Absolutely South East January 2022 by ABSOLUTELY Magazines

SOUTH EAST

South East JANUARY 2022 / £3.95

HEALTH &BEAUTY SPECIAL

PLU S

Focus on health, beauty and wellbeing

WILLKOMMEN, BIENVENUE Cabaret returns •

JANUARY 2022

ALISON JACKSON

On hating photography •

TREND WATCH Interiors for the year ahead

In your

STRIDE A strong start to the year

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ST YLISH / INTELLIGENT / ELEGANT 16/12/2021 16:04

Bed: Vindö I Fabric: Designer´s Guild Glenville Oyster I Carpet: Light Beige I Bed Linen: Havsbris White I Bedside table: Holme

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S TAY I N B E D The ultimate luxury is taking time to unwind in a bed so comfortable that you never want to leave

15 WI GM O RE ST REET I LO ND ON W1U 1PE I +44 ( 0) 20 3982 3252 I CAR PED IEMBED S.C O.UK STO CKHOL M

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GOTHENBUR G

C OPENHAGEN

17/12/2021 13:31

WINTER SALE NOW ON S AV E U P TO 5 0 % O F F

Battersea Reach, Harrods, Finchley Road, Notting Hill, Tottenham Court Road, Guildford, Bentalls Kingston, Westfield London and Brent Cross

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Our Winter Design Sale has begun — save 15% off a wide selection of furniture and accessories to order, and up to 50% off our premium ex-display items. With our free interior design service, which is available in-store and virtually, we can help you make the most of your space. You’ll get a consultation both in-store and at home, as well as 3D renderings of your space. Visit us in-store to make an appointment or for more information.

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THE GLASSHOUSE

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Welcome to The Glass House Perfect for your main events of 2022 Anniversaries, birthdays and special occasions Get in touch for availability 07961 337293 | www.glasshousebythelake.uk glasshousebythelake

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Private Client by Bupa is a premium service providing expertly curated health and wellbeing plans insured by Bupa Global. Bupa Global is a trading name of Bupa Insurance Limited and Bupa Insurance Services Limited. Bupa Insurance Limited is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority. Bupa Insurance Services Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

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ABSOLUTELY

Contents JANUARY 2022

116

C U LT U R E 12 ABSOLUTELY LOVES

H E A LT H & B E A U T Y 55 BEAUTY NOTES

16 WHAT'S ON

60 SALON SPECIAL

20 ALISON JACKSON

70 SPA GUIDE London's best spas

FOOD & DRINK 32 KITCHEN CONFIDENTIAL

85 FITNESS NOTES

10 things we’re coveting this month

Your diary for January

The photographer who hates photography

News from the industry

34 RECIPES 30 Minute Mowgli

FA S H I O N 40 THE SHOOT Ninety Percent's London looks

47 JEWELLERY Ring my Bell

What's hot and what's new

Hair, skin and nail treatments reviewed

Why boxing is the best

INTERIORS 90 INTERIOR INSPIRATIONS All the best from the industry

96 COUNTER CULTURE Bespoke terrazzo in a Camden kitchen T R AV E L 116 VIETNAM LUXE Relaxation at Six Senses

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N The online guide to inspirational London living that helps you stay one step ahead of the crowd and gives you the chance to win exclusive prizes. O N T H E C OV E R KENSINGTON & CHELSEA

thecouturegallery.com

CHISWICK, WEST & RICHMOND • SOUTH EAST KINGSTON & SURREY • NORTH & EAST • SOUTH WEST

whistles.com

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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Beautiful timber windows & doors

EDITOR IN CHIEF PENDLE HARTE MAMA EDITOR CARLY GLENDINNING ART DIRECTOR PAWEL KUBA SENIOR DESIGNERS MIKE ROBERTS SAMANTHA SCOTT JUNIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER KAI NICHOLLS MEDIA CONSULTANTS STELLA ADAMS ANABELA KOLECI FINANCIAL DIRECTOR JERRIE KOLECI CREDIT CONTROL MANAGER ALEXANDRA HVID DIRECTORS CRAIG DAVIES, LEAH DAY, JAMES FUSCHILLO NON-EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR ALEXANDRA HUNTER MANAGING DIRECTOR SHERIF SHALTOUT

Make an entrance For editorial enquiries please email: pendle@zest-media.com For advertising enquiries please call 020 3981 7187 or email: craig@zest-media.com

zest.london Zest Media Publications Ltd. cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited submissions, manuscripts and photographs. While every care is taken, prices and details are subject to change and Zest Media Publications Ltd. take no responsibility for omissions or errors. We reserve the right to publish and edit any letters. All rights reserved. Social icon

Circle Only use blue and/or white. For more details check out our Brand Guidelines.

www.ayrtonbespoke.com 020 8877 8920 enquiries@ayrtonbespoke.com

Fo l l ow Us O n Fa c e b o o k @ABSOLUTELYMAGAZINES T wi t t e r & In s t a g ra m @ABSOLUTELY_MAGS We b si t e

a b s o l u t e l y. l o n d o n

Wandsworth | Crouch End | Dulwich

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Editor’s

LETTER

ABSOLUTELY’S January issue highlights

Star quality

Alison Jackson on Trump, Putin and the Kardashians

ow many of us keep our new year's resolutions? Statistically, it's not many. Maybe it's the resolutions themselves that are to blame, not our own resolve. Anything too onerous is doomed to failure from the start, as is anything too boring. We focus on health and wellbeing in this issue, but in a gentle way. Our ambitions for 2022 are focused around spa visits and beauty treatments, and we're unlikely to be training for the marathon. Equally, our travel section is full of optimism, with destinations dedicated to relaxation and downtime. Someone who has little interest in downtime is Alison Jackson, the Chelsea-based photographer known for her showstopping lookalikes. We were thrilled to meet her this month and talk about everything from her recent shoot with (actual) Duran Duran and her love for the Queen, to children's photography skills and the shocking reality of archaic inheritance laws. In this issue we also look at interiors trends for 2022, try some simple Indian recipes and research cycling in London. Happy new year to all our readers!

PENDLE HARTE EDITOR

2022 trends

The dark look is over – walls are white this year

On your bike

How London is becoming increasingly cycle-friendly

4 Colour ways

Fresh makeup looks

New year, new hair All the best beauty treatments

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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Wish LIST 10 things we Absolutely love COMPILED BY

PENDLE HARTE

Y E L LOW FEVER ALEKSANDRAVIKTOR is a contemporary brand with a traditional approach that tells the story of the origin of fashion. Focused on one iconic product – the coat – which is reinvented in each collection, inspired by different parts of the world, the launch collection is all about ikat weaving from Uzbekistan. Pictured is the Marta coat, alexandraviktor.com

CITRUS POP Jonathan Adler's joyful yellow Grapefruit diffuser smells like: pink grapefruit, white grapefruit rind, green vine accords, pink freesia and passion fruit all in one. £62 jonathanadler.com

AC I D H O U S E Casting a glare free and comfortable light, the portable Bellhop Table Lamp has been innovatively designed by Barber & Osgerby for Flos. £190 conranshop.co.uk

SUN BURST In this new ski collection inspired by 90s raver fashion, Khrisjoy's Puff Khris vest is designed with a tie-dye finish, goose down feather padding and tassel details. £1,140 koibird.com

EDITOR’S PICK

D I P DY E Turtle Bags are committed to raising awareness about the hazards of plastic bags for sea life, particularly for turtles. These organic cotton string bags are strong and stylish as an alternative. £7 turtle-bags.com

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ABSOLUTELY • LOVES

GOLD RUSH Inspired by ancient gemstone engraving, the Iqra collection combines the magic of healing crystals with written words to amplify their power. 18ct yellow gold and diamond Iqra necklace with citrine, £695 thealkemstry.com

Y E L LOW MO O N Quinton Chadwick's vintage style tweed stripe beret in teal, aqua, yellow and jade has a ﬂecked pom pom; the colours are taken from the exotic Madagascan Moon moth. quintonchadwick.com

Y E L LOW L I N E A handmade cement pot will make any plant look stylish in the run up to spring – we love this neon yellow zigzag design. bigpotlittlepot.co.uk

HERE COMES THE SUN A bunch of sunshine yellow Phalaris is stunning on its own in a statement vase or paired with other dried stems and grasses. This colourful dried grass is the perfect way to add an elegant pop of colour to any room. £18 thehappyblossoms.com

CUT THE M U S TA R D We love a lace collar, especially when it's teamed with an ochre cardigan. Monsoon has got this combo just right, £55 monsoon.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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RAYMOND GUBBAY PRESENTS

RAYMONDGUBBAY.CO.UK

Sir Karl Jenkins conducts a superb selection of his most popular works. All of your favourite Sinatra hits performed by our scintillating show band and guest star singer Matt Ford. Come Fly With Me . My Way . Fly Me to the Moon New York, New York . Luck Be a Lady Tonight Mack the Knife . Cheek to Cheek . I've Got You Under My Skin Sunday 27 February 3.00pm ROYAL FESTIVAL HALL, LONDON - southbankcentre.co.uk

THE ARMED MAN A MASS FOR PEACE with excerpts from Symphonic Adiemus & Palladio LONDON CONCERT ORCHESTRA Friday 18 March 7.30pm ROYAL FESTIVAL HALL, LONDON - southbankcentre.co.uk

2022

Kewthe

muslc

‘the perfect way to spend a summer evening’ OK! magazine

Thu 7th

Fri 8th

featuring Nicolas Reyes and Tonino Baliardo

Sat 9th

REBECCA FERGUSON

Sun 10th

Wed 6th

Tue 5th

CO-HEADLINING

5 – 10 July 2022 kewthemusic.org Royal Botanic Gardens Raymond Gubbay

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Kew 14/12/2021 16:42

C U LT U R E

JESSIE BUCKLEY AS SALLY BOWLES IN CABARET AT THE PLAYHOUSE THEATRE. PHOTO BY MARC BRENNER

What's on 16 • Theatre reviews 18 • Profile: Alison Jackson 20 A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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The Agenda

LO N D O N ’S H OT T E ST H A P P E N I N G S

P H OTO GR APHY

Photography Workshop

ROGER WOOLDRIDGE

MARK COCKSEDGE

29 January M O N TCA L M E A ST Here’s a chance to learn a new skill with a portrait photography masterclass in a new ‘Perspectives’ event series hosted by Montcalm East hotel in Shoreditch. Leading the masterclass is portrait and advertising photographer, Harry Adams, who will run three in-depth sessions in the hotel’s photography studio where he is currently undertaking a residency. montcalmeast.com

EV E N T

London Art Fair 19- 23 JA NUA RY, BUS I NE S S D E SIGN CEN TRE

The London Art Fair returns to Islington, highlighting a selection of the best galleries from the UK and beyond. The event will offer both seasoned and aspiring collectors a diverse presentation of modern and contemporary art, alongside curated displays, and an inspiring programme of talks, panel discussions and artists insights. londonartfair.co.uk

S C U L PTUR E

Natural Reserve Until March 2022 R OYA L B O TA N I C G A R D E N S Acclaimed artist and sculptor Zadok Ben-David presents Natural Reserve, a new exhibition at the Shirley Sherwood Gallery of Botanical Art. This first solo exhibition by the artist in the UK since 2008 includes Blackfield, a space-specific floor installation containing over 17,000 steel etched flowers assembled entirely by hand. kew.org

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CULTURE • TALKING TOPICS

ART

Man and Beast 29 January-17 April R OYA L AC A D E M Y Francis Bacon was the horsebreeder’s son who became one of the most important painters of the 20th century. This powerful exhibition will focus on Bacon’s unerring fascination with animals: how it both shaped his approach to the human body and distorted it; and how his ﬁgures are barely recognisable as either human or beast. royalacademy.org.uk

ARTISTS TO WATC H

The Other Art Fair's Ryan Stanier top 3 artists to collect

KAY GASEI At The Other Art Fair London in July 2021, Kay Gasei was awarded The Kate Bryan Art Prize. His illustrative paintings explore symbolism, myths and narratives with characters set in timeless spaces as a means of understanding his own intellectual and ontological journey. They are both beautiful and meaningful. @kaygaseiart saatchiart.com/kaygasei

A RT

KEHINDE WILEY

This Month’s Must See

Until 18 April T H E N AT I O N A L G A L L E R Y Kehinde Wiley is an American artist best known for his portraits that render people of colour in the traditional settings of Old Master paintings. Most famously, in 2017, he was commissioned to paint Barack Obama, becoming the ﬁrst Black artist to paint an official portrait of a President of the United States. nationalgallery.org.uk

PHOEBE BODDY

T I TA N IC :

T H E E X H I BI T ION

O NGOIN G, DOCK X LON DON

itanic: The Exhibition London is far more than a display of historic items, it is a unique narrative experience, a tale of the people aboard history’s most legendary ship on its maiden and ﬁnal journey. Travel back to 1912 through photographs, handwritten letters, wayward keepsakes, and other personal belongings telling countless stories about fates and heroic deeds on board.

Artist and foodie, Phoebe Boddy (above) explores the sensual experience of eating and uses the process of painting to explore the connections between ﬂavour and colour. Together with chef Jay Sharp, she has also recently founded Palette Dining - a unique feasting experience that explores the sensory connections between Food and Art. @phoebeboddyartist saatchiart.com/phoebeboddy

CHLOE MCCARRICK Chloe McCarrick is best known for her circular cyanotypes and develops innovative ways of reworking photographic images through collage and mixed-media print techniques, and by blending science, darkroom alchemy and art. @chloe_mccarrick_ﬁne_art saatchiart.com/chloemccarrick1 Learn more about The Other Art Fair at @theotherartfair theotherartfair.com

titanicexhibitionlondon.com

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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CULTURE • THEATRE

Best in SHOW

MUST SEE

Stage picks for the month ahead By PENDLE HARTE

THE CURIOUS INCIDENT OF THE DOG IN THE NIGHT-TIME Until 9 January TROUBADOUR WEMBLEY PARK THEATRE

he Olivier Award-winning production of The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time, adapted by Simon Stephens from the novel by Mark Haddon, and directed by Marianne Elliott has launched a UK and Ireland tour, marking ten years of the iconic production which originated at the National Theatre in 2012. And the show has lost none of its intensity in the intervening years. This is the story of Christopher Boone, a teenage boy with an extraordinary mind who finds people difficult, and who lives in challenging circumstances. We feel his pain in the often jarring lighting and sound, and his discomfort and bafflement at others' behaviour is centre stage. It's a fantastically energetic performance by Connor Curren, with Rebecca Root impressive as his teacher and Sophie Stone brilliant as the mother. 3 Fulton Road, HA9 troubadourtheatres.com

CURIOUS INCIDENT

CABARET

CABARET Until 1 October PLAYHOUSE THEATRE

oel Grey has some pretty big shoes to fill – and Eddie Redmayne has a big reputation to live up to. This new production of Cabaret is uber lavish and atmospheric, brilliantly transforming the Playhouse Theatre to create a stage in the round, all stall seating replaced with lamp-lit tables and chairs for the KitKat Club audience (there's even the option to have food served in these eye-wateringly expensive seats). Redmayne's MC is contorted and terrifyingly creepy, strangely similar in the inevitable comparison with Grey, while Jessie Buckley is a very English Sally Bowles - a mix of naivity and calculated extroversion with a huge and beautiful voice. The other stars of the show are the costumes with their louche Weimar decadence, and the brilliant orchestra playing from the circle boxes. The choreography is stunning, dancers filling the revolving stage with dark moves and sinister make-up. So believe the hype: this production is stylish, charismatic and true to the spirit of Kader and Ebb's original. Northumberland Avenue, WC2 theplayhousetheatre.co.uk

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RAYMOND GUBBAY PRESENTS

The Russian State Ballet of Siberia returns for a sensational season brought to life by magical special effects.

RAYMONDGUBBAY.CO.UK

RAYMOND GUBBAY and

present

Romeo & Juliet The Nutcracker Swan Lake

Join the nation’s favourite ballroom couple in a stunning new show for 2022 Sat 26 February 2.30pm BARBICAN HALL barbican.org.uk

Performed by

The Russian State Ballet & Orchestra of Siberia Mon 21 – Wed 23 February

Thu 24 February 7.30pm

Wed 30 March 7.30pm

atgtickets.com/wimbledon

NEW WIMBLEDON THEATRE

NESSUN DORMA LAND OF HOPE AND GLORY HORNPIPE RULE, BRITANNIA!

1812 OVERTURE With Thundering Cannons

ROYAL PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA

Royal Choral Society (Thurs & Sat) The London Chorus (Fri & Sun) Thurs 17 & Fri 18 March 7.30pm, Sat 19 & Sun 20 March 3pm & 7.30pm

ROYAL ALBERT HALL, LONDON - royalalberthall.com

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GET THE

LOOK

Alongside making videos for Duran Duran and exhibiting her work all over the world, photographer Alison Jackson has a passion for her community photography competition. Absolutely meets her By PENDLE HARTE

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CULTURE • PROFILE

hen Alison Jackson suggests meeting at the Chelsea Theatre, she doesn’t mention that she’s a trustee of the charity that’s recently completed a huge renovation project on the venue. There’s no mistaking her, in her glamorous all-black with platform heels and bright blonde hair, as the BAFTA and multi-award winning actress is striding towards me in this Chelsea community centre, where a mother and toddler group is assembling. She’s an energetic and charismatic presence – and perhaps surprisingly for someone who reportedly used to fly to LA to get her hair done, she has an enormous passion for community and education. All re-opening fanfare for the Chelsea Theatre was sadly derailed by Covid, but Jackson proudly shows me around the impressive new space which incorporates a professional theatre, several dance/rehearsal studios and a new bar with a large roof terrace.

It’s a brilliant revival for the venue, built in the 70s as part of a utopian vision for the World’s End Estate and subject to a patchy trajectory since then. Now there are ambitious plans for everything from community groups to professional productions; the current programme includes Mark Rylance’s involvement in a production of Romeo and Juliet. As part of Jackson’s commitment to community and education, she runs a photography competition, A Day in Your Life, that’s open to anyone of age nine and up. There are various categories, including one specifically about Chelsea, and prizes include special youth photography courses at the University of the Arts as well as cameras. Winning entries are currently on display at the Chelsea Theatre, but when we meet she is yet to judge it – though she’s already seen enough of them to be incredibly impressed by the young people’s photographic literacy. “With camera phones, kids learn composition innately. I wasn’t nearly so good or so consistent at that age,” she says. Jackson is known all over the world for her lookalike celebrity portraits, which she presents as the work of someone who ‘hates’ photography. “It’s a slimy, deceitful

medium,” she insists, grinning – and she’s not in the slightest interested in celebrities either. What does interest her is the idea of celebrity, the constructed image, and the interplay between the image and truth. “Photography doesn’t tell the whole truth. You could be photographed looking sad one minute and then you could be running across the street naked a minute later. You can exist for one nanosecond in a photograph, and that hook makes us believe a whole story – even though we know we can’t. We don’t care that we’re being misled.” This is the thought behind her lookalike portraits, which don’t pretend to be true but still feed into the obsession with celebrity that runs though our media and culture. The celebrity lookalikes started with Princess Diana. Jackson was studying photography at the Royal College of Art – reluctantly, because she had wanted to do sculpture – and set out to make a body of work about hating photography. “The construct of Diana was an amazing roll-out; the stories about her went on and on. She was my first lookalike and it was amazing how when people met her they would bow down at her feet and ask for autographs. Even when she said she wasn’t

"I HATE PHOTOGRAPHY. IT'S A SLIMY, DECEITFUL MEDIUM"

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New in paperback

From fresh new voice Aliya Ali-Afzal, Would I Lie to You? is a page-turning debut set in Wimbledon. This warm and funny novel explores what happens when you have your dream life – and are about to lose it. ‘A warm, intelligent, light yet poignant story of trying to keep up with your neighbours. Aliya AliAfzal depicts the moneyed, suburban world of south west London with a brilliantly wry, observational eye, and keeps up the tension right till the end.’ Sophie Kinsella ‘A fresh take on a moral dilemma... Great for book clubs’ Clare Mackintosh

‘A properly indulgent page turner’ Adele Parks, Platinum

Available online and in all good bookstores

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CULTURE • PROFILE

EVEN WHEN SHE SAID SHE WASN’T DIANA, THEY STILL WANTED THE AUTOGRAPH. IT WAS EXTRAORDINARY.

Diana, they still wanted the autograph. It was extraordinary. It made me think - we’re living in a world of make-believe; we know we are and yet we don’t care.” The images are clever; they make us think about the absurdity of celebrity and the nature of voyeurism, as well as issues of truth and reality. “Fake news has been going on for years,” she pronounces. “It’s not about attacking the celebrity or anything like that, it’s about our obsession with them and why are we caught up with these constructed stories by the media and then hooked in by photography (that deceitful medium). I’m saying to the viewer, look at this, you’re getting seduced by this and it’s voyeuristic. That’s what really fascinates me. I think it’s a belief system, celebrities are like mini-saints – they all represent something, and that has sort of overtaken any other belief system.” She’s come a long way since Diana. Jackson’s lookalikes have included The Queen and all the Royals, Trump, the Kardashians, Elton John, Marilyn Monroe and pretty much everyone you can think

of. A recent project was the video for Duran Duran’s Anniversary, which was an enormous shoot in an 11th century castle involving more than 200 lookalikes, among them young versions of Simon Le Bon and the band. Literally everyone is there: Daniel Craig, JLo, Kim Kardashian, Greta Thunberg, Madonna, The Queen (plus corgis), Lady Gaga, George Clooney, Brad Pitt, the Beckhams, Stormzy, Vladimir Putin, Billie Eilish and countless others. Did she enjoy working with so many of them at once? “It was hilarious. Nothing like a normal shoot, because normal actors come in and they know the script and they’re ready, whereas lookalikes come in looking like you and me, but as they transform they get into character. So suddenly these quiet nobodys become divas – and then you‘ve got 100 divas, which of course you want – but it’s chaos.” The Queen has received a lot of attention, lookalike-wise, from Jackson over the years: we have seen her at the betting shop, corgis in tow; we’ve seen her on the loo with her (large) pants around her ankles; we’ve seen her changing a grandchild’s nappy, taking a selfie, and having her hair done, and there’s always quite an affectionate feel

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to the images. Has Jackson ever crossed the line with the queen? “Remember I’m very pro-royalist,” she says. “I was anti Tony Blair trying to get rid of them. I think they make Britain unique, and the tourism and the revenue that brings in is so important. Also – they look great, don’t they? The horses, and the guards – on Remembrance Sunday they were wearing gold outfits with ER written on them - I’d never seen those before and it was a visual delight for me.” Of all her images, the Queen ones are perhaps the most comical. “I’ve got two queens and one I’ve just started to work with – she’s an absolute delight, about 85 years old and she’ll do anything.” Finding the lookalikes is another of Jackson’s interests. Not only has she got three casting directors working on likeness but she’s always accosting people on the street. “I supply the agencies! I discover people and transform them, then they go to the agencies and come back to me, charging the agency fee.” She’s currently got three Donald Trumps. And she’s particularly interested in Kim Kardashian – “she seems to have singlehandedly changed the shape of the female landscape from skinny to big arse; I find it fascinating how that can happen” – and Putin, as well as Boris Johnson. “Boris has created images that look like private images - he had a photo on the front cover

of the Mirror where he was painting on an easel, shot through bushes. It could have been one of my images. He’d probably been studying them. I always shoot through door cracks or window frames, because the less you show the better.” For all Jackson’s claims that fake news has always been around and that photography has always been unreliable, there’s no denying that our relationship with images has changed over the past couple of decades. The shift from print to digital, cameraphones, instagram and the rise of the selfie have all created a new visual world, and all of this amplifies her original thesis. “Photography is our first language now, we can’t get away from it. Look at selfies. People used to have the mirror, but looking at your reflection too much was frowned upon.

