Life Magazines (Surrey editions) March 2017 by Fish Media Group Ltd

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RESIDENTIAL SURVEYS AND VALUATIONS COMMERCIAL CONSULTANCY PARTY WALL MATTERS

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From the

editor Welcome to our March issue...

here is some speggtacular Easter Family Fun at Brooklands this April that will keep visitors entertained from 1st – 23rd April. Every day during this period children will be able to try and solve the clues that are hidden around the Museum site in the Brooklands Easter Trail. Free trails will be available on arrival for children to complete and hand it in at the Museum. Visit Clandon Park from Saturday 4 March, as the garden is reopened for 2017. For the first time in two years you’ll be able to enjoy the magnificent sight of a traditional Clandon springtime with thousands upon thousands of daffodils bursting into bloom. Brooklands Hotel, located in Weybridge, Surrey, boasts an iconic, art deco inspired interior. It features the world’s most historic motor racing track running through reception as well as a critically acclaimed restaurant in the appropriately named 1907 restaurant, bar & grill and luxurious spa facilities. Experience the wonderful world of the Moomins this Easter at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. With the arrival of spring, the Moomins will be coming out of hibernation and visiting the Gardens for all sorts of mischief and fun. Originally created in the 1950s, the Moomins are a family of adventurous and nature-loving creatures from the culturally iconic storybooks by Finnish writer and artist Tove Jansson. Faye Manning Editor

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PUBLISHED BY THE FISH MEDIA GROUP LTD 26 Bridge Road East, Welwyn Garden City, Hertfordshire, AL7 1HL, UK www.thelifemagazines.com Editor Faye Manning

Fashion Editor Hazel Englander

Accounts Kathy Manning, Ken Fleet

•••••

Editor Assistant Katie Miller

account Manager Anita Hill

Sales James Marshall

•••••

Sub Editor Alex Lux

Design/ Production Emma Andrews

Directors Rory Smith, Patrick Smith

LOVE LOCAL – We put fantastic local businesses and exciting events in the spotlight each month – M OTH E RING SUND AY AT C L A R E M ONT L A NDSC A P E G A RD E N , 2 6 M A RCH

LOVE LOC AL

11SECHC march Fashion Show Enjoy the thrill of watching a professional fashion show with your friends, as well as an opportunity to buy ladies current season high street and designer brands at greatly reduced prices. After the show you can try on the clothes with no need to order, just pay and take it home with you. Free glass of wine with every ticket. 2.30pm, show starts 3pm, tickets £10. Free glass of wine with every ticket sold. St John the Baptist Church Hall, 48 Dale Road, Purley, Surrey CR8 2EF

[events]

the calendar 18 march Orchid Society of Great Britain Spring Show Discover fabulous displays of orchids, learn about how to care for your orchid and visit our Helpdesk who will help you bring your orchid back to life. The perfect place to get expert advice and buy from a range of top exhibitors. 11am-4pm. Normal Garden admission applies. RHS Garden Wisley, Woking, Surrey GU23 6QB

6 MARCH 2017

26 march spring classics at

charterhouse hall GSO loves having the opportunity to welcome back soloists who have struck up a good rapport with the orchestra and we are thrilled to have the very exciting young violinist Joo Yeon Sir return to perform the Sibelius with us. The orchestra has chosen to support the local Home Start for the Charterhouse concert. One of the leading family support charities in the UK, Home-Start volunteers help families with young children deal with the challenges they face, with home visiting volunteer support. Ticket prices: £15 (under 25’s £7.50, under 16’s free with each paying adult) via box office 01483 415847 or www.g-s-o.org.uk. Tickets are also available from the Tourist Information Centre on 01483 444334 and Record Corner on 01483 422006. Charterhouse Road, Godalming, Surrey, GU7 2DX

9-11 march

-26 march 24 wisley spring plant fair

Legally Blonde USSU Musical Theatre Society presents Legally Blonde Legally Blonde: The Musical chronicles the journey of the famously perky Elle Woods, a fashion savvy, UCLA sorority girl who finds her life turned upside down when she is dumped by her boyfriend Warner. Legally Blonde is a touching, funny and energetic musical. It will have you singing, dancing and “snapping” along with the cast the whole way through. Delightfully saucy in places, and heart-warming in others, it promises to be a fun packed night! Music by Laurence O’Keefe and Nell Benjamin Lyrics by Laurence O’Keefe and Nell Benjamin Book by Heather Hach Based on the novel by Amanda Brown and the Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer motion picture This amateur production is presented by arrangement with Music Theatre International Of New York. 7.30pm start. £8, £5 conc/student. University Hall, University of Surrey, Guildford, Surrey GU2 7XH

Pick up quality plants including shrubs, herbaceous perennials, and edible alternatives from specialist growers and nurseries. New gardeners and experienced plantsmen alike can find growing information from specialist plant societies and our expert gardening advisors. The fair brings together more than 30 specialist growers and nurseries Choose from a large range of plants including summer bulbs, roses, woodland and alpines, cacti and tropical, perennials and climbers plus herbs and vegetables. Find rare and heritage plants you won’t find elsewhere. The diverse range of stalls includes small independent nurseries and rare and unusual plant specialists – some of our exhibitors will be exhibiting at the RHS Chelsea Flower show this year.Meet the RHS Gardening Advice team during the plant fair and have your gardening queries answered by our friendly experts. All welcome. 9.30am - 4.30pm. RHS Garden, Wisley, Wisley Lane, Woking GU23 6QB

10 march

11 march

21st ANNUAL EARLY PRIMULA SHOW The National Auricula and Primula Society - Southern Section - holds its first show of the season. Come and see the dainty exhibits as they welcome the Spring! Free admission for the public from 2.30p.m. Primula plant sales. Harrison Room, The Old Barn Hall, Great Bookham, Surrey KT23 3PQ

10Kenley & 17 march Market A market with lots of bargains ,jewellery,clothes, toys,bric a brac etc, with a cafe for you to have a cup of tea with a friend....Whether you want to come as a customer or a new stall holder,selling off a sort out from home or a craft you love but have too much of,all are welcome,come and find us at Kenley. 8.30am till midday Free entrance stalls £9. Memorial Hall, Godstone Rod, Kenley, Surrey CR8 5AB

Image: Roop Dey

12 march AUSTIN MORRIS DAY All types of Austin & Morris vehicles will be on display for this annual celebration of two of Britain’s best loved marques. The event includes a cavalcade on the Mercedes-Benz World circuit, a mass photo opportunity on the Banking and ascents up Test Hill. Parking for visitors in non-Austin and Morris cars will be in The Heights off Wellington Way, with normal Museum admission prices applying. Brooklands Museum Brooklands Road Weybridge Surrey KT13 0QN

“All types of Austin & Morris vehicles will be on display for this annual celebration of two of Britain’s best loved marques”

17 march Herbs and Herbal Remedies

Ashtead Village Market A friendly market, lovely atmosphere - profits to charityevery 2nd Friday of the month. We sell plants, gifts, products for the home, cakes/chocolates; marmalades/jams; haberdashery; pottery; collectables; hand made products; toiletries and so much more. There are also refreshments - come along and see us. Free entry. 9am - 12.30pm. The profits go to 8 different charities. Ashtead Peace Memorial Hall, Woodfield Lane, Surrey KT21 2BE

11 march

Vintage Guildford This vintage fair provides a platform for the finest local sellers, designers and makers to exhibit wonderful items of yesteryear. We have handpicked a high quality selection of stalls showing vintage men and women’s clothing, accessories, music and home wares. 11am-4pm £2 entry, under 5s go free, all ages welcome. 11am-4pm. Holy Trinity Church, High Street, Guildford, Surrey, GU1 3RR

Understand more about the natural world around you and how you can use plants for your own benefit. Learn about specific herbs with a focus on spring herbs and tonics. Make your own simple remedies to take home with you. Course given by Karin Haile an experienced herbal practitioner and teacher. It will be held at the beautiful Fintry Trust House in the Surrey Hills. 1 day course 9.30am-4pm. £65. Fintry Trust House, Brook, Surrey GU8 5UQ MARCH 2017 7

LOVE LOC AL

events for mother’s day 26 march

the GREAT

OUTDOORS

Outdoor events making the most of Surrey and Berkshire

12 march Willow Husbandry Walk Are you interested in learning about the growing and harvesting of willow or thinking about introducing some bright colours in to you winter garden? Spend an afternoon learning about propagation, growing, harvesting and storing of willow. Visit our withy beds and get a chance to compare over 70 different varieties of willow that we grow. £35, course runs 1.30pm-4pm Eastbridge Willows, Pankridge Street, Crondall, Farnham, Surrey GU10 5RH

26 march Trust10 10K runs This 10k trail runs give you the opportunity to train for the next big event, or keep fit whilst enjoying the beautiful surroundings. The route at Polesden Lacey will consist of a variety of terrains and will take the runners through Ranmore Common – it will be a real treat for experienced runners and beginners alike! It is not a competitive event and is not timed. Just turn up with friends, family or on your own to run with other runners. 9am-11am. Polesden Lacey, Great Bookham, near Dorking, Surrey RH5 6BD 8 MARCH 2017

9, 13, 16 & 20 march Polesden Lacey - Buggyfit ‘Buggyfit’ is the ultimate fitness class for mums and babies. Buggyfit sessions cater for all fitness levels to help women get back into shape following the birth of their new arrival. This post natal exercise program aims to help strengthen and stabilise the post pregnancy body, specifically targeting those weaker muscles. Classes vary each week to always keep exercises interesting and fun in the fabulous fresh air and beautiful grounds of Polesden Lacey. Sessions are £6 each or £50 for ten, book by emailing debsbuggyfit@outlook.com. 10am-11am. Meet outside the Cowshed Café at 9.45am for 10am start. Polesden Lacey, Great Bookham, near Dorking, Surrey RH5 6BD

1Ewell april Horticultural Association’s Spring Show All welcome, free parking, a raffle, plus refreshments with delicious homemade cakes Come and enjoy displays of spring flowers, cookery, handicrafts, photography and floral art plus plants and garden sundries for sale. Fully accessible venue. 2.30pm to 4.30pm 418 bus (Epsom to Kingston) Ewell West Station (Waterloo Line). Blenheim High School, Longmead Road, Epsom, Surrey KT19 9BH

Claremont Landscape Garden - Mothering Sunday at Claremont Make Mother’s Day special this year with a visit to Claremont. Visitors who become a member of the National Trust at Claremont today will be entered into a prize draw to win a planted container of flowers. Join us for Mothering Sunday. Stroll through the garden and visit the Camellia Terrace in bloom. Our cafe will be open for hot lunches and afternoon teas. Mothers get in free to the Garden when accompanied by their children. Claremont Landscape Garden, Portsmouth Road, Esher, Surrey KT10 9JG

26 march

Hatchlands Park Mothering Sunday Treat your mum to a day at Hatchlands and enjoy a special Mother’s Day treat in the caf. Mums go free. 10am-5pm. General admission prices apply. Hatchlands Park, East Clandon, Guildford, Surrey GU4 7RT

26 march

Mother’s Day at Painshill Free entry for Mothers, when accompanied by their children. Standard entry fee applies for the rest of group. 10am to 6pm. Free for mother with children. Painshill Portsmouth Road Cobham Surrey KT11 1JE

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KIDS’

CORNER

Things to do and see with the little ones in Surrey and Berkshire

23-25 MARCH

Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland Alice is an ordinary young girl with an ordinary sort of life, until she follows a White Rabbit down a rabbithole and tumbles headfirst into Wonderland. The Yvonne Arnaud Theatre’s Act Two production group vibrantly presents this magical new musical adaptation of Lewis Carroll’s beloved children’s classic, Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland (Thursday 23 – Saturday 25 March). Times are variable, please contact Box Office on 01483 44 00 00 or visit www.yvonne-arnaud.co.uk. The Mill Studio at Guildford’s Yvonne Arnaud Theatre Surrey GU1 3UX

“Join us for stories, rhymes, and hands-on creative fun”

17 MARCH

Toddler Trails and Tales: Billy’s Beetle On 17 March is Billy’s Beetle by Mick Inkpen: enjoy the story and go for a walk around the park to bring it to life. 10am11.30am, £5.50 per child. Both at Gatton Park, Reigate, Surrey RH2 0TW

7-21 MARCH

Storytelling for Under 5s Join us for stories, rhymes, and hands-on creative fun. Spaces are limited and will be allocated on a firstcome, first-served basis. 11am to 11.40am. Free The Lightbox Chobham Road Woking Surrey GU21 4AA 10 MARCH 2017

10 MARCH

Toddler Trails and Tales: The Scarecrow’s Wedding Gatton park has some great events for the little ones this March. First up is The Scarecrow’s Wedding by Julia Donaldson – enjoy the story and go for a walk around the park to bring it to life 10am-11.30am, £5.50 per child.

25 MARCH

Comedy Club 4 Kids Do you love comedy at G Live? Then bring the family! The Comedy Club 4 Kids give you cracking entertainment for everyone over six years old and under 400 years old. We have the best comedians from the UK and world circuit doing what they do best… but without the rude bits! 3pm, £10.50 / £33 Family G Live London Road Guildford Surrey GU1 2AA

17 march

Painting for Under 5s Dress for mess and join us for some painting fun. All materials included. Advance booking required. 11am to 11.45am, £3. The Lightbox Chobham Road Woking Surrey GU21 4AA

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19 march

National Vegetable Society Show Specialist talks, propagation and plant care demonstrations and plants and seeds for sale. Expert growing publications for sale including the new ‘Getting started Cooking with Vegetables’. 10am – 4pm. Normal garden admission applies. RHS Garden Wisley, Woking, Surrey GU23 6QB

foodies

corner

Tasty food and drink events in and around Surrey and Berkshire

25 march

Coffee Stop Coffee, tea, juice, cakes, biscuits… and live music from local band, You-Ukes. Come along and help as we raise money for Trinity Trust Team, a local organisation working with the youth in the area. 10am - 1pm.. Flat 8 Woodley House, Long Gore, Surrey GU7 3TL

THROUGHOUT MARCH

Guided Tours of the Hogs Back Brewery, Tongham Visiting the Hogs Back Brewery is a fascinating experience. Situated just north of the A31 Hogs Back Road between Guildford and Farnham, the brewery has been brewing its award-winning ales, using locally grown hops, since 1992. An entertaining guide will lead a tour around the brewery, housed in 18th century farm buildings. Learn about the brewing operation, sample a generous range of beers, see the new 3 ½ acre hop garden and finish with a visit to the Brewery Shop, stocking Hogs Back Brewery’s fine ales plus over 300 other beers from UK and around the world. Awarded Trip Advisor Certificate of Excellence 2016. Book your tour online at www.hogsback. co.uk. Saturdays 10.30am, 1pm and 3.30pm; Sundays 2.30pm; Wednesdays-Fridays 6.30pm, £15. Hogs Back Brewery Ltd Manor Farm The Street Tongham Surrey, GU10 1DE 12 MARCH 2017

29-30 MARCH

Delectably Dead Dining Experience This is an experience to really sink your teeth into... It’s the only Zombie Survival and Dining Experience in the world! Guests are held up within the safe haven, in which they will be fed whilst all hell breaks loose whilst trying to prevent the Zombie horde from getting in. Unfortunately things will not go according to plan. A dining experience with bite. 7pm, £45 for 3 courses. G Live London Road Guildford Surrey Surrey GU1 2AA

11-12 march

Squires Kitchen Annual Exhibition Squires Kitchen’s specialist sugarcraft show and international exhibition is back. Mini classes, expert tutors, fab new products, live demonstrations and cake design competitions, this is event is a must for all cake makers! £12 per person entry 10am - 5pm. Farnham Maltings Surrey GU9 7QR

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Godalming Sanitary Steam Company Laundry

Hand Iron Department 1930’s

An exhibition at Godalming Museum

28 February to 8 April

xplore the story of Godalming laundry and those who worked there, in photographs, memories and original documents at a very interesting exhibition at Godalming Museum from 28 February to 8 April. Founded in 1884 as the Godalming Sanitary Steam Laundry Company, the laundry did washing, specialist cleaning and dyeing for households, institutions and the military at Langham in Godalming, in Woking and in Shalford. The exhibition will include archive photographs of the laundry and the people that worked there, newspaper coverage of related events, excerpts of recorded interviews with laundry workers and their relatives, and details of other laundries in the Godalming area that operated over the last 100 years. There will be an opportunity for visitors to add names and other details to a list of employees of Godalming Laundry (1884 - 1984), together with an historic timeline of events relating to the laundry over 100 years, and various exhibits will be on display from the Museum’s collection. Godalming Museum is located at 109a High Street, by the Pepperpot. It is open Tuesday to Saturday 10 am to 4pm in Wintertime and 10am to 5pm in Summertime . Admission is free but donations are welcomed. The Local Studies library is open in the

14 MARCH 2017

A Fascinating lecture in March The fourth in the series of Wednesday lectures run by Godalming Museum and Godalming Trust entitled Iron will be given by Lucy Quinnell on 22nd March.

