At Home
thepropertyandlifestyleedition
Andrew Grant www.andrew-grant.co.uk
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52 I own
39 Luxury escapes
Britain’s best home
The Smiths talk about their expanding boutique hotel business and pick some of their finest winter escapes
Sharon Kilby meets with Amanda Barrington, the proud owner of ‘Woodsend’, recently voted ‘Britain’s Best Home 2009’
with Mr & Mrs Smith
66 And so the
show begins
Extracts from the Gordon Ramsay book, Three Star Chef
thepropertyand lifestyleedition WINTER EDITION
Andrew Grant www.andrew-grant.co.uk
50 A taste of Relais & Châteux
A gastronomic tour with the finest chefs in the UK and Ireland
58 Top Hat We meet with bespoke hat couture designer Louis Marriette at his Sloane Gardens studio about his work and TV work as one of the judges on the ‘Britain’s next top model’ programme
Welcome to the Winter issue of Andrew Grant’s At Home Property Lifestyle magazine, featuring a selection of some very interesting homes currently for sale within our portfolio of 1,250 properties throughout the Midlands. A dynamic and forward thinking organisation – Andrew Grant is recognised as the Region’s premier Independent Group of Chartered Surveyors, Auctioneers and Estate Agents. During 38 years of successful history, the business has gone from strength to strength – innovating, challenging established practice, embracing the latest technology and providing an unrivalled personal service. There are nine residential offices in Worcestershire and Herefordshire including Worcester, Pershore, Malvern, Hereford, Droitwich Spa, Bromsgrove, Redditch, Kidderminster and Stourbridge. There is also a London Office in Pall Mall and specialist departments in Surveys, Commercial, Lettings, New Homes and Fine Art – all staffed by experienced and well trained experts in their own particular fields. Andrew Grant is an ISO9001:2000 accredited business – providing clients with a service which meets their needs and surpasses their expectations – combining principles of professionalism and integrity. Andrew Grant is fully committed to its membership of both the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors and National Association of Estate Agents together with their associated rules of conduct. Selected membership of Homesale Network is another coveted credential to assist buyers and sellers with their relocation needs. In many ways, as we enter into 2010 Andrew Grant is sad to leave behind the success of 2009 because we will be saying goodbye to a year of remarkable recovery within the residential housing market. We have seen our sales grow by a staggering 69% since 2008 and which superb level of activity has been despite a continuation of severely depressed economic conditions. Looking forward into 2010 provides the encouraging prospect of an improving economic climate which should bode even better for the now stabilised housing market. The difficulties associated with mortgage funding and a collapse of house prices during 2007, effectively restricted the numbers of properties entering the market and the stock of available homes to buy is now at an all time low. Consequently, an equilibrium exists between demand and supply with current conditions marginally in favour of the seller. Therefore, now would seem to present an excellent moment to enter the market. Call for Free Advice from the professionals who on April 01st 2010 will be celebrating 40 years of outstanding success – based upon high levels of professionalism and customer service. Please contact us – see below.
Andrew Grant ANDREW GRANT OFFICES: Worcester Country Homes Worcester City Homes Hereford Pershore Malvern Droitwich Spa Bromsgrove Redditch
The homes featured in this magazine are a random selection from our portfolio of some of the finest properties available in the local area.
Tel: 01905 734735 Tel: 01905 734734 Tel: 01432 355292 Tel: 01386 554031 Tel: 01684 563136 Tel: 01905 771124 Tel: 01527 579977 Tel: 01527 66161
Kidderminster Tel: 01562 60228 Stourbridge Tel: 01384 370232 ANDREW GRANT DEPARTMENTS: Antiques & Fine Arts Tel: 0844 984 9617 Commercial & Industrial Tel: 01905 29402 Surveys & Valuations Tel: 01905 617768 New Homes Tel: 0844 984 9619 Lettings Tel: 01905 23882
www.andrew-grant.co.uk The Andrew Grant ‘At Home’ property lifestyle magazine is exclusively published and printed by:
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©Leycol Publishing 2009. All rights reserved. Reproduction is forbidden except by express permission of the Publishers. The content of this magazine is believed to be correct but its accuracy is not guaranteed and it does not form part of any offer or contract. Leycol Publishing cannot accept responsibility for any omissions or errors. The views expressed within editorials are those of the writers and not those of Leycol Publishing. For all Advertising and Editorial enquiries please contact: Steven Hall 01803 849287 stevenh@leycol.com For all Print Sales enquiries please contact: Elizabeth Baxendale 07715 496853 elizabethb@leycol.com Our next property magazine will be published in April for the spring edition.
Andrew Grant
Vowchurch, Herefordshire Offers over ÂŁ4,000,000 270 acres (109 ha) Approx. An Important Classical Grade 11* Listed Country Residence with Commanding Views, Lodge and Cottage within a beautiful Landscape. Traditional outbuildings, Indoor Pool, Tennis Court, Apartment, Garaging, Formal Gardens, Medieval Parkland, Woodland and Paddocks. Poston House: 4270 sq ft (397 sq m) GIA approx. Poston Lodge: 2560 sq ft (238 sq m) GIA approx. Garden Cottage: 1776 sq ft (165 sq m) GIA approx In conjunction with Knight Frank 0207 629 8171 Telephone: 01905 734735 14 WINTER COLLECTION
www.andrew-grant.co.uk
ABBERLEY HALL WORCESTERSHIRE
Co-educational Boarding and Day School 8-13 years Outstanding academic record in preparing pupils for all public and senior schools. Set in 90 acres, the school has exceptional facilities including a new indoor swimming pool, Astroturf, Design, Technology and Art centre, Riding Stables, Modern Language Laboratory and French Chalet. A wide range of evening and weekend activities from calligraphy to abseiling. For further information please contact: John Walker Esq, Headmaster, Abberley Hall, Worcestershire WR6 6DD Tel: 01299 896275 e-mail: john.walker@abberleyhall.co.uk Fax: 01299 896875 www.abberleyhall.co.uk
Andrew Grant
Wolverley, Worcestershire ÂŁ3,000,000 48 acres (19.4 ha) Approx. An Equestrian Country Residence with Leisure Complex, Heated Infinity Pool, Lodge, External Stabling and Garaging, Paddocks within beautiful Landscape. Principal residence approximately 8,200 sq ft (760 sq m) Leisure complex approximately 5,400 sq ft (508 sq m) Hill House Lodge approximately 980 sq ft (90 sq m) Telephone: 01905 734735
16 WINTER COLLECTION
www.andrew-grant.co.uk
Andrew Grant
Mamble, Worcestershire ÂŁ2,350,000 A Fine Georgian Residence 9000 sq ft (850 sq m) GIA approx with Exceptional Views to the Welsh Mountains 16.5 acres (6.7 ha). Impressive reception hall, 5 reception rooms, kitchen, 8 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms. Garage, period outbuildings, landscaped gardens, grounds, long drive, tennis court, wildlife pond, woodland, paddocks. Telephone: 01905 734735
18 WINTER COLLECTION
www.andrew-grant.co.uk
Andrew Grant
Bretforton, Worcs/Glos ÂŁ2,250,000 30 Acres (12 ha) Approx. An Inspirational Country Estate Fitted and Finished to the Ultimate Specification 8000 sq ft (760 sq m) GIA approx. including Banqueting Hall, Spa, Indoor Tennis Court and 1 â „2 mile tree lined drive. Further accommodation includes 3 reception rooms, kitchen/ breakfast room, games room, 6 bedrooms (3 e/s), bathroom, dressing room, open garaging, formal gardens, outbuilding, paddocks. Telephone: 01905 734735
20 WINTER COLLECTION
www.andrew-grant.co.uk
St Ma Mary ary’s
pputting girls g fir first rsst
Worcester’s Wor cester’s Gi Girls’ irls’ School
ss a p 2 % 0 at A 0 1 te ra
“... the life of the Sixth Form is a strength of the school.” Independent Schools Inspection Report
www.stmarys.org.uk www .stmarys.or s rg.uk
01905 01905 3577 357786 786
Andrew Grant
Cookhill, Worcestershire/Warwickshire Offers Over £2,000,000 (as a whole) An Enclave of Residences within a Tranquil Wildlife Sanctuary LOT 1: Principal Residence: 4400 ft². Stable Cottage: 680 ft². 56 Acres, Outbuildings, Gardens, Electrically Operated Gates, Conservation Ancient Woodland, Wildlife Pools, Pastureland. OFFERS OVER £1,395,000. LOT 2: Two Detached House – The Woodlands:1800 ft². The Cottage: 970 ft². 1 Acre. OFFERS OVER £675,000 (All measurements are approximate) Telephone: 01905 734735
22 WINTER COLLECTION
www.andrew-grant.co.uk
Andrew Grant
www.andrew-grant.co.uk
Nr Cooksey Green, Bromsgrove £1,750,000 Minimalist Indulgence. Contemporary high specification interiors – 5 reception rooms, 5 en-suite bedrooms, circa 5,400 sq ft (500 sq m), hospitality terraces, garaging/stabling, circa 2.25 acres (1 ha). Telephone: 01905 734735
WINTER COLLECTION 23
Andrew Grant
Hagley, Worcestershire £1,550,000 An Elegant Victorian Residence, 6,200 sq ft (580 sq m) within an Exceptional Position Commanding Magnificent Far Reaching Views. 2.5 acres (1 ha) Approx. Impressive reception hall, 4 reception rooms, kitchen, butler’s pantry, 7 bedrooms (2 en-suites), bathroom, garage, outbuildings and gardens. Telephone: 01905 734735
24 WINTER COLLECTION
www.andrew-grant.co.uk
Andrew Grant
Great Comberton, Worcestershire ÂŁ1,550,000 8 Acres (3.2 ha) Approx. One of the Finest Settings in Worcestershire. Drawing room, dining room, kitchen/breakfast room, swimming pool, 6 bedrooms, dressing room, en-suite, bathroom, garaging, long driveway, gardens, woodland, orchard, paddock, 160 yds river frontage. Telephone: 01905 734735
26 AUTUMN/WINTER COLLECTION
www.andrew-grant.co.uk
Andrew Grant
www.andrew-grant.co.uk
Alvechurch, Birmingham ÂŁ1,450,000 Over 5 Acres Approx. Imposing, Graceful, Eminent. 5,260 sq ft House and annexe in parkland garden. In all 6 reception rooms. 10 bedrooms. Superb character with self contained annexe. Telephone: 01905 734735
WINTER COLLECTION 27
Andrew Grant
Stone, Nr Mustow Green, Worcestershire £1,250,000 An Exquisite Country Residence approx, 4600 sq ft overlooking Lake and Woodlands. Approximately 22 acres. FOR SALE AS A WHOLE OR IN TWO LOTS Lot 1: 4 reception rooms, kitchen, 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, cottage, gardens, swimming pool, garage, outbuildings, 4 acre lake, woodland. Lot 2: Paddock 8 acres £100,000. Telephone: 01905 734735
28 AUTUMN/WINTER COLLECTION
www.andrew-grant.co.uk
Andrew Grant
