Home & Lifestyle issue 30

NOVEMBER & DECEMBER 2013 ISSUE 30

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Innovative ECO-PRODUCTS

Vintage View OF SHABBY CHIC

Radiant Fireplaces WITH A NATURAL FEEL

Fashionable Fabrics Cutting-Edge Kitchens AND UPLIFTING TABLEWARE

DÉCOR n DESIGN n OUTDOOR LIVING n LEISURE n HEALTH n BEAUTY n STYLE n CUISINE Cover HL30 OK.indd 1

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CONTENTS

NOVEMBER & DECEMBER 2013

N E W S & EVENTS 12

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Round-up of business, charity, cultural and other general items of interest Festive review of inaugurations, anniversaries and celebrations

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44 36 100

D E S I G N & DÉCOR 20 26 30 36 40 44 56 64 66 68 70 72 74 78 74 84 86 88 90

Christmas gift ideas: fun, functional and funky Glorious green: eco projects from around the world Vintage view: shabby chic through the looking glass Fabulous fabrics: autumnal tones with an earthy feel Heavenly heat: new era of sleek and clean fireplaces Kitchens: colourful, eco-friendly and high-tech Tableware: uplifting style for fine dining Maison & Objet: inspirational energy Decorex: silken innovation London Design Festival: creative hub Time-honoured tradition in ceramics Bespoke creations for eclectic interiors Majestic elegance in Sotogrande Beachfront luxury on “New Golden Mile” Garden trends… and living off the land Concept cars: potent and captivating Mountain rail trip down memory lane Picturesque panorama in Barcelona Winter getaways with a difference

G O U R M E T CUISINE 92 94 96 98

Enchanting décor and Argentinean passion Creative experience for modern-day foodies Stress-free Christmas… and DeVito Limoncello Wine notes: talent supported by “angels”

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F A S H I O N , HEALTH, BEAUTY… and CULTURE 100 Hoss Intropia: vibrant winter romance 102 Timeless Rimmel history with Kate Moss 104 Makeover: luxury treatment for competition winner 106 Medical minutes: benefits of coffee and pumpkins 108 Vibrant art, colourful theatre… and music bytes 112 The final word: specialist advice from the experts

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REAL ESTATE CONCEPT WITH A LIFESTYLE APPROACH

WHAT IS YOUR LIVING PHILOSOPHY?

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YOUR PROPERTY BUYING AGENT

Are you seeking the good life on the Costa del Sol?

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MARKETING & SELLING YOUR PROPERTY

Based on clients living philosophy, we find, create and design

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INTERIOR DESIGN & PROJECT MANAGEMENT

beautiful homes.

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PROJECT BRANDING & SALES MANAGEMENT

See how CARTMANI brings a new edge to real estate and interior

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REAL ESTATE MARKETING

design www.cartmani.com

T+34 951-319-896

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CARTMANI 2013©

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Advertise in

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ISSUE 30 NOVEMBER & DECEMBER 2013

PUBLISHER

Sally Cullens. Mobile: (+34) 622 400 055 sally@homeandlifestyle.es

EDITOR

Peter Leonard peter@homeandlifestyle.es

SALES EXECUTIVES

Trevor Impett (Freelance) Mobile: (+34) 633 918 706 Timothy Kafourous

LAYOUT & PRODUCTION

Pilar Anguita pilar@homeandlifestyle.es

ACCOUNTS DIRECTOR

David Jaster david@homeandlifestyle.es

Administration & Translation

Pamela Sauca-Hunt pamela@homeandlifestyle.es

Contributors

David Contreras, Michel Cruz, Alex George, Ana Gil Peña, Bashir Habbal, Clodagh and Dick Handscombe, Beatrice S. de Perlac, Carolina Salem, Juan Pedro Sacedon, John Schieszer, Stephen Tiley

Costa del SOl DISTRIBUTION

Pedro Castillo

Gibraltar Distribution

Mark Anthony Portelli

COVER PHOTO

Tableware 2013 collection from Christian Lacroix: www.christian-lacroix.com / www.vistaalegreatlantis.com

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

David Toms, Gary Edwards, Johnny Gates, Roman Iacaruso, Aleksandra Olejnik, Steve Sparrow, Miriam Van Praagh, Getty Images, ImageNet

published by

Spectrum Publicaciones SLU Centro Comercial Diana Blq 3 Local 27 y 28. Urb. Nueva Atalaya Estepona 29680, Málaga. T: (+34) 952 905 000

BI-911-08

Depósito Legal

The publisher makes every effort to ensure that the magazine’s contents are correct, but cannot accept responsibility for the effects of errors or omissions.

Home & Lifestyle Magazine reserves the right to refuse to publish any advertisement deemed detrimental to the best interests of the community or that is in questionable taste. Home & Lifestyle Magazine cannot accept responsibility for the claims, goods or services of advertisers. The views and opinions expressed by contributors in Home & Lifestyle Magazine do not necessarily reflect the views of the editor or the publisher. Products and prices mentioned are subject to change without prior notice. No part of this magazine may be reproduced or copied in any way without the prior written consent of Spectrum Publicaciones S.L.U. Home & Lifestyle Magazine is delivered every month to homes and businesses on the Costa del Sol, from Málaga to Gibraltar. Subscription rates are 15 euros per year.

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VIEW THE LATEST MAGAZINE AND BACK ISSUES ONLINE Same content, same design available to view immediately by anyone, anywhere, anytime.

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Call us today on (+34) 952 905 000 or email info@homeandlifestyle.es

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In & Outdoor Furniture · Appliances · Decoration Mobiliario de interior y exterior · Decoración · Electrodomesticos CASARES COSTA Autovía A-7 km 146 Casares Costa

MANILVA Avd. de Manilva, Edif. Plaza Sabinillas

SOTOGRANDE Avenida de los Canos, 46 Pueblo Nuevo de Guadiaro

ATENCIÓN AL CLIENTE T. 902 211 111 - 952 890 586 www.mueblesgavira.com

C A S A R E S

C O S T A

www.mueblesgavira.es

Mallorca-based company 2nd Chance creates furniture and accessories from materials recycled using “upcycling” techniques… www.2ndchance.es

ABOUT THE COVER Tableware 2013 collection from Christian Lacroix: www.christian-lacroix.com www.vistaalegreatlantis.com

FROM THE EDITOR > The term “upcycling was first attributed to German engineer Reiner Pilz. In an interview in 1994, he said, “Recycling, I call it downcycling. They smash bricks; they smash everything. What we need is upcycling – where old products are given more value, not less.”

That may have been a rather harsh verdict about recycling, but he did make a valid point: “downcycling” is, in effect, the “other half” of the recycling process – essentially the conversion of materials and products into new materials of a lesser quality.

Nevertheless, whatever our view about the nuances of eco-friendly products, and the favoured road map towards a greener world for future generations, every effort and initiative – no matter how seemingly insignificant – is admirable, be it separating waste in the home or transforming a hotel into a state-of-the-art model of sustainability.

This issue we are pleased to introduce a new regular feature on environmentally friendly products and projects from around the globe, ranging from natural pebble for swimming pool surrounds in Spain to festive decorations made from driftwood in Australia.

We always welcome feedback, so let us know if you have come across an item or idea that tickles your own “green-minded” fancy, or – as a business – are committed to an innovative recycling initiative, be it “upcycling” or “downcycling”.

Elsewhere in our “Boutique Trends” section, we look at another increasingly popular development in home décor, shabby (or vintage) chic, highlight the earthy tones of autumnal fabrics, admire the sleek and pure lines of contemporary fireplaces and suggest some novel ideas for Christmas and Los Reyes gifts – as well as stepping into the fascinating world of cutting-edge kitchens and elegant tableware.

We hope you enjoy a restive, pleasurable and fulfilling Christmas, and we look forward to rejoining you in what we trust will be a less harrowing new year for the many people struggling with economic

January-February 2014 Issue Published 1 January to 28 February March-April 2014 Issue Published 1 March to 30 April May-June 2014 Issue Published 1 May to 30 June July-August 2014 Issue Published 1 July to 31 August

adversity in 2013.

Peter Leonard

HOME & LIFESTYLE magazine can be found in over 900 key points along the coast from Málaga to Gibraltar Including Golf Clubs, Restaurants and Clubs, Hotels, International Schools, International Clubs and Associations, Medical Practices, Beauty Salons, Spas, Fitness Centres, Lawyers and Accountants, Urbanisations, Furniture and Interior Design Shops

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HOME & LIFESTYLE Magazine PUBLISHING DATES

September-October 2014 Issue Published 1 September to 31 October November-December 2014 Issue Published 1 November to 31 December HOME & LIFESTYLE Magazine welcomes original article contributions from our advertisers. Articles can be submitted in Word or PDF. Photos should be high-resolution large-format JPEG images with a minimum resolution of 300 dpi. Architectural and interior design clients may remain anonymous. Submit articles to: Peter Leonard: editorial@homeandlifestyle.es

www.homeandlifestyle.es << view the magazine online >>

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Main Showroom

Av. Juan Carlos I Nº 67 Estepona, Málaga Spain T: (0034) 952 92 92 73 · F: (0034) 952 90 62 55 E.: info@tiarafurniture.com www.tiarafurniture.com

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Branch - Agrojardin

CN 340 Exit 164 Parque Antena, Estepona Málaga T .(0034) 952 79 62 31 · F- (0034) 952 79 41 04 E.: info@agrojardin.com www.agrojardin.com

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News & Events >

ROUND-UP OF BUSINESS, CHARITY, CULTURAL AND OTHER GENERAL ITEMS OF INTEREST FROM THE COSTA DEL SOL, GIBRALTAR, BALEARICS… AND FURTHER AFIELD

COSMO BEACH MARBELLA

Stunning New Luxury Development by the Sea Cosmo Beach Marbella are holding a series of events to promote their new development on the “New Golden Mile”, including an inauguration party and presentation for real estate agents held in conjunction with Home & Lifestyle Magazine on 4 November.

Recently acquired by Real Capital Solutions Spain, the low-density development comprises 53 luxury apartments set over five floors and ranging from penthouses with private access to the unique rooftop infinity pool to ground floor units with private garden areas.

For more detailed information check out the “Property Showcase” feature this issue (P.78-79).

Cosmo Beach Marbella: Avenida El Pirata, Estepona Tel. (+34) 952 799 191 / www.cosmobeachmarbella.com TIARA FURNITURE

Experiencing the Handcraft and Soft Elegance of Indonesia

Launched in Marbella in 2001 and recently moved to Estepona, Tiara Furniture has a unique and exclusive collection of furniture and ornaments for the home and garden imported directly from Bali, Indosia.

All tables, chairs, consoles, carved benches, Balinese beds, Buddhas and gazebos are made of solid tropical woods based on sustainable afforestation. In their latest collection, stainless steel has been combined with marble, glass and teak wood to create original and stunning pieces that cannot be found anywhere else.

Tiara Furniture main showroom: Avda. Juan Carlos I, num. 67. Estepona Tel. (+34) 952 929 273 / info@tiarafurniture.com / www.tiarafurniture.com Agrojardin branch: Parque Antena, Estepona Tel. (+34) 952 796 231 / info@agrojardin.com / www.agrojardin.com

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Ideal Furniture has teamed up with Beds of Sweden to offer high-quality beds. Each bed is individually signed by a IDEAL FURNITURE & BEDS OF SWEDEN craftsman, and a 20-year guarantee against breakage to the springs and frames is provided. On their adjustable beds, a five-year guarantee on the motorised parts is also offered.

Ideal Furniture, based in the industrial estate in San Pedro de Alcántara, has a wide variety of furniture pieces to furnish the entire home at great-value prices. They have also been specialising in Ideal furniture: Pol. Ind. San Pedro. Tel. (+34) 951 853 123 complete home furniture packages for over 10 years along the Costa del Sol. www.idealfurniturespain.com Clients can buy online or visit them at one of their showrooms: open Monday Beds of Sweden. C.C. Calahonda. Tel. (+34) 952 939 377 to Friday 10am to 7pm and Saturday 10am to 2pm (except for national holidays). www.bedsofsweden.es

Special Collaboration to Provide Premium Beds

DAMP TECH SPAIN

Creating More Living Space

Basement Living and Damp Tech Spain are celebrating over 10 years on the Costa del Sol, with a total of 35 years experience in the construction industry. A family business, they offer an invaluable service in the preservation of your home and the creation of new living spaces.

If you need more room and want to save the expense of moving, they recommend converting an underground space or basement that is full of junk – or needs digging out. This is an excellent way to create a new bedroom, bathroom, playroom, office or study. As they say, “You don’t have to live with damp of any type or lack of living space!”

Damp Tech Spain: Tel. (+34) 952 804 834 / 616 872 951 info@damptechspain.com www.damptechspain.com / www.basementlivingspain.com

COSTA WOMEN

Special Kind of Caring for Cudeca Hospice

Members of Costa Women visited the Cudeca Cancer Care Hospice in October to present a charity book in aid of their “Special Kind of Caring”. Proceeds from “Diversity Meets Creativity” – which is made up of stories, thoughts, images and pictures and is on sale online as an e-book from Amazon.co.uk (£2.93) as well as in a paperback version (€7.99) – are for the sole benefit of Cudeca.

Costa Women: www.costawomen.ning.com Cudeca www.cudeca.org HOMEANDLIFESTYLE.ES

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News & Events >

ARCOS SP

Top Cooling and Heating System for New Day Properties As a Marbella developer renovating existing villas in top locations to a contemporary style, and incorporating the latest materials and technologies, New Day Properties chooses the best heating and cooling systems on the market. NDP owner Carsten Hallas is personally involved in every stage of the process and, in his search for the best quality, he encountered a Dutch-Spanish company, Arcos SP, which in 2006 started selling and installing under-floor heating and cooling in Spain – as well as installing air-conditioning systems in luxurious villas on the Costa del Sol. Arcos SP owner Roger Matthijsen was not satisfied with this situation. “It seemed ridiculous for people buying an expensive house to have to operate two separate systems (floor heating/cooling and air-con) in order to ensure a nice environment. It made more sense to have just one single integrated system where the temperature could be adjusted as desired.”

With this in mind, Roger arranged for a Dutch company specialising in climate

HOGAR BETANIA

Christmas Campaign to Support Needy Families Hogar Betania, a charitable association in La Línea de la Concepción (near Gibraltar), has launched a Christmas campaign to help refurbish 40 rooms in a building donated by the local town hall. With La Línea particularly hard-hit by the economic crisis – unemployment is reportedly at 40 per cent, and there are serious indicators of infant malnutrition and an increasing incidence of female poverty – the association has had to widen its range of assistance, which includes day care, beds and food parcels.

Supporters are being asked to sponsor a bauble for the Hogar Betania tree.

One bauble pays for the complete refurbishment of one room: €50 per month (12 months) or €600 (one payment).