Now people are constantly taking selfies and I think it’s very dangerous for people’s personalities, it develops a part of your brain that isn’t necessarily positive.” Asked about future plans, Jackson has one very clear one. “I want to make a film about primogeniture,” she says. This is the tradition whereby male children inherit everything and daughters nothing – something close to her heart. “My father favoured my brother over me and left everything to him and nothing to me. I find it extraordinary.” But before that, she’s heading to Athens tomorrow for an exhibition, and then back to Chelsea to open her photography competition show. For Jackson, it’s a nonstop celebrity lifestyle, whatever her views on celebrity. All images reproduced courtesy of alison-jackson.co.uk

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Now open

Up to 70% off at the new Heal’s Outlet store.

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Our new outlet store in Walton-onThames has up to 70% off a selection of cancelled, returned and overstocked pieces, all at significantly reduced prices. Heal’s Outlet Store, Colwell House, Hepworth Way, Walton-on-Thames, KT12 1DP

15/12/2021 09:25

Discover Your Perfect Cornish Retreat The Point Holidays offer hand-picked quality self-catering apartments and holiday homes from which you can relax and explore beautiful Cornwall, and everything it has to offer.

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Orchards WINCHMORE HILL N21 2DH

Two Luxury Four Bedroom Detached Houses

Computer Generated Images

High Specification Finish | Ready to move in early 2022 Please call to enquire to our New Homes Enfield Office

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CULTURE • ART

“Downie’s distinctive style of painting is intimate and evocative” DETAIL FROM UNSKILLED WORKER'S MURAL

Room to GROW

Anthropologie’s Gallery, in collaboration with Unskilled Worker, is supporting mental health charity Hospital Rooms By EVE HERBERT

IN THE GALLERY

nthropologie’s King’s Road gallery has been transformed into a large-scale installation by artist Helen Downie, whose intimate and evocative paintings under the moniker of Unskilled Worker have been exhibited worldwide. The Hospital Rooms Christmas Studio in collaboration with Unskilled Worker also features a changing selection of original artworks and limited editions available to purchase, from artists including John Booth, Susie Hamilton, Ryan Mosley and Sara Berman. Helen Downie is a critically acclaimed artist, best known for her idiosyncratic and expressive style of painting. Working under the moniker Unskilled Worker, Downie’s distinctive style of painting is both intimate and evocative, mixing

characters and nature with the ephemeral and fantastical. Downie’s work has attracted a large audience worldwide and has been exhibited at galleries across the world including London, Hong Kong, Seoul, Madrid, Tokyo and Shanghai. Hospital Rooms is an arts and mental health charity that commissions extraordinary artwork for NHS inpatient mental health units. The charity was founded by artist Tim A Shaw and curator Niamh White after a close friend was admitted to a mental health inpatient unit. Whilst visiting her, they were shocked to discover the clinical, and at times run-down environment that people receiving mental health treatment were living in at such a vulnerable time. Realising a change needed to be made, Hospital Rooms aims to ensure that people are surrounded by beautiful and restorative environments and have access to creative activities, offering them a hopeful and positive view of the future. In 2019, Downie worked with Hospital Rooms on a project and this fundraiser will support even more ambitious Hospital Rooms projects in 2022. “I was so happy when Hospital Rooms got in touch as I have had so many friends and family affected by mental health issues. I know the glumness of mental health wards and have always felt that the presence of art would have the power to heal, soothe and help elevate these areas.” unskilledworker.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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CULTURE • PARTNERSHIP

G R O U P T H I N K SPILL BY JO HUMMEL

How to create a beautiful gallery wall at home By JENNIFER CONNER

CURATING A GALLERY WALL Do you have several artworks at home, but are not quite sure about how or where to place them? Many people get hung up (excuse the pun) on how to curate varying styles of art together at home. Here’s the thing: you’re probably overthinking it. With just some masking tape as your guide, let’s get started on creating a beautiful gallery wall at home.

MEASURE UP Measure out your perfect rectangle and use masking tape to delineate the space both at top and bottom, and along the sides. This will create a ‘frame’ for the space that you want to fill. You then decide whether you want to keep a tidy grid, or if you are happy to create a more eclectic, freestyle hang.

ANCHOR THE CORNERS Take some of your larger-sized works and place them in the corners of your masked framework. These will act as anchors for the space, making the eye see these works as the boundary for your wall of art. It’s

helpful sometimes to lay the entire grid on your floor, or alternatively, you can cut paper into the sizes of each individual work, and pin those to the wall as placeholders.

MIX UP YOUR MEDIUMS This is where people get anxious – but your artwork does not need to be of similar styles or mediums. A grouping of works by the same artist or style can look superb, but in fact, a wide variety of mediums will only give the space more character. Mix it up according to what pleases you. LA RICERCA BY KATE TRAFELI

PLAY AROUND Take your time to consider the placement of the works in the centre of your grid, and tinker around with the positioning. Don’t worry too much about gaps between artworks, as they needn’t be consistent. As long as you stick to your measured outer edges, the end result will be a beautifully impactful set of artworks.

FRAMING DECISIONS If you opt for grouping by artist or genre, also select frames that have some consistency. Otherwise, let your creativity flow. A diverse range of frames will work surprisingly well together, attracting attention through the juxtaposition of styles. And don’t just consider the traditional: a coloured frame will really pop within a grid of more conventional styles. A F T E R N Y N E C O N T E M P O R A RY Jennifer Conner is the Art Advisor at After Nyne Contemporary, as well as Regional Managing Director of the Affordable Art Fair in the UK. afternynecontemporary.com

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Independent Independent Independent Italian Italian Italian bar bar bar &&& restaurant restaurant restaurant Antipasti Antipasti Antipasti | Handmade | |Handmade Handmade pasta pasta pasta | Small | |Small Small plates plates plates | Italian | |Italian Italian wines wines wines &&& aperitifs aperitifs aperitifs

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FOOD & DRINK

COOKING WITH FIRE CARMEL

Brothers Josh and Paul Katz and Mattia Bianchi, the team behind Berber & Q and Shawarma Bar, have opened Carmel, a relaxed allday restaurant and bar in Queen’s Park. Inspiration comes from Josh’s passion for the food and flavours of the Eastern Mediterranean and North Africa – expect simple dishes with strong flavours. carmelrestaurant.co.uk

Food news 32 • Recipes: 30 Minute Mowgli 34 A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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WHAT TO DRINK

IN THE spirit Gin recommendations for the month

TASTING NOTES

London’s food news and most exciting openings this month By ELLIE-MAE HAMMOND

By MR HOBBS

Mr Hobbs 150 Gin 70cl 40% ABV  £34 Mr Hobbs 150 is a classic London Dry Gin with quintessential English heritage, which marks the 150-year anniversary of the family owned, British boating institution; Hobbs of Henley. The award-winner is bursting with nine botanicals, making a serious gin that will leave you wanting more.

Rhubarb & Ginger Gin Liqueur 50cl 21.5% ABV  £25 Blended with the very best British rhubarb to produce a perfectly balanced gin liqueur. Summer fruits and herbs on the nose with well-rounded ginger notes and plenty of rhubarb on the palate. The perfect addition to any drinks cabinet, this is an exceptional base for seasonal cocktails, sparkling or otherwise.

Mr Hobbs Spiced Plum Gin Liqueur 50cl 19.5% ABV  £25 A delicious warming tipple designed with winter nights in mind. Made with Winslow plums and a blend of traditional Christmas spices including ginger, clove, cinnamon, and star anise. It is quite simply the perfect drink to enjoy this winter and Christmas.

The Mr Hobbs Gin range of products is brought to you by the family pleasure boating business, Hobbs of Henley, who give you the most enjoyable way to “mess about on the river’’. Today they are very proud to share their cherished family tipples with you and raise a glass to their Henley heritage.

mrhobbsgin.co.uk

Round our way CA R O U S E L

Brand new to Charlotte Street, Carousel is brothers Ollie and Ed Templeton's most ambitious project yet: their ﬁrst ever wine bar, with a menu of seasonal snacks and small plates accompanying a thoughtfully chosen list of 80-plus lively, minimal intervention wines. This is in addition to a rotation of acclaimed chefs from around the globe, who will continue to join them in the kitchen for a week or two at a time. carousel-london.com

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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FOOD & DRINK • NOTES

VEGAN INDIAN Kick off Veganuary in your own home

TURKISH DELIGHT THE CINNAMON COLLECTION VEGAN MEAL KIT

Green giant M A L LOW

Chef Vivek Singh of The Cinnamon Collection has designed a delicious plant-based tasting menu, packed full of flavour and spice. Delivered nationwide, it's a generous vegan feast. thecinnamoncollection.com

Newly opened in Borough Market, the 100% plantbased restaurant Mallow is dominating the vegan scene. Mallow offers an elevated all-day dining concept, serving fresh, colourful and internationally inspired plant-based cuisine. On the ground floor Roots Room there is an open kitchen for diners to get a glimpse of the action, while the first floor will encompass the Floret Dining Room and Petal Bar for guests to enjoy cocktails and small plates. mallowlondon.com

ZAHTER

Acclaimed Turkish chef Esra Muslu blends the vibrancy of Istanbul with the buzz of Carnaby Street at her debut London restaurant Zahter. Muslu and her team will use traditional methods in her signature home-style, Turkish dishes that encompass true “Istanbulite'' cuisine. This traditional long-form style of cooking will dishes, as they become tender and moreish over coals. zahter.co.uk

DISHOOM VEGAN S A U S AG E N A A N R O L L Dishoom’s Vegan Sausage Naan Roll features cleverly fermented vegetables mixed with sausage spices. Included in the kit are three naan dough balls, tomato-chili jam and vegan cream cheese, plus Darjeeling tea, chai spices and ginger to brew masala chai. dishoom.com

H O M E AWAY

FROM HOME B U B B A OA S I S

Little pleasures SABOR

Sabor is launching an array of brand new dishes, carefully created by chef director Nieves Barragan. Their bar is inspired by the Andalucìan tapas bars and features poseur tables and bar stools where guests can enjoy drinks and tapas; diners are encouraged to throw their paper napkins on the ﬂoor, which is a sign of appreciation in Spain. Daily specials are artistically scrawled on the mirrors and drinkers can enjoy many of the dishes from the nearby counter menu as well. saborrestaurants.co.uk

JHAKAAS R A J P U TA N A V E G A N The new premium delivery in Brockley Rise is the brainchild of Dayashankar Sharma, chef behind critically acclaimed fine-dining Indian restaurant Heritage Dulwich. The Rajputana Vegan showcases dishes such as Tofu Saag, Lasooni Tadka dal and Kalkatta Bigan Bhaja. jhakaas.co.uk

New to Upper Street is, Bubba Oasis, combining casual dining, hotdesking, music, entertainment and art into one destination. Their farm-to-table cuisine is a winner, there are two cocktail bars and upstairs is an outdoor winter roofterrace with warm blankets and a cosy feel. bubbaoasis.com A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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EASY Indian

30 minute suppers from the Mowgli Home Kitchen Wo r d s N I S H A K AT O N A Photography YUKI SUGIARA

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FOOD & DRINK • RECIPES

Chicken, Coconut and Pineapple Curry Serves 4

The combination of both coconut milk and creamed coconut in this curry adds a real gloss and weight to the sauce, giving it a gorgeous, velvety texture. If you can't get creamed coconut just double-up on the tinned. During the last moments of these exotic sunshine curries, I often throw a handful of roasted nuts to boost the salt and the beach-holiday feel. If you’re not a fan of nuts or don’t have any to hand, you can leave these out without any detriment to the dish.

INGREDIENTS •2 thumb-sized pieces fresh root ginger, peeled •5 tbsp vegetable oil onions, finely chopped •2 •2 cloves garlic, crushed skinless, boneless chicken •3 breasts (approx. 600g/1lb 5oz), chopped into 2cm/3⁄4in cubes •2 tbsp garam masala • 1 heaped tsp ground coriander • 1 tsp ground turmeric • 1 ⁄4 tsp chilli powder • 1 00g/31⁄2oz creamed coconut •4 00ml/14fl oz canned coconut milk •2 green chillies, finely sliced • 1 1⁄2 tsp salt • 1 tsp brown sugar • 1 0 chunks canned pineapple, cut into 1–2cm/1⁄2–3⁄4in pieces • 1 00g/31⁄2oz roasted salted cashew nuts • s mall handful fresh coriander/ cilantro, finely chopped, to garnish • 1 red chilli, finely sliced, to garnish • c ooked rice, or flatbreads, to serve

and cashews to the pan and stir to combine, adding a little of the juice from the canned pineapple if the mixture is too dry. Leave to cook, stirring occasionally, for 5–10 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through. Scatter with chopped coriander/cilantro and sliced red chilli, then serve hot with rice or wraps alongside.

MillionDollar Dahl Serves 4

METHOD 1 Finely mince one of the pieces of ginger and slice the other into fine matchsticks. Set aside. 2 Heat the oil in a large pan over a medium heat. Add the onions, garlic and minced ginger and fry, stirring continuously, for 8 minutes, until golden brown. Add the chicken to the pan and stir to combine with the onions, then add the garam masala, ground coriander, ground turmeric and chilli powder. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes, to seal the chicken and coat it in the spices. 3 Add the creamed coconut, coconut milk, ginger matchsticks, sliced chillies, salt, sugar, pineapple

In Eastern Europe it is tradition at New Year to have these whole lentil dishes. I add a little more spice than my motherin-law’s original recipe calls for, but the extra oomph really works. The green discs of lentil represent little coins and a wish for wealth in the year ahead. This is a wonderful centrepiece to a meal, regardless of your guests needs, as it is both gluten-free and vegan, as well as filling and delicious.

INGREDIENTS •4 tbsp vegetable oil • 1 tsp cumin seeds • 1 onion, roughly chopped

• 1 cube frozen crushed garlic or 3 garlic cloves, crushed •2 cubes frozen crushed ginger or 2 thumb-sized pieces fresh ginger, peeled and grated • 1 bay leaf • 1 fat green chilli, sliced •8 00g /1lb 12oz canned green lentils, drained • 1 tsp ground turmeric • 1 tbsp garam masala • 1 tsp ground cumin •4 00g/14oz canned chopped tomatoes • 1 1⁄2 tsp salt • s mall handful fresh coriander/ cilantro, roughly chopped

METHOD 1 Heat the oil in a large pan over a medium heat, then add the cumin seeds and fry for a few seconds, until they are fragrant and have turned a deep golden brown. Add the onion, garlic, ginger, bay leaf and sliced chilli, and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 8 minutes, until the onions are soft and golden. 2 Add the lentils, ground turmeric, garam masala, ground cumin and chopped tomatoes to the pan and stir to combine. Bring to the boil, then reduce the heat to a lively simmer and cook for 20 minutes, adding a splash of water if the mixture gets too dry, until the lentils are tender. Add the salt to the pan to taste, then stir through the chopped fresh coriander/ cilantro. Serve hot.

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FOOD & DRINK • RECIPES

INGREDIENTS

Rice Krispie Bhel Puri Serves 4

Bhel Puri is a common street-food snack in India that is made with fried chickpea/ garbanzo beans threads, puffed rice and roasted peanuts, and dressed with all that is hot and sharp. When my parents first came to the UK, they missed this midmorning snack dreadfully, so invented this version using a well-known breakfast cereal. It’s as ludicrous a secret pleasure as any Indian family could have.

• 100g/31⁄2oz/4 cups crisped rice cereal (such as Rice Krispies) • 3 tbsp mustard oil • 1 handful roasted peanuts • 2 mild green chillies, finely chopped • 1 red onion, finely chopped • 1 small bunch coriander/cilantro, leaves and stalks finely chopped • 1 tsp chaat masala • squeeze of lemon juice

METHOD 1 Place a small frying pan/skillet over a low heat and add the crisped rice cereal. Warm the cereal for 3 minutes, tossing in the pan to prevent it from catching, then transfer to a large bowl. Add the rest of the ingredients and stir until everything is well combined. Serve immediately, while the cereal is still warm and crisp.

Recipes taken from 30 Minute Mowgli by Nisha Katona, published by Nourish Books

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FA S H I O N

LA FAMIGLIA LORETTA CAPONI

Loretta Caponi founded her namesake label in Florence in 1967 and today it continues to evolve its signature hand-embroidered clothing and linens. Now headed by Loretta’s grandson, Guido, the label champions Italian heritage techniques (the catanella stitch is a signature) which are delicately married with modernity in whimsical, feminine pieces. matchesfashion.com

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STREET style Vegan fashion from north London brand Ninety Percent

N I N E T Y P E R C E N T. C O M

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FASHION • JEWELLERY

Traditional twist Look for an upgrade on the classic signet ring By ELLIE-MAE HAMMOND

CAROLINA DE BARROS

CLIO SASKIA

DAINTY LONDON

Areia round signet ring, £15 carolinadebarros.com

Shield ring bearded dragon white gold, £3,695 cliosaskia.co.uk

Selkie ring, £290 daintylondon.com

GALIO

LUCIA HALL JEWELLERY

RACHEL JACKSON

Meira T Evil Eye diamond signet ring, £649 galio.co.uk

The letterbox ring, £195 lucia-hall.com

North star gold pinky signet ring, £60 racheljacksonlondon.com

SIF JAKOBS JEWELLERY

THE VINTAGE RING COMPANY

Follina Piccolo ring, £119 sifjakobs.com

Felicity antique Victorian gold and diamond horseshoe ring, £1,520; thevintageringco.com

Matilda antique Victorian true lover’s knot gold ring, £1,680 thevintageringco.com

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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2 0 2 2

C O L L E C T I O N www.rosa-clara.com

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FASHION • PROMOTION

The Home of

GIFT LISTS

Step into the Home of Gift Lists, at The Wedding Shop’s Townhouse

lanning your big day? Building your gift list is one of the most exciting parts of wedding planning. And when you register for your gift list at The Wedding Shop you’ll find unrivalled gifting choice, flexibility, and exceptional service – all in one place. The Wedding Shop have proudly served thousands of couples for over 30 years, and in that time they’ve perfected the dream gift list service. Curate your registry with a choice of gifts from over 450 of your favourite brands including The White Company, Le Creuset and Soho Home, and also add a mix of honeymoon funds, charity contributions and personalised funds. Their entire service is free of charge to couples, and throughout your gift list journey their team will be on hand to use their knowledge and expertise to make the whole wedding list experience stress-free for both you and your guests – something they guarantee, as the most popular gift list provider in the UK. Not sure where to start with your Wedding Gift List? The Wedding Shop’s Townhouse is your go-to destination. When you book an appointment at their flagship

South West London showroom, you’ll be able to add gifts to your list as you browse their expertly curated home and visualise your gifts in your own home setting. With 11 rooms set over four storeys packed full of inspiring and gorgeous gifts, you’ll be building your dream gift list in no time. Simply step inside to be inspired. From the bar room with drinks trolleys and barware to the fun reception room filled with colourful and vibrant accessories to make a house a home. And in the kitchen, the heart of every home, you’ll be inspired by hundreds of must-have essentials, gizmos and gadgets that every foodie couple will love. You’ll find a huge selection of gifts and will be able to physically see and touch them before adding them to your list. When you register for a gift list at The Wedding Shop you’ll have your own dedicated Gift Guru, who will be on hand to provide guidance and top tips throughout your gift list journey. Knowledgeable, experienced and full of useful wedding gift list tips, your Gift Guru will guide you through the whole process, whether it's over a cup of tea on zoom or a glass of bubbles in the London Townhouse. From the moment you register to your gift delivery and beyond, you’ll have the most wonderful gifting experience at The Wedding Shop. Your gift list will be 100% secure, and you’ll even receive a 10% lifetime discount off any future purchases as a thank you. THE WEDDING SHOP Register for your wedding shop gift list and book your appointment at the Townhouse today and you’ll receive a lovely welcome pack full of treats on your visit. www.weddingshop.com 312 Fulham Road, SW10 9UG 020 7384 8400

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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4.8 Rated Excellent on Trustpilot

December 2021

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WINTER Wonderland Don’t miss the Couture Gallery sale

ind your perfect dress at a fraction of the price at The Couture Gallery’s largest ever Winter Sale this January, with savings of over 50% 70% on all wedding dresses and bridal gowns in store. Choose from our large collection of romantic lace dresses, elegant crepe separates and floorsweeping tulle couture gowns with our signature built-in corsetry. Prices are lower than ever with our wedding dresses starting at £ 950,- and corseted couture bridal gowns starting now at £1850,On appointment, a personal styling assistant will be on hand to help and advise on any alterations needed. Dresses sizes range between UK 6 - UK 10 and we offer an in house alteration service too. Appointments are limited and very popular, so book your place early to avoid disappointment. The appointment fee of £50,- is redeemable against any dress purchases on the day. Book your private appointment online now on www.thecouturegallery.com. Winter Sale starts mid January 2022; visit thecouturegallery.com for exact times and dates.