Office workers at the laundry

afternoon from 1pm to 4pm. Light refreshments are available throughout the day. Children are always welcome. There is a delightful Jekyll style garden at the rear of the museum and an excellent gift shop. Godalming Museum is run in partnership with Waverley Borough council and Godalming Museum Trust.

Lucy Quinnell owns and manages the innovative Fire and Iron forge and gallery for metal art in Leatherhead, and she has iron in her blood. Lucy’s family has been involved in English ironworking since the 1500s. Her grandfather founded the forge in the 1930s. In 1989 Lucy’s father Richard Quinnell was awarded the MBE for his part in the revival of what had been, for many years, a dying craft. During his career, Richard and his team produced some of the most significant twentieth century ironwork in the UK and overseas. Lucy pursued a dream of creating a space where artist blacksmiths could show their work to the general public and to professionals in associated fields, and where commissioned work is produced. The lecture takes place at the Octagon, Godalming Parish Church, Church Street at 7.30 for 8pm. Tickets £5, from Godalming Museum or at the door.

LOVE LOC AL

A museum for haslemere, not of haslemere

aslemere is a quaint and charming market town, steeped in history and the award winning Museum with its remarkable collections of natural history, human history and geology is well worth a visit. Set in the heart of Haslemere, in an elegant Georgian building with beautiful extensive gardens, the rich and diverse collections have been inspiring visitors for more than one hundred years. The Museum was founded in 1888 by Sir Jonathan Hutchinson FRS, an eminent London surgeon. He set up a country home in the town and had a passion for collecting objects. He built up an extraordinary collection of artefacts, purchased at auction and on overseas travel, which he initially displayed in the grounds of his home. He was determined to demonstrate that museums could be of great educational value and invited local people to visit his private museum at Inval, however these became so popular, that by 1895 he had to move his museum into the town. Curator, Julia Tanner explains: “Sir Jonathan is considered to have revolutionised the role of museums in education. He made his collections accessible to everyone and encouraged a deeper understanding of our world through study and handling of objects.” When Sir Jonathan died in 1913, he left his museum to the town. Today Haslemere Educational Museum is one of the largest Museums in South East England and the artefacts he collected from all over the world are a rich resource of local, national and international heritage. Julia adds: “Our collections fall into three broad categories, Geology, Natural History and Human History with a dedicated gallery for each. They relate to a vast time period and a worldwide geographic area” The Geology Gallery contains a fine array

16 MARCH 2017

“The Museum was founded in 1888 by Sir Jonathan Hutchinson FRS, an eminent London surgeon”

of rocks, minerals and fossils including some fascinating ichthyosaur fossils and insects beautifully preserved in amber. In complete contrast the Natural History Gallery’s Edwardian decor deliberately captures the essence of that era and has magnificent taxidermy specimens fashionable at that time. Great favourites with children are the butterfly collection, and of course the Museum’s mascot ‘Arthur’ the Siberian Brown given by the Sisson family in the 1930s. The Human History Collection artefacts on display are from the key British historical periods, from the Stone Age to the Victorian era and two prominent overseas collections. The remarkable Ancient Egyptian Collection is displayed in its own room and the European Peasant Arts Collection contains beautifully painted household objects and intricately embroidered textiles, mostly from North-Eastern Europe and dates from the 16th century. Their designs became the inspiration for Haslemere’s own Arts & Crafts movement in the early 1900s. There are two rooms for temporary exhibitions as well as a Library and an Archive which are superb sources of information. The premises also boast a glorious rear garden, the landscaping of which dates back to the late 1700s. There is a gazebo which overlooks a pond and observation beehive where bees can be seen working during the summer months. The Museum has a wonderful tradition of learning for all ages and offers a lively programme of events and exhibitions throughout the year. Thoughtfully, Julia concludes: “The collections have always been at the core of our mission and support educational programming to inspire learning through objects. The Museum has enormous appeal, and is as Sir Jonathan Hutchinson intended, it is more a Museum for Haslemere than one of Haslemere.” A truly fascinating Museum. Haslemere Educational Museum, 78 High Street, Haslemere, Surrey, GU27 2LA. 01428 642112 www.haslemeremuseum.co.uk. Open Tuesday to Saturday 10am – 5pm Admission by Donation

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Easter Family Fun at Brooklands Museum There is some speggtacular Easter Family Fun at Brooklands this April that will keep visitors entertained from 1st – 23rd April. Every day during this period children will be able to try and solve the clues that are hidden around the Museum site in the Brooklands Easter Trail. Free trails will be available on arrival for children to complete and hand it in at the Museum Shop to claim their FREE Easter prize.

lso from the 1st - 23rd April, visitors can experience one of the three exhilarating rides in the 4D Theatre for HALF the normal price between 10am and 1pm – that’s just £2 for Adults and £1 for Children. Once seated and strapped in, the multi-sensory technology provides a thrilling experience to make visitors feel as if they are taking part in the real life action. ‘Race’ around the Brooklands track, ‘fly’ with the Red Arrows or ‘drive’ with legend Mike Hawthorn in his Jaguar at Le Mans in 1956. The rides run all day and last around 8 minutes each. After 1pm, normal prices will apply (£4 and £2). The Museum’s long-established and hugely popular rides in vintage-style cars and on London Bus Museum’s iconic double-decker buses will also be operating during weekdays from 1st – 13th April. Passengers in Car Rides take in the challenging summit of Test Hill and the Members’ Banking, the steepest part of the original Race Track, as long as it’s not too wet or slippery. Or, for a more relaxed journey, hop on board a real double-decker bus for a bus trip through the surrounding streets. Car and bus ride sessions will run in the mornings and afternoons with a short break for lunch. The Brooklands Learning Team will be running two FREE drop-in workshops for youngsters to try: from 3rd – 7th April find out about how forces and friction work by making Bertie Bear bounce up and down his elastic string while from 10th – 13th April come and be a detective as you help to find various objects around the museum in Brooklands Bingo! The first one to fill in their sheet and shout

18 MARCH 2017

Brooklands Museum offers the recipe for a perfect Easter day out

‘Bingo’ will be the winner! All materials will be provided and no pre-booking necessary. The Concorde Experience is a half-hour virtual supersonic ‘flight’ on the Brooklands Concorde. Each weekday from 1st – 13th April, special Kids Tours will be running twice a day. It begins with a short talk from your Guide who then takes visitors through a fascinating behind-the-scenes tour of the aircraft before they are shown to their seats for ‘take off ’. Add to this a visit to the Museum Shop to pick up a souvenir and a “refuel” in the Sunbeam Café and

Brooklands Museum offers the recipe for a perfect Easter day out. And don’t forget to look out for the Museum’s larger than life mascot, Bertie Bear, who will be roaming the site looking for fans to have his photograph taken with! Normal admission prices apply: Adults £11, Seniors £10, Children (5-16 yrs) £6, Family ticket (2 adults and up to 3 children) £30. The Concorde Experience is £5 for adults, £3 for children. A minimum donation of £1 per passenger is requested for car and bus rides. The main visitor entrance for the Museum is via Mercedes-Benz World, on Brooklands Drive off Wellington Way between Weybridge and Byfleet. For full details of events, directions and general Museum information, please telephone 01932 857381 or visit www.brooklandsmuseum.com The Museum is open daily from 10am.

EASTER HOLIDAY FAMILY FUN

Weekdays 3rd - 13th April

CAR RIDES

Family Workshops

Bouncing Bertie 3-7 April Brooklands Bingo 10-13 April

KIDS TOURS ON CONCORDE

London Bus Museum Bus Trips

EVERY DAY

Pedal Planes and Bertie Bear

4D Theatre * Concorde Experience * Trails for kids * London Bus Museum Soft Play Area * Discovery * CafÃ©

PLUS: EASTER EGG TRAIL available 1st to 23rd A pril

For prices and times visit: www.brooklandsmuseum.com Brooklands Museum, Brooklands Road, Weybridge, Surrey, KT13 0QN info@brooklandsmuseum.com 01932 857381 Special activties subject to weather and operating conditions

LOVE LOC AL

Clandon Park in spring. Credit Andy Scott

Spring garden in bloom at Clandon Park

isit Clandon Park from Saturday 4 March, as the garden is reopened for 2017. For the first time in two years you’ll be able to enjoy the magnificent sight of a traditional Clandon springtime with thousands upon thousands of daffodils bursting into bloom. Planted from the 1890s by passionate horticulturist William the 4th Earl of Onslow, the garden is the result of his many trips overseas. The daffodils in particular are considered to be one of the best pre1930s collections in the country. Such is the spectacle famous publications were once drawn to visit. The Garden magazine, in its Spring Flowers at Clandon Park feature in 1913, commented that it was a ‘…magnificent sight…a wide expanse of well-timbered parkland which was aglow with Daffodil’.

20 MARCH 2017

The 4th Earl’s gardening diary survives and provides an insight into the extent of his passion. An entry from 1904 tells us that 3000 bulbs were planted.

book; tickets will be available for £2.70 for adults, £1.35 for children (under 5s free) and £6.75 for families (2 adults, 2children). Entry is free of charge for National Trust members.

Alongside the daffodils, irises, poppies and lilies also emerge through the sea of yellow to add colour and depth.

Amenities onsite are still limited following the fire in 2015, but essential refreshments and toilet facilities will be available. The garden is partly accessible, with limited access for pushchairs and wheelchairs due to the lack of hard paths. Assistance dogs only are welcome in the garden.

New for this year, look out for a pictorial trail which will guide you through the garden, using historic images to whisk you back in time. Showing the house and garden through the years, these images demonstrate how this remarkable building and its surrounding gardens have changed according to the tastes of the people who passed through them. You can visit every Saturday and Sunday from March 4 until April 2, from 10am until 5pm. You’ll be able to visit the gardens without needing to

While we don’t know what the weather will bring, there is the promise of shady trees, sheltered spots and fresh air, as well as the glorious, glowing garden. So gather up the whole family and enjoy the space and tranquillity of Clandon Park’s springtime splendour.

L OV E L O C A L LOVE LOC AL

Brooklands Hotel B

rooklands Hotel, located in Weybridge, Surrey, boasts an iconic, art deco inspired interior. It features the world’s most historic motor racing track running through reception as well as a critically acclaimed restaurant in the appropriately named 1907 restaurant, bar & grill and luxurious spa facilities. Brooklands Hotel takes great inspiration from its racetrack history and location, from the original Brooklands racetrack, which rolls out before you in riven quartz and honed granite, to the glittering 1930s inspired honeycomb pendants that greet you upon arrival. The Brooklands site is home to one of Britain’s most famous racing heritage circuits – in fact it was the world’s first purpose built real race track, which opened in 1907 by wealthy land owner Hugh Locke King and was the scene of the earliest motor racing in the country during the 1920s and 1930s. Pride in the Brooklands historic location gave Brooklands Hotel the inspiration to name the restaurant after the year the famous racetrack was built and opened. Executive Head Chef, Adam Potten, and his creative team continue to design the predominantly British style menu using the best sourced produce and combined with modern cooking techniques this delivers simple, honest

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food. The ethos behind the grill is heritage and quality. The beef is sourced by selecting breeds that come with the traditions of British farming at its heart. The steaks are then carefully cut in house straight off the bone, ensuring the cooking complements the history. 1907 restaurant, bar & grill has been awarded two AA Rosettes for the third year in a row. Two AA Rosettes are awarded to restaurants that demonstrate innovation, great technical skill and more consistency and judgment in combining and balancing ingredients. The AA Quality Standard Report stated that “the two AA Rosettes were retained for the quality of the food at dinner. Hospitality was very good, with good guest interaction during dinner.” Brooklands Hotel hotel has 131 bedrooms and suites, some of which are 20% larger than the average UK hotel room. All bedrooms feature a wealth of natural light and several benefit from their own private outside space with mesmerising views over the Mercedes-Benz track. Selwyn Edge and Percy Lambert feature in two of the Suite names. The hotel also offers state of the art event facilities, including nine event suites with a private entrance, bar and a dedicated kitchen. Ideal for hosting birthday parties, family gatherings and celebrations. For reservations and more information, call +44 (0) 1932 335710, email reservations@brooklandshotelsurrey.com or go to www.brooklandshotelsurrey.com or www.1907restaurant.co.uk Brooklands Hotel, Brooklands Drive, Weybridge, Surrey, KT13 0SL.

Can’t shift that final pocket of fat? Get the body you deserve with CoolSculpting, the world’s #1 non-surgical fat reduction treatment. Using fat-freezing technology, CoolSculpting removes stubborn fat for good with no surgery and no downtime. Our experts can use it to treat problem areas all over the body including love handles, wobbly stomachs and double chins.

Before CoolSculpting

Call 01932 849552 to book a complimentary consultation with one of our experts and find out more about our upcoming CoolSculpting Events.

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E: info@lighttouchclinic.co.uk www.lighttouchclinic.co.uk Light Touch Clinic, 50 Church Street, Weybridge, Surrey KT13 8DS

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Rachel Williams - Pattern

Creative and stunning artwork from The Grange on show at Denbies

Amys olympic pattern

n exhibition of colourful and skilled work created by artists from The Grange Centre in Surrey, including a silk painted embroidered shell, vibrant print designs and string and ink art, will be on display at Denbies Wine Estate from 21 -26 March. Over 40 artists from the Creative Arts & Textiles department at The Grange Centre - a forward looking charity which provides high quality housing and training opportunities for people with disabilities - will be exhibiting their work at the event, which has also been sponsored by Denbies, over the course of the week. The Grange started life as a school of stitchery and lace back in 1938 and creative skills remain at the heart of the charity’s ethos. Artists include the talented 30-year-old Amy Pawley who has been supported by The Grange for ten years. Amy suffered a brain injury as a child and enjoys expressing her creativity through art. She uses a range of art media including watercolours, pen and ink and jewellery making. Her winning design was picked from hundreds of entries for this year’s Mencap Christmas card. The Grange’s Creative Arts team are constantly expanding their artistic skills and the residents benefits from outside courses, as well as in-house training to expand their knowledge. They are fast gaining a reputation for their innovative work, particularly yarnbombing installations. Last Summer, the team covered the entrance to the G-Live building in Guildford with colourful knitting and they have been invited to create an installation for Woking Arts Festival in 2017. They have exhibited at other galleries including Lightbox in Woking and the University of Surrey. Artists’ work is sold directly from The Grange Centre in Bookham but also from two retail outlets - Grange at No. 5. in Bookham and Inspirations in Dorking – both run by the charity. They also run a lunchtime café in Dorking and Simply Scones tea room every Tuesday afternoon in the Victorian conservatory on site. All these outlets

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Lottie print

Elizabeth Taoka - Fish stitch

Jack Muggleton - string and ink art

Amy shell zentangle stitch

are run as mini businesses and staffed by residents from The Grange with the aim of helping them to build up skills and training opportunities. The Grange exhibition runs from 21 to 26 March from 9.30am to 5.30pm at Denbies Wine Estate, London Road, Dorking RH5 6AA. Work will be on sale at prices around £60 and artists will be on hand to talk about their work. More about The Grange and their work can be found at www.thegrangecentre.org.uk

“I really enjoy working with a range of different techniques but particularly like working in watercolour and pen and ink. I love being at The Grange because it means that I can be free to experiment and learn new skills which would be hard for me to do elsewhere.” Amy Pawley Artist

CONSIDERING A PLACE AT ST GEORGEâ€™S WEYBRIDGE BUT CONCERNED ABOUT THE FEES? We offer a limited number of places with up to 100% funding for academically able girls and boys aged 7+ and 11+. Call 01932 839437 or email admissions@stgeorgesweybridge.com Leading independent co-educational Roman Catholic day schools in Surrey offering a values-led education for 3 to 18 year olds.

A Registered Educational Charity No.1017853

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Silent Pool Gin

Intricately Realised Inside and Out

ounded in the Spring of 2014, Silent Pool Distillers was set up with the vision of creating hand-crafted, premium spirits. Their multi-award winning Silent Pool Gin is produced in small batches using a custom made still which is heated by steam from a reclaimed English boiler that’s fired on local hardwood. Even the bottling is done on site. It is all very labour intensive, but well worth the effort to create a delicate, complex and internationally acclaimed gin that is rolling out across the UK, Europe, USA and soon Japan. Silent Pool Distillers coined the phrase ‘intricately realised‘ to embody their core values – to be an artisan producer of high quality spirits. This philosophy is evident from the beautiful teal and copper filigree bottle design to the refreshingly individual gin inside and it’s the thread that runs through the crafting not only of Silent Pool Gin, but all their products including: Navy-Strength and English Rose Gin, strawberry and blackberry seasonal gin cordials, English rye vodka and eau de vies as well as an innovative new range of Silent Pool Mist Liquid Garnishes.

