Absolutely North East July 2022

NORTH & EAST

North & East JULY 2022 / £3.95

SPECIAL JULY 2022

62 Pages of inspiration and insight

Ocean

SHADES THE NEW SEASON'S PALETTE PLUS

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AFRICA FASHION The V&A's new show AL FRESO DINING London's loveliest terraces THE GREAT OUTDOORS All the kit you need

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S U M M E R S A L E N OW O N 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 Fenwick Brent Cross

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Save 15% off a wide selection of furniture and accessories to order, and up to 50% off our premium ex-display items B O C O N C E P T. C O M

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DESIGNER WEDDING DRESSES MADE TO MEASURE IN ITALY

81 Ebury Street London SW1 020 7901 9020 lesposedigio.com

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ABSOLUTELY

Contents J U LY 2 0 2 2

109 10

61

WHAT'S ON

63 BEAUTY BUYS

AFRICA FASHION

INTERIORS 78 INTERIOR INSPIRATIONS

Your diary for June

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

C U LT U R E ABSOLUTELY LOVES

10 things we’re coveting this month

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The V&A's new show

What's hot and what's new

All the best SPFs

News and views

FOOD & DRINK 28 KITCHEN CONFIDENTIAL

86 NEW LOOK

34 RECIPES

96 COLOUR TALK

FA S H I O N 42 THE SHOOT

SUMMER 110 SICILIAN SEASON

News from the industry

New dishes from Ixta Belfrage

Tropical fashion from Koibird

48 JEWELLERY Colour blocks

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Stylish apartments in a former fire station

Why purple is the next big thing

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.

The beautiful island

115 TIME TO PACK All the best luggage

O N T H E C OV E R koibird.com

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Beautiful timber windows & doors

EDITOR IN CHIEF PENDLE HARTE EDITORIAL ASSISTANT RACHEL HOGG MAMA EDITOR CARLY GLENDINNING ART DIRECTOR PAWEL KUBA SENIOR DESIGNERS MIKE ROBERTS MIDWEIGHT DESIGNER CARMEN GRAHAM JUNIOR DESIGNER KAI NICHOLLS MEDIA CONSULTANTS STELLA ADAMS ANABELA KOLECI KATIE WOOD FINANCIAL DIRECTOR JERRIE KOLECI CREDIT CONTROL MANAGER ALEXANDRA HVID

Commission a masterpiece

DIRECTORS CRAIG DAVIES, LEAH DAY, JAMES FUSCHILLO NON-EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR ALEXANDRA HUNTER MANAGING DIRECTOR SHERIF SHALTOUT

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.

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Wandsworth | Crouch End | Dulwich

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Editor’s

LETTER ABSOLUTELY’S July issue highlights

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uly is peak summer and as we prepare for the holidays to kick in, there are lots of things to do in London. This is our summer special issue, and despite casting our focus on British beaches, Scottish hideaways, Sicilian villas and Greek islands, we're also looking at all the summery activities that are about to happen closer to home. We'll be eating exclusively outside at some of the finest al fresco eateries and wearing our new swimwear at London's pools and ponds. We'll be drinking pink wine and topping up our SPFs as we pack our (carefully chosen) wheelie cases and book our summer beauty treatments.

Not that we're forgetting our homes, though, which we're about to paint purple (yes, purple is the new wall trend) and decorate with paintings by our new favourite artist Margo in Margate. We look at the official Home of 2022 as declared by New London Architecture and consider cork flooring too. All this as well as the usual roundup of events, exhibitions and diary dates. Enjoy July.

Summer

Our favourite UK surf spots

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Roll with it

Our study of cases

PENDLE HARTE EDITOR

Lilac time

The essential new wall colour

Art of glass

Why we love coloured glass

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Margo in Margate The artist's characterful pieces

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Wish LIST

AQ UA SPLASH Oliver James' lilos are made to be loved.

The first collection includes six luxury upholstered Lilos made from durable materials and striking fabrics, designed to be handsome pieces of floating furniture. oliverjameslilos.com

OCEAN FRESH Ocean-coloured Efforia from Prima Donna is available up to an H cup.

Bra £84 and Tanga £40 ameliesfollies.co.uk

EDITOR’S PICK

10 things we Absolutely love COMPILED BY

TRUE BLUE In Jo Malone London's Wild Flower candle pair, Florescent Honeysuckle & Davana site with mesmerising Wild Bluebell for a radiant floral fragrance.

In a floral print box by fashion designer Richard Quinn. £100 jomalone.co.uk

ON THE NAIL Chanel's The Sky, The Sun and The Sea collection comprises six luminous shades of nail polish which reflect off the sea with each wave, and melt into a brilliant palette of mauve, green, and lilac. chanel.com

PENDLE HARTE

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ABSOLUTELY • LOVES

COOL BLUE Matilde's Kaleido collection features sustainable lab-grown gemstones in is a rainbow-hued representation of love, hope, faith, and luck with each piece crafted from 14k recycled yellow gold. matildejewellery.com

G R E E N D AY H AT S O F F Emma Mulholland on Holiday's Happy Hawaii bucket hat is crafted from cotton and features a larger-than-life hibiscus print. koibird.com

Santotrini and Mykonos-themed dresses are part of the vast collection of holiday wear at Aspiga. aspiga.com

CHECK OUT Featuring sturdy textile uppers with mixed gingham patterns and embroidery, the Gingham Block Sk8-Hi Tapered brings an old school Americana look to Vans' classic deconstructed high top shoe. vans.co.uk

S O L A R G LOW Bianca Balti is the face of Dolce & Gabbana's new Solar Glow Collection, which defines, illuminates and enhances the complexion. dolceandgabbanabeauty.com

FA S C I N AT I N G RHYTHM This hat is an accessory you can't get enough of watching.

The curvy silk organza flowers and the flat look of the pillbox complement each other. £645 mervebayindir.com

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LIFE LESSONS

9-11 SEP 2022 KING’S CROSS

FESTIVAL

LOUIS THEROUX + STEVEN BARTLETT + CAITLIN MORAN MARIELLA FROSTRUP + RANKIN + DAVID GANDY + ANYA HINDMARCH CBE DAN SNOW & LADY EDWINA GROSVENOR + MICHELLE OGUNDEHIN + DR RANGAN CHATTERJEE JAKE HUMPHREY & PROF. DAMIAN HUGHES + MATTHEW SYED + HELEN & KATE RICHARDSON-WALSH + MANY MORE SPEAKERS

BUY YOUR TICKETS LIFELESSONSFESTIVAL.COM IN PARTNERSHIP WITH

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C U LT U R E

MBEUK IDOURROU COLLECTION, IMANE AYISSI, PARIS, FRANCE, AUTUMN/WINTER 2019. PHOTO: FABRICE MALARD / COURTESY OF IMANE AYISSI

What's On 14 • Africa Fashion at The V&A 18 • Kensington & Chelsea's Art Trail 25 A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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The Agenda

EV E N TS N OT TO M I S S I N LO N D O N

T H E AT R E

To Kill A Mockingbird Until 13 August G I E L G U D T H E AT R E One of the best-selling novels of all time has come to the West End, where Harper Lee’s classic exploration of justice and racial tension has been adapted for the stage by Aaron Sorkin. The cleverly re-calibrated script, and tremendous performances by the star-studded cast, make for a powerful theatrical event. tokillamockingbird.co.uk

A RT

Black Fantastic U NTI L 18 S E PTE MB E R , S O U THBAN K CEN TRE

The Hayward Gallery is home to the UK’s first major exhibition dedicated to the work of Black artists, who use fantastical elements to address racial injustice and explore alternative realities.

Encompassing painting, photography, video, sculpture and mixed media installations the exhibition seeks to reimagine the ways in which we represent the past and think about the future. southbankcentre.co.uk

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ART

Drawing Attention Until 28 August THE BRITISH MUSEUM Some exciting new acquisitions will be joining the collection of drawings at the British Museum. Twenty pieces by emerging contemporary artists have been selected for their ability to challenge the boundaries of the medium.

Their work will be on display alongside that of world-renowned artists. britishmuseum.org

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CULTURE • DIARY

ART

T H E AT R E

Fashion Freak Show 16 July - 28 August R O U N D H O U S E T H E AT R E An explosive combination of musical, theatre review and fashion show, Jean-Paul Gaultier’s newest creation is more of an experience than anything else. Fashion Freak Show is a chance to peer behind the curtain of the designer's life and understand the political and cultural changes that defined his work. roundhouse.org.uk

Cultural highlights in the capital this month THE OTHER ART FAIR 30 June – 3 July Continuing its mission to make art more accessible, the Other Art Fair is presenting 110 emerging talents plus a host of guest exhibitions and features including BAFTA Award-winning photographer Alison Jackson, who will bring her first live photo booth to the fair.

SIR ELTON JOHN WITH 'THE QUEEN'

BY ALISON JACKSON

T H E AT R E

PRIMA FACIE LIVE 21 July N AT I O N A L T H E AT R E Jodie Comer will be taking to the stage in Suzie-Miller’s award-winning solo piece, Prima Facie. Her performance is one of the most anticipated WestEnd debuts of the year, however, if you missed out on tickets, do not fear. The National Theatre will broadcast the performance live to cinemas worldwide. nationaltheatre.org.uk

This Month’s Must See

TO WATC H

JA PA N COURTS & CULT UR E

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U NTI L 12 MARCH 2023, THE QUEEN S GALLERY

uckingham Palace is home to some of the finest examples of Japanese craftsmanship in the Western world and now the public will have a chance to browse the royal collection for themselves. Beyond just a display, this exhibition will explore the diplomatic and cultural exchanges that have occurred between the two courts over their 350year shared history, spanning from first encounters to modern-day diplomacy. rct.uk

Art on a Postcard’s Summer Auction will feature postcard-sized originals by Marina Abramovic and Ben Eine. Flying Leaps and UNCLE will wrap the entire fair perimeter with limited-edition poster art, plus look out for a stunning ‘Graphic Rewilding’ installation from artists Baker & Borowski. theotherartfair.com

SUSPENDED FORMS

BY TERRY FROST

LOOKING EAST: ST IVES ARTISTS AND BUDDHISM 13 July - 3 September This fascinating exhibition explores the unique relationship between artists working from St Ives during the post-war period and principals of Zen and Buddhism. The groundbreaking show brings to light a previously overlooked connection between Eastern spirituality and Western modernist artwork.

3812gallery.com

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CULTURE • THEATRE

ABSOLUTELY reviews…

MY FAIR LADY A revival at the Coliseum B y P E A R L B OY D

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ou might wonder whether My Fair Lady, with all its old-fashioned assumptions about class and gender, can be relevant in 2022. And it’s a good question, but maybe it misses the point of this new production. The Coliseum’s new revival of the classic musical brings almost non-stop tunes and dance routines, making it an impressive spectacle.

Directed by Bartlett Sher, this sublime production, which premiered in the spring of 2018 at Lincoln Center’s Vivian Beaumont Theater, was the winner of the Tony Award for Best Costume Design, 5 Outer Critics’ Circle Awards including Best Musical Revival, the Drama League Award for Outstanding Musical Revival, and the

Drama Desk Awards for Best Musical Revival and Costume Design. The London production features 36 musicians from the English National Opera’s awardwinning orchestra – making it the largest orchestra in the West End – playing Frederick Loewe’s ravishing score.

As everyone kows, this is the story of Eliza Doolittle, a young Cockney flower seller, and Henry Higgins, a linguistics professor who is determined to transform her into his idea of a “proper lady”. But who is really being transformed?

With a book and lyrics by Alan Jay Lerner, the score includes the classic songs “I Could Have Danced All Night,” “Get Me to the Church on Time,” “Wouldn’t It Be Loverly,” “On the Street Where You Live,” “The Rain in Spain,”

“This revival of the classic musical brings almost non-stop tunes and dance routines” and “I’ve Grown Accustomed to Her Face.”

From start to finish it's a bold, colourful spectacle, with a set that switches between Higgins' book-lined study, the steps at the opera house, a lamp-lit street and Ascot racecourse. Costumes and dance routines are lavish, the tunes are everybody's favourites and Vanessa Redgrave's appearance as Higgins' mother undelines the overwhelming sense of theatre history and nostalgia. It's an impressive production.

VERDICT

Everything that you'd hope for. ★★★★★ THE COLISEUM UNTIL 27 AUGUST

myfairladymusical.co.uk

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SANLÉ SORY 'JE VAIS DÉCOLLER, 1977' © SANLÉ SORY/TEZETA. COURTESY DAVID HILL GALLERY

Cloth

CUTS 45 designers from over 20 countries feature in the V&A’s new Africa Fashion exhibition

By P E A R L B OY D

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CULTURE • EXHIBITION

“A close-up look at the new generation of designers, stylists and fashion photographers working in Africa today”

BEASTS OF NO NATION, FELA KUTI, ALBUM COVER ARTWORK BY LEMI GHARIOUKWU, SANACHIE RECORDS, 1989. SHANACHIE RECORDS.

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frica Fashion is a landmark exhibition celebrating the irresistible creativity, ingenuity and unstoppable global impact of contemporary African fashions. It will be the UK’s most extensive exhibition of African fashions to date, celebrating the vitality and innovation of a scene as dynamic and varied as the continent itself.

Over 250 objects are on display, many of them from the personal archives of a selection of iconic mid-20th century African designers – Shade Thomas-Fahm, Chris Seydou, Kofi Ansah and Alphadi, marking the first time their work will be shown in a London museum. The exhibition also celebrates influential contemporary African fashion creatives including Imane Ayissi, IAMISIGO, Moshions, Thebe Magugu and Sindiso Khumalo.

Africa Fashion showcases objects and the stories behind them alongside personal insights from the designers, together with sketches, editorial spreads, photographs, film and catwalk footage.

Starting with the African independence and the liberation years that sparked a radical political and social reordering across the continent, the exhibition explores how fashion, alongside music and the visual arts, formed a key part of Africa’s cultural renaissance, laying the foundation for today’s fashion revolution.

Across contemporary couture, ready-to-wear, made-to-order and adornment, the exhibition offers a close-up look at the new generation of ground-breaking designers, collectives,

ALCHEMY COLLECTION, THEBE MAGUGU, JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA, AUTUMN/WINTER 2021.

PHOTOGRAPHY: TATENDA CHIDORA STYLING + SET: CHLOE ANDREA WELGEMOED MODEL: SIO

stylists and fashion photographers working in Africa today. It explores how the digital world accelerated the expansion of the industry, irreversibly transforming global fashions as we know them. From global fashion weeks to celebrity wearers and the role of social media, Africa Fashion will celebrate and champion the diversity and ingenuity of the continent’s fashion scene.