Hogar Betania: Tel. (+34) 956 172 380 / 626 826 866 www.hogarbetania.es / English contact: originals@originalsinteriors.com

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control systems –Webeasy – to develop the Arcosconfort System. Arcosconfort has, therefore, been specially designed for houses on the Spanish coast.

The system came with some extras. To ensure that floor heating/cooling and air heating/cooling worked seamlessly together, a computer had to be installed.

This computer can be connected to the internet, making it possible to monitor and adjust the heating/cooling system from anywhere in the world.

Carsten came across the Arcosconfort system and immediately noticed that it could be expanded to a complete home automation system. Realising this was an extra feature that further improved Arcosconfort, Roger started working with Carsten to create a tailor-made home automation system.

NDP’s latest project should be ready by the end of the year, and it will incorporate a state-of-the-art heating and cooling system, with a basic home automation package, which could even be expanded further if the new owner so desires. www.arcos.nl / www.newdayproperties.eu

ROCHE BOBOIS

Anniversary Celebrations at Marbella Luxury Décor Showroom

Roche Bobois group president Gilles Bonan and store manager Cecile Peyrard welcomed guests to an elegant afternoon of celebrations to mark the Marbella showroom’s 30th anniversary.

Established in Paris five decades ago, Roche Bobois opened its first Spanish store in Barcelona in 1974, followed by Valencia, then Marbella in 1983.

Today, the company is recognised as a world leader and trend-setter in high-end furniture, launching two new collections each year and working with top international designers.

Roche Bobois Marbella: Tel. (+34) 952 777 858 / marbella@roche-bobois.com www.roche-bobois.com

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DIRECT AUCTIONS Medina de Banús

Guide Price: €295,000 Bank Valuation €445,000 Stylish 3 Bed Aparments. Luxury Living Just Moments from Puerto Banús. Available January 2014. Apply to the Viewing Waitlist Now!

Alhaurín de la Torre

Alozaina

Rutic 3 Bed Finca. Idyllic Country Lifestyle.

Close to Urban Amenities. Ref: 2542 Guide Price €45,000 Bank Valuation €180,000

Reformed 3 Bed House. Authentic Andalusian Village Life.

Ref: 2600 Guide Price €130,000 Bank Valuation €320,000

www.direct-auctions.com

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International Property Auctioneers

Delightful 2 bedroom first floor apartment in El Elfar, Sierra Blanca.

VALUATION €295,000 SOLD FOR €215,000 REF : 2806

A well-maintained 3 bedroom apartment in Aldea Blanca VALUATION €465,000 SOLD FOR €375,000 REF : 2810

An outstanding 2 bedroom apartment in Locrimar VALUATION €220,000 SOLD FOR €115,000 REF: 2421

5th floor penthouse in the heart of Nueva Andalucia VALUATION €179,995 SOLD FOR €102,000 REF : 2417

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LOT 5 GUIDE PRICE: €295,000

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LOT 4 GUIDE PRICE: €102,500

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LOT 14 GUIDE PRICE: €115,000

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LOT 3 GUIDE PRICE: €320,000

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LOT 1 GUIDE PRICE: €165,000

Fantastic 2 bedroom apartment in the ever popular Les Belvederes.

VALUATION €500,000 SOLD FOR €389,000 REF : 2428

Celebrating 10 Years of Spanish Success ‘I found the Direct Auctions website whilst surfing the internet and completed an enquiry form. I didn’t hear for a while but when I did I received a call from one of their Directors, Warrick Wincup. After a telephone conversation and a little bit of research I decided to take a chance and put our apartment up for auction with them, despite having no references or any insight as to their efficiency.

“Direct Auctions surprised us with just how quickly they worked to target and brought us a buyer for our penthouse near Centro Plaza, Nueva Andalucia. We had the property on the market with an agent in the development and another just down the street for over a year that were unable to get us any offers, but Direct Auctions successfully sold for the price we wanted within 8 weeks.”

I have been incredibly impressed with the way they operate. I have found them responsive and very open and honest, keeping me updated throughout the listing process, through the auction process and beyond as they worked with bidders to try and enhance the offers.

Mr & Mrs Doyle

Of most importance to me, despite warnings to the contrary from others in their business, I found them honest and focused totally on my interests.

“I gave Direct Auctions a collection of 4 properties between Estepona and Tarifa to sell. They were able to sell 3 of the 4 properties and although the last property is still for sale, I would not consider using anybody else, as they are the only company that I trust to give me an accurate valuation and charge me a fair commission.”

Mr Deakin

They also achieved a better final outcome than others thought was possible.

I would certainly deal with them again and would recommend anyone thinking of selling their property to do so.’

“Absolutely delighted with the professional and personal service!

Would recommend Direct Auctions to anybody looking to sell in Spain.”

Mitchel Lenson

Mr & Mrs Mahoney

Our new online auctions offer even more savings for sellers!

Now list any property for just €850 plus 2.5% commision - save €1000´s on sales fees!

New listings wanted - for a free no obligation auction quote contact our qualified team today!

office@direct-auctions.com · marbellawest@direct-auctions.com

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News & Events >

IT MIGHT NOW BE AUTUMN, WITH WINTER LOOMING, BUT THE COSTA DEL SOL REMAINS A HIVE OF FESTIVE ACTIVITY AT THIS TIME OF THE YEAR, WITH BUSINESS INAUGURATIONS, SPECIAL ANNIVERSARIES, AND A WIDE AND VARIED ARRAY OF GENERAL CELEBRATIONS… OCEAN CLINIC

Anniversary Milestone with a Generous Spirit Ocean Clinic’s fifth anniversary celebrations included a raffle in support of a worthy cause close to the heart of plastic surgery consultant Dr. Kai O. Kaye – as well as the traditional Marbella summer cocktail of drinks, food and music by the sea. A total of €3,000 was raised for a trip by Dr. Kaye to offer reconstructive surgery to people in Cuzco (Peru). www.oceanclinic.net

Photos: www.marbellaplus.com

PORCELANOSA

Glamorous Celebrations at Revamped Showroom Spanish top model Oriol Elcacho and Tamara Falcó (daughter of Isabel Preysler and the Marques of Griñon) were the stars of a lavish cocktail party at Porcelanosa in Marbella to officially unveil the store’s renovated décor. Opened in 1991, the Marbella showroom has become a standardbearer for interior design and decoration on the Costa del Sol. www.porcelanosagrupo.com

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LUCAS FOX

Barcelona Holiday Home for Stones’ Ronnie Wood Rolling Stones guitarist Ronnie Wood has bought the entire floor of a listed building in the centre of Barcelona city for a new holiday home. Wood started house-hunting in Cataluña in March, assisted by Andrada Camelia, a sales executive with luxury real estate agency Lucas Fox. His newly-purchased property will be renovated by Barcelona interior designer Jaime Beristain, with a brief to include an artist’s studio. In October, Wood (66) and his 34-year-old theatre producer wife, Sally Humphreys, joined other guests at a party to mark the opening of the Lucas Fox Property Lounge at its central Barcelona headquarters. www.lucasfox.com BALTUS LIFESTYLE

New Collection Presented at Marbella Showroom Designer Javier Muriel welcomed guests to the new Baltus showroom in Marbella in conjunction with the presentation of the high-end furniture and interior design company’s latest collection. Originally established in Spain, and with its own factory headquartered in Murcia, Baltus has experienced rapid expansion throughout the world, with major stores in Miami, Panamá, Santo Domingo and Antwerp, as well as Madrid and Marbella. www.baltuscollection.com

MONEYCORP

NIKKI BEACH

Anniversary Celebrations in La Cala Season Concludes with Exuberant Red Party Nikki Beach ended its first decade in Marbella with a typically lavish, redthemed closing party attended by 1,500 revellers. Local guests from the crème de la crème of Costa del Sol society joined international visitors for a long afternoon and evening of live music, DJs, dancers, fairytale characters, classic sweet trays, a shower of confetti, exotic cocktails, superb cuisine… and copious quantities of champagne, much of it sprayed over the multitude. www.nikkibeach.com (Photos: Gary Edwards)

More than 120 partners and clients were invited to a relaxed and enjoyable anniversary “do” held by Moneycorp to celebrate 12 months in the company’s La Cala de Mijas office. Among those presiding over the celebrations were London CEO Mark Horgan, executive director (corporate foreign exchange) Andrew Woolley and regional manager Steve Tiley. www.moneycorp.com/spain HOMEANDLIFESTYLE.ES

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BOUTIQUE TRENDS >

Cool Gifts

FROM GADGETS AND GARMENTS TO TOYS AND TRINKETS (FOR ADULTS, CHILDREN… AND PETS), IN THIS SPECIAL SECTION FOR CHRISTMAS (AND, FOR THOSE OF US IN SPAIN, LOS REYES ON 6 JANUARY) WE FEATURE A BROAD AND DIVERSE SELECTION OF GIFT IDEAS… FUN, FUNCTIONAL AND FUNKY. 1

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1-3.- Carrera y Carrera pays tribute to the purebred Andalucian horse as the protagonist of its Ecuestre collection: www.carreraycarrera.com 4.- With production of the cult classic camper van ceasing at the end of the year, Volkswagen has a range of gift ideas to provide a little nostalgia for happy campers, including this ceramic money box: www.volkswagen-accessories.com 5.- Slovenian designer Nika Zupanc reinterprets the look of the 1960s Citroën DS with Konstantin B, a small, sleek sit-on car for children: www.mbandf.com 6.- The BMW M3 Baby Racer is TÜV-certified and suitable for children between 18 months and three years, with a smooth ride that is easy on floors and ears alike: www.bmw-shop.com 7.- Luxurious and chic, this wine cooler, crafted from polished pewter, has a conical shape that hugs the shape of the bottle: www.luxdeco.com

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4 1.- Perhaps one for serious feline lovers (or kaleidoscope enthusiasts) only, the Spectacular Psychedelic Cat Sweater: www.firebox.com 2.- This women’s split neck jumper from a French label is made in a blend of wool, alpaga and acrylic: www.thenauticalcompany.com 3-4 .- Perfect for stepping out in style during the festive season…stud dangling earrings, bracelet, ring and necklace: www.konplott.com 5.- This innovative website enables you to design your dog bed and watch it take shape in front of your eyes, allowing you to experiment with fabric and shape choices: www.kipdogbeds.co.uk 6.- Described as “the first automatic handbag light in the world”, the recyclable SOI helps woman struggling to find their keys in the depths of their handbag: www.optocoonline.com

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1.- A practical device for motorists who want to combat “crash for cash” fraud claims, this “dash-cam” records the view through the windscreen and captures events before, during and after a collision: www.halfords.com 2.- Automotive industry charity BEN’s themed cards are valued for their artistic, and collectible, value, including this Richard Wheatland design commemorating Aston Martin’s 100th anniversary: www.ben.admiralcharitycards.org 3.- Seconds after plugging in the USB Fridge, the cold plate chills to the perfect temperature for keeping your beverage (or chocolate bar) cool: www.thegreatgiftcompany.com 4.- For budding 007s, an app-controlled wireless spy tank operated from iPhone or iPad, featuring a camera with real-time imagery that records videos and high-resolution photos: www. thegreatgiftcompany.com 5.- A design must for the contemporary home, the Y1.1 Touch is the original illy espresso-only machine: www.espressocrazy.com 6.- Combining 50 years of classic rock heritage with a spacious drinks refrigerator, the Marshall Fridge is a must for getting amped in tour man-cavern: www.firebox.com

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Elegant Allure of Timeless Gifts WATCHES STOPPED BEING MERE TIMEPIECES EONS AGO: FOR DEDICATED CONTEMPORARY TREND-SETTERS, TODAY THEY ARE A STATE-OF-THE-ART FASHION STATEMENT, A MULTIPURPOSE GADGET… AND, AT THIS TIME OF THE YEAR, A HIGHLY COVETED CHRISTMAS GIFT!

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1. Precious Seduction A bold spark of red across the face of the dial enhances the Ulysse Nardon Royal Ruby’s fiery beauty, while also revealing its complex flying tourbillon mechanism. The limited edition (99 pieces) handcrafted watch is lightweight in appearance and set with 12 rubies distinguishing the hours, accompanied by 48 diamonds. www.ulysse-nardin.com 2. Miniaturised Masterpiece The Antikythera mechanism is considered to be the first “astronomical calculator” in the history of humanity, dating to the second century BC and discovered in Greek waters in 1901. Last year the original remains of the ship, treasure and mechanism were exhibited in Athens, and now Hublot have presented their own simplified tribute version, the Antikythera SunMoon watch. www.hublot.com

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3. Sparkling Femininity A rare creation combining high jewellery and fine watchmaking, the GirardPerregaux Cat’s Eye is made with rose gold, mother-of-pearl and 1,000 snowset diamonds, fitted with an alligator strap and show-set deployant buckle, and comprises a manual winding movement made of 177 component parts. www.girard-perregaux.com 4. Easygoing Balance Described as the first and only watch in the world to operate at 7,200 beats per hour (or just one hertz), with all the qualities of a fine precision timepiece, the Slow Runner represents Antoine Martin’s commitment to large dimensions and longevity – “taking mechanical watch lovers back to essentials”. www.antoinemartin.ch HOMEANDLIFESTYLE.ES

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BOUTIQUE TRENDS >

Kitchen Gifts

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FOR CULINARY PLEASURE

And finally… it might not always seem particularly imaginative to choose a kitchen appliance or product as a Christmas gift but dedicated foodies will enjoy receiving these table pieces and gadgets with a difference.

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1.- Malvern Stripe kitchen textiles add a cosy country charm to the Christmas kitchen: www.ochreandocre.com 2.- Ideal for draining vegetables or pasta when you’re cooking for one, these Bright Mini Colanders are also a funky dinner party accessory: www.tch.net 3.- The Aqua Zinger blender mechanism works by subtly infusing water with natural flavours: www.thegreatgiftcompany.com 4.- Pizza lovers will be delighted to receive the Eva Solo stainless steel cutter: www.dreamicons.com 5.- Beautifully painted on ceramic and never seen before in salt and pepper shaker form, Salvador & Pablo: www.hunkydoryhome.co.uk 6.- The Haro Siphon is a classic way to brew a clean and delicious cup of coffee: www.hario.co.uk 7.- Playing three famous melodies from Verdi operas, the Al Dente timer sings when the pasta is ready: www.optocoonline.com

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architecture and project management 路 new build and remodelling designing homes not showhouses 路 building quality not quantity 路 making your dreams a reality edificio guadiaro. pueblo nuevo, sotogrande. 956 796 651. www.mclundie.com

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Boutique Trends >

Glorious Green A commitment to sustainability and environmentally friendly principles infuses just about every aspect of contemporary living, and leading the way is the design and décor industry. In the first edition of this special new “green” section, we take a look at significant, cutting-edge and imaginative eco projects and products from around the world.

