i-on Edinburgh | October 2015

SCOTLAND’S LARGEST LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

E D I N B U R G H

CULTURE VULTURE Dates for the diary QUEEN OF THE NIGHT Alexandra Burke TAKE FIVE New food and drink haunts WIN… a luxury overnight stay at Cameron House

FREE MONTHLY

Wear this

New season fashion trends

CONTENTS

Issue 118 October 2015

24 ON THE COVER

22 Culture Vulture Dates for the diary 26 Queen of the Night Alexandra Burke 36 Wear This New season fashion trends 79 Take Five New food and drink haunts

NEWS AND VIEWS

14 i-on lifestyle Inspiration for October 48 Health and beauty 57 Homes and Interiors 69 Food files

REGULARS

08 WIN… a luxury overnight stay at Cameron House 10 i-on events Celebrating a decade of i-on magazine 24 Music Jamie XX 26 My i-on Edinburgh Lorne Blyth 28 i-on People Music. Property. Design 34 You and me Lorna Edwards and Elena Torres 51 Tried and tested Pregnancy yoga 56 Interiors news 58 Iconic Edinburgh Victoria Street 64 i-on Homes 70 Dinner at… Salt Cafe 72 Lunch at… The Beer Kitchen 76 Talking About Edinburgh Restaurant Festival 80 Drink Talk 82 At the Back

64 36

04 | introduction

DID YOU KNOW...?

We are recruiting at i-on magazine. We have two sales roles available, one for a trainee sales administrator plus another for an account manager. The jobs will be selling both the print and digital formats of i-on and will be based in Edinburgh. If you want to know more, visit www.ionmagazine.co.uk/jobs.

ionedinburgh ionedinburgh ion_magazine ion_magazine

i-on Edinburgh this month It’s been a busy couple of months for team i-on with last month’s special 10th anniversary issue and our birthday bash at Mansfield Traquair (turn to page 10 to see some of the pictures). Things are slowly but surely returning to normal and we’re back with an issue packed with some of the highlights the city has to offer this October.

For those on the hunt for new places to dine out, we give you the lowdown on page 79. If you’d prefer something more cultural, we have that too. Go to page 22 to read about the festivals coming to town. We also bring you the latest fashion trends to help you stay stylish this season (p36).

Finally, we’ve teamed up with Cameron House to offer one reader the chance to win a rather luxurious overnight stay at the five star hotel. For details on how to enter, turn to page 08.

Until next month, enjoy i-on.

Audited circulation: 19,832

Published by Treacle Productions Ltd, Suite 9, 2 Commercial Street, Edinburgh, Scotland, EH6 6JA Tel: +44 (0)131 555 4126, Fax: +44 (0)131 554 9303, Email info@ionmagazine.co.uk, www.ionmagazine.co.uk Editorial and Distribution Director Laura Cully, Sales and Finance Director Jo Morris, Design Paul Dickson, Editor Nicky Howden, Features Editor Dean Newton, Administration and Finance Manager Patricia Sjoberg, Account Directors Amy Falconer, Tracey McCallum, Account Executive Nicola Drake, Head of Creative Solutions and Brand Development Zoe Schmid, Digital Editorial Manager Rebecca McCosh, Main Photographer Susie Lowe, Contributors Gemma Haigh, David Hicks, Sarah Howden, David Pollock All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is strictly prohibited. All prices correct at time of going to press but are subject to change. i-on magazine cannot be responsible for unsolicited material. The views and opinions by contributors in this magazine may not represent the views of the publishers. i-on magazine takes no responsibility for claims made by advertisements in this publication. ©Treacle Productions Ltd

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6 | section

A TRUE

WALDORF WINTER

– FESTIVE SEASON 2015 –

When you imagine your perfect Christmas and New Year, what do you see?

A festive table filled with a traditional roast turkey and crackling log fires or a winter’s tale filled with champagne and joyful reunions with family and friends?

Whatever your story we will bring it to life.

Festive Office Parties For a truly memorable gathering, host an exclusive celebration in one of our private dining rooms with perfectly framed views of Edinburgh Castle or a 3-course dinner party in our awardwinning restaurants operated by the Michelinstarred Galvin brothers.

Holiday Gift Cards This special season, present your loved ones with an unforgettable experience at the Caley and offer an indulgent dining event, a lavish spa day or a night’s stay at the most iconic hotel in Edinburgh.

Visit us at www.thecaledonian.skchase.com

section | 7

Christmas Day An indulgent traditional meal is the heart of every Christmas tale. Gather all the family for an enchanting celebration in our Castle Suite and enjoy the very best of traditional Scottish cuisine, with Edinburgh Castle as your backdrop whilst beautiful Christmas melodies play in the background and Father Christmas adds extra sparkles.

For £90 per person Or add a touch of decadence to your Christmas celebrations with a 4-course festive dinner at our award winning restaurants, operated by the Michelin-starred Galvin brothers.

Galvin Brasserie de Luxe for £120 per person The Pompadour by Galvin for £195 per person

Hogmanay Dinner As midnight approaches and the past year come to a close, it’s time to think about the New Year and all the resolutions we hope to achieve. With perfect views of the award winning fireworks at Edinburgh Castle, our venues are the place to be when you welcome 2016. Join our Hogmanay Ball with a lavish menu, live band, Ceilidh dancing and DJ. For £250 per person.

Or indulge in an unforgettable menu concocted by Chris and Jeff Galvin and start the New Year in style.

Galvin Brasserie de Luxe for £110 per person The Pompadour by Galvin for £225 per person

Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh – The Caledonian Princes Street, Edinburgh, EH1 2AB Tel. +44 (0) 131 222 8888 Email: Guest_Caledonian@waldorfastoria.com W. waldorfastoriaedinburgh.com

08 | i-on prizes

a luxury overnight stay at Cameron House

I

t’s been a year of celebrations for Cameron House, as the five star hotel marks its milestone 25th anniversary in typically elegant style. And there's a lot to be proud of. The hotel’s onsite fine dining destination, Martin Wishart Loch Lomond, celebrated retaining its prestigious Michelin starred status just last month.

Set on the banks of Loch Lomond, both Cameron House and Martin Wishart offer guests the ultimate in luxury. From stunning bedrooms to incredible Loch views and top cuisine, it’s the perfect place to unwind in style.

Cameron House, Loch Lomond, Dunbartonshire, G83 8QZ, Tel: 01389 722504, www.cameronhouse.co.uk.

THE PRIZE i-on has teamed up with Cameron House and Martin Wishart Loch Lomond to offer one reader the chance to join them in their year of celebrations. The lucky winner and one guest will sample the delights of the Martin Wishart eight course tasting menu, with accompanying wines and Champagne on arrival, before enjoying an overnight stay in a beautiful Loch View Room. Breakfast is also included.

TO ENTER For a chance to win, visit www.ionmagazine.co.uk by 21 October 2015. The winner will be notified by email and announced in the November issue of i-on magazine.

Subscribe to the i-on weekly newsletter at www.ionmagazine.co.uk for more exclusive prizes.

Terms and Conditions: The prize is available for over 18s only and is subject to availability. It must be redeemed by 31 March 2016 and cannot be taken over bank holidays or the festive period. Any extras added to the room are to be settled by the winner, all additional alcoholic drinks will also be charged. Travel is not included.

Edinburgh Art Fair section | 9

13th - 15th November

60 Galleries 500 Artists 3 Days Only!

Edinburgh Corn Exchange New Market Road : EH14 1RJ Doors Open 11am Daily : Admission £5/£3

www.artedinburgh.com

10 | features

I-ON EVENTS

Celebrating a decade of i-on magazine photos · Till Britze Photography, www.tillbritzephotography.co.uk

Edinburgh’s movers, shakers and party makers showed out in style on Thursday 17 September to help us celebrate our 10 year birthday issue of i-on magazine.