This show forms part of a broader and ongoing V&A commitment to grow the museum’s permanent collection of work by African and African Diaspora designers, working collaboratively to tell new layered stories about the richness and diversity of African creativity, cultures, and histories, using fashion as a catalyst.

The exhibition begins with a contemporary ensemble that combines shimmering silk with exuberant layers of raffia by Imane Ayissi. Born in Cameroon, the couturier sits at the crossroads between fashion systems, bridging historical and contemporary periods, continental and Global Africa, artisanal craft making and haute couture. This ensemble introduces the idea that African fashions are beyond definition and that creatives can and do choose their own paths.

An African Cultural Renaissance section focuses on the African liberation years from the mid-late 1950s to 1994. The political and social reordering that took place galvanised a long period of unbounded creativity across fashion, music, and the visual arts. On display are protest posters, publications and records embodying this era of radical change. Early publications from members of the Mbari Club, established for African writers, artists, and musicians, will sit alongside the cover artwork for Beasts of No Nation

by Fela Kuti, a call-to-arms album which embodied the communal feeling of frustrations with the politics A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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CULTURE • EXHIBITION

ASO LÀNKÍ, KÍ ATÓ KI ÈNÌYÀN (‘WE GREET DRESS BEFORE WE GREET ITS WEARER’) COLLECTION, LAGOS, NIGERIA, 2021.

LAGOS SPACE PROGRAMME. PHOTO: © KADARA ENYESAI ESTHER SUWAOLA, AKURE, ONDO, NIGERIA, 1960

of the time but also the energy of Africa’s creativity and its artists’ drive to create beautiful things.

Politics and Poetics of Cloth considers the importance of cloth in many African countries and the way in which the making and wearing of indigenous cloths in the moment of independence became a strategic political act. Wax prints, commemorative cloth, àdìre kente and bògòlanfini will be shown – fragments of a rich textile history that includes thousands of techniques from across the continent.

Highlight objects include a strip of printed seersucker cotton from the V&A collection featuring the image of an open palm and the words ‘freedom in my hand I bring’ incorporating the newly independent Ghana insignia – a visible expression of community concerns as well as national, and individual identities. Also on display is a commemorative cloth made in the early 1990s following the release of Nelson Mandela, featuring a portrait of the soon to be first Black President of South Africa and the words ‘A BETTER LIFE FOR ALL – WORKING TOGETHER FOR JOBS, PEACE AND FREEDOM’.

Capturing Change focuses on photographic portraits of the mid-late 20th century, capturing the mood of nations on the brink of self-rule – each shot documenting the modernity, cosmopolitanism and fashion consciousness of individuals with agency and a desire to use it. The euphoria of decolonisation coincided with the democratisation of photography made possible through cheaper film and lighter weight cameras. Photographic portraits taken in studios and domestic spaces became affirmations of agency and self-representation, making pride in being Black and African visible. Highlights from this section include studio photography from Sanlé Sory, Michel Papami Kameni and Rachidi Bissiriou.

A section on Minimalism features a look by Rwandan fashion house Moshions, known for re-imagining traditional Rwandan forms and cultural motifs into contemporary pieces. Paying tribute to the ceremonial

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attire worn historically by Rwandan royalty, the menswear look on show references the traditional Umwitero, a sash draped over the shoulder as well as beadwork and embroidery taking inspiration from Imigongo aesthetics.

Mixology features an ensemble from IAMISIGO’s Spring/Summer 2019 collection, ‘Gods of the Wilderness’ which references ancient west African masquerade costumes. For this collection designer Bubu Ogisi was inspired by traditional west African abstract performance art, and the unique visual identity and traditions of adornment which have been created by different individual cultural groups.

Artisanal will showcase a blue and white ensemble of DAKALA CLOTH by NKWO, who work with small-scale artisan makers across the African continent that specialise in hand crafts such as hand dyeing, weaving, beading and embroidery. In Sartorialists, costume designer, stylist and photographer Gouled Ahmed’s self-portraiture revolts against cultural norms, mixing textured garments from the Horn of Africa with contemporary everyday materials to play with notions of identity.

Co-Creation spotlights personalised, contemporary twists on tradition with commissioned bespoke outfits made for the wedding of Lady Ashely Shaw-Scott Adjaye and Sir David Adjaye OBE by Kofi Ansah. The couple were later photographed for British Vogue magazine wearing their Kofi Ansah designs.

ANC NELSON MANDELA COMMEMORATIVE CLOTH SOUTH AFRICA, 1991 © VICTORIA AND ALBERT MUSEUM, LONDON

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THE SPOOKY AFTER-DARK TRAIL FOR ALL THE FAMILY

halloweenatchiswickhouseandgardens.co.uk

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CULTURE • PARTNERSHIP

LIFE LESSONS A new festival dedicated to improving our lives comes to Coal Drops Yard this September

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he countdown is on to the Times+ Life Lessons Festival with The Times & The Sunday Times, taking place from 9 to 11 September in spectacular Coal Drops Yard. This fully inclusive community-wide event seeks to bring people together to share stories, knowledge and experiences to inspire, inform and explore the way we can learn to live a life without limits.

The three-day event offers a unique and eclectic programme of 60 live talks from over 100 of the UK’s leading experts and speakers across three stages, along with 30 masterclasses to teach visitors real, practical life lessons. A range of new interactive and immersive experiences include live art installations, social spaces and live music to enlighten and entertain.

The festival’s stellar line-up includes documentary maker and broadcaster Louis Theroux, award-winning singer, actress and personality Paloma Faith, award-winning

fashion entrepreneur and globally renowned businesswoman Anya Hindmarch CBE, author, journalist and broadcaster Caitlin Moran, British supermodel, businessman and entrepreneur David Gandy, speaker and investor Steven Bartlett, journalist, author and broadcaster Anna Whitehouse, world-famous photographer and director Rankin and poet, playwright and memoirist Lemn Sisay OBE among many others.

The Masterclass series will deliver 30 expert-led sessions in an intimate setting on personal development. These masterclasses explore how to improve ourselves and our lives. Sessions include ‘How to improve your brain’, ‘Managing stress and anxiety’ and ‘How to fuel your passion and achieve your goals’.

Experts include leading breathwork expert Stuart Sandeman, movement coach Roger Frampton, award-winning food producer and psychologist Kimberley Wilson and health and wellbeing expert Madeleine Shaw.

New to the festival for 2022 are a range of interactive and immersive experiences where visitors are able to explore the latest trends,

ideas, innovations and concepts in living well.

Be transported into another world using light, scent, touch and sound with The Sensory Slowdown. Designed in collaboration with MyCoocoon and chromotherapy expert Ari Peralta, one of the world’s leading voices in neuroscience and the senses, the Sensory Slowdown is a live multisensory experience designed to relax, re-balance and restore the senses.

Putting species extinction and biodiversity at the top of the agenda, the Rewriting Extinction experience seeks to bring the planet together by harnessing the power of storytelling. Visitors will be able to enshrine themselves in a live bespoke digital gallery of interactive comics curated by romcom legend Richard Curtis and double Emmynominated writer, producer and founder of Rewriting Extinction Paul Goodenough.

In addition, there will be a host of creative art installations across the site, featuring a flagship installation by internationally renowned conceptual artist and poet Robert Montgomery, portraits and tales of endeavour, exploration, and resilience by SOULKIND, and a showcase of London Underground messages to brighten your day from All On The Board, among other concepts to be revealed soon.

Tickets start at £20; lifelessonsfestival.com.

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Epsom Playhouse www.epsomplayhouse.co.uk Box office 01372 742555/742227

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CULTURE • PARTNERSHIP

On the

Art TRAIL The KCAW Public Art Trail continues all summer

By P E A R L B OY D

LUAP, EXHIBITIONIST HOTEL; PHOTOGRAPH BY GRAHAM FUDGER

“The trail features worldclass sculpture, installations and exhibits throughout the borough” CHARLOTTE COLBERT’S CELLULAR AMULET PHOTOGRAPH BY MAK STUDIOS UK

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est London is brought to life with vibrant and immersive public art, free for all to enjoy for the duration of the summer.

The fifth annual Kensington and Chelsea Art Week (KCAW) Public Art Trail features world-class sculpture, installations and exhibits throughout the borough.

Locations include some of west London’s most beautiful and iconic sites, such as Napoleon Garden in Holland Park, Sloane Street, Duke of York Square, Royal Avenue, Pavilion Road, Earl’s Court, Notting Hill Gate, Kensington Memorial Park, Brompton Cemetery Chapel, and High Street Kensington.

Azarra Amoy's Stars of Earl’s Court is a 39-metre mural paying tribute to local artistic ‘stars’ living and working around Earl’s Court, past and present.

In South Kensington’s Museum Quarter, Amoy is also presenting a powerful installation titled Kaleidoscopic Minds celebrating neurodiverse people and their contribution to arts and sciences through an enormous piece spanning the length of Exhibition Road.

Charlotte Colbert’s Cellular Amulet installation is on Bramley Road, W10. The amulet piece is inspired by the shape of white blood cells, which form the immune system. Its scale and playful reflective surface remind us that ultimate protection is born of play and togetherness.

Mysteriously landing on the cupola of The Coronet Theatre during the quiet of a global pandemic, Gavin Turk’s The Spirit of Painting sees a lonely figure pose in the adlocutio stance of an Emperor in Ancient Rome addressing his troops.

Contra to this heroic posture, this figure portrays the artist in his studio overalls painting the sky with a paintbrush instead

ROMAN LOKATI’S THE CHELSEA LOOK PHOTOGRAPH BY MAK STUDIOS UK

of a sword; palette as shield. Originally designed to have a sculpture of Mercury on the roof of the theatre, now the messenger God of commerce has become a prophetic painter of our current hubris.

Home Grown is a beautiful series of paintings by Kipling Hunt in Kensington Memorial Park featuring beautiful freshly cut plants and drawing on the healing power of flowers and nature.

Richard Mackness’ Domus installation on High Street Kensington takes the form of a giant plastic food package, crushed and discarded.. Despite appearing to be soft,it is formed in hard grey concrete, the quintessential urban material.

Roman Lokati’s artwork The Chelsea Look comprises six life-sized metal figures positioned throughout the borough, featuring famed Chelsea characters from Dame Vivienne Westwood to The Chelsea Pensioner.

Konstantin Benkovich’s The Right Hand of God in Holland Park’s Napoleon Garden represents the right-hand of God, typically reaching down from the sky, while Sokari Douglas Camp CBE has created two larger-than-life sculptures as Homage to Carnival in front of The Design Museum. kcaw.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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FOOD & DRINK

PLENTY OF PLATES CICCHETTI KNIGHTSBRIDGE

Cicchetti translates quite literally to small plates, so it goes without saying that you’ll be doing a lot of sharing at this Italian eatery. Cicchetti Knightsbridge is the newest restaurant from the family-run San Carlo group and offered guests an elevated authentic Italian dining experience within an effortlessly elegant setting. sancarlo.co.uk

Food News 28 • Absolutely Eats Out 31 • Summer Terraces 38 A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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WHAT TO DRINK

GRAPE news

TASTING NOTES

London’s food news and most exciting openings this month B y R AC H E L H O G G

This month we're loving non-alcoholic wines

Sprigster Fizz, Wiltshire  £14.50 The newest creation from the team at Pythouse Kitchen Garden is made from ingredients plucked straight from their three-acre English garden. A complex, delightfully dry and refreshing celebratory drink, it is the perfect alcohol-free alternative to champagne. sprigsterdrinks.com

Pale Fox Prosecco, Northern Italy  £21.95 The award-winning fine wine brand, Pale Fox Prosecco has announced the launch of its first nonalcoholic sparkling wine. It is produced by vinifying a still white wine, separating out the alcohol using reverse osmosis and adding the effervescence. palefoxprosecco.com

Wednesday’s Domaine, France  £12.49 This exciting new wine brand has set out to make an alcohol-free wine alternative that has all the flavour, body and complexity of the real deal.

It has everything you would want from a glass of wine, minus the alcohol, so you'll never have to miss out again. wednesdaysdomaine.com

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Fiesta Wednesday 1 0 0 WA R D O U R ST R E E T

Turn an otherwise average Wednesday into a full-fledged fiesta at 100 Wardour Street’s new event. You’ll be able to get your fill from the completely re-designed food menus that feature delicious ingredient-led dishes. The sangria will also be flowing, which should put you in the mood to dance along to some live music courtesy of the resident party band.

100wardourst.com

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FOOD & DRINK • NOTES

GRAB A SLICE Delicious pizzas for summer sharing

PERFECT PAIRING THE HIPPODROME

NAPOLI GANG

Sunday Sharing

For the first time since Napoli Gang originally launched in 2020, you’ll be able to get a slice of the action in person at their new Ladbroke Grove pizza shop. napoligang.co.uk

EL NORTE

The Hippodrome Casino will be commemorating its 10th anniversary in style this July with a series of memorable experiences. The Heliot Steak house has developed a limitededition tasting menu as a part of the celebration. It features steaks from some of the world’s finest producers, paired with five complimentary wines. hippodromecasino.com

A truly authentic Spanish dining experience is coming to the streets of Mayfair. Inspired by the Sunday ritual of family and friends gathering together to share a luxurious meal, every week a new traditional rice dish, similar to paella, will be available for you and your loved ones to tuck into. el-norte.co.uk

HOMESLICE Homeslice’s new Shoreditch restaurant has gone entirely plantbased and offers a menu of vegan pizzas, all topped with Neil Rankin’s Smyplicity products. homeslicepizza.co.uk

O N

T H E

GRILL

SOUTH PLACE HOTEL

Italian Garden C O M O GA R D E N

This new restaurant concept brings the ultimate Italian garden experience indoors. Como Garden’s interior design has been inspired by the picturesque scenery surrounding Lake Como. You’ll be able to take a seat underneath the beautiful green canopy and try something from the extensive menu. comogarden.co.uk

H A P P Y FAC E P I Z Z A London’s Italophiles will delight in Happy Face Pizza’s fun and modern take on authentic Neapolitan pizzas, renowned for their punchy flavours and puffy, light dough. happyface.pizza

Jake O’Riley, the new head chef of South Place Hotel’s restaurant, Chop House, is out to prove that local is best. He has designed a refreshed summer menu made from responsibly sourced food and organic produce. Guests will be able to sample a selection of dishes centred on the finest British ingredients. southplacehotel.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 • REVIEW

ABSOLUTELY eats out…

“Much more than a showcase for lovely Tom Dixon products”

COAL OFFICE Tom Dixon’s HQ restaurant in Coal Drops Yard is a culinary treat

FOOD Middle Eastern and Mediterranean

By Pendle Harte

T

he Coal Office is much more than a lovely space in which to showcase lots of lovely Tom Dixon products, though it is that too. The Coal Drops Yard headquarters of this major design player is a dark-coloured, stylish place with a large, busy outdoor terrace that comes into its own in the summer.

