Fabric August 2025 by Hatton Collective

NELL DALY

EXCLUSIVE: THE CHARISMATIC FOUNDER OF REVENGE CAPITAL TALKS CANDIDLY ABOUT WHAT DROVE HER TO SET UP A FUND BACKING FEMALE ENTREPRENEURS WOMEN

PLUS SECRETS OF SUCCESS ALISON CORK ON ENCOURAGING ENTREPRENEURS

WOMEN ON TOP MEET FIVE FEMALES AT THE TOP OF THEIR GAME

WHERE PROVEN EXCELLENCE BEGINS

Wetherby Pembridge Minors is a co-educational nursery and pre-prep for ages 2 to 4, nurturing confident learners from the very start and laying the foundations for a journey of continuous excellence in education.

www.wetherbypembridgeminors.co.uk

EDITOR’S LETTER/

I love my job, but putting the magazine together this month has been extra special. In creating the content for our Women in Business feature, I’ve found myself surrounded by the most fabulous women. Each and every one of them is passionate about making the world of business a more welcoming place for women, and their stories are utterly inspiring. Not least that of cover girl, venture capitalist Nell Daly. A practising psychotherapist, writer, media commentator and international keynote speaker, she understands better than most what motivates people and what holds them back, and she’s channelling that insight into Revenge Capital, a global impact fund that invests time, network, capital and resources into overlooked founders – not least women. Her journey has been truly fascinating, and I hope you enjoy reading about it.

That’s just a tiny taste of what you’ll ﬁnd in this issue, which is, of course, packed with all of your usual Fabric favourites. On the home front, with the sun shining, our thoughts have naturally turned to furnishing our al fresco spaces, and we’ve got ideas aplenty for doing that in style. And if you are the owner of a magniﬁcent garden, and you’re toying with the idea of putting your home on the market, now’s the time to do it, say the experts. That’s if you can bear to part with your little slice of heaven…

Liz Skone James liz@hattoncollective.com

FABRICMAGAZINE.CO.UK

Editorial Director Liz Skone James Creative Director Penny Clements Interiors Editor Ali Howard Schools Editor Claire Atherton Lifestyle Editor-at-Large Martine Montgomery Client Services Director Becky Pomfret Production Heidi Pomfret Publisher Katie Hutley

Advertising Debbie Russell debbie@fabricmagazine.co.uk +44 7811 347299 New Homes & Developments Karen de Pommereau karen@fabricmagazine.co.uk +33 6 70 80 42 45

Editorial and publishing enquiries 020 8242 6222

FABRIC MAGAZINE IS PUBLISHED 12 TIMES A YEAR on behalf of REAP Magazines Ltd by Hatton Collective Ltd, 27 Mortimer Street, London, W1T 3BL fabricmagazine.co.uk

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Glentree Estates Trevor Abrahmsohn Goldschmidt & Howland Philip Green Savills Jonathan Hewlett and Liza-Jane Kelly Aston Chase Mark Pollack

OUR AGENTS

Aston Chase astonchase.com

Benham & Reeves benhams.com

Dexters dexters.co.uk

Glentree glentree.co.uk

Godfrey & Barr godfreyandbarr.com

Goldschmidt & Howland g-h.co.uk

Hamptons hamptons.co.uk

Heathgate heathgate.com

Jeremy James & Company

jeremy-james.co.uk

Knight Frank knightfrank.co.uk

Savills savills.co.uk

TK International t-k.co.uk

Winkworth West End winkworth.co.uk

ON THE COVER Nell Daly

Photographed by Mark Cant

Styled by Charlotte Baraks Shot at The Kensington Hotel Read our exclusive interview on page 28

Crete’s most stylish suites are carved into the cliff face

LIFESTYLE

23 SHOPPING

Stylish, sustainable summer updates for your garden space

24 CULTURE

Your guide to what to do in London this month

26 THE LUST LIST

Lifestyle editor-at-large Martine is feeling bittersweet about the last days of summer

28 EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW: NELL DALY

We meet the woman who is on a mission to make British women big in business, and discover what motivates her

35 WOMEN IN BUSINESS

Alison Cork MBE tells us about the initiatives she has launched to help women succeed in a man’s world, and ﬁve females at the top of their game share the secrets of their success

45 STYLE

Penelope Chilvers introduces her eponymous shoe label, and we bring news of a new Primrose Hill yoga studio and a summer fresh scent

49 FOOD & DRINK

Jump aboard for the ultimate foodie treat, plus news of a brilliant new wine pairing, an al fresco afternoon tea and Marylebone’s latest opening

TRAVEL

53 SPOTLIGHT ON

Heading to Greece’s largest island? These are the hottest spots to holiday in

54 TRAVEL REVIEWS

Whether you’re after kid-friendly fun, or grown up glamour, you’ll ﬁnd inspiration here

INTERIORS

60 OBJECT OF DESIRE

The debut outdoor lounging collection from Buchanan Studio is seriously special

61 INTERIORS NEWS

The latest launches and luxurious new lines

63 INTERIORS TRENDS

Discover the brands that are putting artisanal craftsmanship at the heart of their designs

67 AT HOME WITH

Once a tired mid-century house, Arleana Hodnett’s home is now warm, functional and quietly stylish

70 DESIGNER PROFILE

Creative director Cristina Rugo reveals a new collection from Greycaine that is designed to challenge consumers to see their space differently

SCHOOLS

73 A CAPITAL EDUCATION

How Guildhouse School supports enterprise, plus expert tips for parents to encourage and nurture entrepreneurial youngsters

PROPERTY

76 TALKING POINTS

Selling up? Harness your home’s seasonal features to maximise its value

78 HOT PROPERTY

The best homes on the market this month

Introducing Revenge Capital’s founder, Nell Daly

Greycaine’s outdoor collection brings serious al fresco style

Lawford Road, NW5

£2,650,000

In a sought after north London neighbourhood and close to Hampstead Heath, an extraordinary four bedroom Victorian home positioned on a charming tree-lined street. Offering two generously sized reception rooms and spanning over 2,000 sq. ft, there is plenty of space for entertaining guests .The principal bedroom is complete with an en suite bathroom and has views overlooking the garden, energy rating d.

Dexters Kentish Town & Camden. 274 Kentish Town Road, London, NW5 2AA T: 020 7483 6390 E: kentishtownsales@dexters.co.uk

Edmunds Walk, N2

£3,200,000

Ideally located within the prestigious Hampstead Garden Suburb, a characterful detached property providing versatile accommodation. Set over three floors, there are five bedrooms, two reception rooms and three bathrooms, ideal for a growing family. Moments from the area's excellent amenities and transport connections, navigating the rest of capital has never been easier, energy rating d.

Dexters Highgate. 35 Highgate High Street, London, N6 5JT T: 020 8545 8584 E: highgatesales@dexters.co.uk

MORETON HOUSE, HAMPSTEAD NW3

Situated on a quiet lane in Hampstead Village, is this unique raised ground and first floor garden apartment, forming part of a Grade II listed neo-Gothic mansion. 3 bedrooms | 2 bathrooms | 1 reception room | EPC C | Garden Leasehold, approximately 963 years remaining | Service charge circa £7,000 per annum | Council Tax band G Guide price £3,000,000

Nathan White 020 3918 7804

nathan.white@knightfrank.com

knightfrank.co.uk

Katy Brookes 020 3918 7804

katy.brookes@knightfrank.com

Epitome of Luxury Living

St John's Wood Underground Station: 0.5 miles

Set within the prestigious Lord’s View One in St John’s Wood, this exquisite duplex penthouse spans approximately 2,153 sq ft of refined living space, enhanced by over 1,060 sq ft of private terraces, including a spectacular roof terrace with panoramic views of Lord’s Cricket Ground and the London skyline. Reception room, kitchen/ breakfast room, principal bedroom suite with dressing room, 2 further bedroom suites, 2 terraces, roof terrace, guest cloakroom. Share of Freehold | Council Tax Band = H | EPC Rating = B

Stephen Lindsay

St. John's Wood Road, London, NW8 Head of Office St

Natalie Pawelek

Discover more

2,153 Sq Ft | Guide £7.75 million *pricing correct at the time of print

Grade II listed home

Downshire Hill, NW3

The location is convenient to surrounding underground stations and the green open spaces of Hampstead Heath

A very special Grade II listed Georgian house situated on one of Hampstead's most desirable and leafy streets leading to Hampstead Heath. This charming 5-bedroom family home, built in the early 1800s, has an extraordinary history and enjoys a prominent position with commanding views over Downshire Hill and the Heath. Features include a double drawing room with bay windows and beautiful wooden flooring, light filled bedrooms, fully fitted eat-in kitchen, a Yorkstone terrace and a south east facing garden. Freehold | Council Tax Band = H | EPC Rating = E

3356 Sq Ft | Guide £7,950,000

James Diaper Neir Gigi

Residential Sales

Hampstead +44 20 7472 5010 JDiaper@savills.com

Residential Sales

Hampstead +44 20 7472 5011 neir.gigi@savills.com

PAVILION COURT

MOUNT VERNON, HAMPSTEAD VILLAGE, NW3

A unique opportunity to purchase a truly exceptional lateral penthouse apartment (354.79 sq m/3,819 sq ft) located on level six (third floor above ground level) of this prestigious luxury gated development located literally in the heart of Hampstead Village. Having been indulgently redesigned and comprehensively refurbished to an exacting standard by the existing owners some 20 years ago, the apartment has been beautifully maintained and is offered for sale in immaculate condition throughout providing light openplan living space with an emphasis on entertainment.

Mount Vernon is situated on a cascading plot just off Frognal, close to the summit of Hampstead and is within 0.3 of a mile of the fashionable boutiques, shops, restaurants and cafés of Hampstead Village, Hampstead Underground Station (Northern Line) and the unspoilt vast open green spaces of Hampstead Heath.

Principal Bedroom Suite comprising 23'2 x 20'8 Bedroom with Luxurious En-Suite Dressing Room & Bathroom, Bedroom 2 with Large En-Suite Bathroom, Bedroom 3/ Study with En-Suite Shower Room, Reception Hall, 39 x 33'11 Reception/Dining Room, 29'8 x 23'4 Kitchen/Family Room, Breakfast Area, Utility Room, Pantry, Guest Cloakroom, 130.52 sq m/1,405 sq ft Private Roof Terrace, Further Terrace accessible via Breakfast Area, Extensive Landscaped Communal Gardens, Porters Lodge, 24/7 Porterage/Security, Lift, 4 Secure Underground Garage Spaces, 2 Storerooms, Guests Parking, Swimming Pool, Gymnasium/Fitness Suite, 17.37 sq m/187 sq m of easily accessible Eaves Storage.

Heath Drive, Hampstead, NW3

£16,500,000

7655SoleAgent|Freehold

Discover an exceptional Grade II listed seven bedroom family home, beautifully reimagined for modern living while retaining its timeless heritage. Originally built by the esteemed C.H.B. Quennell, this magnificent property sits behind a gated carriage driveway with a garage, exuding elegance and grandeur.

This impeccably restored family home blends exquisite period details—such as restored fireplaces and high ceilings with contemporary comforts, offering spacious, light-filled rooms and a seamless turnkey opportunity. The manicured 115 foot south-facing garden is designed for both relaxation and entertaining, featuring an alfresco dining area, outdoor fireplace, and a charming garden studio.

The ground floor presents a selection of beautifully appointed spaces perfect for entertaining. A bespoke, state-of-the-art kitchen with Miele appliances overlooks the landscaped garden. Additional amenities include a cinema room, utility/boot room, secondary service kitchen, two guest WCs and direct garage access with a convenient dog-wash station. A wellness oasis awaits on the floor below, boasting a 12.5m indoor pool, holistic wellness lounge, gym, sauna, treatment room, changing facilities and a wine store.

Upstairs, the first floor hosts an opulent principal suite with a private lobby, luxurious en-suite and expansive dressing room. There are two further en-suite bedrooms and an additional versatile space, currently a playroom/study, complete this level. On the second floor, four more well-appointed bedrooms (two en-suite), a family bathroom and a convenient kitchenette/utility room offer abundant living space.

Additional highlights include a lift servicing the basement, ground and first floors, air-conditioning in all bedrooms, select living spaces and leisure facilities, underfloor heating throughout the bathrooms, basement, kitchen and dining room and a sophisticated security system complete with monitored CCTV and monitored alarm.

The leading estate agent for Hampstead and the surrounding areas

WILDWOOD ROAD, NW11

£ 2 , 995 ,000

A double-fronted Arts and Crafts style, 5-bedroom, 4-bathroom (3 ensuites), semi-detached family home, backing on to and with direct access to the Hampstead Heath Extension situated in this highly sought after location.

Arranged over three floors ,this stunning property provides spacious and versatile accommodation. It boasts a plethora of features, such as vaulted ceilings, parquet flooring, AGA ovens, pantry, and a full utility room. The Principal bedroom suite is generous with dual aspects and a stylish ensuite bathroom.

SOLE AGENT

The property further benefits from great views of the Heath, off-street parking for three cars and a newly refurbished garden room/gym.

RECEPTION ROOM: FAMILY ROOM: KITCHEN: BREAKFAST ROOM: UTILITY ROOM: PRINCIPAL BEDROOM WITH EN SUITE: 4 FURTHER BEDROOMS (2 WITH EN SUITES): FAMILY BATHROOM: GUEST WC: GYM: OFF-STREET

PARKING: REAR LANDSCAPED GARDEN: COUNCIL TAX BAND H

Email: sales@glentree.com

www.glentree.com

£6, 2 50,000

Set behind a sweeping carriage driveway with ample off-street parking with 2 electric car points, is this magnificent, interior designed, recently rebuilt detached family home spanning 4,900 Sq ft (455 Sq m) over 4 floors.

This spectacular home was painstakingly renovated by the vendor , to the very highest of standards to include underfloor heating throughout, air conditioning, fresh air ventilation, CCTV and a “Control 4” smart home automation system. You enter the home into an impressive hallway and the ground floor features a stunning contemporary kitchen/living room, with 3 sets of French doors that lead to the garden, a dining room,

a family room, a 2nd full preparation kitchen, a guest WC and dog shower room.The lower level features a “super” games room, a media/ golf simulator room, a study, a staff bedroom with ensuite bathroom and a utility room/ 3rd kitchen that has a dedicated steam closet.On the upper floors, there are 5 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms (3 ensuite) including an indulgent principal bedroom suite with an oversized dressing room and luxurious marble bathroom.

£4,250,000

A luxurious and spacious, three bedroom penthouse apartment with a private roof garden, set over the 3rd & 4th floors of this gated development.

This apartment offers 3,048 sq ft of generous living space with private & secure lift access & is fully air conditioned with 36’ reception room and a separate eat-in kitchen with Gaggeneau appliances & utility area. The 4th floor provides a wonderful entertaining space leading to a private roof terrace of around 1600 sq ft. The apartment has been kept to a high standard and provides 2 underground parking spaces and a generous storage room in the basement.

49 The Bishops Avenue is one of the most prestigious addresses in London. The three buildings are tied into the walled garden communal garden. The subterranean car park and leisure facilities which include swimming pool, gym & changing rooms are located below the courtyard with direct secure lift access to all apartments. The grounds extend to two acres, with mature trees and shrubs and extensive landscaping. A 24-hour concierge / security service is also available for residents’ peace of mind and convenience.