“Romantic lace dresses, elegant crepe separates and ﬂoorsweeping tulle couture gowns” A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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HEALTH & BEAUTY S

In this sect ion M A K E - U P N E W S 57 B E A U T Y R E V I E W S 60 S P A G U I D E 70 F R A G R A N C E S P O T L I G H T 75 C Y C L I N G F O C U S 82 F I T N E S S N O T E S 85

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

MIND & BODY

PRIVATE CLIENT BY BUPA

At Private Client by Bupa, feeling good isn’t good enough. Their ambitions for your health and wellbeing go much further. They curate a complete service for the mind, body and being, with premium health insurance plans that are designed to be used. From award-winning medical cover at home and abroad, to proactive wellbeing benefits and direct access to private specialists without a GP referral. Private Client by Bupa also gives you access to a worldwide network of doctors via the Global Virtual Care app, available 24/7 at the touch of a button. They’re here for you today, tomorrow, and for whatever comes next. Discover more at: bupaprivateclient.com

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • NOTES

BEAUTY NOTES

The latest in luxury makeup and skincare By ELLIE-MAE HAMMOND

FOCUS

EDITOR’S PICK

FEELING

plumped

Visiting acqua x sea containers

ROC

By ELLIE-MAE HAMMOND

Start your day by deeply hydrating, visibly plumping, and protecting with RoC® Multi Correxion® Hydrate + Plump Moisturizer SPF30. This clinically proven gel-cream formula uses the power of pure Hyaluronic Acid to plump away lines and wrinkles, while providing UVA/B protection. £35.99

rocskincare.co.uk

Sleep easy ELEMIS

Wake up to dreamy skin with this luxurious sleeping cream. Ideal for all skin types, the prebiotic overnight sleeping cream leaves dry, thirsty skin feeling silky, soft, radiant and replenished upon waking up. This skinquenching cream works through the night with an indulgent formula infused with Camu Camy, a well-known source of Vitamin C. £40 elemis.com

FEAST FOR THE SENSES OJA R

Match your natural radiance with the enchanting scent of Ojar’s Wadi Bloom Absolute perfume oil. When applied to your natural pulse points, its floral aroma intensifies, beginning a journey through notes of bergamot, ylang ylang and jasmine that waft around a dry base of patchouli, sandalwood and delectable honey. £130,

NATURE’S SECRETS ituated in the heart of London’s Southbank, you will discover a sanctuary within a sea container. This month I had the pleasure of visiting agua, experiencing one of their most exclusive treatments – ‘The Bust Blossom’, a bespoke bust massage using Hedgerow by agua products, working to release any tension in the spine and shoulder girdle. It is a therapeutic experience focusing solely on the upper torso, inducing a deep trance of relaxation, aiding flexibility, improving posture, breathing, and releasing all the tensions and stresses that we all unconsciously hold in our upper body. By treating the entire thoracic cavity through gentle manipulation and breathing techniques, this treatment promotes the drainage of tension from the solar plexus and muscles of the chest, balancing breathing rhythm and increasing the overall detoxification of the tissues through improved circulation. Hedgerow by agua consists of six ingredients: lemon balm, rosemary, St John’s Wort, peppermint, comfrey and marigold, all of which are delivered through the medium of massage, utilising techniques derived from herbalism and aromatherapy. All of the treatments are centred around sustainability and selfsufficiency, aiming to educate and inspire the understanding that we can harness the power of nature to be healthy and to provide that next level care. This is a chance to experience a walk on the natural side.. SEA CONTAINERS LONDON

20 Upper Ground, SE1 9PB 020 3747 1000 seacontainerslondon.com

harrods.com A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • TREND CHARLOTTE TILBURY Beauty light wand goldgasm, £29 charlottetilbury.com

CHARLOTTE TILBURY Luxury palette of pearls, £42 charlottetilbury.com

GLOSSIER Ultra lip, shade ember, £14 glossier.com

BITE Daycation whipped blush, £24 bitebeauty.com

MORPHE Morphe colour pencil in bite me, £4.50 uk.morphe.com

MINIMAL EFFORT

CHANEL Joues Contraste, shade 71 malice, £37 chanel.com

CHANEL

EDITOR’S PICK

One of the largest trends in luxury makeup this season is all about creating a clean aesthetic

Les Beiges blush stick, £37 chanel.com

CIATE GLOSSIER Cloud paint, shade dawn, £15 glossier.com

MORPHE 9W smoke & shadow artistry palette, £15 uk.morphe.com

Dewy skin, £26 ciatelondon.com

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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Cheers

to weight loss & wellbeing this New Year

GERMANY’S

NO.1

It’s time to try Almased – the healthy way to lose weight while protecting your immune system

ven though we all love Christmas, the festive season can take a toll on our health, so it’s only natural that come January we want to recharge our batteries and redress the balance. That’s when Almased can make the difference.

WEIGHT LOSS PRODUCT

Almased is formulated using natural ingredients - soya, yogurt and enzyme-rich honey. This means it’s highly nutritious and delicious, as well as low in calories. With 30 years of scientific research behind it, you can rest assured that Almased offers healthy weight loss and optimum wellbeing without doubt the best way to start the New Year.

nutritional & natural

Our meal replacement shakes offer an easier way to lose weight, while at the same time protecting your body's essential muscle mass and boosting your immune system – so it’s not hard to understand why we’re Germany’s No 1 meal replacement for weight loss1. It may have been a well-kept secret in the past, but now more than ever looking after our immune systems has become a priority, putting Almased firmly in the spotlight. Recent clinical studies have shown that Almased not only contributes to significant weight reduction, but it also improves detrimental inflammatory markers in the body, boosting immune health2.

020 3463 9769

nutritionist@almased.co.uk

Choose between Almased’s 14-day Plan or Long-Term Plan to lose weight, keep it off and feel perfectly healthy.

www.almased.co.uk

Almased UK

Almased delivers Better weight loss vs a normal 2,000 calorie diet3 Reduced body fat while maintaining muscle4 Clinically proven weight loss vs a fat-restricted low-calorie diet5 Improved glycaemic control for Type 2 diabetes6 Rich in antioxidants and nutrients including Vitamin C and zinc7 Lose weight with two Almased shakes each day* Maintain weight loss with one Almased shake each day Free from gluten, artificial flavours, fillers, stimulants or preservatives Suitable for vegetarians, sportsmen and women, and those with diabetes

1. Euromonitor International (2020). 2. Kempf, K et al (2021). Nutrients, 13: 1-12. 3. Oliveira, C et al (2020). American Journal of Clinical Nutrition; 00:1–12. 4. Deibert, P et al (2004). Intl. Journal of Obesity; 28(10):1349-52. 5. König, D et al (2008). Annals of Nutrition and Metabolism; 52(1):74-78. 6. Kempf, K et al (2017) Diabetes Care; Jul 40(7): 863-87. 7. Vitamin C and Zinc contribute to the normal function of the immune system. *Substituting two daily meals of an energy restricted diet with meal replacements contributes to weight loss.

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • SLEEP

“The patented Contour Pocket System has a unique cushioning ability”

SLEEP SECRETS How to achieve the perfect night’s sleep? Start with the perfect mattress By EVE HERBERT

he perfect night’s sleep is the holy grail of life. The quality of our sleep defines our day – and a good night will always lead to happier, more productive and successful waking hours. But how to achieve it? Most important is, of course, the bed itself. Swedish bed company Carpe Diem Beds was founded 25 year ago by chiropractor Börje Thuleskär, a firm believer in the importance of sleep for body and mind. He sought out the best mattress on the market, but wasn’t impressed by it and one day fell asleep on a bed of heather by the sea in Sweden – where he realised that nature contoured to his body far more than any bed ever had. This led him to embark on a quest to build the perfect

bed, one that would mimic the feeling of weightlessness he had had on the heather. This quest took thousands of hours and a partnership with the Spinal Unit at Sahlgrenska University Hospital in Sweden. The final result is Carpe Diem Beds' patented Contour Pocket System, which has a unique cushioning ability. It gently yields and supports at the same time, instantly moulding to your body’s contours and changing with your every movement. You can feel the mattress embrace your hips and shoulders while gently supporting your lumbar and waist. Your spine is relieved of tension, and your muscles can finally relax. The sensation is unique: almost weightless and quite unlike most standard mattresses. Just like lying on a bed of heather on the cliffs by the Swedish sea, in fact. Carpe Diem Beds opened a showroom on Wigmore Street last year, where visitors can experience the company’s ethos first hand. Its innovative approach is visible on their website, where an interactive bed configurator introduces the available options, revealing how each bed can be matched with personal preferences. Each bed is customisable in size, finish and fabrics. Top of the range is Vindö, the most innovative adjustable bed that offers automatic lumbar and neck support, with head and foot rests that can be lowered or raised to suit your needs. It has a variety of massage functions that can be controlled via an app, as well as built in under-bed lighting. Skaftö is Carpe Diem Beds’ most exclusive continental bed and its moveable mid-section can be adjusted, with built-in back support customised by remote control. There’s no better single route to wellbeing for body and soul than rest and sleep, and that’s why a Carpe Diem bed is a longterm investment in your overall health. Oliver Bootmann, VP Brand of Carpe Diem Beds, says: “Why compromise when you don’t have to? Beds can and should soothe both the body and the soul.” CA R P E D I E M B E D S 15 Wigmore Street, W1 020 3982 3252 carpediembeds.co.uk

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TO P T R E AT M E N T S Essential treatments for a whole new you in 2022

DR MEDISPA

AIRE ANCIENT BATHS

DR MEDISPA

HYDRAFACIAL

he ClearLift laser treatment promises to do it all: lift, tighten, tone, reduce pores and pigmentation, plus contour the face in just 30 minutes. No wonder it’s hailed as ‘The Effortless Facial’ and a needle-free alternative to botox. After a short consultation, Dr Munjir Somji decides that the best treatment for me would be a combination of the ClearLift and ClearSkin, which tackles acne. First a laser causes thermal damage to my sebaceous glands to destroy the bacteria that causes acne. As well as reduce spots, it can tackle oily skin and blackheads. It’s painless, but there is a slightly tingling hot and cold sensation. By the next day my blemishes are gone. Next, the ClearLift laser causes tiny micro-wounds under the skin’s surface to stimulate collagen production and break down pigmentation.

THERMAL TOUR

et in complete candlelight, London’s newest subterranean spa is a collection of thermal baths inspired by Roman rituals, where guests are invited to experience seven thermal baths of varying temperatures. In the basement of an 18th century townhouse that was once home to Peter Pan creator, J.M. Barrie, you are immersed in candlelight, the scent of orange blossom and soothing music in the background. The concept is to see the pools as a journey, as opposed to individual baths. The last stop is the Floatarium, a huge salt pool, designed to replicate the weightlessness of the Dead Sea. 2-3 Robert Street, WC2 beaire.com

AIRE ANCIENT BATHS

8 Forest Road, Loughton IG10; drmedispa.com

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • REVIEWS LONDON HYGIENIST

HOUSE OF ELEMIS NO-TOUCH FACIAL

he No-Touch Facial promises to deliver the same transformative results as Elemis’ other treatments, but instead of getting hands-on, the therapist uses various high-tech machines and safe-touch tools. They offer two facials, an anti-aging Hydra Smooth facial and the Resurfacer, which I opt for as it works on blemishes, uneven skin tone and pigmentation. Before the treatment, a fancy camera scans my face to show which areas are dry, oily, have blocked pores and fine lines. The machine then gives product recommendations for the therapist to use during the treatment. The whole process is deeply relaxing, from the cool roller-balls which gently massage the skin to the soft silicone pads and LED light mask. An oxygen machine is also used to help my skin absorb ingredients better. After the hour-long treatment, my skin looks calm and glowing. 2 Lancashire Court, W1 uk.elemis.com

HOUSE OF ELEMIS

LONDON HYGIENIST GUIDED BIOFILM THERAPY

obody likes visiting the hygienist. Those awful spiky tools and the terrible spinning thing give us nightmares. Just the thought of all that scraping and gum stabbing is enough to make anyone postpone an appointment for another year. So it's high time that someone reinvented the methods – and that's what Guided Biofilm Therapy (GBT) has done. It's professional tooth cleaning, but not as you know it. This state-of-the-art treatment is effective and quick, yet entirely painless. Yes, even when it's scraping the most stubborn calculus deposits. The secret likes in clever airflow devices that use water and air to remove all tartar – and the whole procedure is so quick and painless that I assumed all along that we were still in the pre-treatment phase. Anna Middleton has a name in the industry as a GBT expert; she is committed to removing all bacteria that contributes to tooth decay and gum disease, whilst also removing stains from coffee, tea, wine and tobacco. In fact, many people opt for GBT before whitening, only to discover that they don't need whitening after all. 298 Fulham Road, SW10 londonhygienist.com

BROW BAR BBM BROW SHAPE & TINT

f you do one thing to improve your overall look, make it a brow treatment. The subtle difference between a scraggy, unkempt brow and a carefully shaped one totally transforms your face, while looking natural. If done well, nobody will notice that you've had your brows done, just that your face looks somehow better. At BBM, a simple brow shape and tint is quick and effective. I opt for a cautious mid-brown shade to avoid the funny heavy brow look, though some say it's best to put up with heavier brows for the first day or two for the sake of longevity. Threading is an impressive skill: with just a simple piece of cotton and some precise judgment, unwanted single hairs are eliminated quickly and (almost) painlessly. Describing exactly the shape you want can be tricky, but here the staff know instinctively what you want and what will suit you. Natural arches or angular, conceptual brows? They know best. Once shaped and tinted, my brows keep their neat appearance for several weeks. If anything beautyrelated can improve your mood in half an hour, it's a trip to BBM. 20-21 Eccleston Yards, SW1 bbmlondon.com

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When it comes to your health, you deserve the very best A world-class preventative health programme carefully tailored to your individual needs - now available right on your doorstep. Bringing together two world-renowned names in healthcare and medical research, the Health and Wellness Plan from Mayo Clinic Healthcare in partnership with Oxford University Clinic combines access to an unrivalled network of international medical experts with world-class diagnostic and screening facilities. Developed for discerning individuals who expect and deserve the very best, we help you to take a proactive approach to your health for a healthier, happier future for you and your family.

Book with us now:

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Email:

appointments@mch-ouc.co.uk

Website:

www.mch-ouc.co.uk

21/02/2020 14:54

HEALTH & BEAUTY • REVIEWS

YOUNG LDN

SACO HAIR BALAYAGE

sking for what we think we like, or what we're used to, only leads to one thing: the hair rut. For me, the problem is highlights. I've been having highlights for so many years now that instead of looking subtly sunkissed, my hair is brassy and blonde, usually with thick roots. Or at least it was, until I came to Saco. This is a hairdressing school as well as a salon, so expertise levels are high. I'm here for balayage, assuming that we'd revive the blonde shades that were growing out, but immediately I'm advised that my blonde is just a smidge too blonde. Am I willing to try a shade or two darker? Of course I am. Saco transformed my hair by toning down the blonde and revealing my natural brown, only with hints of shine and clever accents. Now I look subtly sunkissed, just like I always wanted, thanks to an intricate application of freehand clour in all the right places. 4 Charlotte Place, W1 sacohair.com

YOUNG LDN FIRE AND ICE TREATMENT

oung LDN is playful yet stylish affair inside, with cheerful pops of colour complemented by the chic furnishings - just the right space for an escape from reality and a decent pamper session. My skin never seems to fare well during winter. Everything that could go wrong does, from an oily t-zone to dry patches and breakouts, not to mention the fine lines that have slowly started to creep their way into the corners of my face. I opted for the Fire and Ice treatment because it promised to resurface my skin, and I was completely wooed by the promise of a fresh start for my tired face. I was introduced to Elena, who would be my aesthetician for the treatment. She was forensic in finding out everything she could about my skin and care regime, offering some helpful tips for keeping my skin in good condition. Elena applied a scrumptious cinnamon-smelling peel to my skin, warning that it may tingle and sting a tiny bit – this was the fire component. Once removed my skin was soothed with an icy cryo ball treatment and gua sha stone massage. To conclude, I spent 10 minutes under an LED lamp to boost collagen production and improve elasticity - like basking my face in a pool of tropical sunshine. I emerge from Young LDN with a fresh glow about my face and a new smooth complexion that lasted for days. 228 Westbourne Grove, W11 2RH; youngldn.com

SACO HAI

SWANKY LED LIGHT THERAPY

he timing of lockdown wasn't great for any business, but for Kensal Rise beauty emporium Swanky it was dreadful. They had just opened a new site offering a range of new treatments from the high tech to the purely luxurious, with a focus on maintaning a supportive female environment. New decor, new products, new therapists, all ready to go – and then nothing. So it's great news that they're open – and not just for our nails. I tried an LED light therapy session, which is designed to cure literally all ills and restore life to dry, tired skin: it's a bizarre experience with a sensory deprivation feel, your face inside a light box. Then came a lash lift and tint to curl and elongate the lashes, like a perm. This is by no means a comfortable experience, as your eyes are glued together for some time, (contact lens wearers should take their specs) but results are impressive and long-lasting. Meanwhile, my brows were laminated for a stable shape. Other additions to the Swanky repertoire include waxing, massage and facials – but the friendly, supportive environment remains the same. 60 Chamberlayne Road, NW10 book.gettimely.com/swankylondon

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A DV E R TO R I A L

With Private Client by Bupa feeling good isn’t good enough for us. Our ambition for your health and wellbeing go much further. Private Client by Bupa curates exceptional health and wellbeing services, all brought together in one simple package with one single point of contact. From award-winning medical cover at home and abroad, to direct access to any recognised private hospital, medical provider, or clinic within your area of cover, and a 24/7 Global Virtual Care app for video consultations at the touch of a button. With our Ultimate health plan you’ll have a Lifecare Concierge to help you proactively manage your health journey, combined with proactive and preventive benefits such as naturopathy, cryotherapy, and vitamin treatments. We have curated a complete service for the mind, body, and being. A holistic healthcare approach designed for lifestyles not just circumstances. We’re here for you today, tomorrow, and for whatever comes next.

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • PROMOTION

“Choose one new fruit or vegetable every week and add it to your weekly shop” PRIORITISE SLEEP

It’s the first thing we sacrifice in favour of working longer hours or watching more TV. We have been conditioned to view sleep as a waste of time, as opposed to the regenerative, mood boosting, mindenhancing, muscle-repairing wonder that it is (yes, it really does all of these things). The quality and quantity of your sleep directly dictates the productivity and energy for your day. Honour your body’s need for sleep; it is the single most effective thing you can do to look after yourself. Tip: If you aren’t getting between 7-9 hours of sleep, start going to bed 15 minutes earlier each week until you reach at least 7 (ideally 8) hours. And switch all screens off an hour before bedtime.

EAT A RAINBOW

B e y o u r o w n N E W Y E A R ’ S R E S O L U T I O N Take a gentle approach with these simple yet effective strategies B y L U C Y PAT E L

s we clear the final leftovers from the fridge, our usual next step is to frantically decide on a new year’s resolution, likely centred around losing weight or going to the gym. Where most people fall short with lofty resolutions is in the planning, and many find their 1st January motivation waning by the 31st, leading to feelings of failure. The last thing we all need after the challenges of the last two years is to feel under sudden pressure to lose weight and get fit. This year, why not try a more gentle approach? Here are three simple strategies to get you moving towards a healthier you, without excessive changes to your routine.

We are all guilty of falling back on the same set of meals, week in week out. But this means we aren’t regularly giving our bodies the diverse range of different nutrients it needs to perform at its best. Simple swaps can be powerful: a red pepper has 1.5 times the Vitamin C and 11 times the Vitamin A of a green pepper. The key here is to focus on colour; the more colourful your shopping basket, the greater the range of nutrients you’ll be getting. Tip: Choose one new type of fruit or vegetable every week and add it to your weekly shop.

SOAK UP SOME NATURE

Daily, gentle exercise outdoors is one of the best things you can do for both your mind and body. You’ll get a boost of serotonin (the “happy” hormone) from being outside, and spending time looking at fractals, repeating patterns such as those found in leaves, flowers and snowflakes, is scientifically proven to reduce stress levels. Tip: Take regular breaks and aim to spend at least 30 minutes outdoors every day. LU CY PAT E L Lucy is a Registered Nutritionist and specialises in supporting women regain their health and body confidence after having children. You can find out more about Lucy by visiting. www.lucypatelnutrition.co.uk

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • PROMOTION

LIVE SMART Nooro is a start-up CBD snacking brand, started with the vision of taking CBD and nootropics mainstream

ooro was started in 2019 when the founders, Jacques and JD, began to think blending CBD and certain nootropics could be a game changer. After much rigorous testing, tasting and trialling, they found the sweet spot between focus and calm, crafting a winning combination into snack bars using uplifting ingredients. To make a Smarter Snack you need clever ingredients. CBD (Cannabidiol) is a non-psychoactive compound found in the hemp plant. It has myriad benefits affecting mood and physicality, and benefits both recovery and restful states. From the Greek words 'noo' for ‘mind’ and tropos meaning ‘changing,’ nootropics live up to their name by being memory or brain boosters. Nootropics

are natural plant extracts that have a positive effect on cognitive performance. Nooro uses Maca and L-Theanine. While nootropics won’t make you smarter, they can help boost energy levels, increase mental alertness, improve memory, heighten concentration, and encourage wakefulness. Naturally occurring nootropics (like the ones found in the Nooro CBD snack bars) even aid in promoting and improving healthy brain function. Nootropics have a positive effect on the brain’s performance through a variety of different methods and pathways. They are found to increase the blood flow to the brain, carrying vital nutrients, energy, and oxygen, encouraging better brain function. Both artificial and all-natural nootropics have been extensively studied to better understand their many advantages. While the effects of natural nootropics are not seen as quickly as synthetic ones, the benefits of naturally occurring compounds are reported to last farlonger than those which are synthetic. Nooro CBD snack bars offer a healthy dose of nootropics using only naturally nootropic-rich plants and amino acids. We’ve only begun to see what CBD, adaptogens and nootropics can do to improve our mood, mind and body. Nooro aims to help ambitious and curious minds perform at their full potential with the world’s best tasting CBD snack bars. Each bar is packed with 25mg of relaxing CBD, focus-boosting nootropics and smooth, moreish, gluten-free oats. Nooro comes in 3 flavours: Lemon + Ginger, Banana + Cinnamon & Sour Cherry + Chocolate. All bars are high in fibre and vegan with 100% natural ingredients and no artificial sweeteners. Use discount code ABNOO20 at checkout for 20% off all products across the site. Think Better, Snack Smarter! NOORO Taster pack of three, £9 getnooro.com

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& RELAX

Absolutely’s guide to London’s best spa experiences By ELLIE-MAE HAMMOND

JIVA SPA AT TAJ 51 BUCKINGHAM GATE ANCIENT INDIAN INSPIRED WELLNESS

While access to the vitality pool, sauna, steam room and relaxation area is complimentary to all guests staying at London’s Taj 51 Buckingham Gate and St James’ Court, external guests can also book in for treatments at the inviting Jiva Spa. At Jiva, Mediterranean philosophy meets Indian rituals with traditional Indian healing therapies which harness Temple Spa’s results-driven products. The ancient Indian healing therapies and wellness rituals are spectacularly different from any other spa treatment menu you would’ve come across. From aromatic foot baths, heavenly scalp massages and the use of hot compress packed with therapeutic Indian herbs - the 120 minute Nectar of the Gods treatment takes luxury to new heights. So if you’re looking for a spa that brings you something a little different, then Jiva is the place for you. 51 Buckingham Gate Suites and Residences, SW1E 6AF taj51buckinghamgate.co.uk

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • SPA GUIDE

THE LONDONER

PAN PACIFIC LONDON

AN URBAN RETREAT

WELLBEING RESET

The Londoner, the world’s first super boutique hotel in the heart of the West End, has launched The Retreat, a result driven spa and wellness sanctuary, offering individuals a hideaway haven to relax, rejuvenate and enjoy a range of innovative treatments. Each one is chosen for its use of patented scientific ingredients alongside a commitment to sustainable practices, an ethos which reflects The Londoner’s green building credentials. Offering a world-class experience tailored to all guests' needs and requirements, The Retreat’s wide range of amenities and treatments will be accessible to hotel guests and members. -

Pan Pacific London is setting new standards for what wellbeing can offer from both an educational and technological perspective. Integrating physical, emotional, spiritual and nutritional treatments and experiences, the spa treatments combine South East Asian touch, culture and ingredients mixed with Western science and clinical testing. The treatment menu features everything from one-of-a-kind 24-hour immersive experiences such as ‘flight mode recovery’, ‘sleep programme’ and ‘human performance’ to ‘seasonal ritual’ treatments based on the ever-changing weather. -

38 Leicester Square, WC2H 7DX; thelondoner.com

80 Houndsditch, EC3A 7AB; panpacific.com

THE SPA AT THE BULGARI HOTEL

USHVANI

GLAMOUR AND HIGH-TECH COMBINED

DECOMPRESSION

Not only is this one of the city’s most iconic brands, but also one of the flashiest. Five floors below the glitzy lobby of the Bulgari Hotel is a fortress of treatment rooms, saunas, swirly-onyx marble steam rooms, ice fountains and a vitality pool. Treatments include Ayurvedic healing and up-to-the-minute innovation with LED lights and radio-frequency machines. The iS Clinical Fire and Ice facial uses a mild peel and skin-plumping glycolic acid to revive and renew the skin. Plus there are holistic treatments, sleep rituals, breathing exercises and herbal compresses. -

A Grade II-listed Edwardian mansion-house is home to the sanctuary that is Ushvani. Walls and staircases are clad in the original Arts and Crafts carved panels,with the scent of hibiscus sweeping through the building. All the treatments as Asian-inspired, with their signature Malay Massage being one of their most popular experiences. The Malay Massage centres on stretching, with the therapist firmly guiding each movement, stopping to concentrate on areas that need more focus. The attention to detail that Ushvani gives to each individual's experience is one of a kind. -

Bulgari Hotel, 171 Knightsbridge, SW7 1DW bulgarihotels.com

Ushvani, 1 Cadogan Gardens, SW3 2RJ ushvani.com

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AKASHA AT HOTEL CAFE ROYAL, PICCADILLY CIRCUS DECOMPRES SION

With a gym, nine treatment rooms, a hammam, jacuzzi and sauna, you are immediately transported into a whole new world of relaxation and rejuvenation. The luxury ‘Gold Signature Hammam Treatment’ mixes olive soap with 23-carat-gold minerals for a thorough exfoliation. Alongside many classic treatments there are more unusual offerings that include water treatments in the Watsu pool and an energy healing treatment called ‘Bone setting’ run by tai chi master Andy Mack and his son Duran. This resolves tension by creating waves to clear the blockage in the body.