Ledbury, Herefordshire ÂŁ1,250,000 Beautifully Presented Country Residence with Contemporary Interiors. 4,800 sq ft (447 sq m). 5 acres (2 ha) approx. Principle Residence: 4 reception rooms, kitchen, 5 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms. Coach House: Open plan kitchen/living room, 2 bedrooms (1 en-suite), bathroom. The Nest: open plan studio, garaging. Landscaped gardens and grounds. Joint agent: Hayes, 01531 630030 Telephone: 01905 734735 30 AUTUMN/WINTER COLLECTION
www.andrew-grant.co.uk
Andrew Grant
www.andrew-grant.co.uk
Stockton-on-Teme, Worcestershire ÂŁ1,195,000 Inspired Conversion, Inspirational Setting Around 3.75 Acres Drawing room, study area, dining room, kitchen, 5 bedrooms, 4 en-suites and bathroom. Leisure block with home cinema, office, play room, double car port, 4,500 sq ft gardens, paddocks. Telephone: 01905 734735
WINTER COLLECTION 31
Andrew Grant
Upton-Upon-Severn, Worcestershire Offers over ÂŁ1,100,000 6.6 Acres (2.7 ha) Approx. An exquisite country residence impeccably presented throughout (5000 sq ft (464 sq m) GIA approx. 6 reception rooms, kitchen, self contained leisure complex with gymnasium and guest suite, 5 bedrooms (3 en-suite), bathroom, 5-bay garage, gardens, paddocks. Suitable for equestrian purposes. Telephone: 01905 734735
32 WINTER COLLECTION
www.andrew-grant.co.uk
Andrew Grant
www.andrew-grant.co.uk
Defford, Worcestershire ÂŁ895,000 Distinguished Former Rectory 5,400 sq ft (500 sq m) GIA approx with Magnificent Views to Bredon Hill, Approx 1.4 ac. Reception Hall, 4 Reception rooms, kitchen, butler's pantry, 4/5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms. Landscaped gardens. With pp for a detached dwelling. Joint agents Halls 01905 611066. Telephone: 01905 734735
WINTER COLLECTION 33
Andrew Grant
www.andrew-grant.co.uk
Droitwich, Worcestershire ÂŁ1,550,000 22.5 Acres Approx. An Exquisite Period Residence together with Exceptional Equestrian Facilities. 3,500 sq ft GIA approx. 4 reception rooms, kitchen/breakfast room, 4 bedrooms (all en-suite), 4-car garage, 4 stables, long sweeping tree lined drive, gardens, paddocks. Telephone: 01905 734735
Claines, Worcestershire ÂŁ1,500,000 7 Acres Approx. A Prominent Country Residence with Leisure Complex. 6,800 sq ft (632 sq m) GIA approx. 5 reception rooms, kitchen/breakfast room, 5 bedrooms 2 en-suites, bathroom, leisure complex, garage, studio, gardens, paddock. Telephone: 01905 734735 34 WINTER COLLECTION
Andrew Grant
www.andrew-grant.co.uk
Tenbury Wells, Worcestershire £1,500,000 11 Acres Approx. An Elegant Georgian Residence. Rejoicing in Glorious Teme Valley Views. 8,000 sq ft GIA approx. Joint agents Knight Frank 01432 273087. 4 reception rooms, butler’s pantry, kitchen/breakfast room, 5 bedrooms, 7 second floor rooms, 2 shower rooms, 3 bathrooms, cellarage, garaging, stabling, barn, gardens. Telephone: 01905 734735
Mamble, Worcestershire £1,400,000 17th Century Grade II Listed Georgian Residence with Period Barns. Farmhouse: 3260 sq ft approx. Threshing Barn: 2819 sq ft approx. Period Barn: 1786 sq ft approx. Attractively laid out mature gardens. Small arboretum. Telephone: 01905 734735 WINTER COLLECTION 35
Andrew Grant
www.andrew-grant.co.uk
Bewdley, Worcestershire ÂŁ1,395,000 A Unique Country Residence 4000 sq ft (370 sq m) GIA approx. within its Own Grounds. 7.25 Ac (3 Ha) Approx. 3 reception rooms, kitchen/breakfast room, 4 bedrooms (1 en-suite), bathroom, self-contained annexe, studio, 4-car garage, tree lined drive, electrically operated gates, wildlife pond. Telephone: 01905 734735
Broadwas-on-Teme, Worcs ÂŁ1,295,000 Possibly the Finest Landed Barn in Worcestershire. Around 25 Acres. 4 principal receptions, 5 bedrooms, 2 en-suite. Detached annex, 5 car garaging, stabling and portal barn. A further 50 acres may be available. Telephone: 01905 734735 36 WINTER COLLECTION
Fine & Country National Editorial:Layout 1 05/10/2009 13:54 Page 37
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South-east of Eden Mr & Mrs Smith’s favourite winter escapes
The South East of England isn’t short on places to stay, but if you’re looking for a chic spa retreat, cosy country inn or village-set designer den, there’s only one place to turn: boutique-hotel experts Mr & Mrs Smith tell us how they got started, and cherry-pick some of their most luxurious UK hotspots…
Back in August 2001, courting couple James Lohan and Tamara Heber Percy, on the advice of a not-to-be-named travel guide, were staying at a not-to-be-named hotel in the Lake District, and not enjoying it in the slightest. ‘This had happened before – we couldn’t believe we were yet again staying in a sub-standard hotel.’ ‘We cut short the trip, and on the way home, we decided there was a need for a guide you could really trust,’ said Tam. And, with that, Mr & Mrs Smith was born. The now widely known irreverent title immediately caught people’s imagination; ‘It’s got the right level of naughtiness and fun, and it underlines that our selection is all about romance,’ says James. By January 2003, the pair had raised the necessary finance, recruited a team and begun compiling a collection of boutique hotels that offered an inspirational guide and the sort of inside information you would pass on to a friend. Eight months and 41 hotels later, the Mr & Mrs Smith Hotel Collection UK/Ireland was launched and, by Christmas, the couple were reeling as the predicted sales of 5,000 rolled into 20,000. ‘We just couldn’t believe it,’ says James. ‘All our hard work and reviewing had paid off. Although it’s great fun, we really are quite tough in terms of the criteria the hotels have to meet. Once a
autumn collection | 39
Fine & Country National Editorial:Layout 1 05/10/2009 13:54 Page 40
hotel is spotted we visit it for consideration and if it’s promising, we send a couple to do an anonymous review and. If they love it, we invite the hotel to join the Smith collection. ‘If it’s a close call,’ adds Tam, ‘We tell the hotel why we haven’t been able to include them and if they choose to rectify the problem then we will revisit. It’s not about being elitist, we simply have a clear idea of what the collection is about and people have come to trust our judgement. We also do regular checks, and if we receive two complaints we make a visit; three and they’re out.’ Following the success of their first book, the couple have since published several other Mr & Mrs Smith boutique hotel guides under the Spy Publishing imprint: European Cities, European Coast & Country and an updated UK/ Ireland Volume 2. In 2008, they released The Global Shortlist in the States and are starting to see traffic increasing as the brand becomes more well known Stateside. ‘The books have been a phenomenal success, and continue to be popular even though our business has evolved from
40 | autumn collection
being a niche publisher to being a boutique property provider for styleconscious travellers,’ explains James. Recognising the need to keep reinventing their business, James, who previously owned an event company in London and started chic Clapham bar the White House, and Tam with her career in marketing, launched their website – which took the company to a new level and meant that Smith fans could book boutique hotels through their trusted brand online. ‘We’ve now selected more than 550 properties to feature online, and the collection has got much broader, to include stylish safaris, sexy ski lodges, child-friendly getaways and our growing self-catering selection.’ James and Tam have also introduced a three-tiered membership club offering a travel booking and concierge service, which covers anything from watering your plants while you’re away to organising a romantic dinner on your trip. ‘We get an incredible 350,000 hits a people have signed up to our various
membership clubs, which gets them access to all sorts of discounts and benefits. Our entry level membership, BlackSmith, is just £15 per year, SilverSmith is £99 and GoldSmith £299.’ ‘But we didn’t stop there. We’ve introduced an innovative loyalty scheme to reward frequent bookers. Members who book trips with us will earn up to five per cent of the value of their booking back to a personal ‘Vault’, which can be viewed online. They can spend their earnings in our shop which carries all sorts of amazing high-quality brands or they can use it to book more boutique hotel stays.’ This year, much excitement has surrounded the launch of yet another guidebook: Australia & New Zealand (out in October ‘09), which has been published to celebrate the opening of Smith offices in Melbourne this May. ‘The offices in Australia mean that we can offer a 24-hour Travel Team, six days a week,’ says James. The Asia-Pacific arm of Mr & Mrs Smith (which includes Australia and New Zealand) is headed up by Simon Westcott, former global publisher of Lonely Planet and a boutique hotel connoisseur. ‘It’s all just part of our plans for worldwide domination,’ laughs Tam. And out of all the great hotels they recommend, what are their favourites? ‘Difficult, but among them all, we’d definitely go back to Endsleigh in Devon, JK Place in Florence and Ca’s Xorc in Mallorca – where we got married.’ To find out more, order a guidebook or book any of the hotels in the Mr & Mrs Smith collection, visit www.mrandmrssmith.com or ring the expert Smith travel team on 0845 034 0700.g
Fine & Country National Editorial:Layout 1 05/10/2009 13:54 Page 41
Fine & Country National Editorial:Layout 1 05/10/2009 13:54 Page 42
‘Our room is extremely light and well planned, rendering it utterly inviting’ The George in Rye 98 High Street, East Sussex TN31 7JT Style Quirky-smart Regency inn Setting Cobbled streets of Rye
Mr Smith says… ‘The first thing we noticed about this 18th-century coaching inn was that the new owners seem to have
vibrant and diverse decorative scheme: psychedelic Beatles prints sit alongside pockmarked beams and distressed leather. Chef Rod Grossmann’s menus create bold but
achieved what few proprietors of these ancient public
well balanced flavours. Local produce is at the fore, and
houses up and down the country have: a modern,
starters such as dressed crab and smoked duck are
redesigned interior that is still sympathetic to the
quite something. The wine we chose was English:
original character of the building. It’s not just that the
Sandhurst Sussex Pinot Noir – what an extraordinary
black tar-encrusted beams have all been sand-blasted
revelation. Having tasted no better Gevrey-Chambertin
Smith Factor This inspiring coaching inn-conversion is
clean, or that the sticky red paisley carpets have given
from Burgundy itself, it instantly became an all-time
located in the heart of historic Rye, a potter-paced
way to the original flagstone tiles. It’s that no detail,
favourite.