We sit inside, on bar stools facing a long, open kitchen staffed by improbably friendly and smiley chefs, who despite being busy are

open to chat and explain everything.

It’s a sharing plates idea and everything sounds intriguing and slightly mysterious. From a list of breads we choose Kubalah, described as soft Yemeni brioche with tahini, grated tomato and schug. What’s schug? It’s a Middle Eastern hot herb sauce, apparently, and the bread is a warm, cakey brioche with a perfect, almost crisp crust, and the dip is so moreish that really we would have been fine with just that, and lots of it. From the Small Plates list we choose Agvania: “summer tomatoes two ways, Israeli salad, strawberry coulis, basil oil, olive cracker”, which is a striking-looking half beef

DECOR Dark and design-led

PRICE Small plates £10-£15; Big plates £20-£29

tomato, cooked slightly and filled with tiny cubes of cucumber and resting in what tastes like a chilled strawberry-infused tomato gazpacho. Another small plate is Iraqui Tropical – this is probably our favourite – yellow tail sashimi with amba pickled okra, mango, cucumber, ginger and red chilli.

There’s a distinct flavour that we struggle to identify – and this is where sitting near the chefs helps. It’s the amba, which is fermented mango, she reveals.

Next there’s bone marrow with aubergine tartar (yes, chopped raw aubergine) and aubergine cream with pita crunch, chilli and almonds – this is served in the bone, which might be alarming for some (though not us) and it’s a sweet and salty treat. Finally there’s pulled leg of lamb, laced with pomegranate seeds and served with lettuce cups and cucumber relish, which is dreamy. We couldn’t have enjoyed it more.

VERDICT

C OA L O F F I C E

Intriguing and delicious food, stylish surrounds

2 Bagley Walk N1 coaloffice.com

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The Observer

The Times

The Daily Telegraph

HHHHH

HHHH

HHHHH

RE Ajarb Bernard Ategwa, Posing with my Parrot, 2021, acrylic on canvas, 237 x 199 cm.

Private Collection, USA © Ajarb Bernard Ategwa / Jack Bell Gallery

T h e Wo m a n i n t h e W i n d o w

FRAMED:

UNTIL 4 SEP 2022

dpg.art/reframed #reframed Supported by

Official Paint Partner

The Elizabeth Cayzer Charitable Trust

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FOOD & DRINK • NOTES

DRINKS CABINET What to drink this month

By PENDLE HARTE

SPOTLIGHT

PRETTY IN PINK LADUREE Ladurée's has teamed up with Provençal private vineyard Château d’Estoublon to launch the Roseblood collection.

Château d’Estoublon’s organic Roseblood Rosé wine has a beautiful and pale luminous colour and combines beautifully with Ladurée's exclusive Roseblood macarons that combine notes of red fruit, pomegranate and apricot.

laduree.com

CARBON FREE SELFRIDGES Selfridges' new own-brand Earthly Spirits Gin is made using entirely renewable energy and even removes more carbon dioxide from the atmosphere than it emits, making it carbon negative. So help the planet and have a cocktail. £39.99

selfridges.com

QUEEN OF GINS V I TO R I A R E G I A

Popular in South America and set to shake up the UK spirits scene this summer, Vitoria Regia is the awardwinning artisanal organic gin that combines quality handcraft distilling with exotic ‘new world’ flavours.

ginvitoriaregia.com

Behind the bar

A Sipsmith Garden pop-up

By EVE HERBERT

S

ipsmith has transformed The Lensbury Hotel's Rose Garden with a popup bar, stunning floral archway, and deckchairs.

Transporting guests from their everyday lives, the Sipsmith Garden is tucked away in the Teddington hotel’s expansive 25-acre grounds with views of the Thames, its own wildlife pond and the estate’s impressive rose collection.

Gin lovers can stick with the authentic London Dry Gin in a classic G&T, enjoy a citrus G&T with Sipsmith Zesty Orange Gin or try a Spritz serve with the Sipsmith Strawberry Smash Gin..

The Lensbury is also serving a brandnew Afternoon G&Tea menu, including quintessentially British treats such as finger sandwiches, handmade cakes, and scones with Sipsmith gin infused strawberry jam and clotted cream, as well as a selection of teas with the option to add a refreshing Sipsmith Spritz.

Not only is The Lensbury and the Sipsmith Secret Garden a great spot for locals, the hotel’s close proximity to the capital makes it an ideal choice for Londoners looking to escape the city, whether for an evening drink or an overnight stay. During their visit, guests can also discover the hotel’s first-class sport facilities, including 22 tennis courts, a watersports centre that offers kayaking, sailing, and motorboat hire, as well as a state-of-the-art gym.

The Lensbury has designed an overnight stay package for gin lovers: ‘Gin, Bed and Breakfast’ includes a one night stay with breakfast, a Sipsmith gin cocktail and full access to the hotel’s leisure facilities. Prices start from £170 per room/ per night.

lensbury.com

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Recipes to

EXCITE

Bold, impactful dishes from Ottolenghi protege Ixta Belfrage Wo r d s I X TA B E L F R A G E • P h o t o g r a p h y Y U K I S U G I U R A

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FOOD & DRINK • RECIPES

Roasted cabbage

with mango and harissa sauce S E RV E S 4 A S A S I D E

INGREDIENTS

• 1 medium Savoy cabbage • 1 teaspoon flaked salt • 3 tablespoons olive oil • 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced into rounds (optional) • 5g fresh herbs (preferably a mix of dill and coriander) • Greek-style yoghurt, to serve (optional) • lemon wedges, to serve Mango and harissa sauce: • 3 tablespoons olive oil • 4 large cloves of garlic, very finely chopped • 1 mild red chilli, deseeded and very finely chopped • ⅛ teaspoon fine salt • 2 tablespoons rose harissa • 2 teaspoons tomato purée/paste • 100g very ripe, sweet mango flesh, peeled and chopped into 1cm cubes • 2 teaspoons lemon juice

METHOD

The mango and harissa sauce is the star here and couldn’t be easier to put together. It works well in so many contexts: try it with roast chicken, marinated tofu or grilled fish or prawns, or let it come to room temperature and use it as the base for a fish or prawn crudo dish. For a quick midweek dinner, serve the cabbage with fried eggs.

Preheat the oven to 220°C fan/240°C. 2 Separate the cabbage leaves to get 400g of the brightest green leaves (save the rest for another recipe). Cut the leaves in half along the ribs, then cut in half again. Put them into a large bowl with the flaked salt and oil and massage together. Transfer to a large, flat tray and spread out as much as possible – it’s fine if some leaves overlap, as they’ll shrink. Roast for 12 minutes, tossing the leaves halfway, until the edges are beginning to brown and crisp up. 3 To make the sauce, put 1

the oil, garlic, chilli and fine salt into a large sauté pan and place on a medium-low heat. Gently fry for 6–7 minutes, stirring often, until the garlic is very soft. You don’t want the garlic to brown, so turn the heat down if necessary. Remove the pan from the heat. Stir in the harissa and tomato purée/paste until combined, then stir in the mango and lemon juice 4 Spoon the sauce on to a platter and top with the roasted cabbage leaves. 5 Squeeze over some lemon juice, then top with the jalapeño and herbs. Serve warm with yoghurt on the side, if you like.

Brown butter sea bass with tangerine dipping sauce and lots of herbs S E RV E S 2

INGREDIENTS

• 1 x 800g sea bass, at room temperature • 2 stalks of fresh rosemary • 40g spring onions (about 4 thin ones) • fine salt • 1 baby gem lettuce, leaves separated • 5g fresh mint leaves • 5g fresh coriander leaves • 5g fresh basil leaves • lime wedges Citrus butter: • 40g unsalted butter • 30g olive oil • 1.5 tablespoons tangerine juice • 2 teaspoons lime juice

• 3 cloves of garlic, skin left on and crushed with the side of a knife • 1 teaspoon fine salt • about 20 twists of freshly ground black pepper Tangerine dipping sauce: • 1.5 teaspoons pul biber (use red bell pepper flakes if you don’t like heat) • 1 small clove of garlic, finely chopped • 1/4 teaspoon finely grated fresh ginger • ¾ teaspoon tomato purée/paste • 1/4 teaspoon fine salt • 1.5 tablespoons mild and light olive oil • 40g sweet, ripe cherry tomatoes, such as Datterini, very finely chopped • 4 tablespoons tangerine juice • 2 teaspoons lime juice • 1/4 teaspoon fish sauce or light soy sauce

METHOD

Don’t be put off by the longish ingredients list and method. Read through it once and you’ll realise this recipe is actually very straightforward and requires very little hands-on cooking. This is a great interactive sharing dish; stuff pieces of fish into the lettuce leaves (fresh corn tortillas would be great, too), top with the herbs and dipping sauce and let it trickle down your wrists as you eat with your hands. You’ll need four tangerines and two limes in total for this recipe.

Preheat the oven to 190°C fan/210°C. Pat the sea bass with kitchen towel to make sure it’s as dry as possible. Transfer it to a 33 x 26cm non-stick high-sided baking tray, arranging it diagonally so it fits. The tray shouldn’t be much bigger than the fish, otherwise the citrus butter will burn. Use a very sharp knife to make 1

2

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FOOD & DRINK • RECIPES

5 diagonal slits in the fish. Season the cavity with ¼ teaspoon of fine salt, then stuff with the rosemary and spring onions. Put all the ingredients for the citrus butter into a small saucepan and place on a medium heat until the butter has melted. Pour over and around the fish. 3 Bake for 14 minutes (or longer if your fish is larger than 800g), then baste the fish well and turn the oven to the highest grill setting. Grill on the top shelf of the oven for 4–6 minutes, or until the skin begins to bubble and crisp. Keep a close eye, as some grills are much hotter than others. 4 While the fish is cooking, make the tangerine dipping sauce. Put the pul biber, garlic, ginger, tomato purée/paste and fine salt into a mortar and pound with a pestle to a rough paste. 5 Heat the oil in a small saucepan on a medium heat for 1 minute, then pour the hot oil into the mortar. Stir together, then add the chopped tomatoes, tangerine juice, lime juice and fish sauce. 6 Once cooked, transfer the sea bass to a large platter with the browned citrus butter.

Discard the garlic skins. Serve with the lettuce and soft herbs to make parcels with, and the dipping sauce and lime wedges alongside.

Whipped yoghurt: • 150g mascarpone, fridge-cold • 200g yoghurt, fridge-cold • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla bean paste • 1 tablespoon maple syrup

Whipped yoghurt

with roasted strawberries and peanut fudge sauce S E RV E S 4

INGREDIENTS

Roasted strawberries: • 300g frozen strawberries, defrosted (frozen strawberries will produce a redder syrup, but you can use fresh strawberries – stalks removed and roughly chopped – just make sure they’re extra ripe) • 50g caster sugar • 1/2 lime • 2 cinnamon sticks, roughly broken

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Extracted from MEZCLA by IXTA BELFRAGE (Ebury Press, £26)

Peanut fudge sauce: • 50g smooth peanut butter (I use Manilife) • 1.5 tablespoons cocoa powder (15g) • 75g maple syrup • 1 teaspoon soy sauce (or tamari) • 1.5 tablespoons water

METHOD

The lime-roasted strawberries and peanut fudge sauce are essentially a refined combination of peanut butter and jelly, and boy do they sing together!

Here I serve them with a simple whipped yoghurt, but you could serve with plain yoghurt or shop-bought ice cream. If you’re feeling wild, pile the whipped yoghurt, roasted strawberries and fudge sauce on top of a caramelised

roasted crumpet and dust with cocoa powder to offset the sweetness.

1 Preheat the oven to 200°C fan/220°C. 2 For the roasted strawberries, place all the ingredients in an ovenproof dish just big enough to fit the strawberries in a single layer. They should be snug, but not piled on top of each other. Bake for 20 minutes, stirring halfway. Set aside to cool. 3 Place the mascarpone, yoghurt, vanilla paste and maple syrup in a large bowl and whisk together until completely smooth. Keep the bowl in the fridge until ready to serve. For the fudge sauce, whisk all the ingredients together in a small bowl until smooth. You may need to add more water or maple syrup, depending on the thickness of your peanut butter.

You’re looking for a smooth, thick but pourable consistency. In individual glasses, layer the chilled yoghurt with the warm strawberries and the fudge sauce and serve.

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BLIND AND CURTAIN SHOWROOM Refresh your home with new curtains and blinds made from a wonderful collection of fabrics, including designers Sanderson, Harlequin, Romo and more Bespoke Luxaflex blinds including SmartHome integration Browse and buy our gifts online at www.curtain-call.co.uk Please call for showroom appointments Opening Hours: Tues-Sat 10am to 5pm 52 Friars Stile Road, Richmond, Surrey TW10 6NQ 020 8332 6250 • www.curtain-call.co.uk info@curtain-call.co.uk CURTAIN _CALL_HP_ABS_APRIL.indd 1

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HAUGEN

TERRACE TIME

LAUREL'S ON THE ROOF

Absolutely has tracked down some of the most luscious locations to eat and drink away a summer’s day BERMONDSEY BEER LARDER

BERMONDSEY

The British weather is unpredictable at best, but this new 40-seater terrace at the Bermondsey Larder is prepared for whatever nature may bring.

They have recreated the feel of a quintessential summer barbeque, and you’ll be able to enjoy an all-new food and drink menu that has been specially curated for the season. bermondseylarder.com

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VEUVE TERRACE

MAYFAIR

You’ll be able to enjoy a glass of fizz on top of one of London’s most cherished historical buildings. The roof of the luxury 5-star Great Scotland Yard Hotel is home to a brand new champagne terrace opened in partnership with Veuve Clicquot. Guests will be able to enjoy a cold glass of something sparking while overlooking Whitehall’s skyline. hyatt.com

SMITHS BAR & GRILL

Paddington Whether you are looking to kick your weekend off with a boozy bottomless brunch or round it off with a wholesome family roast, this waterside restaurant is the perfect setting. The menu has been designed with the weather in mind and features fresh British summer classics to be enjoyed alongside an extensive bar list. smithsbarandgrill.co.uk

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FOOD & DRINK • SUMMER TERRACES STRIPES AMALFI

THE IVY CHELSEA GARDEN

THE IVY CHELSEA

CHELSEA

The Ivy Chelsea’s secret garden oasis is the perfect place to retreat when the temperature spikes.