Located opposite Buckingham Palace, the bath house provides a must-be-tried take on the famous Russian Banya experience (similar to a cooler, more hydrating sauna.) A place for mindfulness, this is also quite a social experience, especially if you bring a friend for company as you move between the sauna, cold plunge pool and cafe area for an array of Russian food and drink, all while being surrounded by the traditional Mosaic artwork. The bath house also offers exclusive treatments and traditional therapies from scrubs and wraps to messages.

50 Regent Street, W1B 5AS; hotelcaferoyal.com

1 Grosvenor Gardens, SW1W 0BD russianbanya.co.uk

AIRE ANCIENT BATHS, COVENT GARDEN

FOUR SEASONS TEN TRINIT Y SQUARE

DISCONNECT

LUXURIOUS HAMMAMS

The Ancient Thermal Bath Experience includes a round of several pools at different temperatures: an ice pool (10oC), cold pool (14oC), warm pool (36oC), hot pool (40oC), the Flotarium (a salt-water pool with salt the density of the Dead Sea) as well as the bath of one thousand jets (36oC), a steam room with aromatherapy, and the relaxation area, where you can rest on heated marble stone and enjoy a cup of tea or fresh fruit juices. The bath experience can be enhanced with a wide range of body treatments and rituals. -

At Ten Trinity, its the beautiful Hammam suite that really differentiates this Spa. Luxury CBD wellness brand Apothem has teamed up with Four Seasons Trinity Square to launch the UK’s first CBD Hammam Ritual. The treatment begins with a traditional hammam, where the body is covered in an exfoliating scrub to cleanse and purify the skin. Next is a full CBD massage to stimulate the lymphatic system whilst detoxifying and relaxing the body. -

2-3 Robert Street, WC2N 6BH beaire.com

10 Trinity Square, Tower, EC3N 4AJ fourseasons.com/tentrinity

THE RUSSIAN BATHHOUSE A TRADITIONAL RUSSIAN BANYA

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • SPA GUIDE

HEDGROW BY AGUA AT SEA CONTAINERS LONDON, SOUTH BANK UNWIND BY THE RIVER

The Thames-side river hotel has transformed this part of the south bank, and is the home of Hedgerow by Agua, the spa that offers treatments that match your needs with the changing seasons. Agua London may just be the first spa with a seasonal treatment menu designed to use the best of British Hedgerows. House-made herbal salves, butters and blended oils are staples on the signature menu. This winter, the ingredients that Ague Hedgerow are focusing on are: rosehips, elderberry and thyme. Winter is associated with nurture, hibernation, rest and resilience and this is why these ingredients have been hand picked. Agua London at Sea Containers London, 20 Upper Ground, South Bank, London SE1 9PD seacontainerslondon.com

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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for the f inest British Alpaca socks

perilla.co.uk tel: 01886 853615

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • TREND

BON PARFUMEUR Eau de Parfum 104, £107 bonparfumeur.com

AMAFFI Lucky Dice perfume, £2,700 amaffi .com

HUDA BEAUTY Kayali Invite Only Amber 23, £78 selfridges.com

FRAGRANCE DU BOIS Sahraa Eau de Parfum, £229 fragrancedubois. com

EDITOR’S PICK

DIPTYQUE Orpheon Eau de Parfum, £125 diptyqueparis.com

AESOP Miraceti Eau de Parfum, £140 aesop.com

SCENTS OF ADVENTURE

PLAYBOY Make the Cover fragrance, £22 playboyfragrances. com

FRAGRANCE DU BOIS Sahraa Eau de Parfum, £695 selfridges.com

New year, new fragrance F1 FRAGRANCES

B y PENDLE HARTE

Precious Mettle Eau de Parfum, £195 theperfumeshop.com

DIOR

GHOST

J'adore Eau de Parfum, £118 dior.com

Orb of Night Eau de Parfum, £38 ghostfragrances.com

CHANEL Coco Mademoiselle, £120 chanel.com

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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Imagine Your Exercise & Therapy in a Luxury, Private Studio

Un-Crowded & Fully Equipped with All That is Needed

Where the Therapists & Trainers Care About Your Progress Untitled-3 2

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With a Fully Dedicated Nutrition Department Untitled-3 3

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Using Integrated Myofascial Release Therapy & . . .

Evidence Based Training Programs, Tailored for You

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That Place is Studium Body Works, London W1

We are here for you, with 25% off All January Bookings By Appointment Only

Myofascial Release Personal Training Nutrition Services Postural Correction Injury Therapy Sports Therapy Yoga

106 Great Portland Street W1 Tel/WhatsApp: 07962883000 www.studiumbodyworks.com Untitled-3 5

Pilates Boxing Massage Services 16/12/2021 17:25

SCHWINN IC8 INDOOR CYCLE

“Infinite resistance levels and a range of sweat-inducing programmes”

FIT FOR 2022 Optimise your home routines with equipment from Fitness Superstore

SCHWINN IC8

 Immerse yourself in the world of virtual races and trainer-led studio classes from the comfort of your own home with the Schwinn IC8 Indoor Cycle. Delivering a smooth, quiet cycling experience that’s simply hard to beat, the IC8 is a musthave for those intense cycling sessions. The IC8 comes complete with 100 micro-adjustable resistance levels and a generous full colour backlit LCD display that tracks your time, distance, calories and more. What’s more, it’s compatible with some of your favourite fitness apps, including Peloton, JRNY™ and Zwift™. Try the IC8 for yourself at your nearest Fitness Superstore.

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • PROMOTION

BOWFLEX TREADMILL 56 SCHWINN AIRDYNE AD8

SCHWINN AD8

 Bring your HIIT workouts home with the Schwinn Airdyne AD8, the ultimate high intensity training tool. Thanks to its spacesaving structure, infinite resistance levels and range of sweat-inducing programmes, you’re able to target all body parts on the AD8 while torching calories fast. Keep track of your workout stats down to the exact mark with the multi-display LCD console, showing you calories, watts, time, speed and more. Capable of burning up to 80 calories per minute, using the Schwinn AD8 is as much of a mental challenge as it is a physical one – if your goal is to push yourself further than you thought possible, the AD8 is for you.

BOWFLEX KETTLEBELL

 Hit your fitness goals with the Bowflex SelectTech 840 Kettlebell, the perfect strength training addition to any home gym setup. Eliminating the need to buy multiple kettlebells, the 840 contains six weights in its compact design for a home workout tool that’s both convenient and versatile enough to keep up with you as you progress. With just the turn of a dial, you can easily adjust from 3.5 to 18kg, rapidly switching from one exercise to the next. Simply select your desired weight and lift the kettlebell out of its dock, with its ergonomic handle A HEALTHY START TO LIFE IS KEY AT WILD TRAINING offering a secure grip throughout. BOWFLEX SELECTTECH 840 KETTLEBELL

BOWFLEX TREADMILL 56

 Complete with a breathtaking 22” HD touchscreen, the Bowflex Treadmill 56 truly stands out from the crowd. A top-of-the-line cardio offering, the Treadmill 56 provides the coaching, motivation and variety you need to stay immersed in your fitness journey. Elevate your runs with inclines from -5% to 20%, striding on a deck that’s large enough to accommodate all users and is enhanced with Comfort Tech™ cushioning technology. Compatible with the JRNY™ app, runners can experience voice-coached workouts that automatically adapt as your running improves, explore 50+ scenic locations from around the world, or stream shows from existing Netflix, Amazon and Disney+ accounts.

BOWFLEX MAX TRAINER M8

 Gear up for a fitter you with the award-winning Max Trainer M8 from Bowflex – your answer to maximum calorie burn in less time. Featuring the innovative 14-minute MAX Interval™ workout, this world-renowned machine combines intense intervals with short recovery times to deliver the results you want in under a quarter of an hour. At a fraction of the size of most ellipticals, the M8 is the epitome of form meeting function. Its small footprint means you can get a gym-quality workout, enjoying personalised coaching and trainer-led sessions with JRNY™ app compatibility, from nearly any room in the home.

BOWFLEX MAX TRAINER M8

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T TWO WHEELS

GOOD Designing the Future: Safe Cycling Infrastructure for Women H E A D S T R O N G H E L M E T, H E D O N . C O M

By BEN MERCER

he pandemic gave people a muchneeded health boost. Regular jogs around the park, digital home workouts, and cycling proved to be the most popular exercises and saw a significant upturn. In fact, cycling increased from 8% to 13%. Another intriguing pattern emerged in biking. The number of cycling trips made by women in the UK increased by 56% in 2020. But what is it that pushed women to hit the roads on two wheels? With the majority of people working from home during the pandemic, and since fewer people were commuting, the roads became quieter. The study performed by the Department for Transport (DfT) showed that the number of bike rides for transport use fell by 20%. However, the number of leisure rides rose by 75% compared to 2019. Locally, Hackney and Lambeth saw the largest increase in London, while Maldon and Copeland make up the other areas with the biggest rise in weekly cycling trips. Hackney, for example, experienced an increase of 23% compared to the previous year. Simon Munk, a campaigns manager for the London Cycling Campaign, commented:

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • CYCLING

BORIS JOHNSON ENVISIONS THAT AFTER COVID-19 THERE WILL BE A “GOLDEN AGE OF CYCLING” “Across England, these numbers make it clearer than ever that there is a huge untapped potential for many more people to ditch cars and cycle instead, and that women particularly will cycle much more if they’re able to do so without having to ride amongst lots of fast-moving motor vehicles.” In 2020, the cities that had the lowest consistent congestion levels were Edinburgh, London, and Hull, shown by TomTom’s Traffic Index ranking. Respectively, that’s 22%, 18%, and 18% less traffic than in 2019. The results go hand in hand with the COVID-19 boom. 21 UK cities saw increased congestion levels in January and 16 saw an increase in February. By contrast, congestion levels significantly decreased in 25 cities each month between March and December. But, as traffic is reaching pre-pandemic levels, the government needs to rethink how to make the roads safer for women cyclists. Thankfully, plans are in place, and they start

with improving the cycling infrastructure. Separated cycle lanes from road traffic are a must. While it may be impossible to limit traffic on the roads, proper infrastructure can aid in separating cycle lanes from motor traffic, says Rachel Aldred, a professor of transport at the University of Westminster. These lane separation implementations don’t have to be too expensive. Nevertheless, a line of paint won’t cut it this time, and proper infrastructure is needed. This will encourage women to pick up cycling as they express stronger preferences for “protected facilities”. According to Sustrans’ Bike Life cycling assessment from 2018, 76% of surveyed women say that they would find cycle routes that are physically separated from traffic along roads very useful. Women have a stronger preference for separated cycle lanes because it gives them a sense of security. But when the government fails to address those factors, women may feel excluded. Moreover, this hinders women from engaging in sufficient levels of physical activity as they don’t feel safe enough on the roads. The British Heart Foundation Physical Inactivity Report 2017 shows that there were 11,800,000 physically inactive women compared to a mere 8,300,000 physically inactive men in the UK. To combat this issue, the UK government and local authorities need to focus on designing urban environments that cater to both men and women. According to the Sustrans’ Bike Life cycling assessment, 74% of women living in the assessed cities would appreciate more investment spent on cycling. The UK government is addressing the safety of women cyclists. In May 2020,

a £2 billion investment for cycling and walking infrastructure was made. Prime Minister Boris Johnson went as far as envisioning that after COVID-19 there will be a “golden age of cycling”. The road to improving the cycling infrastructure will include pop-up bike lanes featuring safe spaces for cycling, wider pavements, and cycle and bus-only corridors. Another trend amongst women cyclists is that they tend to make shorter bike trips than men. This calls for developing direct routes. The majority of cycling infrastructure that connects outer to inner city caters for men. The socalled cycling superhighways don’t take women’s cycling patterns into account. Instead, safer outer-to-outer cycling routes and off-road routes are needed. A study has found that female cyclists are almost twice as likely as male cyclists to be subjected to harassment incidents and “near misses”. Rachel Aldred, who led the study, attributed the road harassment towards women to women’s generally lower average speed than men. The study shows that drivers tend to be more careless or arrogant towards cyclists who are holding them up or blocking their way. With more direct routes that are properly separated from the roads, cycling amongst women will increase as they’ll feel safer on the road. Although progress has been made in terms of facilitating a safer environment for female cyclists, we still have a long way to go. But by raising awareness about the issue, we’re set for success. Ben Mercer’s Leisure Lakes Bikes is an electric bike retailer leisurelanebikes.com

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • FITNESS

FITNESS

FIT

TALK FIVE MINUTES WITH... JOSH AT STUDIUM BODY WORKS

NOTES

By ELLIE-MAE HAMMOND

What is Studium Body Works and what do you do here? Studium Body Works is a luxury, uncrowded and byappointment only-Personal Training, Rehabilitation & Boxing Studio, in the heart of London’s West End. We are a team of highly qualified health care and fitness professionals, most of whom have competed at the highest level of sport, and we have made the conscious choice to do this job and at a standard of excellence. Is it the training programs and therapy techniques themselves that hit that standard? Our training programs are evidence based. Adaptable and are integrated with our Myofascial & Combination Therapy, which is highly successful, but that is only part of the experience here. First, we practice the highest standard of customer service as a baseline and then deliver the very best for each individual client and patient. What sort of clients and patients do you get here? It’s mixed. We have a whole roster of amateur athletes, an explorer (South Pole right now), Many post-op rehab, five professional combat athletes, but surprisingly most of our patients and clients lead a stressful work life and need postural strength training and therapy as well as the release of exercising regularly. What services are on offer here at this fantastic space? We offer personal training, Myofascial Release & Combination Therapy, postural strength training, real boxing & kickboxing training, nutrition services, yoga, Pilates, and massage services. studiumbodyworks.com

B OX I NG CL EVER Take a physical step into learning the art of self-defence

ris Pace, COO of Kobox in London, explains the benefits of boxing, offers beginner’s tips, and why it’s especially important for women to enjoy the sport.

THE IMPORTANCE OF WOMEN LEARNING TO BOX Boxing will help women to feel more confident as it is a reminder that we can indeed become good at a skill that is so heavily dominated by masculinity. We are strong, we are athletic and we are powerful. Boxing requires all

of these elements and knowing that I, and other women, possess these traits is empowering in itself. I think every woman should try boxing at least once.

THE FITNESS BENEFITS Physically, boxing is incredibly demanding. It is a full-body activity that is going to get you burning calories, developing lean muscle and strengthening your joints. You may be great at lifting weights, or running 10km, but if you’ve never boxed before, you’ll soon know about it once you start, feeling the burn in places you didn’t even know you could.

THE MENTAL HEALTH BENEFITS Energy, empowerment and endorphins. Every punch is like a mental and physical release. You have to step outside of your own head, drop all of those life worries and just be in the moment, mental clarity and focus. Combine that with improved hand-eye coordination, cardiovascular fitness, muscle and joint strength and some dancefloor music, you will walk out of KOBOX class feeling strong and powerful.

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NATASHA OLIVANT

EQUESTRIAN GOLD AT

GOODWOOD

How the Classical Riding Academy caters to beginners as well as experienced riders

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WELLBEING • PARTNERSHIP BEAUTIFUL IBERIAN BRED HORSES ARE PLENTIFUL AT THE CENTRE

“WE GIVE OUR CLIENTS THE TOOLS TO BECOME AUTONOMOUS AND ENLIGHTENED AS HORSE PEOPLE”

PHOTOS BY TOBY ADAMSON PHOTOGRAPHY

HORSE RIDING IN THE STUNNING GROUNDS OF THE GOODWOOD ESTATE

estling on the leafy 12,000 acre Goodwood Estate is a more traditional form of horsepower, which is having a renaissance thanks to a dynamic young horsewoman with a passion for classical horsemanship and the midas touch. The establishment is the Classical Riding Academy, a stunning riding centre with a passion for 'mindful horsemanship' founded in 2016 by Natasha Olivant. Since their foundation, Natasha and her passionate team have built a solid reputation for delivering unparalleled riding experiences for both beginner and experienced horse riders that continues to welcome clients from all over the UK,

BIOMECHANICS IS A KEY PART OF TRAINING RIDERS AT THE CENTRE

including London and the Home Counties. So who are these clients, and what brings them to Classical Riding Academy? "Our client base is so diverse," explains Olivant. "We have clients who have never sat on a horse before in their life, Iberian horse enthusiasts, enthusiasts of classical dressage, lovers of horses and the horse riding journey and a fair sprinkling of A-list celebrities who enjoy riding with us. We aim to inspire people and send them home with good horsemanship tools which will benefit any horse they may come into contact with in the future. We may be in the business of helping riders, but ultimately our primary motivation is helping horses." This primary focus on the wellbeing of the horse is at the heart of the centre and is imperative for any rider wanting to get the best out of their time at the centre as Natasha explains: "Our goal for riders is that they are self-aware and mindful of the responsibility they have to be the best version of themselves in the saddle for the sake of the horses they ride. By this, I do not just mean our horses, but we give them the tools to become autonomous and enlightened as horse people in general, with transferrable and portable skills. Our clients understand how to connect with a horse and how to have a meaningful partnership with a horse. It's a holistic thing, and to be a good horse person requires an understanding of horse behaviour and how to ride well. I guess you could say we are looking to produce enlightened riders who understand the journey is the important bit rather than the destination and anything worth having is worth working for - good riders didn't become good by accident." This 'journey' is reflected through their unique pathway training system, which

allows riders to progress from mechanical horse lessons and to master the basics in a controlled environment to enjoy the ultimate accolade, learning to ride advanced dressage movements on one of their elite Iberian dressage horses. "We are unusual in our approach as we embody rider biomechanics, rider psychology and natural and classical horsemanship upheld by the scales of training. It is this fusion that allows us to give riders the skillset that will enable them to communicate more effectively, become better horsemen and women and develop a relationship with the horse that is based on mutual respect and trust. At Classical Riding Academy, we believe learning should always be fun, engaging and positive. Everyone should feel like a winner (including the horse) as we navigate through this fascinating world of discovery to go onto achieve incredible things between a human and a horse. Once you understand the magical relationship and learn to speak their language, there really is nothing like it." For enquiries & to book classicalridingacademy.com

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S TAY I N B E D The ultimate luxury is taking time to unwind in a bed so comfortable that you never want to leave

15 W I GM O RE ST REET I LO ND ON W1U 1PE I +44 ( 0) 20 3982 3252 I CAR PED IEMBED S.C O.UK STO CKHOL M

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INTERIORS

MERCURY RISING CA ST R A D S

Castrads’ in-house designers created an entirely new, extremely comprehensive range of radiators. The Mercury comes in 14 different sizes, with a customisable length to ensure you get the proper heat output. The Mercury was inspired by traditional column radiators found in Victorian homes across England. The versatility, simplicity, and slim profile of this radiator range make it perfect for just about anywhere in your home. castrads.com

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

Interior inspirations 90 • A bespoke terrazzo kitchen 96 • Trend forecast 104 A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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INTERIORS N OT E S Ideas, designs and styles for your home By PENDLE HARTE

COLOUR POP HUB SCH

For the current collection, Hubsch's inspiration was very diverse. The designers dug into former design periods, art, and to their surroundings to find out how people live and use their furniture. ‘We experimented with new techniques, made new material combinations and explored our love for colours in new ways,' they say. We love these colourful glass candlesticks. hubsch-interior.com

TO P TA B LE ILINKA

A table dressed with beautifully made tablecloths, placemats and napkins that are coordinated with the tableware is an absolute joy. Ilinka works with a variety of colours on 100% linen or linen combined with cotton for easier wash and maintenance. ilinkacollection.com

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INTERIORS • NOTES

TA K E FIVE Candles DIPTYQUE Patchouli candle, £49 diptyqueparis.com

CO O K SHOP

M ATC H P O I N T

MEYER

CASTRADS

Castrads manufactures custom-built, custom-finished radiators as well as controls and fittings. Inspired by the past but always looking to the future, these products combine classic form and enduring functionality with the most up-to-date technology. castrads.com

As winners of the coveted Red Dot design award, what sets the Meyer Accent Series apart is the design details. A minimalist’s dream, the series is designed by female designers, engineers and researchers to cook the widest variety of foods with the fewest possible pieces into one range. meyer.com

LES SENTEURS Foret Foray candle, £48 lessenteurs.com

MILLER HARRIS Tea candle, £50 millerharris.com

JOHN LEWIS Pixel scented candle, £22 johnlewis.com

CLOUD BURST AXOLIGHT

NEILL STRAIN Fragranced candle, £65 neillstrain.com

Between design and art, the Italian-designed Cloudy oversized pendant lamp dominates the space with its strong installation power and a fluctuating stage presence of great impact. £2,352. lampcommerce.com

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Sounds Better Together

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REMASTERING R E M A S T E R I NTGH E H O M E CRI N EM AA S TEEX RPI N EM EG RIENCE T HSOTMEER ICNIG N E M A E X P ETRHI E NHCOEM E C I N E M A E X P E R I E N C E RH EE MA

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confirm that this is and indeed a Bang & See Olufsen television experience. Flexibility to build expand system over time. Flexibility to build expand your system ov image clarity, and aand superior of dynamic sound. Experience it range atyour your local Bang & and Olufsen store. Terms conditions apply. on.beo.com/100days. Get upgraded at your local Bang & Olufsen store. Experience at your local Bangyour & Olufsen Experience itover at your Flexibility toit build and expand systemstore. time.local Bang & Olufsen sto E Oyour SOU Nlocal D B A LBang ANCE & - £Olufsen 2250 €Xxx Get upgraded BFrom at store. B E O P L AY A 9 - £ 279 9

Experience it at your local Bang & Olufsen store.