WHAT’S ON IN LONDON

What to see and do in the Capital this August

THEATRE

Born with Teeth

Creative sparks fly in this tense and intoxicating imagining of what happens when two of literature’s biggest names are forced into collaboration. In the shadowy backroom of an Elizabethan pub, Christopher Marlowe and William Shakespeare face off in a battle of wits, words and willpower – all simmering with danger, desire and dark humour. Ncuti Gatwa and Edward Bluemel lead the charge with pitch-perfect performances, in a new play by Liz Duffy Adams that fizzes with intelligence and swagger. Directed by RSC co-artistic director Daniel Evans, this West End debut is anything but traditional – part thriller, part love story, part literary showdown. Expect shifting allegiances, loaded glances and plenty of verbal fireworks in a gripping two-hander that cuts to the bone. 13 August-1 November, Wyndham’s Theatre, Charing Cross Road, WC2H (0344 482 5151; delfontmackintosh.co.uk)

NIGHTLIFE

Cocktails in the City

Expect a heady mix of innovation, indulgence and expertly shaken fun as Cocktails in the City returns. For three glorious summer evenings, some of the Capital’s most creative bars will bring their A-game to the al fresco setting, serving up seasonal pours and globally inspired mixes alongside live music, masterclasses and lawn games. New for 2025 is The Bartender’s Edit – a curated space featuring standout drinks from the city’s top talent – plus a DJ-led silent disco, tasting rooms, and hands-on ice carving sessions for those who like their cocktails with a twist. Whether you’re there for the classics or keen to explore something more experimental, this is London’s cocktail scene at its most vibrant. 7-9 August, Bedford Square Gardens, WC1B (cocktailsinthecity.com)

FILM

THEATRE Four Play

What happens when a long-term couple invites a third into their perfectly balanced relationship? Emotional chaos, it turns out. Jake Brunger’s sharp, sexy comedy returns to the London stage a decade after its debut. Reworked for 2025, the new production brings an allsinging, all-acting cast to the King’s Head Theatre under the direction of Jack Sain. Expect whip-smart dialogue and tangled feelings. Set entirely within a queer universe, but with themes that hit close to home for everyone, this is a play that toys with the rules of intimacy and then tears them up. Until 17 August, King’s Head Theatre, 116p Upper Street, N1 (020 7226 8561; kingsheadtheatre.com)

Sophia Loren Season

A trailblazer from the moment she stepped in front of the camera, Loren has always managed to fuse the strength of her Neapolitan roots with a wardrobe that made Hollywood sit up and take note. Whether bringing emotional weight to postwar dramas or stealing the show in glossy comedies, she did it all with magnetic ease. This summer, the BFI celebrates her iconic career in full Technicolor, with a season of carefully curated classics and 4K restorations. Expect the sultry swagger of Too Bad She’s Bad, the emotional punch of illuminating talk delving into her life on and off screen. The perfect opportunity to re-live her cinematic legacy. 1-31 August, Belvedere Road, SE1 (020 7928 3232; bﬁ.org.uk)

Arabesque © BFI National Archive. Right: La fortuna di essere donna © Cinecitt

Photography by Felicity McCabe

Two Women, and an

Culture / LIFESTYLE

EXHIBITION

Gianni Versace Retrospective

High drama, high fashion and a heavy dose of star power – this landmark retrospective brings Gianni Versace’s era-defining vision to the Capital in spectacular style. With over 450 original pieces on show, including iconic looks worn by Princess Diana, Naomi Campbell and Elton John, it’s the most extensive exhibition of the designer’s work the UK has ever seen. Expect archival footage, rare sketches and unforgettable silhouettes, all curated to reflect Versace’s fearless approach to glamour and the city’s role in inspiring it. From baroque excess to sharp, sculptural tailoring, the show charts a career that redefined fashion for the celebrity age – and continues to influence the way we dress, pose and perform today. A must for anyone still dreaming in gold lamé and leather. Throughout August, Arches London Bridge, 8 Bermondsey Street, SE1 (gianniversacelondon.co.uk)

Gianni Versace, Elton John and George Michael at the Bond Street Versace store, 1995 © Peter Macdiarmid

Malaga, featuring Kate Moss © Paula Caballero

Exhibition Photography - Netherlands

Naomi Campbell Backstage Spring_Summer Milan 1992 © Paolo Castaldi

LUXURY LONDON LIVING

MARTINE’S MOODBOARD

Lifestyle editor-at-large Martine Montgomery is making the most of the last days of summer, while looking ahead to autumn days

To me, August always feels like a turning point. There’s that strange, shimmering light, the kind that whispers of shorter days and cooler nights to come. It’s neither summer nor autumn, just the space in between – a time of endings and beginnings, packing away the bikinis while secretly eyeing velvet boots. And so we find ourselves floating, feather-like, between Aperol and apple pie.

If you haven’t been yet, get down to the Pink City Prints pop-up at 324-326 King’s Road, Chelsea. A late-summer love letter in cotton, the label, dreamt up by the brilliant Molly Russell, is full of colour and optimism. Everything is ethically made in India and designed to brighten your wardrobe – and your mood. The shop itself is airy, joyful, and filled with lovely people (I’ve popped in a few times). Get down there soon – this might just be your final fling with cheerful dresses before the darker days roll in. (pinkcityprints.com)

Speaking of which, autumn entertaining is one of my joys, and with my husband being American, at this time of year I always find myself (perhaps prematurely) building up to Thanksgiving. Who doesn’t love an excuse to gather around the table?

I recently met Lisa Domenico Brooke, founder of US brand Hestia Living – where artisan skills meet digital innovation – who told me the reason she started her beautiful tableware brand was simple: “because sitting around a table brings people joy.”

Among her beautiful pieces, I’m most smitten with the Soleil placemats and coasters

in a kaleidoscope of colours – they are textured, warm, and perfect for autumn layering. Hestia has just launched at Harrods, so do go and take a look. There are pieces that will utterly transform your table, and your mood. (hestialivingeveryday.com)

On the subject of mood shifts, after seeing the astonishing Jenny Saville show at the National Portrait Gallery last month – massive, visceral pieces with echoes of Freud and Rubens – it struck me that I would love to commission a more personal portrait. Less camera, more canvas (don’t let my husband David, who is a photographer, hear me!). And I know just the person for the job –I recently discovered an artist called Fanny Rush, who is working on what she calls ‘quiet portraits’. Her paintings are not straight-on faces, but glimpses: a profile, a pair of hands, a back turned. I’m meeting her soon to discuss a piece: something subtle, something lasting. A whisper of us on the wall. (fannyrush.com)

I was deeply moved by Punch, which I saw at the Young Vic earlier this year. Written by Olivierwinning playwright James Graham, based on the book Right From Wrong by Jacob Dunne, and directed by Adam Penford, it tells the harrowing true story of a single, impulsive blow that killed paramedic James Hodgkinson – and how restorative justice changed everything. Starring David Shields as Jacob, with Julie Hesmondhalgh and Tony Hirst as the victim’s parents, it’s raw, poetic, and heartbreakingly human.

Excitingly, the production is transferring to London’s West End, running at the Apollo Theatre

from 22 September to 29 November. If you’ve not seen it yet, this is your moment. Don’t delay booking; tickets will go fast. (punchtheplay.com)

Another one to book early is Mary Page Marlowe. Directed by Matthew Warchus, it lands at the Old Vic on 23 September and runs until 1 November 2025.

The play, written by Pulitzer-winner Tracy Letts, stars two absolute titans – Susan Sarandon (always the activist and ever unpredictable) and Andrea Riseborough (who, in all fairness to Madonna, was mesmerising as Wallis Simpson) – as the same woman at different ages, in a vivid ‘time-jumping mosaic’ covering 70 years of her extraordinary life. It’s the centrepiece of Warchus’ final season at the Vic and is not to be missed. (oldvictheatre.com)

On the style front, I’ve been splashing out of late, so in an effort to rein things in, I’ll be heading to Sign of the Times – Chelsea’s bestkept second-hand secret. With Second Hand September on the horizon, I want to be first to scout the rails – there’s nothing like old-season Celine to make you feel ahead of the curve. (signofthetimeslondon.com)

Lastly, let’s talk vanity… My collagen levels are slipping, and I’m now deep in research mode, looking into treatments, supplements, creams… If it tightens, tones, or stops the droop, I’m in. Any suggestions most definitely welcome.

Soon, we surrender to coats and cashmere, but for now, wear the colour, set the table, book the ticket, and maybe, just maybe, get the portrait.

Madeline 20 x 26 inch © Fanny Rush

THE LUST LIST

Hestia Living

Pink City Prints

Sign of the Times

Punch

WOMEN IN BUSINESS SPECIAL

WHO’S THAT GIRL?

She’s the Titian-tressed powerhouse making waves in the world of ﬁnance as the Co-Founder and Managing Partner of Revenge Capital – and headlines with her outspoken mission to support female entrepreneurs. But who is the woman behind the image? Is she warrior queen or sweet sixteen? Will the real Nell Daly please stand up…

Photography by Mark Cant

Styling by Charlotte Baraks

Hair and Make up by Dominic Hogg

Shot on location at The Kensington Hotel

Words by Katie Hutley

It’s the hottest day of the year and Nell Daly is lying, fully clothed, in a bath full of water. It’s like Lana del Rey is playing Ophelia in a Jamie Lloydproduced fever dream, and such is the surrealism, the Talking Heads famous refrain is on a loop in my mind: “and you may ask yourself… how did I get here?”. ‘Here’ being what is surely the – well, sexiest shoot you’ve ever seen about venture capitalism. Nell, and her fund, Revenge Capital, burst onto the scene last year, promising to lift up women (and underdogs of all varieties) by investing in their businesses. Any sector, any experience level, any race, creed or gender – if you have a good idea, and you feel you’ve been overlooked, they want to hear from you… and to get the message across, she’s not averse to putting herself forward for an iconic, eye-catching image or two. Hence, the bath.

But Nell has never done things the conventional way, and the merest glance at her CV – which could be subtitled ‘Tales of the Unexpected’ –confirms this. She has a Masters degree in both Fine Arts from Columbia University and a second one in Social Work from NYU. While treating patients for more than 20,000 hours in her private psychotherapy practice, she continued carving out a role as a journalist and political commentator on Fox News (not for the faint-hearted). She then became the Chief Content Officer at The Female Quotient, before changing lanes again at the start of the pandemic into venture capital. In just a few short years, she went on to raise her own fund. Time for another Talking Heads moment: how did she get here? Which one – if any – is the ‘real’ Nell?

The answer, unsurprisingly, is complicated. “I haven’t really shared this before, but since my father passed away a few months ago, I feel like I can share my personal story more fully. I grew up in a home with a lot of domestic abuse,” she reveals. “And as a girl, there’s an erasure that happens when you grow up in a very masculine, male-dominated, and at times violent home. My father was very chauvinistic and an alcoholic; my voice, my opinions, how smart I was – it just didn’t matter. My brothers and their achievements mattered to him more. This made me both quietly angry and fiercely competitive.”

Nell breaks momentarily to sip at her Earl Grey, before continuing, a smile suddenly warming her face. “My mother though, she believed in me. I absolutely loved and adored her. It broke my heart that she was in this relationship where there such a power imbalance… she felt like she couldn’t leave, with three kids, because even though she worked full-time as a nurse, she was financially dependent on my father.”

Luckily, her mother was resolute that the young Nell do as she said, not as she did.

“She always told me not to take shit from anybody. But her lived experience was… that she did, from my father.” Nell, already a driven and talented student, remembers a lightbulb moment came at 10 years old on the school bus going home one day. “I thought, I better get really good fucking grades, because my only way out (without marrying money, as my father always assumed I would), is through education’.”

So, despite dyslexia so severe she could have received government funding to go to college, she became a chronic over-achiever and early social justice activist. It is that need she has inside of her – to stick up for those who lack agency and a voice – that is the through line of her varied career moves.

To this day, politics and being “political” infuses everything she does. Although Revenge is strictly party-politically agnostic, Nell’s hope is that she gives entrepreneurs the help they need to make money, and then those founders have the ability, one day, to write cheques out to the political candidates and causes they believe in. Then, those founders go back into their own communities and lift others. “I want more people to have more power than they do now. All citizens should have the right to life, liberty and happiness. We need to make sure everyone gets a fair shot.”

Nell’s been on the record in the past expressing similar, ‘flying the flag for empowerment’, sentiments, but her decision to open up about her childhood sheds new light on why she does what she does with such passion and conviction. Not only did she pull herself up by her bootstraps, she is unwavering in her pursuit of creating a world where no woman is left behind. It’s impressive stuff. Still – impressiveness can create a distance, an impression that you have to be someone ‘extraordinary’ to follow your dreams and make a success of them. Won’t most women look at a high-flyer such as Nell and think, ‘But I could never do that’? Doesn’t the look – the sharp tailoring, the manicure, the sense of having it all together, only add to that?

When I ask her about relatability, she shoots back: “I’ve always felt like an outsider. I was a chubby, freckly, Irish-American tomboy type in a very blond, WASPY Connecticut town. I wasn’t what people, especially boys, were looking for – at all. I struggled.” She continues: “I didn’t have a boyfriend in high school, I had a hard time finding one in college. I always felt, deep down, like the character Molly Ringwald plays in Sixteen Candles. I still do, every once in a while, even though people who know me call me Beth from Yellowstone.”

She laughs, before continuing: “After my divorce, I fell in love with a guy, a trader, and while we were dating, he said, ‘Nell, you want to get as close to the money as you possibly can’. And I said, ‘Close to the money? I’m a social worker and an artist, I couldn’t be further from the money!’. When he dumped me, in Grand Central Station of all places, in my head I said ‘Fuck you. I’m not going to get close to the money. I’m going to BE the fucking money’. And I think we really need provocative leadership to make some noise. Women need to step into that white space, and I can take the hit.”

To Nell, the personal is political, and Daly made it professional as well, often referring to giving female founders their ‘fuck you money’. Hence a ‘Revenge’ that aims to combat the horrifying stats around female entrepreneurs’ ability to raise capital – they receive just 1.8 percent of VC money in UK at last count, with that number staying pretty static from year to year (the US stats are not much better).

With the relatability-factor rising, Nell goes on to recount how, after the breakdown of her first marriage, she found herself and her three children moving in with her mother to make ends meet. During the same period, she was asked to be a commentator on Fox News, hoping to bring a touch of balance to the polarised political output there. Instead, she ended up receiving death threats after reporting on seemingly progressive news events. “I was very naïve,” she muses. “I thought, it must be possible to have open debates on national television. But then you start getting death threats, people calling your personal phone and saying the most horrible

“WHEN YOU’RE FACING A MOMENT OF BRAVERY, THERE’S BEEN A THOUSAND SMALL DECISIONS LEADING UP TO THAT POINT, SO IT’S NOT REALLY BRAVERY AT ALL… YOU’VE BUILT THE PATH THERE ALREADY, YOURSELF”

“WHEN YOU’RE A DISRUPTOR, ESPECIALLY AS A WOMAN, IT FEELS LIKE YOU’RE DOING SOMETHING RISKY… WE ONLY HAVE ONE WILD AND PRECIOUS LIFE TO LIVE, SO… WHAT, ARE YOU JUST GOING TO LIVE IT IN SERVICE OF OTHER PEOPLE?”

things. I had three kids at home. I started to get scared I was putting them at risk. I was learning, yet again, that when a woman uses her voice, serious consequences can come from it. Men in that profession don’t have to deal with this like women do.”

As someone who’s learned this the hard way, though, surely it would be easier to fly under the radar, to not speak out? “But I can’t be any other way! In the past, I’ve definitely fucked things up – for myself and other people – by not being myself, because I wanted to be more like what was expected of me. But when you pretend, people aren’t buying something real and it eventually all goes wrong.”

“Now, I’m just me. And every time I’ve put myself out there, I’ve been surprised at how many beautiful messages I get on social media, people saying, ‘You inspire me, you encourage me’. And so, I now know there’s going to be a community to catch me, even if some out there, who don’t want women to have a voice, are trying to shut me up.”

It’s easy to imagine someone so driven not needing community encouragement; au contraire, she protests. “My strength lies in my vulnerability, my ability to talk about how I’ve had some really dark nights of the soul. And still now, I don’t wake up every day psyched. I’ve had moments where my heart is in my throat, or I don’t know what I’m doing, or what the consequences will be. But I’ve also learned that when you’re facing a moment of bravery, there’s been a thousand small decisions leading up to that point, so it’s not really bravery at all… you’ve built the path there already, yourself. I often need to remind myself of the Joan of Arc quote: ‘I was built for this’.” I go on to ask Nell for advice for women who are trying to start or grow a business. She goes big-picture, and is refreshingly open. “It takes discipline and dedication. I was out running at six o’clock this morning – jet-lagged, but I was out there. Anybody working at a high level who says they don’t have a lot of discipline is lying.” But aside from being a natural workaholic, she is a problem-solver, an activist to the bone, who saw the change she wanted to make in the world, and ‘did the work’ in order to make it happen. “Sometimes when you start to make time for yourself, it’s very inconvenient to the rest of the family. It can cause tension… you have to have a stomach of iron to take the heat in your own relationship and say, ‘No, I’m not watching the kids all day Saturday. I need this time to work on my business’, or whatever it is you’re passionate about. When you’re a disruptor, especially as a woman, it feels like you’re doing something risky… but we only have one wild and precious life to live, so… what, are you just going to live it in service of other people?”

Beware, though, of falling into the trap of thinking that someone so passionately pro-woman is automatically anti-man. “Oh, yeah… if you’re an outspoken woman, people always think you don’t like men. I love men! I’m raising two of them. I love how they build, how they push, their energy. And the men who have come into my life and opened a door for me… the ones who said, ‘I think we need to listen to her and see what she can do’. Without them and their allyship, I wouldn’t be here. And I love helping men when I can, too.”

One such man would be Andrew Antonio, her business partner and the person who saw straight to the heart of her mission and facilitated her first fund of £50 million. Antonio is another multi-hyphenate, with interests across multiple industries (finance, film and TV production, music management), and one suspects that as well as her drive and the mission itself, it was that enigmatic thing, ‘star quality’, that he saw in her. He’s backed that up ever since by standing staunchly with her in her values, which has made them a formidable team. Because it goes so much deeper than just ‘making money’: hearing the call towards activism and ‘making a difference’ and acting upon it in the quest for a meaningful life. That psychotherapist’s urge to forge connections (with individuals, with entire sectors of society) is what appears to drive her most.

I came to meet Nell somewhat intimidated by the enigmatic, confident over-achiever she undoubtedly is. Yet as I leave, as well as admiration by the bucket load, my overriding feeling is one of protectiveness. It turns out the only role she’s playing is the only one she can play, that of being 100 per cent unflinchingly and unfailingly herself. The rest of us may not be flying so high anytime soon, but that’s a lesson we all can, and should, start living as of today. revenge.capital

www.chepstowhouseschool.co.uk

MAKING IT HER BUSINESS

In 2023 Alison Cork was awarded an MBE for services to female entrepreneurship. She tells us about her life in business, and the initiatives she has launched to help other women to succeed in a male dominated world

Words by Liz Skone James

Alison’s new book Fit & Fabulous Over 50 is available in hardback and eBook from alisoncork.com/ shop-products. Fabric readers can use code FABULOUS20 for a 20 per cent discount

In her Cambridge University exit interview, British entrepreneur, writer and broadcaster Alison Cork’s director of studies at Newnham College said to her: “Alison, we’ve all had a good chat about you… The bad news is that not one of us has any clue what you’re going to do in life. The good news is that not one of us is worried about you.”