seaside town on the East Sussex coast. The decor makes
from the nickel-coated plug sockets to burnished
for love-at-first-sight stuff – bird-patterned wallpaper,
copper radiators, has been overlooked. Tightly packed
Sussex spot may present more-than-ample kitsch bric-
chairs clad in monochrome Florence Broadhurst textiles,
with long sofas, chairs and beams, the George rises
a-brac window-sniggering opportunities, and maybe its
and artworks ancient and modern on the walls. Pillows
above the seagull-echoing street in a warren of little
one-way system is a little annoying to first-time users,
loaded with lavender coupled with bottles of Florentine fig
floors. Our room is extremely light and well planned,
but the charm and romance of this ancient fishing town
oil turn lazy nights in into a relaxing addiction. In addition
rendering it utterly inviting, helped in no small way by
is undeniable. And, if it is trying to shrug off its unfair
to the sumptuous bedrooms, each individually designed,
soft-touch scented pillows and hot-water bottle cosies.
bucket-and-spade image, then the George in Rye will
the hotel’s pièce de resistance is its Georgian ballroom, a
The bathroom has a Victorian-style bath-cum-shower,
help its cause no end.’g
dramatic, high-ceilinged chamber adorned with hand-
and is Aveda-product equipped, while soft-blue wood
painted silk panels – a truly wow-inducing wedding
panelling lends a gently nautical air. As soon as she
venue. The hotel makes an unbeatable base for exploring
opened the ‘G’-branded wooden box to find an incredibly
the coastline; the George’s Mediterranean kitchen
varied selection of teas, Mrs Smith immediately set to
(headed by an ex-Moro chef) can pack you a hamper of
work preparing that most British of refreshments in
mouth-watering goodies to picnic upon – Camber Sands
celebration.
Rooms 24, including five suites Rates £125–£225, including breakfast; midweek rates also include dinner. One-night bookings for Saturdays incur a £50 supplement.
is our top pick for alfresco eating. But if picnics aren’t your thing, Rye has enough gastropubs and cake-toting teashops to ensure you’re never hungry for long.
42 | autumn collection
The owners, Katie and Alex Clarke, have links with set design and prop buying, making for a tasteful but
Rye – you made converts of us. OK, this East
Fine & Country National Editorial:Layout 1 05/10/2009 13:54 Page 43
Fine & Country National Editorial:Layout 1 05/10/2009 13:54 Page 44
‘The hotel is home to a fabulous spa, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, and a courtyard hot tub that just begs to be lazed in’
Calcot Manor Near Tetbury, Gloucestershire GL8 8YJ Style Family-friendly farmhouse Setting Homely heart of Gloucestershire
Mr Smith says… ‘Our room at Calcot Manor, the Woodchester, is simply lovely. Even though my eyes range over the room
and stylish lounge, where, on suede sofas beneath lowlevel lighting, we relax with a final glass before heading up to bed. The hotel is home to a fabulous spa, indoor and
in search of style faux pas, I find none. There’s not a
outdoor swimming pools, and a courtyard hot tub that
hint of chintz in sight, and they seem to have got that
just begs to be lazed in with a glass of champagne.
hard-to-pull-off blend of classic look, contemporary
There’s even an outdoor open fireplace that roars away
feel just right. There’s a plasma-screen TV, high
just metres from the water. There are a lot of hotels out
thread-count sheets, stripped wooden floors –
there that put style over substance. Calcot Manor isn’t
Smith Factor A 14th-century farmhouse set three
everything, in fact, screams luxury. This continues in
one of them – it’s got plenty of substance and now
miles from Tetbury, amid the leafy rural roll of the
the bathroom, where we admire twin sinks and a
there’s a healthy coating of style, too.’
Cotswolds, Calcot Manor offers the acme of family
shower big enough to host a Sumo bout.
Rooms 35 Rates £230–£430, including breakfast and VAT. Dinner, bed and breakfast rates (from £293 –£510, excluding drinks) are compulsory at weekends and peak periods.
escapes, with child-geared facilities at every turn
When our little one finally drifts off to sleep, we
and a parent-pampering spa to wind down in. Staff
drift down to the reassuringly grown-up Conservatory
have been trained to cater to youngsters of all
Restaurant. Much more formal than the hotel’s child-
ages, and the range of activities on offer for little
friendly Gumstool Inn, it offers fine, unpretentious
ones (a fully staffed nursery, games room and
dining in a space filled with high-backed chairs and
home cinema, 220 acres of grounds for outdoorsy
tables swathed in white cloths. Head chef Michael Croft
tykes) is enough to keep them occupied for a week.
has been working at top hotels for years, and has
Calcot’s family-friendly credentials don’t mean that
garnered plenty of awards while at Calcot, so our
the hotel’s a passion killer, however – the couples-
expectations are high. Thankfully, they’re met – and
only rooms in the main house, sophisticated fine
then some. We devour Dorset crab salad, roasted pork
dining, two pools and an outdoor hot tub mean the
belly with seared scallops and some of the best beef
manor is as appealing a destination for twosomes
I’ve ever tasted. The wine list, too, is excellent, and we
as it is for toddlers.
treat ourselves to a delicious bottle of Pomerol. Full and ridiculously content after the meal, we take what’s left of the wine through to the comfortable
44 | autumn collection
Fine & Country National Editorial:Layout 1 05/10/2009 13:54 Page 45
‘This is the kind of establishment where your eyes dart excitedly from object to artwork.’
Cotswolds88 Hotel Kemps Lane, Painswick, Gloucestershire GL6 6YB Style Versace in verdant surrounds Setting Pastoral Painswick village Rooms 17, including three suites Rates £165–£225; suites from £225–£395, including breakfast. Smith Factor The brainchild of the larger-than-life
Mrs Smith says… There’s little indication that anything eccentric lies
over aperitifs, we decamp to the monochrome dining room where an enormous oversized fabric bow dominating most of the back wall elicits a gasp from us
behind the hotel’s classical grey Palladian façade: its
both. Our restaurant critic hats on, we put the young
neatly coiffed bushes and groomed lawn are all so far, so
server’s sommelier skills to the test. He confidently
country house. As we gaze across the sheep-dotted hills
recommends the cheapest of three rosés. If he’s
in the distance, it’s all swoon-stirring Jane Austen-
anything less than knowledgable we can’t tell, as his
evoking stuff.
suggestions are delivered with reassuring conviction. It’s
Yet it’s the interior we’re eager to see. Up a few
an unexpected treat when a celeriac soup arrives to
character behind flamboyant, kitsch cocktailerie,
small stone stairs and one foot into the hallway and we
Loungelover in East London, Marchella De Angelis,
realise this is anything but a conventional Cotswolds
Cotswolds88hotel is a temple to Italian design. The
retreat. This is the kind of establishment where your
our splendid bathroom, and breakfast in the dining
name may be straightforward, but that’s all that is.
eyes dart excitedly from object to artwork. A cursory
room, we’ve barely enough time for a tramp around
Gloriously over-the-top touches such as PVC-backed
peek at the retro-rich bar and black-and-white-striped
town. We’d love to stay longer, but the Big Smoke is
chairs and chrome mannequins vie for attention with
restaurant, and it’s up the steps to the reception with a
calling us home. We trot back to Costswolds88 to airkiss
the hotel’s own Palladian backdrop, and the result is a
quick crane of the neck to admire an original carved
it farewell.
space that’s luxurious and super-stylish, and that has a
ribbed-and-bossed ceiling.
cheeky sense of humour. We love the six Detmar rooms
amuse our geules. After a heavenly night’s sleep, a long lazy soak in
The super-lovely receptionist is a platinum-blonde
– named after the famous 20th-century architect – with
bombshell in Vivienne Westwood choker. She shows us
their vivid red accent colours, playful atmosphere and
to our suite. A mishmash of imaginative old and new,
giant lip prints on the wall.
with a backdrop of glorious leaded windows looking out onto green gardens, and across to that postcard-perfect hillside. Tea on the lawn below, relaxing on modern undulating loungers that resemble reclining Henry Moores is clearly a must. After a meander around pretty Painswick, we make it back in time for champagne cocktails. Supper selected
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‘Staying at the Whitehouse feels like spending the weekend with stylish, hospitable (and significantly better off) friends’
Whitehouse Chillington, Devon TQ7 2JX Style Gorgeous Georgian Setting Charming Chillington village Rooms Six Rates £180–£230, including full English or Continental breakfast, afternoon tea and tax. You can rent the whole house (sleeping 12) for £2,800 for two nights; with £1,300 for each additional night. Smith Factor Just a short meander from the South Devon shoreline, hidden away in the little village of
Mr Smith says… ‘Whitehouse is the opposite of a big, soulless corporate hotel. Its owners are in fact three friends,
delicately salty Salcombe smokie, the fresh, mostly local ingredients were always excellent. Thank you, Ally and co. Rather than a common-or-garden fancy hotel,
each playing a hands-on role in hotel operations, and
staying at the Whitehouse feels like spending the
all happy to address guests’ requirements personally.