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BANG & OLUFSEN OF EALING

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22/09/2

INTERIORS • TREND JONATHAN ADLER Paule Marrot blue brown print, £POA jonathanadler.com

ELIZABETH OCKFORD Gertrude Indigo, £145 elizabethockford.com

ELLA JAMES

KIP & CO

JONATHAN ADLER

Dusk Blue Velvet Duvet Cover, £179 antipodream.co.uk

Natural Rattan Three Tier Storage Unit, £225 ellajames.co.uk

Ripple accent table, £1,220 jonathanadler.com

LIGNE ROSET Togo Sofa In Kyoto Blue Purple Leather, £POA ligne-roset.com

EDITOR’S PICK

HK LIVING Ceramic 70s mug, £6 folkinteriors.co.uk

CIELSHOP Velvet striped cushion, £39.99 cielshopinteriors.com

BOBO 1325

VERY PERI

Pantone's colour for 2022 is a joyous purple/blue

CIELSHOP Metal Table Lamp, £119 cielshopinteriors.com

EDITOR’S PICK

By P E N D L E H A R T E

And Thats The Tea Navy, £180 bobo1325.com

BOBBI BECK Midnight Bold Tropical Leaf Wallpaper Purple, £95 bobbibeck.com

CIELSHOP Blue glass sundae dish, £16 cielshopinteriors.com

PASH CLASSICS Jacobsen Style Egg Chair, £679 pash-classics.com

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Energy Efficient Timber Windows and Doors Beautiful windows and doors, made in the UK. Preserving the character of your home, while incorporating double glazing, where permitted.

01344 868 668 www.sashwindow.com

CURTAIN CALL INSPIRED INTERIORS Our redesigned and extended showroom is now open, incorporating a large Luxaflex design studio showing the latest motorised blinds, nestled alongside nearly new curtains and a huge choice of fabrics to be made to measure as curtains and blinds Please call for Showroom appointments

Opening Hours: Tues-Sat 10am to 5pm • Closed Wed from 1pm 52 Friars Stile Road, Richmond, Surrey TW10 6NQ 020 8332 6250 • curtaincall@blueyonder.co.uk

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INTERIORS • PARTNERSHIP

D R E A M S P A C E How to design your bedroom for sleep comfort as well as aesthetics By EVE HERBERT

S “The look is luxurious but minimalist, and the neutral tones are designed to be mixed and matched”

Swedish bedrooms are world-leading for their fusion of nature and innovation, and for their muted, minimalist aesthetic and clean lines. One brand that embodies this is Carpe Diem Beds, a household name in Sweden, associated with the ultimate in sleep comfort and design credentials. Treating sleep as a luxury and yet also a necessity is one of their core brand values – and therefore crafting a serious space for it is paramount. Carpe Diem Beds' ethos centres on creating a cohesive bedroom, incorporating a range of considered pieces that complement the bed as centrepiece, with a dedication to optimising the bedroom environment as an oasis of calm (and thereby revolutionising your sleep). While choosing the perfect mattress for you is at the heart of the in-store experience, there’s a strong focus on bedroom design and streamlining, so that the bed you choose can be housed in an environment that’s conducive to optimum sleep health. For the UK market, Carpe Diem Beds introduced 36 different Designers Guild fabrics for beds and headboards that can be colour matched with carpets, cushions and curtains. Rui Franca of the Wigmore Street showroom explains: “In selecting the fabrics we look at colours that are neutral and subtle. Bright colours are energising and we need to be relaxed in a bedroom, so no oranges or shiny finishes. It’s all about neutral tones. Scandinavian design usually keeps tones neutral to create a sense of calm in the mind.” Fabrics are beiges and greys with some darker tones and maybe some light pinks at the colourful end of the neutral palette. “In store we have access to side tables, carpets and throw cushions. We have a slick metal side

table and lamps too, with finishes in chrome and marble, all in calming soothing tones.” The look is luxurious but minimalist and the neutral tones are designed to be mixed and matched, alongside lifestyle products such as kimonos, slippers, sleep masks and scented candles. All this high-tech innovation is fundamentally grounded in a respect for nature and craftsmanship. Using the best and most sustainable raw materials including slow-growth Nordic pine, Talalay latex and organic cotton, expert bed-makers craft each bed by hand in a Swedish manufacturing facility. Each bed is built from start to finish by the same person, who signs the frame at the end as an ultimate marker of quality. Carpe Diem Beds’ innovative approach is visible on their website, where an interactive bed configurator introduces the available options, revealing how each bed can be matched with personal preferences. Each bed is customisable in size, finish and fabric, with a variety of headboard options. CA R P E D I E M B E D S 15 Wigmore Street, W1 • 020 3982 3252 carpediembeds.co.uk

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STONE

AGE

How artist Francesca Anfossi designed and commissioned terrazzo worktops for her Camden Town kitchen By EVE HERBERT

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• SPOTLIGHT • XXXXX INTERIORS XXXXXXXX

“In Italy, terrazzo is used everywhere from floors to wall tiles, as a ‘simpler’ version of marble”

London-based Italian artist Francesca Anfossi is naturally creative; as a multidisciplinary artist her work encompasses ceramics, workshops, cooking classes and communal events. She provides opportunities for participants to learn new skills and form new social bonds. So when she decided to design the kitchen in her new Camden home, there was never any doubt that there would be originality, imagination and innovation involved. Given Francesca’s heritage, terrazzo was the logical choice. “It’s a material I’ve always been around in Italy, it’s used everywhere from floors to wall tiles. I like the idea of it as a ‘simpler’ version of marble, something humble and less precious, but with links to my inheritance.” Francesca was most interested in the creation of a bespoke terrazzo to combine her own work with ceramics. Diespeker was the logical choice as an experienced maker of bespoke terrazzo based in London, as Francesca wanted to be physically involved in the process. “When I visited, the owner John Krause was especially friendly and approachable. He was very positive and interested in working with an artist with a new idea and new material.”

Francesca’s aspiration was to use ceramic pieces made in collaboration with her children within the off-white and marble mix terrazzo base. “We wanted to include lots of different objects related to cooking; we made over 100 pieces in terracotta clay from spoons and knives to figurines and abstract shapes. Now it is a true family piece, the centre of our home and something we take pride in.” She created a digital sample using a classic base and the team worked to match

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Call now to bring personality to your home heating. Castrads’ bespoke radiators are efficient, beautiful and unique to your home.

020 3397 7295 w w w. c a s t r a d s . c o m

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“It was a wonderful experience to get involved in this hands-on way.” it. She then sent a number of ceramic pieces to be used in samples. “I fired the ceramics at a high temperature, and they needed to be tested for strength.” As well as ceramic, the design uses primary colour glass pieces; yellow, blue and red. The idea came from her house which has stained glass windows – on sunny days beams of light shining through the glass makes shapes on surfaces, which she wanted to replicate. Francesca visited Diespeker’s

Bermondsey factory to place the pieces within the moulds. “It was a wonderful experience to get involved in this hands-on way.” When the terrazzo was set, ground and polished, Diespeker’s installation team went to Camden to install the new surfaces. This beautiful, unique terrazzo was made from a resin base. The project required two worktops with a cut-out for the hob, and two splashbacks. The worktops, although a standard thickness and edge, were unusually wide at 900mm. Francesca had also set the bespoke team a challenge when she commissioned a sink in the same terrazzo to be cast as a single piece. The result was a triumph and the sink is a truly stunning element within the new kitchen. The artist is pleased as punch with the result. “I love it, I’ve used marble before and this time I wanted something that was both functional and more playful and richer in content.” Francesca enjoyed the process so much that she would be delighted to accept commissions for ceramic shapes from anyone keen to create their own custom-made terrazzo designs.

FRANCESCA ANFOSSI Francesca’s work celebrates functionality and exchange, based on some of our most basic activities: cooking, playing and sharing. Anfossi is the co-founder of Rochester Square, a dynamic space in London dedicated to sociallyengaging projects and artistic collaborations. She is the winner of the Whitegold International Ceramic Prize, St Austell, UK 2020-2021. Previous projects: Creative Learning Programme, Residency, Whitechapel Gallery, London, 2020. Square meal, Frieze art fair VIP Programme, London, 2019. francescaanfossi.com @fraanfossi

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INTERIORS • HOME OFFICE

1 W O R K S P A C E DESK DESIGNS FOR SPACIALLY COMPROMISED HOMES

SLIM LINE

S WO O N E D I T I O N S

At only 40cm deep, the Fresco desk is a space-saving design and its full-width drawers maximise its storage potential. Create a nook in a bedroom or a landing and it'll be a stylish one too. £329 swooneditions.com

F L AT PAC K PEPPER SQ

The perfect desk for a pop-up home office, the Scandinavian Hagen desk folds flat when not in use but still makes a sturdy workspace when needed. £699 peppersq.com

I N T H E ZO N E DULUX

Sharing a space? Define your own boundaries by painting the area around your desk to create the illusion of a dedicated and private zone. dulux.com

C A N DY C R U S H W I L D A N D WO L F

A designated colour scheme is another way of marking out your own territory – we love this pastel scheme from wildandwolf.com

S H A R E D S PAC E C U C KO O L A N D

Create a practical and stylish spot for work and play with the Brooklyn Height Adjustable Desk from Oeuf NYC. With three height settings, it can be adapted by every member of the family. It also includes three removable storage boxes. £545; cuckooland.com

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Touch the quality, see the style, feel the difference There’s feature walls and then there’s HYPERION FEATURE WALLS

The Old Firestation | 67 High Street, Ascot SL5 7HP | 01344 620211

www.hyperiontiles.co.uk

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INTERIORS • PARTNERSHIP

“The latest interior trend for 2022 is luxury feature walls and acoustic wall panelling”

FEATURE WALL Absolutely takes a closer look at Mikodam panels, the latest range to be found at leading independent business, Hyperion Tiles

yperion Tiles is a leading independent tile stockist of porcelain tiles, stone flooring and statement tiles. Their showroom in Ascot, Berkshire, showcases their range of inspirational surfaces for professional and private clients. They are very much a design-driven company who are constantly looking to bring in products that encompass current trends alongside their timeless classic collections. Within their showroom they aim to create a relaxed informal atmosphere where you can freely browse and gain creative advice and insights from their team, who will happily share their knowledge of the product ranges. Their friendly team will be happy to assist you on any size project.

They cater for all budgets and are keen to help you find the perfect fit for your needs. The latest interior trend for 2022 is luxury feature walls and acoustic wall panelling. Mikodam is the new and most fashionable way of treating your spaces. Mikodam panels, with their enticing forms and material palette, offer abundant inspiration to their users. The forms Mikodam offers are shaped with acoustic calculations and aesthetic requirements in mind. The use of these products on walls and ceilings will allow even distribution of sound preventing acoustical defects. Despite their complex designs, application of Mikodam panels is fairly easy. For wall applications they are mounted onto a rail system, and they can be applied onto the ceiling in a similar manner or can be suspended. Currently, Mikodam offers 15 standardized lines, each with a style of its own, as well as two lines with parametric designs. The parametric lines are available for custom production, and adaptable to any interior skin. Mikodam is a supplier to both commercial and residential sectors; some areas the panels can be used are retail, display design, cultural and entertainment spaces, hotels, bars, lobbies, restaurants, and AV spaces such as home theatres and podcast rooms. Mikodam panels are unique products that have no equivalent in the market. The panels are boxed products that are easily ordered, shipped, and stored. The brand combines its deep-rooted knowledge of traditional design with a forward-looking attitude in modern design. The Mikodam team states that while designing they always consider what increases an interior’s quality, how it could reach its full potential, and how the users can reach complex compositions that come with ease pleasing the aesthetic appetite. Mikodam aims to be part of an intellectual community sharing ideas and a passion for design. HYPERION TILES 67 High Street, Ascot, Berkshire, SL5 7HP 01344 620211 hyperiontiles.co.uk

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T H E

N E W

L O O K

What does the new year hold for our homes? Here’s a look at trends for 2022

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WHITE WALLS

 Everybody is bored of navy, weary of inky charcoal and tired of pale grey. White walls are looking very fresh and appealing right now, especially when combined with other trends including plants and teak furniture. But it’s not as simple as you might think. Builders’ brilliant white is a definite no, and finding the exact shade for your space will require countless tester pots that may look incredibly similar but are in fact worlds apart. The wrong white is definitely not a trend for 2022. habitat.co.uk

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INTERIORS • TREND

RETRO

 Retro is never not on trend, but for 2022 there’s a look towards the clean lines of 1960s modernism. Think teak furniture, coloured glass objects, angular lamps and geometric patterns. Danish design brand Hübsch, formed in 2010 by Flemming Hussak, Jannie Krüger and Daniel Henriksen, has a retro aesthetic with a contemporary feel, with its stylish glass accessories, crafted wooden furniture and Scandi simplicity. hubsch-interior.com

TEXTURED FABRICS

 Throws, cushions and upholstery in a variety of textures add a patina to an interior that will counteract and soften starker elements or angular furniture. Linens, wools, crinkled cottons and fringing will all create a warm feel, while mixing and layering different textiles adds visual depth. Rugs in seagrass or sisal will complement shearling accessories, and linens in saturated hues create depth and contrast. brosteecopenhagen.com

SUSTAINABLE MATERIALS

 This is much more than just a trend, and combining creativity with sustainability is a focus for the future. Hadeda’s Malawi cane furniture is all woven and built by hand. Every piece in the collection of chairs, love seats, loungers, tables and headboards is a one-off, woven ethically and by skilled craftsmen. The cane and rattan look is still going strong, with caning on cupboards and cabinets proving another strong look for 2022. hadeda.co.uk

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INTERIORS • TRENDS

HOUSEPLANTS

 Living with plants has been a trend for some time, and it’s not going away. Plants improve your indoor air quality, they’re sustainable and plastic-free, and they invite emotional investment too. Note that we’re only talking about real plants here: faux is definitely not a good look for plastic-free 2022. This year, it’s the bigger, the better when it comes to plants. leafenvy.co.uk

CURVES

 Rounded edges give furniture an elegance and a softness that’s very 2022. Turned wood chairs, curved sofas and rounded corners on tables and cabinets create a luxe elegance that’s very zeitgeisty. And in the same vein, round mirrors aren’t going away, while circular lamps and objects add to the soft look. Scalloping on rugs and throws is another growing trend. habitat.co.uk

GREEN KITCHENS

 Kitchens have been blue for several years now, but the standard is changing and 2022’s hottest kitchens are green. Alongside a focus on sustainable living, and in a leafy, plant-filled environment, green-painted kitchen units and cabinets look contemporary and stylish. Green tiles and green floors are also gaining popularity, though perhaps not all at once. plainenglishdesign.co.uk

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INTERIORS • TREND MINDTHEGAP Twill stripe linen tablecloth, £250 mindtheg.com

BIG POT LITTLE POT Dusty Blue Stripe Cement Pot, £27 bigpotlittlepot.co.uk

JONATHAN ADLER Vice canister, £73.50 jonathanadler.com

MADE Kelsey Linen Stripe Duvet Cover, £8 made.com

MELODY MAISON Mono Stripe Wall Light , £79.95 melodymaison.co.uk

COTTERELL & CO

WALTON & CO

E D ICeramic TOR’S Humbug Small Table Lamp, £140 PICK cotterellandco.com

Riviera Stripe Runner, £18.99 waltonshop.co.uk

EDITOR’S PICK

MINDTHEGAP

EARN YOUR

Fez stool, £570 mindtheg.com

STRIPES Lining up for 2022

TORI MURPHY

By P E N D L E H A R T E

Harbour stripe napkins, £30 for two torimurphy.com

SUNDAY LIVING Yellow stripe jug, £50 sundayliving.co.uk

WALLSAUCE Ethnic Stripe wall mural, £30 per m2 wallsauce.com

CARPETRIGHT Westmoreland Twist Carpet In Zebra Stripe, £7.99 carpetright.co.uk

NISHURA EAST Patterned Bowl Stripe, £15 nishuraeast.com

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HOW HOW TO TO PICK PICK YOUR YOUR PERFECT PERFECT NORTHERN NORTHERN LIGHTS LIGHTS HOLIDAY HOLIDAY A mesmerising and spellbinding A mesmerising and that spellbinding celestial light show has fascinated humankind forhas millennia; celestial light show that the Aurora humankind Borealis is Mother fascinated for millennia; Nature’s greatest spectacle the Aurora Borealis is Mother and is one of thosespectacle epic travel Nature’s greatest experiences simply and is one ofthat those epic should travel not be missed. experiences that simply should not be missed. This is your guide to choosing the to choosing FREE bottle This is your guide the perfect Northern ofholiday sparkling perfect Northern Lights Lights holiday arrival. with The Aurora Zone,wine theon only Quote ‘Absolutely’ across Finnish holiday company solely dedicated when booking. Lapland, Swedish to helping you tick the Aurora Lapland and Borealis off your bucket list. Northern Norway with The Aurora Zone, the only holiday company solely dedicated to helping you tick the Aurora Borealis off your bucket list.

WHEN YOU SHOULD TRAVEL WHEN YOU TRAVEL Although theSHOULD Aurora Borealis occurs throughout

the year, these shimmering ribbons light are Although the Aurora Borealis occursofthroughout only visible to the naked eyeribbons once summer’s the year, these shimmering of light are Midnight Sun thesummer’s darker only visible tohas the faded. naked During eye once months the has year, from During late August through MidnightofSun faded. the darker to early April, witness the Aurora’s months of the you year,can from late August through hypnotic danceyou in the skies. to early April, can Arctic witness the Aurora’s hypnotic dance in the Arctic skies.

WHERE YOU SHOULD TRAVEL WHERE YOU SHOULD TRAVEL The Northern Lights appear most frequently at

aThe latitude of approximately 69°N; an area Northern Lights appear66°N most- frequently at known as the Aurora Zone. Within zone, a latitude of approximately 66°N - this 69°N; an area whether in Finland, Norway known asyou’re the Aurora Zone.Sweden, Within this zone,or Iceland, willinneed to escape the Norway artiﬁcial or whetheryou you’re Finland, Sweden, lights of you largewill cities and resorts dark Iceland, need toski escape thefor artificial starry skies to cities maximise chances. lights of large and your ski resorts for dark starry skies to maximise your chances.

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HOW TO HUNT THE NORTHERN LIGHTS HOW TO HUNT NORTHERN To maximise yourTHE chances of seeingLIGHTS the Aurora,

ﬁTo ndmaximise a holidayyour that chances includesof multiple seeing Northern the Aurora, Lights hunts. Mobility is keymultiple to outrunning find a holiday that includes Northern any obscuring cloud cover, travelling by Lights hunts. Mobility is keysototry outrunning snowmobile, warmso in try a minibus, or by even any obscuringkeeping cloud cover, travelling reach new heights in awarm plane,inand remember snowmobile, keeping a minibus, or even nobody knows the in vantage points better than reach new heights a plane, and remember an expert local the guide. nobody knows vantage points better than an expert local guide.

HOW TO SPEND YOUR DAYLIGHT HOURS HOW TO SPEND YOUR HOURS The Northern Lights may DAYLIGHT be your focus, but

the hours can be be justyour as memorable. Thedaytime Northern Lights may focus, but Experience arraycan of be sub-zero the daytimean hours just asescapades; memorable.tick husky sledding off your bucket list, snowmobile Experience an array of sub-zero escapades; tick across winter-white landscapes, enjoy whale husky sledding off your bucket list, snowmobile watching in Norway’s fjords, discover across winter-white landscapes, enjoy UNESCO whale sites, or explore the snow-capped forests during watching in Norway’s fjords, discover UNESCO asites, reindeer-pulled sleigh ride. or explore the snow-capped forests during a reindeer-pulled sleigh ride.

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WHERE TO STAY WHERE Why not TO staySTAY somewhere that’s just as

memorable assomewhere the winter wonderland Why not stay that’s just asthat surrounds Choose traditional memorableyou? as the winterbetween wonderland that log cabins, hotels made of ice and snow, wilderness surrounds you? Choose between traditional log lodges remote Better still,wilderness stay in cabins, and hotels madehotels. of ice and snow, specialised with a glass lodges and Aurora remoteaccommodation hotels. Better still, stay in roof; you might justaccommodation experience the Northern specialised Aurora with a glass Lights from the comfort of your the bed!Northern roof; you might just experience Lights from the comfort of your bed!

THE BRIGHTEST WAY TO SEE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS

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ASK AN EXPERT! ASK AN EXPERT! Expertise and knowledge are key to witnessing

the Northern and our Expertise andLights knowledge areAurora key toExperts witnessing have over 16 years’ TheyExperts have the Northern Lights experience. and our Aurora explored have overthe 16 best years’destinations, experience.researched They have the science and an extensiveresearched network ofthe explored thebuilt bestup destinations, expert With 60 dedicated Aurora scienceguides. and built up over an extensive network of tours, experts are on hand to help you pick expertour guides. With over 90 dedicated Aurora your trip. are on hand to help you pick tours,perfect our experts your perfect trip.

CONTACT CONTACTTHE THENORTHERN NORTHERN LIGHTS SPECIALISTS LIGHTS SPECIALISTSTODAY TODAY 336 601 0167001670 785 048 THEAURORAZONE.COM THEAURORAZONE.COM

THE BRIGHTEST WAY TO SEE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS

PRICE COMPARISON GUARANTEE No lead in prices, no hidden costs, much more included TAZ-Advertorial-Final copy.indd 1 Untitled-7 1

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TRAVEL

GOOD MORNING VIETNAM SIX SENSES

Expect total relaxation in beautiful tropical surroundings at both Six Senses destinations in Vietnam. Danielle Copperman visits Con Dao and Ninh Van Bay, page 112. sixsenses.com

Beautiful Vietnam 112 Lazing in St Lucia 118 Island life in Malta 122 A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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S E N S E of A D V E N T U R E Wellbeing and relaxation in Vietnam's two Six Senses destinations By DA N I E L L E C O P P E R M A N

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he new year is always a time where we become reflective and set positive intentions for the year ahead. It’s usually the time we make the most resolutions or mental notes and promises to better certain areas of our lives, and it’s usually subsequently the time we are most committed to adopting more positive habits and making impactful improvements to our lives and the ways we live. If this sounds familiar, this article comes at the right time. Whether you’re already planning your next holiday or looking for a more meaningful trip like a retreat, or simply reevaluating your own daily habits, I think my experiences at Six Senses in Nihn Van Bay and Con Dao will inspire your future bookings. More than just a resort holiday, the sites provide interactive and immersive experiences all built around things they prioritise in all of their locations. From sustainability and nutrition, to movement and time in nature, their formulas are not complicated. They won't encourage you to overhaul your life, but will instead meet you where you are and teach you accessible and actionable rituals and routines you can take home with you. They provide the most luxurious and restful holiday experiences, but with authentic added extras for those seeking more. I took a visit to two Six Senses locations not far from each other in Vietnam, and here’s why it was one of the best trips of my life, so far.