Surrounded by many of the people who’ve contributed and worked with the magazine over the last 10 years, we drank, danced, boozed and schmoozed until the small hours at the stunning Mansfield Traquair. Not to toot our own trumpets too much but it was one heck of a party; guests outfits dazzled, the music was fantastic, the drinks and food were sensational and atmosphere was electric. So good in fact, that maybe we won’t wait so long to do it again…

i-on events | 11

12 | features

A good party is more than the sum of its parts: but it helps when you have the best possible parts. So our sincere thanks to Rocco Venezia, Innis & Gunn, Vino Wines and Edinburgh Gin for the delicious and endlessly flowing drinks; Heritage Portfolio for the seriously good food, to Carnival Chaos for dressing the party; to Core Productions for all tech support; Blaise and Kate for the incredible aerial display; LookLook photobooths for capturing funny moments; Till Britze for our wonderful photos; Ruffians Barbers for haircuts and beard trims; Laing Edinburgh for bringing the jewels; the band Soul Foundation for the wonderful soul music; the DJs of Citizen’s Disco for the funky beats and Liggy's Cake Company for our wonderful cake. Finally a special thanks to Morag at Mansfield Traquair for all her help. See the full gallery of photos from the event at www.ionmagazine.co.uk.

section | 13

TH E MAG IC O F CH RISTMAS AT O N E SQ UAR E Reserve a table for festive dining, Christmas & Boxing Day feasts, Hogmanay celebrations or delicious festive Afternoon Tea.

I-ON

LIFESTYLE

From places to visit to art to admire, we bring you a selection of highlights the city has to offer this month.

SOMETHING FOR THE WEEKEND

If you haven’t heard the news about the Borders Railway, where have you been? It’s Scotland’s newest scenic railway that takes passengers on a 30 mile, 55 minute journey, from Edinburgh through Midlothian to Tweedbank in the Scottish Borders. A great excuse to discover new landscapes and visit iconic attractions like Rosslyn Chapel, Abbotsford House (pictured) and Melrose Abbey along the way, to mark its launch special steam train journeys will also be available every Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday until Sunday 18 October. www.bordersrailway.co.uk.

DREAM TEAM The clocks go back on 25 October so make sure you stay on track with the Apple Watch Hermès. Featuring a finely crafted leather strap, it’s now available in three different styles.

Priced from £1,000 at www.apple.com.

Home improvement Cameron Interiors have just won Scotland’s Best Bedroom Design & Installation Company at the inaugural Scottish Home Improvement Awards 2015. For some expert advice on design, storage solutions and bespoke dressing rooms visit Cameron Interiors, 31 Dundas St, EH3 6QQ, Tel: 0131 556 2233, www.cameroninteriors.co.uk.

i-on lifestyle | 15

Gleneagles Indoor Tennis

IF YOU DO ONE THING THIS MONTH...

Get yourself along to Mansfield Traquair for the UK's largest cocktail festival, Cocktails in the City. Promising cutting edge cocktails served by Edinburgh’s top bars, the two day event will be making its way to town on Thursday 29 and Friday 30 October, 6pm-11pm.

For tickets, £10 including one free cocktail, visit www.cocktailsinthecity.co.uk/Edinburgh.

THAT’S ART For dramatic winter sunsets to vibrant skyscapes, turn your attention to Jamie Primrose’s much-anticipated new exhibition, Inspiring Vistas. Capturing the capital’s sculptural landscape and unique light, the best-selling contemporary Scottish artist is showcasing over 50 oils and Indian inks at the Dundas Street Gallery from Friday 30 October to Saturday 07 November. Dundas Street Gallery, 6a Dundas St, EH3 6HZ, Tel: 0131 446 9510, www.jamieprimrose.com

Whatever the weather, rain won’t stop play on our 4 new indoor tennis courts. Choose to play on a “Pay & Play” basis, no membership required, or enjoy lessons and programmes for all ages and abilities from our expert coaching team.

Open 9am – 8.30pm daily with complimentary parking and new changing facilities.

To book Pay & Play, or for more information on all we offer, see: gleneagles.com/tennis

Call 0800 704 705 or visit gleneagles.com

The Perfect October Playground. Kids of all ages welcome Think falconry lessons for all the family, splashing around in one of The Club’s pools and junior golf camps for the young ones. Or imagine an indulgent day at the spa, with a stroll in the countryside and dinner in one of our four restaurants. With all this and country pursuits too, a family break at Gleneagles can be as jam-packed or relaxing as you’d like it. The hardest part will be choosing what to do first.

From £305 Bed & Breakfast based on two sharing a Classic room, or Sovereign rooms suitable for families are available from £355.

Available 1 – 31 October 2015.

i-on lifestyle | 17

MUSIC HIGHLIGHTS Gemma Haigh gives us the lowdown

KARNIVAL PRESENTS VIVA WARRIORS @ THE LIQUID ROOM SAT 03 OCT

Fresh from another killer season at Sankeys Ibiza, Steve Lawler’s Viva Warriors brand is now synonymous with some of the best underground parties around the world. This month the legendary British DJ brings label mate Detlef to The Liquid Room. Doors 10.30pm – 3am, tickets £17.50.

WEDDING BELLES

Ben Montague

If you’re getting hitched, get some inspiration at The Scottish Wedding Show. Making its return to the SECC, Glasgow, from 17-18 October, there’ll be around 300 of the UK’s leading wedding suppliers offering everything from bridal gowns to bridesmaid dresses.

There’ll also be a whole host of exclusive offers and discounts up for grabs. For tickets, from £10, visit www.thescottishweddingshow.com. VIP tickets are also available.

BEN MONTAGUE @ SNEAKY PETE’S Perhaps best known for singles Can’t Hold Me Down and Haunted, London artist Ben Montague is one of the UK’s most talented singer-songwriters.

He’s about to embark on his new Runaway tour where he’ll be playing his fan’s favourite hits. Doors 7pm, tickets £11.

FRI 09 OCT

OUR FAVOURITE FIND For a spot of shopping and a variety of handcrafted, locally produced and ethically sourced goods, head to the Friday market at Waver ley Station. Run by LocalMotive Markets, the glass covered event takes places from 11am – 7pm on Platform 2.

LEFTFIELD @ THE CORN EXCHANGE Since forming back in 1989, Leftfield have lived up to their name with their unique brand of electronic music. Returning in 2010 as a one-manband following an eight year hiatus, this is a chance for fans to experience their first studio album since 1999. Doors 7pm, tickets £31.90.

SAT 10 OCT

PAN-POT @ THE BONGO CLUB Storming its third season of electronic music parties across the capital, Nightvision is hosting a very special Halloween affair in the intimate surroundings of The Bongo Club. They’ve invited techno visionaries Pan-Pot, otherwise known as Tassilo and Thomas, to headline the party. Doors 9pm – 3am, tickets £15.

FRI 31 OCT

18 | i-on lifestyle

AFTER DARK See the Royal Botanic Garden in a whole new light from 29 October to 22 November. The award-winning Botanic Lights will take you on a magical light trail through the colours of the seasons from 5pm – 9.30pm, every day except Mondays.

Due to popular demand entry is by pre-booked ticket only so plan in advance and buy tickets, £14, from www.rbge.org.uk/ botaniclights or Tel: 0844 573 8455.

Book Worm photo by Alex Hewitt

Best known for his hugely popular The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency series, Alexander McCall Smith is one of the world's most popular authors.

Last month he joined forces with Maggie’s Edinburgh to curate Maggie’s Culture Crawl Edinburgh, a charity night-walk with a cultural adventure. This month he tells us what he loves about Scotland.

Are you based in Scotland? Yes, I was born in what is now Zimbabwe, but have lived in Edinburgh for many years.

If you could choose anywhere else to live in Scotland, where would you choose? I very much enjoy being in Argyll. It is a beautiful part of the country with stunning scenery.

Describe the perfect weekend break in Scotland. Sailing with my wife and friends on the West Coast.

Where would you take visitors to show the real Scotland? I like the Outer Isles so I would take visitors for a walk along the machair on one of the islands.

Where’s your favourite place in Edinburgh to enjoy a coffee? Glass & Thompson on Dundas Street or La Barantine at Bruntsfield Place.

Read the full interview at www.ionmagazine.co.uk.

DID YOU KNOW…?

If you’re self-employed or a business owner, the deadline for the paper version of your Year-End tax return is 31 October 2015. If you haven’t already organised an accountant, or need help with your online version (deadline 31 January 2016), now’s the time to get it sorted and avoid nasty fines from HMRC. For a helping hand, Steedman & Company on Howe Street offer experienced, independent accountants, tax consultants and business advice. For more information Tel: 0845 340 4222 or visit www.steedman.co.uk.