Indeed, she didn’t know herself, other than being certain of the fact that she did not want to follow her friends down more traditional career pathways. “Parallel to that I had got myself into debt,” she explains. “I wanted to impress my dad by passing my driving test without him knowing, but the problem was I kept failing. I failed ﬁve times and in doing so I spent all my student grant and was left without any money. I was too embarrassed to ask him for more, and I knew he didn’t have any to give, so I thought, right you have to do something very quickly to make up this shortfall.”

What she did was to start self-publishing restaurant guides for university towns. “I drew a map of the town, and I sold adverts to restaurants and set them around the map,” she tells me. “I got the restaurants to pay me £40 per week each, which was quite a decent sum of money. And I typeset the ads by myself, by hand, which was an immensely laborious process in those days. Then I printed 10,000 copies, and I stood on major tourist roads and gave out these free maps that had restaurants all around the edge of them, and it worked like a dream.”

The experience taught her not only that she enjoyed the process of being creative and solving a problem, but also that she was differently wired. “A penny dropped, and it reinforced the idea that I was never going to be a lawyer or an accountant; I might not have known what I was going to be, but I knew it was going to be something determined by me,” she recalls.

Alison went on to co-found Carnell Ltd, a mail order publishing company, which was floated on the London Stock Exchange in 1994. “It was immensely exciting, because it made me the youngest ever female co-founder of a publicly quoted company. I was about 29 at the time, so that was a definite career high, and it came early,” she reveals. “I think what I really enjoyed was the confidence that it gave me. Ironically, I was the only woman on the board, and I could see that it wasn’t going to be a lot of fun… I remember at the stockbroker lunch when we floated the company, I literally wasn’t addressed once. It was outrageous… At that time, men were definitely educated and brought up to expect that they would be businessmen, but it was much less likely that a woman would go into business, and those that did often found themselves marginalised in business conversation.”

It was this realisation that persuaded Alison to leave Carnell and pursue a career in writing and broadcasting. “Publishing wasn’t necessarily my real passion, although I love writing and I’ve since written six books,” she tells me. “I thought, what

LIFESTYLE / Women in Business

is it that givesme the greatest pleasure. And it was my home environment. I looked across the Pond and saw Martha Stewart, and I thought that’s it: I’ll be the British Martha Stewart!

I didn’t have any skillset in this ﬁeld, but I managed to talk my way into writing and presenting a series on ITV called Home in the Country, which broadcast in the late 1990s and was ﬁlmed in my cottage in Wales. I’ve presented lots of programmes since, but that was the one that I absolutely loved, because it was completely original material. I wrote it all… the recipes, everything. All the creative ideas came from the heart, and that passion clearly communicated to the viewer, because to this day, and I mean to this day, and we're now 30 years on, I have people coming up to me, telling me that it was the thing they most enjoyed watching on television. For me, the things that have given me the greatest enjoyment over the years are the things that I have felt most passionate about.”

Something that Alison is incredibly passionate about is encouraging other women to fulﬁl their business dreams.

“I’ve been around a while, and it struck me that the stats hadn’t changed materially in terms of female role models in business,” she explains, “there weren’t enough women running their own business. We do make up half the population; we are theoretically half of the economy and therefore the economy cannot fire on all cylinders if we are not there as part of the equation. That’s just common sense. So, I thought, well why aren’t women running their own business? And I looked into the reasons, and I found it was often down to a lack of confidence, lack of networking, lack of role models, lack of access to finance. And I thought, well, none of these are insurmountable problems.” From this realisation, Make it Your Business was born, a not-for-profit nationwide initiative to encourage and support women to start or grow their own business.

Women do not think they are inferior to their male counterparts

“I wanted to create regional networking events where local women could see other local women who’d actually started their own business,” she explains. “So often we are London centric in this country, and it’s not very helpful for a woman in Grimsby who’s struggling to start her business there to be told that in London it’s all hunky dory. I just felt that it was important that it was local women supporting and encouraging other local women. And that has actually been its greatest strength, because it gives women the conﬁdence to feel that it genuinely can be achieved. The other golden rule of those networking events is that they be truthful, so I say to the panellists, ‘It’s lovely to hear of your success, but we want to hear it all’. We’d rather hear about the challenges and failures, because that’s when people can assess the reality of running a business, which is deﬁnitely not plain sailing. So that sort of honesty is really, really crucial. If anybody ever tells you they just woke up, had an idea, executed on it and then exited for lots of money, they are probably lying!”

Off the back of this came National Women’s Enterprise Week. “I thought women in business didn’t get enough recognition. And I thought, well we jolly well need to put that right – we need to draw attention to female founders and support them,” Alison says. “That's what National Women’s Enterprise Week is all about. We organise an accelerator; we run a national competition, and we fund 10 places, all expenses paid, for women to come to London and harness their distinctive ideas and vision and shape them into a pioneering and successful start-up. At the end of an intensive three days, we host a showcase where they have the opportunity to pitch their scale up to venture capitalists and angel investors. They may or may not receive investment, but the experience and contacts are completely invaluable.”

Currently, female founders only get about two per cent of VC funding, and Alison believes this is thanks to the fact that VCs are majority male led. “They view the investment through male eyes and may undervalue the product or the person in favour of a man. There’s statistical evidence to prove that,” she explains. “But women themselves do not think they’re inferior to their male counterparts, and in fact, all the statistics tell us that investment in female founded businesses delivers up to a 35 per cent better return than investment in male-led businesses.”

Why does she think that is? “Women have a different approach to business; I think it’s a certain realism,” Alison says. “Most women have a longer-term vision of what it’s going to take to nurse their company to success. They don’t think about what they’re going to sell it for before they’ve even started being revenue generating. Women do have a slightly different approach to business, they can be more cautious, but actually being more cautious can be an advantage in business, it means that you’re less likely to fail.”

Where success and failure are concerned, with so many proﬁtable ventures to her name, Alison would know better than most. Would she do anything differently if she was starting out now? “I am starting out again, as it happens,” she reveals, “because I have just decided to launch a new product, which is in the healthy eating market. I’ve always been a bit of a loner and pretty much run businesses on my own, but I think this time around I'd really enjoy collaborating with somebody –in fact, I do have somebody particular in mind… There is that phrase: if you want to go fast, go solo, if you want to go far, go in a team. I'd like to just experience what it’s like to work as part of a bigger team, because it's something I’ve done less of.” Team work does make the dream work, as they say.

Through initiatives like Make it Your Business and National Women’s Enterprise Week, Alison supports female business owners, something she is incredibly passionate about

WOMEN IN BUSINESS SPECIAL

GETTING AHEAD IN BUSINESS

Currently only one in four businesses is owned or run by a woman. We chatted to ﬁve fearless and fabulous females –some business owners, some employees – who would love to see those numbers change. Here, they share their experience in the world of business

I went on to get several promotions, rising from Trainee Exec to the position of Account Director in three years. I was also very fortunate to win an industry award – The CIPR’s Award for Outstanding Young Communicator – which meant I started getting a lot of calls from recruiters. Lansons was an amazing place to start my career, and I made some of my closest friends during my time there, but I felt ready for a new challenge, so I accepted a role at a much smaller agency, joining them in June 2015.

The ﬁrst client that was assigned to me was a new bank that was in the process of getting a banking license. It was founded by two entrepreneurs, Rishi Khosla and Joel Perlman, who’d been inspired to launch the business following the negative experience they had in trying to get a loan for their previous business. After they scaled that business to 3,000 people and sold it to Moody’s Corporation in 2014, they set out to build ‘the bank for entrepreneurs, by entrepreneurs’. The vision, mission, and ethos of the company really resonated with me, as my mum is an entrepreneur, and I had seen for years how much she struggled with her bank.

In late 2015, shortly after its launch, I had the opportunity to do a secondment with OakNorth, and after a couple of months of doing that, I knew it was where I wanted to be fulltime. So, I arranged a meeting with Rishi and Joel and pitched why they should hire me full time. Fortunately, they were receptive to the idea(!), and the rest, as they say, is history!

Today, my role spans much more than PR/external comms – I also cover internal comms, ESG/sustainability, public policy and government affairs, and CSR (notably – our 1+1% Commitment, whereby we donate 1 per cent of our proﬁts and 1 per cent of our team’s time to supporting causes that are aligned with our mission to empower entrepreneurs). I sit on the Bank’s Executive Committee and have the opportunity to work directly with our co-founder and CEO, Rishi.

So, the deﬁning moment or decision that set me on this path was deﬁnitely asking Rishi and Joel to hire me. If I hadn’t done that, my career would look very different today.

VALENTINA KRISTENSEN

Corporate Affairs Director, OakNorth Bank

Tell us about your career journey so far – was there a deﬁning moment or decision that set you on this path?

In September 2008, I moved to the UK to study business management. This was the peak of the global financial crisis, so a very interesting time to be studying this subject! A number of things happened during my time studying – consumer trust in traditional financial services hit an all-time low, regulators and government sought to reduce the barriers to entry for new entrants to encourage more competition in financial services, and smartphones started to make their way into the hands of most consumers – making managing your finances on-the-go much more commonplace.

So, when I graduated, I was keen to pursue a career in communications – specifically within corporate comms for financial services. My logic was that established financial services companies would need comms support to rebuild trust and build their reputations, and new players coming into the market would need comms support to build a strong narrative that would enable them to effectively compete.

I attended a ‘drinks and links’ event hosted by the CIPR (Chartered Institute of Public Relations), where I met a woman who worked for an agency called Lansons. She told me about a grad programme they run and encouraged me to apply. I did and was fortunate to get the job. I had a great portfolio, with clients ranging from challenger brands up to FTSE 250 companies, but I found I gravitated towards the challenger brands more. I just found the work more interesting and challenging.

Reflecting on your career to date, which success has meant the most to you, personally or professionally (or a combination of both)? This September, OakNorth will be celebrating its 10-year anniversary. It’s been an incredible privilege to have been on that journey from a start-up bank with no license, no customers, no investors, and no profits, to where the business is today – a fully-fledged digital commercial bank that’s lent over $17bn to businesses across the UK and US, raised over $1bn from investors, and made over $270m profit in 2024.

Being part of a business that supports entrepreneurs –who go on to create jobs, build new homes, and have a positive impact on their communities and the economy as a whole –is what makes me excited to be part of OakNorth. As my mum is an entrepreneur, it means a huge amount to me that I’m working for an organisation that’s helping businesses like hers.

What unique strengths or opportunities do you think women bring to business? I don’t personally feel that there are traits that are uniquely or inherently ‘male’ or ‘female’ which then correlate into strengths or opportunities in business. What matters a lot more than things like gender, race, and sexual orientation is cognitive diversity and the experiences someone’s had which can then shape how they approach problem-solving, team management, product development. Women are likely to have had different experiences than men, which can therefore mean they can bring a different perspective – which could, in turn, unlock new opportunities.

Who are the women who have inﬂuenced your thinking or supported your growth, and how have they impacted you? My mum is by far the woman who has had the biggest impact on me and my career to date – as an entrepreneur and single mother of four, she taught me and my siblings a huge amount about work ethic, sacriﬁce, resilience, optimism, and pursuing opportunity. She instilled in us the need to do something you love and are incredibly passionate about, to always put in 100 per cent effort, and to grab every opportunity.

Women in Business / LIFESTYLE

Could you share a setback or challenge that turned out to be unexpectedly valuable for your career or personal development?

One of the most challenging periods in my career to date was going on six months of maternity leave –I love what I do and am a bit of a workaholic as a result, so the idea of not working for several months to focus on being a mum felt a bit bittersweet to me. Parenthood requires a HUGE learning curve (at least, it did for me) – and for the first time, I didn’t feel confident or empowered about what I was doing. The first few weeks were especially hard: I was so exhausted, in physical pain (as my body worked to recover on about two hours of sleep a night), and at the same time, I was having this identity crisis as I wasn’t able to do the thing that usually made me feel so confident and empowered, and brought me so much joy (i.e. working).

However, as the days and weeks passed, my conﬁdence as a mother grew, and Keeping In Touch days meant I could stay connected with work, and keep abreast of key developments. When I came back after mat leave, I had to be that much more productive and efﬁcient as it was the only way I could ensure I could get home in time for bath and bed time. It meant I had to be much stricter with my time and I now feel more empowered to say ‘no’ to meetings I don’t absolutely have to be in, and ‘yes’ to the projects that genuinely excite and challenge me. It also means I sweat the small stuff a lot less – when you’ve spent 24 hours caring for a sick newborn who’s running a high fever and vomiting every hour, it changes your perspective!

So, what started as an incredibly challenging period for me personally, has proven to be immensely valuable for me professionally. I’m currently expecting my second in December, and am hoping the experience will be a bit less challenging the second time around, but with the same positive outcomes!

What have you learned about how to achieve balance between work and home, and do you have any measures or structures in place to achieve this? I’ve mentioned already that my mum is an entrepreneur and a single mum of four, so there was never any balance in her life. Everything blended – work, life, home, etc – but it worked because she was so passionate about what she was doing, and she brought all of us along for the journey. So, for me, it’s really about ﬁnding something you’re incredibly passionate about and that genuinely brings you joy. If you can do that, you’ll be willing to put in the hours to be successful, and you’ll never have that sinking feeling on a Sunday evening. The time you spend with

Women are likely to have had different experiences than men, which can therefore mean they can bring a different perspective – which could, in turn, unlock new opportunities

friends and family will be more satisfying because you feel more fulﬁlled, and you’ll hopefully never resent or regret the time spent doing one thing over another.

What do you wish you’d known when you started out? That a successful career rarely happens in a straight line – it’s squiggly and there are ups and downs. Something that may have seemed like a wrong decision at the time can prove to be an amazing move a few months or years down the line. Hindsight is a wonderful thing!

Looking ahead, what does the next chapter hold for you? OakNorth is at an incredibly exciting point on its journey –we’re expanding geographically. Having lent over $1bn in the US since we began lending there in August 2023, we’re expanding in terms of our offering, providing a broad range of business banking services (current accounts, savings accounts, FX, cards, payments, etc), and we’re expanding operationally, leveraging AI to unlock more productivity, efﬁciency, and opportunity. Given the breadth of my role, covering such a range of areas, I’m incredibly excited about continuing to be part of this next chapter and supporting even more incredible entrepreneurs and businesses on their growth journeys. oaknorth.co.uk

Women bring an unspoken strength and a deep resilience. We lead with empathy, but also with clarity

GUDIYA PATEL

Co-founder and Managing Director, PHI Clinic

Tell us about your career journey so far – was there a deﬁning moment or decision that set you on this path?

My path wasn’t planned; it simply unfolded. I initially trained as a lawyer, never intending to go into business. But life had other plans, and I co-founded a medical aesthetics clinic – PHI Clinic. Years later, I faced personal health challenges that changed everything, and I began studying nutrition to help myself.

It was this unassuming journey that led me deeper into the mind-body connection and I went on to train in coaching and breath work. I started integrating wellness into the PHI Clinic offering and quickly realised that wellness was the missing piece in a patient’s overall health and aesthetic journey.

Reflecting on your career to date, which success has meant the most to you, personally or professionally? Starting the first of the Just Be… Retreats will always be one of the most meaningful milestones. Creating a space where people could rest, reconnect and feel recharged was incredibly fulfilling. To know that it made a difference, even in a small way, meant everything to me, both personally and professionally.

What unique strengths or opportunities do you think women bring to business? Women bring an unspoken strength and a deep resilience. We lead with empathy, but also with clarity, and there’s something uniquely powerful in the way women balance emotional intelligence with business acumen. Some of the most cohesive and highperforming teams I’ve worked with have been rooted in this empathy and clarity. Women are exceptional leaders, often without realising it.

Who are the women who have inﬂuenced your thinking or supported your growth, and how have they impacted you? Luckily for me, I have not had to look far for inspiration as I’ve been surrounded by remarkable women all my life. On a personal level, my strong mother and my two determined and innovative daughters. Professionally, I’ve worked in a predominantly female-led industry, from clinicians and nurses to therapists and admin teams. Every woman I’ve worked with, past and present, has contributed to my journey in some way through their insight, resilience, and generosity of spirit.

Could you share a setback or challenge that turned out to be valuable for your career or personal development? My health challenges, without question. At the time, they felt like a roadblock, but they turned out to be hugely directional.

That period forced me to slow down and reassess what truly mattered and led me into holistic health and wellness education, and ultimately allowed me to expand my business. Integrating wellness into our offering and eventually launching retreats came directly from that experience – proof that setbacks can sometimes be your greatest redirection.

What have you learned about how to achieve balance between work and home? For many years, I operated under the assumption that success was directly linked to being always available and constantly doing something. It’s a mindset that’s often reinforced in fast-paced industries and especially if you own your own business, like I do. It deﬁnitely drives short-term results but it’s unsustainable in the long term and the cost is often at the expense of our health, relationships and our performance.

It took a signiﬁcant health challenge for me to re-evaluate that belief system, and to realise that constantly striving to do everything was not a marker of success, but of imbalance. Real leadership, whether in business or life, requires clarity, energy and perspective and that only comes when you intentionally create space for rest, reﬂection and boundaries.