SIX SENSES CON DAO

My first stop was Six Senses in Con Dao, situated on one of the largest of the Con Dao's 16 islets. This Six Senses resort boasts a private white-sand beach, gourmet spins on local food, transformational spa treatments, and sustainable activities to encourage guests to learn more and get involved with local initiatives to protect the environment. Inspired by traditional Vietnamese fishing villages, villas are decked out with sustainable materials such as reclaimed teak and local bamboo, and benefit from private infinity pools and outdoor bathrooms. One of my favourite things about this site is being immersed in nature, with some rooms overlooking the ocean, and others tucked more away upon the hilltops. You are provided with a bike in order to explore the site and the island independently, and if nothing else, to get you to and from the restaurant or the beach. There is a gym tucked away in a treehouse studio, which might just be the only gym I’ve ever truly liked spending time in. For A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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those who need inspiration or motivation, there are daily classes with local teachers, from pilates and yoga, to personal trainer sessions and even aerial yoga. We were also taken on a hike through the UNESCO site surrounding the resort - all of which is protected - and loved how they encourage guests to move mindfully like this, not just to break a sweat. We felt challenged but enjoyed ourselves, all whilst exploring nature like never before. For guests looking for more R&R, the spa is calling. Accessible via large stepping stones, it is the most tranquil place to spend your time, and the treatments are incredible. They offer something for everyone, so whether you’re looking to relax, in need of some deep tension release, or looking for something more emotional or energetic, you’ll find it here. I had their signature massage complete with cupping, and I remember having a Tibeten bowl balanced on my sacrum to realign the frequency of my body and mind. The treatments are so unique, and even the strongest therapy still prioritises mental and emotional release, too. The food on-site was everything you’d expect from in-house chefs using local produce. Situated on the beachfront, you’ll enjoy clear skies in the morning and the most amazing sunsets come nightfall. For breakfast, the fruits are like trying fruits for the first time; so fresh and rich in flavour. They have an assortment of freshly made juices each day, and make their own fresh plant-based milks daily, too. You can choose from a buffet of local baked goods, fruits, cold meats and cheeses, and yoghurt with a vast choice of toppings, or venture to the other side of the restaurant and you’ll find

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“THEY RESCUE ENDANGERED TURTLES AND PROVIDE A SAFE ENVIRONMENT FOR THEM”

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TRAVEL • VIETNAM

the chefs waiting to cook you the dish of the day. I recommend the rice pancakes. In the evenings, you can take advantage of their private offerings, and enjoy some of the chefs coming to your villa or cooking for you on a private terrace, or even on the beach. Aside from the usual offerings and expectations of a resort holiday, at Con Dao you can explore their turtle farm project where they rescue endangered turtles and provide a safe environment for them to nest. You can explore their on-site gardens, and even help pick the ingredients for dinner. You can take classes with some of the staff or local experts, on topics such as how to compost and how to grow things, or you can take part in a beach clean or other eco-friendly activities. What I love about the Six Senses sites, in particular, is that they each have a notice board which is updated each morning, outlining the resorts energy expenditure and the savings from that day, as well as things like the weight of plastics collected from the beach, or the number of straws or plastic bottles saved.

SIX SENSES NIHN VAN BAY

My next stop was Six Senses Nihn Van Bay, just a short domestic flight away, and situated on a remote island reachable only by boat. Arriving there felt like a dream, and we were welcomed by staff with a refreshing juice tonic. Surrounded by natural rock formations, white sand beaches and a backdrop of towering mountains, I felt, once again, immediately immersed in nature, far removed from civilisation. The rooms were much the same, built from natural materials and local resources (they use wood from trees that have already fallen down, so as not to demolish more. They also don’t knock anything down or remove anything, instead building around the natural rock formations and working with nature instead). Here you enjoy a villa to yourself ,and each one with its private pool, sits on the beach front, so you can leave you back door and find your feet in the sand. The villas also have an open air roof top, overlooking the ocean and with views for miles. Again, as in Con Dao, you could explore and get around the resort and island by

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Reinventing the caveman

Bespoke Garden buildings

Free UPVC double glazed windows and doors

Free consumer unit with sockets and lighting

Free thermostatic Control heating

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Plastered ﬁnish, painted inside and out

andy@manhuts.co.uk Manhuts Mancaves

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TRAVEL • VIETNAM

“INSPIRED BY TRADITIONAL VIETNAMESE FISHING VILLAGES, VILLAS ARE DECKED OUT WITH SUSTAINABLE MATERIALS” bike. Here the gardens are much more vast, and you can see all kinds of trees and plants thriving; from lemongrass, mango, papaya, pomelo, kumkwat and dragon fruit to spinach, lettuce, cucumber, mushrooms, herbs, and so much more. The food, again, enhanced local produce and traditional recipes, all underpinned by simple methods and vibrant flavours. Upon arrival, we had a private wellness screening, during which the doctor assessed all aspects of my wellbeing using noninvasive technology to measure my key biomarkers. This was designed to reveal all sorts of things about my metabolism, body fat percentage, stress levels and insulin response, down to every little detail like my vitamin, nutrient and toxin levels. I liked this level of detail, and felt more inspired to explore some of their personalised wellness programs, looking at nutrition, movement and spa therapies. Just as in Con Dao, you’ll also find the same extensive daily activities and dedication to sustainability and eco-friendly excursions. I left the trip feeling not only rested, refreshed and rejuvenated, but also inspired and equipped with new rituals for both my own wellbeing, and the wellbeing of the planet, to introduce into my daily routines back home. Rates at Six Senses Ninh van Bay start from $735 (currently approx. £562) based on two sharing a Hill Top Pool Villa on a B&B basis. Rates at Six Senses Con Dao start from $700 (currently approx. £513) based on two sharing an Ocean View Duplex Pool Villa on a B&B basis. sixsenses.com A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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P A R A D I S E F O U N D

Life centres on the beach – and the hedonistic pleasure of doing as much or as little as you please – at the St Lucia resort of Windjammer Landing

By LIBBY NORMAN

t Lucia attracts more than its fair share of superlatives thanks to its reputation as a paradise honeymoon destination. But it's also a brilliant location for family holidays. The teardrop-shaped Windward Island nation – measuring 27 miles north to south – is a place of lush jungle, pirate-hideout bays and pristine sand beaches. The lofty pitons that dominate the island (and star in every tourist brochure) make for a slow but fascinating taxi journey of vertiginous climbs and ear-popping descents through

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lush banana-growing country as we make our way to Windjammer Landing Villa Beach Resort on the north-west coast. It's more than worth the ride because Windjammer Landing bagged one of the most picturesque and sheltered spots on the island. Covering some 60 acres, and with bleached white villas dotted through the hillsides to capture ocean views and sea breezes, the resort sits on crescent shaped Labrelotte Bay – pristine white sand, obligatory swaying palms and gentle Caribbean waters. Our villa is, we decide, one of the best. We have an uninterrupted view over the bay, a wooden deck big enough for a party,

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a plunge pool with space for four and suntrap terraces off both living room and main bedroom. There's also a small roof terrace above our bedroom that we only discover on the second day. Bedrooms are deliciously cool, and we keep doors shut to maintain that air-conditioned chill, but the living areas are open to the breeze, island style, with white-painted metal grilles instead of glass windows. The children love this – so too the resident birds. We get used to encountering a pair of cheeky chattering bullfinches in the living room in the mornings checking for our crumbs. The living area is spacious, with sofas (convertible, as our villa can actually take six), a large dining table and an exceptionally well-equipped kitchen – self-catering would be a breeze. The on-resort shop and larger supermarkets in Rodney Bay offer everything from comforting British biscuits and vast bags of American snacks to beef, lobsters and

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langoustines. Lovely another time, but on this longed-for and twice-postponed holiday we've gone all-inclusive. This gives us the luxurious pleasure of locking away our wallets in the safe for the duration and never worrying about meal planning. Food choices are indulgent and plentiful. Our day starts with the breakfast buffet – fresh fruit, pastries and muffins plus hot options ranging from waffles, bacon and beans to plantain and even deep-fried ginger (surprisingly moreish). Two chefs rustle up eggs your way, so the children are in heaven. Options for snacking and dining unfold smoothly through to dinner. With two beach restaurants and multiple bars, excellent local ice cream at the beach kiosk and sun-lounger service from attentive beach waiters, we can all fill up as and when we please. And we do. Cheesy chips, mini burgers, tacos, pizza or worthy and less worthy salads from Embers beach bar become daytime

favourites. We resist the all-inclusive slippery slope of starting cocktail hour early (a surefire way to be tucked up in bed by dusk), but it's good to know we have the option. We do succumb to the odd pina colada or daiquiri near the end of a hard day's lounging in the shade of a palm. This is life lived on the beach, and that includes the entertainment. I silently bless the beach animation team daily for their discreet attention to younger guests' amusement. They have an almost limitless supply of energy and good cheer that ensures spontaneous games of beach cricket, tug-of-war and other breakout events to keep hyperactive small children up to surly teens from boredom. The beach is vast and well stocked with beach games and toys – even a ping-pong table – so plenty of space for action that doesn't interfere with reading and snoozing among the sun-lounger fraternity. There's a children's creche, but we don't stray that far because the ocean is a readymade activity centre – especially with free watersports, plus diving and sailing excursions for the more adventurous. We love swimming out to the giant slide and trampoline (climb on, jump off, repeat). Meanwhile, my husband embarks on a heroic attempt to master paddleboarding in one holiday, with a few lessons from one of the watersports crew to refine his technique. We commiserate each time he returns dripping and tells us it's not as easy as it looks. Off resort trips are plentiful, with sunset cruises, deep sea fishing, jungle zip-lines, visits to the botanic gardens,

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TRAVEL • ST LUCIA

“The ocean is a readymade activity centre – especially with free watersports, plus diving and sailing excursions” Pigeon Island and volcano tours among the most popular options organised by an on-resort team from Jammin' Tours. For solo explorers, Rodney Bay (a US$32 round trip by taxi) is the nearest town for villa supplies and cashpoints, but the capital Castries is a better bet for souvenirs and St Lucian produce. The bay offers calm, almost bathtemperature, water and this may help to explain why so many families are repeat visitors. It's a truly international crowd, with guests from North America, Europe and other Caribbean islands (some are villa owners or part-owners). Casual conversations happen easily on the efficient shuttle minibuses that ferry people up and down the hillside to their villas, just as they do on the beach and at the bar. Dining choices cover all bases. We love the authentic Italian at Papa Don's and the fabulous steaks at Upper Deck, and Friday Fish Night is fun, but our regular choice is Jammers – it's easy and informal and nothing beats dining overlooking the beach. Entertainment also centres round the bar and the beach. The fireeating limbo dancers and teen-to-adult calypso band wow the children, while we are pleasantly surprised by a nightly lineup of musicians who really can sing

and play. The playlist is broad – from jazz R&B and dance to a romantic country & western singer in a dazzling white Stetson who gets the bar staff crooning along as if this were downtown Memphis. Bob Marley is a St Lucian singalong staple too and his greatest and lesser hits feature somewhere on the playlist nightly – always to an enthusiastic audience. There's even a cocktail here in his honour, carrying layered colours of the Jamaican flag and laced with a whole lot of rum. Advised and guided by the mixologists at Jammers, we do a respectable job working our way through the extensive cocktail list and settle on a favourite in the frozen, creamy and award-winning inhouse invention 14X61 – rum base (naturally), named after the latitude and longitude of this island and slipping down all too easily. Perhaps the most seductive thing about Windjammer Landing is the sense that creeps over us that this is our place. With its relaxed, do-it-your-way vibe and so much room to spread out and find a perfect spot, it's impossible to do anything but settle in and enjoy. We adults don't get round to visiting the highly rated spa this time, but find that we've shrugged off winter blues, aching limbs and layers of stress without it. We also realise on our last day that the children's iPads have been languishing, fully charged, in the safe since day two and the TVs in our villa have not been switched on once – surely the mark of a perfect check in and tune out family holiday. Windjammer Landing Villa Beach Resort offers rooms from £213 per room per night, based on 2 sharing. Premium All-Inclusive rate for 2 adults and 2 children is from £809 per night. windjammer-landing.com A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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MALTESE DREAMS This culturally rich island reveals itself to be a luxury dream destination By SA N DY CA D I Z- S M I T H

he culturally rich island of Malta sits in the Mediterranean between Europe and North Africa, its position alone proving a magnet for curious travellers throughout history. It’s been invaded or colonised innumerable times over thousands of years, and as a result displays a fascinating mix of influences including Roman, Italian, Arab, French and British. This amalgam creates an undeniable and somewhat unexpected feast for all the senses which, matched with incredible hotels, gourmet food, diversely beautiful views and the warmest of island welcomes makes Malta something of a revelation. Our two-centre Maltese adventure starts in the ancient city of Mdina. Also known as Malta’s Silent City, this fortified town perches on high overlooking the island’s landscapes and towns. The mix of medieval and baroque architecture in shades of beautiful butterscotch lines the narrow streets offering a unique opportunity to step back in history. Which is exactly what we felt like we were doing on arrival at The Xara Palace Relais & Chateaux, the only hotel in town nestling in the heart of its uniqueness. Illustrating the best of an exceptional

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combination of ancient and modern, this imposing 17th-century palace has been beautifully and sympathetically renovated and boasts only 17 unique luxury rooms and suites. We loved the opulence of our suite with its king size bed, stylish living area and enormous modern bathroom with stand alone bath, giant walk-in shower and abundant aromatic l’Occitane toiletries. From one side we looked out over the breathtaking countryside towards Valletta while our giant living room windows opened out to the elegant courtyard - the perfect wedding ceremony venue. The hotel also has great facilities for functions and weddings at The Xara Lodge just down the road with its stylish selection of interconnecting indoor and outdoor locations. Food plays a starring role at The Xara Place with sumptuous breakfasts (we loved the traditional Maltese platter) and delicious lunches in the Trattoria AD 1530 at the front of the hotel overlooking the ancient architecture. Upstairs, de Mondion has recently been awarded a Michelin Star and serves innovative modern Mediterranean cuisine atop the bastions showcasing the island’s fabulous fresh ingredients. The majesty and warmth of The Xara Palace creates an atmosphere that wraps you snugly up in its elegance and makes you feel like royalty. We kind of still do…

INIALA HARBOUR HOUSE

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TRAVEL • MALTA

XARA PALACE

INIALA HARBOUR HOUSE

XARA PALACE

“It’s the sort of place where you very quickly run out of superlatives” INIALA HARBOUR HOUSE

VALLETTA-BOUND

rom the tranquility of this characterful town it’s only a short drive to the island’s capital. Valletta is also built on a hill (always keeping an eye out for those potential invaders you see) above the Grand Harbour which is the deepest natural harbour in the Mediterranean. This cleverly constructed 16th century city unusually designed, considering the times, on a grid pattern, has an understated beauty and buzz to it and a view of the sea at the end of every cobbled street. Though nothing could come close to the views from our glorious suite at Iniala Harbour House & Residences - the ultimate in seascape panoramas over said harbour. This newly-opened totally remodelled boutique hotel is spread across four Maltese townhouses and their ancient vaults dating back to the 1600s and it’s the sort of place where you very quickly run out of superlatives. Like we instantly did when we walked into our beautiful suite overlooking the harbour (again they are all individually designed). Our luxe space in shades of blue and green encompassed three balconies (yes three) with sparkling sea and city views, the comfiest of beds, a stylish living area and a fabulous bathroom with enormous double shower. So many little touches made our stay that little bit more special - like the

fabulous Diptyque toiletries, a Nespresso machine and state-of-the-art kettle that looked spaceship-like and matched the decor perfectly with its flashing blue lights. Iniala also have their own Michelinstarred restaurant on the hotel’s top floor with more of the grandest harbour views. ION offers a fabulous tasting menu which includes one of the most delightful chicken masterpieces we’ve ever sampled. There’s also a luxury spa and indoor jacuzzi pool on site in the vaults downstairs where we indulged in rejuvenating massages and early morning heated swims and bubbles. And just across the road is their state-of-the-art gym, so beautifully designed it’s guaranteed to turn anyone into a gym bunny. Iniala’s position a short walk from the epicentre of Valletta meant we could easily explore the pretty streets with their ornate architecture on foot. The city is compact and easy to navigate plus there’s so much to see, like the magnificent St George’s Co-Cathedral and myriad monuments. As well as a generous sprinkling of bars and restaurants around every corner. Malta is an island that punches well above its weight, seriously well above its weight. A luxury dream destination. We flew direct from London on Air Malta. inialamalta.com xarapalace.com.mt A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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OPEN G N I N R MO AY 12 SATURD 2022 MARCH

Transformation through education Christ’s Hospital: The leading independent boarding school for fee assisted places T: 01403 246 555 E: hello@christs-hospital.org.uk Christ’s Hospital, Horsham, West Sussex RH13 0LJ www.christs-hospital.org.uk Registered Charity No. 1120090

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E D U C AT I O N

FACING FEARS YO U T H A N D A N X I E T Y

Climate anxiety is growing amongst children and there is a palpable sense of apprehension, burden and fears about the future. The Headmistress of Habs Girls in Elstree considers how we help young people to navigate their fears, p143. habsgirls.org.uk

Alternative Pathways 128 • Christ's Hospital 134 • The importance of knowledge 139 A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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Alternative

PATHWAYS With the conventional pathways of gap year and/or university altered by the pandemic, what about other options? We look at some CV-enhancing possibilities

S STUDYING ONLINE IS A CONVENIENT ROUTE TO TOP UP YOUR SKILLS AND BOOST YOUR CV

chool students have been short-changed by the pandemic. It is, arguably, even harder for those about to embark upon the traditional journey – that mind-expanding gap year or well-lit path into the pleasurable whirlwind of university study and social life. This is complicated by the question of finances, since the past 18 months have made some of us question whether university offers ‘bang for buck’. Some students have decided to defer, while others about to embark on A levels are considering if this will be enough to get them where they want to go – especially since graduate jobs are not as available (or as stable), as they used to be, and the burden of student debt is high. Challenges are also opportunities and we’ve considered some alternative options for 16+ and 18+ students that can provide new skills (or top up your CV), bring fresh career options – and deliver cultural exchange and adventure.

ONLINE LEARNING At one time online schools were largely the preserve of UK students living abroad, elite athletes or young actors and musicians. But with so much of 2020 schooling delivered

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remotely, many more students have discovered that this is a style of learning that works for them. Rapid evolution of technology and major investment from key education players are helping online move mainstream, making this a definite option for young people who want a different route. Pearson Online Academy UK Global has been designed to be flexible and its combination of sophisticated tech and long-established education expertise make it a good option for both GCSE and A levels. Courses prepare students for Pearson Edexcel International exams, which take place at dedicated test centres in the UK and worldwide. While the majority of enrolment takes place for students aged 14-18, there is the option for students who are slightly older to enrol. Teaching and learning are personalised – just like admissions – so Pearson Online Academy UK Global will consider applicants on a case-by-case basis. There’s plenty of flexibility. For instance, students taking (or about to embark on) their A levels can study an extra subject here. This is useful for those who want to be stretched, to take a subject not offered by their school or who want to keep options open with an extra qualification. Similarly, the 18+ student who has decided on a change of direction and wants an

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EDUCATION • PATHWAYS

additional ‘top up’ GCSE or A level to smooth the path to the next level of study can choose to get that qualification here. Students who are fully enrolled at Pearson Online Academy UK Global for GCSE or A-level study benefit from lots of extras – for instance, a Success Coach for fortnightly one-to-one coaching sessions and small group workshops and guidance on university preparation and careers planning. Fees are very competitive for independent schooling (from £5,950 full-time per academic year, excluding exam fees). While a single A level or GCSE doesn’t provide all the immersive extras of full time (with fees adjusted accordingly), there is still personalised approach and you’ll have a dedicated admissions advisor on hand to provide one-to-one guidance

and help you find the right path. Applications are accepted throughout the year. Harrow School Online also offers a route for students looking for an alternative to traditional ‘physical’ school, and with the bonus of British qualifications gained from an independent with a worldwide reputation. The online school’s first cohort joined in 2020 and its academic programme is specialist, with A levels in Maths, Further Maths,

Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Economics and Spanish. There’s also the opportunity to take the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ). For full-time students, classes and added value include a ‘super-curriculum’ programme of electives, plus academic competitions, guest lectures and additional academic study options. In other words, this is an academic programme that includes lots of mind-expanding and CV-enhancing stuff.

“Gaining qualifications via online teaching is, by default, a way to stand out from the crowd. For one thing, it shows ‘gumption’ to plot this alternative route” A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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Full-time students are expected to commit at least 25 hours a week to study – but many will do a lot more as the programme is designed to foster individual study skills and a love of learning. The typical timetable blends fixed timetabled lessons (6-10 pupils typically in a class) with flexible self-study, homework, electives and extracurricular. Harrow School Online pupils have houses – just like pupils at the school – so the social and enrichment elements are present too. There’s lots of one-to-one time and students have a Career Coach to advise them. Full-time fees are typically £5,250 a term full-time, including exams. Part-time students are generally studying or having individual tuition elsewhere and then study one or two A levels. It’s ideal if you, for instance, want to take a fourth A level and benefit from the expertise of the school’s teaching. It’s also pretty international – a bonus for anyone who loves cultural exchange opportunities. For applicants to all courses, there’s a three-stage process and the school considers each application on merit. It is worth noting that gaining qualifications from Harrow School Online or Pearson Online Academy UK Global – or via online teaching generally – is, by default, a way to stand out from the crowd. For one thing, it shows ‘gumption’ to plot this alternative route. It also shows selfmotivation, determination and discipline – all vital for successful achievement at university and likely to mark you out to employers as a candidate to consider.

ukglobal.pearsononlineacademy.com harrowschoolonline.org

GAP YEAR LEARNING The pandemic has been a disaster for students planning gap year adventures – or so you might think. In fact, the opportunities are still out there for students willing to think outside the box, take a risk and look to the long term. There’s certainly an incentive for many students to go for a gap year rather than head straight to university in the current uncertain climate. “Covid pushed a lot of students into an ‘accidental’ gap year, since the idea of starting a university experience via Zoom wasn’t particularly appealing for many recent school graduates,” says Alia Pialtos, COO at gap year review and information site Go Overseas and Board Member of the Gap Year Association.