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i-on lifestyle | 21

INTRODUCING Melissa Villevieille It takes something special to take the Womenswear Collection of the Year award at the glittering Graduate Fashion Week in London and Melissa Villevieille’s heavily embellished collection certainly fits the bill. The French-American studying at Edinburgh College of Art offered up a super bold multi-directional collection with contrasting stripes to emphasise movement. The classical hand weaving and embellishing scooped her the Catwalk Textiles and David Band Textiles awards too. www.gfw.org.uk

DATE FOR THE DIARY

DIAMONDS ARE A GIRL’S BEST FRIEND

Created by five diamond, design and craft experts, this impressive necklet is a true work of art boasting a staggering 447 dazzling round brilliant cut and pave diamonds set in platinum with a dramatic double diamond drop. It was made to commemorate the 175th anniversary of Laing Edinburgh this year, and if you’ve the cash to splash, it could be yours for £175,000. For more information, Tel: 0131 225 4513 or visit www.laingedinburgh.com.

Pretty, elegant and luxurious, we’re big fans of Lucile lingerie. See the full collection and meet the designer, Camilla Blois, at an exclusive Trunk Show, 12pm till late at Odyssey Boutique in the West End on Thursday 08 October. To register your attendance, Tel: 0131 220 2908 or email info@odysseyboutique.co.uk. For more information visit odysseyboutique.co.uk.

22 | features

T

his year’s festival may be a distant memory, but if you’ve been left with a culture shaped hole in your life then fear not, October is jam-packed full of highbrow happenings and stimulating stirrings. We’ve rounded up some great selections to ease Swan Lake your festival comedown. We’ll begin with the fans of plies and pirouettes. Ballet lovers are flocking to the beautiful new staging of Giselle at the Festival Theatre from 27-31 October; the much-loved story is produced by two superstars of ballet, Ethan Stiefel and Johan Kobborg (former dancers of the American Ballet Theatre and The Royal Ballet), and performed by the Royal New Zealand Ballet’s superb dancers.

A bonus date for your diary is the return of The Russian State Ballet of Siberia, back in February 2016 for a nationwide tour and the UK premiere of a brand new production – The Snow Maiden. They'll also perform the greatest romantic ballet of all time, Swan Lake.

Also on stage, there are must-see theatre productions including Samuel Beckett’s Waiting for Godot, at the Royal Lyceum until 10 October. Fundamentalism and tolerance clash in Martyr, an amusing yet provocative exploration of how far we should go to accommodate faith by Marius von Mayenburg, from 15-17 October at the Traverse.

Edinburgh book lovers play host to the world’s largest public celebration of the written word during the festival so naturally, when all the dust has settled, there’s a bit of a vacuum to fill. First up we have The Scottish International Storytelling Festival; Scotland's annual celebration of traditional and contemporary storytelling. Running from 23 October until 01 November at venues across the city, the festival brings together artists and audiences in entertaining and inspiring live storytelling performances, thought-provoking talks, workshops and discussions. Secondly, 26 Children’s Winters is an exciting new exhibition which captures the memories of tingling cold hands, rainy day boredom and the excited opening of Christmas presents, it runs from 09 October at the Children’s Museum on the High Street.

CULTURE

VULTURE words · Dean Newton

culture vulture | 23

Food Safari

Foodies are treated to a plethora of events this month, even more so if you’re a history fan. Lifting the Lid: 400 Years of Food and Drink at the National Library of Scotland runs until 08 November and explores the story of Scotland's relationship with food and drink by examining recipe books, menus, household accounts, advertisements and cooking utensils.

Follow this with The Food Heritage Trail by the Edinburgh World Heritage Trust, a map of the city’s nooks and crannies designed to aid the discovery of Edinburgh’s culinary traditions and dine in some of its historic locations. For something a bit more ‘guided’, check out Edinburgh Food Safari’s Broughton Street and Stockbridge tours which offer a carefully curated three hour culinary tour of foodie hotspots from Thursday to Saturday, 2pm-5pm.

Celebrating Scotland’s remarkable Georgian House Food Trail, photo by Colin Hattersley contribution to the Age of Enlightenment across Europe around the 18th century is Citizens of the World: David Hume & Allan Ramsay. The period aided a global shift of attitudes and this exhibition celebrates the lives and associates of the two Scots at the epicentre of this cultural and intellectual movement, it runs for the rest of the year at the Scottish National Portrait Gallery and entry is free. Over at the National Museum of Scotland is an exploration of Victorian Photography and how their fascination with recording the world around them has influenced how we capture images today. Enjoy the first examples of 3D with early stereo photographs and get swept up in the collecting craze of the carte-de-visite photo cards. It runs until 22 November and entry is £10 for adults.

If, after all this, your culture void still isn’t filled then perhaps it’s time to go DIY, so get stuck in and try your hand at a multitude of subjects and skills with one of Edinburgh University’s short courses including archaeology, literature, philosophy and much more. The classes start in January but they’re taking bookings now. For more information visit www.ed.ac.uk.

Jamie x

24 | section

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hat 26-year-old London producer Jamie xx is able to play a venue the size of Glasgow’s O2 Academy under his own steam shows just how far he’s come as a recognisable name in the last year. Previously he was best known as a musician under his own name of Jamie Smith. And celebrated for it. As one third of ghostly electro-balladeers The xx, he was a winner of the 2010 Mercury Prize for their self-titled debut album, released the previous year.

Educated, along with the other members of the band, at London’s Elliott

School – which also produced fellow cutting-edge music producers of recent times Hot Chip, Four Tet and Burial, as well as Pierce Brosnan – Smith joined The xx when he was 17. The first album and Mercury success hit when he was barely out of his teens, and the group’s second record Coexist received plenty of acclaim of its own in 2012, even though its sound stuck closely to what the group had already done, rather than building upon it. A third xx record is currently in production, with no release date set as yet.

music | 25 These days, though, it’s what Smith gets up to between xx albums which is arguably the most interesting facet of his career. In 2011 he released his debut album as Jamie xx, an unexpected, ambitious and excellent remix project entitled We’re New Here. Co-credited to the now deceased Chicago funk and soul poet and The xx labelmate Gil Scott-Heron, it was a full length rework of Scott-Heron’s 2010 comeback album I’m New Here, which took vocal and musical samples from the record and married them to a dense, contemporary soundtrack of dubstep and garage.

Back in May of this year, Smith’s next between-xx-records side project was revealed, and it was met with such success that it looks likely to have given him pause to think about where his priorities might lie in future. Trailed by a number of singles which pointed to the real depth and soulful diversity to come – including the electro-soul of Girl and the anthemic garage textures of Gosh – the album In Colour has been described by Smith as a homage to club culture, or at least his interpretation of it.

As he showed with last year’s non album, carnivalesque All Under One Roof Raving single, Smith knows how to fuse current club beats with a deeper sense of 'of-its-time' pop currency that’s nostalgic and futuristic all at once. His own music is fast falling into the classic bracket; whether his solo live shows live up to that is something we’ll discover here.

Jamie xx plays the O2 Academy, Glasgow, on Saturday 17 October.

homeforce_220715_i-on ad 89x67:i-on ad 89x67 22/07/201 26 | features

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Founder of Flavours Holidays in Stockbridge, Lorne has over 15 years’ experience in cooking, painting, Pilates and Italian language getaways to idyllic, unspoilt regions of Italy. Here she shares her views on the city she calls home.

Which area of Edinburgh best reflects your personality? Stockbridge, it’s quirky, independent and stylish. I live on St Bernard’s Crescent and wouldn’t want to live anywhere else - my commute is a five minute walk. Plus the market is one of the city’s best kept secrets.

Where do you go for a quick escape? Grab a coffee and head to the Dean Gardens for some peace and quiet.

Your earliest memory of Edinburgh? Visiting the castle on a school trip. I grew up in Lanarkshire.

Where do you get the best view of the city?

Coming in to land at Edinburgh Airport. I love the sweeping view of the city from Royal Yacht Britannia to Arthur’s Seat and the New Town.

Around the city, you’ll find me…

Dining out: 21212.

Enjoying a coffee: Artisan Roast.

Living it up: Scottish Ballet at the Festival Theatre.

For more information visit www.flavoursholidays.co.uk.

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my i-on edinburgh | 27

28 | section

MUSIC

Alexandra Burke

Alexandra Burke, the former X-Factor winner has conquered the music world, selling millions of albums. She now turns her talented hand to acting, starring in the lead role of hit musical, The Bodyguard which hits Edinburgh’s Playhouse this month.

