Bath Life - Issue 460

TAKE ME

FLATS THE WORD ACCORDING TO

ISSUE 460 / 31 31 DECEMBER DECEMBER 2021 2021 –– 13 13JANUARY JANUARY2022/ 2022 FLAT’S / FLAT’SALL ALLFOLKS! FOLKS!

DAVID FLATMAN ON LOVING BATH, WRITING BOOKS, & BEING WOKE TALKING ABOUT A RESOLUTION BATH BUSINESS LOOKS TO THE FUTURE

ISSUE 460 / 31 DECEMBER 2021 – 13 JANUARY 2022 / £3

FAIR & SQUARE

EXPLORE A BEAUTIFUL GEORGIAN TOWN HOUSE

HIT REFRESH ENTER 2022 FEELING RECHARGED

COLOUR VISION

HOW TO CREATE A TECHNICOLOUR DREAM HOME

ARTISAN DINING UPSTAIRS AT LANDRACE

CRACKING STUFF THE EGG ON THEIR WONDERFUND LAUNCH

PLUS FAB FILMS FROM THE LITTLE THEATRE / BRILLIANT BOOKS WITH MR B’S EMPORIUM / GORGEOUS BEAUTY WITH ANÉ

DISCOVER A WORLD OF PREMIUM KITCHEN APPLIANCES B R A N D N E W ‘ L I V E ’ F I S H E R & PAY K E L E X P E R I E N C E C E N T R E N O W O P E N

Excellent - 4.9* out of 5

H O M E A P P L I A N C E S AT A F F O R D A B L E P R I C E S W I T H E XC E L L E N T S E RV I C E 01225 311811 | sales@coopershomeappliances.com | www.coopershomeappliances.com Coopers Stores, 13/15 Walcot Street, Bath, BA1 5BN

ABOVE: Spending a little time with the

excellent Flats (page 19 & page 74) BELOW: Cheese & wine made fine in The Pig near Bath style (page 84)

I

’ve never really done resolutions – maybe some half-hearted mumbling about drinking more green tea, being more organised, and eating less rubbish, if I’m absolutely pushed into an answer by a crashing bore of a resolutionist. In fact while everyone else is doing Dry January I like to polish o the Baileys and amaretto (in one glass trust me on that one eganuary is as likely to happen as Movember ( i! I heard that! and there’s a lot of good TV to catch up, plus it’s raining outside, so for me it’s from couch to remote in under 0.5secs.

Now you’d have thought the recent pandemic, having made a mockery of all our best laid plans, would have me more resolute than ever about my January 0 being all about etfli and whiskey li ueur. E cept the opposite has happened. It’s actually helped bring in to sharp focus that, actually, I do want to do stu , be better, be healthier. More than ever we need those resolutions to stay positive and upbeat and looking forward. This issue is a celebration of just that from healthy eating options on page 80, bright and cheerful interiors on page 24, an uplifting chat with our Bath Life columnist – the former rugby player and sports pundit David Flatman, and a wellness and beauty feature on page 88.

And it’s in this wellness feature you’ll find someone responsible for my new, New Year’s resolution. It’s dance more. And more specifically, dance more umba with Jessica avies. I may still be gu ling the leftover strawberry creams, polishing o the spirits, and binge watching the Money Heist final , but in between, I’ll also be getting the steps wrong at the back of the class, with a great big smile on my face, and haphazardly but optimistically, reggaetoning my way into 2022.

© LOUIS SMITH; W W W.STUDIOWHISK.CO.UK

© BET T Y BHANDARI

EDITOR’S LETTER

SARAH MOOLLA Follow us on Twitter @BathLifeMag Instagram @bathlifemag

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 3

Issue 460 / 31 December 2021 – 13 January 2022 COVER David Flatman pictured in Topping & Company Booksellers (page 74) Photo by Betty Bhandari; www.bettybhandari.com

BOLD AND BRIGHT INTERIORS

24 NEW YEAR NEW STYLE Inject colour into the home for 2022

with the guidance of Bath’s top interior designers

THE ARTS

63 ARTS INTRO Jason Dorley Brown and Andrew Polson’s Images

24 63

of Bath and Tokyo exhibition returns

64 WHAT’S ON Theatre, music, family entertainment, comedy,

art and fun in Bath and beyond

71 BOOKS Mr B’s reading resolutions for wild souls 72 FILM Movies for the New Year at the Little Theatre 74 BIG INTERVIEW David Flatman on TikTok, fatherhood and

his brand new rugby book written with Mark Durden-Smith

FOOD&DRINK

79 FOOD & DRINK You can now take The Green Rocket home

with you with the café and restaurant’s new cookery book

© JASON DORLEY BROWN

80 TRY 5 Healthy, delicious, and all local 82 RESTAURANT Upstairs At Landrace, the new restaurant

from the foodie minds behind the beloved Walcot Street bakery

84 PERFECT PAIR Go-to cheese and wine pairings from Robin

Hutson, founder of The Pig Near Bath

HEALTH AND BEAUTY

88 NEW YEAR NEW YOU Our local wellness gurus share their

techni ues for starting o the year on the right foot

97 BEAUTY BY ANÉ Visiting the DermaGuru

BUSINESS

105 BATHWORKS Local business news, views, and interviews 109 BIZ RESOLUTIONS The goals and projects Bath businesses

are working on in 2022

111 BATH LIFE AWARDS Q&A The DermaGuru shares his secret

to success

115 PROPERTY LEAD Permission granted for an innovative

wooden building project in Bath

116 PROPERTY NEWS Updates from the market 118 SHOWCASE A glorious St James’s Square home

DEPARTMENTS 10 14 19 122

SPOTLIGHT A look back on the last 365 days SCENE Nights at the movies with the FilmBath Festival FLATLINE Flats is feeling the cold BATH LIVES The music producer and vicar Steven Faux

88

Editor Sarah Moolla sarah.moolla@mediaclash.co.uk Deputy editor Lydia Tewkesbury lydia.tewkesbury@mediaclash.co.uk Managing editor Deri Robins deri.robins@mediaclash. co.uk Senior art editor Andrew Richmond Graphic design Megan Allison Cover design Trevor Gilham Contributors Nic Bottomley, David Flatman, Emma Ingledew and Matilda Walton Group advertising manager Pat White pat.white@mediaclash.co.uk Account manager Annabel North annabel.north@mediaclash.co.uk Account manager Dan Nichols dan. nichols@mediaclash.co.uk Production/Distribution manager Sarah Kingston sarah.kingston@mediaclash.co.uk Deputy production manager Kirstie Howe kirstie.howe@mediaclash. co.uk Production designer Matt Gynn matt.gynn@mediaclash.co.uk Chief executive Jane Ingham jane.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk Chief executive Greg Ingham greg.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk Bath Life MediaClash, Carriage Court, 22 Circus Mews, Bath, BA1 2PW 01225 475800; www.mediaclash.co.uk @The MediaClash © All rights reserved. May not be reproduced without written permission of MediaClash.

We’re a Bath-based publisher, creative agency and event organiser Magazines Our portfolio of regional magazines celebrates the best of local living: Bath, Bristol, Cardiff and Exeter. Agency From the design and build of websites to digital marketing and creating company magazines, we can help. Events We create, market, promote and operate a wide variety of events both for MediaClash and our clients Contact: info@mediaclash.co.uk

8 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

HAIR BY BA1– PHOTO BY CHRIS DAW

PROPERTY

Year in review

THAT’S A WRAP

2021 was a year of many challenges and many joys. Here, we look back at some of the high points in Bath’s last 12 months…

W

e started the year with a bang when Bridgertonmania came to Bath after the first smash hit series dropped on etfli on Christmas ay 0 0. amiliar spots like the oyal Crescent, the Holburne Museum and The Assembly Rooms were among 14 locations where the cast and crew worked on over 0 di erent scenes. At the end of January Bath Life featured a behind-thescenes special with locations manager Paul Tomlinson.

THE LAST COUPLE of years have been some of the hardest

the arts have ever seen – but that didn’t stop a group of intrepid classical music lovers from reforming the Bath Festival Orchestra (BFO). In January we reported on the 27-strong troupe of musicians and their driving mission to bring classical music to diverse audiences in underserved communities.

“THEY ALWAYS SAY it’ll snow but it never does, the cynical among us announced after a cursory glance at the weather forecast. But in the dark days of lockdown last January we all received a much needed injection of joy when we opened our curtains to a city covered in a fresh blanket of snow. The quiet peace of the morning and the first crunch of boots into the fresh carpet of white soon gave way to the sounds of children laughing, dogs barking and sledges skidding down increasingly slushy hills. There’s no feeling like a snow day.

AFTER 17 YEARS of community campaigning, work finally began on the Cleveland ools in May. The Grade II listed site is the ’s oldest surviving lido, and the restoration project is set to cost around £6.2 million.

© LLOYD EVANS/ELLIS REID

re openings, revelling in the joy of the return of Bath’s arts and culture, including highlights like alph iennes’s epic premi re of the captivating T.S. Elliot’s Four Quartets at Theatre oyal, and the joyous return of the Bath Festival in the summer among many others.

© NETFLIX

JULY CAME, LOCKDOWN ENDED, AND we celebrated the

10 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

CLOCKWISE FOR TOP LEFT: Behind the scenes of Bridgerton-mania; Bath’s snow days; Cleveland Pools past and present; in the summer arts and culture including The Bath Festival Finale weekend returned; The Bath Festival Orchestra formed during the pandemic; Bath picked up a generation of new fans after appearing in Bridgerton

PHOTO BY CASEY RYDER

© NETFLIX

© CR AIG BL ACKLEY

SPOTLIGHT

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 11

SPOTLIGHT IN JULY, BATH secured a second coveted UNESCO World Heritage status as one of the Great Spa Towns of Europe.

The award recognises historic spa towns based around mineral springs, that were pioneers of modern tourism and attracted a calibre of guest formerly monopolised by larger urban environments.

THE CITY ENJOYED huge success at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics

and Tokyo 2020 Paralympics throughout the summer, with Bath-based athletes bringing home a collective 19 medals.

THEN, IN OCTOBER, even more star power came to Bath.

Timoth e Chalamet was in town for a few days filming for upcoming Willy Wonka prequel, Wonka. Crowds gathered in the streets around filming locations in arade Gardens and ulteney Bridge hoping to catch a glimpse of the young star, who gave crowds a wave as he walked from his car to the set.

© ALICIA COOPER

© IMAGECOMMS

FINALLY, CHRISTMAS RETURNED TO Bath in – almost – it’s pre-Covid glory. The Artisan Market, Abbey Quarter Market, Christmas Lights Trail and a multitude of Christmassy events all had us in the best spirits – it was the perfect way to round out the year. Here’s to a prosperous 2022.

12 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

RIGHT: Bath was awarded a second UNESCO status; Bath swimmer Tom Dean won two gold medals at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games; Kate French won gold in the Pentathlon; Timothée Chalamet was spotted filming Wonka; wheelchair fencing team Oliver Lam-Watson, Piers Gilliver and Dimitri Coutya

© TEAM GB/SAM MELLISH

© ANDY BENNET T

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP

SCENE T H E L AT E S T A DV E N T U R E S I N PA R T Y- GO I N G AC ROSS BAT H Cat Heale and Simon Heale

Philip Raby and Holly Tarquini

Diz Mackewn, Jenny Mackewn, Karen John, Helen Jury and Sylvia Mackewn Annabel Saunders, Lorna Montgomery, Catherine March-Smith and Peter Saunders

Stephen Taylor, Denise Moore, Kathryn Anthony and Jon Thorner

MOVIE MAKER

The ilmBath estival drew film lovers for a week of screenings at The Little Theatre Cinema. The festival included features and 5 shorts, with per cent of the programme directed by women.

This year’s slightly earlier festival even included allowe’en themed nights, with a creepy double bill of Titane and Lamb to get hearts racing. The films screened ranged from big budget fare packed with A listers like The Eyes of Tammy Faye to Petite Maman, a rench language ghost story from Celine Sciamma.

Photos by Jenni Potter www.jennipotter.com

Mike Johnston, Kelvin Rogers and Sharon Alcock

14 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Jennifer Spohn and Fiona Paterson Ken Littlewood and Chris May

SOCIETY

Helen Fripp, Paul MacKenzie-Cummins and Steph Brown Will Smith, Marcus Chapman and Michaella Depalo

Olivia Evans-McCaffery, Vicki Eastman and Natalie Robinson

BRAINY BUNCH

Anna Chauvin and Freya Parnell

Bath businesses put heads together to support Julian House’s annual corporate fundraising event, the Brain of Bath. The 18 teams put their minds to the test through a series of challenging rounds including identifying silhouettes of countries, rounds on sport, 20th century history and music lyrics, as well as an Only Connect-inspired word wall round where teams had to identify words and the categories that linked them. At the end of the 120-question quiz, architectural and urban design company Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios took home the trophy – for the second year running.

Photos by Anna Barclay www.annaweddingphotos.com

The winning team: Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios It was a challenging 120-question quiz

16 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Volunteers from Soroptimist International were on hand for the marking

Attention Business Owners and Directors Do you need more than just accounts and tax returns from your accountant?

Being able to prepare your MTD returns, accounts and tax returns is a given for a professional firm.

Seven Reasons why hundreds return to PG Owen Ltd each year.

But can your accountant help you make more money?

✔ Free advice sheets and newsletters to help your business grow

Does your accountant have experience working in your specialist field?

✔ Advice from experienced qualified professionals

Does your accountant give you answers or just more questions?

✔ In house mortgages, life, pensions and investment advice.

We are more than just your accountants; we are your complete business partners.

✔ Clear fixed and guaranteed fees. When we say fixed we mean it

✔ We speak to you in plain English ✔ Full range of legal and probate services through our sister company ✔ A unique one stop advice service for all businesses and individuals from cradle to grave and beyond!

Contact us now: 7 Northumberland Buildings, Wood Street, Bath BA1 2JB T: 01225 422183 E: bath@pgtax.co.uk

www.pgtax.co.uk

马生拍卖

Ma San Auction in Bath

S P E C I A L I S I N G I N C H I N E S E A N D A S I A N WO R K S O F A R T

2021 HIGHLIGHTS

4. Pair of Chinese doucai wine cups, Yongzheng (1722-35) SOLD £23,220 inclu. premium

1. Chinese 18th C. White-glazed stem bowl decorated in anhua, Yongle mark. SOLD £29,900 incl. premium.

2. Chinese celadon and russet jade boulder on wooden stand. SOLD £13,000 incl. premium.

luations Free Va ting - Accep ts men consign e r for futu s le sa

3. A Chinese late Qing dynasty rosewood six-fold screen with thirty famille verte porcelain tiles depicting scholar court scenes.

SOLD £27,000 (incl. Premium)

5. Pair of Chinese Hardwood Cabinets SOLD £23,560 incl. premium

Free valuations and home visits • Over 30 years experience • Competitive commission rates Direct contacts in Hong Kong and China • Sales every two months 2 Princes Buildings, George Street, Bath BA1 2ED

www.masanauction.com

Tel. 01225 318587

FLAT LINE DAVID FLATMAN

Window shopping Why Flats has gone for blanket coverage instead of sash window renovation

© TAKING PICTURES

I

“All options considered I’ve decided to… retrain as a carpenter who specialises in you know what”

love it when one of the themes of an edition of this magazine is house interiors.

I love it because I can flick straight to it and find lots of nice blankets and baskets and cushions and candles to look at and potentially add to my list of things I’ll certainly need. It’s a long list.

However, as things stand, when I hear the word ‘interiors’ these days I think not of said lovely objects, I think not of wintry warmth and carefully curated cosiness. I think of blankets all right, but only in the context of my being very, very cold indeed.

And not just me. Last week our baby monitor bleeped at us and we couldn’t work out why. In the end we noticed that the temperature gauge was flashing and it had become dangerously cold upstairs where the poor mite was chuntering her way into a deep sleep. We’d known, of course, that it was chilly, and had wrapped her up until she looked like a cashmere cocoon, but her little hands were like icicles.

It’s the lovely old Georgian sash windows, you see. They’re actually in decent nick, but they’re just nothing like modern windows in that when they’re shut it actually still feels like I’m outside.

‘Whack the heating on!’

I hear the cry. And yes, while it’s not a great time to be blasting heat through a smattering of radiators, the thermostat is semi-permanently wound a long way to the right. This indeed serves to make some rooms warmer (hallways and the top floor being lost causes), but it’s worth noting that if we leave a room at any point – and in doing so open a door for something like three seconds – every little bit of warmth will evaporate with an almost audible hiss, a bit like it might sound to set fire to £50

notes in absolute silence.

We have a few very nice original fireplaces and I decided that real fire was the option. I lit one after breakfast and pledged to keep it going until bedtime. Being a boring bloke, I’ve done the maths and calculated that on that day I went through £44 worth of kiln dried logs. And I ran out at 8pm… even Elton John would flinch at the cost of that. So fire’s out.

I had a chap come over and look at the windows and his answer was simple: either have two blokes here for at least a month to renovate them after which they will still be drafty but maybe a bit less drafty, or buy new ones. This led me to ask someone for a quote and, well, I still haven’t recovered. I shan’t be so crass as to mention numbers, but a house load of bespoke sash windows was more than a new kitchen, two new bathrooms, and an outdoor kitchen combined. I kid you not.

All options considered, I’ve decided to buy some more blankets (I got some from The Natural Blanket Company recently and they are super lush), let the baby sleep with us, and retrain as a carpenter who specialises in you know what. Mind you, I haven’t seen the heating bill yet. It could still work out to be cheaper to replace the things instead of sending all the heat straight through them and into a presumably grateful street.

God, with all this talk of heating I’m boring myself now. Must be the cold.

David Flatman is an ex-Bath and England rugby star turned TV pundit and rent-o-mic. Follow him on Twitter @davidflatman and Insta @dflatman For more musings from our cover star Flats turn to page 74

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 19

SPONSORED CONTENT

TECHNICOLOUR DREAM HOME How to play with colours and bring about a brighter life

By Sarah Moolla

Learn how to apply colour in the home using Annie Sloan paints with The Marmalade House, course prices start at £155. Annie Sloan paints are also available to buy through Rossiters

24 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

W

INTERIORS

e’re not telling you anything you don’t already know.

Of course you want colour in your life – you without hue is drab and sad, and a tad too clinical. But where to start with planning and implementing a colour scheme in your home – go for a one statement colour block, or several shades for a layering e ect, or mash it up and clash it up ere we turn to Bath’s interior and design experts for their advice, tips, and know-how on colouring in our abodes.

PLAY FAVOURITES

Where to start Could it be we like the colour purple so we go for that eople are often guided by their favourite colours, says Leroy McKenzie, managing director of Schmidt Bath, who specialise in bespoke made-to-measure kitchen and bathroom solutions.

But when they start comparing, contrasting and matching colours to perhaps some furniture or their chosen wall colour, it will often bring une pected options.

Conversely people also often start by eliminating the colours they don’t like, but are they being too hasty John Law, the creative director of interiors at the Bathwick-based Woodhouse and Law thinks so: We often find that clients are more definitive on colours they particularly dislike, rather than those they are more drawn to. Sometimes however, we will try and push customers out of their comfort zone. Each colour can have such a wide spectrum of tones within so we wouldn’t be doing our job properly if we didn’t introduce the occasional colour tone that they might not have considered before.

We all have colours we like or dislike, but what if our favourite colour doesn’t suit the light or the architecture of your home asks Alex Henry, the interior designer and founder of I Love Colours Studio.

Besides, when making colour choices we are subconsciously influenced by the seasons – in the autumn we may prefer richer tones, that will achieve a cosy environment, while in spring we may prefer colours that are light and fresh.

The Rose Garden in Frome offers colour consultation and an extensive range

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 25

INTERIORS SEEKING INSPIRATION

So if our favourite colour isn’t the simple answer, where can we look for some tinted inspiration There are so many places to find inspiration, says Kathryn Bristow of Homefront Interiors, based in Margaret’s Buildings. “From a favourite piece of artwork to a boutique hotel you’ve spotted on Instagram, inspiration is indeed everywhere. If you’re struggling, starting with your favourite colours often works well.

You can even look to your wardrobe for inspiration here – what colours do you repeat buy Clair Strong, who set up her Bath-based interior design consultancy in 2006, agrees: “Anything can inspire – a piece of fabric, an old postcard, vintage tableware, a book of bird photography. I love watching films and often find myself grabbing the remote to pause the action to hone in on an interiors or costume detail.

“I also tend to get a lot of ideas from how restaurants and hotels use colour in di erent lights. Living in Bath, we can draw on historical references and reinterpret them in a modern way, and of course, our wonderful Museum of ashion is a great source of colour inspiration.

Keeping an eye on current trends can spark a whole rainbow of technicolour ideas, as Sarah Howells of TR Hayes, the London Street independent furniture store established in 1915, explains, The best thing to do is look at current trends and find inspiration in magazines, brochures and the media (social or otherwise), and see what you are drawn to. The current trend is for colour – dark moody walls in blues, greys or greens. ou can keep the whole scheme flooded with colour, furniture and all, or o set the dark walls with paler furniture.

For Lorena Siminovich, founder and CEO of Roomytown, which specialises in art prints for children, art work is great way to choose your décor colours. “The artist has done the hard work for you,

as they will have already considered the colour combinations and related hues that look good together. From this, you can pick out a couple of shades and even take the art print to a paint shop for them to mix the exact colours to complement your art.