Mosaico+’s eco-friendly products include the Area25 and Crono collections made using sintered glass chips, which are obtained by grinding and hot-compressing powdered glass from recycled glass-based products.… www.fabioluciani.com

The wooden furniture lines available from Mobius Living add authentic rustic charm to the home… www.mobius-living.co.uk

Designers Monica Corser and Bernie Kudernatsch, from Byron Bay in Australia, transform old tyres into furniture, featuring a “great colour range”: they come in black, black and black! In addition to comfort, the furniture is also exceptionally durable. (“It takes 30,000 years for a tyre to decompose.”)…www.retyredfurniture.com

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Furnish Spain showcase an extensive and diverse range of furniture and accessories at their online store, including rustic eco-chic pieces that add a stylish touch to the home without breaking the budget… www.furnishspain.com

Known for a collection of high-quality upcycled furniture, Little Tree Furniture’s range is both original and quirky. As founder Neil Buckley-Jensen notes, “Reclaimed materials are great for a cool industrial style – every home needs furniture so why not make it interesting! A variation in materials and styles creates an eclectic feel that is perfect for an urban setting… Vintage looking upcycled furniture can be blended in with any contemporary pieces for a shabby-chic look… Opt for painted furniture with a distressed finish for a charming country classic décor. This creates a fresh, positive vibe throughout the home.”… www.littletreefurniture.co.uk

Based on the Atherton Tableland in Queensland, Woodsong Fine Furniture make custom-designed pieces fashioned from locally grown salvaged timbers… woodsongfinefurniture.com.au

This season’s take on raw and rustic style is all about getting back to basics for Gong, including their Rope Dome pendant ceiling light… www.gong.co.uk HOMEANDLIFESTYLE.ES

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Boutique Trends >

Natural pebble is becoming extremely popular as a pure product that provides a natural and practical way to create beautiful swimming pools – with an economic use of the earth’s natural resources. Pebbletec, a natural product supplied by Atlas Pools on the Costa del Sol, is slip-resistant as well as being ecologically sound… www.atlaspools.eu

Alhambra Home & Garden’s rugs and runners are made from soft recycled cotton… www.alhambrahome.co.uk

Modish Living have introduced their first blanket box to the Bremnes range, a trunk that is handmade from 150-year-old reclaimed wood… www.modishliving.co.uk

Krejci produce a collection of bags and accessories made out of recycled bicycle inner tubes…www.krejci.fr

At Eco Chic, they “love making creative use of all things unloved and washed up, so what better use of Australian driftwood than to create some fabulous festive decorations for a delightfully coastal Christmas”. www.ecochic.com.au

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LIGHTING PROJECTS Specialists in decorative, technical and commercial lighting

Workshop and Showroom: C/ Uranio 29, Pol Ind.La Ermita. 29603 Marbella. Telf.: 952 82 16 45 proyectos@direco.es 路 www.direcolighting.es

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Boutique Trends >

Vintage View

THROUGH THE LOOKING GLASS

Rimadesio sliding door system… available in Marbella from www.gunnitrentino.es

Until recently, most home-owners keen to stay abreast of latest trends would have been inclined to fit a contemporary mirror in the bathroom – as well as in other focal areas around the house. Not so much any more.

Today older, and even antique, designs are in vogue and in greater demand, with shabby (or vintage) chic mirrors now a must-have.

They can range from curlicue and brocade to a regular-shaped, more simple frame – though the key is to maintain its peeled paint look intact for the most impressive effect.

Mirrored coffee table with drawers: www.blackshawinteriordesign.com This trend has gained popularity in conjunction with a growing preference for general vintage designs, as we seek a more welcoming and cosy feel, not only to the bathroom, but also throughout the rest of the home.

Rustic eco-chic mirrors are just some of the extensive and diverse range of furniture pieces and accessories showcased by Furnish Spain at their online store… www.furnishspain.com

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Featuring a soft matt white/ivory finish with intentional distressing to the frame, this attractive wall mirror suits any shabby chic settingâ&#x20AC;Ś from www.ayersandgraces.com

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UK-based Home Kandiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s range of shabby chic vintage furniture and home accessories includes dressing tables and Rococo mirrors, for the home, salon or shop: www.homekandi.com 1. Amelia cream large Rococo dressing table and mirror, with curved legs and ornate carved embellishments.

2. Lexi silver-embossed tri-fold dressing table mirror with elegant curved top.

3. Baroque Rococo vintage oval wall frame mirror in white.

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From elaborate chandeliers to ornate and gilded mirrors, The Chandelier & Mirror Company can add a Downton Abbey period look to your home: www.chandeliersandmirrors.co.uk 1. Featuring an ornate rectangular frame with intricate relief patterns running along the inside and outside edges of the frame, the Trewithen oval mirror is finished in a lustrous yellow gold with floral mouldings.

2. This gold effect, eight-branch Leila chandelier is hung with a three tier, clear-cut glass stem, dripping with crystal beading and droplets.

3. The full-length, freestanding Hengrave mirror features a classic barrelled frame graced with foliage motifs along the bottom corners and arched top.

HOMEANDLIFESTYLE.ES

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Boutique Trends >

Advanced Contemporary Design

A premier independent supplier and installer of top quality products from leading European manufacturers, Andalucía Glass & Steel are specialists in Sunflex, a precision German-designed and engineered glass curtain system.

Based at a showroom in Nueva Andalucía (Marbella), they also supply and install Kömmerling and Veka windows and doors, incorporating the latest technological advances in design; bifold doors designed to allow easy access to the terrace or patio by neatly folding in on themselves; and glass balustrades manufactured in marine-grade 316 stainless steel – a modern and elegant alternative to traditional concrete or steel structures, offering improved vision and providing greater wind protection.

For pool areas, they supply and install British-engineered pool surrounds manufactured in marine grade 316 stainless steel with a choice of toughened or laminated glass fitted as a frameless or semi-frameless system and creating maximum safety for children while being pleasing to the eye; and removable pool surrounds used by communities and urbanisations with a minimum budget to comply with E.U. regulations www.andaluciaglass.com / www.lifeguardfence.com

Poliform Ubik walk-in-closet… available in Marbella from www.gunnitrentino.es

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Glass Curtains High Security Doors & Windows Bifold Doors Glass Balustrades info@andaluciaglass.com

952 810 443

www.andaluciaglass.com

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Boutique Trends > Cutting-Edge Glass Curtains

Specialists in the manufacture and installation of glass curtains, with 20 years experience in the glazing industry, Elite Glass Curtains offer a versatile, totally frameless glass system specifically designed for balconies, terraces and patios.

So what exactly are glass curtains? According to Elite, “The simple answer is that they are exactly what their name implies: panes of glass (curtains) that fit together without intrusive framework, providing undisturbed views of the world around your home. Elite’s Glass Curtains are mounted on powder-coated aluminium roller tracks top and bottom and have the additional benefit over conventional framed windows in that they can be fully closed, fully open or opened on a panel by panel basis.”

And the benefits, apart from aesthetic and undisturbed views?

• Enhance the use of the balcony, patio or terrace all year round.

• Provide shelter from wind and rain.

• Reduce noise levels.

• Add valuable space to the living area.

• Are easy to clean... from the inside!

• Are tailor-made for the property and individual requirements.

• Add value to the property. www.eliteglasscurtains.com

Flamerite Corello mirror fireplaces… available on the Costa del Sol from www.unique-fires.com

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Boutique Trends >

Wallpapers with a quintessentially English feel… from www.barnebygates.com

Explosion of Earthy Effervescence As the year draws to a close, autumnal tones with an earthy feel are very much in vogue.

Khaki is one colour transmitting an organic message and – when combined with other colours such as cognac, black, brown, sage green and water blue – it adds an attractive palate to the home décor. Khaki also has sufficiently dominant gravity to be paired with a brighter colour.

During 2013, fashion catwalks have been embellished with computer-generated prints on fabrics, and these styles are now moving into living room and bedroom interior design.

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Stunningly diverse selection of shades and styles… from www.cortidea.com

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Jan Constantine’s striking hand-embroidered home textiles from her new Christmas collection: www.janconstantine.com

Attractive wallpaper patterns to make a dramatic style statement… from www.naken.co.uk

Sophisticated elegance on show at Frankfurt’s Tendence fair… www.tendence.messefrankfurt.com

As a neutral balance, these vibrant flourishes of colours can be paired with softer shades of natural, organic colours.

Teal Blue remains a popular choice, and works well in combination with most other colours. It can also be updated by pairing it with spa blue.

Casamanca “Monaco”… available from www.patriciadarch.com www.patriciadarchinteriors.gi

www.cortidea.com Casamance “Edinburgh. available from www.patriciadarch.com www.patriciadarchinteriors.gi

www.cortidea.com

Bright pinks and orange have been blooming of late but are not many people’s preferred choice for the home. On the other hand, yellow, hailed as the next uplifting colour and the trending leader for 2014, may not create the same reservations. The key is for it to be neither too strong nor overly light, and to that end it pairs well with grey, taupe and sand.

HOMEANDLIFESTYLE.ES

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Boutique Trends >

www.norikei.com

www.norikei.com

Red maintains a prominent presence on the catwalks but, rather than bright red, it is a toned-down, darker apple red that is being mixed with medium blue and butterscotch – for an authentic Americana style. www.iapetus.co.uk Papavero Patch from www.missonihome.it

Powerful geometric patterns have been a common feature of both fabric and furniture over the past three years, but in 2014 their dominating lines will be softened and classic floral patterns will replace the angles.

As some of the stronger floral patterns can be a little overwhelming, it is best to ease into bolder prints by combining florals with a white or neutral background.

For example, a solid white sofa with floral pillows or a floral-inspired rug.

www.mueblesgavira.es

Available in Calahonda… from www.bedsofsweden.es / www.carpediembeds.com

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“Roses and Dots”… from www.gamanatura.com and available from www.mueblesbernardomunoz.com

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Beautiful Mirrored Furniture Exclusively Available Blackshaw Interior Design at Great Value

Nave 7, Pol铆gono Nuevo La Campana, Nueva Andaluc铆a 29660, Marbella. Tel: +34 952 818 038 路 +34 657 051 298 info@blackshawinteriordesign.com路 www.blackshawinteriordesign.com

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Boutique Trends >

Travelmate from www.pias-chimeneas.com

Grace model from www.pias-chimeneas.com

Heavenly Heat Gone are the days of messy fireplaces in the home. Today’s models are sleek and clean – with simple lines. As many fireplaces are located under increasingly larger TV screens, they are also becoming larger.

Modern units come in several different finishes, including classic brick, tile, glass, metallic, marble and wallpaper. Low maintenance is key, so natural gas fireplaces are gaining in popular.

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Transparent or doubled-sided models are a growing trend, offering light and heat on both sides of a wall and making the fireplace a focal point for two rooms or as a divider for a large living space – able to warm two areas at the same time.

It is not uncommon to see a fireplace in a master bedroom that is placed in a wall connecting with the en-suite bathroom, thus allowing you to enjoy a relaxing bath next to warm, glowing flames.

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Fireplaces add value to a home and can drastically cut your heating costs. While some styles heat only one room, others have distribution systems that can circulate warm air to different areas of the home.

AD intérieur at Paris Design Week (Pierre-Jean Verger): www.maison-objet.com

www.pias-chimeneas.com

Dimplex OptiFlame SP16… available on the Costa del Sol from www.unique-fires.com

Natural gas fireplaces are ideal as they are extremely economical and easy to use, with low maintenance. Electric fireplaces also operate in a convenient manner, creating a radiant atmosphere with no construction costs, and significantly lower prices.

Dimplex Albany… available from www.unique-fires.com

Flamerite Corello model… available from www.unique-fires.com

Altavista from www.kubicdesignsolutions.com (Photo: Mimi Van Praagh)

Flamerite Penne Blanca model… available from www.unique-fires.com HOMEANDLIFESTYLE.ES

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Boutique Trends >

Eco Smart Oxygen installation by Woon & Leefgenot… available in Marbella from www.gunnitrentino.es

Wood-burning fireplaces have become more efficient and come in stunningly attractive designs. They offer a natural look and are less cluttered than their predecessors of years ago. You can use them every day and usually only need to clean the ashes once a month.

Flames from a wood-burning fireplace create an enchanting ambiance in a room, giving it a truly homely feel.

Eco Smart Ghost from www.pias-chimeneas.com

Tiger Europa wood-burning stove from www.ludlowstoves.co.uk

Compact pellet-fuelled Thelma stove from www.mcz.it www.pias-chimeneas.com

Home-owners are turning more and more to ethanol burners, thanks to their versatility. They are portable and efficient, can be used indoors or out and placed on a table-top – and are resoundingly eco-friendly.

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Woodburning fire 路 Gasfire 路 Electric fire 路 Pellet fire 路 Bioethano l fire

Chimeneas, Fire and Design S.L. Calle el Califa 564, Nueva Andalucia, Marbella 29660 Tel: 951 275 693 - Mob: 617 649 583 info@pias-chimeneas.com - www.pias-chimeneas.com

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Design & Décor >

Contemporary Kitchen Chic CUTTING-EDGE, FLAMBOYANT… AND ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY

Wave by Acero from www.gunnitrentino.es

If you would like to spruce up your kitchen but are restricted on budget, remodelling a kitchen could be an excellent option simply by bringing it upto-date. Replacing the solid-surface countertops that were popular in the nineties with more contemporary quartz or granite instantly gives a kitchen a new lease of life. The kitchens of today can be colourful, eco-friendly, high-tech and well designed for hygienic food preparation. The modern kitchen should be highly convenient and multi-functional at the same time.

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Villa Livia from www.fendi.com / www.clubhouseitalia.com… available at www.gunnitrentino.es and www.patriciadarch.com

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Villa Giulia from www.fendi.com / www.clubhouseitalia.com… available at www.gunnitrentino.es and www.patriciadarch.com

Sine Tempore kitchen from www.valcucine.it

Kitchens and bathrooms represent one of the largest investments in renovation that you can make in your home, and anything goes these days: you can really go to town on different styles and functionality to suit your precise needs and taste. As interior designer Kelly Hoppen tweeted, “No longer just a place in which to cook, the contemporary kitchen should be designed as the pivotal room within the house. The kitchen bar is often the most sociable spot in the house, something I always try to incorporate into my designs.”

Retro-modern innovation with the “Air Kitchen” from www.devolkitchens.co.uk HOMEANDLIFESTYLE.ES

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Design & Décor > Timber is a timeless material when thinking about designing a kitchen, adding a sense of natural warmth and texture. When mixed with more contemporary materials such as stainless steel, the kitchen design is transformed into a trendy urban living space that develops in character over time. Recycled timber benches are not only eco-friendly but also economical and less formal.