What’s your classic album? Thriller

by Michael Jackson. The album has such a range of classic songs including my favourite, Billie Jean.

My all-time favourite artist is…

Dionne Warwick, she’s a legend. I've had the privilege of performing alongside her and that’s a moment I’ll never forget.

What music reminds you of your youth? Soul II Soul, my mum was a singer in the band and I used to listen to her rehearsing and watch her perform on Top of the Pops. That’s when I knew I wanted to be a singer.

What poster did you have up on your walls? It's a cringe to admit this but I had 'N Sync, 5ive, Take That and B2K. Press shuffle on your mp3 player – what are the first three tracks?

Billie Holiday, Ain't Misbehavin; Etta James, I Just Wanna Make Love To You and Des'ree, Kissing You.

section | 29

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section | 31

DESIGN

Gary O’Donnell photo ∙ Susie Lowe

Gary is the buyer and managing director of one of Edinburgh’s best loved furniture retailers, Martin & Frost. Established in 1895 by William Martin, the new look company is now in a double-size purpose built superstore at Fort Kinnaird and offers everything from sofas to unique home accessories and interior design services.

How would you describe your signature look for your home? I have an eclectic country style, mixing one or two antiques with classic upholstery and quirky modern Philippe Starck pieces.

What’s your favourite room at home?

My sitting room. It’s reasonably small but the high ceilings and Georgian cornicing give the illusion of space.

What brand should we look out for this season? This year it would be Calligaris.

The Italian manufactures have some stunning new colours and shapes for dining ranges.

Who’d be your dream house guest?

It’d be amazing to sit opposite Salvador Dali. He was famous for wonderful art but also outlandish acts of headline grabbing behaviour which would make for a totally unpredictable experience.

32 | i-on people

PROPERTY

Nicky Stott photo ∙ Susie Lowe

Nicky Stott is the business development manager for Dickins, specialists in short term and holiday lets of houses and apartments around Edinburgh. After years of renting flats in the Southside of Edinburgh she made her first step onto the property ladder with her husband in 2010. Now they’re the proud owners of a three bedroom detached house in Dunfermline.

Why did you move out of town? We didn’t have the biggest budget and knew that in Edinburgh we’d be in a pokey one bedroom flat for the same money. Looking in Fife was the most sensible option.

Would you stretch your finances to the limit to afford a mortgage on a home?

Definitely not. At the end of the day it’s important to enjoy life in your home and not be worried about how you’re going to pay the mortgage.

What advice would you give someone looking to buy? Check everything works properly and ask the owners questions about any work they’ve done in the property themselves, a DIYer can cause multiple problems you may have to fix in the future. Measure everything – we bought a fridge which we thought would fit in the allotted space in the kitchen, it didn’t. We now have a large American style fridge/freezer sitting against a wall where the dining table should be, hindsight is a wonderful thing.

34 | features

you and me | 35

YOU AND ME

Lorna Edwards and Elena Torres photo ∙ Susie Lowe

Meet the mumpreneurs behind the bouncing baby toy Bubabloon, a clever little multi-sensory fabric balloon cover to make balloon play fun and safe.

Here the duo talk business and reminisce about the early days.

Elena (right) on Lorna: “We met in 2007 through a mutual friend at a business event, I thought Lorna was as mad as a hatter but a smart business women, I always knew we’d work together one day, she has such a great record of smart business decisions and vast experience. Lorna’s the detail, I’m the ideas.

Lorna deals with manufacturing and I look after the website.”

“I think our age difference does sometimes mean we have different views on things, in particular the mummy market which is one of our target markets for our new baby/toddler product. But it’s a positive thing as it forces us to look at things from different perspectives. While we both have a strong ambition for success, we still manage to have a good laugh along the way.”

Lorna on Elena: “I did a bit of business mentoring with Elena in the early days and then we just became friends (well, Elena from time to time calls me mum). We spent a lot of time together both business and pleasure but socially we sadly no longer drink multiple bottles of wine on George street anymore, I’m getting too old and can’t take the hangovers and Elena’s a busy working mummy.”

“Elena’s the ideas person and it’s up to me to add some creativity, in business we’re both strong, feisty and very demanding, but I really admire Elena’s drive and vision. We’re both very enthusiastic and have to calm each other down and get back to reality sometimes. I probably play devil’s advocate and challenge more often than not.”

20 Thistle St, Edinburgh EH2 1EN Tel: 0131 220 0026 www.thoushaltcovet.com

36 | section

L t s r i F Massimo Dutti

k o o L

fashion | 37

A NEW SEASON MEANS NEW FASHION TRENDS. LADIES AND GENTS, MEET THE BUILDING BLOCKS OF YOUR WINTER WARDROBE.

FOR HER

1970s Suede, fringing, flared designs and funky prints, ‘70s style is sticking around for the new season. Keep it boho with lace blouses, free shaped dresses and saddle bags or vamp it up with knee-length boots. For inspiration check out Calvin Klein, BCBG and Emilio Pucci. Zara, Massimo Dutti, Outfit and Jenners all have some great pieces to work the trend too.

38 | fashion

FOR HIM

MINT POLOS Join the esteemed ranks of famous ‘turtle-neck’ wearers this season.

We’re going for more Steve McQueen than Steve Jobs here so cover it up with a matching tone scarf and your blazer or pea coat.

River Island

Hair for Women

and Men

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MAKEUP & HD BROWS AT ALL ABOUT EVE We would like to introduce our makeup and HD Brow artists: Elena Spinks, Nikki Marshall and Amy Cox They are all expert makeup artists with Elena & Amy specialising in HD Brow treatments To revamp your look, get glamorous for a night out or feel amazing on your special day we have the artists to suit all your makeup & brow needs.

To view their work follow us at - Facebook & Instagram

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All About Eve Salon & Boutique 120 Bruntsfield Place, Edinburgh EH10 4ES www.allaboutevesalon.co.uk

fashion | 41

FOR HER

COLOUR From camel to powder pink, Marsala and teal, the AW15/16 runways were full of attention grabbing colourways. Be brave and stand out from the crowd by mixing your colours or play it safe and stick to similar tones to tie an outfit together.

Check out Jane Davidson, Hobbs and Harvey Nichols for some designer looks to covet.

Hobbs

42 | fashion

FOR HIM

BAGGY TROUSERS It looks like skinnys have finally had their blood constricting comeuppance as baggier options reign supreme in AW15. Relaxed wide leg trousers have made a triumphant return and not a moment too soon. Select either turnedup ankle grazers or a half inch on the long side in greys, neutrals, wools and check. Simple white sneaks such as Stan Smiths or Common Projects can work well here too.

H&M

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EDINBURGH’S NEWEST LUXURY WAXING AND BEAUTY BOUTIQUE SERVICES INCLUDE: • • • • • • •

Lycon Hot and Strip waxing Eye treatments HD brows Nail Bar Treatments for men Make-up LVL Lashes NEW

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Part of the

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Follow us @ALC_Edinburgh

section | 45

FOR HER

FAUX FUR Whether you go for a gilet, stole or faux fur trimmed jacket, faux fur adds a luxe touch to your winter wardrobe. For styles worth the investment try Stella McCartney and Ralph Lauren or go high street at River Island, Topshop and Zara. Kakao

by K also has a great selection of accessories by Helen Moore.

River Island

46 | section

FOR HIM

LAYER IT UP Keep yourself warm and rock a popular look this season with some tactical layering.

It works best with jackets so try a classic denim under your blazer or coat. Either match or contrast layers for maximum effect. For a more casual look, layer up different length tees and add scarves and waistcoats for a good mix of textures and colours.

House of Fraser

13 Stafford Street 8 South St Andrew Street 39 Frederick Street Ocean Terminal, 1st Floor Holy Corner, Bruntsfield

0131 226 5550 0131 556 9898 0131 225 1141 0131 555 1711 0131 447 0099

Edinburgh’s Fashion Destination for your Hair www.charliemiller.com

48 | health. beauty. self

BEAUTY NEWS

People. Products. Places

SCULPT AND GLOW Still trying to master the art of contouring? Try the Effortless Contouring Pen from Burberry. Out to help anyone achieve runway-inspired results, apply under cheekbones, jawline and along the nose to sculpt, shade and define. £25 from Burberry, Multrees Walk, and Burberry.com.