It is exciting times for the company that has been bowled over by the meteoric rise in orders for its products, both domestically (Silent Pool Gin is now available in Waitrose, Majestic, M&S, Wine Rack and other fine retailers nationwide) and abroad. In order to meet rapidly growing demand, Silent Pool Distillers are expanding their current distillery, converting two adjacent barns into a home for their new 1,800 litre bespoke copper still. Nestled on the banks of the spring-fed Silent Pool, in the beautiful Surrey Hills, the distillery is open to visitors 7 days a week, Monday-Saturday 9:30-17:00, Sundays & Bank holidays 10:00 – 15:00. You can even immerse yourself into the world of Silent Pool Gin with a 90 minute deep dive distillery tour, covering all aspects of production including product sampling. Admission is £15pp including a £5 voucher and prebooking is essential. Or if you have a private party, special event or are part of a club whose members are gin lovers or just plain gin curious, why not consider booking a Silent Pool Gin ‘At Your Event’ Experience. Tell us your preferred venue, time and place and we’ll send along a trained Silent Pool Distillery professional who will detail our artisanal story including: the legend of the mythical Silent Pool from which we draw our water, how we make our multi-award winning gin from botanicals to bottle and how best to serve it. You will also partake in a tutored tasting of our spirits. There will also be an opportunity to buy from our product range. Prices start from £100 plus travel expenses for a 90-minute session. For more information or to book a bespoke ‘At Your Event’ Gin Experience, email: stevemarkwell@silentpooldistillers.com. If you like the sound of all of that, make your way online to the Silent Pool Distillers’ website where you will be able to buy our award-winning products, book one of our 90-minute Distillery Tours and learn more about this artisanal spirit company and its range of products and services.

www.silentpooldistillers.com 26 MARCH 2017

WINNER

Food and Drink Innovation

AWARD WINNING GIN FROM THE SILENT POOL IN SURREY Open seven days a week, from 10:00am to 3:00pm. For details and to order online, visit the website.

www.silentpooldistillers.com

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BANISH THOSE FEBRUARY BLUES Gag House Comedy Clubs are now hosting three clubs every month in the centre of Guildford, Surrey. You Must Be Stoking is back in the function room of The Stoke Pub and is ready to kick start you into spring on Wednesday 1st March at 8pm. Comedy legend Richard Morton will be back with his timeless musical comedy to play host at You Must Be Stoking. Richard has been established on the UK comedy circuit since the early 1990s, when he was also a regular support act on extensive UK theatre tours for stars such as Jack Dee, Jo Brand, Lee Evans and Phil Jupitus. On the 1st March Richard is joined by Alistair Williams, Lauren Pattison and headliner Markus Birdman. Markus is one of British comedy’s most experienced and welltravelled performers. Mixing the silly and the downright wrong, he never fails to impress. Gag House are thrilled he’ll be back in Guildford! The Stoke Pub can be found on Stoke Road, Guildford, GU1 4JN. Tickets are £12 on the door (£10.60 in advance) and can be purchased from www.GagHouseComedy.com or by calling 0333 666 3366. Gag House Comedy Clubs’ flagship club, Guildford Gag House, is at The Back Room of The Star Inn on Saturday 18th March. Craig Murray, the resident compere at award-winning London club, ‘The Funny Side…of Covent Garden’, is kicking off our event at The Back Room at 8pm. Craig has shared the stage with some of the very best comedy acts in the business, including Harry Hill, Stewart Lee and even Hollywood legend Robin Williams. We’re sure you’ll be in safe hands. Craig is joined by Chris Stokes, Alex Kealy and multi-award winning Australian stand-up comedian, comic performer, writer and actor, Felicity Ward, to close the evening. Guildford Gag House has been sold out for the past thirteen months. Advanced booking is essential to ensure you don’t miss out on this fantastic night of professional comedy!

For further information: www.guildfordfringe.com

28 MARCH 2017

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Alice in Wonderland Ballet Theatre UK Performing at Epsom Playhouse

This Spring, respected UK touring company, Ballet Theatre UK will be sharing their latest production, Alice in Wonderland at Epsom Playhouse. With a fantastic prior repertoire and plenty of accreditation from the industry and audiences alike this story is set to thrill both existing fans and those new to the company.

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‘A Company of great achievement’ The Dancing Times. Come with Alice on a magical adventure as she tumbles into Wonderland! Guided by the White Rabbit,Alice meets some astonishing characters, including the Mad Hatter, the Queen of Hearts, a studious caterpillar and those mischievous twins, Tweedledum and Tweedledee. Basing his ballet on Lewis Carroll’s much-loved children’s books,Alice in Wonderland and Through the Looking Glass, Ballet Theatre UK’s Artistic Director Christopher Moore has created a captivating piece, brimming with wit, humour and charm.With its whimsical flights of the imagination, eclectic music and joyful dance,Alice in Wonderland is delightful entertainment for all ages.

Interview with Artistic Director of Ballet Theatre UK, Christopher Moore. Q: Can you tell us a little bit about Ballet Theatre UK and how you came to found it? ‘Ballet Theatre UK is a mid-scale, quality, classical dance company performing to regional venues with a bold and unique approach to creating new theatre productions and a wish to raise the awareness of dance. I danced professionally for over a decade subsequently becoming more involved with choreography, so it was a natural progression for me to establish Ballet Theatre UK to showcase my own interpretations of popular classical ballets.’ Q: Ballet Theatre UK has been described as ‘innovative’. Why is that exactly? ‘I’ve taken traditional ballets, which to some people have become museum pieces, bringing them upto-date for the modern audience and engaging our audiences with a passion and energy that I hope is inspiring. The dancers bring much to the company making me able to create choreography which best shows their techniques.’ Q: What inspires you when you are creating a new ballet or choosing a new repertoire? ‘I’ve taken inspiration from an eclectic mix of classical dance, theatre, popular culture and literature to create new interpretations of popular classical ballets, and I hope to continue to develop new and original productions in the future in the same way. We have been lucky enough to be granted permission by the Prokofiev family to use the score for our production which has made creating the choreography a thrilling and inspiring experience. Q: For how long do the dancers train for a new work? ‘Rehearsals are generally four to five weeks, but it never stops once on tour. Work continues on the nuances of the production, honing and perfecting the delivery of the show’ Q: How many people work behind the scenes on a production, and what kind of things do they do? ‘We have a Ballet Mistress, who is responsible for the daily class the dancers undertake and the wellbeing

of the dancers; a Technical Manager who ensures the show is installed in each theatre and is ready to roll out on time every night; a Tour Manager who organizes, amongst other things, cast accommodation and their transportation to each venue; a Wardrobe Mistress and Admin staff. Their roles are varied and very important to the smooth running of the company’.

dancers take a warm-up class then a show run through is undertaken after the technical installation is complete. Depending on travel distances it can be only a few hours to install the show and be ready to perform’

Q: Who will be dancing the lead roles during the tour?

‘ I had a retired gentleman approach me after one of our shows who said that he had never been to a ballet before and was so pleased he had now done so, having enjoyed it immensely. I think it should be considered as one of life’s experiences; you’ll never know until you try it. A live show with a high visual content and rousing music will always set the heart beating faster! Alice in Wonderland is a perfect introduction as it is such a well-known story yet the complex choreography challenges for the seasoned classical ballet fan.’

‘We are lucky enough to have multiple lead dancers. We have a company ethos of dancer development and care for their wellbeing. We operate a rotational system allowing each member of the cast to share in taking on the lead roles. This allows also for a freshness to be brought to each show. Q: On tour, you have to constantly adapt to different theatres and stages. How long do you get to prepare and practice at a new venue? ‘We generally know what to expect at each theatre – the stage size, space in the wings etc. The technical team usually arrives early morning and the dancers follow during the morning. Before each show, the

Q: For those who have never watched ballet, how would you persuade them to come along?

Sat 8th April at 2.30pm Tickets from £15.50 Box office: 01372 742555/742227 Online: www.epsomplayhouse.co.uk MARCH 2017 31

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Iconic Directors, Nick Barlow, Nick Bird and Andrew Long have collectively 60 years’ worth of experience in the design, construction and project management of new build and refurbishment properties. Delivering a turn key project management service, the team at Iconic here provide a further insight as to the pitfalls of not having proper representation when starting a build project. For more information, please contact us at www.iconicad.com The evolution of the team at Iconic now aims to mitigate these risks for self-build clients.

The risks of going it alone Despite watching Grand Designs and reading the glossy self-build magazines, for an amateur there’s a lot still to be learnt about project management, how to do it and how not to do it. Many self-builders make the fundamental mistake of taking charge of the project management process themselves, often fitting it in around full-time jobs and children. This means that they’re not always around to answer questions or solve problems. Often, by the time they arrive on site, small problems have turned into big problems, and lack of experience and knowledge in construction can then compound those problems Alleviating those risks – the benefits of project management The key ingredients for effective project management are time and communication. Time is required to keep everything running efficiently, to maintain contact with everyone engaged on and to keep track of its progress. Proper communication will ensure that everyone involved in the project will be aware of the project schedule and what is required of each person in order to stick to that schedule. The project manager must be available throughout all stages of the project, and should ensure that everyone knows how to get in contact at any point. The team at Iconic have extensive experience in the development of private residences located in some of the most exclusive locations in London & Surrey. We offer the client a complete ‘hand holding’ service from plot finding through construction to completion, one that ensures the client’s interests are safeguarded and that quality & financial control is managed effectively. Budgetary control During the construction phase, procedures for project control and record keeping become indispensable tools. These tools serve the dual purpose of recording the financial transactions

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that occur as well as giving managers an indication of the progress and potential problems associated with a project. For cost control on a project, the construction plan and the associated cash flow estimates can provide the baseline reference for subsequent project monitoring and control. Overruns in particular cost categories signal the possibility of emerging problems and give an indication of exactly what these are. Successful delivery of the end product The team at Iconic believe that the process of building one’s own private residence should be a smoothly managed process in which the financial & quality interests of the client are paramount. We have all heard many horror stories of clients being misled and stung with unforeseen variations by builders who have not properly commercially appraised the project at the start. Iconic Project Management removes much or all of this risk. As a result Iconic can be on hand to act as a buffer between the developer or main contractor and the client, and to provide the expertise often lacking in a self-build project. It may feel like an added cost, but ultimately it will pay its way by ensuring that the project is completed on time and on budget, achieves the maximum value for a site, and most importantly delivers the client’s expectations. For more information about how Iconic can help you, please contact www.iconicad.com

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1st – 17th April 2017

Join the Moomins for a botanical adventure at Kew Gardens this Easter

xperience the wonderful world of the Moomins this Easter at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. With the arrival of spring, the Moomins will be coming out of hibernation and visiting the Gardens for all sorts of mischief and fun. Originally created in the 1950s, the Moomins are a family of adventurous and nature-loving creatures from the culturally iconic storybooks by Finnish writer and artist Tove Jansson. In the Gardens, families can expect an exciting activity-packed day out as these beloved creatures from the celebrated Scandinavian tales come to Kew for the first time. Children will be inspired by the vibrant illustrated world of the Moomins in harmony with the stunning landscape at Kew Gardens. Spring will be well and truly underway and the Gardens will be filled with the spectacular colour of flowering daffodils, crocuses and magnolias. The Moominthemed Easter extravaganza will celebrate the beauty of nature as seen at Kew, encouraging everyone to value and celebrate the British landscape and its wonderful array of wildflowers.

tulips, and culminating at the magical ‘Moomin Camp’ in the woodland of the natural areas of the Gardens. On the Moomin trail, children will be able to get creative at interactive points along the way and visitors might even snatch a glimpse of the Moomintrolls through the trees! What’s more, there’ll be a plethora of Easter activity workshop tents for children of all ages, as well as Moomin dens to play in and picnic areas

We are delighted to be partnering with the Moomins to create a magical Easter festival here at Kew

Pick up a special Moomin newspaper at any gate to begin an exciting interactive trail and head towards Victoria gate where you are closest to the first trail point. Explore the hidden depths of the Gardens, passing vibrant displays of fritillaries and

Adam Farrar, Head of Commercial Activities, Kew says, “We are delighted to be partnering with the Moomins to create a magical Easter festival here at Kew. Our interactive Moomin trail and activities will give youngsters the opportunity to explore the wilder parts of the Gardens and witness the incredible beauty of Kew in spring. Sophia Jansson, creative director of Moomin Characters and niece of Moomins creator Tove Jansson, said: “All of the inhabitants of Moominvalley possess a deep love and respect for nature, from the Hemulens who spend their time collecting plants or butterflies to the adventurous Snufkin, whose music is inspired by the landscape around him. So we couldn’t be happier to be working with the world-renowned team at Kew to inspire a similar love of nature in families and young visitors to the Gardens.” For further information please visit kew.org/moomins

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where parents can relax. Highlights will include the Hemulen’s Herbarium where children can learn about plants and flowers with the loveable character of Hemulen.

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Wisley Spring Plant Fair Kick start your gardening year with the Wisley Spring Plant Fair, 24-26 March 2017

ick up quality plants including shrubs, herbaceous perennials, and edible alternatives from specialist growers and nurseries. New gardeners and experienced plantsmen alike can find growing information from specialist plant societies and our expert gardening advisors. The fair brings together more than 30 specialist growers and nurseries.

Fair highlights • Choose from a large range of plants including summer bulbs, roses, woodland and alpines, cacti and tropical, perennials and climbers plus herbs and vegetables. • Find rare and heritage plants you won’t find elsewhere. • The diverse range of stalls includes small independent nurseries and rare and unusual plant specialists - some of our exhibitors will be exhibiting at the RHS Chelsea Flower show this year. • Meet the RHS Gardening Advice team during the plant fair and have your gardening queries answered by our friendly experts. All welcome.

Make a day of it Why not make a day of it and enjoy one of our other spring events or a walk around the Garden around Battleston Hill or the Wild Garden? 25 & 26 March: Shohin Bonsai weekend featuring the National Suseki show. Spring Plant Fair opening times: 9.30am - 4.30pm. RHS members go free, non-members pay normal garden admission. RHS Garden, Wisley, Wisley Lane, Wisley, Woking GU23 6QB

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Outstanding Care Time and again our patients rate us as one of the best private hospitals with 99% rating our overall quality of care as Excellent or Very Good*

• • • • • •

Exceptional nursing Highly skilled Consultants New state of the art operating theatres New cardiac diagnostic facility Recognised by all major insurers Fixed price surgery and finance packages available

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K&R Sheengate Half Page 180x132mm Jan17.indd 1

Call: Email: Visit: Find us:

+44 (0) 20 8949 9000 enquiries@newvictoria.co.uk www.newvictoria.co.uk Just off the A3 184 Coombe Lane West KT2 7EG

19/01/2017 14:47

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40 MARCH 2017

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SPRING CLASSICS Enjoy a feast of favourites at Charterhouse Hall on Sunday March 26 at 7pm

SO loves having the opportunity to welcome back soloists who have struck up a good rapport with the orchestra and we are thrilled to have the very exciting young violinist Joo Yeon Sir return to perform the Sibelius with us. You may have heard Joo Yeon Sir play when she was one of the soloists at the 2014 Young Artists Concert. She produced an extraordinarily accomplished performance of Saint-Saens’ Introduction and Rondo Capriccioso and her interpretation of the Sibelius is going to be stunning. The concerto, written in 1904 is symphonic in scope with the solo violin an equal voice with the orchestra sections. The original composition was fiendishly demanding for the soloist and the revised version played here still requires a high level of technical Beethoven: facility. Listen out for the extended Overture - Consecration fanfares and exciting the crowd until cadenza! of the House it reaches a brilliant finale. Beethoven wrote the Sibelius: Violin Concerto The concert concludes with Consecration of the House Schubert: Symphony No 9 the Great C Major – Schubert’s Overture to mark the opening The Great C Major Symphony No 9, and it really is a of a new theatre in Vienna and it work on a grand scale, thought to be has echoes of Handel with a slow his finest piece for orchestra and one of march of the imaginary procession his most innovative compositions. Schubert gathering pace with trumpets and is famous for writing lieder and he has put melody at the forefront of this symphony- yes, there are great tunes! The orchestra has chosen to support the local Home Start for the Charterhouse concert. One of the leading family support charities in the UK, Home-Start volunteers help families with young children deal with the challenges they face, with home visiting volunteer support. Families struggling with post-natal depression, isolation, physical health problems, bereavement and many other issues receive the support of a volunteer who will spend around two hours a week in a family’s home supporting them in the ways they need. Ticket prices: £15 (under 25’s save 50%, under 16’s free with each paying adult) via GSO Box Office 01483 415847 or website www.g-s-o.org.uk. Tickets are also available from the Tourist Information Centre on 01483 444334 and Record Corner in Godalming on 01483 422006

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“The concert concludes with the Great C Major – Schubert’s Symphony No 9, and it really is a work on a grand scale”

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The Ideal Home Show, sponsored by Zoopla, is back with a fresh face, new interactive features and four brand-new live theatres... for seventeen days! The UKâ€™s biggest home exhibition will provide the ultimate shopping experience with everything you need to update your home.

he Ideal Home Show is divided into inspirational and specialised sections: Interiors sponsored by Thomas Sanderson & Home Accessories, Home Improvements sponsored by Anglian, the Gadget Lab sponsored by GAME, and the new Style section. And not forgetting the Ideal Show Gardens sponsored by Hydropool, created by this year's Young Gardeners of the Year entrants from six competing colleges. There's lots to feast your eyes over at the show, as it will house three innovative and iconic, full size show homes: 21st Century Cottage, Property Ladder Apartments; sponsored by Barclays and The Rotating Home; as featured on George Clarke's Amazing Spaces. Come along and be inspired by the modern and contemporary designs and structures on display. If you fancy a bit of celeb spotting, the show is host to celebrity

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appearances and expert demonstrations from the likes of household favourites architect George Clarke, interior designer Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen, internationally renowned chef Theo Randall, TV presenter & author Katie Piper, money saving expert Martin Lewis and building expert Clive Holland. There's something and somebody for everyone! NEW for 2017: the innovative Eat & Drink Festival celebrating the newest and most exciting trends in modern cuisine, mixology, extraordinary tipples and street food. Calls cost 7p per minu Guaranteed to be a feast for all the senses, plus your company's te the ingredients of this superb show, access charge co-locating for the first time, will include cookery from top restaurant chefs, shopping from artisan producers, street food vendors and tasting sessions at the new Drinks station.