weekend with stylish, hospitable (and significantly
One of them, Ally, is the gifted chef behind the
better off) friends. Its appearance is the result of the
restaurant’s fresh and hearty platters, and frequently
owners’ good taste rather than the work of an interior
opens the kitchen to show off her Aga, with special
designer, and it’s more a place to feel comfortable in
dinners and wine-tasting evenings frequently
than marvel at. We were looking for something
appearing on the event schedule.
quintessentially English, and we were lucky enough to
There are only six rooms, and I speak only for the
find a homely hideaway in the middle of a splendid
Chillington, Whitehouse is the perfect getaway for
one we stayed in, the Attic – ample space, comfortable
county. And don’t let its American-presidential-abode
style-seasoned city types hankering for a rustic rest-
pillow-laden beds, a showerhead comparable to the
name distract: this hip hotel makes you feel truly
stop. The Georgian buildings have been a doctor’s
steering wheel of an articulated truck, and a colour
patriotic. Rule Britannia, indeed.’g
surgery, a residence for GIs, and a private home in their
scheme that echoes the name of the hotel. Make no
time, but today they’ve finally found their true calling as
mistake: this isn’t an escape aimed at hippy types who
one of Devon’s most welcoming and intimate boutique
favour singsongs round open fires over a few modcons;
hotels. Outside, you’ll find lush green gardens and a
the extras in our room included an espresso machine,
croquet lawn (occasionally ornamented by the hotel’s
flatscreen TV with all the Sky and DVD trimmings, a
two cats). Inside is a harmonious old-meets-new
DAB radio and a well-stocked minibar.
medley of chunky furniture, smooth pastel walls, and
What grabbed me was the abundance of sofas
fireside snugness. The six rooms feature hand-made
and roaring fires that make every room a perfect place
wooden beds, roll-top claw-foot baths, and showers
to kick back with a book or the Sunday papers after a
like a jungle downpour. Peek in the bathroom and you’ll
coastal stroll. The headline act, however, is what they
find a collection of the hotel’s own line of hand-made
stick on my plate. From the just-baked scones, loaded
toiletries. As for what to do while you’re here? Well,
with clotted cream and local jam, through to the
you’re in Chillington, and the clue is in the name…
46 | autumn collection
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‘A place that’s perfectly suited to foodies who like proper portions and are happy to hole themselves up in this culinary fantasyland’
Tuddenham Mill
Mr Smith says…
High Street, Tuddenham, Near Newmarket, Suffolk IP28 6SQ
‘About as close to Manhattan as you’ll get in Suffolk,
of the Highlands’, features haggis spring roll and shin of beef stovi. Opposite me, a seafood salad is being devoured – Cromer crab, crayfish tails, king scallops, peeled
Tuddenham Mill is akin to a downtown NY hotel – set in 12
prawns – a reminder that we’re not far from fleets of
acres of gorgeous Brecks-borders land. The reception,
fishing vessels. The wine list is not only excellent, but also
Setting Brink of the Suffolk Brecks
with its generous glass double doors, welcomes you into a
reasonably priced. Even the glassware is fabulous;
Rooms 15
large lobby with cool greys and flagstone floors. Catching
bulbous bowls that fill your palm, perfect for each slug of
Rates £195–£395, including breakfast.
our eyes in the corner is a blazing fire; the ambience is
shiraz. Clearly, Tuddenham Mill is a place that’s perfectly
relaxed and inviting and we are entirely ready to collapse
suited to foodies who like proper portions and are happy
onto the clean-lined furniture.
to hole themselves up in this culinary fantasyland.’
Style Streamlined gourmet getaway
Smith Factor This 18th-century Suffolk hotel is a converted water mill in 12 acres of land, enhanced with a sleek, minimalist restaurant and superstylish boudoirs with high-spec Starck-fitted ensuites. Tuddenham Mill is somewhere to while away a lazy sunny afternoon playing boules by a swan-studded pond, or cosied up on statement furniture in a spacious lounge bar under original exposed beams. With delicious food confronting you at every turn (home-made biscuits in your room; jars of pickle at reception), you’ll hardly go hungry, but for a change of scene, take your pick from Newmarket’s restaurants and cafés, or head into Bury St Edmunds.
We’re sleeping in the eaves of the mill, and it turns out to be a huge, double?height, beamed barn of a bedroom, resplendent in sleek, Italian?designed minimalism. We can’t help but wonder what the mill?workers who used to toil their lives away here would make of our lazy-lubber weekend. Knowing that this hotel revolves around its restaurant, and wizard Scots chef Gordon McNeill, we’re thrilled it’s time for dinner. Centre stage, behind the bar, is the original waterwheel; it becomes a real showpiece by night when its full glory is illuminated by pulsating up-lights. Even patrons who take a table upstairs can peer down, through a glass floorpanel, at the mighty and beautiful machinery – lovingly restored, yet still resolutely functional. The kitchen team doesn’t disappoint, delivering inventive, courageous, witty and hearty fare – not suited to the squeamish, though: Gordon’s signature dish, ‘A Taste
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‘The Brew House has managed to pull off that trickiest of tricks – contemporary design using stark colours, yet still managing to infuse the room with warmth.’
The Brew House Hotel 1 Warwick Park, Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN2 5TA Style Crisp modern makeover Setting Pantiles-handy Warwick Park Rooms 10 Rates £150–£195, including full English breakfast.
Mrs Smith says… ‘Set in the heart of the town centre on Warwick
on the bathroom light, that is. The door is made of clear glass. A jumble of situations – most of them ghastly – present themselves in my head. While my voice gets
Park, the Brew House Hotel is a beauty – even when
increasingly high-pitched, Mr Smith calmly flicks a
compared to the other stunners in the vicinity. Think
switch next to the light and the door frosts into opaque.
warm pink stone interspersed with pale cream and a
My hero.
peaked arch top, and two round semi-circular windows
Before dinner, we hit the hotel bar, which has the
Smith Factor With super-spa pampering and quirky
on the ground floor that reveal flashes of pristine white
same decor as the restaurant, barring a blue light-filled
boutiques all but a genteel totter away, the Brew
and a soft spotlight glow.
panel of glass, strange octopus neon chandeliers,
House Hotel is a great choice for couples in need
Judging by the clean lines in the lobby, I’m
plump white chairs and dark wood floors. The Number
of some serious pampering. If you’ve come to
steeling myself for something rather minimalist, but am
One restaurant is almost at full capacity; I believe it’s
escape the stresses of city life, you’ll find plenty of
pleasantly surprised, elated even, to see that the Brew
because the Brew House offers good food – minus
greenery to soothe souls: there’s miles of open
House has managed to pull off that trickiest of tricks –
stratospheric prices. Champagne, Chablis, pinot noir,
Weald-land to explore. Inside the Brew House, the
contemporary design using stark colours, yet still
two starters and mains all came in at less than £100.
minimalist decor is saved from coldness by clever
managing to infuse the room with warmth. The black
flashes of colour and touches of texture: orange
glass furniture might have made the room severe, but
though the sea of trees and quiet that surrounds
chandeliers warm up the hotel’s fantastic little
cleverly, they’ve added touches such as champagne,
Tunbridge Wells awaits us. Egyptian cotton sheets
cocktail bar, while a pink pillar or two provide
silver and white fabric blinds and a black silk bedspread
soothe our food-heavy bodies with a soft touch, and this
focus in the elegant restaurant. Upstairs, the
with a gold underside.
spotlit bubble, high above the madding crowds, is the
white-on-white theme continues in the bedrooms,
I don’t anticipate any major hurdles – until I switch
Back in the room, the distilled silence filtering
place that Mr Smith and I love best.’