Guests can relax on the lush outdoor terrace surrounded by trailing wisteria and climbing roses and retreat indoors into the orangery if the weather turns. The menu has something for everyone and features plenty of cafe-style classics. theivychelseagarden.com

HAUGEN

DAPHNE'S

STRATFORD

STRIPES AMALFI

SHOREDITCH

Some old Hollywood glamour has come to East London at the Mondrian’s new rooftop bar and restaurant, inspired by the legacy of Laurel Canyon in Los Angeles.

The Californian-style all-day menu means you’ll be able to seamlessly transition from coffees to cocktails.

It’s the perfect place to while away a relaxing summer’s day, overlooking the Shoreditch skyline. sbe.com

CHELSEA

It may be far from Ski Season, but this new East London rooftop is bringing the lively Après Ski atmosphere well into the Summer months. The alpine-inspired rooftop bar and restaurant recently opened in Stratford and is home to all the things you love about Après Ski culture, minus the sub-zero temperatures. haugen-restaurant.com

MAYFAIR

LAUREL'S ON THE ROOF

The warmth and effortless charm of Italy inspired everything about this restaurant, from the vibrant decor to the authentic seasonal menu. Originally founded in 1964 by flamboyant casting director Daphne Rye, Daphne's has gone on to become a local favourite amongst Chelsea’s residents and now their famed outdoor terrace is open for dogs to enjoy as well. daphnes-restaurant.co.uk

BERMONDSEY BEER LARDER

DAPHNE'S CHELSEA

If you feel like visiting the Amalfi coast but don’t feel like boarding a flight, then this new alfresco terrace may be the perfect thing. You’ll be able to immerse yourself in the magic of the Italian summer at this new pop-up that has just opened in Mayfair’s Brown Hart Gardens. www.stripes-london.com A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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FA S H I O N

REUSE, RECYCLE STELLA MCCARTNEY

For next season, 72% of the ready-to-wear collection is crafted from responsible materials.

New innovations include pieces crafted with repurposed deadstock fabrics from LVMH’s Nona Source platform. stellamccarteny

The shoot: Miami style 42 • Jewellery 48 • Fabulous swimwear 54 A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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Ocean

DRIVE South Beach styling from Koibird

KO I B I R D.C O M

AGUA BY AGUA BENDITA Guaguanco Floral Dress, £312

SHOOT.indd 43

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OSEREE Sequin Bandana Bikini, £225

SHOOT.indd 45

VERDELIMON Loira Bikini Top, £130 Banes Bikini Bottom, £140 San Juan Cover Up, £255

29/06/2022 16:51

CULT GAIA Nadeesha Dress, £460

SHOOT.indd 46

GEDEBE Mia Crochet Fringed Bag, £660

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FASHION • JEWELLERY

Elegant Enamel Wear something fun this summer B y R AC H E L H O G G

FRY POWERS

BOOCHIER

BEA BONGIASCA

Unicorn Rainbow Silver, Enamel and Topaz Ring, £580 net-a-porter.com

Purple Fruit Hoops Bangle, £9,405 boochier.com

Baby Vine Tendril Baby Blue Enamel Ring, £395 net-a-porter.com

CARRIE ELIZABETH

EMILY P. WHEELER

ANNA + NINA

Eivissa Enamel Ring in Orange, £60 carrieelizabeth.co.uk

Tiered Gold, Enamel, Sapphire and Morganite Earrings, £4,675 net-a-porter.com

Gold-Plated Green Twirl Enamel Hoop Earrings, £60 libertylondon.com

KURT GEIGER

BOTTEGA VENETA

ALICE CICOLINI

Enamel Eagle Bangle in Fuschia, £99 kurtgeiger.com

Enamel and Sterling Silver Triangle Earrings in Wave, £715 matchesfashion.com

Memphis Candy Gold and Enamel Ring, £950 alicecicolini.com

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

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Bespoke Fine Jewellery

by Master Goldsmiths

100 Years of Centre Court Many things have changed, but our values, craftsmanship, expertise and high standards prevail.

Specialist Bespoke Design Service for new, dated or inherited jewels.

Sensational jewellery in stock to view. Complex Restoration Work and Valuations undertaken on-site, call or email for an appointment.

DSM W R R R Church Road, Wimbledon Village, ondon SW DW pen uesday Saturday michaelplatt.co.uk info michaelplatt.co.uk

MICHAEL PLATT.indd 49

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Discover Rolex at Prestons Guildford with James EdwardsLonghurst Here, we discuss the relocation of Prestons, the extended Rolex space and the key advice when exploring the Rolex collection.

Tell Us About Your Relocated Showroom In Guildford?

The team and I have recently relocated to a new showroom, which remains on Guildford High Street but is only a mere stone’s throw from our previous store. The showroom features an extended space dedicated to Rolex allowing each client to explore the comprehensive selection of timepieces in a space that truly reflects the brand.

The centrepiece of the store continues to be its unique spiral staircase. The spiral features an American walnut trunk supporting individually etched green glass leaves which act as stair treads. As you approach the first floor, dedicated to Rolex, the staircase is surrounded by a glass canopy decorated with iridescent insects which reflect and sparkle in sunlight and have been mirrored throughout the Edwardian styling of the new environment.

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XXXXXXXX • XXXXX

How Long Have You Worked With Rolex?

I feel incredibly lucky to have worked with Rolex for just over six years at our showroom in Guildford. I thoroughly enjoy my role as no two days are the same, working with Rolex is exciting, and it makes a great work environment. I am delighted that my career has taken this path as I have always had a passion for luxury timepieces and Rolex is the ultimate watch in my opinion.

One of the most enjoyable elements of my role is presenting a watch to a client.

A Rolex watch is often used to commemorate a special occasion, perhaps a birthday or an anniversary, it is wonderful to help create these memories and be a part of such a special event.

115 High Street, Guildford GU1 3DP

T: 01483 454 091 prestonsdiamonds.co.uk

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

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XXXXXXXX • XXXXX

What Advice Would You Give To A Client Starting Their Journey with Rolex? he first thing ould advise is to visit us at the sho room. he best ay to truly appreciate a ole atch is to visit an cial ole etailer, such as ourselves. Each member of our team has undergone extensive training in-house and with Rolex, to allow us to pass our expertise and knowledge on to our clients.

In my opinion, there is no better way to immerse yourself in the rich heritage of the brand than within a showroom, it is such an experience.

For example, many clients aren’t aware of the vast variety of philanthropic activities Rolex take part in. If you visit Rolex.org it gives you great insight into their Perpetual Planet initiatives. A personal favourite of mine is ‘Mission Blue’ a charity igniting change throughout areas of critical vulnerability within the oceans.

In Your Opinion, Which Rolex Watch Is Most Interesting?

The Rolex Air-King is probably the most interesting watch within the Rolex collection for me. The history of the watch, dating back to the 1950s, and its evolution over the years fascinates me. The Air-King is just one example of the brand’s privileged ties with the world of aviation.

I love the sleek case design, which was redesigned to a 40mm case this year, accompanied by the classic Oyster bracelet and the distinctive black dial with the large 3, 6 and 9 numerals marking the hours. In my opinion it is an iconic watch, classic and above all, timeless.

If You Wish To Buy A Rolex As A Gift, What Advice Would You Give?

This would all depend on the individual you are buying for, a parent, sibling or a significant other ill all have di erent requirements. It is important to consider if there is a material that they prefer or a bracelet and dial combination that they will love.

I always suggest considering if there is a particular function of a watch that they require, such as the date, or perhaps even the day as well. Each of these elements will help us to select the perfect watch for a loved one.

I feel incredibly lucky to be able to guide our clients and friends with this process. Our new showroom allows us the space to create surprises and celebrate occasions that reflect ho special the moment and their chosen watch is.

For further information please visit: prestonsdiamonds.com

115 High Street, Guildford GU1 3DP

T: 01483 454 091 prestonsdiamonds.co.uk

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

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FASHION • SWIMWEAR

ANDREAS SARDA Coco swimsuit, £182 ameliesfollies.co.uk

PEARL LOWE Venus swim hat, £60 pearllowe.co.uk

BAHIA MARIA Penelope bikini, £255 atterley.com

MAYGEL CORONEL Elcy Orange Ruffle Swimsuit, £255 koibird.com

EDITOR’S PICK ASPIGA Halter Neck Recycled Swimsuit Shell Marina Blue £130 aspiga.com

PEARL LOWE Ruby swimsuit, £195 pearllowe.co.uk

MAKE A SPLASH This summer's most fabulous swimwear

MASARA

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

Coco bikini top, £85 masaramilano.com

CALARENA Bronze Effleuree Swimsuit, £200 koibird.com

MEDINA Sinkiss bikini, £315 medinaswimwear.com

VERDELIMON San Juan cover up, £255 koibird.com

EBERJEY Loretta ruffle swimsuit, £220 eberjey.com

MEDINA Orange volley swimsuit, £240 medinaswimwear.com

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ADRIANA DEGREAS Solid Purple Bikini, £240 adrianadegreas.com

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FITTINGS BY APPOINTMENT GIFT VOUCHER AND GIFT WRAPPING AVAILABLE LINGERIE • NIGHTWEAR • SWIMWEAR BEACHWEAR • NURSING BRAS

Lingerie and swimwear fitting specialist from A to J cup (size 8 to 20 uk)

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34 Webb’s Road, London SW11 6SF Tel: 020 7924 3826 www.ameliesfollies.co.uk | ameliesfollies@yahoo.com |

@ameliesfollies

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FASHION • PARTNERSHIP

Suits

YOU

What to wear on the beach?

Advice from Amelie’s Follies B y C AT H E R I N E A U B E R T

L

ast year’s uncertainty about travel is becoming a distant memory as many of us begin to head for guaranteed sun over the summer break.

If you have booked a holiday, our key piece of advice is to unpack your swimwear now. Take a good hard look to spare any last-minute panic. Have your costumes, bikinis and cover-ups seen better days? Has your shape changed? Does your swimwear not make you feel good? Is it dated or simply not fit for purpose?

If it’s a ‘yes’ to any of these, then don’t worry.

At Amélie’s Follies we have a range of swimwear to flatter all shapes and sizes, with some ranges going up to an I cup. The collections have been curated with real bodies and real lives in mind, so you can be sure you will enjoy swimming and playing with the children, posing with a cocktail or paddleboarding with no embarrassing reveals, all while looking the best version of yourself in shapes and colours that flatter.

GREEN

This is the colour of the season, whether on its own or integrated into a print. There is bound to be a shade of green that plays to your best features.

ORANGE

MONOCHROME

Controversial for some, but orange is actually one of the most flattering colours when it comes to swimwear. We are talking bright, zesty orange – not coral. It brings out the golden tones in skin and tan.

For many of us black is the standard – but consider adding a little white or cream detail. Whether you are on the beach in Cornwall or on a yacht in St. Tropez, monochrome is never out of place.

ANIMAL PRINT

We offer the same fitting service for swimwear as we do for bras. Book in for an appointment and a personal shopping experience. With beach bags, sun hats and a wide variety of beach dresses, trousers, kaftans and sarongs, we can help you put together an entire summer wardrobe without breaking a sweat.

Leopard, zebra, tiger, snakeskin – animal prints come in all sorts of sizes, styles and colourways.

They are a modern and stylish update.

NEON

Neons make an impact and bring out even the slightest of tan. Be adventurous with a print incorporating neon tones. You won’t regret it.

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

GE T GLOWING CHANEL

Chanel is thinking BIG this summer with these new additions to their Les Beiges collection, designed to get your whole body summer holiday ready.

The multi-use products work wonders to warm up your complexion and give your skin a healthy sunkissed glow and are applied with ease using the oversized kabuki brush, from £42. chanel.com

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • NOTES

BEAUTY NOTES

The latest in luxury makeup and skincare B y R AC H E L H O G G

EDITOR’S PICK

Reduce

T R E AT M E N T

& REUSE

BEST IN BLONDE

PAC I F I CA

Love pampering yourself, but hate harming the planet, Pacifica has you covered. The brand has released a range of eco-conscious face masks that you can feel good about using.

The innovative silicone patches are designed to be reused up to 15 times and can be applied alongside any of your favourite serums, £15.

This month Absolutely visited Oh La La in Brixton for a blonde moment

cultbeauty.co.uk

Smoother Summer S E R E I A S K I N CA R E

Sereia Skincare’s smoothing duo is perfect for creating a sleek silhouette this summer. The exfoliating body cleansing bar is packed with powerful marine nutrients and has been developed to work exclusively with the ergonomically shaped body mitt to stimulate blood flow and help create smooth and glowing skin, £32. sereiaskincare.com

EVERYDAY S KINCA RE BONDI SANDS

One of the most trusted tanning brands has recently expanded to skincare, with the release of their ‘Everyday Skincare’ range. Bondi Sands has designed a range of products that are packed full of a combination of active ingredients and their trademark natural Australian botanicals, from £8.99.

M

y driver’s licence describes my hair colour as blonde, but that is a stretch at best and a downright lie at worst. The truth is that I haven’t been a natural blonde since the late 90s and as I’ve aged my hair has darkened into a shade of mousy brown. Alas, I am still a blonde at heart, and I think I may have finally found the hairdresser capable of returning me to the natural hair of my youth. This month I visited Oh La La’s Brixton salon to have an appointment with one of their blonde specialists, and needless to say, I now know why they get so many rave reviews on Treatwell.

Ivan used his signature balayage method to turn me into the opposite of a bottle blonde. He created beautiful, dimensional blonde hair that looked like it had been gradually lightened by a few weeks spent in the sun. After he had finished, Zahra stepped in to cut my hair and was able to add shape and dimension without sacrificing length.

She even managed to get the faceframing pieces to be the perfect length.

Plus, thanks to the additional Keratin treatments, my hair still feels silky and smooth and free of damage despite having been lightened. I left feeling like I had returned to my blonde roots.