Women in Business / LIFESTYLE

Today, I lead and work differently. I no longer see immediate responsiveness or over-performance as badges of honour. Instead, I value intentionality – being fully present when it matters and giving myself permission to step back when I can. Balance isn’t a ﬁxed destination it’s an ongoing discipline, and one that I continue to work on every day.

What do you wish you’d known when you started out?

If I could go back 15 years in time, I would tell myself that failure isn’t the opposite of success, it’s part of the journey. Every obstacle has taught me something important. I’ve learned that both the highs and the lows are valuable, and often what feels like a failure is usually a detour to something even better than you imagined.

Looking ahead, what does the next chapter hold for you? Right now, I’m focused on growing Wellness with Gudiya and the Just Be… Retreats within PHI Clinic, an integrated, deeply personalised approach to health that brings together aesthetics, nutrition, coaching, and wellness retreats. It’s a space where science meets soul. Also, as I have recently been appointed brand ambassador and key opinion leader for JetPeel and W-Wellness – both roles have opened up the opportunity to integrate wellness and Ayurveda within PHI Clinic. I’m proud of what we’ve created and excited to take this offering to a wider, even global, audience. phiclinic.com

LIZA-JANE KELLY Head of Residential Sales, Savills

Tell us about your career journey so far – was there a deﬁning moment or decision that set you on this path? I always wanted to work in property and was determined to get into the industry as soon as I could – there was never a ‘Plan B’. From a young age I was fascinated by where we live and why, and I thought that working in a job where you help people ﬁnd their new home would be both exciting and rewarding.

I began agency life in Dublin, before moving to London to progress my career. I have worked in the London property market for over 25 years, working my way up the career ladder from negotiator to my role today leading the London residential business at Savills. Property is all I’ve ever known and all I have ever done, and it has been a thoroughly rewarding path to take. Throughout my career I have always tried to adopt a positive mindset and seek out opportunities to learn –whether from colleagues, others around me, or from life’s rich tapestry of experiences.

Stepping outside your comfort zone can require courage, but I have found that in making that step, you learn the most, grow your conﬁdence and ﬁnd the greatest rewards.

What unique strengths or opportunities do you think women bring to business? Effective leadership starts with empathy, a genuine passion for your work, a love for the industry you’re in, and a commitment to truly listening to your teams. I regularly visit our ofﬁces across London which provides valuable local insights and a proper understanding of the challenges they face. I am a big believer in spending time with the teams I work with and being present – the human side of leadership is something I greatly value and I’ve always felt it is so important to be with people as much as possible. Not only does it allow me to get to know colleagues better – on both a personal and professional level – but it also gives me the opportunity to understand what is happening on the ground much quicker too. Through experience I have found that getting the best out of the people I work with comes from building solid connections and knowing what drives and motivates them.

What have you learned about how to achieve balance between work and home, and do you have any measures or structures in place to achieve this?

Be really organised and create structure. If you plan ahead both at home and at work, it enables you to be really focused and prioritise important tasks; I often use a Sunday evening to look at the week ahead. Carving out time for yourself is important, and creating weekly opportunities to focus on your own wellbeing is key, whether that’s exercise, a hobby or other social arrangements. No matter how busy you are at work, it’s important to take time for yourself and do things that energise and inspire you. Despite the obvious hurdles, I exercise in the morning before work as it clears my head and sets me up for the day – I think the expression in business is “eat the frog”! I have a busy work and home life too, with all that comes with being a parent to two children, so ﬁnding the balance is incredibly important to me. I’m fortunate to have a great support system around me. Being able to switch off and be present together as a family is also essential.

Looking ahead, what does the next chapter hold for you? I am looking forward to continuing to develop in my career at Savills and to further build and grow our London residential business, while remaining focused on maintaining our position as market leader. It has been a fantastic journey so far and I have thoroughly enjoyed working with incredible teams and collaborating with colleagues in other UK divisions, as well as residential colleagues globally, too. I am excited about the next chapter and what it will bring.

Embracing change is also something I do with conﬁdence. The introduction of digital platforms like MySavills has not only provided an opportunity for growth, but also a moment to reﬂect on how far the industry has evolved, while still valuing the nuances and strengths of traditional agency. savills.com

LAURA UBEROI Partner, Addleshaw Goddard LLP

Tell us about your career journey so far – was there a deﬁning moment or decision that set you on this path?

I was adopted as a baby and always thought that lawyers were cape-wearing superheroes who made families like mine. I began working on the worst cases I could think of, spending time working on death row in Texas, USA, and thereafter, war crimes in The Hague. I returned to the UK to start my career as a cape-wearing family lawyer but was quickly pulled into the world of private wealth ﬁnance. I spend my days making introductions between people in my network who can do business together, and then get to assist with the legals behind it. I knew I was where I wanted to be when one of my ﬁrst clients said that I “wasn’t really like a lawyer” because I spent my days introducing them to opportunities, and helped with more than just legal counsel.

Reﬂecting on your career to date, which success has meant the most to you, personally or professionally?

I was elected as the youngest ever president of Westminster & Holborn Law Society when I was heavily pregnant. It made quite a splash, with European colleagues referring to me as “le president avec la bebe”. Personally, it meant the world to me

Last month, my sixyear-old told me, in utter disbelief, that she’d just discovered that ‘some men can be bosses, too’

because I was giving my daughter a legacy before she was even born – she came to meetings I was chairing when she was a newborn and enjoyed being passed around the table! I didn’t appreciate it at the time, but this really helped to normalise it, and very quickly lots more women were stepping forward for such roles. We even got a designated feeding room.

What unique strengths or opportunities do you think women bring to business? The economy cannot be successful unless the players are representative of wider society. On a basic level, women bring their unique experience and understanding of just being a woman (i.e. 51 per cent of the population!). I am ever the optimist, though, and believe that whilst women remain under-represented in almost all walks of business life, it means that there are so many unexplored opportunities for the taking. I’m not one for stereotypes – the statistics say it all: whilst female founders, for example, receive considerably less funding and support, they are far more likely to have successful businesses, in terms of returns and longevity.

Who are the women who have influenced your thinking or supported your growth? It is really important to not expect any of us to fly the flag for an entire gender. I’m naturally curious and deliberately seek out women who are not like me.

An early boss told me that you should always have at least four mentors (who will change throughout your life) – one inside your team, one in another team in your organisation, one doing your job at another organisation and one wholly outside of your job and organisation. The idea is that you will have many perspectives as you grow. I’ve been fortunate to ﬁnd exceptional women everywhere I’ve worked; I moved to my current role to be closer to a senior leadership team of fantastic women.

Could you share a setback or challenge that turned out to be unexpectedly valuable? I am always asking people I come across for a quick coffee as an opportunity to quiz them on their successes. I was in a large meeting with one woman who was incredibly successful, so I plucked up the courage to ask for a coffee and dutifully went to her ofﬁce. Very quickly I realised that we were not the right ‘personality ﬁt’ and she made comments such as: “I don’t think you’ve really appreciated what it is that I do” and “well you asked for this meeting, so what do you want?”. I wanted the ground to swallow me up and it took me a long time to overcome the horror that someone could think that I hadn’t done all of my research. However, at a pivotal time in my career when I was stepping into more senior shoes, it taught me that with the best preparation and intentions, sometimes relationships won’t land – that meeting wasn’t the

Women in Business / LIFESTYLE

end of the world (although it felt like it!) and it actually took the pressure off all the meetings that I have every day now.

What have you learned about how to achieve balance between work and home? The honest answer is that I have no idea how to achieve balance, but we’re all surviving! I believe in bringing my ‘true self’ to work and that means making small talk about my family and being truthful about the juggle. Some of my best client relationships are with people doing the same – we share war stories with each other whilst also making great things happen in the world of business. Last month, my six-year-old told me, in utter disbelief, that she’d just discovered that “some men can be bosses, too” – because Mummy is a boss at work, and her headmistress is the boss at school, but [friend] at school said that “her Daddy was a boss at his work”. It’s snippets like this that remind us that through all of our struggles, the next generations are coming into a much better world.

What do you wish you’d known when you started out? I am a great people-pleaser, and would consider it a real setback if I didn’t seem to ‘gel’ with someone, but I have come to realise that it is okay to not be a natural personality ﬁt to everybody you meet; you are never going to get along with everyone (nor do you have time to!) and accepting that relieves such a mental burden.

Looking ahead, what does the next chapter hold for you? More of the same – wonderful clients hailing from all parts of the world as the global economy shifts in all sorts of ways. And endless wild adventures with the family that I will never be prepared for! addleshawgoddard.com

NAOMH MCELHATTON Founder, She Said Club

Tell us about your career journey so far? I always knew I was a hustler; I started my first company when I was 16. I then went on to launch DANI, a first to market online advertising network which evolved into the DANI Awards. My second company was Rua Digital (a full-service digital marketing agency). I scaled that company to an acquisition with House of Comms in the Middle East in 2014. I’ve always been fuelled by a passion to bridge digital knowledge gaps. A defining decision was choosing to leave Dubai and return to Northern Ireland, prioritising stability so I could build a sustainable business while raising my two daughters.

Reﬂecting on your career to date, which success has meant the most to you, personally or professionally? Professionally, founding the DANI Awards, the ﬁrst of its kind celebrating Northern Ireland’s digital and creative talent, and launching the She Said Club to support and empower women have been standout moments. Being named one of Ireland’s Top 5 Entrepreneurs to Watch by the Irish Times was brilliant, and I was then awarded Northern Ireland’s Most Inspirational Woman in STEM in 2024, these are recognitions I’m really proud of.

What unique strengths or opportunities do you think women bring to business? Women often bring holistic perspectives, balancing empathy, collaboration, and strategic thinking. In my work with Women in AI and the She Said Club, I’ve seen ﬁrst-hand how women drive inclusive innovation by grounding technology in real-world human experience.

Who are the women who have inﬂuenced your thinking or supported your growth, and how have they impacted you? I’m fortunate to be surrounded by incredible women: my mum, sister, aunts, former bosses, and an amazing peer network who inspire and challenge me daily. Through Women in AI and my network, I’ve met countless trailblazers who’ve shaped my thinking. But the greatest inspiration comes from my daughters, watching them grow, question, and dream ﬁlls me with awe and reminds me why I do what I do!

Could you share a setback or challenge that turned out to be unexpectedly valuable for your career or personal development? I went through a period where I literally lost everything: my marriage ended and I had to ﬁle for bankruptcy. I had to completely rebuild everything. Those experiences, though incredibly tough, lit a ﬁre in my belly and sharpened my resolve. It taught me the true meaning of resilience, pushing me to restructure everything, and instilled a mindset to never give up.

What have you learned about how to achieve balance between work and home, and do you have any measures or structures in place to achieve this? Balance, for me, comes from structure and the ability to switch off guilt-free. Self-care isn’t a luxury, it’s essential. I schedule work time, personal time, and downtime with equal importance, and I stick to those boundaries. Whether it’s going for a run with the pup, enjoying a quiet coffee, or just stepping away from the screen, switching off makes me more present when I switch back on.

What do you wish you’d known when you started out?

That asking for help and being vulnerable don’t make you weak, they make you stronger. Sharing challenges builds support, not shame. I believe I’d have saved myself a lot of heartache earlier on… Oh, and learning the art of saying NO! It’s liberating.

Looking ahead, what does the next chapter hold for you?

One thing I’ve learned is that change is always guaranteed. I’ve got a few exciting irons in the ﬁre, continuing my work with Women in AI, I am developing a new layer of compassionate tech with DCU for the She Said Club, focused on utilising AI to support women through emotional overload. I’m also proud to be sitting on the boards of Queen’s University, Young Social Innovators, and a biodiversity tech start-up, NBS. The future’s wide open, and I’m ready for it. shesaidclub.com

INTRODUCING THE RESIDENCE

The UK’s most exclusive and personalised mental health and addiction treatment service

This summer (August 2025), Priory –the UK’s largest independent provider of mental health, addiction and adult social care services – is launching The Residence, a ground-breaking new recovery ‘experience’ set to redefine privacy and clinical excellence in mental health and addiction care.

Located in a private wing of the prestigious Priory Hospital Roehampton, south west London, The Residence offers an entirely bespoke, one-client-at-a-time programme, designed for individuals facing complex challenges such as addiction, depression, anxiety, trauma and eating disorders.

Consultant psychiatrist and lead clinician at The Residence, Dr Donald Masi, explains: “The Residence is designed to be so much more than a treatment setting. It’s a space of safety and hope, where our clients can focus entirely on their wellbeing, free from outside pressure, supported by world-class professionals.”

The UK’s most ‘private, personal and potentially powerful’ path to recovery

At the heart of The Residence is its commitment to discretion and a personal approach to an individual’s treatment pathway. Clients stay in a 1,200 sq ft self-contained suite, complete with a master bedroom, companion room, therapy and consultation areas, and luxury amenities.

During their stay, clients have access to the following personalised treatment options:

1. World-renowned clinicians and therapists, handpicked for expertise and discretion

2. Cutting-edge treatments, including VR therapy, neuromodulation, eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing (EMDR), CBT, trauma-focused interventions, dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT), relapse prevention strategies, and a programme of advanced technologies and therapies to support full mind-body recovery

3. Integrated holistic therapies such as yoga, reflexology, massage, and mindfulness

4. Optional lifestyle enrichment including personal training, equine therapy, art classes and bespoke nutritional advice

5. Concierge-level service, personalised dining curated by an in-house chef, and seamless travel coordination from anywhere in the UK or abroad

Aftercare that extends beyond your stay

Alexandra Squire-Morrow, Hospital Director at Priory Hospital Roehampton, tells us:

“A patient’s journey also continues well after they leave our care, with a bespoke plan that may include outpatient therapy, remote support, wellness check-ins, and family involvement, ensuring long-term recovery.”

“We also pride ourselves on ‘precision recovery’ – which means every detail is adapted for the individual, creating a truly elevated and effective therapeutic experience.”

“Roehampton has been Priory’s flagship hospital since 1980, delivering world-leading care and recovery programmes for patients with a range of mental health issues. We support patients, from a variety of backgrounds, requiring different approaches to treatment and durations of stay. Some patients need greater privacy in their recovery, so we’re delighted to open this new, spacious therapeutic environment.”

The Residence is part of a new range of addiction and mental health treatment services at Priory, including outpatient therapy services, remote digital tools, and inpatient admission options. For more information on The Residence, visit priorygroup.com/the-residence

Dr Donald Masi

PERSONAL STYLIST

The latest in luxury fashion, beauty and healthy living

A ROYALLY INSPIRED SCENT

Channel the romance of an English country garden with the new fragrance from iconic British fragrance house Penhaligon’s. Daphne Bouquet launched this summer in collaboration with Highgrove Gardens, the picturesque gardens which surround the private home of Their Majesties King Charles III and Queen Camilla. Following on from the success of Highgrove Bouquet, the latest addition to the Penhaligon’s British Tale collection is a floral aromatic eau de parfum created in support of His Majesty’s charity The King’s Foundation, with 10 per cent of proceeds going to supporting training programs in areas like heritage crafts, arts, horticulture, fashion, and sustainable food, benefiting thousands of students annually.

A tribute to the Daphne flower that is known to blossom in The Stumpery – a tranquil part of Highgrove Gardens that draws inspiration from the Victorian tradition of growing ferns between the cracks and crevices of mossy upturned tree stumps – this limited-edition eau de parfum is bursting with top notes of blackcurrant leaf, thyme oil and grapefruit oil; heart notes of lavender oil, Daphne accord, rose essence and absolute; and base notes of vetiver oil, moss, and cedarwood. Aromatic and radiant, we love it. £175, 100ml (penhaligons.com)

WELLNESS

A place to call HOME

Exciting news from Primrose Hill –Jonathan Sattin, founder of triyoga, has just opened a gorgeous new wellness sanctuary. On the site of the original triyoga studio, HOME is a welcoming space for yoga, Pilates, and treatments, with connection and community at its heart. Two gorgeous yoga studios offer a timetable of 90+ classes a week, while the state-of-the-art Reformer Pilates studio hosts over 60 classes. Complementing the class schedule, a series of workshops and courses allows members to deepen their practice, offering inspiration, insight and focus.

Meanwhile, carefully selected therapists offer a wide range of treatments to help support physical and mental health, ranging from acupuncture, Ayurvedic treatments and massage, to homeopathy, osteopathy and functional medicine.

The gorgeous café, Only Love Kitchen provides a space for the community to connect over delicious breakfasts, lunches and healthy snacks. There really is no place like HOME.

To celebrate the launch, the team are offering a 10 per cent discount on all class packs, or three drop in yoga or mat Pilates classes for the price of two until the end of the month. 7 Erskine Road, NW3 (020 4553 3344; homewellness.uk)

Style news / LIFESTYLE

RETREAT

For

the man who has everything…

except inner peace

In a world where achievement is the ultimate benchmark, even the most successful men can feel quietly unfulfilled. The Unguarded Warrior Men’s Retreat is a new kind of wellness retreat, designed for high performers who appear to have it all, apart from internal peace.

Taking place at The Croft Farm Escape in Hertfordshire this September, the immersive three-day experience invites men to remove the armour of titles, pressure and expectation, and reconnect with their most authentic selves. Combining breathwork, honest conversation, nature immersion and proven mindset tools, the retreat offers a powerful reset. It’s not about switching off, but tuning in and moving beyond the external to uncover lasting clarity, presence, and purpose.

