning and provides insight for patients and clinicians into their progress against planned goals.

Improvement is defined as a decrease in total HoNOS score over the course of an episode of care.

Health of the Nation Outcome Scales (HoNOS) © Royal College of Psychiatrists 1996.

Laban’s Pilates Studio is one of the largest fully equipped Pilates facilities in the UK Open 7 days a week *New* Reformer and 20% off selectedclasses Pilates bundles and Health treatments 9-27th July 2012!

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Pilates_ad_Blackheath_Dulwich_mag_90x125.indd 1

Photography: Kyle Stevenson

For further information or to make a booking:

07/10/2011 11:36

H E A LT H & B E AU T Y

DRESS UP & WORK OUT!

Look and feel stylish as you exercise as good. Trainers with sweat-absorbing socks are a good idea, too.

A decent sports bra, vest and Capri pants or shorts are all you need when you’re working this hard.

Sweat-wicking materials will be your friend with all that bouncing about and good shoes with plenty of cushioning will help minimise impact on your joints.

There are many designer labels offering gorgeous sportswear so have a look at what’s on offer. Fashionable fitness wear can provide such convenience by doubling up on glamour aswell as flexibility during high impact aerobic exercise. And don’t forget your water!

Running At this time of year you really need to invest in some full-length running leggings. However, if you keep the rest of your body warm three-quarter leggings will be fine too. You can team them up with layered tops, preferably thermal, to keep the chill out but with breathable under arm mesh panels to help wick away sweat and keep you cool and dry where you need it most. If you’re running in the evening, it is essential you have reflective strips to help you stay safe and be seen by drivers and cyclists.

The most important piece of kit for new runners are your running shoes.

It’s not a good idea to dig out those old tennis shoes from the back of your wardrobe and assume you can run in them. You need fresh, wellcushioned shoes that are designed for running, fit well and match your foot type and running style. Running is high impact and you need to make sure your feet are getting the right support to prevent injury. Many sports shops now offer gait/foot analysis to help identify what type of running shoe will give you the best support. This is the most important purchase a runner would make. There are many reputable sports shops around and Sweaty Betty have a very comprehensive online guide to choosing a shoe that best fits with your body and training needs. Many well-known brands have an extensive selection for you to choose from.

And don’t forget your water!

High impact aerobics You should wear clothes that allow your skin to breathe, and you to move freely. We’ve all seen Jane Fonda’s lycra body stockings but for us mere mortals, leggings, light tracksuit trousers and a t-shirt will be just 9 4 O C TO B E R 2 0 1 2

Dance If you’re doing a dance class or the high energy Zumba, it’s a chance to have a little fun with your workout gear. Choose some bright colours and clothes with lots of stretch. As long as you’ve got the chest support with a good sports bra there are a host of pretty workout tops from which to choose. You can wear any type of fitness clothes…. jogging bottoms, shorts, t-shirts; anything comfortable and cool.

As for shoes, wear cross-trainers or dance shoes - anything that will give you support. Also remember the importance of attending every session with plenty of bottled water. If you’re doing a class such as ballet or jazz you will want to invest in a pair of appropriate shoes rather than trainers.

You can of course, try these activities at home first to see if they are for you, before you splash out.

Pilates/Yoga For these classes you need super comfortable clothing that allows your body to move freely but also allows the class teacher to see the shape of your body to make sure you’re carrying out the moves correctly to prevent injury. Depending upon the style of yoga that you perform often dictates what feels most comfortable. So perhaps the word comfortable needs to be explored because in order to become immersed in yoga – you don’t what your yoga clothes to restrict you.

It is important to be able to breathe into the belly and to be able to stretch and explore new positions without feeling restriction in my yoga practice.

Cotton and natural fibres allow the body to breathe and keep the body feeling comfortable when faced with more challenging workouts.

H E A LT H & B E AU T Y

Loose comfortable yoga clothing is important because it allows you to stretch freely in your practice, without feeling limited in your practice. Also sitting in meditation pose for any length of time requires the yoga clothing to give so that you feel free. Having the right length trousers is important too, you don’t want to spend the practice tripping over your hems, especially when working through a salutation. But as all women know you still want to feel good and the yoga clothes needs to flatter you too. One of the important principles of yoga is ‘AHIMSA’ - the principle suggests that we should respect ourselves and all other living beings. So it is important to feel good about yourself, but don’t torture yourself trying to wear the latest fashion – because that is not a principle of yoga.

Swimming All we’ll say is string bikinis really aren’t appropriate for aquafit or swimming fast lengths, apart from the fact they are not particularly classy, either! Make sure you try on a few swimsuits as their comfort depends on your body shape. For example you may be short-waisted and long in the rise (that’s the bit from your crotch to your waist) if so, you might find swimsuits leave you hunched and your boobs uncomfortably squashed. The best remedy for this is a tankini. The joy of these are that you can often buy mix and match separates if you have differing size top and bottom halves. If you’re generously blessed in the boob department then an inbuilt bra support will be invaluable. We also find that a halter-neck style is especially flattering for those more shapely. And don’t forget your goggles or swim cap – especially if you have coloured hair. It‘s important that you wear the right gear for outdoor swimming aswell. That means a brightly-coloured swimming cap, swimming goggles and a good-fitting wetsuit. A bright swimming cap will improve your visibility in the water.

Cycling So how do winter cyclists handle the cold when riding? Being prepared can be the best way to enjoy the winter weather when biking and stave off potential injuries or illness. So, when preparing for your next ride carefully consider what you’re wearing before you step outside.

To best regulate your temperature and keep your performance from being compromised when cycling in winter conditions, follow these easy steps: 1. Layer your clothing so that you can adjust accordingly to the level of exertion and cold that you are feeling. Keep the core of your body warm and dry (from your chin to your

crotch.) by layering your clothing you allow yourself to add, remove or vent layers as your exertion or the temperature change.

2. A void cotton fabrics: While cotton may feel good when it’s dry, it also naturally absorbs moisture and prevent air circulation.

3. U se Polyester, Polypropylene, Silk or Wool for base layers. These natural and man made fabrics wick moisture, allow air circulation and dry quickly.

4. D on’t forget to cover your hands, feet, head and neck. These are major areas of heat loss. While you may want to start out without toe warmers or full finger gloves, carrying these small items folded in a jersey pocket can make a big difference in your total body temperature 5. D on’t underestimate wind chill. A good wind blocking exterior layer can keep you from having to dress too bulky. An inexpensive alternative that can give your more seasonal flexibility in your cycling closet can be a lightweight, packable shell or wind vest. These garments can make a substantial difference.

The sports bra It doesn’t matter how large or small your breasts are wearing a sports bra while you exercise reduces breast movement preventing sagging and reducing pain. It’s important that you try on sports bras for fit and comfort, so try to do your shopping in person rather than online. Stay away from sports bras that are made of 100% cotton because once you start sweating, they’ll stay wet. If you have a large chest and need a lot of support, look for sports bras with wide shoulder straps and racer back straps.

Make sure you try on several different size sports bras. The right size for you may not actually be the cup size that you normally wear.

The bra is too big if the material wrinkles or bunches. It should fit snugly but not constrict your breathing. And if the bra is cutting into your skin, then it’s too small. If you can slide two fingers under the straps, then it’s a good fit.

When you try on sports bras, jog on the spot to test their support before you buy. While you’re bouncing up and down, the bra should minimise breast movement.

There are a number of choices - Fitness wear specialists Sweaty Betty have an in-depth guide to finding the perfect sports bra for your size and chosen activity and Panache recently launched their Sport Ultimate Sports Bra 5021, encapsulating the breasts for ultimate support.

O C TO B E R 2 0 1 2 9 5

& AS GOOD AS GOLD

HOUSE & GARDEN

H OU SE GARD EN

THE OLYMPIC RANGE OF INDOOR AND OUTDOOR POOLS FROM ORIGIN.

metre building, housing a 5.7 x 2.75 metre pool, and plenty of room for changing and gym equipment. All for £120,000. And for a limited time Origin will accept 10% VAT on that - as an incentive for you to be part of the Olympic race!

The outdoor life - Origin style

F

or over thirty years, Origin has been building cutting edge designer indoor pool houses. Over that time, the sophistication has increased dramatically, to keep ahead of the changing demands of the company's customers. Since the earliest days, sales, planning and progress has always been monitored at director level, and the teams of designers and builders have changed little, giving a consistency which has become Origin's benchmark.

As an example, meet the all new Olympic range - proving to be one of Origin's great successes. Several buildings are currently underway, and many more are on the drawing board. e range comprises four main models, e Olympiad, Marathon, Arena, and Challenger.

To celebrate 2012 and Great Britain's Olympic moment the Origin team put together these pool house packages, inspired by this most historic of games.

With an accent on healthy living the designers built in fitness must-haves, such as a well equipped gym, swim jets and an exciting alfresco feel. In the Challenger alone there is all the equipment necessary to train for a triathlon - so it is well within reach of Origin customers to get in some serious training for Rio in 2016! rough the use of cutting edge technology and the finest new materials Origin has managed to bring in the four new packages at record breaking prices - and have included many of the most exciting advances available to today's swimming pool buyer.

Temperature controlled pool and surroundings - of course. An exterior finish engineered timber construction. A wide choice of exterior and interior finishes and colours - so your new Olympic Pool House will match in with the colour, surroundings and fabric of your home. e company has even selected ten big canvas styles to maximise the look of your interior, featuring the sort of imagery that will suit this truly life changing installation. You can choose any two of these with the compliments of Origin. e entry style Olympic package is the Arena - an 8 x 4.5 PO TE B2 E 0R1220 1 2 9660 OSCE T BM ER

OUTDOOR OLYMPIC TOO… For the past thirty years an important part of Origin's business has become the design and construction of outdoor pools as well as their trademark pool houses. It is hardly surprising, since the company's design and construction teams have made it their business to have a complete understanding of swimming pool technology.