To book tickets call 0844 858 6763

THE DETAILS For more information or to book tickets visit www.idealhomeshow.co.uk

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*T&Cs - Book before 23rd March 2017. Offer valid on Adult on the door ticket prices (Concessions not included. £1.70 transaction fee applies. Children aged 15 and under go FREE when accompanied by a paying adult. Calls cost 7p per minute plus your phone company’s access charge.

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46 MARCH 2017

MARCH 2017 47

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Timber Windows & Doors that your Home Deserves In the design of our windows & doors we achieve exceptional performance while maintaining the beauty that timber windows and doors bring to any home.

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Club Life

5 Great reasons why you should become a member at Stoke Parkâ€¦

H EALTH & BEAUTY

1. Price! Despite being an Exclusive Members Club, there is real value to be had in the different memberships we offer. For example, our 7 Day Golf Membership is available for new members at just £3,500 per annum. This gives members access to our 27 Hole Championship Golf Course and extensive practice facilities. Likewise, with over 50 studio classes to choose from, unlimited use of our state-of-the-art gym and indoor swimming pool, for only £148 per month, our ever popular Health Membership represents excellent value as well. This is before you receive various discounts throughout the club on food, beverages and spa treatments by using the levy system we have in place.

2. Continual Investment As a 5 AA Red Star venue, the bar is always set very high with the facilities that we offer to our members, and as such we need to constantly invest in them so that our members’ expectations are always exceeded. Over the past 2 years, we have completely refurbished our 4,000 sq ft gym and installed state-of-the-art Star Trac equipment, reopened our Front 9 holes following an extensive bunker renovation project (holes 10-18 are currently being re-furbished and will open in April) , opened

the fabulous Spa Gardens with an Outdoor Hot Tub and Scandinavian Sauna overlooking the stunning gardens, re-furbished the Indoor Tennis Courts and re-designed our Halfway House so that Golfers can enjoy a varied selection of refreshments. With more exciting projects also underway, there is no better time to become a member at Stoke Park.

3. Rich in Heritage If it’s being a member of a club rich in heritage and history that excites you most, then Stoke Park will tick all of the right boxes for you. Founded in 1908, Stoke Park is the UK’s very first Country Club and encircling the club’s beautiful 300 acre Buckinghamshire estate is the famous 27 Hole Championship golf course, undisputedly one of the finest parkland courses in the country. Created by eminent golf architect Harry Colt, the Stoke Park course has been the inspiration for many of the world’s most famous holes, including Augusta’s infamous 16th. The course itself has seen many impressive rounds in its prestigious history, including the first PGA Matchplay tournament in 1910 and James Bond’s epic golfing duel in the 1964 classic 007 movie ‘Goldfinger’.

4. A Hub of Social Activity One thing we say to any prospective member at Stoke Park is that membership with us is a lifestyle choice. It is far more than just a Gym or a Golf Membership. Being a member with us gives you the opportunity to attend over 50 wonderful social events throughout the year including our Summer Ball, Christmas Parties and The Boodles Tennis that features several of the Top 20 Male Tennis players in the world. Stoke Park is a very friendly place and our aim is to always exceed our guests expectations and make everyone feel immediately at home. For Golf members, there are regular competitions, medals and weekly roll-ups that you are encouraged to participate in, all part of the passion we have for making sure that members become well entrenched in Club life. You can also entertain family, friends or top clients in one of

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What the press said about Stoke Park in 2016 and awards won!.. ‘Best Spa Hotels in Britain’ – The Times, January 2017 ‘Best Luxury Spas in the UK’ - The Independent, January 2017 ‘Refurbishment has helped Stoke Park offer parkland golf at its best!’ - Today’s Golfer, November 2016 ‘Best Spa Hotels in the UK’ - Harpers Bazaar, September 2016

“If it’s being a member of a club rich in heritage and history that excites you most, then Stoke Park will tick all of the right boxes for you”

‘Best Sporting Venue’ - UK Wedding Awards 2016 ‘No. 1 Best Wedding Venue just outside of London’ - Evening Standard, June 2016 Winner- Executive Chef Chris Wheeler - Hotel Chef of the Year (over 250 covers) - Hotel Cateys 2016

our three excellent restaurants - San Marco’s, The Orangery and Humphry’s – our three AA rosette fine dining restaurant.

5. Family Friendly Facilities At Stoke Park, we pride ourselves on our awardwinning facilities that cater for the entire family. With a newly opened outdoor adventure playground, fantastic indoor games room along with our beautiful indoor swimming pool, 13 multi-surface tennis courts and superb events for Children throughout the year, it’s

clear to see why The Daily Telegraph recently voted us as a ‘Top 10 Family Hotel in England’. With a variety of wonderful Membership options at Stoke Park, if you are interested in discussing the Individual or Corporate opportunities available, or would like to arrange a tour of our fantastic facilities, then please contact the Membership Sales team on 01753 717179 or email membership@stokepark.com. Stoke Park is situated only a 20 minute drive from Windsor and 35 minutes from Ascot. www.stokepark.com

Winner- Executive Chef Chris Wheeler - Chef of the Year - Berkshire and Buckinghamshire Life Food and Drink Awards 2016 Winner- Humphry’s - Best Fine Dining Restaurant - Buckinghamshire Food and Drink Awards 2016 ‘Best of Britain’ - Tatler Restaurant Guide 2016 ‘A stay at this grand country house hotel is about as good as it gets.’ - Marie Claire, December 2016 ‘Ultimate 100 Best British Hotels 2016’ - The Sunday Times, October 2016 ‘For a respite with British refinement, whether it’s food, spa, or sport- there’s no place quite like Stoke Park!’ - Luxurious Magazine, October 2016. ‘Golf Resort of the Year’ - Square Mile Awards ‘No wonder the resort has claimed more awards than Team GB at the Olympics’ - Today’s Golfer, November 2016 ‘Best Tennis Hotel in England’ - Red Magazine, June 2016 Ultimate Members Club - Club59 Awards

MARCH 2017 51

HEALTH &

beauty – Fashion, health and beauty news to keep you looking and feeling your best – i ma g e : G E T IN TOUCH W ITH YOUR S E NSITIV E SID E

H EALTH & BEAUTY

Twinning in the skincare stakes WORDS: Katie Wright, Press Association

‘M

ulti-tasking’ is a term often used to extol the virtues of skincare that targets more than one concern. While these all-rounders can be impressive, sometimes, you need two distinct phases to really work wonders. Whether cleansing, hydrating or treating, with these paired-up methods, the results will be twice as nice...

CLEANSING COUPLETS

Elemis Gentle Foaming Facial Wash, available from www.elemis.com

If you often end up with traces of foundation on the towel after washing your face, clearly you need to bolster your nightly cleansing technique. Like an electric toothbrush, a vibrating facial brush combined with a foaming wash will make light work of stubborn make-up, and exfoliate at the same time. Rinse your face then follow with a cleansing pad to sweep up any hard-to-reach areas around your nose and hairline and take care of eye make-up. Foreo Luna for Sensitive/Normal Skin, £129 (LookFantastic.com); Elemis Gentle Foaming Facial Wash, £28 (available February 1; www. elemis.com; This Works In Transit No Traces 60 Pads, £17 (www.thisworks.com)

54 MARCH 2017

Buy it now They’re back! Six of Essie’s most beloved limited-editions have been relaunched and given a Vegasstyle makeover. From the sweetly subtle Pure Chiffon to the black cherry bite of Bold Beauty, you’ve only got until March 7 to get your talons on these vintage varnishes. Essie Retro Revival 2nd Edition Collection, £7.99 each, Superdrug (www.superdrug.com)

ixi and Caroline Hirons Double Cleanse, available from Marks and Spencer

To melt away make-up, try a cleansing balm. Solid at room temperature, the balm softens on contact with the skin, then emulsifies when water is added, taking with it make-up and oil. Balms can be tricky to rinse off completely, however, so follow with a micellar-containing product, which acts like a magnet for dirt and ensures a squeaky-clean complexion. ARK Pro Remove Pre Cleanse, £30 (www.arkskincare.com); Nivea Micellar Wipes, £3.25, Sainsbury’s (www.sainsburys.co.uk) In response to the ‘double duty’ trend, cult brand Pixi has paired up with highly respected blogger Caroline Hirons on a terrific twosome that combines a solid cleansing oil and a cream in one handy pot. Pixi + Caroline Hirons Double Cleanse, £24, Marks and Spencer (www.marksandspencer.com)

HYDRATE IN TWO HALVES We’re often advised to change our moisturiser when it gets particularly frosty (or hot, for that matter), but adding an extra layer before your day or night cream can provide all the nourishment your complexion needs. Just a few drops of oil, warmed in your palms then massaged into skin, will make all the difference in winter, but make sure you let it absorb thoroughly before finishing with your usual moisturiser. Beauty Kitchen Seahorse Plankton High Definition Facial Oil, £19.99, Holland and Barrett (www.hollandandbarrett. com); Clarins Hydra-Essential Silky Beauty Kitchen Seahorse Cream, £36 Plankton High Definition Facial Oil, available from (www.clarins.co.uk) www.hollandandbarrett.com In Korea, 10-step skincare routines are the norm - a commitment most of us would be loathe to make. One tip we’d do well to borrow, though, is the use of an ‘essence lotion’. It may look like a toner, but this potent liquid gently soothes, smoothes No7 Lift and Luminate and boosts hydration, before Triple Action Night your moisturiser locks it in. Cream, available from Boots, Origins Original Skin Essence Lotion, £22 (www.origins. co.uk); No7 Lift & Luminate Triple Action Night Cream, £24.95, Boots (www.boots.com)

TRIED & TESTED

Main image: PA Photo/thinkstockphotos. Products shots courtesy of PA Photo/Handout

This Works In Transit No Traces 60 Pads, available from www.thisworks.com

Starskin Red Carpet Ready Hydrating Bio Cellulose Second Skin Face Mask, available from www.BeautyBay.com

There’s been a flood of matte liquid lip launches this season, but which is best? Our guinea pigs put three new shades to the test... “Smooth to apply - not sticky at all - this shade is opaque and slightly darker, but than the frosted packaging suggests, but it’s still very wearable, for both day and night, and makes for a nice change from my usual bright reds and pinks.” BareMinerals Gen Nude Matte Liquid Lipcolour in Friendship, £17 (www. bareminerals.co.uk)

“I’ve totally fallen in love with this matte finish lipstick! My lips are usually dry, but this liquid velvet lipstick left them feeling moisturised. It’s highly pigmented, so I didn’t have to apply a tonne of product, and the long-lasting weightless formula is a real winner.” Ciate Liquid Velvet Matte Liquid Lipstick in Bitter Sweet, £17 (Asos.com)

“Sliding on like a gloss, this liquid lippie dries to a deep tawny-pink that manages to make my lips look plumper even though there’s no shine. It’s got fantastic staying power, but I found I needed a lip liner to create a really defined edge.” Burberry Liquid Lip Velvet in Dark Rosewood, £26 (www. burberry.com)

GlamGlow Supermud Clearing Treatment, www.GlamGlow.co.uk

MAKE YOUR OWN MASK A weekly face mask is a must, whatever your skin type, but ‘multi-masking’ is particularly effective if you have combination skin. Apply an exfoliating, oil-absorbing treatment across the T-zone and a moisturising mask on the rest of your face, then sit back and let them work their magic. GlamGlow Supermud Clearing Treatment, £39 (GlamGlow.co.uk); Elemis Exotic Cream Moisturising Mask, £34 (www.elemis.com) If your skin tends to be on the dry side, a twophase approach is your best bet. Start with a gently exfoliating mask to sweep away any flakiness, then use a sheet mask to deliver a hefty dose of moisture. The end result? Rejuvenated, plump-looking skin. Dermalogica Gentle Cream Exfoliant, £39.20 (www.dermalogica.co.uk); Starskin Red Carpet Ready Hydrating Bio Cellulose Second Skin Face Mask, £8.50, (BeautyBay.com)

“Apply an exfoliating, oil-absorbing treatment across the T-zone and a moisturising mask on the rest of your face”

MARCH 2017 55

H EALTH & BEAUTY

PROFHILO

The Secret To The Airbrushed Look Now available at the Light Touch Clinic

56 MARCH 2017

e are very excited to welcome Profhilo to our collection of world-class rejuvenation treatments. Winner of the ‘Product Innovation of the Year’ award at the Aesthetic Awards in 2016, Profhilo is a real game changer. Neither a mesotherapy treatment or a filler, Profhilo is a bioremodelling treatment designed to effectively tackle skin laxity. We have two Profhilo experts at the Light Touch Clinic in Dr Natalie Blakely and our Senior Aesthetic Nurse Janine Scott RGN. Both practitioners have been praised in Tatler as two of the best cosmetic practitioners in the country and are renowned for their natural, confidenceboosting results.

How Does It Work? Profhilo’s clever formula contains one of the highest concentrations of hyaluronic acid in the industry to boost and hydrate the skin from within for weightless volume. In addition, Profhilo’s purity and absence of additives make it one of the safest injectable rejuvenation treatments around. However, what makes this treatment really stand out is its unique bioremodelling effect. Unlike regular hyaluronic acid fillers, Profhilo nourishes the dermal cells, boosting the production of 4 different types of elastin and collagen. This remodels ageing and sagging tissue, resulting in lifted, firmer skin for you!

Before and After Profhilo

BEFORE

AFTER

Before undergoing Profhilo treatment at the Light Touch Clinic, you will be invited to our luxury Weybridge clinic for a consultation with one of our medical practitioners. They will assess your suitability for the treatment and put together a bespoke plan to help you look and feel your best. We usually recommend two sessions of Profhilo taken a month apart. The treatment itself is very quick and comfortable. As with most injectables, patients can almost always go straight back to work. You will start to see results after a month and these will last for around 6 months before you need a top-up.

WHY LIGHT TOUCH? Harley Street expertise in Surrey ••• CQC-registered ••• Multi-award winning clinic ••• Industry-leading results ••• Award-winning treatments ••• 95% of patients rated their customer experience as good or very good

Where Can We Treat? Using a special technique of 5 injection points, our skilled practitioners can use Profhilo to deliver gentle refreshment to the entire face. This results in a lifted appearance and less wrinkles. Often overlooked, our necks can sometimes appear a decade older than our faces! Historically, the neck has always been difficult to treat with injectable rejuvenation treatments. However, Profhilo is a major breakthrough as it can lift sagging skin on the neck and can also improve crepey skin texture.