Spotlight on…

Electric Edinburgh

Here at i-on, we love a hidden gem. Nestled away on the ground floor of Harvey Nichols (next to the MAC counter, to be precise) is where you’ll find this little hair salon. If you’ve walked past unknowingly in the past, you’re forgiven because we’ve missed it too. Until now. And now that it’s on our radar, all that has changed.

Offering colour, cutting and styling, the pint sized salon uses the space perfectly and combines trendy interiors with a calming ambience. Ensuring all of their stylists remain at their best, you’ll also find the very personable salon director Scott Fairbairn, who’s worked alongside Electric’s international creative director, Mark Woolley, for nearly 10 years. If you’ve any hair questions or queries, he’s your man.

Aside from the level of expertise available, Electric also stocks its own range of haircare products that really deliver. Chat to any of the team and they’ll tell you all about the special formulations – and the awards they’ve bagged. In short, this place is well worth a visit, whether it’s for a blow dry or a hair-up (trust us, having experienced the latter, these guys really do know what they’re doing).

INTRODUCING...

This sassy little seductive scent packs a powerful punch. But we wouldn’t expect anything less from the Tom Ford label. Blending florals and rich fruit accords, Black Orchid EDT will be on counter at Harvey Nichols from 05 October. Priced from £45.

Electric Edinburgh, Harvey Nichols, 30-34 St Andrew Sq, EH2 2AD, Tel: 0131 524 8388, www.electric-hair.com

GREAT HEALTH STARTS HERE ADVICE RELIEF

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The Beauty Room is offering i-on readers a course of 8 iLipo treatments for ÂŁ700 instead of ÂŁ1,000

the beauty room Located in the Stockbridge Pharmacy 34-37 North West Circus Place, Edinburgh, EH3 6TW PH: 07773777758 liz@thebeautyroomedinburgh.co.uk www.thebeautyroomedinburgh.co.uk

tried and tested | 51

TRIED AND TESTED

Pregnancy Yoga words · Sarah Howden

I

’ve always admired the lithe-limbed yoga women I see darting around town with boundless energy.

Comfortable in my gym routine, it seemed easier to stick to the treadmill than try something new.

However, during my second pregnancy, and zapped of energy and confidence – not to mention struggling with lower back pain, I was forced to cancel my gym membership. And so, I decided to take the yoga plunge. After all, it’s hailed as a great way to stay active throughout pregnancy, addressing posture and pregnancy ailments.

Being completely new to yoga and feeling somewhat nervous of how I would fare in a class, I opted for a 1 to 1 pregnancy yoga session with acclaimed yoga teacher, Julie Smeaton, at home. Arriving with bolsters, blankets and blocks, Julie, who also teaches vinyasa yoga, instantly transformed my living room into a studio – and importantly, put me at ease.

Following a consultation to identify any ailments I had, Julie created a bespoke pregnancy yoga session that worked

on my lower back and pelvic pain. She also identified muscle tightness I had down my left side caused by holding my toddler. I was taught a number of poses to bring awareness of the pelvic floor whilst also learning breathing exercises and techniques to aid labour and beyond. It was relaxing but strangely invigorating at the time and, one hour later, my muscles felt looser and more toned. I felt great.

Julie also offers pregnancy yoga group classes that are refreshingly small allowing for personal attention and help with individual circumstances. Now that I’ve popped my yoga cherry and have my confidence, these classes are next on my hitlist.

Private 1 to 1 yoga sessions cost £50 for one hour.

Pregnancy yoga classes are available at New Town Therapies, 31a Dundas Street. Classes cost £10 each.

To book contact juliecscmeaton@gmail.com or visit www.vinyasayogaedinburgh.com/pregnancy.

52 | advertorial

50% off pilates classes

HEALTH NEWS

Fitness. Focus. Nutrition

FUN RUNNING If a lengthy jog gets a bit boring after two kilometres then perhaps Run or Dye will be more your gym bag.

The 5k run involves getting blasted with dye cannons, having a bit of a rave and finally ‘tie dying the sky’ with a few thousand fellow runners. The event takes place on 18 October at Hopetoun House and there aren’t many tickets left so book your place quick at www.runordye.co.uk.

P

ilates Plus offers expertly designed and delivered Pilates classes across the city. The classes are physiotherapy led ensuring you will be exercising safely and getting the most out of the class. Pilates is a complete body work out which builds core strength, stamina and flexibility through low impact conditioning exercises. Pilates transforms poor posture and restores the body to balance, ensuring each muscle is doing the right job and helping you to combat the stress and strains of modern day life. Regular practice in Pilates shows enhancement in sports performance as well as prevention of injury. Catering for all levels, including ante and postnatal clients, Pilates Plus are offering i-on readers a fantastic 50 per cent off any booking. For more information or to book directly, visit the website and use discount code 'ion50'.

LEISURE REFRESHER Tel: 0131 226 5009, www.pilatesplusphysio.co.uk, Email: talk@pilatesplusphysio.co.uk Offer valid until 30 October 2015. Available for new clients only and valid for any booking of Pilates classes.

Stepping into the Gracemount Leisure Centre, you could be forgiven for thinking you’d taken a wrong turn. The venue has had a £1m refit and now boasts some of the city’s most impressive high tech gym equipment, a second fitness studio, spacious sauna and refurbished changing area. www.edinburghleisure.co.uk.

䔀䰀䤀䴀䤀一䄀吀䔀 匀吀唀䈀䈀伀刀一 䘀䄀吀 圀䤀吀䠀伀唀吀 匀唀刀䜀䔀刀夀 伀刀 䐀伀圀一吀䤀䴀䔀 ☀ 䘀䔀䔀䰀 䜀刀䔀䄀吀 䘀刀伀䴀 䔀嘀䔀刀夀 䄀一䜀䰀䔀⸀ 圀栀攀渀 椀琀 挀漀洀攀猀 琀漀 礀漀甀爀 爀攀昀氀攀挀琀椀漀渀 礀漀甀 挀愀渀 戀攀 礀漀甀爀 漀眀渀 琀漀甀最栀攀猀琀 挀爀椀琀椀挀⸀ 䤀昀 搀椀攀琀 愀渀搀 攀砀攀爀挀椀猀攀 樀甀猀琀 眀漀渀ᤠ琀 猀栀椀昀琀 礀漀甀爀 猀琀甀戀戀漀爀渀 愀爀攀愀猀 漀昀 昀愀琀 礀漀甀ᤠ氀氀 渀漀琀 戀攀 栀愀瀀瀀礀 眀椀琀栀 眀栀愀琀 礀漀甀 猀攀攀⸀ 䌀漀漀氀匀挀甀氀瀀琀椀渀最 䌀漀漀氀匀挀甀氀瀀琀椀渀最 瀀攀爀洀愀渀攀渀琀氀礀 猀栀愀瀀攀猀 眀栀愀琀 礀漀甀 猀攀攀Ⰰ 猀漀 礀漀甀 氀漀漀欀 最漀漀搀 昀爀漀洀 攀瘀攀爀礀 愀渀最氀攀⸀ 吀栀椀猀 䘀䐀䄀ⴀ挀氀攀愀爀攀搀 洀攀搀椀挀愀氀 瀀爀漀挀攀搀甀爀攀 琀爀攀愀琀猀 甀渀眀愀渀琀攀搀 昀愀琀 眀椀琀栀漀甀琀 猀甀爀最攀爀礀 漀爀 搀漀眀渀琀椀洀攀 昀漀爀 瀀攀爀洀愀渀攀渀琀 爀攀猀甀氀琀猀⸀

䌀愀氀氀 ㄀㌀㄀ ㈀㈀㘀 㤀㘀㄀

漀爀 瘀椀猀椀琀 眀眀眀⸀昀愀挀攀愀渀搀戀漀搀礀⸀挀漀⸀甀欀⼀挀漀漀氀猀挀甀氀瀀琀椀渀最

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I-ON INTERIORS Gothic Glamour The high street has certainly gone to town on autumn’s gothic glamour trend. A punch of acid colour helps lift the look, while tactile fabrics like velvet and chenille add a touch of darkly seductive decadence, as seen here at Marks & Spencer.