Although Origin is recognised primarily as the leading indoor pool house company it would have been a shame if the potential customers who preferred the alfresco freedom of swimming under the sun (or stars) had not been given the opportunity to share the knowhow gleaned from the Origin team’s long established expertise.

To further celebrate London 2012 it made sense to develop a range of outdoor pools with the sporting flavour of the Olympic indoor pool range. Origin is introducing these high tech Olympic outdoor installations to complete the picture. Four generous sizes are available - 10 x 4 metres, 10 x 5 metres, 12 x 6 metres and 15 x 6 metres. e packages include a concrete pool chamber, tile patterned pool liner (with an optional mosaic tile), stone copings and pool filtration system.

Features include gas, oil or electric pool heating for comfortable swimming outside throughout the year, underwater lighting, bubble cover and roller, and stainless steel steps.

An Origin pool is built to be easy to clean, so you can spend more time relaxing, and less with chemicals and a mop.

For a further investment it is worth considering one of the many advances in pool covers too. As you may have noticed, Britain’s weather can be unreliable – so the company has developed a deep knowledge of the quickest and easiest ways to protect the water from leaves, and make it safe and secure for younger members of the family.

COUNTRY WISE… Barn living is the phrase currently on the lips of the Origin team. ese delightful buildings have a real rural feel, hiding the cutting edge technology of the company's state-of-the-art product.

Because they fit so beautifully into the country landscape they are often easier to get through the planning stage, and happily take some of the lovely gentle colours that the designers have to offer. ere is nothing better than swimming in your own garden, outside or under cover. Choosing an Origin design, unique to you, is a reliable and trustworthy way to get exactly the pool you want, from a company with vast experience in this specialist area.

Origin's brochures shows a wealth of the company’s finest moments, and are an easy way to understand the different features and strengths of the different models.

Ring 01895 823366 or email info@originleisure.com for your brochure pack.

It’s a great introduction to an exciting new way of life… www.originleisure.com ■

Barker & Barker

Fabric and Interior specialists.

63 Amwell street, Islington London EC1R 1UR Nearest tube- Angel www.barkerandbarker.co.uk

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H OUS E & GA R D E N

H OU SE GARD EN

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have often said that we should emulate the prudent wealthy people of Tudor times who invested their money in tangible things like land, property, decorative arts and items of intrinsic value such as gold and silver. e production of artefacts made of the latter was, by the middle of the 16th century, strictly controlled and as proof of this the Goldsmiths’ Company had instituted a system of marking all items so made which revealed with individual stamps on the surface the quality of the material, the identity of the maker, the place where it was tested and the officer in charge of the testing. As it was an annual office this mark changed each year and, taking its form as a letter of the alphabet, became known as the Letter of the Year Mark or more recently simply the ‘Date Letter’. Originally it was called the Assay Mark - from the French word assai meaning examination - introduced under a statute of 1478 wherein the Goldsmiths’ Company was made liable to a fine if it marked any substandard silver. (A point here is that in this context the term goldsmith applies to silversmiths as well.) In 1545 the fourth mark was added, depicting a lion walking to the left with its right paw raised and known as the Lion Passant. It became known as the Sterling Mark as it took the place of the earlier King’s Mark to denote quality while the latter became recognised as the mark of the London Goldsmiths’ Company and Assay Office. e reason for the change was two-fold. Firstly by the mid 1500’s the coinage had become debased by approximately 50% which meant that a silver crown (5 shillings) had only half a crown’s worth of silver content. To prove the maintained sterling value and quality of wrought plate, that is items made of silver, the Lion Passant mark was introduced.

Secondly, by this time and starting as early as 1378, Assay Offices had been established in various parts of the country, particularly at York, Newcastle, Lincoln, Norwich, Bristol, Salisbury and Coventry.

While it was imperative that all

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John Bly

silver should be guaranteed to be of the sterling standard and marked as such it was impractical to expect silversmiths from these disparate places to travel to London to have their wares marked and so each adopted a different emblem to equate with the Leopard’s Head of London.

All these towns and cities used a letter of the alphabet to identify the Assay Master but they did not all use the same sequence of letters. London used the first twenty letters in the alphabet excluding ‘J’ and when the run was exhausted the typeface or the shape of the background ‘shield’ was changed. In 1560 Queen Elizabeth I restored the value of the coin, a move which set Britain on a steady course to recovery for the best part of 100 years only to be decimated by our civil war (1642 – 1649.) Among the results of this were vast amounts of earlier wrought plate being melted down to pay for it, which in turn caused a shortage of silver for manufacture. Over time this affected the monetary supply to such an extent that by the 1690’s further legislation was necessary.

Until the reign of Charles II all our coinage was made by hand, stamped by hammer and die and the edges trimmed with shears.

Although trade was often conducted through barter or credit, cash transactions were

common enough and so, before parting with your coins it was only human nature to snip a little bit of the edge of each one. ese little snippets all mounted up - the original ‘every little counts’ – but it had already become a capital offence to clip coins and, with a fake die, forge your own money.

However with an increased demand from working silversmiths these scraps could command as high a price as the coins they had been cut from, and with less risk of detection of the crime.

So a new type of coinage was called for and a mill was set up in the Tower of London and powered by horses to produce perfectly circular coins. As a belt -and-braces measure an inscription or legend was engraved around the outer edge thereby making illegal clipping virtually impossible. But the authorities failed to see the problem with having both old and new currency in circulation at the same time.

Obviously people hung on to the new with its full face value money’s worth, while spending and clipping - the old. Clearly the old coinage had to be withdrawn and the 2nd, 3rd and 4th of May 1697 were the final days for collection at the ten furnaces specially built behind the Treasury, which was then at Whitehall between the Banqueting House and the river. For weeks great piles of coins, mostly half face value and barely recognisable had been collected, melted down and cast into ingots. In one instance some £52,000 of face value coins were melted to produce just over half that amount of silver worth.

But distribution of the new coins was slow and while all this was going on another factor became evident; the value of coin clippings to silversmiths had to betaken out of the equation. is was done by raising the silver content of wrought plate to a level above that of coin. Not by so much as to make the material too soft for use and durability but sufficient to be detected by the assay. e figures were a raise from 92.5% pure to 95.84% pure.

It was known at first as the New Sterling Standard but – as it

was denoted by a stamp showing the figure of Britannia – it soon became known as the Britannia Standard. is mark replaced the Lion Passant mark and in London the Leopard’s Head was replaced by a mark showing a Lion’s Head in profile, facing to the left with a jagged neckline as if torn from its body. Heraldically this is called ‘erased’ and so the Britannia Standard in London is denoted by the Britannia mark and the Lion’s Head Erased. In all other towns and cities the Lion’s Head Erased is used in addition to their town mark. From 1697 until 1720 the Britannia Standard was obligatory but in the latter year the economy in England had recovered sufficiently for the government to restore the old Sterling Standard while retaining the Britannia Standard as an option which it remains to the present day.

In the early days of the maker’s mark, people were less literate and initials meant little or nothing to most, so symbols were commonly used. ese might be a miniature image of the shop or tavern sign where the silversmith had his workshop, such as leathern bottle or a swan, a star or crescent moon.

By the 17th century we see the first two letters of the surname being used and by the beginning of the 18th century the silversmith’s initials gradually became the norm.

From the 1720’s it can be said without question that the manufacture and sale of English silver was the most proficiently run and tightly controlled of all industries, with the welfare and benefit of manufacturer, supplier and purchaser held in equal esteem. e four marks as described filled every requirement and would surely have survived unaided save for a change in taxation in the 1780’s and the Convention Hallmarks introduced in the 1970’s, nearly two hundred years later.

When we’ve dealt with them we really will get onto the silver from the Channel Isles, Scotland, Ireland and other desirable categories where the present day equivalent of the prudent Tudor person should still be putting their money ■

H OUS E & GA R D E N

WHAT’S GOING ON

DOWN THERE?

We look at trends in basement building.

A

s a family grows so it needs more space, more amenities.

But with a shortage of quality family property, and stamp duty at a level where buying a home for more than £1m means paying the Chancellor 5% of its value (7% if it’s over £2m) it’s not surprising that many homeowners prefer to stay put and expand what they’ve got. What’s more, the kids can stay at the same schools and the parents don’t have to learn to live with a whole new

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set of neighbours. That’s why looking down, at the potential for basement space, has become the preferred option for many. We talked with the leader in the field, Cranbrook Basements, to find out why looking down is on the up.

According to the company its clients are seldom short of ideas, which – as appreciation of what can be achieved underground grows – become ever more exciting. However, they need to find a specialist who can realise their vision in a way

that can be built, respects the existing building and meets their expectations. That’s where Cranbrook’s three-dimensional modelling comes in; it helps people visualise the space they want to create and see how it relates to their home and way of life. Sometimes people ask for something relatively simple like an extra room or two.

Sometimes, though, it is a much more complex scheme which might include a swimming pool or even a two and three storey basement.

H OUS E & GA R D E N

Cranbrook has a totally integrated approach to design, management and construction. It’s a one-stop shop where architectural designers, quantity surveyors and structural engineers come together with over one hundred craftsmen, many with over 20 years experience. They’re all available through just one point of contact. Having a single contractor responsible for every aspect of the job, from the first survey through to the final coat of paint, makes life much easier for anyone who wants to grow underground.

So what sort of basements are your neighbours constructing?

The latest trend is for multi-level basements. These call for special techniques when working in confined spaces at considerable depths, while rigourous measures are needed to ensure the stability of the property, and its neighbours. Reasons for going deep – apart from extra rooms – include swimming pools, underground garages, lift shafts and even vehicle lifts.