And as John Law of Woodhouse and Law points out, there’s a wealth of inspiration to be had from the natural world. “It’s not just what’s inside that counts; we also love to take inspiration from what sits outside too, beyond those windows. Perhaps it is the greater need to connect to nature that is drawing us to a wide range of greens and natural tones at present.

Bringing in those colour tones, both from planting and materials used outside, also helps create an unspoken, subtle cohesion between inside and out. This in turn instils a sense of calm and serenity that nature provides so freely, but is that bit harder to achieve in our own busy lives.

OBJECTS OF DESIRE

Sometimes the lightbulb moment for your colour combination will come from something you already own, as Sean Symington explains, “Finding inspiration for your colour scheme can be a wonderful process.

Most people have items in their home that they have collected over the years, so it can be really simple to pull a colour scheme together based on that. This way as well the colour scheme can tell a story through the home, and works in harmony with the items and people who inhabit it. sing a single piece can definitely inspire the palette of a space, agrees Wil Ray, showroom manager of Holloways of Ludlow, the lighting and furniture specialists on Milsom Street. “Usually the object will inspire feelings of a certain period which will in turn reflect the way you start to build your ideas for the space.

And hung artwork will influence certain colours and draw out colours of key furniture pieces.

Kitchen design by Schmidt Bath

26 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

“Clients are often m d nitiv on colours they particularly dislike”

Sitting room styled by Sean Symington

INTERIORS

ABOVE: Styling and design by Woodhouse & Law; BELOW: Tremletts Grove basin from Ripples Bathrooms

It is a sentiment echoed by the interior design and colour consultant Lola Swift who says, “I’m a fan of mixing up colours and patterns; it doesn’t have to all match. Finding families of colours and tones that complement each other is the key. This also means you can seek inspiration from items already in your home, an inherited patterned chair or an unusual plant pot. ou can use these to influence your new choices, building on the history and personality of your home.”

“If you are incorporating a bold piece of furniture or a statement piece of art – don’t ignore it,” is the advice from Marine Sinnouretty, senior sales and design consultant of the London Road Bathroom specialists, Ripples. “Your colour choice on the walls is just as important as the colour of the items within the space itself.

“Often when renovating it is best to start with one piece that you want to use in the room, and then pull the other colours in around that one item. Many designers will do this with art, as it tends to be a focal point in the room. All rooms need one focal point that your eye is naturally drawn to and everything else should be in tune with that piece. Nothing should be fighting it or trying to out do it.

COLOUR COMBOS

What about the mixing and matching across the spectrum? Are there guidelines to help guide us? “I believe there are no ugly colours – only unfortunate colour combinations,” says Alex Henry of I Love Colours Studio. “When you are planning your colour scheme, a good starting point would be to pick a dominant colour – this has to be the most representative for your home – then work around it by choosing no more than two others. One shouldn’t underestimate the power of neutral colours by having a neutral colour scheme for the walls, floors and joinery, and colour accents in cushions, rugs, decorations, a change of décor will be much easier to achieve.”

Marine Sinnouretty of ipples agrees: While there are no o cial limits on how many colours are allowed in one room, the saying ‘the more the merrier’ doesn’t always apply when it comes to colour, especially in a calming bathroom space. If the room feels chaotic and like it’s closing

28 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Kitchen styled by Lola Swift

“Anything can inspire – a piece of fabric, an old postcard, vintage tableware, a book of bird photography”

INTERIORS Styled by Annabel Grimshaw

“The colour scheme can tell a story through the home” www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 31

INTERIORS in, then you’ve probably introduced too many colours. You can eliminate colours one by one until you start feeling balance.”

For Vanessa Sayce, head designer and artistic director at The Marmalade House, this balance is achieved by working with either three or five colours in a scheme. It’s usually two or four blending, and then one to throw your eye away from the main scheme and add that element of ‘design’ or that ‘wow factor’. There are of course design rules when it comes to using colour, but using a palate where the colours are planned on the same tonal plane (ie. a similar level of colour or tone within a chosen spectrum of colours) can make a designer’s job much easier.”

When designing a kitchen, use a combination of colours, materials and finishes to create a characterful look but just as you would in a living room, limit your palette to one main colour and two accents,” advises Kelly Marie of the Pulteney Terrace-based Kelly Marie Kitchen Interiors. nlike green or blue, black is a neutral shade, which means you can use other colours paired with it with ease but I believe black as a backdrop is best complemented by textures found in natural materials, such as wood and brick, which will add contrast to matte cabinetry, and also a warmth.”

When it comes to pairing colours like a pro, Clair Strong gives away an interiors insider secret. ave you ever wondered why some colour combinations look brilliant and others just don’t seem to work? The secret lies in colour theory, and the starting point for understanding this concept is the colour wheel. sing a colour wheel is a really brilliant way of analysing colour so that you can use it with more purpose and focus.

Colours that are opposite each other on the colour wheel are called complementary colours and create an energetic feel to a space.

The key is to not let one colour overwhelm the other. This scheme will naturally include a warm and a cool colour, as they’re on opposite sides of the wheel. An example of complementary colours would be orange and blue.”

Ercol Novara sofa in velvet from TR Hayes

32 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

LIVING DAYLIGHTS

Another factor to consider when selecting shades is how the light in the home might e ect them, as athryn Bristow of omefront Interiors e plains, o consider the direction your room faces. orth facing rooms are the most di cult due to the relative lack of light. ellow based colours can work well here though as they’ll help create a feeling of warmth. You might want to up the ante with your accessories too, to avoid the room feeling cold or sparse. owever in a south facing room, the colour chart’s your oyster.” ne of the characteristics of wall paints is how they reflect the light, and how this light reflection plays with the colour, points out Nikki Parker, co-founder of The Rose Garden, a family-run company specialising in premium paints and colour consultations.

Choosing the right finish for the surface is important, and in our design room you can see brush boards of the di erent finishes, in di erent lighting conditions, and see how they change the colour. It’s also about using premium paints that have a higher pigment content to the colour.

This way you can be confident of the way the colour, the finish, and the light will work together.”

GO WITH THE FLOW

There’s also seeing the space as a whole and assessing how to use di erent colours in di erent parts of the room, as Leroy McKenzie of Schmidt Bath e plains: If you have open plan living but want to make separate colour areas, consider creating a dividing space such as an open shelving unit in contrasting colours this will allow you to join the spaces without any clashes.”

Mandy Clothier of Quarters Interior Design Company recommends thinking of your home décor colours as you move from room to room. When considering a scheme for a whole home it’s important to consider how colours can be used to speak to one another

INTERIORS from space to space. For example, a wall colour from one room might complement and frame the view into another, where the hue appears again on the cushions on a sofa and in the art on the wall. With careful consideration given to the function and required atmosphere for each space, a thoughtful and cohesive colour scheme can be created for the whole home.”

SIZE MATTERS

And then there’s the size of the actual space, as Natasha Townsend, design consultant with Hobson’s Choice, the kitchen and bathroom specialists, explains, “The kitchen size, the position within the property, and the time of day the space is used most often can all influence the suggested colour scheme of the room. or e ample, lighter tones and artificial illumination in a more compact space, or a room that doesn’t benefit from natural light at the busiest times, would increase the perceived space.

“Alternatively, in a larger, more open-plan area, a darker cabinetry choice can create a striking focal point to the room. Suppose a room has a darker area by virtue of the layout or more deliberate means. In that case, it can be designed to act as a di erent setting, a ‘cosy corner’ or ‘book nook’ so it is part of the overall space, but individual in the use of colour and style.”

PLAY BY THE RULES

Once we’ve worked out colours and the combinations, are there more rules to consider? Yes, says Natasha Townsend of Hobson’s Choice, Working to a ‘rule of three’ for colour choices can also bring a sense of dynamism and interest to a kitchen space. As a guide, 60 per cent primary Living room styling by I Love Colours Studio

34 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

colour, 30 per cent secondary and 10 per cent accent. This could translate into cabinetry, kitchen island and wall units.

“The kitchen, now considered more of an open-plan social space, can take accents or cues from other areas of the property, linking it with the dining room or lounge. This creates a flow and a more coherent overall interior style philosophy.”

However there is one room where rules do not apply, according to Roomytown’s Lorena Siminovich. “In the kids’ bedroom is where you can throw out the rule book and just have fun. There are so many ways to approach colours in kids’ bedrooms. You could paint the fours walls the same colour and keep the ceiling white, or paint the ceiling the same colour as the walls. If painting every surface the same colour feels too adventurous, another option is to choose an accent wall to paint, behind the bed or desk for example, and then add a gallery wall of art prints onto that to create a lovely focal point.

“And who’s to say the accent can’t be the ceiling? I have seen some brilliant examples of kids’ bedrooms where the walls are kept fairly neutral, but the ceiling is painted with bright coloured stripes – it looks absolutely amazing!”

For Sean Symington, director of his eponymously named Bath-based interior design services, there are no hard and fast rules.

“There’s no maximum number of colours you are allowed in one space, it is about creating stunning schemes with prints, patterns and colours that complement each other. Picking a bold statement colour and painting the entire room in it, or wallpapering the entire room in a bold print is my favourite way to allow for the pieces you love to stand out and take centre stage. In my opinion, a successful room should have many things that the eye dances upon and no one feature should jump out at you.”

“In the kids’ bedroom is where you can throw out the rule book”

Children’s artwork from Roomytown

FINALIST

It’s all about the little details…

8 Pulteney Terrace, Bath, BA2 4HJ Email: kelly@kellymariekitchens.com Showroom: 01225 481881 Mobile: 07796 554466 www.kellymariekitchens.com @kellymariekitcheninteriors | Supplier: www.haecker-kuechen.de

INTERIORS

“Using a colour wheel is a really brilliant way of analysing colour ”

Wall colours from Cox & Cox

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 37

INTERIORS STAY IN NEUTRAL

© PETE HELME PHOTOGR APHY

With all this technicolour talk going on, is there still space for our faithful neutral friends of beige and white? Of course, says Nikki Parker of The Rose Garden, and in fact we need to give it even more thought when being paired with more vivid hues. “My big tip is to take time to also choose your white/neutral colour too, so that it tones well with, and complements, your new colour palette. If you o set colour against a traditional brilliant white it will always look di erent.

“A more recent trend has been to use less colours, for example painting the wall and skirting the same colour brings the colour all the way to the floor. And similarly painting ceilings in the same colour can create a more cosy, intimate feel, enveloping the room in colour.”

“As a nation we are being more adventurous with colours but we all recognise the importance of neutrals,” says Dani Taylor, product and creative director at Cox & Cox, the Frome-based mail-order home décor and furniture specialists. “At Cox & Cox we are not trend led and nor will you find bright colours like red and purple coming from us – our paint choice is very much based around our collections of homewares and what colours sell well there – we don’t want statement colours in every room. If you like your walls neutral but want to bring in a contrast, consider contrasting the colour of your woodwork instead.”

“I’m a sucker for a neutral wall and a bit of uniformity,” admits Wil Ray of Holloways of Ludlow. “But using it alongside using original art, colourful Louis Poulsen lighting, or a glossy orange snoopy light from Flos, injects some playfulness and fun. We need a bit of colour at the moment!”

38 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

ABOVE: Styling by Clair Strong Interiors;

BELOW: Kitchen design by Kelly Marie Kitchen Interiors

INTERIORS

ABOVE: bulthaup b3 kitchen design by Hobson’s Choice; RIGHT: Kitchen styled by

Quarters Interiors; RIGHT BOTTOM: Furniture from Holloways of Ludlow

MAKE A PLAN

Where do we begin when it comes to putting these colours to work – swatches, Pinterest, blobs on the wall? “If you are trying to understand how a new wall colour may look in your home, we advise taking a number of pieces of A4 paper, painting them with a sample, and attaching them to di erent walls. Leave the paper in situ over the ne t few weeks and as you enter the room at other times of day, see what you think. oes the colour change under natural and artificial light, and can you live it is the suggestion from atasha Townsend of obson’s Choice.

A room set image is often a really helpful place to start, says Co Co ’s ani Taylor. It can remind you of the practicalities of a room, such as window dressing, awkward areas like the radiators, and can act as a ‘to do’ and a check list how the furnishings will relate to your new shade. To think through some of the critical elements of the colour ideas, Lola Swift suggests brainstorming through a spider diagram can really help it come alive. Also keep tear outs and print o images of your thoughts and colour pairings to use in creating a moodboard of all the design elements, colours, and soft furnishings. They’re useful to get you to started forming a rough colour palette and a useful board to look back to during the project.

The Marmalade ouse’s anessa Sayce is also a fan of moodboards.

“We use collaborative ideas sites to start to collate our collaborative process with our clients, and that way very quickly we build up a visual idea of taste and style. We then work within a chosen colour palette and start to create digital moodboards to bring a scheme together. This includes any sourcing and additional fun elements to work in process. We also provide physical moodboards, samples, and swatches to lay out in situ. The process is carefully planned and organised so that the scheme will work both technically with the guidance of the colour wheel, and the client has a full visual of what they will be getting.

And if it’s still not clicking for you, don’t be afraid to call in the e perts, as uarters Interior esign Company’s Mandy Clothier advises. If you’ve worked really hard on your colour scheme and you still feel it isn’t uite working it might be time to consult an e pert. Sometimes people will continually re paint rooms trying to find the ‘right’ colour when what the room is actually su ering from is a lack of variation in tone, te ture, contrast or highlight. It can sometimes take a trained eye to see what isn’t uite right and to uncover the most cost e ective way to rescue your colour scheme.

40 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

INTERIORS

COLOUR VISION

1

Bring your home to life with tinges, tints and touches of colour 2 4

3 5

SHOPPING LIST

6 7

8

9

1. Selection of soft furnishings, from Oriental Rugs of Bath at Bookbarn International Hallatrow Business Park, Wells Rd, High Littleton, Bristol; www.orientalrugsofbath.com 2. Lijang red chest of drawers, £1,750, from Graham and Green, 92 Walcot Street, Bath; www.grahamandgreen.co.uk 3. Manoir Deco on tayberry, £199.66 per m², from Tile & Floor, 1 Mile End, London Road, Bath; www.tileandfloor.co.uk 4. Dulux paint, prices start at £12.99, from Francis DIY, 39 Moorland Road, Oldfield Park; www.francisdiy.com 5. Velvet Helmsley snuggler, prices start at £1,533, from Sofas & Stuff, 7 New Canal, Salisbury, www.sofasandstuff.com 6. Sisal storage baskets, prices start at £16, from Homefront Interiors, 10 Margaret’s Building, Bath; www.homefrontinteriors.co.uk 7. Conway wallpaper by Zoffany, £88, stockists Perfect Rooms & Interiors, Silver Street, Gastard, Corsham; www.perfectrooms.co.uk 8. Crucial Trading carpet, contact for quote, from Capitol Carpets, 120-122 Walcot Street, Bath; www.thecarpet.co.uk 9. Large Venice sofa in mystic gold, £2,065, from Rossiters of Bath, 38-41 Broad Street, Bath; www.rossitersofbath.com 10. Vacation Cordoba porcelain tile, £2.56 each, from Boniti, Dunsdon Barn, West Littleton, Near Bath; www.boniti.com

10 www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 43

INTERIORS

THE LIST

Cox & Cox

Our local businesses are poised and ready to help with all your home needs this season ARCHITECTS, BUILDERS, CONSTRUCTION AND PROPERTY SERVICES

Hobsons Choice

4 Lyndhurst Mews, Bath 01225 315404; www.artisticplastercraft.co.uk

Chelsea House, London Road, Bath; 01225 447971; www.ripples.ltd.uk

London Road, Bath: 01225 433511 www.hobsonschoice.uk.com

Artistic Plastercraft

Ripples

Ashley Collins Decorating

BLINDS AND SHUTTERS

01761 431354; www.ashleycollinspainting.co.uk Clayton Davidson

The Guild Hub, High Street, Bath 01225 459247 www.claytondavidson.co.uk SBS Design and Build

01225 874676; www.saltfordbuildingservices.com Sovereign Damp Proofing

01249 716161; www.sovereigndpc.co.uk; Sydenhams

Hawthorn Grove, Bath; 01225 833585; www.sydenhams.co.uk

Aspect Window Styling

1 Saracen Street, Bath; 01225 469559; www.aspectwindowstyling.co.uk

COURSES AND WORKSHOPS Lola Swift

www.lolaswift.co.uk; 07971 106546 The Marmalade House

Roundhill Farmhouse, Bath; 01225 445855; www.themarmaladehouse.co.uk

CURTAINS, SOFT FURNISHINGS AND UPHOLSTERY The Curtain Exchange

29 The Mall, Bristol; 0845 652 7300; www.timberwindows.com

11 Widcombe Parade, Bath 01225 422078; www.thecurtainexchange.co.uk;

Youngs Roofing

Perfect Rooms & Interiors,

Timber Windows of Clifton

01225 421499; www.youngsroofingbath.co.uk

BATHROOMS

Formosa Kitchens, Bedrooms & Bathrooms

Ham Green, Holt, Wiltshire; 01225 308541; www.formosakbb.co.uk

Silver St, Gastard, Corsham, Wiltshire ; 01249 716445 www.perfectrooms.co.uk Sofas and Stuff

7 New Canal, Salisbury, Wiltshire 01722 280131 www.sofasandstuff.com

Ham Green, Holt, Wiltshire, BA14 6PX Tel: 01225 308541 • info@formosakbb.co.uk formosakbb.co.uk

South West Upholstery

Mendip Fireplaces ( Bath )

Walker and Walker of Bath

FLOORING, CARPETS AND TILES

0117 370 2745 196 North St, Bedminster/ 62 – 64 Clifton Village/Bristol www.swupholstery.co.uk 01225 743361 The Ley Business Park, Corsham; www.walkerandwalkerofbath.co.uk

EXTERIORS

Eliza Gray Gardens

01761 479790 www.elizagraygardens.co.uk Garden Requisites

286 High St, Batheaston, Bath; 01225 851577 www.garden-requisites.co.uk

The Old Mill, Mill Lane, Monkton Combe, Bath; 01225 722706; www.mendipfireplacesbath.co.uk

Bath Carpets and Flooring

4 Kingsmead Square, Bath; 01225 471888; www.carpetsandflooringbath.co.uk Boniti

Dunsdon Road, West Littleton, Chippenham; 01225 89200; www.boniti.com Broadleaf Timber

FIREPLACES AND WOODBURNERS

134-136 Walcot Street, Bath; 01225 463464; www.broadleaftimber.com

Unit Q1/Q2 Fiveways Industrial Estate, Corsham; 01225 819600 www.curtisfireplaces.co.uk

120-122 Walcot Street, Bath 01225 333341; www.thecarpet.co.uk

Kindle

Oriental Rugs of Bath

Bath Stone Fireplaces

Glenavon Farm, 331 Bath Rd, Saltford, Bristol; 0117 924 3898; www.kindlestoves.co.uk

Capitol Carpets of Bath

1 Hallatrow Business Park Wells Road, Hallatrow; 01761 451764; www.orientalrugsofbath.com

INTERIORS Radstock Carpet & Bed Centre

Looking Glass of Bath

Tile & Floor

Perfect Rooms, Interiors and Upholstery

The Old Cinema, Coomb End, Radstock; 01761 432808; www.radstockcarpetandbeds.co.uk 1 Mile End, London Road West Bath; 01225 31056; www.tileandfloor.co.uk The Wooden Flooring Studio

41 Vallis Way, Frome, Somerset; 01373 228388; www.thewoodenflooringstudio.com

FURNITURE, INTERIORS AND HOMEWARE SHOPS Bed -E-Buys

26 27, Victoria Buildings, Lower Bristol Rd, Bath; 01225 313421 www.bedebuysltd.co.uk Cox & Cox

0330 333 2123 www.coxandcox.co.uk Emma Rose Art Works

The Art Studio, Knight’s Barn, Bath; 07885 235915 www.emmaroseartworks.com Etons of Bath

108 Walcot Street, Bath; 01225 639002; www.etonsofbath.com Gardiner Haskins

Brunel Rooms, Straight St, Bristol 0117 929 2288; www.gardinerhaskins.co.uk Holloways of Ludlow

37 Milsom St, Bath 01225 258874; www.hollowaysofludlow.com Homefront Interiors

10 Margaret’s Buildings, Bath; 01225 571711; www.homefrontinteriors.co.uk

93-95 Walcot St 01225 461969 www.lookinglassofbath.co.uk

Silver Street, Gastard, Corsham; 01249 716455; www.perfectrooms.co.uk Roomytown

www.roomytown.com Rossiters

38-41 Broad Street, Bath; 01225 462227; www.rossitersofbath.com

The Rose Garden

Perfect Rooms & Interiors,

Silver St, Gastard, Corsham, Wiltshire; 01249 716445 www.perfectrooms.co.uk

Formosa Kitchens, Bedrooms & Bathrooms

Ham Green, Holt, Wiltshire; 01225 308541; www.formosakbb.co.uk

Quarters Interiors

Hobsons Choice

15-18 London Street, Bath 01225 465757 www.trhayes.co.uk

Sean Symington Design

Kelly Marie Kitchen Interiors

HOME APPLIANCES

Woodhouse & Law

Kutchenhaus

TR Hayes

07542 389603 www.quartersinteriors.com 07918 080355 www.seansymington.com

13-15 Walcot St, Bath; 01225 311811 www.coopers-stores.com

4 George’s Place, Bathwick Hill Bath; 01225 428072; www.woodhouseandlaw.co.uk

INTERIOR DESIGN

Woolf Interiors

Coopers Stores

Annabel Grimshaw

07940 376363 www.annabelgrimshaw.com Clair Strong Interior Design Ltd

5 Argyle St, Bath; 01225 426905; 07855 797311; www.clairstrong.co.uk Etons of Bath

108 Walcot Street, Bath; 01225 639002; www.etonsofbath.com I Love Colours Design Studio

07484 268 727; www.ilovecolours.co.uk Lola Swift

www.lolaswift.co.uk; 07971 106546

Broome House, Upper Lansdown Mews, Bath; 01225 445670 www.woolfinterior.com

KITCHENS

The Bath Kitchen Company

7-9 North Parade Buildings Bath; 01225 312003; www.bathkitchencompany.co.uk Cheverell Wood

London Road, Bath; 01225 433511 www.hobsonschoice.uk.com 8 Pulteney Ave, Bath; 01225 481881; www.kellymariekitchens.com 5 Saracen St, Bath; 01225 634025 www.kutchenhaus.co.uk/showroom/ bath Saltford Kitchens

439 Bath Road, Saltford, Bristol; 01225 874676; www.saltfordkitchens.com Schmidt Bath

1 Park Road, Bath; 01225 337276 www.home-design.schmidt/en-gb

LIGHTING

Antique Textiles and Lighting

Lansdown Road, Bath; 01225 310795; www.antiquesofbath.com

Cheverell, Hopton Park Waller Road, Devizes; 01380 722722; www.cheverellwood.co.uk

RADIATORS

Clayton Davidson

SASH WINDOWS

The Guild Hub, High Street, Bath 01225 459247 www.claytondavidson.co.uk

Reclaimed Radiators

07540 978408; www.reclaimedradiators.co.uk Timber Windows of Clifton

29 The Mall, Bristol; 0845 652 7300; www.timberwindows.com

SPONSORED CONTENT

REAL KITCHEN STORIES A case study by GARDINER HASKINS showcases Alison and John’s Modern Crown Imperial Handle-less Kitchen in their Portishead home

W

hen Alison and John decided to add a twostorey extension to their home in Portishead, they rebuilt the garage in line with the front of the house. This laid the foundations for a large new kitchen at the rear of the property.