Groundbreaking “pulvinated” drawer-front from www.luxurybritishinteriors.com

Eggersmann at Paris Design Week: www.maison-objet.com

www.luxurybritishinteriors.com Integrating the kitchen with the architecture… www.rossana.com Clutter can be an issue within a kitchen, so concealed storage is becoming extremely important to keep the work surfaces clear and aesthetically pleasing while at the same time saving space. Built-in and concealed appliances are increasingly popular – such as crystalline sink and flush, unframed oven tops.

Tipping Point kitchen set… from www.splinterworks.co.uk

Sine Tempore kitchen from www.valcucine.it

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www.luxurykitchensdirect.com sales@luxurykitchensdirect.com

Online shop www.shopluxurykitchensdirect.com

Call now for your free quotation +34 951 204 077 / 0207 097 15 00

Direct from manufacturer 路 Up to 40% less than similar manufacturers Full design & installation service (Spanish based English installers) 路 Individual commissions undertaken Kitchen, bedrooms, bathrooms, dressing rooms, study, lounge, panelling & architectural products Luxury furniture manufactured in our own workshop 路 Wide range of classical & contemporary styles, timber & painted finishes Showhouses needed for new brochure photography (additional discounts available)

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Design & Décor >

Wink kitchen island… from www.splinterworks.co.uk

A rural design for a kitchen evokes a cosier, more familial ambience. For the French farmhouse look, natural textures and finishes juxtaposed with unfussy cabinet designs are desirable if minimalist and more modern designs are not to your taste.

The Paletina kitchen was built using recycled materials and waste from Barcelona’s city streets… www.anatomicadesign.com

Villa Livia from www.fendi.com / www.clubhouseitalia.com… available at www.gunnitrentino.es and www.patriciadarch.com

www.bulthaup.com

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Hiding appliances behind bi-folding doors that slide open on a track or simply fold back are popular ways to give a sleek look. When the appliance is being used, the doors can remain open, and then shut away when not needed. If the kitchen and family room is connected, concealing appliances helps the kitchen meld seamlessly into the living space, making it feel less “kitcheny”.

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Las Brisas from www.kubicdesignsolutions.com

A solid colour that runs throughout your kitchen is striking and an accent colour on a kitchen island or cabinet is recommended so that the main colour theme does not overwhelm the room, although a pure white continuous colour scheme creates a serene mood-soothing atmosphere.

Las Brisas from www.kubicdesignsolutions.com

Villa Giulia from www.fendi.com / www.clubhouseitalia.comâ&#x20AC;Ś available at www.gunnitrentino.es and www.patriciadarch.com

Villa Ada from www.fendi.com / www.clubhouseitalia.comâ&#x20AC;Ś available at www.gunnitrentino.es and www.patriciadarch.com

Fendi Casa Bernini from www.gunnitrentino.es HOMEANDLIFESTYLE.ES

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Design & Décor >

Capri from www.gunnitrentino.es

As noted previously, kitchen designs of 2013 have been a case of “anything goes” so if your preferred style is traditional over modern, marble over granite, statement chandeliers or spotlights, there is something to suit everyone on any budget.

La Cornue Grand Palaise from www.gunnitrentino.es

A timeless look that does not appear too traditional can be achieved through contrasting colours, evocative lighting, decorative finishes and gourmet technology – all excellent ways to achieve a classic look with a modern edge. Backsplashes in ceramic, porcelain or glass tile, reaching all the way up to the upper cabinets, offer practicality and are a quick and easy way to update your cooking space.

Sine Tempore kitchen from www.valcucine.it Firebelly FB Razen Cook stove… from www.ludlowstoves.co.uk

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Everything you need to furnish your home

SOFABED large choice of colours

Fitted Carpets and rugs from our Carpetworld Department

Calle Juan de Mena 18, Poligono Industrial Estepona Tel. 952 79 82 77 info@esteponafurniture.com Open all day 9.30am to 7pm Monday to Friday and 10am to 3pm Saturdays www.esteponafurniture.com

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Design & Décor > Black Altavista from www.kubicdesignsolutions.com (Photos: Mimi Van Praagh)

Oversized chandeliers, paintings and antique mirrors add a touch of eye-catching glamour to a kitchen. Open shelves allow for a collection to be shown-off, giving the room a personal and creative look. Exposed hanging utensils can save on space and look rustic or urban, giving the kitchen added character.

Get Up Micro Cement… available directly from www.lorddesigns.com

These days many kitchens have a built-in or integrated refrigerator where you can have the option of wood panelling around the fridge, making it appear like a piece of furniture, or a stainless steel rim to add a shiny accent to your kitchen. Retro-style refrigerators work for traditional or whimsical kitchens, coupled with an old-fashioned style range such as an Aga that can come in a variety of interesting colours.

www.lorddesigns.com

www.bulthaup.com

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Design & Décor >

Integrating the kitchen with the architecture… www.rossana.com

www.rossana.com

It is not uncommon in new kitchens to have two ovens, either side-by-side or apart, which is ideal for entertaining a large group. With a range oven, it is useful to have a second oven that is also a microwave. There are certain brands that offer both a convection oven and a microwave, while there are other ovens that heat food with steam but can also be used as a convection oven. In addition, wine coolers and kitchen cellars are innovations that are becoming more integral than a luxury – especially if you entertain often.

La Cornue at Paris Design Week: www.maison-objet.com Berna from www.gunnitrentino.es

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S. D. S. SUPERIOR DECORATION SERVICES

An established team of highly experienced professionals All aspects of interior and exterior decoration Wall coverings: paper, silks, lincrustas, etc.

Detail work, special effect paint finishes and help with design Quality workmanship for the discerning client at highly competetive rates Tel: 952 455 551 / 695 845 118 路 Email: hammondluc1@yahoo.co.uk

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Design & Décor >

Christmas-themed collection: www.rosenthal.de

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When we all get together to eat, it is usually a happy and relaxing occasion â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and our tableware is just as important as the dining furniture. Attractive tableware designs and beautiful colours are uplifting and make everyday dining all the more enjoyable.

Designed by Odile Decq: www.maison-objet.com

VG New Trend: www.fabioluciani.com Gherardini Home: www.fabioluciani.com

KPM Berlin (Francis Amiand): www.maison-objet.com HOMEANDLIFESTYLE.ES

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Design & Décor > Dishes and cups come in all kinds of themes… vintagestyle, romantic and oriental.

Table Tops in a Box: www.tabletopsinabox.com.au Malvern Stripe table setting: www.ochreandocre.com

Wonderland colour from www.artecnicainc.com

Thomas Quadrondo series: www.rosenthal.de

Knitted Noel range of disposable tableware: www.hunkydoryhome.co.uk

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There are so many materials to choose from when picking out your tableware set.

From traditional ceramic dishes and bowls to contemporary glass tableware, and elegant china sets to informal stainless steel, the choice is endless.

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Illuminated and Designer Furniture

Inou Lounge Chill Out

Pol. Ind. El Viso. Avda Washington 32 Mรกlaga 29006 Tel: (+34) 951 38 38 32 Email: info@inou.es

www.inou.es

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Design & Décor >

Themed tableware that provides a tastes of the pending holiday season is great for a festive table setting.

Lina collection from www.villeroy-boch.com: available in Marbella from Puya… www.puya.es Provenzale handmade glasses by Zafferano Italia: www.jasmineway.co.uk

White tableware is always popular and timeless but coloured plates, glasses and placemats can also look elegant and classic.

Fenella Smith’s latest Dotty Collection: www.fenellasmith.co.uk Beads ’n’ Pieces from www.artecnicainc.com

Eco products have hit the decoration sector with a bang and have also influenced modern tableware design. Very often modern tableware uses eco-friendly materials to create dishes, bowls, vases and utensils, traditional porcelain, and ceramics with botanical or zoological prints. Birds, flowers and tree branches, fruits and vegetables are traditional tableware design trends in table settings.

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DO YOU WANT TO SELL OR RENT YOUR PROPERTY? We have clients interested in Playas del Duque, Laguna de Banus, Golden Mile as well as Nueva Andalucia. ¿QUIERE VENDER O ALQUILAR SU VIVIENDA? Tenemos clientes interesados en Playas del Duque, Laguna de Banus, Milla de Oro y Nueva Andalucia.

Don’t miss the opportunity to sell your property.

No pierda la oportunidad de vender su propiedad.

CONTACT US TODAY · LLAMENOS HOY

Carolina Salem. Tel: (+34) 649 30 78 04 or carolina@solobanus.com

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Design & Décor > Klubben-On Time, designed by Gunsler Polmar, at Paris Design Week: www.maison-objet.com

Glass tableware gives light to a table setting, bringing translucent elegance. Brightly-coloured glass next to pure white tableware provides a vivid flash of colour that can really set off a dining table, particularly outside on a patio or terrace.

Corbeille à pain Guzzini, designed by Odile Decq: www.maison-objet.com

Ceramic soup bowl and bread plate: www.mygifttree.com

Trans neomatic from www.artecnicainc.com Exquisite festive designer decorations from Tigs Luxury Candles in Marbella: www.tigs.es

Dress candles in decorative holders really make a statement or, alternatively, there are many decorative candles that can stand alone and make a table look magical. Candles studded with crystals twinkle and make a dining room table particularly special. Scented candles are a nice touch, making a room more in-

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viting, but avoid them at dining tables as they can interfere with the taste buds.

Superior candles are meant to be seen and can be used as a focal point, are ideal for entertaining and adding a cosy glow. For the outdoors, large multi-wick candles are great for creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

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Fairs & Exhibitions >

Design Showcase THE INTERNATIONAL HOME, DESIGN, DÉCOR AND ART EXHIBITION ROAD SHOW CONTINUED IN SEPTEMBER AND OCTOBER WITH MAISON & OBJET IN PARIS (INCORPORATING PARIS DESIGN WEEK); LONDON DESIGN FESTIVAL; DECOREX IN LONDON; AND CERSAIE IN BOLOGNA. UPCOMING SHOWS INCLUDE: PRODUCT DESIGN MADRID FROM 11 TO 14 NOVEMBER; THE INTERNATIONAL CONTEMPORARY ENGRAVING FESTIVAL IN BILBAO FROM 28 NOVEMBER TO DECEMBER 1; AND, LOOKING AHEAD TO 2014, THE IMM COLOGNE FROM 13 TO 19 JANUARY, THE NEXT EDITION OF MAISON & OBJET FROM 24 TO 28 JANUARY, AND THE FERIA HÁBITAT VALENCIA FROM 11 TO 14 FEBRUARY. 64

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Wilmotte (Pierre-Jean Verger)

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Fillioux&Fillioux

Mathieu Lustrerie (Christophe Fillioux)

Phantom Opéra Restaurant: Odile Decq

Roche Bobois (Pierre-Jean Verger)

INSPIRATIONAL ENERGY IN THE “CAPITALE DE LA CRÉATION” Maison & Objet will be expanding its creative domain over the next two years, with its first fair in Asia and the launch of an exhibition in Miami. Following a revamped Maison & Objet autumn show in Paris in September, with a 2.5 per cent increase in exhibitor numbers, the organisers highlighted the event’s “vital role in the sector, despite the slow recovery of the business climate in Europe”; and announced plans for Asia and Americas fairs from 10 to 13 March 2014 and 12 to 15 May 2015, respectively, as well as the next editions in Paris (24-28 January and 5-9 September) and Paris Design Week from 8 to 14 September.

Drawing on an “Energies” them, which influenced three inspirational areas proposed by the Maison & Observatory, the September 2013 edition in the “Capi-

tale de la Création” featured a presentation of the work of architect Odile Decq, Maison & Objet designer of the year for 2013 and an introduction of six up-andcoming French designers with the new “Talents à la Carte” selection (Raphael & Rehean, Grégoire de Lafforest, Evor, Emmanuel Bossuet, Bien des Choses and Barnabé Fillon).

In a further move to boost business and extend creativity into the city, the third Paris Design Week involved 250 participants at 183 Parisian venues in a trade show fringe event. www.maison-objet.com / www.parisdesignweek.fr HOMEANDLIFESTYLE.ES

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Fairs & Exhibitions >

SILKEN BLEND OF CONTEMPORARY AND TRADITIONAL DESIGN ON SHOW AT DECOREX The longest-standing design and interior show held in conjunction with London Design Festival, Decorex 2013 moved to a new location, Perks Field & The Orangery (Kensington Palace), where more than 300 companies exhibited their latest products.

Ranging from contemporary, traditional and bespoke furniture to lighting, floor coverings, fabrics and wall coverings, accessories and bespoke services, they showcased outstanding quality, stunning materials and superb craftsmanship.

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In addition to such highlighted exhibitions as Amy Kent’s hand-knotted wool and silk carpets, Habibi Interiors’ new range of customised panels and Cox London’s latest collection of handmade lighting and furniture (designed and produced in London), other product typologies featured on the exhibitor stands included hand-painted organzas, glass chandeliers, bone china lighting, hand-carved water gilded furniture, complex textiles, luxury tableware and high quality metalwork.

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The theme of the show was the Silk Route, in reference to when silks, porcelain and other luxury goods were introduced to Europe, and interpreted into the design of the main entrance – in 2013 the responsibility of interior designer and hotelier Kit Kemp.

Other main features of this year’s show included a central Champagne Bar created by Martin Brudnizki Design Studio. The design sought to “demonstrate the studio’s love for the interior design process and capture the excitement of the build phase of a project in its rawest state”.

The 2014 Decorex will be held at the same venue, from 21 to 24 September: www.decorex.com

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Fairs & Exhibitions >

“Endless Stair”, designed by Alex de Rijke “Oki Naganode” by Julia Lohmann

“Atlas for Animate Bodies” (Volume One)

“Garden of Russolo” by Yuri Suzuki

ALL-ENCOMPASSING HUB OF MODERN DESIGN IN LONDON Now in its 11th year, the London Design Festival continued its creative collaboration with the Victoria and Albert Museum as the event’s central hub – housing an extensive and varied range of commissioned activity including 84 installations, events, talks and workshops.

Held across the city every September, the overall festival comprised 333 projects, with the six “Design Destinations” (100% Design, Decorex International, designjunction, Focus/13, Southbank Centre, Tent London and Superbrands London) attracting a total of 1,396 exhibitors.

The Festival’s Landmark Project was “Endless Stair”, a huge structure inspired by

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MC Escher’s surreal staircase that was installed on the lawn in front of the Tate Modern, overlooking the Thames. Designed by Alex de Rijke of dRMM, dean of architecture at the Royal College of Art, the piece was constructed from a series of giant interlocking staircases (a total of 187 steps) formed from American tulipwood and sponsored by American Hardwood Export Council.

The festival also invited over 70 London-based designers to participate in the Moleskine Sketch Relay, a display that showcased illustrations responding to this year’s Festival campaign, “Design is Here, There and Everywhere”.

Photos courtesy of London Design Festival: www.londondesignfestival.com.