Basement pools, especially, are increasingly common, including exercise pools – literally the swimmer’s version of a treadmill.

Pools, Cranbrook points out, are not just holes filled with water.

They need an infrastructure of heating, ventilation, pumps and water quality equipment.

But it may not be a pool that’s going under that building down the street. London underground today houses kitchens, media

rooms, family rooms, en-suite bedrooms, gymnasia, offices, libraries, music rooms and, of course, wine cellars. More surprisingly you might even find a car down there; perhaps not the family runabout, but a supercar or historic vehicle.

With off-street parking at a premium, and fears of theft, basements with a garage are becoming more popular. It needs a vehicle lift to get the prideand-joy down there, but that’s

not a problem in most places.

What if you’re lucky enough to live in an historic building? Don’t give up. Cranbrook recently completed a three storey basement below a Grade II Listed Building and a single level basement under a 225-year old Grade II* Listed Building. The company’s excavation and underpinning teams receive specific training in basement construction below historic structures.

For the past thirty years the company has been involved with some of the most exciting basement projects in central London. And it keeps winning them by delivering exceptional quality combined with exceptional value. Having seen Cranbrook’s casebook, we can only say that if you want to move up the property ladder, you should definitely consider going down.

CRANBROOK BASEMENTS can be contacted on 0800 525 883 www.cranbrook.co.uk

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H OUS E & GA R D E N

MAKE A

FEATURE OF IT

If you’re thinking about changing your décor, and want something striking, then a feature wall is definitely worth considering.

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feature wall is a great way to experiment with colour and bold pattern and is a simple way to make a room look sophisticated, stylish and chic. A feature wall can add interest, style and energy to your room. As a basic rule, choose a wall that’s as plain as possible, without doors or windows. Interior designer Joanna Wood says it’s important you don’t just think of walls, either. “A chimney breast or alcove both make great features,” she says.

And, says Joanna, as you’re going to be drawing attention to your chosen wall, think hard about whether it’s worth showing off. “Does it have beautiful architectural elements or will you be highlighting a piece of furniture that you really love,” she says.

Placing your bed against a feature wall makes for an unusual and striking bed head, for example.

Paint the wall in a bold colour (strong and sexy shades such as plum and sapphire can work well) or for a more sophisticated and glam touch, cover you wall in a material like velvet or silk.

For a subtle effect, choose a complementary shade to that of the

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rest of the room; a darker or lighter intensity of the same colour as the other three walls can really work well. If you’re into a bit more drama then pick contrasting colours - those that sit opposite each other on the colour wheel (a warm brown with duck egg blue for example).

Don’t just think of paint and wallpaper when creating a feature wall.

“You can use a huge variety of materials,” says Joanna. “Materials like suede, silk or wood add texture and interest. And if you have a dark room or corridor, mirrors or metallic reflective wallpapers, which are very on trend right now, are a great choice. They feel opulent and also bounce and reflect light around the space.”

Advances in digital printing mean you can now have a huge variety of photographic images blown up to wall size, if you are looking for something different.

Or go 3D: a collection of objects can make a striking wall feature.

Hang framed photos across an entire wall or make a feature of your album collection.

Feature walls are a simple but striking way to update your room. Choose the right wall and be bold with colour and you’ll soon have a room that hits all the right notes.

H OUS E & GA R D E N

HIGH DEFINITION TOUCH-SCREEN TV, £999, LAGOON FREESTANDING BATH, £1,799; MYPLAN 600 WC UNIT, £199; MYPLAN SLIMLINE 600 BASIN UNIT, £199; MYPLAN SLIMLINE 600 POLYMARBLE BASIN £99 AND RIMINI CHROME RADIATOR, £299, BATHSTORE

WASH THIS SPACE

BY GABRIELLE FAGAN

BATHROOMS ARE PROBABLY THE HARDEST-WORKING AREA IN A HOUSE THESE DAYS AS WE DEMAND MORE OF THEM THAN EVER BEFORE. To be successful, they should work as a practical space for the daily washand-go as well as being a haven dedicated to wellbeing and pampering.

“Long gone are the days when the bathroom was simply a functional space. People are moving away from the Victorian-style basic bathroom and towards the modern, spacious spa feel,” says Anthony Howells, bathrooms buyer for B&Q. “They want the clean lines, minimalism, wet rooms and walk-in doorless showers, enhanced by chunky floating yet stylish fixtures such as units and frosted glass, which they see when they stay in hotels and want to replicate.” He predicts that, where space allows, the popularity of free-standing baths, becoming more sculptural in shape, will continue to grow as they provide a focal point in large bathrooms.

Experimenting both with design and colour is a growing trend, according to Rita Rendo Castro, sales and marketing manager at Catchpole & Rye. “People are becoming increasingly design confident, with more opting to make a statement with a brightly-painted bath or patterned tiles,” she says. “The bathroom is an ideal space to try out new colours in a small area which wouldn’t necessarily work in a larger living space. Dove grey is a chic but safe choice for walls and gives a neutral base which can be enlivened by other colour choices. Salmon pink and yellow are one of my favourite combinations as they’re elegant but have a warm, summery feel.”

Taking the waters has never been more pleasurable - so check out a bathroom solution for your home.

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Waterproof style

Bathrooms are embracing technology so that they can be the ultimate, flexible retreats, says Cheryl Gurner, creative director at Bathrooms International. “The bathroom has benefited hugely from advances in technology in recent years. Bathroom-friendly flat screen televisions, fibreoptic lighting in showers which mimic a twinkling star effect and hidden speakers offering surround sound - all add up to the wow factor in this most personal space.”

While Paul Flowers, senior vice president of design at Grohe, predicts that the bathroom will be transformed in the next 10 years, as it develops into a space fully-equipped to cater for health and wellbeing. “Developments in technology are already allowing us to equip it with personal lifestyle and health functions such as diagnostic mirrors, which measure and monitor the status of our physical health. “Lighting, projection and sound are bringing “entertainment” into the room, and can be programmed, just like showers, to precisely suit your mood at different times of the day. “As the barriers between the bedroom and the bathroom blur, the space will become more sensual, decorative and truly have the atmosphere of a fully-equipped indulgent zone.”

Splash out solutions

rohe Power & Soul showerhead starts from £70 and offers 11 different G spray patterns.

Bathstore has a waterproof high-definition touch-screen TV, £999.

H OUS E & GA R D E N Or take a light-changing, moodenhancing shower with a colour range including green for balance, blue for relaxation and red for energy. Sky Shower Chromotherapy, from £3,500, from Bathrooms International.

brighten even the dullest space. “Add a pop of colour to your bathroom by installing a brightly-coloured basin or furniture,” says Ellen Tietz, marketing manager at Villeroy & Boch. “Sunflower orange, olive green and petrol blue are popular at the moment and sit beautifully alongside clean bright white ceramics.”

Small but perfectly formed

Although the glossy interiors magazines feature vast bathrooms, the UK has the smallest bathrooms in Europe. “But just because your bathroom’s small it doesn’t mean you need to compromise on the quality or style of fittings,” says Robin Levien, design director of Ideal Standard, which has a Space range designed for compact areas. “By utilising innovative design and clever storage, your bathroom can still be well equipped and a calm rather than crowded space.” He suggests wall-hung toilets with a cistern neatly hidden behind a wall or fitted unit; basins and showers which fit snugly into corners, and clever features such as a bath with storage drawers at one or both ends. “A sliding door can release further space, while large-size tiles create an illusion of more space more effectively than small ones,” he says. “Don’t pack out the walls with cupboards and definitely avoid too much at high level as this can reduce ‘head space’ which, if the area is small, is claustrophobic.”

Splash out solution

Ideal Standard’s Space range includes an offset corner basin with semi-pedestal, £165.75, and Moments furniture bath with two end storage units, £3,611.

Bathstore boasts an ultra-compact range, Cityspace, with a choice of three different basin sizes plus toilets which project minimally into the room. A close coupled WC £228; a 500 Basin, £45, and pedestal, £40.

Colour wash

Colour’s back in fashion in homes and that’s being reflected in new ranges of bathroom furniture in a range of rainbow colours, which can LA PROVENCE BATH, FROM £2,640, AVAILABLE IN AN EXTENSIVE CHOICE OF COLOURS FROM CATCHPOLE & RYE

POWER AND SOUL SHOWERHEAD BY GROHE, FROM £70

Splash out solutions

Villeroy & Boch’s Subway bathroom furniture is available in petrol blue, as well as white and glossy grey. Vanity unit from £456.

B&Q’s Duchess Paintable baths, from £729, could be one way to introduce a favourite shade. All paintable baths are primed and must be painted with an acrylic based paint, such as Fired Earth Eggshell Paints, £17.98 for 750ml.

Wash & Brush-up

Revamping a whole bathroom isn’t always possible if the budget’s tight, so it’s worth looking at a more affordable update of features and accessories. “An easy, affordable and effective option is to replace some of the brassware and accessories, such as taps, radiators and mirrors,” says Emma Sturgess, marketing manager at Frontline Bathrooms. “These relatively simple changes can make a real difference to the look and style of the bathroom - delivering a totally fresh look.”

Splash out solutions

Frontline’s range includes the chic chrome Stream Mono Basin Mixer, £110 (matching bath and bath shower mixer taps also available); a Windsor Mirror with integral lights and accessory shelves, £135.

If you’re despairing about old, damaged sanitaryware, The Bath Business could float your boat. It re-surfaces a wide range of sanitaryware and also sources original classics.

Restoration prices start from £204 for re-enamelling basins and shower trays; from £358 for re-enamelling baths, and from £180 for reconditioning or re-plating taps in brass.