56 | property and interiors

INTERIORS NEWS

Ideas. Innovations. Inspiration

TIMELESS CLASSIC Dine in style with Nordic Sea Stoneware. Handmade in cool grey tones, every piece is unique and prices start from just £3.95 for an espresso mug at Time & Tide, 48 High Street, North Berwick, and 225 Morningside Road. www.timeandtidestores.co.uk.

SHINE BRIGHT There are certain things that never go out of fashion - an elegant, waterfall chandelier is one of them. To add some sparkle to your room this chandelier with chains of octagonal crystals will set you back £228 at www.chandeliersandmirrors.co.uk.

ON THE SHOPPING LIST Fill your home with 25 of the purest essential oils, including pine, myrrh and lime peel. Sprinkled with real platinum, the beautiful Neom scent joins the Scent to Make You Happy range for a limited time only. From £34.95 at John Lewis or www.neomorganics.com.

WINTER READY Welcome in the dark nights and transform a space with beautiful bed linen, luxurious cushions and super soft throws. For a good selection of styles check out www.houseology.com.

cameroninteriors.co.uk

Established for over 30 years, Cameron Interiors is renowned for a product that is second to none, delivered from designers with passion, and the end result being nothing short of perfection every time.

Visit our extensive Glasgow studio showcasing Bulthaup kitchens alongside Silenia bedrooms or our exclusively Bulthaup Edinburgh studio and speak to one of our specialists.

Cameron Interiors 458-462 Crow Rd, Glasgow G11 7DR. 0141 334 9532 bulthaup by Cameron Interiors 31 Dundas St, Edinburgh EH3 6QQ. 0131 556 2233

58 | features

ICONIC EDINBURGH Victoria Street

words · David Hicks · photo · Susie Lowe

V

ictoria Street in the Old Town has to be one of the most photographed locations in the city. Built in 1829-34, as part of a series of improvements to the Old Town to help improve access around the city, the street was planned to demolish much of the old West Bow and provide a broad sweeping link to the newly built George IV Bridge.

It was designed by architect Thomas Hamilton, one of the leading lights in transforming the city with neo-classical buildings and much influenced by the architecture of ancient Greece.

However it was stipulated that the buildings associated with the new street should be ‘Old Flemish’ in style, and draw inspiration from the details on Heriot’s Hospital.

The building at the top of the street is a good example, built for the Highland Society’s Agricultural Museum. Here the latest in farming technology was displayed with the aim of improving agriculture throughout the country.

If you look up you can still see the society’s coat of arms on the building – the figure of Caledonia on a pedestal, supported by a kilted Highland reaper and a ploughboy.

Further down is India Buildings, built in 1864 by architect David Cousins and designed in the fashionable Scots Baronial style of the time. Look out for the ‘bartizan’ at the top of the building, a small turret inspired by medieval battlements.

Today the street is a charming corner of the Old Town but recent

speculation suggests that a relic of its darker past may still exist. This was the location of Major Weir’s house, a man notorious as ‘the Wizard of the West Bow’, who was executed for witchcraft in 1670. It was thought that his house was completely demolished when Victoria Street was built, but it now seems that some parts may still exist, hidden in the Quaker Meeting House on the upper terrace. An intriguing thought whether shopping, dining or looking for the unexpected.

David Hicks is communications Manager at Edinburgh World Heritage, a charity devoted to conserving and promoting the city’s World Heritage Site. www.ewht.org.uk.

INTRODUCING THE ALL-NEW

EDINBURGH’S FINEST FURNITURE AND HOMEWARES DESTINATION LIGHTING

COOKSHOP

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INTERIOR DESIGN

CARPETS & FLOORING

FURNITURE

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OPEN

Two of the best known furniture stores, Martin & Frost and Sterling Furniture, have come together to create Edinburgh’s finest furniture and homewares destination store – the All-New Martin & Frost – now twice the size at Fort Kinnaird.

4 W H I T E H I L L R OA D, F O R T K I N N A I R D, E D I N B U R G H E H15 3 H R

martinandfrost.co.uk Tel: 0131 657 0820 A ST E R L I N G F U R N I T U R E STO R E S TO R E S A RO U N D SCOTL A N D A N D O N L IN E : s te rling fur niture .co.u k

Emma completely stressing out about the sale of her house.

0131 525 8600 edinburghprimeproperty.com

Your property. Our people. Sold.

property news | 61

PROPERTY NEWS

Ideas. Innovations. Inspiration

SCOTTISH ATTRACTION A year after the referendum, it appears that the Scottish property market is outperforming the rest of the UK by 1.5 per cent thanks to global investment. The figures were the result of a comprehensive report by Savills Research which also looks at the positive effects of the Land and Buildings Transaction Tax on the mainstream residential market and international investment on prime properties in Edinburgh and Glasgow. Read the full report at www.savills.co.uk/research.

GRANARY LAUNCH If you fancy living on the outskirts of town, take a look at Cruden homes' new development in Kirkliston. The practical layout homes in The Granary have been designed to appeal to families with a mix of three, four and five bedroom houses priced from ÂŁ219,500. www.cruden-ltd.co.uk.

DID YOU KNOW‌?

Despite a lofty increase of 10.3 per cent in the number of home sales across East Central Scotland between June and August, the average selling price decreased by one per cent over the same period according to the ESPC. The decrease bucked the national trend where prices jumped by 2.7 per cent from June to July. Check the ESPC website for their monthly house price reports at www.espc.com.

62 | section

Buy-to-let Expert advice from ESPC Lettings Perhaps you’re thinking of purchasing a buy-to-let investment or currently have a property you’re thinking of renting. Whatever the reason there are lots of things to consider when becoming a landlord.

Orlaith Brogan, ESPC Lettings manger provides her essential tips.

Know your budget Before you go ahead it’s vital that you have thoroughly stretch tested your finances to ensure that you have all costs involved covered. In addition, don’t forget to look into any tax you may have to pay.

Know your market The area and property type you’ve chosen to invest in will dictate the type of tenant you will attract. Make sure you target this market when it comes to the finish and furnishings of the property.

Your obligations There are many legal obligations you must comply with such as the Tenancy Deposit Scheme, gas and electric checks and Tenant Information Packs.

Free advice Come along to ESPC Lettings’ free events or speak to our experts to ensure you have everything covered. The experts will guide you through the process and make sure every box is ticked!

For a free valuation or more details of ESPC Lettings’ buy-to-let and fully managed service call 0131 253 2847 or email landlord@espc.com. In addition there’s lots of advice and information available at espc.com/lettings

barca dining table £449 section | 63 dip dining chair £149 faro three seater sofa £999 capsa stool £59 cushions from £24.95 doodle rugs from £299

autumn catalogue out now request your copy at dwell.co.uk/ion VISIT OUR STORES

Tollcross, London Road Furniture Park - NOW OPEN Princes Square, Glasgow

64 | property and interiors

I-ON HOMES

Modern meets traditional in this Glasgow pad.

Interior designer Lisa Trainer opens the door to her beautiful West End home and reveals she’s not afraid to improve on perfection. photos · Susie Lowe

i-on homes | 65

W

hen you spend every day transforming the interiors of some of the most beautiful homes, it must be difficult to reserve some design creativity for your own home.

Fortunately for interior designer Lisa Trainer, her own home that she shares with her four children and two dogs is a source of inspiration and allows her to experiment with colour and design features.

Lisa originally visited the West End house she now calls ‘home’ with a view to renting the property. However, she fell in love with it straight away and knew that as the property had been empty for a while, there was an opportunity to buy it.

Both the location of the property and the overall feeling of the house were the perfect combination for Lisa. “I knew I wanted to live in the area as the kids go to school locally but it was important to find the perfect home too and the fact that the house had already been extensively modernised was a real bonus.

“I was very lucky that the property was finished to a high standard and, as it was quite neutral, it also allowed me to put my own personal stamp on it. In particular to inject some colour.”

Upon moving in, Lisa realised that some changes to the layout of the property would work better for her family.

Church Hill Place Edinburgh Also at Morningside Road Edinburgh Byres Road Glasgow North Berwick Peebles

timeandtidestores.co.uk

66 | property and interiors

“Originally, there was a cinema room downstairs but, practically, it just didn’t fit with what I needed from the space.

It’s now a utility room/larder to fit in with our lifestyle. I also wanted the kitchen to be double height so we now have a gallery/mezzanine level which has really opened the space up.”

Having a big family, the kitchen is Lisa’s favourite room and feels it really is the heart of her home. “It’s always so busy with people coming and going.