It is an unusual layout but worked beautifully with the open plan space – and you can tell from the way Alison and John talk about the design that they couldn’t be happier with the outcome.

The layout hugs the back of the house in a rectangular shape, resulting in a long but quite narrow kitchen – an unusual configuration that pushed Alec the kitchen designer to think outside the box.

Alison and John were open minded with no clear vision as to what they wanted. They approached Gardiner Haskins on recommendation from a friend, along with another company. Both companies came up with completely different ideas for the space, but Alison and John warmed to Alec straight away. He thought about the practicalities and functions of how they were going to use the kitchen day-to-day – he didn’t just design a standard layout, but a fit appropriate to their space and needs.

“Alec was inspirational in his design approach,” Alison says. “He communicated clearly and his expertise also came across.”

Entertaining and chatting whilst cooking was important to the pair, so Alec could see straight

away it would be pointless designing a kitchen with the hob and sink positioned against the back wall away from family, guests, and the view of the garden. The magnificent kitchen island cleverly houses the induction hob and sink so that whichever of the couple takes the role of chef for the night can still be centre stage for entertaining. It also contains the recycling, the dishwasher and deep drawers for plenty of pan storage, with a hidden socket that pops up when required. The dining table is incorporated at the end of the kitchen island in front of the bifold doors and fits seamlessly into the design, enhancing the kitchen’s social atmosphere. The tabletop is made from the same material as the cabinet doors, so it ties in perfectly with the minimal palette, and features a hidden storage cupboard underneath, large enough for a decent amount of storage whilst still able to sit the family comfortably.

Alison says her favourite feature is the worktop surface. A textured matt quartz, you can see why it’s so loved – the tactile surface is crying out to be touched. John loves the unusual downlight feature highlighting the open shelves at the end of the kitchen, which give the space a cosy feel. In the evenings when the couple are relaxing, the ambient lighting creates gorgeous pools of light with additional pendant lighting over the island if needed.

Small appliances such as the kettle and toaster are tucked away in one of the many storage cupboards in the kitchen island when not in use,

and even the sockets are cleverly concealed and can be pulled up straight from the worktop, keeping the sleek, stylish feel and reducing the clutter so it’s easy on the eye.

Kitchen Designer: Alec Yull Kitchen Fitter: Paul Kelly Photography: Carine Butcher

Dreaming of transforming your kitchen? Pop into Gardiner Haskins or call today and begin your own journey. Book your free planning and design consultation at Gardiner Haskins Interiors Kitchen Showroom today by calling 01179 292288; www.gardinerhaskins.co.uk www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 49

10% OFF

MARKILUX AWNING SALE 2022* Invest in your outdoor area this year with a Markilux Awning, now with 10% off all awning models and accessories.

Enjoy unparalleled UV protection, warmth and privacy with a personalised awning for your home.

Visit our showroom to learn more about the Markilux Awning Sale and our complete design to installation experience. *Offer applies to Markilux awnings and accessories only until 31st January 2022.

01225 469 559 info@aspectwindowstyling.co.uk www.aspectwindowstyling.co.uk 1 Saracen Street, Bath, BA1 5BR

f

SPONSORED CONTENT

DECISIONS, DECISIONS… Explore the winter sale at TR HAYES featuring many big-name brands

B

uying new furniture is always a big decision, and with larger pieces you are talking about quite an investment these days. You want your hard-earned cash to get something that is practical, will give you pleasure, and will survive the hurly burly of everyday life.

Take a trip to the top of Walcot Street and you will find TR Hayes, the furniture store with a longestablished reputation for quality.

TR Hayes’ Winter Sale is now on, and they are one the region’s largest suppliers of many big-name brands, including Ercol, Stressless, Parker Knoll, Hypnos and Vispring to name but a few. TR Hayes are one of the leading suppliers of Stressless chairs and sofas (yes, Stressless also do some amazing sofas these days) and there is a wide selection on display. A particular favourite is the stylish Stella sofa, which has a sleek, contemporary vibe and comes with special comfort features as well as a choice of beautifully soft leathers or fabric.

Ercol is also featured throughout the store, with some of their gorgeous sofas and chairs, and several bedroom and dining ranges. They celebrated their 100th anniversary in 2020 (founded five years after TR Hayes arrived in Bath!) and are such an innovative company, most recently capitalising on the surge in demand for simple, retro-style furniture.

With these brands you can be sure that quality is built into the piece, and the prices are not prohibitive either. With the big Winter Sale now on there are fantastic reductions throughout the store. On top of this is the TR Hayes Price Promise, which means they will match the price if you see it cheaper elsewhere (with the same service conditions).

So, if you are in need of some new furniture, it makes sense to pop along to TR Hayes first to check out what is on offer, and then sit back and enjoy your purchase for years to come.

Stressless chairs and sofas

15-18 London Street, Walcot, Bath BA1 5BX Tel: 01225 465757; www.trhayes.co.uk

38-41 Broad Street, Bath. BA1 5LP Tel. 01225 462227 www.rossitersofbath.com

C

PE OFF N EE B N A O R W !

O

P R erfect

ooms

FOR GREAT DESIGN IDEAS, COME & VISIT OUR

INTERIORS SHOWROOM

Bespoke Curtains & Blinds, Curtain Poles, Upholstery, Interior Design, Fabrics & Wallpapers, Flooring, Rugs, Accessories. Measuring, Fitting & Decorating Services also available.

Includes Inspirational Bathrooms, Bedrooms & Kitchens Find us at Silver Street, Gastard, Corsham, SN13 9PY We are just a 4 minute drive from Corsham Town Centre with free customer parking available

NOW OPEN IN MELKSHAM... @HOME WITH PERFECT ROOMS HOMEWARES

www.perfectrooms.co.uk • Tel: 01249 716445 • interiors@perfectrooms.co.uk

Fireplaces, wood burners, gas fires, chimney and flue specialists

Classic to contemporary – concept to completion

Chesney’s . Barbas Bellfires . Hwam . Stuv . Jetmaster Contact us today or visit our showroom Mendip Fireplaces (Bath) Monkton Combe, Bath, BA2 7HD | 01225 722706 | info@mendipfireplacesbath.co.uk | www.mendipfireplacesbath.co.uk

picture cleaning & restoration

Looking Glass of Bath Bespoke Mirror Makers

Look after your treasured artworks

Professional restorer with 35 years experience offers advice on all aspects of display, framing and conservation of watercolours, oils and prints etc Free no obligation home visits can be arranged Please call into: LOOKING GLASS OF BATH 93-95 Walcot Street, Bath BA1 5BW Or call 07831323878 • info@lookinglassofbath.co.uk www.lookinglassofbath.co.uk

'Tiled Panel Mirror' which can be made to any size.

Offering traditional and contemporary collections in a range of designs and finishes All our mirrors are made and finished in our own workshops in the centre of Bath See our website for more information on what we offer 93-95 Walcot Street, Bath BA1 5BW 01225 461969 info@lookinglassofbath.co.uk www.lookinglassofbath.co.uk

SOVEREIGN DAMP & TIMBER LTD We offer a comprehensive service for all kinds of damp proofing, basement waterproofing, timber treatment and specialist replastering.

Tel: 01249 716161 | Tel: 01225 811222 1 Ingoldmells Court, Edinburgh Way, Corsham, Wiltshire SN13 9XN www.sovereigndpc.co.uk | info@sovereigndpc.co.uk

Interiors & Homewares

Design Designfor forCommercial Commercial&&Residential ResidentialProperties Properties

Work from local artists and makers Prints, Cards & Gifts

10 Margaret’s Buildings, Bath BA1 2LP homefrontinteriors.co.uk T: 01225 571711 E: info@homefrontinteriors.co.uk www.homefrontinteriors.co.uk Ethical, Sustainable & Handmade Homewares and Gifts

clair@clairstrong.co.uk clair@clairstrong.co.uknn07855 07855797311 797311nn01225 01225426905 426905

www.clairstrong.co.uk www.clairstrong.co.uk

Curtains Cushion covers Quilts Wedding dresses Dry Cleaning Order online

Get in touch!

Tel: 01225 292141 www.thebathlaundry.co.uk Unit 10, Old Mills EST, Paulton, BS39 7SU

BE

EXPLORE OUR RANGE OF FLOORING STYLES

• Domestic and commercial roofing specialists • Covering Bath, Bristol and the South West • Trading since 1985 Tel: 01225 421499 Email: mail@youngsroofing.co.uk www.youngsroofingbath.co.uk

CARPETS

VINYL & HARD FLOORING

BED & MATTRESSES

VISIT OUR SHOP The Old Cinema, Coomb End, Radstock BA3 3AW Tel: 01761 432808 | Email: sales@radstockcarpetandbeds.co.uk VISIT OUR WEBSITE www.radstockcarpetandbeds.co.uk

Nicholas Curtis is a master stonemason and has been working with stone and making fire surrounds for 25 years.

Each surround is hand carved by Nicholas using traditional skills.

You can have any style made in your own size specifications and they're suitable for solid fuel, wood burners, gas and electric fires. ♦ Nicholas also carves bespoke Bath Stone Porticos ♦ ALL FIREPLACES ARE DELIVERED NATIONWIDE. Unit Q1/Q2 Fiveways Industrial Estate, Westwells Road, Corsham SN13 9RG Tel: 07974076170 or 01225 819600 nicholasbathstonefireplaces@hotmail.co.uk | www.curtisfireplaces.co.uk

Braysdown Lodge, Woodborough, Peasedown St John, Bath BA2 8LN

Family business established since 1957 Large display of beds and mattresses ● Free customer parking Great customer service, just read our reviews ● Immediate delivery available A great selection of bedroom accessories from well-known brands

26-27 Victoria Buildings, Lower Bristol Road, Bath BA2 3EH 01225 313421 www.bedebuysltd.co.uk

Original cast iron radiators, lovingly restored and ready to plumb straight into your exisiting central heating system.

We are a local Bath-based business with a huge choice of stock available now.

Call David Lucas on 07540 978 408

www.reclaimedradiators.co.uk

T H E C U R TA I N E X C H A N G E For the best dressed windows

IN BATH

11 Widcombe Parade, Bath, BA2 4JT | Tel: 01225 422078 | Email: curtainexchange@live.co.uk www.curtainexchangebath.co.uk

We happily take on domestic, commercial and industrial contracts; from a simple home redecoration through to a large scale business renovation.

It is our company policy to ensure that every project is dealt with in a high quality professional manner and we are happy to make recommendations regarding materials to suit your needs and budget.

We use all varieties of paint and wallpaper from all of the major brands, including; Farrow & Ball | Dulux Trade Crown Trade | Neptune | Little Greene

ANTIQUE AND MODERN CARPETS BOUGHT, SOLD REPAIRED AND CLEANED NOW IN OUR 33RD YEAR IN BATH LARGEST SELECTION IN THE SOUTH WEST

Open Saturdays or by appointment only 9 8 Wa l c o t S t r e e t , B a t h B A 1 5 B G Te l 0 1 2 2 5 4 6 9 2 4 0 E m a i l c o n t a c t @ h a l i d e n . c o m w w w. h a l i d e n . c o m

T: 01761 431354 E: enquiries@ashleycollinspainting.co.uk

www.ashleycollinspainting.co.uk

Open Fridays and Saturdays

CREATING ORIGINAL, PERSONALISED HOMES T: 07940 376363

www.annabelgrimshaw.com

THE ARTS S N A P S H O T S O F B AT H ’ S C U LT U R A L L I F E

MIND’S EYE

The BRSLI on Bath’s Queen Square is holding an exhibition Images of Bath and Tokyo by Jason Dorley Brown and Andrew Polson in aid of Bath Mind. The collaborative collection between the two artists was in the same space in 2020 but was curtailed by various lockdowns so the pair decided to re-exhibit together, and this time raising money for the local charity.

Jason, who took the image above Bath from Alexandra Park, says, “Supporting the vital work of Bath Mind through sales made at the exhibition was a clear choice. Both Andrew and myself are very aware of the important work Bath Mind do in supporting our community, especially given the increase in mental health issues during the Covid pandemic.

“At a time when the walls surrounding discussing mental health are falling and people are realising the benefit of both reaching out for support and supporting others, we wanted to do our bit to promote this important, independent local charity.”

The free to enter exhibition is being held at BRSLI, Queen Square, Bath until 31 January; www.brlsi.org / www.bathmind.org.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 63

© FREIA TURL AND

W AT’S ON 1 – 31 January

There’s still to catch Cinderella at Theatre Royal Bath - oh yes there is

EXHIBITIONS

0s which criminalised gay se .

Holburne Museum; www.holburne.org

ROSSETTI’S PORTRAITS This first ever e hibition dedicated to ante Gabriel ossetti’s portraits is coming to a close. It features some of his most celebrated artworks including The Blue Silk Dress and The Blue Bower. The e hibition also e plores the artist’s intimate relationship with his muses and their influence on his depiction of beauty.

Holburne Museum; www.holburne.org

Until 14 January

Until 9 January

Until 9 January

SUNIL GUPTA: THE NEW PRE-RAPHAELITES The ten images on display reference the struggle against Section of the Indian enal Code which was instigated during British rule in the

64 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

ENGAGED This diverse and fascinating e hibition lining the corridors of the are of thought provoking e periential prints underpinned by theoretical research. The artists featured worked innovatively through the Covid lockdown, and recently graduated in MA Multidisciplinary rintmaking at WE, Bristol. www.artatruh.org

Until 27 February

MYTHS AND MONSTERS A colourful celebration of children’s book illustration featuring the art work of family favourites such as a , Iron Man, Little Ogre, and

Monsters in Underpants, along with models and interactive craft activities. Alongside are the paintings of ictoria Topping representing the mythological aspects with her depictions of Midas, an, egasus, hoeni and oseidon. Victoria Art Gallery; www.victoriagal.org.uk

Until 27 February

BRONWYN WILLIAMS-ELLIS: MYTHICAL BEASTS PAST & PRESENT The lively and colourful beasts painted onto ceramic dishes featured in this show have been conceived as partners to the adjoining Myths & Monsters e hibition. Always interested in early art and archaeology, it was during a visit to the Alhambra palace in Spain that Bath artist Bronwyn Williams Ellis became e cited by

colour and drawing on surface decorated ceramics. Victoria Art Gallery; www.victoriagal.org.uk

Until 24 April

SHOEPHORIA! iscover the fascinating evolution of shoe style over the last 00 years, from the actual footwear worn by ueen Mary and ueen ictoria, through to the recent contemporary designers, such as Manolo Blahnik and ivienne Westwood. Fashion Museum; www.fashionmuseum.co.uk

Until 30 April

LIGHT AT MARSTON PARK An immersive light e hibition by internationally acclaimed British artist Bruce Munro at Marston ark in rome. The artist’s ephemeral light based works have featured in

WHAT’S ON with mezzo-soprano Isabel Leonard as its rags-to-riches princess.

Maestro Emmanuel Villaume leads a delightful cast, which includes me o soprano Emily ’Angelo as Cinderella’s Prince Charming, soprano Jessica Pratt as her Fairy Godmother, along with mezzosoprano Stephanie Blythe and bass-baritone Laurent Naouri as her feuding guardians. Turn to page XX for more on this and other Little film screenings. The Little Theatre Cinema; www.picturehouses.com ABOVE: Lining the corridors of the RUH until 14 January is Engaged, a collection of experiential prints underpinned by theoretical research LEFT: The Egg hosts the enchanting tale of the Snow Mouse from 12 January until 6 February BELOW: Old Ghosts

by Mick Peter is a narrative trail running through the Holburne starting on 14 January

urban landscapes and remote rural areas around the globe, including the acclaimed Field of Light, currently illuminating Uluru in Australia. www.marstonpark.co.uk

14 January – 15 May

OLD GHOSTS Old Ghosts by Glasgow-based artist Mick Peter takes a wry and a ectionate look using a cartoons come-to-life tableaux, at the idea of history as an industry. It’s a narrative trail through the museum and its garden that humorously critiques the conventions of heritage sites such as an encounter with a hapless signwriter who is desperately trying to complete his task of refreshing the Museum’s signage. Holburne Museum; www.holburne.org

THEATRE / CINEMA Until 8 January

A CHRISTMAS GETAWAY The brand-new festive story – inspired by P.G. Wodehouse and Noel Coward is brought to life with a cast of just four actors and presented with New Old Friends’ trademark flair. Ustinov; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

Until 9 January

CINDERELLA Star of Tracy Beaker and former Strictly finalist, ani armer plays Fairy Godmother alongside Bath favourite Jon Monie as Buttons (who also happened to write the show) in the magical panto Cinderella. Joining them are ic Gibney, uncan Burt, Elly Jay and Josh Rose. Theatre Royal Bath; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

7 January

MET OPERA ENCORE: CINDERELLA Laurent Pelly’s storybook staging of Massenet’s Cendrillon is presented with an all-new English translation in an abridged 90-minute adaptation,

7 January

THE 355 When a top-secret weapon falls into mercenary hands, wild card CIA agent Mason ’Mace’ Brown will need to join forces with rival badass German agent Marie, former MI6 ally and cutting-edge computer specialist Khadijah, and skilled Colombian psychologist Graciela on a lethal mission to retrieve it, while also staying one-step ahead of a mysterious woman, Lin Mi Sheng, who is tracking their every move.

Tivoli Cinema; www.tivolicinemas.com

10 & 11 January

THE LATE-IVITY With a couple of perfunctory tweaks to the script and literally a few minutes of re-rehearsal, Living Spit have managed to make it appear as if they’ve put loads of thought into it, whilst actually doing barely any work. The mistletoe may be manky and the tinsel may be tired, but this is still a cornucopia of comic Christmassy crudeness. Only this time it’s got a slightly di erent title because they’re doing it in January.

Ustinov; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

12 – 22 January

THE PLAY WHAT I WROTE amish has written a play, an epic set in the French Revolution called A Tight Squeeze for the Scarlet Pimple.

Sean, on the other hand, wants to continue with their double act. e believes that if they perform a tribute to Morecambe and Wise, amish’s confidence will be restored and the duo will go on. But first Sean needs to persuade a guest star to appear in the play what amish wrote. With rave reviews and previous guest stars having included igel avers, ylie Minogue, and Joanna Lumley, this is in the 'do not miss' category. Theatre Royal Bath; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

19 – 22 January

DICK WHITTINGTON amily pantomime by Best anto’

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 65

WHAT’S ON

Rose Bowl winners, St Philip & St James Church Drama Group.

All the traditional panto fun plus a few surprises makes for a show not to be missed. Performances at St Philip & St James Church Hall, Odd Down. Tickets can be bought at www.ticketsource.co.uk/spsjdrama

19 - 22 January

MRS DELGADO Helen, along with 67 million other people, is in lockdown.

Unfortunately Helen’s nearest neighbour, Mrs Delgado, is not.