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First Person >

Interview with David Millón… marketing director-UK and Iberia at Villeroy & Boch

INNOVATIVE GLOBAL COMPANY WITH A TIME-HONOURED TRADITION A CERAMICS MANUFACTURING COMPANY FOUNDED IN 1748, VILLEROY & BOCH HAS DEVELOPED INTO AN INTERNATIONAL LIFESTYLE BRAND, REPRESENTED IN 125 COUNTRIES AROUND THE WORLD AND WITH 15 PRODUCTION FACILITIES IN EUROPE, MEXICO AND THAILAND AND ITS HEADQUARTERS IN METTLACH IN SAARLAND. IT FOCUSES ITS BUSINESS ACTIVITIES IN THE COMPANY DIVISIONS “BATHROOMS & WELLNESS” AND “TABLEWARE”.

Villeroy & Boch has a venerable history dating to 1748… Tell us a little about the company’s beginnings, and the main highlights of its professional trajectory over the past three centuries…

In the German-French border region, the Villeroy and Boch families experienced at close quarters the development of Europe with all its economic upswings, wars and revolutions, and understood how to shape the times and use them to advantage. However, ceramic was always at the centre of the company.

The robust and beautifully designed tiles were an unparalleled success. Many attempted to copy them. However, no-one succeeded in achieving the high quality of the original. Many of the original old tiles can still be found today in many historical locations. For example, in Cologne Cathedral or the Holland Tunnel that links Manhattan island with the mainland of New Jersey. In 1899, Russian Tsar Nicholas II travelled in wonderful splendour on a royal train to Germany with his family and court. Even the two cows that were taken on the journey to provide the royals with the best Russian milk enjoyed luxurious accommodation in a carriage fitted with the robust Mettlach tiles in blue and white.

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Also popular in the very best of circles, the tiles were even laid at the feet of aristocracy and rich nobility on the legendary Titanic. Fragments of the tiles that accompanied the maiden voyage of the luxury ship were rescued from the depths of the ocean.

What are the basic principles behind Villeroy & Boch?

Tradition, quality and authenticity: these are the classic Villeroy & Boch attributes that give consumers support and guidance. Innovative power, style and design: these are the values that inspire people and give them the freedom to design their homes according to their own individual taste.

What are the main sources of Villeroy & Boch’s creative inspiration?

The real progress starts when presenting the idea to the designers. After they have seen the first drawings we from Villeroy & Boch re-work the designs to make them perfect. The final decision on which design will be realised is made by a defined management team. By the way, Villeroy &

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Modern Grace Villeroy & Boch Available at Puya Diseño Pol. Ind. La Ermita, Marbella Tel. (+34) 952 825 619 www.puya.es www.villeroy-boch.com

Tiles for the Titanic

Direct Flush

Boch does have internal designers who create and develop designs or collaborate with external designers such as Oliver Conrad (Architectura) and Sebastien Conran (Aveo new generation) and the designer duo Something (the ViClean L-series). Also in tableware with famous designers including Paome Picasso, etc.

I like all collections because I think all have something special. It’s true that one of my favourite collections is Althea Nova. One hundred per cent natural, this collection is ideal for Provence ambience. But, at home, I have the Modern Grace collection. One hundred per cent white and with straight lines, this collection is ideal for a cosmopolitan environment.

How important is sustainability in the Villeroy & Boch design philosophy?

The modern consumer is highly responsive to environment-friendly products, which, in many cases, also help save money – for example, by reducing water consumption. Villeroy & Boch was one of the first manufacturers to introduce water saving 4.5-litre WCs (Aquareduct) and is now also setting standards in the domain of urinals. An innovative “suction fitting” reduces the customary flushing volume of two to three litres to 0.8 litres.

The innovative collection Architectura Greegngain WC represents a milestone in water consumption. It is the first wall-mounted WC to use only 3.5 litres of water per flush. That means 2.5 litres less water than conventional systems, i.e. a saving of 40 per cent. And, if the economy button of the dual-flush system is selected, the WC uses just two litres of water per flush. This also makes the Architectura WC a particularly attractive solution for project planners.

What 2014 trends do you envisage in the home décor industry?

Villeroy & Boch with inspiring new bathroom culture: the electronical bidet seat ViClean Leaf combines design and functionality.

The collection ViClean Leaf unites functionality and design in a very special way, creating an unusually harmonious symbiosis of WC and bidet. The design of this electronical bidet seat is inspired by nature, but is only made possible by innovative technology, a combination that makes ViClean Leaf a truly unique product. It is an organically shaped design element whose natural form is perfectly in keeping with the oasis of wellbeing that the bathroom has become. ViClean Leaf fulfils the highest expectations in terms of hygiene, design appearance and quality.

Another trend will be DirectFlush. As the first Villeroy & Boch WC with a flushing volume of just 3l / 4.5 l, the DirectFlush sets new standards in ecology and economy – and still offers the same high performance without any need to change usage habits. Thanks to diverse adjustment options, DirectFlush can be used universally for new buildings and comprehensive renovations.

Today, more than ever before, the corporate strategy is concerned with the protection of the environment. In fact, in many areas, Villeroy & Boch has already clearly surpassed the environmental standards required by law. For example, the sanitaryware factory has fulfilled the stringent European criteria to achieve the EMAS (Eco-Management and Audit Scheme) environment standard and has also been certified according to ISO 14001, a standard that is recognised worldwide.

What are some of your personal favourite kitchen and tableware pieces from Villeroy & Boch’s 2013 collections?

And finally… what are the traditional Christmas and New Year family menus in the Millón household?

I spend every Christmas Eve with my family, as my mum’s menu cannot be missed. It is traditional to dine on a large variety of seafood.

New Year’s Eve instead I usually spend with friends, in a different European capital every year, so the food varies depending on the location – but it tends to be a special evening indeed.

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First Person >

Interview with Nezha Kanouni BESPOKE CREATIONS FOR ECLECTIC MODERN INTERIORS NEZHA KANOUNI INTERIOR DESIGN OFFERS A WIDE RANGE OF EXPERT INTERIOR DESIGN, DECORATION, FURNISHING AND REFURBISHMENT SERVICES, WORKING WITH TOP INTERNATIONAL AND EXCLUSIVE BRANDS AND OFFERING AN EXTENSIVE AND DIVERSE SELECTION OF FURNITURE AND COMPLEMENTS AT THE COMPANY’S 700 SQUARE METRE SHOWROOM IN ESTEPONA. off many sources, which in turn are equally subject to the natural evolution of trends, personal tastes, needs and contemporary progress, and this applies directly to our work at the studio. Fundamentally our creativity is rooted in the individual needs and preferences of our clients, materialising these into bespoke living and working spaces, personal sanctuaries...

How important is sustainability in the Nezha Kanouni Interior Design philosophy?

Incorporating the sustainability factor in today’s lifestyle has also evolved, beyond a trend, into a necessity. This awareness becomes evident in the fact that currently most top design brands, be it furniture, lighting, fabrics, wallpaper, paint, carpets, flooring or soft furnishings, include product collections produced with materials from sustainable sources or based on sustainable production or functionality, and wherever possible we include these type of elements in our projects. It is increasingly in demand by the end user.

Tell us a little about Nezha Kanouni Interior Design’s beginnings, and the main highlights of your professional trajectory since establishing Dar Al Andalus in southern Spain in 1997…

In 1997 Dar Al Andalus was originally conceived to be a wholesale business for design, decoration and construction elements, which my then partner Marcos Benet and I sourced and imported mainly from Morocco and the Far East. Dar Al Andalus sold hydraulic floor tiles, decorative wall panels, furniture, exclusive fabrics, etc., to interior design professionals, contractors and decorators nationwide. Coinciding with the expansion of the real estate development sector it was a success right from the start. From there we went on to design and produce our own furniture collections and the company took on major refurbishment and decoration projects, which over the years have led me to gain the experience and professional know-how to be able to apply my personal passion for interior design successfully to my business today.

What are the basics behind Nezha Kanouni Interior Design?

Basically we strive to design eclectic modern interiors marrying top international brands with the bespoke creations of the in-house upholstery, soft furnishing and ironwork departments. This applies also to our international contract and product sourcing projects for hotels and corporate entities.

What are the main sources of Nezha Kanouni Interior Design’s creative inspiration?

Inspiration is a factor that undergoes continuous metamorphosis. It feeds

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What are some of your personal favourite pieces, or collections, currently available in your showroom?

I am personally fond – how could I not – of our in-house brand furniture designs, combining wood and iron and bespoke upholstery, like the console piece, dining and coffee tables, sofas, chaise longs and especially our colourful, light and versatile iron side tables which are truly multi-functional and a perfect mix and match object for any type of interior, or exterior for that matter.

What 2014 trends do you envisage in the home décor industry?

In current times the world is in need of beauty, light, colour and joy… I opt for de-stressing, cosy, modern environments following the “less is more” principle, yet configured with eclectic elements and subtle ethnic touches.

And finally… what are the traditional Christmas (Noche Buena) and New Year (Noche Vieja) family menus in the Kanouni household?

Ha, ha, you caught me there… I think this year I might plan a trip away and let myself be pampered.

Nezha Kanouni Interior Design Polígono Estepona Tel. (+34) 952 808 464 info@nezhakanouni.com www.nezhakanouni.com

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Property Showcase >

Majestic Elegance With its stunning fusion of interior and outdoor areas, this Sotogrande villa represents the pure style of ARK Arquitectos – the company’s new state-of-the-art project for 2013-14.

Located in a cul-de-sac, the property offers magnificent views over a natural park with centuries-old cork trees. The tranquillity of the surroundings blends harmoniously with the fresh architectural style, all beating to the same rhythm and creating a living area that is ideal for interaction.

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VILLA DOÑANA

In short, a perfect example of contemporary architecture designed in tune with the elegance and majesty of classic proportions.

Extending over a 8,954 square metre plot, with 2,576 square metres of built area, the nine-bedroom home features spacious gardens and terraces, two separate apartments, exterior barbecue area, gymnasium and fitness room, indoor/outdoor pool, spa, jacuzzi and sauna, as well as a jogging track, paddle and tennis courts, cinema room and games room – and covered parking for eight cars.

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Classic Architecture with a Modern Interpretation

Committed to ongoing research into various traditional materials including iron, mortar and copper and the application of modern state-of-the-art techniques, ARK achieves eye-catching results with all its projects.

The company is also closely involved with the interior decoration, creating the home as a whole – not in an isolated fashion – with the landscape, exterior design, architecture and decoration all blending together to ensure a harmonious finished home (like the property featured here).

ARK has more than a decade of experience in the construction sector, working with a multi-disciplinary team of technical architects who specialise in the different fields of building and town planning. The company currently has two offices offering all the necessary resources and the highest quality standards.

In designing spaces that are completely devoid of visual barriers, ARK achieves a perfect symbiosis between distinctive architectural styles to ensure maximum advantage is taken of the Mediterranean’s famed light.

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Property Showcase >

Finding its way into all corners of an ARK home is an intelligent mix of light and shadow – and warmth and freshness. Lofty windows let in as much natural light as possible and small strategically placed details ensure intimacy and privacy.

ARK pays special attention to materials, selecting them all meticulously, and is as committed to the importance of landscape and surroundings as to the actual house itself – “since we are dealing with living things”.

ARK Arquitectos Sotogrande Tel. (+34) 956 793 166 Property featured here: (+34) 670 342 347 info@ark-arquitectos.com www.ark-arquitectos.com

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Property Showcase >

Beachfront Luxury ON THE “NEW GOLDEN MILE”

Cosmo Beach Marbella is a superbly located community of apartments in an idyllic beachfront setting between Estepona and Puerto Banús.

Recently acquired by Real Capital Solutions Spain, the low-density development has been completed and upgraded to high-quality specifications. It comprises 53 luxury apartments set over five floors and ranging from penthouses with private access to the unique rooftop infinity pool to ground floor units with private garden areas.

Options for purchase include optional guaranteed and flexible rental schemes catering for all levels of buyers from investors to holiday home purchases. The

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development is due to be released for sale to the public on 4 November. Launch offer prices start from €149,000.

The “New Golden Mile” has become renowned for its individual style and exclusivity and has been developed in accordance with more recent construction legislation restrictions, benefiting from a far less densely covered property layout and therefore offering uninterrupted views to northern Africa and Gibraltar.

This was the first of numerous pending large-scale acquisitions of formerly distressed real estate in the area. An affiliate of an internationally-focused investment group headquartered in Louisville (USA), Real Capital Solutions–Spain

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plans to acquire €200 million of real estate deals along the southern coastline of Spain over the next three years.

The company has an expert team in place in Spain with extensive experience managing their specific areas of focus, including: apartments, villas, sales and marketing, architecture and asset management.

In other property news on the “New Golden Mile”, Naturhouse – part of the Kiluva health and dietetics group – recently confirmed a €35-40 million investment in the formerly bank-owned Las Dunas five -star hotel resort in western Marbella.

The project includes a total renovation of the hotel, which is scheduled to open its doors in the first quarter of 2014 and is expected to provide benefits to the local economy with employment for a large number of skilled workers.

Cosmo Beach Marbella Avenida El Pirata, Estepona Tel. (+34) 952 799 191 cosmobeachmarbella.com HOMEANDLIFESTYLE.ES

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Garden Landscape >

Aesthetic Practicality Mallo Design produces small architecture products, such as planters, trellies and obelisks, which provide a variety of aesthetic and practical solutions for the garden. They allow the plants to be exposed properly, and thus take advantage of the unique nature of each client’s surroundings.

All products are bespoke, handmade from aluminium, and covered with powder paint in any colour of the whole RAL palette – available in gloss or matte effect.

Classique-style planters are ideal elements for gardens, conservatories, terraces and green roofs, as well as architectural elements that can help shape the landscape.

Also recommended are all-year Mallo-style planters, an excellent solution for plants that are less resistant to winter conditions. These types of planters can be left outdoors in specially insulated versions that protect the plant’s roots from freezing in winter.

Mallo Design ensures that its individual and professional approach to every project is “a key factor in creating extraordinary results”.

Mallo Design info@mallodesign.com / www.mallodesign.com

Vertical Gardens

By Beatrice S. de Perlac

This really has the wow factor! It is impossible to walk past a vertical garden and not stop. You can feel the freshness and exuberance of plants growing out of a wall – it’s quite incredible.

There is no doubt that if you want to catch people’s attention and secure from them a happy smile, you should install in your home or business a vertical garden. It cleanses the ambience and it is said that, in working areas, attendance is greater. But that’s a different story.

Vertical gardens have evolved incredibly over the past few years and now there is no doubt that the secret to success is to choose the correct system, the correct company to install it and the correct landscape gardener to design it – and choose the correct plants. The rest is extremely easy: just water it from time to time.

The system for vertical gardens that we sell involves plants planted in moss – no soil, but directly into a moss called sphagnum. This moss will give the plants the humidity and nutrients they need and guarantee their growth and survival as time passes. The system includes an irrigation system and water collector.