SUBWAY VANITY UNIT, FROM £456; MIRROR FROM £708; SHELF FROM £630, VILLEROY & BOCH

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H OUS E & GA R D E N

A SHOWCASE FOR FUN

EXPLORE THE POSSIBILITIES OF ALL-SEASON OUTDOOR LIVING A garden room or gazebo can add value to your home, increase your quality of life and give you the fun of outdoor living all year round.

If you have ever thought of owning your own unique garden space, Crown Pavilions are giving you the opportunity to experience their products and talk to their range of experts at a unique Open Day on the 6th October, 2012, from 10 am to 18.00 pm at the Bellhouse Hotel, Oxford Road, Beaconsfield Bucks.

Crown Pavilions manufacture a whole range of garden rooms which can feature outdoor kitchens or barbecues, sitting rooms with plasma screens, studies with storage and internet connection, screens or fold back doors to protect you from the weather, mood lighting for evening entertainment, heating, hot tubs, home gyms.

Crown Pavilions can create a wide range of buildings for a variety of requirements, all of which will enhance your use of outside space, whether it be leisurely breakfasts with the family, early evening drinks with friends lunches and dinners, or just a private quiet sanctuary.

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Luke Dejahang, Managing Director of Crown Pavilions, said, “We are very excited about giving people the opportunity to experience our products first hand. Our directors and experts will be there to meet clients and answer any and every question which can be asked.”

One of the very important questions is the landscaping. When Crown Pavilions install a garden room they are especially mindful of the landscaping round it. Sister company, Crown Gardens, look after every aspect of planning and creating a beautiful setting that fits in with the existing garden. Carl Hooper, who runs Crown Gardens, will be on hand to give people advice and to book site surveys.

Carl comments, “We advise and design the planting around the garden room to fit in with the style of the existing garden. You can landscape around the structure to create an integral part of your garden, at every season of the year”.

Lighting and heating are also important, especially for evening

H OUS E & GA R D E N

AND OUTDOOR LIVING AT THE CROWN PAVILIONS OPEN DAY, 6TH OCTOBER 2012. entertaining. Specialists will advise on specific requirements and to talk about how Crown Pavilions can help with individual projects.

Crown Pavilions have created some wonderful garden rooms for many UK and international clients. They specialise in providing a tailored, bespoke service. All the products are manufactured in the UK. The premium material is Canadian Western Red Cedar, one of the most naturally durable timbers for the outdoors, and one that is perfect for the UK climate.

As well as meeting clients and answering questions, Crown Pavilions will have more than just their pavilions on display. They will be selling individual unique pieces of furniture at discounted prices.

Luke enthused, “We are very excited about meeting our clients and potential clients, showing them our extensive and diverse range, and talking to them about their own ideas.

We will have live classical music and are going to be serving wine and canapĂŠs all day. My team and myself will be working hard to make this a highly enjoyable event for everyone.

LUKE DEJAHANG Managing Director of Crown Pavilions

FOR MORE INFORMATION Crown Pavilions Open Day, Saturday 6th October 2012, 10.00am to 18.00 pm, at the Bellhouse Hotel, Oxford Road, Beaconsfield, Bucks HP9 2XE

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H OUS E & GA R D E N

houSe&ga r den

&

hodkin Jones

t

he beauty of fine architectural moulding was the business of Herbert Hodkin of Hodkin & Jones in 1868 and from those fine beginnings for over 144 years the company have been associated with the design, manufacture and installation of quality fibrous plaster products still producing by hand now, as then.

The importance of Hodkin & Jones history is evident in the care, skill and craftsmanship given to each commission showing experience is paramount to achieve the service expected from their discerning clients. Many plaster manufacturers in the uK can be traced back to the company having worked or trained there before establishing their own companies.

Having over the years worked with architects, restoring fire damaged mouldings in theatres and halls, reinstating mouldings in great mansions and historical buildings to creating spectacular features like the acoustically designed rock wall effect for the Millennium Cardiff Theatre which won the coveted Plaisterers Trophy.

The FPDC Plaisterers awards are held in high esteem as one of the most prestigious competitions in the industry. Winning the trophy immediately classes you amongst the industries greatest, giving recognition from your clients and reassurance for potential customers about your standard of workmanship .

Hodkin & Jones “Simply Elegant” range of mouldings offers one of the most comprehensive ranges of fibrous plaster mouldings available.

With traditional elegant cornices from Georgian, Victorian, Gothic, Regent, and Art Deco periods through to the present day popular contemporary range.

Hodkin & Jones also offer a match to existing service for restoration to heritage or listed properties and have re created patterns from debris and previous photographs available to faithfully reproduce the original mouldings.

Typical projects include spiral staircases, swimming pool ceilings,

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and restoring ornate plaster mouldings to historical residential buildings.

Often Architects or interior designers have a need to use designs not available from standard ranges, which is where Hodkin & Jones offers their bespoke service. From drawings they are able to manufacture mouldings to the exact dimensions specified whether it is for a ceiling design to create a grand room or a new design created by the architect that is in keeping with the particular project they are working on.

Managing Director David Lewis stated in a Rolls Royce commemorative book “Archaeologist who have excavated locations such as Herculaneum and Pompeii have found designs that are exactly the same as ones we still make today. Plasterwork has a very, very long history going back thousands of years. The one aspect that is incorporated into the business from start to finish is quality” says David. “We have never lowered our standards, or substituted quality for cost but I would argue that we are the best”.

Hodkin Jones Ltd undertakes projects both nationwide and overseas. Many of the residential projects are based in London with contract managers and installers working here on a daily basis. Many of the projects are of a confidential nature due to either the building or the client so agreements are drawn up when requested ensuring no advertising is allowed unless with prior agreement with the client or their representative.

The companies website www.hodkin-jones.co.uk is very comprehensive showing the “Simply Elegant” range that is available.

There is also a gallery with images of previous projects which include Residential, Public Building, Hotels, Offices and Retail schemes.

For a free catalogue or to talk to one of their specialists about your requirements please call 01246 290890 or email sales@hodkin-jones. co.uk. The company is also happy to arrange visits from one of the technical contracts managers either on site or via the designer’s office to go through specific requirements. ■

H OUS E & GA R D E N

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H OUS E & GA R D E N

BIBLIOTHEQUE Bibliotheque are a Family run business, trading for 11 years but have been in the Tile industry for the past 25years and have a wealth of knowledge and experience.

Even though we sell a product, our business is very much service oriented we will guide clients through the many possibilities available, to suit their taste and budget.

Not only do we supply tiles for small kitchens and bathrooms, we also supply tiles for the larger homes, entrance hallways, cinema rooms, swimming pools Etc, as well as working with the commercial sector and house builders such as St James homes and Berkeley homes Our Range of materials are extensive , wood Porcelain, Marble Porcelain, stone Porcelain, Leather tiles, eco glass mosaic [98% recycled glass] and a wealth of tiles in various colours patterns and finishes.

Tile technology has now advanced to such a degree (only of course with Porcelain Leather

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the top producers) that the best Italian manufacturers are creating products using porcelain technology to reproduce with unsurpassed accuracy man made marbles, limestone and wood tiles all of which that have the look, textures, feel and nuances of the actual organic materials in particular, the woods are not only realistic but can be used anywhere in the home or in heavy duty commercial areas including wet areas as selected woods are available in anti slip. Internally they can have under floor heating are scratch and impact resistant and resistant to water saturation and for the eco conscious customers there is no deforestation taking place to produce them. The same applies to the marble and limestone porcelains; no scratching, staining sealing is not required so all are extremely low maintenance and are 3.5 times harder that granite.

Architectural Showroom Arch 2 The Viaduct, St James’s Lane, Muswell Hill, London.

N10 3QX. Tel: 020 8365 2084

Hertfordshire Showroom Unit 11, Devonshire Business Centre, Cranborne Road, Potters Bar. EN6 3JR. Tel: 01707 649932

Boutique Showroom 230 Fortis Green Road, Muswell Hill, London N10 3DU. Tel: 020 8883 3715

info@bibliotheque.co.uk www.bibliotheque.co.uk

Thinking of Extending?

R&M Lines are now oering FREE Serving SW London planning drawings for all extensions To Build, To Serve to get you started info@rmlines.com for over 20 years

Full Refurbishments, Building & Construction, Kitchen & Loft Extensions, Bathrooms, Joinery, Interior Design, Painting & Decorating

info@rmlines.com 020 7978 7840

www.rmlines.com

H OUS E & GA R D E N

par

Ça c’est Paris !

A new collection of fabrics and home accessories brings haute couture fashion into the world of interior design.

The first Jean Paul Gaultier collection for Lelievre explores all the couturier’s signature designs in eight fabrics and a collection of home accessories including cushions, throws ready-made curtains and rugs.

KILT provides a nod to Scotland with a cotton velvet tartan in bold assertive colours. A perennial favourite for Gaultier, tartan has featured in many of his fashion collections for both men and women and will look amazing as curtains or on sofas and chairs.

The year of the Dragon has inspired a wonderful interpretation of body art on the multicoloured ROCK fabric in linen and cotton toile complete with Jean Paul Gaultier’s signature discretely forming part of the design.

No Jean Paul Gaultier collection would be complete without ‘la marinière’ and the ILLUSION fabric design gives the nautical stripes a twist or perhaps a wave! This fabric is totally reversible on cotton and polyamide with the feel of jersey - it is, like its designer, so French!

KOMODO is a magnificent technical interpretation showing the master’s hand drawing skills on a high definition damask. This monochrome tattoo motif is available in six colours and is suitable for upholstery.

The starting point for the whole collection was a beautiful dress in the 2009 fashion collection and this has been reinterpreted on a fine cotton voile in four colourways - Spring, Summer, Autumn and Winter.

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H OUS E & GA R D E N

SAISONS is digitally printed to portray a romantic landscape in nature’s changing seasonal colours, the fabric is wide width and provides a stunning backdrop for any interior.