A funny and poignant new story of desire, control, raised blinds and lowered boundaries, from triple Olivier Award-winner Mike Bartlett (King Charles III, Doctor Foster). Starring Rakhee Sharma (Macbeth, National Theatre; Wuthering Heights, Royal Exchange Manchester), and directed

by Olivier Award-winner Clare Lizzimore from the team behind the Old Fire Station’s 2019 hit n fla .

Ustinov; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

24 – 29 January

ARRIVALS AND DEPARTURES Written by Alan Ayckbourn, a terrorist code-named Cerastes is on the loose, and an undercover antiterrorist squad have planned a sting to capture him as he steps o a train at a London station. The operation, led by Acting Major Quentin Sexton, has drawn in two outsiders – Ez and Barry. Perfect strangers as the start, their time waiting gives them the chance to get to know each other, and try to make sense of the chaos unfolding around them. The Mission Theatre; www.missiontheatre.co.uk

CHILDREN Until 16 January

FIVE CHILDREN AND IT Sent away to live in the countryside with their reclusive uncle, five children discover a secret that’s been hidden away for centuries: a magical, mischievous and grumpy Sand Fairy called It with the power to grant spectacular wishes. But as the children set o on a series of fantastic adventures, they soon learn that all wishes being granted can actually create a whole heap of trouble.

The Egg; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

12 January – 6 February

SNOW MOUSE Winter has arrived and the woods are covered in white, in this enchanting tale for the very young.

66 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

A child hurries to put on their warm clothes so they can run outside and play in a sparkly new world. Just when they are starting to feel a little bit lonely, they find a sleeping mouse buried under the soft white flakes.

Sliding, tumbling and laughing, they explore the winter wonderland together and keep each other safe and warm from the winter freeze.

The Egg; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

MUSIC 6 January

JAZ DELOREAN Jaz Delorean is the lead singer with the band Tankus the Henge and also performs on his own. Taking inspiration from bar-room piano players of the Old Wild West, the mournful melodies of his Cypriot ancestry, and a patchwork of comic and tragic stories from growing up around a travelling funfair, Jaz delivers an eclectic set with tender observations of our fragile and sometimes twisted existence on this planet. Chapel Arts; www.chapelarts.org

13 January

LEWIS CLARK Lewis is the resident musician at Pound Arts Centre in Corsham and his distinctive musical style draws on a love of rhythm and blues, while exploring an eclectic range of influences including traditional British folk, Latin, American roots, and wider European traditions.

Chapel Arts; www.chapelarts.org

14 January

RAZZOMO This is a free event in Komedia Bath’s Electric Bar from 2 – 4pm with Razzomo who are a full power Balkan house/Gypsy folk duo from nearby Bristol delivering sizzling Irish fiddle lines with booming guitar beats and loops. www.komedia.co.uk

19 January

PAUL CARRACK Paul Carrack and his six-piece band are on the road again for their 20/20 tour. The rock, pop and soul singer Paul, now 68, was the subject of the BBC4 documentary The Man With The Golden Voice, which covered his phenomenal 50 year career. His recognisable vocals have graced many smash hits including How Long (Has This Been Going On) by ACE, Tempted by Squeeze and Living Years by Mike and the Mechanics.

Bath Forum; www.bathforum.co.uk

ABOVE: Enjoy the folk power Razzomo for free at Komedia on 14 January LEFT: 7 See the Met Opera’s adaptation of Cinderella at the Little Theatre on 7 January BELOW: Victoria Topping’s depiction of the Greek god Poseidon can be viewed at the Victoria Art Gallery as part of the Myths and Monsters exhibition

WHAT’S ON © ANDREW OGILV Y PHOTOGR APHY

RIGHT:

Catch the enchanting Stourhead Light Trail before it finishes for the season BELOW: Learn something new at the Forum with the No Such Thing As A Fish team

20 January

THE DIANA ROSS STORY A musical celebration of the mighty Diana Ross and The Supremes presenting a chronological history of hits from a career culminating in more than 100 million record sales with memorable hits such as Where Did Our Love Go, I’m Coming Out, Chain Reaction, Baby Love, Stop in The Name of Love, and Ain’t No Mountain High Enough. Bath Forum; www.bathforum.co.uk

COMEDY Every Sunday

DRAG KARAOKE AT MANDALYNS Most days of the week the welcoming LGBTQAI+ Mandalyns bar has always got something upbeat, fun, and groovy happening, and Sunday nights are no exception. Their drag karaoke nights are so good, they have made Sunday the new Saturday. www.facebook.com/mandalynsbath

21 January

NO SUCH THING AS A FISH The UK’s top podcast, No Such Thing As A Fish, in which the writers of theBBC2 quiz show QI, discuss the weird and unbelievable facts they’ve uncovered, is on the road, with their Nerd Immunity tour. The show features a live recording of a podcast episode plus a first half stu ed to the gills with facts, comedy, and two years’ worth of pent-up nerdery that wouldn’t have worked over Zoom.

Bath Forum; www.bathforum.co.uk

OTHER

Until 2 January

CHRISTMAS LIGHTS AT STOURHEAD This family-friendly magical festive trail in the Warminster countryside will be flooded with enchanting illuminations, all choreographed to a soundtrack of much-loved seasonal music from Sony Music. There will be neon strings stretched between towering trees, a walk through a tunnel of hearts and onto largerthan life mistletoe, a flotilla of festive, brightly coloured boats bobbing on the lake, and a giant, colour-changing flora. Stourhead; www.nationaltrust.org.uk

68 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Until 3 January

BATH ON ICE Get your skates on and head to Royal Victoria Park for some festive fun on the specially installed ice rink.

The Bath on Ice Moguls Bar will be serving delicious hot food and spicy mulled wine to keep you warm and in the festive spirit. Right next door is Glow Golf with its twinkling fairy lit mini-putts. www.bathonice.com

Until 3 January

CHRISTMAS AT LONGLEAT Journey through a mesmerising tunnel of light and sound, and wander through more than a hundred twinkling Christmas trees. There’s a trail of illuminated sculptured flowers dotted alongside the snowy paths, the Hedge Maze is adorned with yet more fairy lights, and the 20-metre enchanted singing Christmas Tree will be performing carols in the Square. Plus, along with animal-assisted storytelling in the Flight Before Christmas show happening in the Longbarn, the Longleat Santa Train will be calling in at Father Christmas’s Grotto. www.longleat.co.uk

Until 30 January

NARNIA DIORAMA Make a trip into Milsom Place and follow the paw prints to discover a vision of Narnia. A wondrous magically lit diorama created by Planet Gold Decor will transport visitors into a magical world complete with a life-size lion, accompanied by his faithful Narnia animal companions, the witch’s throne and, of course, the essential wardrobe. www.milsomplace.co.uk

28 January

THE REAL DOWNTON ABBEY Join Lady Carnarvon at the Theatre Royal Bath as she opens the gates of Highclere Castle, also known as the real Downton Abbey for an intimate look behind-the-scenes at this beloved British landmark.

With a range of seasonal recipes from Highclere’s kitchens and Lady Carnarvon’s own family recipes, gardening tips, fascinating histories and untold secrets from the castle’s archives. www.theatreroyal.org.uk

BOOKS NIC BOTTOMLEY

Reading challenge Three books to help inspire new hobbies and habits in 2022

“A Simpler Life asks how we can achieve an easier, clearer and more serene day-today life”

I

’ve penned a fair few New Year, new books, new start columns over the years. Generally, in those pieces, my overarching theme tends to be gentle (or occasionally passive-aggressive) persuasion to read more in the year ahead. After all, what better than a blank canvas of 5 days to inspire you to tick o unread classics, begin a ‘read-around-the-world’ mission or embark on whatever other reading challenge you set yourself. You see, there I go again.

But, for the first time in uite a while, I thought I should acknowledge that there are other resolutions people undertake in January, and annual lists or challenges they seek to embark on.

Take Noah Strycker for example. Here is a man who was so dedicated to s uee ing every nano-second out of 2015 for his chosen challenge, that he began the year, binoculars in hand, sitting in a decreasingly hot tub on a boat in Antarctica. His plan was to break the world record for what birders call a ‘Big Year’ – spotting a huge number of di erent bird species in a single calendar year.

Plenty of more low-key bird enthusiasts keep an annual tally of the di erent species they’ve seen, and when and where they first spotted them. But for the most part they’re limiting their viewings to their home county, a few daytrips and perhaps a holiday or two. Not so Noah!

As he recounts in Birding without Borders (Souvenir Press, £10.99), he spends all of 2015 on the move seeking out encounters with more than, wait for it, ,000 di erent species. That’s a constant average of more than di erent birds every single day.

Recounting his adventures more or less chronologically, Strycker describes his ornithological circumnavigation from the fro en South, up through the jungles and plateaus of South America, onto home territory in the USA and then ever onward to Scandinavia, Mediterranean Europe, eight African nations and then through Asia and Australasia. He doesn’t describe every find (thankfully but rather ooms in on particularly triumphant or incident packed searches, like the day spent almost entirely hoping for a glimpse of a vast nesting arpy Eagle in central Bra il.

As he goes, Strycker struggles visibly with the need to keep on moving and keep up daily averages for the purpose of his challenge and the

essence of birding, which is enjoying the waits and the tran uillity of nature and savouring each encounter. As much as this particular trip is about records, the book and Strycker’s infectious nerdiness about his subject is an inspiring homage to paying attention to the remarkably diverse creatures in flight around us and to the global friendships that can be formed around a shared passion.

Living in a city, even one as compact and beautiful as Bath, means we risk becoming detached from the positive influence that connecting with nature and the countryside can have. In Rewilding the Urban Soul (Scribe, £16.99) Claire Dunn explores how those who enjoy the benefits of urban life can also keep close to nature. Having spent a year fully immersed in the wilderness, Dunn was soon back in the relentless flow of city living and feeling the benefits of her temporary time out ebb away. Keen to neither give up her life and connections in the city, nor her yearning for outdoor experiences, Dunn shares how it’s possible to achieve a balance through walking, swimming wild, and undertaking all manner of activities to appreciate and stay close to urban and suburban nature.

Finally, A Simpler Life by The School of Life (School of Life, £15) is a philosophical look at a subject that we would all do well to address at the start of each year – and indeed always.

It asks how we can achieve an easier, clearer and more serene day-to-day life in a modern world poorly configured for all of the above.

This is no magic tidy-up book though.

It asks us instead to think about all aspects of life, from work to family, from friendships to our engagement with media, and to take a mindful, well-prioritised and considered approach to all that we engage with in order to make our life, well, simpler.

There’s much food for thought in here, as you’d expect from the people behind this now global mission (founded by celebrated philosopher Alain De Botton) to help people lead resilient and fulfilled lives. And if there’s one thing we can all agree on wanting out of 0 , surely it’s resilience and fulfilment.

Nic Bottomley is the general manager of Mr B’s Emporium of Reading Delights, 14/15 John Street, Bath; tel: 01225 331155; www.mrbsemporium.com

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 71

CLOCKWISE FROM BELOW:

THE REEL THING EMMA INGLEDEW

If you love golden nostalgia you’re sure to love Licorice Pizza; The Souvenir: Part II is a standalone gem; The Electrical Life of Louis Wain stars Benedict Cumberbatch and Claire Foy; a cat as depicted by the artist Louis Wain

The New Year brings four new films to Bath’s oldest cinema Licorice Pizza

Another classic from Paul Thomas Anderson (Phantom Thread, Punch Drunk Love, Boogie Nights) is on the horizon. Not only is this another fantastic turn from the acclaimed director, it features the debut performances of two future movie greats. Alana Haim (perhaps best known for her Grammy nominated rock band Haim) has already generated award season buzz for her performance as Alana Kane in this coming of age drama set in San Fernando Valley in the 1970s. She stars alongside Cooper o man, the son of the late great hillip Seymour o man, a fre uent collaborator of Paul Thomas Anderson.

The pair’s chemistry is the centrepiece of an already brilliant film. If you loved golden nostalgia Once Upon A Time In Hollywood, you’re sure to love the taste of Licorice Pizza.

The Electrical Life of Louis Wain When people think of iconic artists and drawings, their mind may first go to an Gogh and his sunflowers, or icasso and

“Wain’s psychedelic d a in s t ans d the public” 72 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

his blue period. Perhaps sadly enough, not enough people think of Louis Wain and his cat drawings. Wain’s love of his cat Peter ultimately transformed the public perception of cats. H.G Wells even described him as having ‘made the cat his own’. He invented a cat style, a cat society, a whole cat world, and this world is the subject of Benedict Cumberbatch’s latest biopic The Electrical Life Of Louis Wain. Wain was an artist towards the end of the 19th century, who became fi ated on drawing cats after adopting one to raise with his wife.

These psychedelic drawings transfi ed the public, but also began to reflect Wain’s own declining mental health and battles with schizophrenia. Cumberbatch stars alongside Claire Foy (The Crown) and together they bring Wain’s inventive imagination to life in this wonderful new film.

Met Opera Live: Cinderella

Experience the full glory and magic of the Met Opera from the comfort of The Little, with The Met Opera streaming live (turn to page 64 for more). Join us this January for their latest production of Cinderella – bound to be a hit for both seasoned opera-goers, and those looking to diversify their tastes this season. The cast is led by Maestro Emmanuel Villaume in this abridged 90 minute adaptation of the Massenet’s classic Cendrillon, now in

an all new English translation, making it accessible to all. Moreover, director Laurent Pelly’s innovative use of storybook staging truly brings the fairytale to life. After all, who doesn’t love a classic fairytale?

The Souvenir Part II

Joanna ogg returns to direct the se uel to the 2019 indie drama The Souvenir: Part I, but whilst The Souvenir: Part II may be a follow-up, it’s one that stands on its own two feet. Partly inspired by director Joanna Hogg’s own e periences with film school in the 0s, The Souvenir: Part II follows protagonist Julie (Honor Swinton Byrne) as she prepares to direct her graduate film. This has real life poignancy, as Swinton Byrne’s real mother, who also plays her mother in the film, is Tilda Swinton, who herself starred in Hogg’s own graduate film, as a then undiscovered actor. The film is embedded in a love for London in the 0s, as well as a celebration of Joanna Hogg’s own coming of age.

Emma Ingledew is a i n m an graduated with a BA in Film Studies to become manager at The Little Theatre Cinema, 1–2 St Michael’s Place; tel: 01225 466822; www.picturehouses.co.uk

• Complete tailoring service for ladies and gentleman • Alterations and Repairs on all Garments • Made To Measure Suits and Shirts • Bespoke / handmade Suits and Separates • Ladies bespoke tailoring • Bridal wear and Evening wear Alterations • Re-sizing and Re-Designing Suits and Dresses • Replicating your old favourite clothing

25 Milsom Street, Bath, BA1 1DG t: 01225 920 263 info@citytailors.co.uk www.citytailors.co.uk

74 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

FLATS

THE BIG INTERVIEW

ENTERTAINMENT! The Bath Life columnist, sports pundit and former rugby union player David Flatman talks working hard, social media, being a dad, transgender politics, and reveals a talent for tackling any subject lobbed his way Words by Sarah Moolla Portrait by Betty Bhandari

A

s all you regular readers know, David Flatman, the sports pundit and former rugby union player is our fortnightly columnist and has been for about a decade, never having missed an issue. He’s funny, honest, whip-smart, and always late with his copy. Like seriously late. Every two weeks, as the editor, I panic that this is the edition that will carry an empty page with the words ‘David Flatman is away’ in small italics as a lonely footnote. Then with a last minute gasp worthy flourish, he delivers sparkling, word perfect, engaging and laugh out loud copy which obliterates the pain of the chase. Until we do it all again a few days later.

This is the first time we’re actually meeting in real life – I’m tucked away in a corner of Emma’s Bar in the Bath Hilton, just waiting for him to be late. That’s his thing surely. He’s bang on time. “I hate being late,” he announces. “Hate it. If you had been half an hour late, I couldn’t give a monkey’s. My time management is actually awful so I compensate by allowing too much time for something. I give myself an hour to do a 20-minute task. I had to get a midday train to London last week, so I’m suited and booted, dropping the kids at school, and at the train station by 8.23am.” I’m trying to raise a quizzical eyebrow at this point but, before I can get a self-serving moan in, we’re running headlong into another topic.

WORK ETHIC

Chatting to David Flatman, aka Flats, is pretty easy and great fun – chuck him a subject – any subject – and before you know it, he’s scooped it and is thundering along with cracking and entertaining insights, opinions and comments. There might be a couple of meandering weaves over the pitch tackling a few other issues along the way, but then there’s usually the tremendous drop kick of a punchline to end. It’s easy to see why he’s fast gaining a reputation for being one of the best TV pundits for

the game, working alongside Austin Healey and Mark Durden-Smith, across three channels BT Sport, ITV and Channel 5. He’s just written a book with the latter, ats and d s ad aid a (turn overleaf for more on this). He’s also the Flats of Flats and Shanks – the informative and humorous rugby podcast with former Saracens teammate Tom Shanklin. Then there’s the imminent launch of a new nutritious ready-meal foodie venture called Prepped; he hosts corporate gigs both rugby and entertainment-based; is much in demand as an after dinner speaker at rugby events; and lucky for us, is the regular compère of the Bath Life Awards. He’s also about to get involved with a construction company, has just had a new baby, and is in the throes of renovating his new Lansdown home.

It’s clear, also looking at his rugby career, Flats isn’t afraid of hard graft. His senior club rugby began with Saracens in 1998 when he just 18, making him the youngest ever prop to debut still to this day. He joined Bath in 2003 and went on to make over 160 appearances for the club, as well as winning eight England caps before calling it a day due to injury in 2012. After a ‘backroom’ stint at the Rec, he left to pursue a career in media but do not mistake his increasing success in this competitive field as luck, it’s down to that ingrained work ethic. “When I’m commenting on games, I’m almost always the least successful player in the room, almost everywhere I go,” he says. “But that’s my old job and while I was quite good at my old job, I’m much better at my new job because I work really hard. I’m not ashamed to say I work very hard at it.”

But Flats has no intention of being single-minded about a life on TV, as his diverse portfolio demonstrates. “I’m interested in di erent stu , and I couldn’t do the same job every day. Even if I got paid a million pounds a year to do the same job every day, I would be deadly bored in a year but with just with more money in the bank. And I don’t really care about the money in the bank. As long as there’s enough, I don’t really care. I just like to have fun really.”

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 75

THE BIG INTERVIEW DEVOTED DAD

The providers of much of the fun in Flats’s life is his three girls, Sophia, 12, Mieke, nine, and Hetty, the newborn youngest with fianc e reya. is talk is peppered with stories and anecdotes about the trio as he reveals there is no custody agreement between him and his e wife. The split was not only amicable but the pair are on the same page when it comes to raising their children. “An issue about mobile phones came to a head a few weeks ago at school – of course they’re kids so, as they kept telling me, it was definitely someone else’s fault. I spoke to my e wife about it and together we agreed on some basic rules: The times allowed the phone, apps not allowed including Tik Tok because while some of it is cool, there’s a lot of really vile stu on there. I also pointed out they were under age to have some of the apps. A little digging and it turns out Sophia got it on her phone by imprinting her thumbprint on mine, then nicking my phone to approve the app. I have to admit, I thought – ‘Legend, I would’ve done that.’”

FEEDING THE TROLLS

Flats himself is pretty active on social media, his manager having pointed out its usefulness for helping promote his career but he’s e tremely relieved it wasn’t around when he was younger. “I’m thrilled in fact. For two reasons. One is that it’s horrible. And two, being completely frank, is that while we were nice enough blokes – we weren’t horrible to people as a rule, but we did get into scrapes. We did things that we wouldn’t want our kids to do – like all parents do.

I look back and think some of the stu we did would get us hammered on social media now. That’s the truth of it. We were young, single blokes – we had punch-ups, we tried too hard to pull girls, that sort of stu . And although it’s normal if you work in the bank, and on a Saturday night you’re chatting up one or two girls. It’s kind of, ‘Well, blokes do what blokes do’. But as soon as you are a pro athlete, you’re branded a sleazebag. There’s unrealistic e pectations placed on these young kids.

Most of his social media is ‘love’ as he describes it, but he does get the occasional troll. “This bloke sent me the most horrendous private message the other night and normally I wouldn’t bother but this time I felt I had to reply. I asked him if he’d say all this to me if he saw me in the street. He responded with, “F*** yourself, you fat w*****r. And if I see you, I’ll f*****g smash you.

“I checked out his feed and he’s a seven stone dweeb doing muscle poses. It made me laugh really. On the whole I know to stay away from the hate.”

TOP: Flats with his girls Sophia and Mieke; MIDDLE: with newborn Hetty; BOTTOM: with Rugby World Cup winner Ben Kay and commentator Nick Mullins

BEING WOKE

As well as staying away from the hate, Flats positively embraces the good, is happy to keep learning about the world and has no truck with being described as ‘woke.’ “The ideal world is that every single person identifies e actly how they want and no one else gives a s**t. That’s the idea, that it doesn’t matter. It’s like I’ve got size 10 feet, he’s got size 11, no one cares. So I’m just going to wear those shoes. So that’s all it is – I think that’s the ideal world.

And in the world of sport? “Here there are two questions.

There’s fairness and there’s safety. So people think there’s this whole situation where a large 15-year-old boy suddenly decides, ‘I identify as a girl today. I want to go and play in that girl’s team.’ And then smashes everyone to bits. That’s not actually how it works.