OH LA LA 77 Atlantic Road, Brixton SW9 8PU

ohlala.mytreatwell.co.uk

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C LI N I C

BTL EMSCULPT NEO BTL EMSCULPT LIPOFIRM BODY ADVANCED FACIAL AESTHETICS NON-SURGICAL FACELIFT BODY CONTOURING LASER HAIR REMOVAL VASCULAR LASER MEDICAL WEIGHT LOSS & HORMONAL HEALTH (CQC clinics only)

Fe tc h a m Pa r k H ou se • Cobha m • Kni ght sbr i d g e

01372 371 201 i nfo @ p e n ro s e c l i n i c. co. u k

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • TREND

CLINIQUE Superdefense City Block SPF 50, £23 clinique.co.uk

KATE SOMERVILLE Daily Deflector Mineral Sunscreen, £46 katesomerville.co.uk

LA ROCHEPOSAY Anthelios Ultra-Light Invisible Fluid, £18 laroche-posay.co.uk

GLOW HUB Defend Yourself Sun Silk, £12 glowhub.com

EDITOR’S PICK SISLEY

KIEHL’S

All Day All Year Protective Shield, £304 sisley-paris.com

Ultra Light Daily UV Defense, £40 kiehls.co.uk

SUPERGOOP! Glowscreen SPF 30, £32 cultbeauty.co.uk

SAVE FACE Enjoy the sun, and avoid the damage, we've found our favourite SPFs

GLOSSIER Invisible Shield Daily Sunscreen, £20 glossier.com

CLINIQUE Superdefense Moisturiser SPF40, £43 clinique.co.uk

REN SKINCARE Clean Screen Mineral SPF 30, £33 renskincare.com

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • FITNESS

TOP

PICKS From Spanx Active’s Summer Collection

FITNESS NOTES

By RACHEL HOGG

BOOT Y BOOST LEGGINGS These leggings are made with the lift and bum sculpting technology SPANX is famous for, and are built to support every workout, £88

LO N G L E N GT H B R A A medium-impact sports bra that is the best of both worlds, and combines the support of a bra, with the comfort of an everyday crop top, £58

PURESPORT MEMBERS RUNNING IN BATTERSEA

T H E G R E AT OUTDOORS Three ways you can take your workout outside this summer

G O L I G H T LY TA N K This tank is made from a lightweight, breathable and sweat-wicking fabric that keeps you cool and comfortable during your workout, £48 Available for purchase at johnlewis.com

A BE FEARSOME BOOTCAMP

B E F E A RS O M E

SW I F T FI TN ES S

 Why toil away in a stuffy gym, when you could be working up a sweat in one of London’s most beautiful parks? Whether you're looking to run faster, build your functional fitness, improve your general mobility, or just work up a good old-fashioned sweat, Be Fearsome has an outdoor class for any and every fitness need. befearsome.com

 If you’ve got energy to burn, you’ll love this outdoor boot camp by Swift Fitness. Each session consists of a mixture of interval training, intense circuits and more targeted exercises designed to tone, shape and strengthen, interspersed with team games to keep things light.

You're guaranteed to leave feeling good, albeit probably quite tired. swiftfitnessgroup.co.uk

PUR ESP ORT RUNNING C LUB  What started as a virtual event on Strava during lockdown has turned into one of the largest running clubs in the United Kingdom, and went on to build a community of hundreds.

Every Wednesday evening in parks all across London, people of all ages and abilities gather to run together and work towards their fitness goals. puresport.co

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MAKE YOURSELF AT HOME IN LINNAEAN'S BEAUTIFUL SALON

The best beauty treatments to get you ready for summer

H O L I DAY P R E P

HEALTH & BEAUTY • REVIEWS

Natural Nails LINNAEAN Battersea

M Wax Away SUGARING LONDON

Shoreditch & Notting Hill

S

wimsuit season is well underway, and I have yet to remove any hair, so I thought I’d try out sugaring for the first time. I was initially a little apprehensive, especially considering that previous waxes have felt like an extended form of torture, but as it turns out sugaring is a whole different story.

The process was significantly less painful and markedly quicker than what I am used to. To my relief, I found there was less inflammation and discomfort in the days that followed, along with fewer ingrown hairs. The sugar paste also acted as a gentle exfoliant, so I noticed that afterwards my skin was incredibly smooth on top of being hairless. sugaring.london

SUGARING LONDON'S SHOREDITCH SALON

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anicures are my favourite form of pampering and I may have discovered the ultimate luxury beauty destination at Linnaean. I chose my nail colour from their selection of non-toxic, cruelty-free and vegan polishes. Then I just sat back and enjoyed a delicious oat-milk coffee, when my hands were free. I was particularly impressed with the level of detail that went into reshaping my nails and taking care of my cuticle health, it was clear that this treatment is about more than just looking good. I left with beautiful healthy, natural-looking nails that all my friends have been grabbing to admire. linnaean.co.uk

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SHAVATA SINGH EXPERIENCING THE TREATMENT FOR HERSELF

Lifted Lashes EJIRO STUDIO

I

Shoreditch

am a huge fan of treatments that make you look like you’re wearing makeup, so naturally, I leapt at the opportunity to try out a lash lift at Ejiro Studio. My lashes are fairly straight and are lighter on their ends, so just tinting them and giving them some shape changed their appearance completely. The process involved a few different stages and took just over an hour and I was a little nervous about having to keep my eyes closed for this entire time, but I can honestly say I didn’t struggle at all. It was hands-down the most relaxing treatment I’ve ever had, and one of the better naps too. ejiro.co.uk

Beautifully Bronzed JAMES READ

Knightsbridge

M

y relationship with tanning is perilous, due to my having naturally pale Irish skin, that is genetically prone to sprouting pre melanomas. So I was thrilled to get the opportunity to get a spray tan done at the hands of industry legend, James Read. He has been tanning people for over twenty years and has a rather impressive roster of celebrity clientele. I was after something very natural, so he chose to do the rose water tan. The formula contains hyaluronic acid, so it felt lovely on my skin and was incredibly hydrating. After the tan had finished developing, I looked just like I did when I returned from my three-week holiday in Greece. My skin just has the same beautiful, subtle glow, except this time around I won’t have to make any panicked calls to skin doctors. jamesreadtan.com

Ultimate Eyes SHAVATA SINGH

D

Knightsbridge

eveloped in partnership with luxury skincare brand 111SKIN, Shavata Singh’s new ultimate eye treatment is a double whammy of aesthetic improvement and pure relaxation. It started with Shavata herself reshaping my brows, and I felt completely safe in her expert hands. This says a lot because, as the result of one particularly traumatic incident, I am particularly selective about who I let do my eyebrows. The brief pain of the waxing and tweezing was long forgotten thanks to the relaxing shoulder massage and lymphaticdrainage massages that followed.

Once I was sufficiently relaxed, Shavata applied a hydrating under-eye mask and cream, both chosen from 111SKIN’s range according to my skincare needs. I somehow managed to stay awake long enough for my eyelashes to be tinted and ended up leaving looking and feeling completely rejuvenated. shavata.co.uk

JAMES READ ALSO HAS A RANGE OF PRODUCTS YOU CAN LINGER FOR A POST-TREATMENT COFFEE AT EJIRO STUDIO

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Respect the remarkable There’s no one in the world like your loved one. As a Loveday member, they can enjoy a later life that truly honours who they are. We offer CQC Outstanding-rated care, tailored to their personal needs. A curated programme of activities to suit their lifestyle and interests. And 5-star service delivered in beautiful surroundings – for an experience that’s anything but ordinary.

Visit one of our outstanding senior care residences Notting Hill—Abbey Road—Kensington—Chelsea lovedayandco.com | +44 (0) 204 579 6495 LOVEDAY CO.indd 69

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • PARTNERSHIP

M A R I N E M A K E O V E R Introducing Sereia Skincare, a brand powered by the sea and all set to nourish your body

S

ereia Skincare is a brand new vegan bodycare range designed to help women of all ages feel good inside and out. The brand wants to change the narrative when it comes to skincare routines and get more people to start nourishing the skin on our bodies as well as on our faces.

Created in lockdown by Charlotte Flather, who has many years’ experience in the beauty industry working for brands including Clarins and Clinique, the range is inspired by her and her late mother’s love of the sea. In fact, Sereia takes its name from the Portuguese word for mermaid.

The products are packed with powerful marine nutrients including seaweed extract and sea buckthorn oil. Rich in

vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, they are designed to leave bodies toned, nourished, hydrated and with a healthy, natural glow.

Charlotte says: “I have taken care to develop a range of effective skin nourishing products and tools, to empower women of all ages to take ownership of their skin concerns in a way that feels true to them. I want women to start loving the real skin they are in."

“I’ve focused initially on bodycare because I want to encourage more of us to think about the importance of caring for the skin on our bodies, as well as on our faces. While the majority of us have set facial skincare routines, we don’t know how to look after our skin from the chin down, but the body needs attention and nourishment to thrive.”

With the mantra ‘Feel Good in your Real Skin’, Sereia is also promoting the

importance of self-care and body positivity.

It has created easy rituals, including a 60 Second Spa, to help an increasing number of women who have developed home skincare routines in lockdown to support both their mental and physical wellbeing.

Charlotte adds: “I believe that beauty starts from the inside out. Every life experience settles somewhere in our body so we need to take care of it. The accumulation of mental, emotional and physical stress can be treated by routine self-care rituals and this is the ethos behind Sereia. I want to help women see that the time we spend on ourselves is invaluable to our mental health, self-esteem and confidence.”

There are currently nine products and tools in the brand new range, available to buy now at sereiaskincare.com A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • PARTNERSHIP

G

ina Rivera is a highly recognised celebrity hairstylist, beauty expert, and Founder of Phenix Salon Suites, a global salon company that provides the opportunity for sole proprietors working in the beauty and wellness industries to operate their business in the privacy of their own suite.

In September last year, Gina and her team brought the Salon Suite concept to the UK. The first location opened in Deansgate, Manchester with additional expansion planned for the UK and Europe.

With a family history in the beauty industry dating back to 1929, and 25 beauty professionals in her family consisting primarily of hairstylists and barbers, Gina soon realised that her path was in the beauty industry. She dropped out of high school and attended Beauty School at the age of 17. Soon, she was working behind the chair building her clientele.

Whilst working as a chair/booth renter, Gina soon realised how important it was for Salon Professionals to be in control of their own destiny. However, she was also aware that most beauty professionals lacked the financial resources to start their own salon. Her new focus was to devise a concept that would allow them to become salon owners at a fraction of the cost of opening a traditional salon. Phenix Salon Suites was born, and Gina opened her first location in 2007 in Colorado Springs, Colorado. In 2012, she decided to franchise the concept across the United States.

Fast forward to today, there are now over 350 locations in the USA where thousands of professionals operate their businesses including, hairstylists, aestheticians, barbers, nail technicians, lash and brow artists, tattoo artists, massage therapist and more. Even better, Phenix Salon Suites has since opened its first UK location in Manchester with plans for many more across the UK. Likewise, expansion will soon be occurring in Sweden, Spain, and other prestigious locations throughout Europe.

The Manchester location has approximately 30 suites with just a few remaining open and available to entrepreneurial professionals. The suites are already filled with hairstylists, barbers, estheticians and nail technicians. When interviewed recently as to why she invested with Phenix, Kayleigh, known as The Hair Witch, said “I’d been self-employed for two

GINA RIVERA

years renting space within a salon. Phenix just seemed like the next logical step for me and my business. It allows me to promote my own ethos and work in the best way to suit me and my clientele. It's a good central location in a nice building - plus it was cheaper! So, for me it was a no brainer”!

Gina is always thinking about how she can enhance the life of the salon professional, and with that mind Gina has created Gina’s Platform, By Gina and COLOURS By Gina.

Gina’s Platform being a business app for Salon Professionals to use and manage their business from the ease of their phone. It includes touchless payment processing, easy client notifications, product and revenue tracking, advanced booking options and trending beauty news and education. By Gina, a selection of shampoo, conditioner and hairspray and COLOURS By Gina, a unique colour line consisting of 60 shades and the ability to create semi, demi or permanent all from the same tube. It’s perfect for the independent stylist who doesn’t have the space or money to carry the usual brands of more than 120+ colour combinations.

Infused with Biotin and Collagen to aid in keeping the hair healthy combined with excellent results in grey coverage and the fact it smells good, it is proving to be a winner with Salon Professionals. The colour line

is available to all salon professionals inside the Phenix Salon Suites Colour Bar at the Deansgate, Manchester location and through the UK Distributor, Rebel Beauty Brands.

Entrepreneur should be Gina’s middle name, but at the root of her success she is a hairstylist with over 30 years working behind the chair. A humble, kind, family-orientated and genuine lady, Gina continuously puts the Salon Professionals needs at the centre of all she does. She looks forward to continuing the legacy her family started over 90 years ago and expanding the options for professionals working in the beauty, wellness and appearance industries. Gina thinks of her almost 12,000 Salon Professionals who currently occupy suites in her salons across the world as family.

And, she is excited to watch the family grow further across the UK and Europe.

P H E N I X SA LO N S U I T E S Follow Gina Rivera @beautyexpertgina.

To learn more about Phenix Salon Suites, visit phenixsalonsuitesuk.com and check out the professional colour line at the COLOURS by Gina tab. To learn more about the Manchester location and other locations in the UK and Europe, contact John Gillespie on 07909 993491 or via email at jgillespie@phenixsalonsuites.com. Visit in person at One, Deansgate, Manchester, M3 1AZ.

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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:

MAYO CLINIC.indd 74 MAYO_CLINIC_ABS_HERTS_MAR22.indd 1 MC.indd 1

Email:

appointments@mch-ouc.co.uk

Website:

www.mch-ouc.co.uk

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ABSOLUTELY • PARTNERSHIP

Mummy Tummy programmes usually combine radiofrequency, micro-needling, RF micro-needling, laser and LED phototherapy to tighten and firm the stomach skin to promote healing of stretch marks and activation of a healing cascade in areas of scarring.

TREATING DIASTASIS RECTI

ARE YOU BIKINI READY?

F

Dr Kim describes treatments to tackle your mummy tummy

eeling good in a swimsuit can often take more than just losing weight. If stretchmarks, skin laxity or stubborn fat pockets are affecting your self-confidence, then the procedures in this article may be for you.

TONE AND DEFINE Body contouring technologies combine muscle toning and fat reduction and can be used to help manage resistant fat in people on the stomach. Lipofirm PRO, made famous by celebrities, combines powerful muscle activation with tripollar radiofrequency for abdominal sculpting, treating love handles and cellulite.

During an BTL Emsculpt Neo treatment the temperature in the subcutaneous fat layer can reach a level that leads to permanent breakdown of fat cells. Clinical

studies show an average of 30% reduction in subcutaneous fat and a 25% increase in muscle volume three months after a course of four treatments. Radiofrequency also leads to skin tightening reducing skin laxity and stretch marks in the treatment area.

Between 33 and 60% of women will experience a separation of the stomach muscles after pregnancy – diastasis recti – that doesn’t always respond well to exercise, or may actually make it difficult to perform stomach exercises without discomfort or herniation. Diastasis also occurs after abdominal weight gain.

The latest technology to combat this is high intensity focused electromagnetic (HIFEM) energy found in the BTL Emsculpt and Emsculpt Neo machines.