Our Medical Director Dr Natalie Blakely having a Profhilo treatment with Janine Scott RGN

THE DETAILS

Light Touch Clinic, 50 Church Street, Weybridge, Surrey, KT13 8DS www.lighttouchclinic.co.uk info@lighttouchclinic.co.uk 01932 849552 MARCH 2017 57

H EALTH & BEAUTY

Get in touch with your sensitive side WORDS: Katie Wright, Press Association

re rashes, itchiness, blotchiness or stinging all too common whenever you try out a new skincare product, or do they flare up with environmental changes or stress? Then it probably won’t come as news to hear your skin is classed as ‘sensitive’, and as such, it requires extra TLC. So what causes these irksome flare-ups? “There are three potential initiators,” explains Sally Penford, education manager at Dermalogica. “Allergens that may stimulate an immune response, chemicals that stimulate a nerve response, and emotional and physical stress that can also induce a nerve response.” That means you need to choose the products you use carefully, in order to avoid irritating ingredients and soothe stressed-out skin. “What’s interesting is that besides common allergens like artificial fragrance, anyone can become sensitized to anything at any time,” Penford adds, which is why it’s useful for everyone to know the common causes. We asked three experts how to ensure a daily skincare regime that’s effective but not aggravating... 58 MARCH 2017

KIND CLEANSERS Whatever the product, there is, unfortunately, a whole laundry list of potentially harmful ingredients it’s best to steer clear of. “As a general rule for sensitive skin, I’d avoid sodium lauryl/laureth sulphate, soap, AHAs/BHAs, salicylic acid, high fragrance, colourants and alcohol,” says Kendra Flockhart, education executive at Darphin Paris. “Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) is commonly used in skincare, particularly in cleansing products, due to its lathering effect. However, I’m of the option that you should avoid harsh chemicals such as SLS, as they strip the skin of its goodness,” agrees Dr Justine Hextall, dermatologist on behalf of The Harley Medical Group. “Alcohol strips the skin of its natural oils and leads to a loss of water in the skin’s upper layer. Use water-based products instead. For reactive skin, I prefer to recommend a threein-one product, such as Darphin Azahar Micellar Water, as this reduces the [number of] products/ ingredients being introduced to skin, and there’s no need for water, which can also lead to skin

Darphin Azahar Cleansing Micellar Water, available from darphin.co.uk

redness, irritation or inflammation.” Dermalogica UltraCalming Serum Concentrate, £53.15 (www.dermalogica.co.uk); Avene Hydrance Optimale Hydrating Serum, £12.75 (www.escentual.com)

Kat von D and Too Faced’s Jerrod Blandino have been besties for ages, so it was only a matter of time before the make-up maestros hooked up for a collaboration. The ‘Better Together’ range boasts the best of each brand, including the MILD MOISTURISERS besselling Too Faced Better Than Sex mascara and Kat’s hero The final step in your skincare routine Tattoo Liner. The three-piece collection is in should be tailored to your particularly Debenhams stores now, and also online. sensitivity, Flockhart says: “If it’s an Too Faced x Kat Von D Better Together allergic/reactive skin concern, always opt Ultimate Eye Collection, £46, Debenhams for products that are light in texture and (www.debenhams.com) readily absorbed, and avoid moisturisers which contain fragrance and colour. “If the sensitivity is more associated with high colour/flushing, I’d opt for a product which contains a green hue to counteract redness, sensitivity,” Flockhart adds. such as Darphin Intral Redness Relief Darphin Azahar Cleansing Recovery Cream. “If the skin is more prone Micellar Water, £25 (www. to irritation/dryness, I’d suggest a darphin.co.uk); Harley Harley Medical Group richer texture to protect Medical Group DermaQuest DermaQuest Essential skin from environmental Essential Daily Cleanser, Daily Cleanser, aggressors.” £29 (Harleymedical.co.uk); available from Darphin Intral Redness Waitrose Pure Cleansing Milk, Harleymedical.co.uk. Relief Recovery Cream, £45 £2.50 (www.waitrose.com) (www.darphin.co.uk); Avene Avene Hydrance Rich Skin Recovery Cream, EASY EXFOLIATORS Optimale Hydrating currently reduced to £12.37 “Excessive exfoliation is a Serum, available from from £16.50, Boots common sensitizer,” Flockhart www.Escentual.com (www.boots.com) warns. “And some ingredients can be very active, such as AHAs, which are very stimulating and sometimes too aggressive for “The final step sensitive skin. Switch from a in your skincare physical scrub - one that contains ingredients like grains and salts that routine should help manually scrub or scratch the be tailored to skin to dislodge dead skin cells - to a your particularly ‘chemical’ scrub, if your skin is acting up after using a physical scrub,” sensitivity” advises Hextall. Beauty Kitchen Miracle Mother Dermalogica Daily Superfoliant, available from Nature Facial Konjac Sponge, dermalogica.co.uk £6.99, Holland & Barrett (www.hollandandbarrett.com); Dermalogica Daily Superfoliant, £55 (www.dermalogica.co.uk)

SOOTHING SERUMS Applied after cleansing and before moisturising, a serum can help to calm inflammation and counteract redness. “Dermalogica has developed a proprietary blend of botanical extracts coined UltraCalming Complex, which contains key actives that target the symptoms of immunogenic and neurogenic inflammation, to help reduce and prevent future sensitivity, redness and irritation,” Penford says. “Always test new products before applying liberally to your skin,” Dr Hextall recommends. “Place a small test patch on your skin at least 48 hours before using to check for any

Which is best when it comes to mascara: wand, comb, or both? We put three new launches to the test... “I love this rich, creamy mascara, which volumises lashes without clumping and is easily applied with the hourglassshaped wand. It lasts for ages, doesn’t smudge, and lengthens lashes with just one swipe.” Ciate London Wonderwand Mascara, £19.50 (Lookfantastic.com)

Main image: PA Photo/thinkstockphotos. Products shots courtesy of PA Photo/Handout

Buy it now

TRIED & TESTED

“While I’d recommend this mascara for its intense colour and lasting wear, its unique wand - complete with four combs and a ‘Zoom-Action Tip’ - is tricky to use and left me with some clumps, although I did improve with a bit of practice.” Max Factor False Lash Epic Mascara Black, £11.99, Boots (www.boots.com)

“As well as a regular wand, this mascara comes with a comb-like applicator for lower lashes. It creates the perfect amount of coverage (not too spidery), and separated my lashes out for that Sixties-Twiggy look. It lasts all day long too, and comes off at night with ease. I’m very impressed.” Studio 10 Mascara 6-in-1 Perfect Lash Mascara, £24, Marks & Spencer (www. marksandspencer.com)

MARCH 2017 59

H EALTH & BEAUTY

Do you suffer from Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)?

sk:n are here to help

id you know 1 in 5 women in the UK suffer from PCOS and within the Asian community this can rise to 1 in 3*.

Whilst there is no cure for PCOS, sk:n have a range of treatments that can help alleviate your symptoms, such as excess hair and acne. Working in support of Verity, the UK’s leading PCOS charity, we can help you regain your confidence with treatments no longer offered on the NHS. Suffering with, and trying to find a solution to excess hair growth can seem like an uphill battle. Traditional methods of hair removal such as waxing and shaving are time-consuming and often ineffective. Laser hair removal can permanently reduce hair growth by up to 90%.

Want to know more?

Follow one of our client’s stories who has received laser hair removal treatment for her PCOS symptoms and has achieved great results!

BEFORE

Why choose sk:n for PCOS treatments?

“I’m only 3 treatments in and can’t believe how much of a difference I’ve seen already! I feel so much more confident and happy that I no longer have to worry about trying to hide the hair on my face by shaving and with hair removal creams. sk:n have been amazing and I’ve been really impressed with the service I’ve received at my local clinic.” Sarah, Birmingham sk:n continues to work in support of Verity’s cause of promoting a deeper and wider understanding of the condition and how symptoms can be treated, by offering PCOS sufferers a constant 30% discount off laser hair removal courses.

THE DETAILS

sk:n, 101a High Street, Esher, KT10 9QE, 01372 238 756 www.sknclinics.co.uk/esher-life

60 MARCH 2017

We perform over 150,000 laser hair removal treatments every year

We have over 380 highly powerful, yet specialised laser devices

AFTER

“The staff are really knowledgeable about PCOS and how it affects women like myself, so there was no embarrassment felt when attending clinic for treatment. My practitioner is really experienced and makes me feel at ease.” Sarah, Birmingham

We have 27 years’ experience of treating excess facial hair

We have in clinic PCOS specialists, rest assured, you are in experienced, knowledgeable hands

discover better THE UK’S LEADING, AWARD WINNING SKIN CLINIC HAS ARRIVED IN ESHER

£50 towards a treatment of your choice*

“

You feel in safe and knowledgeable hands when you visit sk:n

DERMATOLOGY

”

LASER HAIR REMOVAL

ACNE TREATMENTS

REJUVENATION

SKINCARE PRODUCTS

Visit www.sknclinics.co.uk/esher-life to find out how to redeem your voucher 101A HIGH STREET, ESHER, KT10 9QE TEL: 01372 238 756 *Selected treatments only. Terms and conditions apply.

H OME & PROPERTY

Spring HAIR

DREAMS A new season is upon us, so now is the time to update your look - colour, cut, style or added hair, the Academy Salons can help you. Consider something brighter, lighter, livelier, you really can achieve your ‘hair dream’. Choose from these sensational looks from Balmain Paris Hair Couture.

10 The Green, Hersham, Surrey KT12 4HL T: 01932 252 464 ••••• 42 High Street, Cobham, Surrey KT11 3EB T: 01932 864 929 ••••• 105 Hare Lane, Claygate, Surrey KT10 0QX T: 01372 462 724 ••••• 91 High Street, Esher, Surrey KT10 9QA T: 01372 466 400 ••••• 81 Queens Road, Weybridge, Surrey KT13 9UQ T: 01932 852289 www.academysalons.com | www.balmainhair.com 62 MARCH 2017

Stunning Designs for Glamorous Girls Sizes 14 - 30 open Mon - Sat 9.30 - 5.30 267-269 Coombe Lane SW20 0RH FREE local parking

Award Winning Boutique

www.bakou.co.uk

H EALTH & BEAUTY

SUMMER BODIES ARE MADE IN THE WINTER At Courthouse clinics If your New Year’s Resolution to lose weight and get in shape is starting to stall as the weeks fly by, why not try one of Jill Zander’s body contouring treatments, to stay on track or give your progress a boost?

ur popular Cool Tech Fat Freezing treatment offers a fast, effective way to permanently eliminate stubborn pockets of fat from problem areas such as thighs, tummy, back and arms. As the name suggests, Fat Freezing (also known as cryolipolysis) works by freezing fat cells, causing them to die off and be eliminated naturally through the body’s own lymphatic system. This pain-free treatment is a great non-invasive alternative to liposuction, and achieves visible results after just one session. Another popular pain-free body contouring treatment at Jill Zander is Endermologie. Bikini season might still be months away, but summer bodies are made in the winter, so now is the ideal time to begin a course. Endermologie is scientifically proven to reduce the appearance of cellulite, boost circulation and improve skin tone. A special handheld massage device is rolled over problem areas, breaking down the fat, water and toxins that give skin that uneven, dimpled appearance. During the process, blood flow is increased, skin is exfoliated and fat metabolism is increased – resulting in noticeably firmer, smoother, toned-looking skin. Book today and banish those lumps and bumps by the time the sun reappears! If skin tightening is your goal, then our Radiofrequency body treatments could be exactly what you’re looking for. Our Exilis Elite XL radiofrequency heats the surface of the body to instantly tighten loose skin – often an issue following dramatic New Year weight loss. Exilis Elite also targets the subcutaneous tissue, to help break down fatty deposits, so it can be used to target cellulite on the arms, abdomen, buttocks and thighs. Our Soprano skin tightening is another minimally-invasive treatment option for firmer, younger-looking skin. Using highintensity infrared light, Soprano painlessly heats up the skin’s deeper layers, stimulating collagen production and improving surface skin tone and tautness. It can be used on almost any region of the body, and is an excellent option for women post-pregnancy. Whatever your aesthetic concerns, we understand that there are lots of different treatments options available. For more information, and expert advice, call our customer care team now on 0845 555 5050. We look forward to seeing you in clinic very soon. Jill Zander 96 High St, Esher KT10 9QJ. Tel: 01372 471448

64 MARCH 2017

H EALTH & BEAUTY

66 MARCH 2017

Kitchens &

bathrooms A collection of the finest kitchen and bathroom companies

Kitchen by Figura www.figura.co.uk â€˘ 01428 686500

KITCHENS & B ATHROOMS

beautiful kitchens by neptune weybridge

he best kitchens don’t just look beautiful, but they behave beautifully too. That’s what international interiors company Neptune believe, and it’s a belief that’s felt in every inch of its exquisitely crafted kitchens. Timeless in style, thoughtful in design, uncompromising in quality, these are kitchens to last a lifetime. Founded in 1996, Neptune is an award-winning British interiors and lifestyle brand with stores across the UK and Europe, including our very own in the heart of Weybridge. For those who are yet to discover Neptune, theirs is a world of beautifully hand-crafted furniture, textiles and accessories for the home and garden. Design wise, they’re perhaps most known for kitchens with their heirloom-worthy dressers not far behind. Their trademark ‘look’ is British. Refined, simple, sturdy, and with an almost obsessive attention to detail. And they’re certainly most respected for their commitment to craft and quality. Never will you find chipboard in a Neptune piece, nor will you see MDF, ever. Put simply, they make things they’re proud of, and want you to be too.

“The pared-back Suffolk takes its cue from the Shaker movement” Neptune’s kitchen collection consists of four signature designs: Chichester, Suffolk, Henley and Limehouse, and each comes with a lifetime guarantee. Chichester is a classic English design with cockbead moulding and has a simple perfection to it. The pared-back Suffolk takes its cue from the Shaker movement and shows a real discipline to design. The almost regal Henley kitchen is crafted entirely from solid oak and includes some rather impressive curved cabinetry. The Limehouse is the sleek one. The most obviously contemporary, it’s full of hidden secrets like a pullout spice rack and white stone prisms that act as drawer dividers. The one thing they all have in common is a wonderful amount of choice. From paint colours and types of cabinetry to work surfaces and even hardware, together with your dedicated kitchen designer you can create the kitchen you’ve always wanted. All of these beautiful collections and more are available to view at the Neptune Weybridge store or online at www.neptuneweybridge.com. Neptune Weybridge, 10 Church Street, Weybridge Surrey, KT13 8DX 70 MARCH 2017

W E BELIEV E That change is as good as a rest Believe it or not, our Henley oak kitchen used to be seen as our most traditional, our most classic, and our most refined collection. But we knew it had hidden depths. So we took it apart and looked at all of the pieces from the inside-out and from the outside-in. Then we added new ones. To those of you who knew it before, it might look familiar, but itâ€™s an entirely new era of design. Itâ€™s Henley, redefined. Now available in both oak and painted.

PGRVWPGYG[DTKFIG EQO Neptune Weybridge, 10 Church Street, KT13 8DX, 01932 901234, info@neptuneweybridge.com

KITCHENS & B ATHROOMS

Texture and rich aubergine colours create a modern, fresh feel in this Weybridge kitchen

nheriting their kitchen when they moved into their property nine years ago, this Weybridge couple wanted to refresh their tired, out-ofdate kitchen. “It served a purpose but there wasn’t enough storage and it was a dark space to work…not a very enjoyable space to prepare food in,” explains Kate Diss at Sanctuary Kitchens.

A new door had recently come out in grey bark and this was perfect. The wild graining of the wood gave a unique finish and in fact was the first kitchen in this finish in the UK. Surprisingly it was not a real wood, but a very good replica that was much more hardwearing than the real thing so much more suitable to use in a kitchen,” explains Kate.

accessible and adjustable shelves allowed full storage to be utilized throughout the kitchen.

The client made an appointment with Kate at the showroom in Shepperton to discuss their wish list and what style of kitchen they longed for. “The brief was to make the kitchen feel more spacious and to incorporate better storage and worktop areas. The existing kitchen was dated and the client wanted to have a wow factor with a totally new look and to get rid of the bulky American Fridge-freezer and to incorporate integrated refrigeration,” says Kate.

The wild graining of the wood gave a unique finish and in fact was the first kitchen in this finish in the UK

Appliances were all Miele, renowned for their quality and benefit from a factory testing procedure of equivalent 20 years wear.

With an open layout to the house, the kitchen was on view and they wanted to make the most of a compact kitchen. “It was important to bring in some colour to brighten up the neutrals and the client was also very keen to add texture.

Credit: Charlie Davies Photography

72 MARCH 2017

By adding a white gloss door for the wall units, this introduced some reflection and brightness to the run . A reduced-depth larder on the return, allowed for the fridge-freezer and oven housing to be positioned side-by-side at the end of the kitchen so as not to narrow the room. Tall storage was much more

The worktops were chosen in Silestone, a quartz worktop stronger than granite and non-porous. All the worktops were template and installed to give the perfect fit.

The finishing touches came with the introduction of colour through the rich aubergine glass, giving the room depth of colour, good reflection and the added bonus of being easier to keep clean. Sanctuary Kitchens 128 High Street, Shepperton TW17 9BG sales@sanctuarykitchens.net | 01932 252555 www.Sanctuarykitchens.net

KITCHENS & B ATHROOMS

Refreshingly Individual

ive years have passed since Adaptations opened their kitchen studio in Cobham and to celebrate they have just undergone a major revamp of their showroom located on the High Street opposite Church Street.

Established in 1999 by Ian Cross, Adaptations Specialize in mid to high end contemporary German kitchens which they mix with their own unique bespoke range of freestanding furniture made from reclaimed oak ranch fencing which they source from the US. These pieces which they refer to as “Food Benches” are intergrated into their designs to create a refreshingly individual and eclectic look. The beauty of the reclaimed Oak furniture is that no two pieces are ever the same. Each and every one is completely unique. Their new “Food Bench” is a stunning 3.2m x 1.2m freestanding island. The design has been made to look slightly more contemporary with handleless drawers and slimmer, more elegant legs. Each island includes 4 drawer units and a seating area/ table top for up to 5 people. The food bench is made to order and can be made to incorporate a hob if required. The worktop is available in a choice of materials and colours including Dekton and Neolith, which are both incredibly practical materials with excellent scratch and heat resistance and can be made to incorporate a recessed trough that can be used for growing herbs or storing bottles. The showroom has been re-designed to showcase a wide selection of the latest finishes and textures available from their German partners. These include several extreme matt furniture ranges available in a choice of colours displayed alongside

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the beautiful warmth of real wood veneers and textured laminates, into which they incorporate clever storage solutions. They also have unique “Works Range by the renowned German brand Eggersmann which includes full height rotating mirrored doors which when rotated through 180 degrees expose an array of beautiful storage accessories made stainless steel, wood and porcelain.