MOUSSON, translated as monsoon, shows an expressive explosion of leaves and flowers on a high definition jacquard lampas fabric in three colourways with a contemporary silver grey background.

A Chinese touch is provided by SKIN, another tattoo inspired fabric in thick satin with a chiselled engraving style design in metallic thread which is luminous. Suitable for exquisite upholstery with a discrete brilliance.

For a couture touch, CABARET on close inspection is a chic fishnet design reinterpreted in a cotton jacquard.

It is reversible in ten colours which unite all the fabrics in this first collection.

All the fabrics are in colours designed to coordinate and blend with each other to give an original look to any interior space.

The accessories all blend seamlessly with the collection and

include cushions with velvet appliqued flowers, sequin covered fish, feathered birds and fishnet, patchwork and tartan throws, la marinière rugs with embossed signature and buttons and readymade curtains with eyelet headings.

Prices of fabrics from £73.00 Accessories from £58.00 The collection has been designed for Lelievre which was founded in Paris in 1914 and since that time has created exclusive fine furnishing fabrics, coordinating decorative accessories and designer collections for countries around the world.

Four generations of this family owned company have been driven by a desire for perfection in the manufacture and design of beautiful textiles. Working hand in hand with interior designers, Lelievre always uses themes both traditonal and contemporary in their collections with unique creativity and technical innovation.

For stockists readers should contact LELIEVRE 108 - 110 Design Centre Chelsea Harbour, London SW10 0XE or call 0207 352 4798. www.lelievre.eu

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H OUS E & GA R D E N

A Commitment to Craftsmanship

T

he Wooden Floor Specialists Ltd have been specialising in providing the highest quality wooden flooring for over 25 years. With a commitment to craftsmanship, quality products and fantastic customer care, they have established a great reputation with customers.

They provide a first class, efficient supply and fit service, as well as a full renovation and sanding package. Every option comes complete with a warranty. Whether it is strips, planks, blocks, designs or panels their fitters are experts in their field and will fit your wooden floor with attention to every detail.

Are you looking for a hardwood floor which is timeless, elegant and, quite simply, a masterpiece? Their wood floors can complement any interior whether traditional or modern, and will stand the test of time. If your home needs a lift and you are looking for a range of hardwood floors which will leave you spoilt for choice – look no further than The Wooden Floor Specialists Ltd. They supply their floors to customers nationwide, so wherever you are based you can take advantage of their high-quality flooring and excellent service.

They offer free on site surveys and consultations throughout London and the home counties to customers looking for quality wooden flooring. This will

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enable you to discuss your project in more detail, following which they will provide a free, no-obligation quotation.

The Wooden Floor Specialists understand that their customers are looking for hardwood flooring which is sourced responsibly. This is why they take great care when sourcing their timbers, and wherever possible their products carry FSC certification. This means you can be sure that your wooden floor has been selected from only properly managed and sustainable forests.

VISIT THEIR LONDON SHOWROOM TODAY

All products are on display in their London based showroom, which you can find in a convenient location just a few minutes walk from Balham station.

Their friendly, knowledgeable staff are ready and waiting to offer impartial advice to help you to choose the perfect floor. Their finishing shop is state of the art and customers are welcome to pop in to meet the staff and see their floors being finished first hand.

MORE INFORMATION The Wooden Floor Specialist Showroom 302/304 Cavendish Road, London SW12 0PL 0208 675 2431 www.woodenfloors.co.uk

Mention this advert and receive FREE bathroom accessories* with every 4 pieces of contemporary pottery** purchased

Bathroom Discount Centre 297 Munster Road, Fulham, London SW6 6BW Tel: 020 7381 4222 Web: www.bathdisc.co.uk Showroom open: Monday to Friday 8am - 6pm (8pm on a Wednesday) Saturday & Sunday 9am - 5pm *Heritage Bathroom's Sonic Toilet Roll Holder and Soap Dish **Must be a cistern, pan, basin, and pedestal from one of the following ranges: Zaar, Kharine, Sonic, Sonic Square, Caprieze Only applicable at the Bathroom Discount Centre, Fulham

H OUS E & GA R D E N

SHADES OF GREY Fifty Shades Of Grey is a best-seller with its tale of seduction, and just as irresistible is the trend for shades of grey in interiors.

Gabrielle Fagan explores the sophisticated power of grey and how it transforms rooms. Grey is so sexy and sophisticated - not the masterful hero of the bestselling novel, but the decor colour.

Once an overlooked ‘wallflower’ section on the colour chart, grey has shed it’s cold, institutional image, and is proving it’s power to transform any setting. Flirting with its subtle, versatile tones, from crisp charcoal and French grey to shimmering silver and mysterious smoke-grey could be just the way to turn up the heat at home.

“Grey is a surprisingly calming and harmonious colour to live with, but you must choose the right tone,” advises Mark Upstone, head of global visual display at The Conran Shop. “Greys with more brown in the mix will feel warm white based greys will feel colder. “Be bold.

Don’t restrict yourself to a feature wall, grey looks better en masse, and use different finishes of the same tone to create intriguing interest and depth. “Give grey a starring role by using it on walls and paintwork, he suggests, and a matching gloss paint finish for woodwork. If that feels too overpowering, tone it down with pastels, white or a zingy kick of sharp citrus, which will ensure it has less of a masculine edge.

Grey is full of surprises and won’t fail to seduce any setting, so follow the guide 1 1 6 O C TO B E R 2 0 1 2

to taking advantage of its charms.

Face the wall If you’re committing to a new relationship with this colour, the best place to start is with the walls. To find the one grey you love - experiment! Try colours in different tones by using sample pots, but ensure you see how they change with the light in your home throughout the day. It also works well to simply paint one wall in your chosen grey and use it as a backdrop to a focus piece of furniture such as a striking sofa or piece of furniture.

Furnishing affair Texture, shape and symmetry are vital ingredients for successful grey sanctuaries.

This season, splashes of colour are an antidote to our winter gloom and almost anything goes with greys. Pinks always sit well, or you could be a little adventurous and choose a vibrant raspberry, deep purple or burnt orange and soft yellows for a lovely contrast.

Grey works in modern and older properties, and will look as beautiful in a minimalist setting matched with sleek white shelving as it will with period wood panelling and mahogany furniture.”

Seductive setting Transform a bedroom palette with greys in decor or silky fabrics to bring an air of relaxation to an uptight setting.

Hang drapery panels which puddle on the floor to frame your windows with a layer of textured sheers behind them for the ultimate in privacy.

Grey tones in fabrics and wallpapers create a glamorous and striking effect, especially paired with pattern and texture. It’s a chic, streamlined look which also taps into the five-star ‘hotel’ trend which will be very evident in interiors this autumn.

If passion for the look is running high, dress a bed appropriately in shades of grey bedlinen. Simple luxury touches are essential such as rugs and lighting.

EST. 1868

LEO N SNAO W

HODKIN & JONES Ltd.

Hampstead Antique & Craft

Emporium

Wi

nn AW ing AR Bo D uti qu

e

open Mon - Sat 9.30 - 5.30 267-269 Coombe Lane London SW20 0RH Tel: 020 8947 9797

An award winning range of outstanding fibrous plaster mouldings Bespoke and FREE local parking installation also available.

For a free copy of our brochure contact our sales office 01246 290890 or email sales@hodkin-jones.co.uk www.hodkin-jones.co.uk

The Home of Fibrous Plaster

vintage & antique quilts & shawls + antique furniture, ceramics & glass + jewellery - modern & fine, vintage & antique, studio & Modernist + Art Deco glass & lighting + new, vintage & antique buttons + dolls' houses, miniatures & toys + collectables & novelties + silver photo frames & fine crystal + greeting cards + designer clothing & women's cotton nightware + cashmere, wool & silk scarves, shawls & knitwear www.rogeroates.com + coffee & waffles at Tania's of Hampstead

opening hours

Tues - Fri 10.30 - 5.50 Sat 10 - 6 London Showroom Sun 10.30 - 5.30 1 Munro Terrace, Riley 12Street, Heath Street Chelsea, London SW10 0DL

London NW3 6TE

www.hampsteadantiqueemporium.co.uk

Hampstead's best-kept secret is out!

18/06/2012 16:44

26 C Lo S

Te

floors & fabrics

telcopies - 020 7794 3297 For of our brochures please call 020 7351 2288

Call for your FREE MAIL ORDER CATALOGUE 01273 835341 or visit us at: www.box2.co.uk

o 9.

F

HOUSE & GARDEN

THE PERSONAL TOUCH BAILEY CONSTRUCTION UK LIMITED IS A FAMILY RUN BUSINESS BASED IN HASLEMERE SURREY. THE BUSINESS IS RUN BY BEN AND CLAIRE BAILEY.

B

en has 20 year’s experience as an exceptional bricklayer, 12 years ago Ben realised that he had so much more to offer as a Project Manager in the Construction Industry. He worked for Fraser Designed Limited for 6 years managing and building properties in Twickenham, Teddington and Richmond.

He then decided to set up the business with Claire who has 17 year’s experience in accountancy, Claire went onto set up the daily running of the office and all accountancy that needed to be done.

Our first impressions of this company are their professionalism and honesty. They have an exceptional portfolio of projects and a good relationship with all their clients, each project is personally managed

by Ben himself.

All his Contractors are personally chosen by Ben, they have worked with Ben for many years producing work to the highest standard.

Some of the most important trades to include Groundwork, Brickwork and Carpentry are kept in house.

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They have worked on many properties in Surrey and the surrounding areas, specialising in New builds, their portfolio also includes renovations and Extensions. Their most challenging project to date is Greenhedges on the Wentworth Estate comprising of 7 bedrooms, 7 Bathrooms a large basement swimming pool. The 2 main reasons why this project stood out from the rest were the basement with swimming pool with a total depth of 6.5 metres , with a large reconstituted stone Portico with Fluted Columns. As seen in the picture shown above.