Guided by the wonderful James O’Keefe, founder of Unguarded Warrior, the programme is crafted to create real change – not just offering a break from life, but presenting a deeper way to live it – book your place now. The retreat runs from 5–7 September at The Croft Farm Escape in Hertfordshire (thecroftfarmescape.com).

For more details, and to book, see unguardedwarrior.com

James’ retreats are about bringing men together in a safe space

ON FASHION PENELOPE CHILVERS

A personal quest for the perfect boot led Penelope to launch her eponymous footwear brand, motivated by a desire to create beautifully made footwear to be loved and worn forever

Tell us about how you came to launch your label

I was a painter originally, and later moved into interiors and fashion. I was always drawn to the tactile and the handmade, to colour and heritage, and to stories woven through craft. While living in Barcelona, I used to enjoy horse riding in the Collserola Park. Unable to find the perfect riding boots, I decided to commission a talented artisan – who had made boots for famous bullfighters and Hollywood film stars in the seventies – to create dream boots made to my measurements. When I came back to London all my friends wanted to order some; I started to work on creating a mini collection of six new equestrian inspired boot styles with the artisan. That was the beginning of the brand.

They proved so popular, in 2002 I took a space at a trade show during Paris Fashion Week and was thrilled by the response. I sold the collection to stores all over the world, taking orders on the back of an envelope, with no order book and no time to run out and buy one! I opened my first shop in 2004 in Notting Hill, which quickly became a destination for customers looking for beautifully crafted, timeless footwear with a strong sense of individuality and provenance.

We truly are a cross-generational brand, with celebrity fans ranging from rock stars to royalty. Alexa Chung was frequently spotted wearing our velvet slippers in the front row during London Fashion Week, and I’m thrilled to be championing this silhouette with a new range for AW25. Other celebrity fans include the Princess of Wales,

Rihanna, Sienna Miller, Jodie Comer, and Cate Blanchett, to name just a few.

My ambassadors are all intelligent, dynamic women who are always on the go. I still get a thrill whenever I see someone wearing my designs, whether walking down the street or waiting in the airport security queue. It was especially exciting to see Kelly Reilly, who plays Beth Dutton in one of my favourite series, Yellowstone, wearing our Lucia Rociera boots on the show, while Kathryn Kelly, who plays Emily, is a fan of our horse-bit clogs.

There are now five Penelope shops in the UK. Last year we opened our first country store, in Stow on the Wold in the Cotswolds, and you can also find us in Notting Hill, on Duke Street in Mayfair, plus Elizabeth Street and the King’s Road.

What’s your brand philosophy?

My philosophy is simple but deeply rooted: to create timeless, beautifully made footwear that people fall in love with and wear forever. We design with purpose – every detail considered, every material thoughtfully chosen. We champion tradition, but always with a spirit of curiosity and contemporary relevance.

Comfort and longevity are just as important to me as beauty and design. I always say our shoes should feel as good as they look, and ideally become more ‘you’ with every wear. I like to think our pieces are for people who have a sense of individuality – who are drawn to quality and authenticity and enjoy expressing themselves through what they wear.

What inspires your collections?

I’m endlessly inspired by travel, craft, and the natural world. My collections often start with a place or a person – someone who embodies a certain spirit, someone curious, expressive, and attuned to beauty in the everyday.

I also draw a lot from history, particularly female trailblazers – artists, adventurers, rebels. For example, our AW25 collection is inspired by the Bloomsbury Group. I was fascinated by their experimental spirit, radical thinking, rule breaking and adventure loving spirit.

And then, of course there’s Spain, which will always be central to what we do. It’s where all of our footwear is still made – by hand, using traditional techniques by a small family run business – and where so many of my original inspirations began.

What do you see as being the big trends in footwear this summer?

There’s definitely a return to joy and colour in fashion generally, and I think you’ll see

that in footwear too. We’re seeing a revival of embellishment – braiding, embroidery and unexpected contrast. People want pieces that feel expressive and mood-lifting, but still practical.

Comfort continues to be key – but it’s become more sophisticated. Think cushioned footbeds, flexible soles, and lightweight materials – but applied to styles that still feel elevated. I’d say the perfect summer shoe is one that takes you from beach to gallery to rooftop drinks.

We’re also noticing a strong demand for artisanal details – shoes that feel hand-touched and storied. That might be a handwoven espadrille, the ‘sun-salutation’ embroidered cowboy boot, or one of our woven leather sliders.

Tell us about your latest collection

Our latest collection takes a spirited approach to summer dressing – it is light, playful and informed by travel. We’ve introduced new takes on classics, from our leather sandals with whipstitch details to embroidered satin espadrilles in navy or rose.

There’s always a strong undercurrent of craft throughout our collections; you’ll see intricate stitching, woven jute soles and handembroidered details.

How do you want people wearing a pair of your shoes to feel?

I want them to feel like the best version of themselves – comfortable, confident, and completely at ease. There’s no more flattering look than someone who walks into a room and feels grounded in their own skin.

Our shoes are designed to move with you – to fit your life, whether that’s walking the dog, hosting friends in the garden, or dashing through an airport. I love that our customers tell us they’ve had their Penelope Chilvers boots for ten years or more, that they’ve taken them everywhere and they’re still going strong. Ultimately, I think our footwear connects with people on an emotional level. It’s not about chasing trends – it’s about finding something that really reflects who you are.

Is there anyone you’d really love to see wearing one of your designs?

Honestly, I get the biggest thrill when I spot someone in our shoes in an unexpected moment – at a train station, in a little café, or walking through a garden. That’s the real magic. And of course, we’ve been very fortunate to have had the support of the Princess of Wales over the years. She’s worn our boots on royal visits and in her everyday life, which speaks volumes about their practicality and appeal.

Combining contemporary, fashion-led design with enduring style and traditional craftsmanship, Penelope Chilvers produces timeless, made-to-last pieces that work seamlessly with each season’s trends

How do you ensure sustainability?

It has always been in our DNA – long before it became a buzzword. For us, it starts with making things well, using natural, responsibly sourced materials, and ensuring that our shoes are made in environments where people are respected and craftsmanship is valued.

We work with family-run factories in Spain and Portugal who share our commitment to slow fashion. Many of our artisans have been with us for over a decade, and their skills are integral to the integrity of the brand. We use vegetabletanned leathers, and natural ﬁbres wherever possible. We’re not perfect – no brand is – but we’re constantly looking for ways to improve and reduce our footprint.

We also believe in educating customers about the beauty of slow fashion. We encourage repairs, we talk about re-wearing and restyling. Longevity is perhaps the most sustainable act of all.

What’s new/next for Penelope Chilvers?

We’re working on expanding our PC Pioneer community – a space for women who are doing remarkable things in the world. Whether they’re artists, gardeners, entrepreneurs, or explorers,

we want to champion those who live life with curiosity and courage. It’s about sharing stories, fostering connection, and shining a light on creative, sustainable living. We’re also looking at deepening our commitment to craft, particularly through more collaborations with artisans globally. Our customers love pieces that feel personal and rare, so we’re responding to that with limited-run collections and more bespoke details. And of course, we’ll continue to evolve thoughtfully – always with one eye on the future, but both feet ﬁrmly grounded in our values. My dream is that our shoes become trusted companions for generations of women to come.

And ﬁnally, we have a new Bloomsbury inspired collection of what I’m calling ‘proper shoes’ launching for AW25 in September. There are ﬁve styles in this androgynous collection, drawn from the archives of our artisan bootmakers in southern Spain using Goodyear welt. They are made using sustainably sourced leather and suede, and featuring intricacies such as punching, broguing, fringing and buckle detailing. penelopechilvers.com

Food & drink / LIFESTYLE

ON THE MENU

Tuck into the latest foodie news from across the Capital

BOOK THIS AL FRESCO DELIGHTS

This summer, afternoon tea at the InterContinental London Park Lane can be enjoyed at the hotel or packed up and taken away for a picnic under the canopies in Hyde Park, bringing together two of our favourite thoroughly British treats. Inspired by the surrounding Royal Parks, and the royal heritage of the hotel, as the site of Queen Elizabeth II’s childhood home, the new afternoon tea features household picnic inspired favourites – think open tuna and soused cucumber sandwiches and venison sausage rolls. A cheese course of Red Leicester, Cheddar, and chive scones, comes accompanied by nettle-wrapped Cornish Yarg and quince, while the sweet options include a plum and frangipane tart inspired by Tudor recipes, summer pudding, and a chocolate biscuit cake encased in an edible wicker basket.

A selection of teas, developed with the East India Company, includes the Elizabeth II, a combination of Rooibos, vanilla and rose petals. Or, for the ultimate luxury, you can add a bottle of Veuve Clicquot, which comes complete with bottle chiller and glasses for outdoor diners.

Steven Gilbert, director of food and beverage, tells us: “The Royal Afternoon Tea brings together two timeless pleasures: the quintessential afternoon tea and the very British ritual of a summer picnic in the park. Whether enjoyed beneath the trees of Hyde Park or within The Wellington Lounge, our culinary team has reimagined the classic afternoon tea, with each item inspired by our royal heritage and presented in a wicker hamper.”

WINE

A delectable new pairing

Hampshire winery Hattingley Valley and luxury chauffeur service Blacklane are offering the perfect pairing when it comes to summer sipping. As part of Blacklane’s growing City-to-Vineyard collection, the new collaboration will allow wine lovers to book a bespoke tour and tasting at Hattingley Valley, with their return Blacklane journey included in the package – you can expect a journey that is as smooth as the pour. Located in Hampshire, a two-hour drive from central London, Hattingley Valley has won international accolades for its world-class wines, sustainability, and innovative approach to wine making. A bespoke tour allows the vineyard team to curate packages designed around each

guest’s individual areas of interest, featuring tastings of favourites such as Blanc de Blancs, Kings Cuvée and the English Gent. Luxury travel is provided in the highest specification vehicles, by professional chauffeurs, meaning guests can really make the most of the tastings, without worrying about driving home afterwards. And with plenty of space in the boot for bottles, magnums and cases of wine, there are no limitations when it comes to stocking up on your favourite drops.

Prices for a bespoke Hattingley Valley wine tasting and tour, including a return Blacklane journey by private chauffeur between central London and the winery, from £630 for two.

To book, see hattingleyvalley.com/ pages/hattingley-valley-x-blacklane

The tea is available daily and priced at £70 per person or £96 with unlimited Champagne in the Wellington Lounge (£39 per person when taken away into Hyde Park).

InterContinental London Park Lane, 1 Park Lane, W1J (parklane.intercontinental.com)

NEW OPENING Arabian Nights

Inspired by the traditions of the Arabian Peninsula and the Levant, Noreen has just opened in Marylebone. Championing a fresh, refined approach to ingredient-led cooking, the new St. Christopher’s Place restaurant draws on the culinary traditions and traditional flavours of the region, reinterpreting them for the modern day.

Heading the kitchen team is Mehdi Hani, formerly head chef at Harrods, who has called on his Lebanese and Syrian heritage to design a vibrant Middle Eastern menu that takes its flavours and provenance seriously. Think mezzes to share, freshly baked flatbreads from the Tannour oven served with delicious dips, fire-kissed meats from the Minqala grill, and slowcooked dishes that are packed with authentic flavours.

A considered wine list is complemented by a cocktail menu that has been curated with help from the renowned Mr Lyan Studio and offers playful takes on classic flavours combined with Noreen’s signature ingredients. The traditional distilled spirit, Arak, is honoured throughout the menu, as well as modern twists on Middle Eastern staple ingredients, like hibiscus, tahini and black lime.

Creating an oasis in the centre of the Capital, interiors, too, are equally rooted in the region – a soothing palette of neutral, earthy tones is combined with signature tadelakt curved walls and handcrafted bone inlay tables, reflecting the detailed artistry of Syrian and Lebanese craftsmen. With a capacity of 60 across the dining room and bar, and an extra 20 covers on the sun-soaked terrace, it’s the perfect spot for long lunches with family, sunset terrace drinks with friends and romantic date nights with loved ones.

28-32 St. Christopher’s Place, W1U (020 3006 0010; noreen-london.com)

A vibrant Middle Eastern menu is on offer at Noreen, in St. Christopher’s Place

REVIEW

Belmond British Pullman

With enticing menus celebrating the culinary highlights of the towns and cities it passes through, the Belmond British Pullman serves up British fare with an innovative twist, not to mention an unforgettable helping of golden age glamour

Words by Becky Pomfret

Every so often, when I travel from Victoria station, I spot the Belmond British Pullman train. With the tables in its luxurious carriages laid up with crisp linen cloths and sparkling silver and glassware, it is an utterly beguiling sight – a world away from the scruffy commuter train I am usually squashed onto.

With mum’s 80th birthday approaching, my siblings and I decide that experiences are more important than gifts, and book tickets for a round-trip to Bath as a birthday treat. Recalling the golden age of British railways, it promises to be the ultimate gourmet getaway, with a delicious three-course brunch served on the outbound journey, then time to explore Bath before a Champagne reception on the return to the train, followed by a gourmet four-course dinner accompanied by wine chosen by the sommelier, coffee, tea, and petit fours.

Dressed up in suitably smart attire, we excitedly arrive at the station, where the train is already standing at the platform. A live jazz band is playing, and we are met with a glass of sherry

by our friendly steward, Rocco, who shows us to our private compartment in Perseus. Each of the beautifully restored vintage carriages has its own story, and Perseus, we are told, was built in 1938 and had the honour of carrying Winston Churchill’s body to his funeral in 1965.

Inside, exquisitely polished burr marquetry lines the walls, copper luggage racks gleam and the sumptuous armchairs are upholstered in beautiful heritage fabric. There are freshly cut flowers on the table, which has been laid ready for brunch, with fine bone china and silver cutlery that gleams in the light of the vintage table lamp. Coffee and a three-course brunch await, but first, a bellini, made with fresh fruit puree and ice-cold prosecco; we can’t help feeling a little smug as we pull out of the station.

All food served on the train is cooked in the on-board kitchen – this is truly fine dining to rival the best London restaurants. Chef Jon Freeman joined the British Pullman team nearly two decades ago, falling in love with the challenges of cooking incredible produce on a moving train. The irresistible brunch

menu features flaky, freshly baked pastries; homemade granola with fresh berries, whipped yoghurt and tangerine syrup; and smoked salmon royale served with caviar. There’s even hand rolled truffles to accompany the coffee that follows.

Everything is so perfect that we naturally find ourselves overindulging, and a small walk afterwards is necessary to work off the excesses. As we walk up the train, we “ooh” and “aah” over its elegance; each carriage is different, some art deco in style, others flamboyantly art nouveau. Though the types of wood used, the upholstery tones and patterns, and the lighting are varied, each carriage has one thing in common – everything is as much a feast for the eyes as our brunch was for the taste buds.

We arrive in Bath and it’s the first visit for all of us, so we take a slow wander around the city, heading up to the Royal Crescent and then to the Jane Austen Centre situated in a beautiful Georgian building. 2025 marks the 250th anniversary of Jane Austen’s birth, so it’s a great time to visit, and the timetable allows plenty of time to explore.

Back at the station, a special tannoy announcement lets us know that our train is arriving. Smug levels are once again at record levels, and as we settle back into our comfy armchairs with a chilled glass of Veuve Clicquot, Mum tells us that this is the best day of her life – it is about to get better, though.

A gourmet four-course dinner is next, but not before our Champagne is topped up and a chilled bottle of rosé arrives. British Pullman sources all meats and seafood locally, as part of their sustainable future policy, and the quality is evident. Dish after delicious dish is presented to us: Cornish hake, rump of Kent lamb, a seasonal cheese selection and a glazed lemon

Chef Jon Freeman joined the Pullman team nearly two decades ago, falling in love with the challenges of cooking incredible produce on a moving train

tart. Everything tastes sensational, and the presentation and service are immaculate; this is fine dining as we have never experienced it before.

Indeed, the whole experience sets the bar so high that it will likely ruin all future travel plans. Even the bathrooms (think mosaic tiles, fresh flowers and heavenly scented hand cream) rival any you’d find in a five-star hotel. We don’t want this journey to ever end.

As we approach the London suburbs, chief steward Keith pops by for a chat, and as he tops up our wine, he tells us about his love for the Pullman. He and the staff see themselves as custodians of a legacy, a moving museum that is steeped in history. The carriages each cost around £3 million to renovate and restore. One of them, Rainbow, was burnt down by a neglected cigar, but re-born as Phoenix – it is said to have been a favourite car of the late Queen Mother.

After we reluctantly disembark at Victoria, the train chugs off, returning to its home, south of Battersea Power Station. I imagine Keith and his team lovingly tucking the carriages in for the night, giving them the care and respect they truly deserve. It has been a day of fabulous dining and unforgettable memories; we just need another milestone birthday or big celebration as an excuse to try out the Sunday lunch round trip to Kent, or maybe a gastronomic evening onboard with Michelin-starred Indian chef Atul Kochhar – the options are many and irresistible.

Prices for the round trip to Bath start from £560 per person. For more information or to book, see belmond.com

Luxury Lifestyle Management & Concierge Services | www.usgc.vip

Spotlight on / TRAVEL

THE BEST OF: CRETE

With amazing beaches, charming fishing villages and ancient sites, Greece’s largest island offers the perfect holiday mix

Domes of Elounda

In a beachfront location, overlooking the islet of Spinalonga, this is part of the Domes group, which was named World’s Leading Resort Brand 2024 by the World Travel Awards.