The beauty of the reclaimed Oak furniture is that no two pieces are ever the same. Adaptations also have an excellent selection of appliance brands on display including Miele, Siemens, Sub-Zero and Wolf plus niche products like the Bora range of surface extraction and Barazza for flush fitting gas hobs. With a strong emphasis on the quality of their kitchen designs, Adaptations offer a complete service and will lead you through the entire process from initial design consultation right through to completion. They provide a full installation service for those wanting a turnkey solution or alternatively will work with your architect or designer where the kitchen falls within a larger scale building project. To arrange a free consultation at their showroom call 01932 584940 Adaptations, 53-57 High Street, Cobham KT11 3DP www.adaptations.uk.com

KITCHENS & B ATHROOMS

Wash this space We love bathrooms, especially beautiful and spa-like ones where we can create our own little oasis at home. Bathroom design has come a long way in the last 20 years. Whilst the importance of functionality remains; many more homeowners are now spending time and money to ensure striking aesthetics within their bathroom.

esigner bathrooms are a common site in many homes and such a project can add real value to the property. If you are seeking to create a modern designer bathroom look in your home then the tips below can help you achieve that goal.

A STYLISH BATH The first bathroom suite item to deal with is the bathtub. This is the piece of furniture that you will get the most enjoyment from and it is important to ensure that it provides comfort to the user. However, going for a practical model doesn't mean that you have to sacrifice style and there is a vast range of bathroom models, from twin baths that allow two people to bathe side by side, to corner baths that serve to maximise available space. If you prefer the more traditional rectangle shaped bath, there are still options available that provide that designer feel. Going for a separate tap installation also serves to create a unique look. THE SHOWER OPTION Whether you have enough space to install both a bathtub and a shower, or prefer to just have the latter in your bathroom; your choice of design will have a huge impact on the room. Quadrant shower enclosures that fit into the corner of the room with an arc shaped glass enclosing the two sides, give

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an elegant finishing look to the suite. If you are planning to splash out you might like to consider a walk-in shower enclosure. Walk-ins give you greater mobility and access, and look grand as well as plenty of space to really relax and unwind. AN APPEALING BASIN Although you probably consider the bath or shower as being the most important of furniture in your bathroom, it is also the basin that acts as a central item in designer bathrooms. This is due to the fact that it will almost always have a mirror placed above it, which immediately draws the attention of anyone who enters the room. As such it is important to install a basin that looks fantastic. One option is to fit a vanity unit, with the basin sunk in so that it is flush with the surface. Alternatively you could add to the aesthetics by mounting the basin on top of the vanity unit and go for an unusual design, such as a funnel shaped basin. However, if you are going for an ultra-modern look then a hovering sink with hidden pipes is a good option. If you have a big enough bathroom, you could even decide to go for the double sink, which not only look great, but are also useful in a busy household. LUXURY TOUCHES Carefully coordinate your towels with the colour of the walls and bathroom suite. Add a stylish looking towel rail electric element to heat up the towels for added luxury. Coordinate other accessories such as the toilet roll and toothbrush holder. Get a sleek and stylish cabinet to hide away less attractive products or those you don't want to show. A well-chosen bathroom rug, a potted plant in the corner, or a framed picture hung on an empty wall; small pieces which can completely revamp the look of your suite. By ensuring that your accessories are attractive and functional, along with some good, soft lighting, you can create a calm and relaxing retreat, right inside your home.

SHOWROOM OPEN

MON - SAT 9AM - 5PM The Hersham Centre Molesey Road, Hersham Surrey KT12 4HL

SUPPLY, DESIGN AND INSTALLATION OF LUXURY BATHROOMS Walton Bathrooms offer 6,000 sq. ft. of showrooms with over 60 new displays, a dedicated tile studio and experienced in-house designers. All products shown are by Villeroy & Boch from the decadent and luxurious ranges - Astoria (top), Legato (left) and Artis Titan (below).

SHOWROOM TEL: 01932 224 784 CONTRACT SALES TEL: 0208 481 7970 EMAIL: SALES@WALTONBATHROOMS.CO.UK SHOP ONLINE AT: WWW.WALTONBATHROOMS.CO.UK

Introducing KAELO

KITCHENS & B ATHROOMS

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he Ice Age is finally over. Exquisite champagnes and fine wines have finally been bestowed with their own engineered masterpiece; Kaelo - a ground-breaking innovation for the world of luxury living. Designed and handmade in England, Kaelo reimagines the antiquated fuss of ice buckets for the 21st Century, by offering a completely dry and instant method of serving champagne and fine wines. As such, Kaelo has been heralded as the revolutionary must-have for luxury interiors and the modern wine connoisseur. Until now, cumbersome buckets, melting ice and dripping bottles have had to be tolerated in even the most prestigious environments. As well as this, and potentially overlooked by many, the serving temperature of your expensive champagne and wine is dictated by the bottle’s surface contact with ice: too much and the refined aromas and flavours are numbed, too little and the entire experience is compromised. Enter the unique and elegant Kaelo. Kaelo instantly creates an ice-cold, yet perfectly dry environment to maintain the ideal temperature of your finest wines during serving. Each Kaelo is a harmonious communion of precision craftsmanship, intuitive technology and modern design, resulting in a revolutionary method of cooling champagne and fine wines that finally befits their high calibre. Your moments of celebration and enjoyment can now be seamless and uninterrupted.

PATENTED KRYOLUXTM TECHNOLOGY Simply touch any part of the stunning Kaelo bezel… and the hard work is done. The KryoluxTM chamber cools down instantly and your experience begins without any delay. Personalising your own ambience is effortless. Scrolling through the beautiful spectrum of

illumination is also controlled via the touch sensitive bezel. Kaelo’s innovative system ensures it is ice-cold within moments, yet uses less power than a 60watt lightbulb. As no ice is required, no water is ever wasted, saving our increasingly precious global resource. Due to its patented cooling technique, it also means no ozone-harming CFCs are used. How do you turn it off ? You don’t…Kaelo automatically turns itself off when it detects it isn’t being used.

CRAFTSMANSHIP A true ambassador for British engineering, Kaelo was passionately developed over 7 years by London-based designer and founder Kevin Jabou. Committed to revolutionising the outdated ice bucket for the 21st Century, it was Kevin’s relentless pursuit of creating something truly unique and extraordinary, which led to the invention of Kaelo’s patented Kryloux™ technology: the secret component at the heart of this modern lifestyle masterpiece. Each component of a Kaelo is precision machined from solid blocks of raw material to ensure immaculate quality, unrivalled performance and completely flawless finishing. The super-mirror polished bezel itself is a flawless trophy of labour. The most critical and intensive part of each Kaelo’s build process, each one is crafted from a 3kg block of stainless steel. Although handmade in Oxford, Kaelo’s exclusive offering means it is now the new global benchmark for serving the finest wines in the modern era. Kaelo.co.uk; 0207 870 1115

T H E R I T U A L , R E I N V E N T E D.

KITCHENS & B ATHROOMS

FARROW & BALL REVEAL THEIR KEY COLOURS FOR 2017 Radicchio

Studio Green

Hay

All White

Pink has been at the forefront of decorating for the last year and there is now a natural progression to stronger reds, with their spirit of bold optimism. Radicchio feels exuberant, romantic and sensual, rather than clean or graphic, due to its complex underlying blue tone.

There is something almost defiant about the use of botanic Studio Green on walls instead of the ubiquitous charcoal darks. It is unapologetically clubby and has a fantastically timeless old world quality, but can be used in the most modern of rooms.

ncapsulating both dramatic, vivid hues and more understated, subtle tones, the colours signal a readiness to embrace definite colour within interiors as we become more confident in our decorating choices. The four colours; Radicchio, Studio Green, Hay and All White, have an enduring appeal that remains comfortingly familiar despite being used in surprising combinations. From the timeless, bygone feel of Hay and Studio Green, to the vivacious tones of Radicchio and the counterbalance of pure, uncomplicated All White, the colours have a refined quality that works wonderfully in both contemporary and traditional homes.

Understated Hay feels soft and familiar. Its quiet quality creates rooms that have a hushed atmosphere as well as an unmatched depth and gentleness. It is not a hot or sunny yellow - although it becomes more raw in bright light - but rather an aged, whimsical tone with an underlying green.

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A pure white like this is devoid of both colour and association. All White has no pigment and creates an uncomplicated feel which is naturally fresh, but not stark or â€˜brilliantâ€™. The key to this look is to create a mood of stillness and calm by layering different whites, and only whites, together.

Showrooms: 78 & 82 Church Street, Weybridge, Surrey KT13 8DL • Telephone: 01932 856850 • www.whw.co.uk

KITCHENS & B ATHROOMS

top tips for tiling By Julia Gray, Press Association

TIP 1 Tiles come in various shapes, sizes and materials,

and it’s important to get ones that suit the style and function of the room you’re tiling, as well as your budget. Often an affordable option, ceramic and porcelain tiles are popular because they’re easy to lay and care for. Glass tiles are also low maintenance and look fantastic, but they tend to be expensive. As are many stone tiles (slate, marble and limestone etc) which are often higher maintenance and can vary a lot in thickness, colour and texture, so they’re not for everyone. TIP 2 Mosaic tiles are available in lots of different materials and are ideal for a feature wall or splashback, 82 MARCH 2017

but they’re rarely cheap. They can be hard to keep looking good, depending on where they are and the colour of the grout, because there are so many grout lines compared to larger tiles. Mosaics aren’t the most practical option as a cooker or hob splashback, for example, especially if the grout’s pale. TIP 3 If you’re buying tiles online that you haven’t seen in person, make sure you get a sample first because you could end up with tiles you don’t like that are expensive to return. Of course, you may prefer to buy tiles in store, where you can see what you’re getting. Another advantage

HOWTO TIP

If you’re doing the tiling yourself, it’s a good idea to buy tile adhesive the same colour as the grout you can get all-in-one ready mixed products. This is because the adhesive can ooze through the gaps between the tiles as you lay them and if the grout’s the same colour, you don’t need to be as meticulous about removing all the excess adhesive before grouting

Product of the month To give kitchens and bathrooms period-style elegance, Quater Bisel wall tiles in Cendre (£64.08 per m2, www. tilegiant.co.uk) are a good choice. These pale beige-grey tiles have bevelled edges and a gloss crackle-glaze finish - because of the crackle glaze, they should be sealed with tile sealer to prevent staining, but the effort will be worth it.

of buying in store is that you can ensure all the tiles come from the same batch (as long as there’s a batch number on the boxes), so they’re exactly the same colour and finish. TIP 4 To work out the number of tiles required, multiply the length by the height of each wall or part wall to be tiled (minus the area of any doors, windows, etc.) and add them together to get the total area, plus around 10% more for breakages and wastage. Lots of tiles are sold per square metre and even if they’re not, it should say what the price is per square metre - this is the easiest way to work out the cost.

TIP 5 Don’t forget to factor in the cost of the tile

adhesive and grout, tools, spacers and other accessories. The adhesive and grout must be suitable for where you’re tiling (not all can be used in showers, for example) and the sort of tiles you’re using. The grout can make almost as much of a style statement as the tiles themselves, as the colour of the grout can make a big difference to the finished look, so don’t decide on the grout as an afterthought. You can get an idea of how grout changes the appearance of tiles at www.tilegiant.co.uk, which also has a visualiser, where you can see how different tiles look in a room set.

KITCHENS & B ATHROOMS

YOUR BEAUTIFUL

BATHROOM

bathroom can be so much more than just a room for hygiene. You can create tranquil areas of relaxation and Cranleigh Bathroom Studios can help your ideas come to life. With their experience in the industry they can create relaxing areas that will take away all of your worries and woes with ease. As well as giving you those relaxing moments, you can have a fresh bathroom for mornings to get you ready for the whole day ahead. Whatever you have dreamed of can be brought to your home in quick time with matching tiles, furniture and accessories in tow. As well as full bathroom suites they can install shower enclosures that are effective and attractive. A wide range of shower enclosures include floor to ceiling glass screens and smaller effective screens depending on your needs. The shower enclosures they supply complete your bathroom and can keep water where it is supposed to be at all times.

As well as giving you those relaxing moments, you can have a fresh bathroom for mornings to get you ready for the whole day ahead If high quality tiles in a wide variety of colours, pattern and style is what you are looking for then you in the right place. With a wide range of superb tiles to choose from you can truly personalise your bathroom or build complete bespoke sets to suit your needs and taste. At the showroom they have various tiles to explore, including mosaic, ceramic and pebble tiles for both flooring solutions and walls. They understand that a bathroom is often a place for relaxing but also needs an element of freshness at the same time. To accomplish this tranquil atmosphere they work with you to build your dream bathroom from top to bottom so that you can really sit back and relax. Please call in to meet Craig and the team, not forgetting Bryn their Showroom Dog! 246 High Street, Cranleigh GU6 8RL 01483 272727 www.cranleigh-bathroomstudios.co.uk

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KITCHENS & B ATHROOMS

Wet rooms the essential guide

Want a wet room, but not sure whether it will work in your home? Read on for the advantages, disadvantages and expert design tips.With a wide range of wet room styles to suit every taste, they are becoming more popular and they're a great way to add value to your home. CAN ANYONE HAVE A WET ROOM? In theory, yes. A wet room is basically a shower room that does away with the shower screen and tray, and has an open, fully tiled shower area. If your bathroom is on the small side you probably will need to include a shower screen to prevent everything getting sprayed. WATER DRAINAGE Installing a wet room is a job for the professionals as a gradient needs to be created along the floor to channel the shower water into a drain and then the entire room needs to be tanked (waterproofed). The most common method for creating a gradient is to install a sub-floor made

from WBP Ply (a type of plywood), which is then tiled over. Another option is to install a ready-made sloping shower former (a bit like a giant shower tray), which is also then tiled over. A final method is to use a giant preformed tray that slopes towards a drain, and can be fitted across the entire floor without the need for tiling over. WATERPROOFING Waterproofing the wet room involves priming the floor, the lower section of the walls and the whole of the wall area around the shower and then covering with a syrupy membrane. Once it's set, the room is then tiled. It's also worth raising the bathroom door threshold by about 5mm from the floor in case the room fills with water (if someone covers the shower drain with a towel, for example). This will keep the water contained. ADVANTAGES OF A WET ROOM A wet room is super-stylish and perfect for creating a contemporary look. As a second bathroom, a wet room can easily increase the value of your home. Great for small bathrooms - removing the bath creates loads more space. Wet rooms are, in general, easier to clean.

There's no shower screen or tray to worry about and if you go for a wall-hung sink and toilet, it's easier still. If it's done properly, your floor is better protected than it would be in a standard bathroom. DISADVANTAGES OF A WET ROOM In small bathrooms, watch out for wet towels caused by spray from the shower. You'll need a professional fitter to waterproof the room - if it's not done properly leaking water can cause damage. Wet rooms should be tiled from floor to ceiling - and that's expensive. And if you go for porous stone tiles, they may need to be resealed every few months, which is hard work. Swapping a main bathroom with a bath for a wet room could make your home less saleable - buyers want at least one bath. The cost of installing a wet room is usually between ÂŁ5,000 and ÂŁ10,000. If you are paying a company to tank and install the wet room, including floor-to-ceiling tiles, suite and shower, expect to pay more. Retailers can offer you some ideas or may sell you those little extras you need to complete your wet room.

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KITCHENS & B ATHROOMS

BATHED IN STYLE Surrey based Miscellanea of Churt, established in 1980, offers an unrivalled spectrum of interiors from authentic traditional through to cutting edge contemporary.

rom humble beginnings, Miscellanea has become a place of pilgrimage for anyone seeking to create unique and individual surroundings. Initially, and still, specialising in Bathrooms, their repertoire has extended into a full Interior Design Service to include Kitchens, Bedrooms, Libraries, Studies etc. or simply single items of Bespoke Furniture, all of which have organically grown to satisfy an ever increasing demand from their discerning clientele. Whatever your design requirement a trip to Miscellanea’s recently extended, and magnificently refurbished showroom, is a must. Here you will find influences gathered from around the globe reflecting the eclectic mix of today’s modern lifestyle. Whilst fashion understandably dictates trends, Miscellanea pride themselves on their ability to capture each clients’ individual ethos enabling them to provide unique Interiors of true distinction. This is a Showroom where every style is celebrated – from 14th Century Medieval to 21st Century Hi-Tech – all in settings that surprise and test the

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imagination – a truly inspirational space. Colour too is rejoiced, and grey, beige and cream are harnessed to pave the way for more dramatic schemes providing a visual feast for each and everyone who visits. Interwoven into the Interior settings are unique works of art, sculpture, mirrors and a plethora of home accessories, all chosen to compliment, and enhance the settings on display. At Miscellanea they are pleased to inspire and demonstrate to you the best methods of successfully using your space to its fullest potential, whilst always keeping your ideas at the forefront of their design work. Originality, creativity and passion, characterise their designs – all of which are hand drafted for each and every individual client, all underpinned by a quality, precise and professional service from start to finish. Miscellanea has to be a 2016 destination for anyone wanting to create an Interior of true originality or those who are simply looking to purchase a quirky single item to complete their existing room. THE DETAILS Crossways Churt, Churt GU10 2JA ••••• 01428 714014 www.miscellanea.co.uk

KITCHENS & B ATHROOMS

5 Top tips for: kitchens INITIAL DESIGN

By Julia Gray, Press Association

You can, of course, design your new kitchen yourself, but expert advice is hard to beat. A good kitchen designer will probably think of things you haven’t, and should know their products inside out. B&Q, for example, will design your kitchen free of charge and give you access to its Spaces 3D planning tool so you can have a go yourself. Working out what you do and don’t like about your current kitchen, and what you do and don’t want from your new one, is a good place to start.