“When it comes to the issue of transgender in sport is it such a tiny issue, one in millions, and probably needs to be e amined in a case by case basis. That’s for the scientists, and not for social media.

“I was with some mates and we were talking to a good friend, who happens to be gay, after reading all this stu about transgenders in changing rooms. Someone said, ‘I don’t get it. Do I want my mother to walk into a changing room and see a bloke in there?’ Our good friend said, ‘This isn’t new – it has always been happening. Men have been identifying as and dressing as women forever.’ So our mothers have undoubtedly been safely sharing spaces with people who may happen to have male genitalia for years.”

The interview continues into e tra time with a myriad of subjects covered: the importance of the Black Lives Matter movement; the merits of an electric bike; loving Bath and why he’ll never leave; the various ops which limit his ability to play sports now; his ambitions to write a ‘serious’ book one day. What we don’t discuss is his column, which as we go to press, still hasn’t arrived Turn to page 19 to see if it ever did…

For more: www.mlbmanagement.co.uk

76 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

THE BIG INTERVIEW DURDERS: Since teaming up to present the a a

mi s i i i ts show, originally on IT before moving to Channel 5 eight years ago, we’ve become the oddest of odd couples. Tinder or Grinder or match.com would never have put us together in a million galaxies.

Rugby Lovers United might have though.

FLATS: Actually I think they might. ou’re posh, you drive a crumbling old car, and you wear threadbare old dinner jackets. I’m from Maidstone, I drive a lu ury 4 4 and wear designer clothes. ou’re all class and I’m a bit of rough. ou’re old money, I’m so nouveau it aches.

We’ve actually got a good few markets covered there.

Is the last one a real dating app or are you just wa ing as per?

DURDERS: Just rambling. But it’s an idea. My idea, so back o . Anyway, we’ve become an item. Which can be annoying. Such is the unfathomable but annoyingly undeniable appeal of lats that I can’t turn up to a ground or a rugby-themed gathering without being greeted with ‘Where’s lats ’ It’s humiliating. I often feel like the rince Albert to his ueen ictoria a reference to the monarchs, not the body piercing for the more infantile among our, presumably, cosy book club.

If I had a pound for every time I’d been asked where the bipedal aubergine was, I’d be able to clear the national debt of Greece.

itson of The Guardian] also called us ‘ osh and ecs’ by the way, which would make me avid Beckham. r avid eckham. And you, ictoria.

FLATS: obert

JUST THE TWO OF US

lats and his broadcasting other half and co-writer, Mark Durden-Smith on their ‘ osh and ecs’ relationship

D

avid Flatman and his on-screen broadcasting partner Mark DurdenSmith, who is now also an o screen friend, have combined their rugby knowledge and years of experience alongside their insights, forthright opinions and their wit to write Flats and Durders ad aid a , published by Simon & Schuster.

Everything rugby is discussed, debated and agreed or indeed disagreed on, from their ultimate , concerns for grassroots rugby post Covid, worries over head injuries, and the future of the game. ere, in adapted extract, they talk about how they became an item...

“I often feel like the Prince Albert to his Queen Victoria”

DURDERS: I’m more than happy with that. She’s all about the style and the pout. That’s me all over. The point we’re trying to make is that, despite the pandemic and the cost of asparagus being at an all time high, I think we both feel very lucky to have done the job we’ve done, with each other for company, and in the bigger picture isn’t it a good time to be a rugby fan FLATS: Indeed it is. Which brings us nicely on to our book. Books on rugby union are basically everywhere yet, if we’re being honest, they’re often uite serious and a bit gloomy with the odd stunning declaration slotted in to help with sales. But why have just one former rugby player writing a supposedly humorous and entertaining book about one of the most technical and celebrated field sports on the planet, when you can have one former rugby player and the son of Judith Chalmers That’s what’s on o er here. avid Luke latman 0 appearances for Saracens, for Bath, and not as many as he should have had for England (some may debate this , and a posh bloke from ighgate with thick but malleable hair who played for urham niversity a few times and has a very well travelled mum, wa ing on about the sport we both love. That’s what’s on the table.

Imagine there’s a large bucket in the sky labelled ‘rugby books’. Well this is one, and it goes in that bucket.

Flats and Durders Offload: Rugby Laid Bare avid atman and a dn mit is d im n st is avai a as t d ma d a and indi s s m sim nands st

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 77

Bringing you the very best of Colombia!

07561 409371

6 Abbeygate St, Bath BA1 1NP 01225 316774 Info@thecolombiancompany.com www.thecolombiancompany.com

www.meddelifood.co.uk

Chefs, hoteliers & restauranteurs of Bath, meet David Campbell & Dave Wadner, our chef recruiters with a wealth of experience running some of the city and country's most prestigious kitchens.

• Looking for that missing piece of your brigade?

• Need a chef for evening service tonight?

• Looking for the next step in your career?

• Considering temp work as a way to gain work / life balance and more money?

• Just want to chat all things foodie?

POP INTO OUR OPEN DAY ON Y TUES 11TH JANUAR PM 12 FROM

e, 6-7 St Peters Terrac 3BT 2 BA Rd Lower Bristol s ry’ bu ins Sa site (oppo fuel station)

01225 614820 • www.limerecruit.co.uk davidcampbell@limerecruit.co.uk • davewadner@limerecruit.co.uk

Take a look at our website!

FOOD & DRINK S N A P S H O T S O F B AT H ’ S F O O D S C E N E

SPILLING SECRETS

The Green Rocket now has its own cookbook.

Owner and chef of the café and restaurant, Philip Pearce, penned The Green Rocket Cookbook in response to popular demand from regulars who’ve been begging him to share his culinary secrets for years.

The Green Rocket Cookbook features 80 tried and tested vegan recipes, the café’s story from its founding, and a handy glossary explaining some of the lesser known ingredients. Philip features recipes drawing inspiration from all over the globe in a way that’s easy to follow – so even a cookery newbie can achieve restaurant quality meals at home.

You can buy the book directly from The Green Rocket on Pierrepont Street or order from a local independent bookshop.

For more: www.thegreenrocket.co.uk

Visit West has partnered with Too Good To Go to tackle food waste

WASTE NOT WANT NOT Visit West has announced a new partnership with Too Good To Go. The destination management organisation for the local area including Bath & North East Somerset is partnering with the app, which combats food waste by allowing customers to buy and collect surplus food, as part of a wider mission to become more sustainable.

“We are delighted to announce our partnership with Too Good To Go,” says Kathryn Davis, director of tourism at Visit West. “If we’re to reduce our greenhouse gas emissions and fight climate change, reducing food waste is the number one action we can take. I can’t wait to see the impact we can make together through this fantastic collaboration.”

For more: www.visitwest.co.uk

Make your Green Rocket favourites at home with their new recipe book

© ROB WICKS

TASTE OF THE MED There’s a new must-visit restaurant on John Street. La Terra is the brainchild of executive chef Alessandro Scola and business partner ito Scaduto, and it o ers a menu of Mediterranean and Italian cuisine that is fresh, simple and seasonal. The pair both have impressive resumés – Alessandro was formerly the head chef at Clayton’s Kitchen, while Vito has managed renowned local spots including The Bath Priory and The Three Gables in Bradford on Avon.

The menu is full of crowd-pleaser dishes like agnello – Wiltshire rack of lamb with grilled polenta, heritage carrots and port sauce – and the tasty parmigiana, an oven-baked terrine with bu alo mo arella, pesto and a tangy parmesan sauce.

For more: www.laterra.co.uk

Newbie La Terra serves up Mediterranean and Italianinfluenced cuisine

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 79

© EAT PICTURES

TRY FIVE

2

1

T E EALT

3

TI

Getting healthy doesn’t have to be a chore.

These five Bath businesses show that getting your five a day can be delicious too

DEMUTHS emuths is a brand synonymous with health. The vegan cookery school was established back in 00 by achel emuth.

What started in achel’s kitchen is now a dedicated school for vegan culinary e cellence led by co owners elen and Georgia, who are carrying on the school’s work following achel’s retirement. or busy people seeking to get healthy in a way that’s delicious but totally do able after a hectic day of work and school runs when all you want to do is curl up in front of the T with a pi a the emuths vegan fast and delicious course is for you. It’s a day long course where you’ll learn a bunch of go to recipes to make plant based, healthy living easy. It’s a course for beginners led by e pert chefs using a mi ture of demonstrations, knife skills and hands on cookery with a delicious sit down meal at the end. The first one of the year is on January. dm t s

2

NOOK A newbie, ook recently e panded to a second premises in Bath their first is a tiny and charming spot in rome. ook is an Aussie influenced caf dreamed up on a Byron Bay beach that means healthy, wholesome and colourful food, and ama ing co ee of course. The menu is packed with nutritious poke bowls, acai smoothie bowls, dreamy porridge with tasty toppings, cold pressed juices and more besides. The caf at a ld Bond Street is well placed for the lunch time dash for food in place of the usual panini and a packet of crisps. n t s

80 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

3

FLY CAFÉ L stands for irst Love ourself. It’s a gym on Bath Street with an independent caf , L Caf , that is a destination all of its own. Whether you’re doing some post work out recovery or are in need of a shopping pitstop, Caf by L is the place for good, nutritious, and beautifully presented brunch.

The menu features tasty bowls of homemade granola, acai bowls, smoothie bowls or porridge, all piled with colourful and healthy toppings. Their loaded protein pancakes are a must the berry compote, coconut yoghurt and granola stack is a dream. fl tn ss

4

THE GREEN ROCKET If you’re feeling a bit fancy but want to keep it plant based and healthy, The Green ocket is a must stop for lunch. ou’ll spot plenty of favourites on the menu with a plant based twist, like the tempeh caeser salad as well as veggie staples like risottos, gnocchis and the utterly mouth watering artichoke and fennel caponata, which comes with polenta chips, cavolo nero, cashew cream and pine nuts. It is the sort of place that just proves veggies don’t have to be boring they even have their own cook book to prove it. ( ou’ll find more on that over on page . t n t

5

JANIFA’S KITCHEN ou can find Janifa every Saturday at the Bath armer’s Market in Green ark Station serving up delicious, plant based meals to take away. er menu changes pretty much every week, with dishes including me e,

4

© ROB WICKS

1

5

tagines, noodles, salads, pies, stu ed peppers all of it influenced by what’s available locally, and what’s in season. Janifa launched the business following 0 years with emuths, and she uickly became a popular farmer’s market staple. As her regulars can attest you need to get to the market early to guarantee a portion of your favourite dish.

Instagram @janifaskitchen

Family run and providing quality food and service since 1985 THE PEKING WOULD LIKE TO WISH ALL ITS CUSTOMERS A HAPPY NEW YEAR. PLEASE CALL FOR RESERVATIONS. TAKEAWAYS AVAILABLE 15% OFF

1-2 New Street, Kingsmead Square, Bath BA1 2AF Tel: 01225 466377 www.pekingrestaurantbath.co.uk a @PekingBath f pekingrestaurant Opening Hours: Monday – Saturday 12 noon – 2.00pm and 6.00pm – 10.30pm | Closed Sundays.

UPSTAIRS AT LANDRACE

Lydia Tewkesbury visits Walcot Street’s new cosy haven Photos by Ed Schofield

U

pstairs at Landrace is one of those ideas that might not have come to be were it not for the Walcot Street café’s creative approach to surviving the pandemic.

First, it morphed from a café/bakery to a high-end grocery shop, keeping the bakery and takeaway co ee o ering.

Then in the autumn, between lockdowns, owner Andrew Lowkes decided to a host a series of dinners he called Landrace Lates – these pre-booked, pre-paid dinners all sold out way in advance, and gave him an idea of what Landrace might look like as a fully fledged restaurant.

A few months later, he met Rob Sachdev, a talented chef who had just relocated to the area along with wife Jules Copperman, who just so happened to be an experienced restaurant manager. When they asked Andrew if he knew anyone who was hiring – he said he might.

These days downstairs at Landrace there’s still the shop, the beloved bakery and takeaway co ee, but travel

82 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

up the winding staircase and you’ll find yourself in Upstairs at Landrace, a cosy and intimate dining space helmed by Rob and Jules, where the ever-changing menu is scrawled across characterful blackboards, and the hum of the open-plan working kitchen the soundtrack.

A short distance from my house, Upstairs at Landrace is my newest local, so I decided to treat myself to a chilled out evening – just me, my book, a glass of wine and delicious food all to myself. Perfection.

The meal begins with Landrace sourdough – how could it not? The thick, cakey bread elevates something simple to an absolute indulgence. I could have eaten basket after basket of it – as anyone who has ever brought home a loaf knows. It never sticks around for long.

The menu at Upstairs at Landrace gives you a couple of di erent options for how you want to dine you can order multiple small plates to the table, tapas-style, or do the standard starter/mains/desserts fare by going for the larger plate dishes. I opted for the latter, starting

RESTAURANT

“It’s a lovingly curated experience” o with a portion of cheddar fritters. If I have one recommendation don’t get a plate to share. Trust me, you will want to eat the entire lot yourself. Crispy, chewy and covered with an additional flu y layer of grated cheddar that slowly melts as you eat they are utterly divine and dangerously moreish. or the mains it was a creamy bowl of Girolle tagliatelle. This simple sounding dish absolutely knocked my socks o . Meaty mushrooms in a creamy, cheesy, buttery sauce with handmade pasta made from the same grown and stone ground flours handled in the bakery. I chewed each bite in a dumbfounded sort of wonder and a bit of sadness too, for soon the bowl would be finished and I’d be faced with the reality that pasta would never be this good again.

When it comes to puddings, it’s rare I won’t opt for chocolate, and the rich, dark, whipped mousse with cr me fra che and shortbread did not disappoint. The flavours achieved a beautifully balanced meld of creamy and bitter, giving the mousse a satisfying bite only enhanced by the crunch of crumbly shortbread pieces.

Landrace is committed to using only the best produce and it shows. The subtly Mediterranean style menu uses ingredients sourced from growers and farmers with a natural, sustainably sourced approach to the land, and you can feel the care and attention given to every part of the process as you dine. The wine list is much the same, packed with a rotating selection of small European producers embracing regenerative, organic and biodynamic practices with delicious results. It’s a lovingly curated e perience from a group of people whose passion for produce is evident and the result is something pretty special.

DINING DETAILS Upstairs at Landrace, 61 Walcot Street Bath; tel: 01225 424722; www.landracebakery.com Opening hours Wednesday 6-9.45pm, Thursday-Saturday: coffee and bakes 9-11am, lunch 12-2.30pm and dinner 6-9.45pm Owner Andrew Lowkes Chef Rob Sachdev The food Seasonally changing blackboard menu taking influence from Italy and across Europe, with a focus on using regeneratively farmed local ingredients where possible.

They make fresh pasta using the flour used in the bakery which is all from UK grown, stone ground, heritage wheat. Sharing is encouraged Covers 26

Prices starters £4-£10, mains £18-28, desserts £7-£10 Drinks Seasonal house made cordials, locally grown and made apple juice, Bristolmade spirits using organic grains, fine ciders from Somerset and Herefordshire, natural wines by the glass with a bottle list available. They also make their own Limoncello in house Vegetarian options There’s always a veggie option on the board – however previous notice of vegans and dietary requirements is useful and easy to accommodate with a little notice Disability access No Atmosphere Cosy, intimate and relaxed – it feels like a little retreat from the world

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 83

CHEESE & WINE

A RIGHT PAIR

Robin Hutson of the country house hotel The Pig Near Bath on matching wines with cheeses

G

enerally speaking, I’m not that hung up about matching food and wine. I belong to the ‘drink what you fancy, with what you fancy, when you fancy’ school. Having said that, there are a few foods you need to watch out for: artichokes or raw apples, for instance, cause a metallic taste in the wine. Much better to drink water and save the wine for later.

And much as I love Elizabeth David’s culinary masterpiece, An Omelette and a Glass of Wine, many find egg dishes quite challenging to drink with wine. Fortunately, there’s no such problem with cheese and wine pairings, so I’ve had a bit of fun with some of our favourite English cheesemakers’ best offerings, matched with a few interesting tipples. For more pairing advice, the brilliant Fiona Beckett’s www.matchingfoodandwine.com website is a really useful resource.”

ENGLISH BACCHUS WITH ROSARY GOAT’S CHEESE There are perhaps certain aspects of the French attitude to food and wine that some of us find a little annoying, but one thing the French have got totally nailed is their regional food and drink combinations. Crottin de Chavignol, the dry, slightly sour, mouth-coating goat’s cheese of the Loire Valley, with its ultra-smooth ‘plaster of Paris’ texture, is the Marmite of the cheese world.

In the Loire region it is typically served with the steely Sauvignon Blanc from that area, maybe a Sancerre or Pouilly-Fumé. This really lightens the whole taste experience. This tradition gives us our clue for the English equivalent: we think the delicious ashrolled Rosary goat’s cheese from Wiltshire goes well with our leanstyled English white wines made from the Bacchus grape. Buy the very best Bacchus you can find – one that’s been carefully made – and I think you’ll enjoy the result. We’re currently working with Rob, the winemaker at the Castlewood vineyard near The

Pig at Combe, to produce a hand-selected, wildfermented, barrel-aged Bacchus from a single parcel vineyard at the winery. Watch this space.

TUSCAN CAB BLENDS WITH LYBURN OLD WINCHESTER This unique, award-winning hard cheese is almost reminiscent of Parmesan in texture (taste-wise, it’s halfway between a strong Cheddar and a sweet classic Gouda). It’s a very short mindhop to get you from Bologna, the home of Parmesan, to the world renowned wines of Tuscany. Two of them, Tignanello and the equally famous Sassicaia, were the maverick wines that kicked off the Super Tuscan revolution in the 1970s – using grape varieties ineligible for the Chianti classification.

In the case of Tignanello, the local Sangiovese grape is blended with Cabernet Sauvignon to produce this stunning crowd-pleaser of a wine. It’s not inexpensive, admittedly, but nursed over an evening with a few chunks of Old Winchester, it’s worth every penny.

Creamy or crumbly, red, white or blue... a wedge of local cheese washed down with a good vintage (even if it’s scrumpy) is one of life’s reliable pleasures

84 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

SAUTERNES WITH BARKHAM BLUE OR ISLE OF WIGHT BLUE In the UK we always think of drinking port with Stilton. Much as I love port, in recent years I’ve joined the camp of those who think something sweet and white is the way to go with blue cheese.

The growing number of outstanding small bluecheese makers from England offer lots of choice to experiment with. And to help, our supermarket shelves are filled with ‘stickies’ (dessert wines) from all over the world. But perhaps it’s Sauternes that offers the most remarkable value. I adore the marmalade coloured Château Guiraud, which is fairly widely available. It’s the only Bordeaux firstgrowth sticky other than the legendary Château d’Yquem, and it’s a real steal. Barkham Blue, a soft blue cheese somewhere between Gorgonzola and Stilton, is stronger than the creamy Isle of Wight Blue, but it’s really just a matter of personal taste which one you choose as a fitting foil to one of the world’s greatest bottles of wine.

SCRUMPY WITH STINKING BISHOP This was a lot of fun to test. If you haven’t heard about Stinking Bishop, the multi-award-winning cheese from Gloucestershire, well, the clue’s in the name! Its rind has been washed several times in Perry – made from the local pear of the same name – which causes its pungent yet weirdly wonderful stink. The taste is surprisingly mild given its odour, but we decided that either a local ale or medium/sweet scrumpy cider would be a good match for this delicious artisan cheese (if you can’t get hold of it, Wigmore or Little Rollright are decent alternatives). One word of warning though: unless you want to stink out your entire house, I reckon it’s best eaten outdoors after an early summer BBQ!

This extract is taken from Tales and Recipes From The Kitchen Garden and Beyond which is available to order at local bookshops and also via their website.

For more: www.thepighotel.com

“I’m not that hung up about matching food and wine”

Sauternes a French sweet wine with English blue cheese

Successful, well-established year-round language school in the centre of Bath requires

HOMESTAY HOSTS IN BATH to host both short-term and long-term students.

We teach adults and teenagers, and need both single and twin-room accommodation.

For further details, including rates of payment, please contact our Accommodation Manager: Sarah Wringer, Kaplan International Languages Bath, 5 Trim Street, Bath, BA1 1HB Direct Line (01225) 473502, Email: sarah.wringer@kaplan.com

NEVER MISS AN ISSUE

26 ISSUES FOR

£40

SUBSCRIBE TODAY

Never miss an issue of Bath Life – get your own copy posted to you on the Friday the magazine comes out Get yours for £40 for UK subscriptions (26 issues)

www.mediaclash.co.uk/subscribe

Bath’s wellness and beauty gurus share their top tips for heading into the new year refreshed and ready to go

By Lydia Tewkesbury

You can guarantee feeling refreshed after a day at the spa at Lucknam Park

HEALTH AND WELLNESS

W

ABOVE: Find a class you love, like Pilates, and commit to attending regularly; BELOW: The energy in class is electric, according to Zumba teacher Jessica Davies

e’re bursting into 2022, and though we’re excited, we’re making plans, we’re setting resolutions, we’re also… really quite tired.

Two years of pandemic can really take it out of a person. Don’t be discouraged.

This year more than ever we’re all about starting things o on the right foot refreshed, positive and prepared for whatever lies ahead. Here we break down your wellness with Bath’s e perts in fitness, nutrition, complementary therapies and beauty to help you feel good again from the inside out.