with a calming palette of greys, taupes and creams used to add warmth via soft furnishings. Our favourite feature? The catch-me-if-you-can glass bathroom walls, which flick from frosty to clear at the touch of a button – hours of fun before you’ve even stepped outside…
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At Home in Britain’s Best Home Sharon Kilby talks to Property Consultant Amanda Barrington
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Resting magically amongst the heavily scented and lush woodland of the Hargham Estate in Norfolk stands a shining example of modern architecture at its most inspiring. Breathtakingly in appearance Woods End is a striking combination of contemporary and traditional design that captures the very essence of modern living. It is no great surprise therefore that property boasts the impressive accolade of ‘Britain’s Best Home’ and has received praise from numerous respected architects and designers. Woods End was voted the winner of Channel 5 series “I own Britain’s Best Home” by public vote beating 27 other houses in the series all vying for the revered title and the £20,000 prize money which owner Amanda Barrington donated to 3 Charities. Woods End was created by renowned designer and property developer Amanda Barrington and offers state of the art contemporary living in a natural and ecologically sensitive environment. Having painstakingly researched the very best environmentally efficient construction techniques, the completed house now blends in harmoniously with the landscape. With a natural eye for good design Amanda has a wealth of experience in bringing buildings to life and her work as a consultant has lead to her involvement in
many exciting interior and exterior projects. Commissions have included lifestyle offices and apartments in London, period properties in the country and even a very swanky seaside beach-hut. The award for Britain’s Best Home was confirmed following the course of 8 heats where architectural designer Michael Homes and interior consultant Melissa Porter and property journalist Russell Harris put 24 of the U.K. homes through their paces as 24 hour “live in guests”. Their task was to interview owners who were passionate about their homes and have toiled over build, design and renovation, leaving their own personal stamp on their buildings. Michael Homes Architect and Property Designer said of Woods End “This is truly a remarkable piece of Architecture which has taken full consideration of eco credentials”. The location of Woods End was pivotal to its creation and the natural undulation of the landscape and the gentle sweeping curves of the river are all mirrored in the shape and style of the building. Property Consultant and owner of Woods End Amanda Barrington explains how her ideas started to become realty “The moment I visited the plot I could visualize clearly how the house would look and feel, the flow of the river and the gentleness of the g
Fine & Country National Editorial:Layout 1 05/10/2009 13:57 Page 55
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Fine & Country National Editorial:Layout 1 05/10/2009 13:57 Page 56
surroundings all called for a property that sat comfortably in its natural environment. I had spent two years trying to find the perfect plot whilst also researching responsible building techniques. One of the most important factors for me was to make the most of the fantastic light that fills the area.” Sitting within 2 acres of landscaped and natural gardens, the surrounding countryside provides a harmonious backdrop to the rich hues of the timber clad building. Having bought the plot in 2001 Amanda enlisted the services of award winning architects Roderick James who interpreted Amanda’s ideas into a workable design. Encompassing many ecologically sound elements the finished house goes that extra mile when it comes to achieving a perfect balance between luxury living and responsible building. Utilising traditional construction methods alongside contemporary technology and natural materials Woods End embodies the very best of both classic and modern design. An innovative fusion of styles the house maximises on the bright Norfolk light which floods the interior of the building creating a calm and tranquil space. The exterior has a timeless quality and is easy on the eye; it enjoys gently curving roofs topped with flowering sedum which provide a pretty display of white and pink flowers during the summer. Built on stilts the house is able to ‘breathe’ and the air can circulate around the building eliminating any stale air and potential damp areas. Woods End is healthy on so many levels providing clear light, unpolluted air and the use of natural materials also means that no harmful toxins have been used in the construction process. Organic materials have also been throughout the house including majestic Douglas Firs grown and supplied from a sustainable UK source at Longleat, which
56 | autumn collection
have been crafted to form the frame, whilst the exterior of the building has been enveloped in Redwood Cedar. Woods End enjoys exquisite views of the garden designed by Amanda which includes a Japanese style water feature, bridges, decks and terraces all designed to complement the location and provide space for relaxation. The stream that flows through the grounds brings a Zen like quality to the space and adds a sense of tranquility and calm. Having really studied the landscape and its intrinsic character Amanda had a very clear vision of how the house should be built. “I felt that the house needed to look and feel as if it had naturally evolved from the land. The building needed to be exceptional in order to do justice to its location and we have kept true to this vision without compromise. The house even changes naturally with the seasons, the sedums on the roof take on a lavender hue in the autumn and the cedar cladding becomes darker and more intense during the winter. In the summer months the roof enjoys a sprinkling of white flowers and the timber walls of the house become lighter”. The interior of the house is equally breathtaking with open plan living spaces
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and the temperature is ambient all year round thanks to the thoroughly efficient thermal and sound insulation together with state of the art windows which cut out harmful ultra violet rays whilst also ensuring against heat loss. With function and form being adhered to in each space the building has been thoughtfully designed to allow a natural flow from room to room. Floor to ceiling windows have been introduced in many areas and high quality contemporary fittings add to the overall feeling of understated luxury. The four bedrooms all enjoy views across the gardens and bathrooms have limestone floors, walls and surfaces and are fitted with Boffi and Fantini sanitary ware. The floors are predominately oak in the living areas and limestone in the bathrooms and are laid over a sophisticated underfloor heating system, the matt kitchen has been designed by BOC Design of Chelsea using white cabinetry by Hacker. Designed to be both comfortable and stylish Amanda’s eye for detail is clearly evident and the living space has an air of relaxed sophistication. Using local craftsmen and suppliers to create a unique and restful interior, fittings are all of the very highest specifications. Doors have been handmade in Ash, movement sensitive lighting is fitted throughout, electric Lutron blinds can be activated remotely and the whole house enjoys wi-fi and satellite links. Drawing much inspiration from the Far East Amanda’s style is unique and whilst recognising the requirements of a contemporary lifestyle she has successfully achieved a harmonious balance between exterior and interior living. “This house has its own sense of calm and serenity which I am sure reflects the fact that it has been respectfully built taking the landscape into
consideration from the very beginning. It is a wonderful place in which to live and has a positive effect on everyone that visits”.
Amanda Barrington is available for exterior and interior design consultancy, Woods End is currently for sale for more information please visit www.woodsendnorfolk.co.uk or call Amanda Barrington on 07740 411710.
autumn collection | 57
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Alice in Wonderland Headpiece: Louis Mariette Photographer: Dave Wise assisted by Ben Lycett Stylist: Rivkie Baum Model: Mecia Simpson @ Models 1 (Winner of Britain’s Next Top Model) Dress: Grace Shannan Shoes: Guiseppe Zanotti Hair: Noel Gibbins assisted by Laura Hunt Make-up: Lauren Baker
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Louis Mariette, Britain’s next top model judge Photographer: David Venni
Milliner extraordinaire! Exotic bejewelled headpieces, bespoke hat couture, inspiring accessories‌ a talent that is rising head and shoulders above the competition, as well as a beckoning TV career. Allie Philpin had the pleasure of talking to the charismatic Louis Mariette about his exciting life and fabulous luxury creations.
autumn collection | 59
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Bejewelled Photographer: Catherine Harbour Model: Lucy Davis at Acclaim Make-up: Lan Nguyen
Louis was born in Malawi but grew up in Botswana and Swaziland - add to that his Mauritian origins. As a child he was fascinated by all flora and fauna. His love of nature and creative design became a childhood passion that has stood him in good stead, together with his flair for artistic imagination. His siblings went into the hotel industry, and Louis duly followed. But he was soon running an exclusive party planning business - themed parties with fabulous table pieces and décor, all designed by Louis, and this is where he ‘dipped his toes’ into headpieces for guests using the colour palettes of the décor, flowers and trimmings. Louis says, “It was quite extraordinary; although my training is in hotels, the requests for headpieces just seemed to take over and next thing I knew, I’m being asked to design the headpieces for a fashion show!” The fashion show in question was in Milan, Italy and the man asking was Michael Dye, the Creative Director – 25 headpieces, all bespoke for each outfit. After months of 60 | autumn collection
work matching materials, threads and trimmings, the organisers requested a full dress rehearsal and presentation of the headpieces. “It was amazing,” says Louis, “all the models wore their outfits with their headpieces and presented them to the organisers. They were all Italian, which I didn’t speak; they didn’t speak English and they showed no emotion or expression, so I had no idea what they thought… heart in the mouth time!” Michael Dye eventually put Louis’ mind at rest, they loved all his creations, except one, and his career as a milliner escalated. Not long after the fashion show, Louis received a telephone call from potential clients asking to meet at his studio. “I was so surprised, my first commission and the call came out of the blue. I didn’t even ask who they were!” said Louis. He soon found out… Harrods! They commissioned him to create all their window and shop floor displays, as well as providing helpful tips and advice to their clientele; and the rest, as they say, is history. And recently, his ‘Diffusion’ accessory range has been
picked up by Net-a-Porter.com, the world’s premier luxury online retailer. Each and every headpiece or accessory that Louis creates is completely bespoke. His inspiration comes from his childhood homes and his many travels around the world, drawing on the amazing scenery he sees and different cultures he visits. “The Bhutanese people in the Himalayas are inspirational,” says Louis. Louis works closely with the client, and says, “Hats are a very personal accessory and different creations look different on different people; it’s very individual.” In April this year, Louis was invited to be one of the judges on Living TV’s ‘Britain’s Next Top Model’. “Wonderful and so exciting!” says Louis. Working alongside Lisa Snowdon and Icelandic photographer, Huggy Rugnarsson, Louis was the ‘couture fashion’ element of the three. “Working with Lisa and Huggy has been just great,” says Louis. “I was encouraged to be just myself… we had different views on the models, but we worked well together. It’s hard for models today, they have to be so multi-functional which isn’t an easy task,” he says. Within the show, one of the tasks for the models was to present themselves to a selection of his clientele, which was challenging. Another task for the models was to re-create his stunning ‘Princess Neptune’ headpiece shoot (Photographer: Zena Holloway, Stylist: Heidi Taylor), which won the Best Hat of 2008 Award from Tatler Hong Kong. “It was such a hard thing to do,” says Louis. “The models had to immerse themselves in a tank of g water, and we had all the safety divers and professional photographers ready to take the right shot… all very impressive!” The last show of the series is was ‘Alice in Wonderland’ theme and Louis created the headpieces for this finale. Would he do it again? “Oh, very definitely!” says Louis, g
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Alice in Wonderland Headpiece: Louis Mariette Photographer: Dave Wise assisted by Ben Lycett Stylist: Rivkie Baum Model: Mecia Simpson @ Models 1 (Winner of Britain’s Next Top Model) Dress: Grace Shannan Shoes: Guiseppe Zanotti Hair: Noel Gibbins assisted by Laura Hunt Make-up: Lauren Baker g
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“it has been such a fabulous and exciting project!” In 2005, Louis was catapulted into the highest echelons of bespoke hat couture with the creation of the world’s most expensive hat, the £1.5million Chapeau d’Amour (Photographer: Alice Wilby, Stylist: Michael Dye). The headpiece was commissioned by Harrods for the opening of their Hat and Evening Wear department. “The hat was inspired by my Mauritian roots,” recalls Louis, “and we were still finishing the little details just the day before! It is woven with platinum fabric (from the Platinum Guild) as well as diamonds and was modelled, of course, by the gorgeous Lisa Butcher.” And the accolades keep coming… in 2006 he was awarded the Celebration of Life Jewellery Design Award in Fashion Accessories by The Tanzanite Foundation, and in 2007 i-D name him one of the 250 most creative people. As recently as 2009, the Luxury Marketing Council Europe awarded Louis the Most Innovative Product Design-Range at their Luxuria Awards… not bad for an artistic and imaginative child with a passion for flora and fauna! Louis’ talent, flair, inspiration and ‘joie de vivre’ have certainly captured the imagination of many – photographers, designers and creative directors – and are worn by the famous and glamorous such as Joan Collins, Jodie Kidd, Paris Hilton, Pink (the singer), Erin O’Connor, Jerry Hall, Kate Moss, Olga Kurylenko, Princess Sabina von Stentel and Stephanie Seymour to name but a few, and he works with leading international companies like the Plantinum Guild, Swarovski, Harrods, Boucheron, Links, The Dorchester, the Royal Opera House and Cliveden House. And when he’s not working on his
64 | autumn collection
Flame of Desire Photographer: Camille Sanson Hair: Claudio Contrasti Make-up: Lan Nguyen Dress: Gething
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Flight of Fantasy Photographer: Ian Gillet at London Fashion Week for the Manish Arora catwalk show
Miss Tick Tock Photographer: Ross Perkins Model: Jasmia at Acclaim Dress: Gething
fabulous creations? Louis immerses himself into his other passions – interiors, sport such as jet skiing, snow skiing, anything that is fun! “I love animals, my father was a vet, and I was recently a judge at a Dog Show on behalf of the Macmillan Cancer Trust,” Louis tells us, and he has just been appointed a Vice President of The Children’s Trust as well as being a patron of the St Thomas Lupus Trust… all this as well as his marathon running – 7 so far, including this year’s London Marathon! Another passion is his love of the rainforests. “It is so important to protect these environments, such as in Brazil,” says Louis, “it’s so important because once they’re gone, they cannot be replaced!” he enthuses. Louis’ outlook is to live life to the full and enjoy yourself. “I was a judge at the Hat Show at Royal Ascot this year which was great fun, so exciting!” he laughs. “I’ve been blessed with a fantastic thirty six years so far and I hope to be blessed with many more! To be happy, adventurous and above all to have fun… who could ask for more?” And his ambition? “I love my work and want to go on creating new and inspiring headpieces, as well as expanding and developing my brand and designs into different areas, like the accessories,” Louis explains. “I also love Thailand, it’s my favourite country. I’d love to open a small boutique or hotel over there, with a luxurious environment and feel, and attention to detail of course.” His enthusiasm is captivating, his energy is incredible, his talent is unquestionably huge, and coupled with his charisma and love of life, this particular milliner is destined to be a star. www.louismariette.co.uk
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“Running a restaurant is like putting on a live show every day – but without a script.”