USING THE SPACE

If you’re having an extension built to accommodate the kitchen, deciding how to divide up the space into cooking, dining and living areas should be done before designing the kitchen itself. It’s a good idea to wait until the shell of the extension is up because seeing it may change how you want to use the space.

DELIVERY

Waiting for the kitchen to be delivered can take longer than you think. Some ranges are available off the shelf, such as B&Q’s IT range - many items can be bought in store, but some are only available from the B&Q website, www.diy.com. Some kitchens take weeks, or even months, to arrive, which can seem like an eternity if you’re managing without one. And don’t forget to find a good kitchen fitter in advance and let them know when the kitchen is due to arrive to avoid unnecessary delays. Recent research from B&Q, which coincided with its Homefit installation service (www. diy.com/diy/homefit) being endorsed by the Which? Trusted Traders scheme, revealed that we spend more time choosing the colour of our kitchen than finding the right person to fit it.

DURING INSTALLATION

Cooking meals is the biggest challenge if you have to cope without a kitchen for long, especially if you have a family to feed. However, there are plenty of small appliances that make life easier - Russell Hobbs has a good selection, including a Mini Hob (£34.99, www.uk.russellhobbs.com) and MultiCooker (£89.99, www.uk.russellhobbs.com). George Foreman Fat Reducing Grills are great for cooking all sorts of things, but the new George Foreman Evolve Grill (currently reduced to £99.99 from £149.99, www.georgeforeman. co.uk) is like having a hob, oven and grill in one compact gadget. Another surprisingly versatile gadget is the De’Longhi Multifry (from RRP £159.99), which can be used to cook meals such as risottos and stews, as well as crisp chips.

WOOD CARE

If you’ve opted for wooden worktops, leave enough time to oil them thoroughly before installation to protect them from marks and warping. The worktops must be stored and oiled flat, so they do take up a lot of room. Once they’re fitted, remember to oil any cutouts, especially the one for the

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sink, and keep oiling the worktops in situ - once a day for a week, once a week for a month and once a month for a year, a builder told me recently. The worktops need to be oiled on all sides, but especially the top, and it’s essential to use a good wood oil, such as low-odour Sadolin Worktop Oil (£15.99 for 500ml, Homebase). This isn’t the cheapest oil, but it’s definitely worth paying a bit more to give your worktops proper protection - inexpensive oils often aren’t up to the job. The Sadolin oil takes a while to soak in - leave for 24 hours before re-coating - but it repels water well and gives a lovely natural look.

KITCHENS & B ATHROOMS

t: 020 3544 4002 e: sales@ajp-bathrooms.co.uk w: www.ajp-bathrooms.co.uk

HOME &

PROPERTY

– A collection of Surrey and Berkshire’s finest house and garden companies, plus stunning homes for sale in the area –

H OME & PROPERTY

DAYS OF SNOOZING FOR NATIONAL BED MONTH

ith 31 days dedicated to highlighting improved sleep, National Bed Month in March is the ideal time to get it right between the sheets.

And, obvious though it might be, the best place to start when working towards a better night’s sleep is your bed. Said Lisa Artis of The Sleep Council: “It’s about reassessing your sleep quality and comfort levels and our simple bed MOT (Mattress Obsolescence Test) can help to determine if your bed has had its day – and night! It’s a two-minute-test that should be done every year after the first three to five years; and every six months after that.

“If you answer ‘Yes’ to three questions, you’re not getting the best possible night’s sleep. Five or more ‘Yes’ answers and it’s time to buy a new bed.”

Said Lisa: “Research shows buying a new bed can lead to a real improvement in sleep – up to an

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hour extra – and if you sleep better you feel much better. Remember to buy as big as you can, spend as much as you can afford and look out for the National Bed Federation’s Approved big tick logo to ensure you’re buying a product that is safe, clean and honest. “The right bed is extremely important to health and wellbeing because our sleeping environment will affect the quality of our sleep – which in turn has a big effect on how well we feel, both physically and psychologically. A bed with the correct support, comfort and space will ensure you wake less, move about less, are less disturbed by your partner and are less likely to wake up feeling tired or aching.” Ideally try before you buy, as comfort and support are very individual assessments. Take your time, spending at least 10 minutes lying down in your natural sleeping position – together if the bed’s for two – it needs to be right for both of you. Said Lisa: “Too often, people rush the bed buying experience – some spend less than two minutes trying them out! It’s a huge investment and time needs to be taken to choose the right bed.” www.sleepcouncil.org.uk.

Is it time for you to buy a new bed Q: Is the mattress seven years old or more? Q: Would it be embarrassing if neighbours saw it without its covers? Q: Does it make suspicious noises in the night? Q: Did you have your best recent night’s sleep in a bed other than yours? Q: Are you waking up more frequently unrefreshed and aching? Q: Do you and your partner roll towards each unintentionally in the middle of the night? Q: Do you have enough space to sleep comfortably? Q: Is it sagging? Q: Does it feel lumpy in the night? Q: Is the bed too small to give an undisturbed night’s sleep? Q: Is the divan or base uneven or sagging? Q: Are the legs and castors worn out?

H OME & PROPERTY

Getting Continental in the Bedroom

ost Brexit vote, it may seem a trifle odd to talk about European tastes, however we’re intrinsically linked to the continent by more than just a continental shelf and a thin band of bluegreen water. Within our shores are entrenched attitudes towards the very essence of being European, which are much more about style and lifestyle, than political persuasion. Just glance at our high streets with cafés spilling onto the pavement, fashionable people dining al fresco, drinking espresso and enjoying petits fours, to appreciate we’re more European than we might first consider, however taking a deeper view of our own homes, it may surprise some to understand how much European style we surround ourselves with and ultimately take for granted, as it’s become virtually innate after centuries of influence. Head2Bed is an online bedroom emporium that understands the demand for European styling in the home, with beds, wardrobes, mattresses and accessories that complement one another, have European design built-in, as well as European manufacturing quality and safety. Head2Bed’s bed ranges are designed and made in either Switzerland or Italy, under the Hasena, Quarrata Qualita’ or Veneran Italia brands, to the highest manufacturing standards. Wardrobes are by Stylform (Germany), luxury mattresses by Yatsan (Turkey), Relaxsan

(Italy) and Concept Memory (Great Britain!).

The Beds • The Hasena range is vastly flexible, allowing an almost infinite combination of headboards, frames and legs, with materials in many types of solid wood, laminate and glass, and upholstery in leather or fabric, meaning an individual style can be achieved. • The Quarrata Qualita’ range of beds is selected carefully to provide only the most sumptuous designs, with deep upholstery and incredible build quality, putting a very modern twist on some very traditional manufacturing methods. • Veneran Italia is a relative newcomer to the range, yet it’s been a phenomenal seller this year, with incredible, sleek styling, floating effects and subtle built-in lighting. Even their laminate woods are solid, using first choice timber from sustainable sources, actually sourcing wood from the same trunk!

Trust Head2bed’s customer service is the kind of service one should expect from a company selling mid-to-high-end products, with personal contact from start to end. Any enquiries are answered swiftly and in detail, so there’s never any ambiguity over delivery date or price. In fact, Head2bed is constantly reviewed by customers via the Trustpilot review website, with ratings at 9.4, which is in the top 20% of reviewed furniture companies in the UK. Also, all beds and wardrobes come with two years’ manufacturers’ warranty, with mattresses having up to 15 years. All bed deliveries in this area are by two-person, white-glove service, with installation included in the price. The delivery/installation team will even remove all the packaging THE DETAILS You can see the entire range at head2bed.co.uk, search for contemporary beds on Google, or call on 0115 870 0901.

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General garden maintenance & clearance • Lawn mowing • Weeding • Hedge trimming Leaf clearing & seasonal jobs • Planting and plantsmanship • Garden design services Fence painting & repair • Decking repairs & sanding • Patio/drive maintenance & cleaning To arrange a visit and free no-obligation quote go to diamondgardencare.co.uk or call 07768 120733 A LR E A DY M A K IN G G A R D EN S LO O K B E AUTIFUL IN

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H OME & PROPERTY

Broadview Bespoke Shading Solutions I

A Family Business

t all started in the back room of a hardware store in the late seventies, when David Pratt decided to start selling blinds within his already successful timber business in Broadstone. Whilst incredibly ambitious, David could never have imagined that this extra merchandise would one day transform into a multimillion pound business. What’s so charming about Broadview is that it still remains a family business, even now almost 50 years down the line; with David’s sons Mark and Ian at the helm, the business continues to grow and take-on new and exciting projects.

Innovation At Its Finest When I asked ‘Mike Lingham’ (head of sales) what his favourite project to date had been, he went on to explain their recent work up in London, for the hugely successful Recording Studio. Broadview had initially been invited to rehabilitate their roof terrace, by replacing their somewhat worn umbrellas. Only when they visited the site their creative team was unanimously struck by a different vision – something that would totally transform that space. Regularly used as an entertainment centre for guests and recording artists, Broadview created a design concept that would renovate the terrace into the ultimate outdoor party pad, that could still stand up to the erratic British forecast. Broadview planned, designed and fitted a state of the art awning unlike any of it’s kind.

Luxury Products For Your Home I was under the illusion that the kind of products that commercial clients got would be different to those for residential jobs, but Mike explained, “There is no difference between the products we use in people’s homes, to the ones used in our large scale commercial projects – just more of them”. So ultimately the blinds in your home could be identical to those in a five-star hotel or even a recording studio for that matter – swanky windows indeed.

Shading On Trend Mike informed us that the way forward was very much about ‘automation’. It’s been a pretty innovative decade in terms of the progression of technology and it hasn’t bypassed the shading industry either. Supposedly in the next 5-6 years nearly all window shading will be battery powered, or in one way or another automated, as predicted by Mike and evidently the benefits are endless. Keep your eyes peeled, with the powers at be regularly attending training and industry relevant expos, I’m 98 MARCH 2017

confident that Broadview will be one of the very first to stock automated shading, within budget.

Bespoke Shading Solutions Little insider information for those who might not know; the recent extension of ‘Bournemouth’s Oceanarium Café’ was created by Broadview’s talented team of designers and manufacturers. The iconic local haunt wanted to make the most of their incredible sea views, which were previously covered by towering white walls, so Broadview created a custom outdoor structure that could easily cope with the blustery seaside conditions, but didn’t take away from the view. For luxurious shading solutions at affordable prices, visit or get in-touch with Broadview. 57 Hatchpond Road, Nuffield Industrial Estate, Poole, Dorset BH17 0JZ. Telephone: 01202 679012; Email: sales@broadview.co.uk; www. broadview-blinds.co.uk

“The recent extension of ‘Bournemouth’s Oceanarium Café’ was created by Broadview’s talented team of designers and manufacturer”

SPRING

SALE

H OME & PROPERTY

Look

to the

light woRDS: Gabrielle Fagan, Press Association

inter may be bleak and dark, but it’s the perfect time to switch on to the power of lighting and illuminate rooms with everything, from razzle-dazzle new effects to simple bulbs which shine a spotlight on a feature, or even change a mood. “Lighting really matters in a home and can literally transform it,” promises George Clarke, architect and TV’s popular property presenter of George Clarke’s Amazing Spaces and The Restoration Man. “I’ve seen great buildings ruined by bad lighting schemes, and great lighting improve bad buildings. It can truly make that much difference. What’s fantastic these days, is that there are affordable, effective ways of personally tailoring lighting schemes, using technology like smart phones and tablets, which a decade ago, would have costs thousands.” Clarke, who’s currently working with Philips lighting, believes good lighting doesn’t just have a visual effect, but can also help improve our wellbeing. “Artificial light can now mimic natural light and light systems can be programmed to suit our body rhythms. Replicating a soothing sunset glow in the evening can help people relax and encourage relaxation and sleep, while gradually increasing light levels in the morning to mimic sunrise can encourage us to wake in a more gentle fashion. Lights conjuring the effect of natural sunlight indoors may offset the negative effect of a grey day outside. There’s almost no limit to what can be achieved.”

LIGHT BULB MOMENTS Recent research by B&Q revealed that 85% of us have no idea which bulb brightness is best to suit a task or set a mood. Clarke gives his guide to LED lighting... “In general, people are scared by lighting and confused by all the terminology. That’s a real shame because LED lighting is so versatile these 100 MARCH 2017

Bella table lamp, £64; Claire table lamp, £56; pendant, £95; Penelope tiered pendant, £256 and Amelia ball pendant, £144, all available from Debenhams

“Recent research by B&Q revealed that 85% of us have no idea which bulb brightness is best to suit a task or set a mood” days. For instance, there’s a misconception that it’s a cold light, but the key to success is selecting the right colour temperature of the bulb, which is measured in a unit called a kelvin (k),” he explains. “Bulbs with higher kelvin value create a cooler, crisp white light (4000k) which are suitable for practical areas, like a kitchen or bathroom, while those with a lower kelvin value (3000k) produce a warmer white light more appropriate for living rooms. “If you want to easily change the ambience, there are innovations like a Philips Scene Switch LED light bulb (£9.99, Amazon) which allows you to use your light switch to flick between three different light levels, from bright to natural to a soft warm light. This bulb can be used on an existing light [simply using your normal light switch to change between settings] and removes the need for a dimmer.” SEE THE LIGHTS: Playing with light has never

Tower pendant, £118.80, available from Dar Lighting

Acropolis table lamp, £20.70, available from Very

been easier thanks to advances in technology, such as a Philips Hue White and Colour Ambiance Wireless Lighting LED Starter Kit, £149.95 from John Lewis or Amazon, a new system allowing you to customise your lighting using a smartphone or tablet. After installing the Hue bulbs into existing light fittings and downloading the Hue app, you can access a wide range of functions, including settings for brightness, timings including a ‘go to sleep’ function with effects to encourage calm and relaxation, and colour changes.

LIGHT TOUCH “A common mistake people make is only having light coming from one source - for instance, simply having a ceiling light. In reality, good lighting is achieved by creating different layers of light which conjure variation, texture and atmosphere,” says Clarke. “Clever accent lighting - wall sconces, floodlights, recessed lights or track lighting - can dramatically change a space and highlight key areas or architectural features. Even just hanging an adjustable pendant light over a dining table will define the space and make it feel more intimate. “Coloured lighting is also a fantastic way to add a ‘wow’ factor, especially if the light source is hidden. Use coloured light strips above kitchen units, but, to get the maximum effect, keep the background a neutral white as a contrast.” SEE THE LIGHTS: Nothing makes more of a statement than an intricately designed chandelier and, for a modern approach, fit one in an unexpected place like a kitchen or a bedroom. Debenhams has an impressive lighting collection with the added bonus that many pieces are currently reduced online. A Scarlett Black Chandelier, with smoke and clear glass crystal strands, is reduced from £395 to £316, and a Penelope Pendant Ceiling Light, featuring layers of smoke glass cylinders, reduced from £320 to £256. Cluster lights are ultrafashionable and its contemporary Harrison Cluster Ceiling Light is down from £150 to £120. Very’s Glass Cloche Ceiling Light, £99, blends modern with traditional style, with a clear glass dome showcasing a cluster of light strings, and another winner in its collection is a Forest Pendant with etched tree design, £19. Dar Lighting, which has nationwide stockists, has super pendant lights and I particularly like its Tower Cluster Pendant, RRP £118.80. Pared-back designs allow materials to shine and B&Q’s Jonas Wire Copper Pendant Ceiling Light, £47, is a good example of that approach. Urban Cottage Industries, specialists in vintage and industrial lighting, which offers bespoke lights, has a funky Green Large Balloon Light Bulb Cage, from £55.44. Experiment with coloured light with a Philips Hue LED Iris Light Colour Changing Mood Smart Lamp, £70, B&Q.