GET MOVING

THE AT-HOME OPTION Let’s face it, not everybody has time or the funds to go to the gym. But this does not mean that you’re cut o from the world of working out with a coach you only need an internet connection and a corner of the house. Bradford on Avon-based former Olympic swimmer Sharron Davies has created an at-home HIIT (high-intensity interval training) programme based around one-hour a week of exercise perfect for the time-strapped.

“It’s for all-levels, it’s designed especially to be easy to follow and for everyone, with no equipment needed. It’s for those that have little time or maybe don’t enjoy exercise, but know they need or want to do some,” says Sharron.

“Nothing beats a tn ss ass smi in a and s at

JOIN A CLASS If you do have the time, according to Amber Edenbrow, owner and founder of recision ilates in Corsham, finding a class you love and committing to attending regularly is one of the fastest ways to fitness.

“Building a habit so that it becomes part of your daily/weekly schedule is the key. We see the best results from clients that attend regularly,” says Amber. “Attending a weekly session is fantastic, and

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 89

“Rediscover a sense of well-being” ABOVE: Make the most of a spa trip at Lucknam Park; RIGHT: According to nutritionist TJ Waterfall, the more plants on our plates, the better

then incorporating exercises that our instructors guide you through in class into daily life. It’s not about finding the time for an e tra one hour session at home that just isn’t always realistic but carving out five minutes a day for one e ercise is very doable.

Signing up for a class makes you accountable, but it also gives you the inspiration of your fellow participants.

I have been teaching umba ance itness for almost 5 years now and I absolutely love it, says Jessica avies, umba dance instructor at ance it Bath. The energy and atmosphere you receive from the participants in the class is just electric. othing beats a fitness class full of smiley, happy and sweaty people.

MAKE IT A HOBBY icking up a new hobby like cycling is a great way to get fit under your own steam if classes and trainers aren’t your thing. avid Tod, founder of Take Charge bikes, recommends electric bikes you can still get fit, with a little more assistance getting up the hills if needed. E ercise doesn’t need to be painful and finding a form like electric biking that you actually enjoy will help you commit. Getting moving is as vital for mental health as physical benefits easier to access if you’re not hating every second. If you think cycling might be your thing, the routes around Bath are absolutely beautiful.

The Bath to Bristol trail, and canal to Bradford on Avon are classics, and you can take spin o routes from both, depending on the style of riding you want, says avid. There are lots of nice rides around Bath within a 0 mile radius in all directions, towards Wellow or Castle Combe and Lacock, for e ample.

EAT WELL

It’s January, it’s also eganuary so there’s plenty of talk about the benefits of plant based eating. Evidence indicates that eating more plants is healthier for us, and it doesn’t have to mean going entirely vegan. A good diet is one simple key to feeling refreshed.

A diet based predominantly around whole plant foods has been

90 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

HEALTH AND WELLNESS LOOK AFTER YOUR MIND BUILD A MEDITATION PRACTICE

Lucy Stone, Bath-based founder of Meditation Rocks shares her top five tips for starting a meditation practice...

1 Start small. In January we are starting a free zeroto-10-minute meditation series on the Meditation Rocks YouTube channel 2 Don’t have any expectations about what meditation might feel like – it feels different for everyone 3 Make the practice your own – close your eyes, or focus on one spot, concentrate on your breath, or if you don’t like that, a point in your body, or a sound. Get comfy, shift position if you need.

4 If you find your mind is busy, count your breaths, just like counting sheep.

5 Practice as often as you can. Find a time that suits you, but try and do something each day if you can, as it’s only as you allow the practice to build that you feel the benefits.

shown to be one of the most e ective ways to protect the health of ourselves and our loved ones and what could be more important than that says TJ Waterfall, a plant based human biologist (BSc , nutritionist (Msc and the author of The Plant-Based Power Plan.

Consuming more fruit, vegetables, pulses, wholegrains, nuts and seeds helps to bump up intake of protective plant compounds such as antio idants, fibre, vitamins, minerals, and countless other beneficial phytochemicals. obust evidence shows that increasing intake of plant foods like these helps to reduce risk of the most prevalent diseases in the modern world, from heart disease to diabetes, and they can significantly boost e ercise performance and recovery too.

BELOW: The Soul Spa offers therapies for the spirit; RIGHT: Nutritionist TJ Waterfall

SEEK THERAPY r maybe, 0 is the year to try out that therapy you’ve always been intrigued by. At The Soul Spa you can e perience a wide range of therapies covering mind, body and spirit including everything from humanistic integrative counselling to readings of your astrological chart, a rela ing sound bath and beyond. r, you could try out a healing body treatment like shiatsu with the Bath School of Shiatsu and oga, where founder rank avis has been practising the Japanese form of bodywork since the 0s.

Based on the acupuncture energetic system, the aim in shiatsu is to wake up and rebalance the body’s natural flow of energy or ki, says rank. Shiatsu is a very adaptable treatment and can be used in various di erent positions depending on the individual’s needs. As the riental belief is that all pain and disease are a reflection of the state of one’s energy, shiatsu is very e ective in treating most problems, whether they are structural back, neck etc or even emotional.

THE BODY IS A TEMPLE

TREAT YOURSELF Why not start the year o with a bit of TLC Wellness is about taking time for yourself, and we would contend there are few greater places to do it than a massage therapist’s table.

There are so many benefits of massage on an individual’s health besides rela ation, says Sam Teifel, senior spa manager at The Garden Spa by L’ ccitane at The Bath riory. hysical benefits of massage also include reducing an iety, insomnia and stress, which lead to a better mental health. Massage increases the circulation and stimulates the lymphatic system, which also helps improve skin tone, and joint mobility fle ibility, as well as recovery of soft tissue injury and muscle pain and tension. Enjoy all these benefits with The Garden Spa’s ela , eset estore massage, a collection of the spa’s best massage se uences.

Another local must try is the ES A Strength and esilience treatment at Lucknam ark otel Spa, an e perience as rela ing as it is transformational. sing aromatherapeutic oils and yogic stretches, this revitalising treatment will help to release muscular tension, boost energy levels and support the immune system to rediscover a sense of well being, says Jessica Grant Sloyan, director of spa and wellness at the hotel.

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 91

PREMIUM AESTHETIC CLINIC Neurotoxin, Dermal Fillers, PDO Thread Lifting, IV Infusions

Book now with our special Christmas offer of 10% off all treatments. Code: BATHLIFE 24 Broad Street, Bath BA1 5LW 01225 550 287 • hello@skinstories.co.uk skinstories.co.uk

© CHRIS DAW

HEALTH AND WELLNESS PRIORITISE RECOVERY Sometimes when we’re getting fit, injuries happen or we discover a troubling ache that wasn’t there before. ather than giving up, consider seeing a professional. At The Core is a physiotherapy and wellness clinic located just o Walcot Street. ounded by aul Tisdale, the clinic o ers a range of pioneering treatments including MBST magnetic resonance therapy, used to treat conditions varying from osteoarthritis to sports injuries. MBST technology is based on e uipment traditionally used for M I diagnosis, but rather than generate an image, it is used to biophysically stimulate the regenerative processes of specific cells or tissues at a molecular level. Basically, the result is you won’t ache anymore.

BEAUTY FIX

SKINCARE IS SELF CARE We’re facing one of the coldest, dreariest months of the year and our skin is feeling it dull, dry and sensitive from the bitterness of the cold, it needs some serious attention. ost Christmas and following all that wonderful festive indulgence, the biggest concern for our skin is facing those cruel and bitter winter months and not letting it show, says Claire van Bekkum at M S I . Cleansing is key to helping you achieve great skin.

I don’t believe it’s possible to have good skin without cleaning it. If you don’t thoroughly cleanse morning and night, unfortunately, it doesn’t really matter what else you use on your face it simply won’t work. nless you remove every last trace of S , make up, dirt, e cess oil, pollution and dead skin cells, they will all accumulate on the surface of your skin and contribute to breakouts, dehydration, dullness and uite possibly speed up the aging process.

When it comes to beating winter dryness, a good serum in your routine is also a must.

I am using the Evolve Climate eil at the moment, says atherine Spreadbury at Little Lab. Its peach pigment adds glow to the skin, while still protecting with S and hyaluronic acid, so a three in one product for a busy lifestyle. yaluronic acid is a must for skincare it can help increase skin moisture and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

ABOVE: Get glossy locks the BA1 hair salon way and feel great; INSET: Evolve Climate Veil is a must-

have addition to your winter skincare routine; BELOW: Take time out at The Garden Spa

“There are so many n ts massa n an individ a s a t www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 93

HEALTH AND WELLNESS

ABOVE: At The Core is a physiotherapy and wellness clinic that helps address aches and pains; BELOW: A good cleanser like MONUSKIN Cleansing Balm is key to helping you achieve great skin

TAME YOUR TRESSES You’re exercising, eating well, taking care of mind and body and you have your skincare routine down – but this wouldn’t be a whole-body refresh without addressing our hair.

“Healthy looking and feeling hair needs to be cut regularly to keep split ends at bay,” says David Maxwell, founder of David Maxwell Hairdressing. “We recommend six weekly visits to the salon but if that’s not possible, seven to eight weeks is okay when life gets in the way.

“When you are in the salon, we suggest a haircare treatment as they take at home masks to the next level. In addition to this, if you can use a good uality hair mask once a week at home, you will definitely notice a di erence in the look and feel of your hair.

Zac Fennell at BA1 agrees – what you do between salon visits is vital to maintaining glossy locks.

“My go-to product has to be the Aveda botanical repair strengthening treatment,” says Zac. “It’s a leave-in conditioner that gives amazing protection to the hair and repairs the bonds without weighing down the hair.”

YOU HAVE BEEN READING

TOUCH UPS Dr Lucy Facial Aesthetics is a new clinic, recently launched by dental surgeon and facial aesthetics specialist Dr Lucy Middlefell to help clients become the best, freshest-looking version of themselves. And Lucy’s number one recommended treatment for a new year refresh?

Wrinkle relaxing.

“It is the fastest way to make yourself look and feel better,” says Lucy.

“It literally stops the muscles that are targeted from contracting – so you can even choose to have it in your 30s as a preventative measure, or later and then it will give a smoothing a ect.

Another option for a more youthful complexion is the infamous vampire facial. ou’ve seen the pictures of beauty influencers with their faces seemingly slathered in blood, right? Well, you can now have that treatment right here in Bath at Skin Stories on Broad Street. Ick factor aside, the vampire facial is actually a highly e ective treatment for a youthful glow, using growth factors from the client’s own blood to reduce fine lines, tighten skin, resurface and remove pigmentation.

It’s astoundingly e ective, says Samantha el Greco, founder of Skin Stories. “And is incredibly safe due to the fact we don’t need to involve any synthetic additives to perform it.”

94 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Sharron Davies; www.sharrondavies.co.uk Precision Pilates, 4 Abacus House, Newlines Road, Corsham; www.precisionpilatesstudio.co.uk Dance Fit & Zumba, Bath; www.dancefitbath.co.uk Take Charge Bikes, 1 Victoria Buildings, Lower Bristol Road, Bath; www.takechargebikes.co.uk TJ Waterfall; www.meatfreefitness.co.uk Meditation Rocks; www.meditationrocks.co.uk The Soul Spa, 2 Hetling Court, Bath; www.thesoulspa.co.uk Bath School of Shiatsu and Yoga, 130 London Road West, Bath; www.bssy.co.uk The Garden Spa at The Bath Priory, Weston Road, Bath; www.thebathpriory.co.uk Lucknam Park Hotel & Spa, Colerne, Chippenham; www.lucknampark.co.uk At The Core, Unit 3, The Foundry, Beehive Yard, Walcot Street; www.atthecore.health MONUSKIN; www.monushop.co.uk Little Lab, 20 Broad Street, Bath; www.littlelab.co.uk Dr Lucy Facial Aesthetics, 10 Rossiters Road, Bath; www.doctorlucy.co.uk Skin Stories, 24 Broad Street, Bath; www.skinstories.co.uk David Maxwell Hairdressing, Argyle Street, Bath; www.davidmaxwellhairdressing.co.uk BA1, 5 Bartlett Street, Bath; www.ba1hair.co.uk

Renew Yourself in the New Year With a spa day from £140

Imagine floating away into a world of your own, being totally weightless, relaxed and totally at ease...

Immerse yourself in minerals and salts for optimal physical recovery.

Stress gives way to tranquillity. Your senses dissolved, floating weightless in complete peace.

Slip into your silence and a deep meditative state for mental regeneration, to emerge totally replenished.

Sixty-minute session £56 Course of five sessions £250 To book call 01666 827 070 or email aquarias@whatleymanor.com

Wellness lives at Whatley

Whatley Manor Hotel and Spa, Easton Grey, Malmesbury, SN16 0RB whatleymanor.com f   whatleymanor

20 Broad Street Bath BA1 5LN E: info@littlelab.co.uk T: 01225 310849 www.littlelab.co.uk

NYC MAKEUP | NYC NAIL BAR | NYC PRODUCTS NYC AIRBRUSH BAR | MAKEUP WORKSHOPS | EYEBROW BAR

LITTLELAB MENU MAKEUP BAR NYC AIRBRUSH MAKEUP

Professional service for one look perfect for an event or evening out £26 – £45pp

MAKEUP WORKSHOP

Award winning make-up workshops, teaching you the basics of how to apply natural looking make-up.

We teach the novice the basics of how to apply a 3 minute routine having taught over 2000 women!

Groups £45pp (up to 16 people) Solo £65

SKIN WORKSHOP

Facial and skin consultation £65

NYC NAIL BAR BROOKLYN

Express manicure £18

EAST VILLAGE

Standard manicure £28

UPPER EAST SIDE

Gel feet (no footwork) £34

CHELSEA

Deluxe pedicure with intensive scrub and massage £42 Gel nail full manicure £34 Intensive deluxe pedi and head massage £58 Indian head massage £18 Male intensive pedicure £36

EYEBROW BAR EYEBROW THREADING

Shaped to perfection £12

UPPER LIP / CHIN

Remove unwanted hair £8

TINTING

Eyebrow or Eyelash £12

LASH EXTENSIONS

Mink blink lashes 2-3 weeks £65

LASH INFILLS

Add some thickness with infills £45

BEAUTY ANÉ AURET

Award winning skin Ané visits DermaGuru aka Rob HaworthDunne, the Bath Life Award 2021 Hair & Beauty winner at his city centre salon

H

aving admired Rob aworth unne’s work through Instagram, I was delighted when he scooped a Bath Life Award this year in the air Beauty Category (read more about that on page . I was even more delighted when I got the opportunity to meet him in real life and experience one of his specialist, premium treatments first hand.

ABOUT DERMAGURU

ob’s skin journey started during his teenage years when his own struggle with acne inspired him to better understand his own skin, and find skincare solutions that really work. e then worked for several high end brands as a skincare e pert before setting up his own salon right here on Gay Street in Bath.

Rob’s mission is to help his clients The Forlle’d Biofiller Platinum Facial helps restore elasticity; INSET: Rob Haworth-Dunne is passionate about skin

transform their own skin through advanced, personalised treatments and in-depth education to perfect and formulate tailored in-salon solutions, as well as easy-to-follow home care packages. is passion and e pertise for skin was evident from the first moment we met.

The ermaGuru treatment room was brought to life just before Covid hit and the beauty sector was heavily impacted through not be being able to see clients face to face. ob uickly pivoted and o ered online consultations and curated home care boxes to ensure that his clients were still brilliantly well looked after. It was e actly this approach that helped him grow during di cult lockdown times, as well as retain and build his loyal client base in the process.

THE TREATMENT: FORLLE’D BIOFILLER PLATINUM FACIAL (£180)

Over warming tumeric tea, ob took me through my first consultation to discover my skin concerns in order to recommend and customise the best treatment for me. My mid forties skin is showing all the signs of peri-menopausal estrogen decline with collagen loss and sagging, dehydration, hyper pigmentation (also much to do with growing up in South Africa and not really taking sunscreen seriously until my late thirties , fine lines and a very recent hormonal breakout. e suggested the orlle’d Biofiller Platinum Facial, a unique treatment with ionised platinum that provides

“It was great to see Rob in action doing what he loves most”

anti-oxidant protection and targets pigmentation while moisturising and restoring elasticity and firmness in stressed skin. It sounded absolutely perfect. ob started o with a two step Japanese Butterfly ouble Cleanse (it really is as heavenly as it sounds), followed by a very mild customised mini-peel to prepare my skin for the rest of the facial. The lymphatic massage and acupressure techniques Rob uses throughout are incredibly relaxing and beneficial to the skin. Individually selected Forlle’d product combinations were followed by an LE mask which left my skin soft, smooth and glowing – with zero redness or downtime. I could get on with the rest of my day with a lovely, lasting glow.

IN SALON AND AT HOME CARE

If your over the counter products aren’t giving you the results you’re looking for, or you want to make a change or overhaul your skincare routine look no further. ob will work alongside you to find the best combination of in-salon treatments (if necessary) and at-home care to transform your skin. e uses some of the best specialist and premium ranges on the market, including the much loved,

in salon only range p formula a uni ue, dermalogical skin resurfacing system that stimulates collagen production with minimal destruction of the skin barrier.

One of Rob’s most important pieces of advice is to be patient with your skin, and not overdo it in terms of product usage or overly complicated skincare routines.

Each and every one of us is unique and our skin journeys will reflect that that’s why tailormade and targeted treatment plans are so important.

It was great to see ob in action doing what he loves most – helping his clients to achieve their best skin, and being by their side every step of the journey. is motto is ‘let the beauty within shine through your skin’ which you can tell he lives by himself and that he cares deeply about finding the right solutions for his clients. ermaGuru is a valuable asset to the fantastic beauty community in Bath.

For more: DermaGuru, 33 Gay Street, Bath; www.dermaguru.co.uk Ané Auret is a self-confessed beauty obsessive and founder of Bath-based skincare brand Ané. Follow her on Instagram @beauty_by_ane.

For more: www.beautybyane.com

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 97

ONLY PER MONTH YMCA Bath Fully inclusive membership rate No joining fee or contract.

Option to pay as you go.

Using our gym and classes means that you are not only getting fit and healthier but you are also supporting our charitable work with young people at risk of homelessness or who just need some support and guidance at a tough time.

www.ymcabath.org.uk

SPONSORED CONTENT

GOOD FACIAL AESTHETICS SHOULD NOT BE NOTICEABLE Says Dr Lucy Middlefell of DR LUCY FACIAL AESTHETICS…

E

ver looked in the mirror and thought – ‘I look tired!’? It’s often a side effect of being incredibly busy and not having time to take care of ourselves. We live crazy lives and most of us don’t have time to dedicate to looking after ourselves properly. This is where Dr Lucy can help. She uses various products from wrinkle relaxing and dermal fillers to injectable moisturisers and amazing skin care solutions from Obagi to help you look well-rested and your absolute best, regardless of time constraints.

Wrinkle relaxing treatments are the fastest way to make sure you look well-rested. You can start in your 30s and use it as a wrinkle preventative measure, or later and use it to relax the wrinkles so they look less prominent. It is incredibly beneficial whenever you choose to start.

Dermal fillers are not just for the Kardashians. Used correctly, they can restore lost volume from the face and look completely natural. As we age, our tissues deplete so we don’t have the scaffolding that we do when we’re younger. To put it bluntly – everything starts to sag/drop.

Dr Lucy only ever uses filler to restore what was once there. Treatments range from cheek filler, jawline filler, ‘smoker’s lines’ filler, chin filler and so on. Her work is subtle and unless you have discussed otherwise, nobody will know you’ve had any treatment – you will just look well and fresher. Less is always more.

Profhilo – known as ‘the injectable moisturiser’, this is a hyaluronic acid treatment which is injected into the skin to subtly plump and give a glow to your skin.

Obagi – the medical Obagi skin range is prescription-only and for this reason stands apart from all other skincare systems on the market. They have an incredible anti-ageing range as well as systems to treat acne, rosacea and many other conditions.

Good skin is both anti-ageing and a sign of health and vitality that should not be underestimated.

10 Rossiter Road, Widcombe, Bath BA2 4JP Tel: 07887 514154; Email: info@doctorlucy.co.uk www.doctorlucy.co.uk www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 99

SPONSORED CONTENT

REJUVENATE AND REVITALISE Founded in Wiltshire in 2013, REVITALISE SKINCARE CLINIC has recently opened a second clinic in the heart of Bath

L

ocated on St James Parade close to Southgate, Revitalise Skincare Clinic is an exclusive medical aesthetic clinic with a particular expertise in medical facial aesthetics. Their philosophy is to achieve the best results for their patients through safe, high quality services whilst always acting in their best interests. Their ability to delivering great aesthetic results whilst at all times maintaining the highest standards of patient care with their registered membership of Save Face along with the Care Quality Commission ensuring their services have been approved as safe, effective, caring and well led. Revitalise Skincare clinic is inspected regularly by CQC to make sure services meet the highest standards of quality and safety.

Prior to every treatment they offer full consultations to educate their patients,discuss concerns, find out medical history and consider the most beneficial and safest treatment options.

MEET THE FOUNDER

Arvin – CQC registered practitioner & aesthetic nurse prescriber Arvin is the founder and medical director of the Clinic.