The cast assembles at 7am every
par-cooking the risotto; or
morning, five days a week,
caramelising the tarte tatins to
backstage in the kitchen of
be finished off during service.
Royal Hospital Road. Silently
This five-hour mise-en-place
and in total concentration, they
ahead of lunch is when 90 per
rehearse their roles: preparing
cent of the work is done.
up to 15 sauces from stocks that
Front of house Jean-Claude,
have been bubbling away
Gordon’s long-serving maitre d,
overnight; prepping the
casts a final eye over the dining
vegetables; filleting the fish;
room to make sure that every
66 | autumn collection
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glass, every piece of cutlery is in
The smile on arrival, the
place. Soon the audience will
discreet service, the playfulness
take their seats and expect
of a pineapple and chilli soup
another flawless performance.
– all are calculated to bring that
Better than anyone, Gordon
buzz of excitement. “It has to be
knows that running a restaurant
dramatic because customers
is like putting on a show, a
vote with their feet. If they
selfcontained drama in three
aren’t excited by the way they
acts. People come to be fed, but
eat, they won’t come back,
they also come to be entertained.
simple as that.” autumn collection | 67
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AND
SO THE SHOW BEGINS.
As in any three-star restaurant, this is
signalled by the arrival of the amuse-bouches, literally ‘entertainments for the mouth’. Their gastronomic function is to get the tastebuds going, to tease the palate with the promise of the delights to follow. More than this, though, they help to put diners at their ease as they settle into their new surroundings, drawing their focus to the task in hand – to surrender to the unalloyed luxury that is a three-star meal.
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PAN-RIED SCALLOPS WITH A MILLEFEUILLE OF POTATO, PARMASAN VELOUTÉ AND TRUFFLE SMARTIES
70 | autumn collection
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NOW
THE KITCHEN MOVES INTO GEAR.
A pre-starter is dispatched, again to
heighten anticipation but also to win the chefs a little more time to prepare the first dish to be cooked to order. “You don’t want to give guests time to get bored, or they’ll start picking holes in the décor. Their starter should be on the table within 15 minutes of ordering, max.”
Extracts taken from the Gordon Ramsay book, Three Star Chef. All photographs © Quentin Bacon ‘Three Star Chef ’ is currently available via all good book stores www.quadrille.co.uk Restaurant, Gordon Ramsay, 68, Royal Hospital Road, Chelsea, London SW3 4HP royalhospitalroad@gordonramsay.com www.gordonramsay.com
autumn collection | 71
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BRITA I
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Input Joinery Ltd was established in 1979 to produce all aspects of bespoke joinery. The company is based on the outskirts of Andover, Hampshire in a purpose built factory equipped with state-of-the-art computer controlled machinery operated by traditionally skilled craftsmen.
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The Fairground, Weyhill, Andover, Hampshire SP11 0ST
The Fairground, Weyhill, Andover, Hampshire SP11 0ST
www.inputwindows.co.uk
www.brightwood-conservatories.co.uk
Andrew Grant
www.andrew-grant.co.uk
Clyro, Herefordshire ÂŁ1,295,000 A Country Residence of Considerable Character Commanding Finest Black Mountain Views. Approaching 10 Acres. 5 reception rooms, kitchen, 6 bedrooms (3 en-suite), bathroom, approx: 4300 sq ft, garage, observatory, gardens, Scotts stable block, outbuildings, paddocks, woodland. Telephone: 01905 734735
Bevere, Worcestershire ÂŁ1,275,000 A Spectacular Country Residence of 5400 sq ft (500 sq m) GIA approx. with Panoramic Views 1.66 ac (0.68 ha). Reception/dining hall, drawing room, kitchen/breakfast room, utility, gymnasium, cloakroom, study, 5 bedrooms (2 en-suite), 2 bathrooms, garage, tennis court, gardens. Telephone: 01905 734735 WINTER COLLECTION 73
Andrew Grant
www.andrew-grant.co.uk
Bransford, Worcestershire ÂŁ1,250,000 A Lifestyle Opportunity, Stylish Residence Overlooking Its Own Extensive Fisheries. 5.6 Ac (2.3 Ha) approx. 3 reception rooms kitchen, 4 bedrooms (all en-suite). Annexe: In all 3350 sq ft (310 sq m) GIA approx. Garage, fishing lodge, 3 fishing lakes, extensive aviaries. Telephone: 01905 734735
Elmley Lovett, Worcestershire ÂŁ1,200,000 A Distinguished Grade II Listed Residence of Immense Character, around 7000 sq ft, Approx 12.5 acres. Elizabethan hall, 3 receptions, kitchen/breakfast room, utility, boot room, 6 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 3 attics, s/c cottage, garaging, stables, outbuildings, garden, paddocks. Telephone: 01905 734735 74 WINTER COLLECTION
Andrew Grant
www.andrew-grant.co.uk
Bromsgrove, Worcestershire ÂŁ1,195,000 A First Class Country House in the Town with Adjoining Coach House. In all around 6,425 sq ft. Drawing room, dining room, kitchen-breakfast/day room, study, master bedroom suite, four further bedrooms, principle and secondary bathrooms. Coach House: Extensive garaging/workshops, bedrooms Telephone: 01905 734735
Alvechurch, Worcestershire ÂŁ1,190,000 A Magnificent Principle Residence and Neighbouring Cottage Ideal for Extended or Dual Families & Annexe Purposes. Croft House: Exceptional living room, study, sitting room, dining room, kitchen breakfast room, 4 bedrooms, 1 en-suite, bathroom, integral double garage, three bay dutch barn. The Cottage: Living room, dining room, kitchen breakfast room, 3 double bedrooms, 1 en-suite, bathroom, detached garage. Telephone: 01905 734735 WINTER COLLECTION 75
Andrew Grant
www.andrew-grant.co.uk
Pedmore, West Midlands ÂŁ1,050,000 Immaculately Presented Imposing Residence Situated In Gated Development. Hall, 4 reception rooms, kitchen, utility, cloakroom, boot room, galleried landing to master bedroom, dressing room and en-suite, five further bedrooms with 3 en-suites, bathroom, triple garage and gardens. Telephone: 01384 370232
Studley, Warwickshire ÂŁ995,000 A Particularly Impressive Detached Residence Occupying an Attractive Setting amongst Secluded Grounds. Hall with Gallery Landing, 4 receptions, Kitchen & Utility, 5 Bedrooms, 2 En-Suite, Bathroom, Games room, Garage & Stores, Landscaped Grounds & Private Woodland, Approximately 2 Acres. Telephone: 01527 66161 76 WINTER COLLECTION
Andrew Grant
www.andrew-grant.co.uk
Pedmore, West Midlands
£995,000
A Gentleman’s Residence Situated in One of the Most Prominent Locations in the West Midlands. Hall, cloakroom, 4 receptions, kitchen, utility, boiler room, WC, 4 bedrooms, 2 en-suites, bathroom (approx. 3,767 sq ft). Garage and well established garden. Telephone: 01384 370232
Stourbridge, West Midlands
£995,000
Fine Detached Residence, being 5,987 sq ft with Electric Gates in Sought after Location. No Upward Chain, Part Exchange Considered For a Smaller Property in Stourbridge Area. Hall, cloakroom, 4 reception rooms, kitchen, snug, conservatory, utility room, shower room, function room, 5 bedrooms, en-suite, 2 bathrooms, garage with loft accommodation, club house, gardens. Telephone: 01384 370232
Blakedown, Worcs
£985,000
Bridgnorth, Shropshire
£985,000
An Exceptional Equestrian Property within A Very Prestigious Area with Around 42 Acres (17 Ha) Sold As A Whole or In Three Lots.
A Distinguished Southerly Facing Period Residence of Considerable Character (5600 sq ft (520 sq m) GIA approx).
2 reception rooms, kitchen/breakfast room, 4 bedrooms (1 en-suite), bathroom, 1,766 sq ft (164 sq m) gia approx, 24 stables. Indoor school, all weather manège, 17 paddock enclosures, woodland, bridleway, subject to an agricultural/equestrian occupancy condition.
4 reception rooms, kitchen, 9 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, swimming pool, stabling, electrically operated gates, garden, ha-ha, paddock, approximately 6.5 acres. Telephone: 01905 734735
Telephone: 01905 734735 WINTER COLLECTION 77
Andrew Grant
www.andrew-grant.co.uk
Barnt Green, Worcestershire £1,175,000 A graceful, exquisitely styled period residence in a first class setting Hall, drawing room, dining room, sitting room, kitchen/breakfast room, 6 bedrooms (2 en-suite), dressing room, sitting room, around 4000 sq ft, garaging, gardens around 1 acre. Telephone: 01905 734735
Pedmore, West Midlands £1,050,000 A five bedroomed residence originally built circa 1930’s and situated in this sought after location. Hall, fitted cloakroom, 4 reception rooms, utility, games room, 5 Bedrooms, 2 en-suites, Jack and Jill style bathroom, double garage and front and rear gardens. Telephone: 01384 370232 78 WINTER COLLECTION
Andrew Grant
www.andrew-grant.co.uk
Droitwich, Worcs
£985,000
Blakedown, Worcs
£975,000
A Conveniently Located Character Residence within a Parkland Setting Commanding Magnificent Views. Approx Nine Acres.