HIFEM energy bypasses the brain’s limitations to contract muscles at an intensity not possible during a workout.

A 30 minute Emsculpt Neo treatment on the stomach is the equivalent of doing 20,000 stomach crunches at 100% capacity. This extreme stress forces the muscles to adapt, resulting in an increase in the number and growth of muscle fibres and cells leading to stronger muscles and closure of the gap.

Clinical studies have demonstrated an average of 19% improvement of diastasis after a course of only 4 BTL Emsculpt Neo treatments.

ERASE STRETCH MARKS Weight loss and pregnancy can leave stomach skin looking thin, stretched and discoloured, and stretch marks can look worse after weight loss. Advanced skin rejuvenation technologies can boost the production of both collagen and elastin and make a big difference.

D R K I M P R E S C OT T BEFORE AND AFTER EMSCULPT

Dr Kim Prescott is an advanced medical aesthetic doctor, trainer and lecturer who consults at the Penrose and PSMD Clinics. drkim@psmd.co.uk @dr.kimprescott and @penrosebodyandskin Tel: 01372 371201 drkpclinic.co.uk • penroseclinic.co.uk

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M A L V E R N

G A R D E N

B U I L D I N G S

Discover our premium range of garden buildings, designed for relaxation & outdoor living.

Squire’s Garden Centre Halliford Road, Upper Halliford, Shepperton, TW17 8SG

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INTERIORS

N O RT HER N LI G HT HADELAND

The Hadeland lighting portfolio, and in particular the Archive Collection, is rooted in and informed by midcentury influences that speak to a timeless Scandinavian aesthetic.

The heritage and craftmanship associated with the brand ensures an authenticity that is present in every design. hadeland.com

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

By PENDLE HARTE

LEARNING CURVE DAVID HUNT LIGHTING

Scallop is a two-tone, hand-finished pendant with a scallop-edged detail in a pretty palette of contrasting colours.

Choose your own bespoke version from a ten colour paint palette. Each finish offers a vibrant style that creates a fresh new lighting design £390 davidhuntlightling.co.uk

A R T I S T ' S PA LE T T E DIPT YQUE

Diptyque continues its expansion into homeware with a new tabletop collection named Artist’s Palette featuring beautiful marbled glass vases and candle jars. The brand has also launched a new range of luxury cleaning products. diptyque.com

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INTERIORS • NOTES

TA K E FIVE Coffee essentials KITCHENAID Artisan espresso machine, £449 kitchenaid.co.uk

C AT NAP

LE A N I N MATTHEW HILTON

Just launched at Milan Design Week is Matthew Hilton's reclining Ewelina armchair, a generously proportioned design with ultimate comfort in mind. From £6,739 scp.com

ROUND HAUS

Round Haus is a new multifunctional furniture collection designed for cats from luxury cat accessories brand Cheshire & Wain and furniture designer-makers Lozi Designs. cheshireandwain.com

SMEG Espresso machine, £329 smeg.uk.com

KITCHEN CRAFT Stainless steel tamper, £17.99 east2eden.co.uk

VON HAUS Five piece coffee accessory set, £14.99 vonhaus.com

CLEAR WINNER CASA CELVA

SAGE Barista Pro machine, £729.95 sageappliances.com

All handmade Murano glassware at Casa Celva is sustainably sourced from small artisanal suppliers across Europe and are handmade with longevity in mind. casacelva.com

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Beovision Harmony Beolab 28

A M AG I C A L H OM E CINEMA EXPERIENCE

BANG & OLFUSEN OF EALING 17 Bond Street, London, W5 5AP.

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INTERIORS • GLASS DAR LIGHTING Klaxon 1 Light Pendant Ombre Copper Glass, £102 darlighting.co.uk

QUINCE & COOK Hobnail Glass Jug, £75 quinceandcook.co.uk

INSIDE OUT LIVING Melbury Cocktail Glass Amber, £14.99 ioliving.co.uk

WISTERIA TREE Glass Candle Sticks, £14 thewisteriatree.co.uk

CASA CELVA Murano bud vases, £32 casacelva.com

ALL CLEAR

MAISON CHERIE Bee wine glass in purple, £8 maisoncherie.shop

Gorgeous glass pieces for the home

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

ORLA KIELY

DIBOR Coloured Glass Wine Goblets, £14.95 dibor.co.uk

MELODY MAISON

Glass Water Jug, £30 orlakiely.com

Glass Candle Holder, £8.95 melodymaison.co.uk

AROUND THE HOUSE Aditya Retro Brown and White Speckled Glass Vase, £74.95 aroundthehousefurniture.co.uk

EDITOR’S PICK

IDYLL HOME Pink Swirl Glass , £9.95 idyllhome.co.uk

FY Rialto Tulip Glass set of two, £85 iamfy.co

CULT FURNITURE Century Medium Coffee Table, £299 cultfurniture.com

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C H A R A C T E R

STUDY Margo in Margate comes to Islington

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n fact, Margo in Margate lives in Ramsgate. But prolific artist Margo McDaid likes to maintain a slightly separate persona for her work, and the alliteration has obvious appeal. She’s been selling her paintings and prints since she moved from London to the Kent coast more than a decade ago, but now her work is on show in London at Anthropologie’s new Islington store.

So it’s Margo in Islington really.

McDaid used to be a teacher in an inner London primary school, until it got too much and she recognised that what she really wanted to be doing

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was painting. A move away from the city enabled a new start, and she started painting full time: her simple, graphic paintings are inspired by ‘colour, vintage shirts, illustrations in children’s books, folk art and outsider art’. She mostly focuses on faces in oil or acrylic on canvas, with bold strokes and pops of colour creating a simple, striking signature and has exhibited widely in Margate, with her work sold at the Turner Contemporary shop too. Her characters are called things like ‘girl in an orange jumper’ and ‘girl with striped hair’ or ‘girls with blue earrings’ and while they share a similar look, each one has a unique character. They’re colourful and

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INTERIORS • PROFILE

Her style is inspired by ‘colour, vintage shirts, illustrations in children’s books, folk art and outsider art’

expressive, with a wide appeal. Alongside paintings and prints she sells a range of figurative hand-painted vintage plates.

Margo draws every day and particularly enjoys hearing “that looks like me!” when people view her work, which reflects her love of all things bright and optimistic, as well as her life by the sea which “makes the colour even more powerful”. She thinks art should bring us daily joy, which her vivid and expressive prints and painting surely do. Her coastal lifestyle has given rise to portraits of people in swimming caps, gaining her a following with the wild swimming brigade. If you’re in Margate, or Ramsgate – or Islington, look out for her. margomcdaid.com A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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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

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INTERIORS • PARTNERSHIP

FINISHING TOUCHES Must-have décor to inspire your home design B y S A R A H B A R C L AY

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dding a touch of luxury to your home doesn’t need to be difficult and just by adding a few elements of décor to a room, you’re able to transform your space into something unique.

Here, I have outlined a few must-have décor pieces to include in your home, as a reference point when designing your space.

Before selecting a piece that you think will work, give some thought to how you want the atmosphere in a room to look and feel.

It’s important to consider the mood that you’re creating with your décor and how incorporating certain colours, textures, or shapes can influence the feeling of the space.

A rug is often the first thing that you notice when you enter a room. You may want to look at different colour options depending on what atmosphere you want to capture. Warm neutral tones will help to soften the space and create a calm and comfortable environment.

On the other hand, cool bright tones can make a room feel lively and energetic.

Paintings can guide your design by allowing you to incorporate more colour into your space. This can be done by selecting colours from a painting and sourcing furniture and accessories in these shades. These subtle touches tie a space together and make it feel designed. Keep texture in mind too, a painted artwork will have a different feeling than a print.

If you’re looking for something a little different, try incorporating sculptures.

These can be small or large depending on the space you have available. Think about how the texture will impact the overall atmosphere of the room. The shape itself is also important as more rounded organic forms can create a serene, natural atmosphere, whereas geometric forms can add a sense of formality to a space.

Finally, cushions are a classic musthave. It may be tempting to stick to neutrals, however adding contrasting colours to your sofa creates a more visually interesting and cohesive design.

You can select cushions based on pattern, shape, size, texture, and colour, but don’t forget to keep comfort in mind.

A cohesive design is where multiple elements such as rugs, paintings, sculptures, and cushions work together to create a particular atmosphere. By understanding the function and feeling that you want to convey in a space, you will have a clearer starting point before selecting décor for your home. If you feel overwhelmed by all the options and design considerations, an interior designer can help you navigate the design process every step of the way.

B A R C L AY I N T E R I O R S Sarah Barclay is the founder of Barclay Interiors based in Ascot – for more information, visit barclay-interiors.com

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How Westminster Fire Station has been transformed into a stylish new apartment block Words E V E H E R B E R T

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

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riginally constructed in the early 20th century for the Metropolitan Fire Brigade, the former Grade II listed Westminster Fire Station has been thoughtfully reimagined as a collection of 17 charming and unique apartments, each of which embodies the overarching vision of the development to marry the old with the new.

Built in 1906 and retired in 2014, the striking Baroque building presided over many defining moments in the history of the fire brigade, including the end of horse-drawn engines in 1921, the admission of women during WWII and the first female firefighter in 1982. The station’s crew was also responsible for saving Westminster Abbey from near destruction during a bombing raid in 1940.

Under its new guise, Westminster Fire Station now encompasses two seamlessly connected buildings; the traditional Fire Station, which houses six apartments, and a new residential building known as ‘Station House’, comprising 11 apartments. The Station House’s exterior, with its rows of custom-made iridescent glazed bricks, is a modern interpretation of its older sibling’s Edwardian Portland stone architectural detailing, with bespoke brass screens inspired by the traditional cast iron features, adorning the rear façade.

Leading the architecture at Westminster Fire Station is Jennifer Beningfield and her allfemale practice, Openstudio Architects, while the joyful and eclectic interiors are the work of Laura Marino, of Alchemi Group and interior design studio, Studio L. Together, Jennifer and Laura focused on marrying the old with the new and retained and worked with various iconic fire station features such as the exposed steel beams, original glazed brick tiles and the three original carriage doors, one of which now serves as the residents’ entrance.

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INTERIORS • DESIGN This space illustrates the mix of their tastes: the focal point of the Tepee sofa

by Lucy Kurrein in orange, the Norman Cherner walnut plywood chair, the mix of Moroccan rugs from A New Tribe, and other individually sourced pieces.

incorporates diverse pattern, colour palettes and materiality into her designs, creating many custom pieces as well as sourcing contemporary, antique and vintage pieces to create a fresh and memorable aesthetic.

Connecting Station House to the Fire Station is an urban green oasis; an interconnecting residents’ courtyard designed by garden specialist James Lee Design. The courtyard has been cleverly converted from its previous incarnation as the turning circle for the engine bays and stables for horses.

The environmental impact of the building has been at the forefront of the developer’s minds throughout, with the project significantly exceeding its carbon reduction target through innovative thermal upgrades, the introduction of solar panels and a biodiverse green roof. Residents will also be offered bicycle storage and complementary 10-year Zip Car membership.

Each one, two and three-bedroom apartment is individual in its layout and features customised design elements unique to the development such as bespoke kitchen cabinetry and ironmongery. The bathrooms and en-suites are clad in various marbles and all have antique gold ironmongery from Lefroy Brooks. The herringbone pattern seen throughout the development and used in the wood flooring and ceramic tiles in the apartment is a nod to the old fire station’s quintessential characteristics.

The three completed show homes at the development each have their own ‘soul’ and ambience thanks to Studio L, London’s highly imaginative interiors.

Taking inspiration from the worlds of music, art, fashion, film and photography, Laura

Apartments in Phase 1 at Westminster Fire Station start from £895,000. westminsterfirestation.com A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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INTERIORS • TREND

CONRAN SHOP Julie-Anne Pugh watering can, £85 conranshop.co.uk

SWEETPEA & WILLOW Lime Stripe Cushion, £120 sweetpeaandwillow.com

ELOISE HOME AROUND THE HOUSE FURNITURE Seki Large Monochrome Stripe Vase, £54.95 aroundthehousefurniture.co.uk

Ikat Stripe Fabric in Green, £125 eloisehome.com

ABODE LIVING Ada stripe vase, £39 abodeliving.co.uk

WALTON & CO Tuscan Stripe Runner 40x180cm, £19 waltonshop.co.uk

LINES OF BEAUTY

EDITOR’S PICK

ANDRASSY LIVING Stripe laundry bag, £16 andrassyliving.co.uk

All the most striking stripes

POOKY Robin lamp with candy stripe, £62 pooky.com

By P E N D L E H A R T E THE RUG RETAILER Multi Stripe Rug, £71 therugretailer.co.uk

MINDTHEGAP Transylvanian Roots Stripe armchair, £1,500 mindtheg.com

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BOHEMIA DESIGN Milan Stripe Hammam Towel, £42, bohemiadesign.co.uk

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hat Named Home of the Year 2022 in the recent Don’t Move, Improve!

Awards, this 1960s house was entirely reconfigured to create a stylish and contemporary living space. The house, a three storey 1960s terraced house on the Dulwich Estate in Forest Hill, was deemed “the embodiment of don’t move improve” by the judges.

“This overall winner strikes the balance between practical and playful with contemporary touches such as clay worktops in the kitchen and a secret study on the landing. But there isn’t a whiff of pretension.

It’s a much-loved family home that oozes warmth and character,” said Anna White, one of the judges.

The brief included a front extension to replace the existing lean-to, which Archmongers designed to be in keeping with the rhythm of the terrace.

Its facade and garden paving are both clad in blue brick to complement the original terracotta brindles. The original white metal railings and gate posts have been retained and have inspired the structure of the extension roof.

Margaret Bursa, Managing Partner of Archmongers, the project’s architects, says ‘The skeleton of this mid-century house was good, but the kitchen and hallway circulation needed to be redesigned to better integrate the main living spaces.

The front extension works very hard to accommodate the kitchen and utility room in a restricted space.

Yet it also showcases a jewellery box of design features to extend the perception of space, allowing enjoyment of the surrounding terrace and trees.’

Internally, the extension ceiling is exposed douglas fir and steel flitch beams, which continue as aluminium beams across the front courtyard garden.

The beams define the dimensions of the ‘up and over’ windows above the kitchen counter, allowing views of the sky and trees, and giving a feeling of extra space. The front extension also has a floor-to-

H O M E ST Y L E New London Architecture’s Home of the Year 2022 is a 1960s terrace in Forest Hill. Absolutely has a look inside Words P E A R L B OY D

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

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ceiling glazed box, connectng the lush garden to the kitchen/ dining space. The kitchen has Carrara marble worktops and a bespoke, pink semi-circular concrete counter with steel frame legs, connectng the kitchen to the dining area.