The architecture pairs tradition with experimental modernity. Accommodation, in terracotta toned buildings, is spread throughout beautiful hillside gardens; domed roofs lend the resort a Moorish feel and reference its name.

All suites and villas boast outside space with jacuzzi or plunge pool.

Interiors are decorated in an earthy palette, and embellished with wooden furniture, local pottery, and woven traditional basket art.

Five signature restaurants and three bars, each with its distinct culinary identity and atmosphere, serve up a range of gourmet dining options, all rooted in the rich culinary tradition of the Cretan land.

Children are positively welcomed here, with special menus offered in the various restaurants, and a selection of thoughtful familyfriendly in-room amenities. And Terra Kids Camp by KIDOT offers Montessori style fitness, cooking, craft and play sessions run by Ofsted approved practitioners, affording parents some well-deserved me time at the adults-only pool or wellequipped Soma Spa or fitness centre. domesresorts.com/domesofelounda

CAYO Exclusive Resort & Spa

CAYO is amongst a handful of ultra luxurious resorts in Elounda’s Mirabello Bay. Nestled in the quaint village of Plaka, the hotel boasts a private area on Plaka Beach.

Designed with privacy in mind, the stone buildings blend seamlessly into the mountainous landscape. Whether you choose a spacious suite or an expansive two or threebedroom villa, almost all feature a private plunge pool. And all offer sweeping views. Scattered across the resort, the accommodation is linked by two funicular railways with floor-to-ceiling windows offering even more incredible views.

The beautiful interiors take their inspiration from the island, combining local history and craftsmanship with custom-made furnishings and a cool, neutral colour palette.

Wellbeing is a focus here and the expansive facilities at the Armonia Spa feature a large indoor pool, a steam room, a sauna, a Hammam, a hair salon, and a nail bar. Restorative treatments are offered in atmospheric candle-lit rooms.

There are four gastronomic restaurants here, with menus designed by chef Lefteris Lazarou, the first Greek chef to be awarded a Michelin Star. Ambrosia restaurant serves breakfast on its shaded sea view terrace, and a nightly dinner buffet; lunches are served in poolside restaurant Sage & Thyme; while Stone Beach offers taverna-style dining by the shore; and Kelari is CAYO’s dazzling gourmet restaurant. cayoresort.com

Acro Suites

Perched above Mononaftis Bay is this adults-only, five-star boutique hotel. Here, the focus is on wellbeing, and guests are promised a holiday that rejuvenates mind, body and spirit.

The name is derived from the ancient Greek word akros or akron, meaning ‘peak’, which, considering the cliff-edge setting, feels entirely appropriate. Giving the impression of being carved into the rock (indeed, some of the cave-like suites actually are), the hotel has been designed to blend seamlessly into the landscape.

There are 49 rooms, including three villas and suites in six categories, all boasting panoramic views and plunge pools. Inside, the aesthetic is minimalist and organic, incorporating a neutral colour palette, and natural materials like reclaimed wood, stone, and marble.

The wellness space, The Bath House, includes a Byzantine Hammam, a dry sauna, and treatment rooms offering massage and therapies that embrace the notions of purification, renewal, and serenity. A yoga shala with cavernous bamboo roof overlooks the sea.

The culinary offering celebrates Crete’s rich gastronomic heritage and saw Acro Suites awarded a Michelin key last year. At Cremnos, modern Greek cuisine is crafted from locally sourced ingredients; an innovative fusion of Japanese and Peruvian flavours is served up in Umi; authentic Cretan dining amongst the olive groves is on offer at Elaionas; and at Caléa by Michelin-starred chef Gerardo Metta, Mediterranean flavours meet Italian elegance. acrosuites.com

For the most envy inducing Instagram holiday shots, opt to stay in one of Acro’s stunning Cave Suites

A world of fun

Denmark’s most childfriendly city is the ultimate family holiday spot, as we discover over two joy-filled days in the home of LEGO

Words by Liz Skone James

“How lovely, Denmark is beautiful,” people exclaim when I tell them that we will be spending four days of the school holidays in the Scandinavian country. It is invariably followed by enthusiastic recommendations of places to visit and things to do. I nod and smile, reluctant to reveal just how little of the country we will actually be seeing. Two days at a friend’s wedding are to be followed by two days in Billund, the home of LEGO; it is just one of those holiday sacrifices that comes with being a parent, I remind myself…

Describing itself as Denmark’s Capital of Children, in 2020, Billund became the first Danish city to become a UNICEF Child Friendly City, one of almost 1,000 cities in 50 countries. It was here, in 1932, that carpenter Ole Kirk Christiansen founded the LEGO group, and today, around two thirds of Billund’s population of just under 8,000 people are employed by the world-famous toy company, be that at the company headquarters, the factory or at one of the various LEGO attractions.

LEGO is evidently life here: at the airport we discover intricate sculptures in the baggage reclaim area, and as we leave, a life-sized character built from bricks greets us in the arrivals hall, holding a ‘welcome to Billund’ sign. It is a taste of things to come – at Hotel LEGOLAND, we step into a fantastical children’s wonderland. In the foyer, steps lead up to a treehouse held aloft by a huge LEGO dragon, and a LEGO wall allows guests to get creative

Known as the home of the brick, the LEGO House boasts 12,000 sq m of interactive play zones and exhibits

© LEGO® House with bricks. In our room – which looks out over the original LEGOLAND theme park – the walls and ceiling are adorned with huge replica bricks and everywhere is decorated in a palette of eyepopping primary colours. The kids are in heaven; it might not be the understated boutique luxury I usually prefer, but I have to agree that there is simple joy in this aesthetic.

Everyone is a winner come dinnertime in the Panorama restaurant. The youngsters are delighted by the kid-friendly buffet, polishing off a couple of plates and disappearing to the adjacent playroom – complete with Nintendo Switches –before our à la carte starters have even arrived, leaving us free to enjoy a grown-up dinner in peace.

LEGOLAND might be on the doorstep, literally, but the next day dawns rainy, so we decide to save the theme park for tomorrow. Instead, we head to LEGO House, where we are promised the ultimate LEGO experience. Billund is only small, and the walk into the Old Town, marked out by a colourful route on the pavement, is short, even for little legs. And the LEGO House is easy to ﬁnd when we get there – built to look like 21 giant bricks stacked on top of one another, it is certainly a landmark.

Known as the home of the brick, the LEGO House boasts 12,000 sq m of interactive play zones and exhibits, not to mention 25 million LEGO bricks. We’re all issued with wristbands; featuring a unique QR code, we’re told they’ll allow us to record our adventures and creations here at the various cameras dotted throughout the building, with the photos and videos available to download when we get back home.

It’s hard to know where to start describing what we discover inside, but know that we utter the word ‘wow’ more times than we can count. Some of those 25 million bricks have been used to build things – a breathtaking 15-metre-tall tree created from 6,316,611 bricks reaches up through the main stairwell, waterfalls cascade down walls, and we discover intricate worlds that reveal ever quirkier details every time we look at them. And in the Masterpiece Gallery, there is a display of mind-

blowingly creative models built by AFOLs (adult LEGO fans, for the uninitiated), with not a kit or an instruction book in sight. The rest of the bricks are there to be played with – as part of various activities, or in huge troughs in the red zone that inspire children and adults alike to get creative.

In the green zone we choose hairstyles, accessories and props, and create miniﬁgures, using the computers there to capture them for the cover of a magazine. It is fun, but better still is shooting our own stop motion movie, giggling as our poor LEGO movie stars come to a soggy end after their boat dramatically explodes.

In the blue zone, we build racing cars, cheering as we let them zoom down racecourses. Noting which features make the cars go faster, and which cause them to smash into pieces, we return to the bricks to perfect our prototypes. And we test our technical skills with simple coding in a beekeeping task, where we are responsible for guiding LEGO robots to water ﬂowers in a computer-generated garden.

Amazed to discover that it is already 1pm, we head to the Mini Chef restaurant for a lunch like none we have experienced before. We’re given bags of bricks, each size and colour relating to a different item on the menu. Choosing our bricks, we arrange them onto a tray and feed this into a machine at the table which sends our order to the kitchen. The food, when it arrives, is delivered in a brick shaped box that descends a conveyor belt, to be received by two human-sized robots built from LEGO. Jerkily dancing around behind the counter, they wave cheekily, before pushing our boxes across to us. The food is delicious, but it is the experience that will stay long in our memories. Fed and watered, we go back upstairs for more fun with bricks. Spending another couple of hours

creating in the various zones. I particularly like the calm space where we sit and make papercut-like LEGO shapes that we hang from strings across the windows, and afterwards, I spend half an hour making LEGO blooms to plant in the yellow zone’s ﬂower meadow. It is surprisingly meditative. While I do that, the kids create ﬁshes that are brought to life on screen in a giant computerised aquarium. And we all love learning about the company’s humble beginnings in the museum downstairs, where I am delighted to point out some of the 1980s sets I owned as a child. There really is something for everyone here.

Outside, the sun is now shining, and we race up the steps that traverse the building to discover the various rooftop playgrounds, and ooh and ahh at the views. It has been a day full of surprises.

LEGOLAND itself has much to live up to, and it does not disappoint. The park is small enough to try everything once, and the queues are much more manageable than those in the UK. We scream with joy as we ride the Dragon rollercoaster, get happily soaked on the Canoe log ﬂume, and swoop high above the park on the Flying Eagle. And the kids are delighted to be presented with their own driving licences after a lesson at the Driving School. Having had our ﬁll of thrills, we end the day with a stroll around Miniland, where we discover some of the world’s most famous buildings recreated in miniature using a staggering 20 million bricks. It is a good day, but we have to agree that it does not top yesterday – and that, from a family of theme park lovers, is saying something.

Back home, when people ask about the trip, I’m not ashamed to tell them what our Denmark sightseeing actually entailed. Everything truly is awesome in Billund, as the LEGO folk would say.

DETAILS

Tickets to LEGO House cost £39.23. LEGOLAND Hotel packages, priced from £98 per person, usually include breakfast and tickets to LEGOLAND (legohouse.com; legoland.dk/en)

Scottish soul

Steeped in history and draped in tartan, this discreet townhouse hotel brings a touch of old-world romance and quiet luxury to the heart of the Scottish capital

Words by Penny Clements

You don’t so much arrive in Edinburgh as slip into its story. Especially by train. After four unhurried hours from London King’s Cross –enough time to read a few chapters, drift off to sleep, and munch through some snacks –Waverley Station brings you not to the outskirts, but right into the heart of the city.

In the nearby distance, the castle is waiting, perched high on its volcanic throne, casting a long, knowing gaze over the rooftops. Around it, the Old Town winds and twists, dark closes and steep staircases holding centuries of history tight. Even in the grip of a heatwave, Edinburgh stays cool, wrapped in stone walls and mystery.

Just beyond the sprawl of the Old Town, past the Gothic silhouettes, lies the New Town – Edinburgh’s 18thcentury answer to urban order. Symmetrical, colonnaded, and Neoclassical, this was the city’s Enlightenment-era facelift. Among its elegant streets, tucked discreetly above Princes Street Gardens, sits 100 Princes Street, a handsome townhouse hotel so unassuming that you might conceivably blink and miss it. There’s no grand signage, just a black door trimmed in gold. You’re in, but only if you’re in the know. Stepping inside, I receive a warm Scottish welcome – all tartan-clad staff and low lighting. The tone feels more private club than hotel, which is perhaps unsurprising, since it was once home to the Royal Overseas League – a gathering place for globe-trotting Scots. The building has been reimagined with care and intention, with past and present folded gently into the fabric of the hotel. The interiors tell a quiet story of modern Scottish craftsmanship. Araminta Campbell’s custom-woven textiles wrap the walls in mossy greens and Highland reds. Art is curated not hung, furniture is found not just bought, and the detailed ceilings in the bar subtly mimic

a ship’s hull, a nautical nod to the building’s expeditionary links. Even the air is thoughtful, wreathed in a bespoke scent, created in-house for the portfolio of Red Carnation Hotels. With just 30 rooms, privacy reigns. Mine comes with a private balcony just big enough for two extremely comfortable loungers, which, in the late afternoon sun, prove entirely persuasive. Inside, the palette is deep and warm: velvet cushions, rich woods, soft tartans. A minibar offers elevated Scottish staples, the charging points are located where you’d expect them to be and lighting is designed so you don’t have to fight with it. There are two robes, too – one light and gauzy, one thick and spa-soft, which tells you all you need to know about how seriously comfort is taken here.

A stand-out feature is the mural that climbs the stairwell. Created and hand-painted by London-based artists Croxford and Saunders, it maps the paths of Scottish explorers across deserts, oceans and icy realms. Tiny moments hide in the detail – postage stamps, exotic flora, a penguin eyeing the sky (maybe a wink to the urban legend about Edinburgh Zoo’s

The hotel has been meticulously designed with local artisans commissioned to create custom-made furnishings, fabrics and artworks that are totally unique to 100 Princes Street

The Archibald Suite

The Wallace

penguins tracking planes as they fly overhead). It’s playful, almost conspiratorial – the kind of artwork you end up thinking about days later.

In Ghillie’s Pantry, the heart of the hotel, whisky takes centre stage – over 200 bottles are shelved like old books in a library. My whisky guide is Dario, head bartender for 100 Princes Street. I’m not usually the whisky type, but Dario might just change that. From the soft and easy Lowland Auchentoshan to the smoky depths of Bowmore 15 from Islay, my visit proves an adventure through barrels and time. I arrive a novice and I leave more than quarterconverted, with my favourite dram being Glenmorangie Signet, which is rich and surprisingly smooth, pairing very well with gooey, salty chocolate.

Dinner, served in the same room, is a private and cosy affair. There is no printed menu, instead, the chef delivers what is fresh and available – a ‘taste of Scotland’ menu that leans on seasonality and heritage. Salmon, smoked over applewood from the chef’s own garden, comes paired with a whisper of fennel salt. The haggis – often misunderstood by non Scots – is re-imagined as balanced and surprisingly elegant. A fillet of dry and wet-aged beef comes alongside a miniature pie made from the trimmings. Dessert is a Cranachan millefeuille: layers of cream, toasted oats and raspberries tucked between sheets of impossibly crisp pastry. Breakfast, served in the Wallace Bar, is as relaxed as everything else. There’s no formal booking, you simply arrive. Tables overlook the gardens, the castle sitting stoic in the distance. Fresh fruit, local eggs, perfectly poured coffee: a reminder that sometimes the best luxury is simply being left alone in a beautiful place with a delicious breakfast.

The interiors tell a quiet story of modern Scottish craftsmanship

Later that morning, I join a walking tour arranged through the hotel – one of those thoughtful extras. My guide, Gwen – part historian, part urban folklorist – leads me through hidden closes, gates and low tunnels, pointing out quirks I’d have walked straight past. It is a spellbinding couple of hours and I wish I could spend much longer listening to all of Gwen’s stories about Edinburgh’s historic tapestry, but like all good things, my time in the Scottish capital has come to an end, the spell breaking just a little as I head towards the station.

At 100 Princes Street, you’ll find a richly imagined hotel that speaks to travellers who value place. Design here has depth. Service is sharp but never stiff. It’s one for whisky lovers, design doyens, and Edinburgh returnees who think they’ve seen it all. And if you’re lucky enough to stay in the beautiful Archibald Suite (named after legendary Scottish explorer Archibald Menzies), do pause and raise a glass to him on your way out.

DETAILS

Executive double castle view rooms start from £745 per night for 2 people sharing on a B&B basis. For more information, see 100princes-street.com

Ghillies Pantry

The Wallace

The hand-painted mural by Croxford and Saunders

Charming, stylish hotel in one of London’s most elegant neighbourhoods

Object ofdesire

BUCHANAN STUDIO

OUTDOOR COLLECTION

London’s most playful furniture makers, Buchanan Studio, take their bold aesthetic al fresco with a debut collection designed for outdoor lounging. The pillowlike Studio Chair and Stool are thoughtfully adapted using durable construction techniques and the new Wild Fabric range – a tactile, Italian-woven mix of Studio Stripe and fresh-faced Box Check. A spirited fusion of style and function, made to roam. Stool, £1,995, and Chair, £4,795 (buchanan.studio)

HOUSE STYLE

Art of the ﬁ nd

The Vintage Way is a lesson in quiet curation. In her debut book, Copenhagen-based writer and photographer Sarah Marie Winther opens the doors to 20 characterful Scandinavian homes, each artfully layered with vintage ﬁnds. It’s less about period perfection, more about patina, charm, and a lived-in warmth. With practical advice on sourcing second-hand treasures – from online bidding to breathing new life into a ﬂeamarket chair – this is thoughtful, atmospheric interiors inspo with longevity at its heart.

£30 hardback, published 21 August, Mitchell Beazley (hachette.co.uk)

Contemporary classic

Heritage gets a modern refresh as luxe sofa-in-abox brand Swyft joins forces with the inimitable Morris & Co. The new collection sees Swyft’s sleek seating upholstered in four iconic William Morris prints – from the painterly ﬂorals of Blackthorn to the soft sweep of Pure Willow Boughs. Expect rich texture, calm colour palettes and a meeting of old and new that feels thoroughly considered. This is classic design, reimagined – and ready to assemble in minutes. Model 05 loveseat in Blackthorn Mineral, £1,199 (swyfthome.com)

To the boil

For those who like their tea precisely brewed and their kitchen kit quietly efﬁcient, CASO Design’s new HW 770 Hot Water Dispenser is a discreet countertop upgrade. With ﬁltered water ready in just seven seconds and temperature settings tailored from 40°C to 100°C, it caters to everything from herbal infusions to a quick coffee. The minimalist stainless-steel design, touchscreen controls and generous 2.7l tank bring both form and function to the kitchen worktop.