Bailey constructions are young and expanding business that are up to date in all the Audio Visual state of the art technology, with a reputation for good workmanship and reliability.

FOR MORE INFORMATION Bailey Construction UK

Call 01428 653716 or email info@baileyconstructionuk.com, www.baileyconstructionuk.com

Made-to-measure

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London showroom: 244 Belsize Road, London NW6 4BT T: 020 7328 2225 www.bisque.co.uk

BISQUE

co ns fre ul e ta tio n

nicolas tye architects As award winning architects and designers we aspire to create extraordinary buildings and spaces for our clients, sometimes from the most difficult of design briefs. Central to our philosophy is that good design should reflect the needs of our clients and respond to the surrounding environment.

Pushing the boundaries of design we are able to achieve timeless, highly innovative and sustainable projects.

We offer a complete design service from initial advice through to the completion of your project.

We complete works all over the UK and internationally.

nicolas tye architects t: 01525 406677 e: info@nicolastyearchitects.co.uk w: www.nicolastyearchitects.co.uk

Email us your new project enquiry !

new build

extension

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H OUS E & GA R D E N

KITCHENS ARE THE NEW LIVING ROOMS

On average, people spend from £8,000 to a massive £20,000 on a new kitchen. It is about creating a dream space…so depending on the price range, what can that buy you?

CHOOSING A THEME FOR YOUR KITCHEN Contemporary kitchens The sleek look that comes hand in hand with a contemporary kitchen will provide instant gratification. The practical use of space allows for more movement in the kitchen and provides easier access to storage areas and necessary equipment as you prepare those mouth-watering dishes. Also, contemporary colours provide a more open feeling which adds into the functional atmosphere of the space. That is, in essence, one of the great benefits of contemporary custom kitchen designs; the array of options available. No matter what your exact tastes and preferences, there is a contemporary kitchen design that will meet all your specific needs.

French country kitchen This look combines rustic country charm with a grand, chateau-like sophistication. Opt for units in an aged shade of parchment or dove grey featuring beautifully-turned, bevelled detailing. Team with natural stone or slate on the floor, black or cream enamel Aga, chunky wooden worktops and tiled splashbacks in earthy shades. This also works well with freestanding features, so choose an antique-style armoire for displaying tableware and an island unit with matching

hood as a focal point. Hang copper pans on a black wrought iron pot hanger and accessorise the room with rustic oil bottles and richly coloured earthenware.

Shaker Style kitchen The clean lines and rustic feel of a shaker kitchen means they appeal to those who adore both contemporary design and a classic look and feel.

The round knobs, pillow-fronted doors and beautiful woods are features that epitomise the classic shaker style kitchen. The floor plan in a shaker kitchen is open, with cabinets often lining the sides of the kitchen. An island in the middle can make an attractive and very useful addition and can be created for you in classic shaker styling. This dignified, elegant kitchen is never excessive but nevertheless stunning to look at and work in.

Retro Kitchen A retro kitchen is styled in a way that includes elements that imitate kitchen trends of the past. You might find psychedelic colours that hark back to the 1970s, or even appliances based on those found in American households of the 1950’s. Adding a touch of retro fun to your new kitchen can be a great way to give character to the space, and is sure to provide a few nostalgic talking points.

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H OUS E & GA R D E N

LAYOUT

Your kitchen should be designed for whatever you are likely to want to do in it. There are people who want to frame pictures, wash dogs, even do keep fit in their kitchens. If you’re remodelling from scratch and have a large space, think open plan and multi-purpose – somewhere to eat, work, cook and relax. Kitchen experts John Lewis of Hungerford advise thinking hard about your lifestyle. “The vivacious party animal” needs a U-shaped kitchen with island in the middle and open ended for social gathering, for example. “The Good Life fans” prefers a big L-shaped layout with a range-style cooker, large fridge and freezer and large farmhouse table. “The London weekday bolthole” needs galley-style layout with plenty of wall storage cabinets because most of the below surface cupboards are filled with appliances and gadgets. Meanwhile the “pony club set” loves a free-standing pantry offset to a wrap-around kitchen with peninsula and, of course, an Aga.

CABINETS

Cabinets are the workhorse of your kitchen, so always push your budget as far as possible. Think practically as well as aesthetically when it comes to the finish (highly polished dark colours show fingerprints easily, for example) and remember, neutrals stand the test of time more than bold colours which, incidentally, rarely work in small kitchens.You can always apply brighter colours to the walls or splash-backs (glass is effective).

Don’t neglect handles – they can make or break a kitchen. Hettich and Hefale have a good selection with timeless clean lines and if you’re feeling flush, Valli & Valli have handles to die for. Small handles generally don’t work, but chrome is effective and never dates.

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WORKTOPS

Avoid wood near sinks or you’ll become a slave to re-oiling, and be warned, glass worktops quickly look tired and scratched. Consider twin-edged worktops that look like glass, but are laminate. Corian is good for the seamless look. Designers say there’s nothing they can’t do with it – sinks of the same material, coved upstands and so on. Granite remains the top worktop choice. There are so many more materials at similar prices to the ubiquitous black. For sinks, stainless steel is best. For taps, the tri-flow system provides filtered water. For cheaper ways to get the wow factor, mix and match your worktops – for example, quartz and stainless steel – or vary the depth of work surfaces.

KITCHEN FLOORING

To put on a fantastic floor show, do your homework first. Start by looking at the construction of your existing floor and make sure it’s suitable for the type of flooring you’ve got in mind. Heavy materials such as stone or terracotta tiles need a solid concrete base. If you’re laying a floor over wood, go for lighter materials such as lino, vinyl or wooden floorboards.

Vinyl flooring Comfortable and warm underfoot, vinyl is one of the most cost-effective flooring options and comes in a range of colours and patterns. For a durable surface that won’t fade, choose a vinyl with the colour running through - those with surface patterns tend to develop a patchy look over time. Your supplier can advise you on the correct grade for your kitchen and, if you have the budget, have it installed by a professional, as badly fitting vinyl will peel at the edges. To keep it looking pristine, sweep it

H OUS E & GA R D E N regularly and clean with a non-abrasive cleaner.

Stone or slate Consult an expert if you’re thinking of using stone or slate on a kitchen floor as its porous nature means it can stain easily. It’s also one of the most expensive floors you can buy, but it will add value to your home. To reduce the risk of staining, go for the less porous slate rather than marble or limestone and make sure you have it professionally sealed. Look at travertine too – a natural stone made in Italy from calcium carbonate. It has a pitted appearance, comes in many colours and stands up to most cleaning products, making it the durable choice. If you have kids and pets running around, natural stone may not be the best option for you.

Laminate This is a great, cost-effective option that creates an authentic, real wood plank effect at a fraction of the cost of the real thing. These days, you’ll also find stone and ceramic tile effects too. Laminates are tough so they’re ideal for busy households with lots of traffic in the kitchen. To create the appearance of real wood floorboards, choose a laminate with bevelled edges that form a v shape between the planks when they’re butted up together. Even better, this flooring is designed to be clicked together so there’s no need for messy glue and you can even lay it yourself if you’re a competent DIYer. Hardwood A real hardwood floor is expensive, but will add value to your home.

Treat it with a Polyurethane finish to make it easier to maintain and clean. Wipe spills up quickly though, as any water sitting for a length of time on the floor will result in warping. Unlike laminates, if your floor gets damaged, you don’t have to replace the boards – you can simply sand them down and treat them again.

Ceramic tiles A popular choice for kitchens as they come in so many colours, textures and patterns allowing you to create your own unique look. You can even use a central colour and create a tiled border all around to frame the floor.

Remember though, you need a solid concrete base for tiles as floorboards would shift underneath and cause cracks to form. Ceramic can be cold underfoot so consider installing underfloor heating.

KITCHEN LIGHTING

These days, the kitchen is a hub of activity where we do more than just whip up the family’s meals, so your lighting has to be flexible: illuminating work stations for cooking and offering a warm, welcoming glow for dining and entertaining.

However, don’t attempt the electrics yourself – this is one area of expertise that requires the

services of an accredited professional. This is also the perfect time to have an electrician fit extra sockets and a plumber to do any necessary work.

Task Lighting Safety must come first in any kitchen as you’re constantly using sharp knives, scalding water and hot pans. For high activity areas where you’ll be preparing food you need plenty of illumination, so work out which areas you’ll be using for practical purposes and install task lighting – i.e., focused, directional, bright light. To avoid task lights throwing shadows over your work surfaces, make sure you position them directly above or slightly in front of where you stand to prepare food. The best place is on the wall or below cupboards. Install your task lighting on a different circuit than your mood lighting to give you more flexibility in your lighting scheme.

Downlights Downlights provide a light that washes over your kitchen to provide a general ambient glow. Choose halogen lights if you like clean, sparkling white illumination and put them on a dimmer switch so you can adjust the clarity to change the mood in the room. If you install more than one dimmer, you can create a variety of lighting effects – almost like building layers of light to give depth and warmth to the kitchen.

Light at different levels Think of lighting as a design tool to emphasise or detract from good or bad features in a room. For example, if you have a really high ceiling which looks gloomy, use it to its best advantage by installing uplights on the top of kitchen cabinets to throw a general ambient light over the whole room. This will reduce your need for downlights, too. And if your kitchen is galley-style or cramped, choose downlights such as John Cullen’s Polestar - it gives a warm glow to the room and bounces light around, giving the feeling of space. Think about using light down near the floor, too, to wash a glow over the floor. If you have a central island, install lights in the plinth so it appears to float Light for decoration If you have features in your kitchen that are particularly attractive, show them off using light. Draw attention to shelves by installing lights underneath; fit downlights into glass display cabinets to show off a collection of china; or use picture lights on the wall to draw the eye to a beautiful print or poster.