Dividing the hallway and dining room, a bank of units is faced with a thick bulletin board to make a versatile family gallery and noticeboard. Above the units, angled mirrors maximise light reflections. The open living room has new full-height doors which lead to the terrace and garden, and the staircase has been rebuilt to create space for a shower on the second floor. The balustrade design of vertical columns and solid panels nods to the original, while the continuous ash handrail with brass connectors is a contemporary update.

The first floor bedroom is now a study with a large folding door, allowing it to be connected or closed off from the hallway depending on the occupation of the space.

The door’s bespoke brass handle controls the folding mechanism, and a discreet brass shutter ensures complete privacy. The bathroom and second floor spaces have been enlarged to the slope of the roof to give more height. The second floor bedroom loo has a shuttered internal window to maximise light. Both the loo and shower room are Fled with Carrara marble, and boast ample storage in the eaves.

“This home delighted me from start to finish. A beautiful space with a level of detailing that surpassed my expectations.

Everything in the house has a reason for existing, some things are playful, others beautiful or functional, but they all make you happy,” said another judge, Kunle Barker.

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PURPLE HAZE A new palette for paint colours includes lots of lilac, with a 1970s feel B y PENDLE HARTE

BENJAMIN MOORE AFRICAN VIOLET, FROM £27 PER 0.94L

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orget navy and definitely abandon grey. The colour adorning all the most fashionable walls in late 2022 is… lilac. Also lavender, plus darker shades of purple too – with pink as a contrast shade.

According to Mylands, House of Colour, searches for lilac are up 33% on their website. For many years they have witnessed the perennial popularity of its lavender and lilac shades amongst the design community, and believes that consumers are now appreciating the calming and versatile hues as well.

Historically, rich purple shades have been

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associated with wealth and royalty, due to the pigment’s rarity and the high cost of the dye. The colour purple, particularly lighter shades of lilac and lavender, is emerging as an increasingly popular colour choice in both interiors and fashion, with WGSN predicting Digital Lavender as their colour of the year for 2023 and the hue being prevalent on the new season catwalks.

Mylands has long known these soft purple hues to be an enduringly popular shade. Traditional lavender is always a favourite colour choice with interiors designers, thanks in part to its association with feelings of tranquillity and youthfulness, but also its versatility.

Lavender and lilac shades are subtle enough to be used as the main wall colours in a room, and the slight pop of colour makes them a more confident (and fun) choice than the alternative whites and greys.

Created by mixing bold red with calm blue, lilac is often perceived as a warm colour, unlike similar lavender shades that tend to be cooler thanks to their blue undertones. Pale Lilac™ No. 246, is a dusty lilac with pink hues that provides a space with subtle warmth and calming energy. Dominic Myland, CEO of Mylands, says: “Lilac is traditionally a romantic and feminine hue, but is

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INTERIORS • COLOUR MYLANDS.COM LAVENDER GARDEN™ NO.30 (FRONT WALL), PALE LILAC™ NO.246 (BACK WALL - W&M MATT)

CROWN COLOUR INFLUENCES CONSCIOUS – SADDLE STITCH WALLS AND CEILINGS EMULSION FROM £18 FOR 2.5L, LEATHERBOUND CRAFTED FLAT MATT FINISH FROM £32 FOR 2.5L

“We’re noticing more and more customers choosing lilac for their interiors” increasingly popular for many rooms in the home thanks to its subtlety and adaptability. We’re noticing more and more customers choosing lilac for their interiors because it adds a pop of colour, but isn’t overwhelming or intimidating like other, bolder shades, and its versatile nature means it pairs well with a myriad of colours.”

At Crown, the purple theme expands into a wider 1970s feel. Multicoloured and expressive, this trend invites playfulness with a revived colour palette of soft eclectic tones, which are sophisticated, yet fun. Combining the Avant-garde, through playful artwork and by painting

areas that are often unexpected, this trend allows us to express our creativity through colour and explores unconventional ideas into interiors in a fun and creative way.

“This trend stands for unconventional, multicolour and optimism. Soft, eclectic tones are good for our well-being and lift our mood. They combine beautifully with each other and are the perfect accompaniment for gallery walls. This colour palette brings out your inner child,” says Crown colour consultant Kathryn Lloyd.

On another note, the Define trend offers a rich and warm colour palette,

the sophisticated deep tones transform spaces into ambient cosy hideouts. Taking inspiration from high-end hotels, moody restaurant interiors and historical cinema rooms it is blurring the lines between day and night.

Define uses a combination of colours to create zones that adapt a space into multiple uses. Colour blocking is the perfect tool for this. Deep rich colours dominate this palette, which pairs beautifully with metallic finishes and plush velvet accessories for a luxurious feel. Think Maximalist style on a minimalist design scheme.

“This colour palette is beautifully warm and with a touch of retro. All colours can be combined with each other and in this way, exciting light-dark colour effects can be achieved. Perfect for designing rooms in multiple colours, for emphasising individual living areas or for dividing rooms into different zones such as the home office, dining area and living room.

In these cases, ‘Define’ provides a variety of options.” says Mareike Nacke, Crown colour consultant.

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As the brand’s first collection, Recork launched the Una collection.

Created in the form of an agglomerated cork plank, the range is made simply from waste cork, with a synthetic binder. Available in six shades, plant based oil is applied to colour the cork and enhance its natural beauty. Scratch resistant and providing outstanding chemical and wear resistance, Recork is suited to any challenge thrown its way.

CI RC LE of L I FE R Cork is emerging as a sustainable and stylish material for flooring. Absolutely meets James Scully of Recork to find out why Words P E N D L E H A R T E

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ecork launched in January as a new sustainable cork flooring brand.

Fusing nature with 21st century technology, it is a healthy, highperformance surface that looks and feels amazing without compromising the planet.

Having worked in the flooring industry for over 30 years, James Scully had a wealth of experience and knowledge to draw upon where he began to develop the Recork product, influenced by his passion and desire to protect the planet.

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INTERIORS • FOCUS

Q Where does the cork come from and how

is it harvested?

A Cork is the outer bark of a remarkable tree, the Quercus Suber, or cork oak. It is 100% natural and renewable and across a 200-year lifespan, a typical cork oak tree is harvested 15 times without damage. It simply regenerates after each extraction. Cork oak forests occupy two million hectares in the humid Mediterranean basin. The cork for our Recork flooring comes from the Portuguese Montado, originally cultivated in the 1800s to supply the bottle stopper industry. It is a cultural landscape, economically supporting 100,000 people through agriculture, cattle breeding, medicinal plant harvesting and hunting, in addition to cork production.

Q What makes cork a sustainable

material?

A A harvested cork oak retains three to five

times more CO2 than an unharvested tree, so the cork oaks of the Montado play a vital role in the fight against global warming.

In addition the Montado helps preserve the natural environment as its canopy creates a microclimate to limit summer and winter excesses and allow longer growth of herbaceous vegetation. Cork oak trees regulate the water cycle, help soil conservation, and protect against erosion, acting as a barrier against desertification. The Montado is also a vital biodiverse ecosystem,

just like Amazonia, the African Savanna and Borneo. It supports wildlife, grasslands and diverse flora and fauna, and provides a natural habitat for rare and endangered species such as the Iberian lynx, the Iberian imperial eagle, the black vulture, the black stork and the Barbary stag.

Q How is the flooring made?

As a new brand, Recork’s aim is to be as carbon neutral as possible, therefore the product is part of the circular economy - a model dedicated to the elimination of pollution and waste, the recirculation of products and the regeneration of nature.

Unique in both its appearance and its construction, Recork is the only cork flooring on the market that uses this technique, taking raw cork from the Portuguese cork oak forests and turning production waste, used for stoppers, and cork from early harvests into flooring planks. This innovative approach helps tackle climate change and biodiversity loss together while addressing important social needs.

Q What are the benefits of cork flooring?

A If properly looked after, cork flooring can

last for decades. Unlike wood floor, Recork’s exceptional elasticity and compressibility allows the flooring to adapt to the pressure from heavy foot traffic and bounce back from impacts without suffering damage, recovering

“Cork oak trees regulate the water cycle, help soil conservation, and protect against erosion” to its original shape. Its insulation properties come from a unique honeycomb structure with millions of air-filled cells. The floor therefore feels warm, without the need for underfloor heating, while acoustic insulation allows sound to be absorbed, creating an environment that promotes productivity and concentration.

Recork’s elasticity reduces the heel strike impact and related body tension associated with hard floors, while being non-slip and providing sufficient stability to reduce strain and prevent body fatigue. Plus, as cork flooring doesn’t shed microfibres, it means it is naturally antimicrobial and hypoallergenic and therefore doesn’t harbour dust. recork.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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VISIT

orlestoneoak.co.uk

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INTERIORS • PARTNERSHIP

OAK PARQUET SILVER WHITE OILED FLOORING COMBINES THE BEAUTIFUL CHARACTERISTICS OF WOOD WITH A MODERN TWIST FEATURING A LIGHTLY BRUSHED SURFACE, A SUBTLE SILVER WHITE OIL HIGHLIGHTS DISTINCTIVE GRAIN PATTERNS

BEAUTIFUL OAK-AGED PARQUET FLOORING ADDS WARMTH AND TEXTURE TO A LARGE, OPEN-PLAN KITCHEN AND LIVING SPACE. EXTREMELY FORGIVING EVEN IN HIGH-TRAFFIC AREAS OF THE HOME DUE TO ITS HIGH DURABILITY, THE REAL WOOD PARQUET FLOOR SETS THE TONE FOR THE WHOLE SPACE, PERFECTLY BLENDING OLD WITH NEW FOR A TIMELESS FINISH

KNOCK ON WOOD

For weekly cleaning, a capful of wood floor maintenance concentrate mixed with water and applied with a damp mop is all that is required. To refresh the look and lustre annually in high traffic areas periodically use a concentrated polish, again applied with water and a damp mop.

One of the many good things about real wood flooring is the variety available in pattern options. From straight boards to parquet, there is an option to suit any setting. Just as when choosing a colour for your walls, choosing the right shade of wood flooring should be based on how large the room is, how much natural light it enjoys and on the overall décor. Smaller rooms benefit from lighter woods, while larger spaces can more comfortably accommodate darker tones such as walnut.

LACQUERED FLOORS GIVE A SUBTLE BOOST TO THE WOOD SURFACE BUT STILL RETAIN A NATURAL LOOK AND FEEL

How engineered wood flooring is a durable solution for all kinds of spaces, says Natural Wood Floor

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ew flooring gives any room an instant facelift.

The material chosen needs to be functional of course, but such a highly visible surface also needs to have visual appeal. Real wood is an on-trend flooring option that works practically and aesthetically and due to its sheer versatility will blend seamlessly into any style of property.

Engineered wood flooring creates a high-end finish and affords the room the luxury of timber, while being surprisingly simple to care for and highly durable thanks to its construction.

Whereas solid wood flooring isn’t suitable for underfloor heating, high humidity areas and acoustic insulation, engineered boards can be fitted in all rooms, including most

kitchens and bathrooms where humidity may be present. It can also be floated over acoustic underlay in apartments or to insulate games/children’s rooms etc.

An engineered board has up to 11 layers of plywood backing, with each layer glued at a 90-degree angle to the adjoining layer.

The surface layer of a precious hardwood is then glued on top, resulting in a much more stable floor with a robust construction. It can be floated over an existing floor, making it perfect for basements or apartments when damp or noise transfer between neighbours below may be a concern.

Once laid, keeping engineered wood flooring looking as good as new is straightforward too; a combination of dry cleaning to remove dirt and dust particles, and damp cleaning to protect it against scratches is all that is needed for a lacquered or oiled floors.

N AT U R A L WO O D F LO O R naturalwoodfloor.co.uk

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ABSOLUTELY • PARTNERSHIP

OAK CRAFTSMEN How Orlestone Oak takes care of the entire process, from forest to floor

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rlestone Oak has been producing oak flooring for many decades and have a wealth of knowledge and experience in doing so. This is a familyrun company headed up by a father and son team with keen values on producing products that meet high standards of quality and longevity. Over the years they have secured some incredible sources for supply of timber, allowing them to thrive and expand over the years.

One big advantage that Orlsestone has over most others is that they are in complete control of the entire

production process. They mill the oak trees and dry them themselves; they run the flooring, oil it and offer fitment.

All of this means that they cut out multiple middlemen to offer an amazing product at very competitive prices.

The team makes regular trips to the forests to check the trees that they are purchasing and go through the quality control with suppliers. This also means they can make sure they know what is coming in the coming weeks and months.

This hands-on approach is very important to maintain a handle on the brand's values.

Orlestone Oak offers a range of bespoke finishes and colors, including a distressed sawn and worn look. There is a huge range of colours and even color matching, so

they can produce a floor for any property.

These finishes have been developed over the years and often came into creation for one-off jobs where customers have specified what they hoped to achieve, and the result was added to the repertoire.

They're able to offer flooring up to 6m long and 350mm wide in solid oak, along with more standard sizes. They also supply engineered flooring up to 400mm wide. These amazing sizes are all possible due to them being in full control of the process. To be able to offer these large boards is something they are very proud of. If you have a project your planning or would like more information on some of the products, contact Orlestone Oak. O R L E STO N E OA K Orlestone oak sawmill, Nickley Wood Road, Shadoxhurst, Ashford, Kent, TN26 1LZ 01233 732179 orlestoneoak.co.uk

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We give people high value, low prices and a warm welcome!

We are proud to be MTC (Minimum Technical Competence) certified here at The Door & Window Shop, which means you can feel assured in the knowledge that we provide a professional and highly regarded service that is not only recognized by FENSA but also by our industry peers.

Putting our team through regular rigorous tests, ensures that we can give you the best quality service when fitting any of our products. Having such a prestigious certification is our pledge to keep the standards high within the industry and encourage better practice across the board.

A member of Checkatrade for 12 years

5 Station Approach, Stoneleigh, Epsom, KT19 0QZ | 020 8337 9425 www.windows-kingston.co.uk | 2 HOURS FREE PARKING

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ABSOLUTELY • PARTNERSHIP

“Key benefits include energy efficiency, privacy, light control, kerb appeal and sound insulation”

SHUTTER LOVE How shutters bring windows to life

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hutters bring windows to life with their exact, seamless fit, revealing the beauty of shapes, sash windows, and bays.

Perfect for any style or size of window, the effect of shutters is, quite simply, transformational, making a room look lighter and brighter.