In popular location of Blakedown, imposing family home in landscaped grounds totaling one acre.
Hall, four reception rooms, kitchen, six bedrooms (1 en-suite), two bathrooms, around 3000 sq.ft, garage, lawned gardens, stables, outbuildings, paddocks.
Hall, sitting room, dining room, kitchen, utility/stores, cloakroom, master bedroom, bathroom, separate wc, 3 double bedrooms, double garage, landscaped gardens, plans to extend subject to pp.
Telephone: 01905 734735
Telephone: 01562 60228
Alvechurch, Worcs
£975,000
Stourbridge, West Midlands
£925,000
A magnificently situated property and outbuildings with holiday let PP 54 acres (22 ha) approx.
A Stunning Contemporary Six Bedroom Family Homes in a Most Prestigious Location.
Farmhouse: 2,400 sq ft (225 sq m) GIA approx.Traditional Outbuilding: 3400 sq ft (315 sq m) GIA approx.Portal Barn, Long driveway, Wildlife Lake, Pastureland with PP for new vehicular access.
Reception hall, sitting room, kitchen/breakfast room, gym/study, office/dining room, utility, 6 bedrooms (2 en-suite) bathroom (approx. 2,892 sq ft). Triple garage and attractive gardens.
Telephone: : 01905 734735
Telephone: 01384 370232 WINTER COLLECTION 79
Andrew Grant
Upper Strensham, Worcs
www.andrew-grant.co.uk
£895,000
Nr Bromsgrove, Worcs
£895,000
A Distinguished Residence of Classic Proportions (5200 sq ft (480 sq m) GIA approx).
A Grade II Listed Residence ideal for use as a Bed and Breakfast (approximately 33 ac (13 ha).
4 Reception Rooms, kitchen/breakfast room, 6 bedrooms (2 en-suite), 2 bathrooms, studio, period outbuilding, garden. Paddock of approximately 2 acres available by separate negotiation.
4 reception rooms, kitchen, 8 bedrooms (3 en-suite), 2 bathrooms, games room, holiday flat, 6000 ft² (550 m²) GIA approx, period outbuildings with holiday let planning consent, moated gardens.
Telephone: 01905 734735
Telephone: 01905 734735
Stone, Worcs
£895,000
Birlingham, Worcs
£895,000
A Period Country House within a Beautiful Location (4600 sq ft (430 sq m) GIA approx approximately 1.5 ac (0.6 ha).
An Exceptional Village Residence with Attached Barn Conversion with Indoor Heated Swimming Pool.
2 reception rooms, kitchen, former dairy, 5 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, self-contained annex, traditional garaging, stabling and outbuildings, plants man’s garden, orchard, tennis court, woodland.
Sitting room, conservatory, kitchen/dining room, snooker room, 6 bedrooms (one en-suite), bathroom, shower room, 3800 sq ft (354 sq m) GIA approx, garage, gardens.
Telephone: 01905 734735
Telephone: 01905 734735
80 WINTER COLLECTION
Andrew Grant
www.andrew-grant.co.uk
Sambourne, Warwickshire
£895,000
Blakedown, Worcs
£895,000
A Truly Exceptional Detached Residence Occupying a Premium Location Within A Desirable Enclave.
A Handsome Family Home of Immense Quality in a Prestigious Setting.
Hall, sitting room, dining room, study, sun lounge, family kitchen & utility, 4 double bedrooms, 2 en-suite, swimming pool, gymnasium & sauna, grounds extending to approx. 2.5 acres. GIA.4290 sq ft.
Living room, dining room, conservatory, kitchen/breakfast room, sun room, study, 5 bedrooms (1 en-suite), bathroom, around 3150 sq ft double garage, landscaped gardens.
Telephone: 01527 66161
Telephone: 01905 734735
Stourbridge, West Midlands
£895,000
Knighton-On-Teme, Worcs
£890,000
An Immaculate Detached Family Residence Situated In A Cul-De-Sac In This Sought After Location.
A Grade II Listed Country Residence of Considerable Character. Approx 4.6 Acres (1.9 Ha).
Hall, cloakroom, 4 reception rooms, dining kitchen with family area, utility, landing, 5 bedrooms, 2 with en-suites, house bathroom, bedroom six/games room, storeroom, triple garage.
4 reception rooms, kitchen/breakfast room, shower room, 5 bedrooms, bathroom, 2800 sq ft (260 sq m) GIA approx, period outbuildings, mature landscaped gardens, woodland, wildlife pond.
Telephone: 01384 370232
Telephone: 01905 734735 WINTER COLLECTION 81
Andrew Grant
Wolverley, Worcs
www.andrew-grant.co.uk
£890,000
Ockeridge, Worcs
£875,000
A Resplendent Grade II Listed Attached Period Home of Breathtaking Proportions.
A Character Country Residence 3750 sq ft (350 sq m) GIA approx, within a Blissful Rural Location. Around 1.5 ac (0.60 ha).
Hall, cloakroom, drawing room, dining room, kitchen/breakfast/family room, laundry. 7 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, shower room, lift, cellarage, approx 7000 sq.ft, communal parkland.
4 reception rooms, kitchen/breakfast room, 6 bedrooms (2 en-suite), bathroom, garage with first floor, all-weather tennis court, landscaped gardens, wildlife pond.
Telephone: 01905 734735
Telephone: 01905 734735
Churchill, Worcs
£875,000
Bromsgrove, Worcs
£825,000
An Individual House in Beautiful Parkland Gardens. Approx 2.25 acres.
Grade II Listed Family Home At The Heart Of The Village. Approx. 3 Acres.
Four reception rooms, kitchen/breakfast room, master bedroom, dressing room, en-suite, second bedroom en-suite, 2 further bedrooms, bathroom, gardens, garaging. Around 3455 sq ft. PP for 2 storey extension.
Drawing room, dining room, snug, kitchen, breakfast room, garden room, cellarage, 6 bedrooms , 1 en-suite, around 4,370 sq ft, outbuildings, gardens, paddock.
Telephone: 01905 734735
Telephone: 01905 734735
82 WINTER COLLECTION
LUCTON SCHOOL A quality education on your doorstep Lucton is a co-educational day and boarding school, with small classes and traditional values. Prince Edward, The Earl of Wessex visited recently as part of Lucton’s tercentenary celebrations. During the visit, Prince Edward met a number of prep school pupils and saw some excellent swimming displays in the new swimming pool, which he agreed to name ‘The Wessex Pool’. The Prince saw the CCF on parade and was highly entertained by some of the music and drama in the senior school. Lucton has seen strong growth in the last few years and Mrs Gill Thorne, Lucton’s Headmistress, is committed to consistently raising standards. “At Lucton, we are very fortunate with the high quality of staff we have been able to attract. My aim is simply to raise standards in every possible aspect of school life. Recent investments have included a new Sixth Form Centre, IT suites and an indoor swimming pool. A measure of Lucton’s success has been seen in the value-added tables over recent years, in which we have consistently performed very well.”
Please call or e-mail now to receive your copy of the Lucton DVD.
Telephone: 01568 782000 enquiries@luctonschool.org
www.luctonschool.org
Andrew Grant
Fernhill Heath, Worcs
www.andrew-grant.co.uk
£795,000
A Commanding Family Home of Exceptional Quality bordering the Royal Grammar School.
Holt Heath, Worcs
£795,000
Fabulous Conversion.
Drawing room, dining room, sitting room, kitchen breakfast room, conservatory, family room, leisure room, 4 bedrooms, dressing room, 2 en-suite, gardens.
Drawing room, dining room, family room, TV room, study, gallery sitting room, kitchen breakfast room, 4 bedroom (3 en-suite), shower room, around 3670 sq ft, triple garaging, multi-purpose room, landscaped gardens.
Telephone: 01905 734735
Telephone: 01905 734735
Lower Broadheath, Worcs
£795,000
An Exquisite New Executive Home of Immense Quality in 1 Acre. Hall, cloakroom, drawing room, dining room/conservatory, kitchen breakfast room, pantry, utility, 5/6 bedrooms (5 en-suites), gated entrance, 2 car garage with office over, garden, paddock and stabling. Telephone: 01905 734735 84 WINTER COLLECTION
Newnham Bridge, Tenbury
£795,000
A Beautifully Presented Georgian House with a Stunning New Orangery. Drawing room, sitting room, dining room, kitchen/breakfast room, study, cellar with games room and cinema room, master bedroom, dressing room and bathroom, 6 further bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, garden, paddock, outbuildings including 3 bay garage. Telephone: 01905 734735
Andrew Grant
www.andrew-grant.co.uk
Burford, Worcs
£795,000
Malvern, Worcs
£795,000
An Extensive Country Residence with Detached Cottage (in all approx: 5700 sq ft) mature landscaped gardens.
An Impressive and Elegant Regency Grade II Listed Residence Commanding Glorious Far Reaching Views.
Principal residence: 5 reception rooms, kitchen, 6 bedrooms (2 en-suite), bathroom, garage. keepers cottage: 2 reception rooms, kitchen, bedroom. outbuilding. Joint Agents: Strutt and Parker 01584 873711.
3 reception rooms, kitchen, conservatory, 6 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, lawned garden, woodland. 4,200 sq ft (390 sq m) GIA approx. In excess of 1 acre. Telephone: 01905 734735
Telephone: 01905 734735
Worcester, Worcs
£790,000
Kidderminster, Worcs
£785,000
A Prototype Executive Newly Built Home fitted and finished to an exceptional level.
An Arts And Crafts Residence of Great Architectural Merit within a Highly Prestigious Residential Area.
4 reception rooms Kitchen, 5 Bedrooms (all en-suite), Study/Playroom, Bathroom, Garage, Balconies, Garden, 5,800 sq ft (540 sq m) GIA approx, all with glorious views.
5 reception rooms, kitchen, 5 bedrooms (2 en-suites), bathroom, shower room, billiard room, three-car garage, 6000 sq ft (560 sq m) GIA approx, swimming pool, gardens.