If you’re getting a kitchen made specially for you, a truly bespoke kitchen, it will be tailor made for both the space and you. For pure luxury, this is the best that money can buy.

So you can create your own dream kitchen!

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SPECTACULAR!

“Who are you – the God of kitchen design? – I love it” Quote from Pedini London client.....

In early July our fabulous new Pedini London Showroom in Battersea opened its doors for business. It is the flagship Pedini Showroom in the UK, and, being over 3,500sq ft, is also the largest.

We have created nine inspirational displays including the iconic Integra “Hook”; which is already considered a design classic. Many luxurious and original features have also been incorporated, such as remote controlled lift-up units, “in mirror” splash back TVs, and integrated AV systems, which use cutting edge technology to achieve maximum functionality.

There is even a bar area, much to the delight of staff and visitors! Set into the bar countertop, there is the most amazing integrated wine chiller, by Kaezen, complete with uber cool LED lighting!

Pedini’s latest colours and finishes are also revealed, from the palest shades of grey to taupe. Matt and gloss lacquer can be seen alongside glass and wood, all surmounted by cool stone and Corian worktops. Top of the range appliances by Gaggenau, Miele, Sub Zero and Wolf complete the sumptuous feel.

The Pedini London creative team has extensive experience working with Property Developers, Architects and Private Clients within the luxury house market, providing a “one stop” shop for all interior requirements, from design through to installation. Together with our sister company, Lida Cucina, we are able to offer stunning kitchens, stylish wardrobes, elegant living and state of the art media rooms.

Our amazing new showroom is also adjacent to leading tile supplier Domus Tiles, making Queenstown Road a “must visit” location for construction professionals.

Experience the Pedini London Style for yourself. We would be delighted to give you or your clients a private tour of this exciting new London showroom.

Please do contact General Manager, Steve Columbine, (steve@pedinilondon.co.uk) or Sandra Hendry, (sandra@lidacucina.co.uk) to arrange it.

Pedini London 76 Queenstown Road, Batttersea, SW8 3RY 0207 720 8311 www.pedinilondon.co.uk info@pedinilondon.co.uk

76 Queenstown Road, Battersea. London SW8 3RY 0207 720 8311 info@pedinilondon.co.uk

www.pedinilondon.co.uk

Showroom open Monday to Friday 9.30am to 5.30pm

H OUS E & GA R D E N

Neptune Kitchens London

CLASSIC, SOLID AND EXCEPTIONAL VALUE! Ray Munn Kitchens have recently opened their new showroom on the Upper Richmond Road West in Sheen. The Showroom is a beautiful showcase for “Neptune Kitchen Furniture.” Neptune has been making classically designed hand built solid timber furniture for a decade. The company’s roots were in manufacturing solid timber garden furniture which they still do today.

The principles are simple, to make beautiful kitchen furniture with the best materials possible using traditional tried and tested techniques. There is no chipboard and none of the ubiquitous MDF used in Neptune Furniture. Instead our kitchen carcases (the insides of the cabinet to the layman) are made from “marine plywood” that which is used in boat building. This depending on the range is either painted or veneered with real Oak or Ash. Drawers are traditionally made with dovetailed joints in solid ash or oak, whilst doors and frames are made in solid birch and oak with mortise and tenon joints.

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There are three ranges to choose from, two hand painted “Chichester” and “Suffolk” and then there is “Henley” our gently washed oak finish which gives immediate grace to any kitchen. Ray Munn Kitchens is run and partly owned

by Bob Malston who has 20 years experience in the kitchen industry, having worked for a number of bespoke manufacturers over the years like “Robinson and Cornish” and latterly “Martin Moore & Co.”

We can supply just the furniture for your builder to fit but our preferred route is to manage the whole kitchen project.

Bob says: “I have the utmost confidence in this furniture which is why I joined and became a shareholder in the company. It represents incredible value on all levels because of the design, materials used and the build quality.”

We fully expect that you should participate in the design process at this stage and tell us what you like and dislike so that we can modify the plan until it is right for you.

Once you are satisfied and wish to commission the kitchen we take a deposit which enables us to release the plans and begin the management phase, liaising with your builder or recommending a builder we work with to prepare the space for the new kitchen. We then fit the kitchen and work surfaces using our own fitters which enable us to carry out quality control throughout the project.

“Here at Ray Munn Kitchens I am offering the same service as the top end bespoke manufacturers with furniture that more than matches, in many cases at half the cost.”

Our service is comprehensive but flexible.

Starting with designing your space, we take your brief on what you need to include in the kitchen, appliances type of sink, specific types of storage etc. and prepare a first draft plan using our years of kitchen design experience. This is presented to you together with a quotation.

Providing we have fitted and project managed the kitchen we then offer our limited “Lifetime Warranty” Why not come into the showroom to discuss your project with Bob over a cup of coffee. We look forward to seeing you soon.

RAY MUNN KITCHENS 429 Upper Richmond Road West, London SW14 7PJ

0208 4875774

H OUS E & GA R D E N

Dennis Sullivan from Redsetter Kitchens, Talks us through the process of one of his many completed projects... As the pictures show, this was a very interesting commission in several ways.

Firstly, the existing kitchen was high quality, very expensively made and appointed from a nationally renowned manufacturer. However, Traditional and wood was not the taste of this successful entrepreneur and young family.

Secondly, the house had curved “turrets� at each corner as a feature, within one of these, was the kitchen. The existing kitchen had staggered a series of straight doors to conform to the curvature of the room, however this was detectable with the eye and not what they were after as a finished project.

removed and we were finally able to assess a true radius of the room. [All that Pythagoras stuff comes in handy!!].

The curved units were first manufactured in our workshops, excluding the dishwasher, which being flat went into our tall units, and we subsequently fitted Solid Acrylic doors and drawer fronts, with the exact radius curve pre-formed.

The worktops are Hymacs and black glass, which can also be curved, thereby conforming to the room exactly.

Several aesthetic features have also been added such as the Falmec ceiling extractor and Miele hobs and ovens, the freestanding Siemens Steel Refrigeration pair and under unit lighting.

In short a project we are proud to be associated with.

Thirdly, whilst we supply many curved kitchens via our Italian manufacturer, Aran Cucine, these are all pre-set to an existing footprint and therefore unsuitable in this space.

We opted therefore to manufacture totally bespoke to fit the room, as the only way to achieve the exact finished project.

A true survey was not possible until the existing kitchen was 1 2 8 O C TO B E R 2 0 1 2

MORE INFORMATION

Redsetter Kitchens 60 Chiswick High Road, London W4 1SY call 020 3489 5074 or email sales@redsetterkitchens.co.uk www.redsetterkitchens.co.uk

ARTESIO

速

www.poggenpohl.com

www.poggenpohl.com

EXCLUSIVE POGGENPOHL KITCHEN DESIGN CENTRES Ascot, 65 High Street, Ascot, Berkshire, SL5 7HP T - 01344 624829 | New Barnet, 22 Greenhill Parade, New Barnet, Hertfordshire, EN5 1EU T - 020 8441 3477 | London NW3, 477-481 Finchley Road, London, NW3 6HS T - 020 7794 7801 | London SW3, 172 Brompton Road, London, SW3 1HW T - 020 7838 0588 | London SW1, 107 Pimlico Road, London, SW1W 8PH T - 020 7730 7927 | London SW11, 190-192 Lavender Hill, Battersea, London, SW11 5TQ T - 020 7223 2026 | London SE1, Arch 213C, Newnham Terrace, Hercules Road, London, SE1 7DR T - 020 7902 5243 | London W1, 118 Wigmore Street, London, W1U 3RT T - 020 7224 1986 | St Albans, 100 London Road, St Albans, AL1 1NX T - 01727 738111

For a brochure or details of your nearest studio please call 0800 612 6995 or visit our website www.poggenpohl.com

H OUS E & GA R D E N

houSe&ga r den

PLannIng an extenSIon?

L

ondon living can be claustrophobic, so you can never have enough space.

Most Londoners move into a new home and start planning an extension or refurbishment right away.

At first, it may only be a pipe dream, but the longer you look at your undersized kitchen, with visions of dinner parties and open plan living, the harder it becomes to ignore.

But where do you start? It probably feels a bit daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. In fact, the extension process can be fairly straight forward. As a full service builder, R&M Lines can manage the project from beginning to end. To start with, you will be provided with a quote and consultation from an experienced estimator. During this stage, you can discuss design ideas, ideal fittings and colour schemes; drafting up an extension that fits seamlessly into both your house and your life. You can also take advantage of your builders’ experience, finding out which materials look better and last longer, which ideas may have difficulty receiving planning permission and any structural elements

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you need to consider. The goal is to build an extension that works with and maximises the existing qualities of your home. The same is true for a loft conversion or full refurbishment.

Once you’ve ironed out the details, it’s time to submit planning drawings, which R&M Lines provides for free, to your local council. A clearly presented proposal can make all the difference and once your project gains approval, you can move onto the building stage.

At this point, R&M Lines will assign a dedicated project manager to supervise your extension. Not only does a single project manager ensure that the extension you ask for is the extension you get, they also make sure that you have the right people working on the right things at the right time, delivering works on-budget and on-schedule. They’ll also do their best to accommodate you at every turn, keeping your home tidy and responding to any requests you might have. You probably don’t have the time required to coordinate builders, plumbers and electricians but with a project manager on the case, with their professional contacts and experience, it’ll be

easy. Additionally, as R&M Lines provide an 18 month guarantee on all works, you won’t have to worry about anything going wrong once they’re out the door.