I also love cooking and eating with the whole family. My kitchen table is

my favourite piece of furniture. I had it designed and built for my last home over in the South Side of Glasgow. So much has happened around the table over the years so, when we moved to the West End, I had the table stripped back to fit in with our new kitchen.”

As a busy interior designer, Lisa uses Pinterest and other forms of social media to stay connected with emerging designers and up-to-date with new trends but she also credits her children with helping her keep her finger on the design pulse, “I would say

I’m very fashion-led when it comes to interiors and design but my kids are also a great source of inspiration to me as they have their own interests in design and textiles too.”

As for any other changes, her latest project is likely to ensure that her home is the new West End hangout for her friends and family. “I’m currently having a bespoke wine cellar and bar designed and installed in our basement,” reveals Lisa. “I can’t wait until it’s finished.”

We’ll also drink to that.

section | 69

I-ON FOOD Burger fervor The ubiquitous burger is top of the food chain for many so we tasked Burgers and Beers Grillhouse with guiding us to grilled nirvana. “A freshly baked bun’s essential for the perfect burger as frozen ones fall apart,” our insider tells us. “The burger mix needs to be mixed and pressed by hand and never over seasoned, then, like all meats, it's important that the patty is allowed to rest after cooking.

Cheeseburgers are best with a mature cheddar and bacon should always be as smoky as possible.”

70 | food and drink

DINNER @

SALT CAFÉ

words · Dean Newton · photos · Susie Lowe

M

orningside has, for some time, seemed slightly bereft of the quality dining options which you’d expect considering the demographic. In recent years though, some properly good eateries have popped up, harbingers of a new culinary era in Edinburgh’s south west. I’d passed Salt some time back and added a mental note to the ever bulging weekend to-do list. I had, however, grossly underestimated what was on offer.

Inside, Salt makes efficient use of the compact space; feeling snug rather than confined or cramped. The vintage industrial style interior ticks all of the on-trend boxes; Victorian tiles, reclaimed wood and vintage lighting combine well to make a bright, airy daytime experience with a cosy intimacy when the sun goes down.

WHAT: Trendy bistro in the heart of Morningside

WOULD SUIT: Cosy brunches and relaxed dinners

HOW MUCH: Small plates from £3.75, bigger plates from £14.

The vacillating began as soon as the menu hit the table, our helpful waitress, Rihanna, helped us land on seared scallops and venison carpaccio, both £8.50. The superb scallops were tender and creamy smooth, juxtaposed with a hit of acidity from the tomato concasse. Across the table, the rich melt-in-the-mouth venison also received top marks, plated with toasted hazelnuts, shaved parmesan and some zesty confit lemon oil. I mentioned I’d been on the lookout for quirky reds, and we were pointed towards a Romanian Pinot Noir, the bright and silky Calusari, £19, proved the ideal chaperon.

My main event was the highlight of the outing; the Wild Borders roe deer with Jersey Royal gratin (pictured) was rich and gamey with some peppery heat from kohlrabi, truffle oil and

dinner | 71

VICTORIAN TILES, RECLAIMED WOOD AND VINTAGE LIGHTING COMBINE WELL TO MAKE A BRIGHT, AIRY DAYTIME EXPERIENCE WITH A COSY INTIMACY WHEN THE SUN GOES DOWN

girolles balanced by charred peach, utter culinary bliss at £19. My cohort’s cannelloni caused similar dazzlement; courgette ‘pasta’ stuffed with green veg cous cous, horseradish cream cheese and sundried tomato pesto at £14. We wrapped up with the homemade sorbets to share, an ideal palate cleansing triumvirate of Earl Grey, white peach and red berry at £5.

Don’t make the same mistake as I did and pass Salt off as a mere café. While it fits that bill superbly, it’s a whole lot more besides.

Salt Café, 56 Morningside Rd, EH10 4BZ, Tel: 0131 281 1885.

Eat Spanish.

Drink Spanish.

serranomanchego.co.uk serranomanchego @serranomancheg

72 | food and drink

LUNCH @ THE BEER KITCHEN

words · Nicky Howden · photo · Susie Lowe

WHAT: A new bar and restaurant from Innis & Gunn.

WOULD SUIT: Anyone looking for tasty food or to get their beer fix.

PRICE RANGE: Sandwiches from £5, mains from £10.

L

othian Road has had some bad press over the years. However, with the closure of some unfavourable venues, there’s been an influx of new arrivals - The Beer Kitchen being one of them.

Brought to us by Edinburgh brewery Innis & Gunn, it’s the company’s first venture into the bar and restaurant industry - and judging from the exterior alone, they’ve done a pretty good job. Inside doesn’t disappoint either. And it really does feels like no expense has been spared; from the original artwork adorning the walls to the leather interiors and swish loos, it’s got it all going on.

As you would expect with a place like this, beer is the main event. And there's a lot of it.

However, if you’re feeling overwhelmed by the choices on offer I’d highly recommend the beer flight. Priced from £7, it consists of four small beers and is a great chance to try something new. If you are looking for something lighter and fancy twist on a shandy, try the delicious ‘hop-tail’ concoction. But if beer isn’t your thing

don’t worry as they also have a great selection of ciders, spirits and wines.

On a Sunday lunchtime, however, food was what pulled us through the doors. And this is something the Beer Kitchen masters well.

Offering everything from an all-day breakfast to more refined options like starters of moreish chicken liver pate, £5, or in-house smoked Scottish salmon, horseradish and dill crème fraiche and local bread, £5.50. Mains come in the form of burgers, £11, toasted oak IPA beer battered north Atlantic haddock, £11, deliciously fresh prawn and crab salad, from £6, and sandwiches, from £5. The food is seriously impressive and the only negative (if you can call it that) is that some of the mains were overly generous in portion size.

Great food, knowledgeable service and an array of fantastic beers, I’d highly recommend this place for day or night time escapades.

The Beer Kitchen, 81-83 Lothian Rd, EH3 9AW, Tel: 0131 228 6392, thebeerkitchen.co.uk.

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10 Gillespie Place, Edinburgh. 0131 281 0526 www.harajukukitchen.co.uk

Whiski Rooms BAR, RESTAURANT & WHISKY SHOP • Fresh Scottish food served all day • Prime wine, cocktail and spirit list • Scottish craft beers and ciders • Families and groups welcome

Book now for Christmas 4-7 North Bank St, Edinburgh, EH1 2LP, Tel: 0131 225 7224 Email: bar@whiskirooms.com Web: www.whiskirooms.com @whiskirooms whiskirooms

74 | food and drink

FOOD NEWS

Sound bites

THE FRUITS OF THE ORCHARD The fruit harvest season has inspired One Square’s pastry team to create The Orchard Afternoon Tea. The inventive team combine fruit with savoury delicacies such as slow cooked Gressingham duck and sweet cherry compote, the sweet-toothed aren’t forgotten either with apple sorbet lollipops made with locally-brewed Thistly Cross Cider.

The tea is available daily between 2.30-5.30pm throughout October and November and costs £25 per person.

One Square, 1 Festival Sq, EH3 9SR, Tel: 0131 221 6422, www.onesquareedinburgh.co.uk.

...AND A PARTRIDGE IN A PEAR JUS Like or lump it the countdown to Christmas is on. So jump straight into the festive spirit by taking advantage of this exclusive 2 for 1 ticket offer to Foodies Festival Christmas. Taking over Edinburgh’s International Conference Centre from 13 – 15 November 2015, food lovers should prepare their stomachs for a festive feast from Scotland’s top chefs, award-winning artisan producers and international street food vendors who’ll be swapping their chef’s hats for Santa hats for one winter wonderland weekend only.

i-on exclusive 2 for 1 ticket offer We’ve teamed up with Foodies to offer readers a special discount on the weekend tickets. For two tickets with show guides for the Friday, it’ll set you back just £17 (normal price £34). Two Saturday or Sunday tickets will cost £19 (normal price £38). Simply book at www.foodiesfestival.com using the promo code 'FOODIESXMAS' or for more information visit www.ionmagazine.co.uk.

ALL THE QUEEN’S COURSES For everything from soups and sandwiches to millefeuille, fudge and cakes, keep a look out for Queen of Tarts pop-ups. Offering a whopping 10 courses of homebaked goodness, the next batch of events takes place on 03, 04, 10 and 11 October in TB3, a huge converted warehouse home in Leith. www.fb.com/QueenofTartsEdinburgh.