Adarve Garden Design Studio Tel. (+34) 652426851 / www.beatriceperlac.com

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Garden and Architecture

Doubleview Landscape and Architecture Studio

There are many relevant questions that need to be asked in the construction and design of a house, especially those related to the relationship between interior and exterior space. The binomial concept of landscape-architecture, as adopted at our Double View studio, aims to unify both concepts through ecology.

In this sense, architecture and gardening interpret the landscape, seeking empathy, participation, and involvement with the environment and its surroundings.

A garden is a living unit that can be set on walls and roofs, varying the weather conditions that affect the architectural construction, in order to achieve aesthetic and landscape integration within the architectural concept.

We go a step beyond landscaping and décor to provide ecological, environmental, social and economic benefits, together with a return to traditional architecture.

Bioclimatic gardens are designed so that clients can enjoy better environmental conditions. We use parameters such as wind, humidity and temperature that influence environmental wellbeing, creating micro-climates. As with the architecture, these gardens tend to featured recycled materials, re-use rainwater that has been collected on the rooftops for garden irrigation, and use organic waste that has been generated by home compost.

The traditional Mediterranean irrigation system enables open water systems to help generate micro-climates, with water as a thermo-regulator and elements that enrich the garden, pool, and water sources, fountains and channels.

Roof coverings are converted into a garden using vegetative materials that adapt to the new structure – which is camouflaged by the surrounding agricultural landscape and forestry – and also serve as thermal and acoustic insulation.

Gardens become productive, integrating fruit orchards, hedges, vegetable gardens, and orchards for medicinal and aromatic herbs.

We choose native plants, to integrate with the landscape and fully adapt to the climatology.

The garden serves as a transition between architecture and landscape, integrating both worlds.

David Contreras is architect and manager of the Double View architecture and landscape studio: Tel. (+34) 695 183 636 Juan Pedro Sacedón is a garden and landscape designer at the Arte y Paisaje landscape studio and Vertigo vertical gardens studio: Tel. (+34) 655 377 601; www.facebook.com/jppaisajismo.

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Garden Landscape >

By Dick and Clodagh Handscombe

Living off the Land One of the great advantages of living and gardening in Spain is that there are two springs: the real spring and the warm autumn, which for many continues through to Christmas. For this reason major garden cutbacks are best delayed until January to ensure a colourful year-end garden, rather than doing the annual cutback in the autumn as in northern Europe.

The second spring also enables many crops to be harvested from the garden for Christmas eating and drinking, and if they have been grown ecologically they can be healthy as well as tasty. Fresh and stored harvests can include the following…

Fruits – Fresh tangerines, mandarins and lemons, brandied peaches, nectarines and paraguayas, early avocadoes, and white and red grapes dried in September to produce the sultanas and raisins.

Nuts – Autumn-harvested almonds, walnuts, pecan, macadamia and chestnuts, depending on the altitude at which you live.

Vegetables – Fresh young onions, lettuces, carrots, rocket, Swiss chard, wild mushrooms, miniature celery, radishes, lamb’s lettuce, nasturtium leaves, garlic chives and flowers, new potatoes and, hopefully, Brussels sprouts; frozen broccoli, beans, peas and sliced courgettes; and stored squashes, garlic, beans and main crop potatoes and onions.

Olive oil and pickled olives – Many who have olive trees will be pressing olives for oil during November and December and doing some late pickling for eating.

Early-pickled olives may just be edible for Christmas but we will be eating one and two-year-old ones.

Infusions – Leaves for beneficial herbal infusions as a change from tea and coffee at a time when one’s diet can be unusually rich. Our favourites include a freshening mint infusion for breakfast, a mid-morning energy-boosting rosemary infusion, a lemon verbena infusion after lunch and a tilla infusion after dinner to stimulate a good sleep on a full Christmas stomach. As an extra health touch a traditional infusion of olive leaves is said to have antioxidant, antibiotic and anti-aging properties.

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ESPECIALLY AT CHRISTMAS

Delicious Christmas liqueurs – Several can be prepared from the garden if you have the trees and plants. We will have the following anise-based ones: Pacharán made from sloes, and blackberry, lemon, mint, mixed herb and lemon verbena liqueurs. It is not too late to make the last four during November and early December.

The Christmas turkey – Ours has been growing from a three-week-old chick in May, fed on kitchen and garden waste and purchased grains, but it is not too late to buy a live turkey now and fatten it for the last few weeks yourself, adding herbs to its diet to flavour the meat.

Herbs – Fresh parsley, thyme and sage for stuffings, stevia as a natural sweetener, plus oregano and bay for cooked dishes. See also the infusions mentioned above.

House decorations – Evergreen trees and bushes can provide greenery for decorating porches and living rooms if you still decorate traditionally.

Clodagh and Dick Handscombe are holistic self-sufficient gardening authors who have lived in Spain for 25 years. The ideas outlined above are expanded in the book “Living well from our Garden – Mediterranean style” (by Dick Handscombe). This book, all their gardening books and a new travelogue book describing their 950-kilometre walk “Adventure along the Spanish Pyrenees” are all available from Amazon Books – useful Christmas presents for family or friends. Do an Amazon author search for Dick Handscombe and all the books should come up as a group.

More information at: www.gardenspain.com

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Mercedes E 350 CDI Blue Eficience Cabrio Amg *Full-Options *2011 - 51.900€

ALFA ROMEO SPIDER Veloce Pininfarina 1993 *Hard Top - 7.800€

MERCEDES C 220 CDI Automatic *Navigation *2008 18.950€

Mercedes A 200 CDI 2005 7.850€

AUDI A4 2.5 TDI Cabrio 2005 15.850€

VW New Beetle 1.9 TDI Cabrio 2006 65000KM Leather - Tempomat - Parktronik - 13.890€

MERCEDES SPRINTER 313 CDI 8 Plazas 12.900€

MERCEDES CLK 200 Kompressor 2002 *Electric solar sun roof - 5.950€

MERCEDES R 320 CDI 2007 *6 Seats *Automatic *Full-Options *120.000 Km - 18.950€

FIAT 500 SPORT 2011 - 22000 KM 8.700€

FORD FOCUS TDCI 140 CV - 2012 14.600€

MERCEDES SLK 350 Automatic *Leather *2006 18.700€

MERCEDES B 180 CDI Automatic *Leather *2008 14250€

AUDI A1 1.6 TDI 105 CV. Navigation *2012 13.800€

BMW 320i Automatic *Leather 5.750€

BMW 645 Automatic *Beige Leather *Navigation *PanoramicSun-Roof *2005 - 19.890€

FORD KUGA 2.0 TDCI Titanium - 2009 - 76000Km 16.700€

HONDA CIVIC Type R Limited Edition 2008 70.000 KM - 13.500€

VW New Beetle Barbie 8.900€

CITROEN C5 2.0 2007 - 68000 KM 5.850€

12 months warranty and transfer included in the price Vehicles with no mileage in all makes Orders on request with immediate delivery Finance to suit you We buy your vehicle and collect as part-payment Large stock of vehicles

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M. DOMENECH Ctra. de Benahavís Km 0,1 Marbella T: 609 02 86 02 autosdomenech@hotmail.es www.autosdomenech.com

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Open Road >

Potent Concepts

This year’s top motor shows have provided a captivating preview of some of the concept cars and prototypes being developed by the world’s leading manufacturers. Here we feature a selection of some of the exceptional models on show...

THRILL-SEEKING PERFORMANCE Drawing heavily on methods used by the F1 team, the Aero Seven Concept will be the first Caterham model fitted with traction control. It also gives a hint to the company’s styling direction for future models, including the all-new sportscar being developed in conjunction with Renault and due for release in early 2016.

Based on an updated interpretation of the Seven CSR platform, the carbonfibre bodied concept vehicle, which will reach 100 km/h in under four seconds,

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will initially draw its power from the normally-aspirated, EU6-approved, 240ps (237bhp) engine developed by Caterham Technology & Innovation for the recently launched Caterham Seven 485.

The AeroSeven Concept is stacked with race car-inspired features, including aerodynamic styling, an exclusive steering wheel with driver-focused functionality, and an intuitive fully active Graphical Display Unit (GDU).

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STYLISTIC REFINEMENT The focus for Mercedes designers developing the Concept S-Class Coupé was clear: “sensual clarity as an expression of modern luxury”. The aim was to create clear contours and smooth surfaces that embraced high tech while exuding emotional appeal – and to that end the designers drew from a gene pool of styling features typical of the brand.

RELENTLESS POWER Fitted with a twin powerplant powertrain generating 916 PS (903 bhp) from a 3.8-litre twin turbo V8 petrol engine and lightweight electric motor, the McLaren P1 powers from a standstill to 100 km/h in just 2.8 seconds, and reaches 200 km/h in 6.8 seconds. Bespoke tyres and braking system, developed in conjunction with technical partners Pirelli and Akebono, ensure optimised performance.

ELEGANT INNOVATION A powerful showcase for Jaguar’s pace-setting expertise in lightweight vehicle construction, the C-X75 was an ideal test-bed for the company’s innovative research into high-performance, low-emission powertrains. Development of the C-X75 prototypes included the use of cutting-edge hybrid technologies, carbon composite materials and advanced design solutions pioneered in association with Williams Advanced Engineering.

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Travel & Getaways >

A world on our doorstep

By Michel Cruz

Photos by Steve Sparrow and courtesy of Toma Tours

Just on the edge of the Costa del Sol is a pioneering railway line that once opened new frontiers and recently drew the makers of Michael Portillo’s BBC series “Great Continental Railway Journeys” to our part of the world.

Living on the Costa del Sol you could be in a state of perfect ignorance of what lies behind that curtain of mountains separating the coastal strip from the Andalucian hinterland. Set before them, fronting the Mediterranean, is a lively, cosmopolitan world of hedonism and earthly delights, yet to many the mountains and valleys on the other side remain somewhat of a mystery.

The same can be said of the port city of Algeciras, which lies opposite Gibraltar at the point where the Atlantic and Mediterranean meet, so it was with a real sense of anticipation that I first visited the classic Hotel Reina Cristina.

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This colonial style hotel set within an oasis of greenery on the bay overlooking Gibraltar is the starting point of a tour of discovery organised by Manni Coe of Toma Tours, whose enthusiasm and many years of exploration make him a real authority on Andalucía.

From here we were going to follow a railway line into the mountains that was built under the auspices of Victorian entrepreneur Mr. Henderson and still bears his name today. Of vital importance to the region, this line connected the coast and hinterland for the first time, and it was thanks to the vision of a Gibraltarian ship owner named Captain Louis Lombard, the investments made by Mr. Henderson and the technical genius of engineer Charles Lamiable that the many obstacles of the Serranía de Ronda were overcome and an impressive line was created that snakes through fantastic scenery.

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New Discoveries

Having stayed at the first hotel built on the Costa del Sol, whose guests have included royalty and the likes of Sir Winston Churchill, we travelled to the mountain top village of Castellar, from where we hiked down to the railway line in the valley. I can’t claim to be a fantastic rambler, but the genius of Manni’s itinerary is that it allows you to enjoy a trip full of culture, nature, history and discovery with great food, socialising and exercise thrown in. It’s arranged in such a way that everything fits seamlessly and you as a visitor need only focus on enjoying yourself.

And so he led us deeper into this beautiful region on the doorstep of Marbella yet to all intents and purposes light years removed from it. Here we saw gorgeous scenery dotted with pretty little mountain villages I had never even heard of, much less visited before.

We ate like kings at charming old train stations converted into wonderful trackside eateries and wondered aloud about discovering such gastronomic refinement in the midst of a “remote” country area. Such feasts were preceded by

light hikes through stunning natural scenery, as we saw the railway line featured in Michael Portillo’s BBC series weave its way through spectacular river canyons.

Having stayed at stylish country hotels we followed Mr. Portillo’s example and boarded the train for the last stage of the voyage to Ronda, where a sojourn at the Hotel Reina Victoria – counterpart of the Reina Cristina – completed a route of discovery that had started within sight of the African continent.

Manni Coe proves that sometimes you don’t have to travel far to make new discoveries and experience something fresh and exciting. Quite often, as here, a whole new world is right on your doorstep – even if you thought you knew it pretty well – so for those who enjoy fun, fine food, good company, a little exercise and, above all, a sense of adventure, I can heartily recommend this voyage of discovery into the hidden wonders of our immediate hinterland.

For more information about these personalised tours through Andalucía and Morocco, contact Manni or Lindsay at www.tomatours.com.

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Travel & Getaways >

Picturesque Panorama In recent years Port Vell has been transformed into one of the cosmopolitan city’s most popular and fashionable destinations for both residents and tourists.

The oldest area in Barcelona’s port, its restaurants, bars and other attractions are bustling with people during the day and evening, and one of the best vantage points to observe the scene below – and Palau de Mar – is H10 Port Vell’s fifth-floor chill-out terrace.

A newly-built hotel created by renovating one of the city’s historical buildings, the four-star superior establishment offers comfortable, modern rooms, a restaurant, a lobby bar and the aforementioned panoramic terrace with a plunge pool and cocktail bar.

Its 58 rooms are equipped with 42-inch TV with international channels, indi-

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IN BARCELONA PORT vidual air-conditioning system, free Wi-Fi and safe box, desk, Nespresso coffee machine, mini-bar and full bathroom with hair-dryer, cosmetic mirror and Textures Collections amenities; while other communal facilities include a business corner and gymnasium.

In addition to its proximity to Port Vell (250 metres away), the hotel is just one kilometre from Las Ramblas and within convenient walking distance of the city’s other main attractions.

H10 Port Vell Tel. (+34) 902 100 906 reservas@h10hotels.com / www.h10hotels.com

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Travel & Getaways >

Winter Escapes For those able to take advantage of the festive break to escape for a brief, or even extended, holiday away from Spain, here are two options close by in Europe… from the sublime to the, well, slightly outlandish.

PANORAMIC SPLENDOUR Hillary Clinton and Leonardo DiCaprio are two of the high-profile guests who have stayed at The Dolder Grand in Zurich since its reopening in 2008 following major refurbishment work, attracted by its elevated location between the urban area and nature, magnificent views over the city, lake and Alps, Michelin-star cuisine, exclusive spa and private art collection. www.thedoldergrand.com

FLIGHT PLANS Opened in 2009 as “the world’s first hostel built onboard a real Boeing 747-200 Jumbo”, the Jumbo Stay at Stockholm’s Arlanda Airport comprises specially revamped rooms for business travellers, small families or overnight guests simply curious about its aviation designed and inspired architecture. www.jumbostay.com

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Gourmet Cuisine Restaurants: Argentinean Passion… and Contemporary Creativity Spanish Deli: Stress-Free Christmas… and Festive Liquid Gold Wine Notes: Made by Angels… and DeVito Limoncello

Evita Restaurante in Nueva Andalucía: Photo David Toms

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A La Carte >

Photos: David Toms

Evita Restaurante Evita Restaurante in Nueva Andalucía has been established for five years and is run by a delightful brother and sister duo, Luciano and Paula.