GAP YEAR ADVENTURES ARE STILL OUT THERE – YOU CAN EVEN EARN UCAS POINTS

Brian Schofield, Head of Upper Sixth at Hurst College, has suggested that in the future students will need to treat university more like work (see page 131), and the same could be said of gap years. While future employers might appreciate your independent spirit, travel in and of itself is not particularly unusual these days – so not a USP on anyone’s CV. Where it comes into its own is in giving you pause between school and the next stage, while also adding useful skills. The trick here is in defining what it is you want to do and why you want to do it,

“Around 118,000 people in England are studying for a first degree through an FE college – around a quarter of those are under 21” says Alia Pialtos of Go Overseas. “The most impactful gap years have always had a strong sense of intentionality, even if the intention is to explore the world through travel! While defining the value of taking a gap year can be a very personal process, gap years have been significant drivers for value creation in regards to soft skills – intercultural communication, resilience, creativity, confidence, problem solving, etc.” Add in an element of paid work or unpaid volunteering – or gaining a particular qualification – and the gap year morphs into something rather more A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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DISCOVERMORE

An independent co-educational senior school for students aged 11-18 in West London

Embracing an innovative, modern approach whilst keeping traditional values at its core, Kew House School takes an exciting stance on 21st century education. With state-of-the-art facilities, a broad curriculum and excellent pastoral care, Kew House is a place where you would want to be – a place of learning and discovery, laughter and friendship.

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Book your place at one of our Open Events at www.kewhouseschool.com/ openevents T: 020 8742 2038 W: www.kewhouseschool.com @KewHouseSchool

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EDUCATION • PATHWAYS

VOLUNTEERING GAP YEARS CAN GIVE YOU CAREER SKILLS

“There’s even a new International Diploma in Volunteering available that can earn you 16 UCAS points” “impactful” and potentially useful for careers. For instance, Alia Pialtos says that au pair jobs and TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) qualifications have remained popular throughout the pandemic among young people. TEFL is a good example, as qualifications can be used abroad, in the UK at a language school or teaching English online. Pialtos adds that limited travel opportunities have made young people seek both domestic and virtual gap year options over the past 18 months or so. Looking slightly longer term, there’s no doubt that borders are starting to open up and many of the more traditional areas of gap year activity will start to flourish again. Projects Abroad, a long-established social enterprise and organiser of international volunteering and internships, is busy planning its 2022 schedule of opportunities in 25 countries – and if you can’t go to the destination you planned, there’s a full refund policy. It’s also running trips right now, and for countries with Red List restrictions, students get exemption to travel for volunteer work.

FE COLLEGES OFFER A HUGE RANGE OF COURSES

Volunteering and internship opportunities, run for students from 15+ through university and include specialist areas such as veterinary, medicine & healthcare and engineering. These can be valuable CV builders, helping prove resourcefulness, interest and aptitude for specific pathways. There’s even a new International Diploma in Volunteering available through Projects Abroad that can earn you 16 UCAS points.

gooverseas.com projects-abroad.co.uk

COLLEGE OPPORTUNITIES Further Education (FE) colleges are often neglected in the search for places – or courses – to add the right qualifications and experience. This is an opportunity missed, since there are over 230 colleges in England alone (this includes sixth form, art and land-based colleges). There are opportunities to study or (subject to vetting) retake GCSEs and A levels, take BTECs, apprenticeships and other vocational courses. Part-time and evening courses may be offered too, useful

if you want to ‘shoehorn’ in an additional qualification to boost your CV or chances of being selected onto a university course. FE colleges also offer higher qualifications. In fact, the Association of Colleges says that around 118,000 people are studying for a first degree through an FE college – around a quarter of those are under 21. Prices for college degrees can reduce your student debt burden (typical costs can be around £5,500 PA). Some FE colleges have specific strengths in areas such as art, music production, vocational medical qualifications, engineering, film and photography. There is a diversity among the student cohort at colleges – age, stage and background. If you like the idea of an educational setting where you will be mixing with people returning to learning, overseas students and your own age group, this option is worth exploring. UCAS is a good starting point on courses and pathways and, if you’re looking at local colleges seek out opinions from current/recent students, speak to careers advisors and take a look at recent Ofsted reports. A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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BY ANY

MEANS

Christ’s Hospital is not only the UK’s leading charitable school but also the largest bursary charity B y C A S PA R DAV I D

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CHRIST'S HOSPITAL

PUPILS AT CHRIST'S HOSPITAL

he school was established in 1552 and provides free or substantially reduced cost places to over 630 of its 900 pupils, more than any other organisation in the UK. Through firstclass education and exceptional pastoral support, Christ’s Hospital offers each pupil with stability and the opportunity to thrive and fulfil their potential. 98% of pupils go on to university and leavers take with them the confidence and resilience they will need to achieve success at university and beyond and to make a meaningful contribution to society in life. The total bursary (fee assisted) support given by Christ’s Hospital each year is more than £18 m and Christ’s Hospital provides 18% of all 100%+ means-tested bursaries provided by Independent Schools in the UK. Christ’s Hospital (CH) is one of the famous Royal Hospitals of London, whose foundation marked the beginning of the

social services in Tudor England. Inspired by a sermon by Nicholas Ridley, Bishop of London, the young King Edward VI instructed the Lord Mayor, Sir Richard Dobbs, to appoint a committee of leading citizens to consider remedies and relief for the City’s homeless poor. Their work, and subsequently their philanthropy, led to the founding of the five great Hospitals all supporting different needs. CH, established in the monastery of the Grey Friars in Newgate Street, embraced the task of educating and nourishing the destitute children of the City and took children of all social backgrounds and ages.

HISTORIC METHODS OF ENTRY Christ’s Hospital has been in existence for nearly 470 years and has some historic methods of entry that are attached to bursary applications. The income which makes it possible for Christ’s Hospital to continue to offer means-tested bursary

places is often derived from endowments made by generous benefactors, such as that made by John and Frances West. John and Frances West lived in the latter part of the 17th and early part of the 18th centuries. John became a wealthy merchant in the City of London and lived in a house on the site that is now occupied by the Mansion House. John and Frances had no children of their own but they did have strong family connections with Newbury, Reading, Twickenham and the City of London. Children from these areas are therefore encouraged to apply for a place at Christ’s Hospital via the West Gift Bursary fund.

CHRIST’S HOSPITAL TODAY Christ’s Hospital is an independent boarding and day school of 900 pupils with an equal mix of boys and girls aged 11-18. The school is in West Sussex just 20 miles north of Brighton. CH has its own mainline railway station with regular trains to London, Gatwick and the coast.

CHRIST'S HOSPITAL EMBRACED THE TASK OF EDUCATING THE DESTITUTE CHILDREN OF THE CITY A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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FIRST PERSON Aiysha left CH in June 2021 and is now in her first year at Loughborough University

C Pupils’ fees are assessed according to family income, so that it is a child’s ability and potential to benefit from a Christ’s Hospital education that determines their selection. This results in a social and cultural diversity that enriches our school community and offers our pupils unique opportunities as we prepare them to take their place in the world. Christ’s Hospital prides itself on delivering a vibrant curriculum that has both challenge and opportunity at its heart. The CH curriculum is made up of three interwoven parts: a stimulating academic curriculum which covers everything inside the classroom; an extensive broader curriculum which encapsulates everything outside the classroom; and a pastoral curriculum which has deep roots in the boarding house system complemented by a dynamic learning for life programme which teaches personal development. All three complement and support the progress of our pupils at every stage. Pupils’ experiences outside the classroom are challenging, varied, and rewarding.

They are about discovering and developing new and lifelong interests and talents. The school’s diverse curriculum encourages life-skills and is devised to take the pupils out of their comfort zone. An enormous range of Music, Art, Drama, Sport, and outward-bound activity is offered, including the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and Model United Nations. Christ’s Hospital's commitment to its core goal of social responsibility helps to enhance pupils' understanding of and appreciation for diversity. This commitment encourages the school to make a difference in the local community as well as further afield. If you are intrigued and would like to find out more, explore the Christ’s Hospital website to uncover the secrets of the school, their latest exam results, the achievements, and successes of the pupils, learn about their historic uniform and, of course, the school’s fascinating history which dates back to Tudor England. christs-hospital.org.uk

THE SCHOOL’S DIVERSE CURRICULUM ENCOURAGES LIFE SKILLS

hrist's Hospital (CH) has made me dream big and, as a result, my hopes for the future are also big. The impact of CH on my education and life experience has been extraordinary. The biggest things I have learnt are the power of resilience and perseverance, teamwork and the importance of enjoying yourself in the moment. Being at CH provided me with many opportunities such as participating in a wide range of sporting activities; having the opportunity to gain work experience with British Airways; challenging myself physically by going mountain hiking; experiencing the thrill of flying a glider plane at an RAF base, and more. The school has many opportunities that they throw at you – it’s up to you to take these opportunities forward and experience as much as you can. Coming from an area in east London where you see certain things happen to your friends, you can sometimes think that there is not a way out and you’re stuck. CH has allowed me to escape and experience the possibilities that an education with support can provide. Many of my friends back home are not at college or university, so to have been a pupil at CH and to have had the chance of progressing to a top university is exciting. Hearing from former pupils about their different journeys after CH inspires me further. The education I received at CH has made me realise that whatever goal I want is attainable if I work hard and smartly for it. If I hadn’t had the opportunity to attend CH, I believe that I would still work as hard but there would have been less support in overcoming obstacles. I wouldn’t have the teacher support that CH gives, the online resources and the external competition. I think without CH, I would believe less in my goals and just hope for the best, rather than go out and get the best.

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Knowledge is power

The importance of teaching knowledge in preparing our young people for the future job market

very few years, the World Economic Forum publishes a list of the top skills that employers are looking for in the next generation of employees. And with the effects of the pandemic and increasing adoption of technology transforming the jobs of tomorrow, the key competencies that our children will need to succeed in the 2025 job market are: complex problemsolving, critical thinking and creativity*. ‘Our young people need to be able to identify, analyse and evaluate situations, ideas and information in order to formulate responses, and they need to be able to imagine and devise new ways of addressing problems,’ says James Stenning, Headteacher of the high-achieving North Bridge House (NBH) Prep School in Regent’s Park. A great many schools are taking the importance of this on board and have modified and adapted their curricula

"Technologies are transformative but we can’t outsource memory to the internet" accordingly. For example, at the XP School in Doncaster, character and creativity are as important as qualifications. Pupils do not stay in their classrooms during lessons; they carry out research on their laptops in open-plan common rooms rather than sit in rows at desks. The traditional curriculum has been torn up. There are no Maths, English, Science, History or Geography lessons. Instead, the children learn through academic “expeditions” and at the end of each academic expedition, they create a product – which could be a film or book, a mural or a documentary. ‘However, it is essential that the teaching of these skills does not come at the expense

of knowledge,’ says the NBH Prep School Head. ‘Skills and knowledge are not mutually exclusive, and any curriculum model which marginalises knowledge will not succeed. We all need cultural literacy. An understanding of facts, ideas and knowledge is needed in order to operate, thrive and succeed in a free and democratic society,’ he continues. Upon joining North Bridge House Prep School in 2018 and progressing from Deputy Head at NBH Senior Canonbury, Headteacher James Stenning noticed that children’s general knowledge was often lacking – even among the brightest pupils – many of whom go on to secure places at top secondary schools. ‘Once, in a discussion about elections, a pupil asked me if you could vote for the Queen. Others thought that members of the House of Lords were elected. An understanding of our democratic institutions is important; if children’s knowledge about them is uncertain it will be much easier to mislead and manipulate them,’ says the Head and teacher of Politics, Philosophy and Economics (PPE). In order to address this, the school introduced a General Studies course in Year 5, with pupils studying modules in Politics, Philosophy, Economics, Film Studies and Art History. In Years 7 and 8

every pupil studies PPE. With the younger pupils in Years 3 and 4, NBH Prep School has redesigned how it teaches Geography, History and Science. ‘We teach content to be remembered, not just encountered. Rather than simply “doing the Romans”, NBH Prep pupils will learn and understand key terminology relating to that period. They will not only learn who Julius Caesar was, but they will be able to place him and the Romans in time in relation to Jesus Christ and 1066,’ explains Headteacher James. While the children still get the opportunity to enjoying dressing up as Romans and Greek Gods, by the time they reach Year 6, they are competently answering questions such as: “Civil disobedience was more important than legislation during the civil rights movement”. To what extent do you agree with this statement? A common criticism of knowledge-rich curricula is that the power of technology and having Google at our fingertips renders knowledge less important. “Technologies are indeed transformative,” agrees James. “However, problem-solving is about drawing on what we have committed to our long-term memory. We can’t outsource memory to the internet. And we need knowledge in our long-term memory because our working memory is limited. The more knowledge we have, the more problems we can solve.” And the power of knowledge is certainly still highly regarded by top universities such as Cambridge, where candidates are required to show how they can apply their existing knowledge and skills to unfamiliar problems at interview. 020 7428 1520; northbridgehouse.com *Source: Future of Jobs Report 2020, World Economic Forum A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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EDUCATION • TALKING HEAD

Paths to success Candida Cave, Principal of Hampstead Fine Arts College, says it’s time to end our snobbery over vocational qualifications

hy are people so negative about BTECs? Over the years, BTEC diplomas and GNVQ (General National Vocational Qualification) have struggled to compete with the status afforded by A levels. Indeed, a common dismissal of the GNVQ was that it really stood for 'Generally Not Very Qualified'. This snobbery is something peculiar to the UK and has never been the case in European education, where academic and vocational courses are accorded a similar degree of respect. It is important to be clear, a BTEC qualification is not a lesser achievement, but it does require a different sets of skills and suits some students much better than others. Its method of continuous assessment requires consistent hard work and high levels of organisation, and the vital element of tailored work experience needs a committed and a mature approach. The government is now further muddying the waters by announcing it is scrapping the majority of BTECs in 2023 in favour of T Levels without yet clarifying which BTECs are to have their funding withdrawn. Whatever these courses are called, it is likely they will both suffer from the same lingering misconception that a vocational qualification means a less rigorous education. If we take the view that education should be a preparation for life, with students being helped to achieve fulfilment in both their home life and future career, we must not only accept but celebrate the fact that young people benefit from a variety of options post

“Education should be a preparation for life, we must not only accept but celebrate the fact that young people benefit from a variety of options post GCSE”

STUDENTS AT HAMPSTEAD FINE ARTS COLLEGE

GCSE. Traditional A levels may be perfect for future doctors, lawyers and academics, but not necessarily for designers, actors, filmmakers and musicians. For many, a fusion of academic teaching and practical experience is far more rewarding and worthwhile. BTEC creates its own exciting windows of opportunity. With a Level 3 BTEC, students have the choice of a degree course at university, drama school or music college, or can enter the industry of their choice already confident in its working practices. The third qualification option for students is a combination of A level and BTEC courses, which is what an increasing number of schools are transitioning to. We are following this approach from September 2022 by introducing two new courses to complement existing A levels and our well-established Portfolio Course in Art & Design. The first is in the Performing Arts, which will work extremely well when taken with a supplementary A level. For example, an aspiring actor can take A-level English alongside this course and achieve the equivalent of

three A levels. The second new course, Film, Music and Television Production, is specifically designed for students who want to work in these industries. So, what is in a name? Rather a lot it seems. At Hampstead Fine Arts, we will be launching these as the Performing Arts and Film & Television courses. Assessment and external quality assurance will come through the BTEC system, while commitment to the best kind of educational experience for our students will continue to come from us.

CA N D I DA CAV E Principal Hampstead Fine Arts College

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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EDUCATION • PATHWAYS

THE DARKER REALITY OF CLIMATE EDUCATION

CLIMATE ANXIETY

Rose Hardy, Headmistress of Habs Girls in Elstree, considers how we help young people to navigate their fears and anxieties about climate change – and respond positively ourselves

ven a child who doesn’t watch or read the news cannot fail to be aware of the climate change that is happening all over the planet. Our children are global citizens and observers of the modern world. From the earliest days we have taught children about the weather, about the impact of the natural world, storms, fire and floods. Whether it be recent forest fires in Russia and Spain, the extinction of species, recycling campaigns, sustainability or the impact of what we eat,

climate change information is all around us and children are all-consumed by it. Over the last few years children have been exposed to young climate activists such as Greta Thunberg, student strikes, Extinction Rebellion and multiple protests, so climate change is very accessible to young people today. Over the last decade or so, the environmental agenda has become a curriculum staple in our schools, and rightly so. We are educating the future generations of society and it is important that they are aware of the potential challenges our planet faces as a result of how we live.

Most schools are openly playing up climate action, with eco councils and eco prefects becoming the norm within school communities. Yet over-consumption of the environmental agenda also brings with it a darker reality. Climate anxiety is growing amongst children and there is a palpable sense of apprehension, burden and fears about the future. In some cases, there are even deeper feelings of hopelessness and despair. In a similar way that politicians and the media during the 1980s fuelled children’s fears with the prospect of nuclear oblivion, the same sense of panic and fear around individual safety that stems from predictions of a future of uncertainty and destruction are consuming many young people’s minds today. The question is, how can we retain the importance of climate change without resorting to fear, scaremongering and negativity? Climate education needs to be inspiring; it needs to challenge. As schools, we need to look to channel anxieties into actions that are both empowering and encouraging. At a recent school freshers' fair, it was striking to witness just how many young students were signing up for environmental clubs and campaigns focused on climate change. There is a big appetite out there for creating a better, safer world – as educators, we need to capitalise on that positivity. Sadly, there are enough mental health issues within our younger generations today and feeding a culture of nihilism could lead to destructive behaviours that manifest in many negative ways.

"There is a big appetite out there for creating a better, safer world – as educators we need to capitalise on that positivity" A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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RAVENSCOURT PARK

preparatory school

An Independent School for Boys and Girls aged 4-11 Quality of Pupils’ Achievement and Learning - “Excellent” Quality of Teaching - “Excellent”

Quality of Extra-curricular Provision - “Excellent” Quality of Pastoral Care - “Excellent”

Quality of Links with Parents - “Excellent”

Quality of Pupils’ Personal Development – “Excellent” ‘’The curriculum is excellent for all ages and abilities, and is expertly matched to meet the needs of the range of pupils in the school.’’ Independent Schools Inspectorate Report - March 2016

Open Mornings Open Mornings

9.15am Tuesday 14th November To book your place on an open morning,

9.15am Thursday 9th May 2019 please go to www.rpps.co.uk/openmornings 9.15am Thursday 18th January 2018 9.15am Tuesday 11th June 2019 or phone 020 8846 9153

9.15am Thursday 1st February 2018

To your place on an open morning, pleasemornings, go to To book register your attendance at one of our open rpps.co.uk/admissions or phone 020 8846 9153 please phone 0208 846 9153 or mail secretary@rpps.co.uk

Ravenscourt Park Prep School 16 Ravenscourt Avenue, London W6 0SL

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KEW GREEN preparatory school

An Independent School for Boys and Girls aged 4-11 Quality of Pupils’ Achievement and Learning - “Excellent” Quality of Teaching - “Excellent”

Quality of Extra-curricular Provision - “Excellent” Quality of Pastoral Care - “Excellent”

Quality of Links with Parents - “Excellent”

Quality of Pupils’ Personal Development – “Excellent” “Pupils of all ages benefit from a rich and exciting curriculum.”

Independent Schools Inspectorate Report - July 2015

To book your place on an open morning, please go to www.kgps.co.uk/openmornings or phone 020 8948 5999

Kew Green Preparatory School

Layton House, Ferry Lane, Kew Green, Richmond TW9 3AF

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EDUCATION • PATHWAYS

CLIMATE CHANGE NEWS IS ALL AROUND US

"There is a palpable sense of apprehension, burden and fears about the future – in some cases, hopelessness and despair" ‘WHAT IS THE POINT IF THE ICE CAPS ARE MELTING?’

The ‘extreme’ environment approach usually leads to conclusions that if the damage is done then there is no point in trying. It is concerning to learn that some young people are so affected by climate change that they are even questioning the feasibility or the security of having their own children in the future. After all, they reason, why bring a new human being into a world that has such a bleak future? Again, this comes back to how we communicate the impact of climate change to our children. We must continue to push the importance of making changes to the way we live and consume, but in a way that is supportive, invigorating and useful. Most schools are already looking at ways to strengthen climate education within the PSHE curriculum to ensure that we are inspiring rather than reeling off statistics. There is a post-Covid curriculum agenda here too, one that uses the last 18 months to educate children on important topics such as: What is a sustainable way to spend money? How can we live more sustainably at university? What credit options should we avoid or consider and how can we create financial security and wellbeing in the future?

ALTERNATIVES TO TALK OF IMPENDING DOOM

Inspirational speakers in school can be very useful too, sharing experiences of those who have made a difference and are focused on giving back rather than on impending doom. We also need to consider the age group we are educating. For younger children, fears are more related to things they can readily grasp such as physical safety or animal extinction. For older children and teens, the focus might be more on how the world will be impacted by the global movement of the population, for instance.

For parents, it is important not to brush off the impact of climate change. We grew up in a different generation, but we must acknowledge the current generation's worries and reassure our children about the future. This means taking the whole agenda seriously – whether that is your child going vegan to support the environment, buying secondhand fashion or taking part in a local community recycling project. Our children will hopefully be the last generation to suffer such climate anxiety, but these things matter. As with so many issues, to fully understand and participate in meaningful conversations with the young, we must continually re-educate ourselves too.

ROSE HARDY WITH PUPILS FROM HABS GIRLS

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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EDUCATION • OPINON

SOCIAL STRENGTHS The Deputy Head of Emanuel School talks about its social entrepreneurship classes and longstanding work to support the local and wider community

manuel School has a long tradition of community involvement through supporting charitable causes and outreach projects in Wandsworth and further afield. In support of that ethos, this term has seen the launch of our social entrepreneurship lessons for pupils in Year 8. The aim is to encourage young people to enact meaningful change through the creation of a product or service that is financially viable. In weekly lessons, pupils learn more about approaches taken by groups to develop non-profit solutions to social or environmental issues. They hear from guest speakers and develop, plan and organise a marketing campaign for a business idea that solves an issue. The course begins with the ‘hackathon’, an introduction to an entrepreneurial way of thinking. This is a ‘design sprint event’, in which pupils work together to brainstorm solutions to challenging issues. Pupils also attend lessons focusing on the qualities of leadership and teamwork to foster a constructive approach to creative thinking. Working together, they think of ideas for a product or service that has the potential to alleviate issues relating to the environment – or they find solutions to issues facing

“The course begins with a 'hackathon', an introduction to entrepreneurial thinking. There's also a ‘design sprint' event to brainstorm solutions to challenging issues”

PUPILS AT EMANUEL SCHOOL

our partner school in Tamil Nadu, India. Throughout the Spring Term, pupils build upon their ideas to create a business plan, involving market research to develop a branding, pricing, and funding structure. During the course of this, they learn about the theory behind establishing business objectives and mission statements, as well as basic financial principles. Over the Easter break, they undertake fundraising to support the development of their plans. After learning about marketing strategies, they work with the drama and film departments to develop an advertising campaign and ‘pitch’ their business plan. Our Primary Ambitions programme, launched in September 2019, is a core part of outreach work at Emanuel. Every Friday afternoon, our Lower Sixth students mentor, teach or coach local Year 6 pupils by providing opportunities in the arts, STEM, academic subjects and sport. This year, it will see us provide 5,400 pupil enrichment hours to 1,080 pupils. We are also proud of Ascent, a summer catch-up programme led by pupils and staff which has helped close the gap for pupils

within our community who were hardest hit by school closure and disruption to faceto-face learning. This is supported by our halfterm GCSE booster sessions for local partner schools. During the lockdown, our meals-ina-bag appeal provided 235 vulnerable families at 12 partner primary schools with a total of 940 meals. Through Duke of Edinburgh, our pupils volunteer with Regeneration Rise, a local community centre for elderly people, as well as the Spires charity, which helps homeless people in London. We have more initiatives to come in the form of a further summer school, revision clinics and plans for a Sixth Form and university coaching scheme. At Emanuel, we do this work to boost social mobility in the area and develop an altruistic character and attitude within pupils – one that will see them making worthy contributions to their communities long after they have left school.