76 | features section

TALKING ABOUT Edinburgh Restaurant Festival

A restaurant festival in the city? Tell me more.

Yes, that’s right. Scottish foodies will have 10 days of taste temptations as the festival returns for its second year to celebrate all that’s great about eating out in the city. Running from 08-18 October, over 30 restaurants in the capital will be offering three course lunches for £15 and three course dinners for £25.

Sounds great. Who’s getting involved?

Places like the Tower Restaurant, Prestonfield, No.8 Lister Square, Continis, Kyloe and Cucina are all taking part but you can find the full list at thisisedinburgh.com/ edinburghrestaurantfestival.

So the festival’s about special set menus then?

No, that’s just one aspect. There are lots of unique events going on too like the Chefs’ Table on Thursday 08 October. It takes place at the Hub and sees Mark Greenaway, Craig Hart and Paul Wedgwood come together to create a fine-dining menu that combines personal flare with their favourite local and Scottish ingredients. You also have the opportunity to meet the award-winning chefs and quiz them on their creations.

What else is on the menu?

There’ll be special gastronomic events including the Grassmarket Family Foodie Day on Saturday 10 October, with free demonstrations, food sampling, live entertainment and special offers in some of the surrounding bars and restaurants. Eat Walk Edinburgh is also back with its popular food tours and Harvey Nichols (pictured) will be hosting an exclusive movie night, with a three course meal and themed cocktails.

Lots going on then.

Indeed. And that’s not all. The first ever Edinburgh Street Feastival will be in St Andrew Square Garden from Friday 16 to Sunday 18 October. The pop-up experience brings together a selection of surrounding restaurants preparing street food dishes for £5 each.

Anything else I should know?

If you want to stay ahead of the game follow @edinburgh #edrestaurantfest on Twitter for the latest updates.

For tickets to the chefs table, visit thisisedinburgh.com

Celebrate the launch of our new drinks list Selected Cocktails £4.50 Thursday – Saturday

7B Randolph Place, Edinburgh, EH3 7TE 0131 539 8100 | www.harrysbarandgrill.co.uk

harrysbarandgrilledinburgh

Harrys_BarGrill

T&Cs: 1. Not valid in conjunction with any other offer.

2. Offer valid until 30 Nov

Pre-theatre menu from ÂŁ16.50 for 2 courses Available Tuesday to Saturday between 5pm and 7pm. To book, please call 0131 525 8200 or email concierge@theglasshousehotel.co.uk.

The Observatory RESTAURANT

AT THE GLASSHOUSE HOTEL

2 Greenside Place | Edinburgh | EH1 3AA T: 0131 525 8200 E: concierge@theglasshousehotel.co.uk

makeovers and facelifts | 79

Whistle Stop, photo by Susie Lowe

TOP FIVE

Openings and revamps

I

t’s been a busy year for new venue openings and revamps around the city. Our top five to check out in October begins with the new venture from the team behind Sygn and Monteith’s called Leith Chop House. The new bar and butchery sources artisan Scottish bred beef to be butchered and dry-aged on the premises before being cooked over an open flame charcoal grill. Drinks include a bespoke craft beer from Drygate brewery, inspired wine list and a specially designed cocktails from their in-house mixologist.

Elsewhere, George Street also gets some much needed fresh meat in the form of Copper Blossom, a box fresh new cocktail bar and restaurant at 107 George Street. Fusing locally sourced, seasonal ingredients from suppliers all over Scotland with classic cocktails with a modern twist, it has an airy vintage interior and quirky furnishings. Further along the street, Tigerlily has undergone a fairly dramatic makeover and in record time too. It took just 10 days to completely transform the venue and the results are impressive. Check it out for cocktails or a spot of lunch.

Walk along to the West End and the newly revamped Harry's Bar and Grill on Randolph Crescent is also worth a look in. Its food menu focuses on steak and seafood and sports fans will love the large screens for tennis and rugby.

Over on South Bridge you’ll find The Whistle Stop Barber Shop Bar and Diner. Inspired by the Harlem barber social scene, the new hot spot offers an authentic American east coast food menu with cocktails bearing all the hallmarks of the owners’ bartending experience and mixology talents. The upstairs has a bright and breezy NY diner feel while downstairs has a cosier, intimate vibe, plus an area that hosts regular pop-up barber events for trims and hot shaves.

For more information visit www.leithchophouse.co.uk, www.copperblossom.com, www.tigerlilyedinburgh.co.uk, www.whistlestopedinburgh.co.uk or www.harrysbarandgrill.co.uk.

80 | food and drink

DRINK TALK

Bars. Brands. Booze

RECOMMENDED

Andrew Lundy, managing director at Vino Wines, unveils his selection of wines to try this month.

GOOD VALUE CLOUD FACTORY, MARLBOROUGH, SAUVIGNON BLANC 2014, £9.99 or £6.99 when you buy six.

With recognisable strength on the nose and a nettle zingy fruit bursting from the glass, this New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc also has lime zest, gooseberry and great mineral length. Matches perfectly to the sofa on wine Wednesday.

CLASSIC CHATEAU CROZE DE PYS, CAHORS, MALBEC 2013, £14 Looking to blow the autumn nights away? This is the wine for you. Big fruit, big tannin but all very balanced in the glass, like its Argentinean cousin it’s well matched to steak but also pairs well with a Sunday Roast.

RISING STAR VILLA BLANCHE CHARDONNAY IGP, £9.95 Fresh and free from oak, this is a cracking wine from Calmel & Joseph.

Almonds and fresh apple with floral notes on the nose, it’s perfect for a chicken casserole or hot pot. A must try whether you love or hate Chardonnay.

To find your local Vino Wines Edinburgh visit www.vinowines.co.uk or Tel: 0131 452 8235. Free pick up and local delivery is also available.

HIGH SPIRITS Ever wondered what whisky might taste like before it’s filled into casks to mature? Now’s your chance to find out. Bottled at 63.5 per cent, the same strength at which the casks are filled, 20cl bottles of The New Spirit Drink from Kingsbarns Distillery in St Andrews are now available for £14.95. Buy a bottle at the Visitor Centre or book a tour of the distillery which includes a taste of the fruity and floral new make spirit. Tel: 01333 451300, www.kingsbarnsdistillery.com.

BEERFEST One of Munich’s finest exports beside pretzels and BMWs hits Edinburgh from 07-11 October. That’s right, don your finest lederhosen because Oktoberfest is back.

A 1,500 capacity tent in the Princes Street Gardens will be the Bavarian hotspot for schlager music, dirndls and giant beers. The sessions begin on the Wednesday and carry on right through to the Sunday. For tickets visit www.edinburgh-oktoberfest.co.uk.

K C A B

82 | section

at the

DID YOU KNOW…?

If you thoroughly shuffle a pack of cards then it’s very probable that the exact order has never occurred before in the history of time. The number of possibilities for arranging a 52 card deck is 68 digits long but it rounds off to 8.0658 x 1067. Even if everyone on the planet had been shuffling cards once a second since cards were invented 700 years ago then they’d still only have covered less than a third of the possibilities.

OUR FAVOURITE FIND LOVE THY NEIGHBOUR According to a survey by Weber, most of us don’t even know their names. Here are some of the survey’s key findings. Curtain twitchers, take heed.

Only 23 per cent of people in Edinburgh know their neighbour’s name.

Almost one in five of us have admitted to actively going out of our way to avoid our neighbours.

Over a third of Brits admit to never socialising with their neighbours.

Interestingly, whilst almost three-quarters of the nation agree that it is important to get to know their neighbours, only half say they would like to know them better.

30 year old Scottish men make the most sociable neighbours.

25-34 is the most sociable age group, being the most likely to invite a new neighbour round for dinner.

Introducing the new generation photo booth – the GIF/ GIF. A big hit at the i-on party last month, the nifty piece of machinery brings photos to life and allows guests to create quirky videos that can be uploaded instantly to social media. Find out more at www.looklook.co.uk or Tel: 0131 281 2675.

section | 83

I N S P I R E D B Y FA M I LY, D E S I G N E D W I T H P E R S O N A L I T Y,

F O R D I A M O N D S , F O R WAT C H E S , F O R YO U

laingedinburgh.com

The ISABELLA collection From ÂŁ795