£149.99 (casodesign.co.uk)

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TRENDS

Handmade heartfelt

Sculptural, soulful and seriously well made – these new collections put craftsmanship back at the heart of contemporary design

Words by Ali Howard

Fired Earth X Nina Campbell

LIVING

GROUNDED BEAUTY

Arighi Bianchi’s latest edit, Postcards from South Africa, is a collection rooted in texture, story and soul, and a timely reminder that the global south is setting the tone for design innovation right now. Far from token gestures or trend-led styling, this collection draws on South Africa’s contemporary design movement – one that blends sustainability with a strong sense of place. Afro-minimalism is the guiding philosophy here, where less-but-better design is shaped by raw natural materials, earthy palettes and heritage craft. There’s a quiet strength in this aesthetic – it’s pared back but never bland, rich in natural tactility and emotional resonance. The collection includes hand-woven baskets, sun-bleached textiles, and sculptural furniture made using ethically sourced woods and hides. But it’s the curation that stands out: these pieces tell a collective story about how design can be grounded in culture and still push things forward. Here, material, craft and story come together in a way that feels both current and considered. arighibianchi.co.uk

SCULPTURAL INSTINCT

Faolchú may be one of the design world’s best-kept secrets, but not for long. With Savoir Beds’ founder as mentor, and collectors that include Oscar and Grammy winners, this British studio is steadily building a cult following for its sculptural, soulstirring furniture. Rooted in a philosophy that lets materials dictate form, Faolchú’s pieces feel both ancient and sharply modern –often drawing on inﬂuences from brutalism, midcentury design and wabi-sabi. Each piece is handmade in the UK using sustainably sourced hardwoods, raw metals and hand-

forged elements that elevate them beyond furniture and into the realm of collectible design. What sets the collection apart is its commitment to authenticity. Whether it’s a monolithic bench, a charred oak cabinet or a live-edge table, the work honours the natural character of each material – knots, cracks, imperfections and all. There’s a purity to the craft that feels deeply intentional, even when the end result looks wild and elemental. Expect primal textures, unexpected details, and a tactile honesty that speaks to a slower, more meaningful way of living. faolchu.com

Artisanal design / INTERIORS

PAINTED LEGACY

When two British design icons come together, the result is naturally going to be elegant – but this latest collaboration between Fired Earth and Nina Campbell goes one better. Drawing on Nina’s travels across India and her personal archive of textiles and interiors, the new tile collection is a love letter to cultural heritage. There’s a softness to these tiles that

feels painterly – unsurprising, given each design is hand-ﬁnished using watercolour techniques. From the serene cartouches of Udaipur to the botanical ﬂourishes of Goa and the naively embroidered motifs of Cochin, the collection is rich in visual storytelling, yet completely usable in the modern home –and it’s all about design that quietly transforms

a space, layering in depth, tactility and a sense of place. The new palette – with soft eucalyptus and taupe hues – works beautifully on its own or as a backdrop to the more decorative designs. What’s really clever is how this collection manages to feel heritage and contemporary all at once – and timeless in that very British, very Nina way. ﬁredearth.com

MATERIAL GLOW

Waterworks has long been considered a byword for elegance in the bathroom – but with the launch of its new lighting range, the brand is stepping firmly into statement territory. Designed in collaboration with artisan partners across Italy, the five-part collection showcases what happens when you fuse architectural form with impeccable material craft. Here, Murano glass is celebrated, with each diffuser handblown to highlight surface textures, air bubbles and undulations that give every piece its own unique glow. Add to that hand-carved alabaster, richly veined marble, and etched crystal, and you’ve got a suite of lighting that doubles as sculpture. The range balances tradition with innovation: some pieces nod to historical techniques, while others feel sharply modern, with graphic lines and industrial silhouettes. The focus isn’t on brightness for its own sake, but on shaping atmosphere through form and material, anchoring a space, and making a bold design statement. Waterworks’ artisanal lighting brings together craftsmanship and materiality in a way that feels both sculptural and functional – a natural extension of the brand’s refined aesthetic. waterworks.com

CULTURAL THREADS

CasaLatina is not your average homeware brand. With a mission rooted in cultural celebration and ethical production, its collections are a vibrant showcase of Colombian and Venezuelan craftsmanship, told through ceramics, basketry and handcarved tableware. The ceramics offering is a tactile, soulful collection that centres around the Chamba range, made using centuries-old traditions. These are everyday objects that carry extraordinary stories. But more than that, CasaLatina’s strength lies in its ability to bridge cultures – bringing artisan techniques into

contemporary homes without compromising on authenticity. Each piece is crafted by hand, using local materials, by makers who have passed down their skills through generations. The result is a collection that feels deeply human, full of character and made for everyday life. It’s a quietly powerful reminder that beauty isn’t about perfection but about meaning, history and community. Whether you’re drawn to the earthy texture of the black clay cookware or the joyous colour of hand-painted dinner plates, this is a brand that invites you to slow down and savour. casalatina.co.uk

COLUMBAS DRIVE NW3

£6,500,000

A beautifully positioned five-bedroom duplexed apartment (3,700 sq ft/343.7 sq m) situated on theground and first floors of this extremely popular purpose built block backing onto Kenwood. Theadvantage of the layout of this generously sized apartment is that most of the accommodation benefits from the first floor. The well-planned accommodation includes three reception rooms all leading onto the large balcony with magnificent views over the communal gardens, tennis court and a golf practice net.

Columbas Drive is an exclusive development of 14 luxury apartments, approached by a private drive and enjoying a commanding position which overlooks 3.75 acres of landscaped communal grounds, and towards the West End and The City of London. Communal areas, security services and leisure facilities are of the highest standards. The block benefits from 24-hour porterage, and there is secure underground parking for three cars.

AT HOME WITH

Arleana Hodnett

Step inside this calm, textural home where symmetry, natural materials and thoughtful details set the tone

Words by Ali Howard

Photography by Joey Kendal Brown

Turning a tired mid-century house into something elegant, textural and full of country cottage charm isn’t exactly a weekend job – especially when you’re taking it back to brick. But that’s exactly what Arleana Hodnett has pulled off. A registered nurse and aesthetician turned interiors enthusiast, she’s transformed a dated and disjointed property into a quietly luxurious family home with a knowing nod to Georgian design – symmetry, flow, and all.

“We bought this run-down 1960s house in need of a full remodelling, extension and renovation,” she explains. “We based the renovation on Georgian-inspired houses as I love the way they flow, their practicality and their symmetry.” Impressively, the footprint has doubled, every internal wall came down, and what stands now is a light-filled four-bedroom property that feels both grown-up and familyproof. Arleana shares her home with husband Nick and their one-year-old daughter, Gladys.

The scale of the work wasn’t for the fainthearted – think full rewire, oil to gas conversion, and major structural interventions that had them wishing they’d just knocked the whole thing down. “Trying to keep one or two existing walls required so much steel and manpower and probably cost us more money in the long run,” Arleana reflects. “One thing I wish we did was build from scratch.” Hindsight, as they say, is a wonderful thing.

That said, the result is a home that feels totally intentional. There’s a calmness that runs throughout – all soft neutrals, earthy textures and warm metals – but it’s never flat. “I’m not brave when it comes to colour,” Arleana admits, “but I love a neutral palette of creams and mixing materials such as wood and brass. I wanted to keep a traditional feel that wouldn’t date for years to come.”

It’s this subtle layering of texture that brings a sense of warmth to every space. Natural stone flooring runs throughout the ground floor, laid in a pattern that feels classic without tipping into fussy. “Our Dijon herringbone limestone tiles from Quorn Stone are a particular favourite feature of mine,” Arleana says. “I love the warmth and texture they bring alongside natural materials that look and feel luxurious.”

The kitchen and adjoining utility room are where this approach really comes together. There’s oak cabinetry, brushed brass hardware and playful scallop detailing – nods to traditional craftsmanship, but not so serious that they can’t handle a bit of chaos. “We use these rooms the most,” she says. “They’re practical, but also visually beautiful and tastefully fun.”

That balance between form and function runs throughout. The layout is open, with clear sightlines and a natural sense of movement – a deliberate decision to suit modern family life. “With a young family,

the house needed to be practical and functional with an open-plan living space, which is a more modern way of living,” Arleana explains. “However, our aesthetics are traditional and timeless.”

The family bathroom is a particular highlight – and is, in fact, one of Arleana’s favourite design moments. It brings together some of her signature choices: curved shower screens, scalloped ﬁnishes, and a soft mix of natural stone tiles and painted panelling. “Everything complements each other,” she says. “Arched niches and arched shower screens paired with herringbone tiles and shiplap panelling with subtle scallop details… it just works.”

That sense of cohesion across spaces, ﬁnishes and details hasn’t happened by accident. It’s the result of a deliberately slow approach, with each room tackled at its own pace. “Taking our time has really helped,” Arleana conﬁrms. “We haven’t rushed a room and still have spaces to design, including the huge garden task. Doing one room at a time has allowed us to incorporate similar features for cohesion, whilst making the room its own.”

Of course, there are always a few lessons you only learn once the dust has settled. “White grout in the kitchen really doesn’t last,” she admits. “It looks amazing but requires so much cleaning to keep it looking fresh.” Still, in a house where almost every surface has been rethought, it’s a small compromise. What stands out is how carefully resolved the whole place feels – even with spaces still on the to-do list. There’s a quiet conﬁdence to the design, a sense that nothing’s been forced or overly curated. Arleana’s beauty background shows. There’s a real eye for tone and texture, but the ﬁnish isn’t clinical or try-hard. It’s a home that feels ready to grow into, and not just show off on Insta.

For now, it’s a space that’s working beautifully for Arleana and her young family: warm, functional, and quietly stylish. Nothing screams: “look at me!”, but everything has presence. Here, it’s all about balance, calm, and a welcome sense of serenity… And if your biggest design regret is white grout, you’re probably doing something right.

@roseywoodinteriors; mystoneﬂoor.com

ON DESIGN CRISTINA RUGO

Bringing Italian craftsmanship and contemporary flair to life, Greycaine’s creative director redefines outdoor living

Words by Ali Howard

What defines Greycaine’s design philosophy? Our design philosophy is rooted in Italian artistry and inspired by contemporary living. We believe in creating pieces which are beautiful, functional and timeless, created with exceptional craftsmanship and cutting-edge techniques. Being innovative in our design ethos, we strive to supply beautiful pieces that not only elevate the space but also reflect the individuality of the people that live in it.

What’s inspiring you in design right now? I’m inspired by contrast, the juxtaposition of soft organic forms paired with industrial materials, warm woods with cool metals… I’m drawn to the beauty of intricate, handcrafted details, the skill and artistry of traditional techniques, but am equally excited by how technology is helping us reimagine those processes.

You’ve just launched an eye-catching outdoor collection – what inspired the move outside? Outdoor is such an interesting category, and for years it has been slightly overlooked; the market was overcrowded but with similar products, which were functional but not hugely inspiring. Our outdoor collection challenges consumers to really think about their outside space and furnish it as if it were a living room. We’re mixing colours, textures, fabrics, and bold design. Our modular sofas are statement pieces, but also practical as they can be configured for your needs. We’ve added accent chairs, oversized day beds and occasional tables, which together create a beautiful setting for relaxed outdoor living.

What about versatility? The pieces can be tailored to your space, from urban terraces, to balconies and larger gardens, there’s something for everyone, whether an accent chair or the supersized modular sofa. Colour has a huge effect on our mood and the matcha green, paired with soft pink or the deep blues

Greycaine’s Cristina Rugo is driven by a desire to design furniture pieces that resonate with people

and greens are fun. Ultimately, we want to help customers to bring personality and joy into their outdoor spaces, because outdoor living should be expressive and every bit as considered as the indoors.

Tell me about the role of sustainability at Greycaine Our design ethos focuses on permanence and longevity, we’re supplying pieces of furniture which we hope will be used, loved and enjoyed for decades to come. From a practical point of view, we ensure our suppliers and partners share our commitment, we prioritise responsible practices, using sustainably sourced woods, and at our factory we’ve installed two wood waste heaters. They burn the offcuts we produce and they also heat our factories, meaning we have no need for gas or electric alternatives. The heater will work all year round and is fully compliant with the clean air act, without an oil or gas afterburner.

Do you design with longevity in mind – from season to season, space to space? Absolutely –longevity is fundamental to our ethos. We believe good design transcends trends and we want our pieces to evolve with the owner and the space they’re in, to work in different settings and even different homes. Our collections are deliberately versatile, it’s not just about this season’s aesthetic, but pieces to be enjoyed for years to come. For example, our Nefele Cloud sofa is an example of a statement piece, sculptural in design, it’s functional in its form as a sofa but also works as a piece of art within the room.

Our collections are deliberately versatile, it’s not just about this season’s aesthetic

What’s the starting point for any new piece – form, function or feeling? For us, it’s always feeling: how do we want someone to feel when they live with this piece? The emotional response leads the process and from there, we can reﬁne the form and functionality to bring everything to life. Anyone can design a piece of furniture, but we want the pieces to resonate with people.

Which piece from the new collection are you most excited to see styled in the wild? I can’t wait to see the Levente Out, the sorbet pink and matcha green colourways are my favourite, it’s such a happy piece and I’d love to see where it’s placed, and how it’s conﬁgured. The intricate detailing with the contrasting piping, the sculptural backrest, is the epitome of a modern piece of outdoor furniture. The beauty of it is you’re not constrained to a certain conﬁguration so it’s possible to create your own bespoke arrangement. Hopefully, it will make the owner feel as happy about it as I do! greycaine.co.uk

The new outdoor collection introduces vibrant hues, sculptural silhouettes, and luxurious, weatherresistant fabrics that bring the sophistication of interiors outside

OPENING DOORS TO THE FUTURE

Wetherby Preparatory School in central London is an independent day school for boys aged 7 to 13. Known for its exceptional education and pastoral care, the school has a proven track record of instilling in students the leadership, confidence, and global perspectives they need to flourish in a changing world.

www.wetherbyprep.co.uk

A capital education / SCHOOLS

THE HEAD

Dr Ian Gross

Guildhouse School

How long have you been head?

I’ve been a member of the leadership team for CATS Global Schools (CGS) for the past two years. I was initially principal for The Worthgate School, Canterbury and I’m now executive head (interim) for the Guildhouse School, while we recruit and onboard a new permanent headteacher.

What attracted you to the school?

In my previous CGS role, I worked closely with the heads of our sister schools, and I visited Guildhouse on several occasions to support the great work they do. The location of the school, in the heart of London, adds a vibrant dimension

to our incredibly diverse and forward-thinking school community.

How would you sum up the school in a sentence? Guildhouse is an academically ambitious and vibrant boarding school, where we empower students from around the world to think independently, work purposefully, and engage conﬁdently with the global community.

What makes it different?

We provide students with pathways that support their educational ambitions to enter top universities both in the UK and globally. We offer a bespoke university foundation programme that supports their learning, social and emotional

needs to thrive at university. And we actively foster an entrepreneurial spirit.

How do you nurture entrepreneurial passion and talent? We do this through a dynamic, business driven curriculum and hands-on experiences. Students have access to Europe’s only secondary-school Bloomberg Business Lab, where they complete Bloomberg Market Concepts and master real-world ﬁnance. They also engage in business masterclasses and enjoy visits from a wide range of organisations, from ﬁntech start-ups to the Bank of England –all guided by industry leaders.

A highlight, the annual Incubator Challenge, empowers our students to develop, pitch and reﬁne their ventures. Past winners include a plastics-free food delivery service and the BrandFit app. The Creative Commerce Board, made up of entrepreneurs and consultants, then mentors students, bringing their ideas to life beyond the classroom.

How would you describe the atmosphere? When you visit Guildhouse and walk around, you notice the quiet determination to succeed in an atmosphere that’s welcoming and collegiate.

What about your personal educational ethos? I believe in nurturing the whole student through a globally minded, values-driven approach that balances academic excellence with personal development. I also believe in fostering curiosity, character and community, creating a supportive environment where students thrive both intellectually and socially.

How do you balance your extra-curricular activities with the academic side?

We design a timetable that values and balances academic rigour and extra-curricular enrichment. This allows us to encourage students to pursue interests beyond the classroom without compromising their studies. From entrepreneurship and Model UN to art, sport and cultural activities, our co-curricular programme enhances student wellbeing, builds transferable skills and supports their university ambitions.