A couple of months down the line, the works will be finished and you’ll have a beautiful new extension; one that you’ll be proud to show friends and family alike. With space to entertain, relax and spend time with your loved ones, you’ll have more ways to enjoy your home than ever before. Plus, if you decide to move, it will only improve the price tag. ■ R&M Lines are a full service builder decorator based in South West London for over 20 years.

0207 978 7840 www.rmlines.com info@rmlines.com

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Hampstead

Antique & CrAft emporium F

or over 40 years the Emporium has been a popular destination for those in search of antique and vintage treasures from the 18th Century to the present.

But how many locals realise that Hampstead is home to one of London’s last remaining indoor antique markets?

Tucked behind one of Hampstead’s most picturesque turnings, just off Heath Street and Perrin’s Court, the Emporium is an intriguing labyrinth of over 20 specialists offering Georgian, Victorian, Art Nouveau, Art Deco, MidCentury and Contemporary finds. Serious collectors and those searching for gifts or home accessories will be spoilt for choice. Where else could you find such a mind boggling range of antique and handcrafted artefacts from pearls to porcelain, dolls to door handles, paintings to pepper pots or tea sets to tiaras?

Long-established shops include silver gift specialist Hammond Leigh – great for weddings, christenings and anniversaries; Antium

Not just a Feast For the eyes, the emporium is also home to taNia’s waFFles aNd coFFee! 122

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✱ opeN: tues to Fri

10.30am-5.30pm, sat 10.00am-6.00pm, sunday 10.30am-5.30pm ✱ where: hampstead antique & craft emporium, 12 heath street, london Nw3 6te (may also be accessed from perrin’s court) ✱ tel: 020 7794 3297 ✱ www.hampsteadantique emporium.co.uk

Antiques, a haven for enthusiasts of all things Art Deco including lighting, clocks, jewellery, perfume bottles and glass plus Edwardian furniture; The Button Lady for unusual buttons and scarves plus Treasure which offers beautiful and original bespoke jewellery, a repair service and gifts. Capricorn is known for its fine small furniture, tea

sets and crystal while The Antique Textiles Company is a must for exquisite antique quilts and textiles dating from as early as 1780 up to the 1930s. Another hugely popular shop is London Dolls’ Houses & Toys, a wonderful collection of dolls’ houses, miniatures and antique dolls which continues to delight collectors and children alike.

In recent times new dealers

increased the thevariety variety have increased of of quality quality items on offer. offer. Jewellery Jewellery lovers will will be be enthralled enthralled by the the selection selection of fine period period and and vintage pieces pieces at at Minoo (M & & A Kaae Jewellery) A Kaae Jewellery) and and Maryam.

Maryam.

WithWith MidMid-Century style Century style currently the to rage, allcurrently the rage,all head The head to The Modernist Modernist (1930 – 1970) (1930 – 1970) for vintage for vintage George Jensen George and other and otherJensen Scandinavian and Scandinavian American American silverand jewellery silver jewellery designers. designers.

Browsethrough throughaafabulous fabulous Browse mix of ofperiod periodand andvintage vintage mix collectables,including including antique collectables, silver, china, porcelain, antique silver,mirrors, china, mirrors, ceramics, ceramics, glass and glass brassand porcelain, plus costume jewellery and brass plus costume jewellery accessories at Jean, Natasha and accessories at Jean and Johnson,Johnson.

Malcolm Davey and Natasha Sarah Normanville.

For For aDe more contemporary look, visit Camilla Del look, a more contemporary Maestro’s sparkling array of visit Camilla Del Maestro’s handmade jewellery featuring sparkling array of handmade semi-precious gems semifor jewellery featuring inspiring avant-for garde designs. precious gems inspiring For quality, cotton nightwear avantgarde designs.

For seek out cotton Andreanightwear Dreamtime. quality, seek Not just a feast for the eyes, out Andrea Dreamtime. theNot Emporium is also home to just a feast for the eyes, Tania’s waffles and coffee! the Emporium is also home The dealerswaffles here are to Tania’s and coffee! knowledgeable and are friendly The dealers here which makes a visit the knowledgeable andto friendly Emporium an ainteresting which makes visit to theand welcoming Happy Emporiumexperience. an interesting antique and craftexperience. hunting in and welcoming Hampstead!

Happy hunting!

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BY THE EXPERTS! Nestled between some small shops in Wimbledon you will find Stuff & Cover. A small, family run business started by Greg Whall in Balham 38 years ago.

Greg is an extremely skilled craftsman who values and understands the connection between you and your treasured piece of furniture. His skill and expertise is recreating, old worn, particularly period furniture into a thing of beauty once again.

Using trusted techniques and specialist tools he will painstakingly strip your furniture down to its original frame and bring out the uniques features you first fell in love with.

As a member of the AMUSF (Association of Master Upholsterers and Soft Furnishers), a recognised trade organisation to promote best practise and standards of workmanship, you can be sure your furniture is in very safe hands.

Karen Millan Apart from restoring your furniture to its former glory, Stuff & 1 3 8 O C TO B E R 2 0 1 2

Cover also make furniture to order. From a small foot stool to huge sofas! Greg told us that a few years ago Karen Millan’s husband commissioned them to make a 20 foot, all beech framed, leather Chesterfield sofa which went to Switzerland.

Repairs on modern furniture are also undertaken and they also buy and sell period furniture.

Greg is proud to have been featured in The Evening Standard and 25 beautiful homes in Country Life magazine, as well as The Saturday Financial Times supplement. You don’t learn a skill like this overnight, so make sure you get stuffed by the experts!

FOR MORE INFORMATION Stuff & Cover 399 Durnsford Road, West Wimbledon, London SW19 8EE Telephone: 020 8947 4330 Email: info@stuffandcover.com www.stuffandcover.com

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he Classic Cornice Company have been established for over 30 years and their nationwide client base has grown due to their skilled and professional service. With a wealth of knowledge and over thirty years of experience, they provide quality work for all of their customers.

They cater for homeowners, builders and architects and are committed to the restoration and preservation of architectural features, combining traditional craftsmanship and modern techniques and materials to reproduce original features such as cornices, ceiling centres and corbels in precise detail and to an exceptionally high quality.

Their showroom is based in Wandsworth, South West London. With their extensive knowledge and empathy with various eras of interior dĂŠcor, they can match any classical feature with great accuracy. They take pride in the competitive prices they offer so you can rely on them to restore your property cleanly and efficiently.

Their website www.classiccornice.co.uk shows a wide range of stock items, plain cornices, ornate cornice, ceiling centres, dados, brackets and fire surrounds.

They also provide a bespoke service and can restore existing features to their former glory by removing deteriorated sections and casting and replacing them, in order to preserve the style

1 4 2 O C TO B E R 2 0 1 2

and charm of the original period.

There is an immense amount of ornate plasterwork in Great Britain in many different styles. Over the years much has become damaged or destroyed.

The means of restoring and conserving ornate plasterwork has changed over the centuries. While it is important to maintain as much as possible of the original plasterwork it may be necessary to restore or replace missing or damaged sections. To carry out this work requires considerable experience.

Their modeller is able to take mouldings from existing designs, if symmetrical or modelling can be executed from a photograph or drawing.

Pieces of damaged plasterwork can be cleaned or left, a model laid down and a mould made in varying types of compounds, from this mould a section of plasterwork can be reproduced and installed. A cast is then produced which can then be installed to match the original. Their work is not limited to just cornices, they can also reproduce decorative ceilings and walls as well as being able manufacture arches and columns to your specification. You will be provided with an estimate of the cost and the time involved to carry out the work.

CLASSIC CORNICE CO 176 Garratt Lane, Wandsworth SW18 4ED 0208 874 0221 www.classiccornice.co.uk

P R O P E RT Y

1 4 4 O C TO B E R 2 0 1 2

P R O P E RT Y

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F e aT U R e

the RiDing cluB lonDon leaDs the fielD

T

he Riding Club London is an exclusive members club and concierge service that specialises in providing access to the finest horses, venues and instruction in London, the UK and internationally.

The Riding Club London offers unrivalled access and expertise to equestrian enthusiasts, from beginners to advanced.

Working with leading experts and exclusive stables to arrange group trips, tailored experiences and instruction in all disciplines of riding, including dressage, jumping, polo and hunting, sourcing the best horses for every event. They will also provide ultimate riding holidays such as polo lessons on a private estancia in Argentina or a spectacular riding safari in Kenya.

It can be hard for city-bound horse riders to find quality places to ride or even just enjoy the company of other like-minded equestrian enthusiasts. The Riding Club London’s membership enjoy weekly events such as bespoke rider fitness sessions, talks and tickets to polo matches, horse racing and grand prix dressage. The packed diary of drinks evenings, lectures and balls each bring something a little different, often including

36

September 2012

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the chance to meet leading riders and experts, entry into London’s exclusive private member’s clubs, and late night revelry.

The Riding Club London also provides an equestrian concierge service for Londoners and also foreign visitors to the UK. They partner with a huge range of private members clubs, luxury retailers, fitness clubs and country houses to host events and tailormade riding experiences. The Concierge Service provides advice, arranges trips and events and facilitates access to the finest horses, tuition and venues across the world.

Ranging from polo lessons at the best venues in the UK or Argentina to a private box at the Cartier Polo or Royal Ascot, everything can be experienced.

The Riding Club London has three membership levels. New Rider for those looking to learn to ride in quality surroundings, available for £195 annually, Refresher Rider for those who are looking to return to the sport or wanting to progress from beginner and Riders Club, that is ideal for those riders who are of intermediate to advanced level, who miss the exhilaration of riding good horses in beautiful surroundings, which are both £335 payable annually.

So to truly lead the field in the equestrian world, join The Riding Club London. ■

The Riding Club London Tel: 020 3589 2385 E: info@ridinglondon.com T: https://twitter.com/@Riding_London http://www.facebook.com groups/130704606941337/

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