S T UA R T T U R N E R Deputy Head Emanuel School A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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SPECI A L ISSUE

absolutely-mama.co.uk

In this section:

Good habits

How to live as an eco family •

Baby weaning

Tips from an expert •

Life in books

All the best new reads

NOURISH & NURTURE Is weaning your baby driving you mad? Some babes just won’t comply. If they’re hurling avocado at the walls, or simply refusing to engage at all, help is at hand. We learn from expert nutritionist Charlotte Stirling-Reed. srnutrition.co.uk

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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Are you an

ECO FAMILY?

Here’s how to raise an environmentally conscious family in 2022 and beyond W o r d s J A M E S PA R T R I D G E

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his year has been an eye-opening one for many of us when it comes to the environment, as the increasing impact of climate change has become clearer than ever before. In fact, the State of Climate report for 2021 says that extreme weather events, which are partly the result of human-induced climate change, are now the norm. While this may sound worrying, the good news is that it has spurred many of us into action. In fact, 85% of UK consumers have already made at least one lifestyle change to be more sustainable since 2020 (Deloitte). Leading a more eco-friendly lifestyle is important for all of us, but making sustainable changes can be particularly impactful if done by families. This is because having a child can cause your household emissions to rise by anywhere between 210 and 5,000-plus tonnes

LIFEST YLE

of CO2 (The Times). By raising your little ones in a more sustainable way and teaching them the importance of being eco-friendly, you can reduce the environmental impact of your household. To give you some inspiration for prioritising sustainability in 2022, here are four ways to raise an eco-friendly family.

1. Spend time in nature One of the best ways to encourage your family to make more sustainable choices is by showing them just how beautiful the great outdoors is. Research from the University of Exeter has found that people who regularly visit natural spaces are more likely to make more environmentally friendly choices, such as recycling and making eco-friendly purchases, than those who don't. As well as encouraging your child to be more eco-conscious, getting into nature has also been proven to both reduce stress and increase attention spans, so it's definitely worth getting outside more in 2022 (Scholastic). If you have younger children, a great way to introduce them to nature is by organising a scavenger hunt to make the most of nature. And for teens and tweens, make it fun by doing an activity like zip lining, or playing a game like Pokémon Go.

2. Grow your own food Growing your own fruit and vegetables is a great way to reduce your household carbon footprint, as you won't need to rely on products that have travelled hundreds of miles and are sold in non-recyclable packaging. And once your kids have helped look after and prepare homegrown food, they'll see just how rewarding the experience can be, which will likely encourage them to keep it up when they grow up. Make it a team effort by encouraging the whole household to get involved with maintenance of the homegrown grub, and give everyone a say A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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The pregnancy and babywearing coats that grow with you, to support you and your baby from pregnancy, for life C

CMY

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in the types of fruits and vegetables you grow. If you're a first-time grower and none of you have a green thumb just yet, start off by growing low-maintenance produce, such as potatoes, spring onions, blackberries, and raspberries.

3. Encourage ecofriendly household habits

4. Lead by example The best way to get your children to respect your viewpoint and listen to what you have to say is if you practice what you preach. If you fail to act sustainably yourself, you will show your children that the values you've instilled in them aren't important enough for you to follow, so they will likely not see the point of keeping it up when they venture out on their own.

LIFEST YLE

So, make sure to lead the sustainable life that you want your children to have in the future. Lead by example and always try to opt for the more environmentally conscious choice, such as travelling by bike instead of by car, or by eating in-season produce to reduce the carbon footprint of your diet. James Partridge is part of ecofriendly retailer Greenshop

To both reduce the environmental impact of your own household and help your children lead more sustainable lives in the future, it's important to instil eco-friendly habits from a young age. This will make these sustainable practices the norm, and will likely mean they're passed down through the generations. A few environmentally conscious habits to encourage your children to do include: • Reducing food waste by keeping an eye on use-by dates and finding ways to use up produce that's past its best. • Being conscious with water use by timing shower usage, not letting the tap run when it's not needed, and using cooking water to water plants. • Finding energy saving ways to keep the house warm in the winter months, such as by layering up and using draft excluders. • Reducing single-use plastic by opting for shampoo and soap bars, or getting refillable versions instead of buying new bottles every week. A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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mama mamPROMOTION a WEANING

Feeding

TIME How to wean your baby with Charlotte Stirling-Reed

ome babies take to food with enthusiasm. They master the art of using a spoon immediately, they relish new tastes and textures and they radiate joy at mealtimes. But what if your baby isn’t one of those babies? What if your baby won’t accept a spoon, wails at the sight of solids and hurls their porridge at the wall? Weaning can be a surprisingly large source of stress and navigating these tricky months may not come as naturally as you might expect. But where to seek help? Charlotte StirlingReed has lots of invaluable advice to offer. As one of the UK’s leading nutritionists, her areas of expertise include maternal, infant and child nutrition, and she knows all there is to know about weaning your baby. She’s also friendly and approachable, as anyone who

“Weaning can be a surprisingly large source of stress”

listened to Joe Wicks’ successful weaning podcast will know (Charlotte co-hosted it). Since publishing her first book How to Wean Your Baby last year, she has been hosting a series of webinars designed to help parents solve all the problems connected with feeding their children. With two children of her own, she’s experienced everything first hand – as testament to her skills, Raff y, her three year-old, loves broccoli. Charlotte sees day-to-day the multiple questions that come up when it’s time to start introducing solids to baby. Her upcoming webinar will cover the basics when it comes to introducing your little one to solid foods. Parents often get really anxious about the what and the how of feeding a baby, and this workshop will leave you well equipped to begin your little one on their journey to becoming a little foodie themselves. Charlotte’s approach is gentle and nonjudgemental. She’s all about staying calm and not giving up, offering reassurance as well as tips and strategies for anyone struggling to get their child to eat well. And she’s realistic too – all of her ideas are achievable and easy to implement. Often, bad habits are learnt in babyhood and can be hard to shake off, but one point that she always returns

to is the importance of family meals, and eating together. Babies learn by observing and the simple act of all sitting at the table together can set children up for a lifetime of healthy attitudes to food. She’s a big fan of the iconic Tripp Trapp chair, which enables babies to sit up at the table sociably and join in from just a few months old. She also believes in encouraging children to join in with cooking as soon as they’re able, creating a fun atmosphere in the kitchen and an environment of positive feelings about food. She’ll be sharing all her wisdom in online workshops, so register your interest now.

C H A R LOT T E S T I R L I N G - R E E D is hosting a Weaning Workshop webinar on 19 January at 8pm; book now at srnnutrition.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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LAUNCHING 15TH JANUARY 2022 EN2

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ma m a BOOKS

We Love

BOOKS This month’s brilliant new releases to enjoy with little readers

The Wonderful Wizard of Oz HARPER DESIGN, £25 By L . Frank Baum Illustrated by MinaLima

This landmark story (with even more iconic film) has been reimagined in a beautiful edition illustrated by design studio MinaLima – these are the creatives who built the graphic universe in Harry Potter films. The story remains as charming as ever, while the extraordinary artwork – with interactive elements including an unfolding and pop-up yellow brick road – are there to entice a new generation of readers. It's most definitely a collector's treasure, the eighth children's classic in this Harper Design series.

THE BOOK OF LABYRINTHS AND MAZES by Silke Vry Illustrated by Finn Dean

P R E S T E L , £ 1 4 .9 9

This mind-expanding book is all about paths that get you lost or help you find yourself. Tracing the long history of labyrinths and mazes and covering some famous examples, it also looks at the symbolism associated with them. Author Silke Vry is an archaeologist and art historian, so the book is packed with fun facts and details (such as escape plans for any maze), while also challenging readers to think about why these puzzles of the landscape and our mind exist.

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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PROPERTY

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www.johnmartinestates.com 1995-2020

EALING W5

£1,250,000 FREEHOLD

A spacious halls adjoining semi-detached five bedroom period property in a premier road in the heart of Pitshanger Village which has been modernised and extended throughout. To the ground floor are two excellent sized reception rooms, cloakroom, utility room and extended kitchen/dining/family area. To the first floor are four bedrooms and modern family bathroom. To the second floor is a large bedroom with separate shower room. Other benefits include period features, some double glazed windows, gas fired central heating and a 70’ east facing rear garden. Energy Performance Certificate - E.

82 Pitshanger Lane, Ealing W5 1QX jmesales@johnmartinestates.com JOHN_MARTIN_JAN22 (Conflicted copy from Kai’s iMac on 2021-12-13).indd 1

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A spacious second floor purpose built apartment a short walk from Ealing Broadway and Haven Green offered in good order throughout but which would benefit from some modernisation. The property has a double aspect lounge with incredible views over the cricket grounds, two good sized bedrooms, a well arranged kitchen and bathroom. There is also gas fired central heating, double glazed windows, good storage space, an entryphone system, well maintained communal areas and a garage in a separate block to the rear of the building. The property is also offered chain free. Energy Performance Certificate – C

T: 020 8998 3333 JOHN_MARTIN_JAN22 (Conflicted copy from Kai’s iMac on 2021-12-13).indd 2

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EALING W13

£295,000 SHARE OF FREEHOLD

An excellent sized purpose built ground floor studio apartment on the much sought after Clevelands Estate moments from award winning Pitshanger Lane. Perfect for a first time buyer and offered with no onward chain, the apartment has a spacious studio room with seating area and built in wardrobes with foldaway bed, separate well planned fitted kitchen with space for dining and a good sized shower room as well as double glazing, electric heating and entryphone system. There are well maintained communal gardens and off street parking on a first come first served basis. Energy Performance Certificate – D.

82 Pitshanger Lane, Ealing W5 1QX jmesales@johnmartinestates.com JOHN_MARTIN_JAN22 (Conflicted copy from Kai’s iMac on 2021-12-13).indd 3

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“PITSHANGER’S COMMUNITY ESTATE AGENT”

TO T W KE NE AR M

EALING W5

£1,200 per calendar month

A charming one bedroom conversion apartment situated just a stone’s throw from award winning Pitshanger Village. The property consists of a bright and airy lounge, well arranged fitted kitchen, modern wet room and good sized double bedroom. There is wooden flooring throughout, communal gardens, and unallocated on street parking. Offered unfurnished. Available early February. Energy Performance Certificate - E

T: 020 8998 3333 JOHN_MARTIN_JAN22 (Conflicted copy from Kai’s iMac on 2021-12-13).indd 4

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R Blandford Road, W4 Located within the popular Bedford Park, a four bedroom home with charming period features including a fireplace, coving and wood flooring. There is a large through reception room on the ground floor with a separate kitchen which both lead out onto the rear garden, energy rating e.

£1,500,000

$ U %

020 8987 3000 chiswicksales@fletcherestates.com

K Sinclair Gardens, W14 Set within a Victorian building, this two bedroom maisonette has an open plan kitchen and reception room offering elegant and contemporary living with doors opening onto a garden. Westfield Shopping Centre is nearby for world-renowned, shops, bars and restaurants, energy rating c.

£1,300,000

2 E J

020 7603 1415 brookgreensales@fletcherestates.com

fletcherestates.com

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Parkside Avenue, Wimbledon Village

£8,000,000

Deepdale, Wimbledon Village

£5,750,000

House of 7,700 sq ft (715.35 sq m) with impressive entertaining space and indoor pool. Reception hall, drawing room, dining room/study, kitchen/breakfast/family room, gym/media room, main bedroom suite, 5 further bedrooms and staff suite, 4 further bath/showers, landscaped gardens, double garage & driveway parking, ER/C

In a quiet Village cul-de-sac opposite a green and a short distance from the Common and the High Street. Reception hall, 3 reception rooms, kitchen/breakfast/family room, 5 bedrooms, 5 bath/showers, roof terrace, gardens, garage & driveway parking ER/C

McKay Road, Wimbledon

Home Park Road, Wimbledon

£2,695,000

In an elevated position with far reaching views, close to the Common and King’s College School. 2 reception rooms, study, kitchen/breakfast room, 5 bedrooms, 3 bath/showers, south facing garden, garage & OSP ER/E

£2,450,000

Double fronted house conveniently placed for Wimbledon Park and local transport and shops. Hallway, double reception room, study/reception room, kitchen/dining room, 5 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, front and rear gardens ER/E

Wimbledon Village Office Sales: 020 8947 9833 Lettings: 020 8879 9669 ROBERTHOLMES_JAN2022.indd 1

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www.robertholmes.co.uk

Woodlands Avenue, Coombeside, KT3

£1,450,000

A well-proportioned detached family home that is set in one of the most frequently requested roads in Coombeside. Drawing Room, Dining Room, Kitchen, 5 Bedrooms, 3 Bath/Shower Rooms, OSP, Garden, Garage

SOLD STC

Coombe Lane, West Wimbledon, SW20

Richmond Road, SW20

£1,700,000

A beautifully presented semi-detached family home, ideally situated within close proximity of Raynes Park. Kitchen/Dining/Family Room, Reception Room, 5 Bedrooms, 2 Bath/Shower rooms, OSP, Garden

SOLD

£1,250,000

A superb home that has been completely refurbished to a high standard and beneﬁts from a south facing garden. Kitchen/Family Room, Reception Room, 4 Bedrooms, 3 Bath/Shower Rooms, OSP, Garden, Summer House

West Road, Kingston Upon Thames, KT2

£3,000,000

An attractive, detached family house located in a premier private road off Coombe Lane West. Kitchen/Family Room, Drawing Room, Reception Room, 5 Bedrooms, 4 Bathrooms, OSP, Garden, Garage

Coombe Office Sales: 020 8947 1100 ROBERTHOLMES_JAN2022.indd 2

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SALES

5- 7 Tur n h a m G ree n Te rra ce, C h isw ic k , Lon don , W 4 1R G Te l 0 2 0 8 7 4 7 8 800 · Fa x 020 8995 7275 E - ma i l i n fo @ wh itma n a n dco.com · We bsite w w w. w h i t m a n a n dco. co m

ESMOND ROAD, W4

FAIRLAWN AVENUE, W4

£649,950

£465,000

LETTINGS

A rarely available split-level apartment located on this prestigious residential street in the Bedford Park area of Chiswick. The flat offers a flexible layout totalling almost 1000sqft light, with the accommodation comprising 21’ kitchen/dining/reception opens an 18’7 reception room/bedroom, study/loft room, An amazingly well presented triple aspect aflat with the added benefitroom of a which balcony andonto private garden. Three bedrooms, luxury bathroom, double bedroom with fitted withfired separate cloakroom, useshare of theinfront withbalcony space forand tableprivate and chairs, sharewith in the freehold. Esmond 14' reception room, fully wardrobes, integrated bathroom kitchen, gas central heating, thegarden freehold, garden side access. Ideally Road runswithin north off South Parade inofthe heart ofPark Bedford Park with the being a five-minute walkand to Turnham Green stationon andChiswick ChiswickHigh High Road. Road’s shops, situated close proximity Chiswick tube station andflat the extensive shopping restaurant facilities cafes and restaurants. Further transport links include local bus routes and the A4/M4 for routes in and out of London. No chain.

LAMB COTTAGE, W4 W4 WAVENDON AVENUE, LINDEN GARDENS, W4

£1.600,000 £2,595,000

£330 PER WEEK

An exceptional semi-detached Edwardian family home that has been subject to a meticulous schedule of modernisation located on this sought after residential A newly lower ground floor garden flat with of private west facing garden. Largea double bedroom with wardrobes, room road in thedecorated heart of Chiswick. The house offers circa 2750sqft accommodation which comprises 21’4 formal front reception room withreception bay window and with feature fireplace, a stunningwith 36’ kitchen/family space for diningThe andflat entertaining, garden withmoments brick built garden office, wood floors, bathroom shower over, room fittedwith kitchen, garden. is on onea south-facing of Chiswick'slandscaped best located roads, from the shops, full-width master suite with bathroom and built-in wardrobes, bedrooms, two early furtherSeptember, full bathrooms, utility room with restaurants cafésbedroom on the High Roadluxury and 5ensuite minutes from Turnham Green station. four The further property is available furnished. door into the side passage, guest cloakroom, extensive storage throughout including large eaves storage, replacement double glazed windows throughout, air conditioning to four bedrooms, CAT5 cabling to the ground floor, secure side access with covered storage area. Wavendon Avenue is a wide tree-lined road a few minutes walk from Chiswick High Road’s shops, cafes and restaurants. Transport links include Chiswick Park and Turnham Green stations, local bus routes and the A4/M4 for routes in and out of London. No onward chain. WHITMAN_JAN22.indd 2

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LETTINGS BRACKLEY TERRACE, W4 POINT WHARF LANE, TW8

£1,625,000

£350 PER WEEK

A rare opportunity to purchase a recently built townhouse located on this quiet cul-de-sac in the heart of Chiswick. The house totals more than 2100sqft including a full basement withpresented the accommodation comprising a 35’ kitchen/dining/family room, bedroom ensuite bathroom, two further double bedrooms, family bathroom, Beautifully two double bedroom second floor flat in thismaster highly soughtwith after riverside development. Boasting a stunning open plan impressive 35’ basement roomawhich space for and a gym/study/playroom/cinema, utilityLarge room, open cloakroom, cloakroom, storage throughout, private work kitchen reception room, river offers side balcony a master ensuite bedroom. planfurther reception room,extensive fully fitted kitchen with granite garden and off-street parking. Brackley Terrace is a quiet residential street within a 2-minute walk of Chiswick High Road’s shops, cafes and restaurants. Transport links include tops, fitted wardrobes and riverside views. Underground parking space included. Turnham Green station, local bus routes and the A4/M4 for routes in and out of London. No chain.

LAMB COTTAGE, W4 CHURCH PATH, W4

QUEEN ANNES GROVE, W4

GUIDE PRICE £550,000 £430 PER WEEK £1.600,000

A well-presented two double bedroom garden flat located on the ground floor of this period property which is within a short walk of numerous amenities. The A large, light and beautifully presented two double bedroom on this highlybathroom, desirableprivate road in the heartgarden of Bedford Park,courtyard. just minutes from accommodation comprises a reception room, kitchen/dining room, twoflat double bedrooms, west-facing and further Church Path is a residential street within walking of Chiswick Road’s shops, cafes andfrom restaurants and Chiswick business park. Transport links include South Turnham Green underground station.distance Top floor positionHigh ensures beautiful views the reception and bedrooms. Acton, Chiswick Park and Turnham Green stations, local bus routes and the A4/M4 for routes in and out of London. No chain.

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New Homes | Sales | Lettings

New Year, new beginnings. Get in touch now so we can help you find your new home. Speak to us on +44 (0)20 3932 1920

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country house town house period house modern house dream house moving house?

Estate agency has moved on. house. is different We know people are starting to consider online only estate agents, but still want the reassurance of face-to-face help from local experts. You get both with us, because we provide that personal service without expensive high street locations that customers have to pay for.

We also go further to ensure your property and the lifestyle it enables is shown in the best possible light. Sumptuous photography and video, and a contemporary web experience not only shows buyers how your home looks, but how it feels to live there. It’s the new, innovative way to add value when selling your house. The premium online estate agency.

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housepartnership.co.uk

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Here for your property journey, wherever it takes you. acorngroup.co.uk/journey

Station Road, SE13 OIEO £475,000 L/H Ultra-modern, two bedroom apartment situated in central Lewisham, close to the train and DLR stations. 1

Contact Lewisham 020 8852 4455

Consort Road, SE15 OIEO £875,000 F/H

Tastefully extended, Georgian link-detached family home occupying a desirable position close to Peckham Rye. 2

Contact Peckham 020 7771 6777

Visit us online at acorngroup.co.uk

NEW PLOTS RELEASED

MOVE IN. SPREAD OUT.

Tucked away on a private lane, close to the bustling streets of Catford, sits Bellingham Mews, a striking collection of brand new three-storey, three/four bedroom houses. Bellingham Station is just a minutes’ walk away, which connects you to Victoria in 25 minutes, Blackfriars in 27 minutes, and St Pancras in 32 minutes.

Prices from £600,000 - Help to Buy Available*

Arrange a viewing today: 020 8315 6996 acorngroup.co.uk/newhomes Selected houses only, terms & conditions apply

Here for your property journey, wherever it takes you. acorngroup.co.uk/journey

Locksbottom, BR2 Guide Price £2,500,000 F/H

detached family home, located on the edge of Keston Park.

Contact Locksbottom 01689 882 988

Skeet Hill Lane, BR6

Station Road, BR4

£1,200,000 - £1,300,000 F/H

£875,000 F/H

Formerly a pair of worker's cottages on the Great Lullingstone Park Estate, this 19 th

Contact Orpington 01689 661 400

the market in excellent condition. The property has been refurbished by the current owners.

Contact West Wickham 020 8432 7373

Visit us online at acorngroup.co.uk/lr

Scan to find out more

Coming soon to Petts Wood

Luxury new 1, 2 & 3 bed apartments for sale Register your interest at: acorngroup.co.uk/cardinal

Here for your property journey, wherever it takes you. acorngroup.co.uk/journey

Micheldever Road, SE12 Guide Price £750,000 L/H

occupying part of a French Mansard style semi-detached Victorian house. 2

Contact Lee 020 8852 8633

Parade Ground Path, SE18

Walerand Road, SE13

£665,000 L/H

£1,750,000 F/H

Superb three bedroom apartment within 'The Academy'

Very spacious and elegant Victorian family home, situated on a quiet residential road close to Lewisham DLR and mainline stations, just a short stroll from The Heath.

Contact Woolwich 020 3861 0555

Contact Blackheath Village 020 8318 1311

Visit us online at acorngroup.co.uk/jp

FINAL PHASE RELEASED Ready to move in, spacious 2 and 3 bedroom apartments offering over 1,000 sqft of luxury accommodation. Situated in the heart of Greenwich, all apartments benefit from private terraces, with selected apartments also providing sweeping panoramic views over Canary Wharf and across the city skyline. Prices from £645,000 Viewing by appointment only: 020 7089 6567 | acorngroup.co.uk/valegro Selling agent:

Developed by:

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