This cosy restaurant has an enchanting indoor dining area and a large outdoor terrace with stunning views over the Aloha valley. The layout of the restaurant is perfect for groups and romantic couples alike, as there is enough space for long tables and there are smaller private tables available for couples who are seeking a more intimate dining experience.

Whatever your preference, this popular restaurant always offers a great ambience, and on Thursdays and Sundays they put on an engaging tango show with an authentic Argentinean feel.

As you would expect from an Argentinean restaurant, meat is the main focus of the menu, and they import the highest quality produce from Buenos Aires, but if red meat isn’t to your taste there are also a number of delectable fish dishes and salads on offer.

The grill chef can be seen cooking on the coals at the very heart of the res-

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ARGENTINEAN PASSION taurant, with the mouth-watering aromas wafting across the dining area and tantalising the taste buds. The portions are generous and all meat dishes come with either a baked potato, French fries or a Caesar salad – and a number of side dishes on offer should you desire.

The desserts are creatively put together on the plate and, for the sweet-toothed diner, their pancakes filled with caramel are a must-try.

Evita have many regular customers because they consistently deliver on service, ambience and quality of food. Their prices are extremely reasonable: for example, a glass of their house wine is just two euros and one of their juicy entrecôte steaks (rib-eye) comes in at only €19.20.

Evita Restaurante is open every evening except Tuesdays from 6pm until late.

Avda. del Prado 3, Nueva Andalucía Tel. (+34) 952 929 620 www.evitarestaurante.com

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A La Carte >

Hibiscus Bistronomique

A NEW CREATIVE DINING EXPERIENCE IN THE HEART OF MARBELLA

Photos: Roman Iacaruso Hibiscus Bistronomique restaurant is a real breath of fresh air for the modern day Marbella foodie. Located right in the heart of Marbella and opened this summer, its concept is a contemporary twist on the traditional, offering affordable gastronomy in a creative style.

The service is second-to-none and each dish has been well thought-out. Everything is made on the premises, using good quality fresh food that has been bought from the local markets that same morning.

Young owners Antoine Arrion and Virginia Hart are warm and friendly and, with Antoine’s experience in hotel management in Belgium and Virginia’s interior design flair, the couple’s skills have combined to make a truly enchanting bistro.

The menu is a real fusion from various countries around the world, with the likes of prawn lollipops with a sweet chilli sauce and wasabi, Canarian cheese, oxtail burger, foie gras, ceviche, fresh salmon or tuna tartar, juicy steaks, salads… and more. The portions are ideal for sharing, which is recommended in order to try as many dishes as possible. Or enjoy their menu of the day: a starter, main course, dessert and glass of wine for just €9.50.

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There is a bar area – where guests are welcome to pop in for a quick drink and a tapa – which merges into the main restaurant area. There are tall tables for casual tapas-style dining and lower tables for more formal seating, though there is a generally relaxed feel throughout. In the far corner there is a lovely little bodega area where you can dine and truly feel you are sitting in a bistro.

If you would rather take in the buzz of cosmopolitan Marbella’s streets, you can sit outside under shelter at the front of the restaurant.

Hibiscus Bistronomique is open Monday to Saturday for lunch and dinner.

Calle Pablo Casal 11, Marbella. Tel. (+34) 951 338 308

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Open Monday to Saturday lunch and dinner Menu del Día for just 9.50€!

Book today for our New Year’s Eve dinner Calle Pablo Casals 11 local 7 - 29600 Marbella +34 951 338 308 www.hibiscus-bistronomique.com

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Wine Notes >

Made By Angels

By Ana Gil Peña

There is so much wine for sale in the world and the variety is so great that it is impossible for the average wine aficionado to be able to taste everything – much as we would like to. For this reason retail wine marketing is becoming more specialised, above all on internet sites.

Oenologist Carlos Rodriguez was happily making wine for several Rioja bodegas when he heard about Naked Wines. His own words describe subsequent events: “Hearing in 2010 that Naked Wines was looking for young, talented, winemakers to work with, I submitted my CV. They replied that in principle they would consider financing my project. I was so surprised I thought it must be a scam, but having nothing to lose I sent them an executive summary, starting, ‘I am from Navarra, my wife is Galician, we live in the Rioja where I consult for several bodegas...’

“I did not expect a reply, but I did, and later they came to visit me. Making a short story shorter, they sent me the funds I needed to launch my personal project, €136,000. A year later I sent them my first wine, and the following year two more. Four years on I am still making wines for Naked Wines, and all I can say is that for me it is a dream come true. I had tried to borrow money from the banks with zero success, but now I believe I am living the best years of my life.”

Naked Wines was started in the UK in 2008 by a team of experienced and visionary business people, and it has funded 100 winemakers in 13 countries.

Its 150,000 members invest a small fixed sum each month and in return can buy excellent wine at ex-bodega prices. Everyone comes out a winner. Young hopefuls like Carlos get their funding, and Naked Wines’ “angels” get serious advantages. About 20,000 bottles a day move through the system, and winemakers

can meet their customers face-to-face and learn how to improve their wines.

Carlos makes five wines under his Morum label: a young Rioja (€1.82), a Garnacha (€3.05), a Graciano (€3.05), a Crianza (€3.50) and a Reserva (€4.55). Without exception they are carefully and impeccably-made wines, all outstanding value for money.

Normally his total production is sent to the UK and is unavailable in Spain, but H&L has persuaded him to make some of his wines accessible to readers at the special prices shown, applying to 12 bottles of a single wine and transport extra.

Contact: carlosrodriguez@vivaimarchi.com

Limoncello… from Danny DeVito For some, Danny DeVito will always be remembered as the domineering dispatcher in Taxi or the menacing villain Penguin in Batman. For others, “the adorable Italian uncle you never had”. What is less known is that he is also something of a connoisseur when it comes to limoncello. So much so that he now has his own branded brew.

Made exclusively from highly scented Sorrento lemons grown on Italy’s Amalfi coast, his rich yellow-coloured liqueur is best served chilled or over ice as a refreshing digestif to follow a favourite Neapolitan dish.

The attractively slender bottle is emblazoned with his signature and features a unique scratch and sniff label. www.drinkaware.co.uk

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P H OTO G R A P H Y

WEDDINGSPORTRAITSARCHITECTUREPROPERTYDECOR FASHIONEDITORIALARTFOODEVENTSCORPORATESTUDIO +34 690 656 120 info@davidtoms-wedding.com info@davidtomsphotography www.davidtomsphotography.com

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Spanish Deli >

Culinary Delights Photos: Johnny Gates (www.marbellaplus.com)

FOR A STRESS-FREE CHRISTMAS

With the festive season looming, many of us will be seeking options that don’t involve spending hours in the kitchen preparing grand meals for family and friends – at least not every day.

One of our potential “saviours” is located in Nueva Andalucía (behind the H10 Andalucía Plaza Hotel). Love of Food is a delicatessen-restaurant created and run by Margaret Holland and offering a wide and appetising selection of fresh and freezer takeaway cuisine, including ready-to-order Christmas dishes and detox packages, as well as a new office delivery service.

The comprehensive menu, from breakfast to late afternoon bistro, includes high-protein smoothies and shakes, lamb tagine, Thai green chicken curry, salm-

on fishcakes, marinated seafood, salads, baked lasagne, homemade beef and veggie burgers, and rotisserie chickens.

The dessert menu is just as tantalising, highlighted by banoffee pie, chocolate brownies, millionaire short bread and a large selection of attractively prepared cup cakes, in addition to Christmas cakes, puddings and brandy butter.

Love of Food Urb. Jardin Tropical, Nueva Andalucía Tel. (+34) 951 508 865 / 647 025 839 www.facebook.com/LoveOfFoodDeli

A Festive Taste of Liquid Gold

Finding the right Christmas gift for a friend or colleague can often prove to be a frustrating task. Some items, however, seem to have universal appeal for any situation – especially if they include an appropriate, and timely, gourmet taste of Spain.

Olive oil fits comfortably into that category, and La Chinata – master olive oil producers since 1932 – are offering a selection of their finest products this season: “Primum”, “Ecológico”, Cupaje Frutado Dulce” and “Virgen Extra”. www.lachinata.es

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Fashion Health Beauty… and Leisure Catwalk Chic: Romantic Vibrancy for Winter with Hoss Intropia Kate Moss Showcases Timeless Rimmel History Makeover Competition: Magical Moment for Competition Winner General Health: Coffee Protection… and Pumpkin Benefits Art & Culture: Music, Theatre, Films, Books and Photography Sound Bytes: Gift Ideas for Christmas The Final Word: Specialist Advice Georgia May Jagger… ambassador of edgy make-up brand Rimmel

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Catwalk Chic >

HOSS INTROPIA

Romantic Vibrancy for Winter Still loyal to the original and exclusive style of its launch in 1994, Spanish fashion brand Hoss Intropia has presented a new collection for winter-autumn 2013-2014 that is upbeat and colourful – with an air of romance.

Photographer, model and blogger Cate Underwood – the face of the brand – shows us styles that range from delicate items in nude and ivory tones, with simple lines that adapt to the body, to others featuring more intense colours such as fuchsia and red, adding a more vibrant touch to winter.

Other highlights of the collection include a contrast in textures, and the importance placed on patterns, be they floral, geometric or jacquard. Romantic details have been incorporated into the whole collection with splashes of beads and sequins.

The accessories style matches that of the fabrics collection: a mix of materials, patterns and sequins… for shopping, carry and oversize bags. The footwear has a distinctive urban and functional style, highlighted by ankle boots and mediumheight heels.

For latest fashion trends, visit: www.trendis.es

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Health & Beauty >

LONDON CHIC

Glittering celebration of timeless Rimmel history LONDON’S COOL CROWD WAS OUT IN FORCE AT THE LONDON FILM MUSEUM IN COVENT GARDEN IN OCTOBER TO CELEBRATE THE IMMINENT 180TH ANNIVERSARY OF EDGY MAKE-UP BRAND RIMMEL. The fashion elite partied with Rimmel ambassadors Kate Moss and Georgia May Jagger, while guests also enjoyed a fashion show and a surprise performance by hot music artist Rita Ora performing her hit singles “Shine ya light”, “Hey ya” and “RIP”, followed by DJ Fat Tony on the decks to keep the party pumping.

It was recently announced that Ora would be the latest style icon to collaborate with Rimmel, with her exclusive capsule colour collection released in March 2014. A self-confessed make-up addict, Rita is described as having ”an innate instinct for playing with adventurous colour”. The young artist will be “taking inspiration from the capital’s happening music and fashion scene to create a capsule colour collection that reflects the London street vibe and her own eclectic glam style”.

Guests were treated to a celebration of Rimmel’s 180-year history and 180 years of ‘London cool’ through fashion, make-up, video and music.

Rimmel’s trend-setting heritage was brought to life through a fashion show involving 18 models representing 18 iconic looks from 1834 to 2014.

To capture the eye-catching essence of each era, all of the make-up looks were created by Rimmel’s international make-up artist Kirstin Piggott.

Rimmel is one of the world’s oldest beauty brands, having been the “fashion-forward inventor of the hip London look since 1834”. The anniversary party was just a few metres away from the Strand, where the first Rimmel headquarters was located back in 1860.

Photos by David M. Benett/Getty Images for Rimmel London

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Luxury Makeover AND THE LUCKY WINNER IS…

Miguela Díaz Palacio has always been conscious of her looks, but until now the 41-year-old housekeeper has not had the economic means to contemplate a major makeover.

However, her life changed when she read the September-October issue of Home & Lifestyle and saw details about our special makeover competition.

She jumped at the chance to enter the competition – and is “ecstatic” to have won!

The prize, comprising free facial and dental surgery conducted by two of the

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most respected professionals on the Coast, is valued at nearly €40,000.

Award-winning surgeon Dr Kai Kaye from Ocean Clinic and dentist and implantologist Dr Martha Laguilavo from Dental Care Marbella are offering their professional services to Miguela to have a makeover that will transform how she looks and feels about herself.

To top off the final look, she will have her hair styled by a prestigious hairdresser on the Coast, and international fashion house Sportalm will offer a personal stylist service and final outfit to complement her new image.

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The work carried out by Dr. Kaye and Ocean Clinic will comprise: • Upper blepharoplasty (upper eyelid) • Volume augmentation of the cheek bones using Miguela’s own fat • Liposculpture of neck and jawline • Filling the nasolabial grooves • Correcting the nose tip

At Dental Care, Dr. Martha Laguilavo will work on: Upper jaw – eight implants with a bridge with 14 crowns.

Lower jaw – five root canals with a bridge with six crowns Lower right side of the mouth – two implants with three crowns Lower left side of the mouth – two implants with three crowns

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Health & Beauty >

Medical Minutes

By John Schieszer

John Schieszer is an award-winning journalist and radio broadcaster of “The Medical Minute”.

He can be reached at medicalminutes@gmail.com.

VIDEO

Game Could Help Improve Brain Function in Older Adults

PUMPKIN

Adding More To Your Diet Could Have Beneficial Effects This month a new crop of seasonal nutrient-dense fruit and vegetable “superfoods” will be harvested. Superfoods increase our overall wellness and nutrition, and help support a healthy lifestyle. Nutritionists say November is a good time to try new recipes with pumpkins, cranberries and pomegranates.

“Superfoods are brimming with nutrients and antioxidants,” says Kari Kooi, who is a registered dietician at Houston Methodist Hospital in Texas. “The benefits of adding them into your everyday meals are numerous. A nutritious diet can really have a positive impact on both your physical and mental health.”

Kooi adds that her top four superfoods to incorporate into your daily meals are pumpkins, pumpkin seeds, pomegranates and kiwis. Pumpkins earn superfood status because they are rich in beta-carotene. They are versatile and can be added into just about anything. Kooi says, if you like pumpkin pie, stir a little pumpkin puree into your oatmeal. In addition, pureed pumpkin mixed with vanilla Greek yoghurt can make a tasty pumpkin pudding.

The seeds of a pumpkin are a superfood powerhouse all on their own, according to Kooi. They have heart-healthy fat, protein and fibre. They also have a lot of minerals such as magnesium, which aids in bone health. She recommends roasted pumpkin seeds (can be eaten shell and all) for a healthy snack during the day. Pomegranates, kiwis and cranberries pack lots of fibre and vitamin C, and are known for their healthful properties.

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Scientists are reporting that they have found a way to reverse some of the negative effects of ageing on the brain using a video game designed to improve cognitive control. The researchers report that the study provides a measure of scientific support to the burgeoning field of brain fitness. Until now, evidence was severely lacking that brain training ciuld induce lasting and meaningful changes.

The researchers developed a game in which participants race a car around a winding track while a variety of road signs pop up. Drivers are instructed to keep an eye out for a specific type of sign, while ignoring all the rest, and to press a button whenever that particular sign appears. The need to switch rapidly from driving to responding to the signs generates interference in the brain that undermines performance. The researchers found that this interference increases dramatically across the adult lifespan.