How else do you look after the wellbeing of your pupils? It’s central to everything we do. We offer personalised pastoral care, small tutor groups and dedicated staff to make sure each student feels safe, supported, heard, understood and able to thrive. Through open dialogue, mental health education and a balanced programme of enrichment, we help students build resilience, conﬁdence and a strong sense of self. Bloomsbury Square, WC1A (01223 341 300; guildhouseschool.com)

Pupils: around 580 pupils aged 7 to 13

Founded: in 1912, by old Millhillian Arthur James Rooker Roberts, in an 18thCentury, previously private house along the Ridgeway Entrance requirements: most pupils join at 11+; occasional places may

be available at other entry points. In each case, the format is: registration, followed by computer-based adaptive assessments in English, maths, verbal reasoning and non-verbal reasoning. Successful candidates will then be invited to an interview, along with a problem-solving

or teamwork activity and a creative writing exercise Destination schools: unsurprisingly, many pupils go on to attend Mill Hill School; other popular destinations include Aldenham School, City of London School, Highgate School and Westminster School

Known for: blending the diversity of the Capital with a semirural location in 40 acres of grounds; high academic standards with a vibrant cocurricular programme; an informal culture of kindness; equipping pupils with the skills they need to succeed in the future, including

ﬁnancial independence and business acumen; being one of the ﬁrst UK schools selected to pilot a ‘Basics of Business’ scheme from the Young Entrepreneurs Academy Fees: from £8,945 per term including VAT Find out more: belmont.millhill.org.uk

SPOTLIGHT ON Mill Hill Prep

A capital education / SCHOOLS

THOUGHT

Let’s get ready to hustle

Recent research shows that young Londoners are an entrepreneurial bunch. Here’s how to encourage and nurture that savviness over the summer holidays

Words by Claire Atherton

If your teen is spending their A-level summer adding affiliate links to their TikTok profile, you’re not alone. Recent research from the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) and Simply Business reveals that 40 per cent of Londoners aged 18 to 34 have a side hustle. That’s compared with 19 per cent in the East Midlands.

Tina McKenzie, policy chair at the FSB, is unsurprised by these findings. “The Capital is home to the largest concentration of higher education institutions in the world, providing support and inspiration to those starting out,” she says. “London has always been a hotbed of entrepreneurial activity, and being surrounded by ambitious professionals and creative industries can inspire young people to explore their own business journey.”

Schools clearly play a vital role in incubating entrepreneurial talent at an earlier age. Yet just 35 per cent of the young people in the same research group report having any exposure to enterprise education at secondary school.

Tina suggests that schools host an entrepreneurship month to help students

understand how businesses work and how to turn ideas into action. But, she says, you can also help nurture these passions at home: “Encourage your child to experiment and be curious. If they’re showing a particular talent or interest, support them to explore ideas and test them out.”

Exactly what this looks like will depend on the age of the child. “For younger children, it could involve creative role play as a business owner, managing pocket money and problem-solving activities,” says Tina. “As they grow, let them try things out and help them develop their plans –including building on failures. Running a business isn’t just about having great ideas; it’s about adapting to reflect what didn’t go well.”

Finally, Tina recommends looking for role models who can provide inspiration, guidance and connections, as well as offer valuable insights about how they built their business. “Find out whether your child’s school holds a careers fair and encourage those running it to contact some local small businesses to take part,” she says. “You can also investigate our local networking events or download the ‘How to start a small business’ guide from FSB’s website and work through it with your child.” fsb.org.uk

Five ways to nurture a budding entrepreneur

If your child is start-up savvy, or you want them to learn skills like budgeting, confidence and creativity, the summer holidays are a great opportunity to sow the seeds. To cultivate a future business leader – and hopefully keep you in Caribbean cruises in retirement – try encouraging them to:

1 Run a microbusiness project. Whether it’s selling homemade biscuits, designing phone cases or offering dog-walking services, help your child to think through the basics. What will they sell, how much will it cost to do or produce, and who might buy it? A few conversations about profit, pricing and customer service will teach them more than any textbook.

Play the investor game. Give your child a hypothetical £50 budget and challenge them to choose between different business ideas. Which would give the best return? What are the risks? Who’s the competition? It’s a practical introduction to concepts like value and opportunity cost.

Create content with purpose. Help your child make a blog or some social media content about something they’re passionate about. Show them how to think about their audience and track engagement. It’s creative, analytical, and it’ll win them Brownie points with their teachers come the autumn term. (Schools love to see ‘digital literacy in action’.)

Let them try things out and help them develop their plans – including building on failures

Turn pocket money into profit. Instead of handing out spending money, give your child a small pot of cash and challenge them to grow it. Could they buy ingredients to bake and sell treats? Invest in materials to make jewellery? The aim is to shift their thinking from spending to seeding.

Host a pitch night. End the summer with a Dragon’s Den-style evening where your child can present their business and share what they’ve learned, judged by a panel of grandparents or neighbours. It builds confidence and communication skills, and everyone gets to celebrate the effort.

Kensington modular double chaise in grey, £2,699 (bridgman.co.uk)

TALKING POINTS

SELLING SUMMER

New

research reveals how listing at the right time can boost your property’s value by thousands

Ask any seasoned seller and they’ll tell you – timing matters. But while we all know to aim for the spring bounce or beat the Christmas lull, new research from Zoopla suggests that when it comes to listing your home, the season might be worth more than you think. In fact, some properties could fetch over £20,000 more simply by playing to the weather.

According to the study, which surveyed over 100 estate agents across the UK, summer is prime time for properties with outdoor appeal. Features such as a south-facing garden, swimming pool, or al fresco entertaining space come into their own under blue skies – with valuations rising accordingly.

Homes with balconies, air conditioning and hot tubs also see their value peak during the warmer months, while houses that tick all the summer lifestyle boxes – garden, pool, entertaining space, cooling – could be worth over £22,000 more if sold now rather than in, say, November.

This, says Zoopla, is driven not only by estate agents’ market predictions, but by buyer behaviour. Nearly half of homeowners admit they were swayed by a property’s seasonal features at the time of purchase. For those who bought in spring or summer, a lush garden or a tempting terrace held powerful appeal, with 65 per cent admitting they paid more for those elements. And the average uplift? A not insigniﬁcant £27,000. It’s no surprise then that timing your listing can be a strategic move – particularly if you’ve invested in garden design, a pool or an outdoor kitchen.

Of course, the pattern flips in winter. Cosy features like a wood-burning fireplace, an Agastyle cooker or underfloor heating take centre stage, with agents noting similar bumps in perceived value when the temperature drops. But right now, with long evenings and garden party season in full swing, it’s the outdoors that does the heavy lifting.

For sellers, the takeaway is simple: think about your home’s seasonal strengths and plan accordingly. Got a sunny balcony and views? Now’s your moment. Tucked-away courtyard perfect for evening drinks? Sell while the daylight’s still on your side.

Half of homeowners admit they were swayed by a property’s seasonal features

For buyers, the inverse applies. If you’ve got your eye on a winter-ready bolthole with a roaring ﬁre and acres of insulation, summer might be your window for a smart deal. Likewise, if you’re house-hunting in August, be aware of how the season might be inﬂuencing your judgement –and your budget.

Ultimately, whether you’re selling a sprawling family home in Hampstead or a compact pied-àterre in the City, knowing when to go to market could make a serious difference to your bottom line. And while we can’t control the weather, we can make the most of it.

zoopla.co.uk

In partnership with

Kensington oval dining table with 8 dining armchairs, £5,499 (bridgman.co.uk)

RHS Hampton Court by Garden House Design

GATED AND GREEN

This secluded Georgian gem offers layered history, leafy gardens and farreaching views across the Capital

Frognal has a romantic presence that speaks for itself. Set behind private gates in the heart of Hampstead Village, this six-bedroomed Georgian home spans more than 4,300 sq ft, with a southfacing garden, a roof terrace with panoramic skyline views and off-street parking for up to seven cars – a rare combination in this part of London.

Grade II-listed and originally built as three townhouses in the early 18th century, the property boasts a rich backstory. It was once a pub, later home to prima ballerina Tamara Karsavina –commemorated with a blue plaque – and more recently owned by Sting. Today, it feels effortlessly residential, wrapped in foliage and set well back from the road, offering a sense of calm and seclusion that’s hard to come by.

Grade II-listed and originally built as three townhouses in the early 18th century, the property boasts a rich backstory

Inside, period features are met with a thoughtful layout designed for contemporary living. There’s a formal drawing room and separate dining space, a sleek kitchen opening into a glass-roofed conservatory, and a second kitchen tucked into what was once the coach house – now reimagined as a generous entertaining space.

Upstairs, the principal suite stretches across the full width of the house, with its own dressing room, bathroom and study. There are five further bedrooms, three additional bathrooms, and a rooftop terrace that opens up to long, uninterrupted views across the Capital.

Offered to the market for the first time in over 35 years, Frognal is a true one-off – rich in character, big on space, and beautifully placed in one of Hampstead’s most sought-after corners. £11.95 million, Savills (020 7472 5011; savills.com)

PROPERTY / Dream homes

ON THE MARKET

We take a peek inside some of the finest properties on the market in Prime London this month

Redington Road, NW3

With over 4,000 sq ft of space and a 104 ft private garden, this well proportioned apartment feels more like a house. Set across the ground and lower-ground floors of a detached period property, it comes with its own entrance and parking for up to eight cars on the carriage driveway. Inside, a wide hallway leads to a grand drawing room, formal dining space and kitchen opening onto a full-width terrace. There are three bedrooms, including a generous principal suite with direct garden access, plus a second reception and utility area below. Quiet, green and impressively scaled, it’s a rare Hampstead find.

£7.5 million, TK International (020 7794 8700; t-k.co.uk)

Muswell Hill Road, N6

Light-filled and expansive, this ground-floor apartment is set within a prestigious 1930s mansion block. Measuring around 1,225 sq ft, it features three double bedrooms, two shower rooms and a reception room that opens onto beautifully landscaped communal gardens. A grand entrance lobby sets the tone before you reach a modern fitted kitchen and a reception space framed by high ceilings. Added perks include off street parking (on a first come, first served basis), a separate storage cupboard and entryphone access. Moments from Highgate station and opposite Highgate Woods, the flat balances village calm with versatile urban living. £1.1 million, Benham & Reeves (020 8341 2335; benhams.co.uk)

Albany Street, NW1

Tucked behind Regent’s Park, this five-storey townhouse has had a smart redesign courtesy of Sixty3 London. Inside, it’s all clean lines, high ceilings and soft, tonal finishes – with over 3,200 sq ft to play with across five to six bedrooms and four bathrooms. There’s a wine cellar, underfloor heating and plenty of living space that flows across the floors. You also get access to the private gardens at Park Square and Park Crescent – a rare bit of green calm. And with Marylebone, Camden and Primrose Hill all close by, the location feels both tucked away and totally connected. £3.495 million, Knight Frank (020 7483 8343; knightfrank.com)

A SMOOTH SUMMER MOVE

Take the heat out of relocating with Pickfords Gold – a fully managed service from start to ﬁnish

There’s something about August that makes everything feel slightly up in the air. Holiday mode is still in full swing, the start of term is lurking around the corner, and if you’re planning a house move, there’s an extra layer of logistics to juggle. The last thing anyone wants – between uniform shopping, navigating childcare and returning to inboxes – is to spend the end of summer knee-deep in clutter.

Enter Pickfords Gold, the premium home moving service designed to take the pressure off, just when you need it most. This isn’t your average removals experience – it’s a tailored, end-to-end offering that feels more like a concierge service than a moving day scramble. Think planning, packing, logistics and settling-in support, all under the watch of a dedicated Move Manager.

From the ﬁrst consultation, it’s all highly personal. Your Move Consultant works with you to pin down every detail, whether it’s arranging access, sourcing storage, or timing everything to ﬁt seamlessly around your family schedule.

On the day, the Gold team arrives prepped and ready. Every item is expertly packed – bespoke

materials for art and antiques, wardrobe cartons for clothes, secure wrapping for furniture – and delivered to your new home with precision. But where Pickfords Gold really shines is in the unpacking – it’s not just boxes in rooms; furniture is placed thoughtfully, cartons are unpacked to benchtop level, and additional settling-in help is available so your ﬁrst morning is calm, not chaotic.

If you’re someone who thrives on ticking off a checklist (and we salute you), Pickfords Gold will complement your organisation skills beautifully. They’ll work around your timelines – whether you’re six weeks out and starting to declutter or three weeks away and knee-deep in change-ofaddress forms. And for those who haven’t had time to prep? They’ve got you covered, too. For families moving ahead of the new school year, this kind of support is invaluable. Whether you’re relocating across town or heading further aﬁeld, there’s reassurance in knowing the practicalities are being handled. No misplaced uniforms. No last-minute IKEA runs. Just a home that’s ready to live in from the moment you arrive. Beyond the physical move, Pickfords Gold

can also support with additional services – picture hanging, curtain ﬁtting, even arranging for your old property to be cleaned and cleared. It’s this attention to detail that sets it apart, making it an ideal solution for those balancing busy work lives, summer holidays, and the return to school routines.

With almost 400 years of experience and a network that spans the UK and beyond, Pickfords has long been a trusted name in removals. The Gold service is their most comprehensive offering yet – and for August movers, it could be the difference between a frantic summer and a smooth transition into the new term.

Contact Pickfords Gold on 020 3188 2544 or gold@pickfords.com (pickfordsgold.co.uk)

Located in W2 - a short stroll from Hyde Park and Paddington mainline station. A well-proportioned, freehold modern mews house, with bifolding doors giving access to the courtyard garden, flexible accommodation offering three bedrooms, three bathrooms and a fabulous master suite, with dressing area / walk-in wardrobe.

Gloucester Mews West is a quaint cobbled mews located north of Hyde Park, and about equidistant between Notting Hill to the West, and Marylebone to the East. It is ideally placed for St. Mary’s Hospital, which is about half a mile to the Northeast. The property is also well served for transport links including Lancaster Gate (Central Line), National Rail (Paddington), Heathrow Express and the Elizabeth line.

| Freehold | Service Charge: Nil | Ground Rent: Nil | Council Tax Band: G

HYDE PARK | 020 7467 5770

Email: crosling@winkworth.co.uk, paddington@winkworth.co.uk

GLOUCESTER MEWS WEST, BAYSWATER, W2, GUIDE PRICE: £1,625,000 OFFICES IN LONDON, THE COUNTRY AND OVERSEAS. SEE THINGS DIFFERENTLY

www.winkworth.co.uk/paddington-bayswater

020 7435 3344

HAMPSTEAD VILLAGE, NW3

A period house brimming with charm, located in this historic enclave dating back to the sixteenth century, although previously known as Goulding’s Yard it was probably named after the well renowned Goulding family who owned the road for many years. From 1831 it is reported to have changed name in the record books to Golden Yard. This particular property is situated on the corner of the yard, thus benefiting from lovely aspects over the cobbled street, Holly Bush Steps and Heath Street. Tucked away in this tranquil mews this delightful home is arranged over three floors with flexible and attractive accommodation it also features a private south facing roof terrace and is within a 50 metres of Hampstead tube and 5 metres from the shops and facilities of the ‘Village’.

15-17 Avenue Road

St John’s Wood, NW8

Unfurnished

Rental Price Range:

£500 - £4,135 per week

Sole Letting Agent

An outstanding brand new luxury gated development of eight apartments located at the southern end of one of London’s most prestigious roads, only moments from Regent’s Park.

Accommodation and Amenities

Comfort Cooling, Communal Lift, Private Outdoor Space, Secure Off-Street Gated Parking. EPC: D.

67–71 Park Road London NW1 6XU 020 7724 4724 astonchase.com

The building provides a selection of lateral apartments ranging from 1–3 bedrooms, offering prospective tenants sophisticated accommodation benefitting from private external space and secure off-street parking. The property is ideally situated for the local amenities of St John’s Wood High Street (0.3 miles), Primrose Hill (0.3 miles) and Regent’s Park (0.1 miles) where one can find an abundance of shops, cafés, restaurants and open green spaces.

DUNSTABLE MEWS, MARYLEBONE VILLAGE, LONDON W1G

A delightful 2 bedroom mews house located in the heart of the Marylebone Village with the rarity of a private garage and garden.

The ground floor features a secure garage with electric doors and open-plan kitchen and dining area, which leads to a secluded garden. A modern spiral staircase leads upstairs to a bright and spacious reception room stretching across the full width of the house, along with two double bedrooms and shower room. Immaculately presented throughout, this charming home is tucked away on a quiet cobbled mews in the very heart of Marylebone Village. Ideally situated, Dunstable Mews is just moments from the restaurants, boutiques of Marylebone High Street as well as the green spaces of Regent’s Park.

LEASEHOLD

£1,395,000

WIMPOLE MEWS, MARYLEBONE VILLAGE, LONDON W1G

The accommodation comprises of an open plan kitchen/reception room, shower room, utility cupboard with separate washer and dryer, the master bedroom, two double bedrooms and a family bathroom.

Wimpole Mews is situated in an enviable location, in the heart of Marylebone Village, and within easy walking distance to Marylebone High Street. Bond Street and Oxford Circus Underground Stations together with access to the A40/M40 are within close proximity. The open spaces of Regents Park are also nearby. The building benefits from a live-in caretaker, communal heating and hot water system.

UNFURNISHED

£1,800 PER WEEK

More than a move

Est.1646

Contact Pickfords Gold:

0203 188 2544

gold@pickfords.com

www.pickfords.co.uk/gold

Pickfords Gold sets a higher standard for both domestic and international moving in and around the heart of London, offering a comprehensive range of services to ensure a seamless transition to your new home.

From meticulous packing of your belongings to specialised handling of antiques, fine art and high-value items, our expertise caters to the unique needs of discerning homeowners.

Our dedicated on-site move executive acts as your personal representative throughout the process, overseeing every detail to provide peace of mind.

Additionally, our white glove home makers service goes beyond the move itself, offering bed-making, kitchen setup and wardrobe organisation to make your new house feel like home.

Fully bespoke and tailored to suit owners of homes of distinction, Pickfords Gold ensures that every aspect of your move is handled with the utmost care and professionalism.