TRICK OF THE LIGHT “Lighting should be flexible, so you can zone different areas and alter light levels to change

Philips Hue LED iris light colour changing mood smart lamp, £70, available from B & Q

Caesar table lamp, £29, available from Very

mood, atmosphere or focus it to better suit a specific activity,” says Clarke. “A good scheme allows you to instantly reinvent a space - or, in increasingly popular open-plan living rooms, the areas within the space - without having to change a room’s overall layout. “There are so many ways to draw the eye. Bare bulbs are very much on-trend, as are metallic finishes and sculptural shapes. Table lights are a really good way to partition areas in a room, so a light on a side table behind a sofa will create a visual break in an open plan room. “Do bear in mind colours and surfaces reflect and absorb light in different ways. Shiny materials like satin, silk and metal bounce light around a room, whereas darker, denser materials, such as wool and velvet, soak up light.” SEE THE LIGHTS: Show off your style credentials with lights inspired by the gaudy stars of the fairground. The fun Marquee collection at Debenhams has a selection: Flamingo Light, £150; Burst Star and Rainbow Floor Lights, both currently reduced online from £150 to £120; Lightening Bolt Floor Light, down from £95 to £76, and Cactus Floor Light, currently reduced from £125 to £100. Bag bargain table lamps at Very: Caesar Table Lamp, £29; copper-base Acropolis Table Lamp, currently reduced from £27 to £20.70, and a pretty pair of Touch Lamps, only £19. Laura Ashley’s Odiham Antique Brass Desk Lamp, currently £87.50, down from £125, is a classic and its matching Sphere Pendant Light is £122.50. Adjustable lights are superuseful and Marks & Spencer’s Loft Adjustable Task Floor Lamp, £99, has a matching Table Lamp, £45.

Philips Scene Switch LED bulb, £9.99, available from Amazon

Loft adjustable task table lamp, £45 and floor lamp, 99, available from Marks and Spencer

Marquee floor lights Flamingo, £150; Rainbow light, £120; burst star, £120; cactus light, £100; Lightening, £76, all available from Debenhams

MARCH 2017 101

H OME & PROPERTY

We go through the roof, so you don’t have to.

s house prices continue to rise and homeowners strive to find more value within their property, space is currently somewhat of a commodity. With ‘Improve, don’t move!’ becoming the loudest thought currently running through homeowner’s minds, it is important to know that just simply having your loft space insulated and boarded properly can add nearly £3,000 of value. Having a full loft conversion on the other hand, can add on average a massive 21% on to your home’s value, according to the Nationwide March 2015 House Price Index. The Loft Access Company, with over 14 years of specialised experience dealing with everything related to the loft space, has been adding value to homes through London and home counties long enough to know that the benefits do truly outweigh the costs. Each enquiry received first involves a non-obligatory home survey. Whether it be for a simple loft-hatch enlarging or for a twobedroom and en-suite conversion, the survey involves assessment of capability and which areas need the most improvement. With a continuously growing team of installers and administrators, The Loft Access Company can therefore either create clean, dust-free and bright storage solutions in the home by establishing safe loft spaces, or the perfect extra habitable living area. As many may know, any expansion work done on a home can get complicated, not to mention expensive. The full Architectural Design service provided by The Loft Access Company, however, means that everything from the positioning of windows, to the understanding of structural regulations in place can be handled smoothly and efficiently. This service also includes a 3D design of your new loft, as well as a 3D walkthrough video sent straight to your inbox. Based in Windsor, The Loft Access Company are FENSA registered, with the full seal of approval from the Guild of Master Craftsmen, as well as certified VELUX Window installers. So, from performing balancing acts atop of foot stools, each customer can have peace of mind that their new Three-Piece Timber Loft Ladder will go the distance with 10 Years Guarantee. If you would like to find out The Loft Access Company can improve your loft space, please call them today to discover how you can add value to your home today. Also make sure to keep an eye out for their trade stand in at the local markets and community events!

“Simply having your loft space insulated and boarded properly can add nearly £3,000 of value”

102 MARCH 2017

Dukes House, 5 High Street, Windsor, Berks, SL4 1LD www.theloftaccesscompany.com 01753 840485

H OME & PROPERTY

WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT FROM

t Steininger, you get everything from one single source. From their complete design service, to manufacturing, to implementation. For Steininger the utmost quality at all stages of the project is of course their top priority. After all, the satisfaction of their clients is both their aim and motivation. Steininger’s designs are uncompromising: the virtually archaic intensity of artistic expression and puristic modernism creates their luxurious yet simplistic results. Steininger’s vision became a reality for the first time in their conception of the concrete kitchen in 2004. Here there are no distractions. Life happens and penetrates all levels of the now. The message seems to be clear, Steininger’s design has an ambivalent dimension to it. On the one hand, the kitchens are more like kitchens than others, but their objects exceed what one understands as a kitchen. Consequently, they are: MAYBE NO KITCHEN AT ALL. Manufacturing all furniture in-house in St. Martin

104 MARCH 2017

Upper Austria, their high-quality standard is also reflected in the materials used: specialist’s woods, the finest natural stone, anodized aluminum or even urban concrete. Steininger kitchens and furniture are characterized as unique pieces of artistic expression with formal means, encompassing the intensity of raw, yet functional living. This is what makes our Timeless Masterpieces. Their designers and project managers support customer projects through to completion and beyond. They coordinate the trades, keep an overview, and take on the role of competent project supervisors for their clients. They ensure that their high-quality standard is maintained throughout all stages of the project – from the initial concept through to final implementation. As a result, Steininger operates on a global scale, from Vienna, to Milan, to New York. Working with the most affluent of clientele from professional Sports figures to celebrities in music and film and even professional chefs. Steininger has projects currently underway in Puerto Rice, Croatia, Hong Kong and in even Lebanon. To say they are international is an understatement. Steininger are a worldwide brand and will take on a project in any location. Anything is possible for Steininger and they accept any challenge. This is reflected by frequent coverage in renowned, international magazines. Creating Timeless kitchen architecture on an international scale is their trademark Steininger also regularly presents their kitchens and furniture at renowned international trade shows, like

the biennial Euro Cucina in Milan and 100% design London. The new Steininger UK Showroom. Located on Goswell Road, situated in the heart of the trendy Design area of Clerkenwell, Central London. You can discover their unique materials, precise design details and innovative manufacturing techniques that make the Steininger brand so special. Call one of our sales team: +44 (0)207 490 7438. THE DETAILS Showroom in London 104-11, Goswell Road, 4th Floor, London, EC1V7DH ••••• london@steininger-masterpieces.com Opening hours: Mo – Fr 9am – 5.30pm T 0044 (0) 207 490 74 38 M 0044 (0) 748 450 70 78 www.steininger-masterpieces.com

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H OME & PROPERTY

SAVING ENERGY in your home, saves money and the environment

owadays we are all constantly being encouraged to do our ‘bit’ for the environment and are accustomed to the energy efficiency labels that are on all the white appliances that we buy, as these indicate the extent to which the product we are purchasing is energy efficient, and therefore how environmentally friendly it is. With this in mind most of us, given the option, will probably opt for the more energy efficient rated models secure in the knowledge that we are doing our ‘bit’ for the environment and also probably saving money on our electricity and gas bills. Many years ago now, the UK Government turned their attention to the fabric of our houses and developed a system whereby homeowners could choose energy efficient products for other areas of their home as well. Much work has been done in the last ten years to bring new, higher standards to the thermal efficiency of windows and doors and this has now finally evolved to the point where the windows and doors you choose should carry the highly recognisable and understandable energy efficiency labels called Window Energy Rating. The minimum standard for replacement windows since 1st October 2010 when the Building Regulations were tightened up is a Window Energy Rating (WER) of “C” or a minimum combined U value of 1.6W/m2K. Ever since then UK property

owners and installers are required by law to fit these highly thermally efficient windows when buying new ones (i.e. if replacing existing windows or fitting new ones to an extension etc), as without these energy saving products being installed, FENSA will not issue a FENSA certificate to prove compliance. Sadly the overwhelming majority of replacement windows fitted before 2010 (and many since!) were not “thermally broken” or anything like B rated, and many would not achieve today’s minimum requirement for replacement windows of a “C” rating, as in 2009 and before there was no requirement for home owners or double glazing installers to do so. According to the Energy Saving Trust, nearly a fifth of heat lost from un-insulated homes is through the windows. Investing in one of Hazlemere’s Eco-friendly window systems makes a significant contribution to reducing this which in turn helps to keep homes warmer. Using less energy to keep you warm not only reduces your carbon emissions but saves you money as well. For example, Hazlemere’s UPVC triple glazed windows achieve an A++ rating, having a combined U-Value of 0.99 W/ m2K. Even Hazlemere’s standard double glazed UPVC windows have an A+ energy rating and a combined U-Value of 1.3 W/m2K.

nearly a fifth of heat lost from un-insulated homes is through the windows

106 MARCH 2017

However, achieving energy efficiency as a window is only part of the story if homeowners are concerned with the overall environmental impact of what they buy as well as saving money. Hazlemereâ€™s aluminium Eco-friendly windows are obviously made from aluminium which has a very positive environmental story all of its own. Apart from having a long life in use, once it reaches the end of its life it can be infinitely recycled. Recycling aluminium uses just 5% of the energy needed to produce the original material plus the finished product has all of the same qualities as the original as well which means it can be recycled time and time again.

Investing in thermally broken aluminium or UPVC double glazing is what millions of UK home owners have already done, many replacing first and second generation non-thermally broken double glazing, which nowadays just doesnâ€™t cut the mustard, given the massive technological advances and the high quality replacement window and door products now available. To find out more about their very latest A+ and A++ energy saving energy efficient windows call one of Hazlemereâ€™s experienced consultants on 01344 989938 for a free no obligation quotation and expert replacement windows and doors advice, or visit www.hazlemere.co.uk

H OME & PROPERTY

Love the home you have WORDS: Gabrielle Fagan,

Press Association

et’s face it, our homes, just like our bodies, often leave a lot to be desired, and it’s easy to get dispirited about those lumps and bumps or spaces that don’t match our decor dreams. So what a relief to find ‘imperfect’ interiors - the ones most of us have - can be improved if not transformed, and all it really takes is a shake-up in our attitude. “Most people I know have a long list of reasons why their home isn’t perfect,” says interiors stylist Emily Henson, author of Life Unstyled: How To Embrace Imperfection And Create A Home You Love. “There can be all sorts of reasons for that. Perhaps they’re renting and can’t make their own mark, there isn’t a lot of cash to spare for decorating, the space is too small or there isn’t enough storage. Actually, few of us feel our home fulfils every need - and let’s be honest, that’s a pretty tall order anyway.” Instead of whingeing, Henson advises rebelling, by viewing “those spotless, clutter-free interiors” we envy in magazines and blogs as “a bit of a fiction and an unreal fantasy”, and instead revelling in our own style - flaws and all. “It’s time to celebrate the beauty of imperfect interiors and overhaul your approach, so you see the opportunities rather than the problems. Instead of lamenting the fact you can’t warm yourself by your defunct fireplace, why not fill it with flowers and candles and congratulate yourself on your creativity?” declares Henson, who literally fizzes with energy and positivity. “It’s all about breaking the rules and finding your own way in the world of interiors. I’ve always liked doing things my own way when it comes to my home, and not concerning myself too much with predictions for next year’s trend, or the right way

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to hang curtains,” she adds. “Many of the home owners I met while writing the book had the guts to dismiss the traditional way of doing things. One couple painted only half a wall, to expose the patina and beauty of the raw plaster above, while another used old museum archive units for storage. They defied convention, and the result was stand-out spaces.” Most of us have those bugbears - an unsightly tangle of wires under a desk, a fridge plastered with bills and letters from school, a messy pile of books by the bed - but Henson promises “making the most of what you’ve got, a little re-arrangement, including distracting splashes of colour, and upcycling existing items will all help the visual story of your home to be pleasing and interesting”. “Also, in reality, a home’s never ‘done’ because

“Most of us have those bugbears - an unsightly tangle of wires under a desk, a fridge plastered with bills and letters from school, a messy pile of books by the bed”

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TA I L O R E D L I V I N G

H OME & PROPERTY

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hen it comes to our homes, individuality is something that most of us aspire to have. After all this is where you spend much of your down time with your close family. However the reality is often far from this, be it when we buy a packaged developer house or move into a newly purchased house which has not been designed to cater to your specific needs. This doesn’t have to be the way we live, and often you can look to adapt your home to be truly unique and reflective of your families individual needs. Tailored living is an approach to homes where by the individual and family are at the centre of the process. The house is designed around their everyday needs so it fits like a glove and can be designed to be adaptable to future preempted changes to the family. By doing this you will be investing in how well the house will work for your needs, and not adjusting and compromising how you live to work with the predetermined layout of the house. Your end up with efficient layouts, as well as an uplifting home environment where the family and individual can thrive and grow. There are lots of examples of houses where the design was established by the need of a developer who’s core focus will be profit, and often this can come at the expense of everyday practical needs of the eventual occupier. These houses are dressed to impress and often can be deceptive at first glance. However only once you are in do you realise they lack key aspects such as good storage or family friendly utility room, or where homework can happen now and once the kids get older, perhaps where elderly family members can stay when they visit, or quality if light, flow or room relationships are compromised etc. You can tailor a house that you currently live in, or one that you have just purchased. Either way, you start with the raw product which is the current house and you design it around your individual needs to form a family home which fits snug to your needs. Concept Eight Architects Ltd are an award winning, vibrant design led practice dedicated to the creation of imaginative and innovative buildings. Their strength lies in identifying potential and developing a unique and tailored house to our client’s individual needs and tastes. They aim to design unique homes for unique individuals who aspire to live in something that truly reflects their personality. The practice specialising in only undertaking residential projects and offer the full spectrum of architectural and

interior design services. They have spent many years listening to families who have adapted their homes, and come with invaluable experience in asking the right questions, designing spaces which will reflect the needs of the occupier. The end result can a minor intervention, a completely new extension or a completely redesigned house throughout which has little resemblance of what was originally there. The scale and appropriateness of the change will depend on your needs and circumstance. For an appraisal, why not contact them and pop into their design studio for a chat about your house and how they might be able to help transform it. They will be able to explain their process of design through to completion. Could 2017 be the year you change your current house with its compromised living, and transform it to a home which has been redesigned to fit around your needs perfectly. Our environment can shape and define us, so why compromise in the very environment you spend most of your time in.

THE DETAILS Esc House, South Road, Weybridge, Kt13 9Dz ••••• 01932 809 444 www.concept8.co.uk

H OME & PROPERTY

Windsor Grey Place destined to be a front runner all age levels, notably The International School, The Marist, Charters, Lambrook and LVS (Ascot). Edward Shaw, office head of Knight Frank’s Ascot branch, comments: “The unique selling point for Windsor Grey Place has to be its proximity to Ascot High Street, an area which is excitingly going through regeneration and has plans to become double-sided in the near future. It is unusual to get beautifully finished townhouses that close to the town centre.

“Each property comes with its own quirks – no two are the same which makes for a good sense of community within the gated development”

n exclusive collection of detached homes, inspired by her Majesty’s chosen horses, has been unveiled in Ascot this month. Award-winning developer Shanly Homes has launched Windsor Grey Place – eight wellappointed properties less than a mile away from the world famous sporting venue, Ascot Racecourse. The development of seven five-bedroom and one four-bedroom properties has been individually designed for modern families. Each home boasts spacious Siemens integrated kitchens with open plan layouts ideal for family dining and entertaining. Most homes also have separate dining rooms and living rooms. Every property has generously proportional master bedrooms which benefit from ensuites and walk-in dressing rooms. Located on a private road off of the London Road, Windsor Grey Place is a five minute walk from the bustling Ascot High Street, which offers an array of amenities including high-end boutiques, restaurants and pubs. The local schools on offer are exceptional, with a high standard of education for 112 MARCH 2017

“Each property comes with its own quirks – no two are the same which makes for a good sense of community within the gated development.” In an area synonymous with British horseracing, Ascot is a bookie’s favourite for commuter families, with direct rail links to London Waterloo in just over fifty minutes from nearby Ascot Station. Windsor Grey Place is less than a mile away from Ascot train station and has good road connections with easy access to the M3 (Junction 3) and the M25 (Junction 13) leading to Heathrow airport. Windsor Grey Place is surrounded by excellent sporting and leisure facilities, with Sunningdale and the distinguished Wentworth golf courses within a few miles drive. Fantastic family days out can be enjoyed at Windsor Great Park which offering stunning walking and horse-riding routes. Prices at Windsor Grey Place range from £1,550,000 to £1,700,000. To register interest and more information, phone 01483 564660 or visit www.shanlyhomes.com.

Discover elegant living in Weybridge COMING

LAST ONE

SOON

REMAINING

A stunning collection of just four elegant and spacious four bedroom homes. This development oozes quality and sophistication and must be viewed to fully appreciate what these homes have to offer.

An elegant collection of six luxury townhouses situated in a popular tree lined avenue in Weybridge. Off plan reservations are now being taken.

PR ICED AT £1,275,0 0 0

PR ICES FROM £1,375,0 0 0

STUNNING SHOW HOME OPEN

sales@antlerhomes.co.uk

THURSDAY TO MONDAY

SHOW HOME COMING SOON

10am to 5pm Chamberlain Place, Weybridge, Surrey KT13 0AD

Belvedere Court, St George’s Avenue, Weybridge KT13 0BE

Call 01932 808655

Call 01932 808905

antlerhomes.co.uk

Computer generated image of Belvedere Court. Images of the Antler show homes.

H OME & PROPERTY

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