The researchers found that after receiving just 12 hours of training on the game (spread over a month) the 60 to 85-year-old study participants improved their performance until it surpassed that of 20-somethings who played the game for the first time. The training also improved the participants’ performance in two other important cognitive areas: working memory and sustained attention.

The participants maintained their skills at the video game six months after the training had ended.

The finding is a powerful example of how plastic the older brain is, according to Dr. Adam Gazzaley, who is the director of the Neuroscience Imaging Centre at the University of California. Dr. Gazzaley said his game NeuroRacer did more than any ordinary game to condition the brain. Normally when you get better at something it gets easier. However, with this game when you get better it gets harder”.

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COFFEE

Consumption Might Help Protect Against Prostate Cancer Coffee consumption appears to be associated with a lower risk of prostate cancer recurrence and progression, according to a new study by American researchers. Investigators at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center in Seattle conducted a study to determine if the bioactive compounds in coffee and tea might prevent prostate cancer recurrence and delay progression of the disease.

They found that men who drank four or more cups of coffee per day experienced a 59 per cent reduced risk of prostate cancer recurrence and/or progression as compared to those who drank only one or fewer cups per week. The researchers did not find an associated reduction of prostate cancer recurrence and/or progression with regard to tea consumption.

The study included 1,001 prostate cancer survivors who were between the ages 35 and 74 at the time of diagnosis between 2002-2005. The results are consistent with findings from Harvardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Health Professionals Follow-up Study, which found that men who drank six or more cups of coffee per day had a 60 per cent decreased risk of metastatic/lethal prostate cancer as compared to coffee abstainers. The researchers emphasise that coffee or specific coffee components cannot be recommended for prevention of prostate cancer before the preventive effect has been demonstrated in a randomised clinical trial.

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ART & CULTURE >

Museo Picasso Málaga

Great Artists on Show for Anniversary Finale The 10th anniversary celebrations at Málaga’s Picasso Art Museum conclude with the “Eleven Invited Works” exhibition featuring great artists in history and continuing until 23 February. The aim of the exhibition – highlighting works by Cézanne, Courbet, Degas, Gris, González, Ingres, Manet, Matisse, Renoir and Rodin and the workshop of Pheidias – is to “show the influences, affinities and proximities of Pablo Picasso’s work alongside that of these great artists who, each in their own way, were linked with his career”.

It is the last of three exhibitions held to commemorate the anniversary in 2013 and showcase the family-based origins of the art museum, following “Picasso of Malaga: Earliest Works and “Pablo Picasso: Family Album”. www.museopicasomalaga.org POLÍGONO GALLERY

Contemporary Styles from China

MUSEO INTERACTIVO DE LA MÚSICA

Snapshots of Spain’s “La Movida” Era One of the key periods in Spain’s cultural history, extending from the 1980s to the early 1990s, is being showcased until 21 February in a special exhibition at the Museo Interactivo de la Música (MIMMA) in Málaga. “La Movida – Diario Pop” features a collection of memorabilia – photos, posters, flyers, fanzines, albums and books – put together by music critic Jesús Ordovás. Groups featured include Radio Futura (our editor’s pick as the best band in Spanish rock history!), Alaska y Los Pegamoides and Los Nikis – in addition to the work of iconic photographers, cartoonists, designers and Oscar-winning film director and writer Pedro Almodóvar. www.mimma.es

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The work of five prominent artists from China’s contemporary art scene will remain on show at the Polígono Gallery in Marbella until 15 November. From December, the same artists will form part of the ““Ink Art: Past and Present in Contemporary China” exhibition at the Metropolitan Art Museum in New York. www.poligonogallery.com

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HOUSES OF ART

A Quest for Harmony and Natural Beauty

Spain-based Finnish artist Maiju Tirri will be exhibiting her “Metamorphosis” work at the Houses of Art Gallery in the Marbella Club from 30 November to 11 December. Her contemporary-style paintings have been shown in various countries around Europe, including her latest exhibition in London at The Cadogan Contemporary Gallery.

Previewing the Marbella exhibition, the artist explained, “My philosophy as an artist is to seek harmony and goodness through beauty and grace. This I have tried to reach by picturing natural elements filtered through my own mind and feeling. Contrary to human actions, nature as such is never good or evil. Everything in it is only appropriate. In my art works I have chosen my side defending goodness by putting the emphasis on the positive feelings and attitude in life. This exhibition is showing my roots in the north and my present in the south, resulting in the ‘Metamorphosis from Ice to Fire’. To the spectator I like to give associations of joy, happiness and love, and even feelings of meditative calmness or inspirations of flow.”

An art ambassador for Finland’s Ministry of the Environment, Maiju Tirri has her works in various public and private collections in Europe, the Middle East and the US. www.maijutirri.com / www.housesofart.com

CINEMA PREMIERE

The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug

An epic fantasy adventure film co-written, produced and directed by Peter Jackson, “The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug” is due to be released in Spanish cinemas on 13 December. The film is the second instalment of a three-part

series base on J.R.R. Tolkien’s 1937 novel “The Hobbit”, beginning with “An Unexpected Journey” (2012) and due to conclude in 2014 with “There and Back Again” – with all three acting together as prequels to “The Lord of the Rings”.

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ART & CULTURE > TEATRO CERVANTES

International Jazz Festival in Málaga

The 27th edition of the International Jazz Festival will be held at Málaga’s Cervantes Theatre from 4 to 10 November, with performances by top acts including Dr. Lonnie Smith, Eric Alexander, Enrico Pieranunzi and Kroke, educative morning concerts, free classes for swing (lindy hop) and evening Jazz Club sessions. www.teatrocervantes.es

REAL CLUB MEDITERRÁNEO

Graphic History of Málaga Port The Real Club Mediterráneo is celebrating its 140th anniversary with an exhibition looking back at the venerable history of Málaga’s port – dating to 1780.

As the key strategic point in Málaga’s defence, the port was reinforced with

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a series of artillery batteries, including the key “Batería de San Nicolás (also known as the “Castillo de Rey”), with 15 large canons and a troop of soldiers.

The exhibition runs until 10 December. www.realclubmediterraneo.com

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SOUND BYTES

Music-Related Gift Ideas FOR CHRISTMAS

By Alex George

Some kids’ best Christmas present was a new bike, others a puppy, but mine was always music. I remember one year receiving Status Quo’s “Greatest Hits” album alongside a double tape pack entitled “Jungle Mania ‘93” – now that was an interesting mix.

I was so thrilled to open a new tape or CD and happily spent most of Christmas day with headphones on listening to an eclectic mix of music. So I thought this year I would buy my younger brother some music for Christmas, but I immediately realised you don’t really go to a record store anymore to buy physical music. I mean, if I bought him a CD he wouldn’t even have anything to play it on. So what to do? Well here are a few music-related gift ideas for this Christmas. iTunes/Amazon Gift Card Record tokens are very eighties – the music credit system today is the iTunes Gift Card. You can use just about any music download provider but Apple has a good selection and your recipient can always take the music to their own media player after they’ve bought what they wanted. You might find that Amazon gives a better tunes-per-euro ratio but it’s not worth sweating over.

Crosley Revolution Portable Turntable So maybe an intangible online gift card doesn’t have the personal touch that giving music used to provide. Add to that the fact your loved one has a stack of old vinyl in a box somewhere collecting dust. Then bring the vinyl record into the portable music age with the Crosley Revolution Portable Turntable.

This battery-powered mini turntable features an FM transmitter that pairs with your radio for wire-free entertainment. The Revolution includes a manual return tone arm and a diamond stylus needle for the same classic sound you’d expect from a full-size model. It is USB-enabled for connection to a PC or Mac and comes packaged with a software suite for ripping and editing audio content.

Festival Tickets As everyone huddles together to keep warm while opening presents, thinking about how cold it is outside, it will be a nice surprise to receive some tickets for a summertime festival. So why not get a friend some passes for Spain’s best festival, in Benicassim from 17 to 20 July 2014.

Monopoly AC/DC Edition Here’s a gift for the rock fans out there: AC/DC have just unveiled their own version of Monopoly. The game features some of the band’s biggest albums and locations such Black Ice, Stiff Upper Lip and AC/DC Lane, with players aiming to build their own AC/DC empire.

Listen to Alex George on Spectrum FM from 7pm to 11pm HOMEANDLIFESTYLE.ES

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SPECIALIST ADVICE >

LEADING EXPERTS FROM THE WORLDS OF PROPERTY, FINANCE, INVESTMENT AND GENERAL LIFESTYLE SECTORS BRING US UP TO DATE WITH LATEST NEWS, LAWS AND INFORMATION OF INTEREST TO EXPATRIATES LIVING OR SPENDING TIME IN SPAIN.

New Tax-Free Spanish Residency

By Bashir Habbal

On 27 September, the Spanish Parliament approved the new entrepreneur law (14/2013) aimed at re-activating the economy by supporting local businesses wanting to internationalise and attract foreign investments into the country.

This law has, in fact, opened new and significant business opportunities in all sectors, especially in the real estate market.

Foreigners can now obtain the so called “Investor’s Residency” in Spain by investing in either a property for at least €500,000 or €1 million in shares of Spanish companies, or by simply opening a bank deposit for €1 million.

Alternatively, they can choose to invest €2 million in government treasury bonds or start a business project of general social interest, provided that the project will a) create jobs or b) undertake investment with significant social-economic impact or c) make a relevant contribution to scientific or technological innovations.

Once the investment is made, the investor has 60 days to submit the application before the Spanish consulate in his country of residence. The initial residency period is granted for two years, renewable for the same period. What is interesting is that, once the application has been approved, the visa and residency permit is granted immediately at the Spanish consulate, in the passport, and therefore does not require any further processing.

For the first time Spain has allowed foreign investors to be “tax-free residents” provided they spend fewer than 183 days a year in Spain. Any income earned abroad will not be subject to Spanish taxes. However, income earned in Spain, such as interest, rent, dividends, etc., will be considered as non-resident income

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and will be subject to a flat tax rate of 24.75 per cent without any allowances or deduction of related expenses.

Furthermore, “article 66 paragraph (b)” establishes the obligation of the investor to visit Spain at least once during the residency period. That means the investor is no longer obliged to stay in Spain for a minimum period during the two years of residency. This innovative option, combined with the possibility of not being subject to Spanish taxes, is the real hit on the target.

Spanish legislators have finally taken a very wise and positive step forward to support businesses, attract foreign investments and boost the economy in the right direction.

The possibility of having access to any European country through a Spanish “Investor’s Residency Card”, for only €500,000, is an opportunity not only for business but also for foreigners with financial capacity to consider buying a secondary home to spend holidays with their children and friends in one of the most beautiful and exclusive Mediterranean countries in Europe… A unique opportunity indeed.

Bashir Habbal Legal Tax Consultant AB Consulting Tel. (+34) 952 766 464 bashir.habbal@ab-consulting.net www.ab-consulting.net

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SPECIALIST ADVICE >

Optimism Reigns…

AT LEAST FOR NOW

By Stephen Tiley

Exchange Rates (15 September-15 October) The loving feeling in the USA has finally returned to both parties and now we can thankfully say that normal service has resumed. Congress has raised the debt ceiling from $16.7 trillion before its borrowing ability expired.

The IMF was straight onto the case and welcomed the news. However, managing director Christine Lagarde did go on to say that the cycle of uncertainty must be broken and suggested that “sequestering” the deep spending cuts be replaced by a less harsh method.

With the agreement it did mean that most of the government employees who had previously been sent home without pay could now return to work. How much damage this issue has caused for the Republicans and indeed the US economy remains to be seen. Retailers, however, would have been pleased, particularly leading up to the big three American events: Halloween, Thanksgiving and, of course, Christmas. Optimism does reign but it is only a temporary extension until the middle of February next year.

Leading up to this, there were other things going on, including the Federal Reserve deciding in September not to slow quantitative easing. It looked like a tight decision, however, and with all the other matters knocking around the US will need the continued support of the easing programme.

Staying in the States, as Ben Bernanke is due to complete his term at the helm of the Federal Reserve, we are hearing that President Obama has nominated Janet Yellen as the next chair of the US Federal Reserve. If it all goes ahead she will be the first female chair in US history. Reassuringly, she has been widely involved in policy making and is credited with being the architect of the Fed’s forward guidance policy, so it is likely we will see continuity in US monetary policy.

In the UK, forecast for growth has improved and the IMF indicated growth will be around 1.4 per cent for 2013 and around 1.9 per cent for 2014. The IMF did, however, say that that they needed to focus on banks’ balance sheets as a matter of urgency. We saw the services sector expand by 0.2 per cent month-on-month and it is now not that far away from the pre-crisis level. However, as always you have winners and losers and it’s the financial sector that is still suffering.

Manufacturing also delivered some good news with a reading of 56.1 and the indication is that recruitment is beginning to pick up. The UK housing market is also getting a bit of a tonic with around 62,000 mortgage approvals for August – the highest level since 2008. Now, with a couple of banks joining up to support the government’s “Help To Buy” scheme, demand will continue to increase.

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£ to $ £ to € € to $

High 1.625 1.196 1.364

Low 1.587 1.175 1.329

This is why of late we are hearing more talk about avoiding the “bubble and burst” scenario of the dark old days.

The Bank of England, as expected, held interest rates and agreed to hold monetary easing at the same level: e.g. no further printing. Chancellor of the Exchequer George Osborne is courting the Chinese and is looking at how he can ease rules for Chinese trading and even considering allowing China’s high banks to conduct business out of London. With a £8 billion initial investment opportunity there is a lot to be gained.

In the eurozone, the European Central Bank left rates unchanged at 0.5 per cent and, in the light of the improving economy, felt comfortable and was boosted by latest industrial production figures showing that in August the eurozone showed the strongest rise since July 2011 and a suggestion that September’s figures could also show growth.

Portugal was the happiest as it posted the biggest month-on-month rise. Investors seem comfortable at the moment with both Spanish and Italian 10-year bonds and, with political stability returning to Italy and Germany establishing its coalition partnership, the “loving feeling” did at least return to the eurozone.

BCE president Mario Draghi continues to remind people that the recovery is a gradual process and, if needed, the ECB will provide further support. He may need to keep talking the talk and maybe have to walk it at some stage as budget season is well upon the eurozone community, with Italy agreeing its new “stability law” (budget guidelines) for 2014 to 2016, Portugal having to find another €3.2 billion and Greece looking to re-age some of its bonds due to mature next year and still having to find around another €2 billion in cuts.

Stephen Tiley is regional manager of Moneycorp.

If you want to see how you can make more of your money transfer, irrespective of the amount or frequency, contact our preferred payment specialist Moneycorp, on Tel. (+34) 952 587 657. When you contact them please let them know you saw this article in Home & Lifestyle.

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