A registered general nurse with years of experience working for the NHS, during this time she developed an interest in medical aesthetics, going on to train in this area and become an independent nurse prescriber working for one of the UK’s leading cosmetic surgery

practices. With a first-class reputation for her work and patient care, Arvin is highly experienced in performing a wide range of advanced medical aesthetic treatments and procedures such as non-surgical facelift with PDO threads, hollow under eye (tear trough) and dermatology treatments.

Dedicated to continuing professional development and maintaining medical ethics, Arvin regularly attends world class conferences and master classes in aesthetic medicine.

INTRODUCING NEW TREATMENTS • Dermalux Medical LED – The worlds most advanced phototherapy treatment • PRF Smart Cell Therapy – The next generation in PRP

Flat 1, Lombard House, St James Parade, Bath BA1 1UJ Tel: 01225 760 556; Email: info@revitaliseskincareclinic.co.uk Web: www.revitaliseskincareclinic.co.uk

SPONSORED CONTENT

MEET THE FAMILY LAWYER Navigate the tricky waters of family law with these local experts ELIZABETH DOWLER

FAMILY SOLICITOR, MOGERS DREWETT 01225 750 000; www.mogersdrewett.com What key bit of advice would you give to someone considering a divorce?

Divorce can be an emotionally challenging time; friends and family around you will all have different opinions and experiences. It is important to inform yourself of the facts and understand the legal position. Taking advice from a legal specialist at an early stage can help you to protect yourself and understand what your future could look like.

How has family law changed in the last few years?

JOANNA NEWTON

SENIOR SOLICITOR, STOWE FAMILY LAW 0117 203 3458; www.stowefamilylaw.co.uk

CATHERINE SMITH

What key bit of advice would you give to somebody considering a divorce?

Take early advice and find a solicitor that you trust to understand your needs and act with your best interests at heart, both legally and emotionally.

01225 462871; www.blbsolicitors.co.uk

What is the biggest mistake you see your clients making?

Focusing on settling matters quickly to limit costs, without taking the time to seek expert advice. At Stowe we take a holistic approach, connecting clients with professionals such as financial advisors, pension experts, and divorce coaches, leading to well-informed decisions and the best possible outcomes.

What do you specialise in?

I advise in all areas of family law but specialise in high-net-worth financial matters, often with an international element. My cases often include complex assets such as trusts, pensions, and company shareholdings.

How has family law changed in the last few years?

There has been a welcome move away from court proceedings and towards alternative dispute resolution, such as mediation and collaborative family law.

Many of our clients have reached agreements without the unnecessary stress, delay, and uncertainty of court hearings.

102 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

The pandemic has meant that lots of processes have been moved online; court hearings are regularly conducted on video platforms. Further, for us at Mogers Drewett, we have also adapted our services to be able to help our clients in a more holistic way.

Our in-house financial planning team is a valuable resource for our clients, particularly when considering financial settlements.

What is your favourite part of the job?

I love working through a knotty legal issue (whether that be in relation to children or financial matters) and finding solutions for my clients. It is a great feeling to be able to help people and know you have made a difference when they have been through a difficult time.

JOINT MANAGING PARTNER, BLB SOLICITORS What is your favourite part of the job?

As a family solicitor, I often meet clients when they are at their lowest ebb. When they start to view their future in a brighter and more positive light, I know it is a job well done.

MATTHEW DREW GOUGHS SOLICITORS

What sets you apart from others in your sector?

I take a holistic approach, looking at the circumstances as a whole, assessing the impact of the various options and working with my clients to achieve an appropriate solution.

What accomplishment has made you most proud?

On a professional level, being invited to take over as managing partner of BLB was a huge compliment. I am committed to continuing the BLB ethos of providing excellent client care, a high standard of service and ensuring that our hardworking and talented staff are recognised and rewarded for their work. On a personal level, adopting my two children has been the most rewarding and wonderful experience, as well as the steepest learning curve!

If you weren’t working in the legal world, what would you be doing?

I’d probably be a psychologist – I find people’s personalities absolutely fascinating!

01249 712193; www.goughs.co.uk What is the biggest misconception surrounding family law?

Many people believe they need an aggressive lawyer in order to get the best possible outcome.

In truth, this is likely to lead to an expensive and acrimonious divorce where the parties become entrenched in their positions with outcomes that neither are happy with. At Goughs our priority is on giving realistic advice so our clients have a fair and genuine expectation of the outcome.

What are the latest trends in family law?

There is a move away from the highly confrontational approach to family law and a concentration of constructive solutions. should be assisted in 2022 by the introduction of no-fault divorces.

What key bit of advice would you give to somebody considering a divorce?

Look for a firm with outstanding reviews. In 2021 Goughs family law team has been nationally recognised by the Legal 500 and Chambers and Partners legal directories, as a top family law firm, due to having a stellar track record of fantastic client feedback and case resolutions.

SPONSORED CONTENT MEG MOSS

PARTNER, DIVORCE, SEPARATION AND FAMILY MATTERS, STONE KING 0800 111 4336; www.stoneking.co.uk

JAYNE MARTINS

PARTNER, FAMILY LAW, ROYDS WITHY KING 01225 730 185; www.roydswithyking.com What do you specialise in?

I specialise in divorce and matrimonial finances including pre-nuptial agreements and postnuptial agreements.

What is the biggest misconception surrounding family law?

The biggest misconception is that every divorce is litigious and full of animosity. Of course there are cases that are more difficult than others, but generally, often with the assistance of mediation or collaboration, it is perfectly possible to have an amicable and constructive divorce.

How has family law changed in the last few years?

We finally have a change in the law regarding no fault divorce, something family lawyers have been lobbying for for years. It is hoped it will help reduce conflict when dealing with the divorce and stop putting people in the position of having to blame the other party if they want to get divorced.

What key bit of advice would you give to somebody considering a divorce?

Take your time and pick the right process for your family. There are several processes available to assist people in having discussions when they separate, such as mediation and collaborative law.

What trends and changes are you seeing in family law?

One of the most important reforms will be the implementation of the no fault divorce in April next year. Coupled with that has been the introduction of the online portal for all court users and the rise of virtual court hearings. In terms of trends, we are seeing increasing use of private alternatives to court: arbitration, private FDR hearings and hybrid mediation (mediation with lawyers present).

What key advice would you give to someone considering divorce?

There are multiple options on how to move forward once someone has decided to separate from their spouse. Mediators and collaborative lawyers, for example, can help reduce acrimony. Speaking to someone impartial, like a lawyer, can help give perspective and answer questions, which can make them feel more in control.

What’s your favourite part of the job?

I’ve helped divorcing and separating couples my whole working life and learned so much about people, their motivations and what matters.

It’s a privilege to guide my clients so that they can adjust and move on with their lives.

CINDY ERVINE

PARTNER AND HEAD OF FAMILY LAW AWDRY BAILEY & DOUGLAS SOLICITORS 01380 732924; www.awdrys.co.uk What is your favourite part of the job?

A key part of my job is to make sure that clients feel comfortable with me and feel that they can trust me.

People are seeking my help and support at key stages in their life, whether by moving in with a partner or having to seek advice when a relationship has ended.

I enjoy meeting and helping people and I have missed seeing clients in the office due to the pandemic.

The use of technology however, has enabled me to maintain contact and also realise that although I work in a high street firm, the use of social media has meant that clients are contacting me from all over the UK and abroad.

TINA MARSHALL-KELLIHER

PARTNER, SHARP FAMILY LAW 01225 448955; www.sharpfamilylaw.com How has family law changed in the last few years?

As with pretty much everything, Covid has had a huge impact on family law. I think everyone’s anxiety levels have been raised through the pandemic and people generally are less tolerant and less willing to find alternative methods of dispute resolution. This has resulted in more litigation.

What is the biggest mistake you see your clients making?

Trying to right a wrong done to them within the marriage. I appreciate how difficult it is if you find yourself divorcing due to someone else’s behaviour but the court will not pass judgement on morals, or lack of, and instead will make an order, based on fairness using a list of agreed factors, that ensures both parties’ needs are met. It can be hugely disappointing for clients that feel wronged and are looking to the court to right this. That’s why it is best, if at all possible, to agree matters between yourselves, whether this is direct or with the help of a mediator or solicitor, as matters handed over to the court usually result in a decision that neither party is happy with.

What key bit of advice would you give to somebody considering a divorce?

Take a breath. Find a good solicitor. Everything will be okay.

What was your very first job?

I am from the local area and used to work at a pub/ hotel in Chippenham. I still say that having to deal with customers in crisis set me up for my role today, as clients can go through a number of emotions during family matters. My job is to support and enable them to make fair, informed decisions.

What is the biggest misconception surrounding family law?

That solicitors are just in it for the money. Most solicitors that I know genuinely care about their clients and want to ensure they are supported and helped.

What key bit of advice would you give to somebody considering a divorce?

Take your time. Ensure that you have a clear picture of your position and work with someone that you trust.

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 103

Need to talk?

Focus Counselling is a person-centred counselling charity with premises in Bath and Frome. We offer a safe place to explore your feelings, with a team of qualified and trainee counsellors providing acceptance, warmth and compassion. We deliver face-to-face sessions, as well as Zoom and phone counselling - although from 13th December we have gone completely online (following the government's Plan B advice to work from home where possible). Our counsellors can help with bereavement, the effects of abuse and trauma, Eating Disorders, relationship difficulties, anxiety, and a range of other issues. For those of you struggling financially, we offer a sliding-scale of payment, never turning anyone away who needs help.

If you are interested in booking an initial 30-minute intake appointment with us (£15 donation fee) contact us on 07863 444009 or office@focusbath.com

It’s the city’s business

BATHWORKS © ACK OFFORD

THIS ISSUE >>BISHOPSTROW BEST SMALL LUXURY HOTEL (106) >>BATH BOULES FUNDRAISING TOTAL (106) >>2022 GOALS NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS FOR BUSINESS (109)

The wonder stuff The Egg launches a new initiative to make theatre accessible to all children

T

he Egg has launched Wonderfund for 2022. The brand-new fundraising initiative from the children’s theatre aims to introduce school children to live performance for free.

A first trip to the theatre can change someone’s life forever,” says Kate Cross, director of The Egg. It can mould a career or define leisure time. It can help them in their exams or in their relationships. At The Egg we are so sure of

BUSINESS CLUB

The Wonderfund will give more children than ever access to the experience of live theatre

this, through testament, data, instinct and years of experience, that we urgently want to give this opportunity to as many young people as possible.”

Children’s theatre engagement is declining nationwide faster than all other creative activities.

Research shows that over 10,000 under-11s in Bath & North East Somerset alone may have never been to the theatre, or taken part in drama.

“Most people can’t imagine a world where the children they know would never be taken to the theatre. Sadly we know this is true for around three quarters of primary school children nationwide,” says Andrea Harris, head of

development at the Theatre Royal. “St John’s Foundation and Bath & North East Somerset Public Health have helped us to identify the schools that need the most help. Now we are appealing to the local community and businesses to help provide a solution by working with us to fund free tickets and transport for school children to enjoy live theatre at The Egg.” To become a Wonderfunder visit the theatre’s website, call the Bo ce on 0 5 44 44, or te t W E to 04 0 to donate £ 0.

For more: www.theatreroyal.org.uk

Virtual one hour sessions, all free to attend Search Bath Life on LinkedIn for upcoming dates and registration If you would like to get involved, please email events@mediaclash.co.uk MEDIACLASH.CO.UK 115

PUTTING DOWN ROOTS

The Bishopstrow Hotel & Spa has been named one of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World

SMALL BUT PERFECTLY FORMED Bishopstrow Hotel & Spa has become the first hotel in Wiltshire to be accredited by global network Small Luxury Hotels of the World.

The Small Luxury Hotels (SLH) network is comprised of 520 of the finest lu ury independent hotels around the world, and renowned for its strict criteria for entry.

Bishopstrow was recently acquired by local boutique hoteliers Ian and Christa Taylor of the Kaleidoscope Collection, which counts Homewood Hotel & Spa in Freshford and The Bird Hotel, Bath among its portfolio of properties.

“Since we took ownership of Bishopstrow in the summer, it was our ambition to join the prestigious

SLH collection, alongside one of our sister properties Homewood,” says Ian Taylor. “Small Luxury Hotels represents the pinnacle of boutique hospitality: properties which are more than somewhere to lay your head, that capture your heart and mind during a stay, and provide unique, memorable moments.

“To be accepted into SLH at the beginning of our ownership at Bishopstrow speaks volumes for the journey we’re embarking upon.

“I am so proud of our entire team at Bishopstrow, who strive daily to deliver a luxury experience with a touch of playfulness and an infectious spirit.”

For more: www.bishopstrowhotel.com

Widcombe Junior School students planted a tree for the launch of The Queen’s Green Canopy. The national initiative invites people to ‘Plant a Tree for the Jubilee’ to mark next year’s 70-year anniversary since HM The Queen came to the throne.

Students and teachers from the Pulteney Road school were joined by HM Lord-Lieutenant of Somerset Annie Maw, Bath & North East Somerset Council leader, Councillor Kevin Guy and Councillor Jess David, cabinet assistant for Neighbourhoods at the ceremony, where they planted a Pyrus Chanticleer Pear tree in the school grounds.

“We were thrilled to be selected as one of the 70 primary schools in the country to take part in The Queen’s Green Canopy to mark Her Majesty’s Platinum Jubilee,” says Claire Taylor, headteacher at Widcombe Junior School. “Young people are the future custodians of our green spaces and this is a very special way of helping them learn and understand the importance of trees and looking after our environment.”

For more: www.queensgreencanopy.org

Students at Widcombe Junior School planted a tree for the Queen

© RICHARD JARRET T

LE GRAND TOTAL

Jo Treasure, Paul Treasure, Tomas Waldron, Judy Okwuba, Ben Hudson and Jessie Myers at the Bath Boules

106 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

The final total raised by the Bath Boules has been announced.

The Boules, headline sponsored by Brewin Dolphin, returned in real life to Queen Square in the summer and raised £27,891, to be distributed among nominated local charities.

Combined with the £21,592 raised at the virtual BoulesAid in 2020, this means that since the start of the pandemic the event has generated just under £50,000 for local charities.

Preparations are well under way for the 2022 Bath Boules, taking place 8-10 July. There are plenty of ways to get involved – businesses can join by sponsorship and buying team tickets (on sale in March), or traders can secure a slot in the Crumbs street food market. Applications for charities to receive the 2022 funds are now also open.

For more: www.bathboules.com

T H E PLACE YOUR B U S I N E S S C A N C A L L HO ME Set t o o p e n J an u ar y 2022

PR I VAT E OF FICES FROM £ 3 ,0 80 PER MONTH

DEDICATE D DE S KS FRO M £ 6 0 0 P E R MO NTH

CO -WO RKING F RO M £ 2 7 5 P E R M O N T H

Your space, tailored to your business’ needs

Convenience of a personal desk, energy of a communal workspace

Hot-desking, the ultimate in flexible working

LOUN GE MEMBER S HIP FROM £150 PER MO NTH

P RE S TIGIO US A DDRE S S F RO M £ 1 5 0 P E R MO NTH

The perfect option for those who want to make connections

Your business, our premium address

For more information visit hosj.co.uk or call 01225 486486

Repairs, Restoration • Alteration of Stone Buildings New Build • Stone Cleaning • Stone Carving • Fireplaces

Nigel Dando WE BUY Gold, Silver & Platinum in any form or condition.

Nigel Dando 11 Pulteney Bridge, Bath BA2 4AY Tel/Fax: 01225 464013 www.nigeldando.co.uk

BATHWORKS

1

3

“I HAVE BIG AMBITIONS FOR 2022”

2

4

5

project, where we donate money for every holiday purchased, will gain momentum in supporting local and international charities.

“Finally we want to continue to build our destination knowledge and continue to exceed customer service expectations, which is why clients have come back to us to book two, even three holidays in the past year.” www.luxecoholidays.com

4

BIZ Q&A

New year, new goals

Bath’s businesses, charities and arts organisations lay out their plans for the year ahead

A

re you a new year’s resolution person? Or do you prefer to call them goals? Whether or not you’re the resolutions type personally, forward planning for your business is absolutely vital – whatever you call it. Here some of Bath’s top business brains share what they hope to accomplish in the year ahead.

1

ROSIE PHILLIPS, founder and chief executive of Developing Health and Wellbeing “We want to focus on supporting the young and those living in the margins of society, many of whom have su ered disproportionately throughout Covid. We are also responding to a significant increase in referrals for our alcohol services.

“We will continue with the rollout of The Wrap (www.thewrapdhi. org.uk), our young person’s digital platform. The Wrap o ers no nonsense advice, information, and

support to help schools and young people deal with di cult issues like drugs, alcohol, sex and relationships.

“We want to take forward the many gains of working in a more fle ible way, where clients can access our services through digital technologies, but do so with care so we don’t lose important human connections and easy access from our physical spaces.” d i n in

2

JULIE BUTTERWORTH, If Arts “Following a change of home, Iford Arts successfully rebranded to If pera at the end of 0 . It’s going to be an exciting new year with a new focus and programme of events.

The main aims of If pera are to put artists at the forefront of everything we do and to get rid of the elitist perception of opera by adding accessible ticket pricing and venues to our season. erformances will include a icnic rom (line up to be announced), and a programme of operas that are perfect for those new to opera. La Rondine by Giacomo

uccini (in Italian and the comedic double bill of Rita by Gaetano Donizetti (in English) and I s t di Susanna by Ermanno Wolf-Ferrari (in Italian which is being produced by an all-female artistic team. We will also be producing a family production for our younger audiences and other smaller events in and around Bath.

Our New Year’s resolution will be to o er as many people the opportunity to give opera a try as we can, even if they think it’s not for them. Everyone is welcome.” i a m

3

ALICIA SHARPE, Luxeco I have big ambitions for 0 for our travel company. I hope to expand our team and bring on board experts in destinations such as South America. We are ready to take the next steps in terms of advocating for sustainability. Our plan is to evaluate ways to promote a more ecofriendly outlook on travel. As more people travel, our urple Envelope

PAUL STALLAN, Net & Line “My resolution? To try to get more people into fish! It is an ongoing battle to get people to try something that isn’t the bog-standard salmon or cod. The whole nation is surrounded by weird and wicked beasts of the deep which, for the most part, are all delicious.

I want to become a bigger part of the community, too. I am moving to ldfield ark in the new year, which means I can spend more time at the shop, doing what I need to do.

I marked my one year anniversary by throwing a big Cajun Shrimp Boil for free. I would really like to do more of these events. eople will try anything if it’s free.” www.netandline.com

5

CHRIS HARRIS, Mary Shelley’s House of Frankenstein founder “Our resolutions for 2022 are to deliver an unmissable calendar of events at the House of Frankenstein and help draw visitors domestic and international back to our beautiful city. We want to work creatively with even more local businesses too.

“After the success of our launch in July and After Dark Halloween we have an exciting line up of unique events to look forward to including Murder Mystery evenings, Dark Dates (Valentines with a twist), the Escape Room, Bloody Mary’s Bar late night opening, and After Dark Halloween Season, creative writing courses and storytelling nights and interactive digital experiences in conjunction with Creative Bath and Bath Spa. “We’ve also got plans underway for a major new immersive experience on track to launch spring 2022. This is currently under wraps, but Bath sightseeing tours will never be the same again! s an nst in m

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 109

BATHWORKS

© SOUL MEDIA

Kate Abbey and Jasmine Barker collect the Award for Bath Festivals

Close the deal

N

ominations for this year’s Bath Life Awards close on 13 January. As we begin a new year, it’s the perfect time to use your nomination as a chance to reflect on everything you achieved during 2021, the ways you’ve creatively tackled Covid uncertainty, how your work has helped the community. Think on it for a moment – what are you most proud of in the last year? What has been your greatest success – and how did you achieve it?

Our judges want to know, and the deadline for submitting your nominations for the March 2022 Bath Life Awards is only a couple of weeks away.

Feeling stuck for where to start? Don’t fear – on the Bath Life Awards website you’ll find a helpful 10 step guide for putting your best foot forward, and there’s even a video with more of our very best advice available to watch now on Bath 110 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Life’s YouTube channel. Our number one tip?

Take your time. Competition for our beautiful, hand crafted Awards is fierce make sure you give your nom enough time and thought to show yourselves and your business in your best, most flattering, sparkliest light.

Other than nominating yourself, another great way to get involved in the Bath Life Awards is through sponsorship. There are lots of di erent levels and perks, from platinum through to silver all o ering an invaluable opportunity to be associated with one of Bath’s biggest business networking opportunities of the year.

If you want to learn more about sponsorship get in touch – pat.white@mediaclash.co.uk and annie.kelly@mediaclash.co.uk can tell you more.

2022 is upon us and March not much further away. Get those nominations in ASAP. For more: www.bathlifeawards.co.uk

Stephanie Wilder, owner of Good Day Café

The Bath Life Awards celebrates the best of Bath’s businesses, from professional services to cafés, retail to charity

TESTIMONIAL

“Honestly it’s such a boost after a year full of challenges for everyone. To win this year means even more considering the setbacks our industry has had.”