Telephone: 01905 734735
Telephone: 01905 734735 WINTER COLLECTION 85
Andrew Grant
Hartlebury, Worcs
www.andrew-grant.co.uk
£775,000
Eminent Georgian House in the Heart of the Village. 4 principal receptions, 6 bedrooms, 2 en-suite, studio, cellars. Detached coach house with p.p. Beautiful gardens. Telephone: 01905 734735
Astwood, Worcs
Cockshot Road, Malvern
£765,000
Large Modern Detached Family Home Located Within Great Malvern Benefiting From Spacious Multi-Purpose Garden Room. 4 reception rooms, kitchen/breakfast room, utility, garden room, master bedroom with dressing room and en-suite bathroom, 4 further bedrooms, 2 with en-suite, gardens, parking, double garage. Telephone: 01905 734735
£750,000
Mamble, Worcs
£750,000
A Period Village Home Of Exceptional Character Enjoying Mature Gardens Approx An Acre (3664.8 sq ft).
A Distinctive Early Georgian Residence of Immense Character Standing Within Elegant Gardens and Grounds.
Inglenook reception hall, sitting room, inglenook snug, dining room, country kitchen/breakfast room, 6/7 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, country gardens, outdoor heated swimming pool, parking, Grade II Listed.
Hall, 3 reception rooms, kitchen/breakfast room, 4 bedrooms (2 en-suite), bathroom, 3500 sq ft (330 sq m) GIA approx, garage, wildlife pond, woodland, approx 1.8 acre (0.75 ha).
Telephone: 01527 66161
Telephone: 01905 734735
86 WINTER COLLECTION
Andrew Grant
Hallow, Worcestershire
www.andrew-grant.co.uk
£749,000
Pedmore, West Midlands
£745,000
Exceptional Detached Conversion in Exclusive Setting with Captivating Views.
A Spacious 6 Bedroom Double Fronted Detached Residence, Retaining Many Original Features.
Drawing room, dining room, sitting room, study, kitchen – living room, recreation room, 5 bedrooms, 2 en-suite and bathroom. Garaging, gardens, approaching 1 acre.
Hall, cloakroom, drawing room, dining room, sitting room, rear hall, dining kitchen, boot room, cellar, larder, 6 bedrooms, shower room, bathroom, separate wc (approx. 4,219 sq ft). Garage and gardens.
Telephone: 01905 734735
Telephone: 01384 370232
Clent, Stourbridge
£745,000
Hagley, West Midlands
£745,000
A Deceptively Spacious Four/Five Bedroomed Detached Dormer Bungalow Situated In This Sought After Area.
An Immaculate and Deceptively Spacious 5 Bedroomed (Plus Dressing/ Storage Room) Family Residence.
Hall, cloakroom, sitting room, study/bedroom 5, kitchen, utility, conservatory, 2 bedrooms with en-suite, bedroom 3, bedroom 4 with study/sitting room, adjacent storeroom, bathroom, triple garage, gardens.
Reception hall, cloakroom, study, dining room, sitting room, dining kitchen, utility, landing, 5 bedrooms, 5 en-suites, dressing/storage room, double garage, extensive rear garden.
Telephone: 01384 370232
Telephone: 01384 370232
88 WINTER COLLECTION
Simply beautiful… Traditional freestanding and fitted furniture for:
Kitchen, Utility, Boot-room, Dining Room and Conservatory. For a brochure call:
01367 820895 www.bryceashton.co.uk
BUYING OR SELLING your bricks and mortar?
The property market may be tough right now but it’s not impossible. And to prove it we offer fight-back services for: • Residential property sales and purchases • Home Information packs • Remortgages and equity release • Property auctions • Landlord and Tenant issues • Commercial property If you’re buying or selling, speak to us first. For initial advice and a quote please contact: Keith Yates
01299 827766 ky@lumsdongrindley.com Offices at Worcester & Stourport-on-Severn NOT JUST IN CASE...IN EVERY CASE
www.lumsdongrindley.com
Andrew Grant
Clent, Stourbridge
www.andrew-grant.co.uk
£735,000
Sytchampton, Worcs
£725,000
A Well Presented and extended, Impressive Family Residence Situated in a Sought after Location.
A Superb Tudor Country Residence within a Highly Convenient Location. 3100 sq ft (945 sq m) GIA approx.
Reception hall/living room, sitting room, study/family room, dining room, kitchen, utility, WC, master bedroom with en-suite bathroom, 3 bedrooms, shower room. Extensive gardens, detached double garage, within the catchment for Hagley Schools. Telephone: 01384 370232
3 reception rooms, kitchen/breakfast room, 3 bedrooms, bathroom, self-contained annexe, period outbuilding, garaging, stables, attractively laid out garden.
Fernhill Heath, Worcs
Astley, Worcs
£725,000
An Exceptional Executive Home Situated Within an Exclusive Setting, Circa 3,432 sq ft. Breakfast kitchen, family room, dining room, sitting room, conservatory, 4/5 bedrooms, dressing room, 2 en-suites, bathroom, play room and study, double garage, gardens. Telephone: 01905 734735
Telephone: 01905 734735
Approx. GIA 4,541 sq ft spilt into dwellings 6 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, 2 shower rooms, 3 kitchens, 5 reception rooms, garage/workshop gardens, courtyard and wild flower meadow. Telephone: 01562 60228
90 WINTER COLLECTION
£725,000
Conversion of Victorian Farm Buildings Forming 3 Self Contained Properties with Wealth of Versatile Living Space. Ideal for an Extended Family.
“An expertly tailored suit, a perfectly cut shirt… dressing for business is now a simple affair. Be it quality, price or choice we aim to give you the best of all worlds”
GEOFF QUINN
MANAGING DIRECTOR T.M.LEWIN
WWW.TMLEWIN.CO.UK
LOCATIONS COUNTRYWIDE
Andrew Grant
Naunton Beauchamp, Worcs
www.andrew-grant.co.uk
£699,000
Hadzor, Worcs
£695,000
A Magical Village Retreat With Principal Residence and Business/Domestic Annexe Around 5.5 Acres.
Stunning Contemporary Barn Combining Stylish Modern Design and Exceptional Specification in Popular Village Location.
Drawing room, dining room, sitting room, kitchen breakfast room, 4 bedrooms, 1 en-suite, bathroom, garaging, detached annexe, garage/workshop, stabling, gardens, paddock.
2 Reception rooms, kitchen/breakfast room, 4 bedrooms (1 en-suite), bathroom, garage, games room, 3240 sq ft (301 sq m) gia approx, attractively laid out gardens.
Telephone: 01905 734735
Telephone: 01905 734735
Rous Lench, Worcs
£675,000
Belbroughton, Worcs
£650,000
An Exceptional and Versatile Period Farmhouse Approaching 4000 sq ft.
A Unique Property Which Successfully Marries Many Period Features and Contemporary Fitments.
Drawing room, garden room, sitting room, family/dining room, kitchen-breakfast room, second kitchen, store, boot room, cloak room, 6/7 bedrooms, en-suite, bathroom, shower room, garage, grounds circa 1.75 acres. Telephone: 01905 734735 92 WINTER COLLECTION
2 reception rooms, conservatory, stylish kitchen, study/bedroom 5, master bedroom with superb en-suite, 2 further bedrooms with en-suite, bedroom 4 and nursery. Detached double garage with first floor accommodation. Telephone: 01527 579977
Andrew Grant
Martin Hussingtree, Worcs
www.andrew-grant.co.uk
£649,000
Uphampton, Worcs
£635,000
A Highly Versatile Property Conveniently Positioned For Motorway Networks. In Excess Of 3.5 Acres.
A Beautifully Presented Period Detached Residence in a Peaceful Hamlet.
4 reception rooms, kitchen/breakfast room, 5 bedrooms (two en-suite), bathroom, approx 2600 sq.ft, quadrangle of traditional stables/ outbuildings approx 6100 sq.ft, garden, paddock. Joint Agents: Knight Frank 01905 723438. Telephone: 01905 734735
Reception hall, cloakroom, 3 reception rooms, kitchen/breakfast room, utility, 4 bedrooms (1 en-suite), house bathroom, 2-car garage, first floor home office, delightful cottage garden.
Bromsgrove, Worcs
Clifton-on-Teme, Worcs
£599,950
Period Country Property of Considerable Charm and Character Enjoying a Prominent Position within the Heart of Bournheath Village.
Telephone: 01905 734735
£595,000
A Period Residence with one of the Premier Teme Valley Views. Extending to approx. 1.3 ac (0.50 ha).
Established gardens and woodland measuring approx, 1 acre. detached double garage with room above and parking area for several vehicles.
3 reception rooms, kitchen/breakfast room, conservatory, 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2200sq ft (210sq m) GIA approx. Garage, garden, stable, 3 paddocks.
Telephone: 01527 579977
Telephone: 01905 734735
94 WINTER COLLECTION
A better home for your holiday home… As the № 1 luxury holiday home agency in the South West, we understand how important your holiday home is to you, which is why we concentrate on three things:
Generating income for you Making it easy for you Providing you with excellent service
With a special low commission rate of 17.5% for your first year there has never been a better time to make your holiday home work for you!
…don’t shell out on anything less. For your free guide to getting the most out of your holiday home, call Blue Chip Vacations on 0844 561 2001 or visit www.bluechipvacations.com/owners
Luxury self-catering holidays
Andrew Grant
Docklow, Leominster
www.andrew-grant.co.uk
£595,000
Bewdley, Worcs
£575,000
A Most Unusual Delightfully Set Country Residence. Approx. 5.5 Acres (2.2 Ha).
An Impressive and Prominently Set Newly Built Residence 3735 sq ft (347 sq m) approx.
4 reception rooms, kitchen, 5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 3000 ft² (278 m²) GIA approx. Garaging, gardens, wildlife pools, woodland, paddocks and long tree lined drive.
Reception hall, 2 cloakrooms, drawing room, kitchen dining room, study, utility, games room, 5 bedrooms, 2 en-suite, bathroom, 3 car garage, balconies, gardens.
Telephone: 01905 734735
Telephone: 01905 734735
Wolverley, Worcs
£375,000
Lindridge, Nr Abberley
£350,000
A sympathetic conversion standing within a glorious parkland setting.
A Beautiful Newly Renovated Three Bedroom Barn Conversion with Vaulted Ceilings and Open Plan Living.
Reception hall, sitting room, dining room, kitchen, breakfast room, 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms in all approx. 1600 sq ft. Attractively laid out garden, communal grounds.
Garaging, car parking and 1 acre pony paddock all included.
Telephone: 01905 734735 96 WINTER COLLECTION
Telephone: 01905 734735