Stephanie Wilder of Good Day Café, Café winner

© SOUL MEDIA

Nominations for the 2022 Bath Life Awards close 13 January

BATHWORKS

BATH LIFE AWARDS 2021 According to DermaGuru ROB HAWORTH-DUNNE the secret to success is to absolutely love what you do

R

ob is an advanced skincare specialist and the owner of DermaGuru, a service providing results-based luxury treatments from a serene and tranquil clinic on Gay Street. (Turn to page 97 to read about our visit Rob and to learn more about the treatments on o er .

Inspired by his own experiences with acne as a teenager, Rob is a skincare devotee o ering his clients highly personalised, tailored solutions for a diverse range of skin complaints.

Talk us through how did you feel when you learned you had won a Bath Life Award?

I still haven’t got over the shock of winning – it was emotional, unexpected, and such a fantastic event to be part of.

Do you have your Bath Life Award on display?

I keep it on my mantlepiece in all its glory.

We love to hear it! What do you consider to be your winning qualities?

For me, it’s the value I add to people’s lives and the genuine amount of passion I have for my work. I think it shows with everything I do.

© SOUL MEDIA

HAIR & BEAUTY WINNER

Rob Haworth-Dunne and Nicole Davies

Why is DermaGuru special?

What sets me apart is my speciality in helping people with their skin and their concerns, looking at everything as a whole and how we can together achieve their goals.

I have the drive to learn and develop my knowledge of the complexities of skin conditions continually.

What brings you happiness on a normal day at work?

The smiles and sheer joy I see when people first meet me, and they finally have someone who can listen to them, understand and implement the best way forward to treat them.

It’s such a mental burden for people to su er from their skin, and when someone can listen and o er a solution, the weight that’s lifted o their shoulders makes my day.

What, if any, are some of the daily frustrations?

I will be honest; there are not many

frustrations to experience when you love what you do. Everything is taken in your stride. I say the only ‘frustration’ I have is wanting to help as many people as possible but being limited by what opportunities are available to me at this time.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?

Does being in Bath contributes to some of that positivity?

New treatments... And DermaGuru workshops – an opportunity to learn what I do.

Yes! It’s an empowering and beautiful community – not to mention the city itself is stunning.

“LOVE WHAT YOU DO, SHOW YOUR PASSION AND ALWAYS KEEP LEARNING TO BE THE BEST VERSION OF YOURSELF”

Love what you do, show your passion and always keep learning to be the best version of yourself.

It’s a fresh New Year! What’s coming up for you?

We left the best till last – what’s something your clients don’t know about you?

I used to be an opera singer and was part of the prestigious Glyndebourne Youth Opera.

For more: DermaGuru, 33 Gay Street, Bath; www.dermaguru.co.uk www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 111

SPONSORED CONTENT

NEW YEAR

NEW FINANCES Make your financial resolutions with the help of the experts ANDREW GOODEY

CHARTERED FINANCIAL PLANNER BECKFORD JAMES CHARTERED FINANCIAL PLANNERS 01225 437600; www.beckfordjames.com freereview@beckfordjames.com If clients start the year concerned and worried about their finances, what advice would you give?

The new year is a traditional time to make new resolutions including financial ones. It is a great time to look ahead and review your plans, but also it is only natural for some clients to be anxious about their long-term finances.

My advice is to talk to us about these concerns. Quite often with planning, they can become much more easily achievable.

How does the financial planning process work for someone considering retirement?

Retirement as a concept has been changing in recent years and increasingly, we talk about financial independence to match a desired lifestyle. For many, having a lower income but a better-quality lifestyle has become just as important as maximising pension and savings. We would discuss the client’s retirement goals, review their current situation, and model their retirement on a cash flow plan.

In practical terms financial planning can provide the best outcome if planning is introduced early and periodically reviewed. This allows us to plan what may be necessary to meet their goals and advise on their attitude to investment risk which may help accelerate the result or minimise the risk of a negative outcome.

DEBBIE BOULTON

MANAGING DIRECTOR, RICHARDSON SWIFT 01225 325580; www.richardsonswift.co.uk 2021 was a year of exciting developments at Richardson Swift, with the introduction of a new client support structure, the granting of its chartered tax adviser status in addition to its chartered accountants status and now the announcement of a new managing director.

Debbie Boulton, who has been a director of the firm for seven years, will take over the new role in January. Here, she looks forward to the challenges of 2022.

What key bit of advice would you give a client in the current climate?

Take some time out of the day to day running of your business to evaluate where you are and where you want to be. For the last two years, businesses have had to be very reactive to the changes they’ve faced, and there’s been no time for planning and looking at the ‘bigger picture’.

Now’s the time to sit back and check where you’re going and how you’re going to get there.

What makes you different from others in your profession?

We recognise that the accountancy profession has changed over the years and we have spent the last 18 months developing our ‘client advisors’ in the business to be able to speak with clients on a whole wealth of issues. The focus on compliance is long gone – we are service providers and consultants and are 100 per cent focused on the client and their needs.

What new plans do you have for next year?

2022 holds lots of exciting plans for RS! We are kicking off the year by looking at our company vision, an exercise we’re pleased to get the whole team involved with. We are also developing a ‘career development sat nav’ for our amazing team and giving the office a revamp to make it a great working environment that focuses on team collaboration.

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 113

Bailbrook Lane, Bath A stunning development of two individual, contemporary, luxury homes in a secluded setting with magnificent views.

Only one remaining!

01225 791155 ashford-homes.co.uk

PROPERTY P L A C E S T O L I V E , W O R K A N D P L AY

Innovative project

WOOD WORK

Permission granted for the renovation of a Bath house using timber

© STONECROF T

Forgeworks Architects have had planning granted for a house of wood shingle to be built in Bath. Located on a steep-hilled site in a suburban woodland road, the clients requested dramatically reconfiguring an e isting 50s ashlar stone bungalow that has barely been touched for the last 0 years.

Chris awkins, director of orgeworks, who have o ces in London and Salisbury says, “Our response to the brief aims to rationalise a series of pitched roof volumes, using selected framed views and controlled vistas towards the North Western valley. The design unifies the e isting house form under a new ‘thermally cloaked’ blanket of insulated Western Red Cedar shingle cladding – settling the house into its sharp topography and woodland backdrop.

“Our client approached us with a strong sustainable agenda and worked closely with us to develop a house with a significantly reduced embodied carbon construction footprint.

Opting for timber framed alterations, the project seeks to vastly limit the use of concrete and steel. Choosing to retrofit the e isting bungalow, rather than demolishing it saves a vast amount of embodied energy and carbon emissions, despite making it a more comple project. Wood fibre insulation will be used on the walls and roof, together with triple glazed windows to provide a highly insulated fabric.

“Renewable technologies are also a key aspect of the updated design – air source heat pumps for heating, solar PV panels to generate electricity and rainwater harvesting are all integrated seamlessly into the design. Natural daylight, winter solar gain and cross ventilation are ma imised through carefully reconfigured windows and roof lights.

The project is due for completion some time in 0 .

For more: www.forgeworks.uk

Designer's impression of the intended full house extension and refurbishment

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 115

PROPERTY NEWS Green living

CARBON COPY A downloadable and easy to follow guide from the Bath Preservation Trust (BPT) has been issued online for low carbon living in older homes. It contains hints and tips on how to live in old buildings more e ciently and keep warm and cut carbon emissions at little or no cost as energy prices rise this winter.

A spokesperson for B T says, We recognise the climate emergency and the need for urgent climate action. The implications of climate change will have a significant impact on the heritage, environment and future of our city, our country and planet. We believe that Bath’s traditional buildings and World eritage Site landscape, alongside sustainable growth, have unavoidable roles to play in reducing carbon emissions and reaching a nature-positive net-zero future.

Changing the way we live our lives and occupy our homes is perhaps the most di cult challenge we face if we want to sustain our environment and heritage for future generations. Energy saving changes can result in significant carbon and running cost reductions and warmer living conditions. If you live in an old home there are plenty of steps you can take with no or very low risk, which do not require expertise or huge amounts of money.”

The tips include bleeding radiators regularly, using old duvets in the rafters of lofts, and harvesting rain water for the garden.

For more: www.bath-preservation-trust.org.uk

Bath Preservation Trust have issued advice for low carbon living in older homes

REAL ESTATE

SAM DANIELS, associate and head of Bath city at Knight Frank, predicts the market for 2022 The UK housing market has created large numbers of frustrated buyers over the past few months, but I remain confident that the sprint for stock and the opportunist will prevail. The number of offers accepted in September was 88 per cent higher than the five-year average and the demand for property from new prospective buyers is up 82 per cent in September 2021 vs September 2019.

In Bath we at Knight Frank have seen an 8.1 per cent price increase. However there is a stark warning that with such an imbalance between supply and demand means there is an underlying weakness yet to fully materialise. New stock is needed to avoid the wider frustration amongst buyers, if not I can see transaction volumes will fall and this exciting, but deadly, dynamic will have created a ticking clock; although I am pleased to say it is looking like a soft landing, rather than a crash.

On a three-month rolling basis, growth is down from 3 per cent in June to 1.5 per cent in September across the two indices: showing that once monthly volatility is stripped out, prices are softening. However I do believe that the housing markets, especially in markets such as the likes of Bath and the surrounding areas, have more room to run, but we are no longer in the housing market bubble. Travel bans will impinge on crossborder transactions well into 2022. We have, and will continue to see, a large number of London buyers move to the Bath and we

116 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

This 2-3 bedroom maisonette in Camden Crescent has just sold with Knight Frank a guide price of £925,000

are starting to see the expat market come back, slowly, as travel bans lift.

My prediction for 2022 is that I can see a soft landing rather than a crash after a remarkable period of activity. Some of the heat has come out of the market as we move into the winter and the Stamp Duty Land Tax (STLD) holiday is over. The return to normality will likely be a slow process with demand still outstripping supply, a situation that is unlikely to improve significantly until next spring.

For more: www.knightfrank.co.uk

Q&A

With Host My Property founder, Daniel Daly

We list and manage your property on leading holiday let sites including Airbnb and Booking.com We are happy to meet with you and discuss your property without any obligation. We list your property, find the guests, look after them during their stay and ensure that your property is cleaned, checked and maintained before the next guests arrive.

Host My Property currently manage a quality driven property portfolio. If you are considering listing a new property or need someone to take over the management of an exisiting property, please get in touch.

01225 58 70 71 hello@hostmyproperty.co.uk www.hostmyproperty.co.uk

Who are Host My Property?

Host My Property are a Bath based short-let property management company. We offer a complete solution for your short term let offering a fully managed service for both clients and guests in our beautiful city of Bath.

We are very happy to work with clients who have an established Airbnb property or set up new listings for clients who want to use their properties to generate an extra income.

What would be the one piece of advice you would give to potential clients?

When I speak to potential clients, I always suggest that regardless of whether they decide to work with us (which I hope that they do) that they should pick a local management agent. We believe it is beneficial to work with a business that is based in Bath, that knows the city and is readily available when needed.

What else do you believe is important when picking a management agent?

That you find a management agent that you can trust and who are passionate about delivering a high quality service.

Do you charge an onboarding fee?

We do not charge an onboarding fee. We only start to make a return when our clients do.

PROPERTY

10 ST JAMES’S S A E

Matilda Walton e plores an address with e clusivity in its bones 118 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

N

umber 10 St James’s Square is the very definition of elegance.

The pristinely refurbished listed property e udes simple uality elevated by stand out e travagances like the intricate cornicing to be found throughout.

It’s lu urious, but homely e actly the mood you want from your Georgian townhouse. A John almer creation the architect behind historic Bath buildings like Lansdown Crescent and the Church of St Swithin St James’s S uare is one of the most sought after addresses in the city. umber 0 lies on the park side of the 45 home S uare one of the only Grade I listed residential s uares in the nation with a lovely view

HOUSE NUMBERS Price Square foot

£3m 4,145

Bedrooms

4

Bathrooms

4

Whiteley Helyar Bath, 6 Princes Buildings, George Street, Bath; www.whiteleyhelyar.co.uk

across its beautifully maintained communal gardens and the High Common parkland adjacent.

One of the biggest draws of the four-bedroom home is the size of the individual rooms – the drawing and dining rooms are both 21ft each, while the master bedroom (including en suite, obviously) stretches to 19ft.

Party lovers, take note: pandemic allowing, you’ve got plenty of space to host, mingle, and dance plus there’s plenty of cloakroom space and even an all-important wine cellar.

The very large kitchen is another high point. The sophisticated, clean design gives the room a modern, energetic feel, with an e pansive marble breakfast bar providing a gathering point – for the family or for guests to prop themselves at the end of the night. It’s very much meant to be a social kitchen, with plenty of room to connect between guests and family members rather than sequestering the nominated chef for the night alone in the kitchen for a chunk of the evening.

Where some rooms lean into simplicity, others are utterly opulent, almost baroque, in design. The bath in the marble master en suite features pillars and

mood lighting – it’s the kind of tub that demands wine, chocolate, a novel, and absolutely no interruptions. The living room is similarly statement: think bold metallic wallpaper to set o the cornicing and cosy marble fireplace. In the current owners’ set up, gold details on the furnishings and a glowing chandelier dripping with glass petals finish the e ect.

The grandiosity of the design reflects the e clusivity of the address – apparent in residents’ access to the Square’s private garden. Managed by St James’s Square Bath Limited, which also acts as a residents’ association, the garden is gated and o ers a calming, well kempt space to rela outside of home, should you wish. But when you’re in the mood to keep to yourself, the property’s own rear walled garden is delightful, designed with dividing parterres of Bo and aren Bli en ises and a ‘wall’ of elevated pleached hornbeam, for utmost privacy when desired.

E uisite architecture, gorgeous interiors, a short walk from town and a mere stone’s throw from the beautiful Victoria Park – 10 St James’s Square is a property that’ll make you fall in love.

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 119

ADVERTISEMENT

SPONSORED CONTENT

FOR THE HOME Our local businesses are poised and ready to help with all your home needs for Winter

CLAIR STRONG INTERIOR DESIGN

Clair Strong Interior Design is a small, creative company based in Bath, providing a wide range of services for both residential and commercial clients. Her portfolio of projects includes the design, project coordination and sourcing for some of Bath’s most beautiful residences, as well as sports clubs o ces and other commercial enues.

Contact Clair on 01225 426906 or 07855 79731 www.clairstrong.co.uk

COOPERS HOME APPLIANCES

WOOLF create completely unique, client-focused

MENDIP FIREPLACES

contemporary and traditional interiors, valued for their individual, beautifully tailored characterful design. With 25 years of industry expertise delivering space planning, detailed design, procurement, art curation and project management. An award-winning Interior Architecture & Design practice with studios in Bath & West London, WOOLF are accredited designers of historic, period, listed houses and hotels. Tel 01225 445670; woolfinterior.com

ath s leading fireplace wood burner gas fire chimney and flue specialist. rom classic to contemporary concept to completion, their team of experts can work with you to achieve your perfect interior. Brands include Chesney’s, arbas elfires wam tu and etmaster. et in touch or visit the showroom. Mendip Fireplaces, Monkton Combe, Bath BA2 7HD. info@mendipfireplacesbath.co.uk, Tel: 01225 722706; www.mendipfireplacesbath.co.uk

BATH KITCHEN COMPANY

VIRTUOSO FLOORING

Coopers Home Appliances is an independent retailer trading continuously since 1947 and specialises in kitchen appliances. We have built an enviable reputation, delivering great products with an eye for the unusual.

Value driven and customer focused. Striving to make shopping a pleasurable and human experience – a real antidote to the soulless online shopping ‘trip’.

01225 311811; www.coopershomeappliances.com

Based in the heart of Bath and specialising in bespoke, handmade kitchens, Bath Kitchen Company become personally invested in every kitchen they design and build. It’s about attention to detail at every stage – creating a beautiful space that enhances the way you live. 7-9 North Parade Buildings, Bath BA1 1NS; Tel: 01225 312003 www.bathkitchencompany.co.uk

ffering stylish inno ati e flooring solutions to meet the needs of the savvy Bath homeowner. Virtuoso employ the largest team of e perienced fitters in ath.

Their dedicated team are ready to turn your dream floor into a reality. all now for a free consultation or visit their new show room on Moorland Road.

To enquire, email info@virtuosoflooring.co.uk or call 01225 972715; www.virtuosoflooring.co.uk

SCHMIDT BATH

THE WOODEN FLOORING STUDIO

BONITI

Providing bespoke kitchens and made-to-measure interiors across the Bath area for more than 35 years, chmidt ath offers lu ury solutions for the home at affordable prices. ith a dedicated in house fitting team your project will be completed to the highest standards.

Visit their showroom to see the latest ranges and more of what they can offer. 1 Park Road, Bath BA1 3EE; Tel: 01225 337276; www.schmidt-bath.com

specialist in real wood flooring with a showroom based in rome. ffering the area s widest range with parquet, herringbone, planks and decorative panels to choose from. Ted Todd & Woodpecker showroom partners. Together with their own in-house installation craftspeople. Their boutique paint & wallpaper store is next door too. 43 to 44 Vallis Way, Frome BA11 3BA; 01373 228388; www.thewoodenflooringstudio.com

oniti is based on the outskirts of ath and offers a wide range of quality interior and exterior products: natural stone and timber flooring erhot range cookers garden furniture and adai firebowls. s well as the ast selection of products on offer a friendly and personal service is at the heart of all that they do.

Dunsdon Barn, West Littleton,Wiltshire SN14 8JA; Tel: 01225 892 200; www.boniti.com www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 121

BATH LIVES

“Music projects and sermons all come together in my head while I’m running”

STEVEN FAUX The church minister and wildlife documentary music producer on running his 15th Bath Half marathon on behalf of the Send A Cow charity Steven Faux’s background is in broadcasting. After doing a music degree he joined BBC Network Radio as a studio manager, but also produced shows on Radio 1, Radio 4 and the World Service. He then moved into media composing, initially for radio and then for television. He also got ordained 15 years ago and is now an associate vicar in Bristol. On 13 March Steven will be running his fourth Bath Half marathon and will be raising money for the Bathbased charity Send A Cow. School wasn’t much fun. I didn’t

seem to be any good at anything, even at primary school, that is until we were all given recorders to play in music. Then I found I was better than most of the others at music.

I got the chance when about eight to learn the violin, and everything flowed from that.

122 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

I’ve been able to work on a lot of the wildlife shows made in Bristol. Highlights

have been big BBC 1 series, like David Attenborough’s Life of Birds, and a t fli t, voiced by David Tennant. But some of the one o s have been just as much fun. I work a lot with a talented wildlife filmmaker, Steve icholls of Hooded Crow Productions in Bristol. We’ve had great fun, from traveling to the Appalachian Mountains in orth Carolina to film and record outback musicians, to using my piano at home as a scene in which starlings learn to sing a melody for a project called Bird Brain.

My Christian faith has always been important, and about

15 years back I went through the process of studying theology at Bristol University and being ordained. For the last 15 years I’ve combined media composing

with church ministry. I started at St Michael’s Broad Street in Bath, popularly known as St Michael’s Waitrose, and helped out at Bath Abbey quite a bit. For the last six years I’ve been the associate vicar at Redland Church over in Bristol, but we’ve stayed put in Bath.

Scotland Street). Alexander showed a disproportionate interested in me and my work. I later remembered that he’s the kind of writer who is constantly on the lookout for character material and is gifted at revealing the good, the bad and the absurd in his creations.

My wife Penny, also a studio manager, and I moved to Bath when James, our first son, was about to start school. We had

I started running about 15 years ago when our eldest son, James, was

visited Bath and fallen in love with it: the stunning architecture, the beautiful countryside all around and the ease of getting to London.

I realised it would be the perfect place to do freelance work from home, but visit clients in London and Bristol, and bring up a young family.

We live between Bath and Weston Village. We have a great

view towards the Cotswold Way, as it winds down across the hills into Bath.

We now have three children and all are musical and are very

involved at their own London churches. Clem was the only one to follow in my footsteps and study music at university. They have all worked with me in my media music. James has played clarinet on my TV scores, Imogen has sung on many projects including Radio 4’s A History of the World in 100 Objects, and Clem has co-written albums and done gigs with me.

When I worked at St Michael’s Church in Bath we were often used as a venue for book launches and often I’d be on duty

to welcome them to the church and say a prayer. Visiting authors included Rick Stein and Delia Smith (cookery is always popular), George R. R. Martin (Game of Thrones) and Alexander McCall Smith (Ladies’ Detective Agency, 44

about to be 17 and wanted to run the Bath Half, but not on his own. We entered as regular runners, rather than representing a charity, as I’d never done distance running before and was unsure that I’d be able to go three miles, let alone 13. We left plenty of time to train: around six months, and to my astonishment were both running 10-11 miles by Christmas.

When I was looking for potential organisations to run and raise money for, I remembered the Send

A Cow charity after the then director spoke at my Bristol Theological College, and of course their being Bath-based added to the appeal.

Since that first Bath Half I’ve learned to love running for its own sake, going out on my own two to three times most weeks.

I’ve also come to prefer o road running in the hills around Bath, whatever the weather. I’ve run across the Bath Race Course in blistering heat, gales, torrential rain, blizzards, and one wintery time ran across it at sunset, my feet crunching into frozen snow with the consistency of icing on a Christmas cake.

Running helps get my head in shape. Music projects and sermons

all come together in my head while I’m running. The di cult part is to remember them and write them down afterwards.

For more: www.stevenfaux.com / www.sendacow.org