As well as adding elegance and style to any home, shutters are incredibly practical, they come with a host of benefits and provide longevity and durability. The key benefits include energy efficiency, allergen reduction, privacy, exceptional light control, kerb appeal, sound insulation and low maintenance but all of this is under-pinned by the beautiful aesthetic that homeowners crave. Whether you have a clear vision for the interior design of

your home, or you struggle to articulate exactly what you want, you can trust Just Shutters to work with you to create show-stopping bespoke shutters, which will enhance your windows for years to come.

You will receive a completely personal service from this award-winning, familyrun business. Simon & Georgina of Just Shutters Surrey are based in Walton on Thames and operate across Surrey, SouthWest London and the surrounding areas.

They started their business over 5 years ago and have quickly built up a large and loyal clientele with many returning customers and frequent recommendations.

“We simply love what we do!” says Georgina “it is a real privilege to work in homes across Surrey. We get a kick out of exceeding expectations and delivering stunning wow factor.” justshutters.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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Exhibits thoughtful, well-executed design and luxury

1ST FOLDING SLIDING DOORS • 26 Wadsworth Road, Perivale, UB6 7JZ 141 Hook Road, K T 5AR • marcus@1stfoldingslidingdoors.co.uk T: 0208 997 2448

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INTERIORS • PARTNERSHIP

GARDEN OFFICE? MAKE SURE YOUR WI-FI SIGNAL REACHES THAT FAR

“There are so many reasons why you might want to use Wi-Fi in the garden and make the most of he sunshine”

OUTDOOR ENTERTAINMENT

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How to give your garden a boost this summer

t’s that time again when we all want to make the most of the gorgeous sunshine and brilliant weather whenever we can. There are so many reasons why you might want to use Wi-Fi in the garden at this time of year. Whether you want to catch-up with Love Island, binge on The Hustle, or play your ultimate Spotify playlist at your next BBQ, Swish have got tips to help you.

1. Get a Wi-Fi extender. Try plugging it in at the back of your home nearest to the garden or moving your router back there. This may extend your range into your outdoor area.

2. Look at what’s around your router.

Before you start maximising your coverage, consider what materials hamper Wi-Fi signals. Wi-Fi can be blocked by concrete and stone, and also struggles to get through metal – so avoid plugging in your router behind

appliances such as fridges and microwaves.

3. Ensure you disconnect unnecessary devices from your network. This will give you more bandwidth to play with outside.

Avoid using game consoles, smart home devices and video calling that all take up a lot of bandwidth – easier said than done in a household of internet users, but doing this frees up bandwidth for other devices. Having a Full Fibre broadband connection will also give you a head start at boosting your starting speed.

4. Make the most of your mobile phone's personal hotspot feature and connect to devices using the connection from your mobile.

Remember, every home is different, so no-one can guarantee you perfect Wi-Fi coverage unless you’ve had a tailored visit by a broadband professional.

With Swish Fibre, you can work, surf and play this summer with no interruptions. Find out if you can switch to Full Fibre at SwishFibre.com

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ESCAPE TO ENGLAND'S LARGEST LAKE.

© Copyright Skylark Aerial Photography

Relax… unwind. Indulge in simply great food.

Explore one of the most beautiful places in the world.

Follow us on

storrshall

storrs_hall

Storrs Hall, Bowness-on-Windermere, Cumbria LA23 3LG Tel. 015394 47111 | Email. reception@storrshall.com | www.storrshall.com AA 2 Rosette Culinary Excellence | AA 4 Star Hotel

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POOL PART Y KEEP AFLOAT

Oliver James’ luxury upholstered lilos are pieces of handsome floating furniture designed to function by the pool, the lakeside, on the open water – or just on the grass. oliverjameslilos.com

inside this section: D E S T I N AT I O N S I C I LY p 1 1 0 LUXE LUGGAGE p1 1 5 OUTDOOR ESSENTIALS p118 SURFING UK p122 SUMMER IN THE CITY p125

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S E N S AT I O N A L

Sicily Two contrasting villas illustrate the diverse offerings of this beautiful island b y SA N DY CA D I Z- S M I T H

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he gorgeous island of Sicily sits proudly in the heart of the Mediterranean under the watchful eye of the towering grandeur of snow-topped Mount Etna, Europe’s highest active volcano. The island offers a dazzling diversity of landscapes, myriad cultural and historical attractions and a delectable ancient cuisine inspired by its fabulous fresh ingredients. This unique combination of volcanoes, mountains, seascapes and rolling landscapes in shades of green connects the cities and traditional villages that cling precariously to hillsides. It’s a marvel to drive around because of its gravity-defying road systems on stilts and innumerable interconnecting tunnels.

We enjoyed a two-centre stay in contrasting villas chosen from the Villtravellers portfolio.

Our first stop is a short drive from Catania, the ultimate get-away-from-it-all haven deep in the countryside. Casale degli Erei awaits down a dusty road after a journey through a forest and rows of prickly pears standing to attention.

Set on expansive grounds, Casala degli Erei has nine stylish bedrooms and ample living space, including multiple terraces, an outdoor kitchen and a large roof terrace with fabulous far-reaching views. There’s also a relaxing spa with a hydro-massage pool, jacuzzi and sauna and a sparkling outdoor pool with sun loungers.

A peacefully magical place to relax and soak

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IL BORGO DEL BARONE

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CASALE DEGLI EREI

CASALE DEGLI EREI OUTDOOR DINING

“Sicily is food for the soul – a quite unique setting and culture that tantalises the senses”

up the Sicilian sunshine. There’s plenty to discover nearby, too. We visited Villa Romana del Casale, thought to have been the country retreat of Rome’s co-emperor from AD286-305. Over 3,500 square metres of astoundingly well-preserved multi coloured floor mosaics took our breath away. We retired in amazement to one of the island’s beautiful rural restaurants - Agriturismo Gigliotto - for a traditional feast of Sicilian cuisine, including cheeses, salami, homemade pasta, fish, and local vegetables washed down with refreshing wines produced on-site. An idyllic country escape with the chance to truly immerse ourselves in the island’s history, scenery and flavours.

Refreshed and with our hearts full of love for our newly discovered island utopia, we headed north towards the capital, Palermo, to our home for the second half of our stay - Il Borgo del Barone. This IL BORGO DEL BARONE KITCHENDINING

magnificently restored historical villa dates back to the 17th century and is the perfect mix of ancient and modern. There are seven cool and elegant bedrooms with fabulous contemporary ensuite bathrooms.

The villa also boasts stunning views of the sea, a delightful courtyard and an expansive dining area where we enjoyed sunset aperitifs and a delicious dinner prepared by local chefs just for us.

And it’s the ideal base for exploring the beguiling seaside town of Cefalu. Here, the picturesque, cobbled streets are dressed with vibrant ceramic pots overflowing with flowers and full of tempting shops to explore. And they all seem to lead back down to the sparkling azure sea and inviting beach. We indulged in a lunchtime banquet – an incredible array of local fish dishes – in Restaurant ITTICO, set on the water with the bluest of views.

Cefalu is seaside heaven for the food as much as the shopping and architecture.

In fact, Sicily is food for the soul – a quite unique setting and culture that tantalises the senses. And staying in two luxury villas in different parts of the island gave us the perfect opportunity to absorb its diverse beauty and rich history. Not to mention sampling all that delicious local food. It’s an Italian island that has certainly captured our hearts.

T H E V I L L AT R AV E L L E R S EXPERIENCE Villatravellers provide exclusive villa holidays across Sicily. The perfect holiday home is handpicked for every customer from their portfolio of 70 properties. Using their expert local knowledge, the company offers a dedicated concierge service and personalised itineraries to ensure guests enjoy an authentic Sicilian experience showcasing the island’s culture, natural beauty and great food. They can organise a comprehensive range of in-villa (including chefs and cookery courses) and outside-villa experiences and tours to suit your taste. villatravellers.com

IL BORGO DEL BARONE

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RELAX IN THE COUNTRYSIDE …

Sample all that down hall offers, throughout August Children stay and eat breakfast for free Our newly refurbished Fox bar and lounge offers small plates to enjoy or you can enjoy a Pimm’s on the terrace and a game of boules.

The latest trend in sports our own padel tennis court offers the you the chance to play the fastest growing sport to hit the UK, or if you prefer the traditional tennis courts, we have that too.

Feel free to book the spa during your stay whilst the little ones explore the trim trail in the woods.

Matching Rd, Hatfield Heath, Bishop’s Stortford CM22 7AS t: +44 (0)1279 731 441 downhall.co.uk

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LUXURY YOGA & WELLBEING RETREAT CORNWALL ( H A L F B OA RD, 2 NIG HTS/3 DAY IT INE R A RY ) PRICES START FROM £1295 PER PERSON | DATE 16, 17TH AND 18TH SEPTEMBER 2022

As we transition from summer into autumn do something special and consider a luxury yoga and wellbeing retreat in Cornwall this September.

Stay at Rosillian, highly regarded as one of Cornwall’s most exclusive holiday homes, offering stunning sea views of Falmouth harbour, a private sandy beach and hot tub. Enjoy an expanse of beautifully relaxing space, both inside and out. Indulge in delicious healthy meals and experience a bespoke itinerary packed full of restorative and replenishing activities including; 6 yoga sessions, sea swimming and breathworks sessions along with an optional chartered yacht cruise from the house. Yoga across the retreat will range from guided meditation through to energising pranayama and vinyasa flow ending with yoga nidra to encourage a restful night’s sleep.

Mind, Body and Soul..

F OC US ON WE L L BE IN G AN D N OURIS H YOUR

This exclusive retreat holds space for 12-18 guests with single occupancy, twin or double room options and is hosted by experienced professionals.

Contact us to view the full itinerary and book

01872 241 241 | enquiries@cornishgems.com | www.cornishgems.com/yoga

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SUMMER • LUGGAGE

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T H E C A S E

Away's clever suitcases come in four sizes, and they have thought of everything. There's a laundry bag plus a USB charger with its own adaptor – and even a leather luggage tag. From £265 awaytravel.com

IT'S TIME TO PACK YOUR BAGS... BUT WHAT BAGS?

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G L O B E -T R O T T E R

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The last word in luxury luggage, Globe-Trotter's distinctive cases come in new shades every season. David Shrigley has designed two new limited edition carry-ons at £2,495 each. globe-trotter.com

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BRITISH MADE ANTLER

This 100 year-old British brand's luggage sets include matching vanity cases, cabin bags, medium and large cases that are durable, practical and stylish. From £159 antler.co.uk

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ROLL WITH IT

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R I M O WA

This was first polycarbonate suitcase, designed in Germany to provide the best in high-tech functionality. The colour of the moment is Lavande Purple, at £540 for cabin size. rimowa.com

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SW E D I S H S T Y L E CA R L FR IEDR IK

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This lightweight polycarbonate case with a metal frame has stylish leather detailing and a spacious, luxury feel. It comes with an optional removable battery and clever compressors – plus it's super easy to manoeuvre. £345 carlfriedrik.com

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WELLBEING

BY THE SEA A brand-new luxury yoga and wellbeing retreat on the Cornish coast

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ornwall’s leading holiday home company Cornish Gems is teaming up with experienced yoga and wellbeing practitioner Alicia Ray to offer a luxury yoga and wellbeing retreat on the Cornish coast this September.

This exclusive three day retreat is hosted at Rosilian Hall, a luxury waterfront residence on the banks of the river Fal in the highly sought-after village of Flushing in Cornwall.

This is a one-of-a-kind secluded coastal retreat, complete with breathtaking sea views, hot tub and its own private beach.

Timed when the sea is at it warmest, and the late summer sun has a golden glow, the retreat retreat offers up to 18 guests an immersive experience to help relax and restore, in ultimate comfort and luxury.

Using an engaging mix of restorative

wellbeing practices, the programme is designed to help rejuvenate, re-energise, and focus on what really matters. Guests will receive guided tuition to enjoy a variety of indoor and outdoor yoga, sea swimming, mindfulness, meditation, sound baths and breathing workshops. A delicious and healthy menu will be prepared using locally sourced seasonal ingredients to nourish the body.

Rosilian Hall is surrounded by established grounds right on the water’s edge and is perfectly placed – there’s something magically meditative about immersing into the ebb and flow of river life and taking time to reconnect with nature.

The bohemian maritime town of Falmouth, famed also for its art scene and an array of independent shops and eateries, is within easy reach. Flushing market, a stroll through Falmouth’s pretty streets or a sailing trip on a traditional tall ship are on hand for guests to experience in their free time.

The schedule The new Yoga & Wellbeing Retreat at Rosilian Hall, 16-18 September

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Three days of hosted yoga & wellbeing workshops (x6 yoga sessions, including silent disco yoga, guided meditation, sound baths, breathing workshops and sea swimming)

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Two nights luxury accommodation at Rosilian Hall, with early check in and late check out

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Refreshments, breakfast, afternoon tea/cake and evening meals are included within the price

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Free time to explore

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A 4-hour immersive tall ship sailing experience (£85 pp) is available as an optional extra – as are picnic hampers Price: From £1395pp (based on two sharing a double room) – inclusive of accommodation, guided tuition and sessions, refreshments, breakfast, afternoon tea and cake and evening meals. cornishgems.com/yoga 01872 241 241

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G R E A T O U T D O O R S

O L I V E R JA M E S

Looking for a lilo that won't puncture? Oliver James' luxury lilos are designed for longevity and come in a range of fabrics and colours. £730 oliverjameslilos.com

ALL THE SUMMER ESSENTIALS

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ALL IN ONE W YLDING

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Perfect for glamping, camping, hiking, wild swimming and any other outdoor pursuits, the Wylding suit comes in three outer shell colours and each suit is lined with signature Hot Coral polar fleece. wylding.co.uk

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POP OUT

M O U N TA I N WA R E H O U S E

Looking for a festival tent?

Small, light and easy to put up, Mountain Warehouse's three man pop-up is just the ticket. £79.99 mountainwarehouse.com

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U N D E R C A N VA S BOU TIQU E CA MPI NG

Once you've camped in a canvas bell tent, there's no going back to polyester. Airy, light and spacious, these are the absolutely the best tents for all occasions. boutiquecamping.com

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STEP ON

BLUNDSTONE

No matter the weather, a pair of Blundstones will guarantee comfort and practicality in style.

The new Active Series is unisex, water resistant and light. £165 blundstone.co.uk

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WH Y HA R T L EY

VICTORIAN GRAND LODGE Gloucestershire, UK

BEAUTY & ELEGANCE The incomparable range of simply beautiful and elegant structures means Hartley Botanic can create designs that are distinctive and unique. The Victorian, Heritage and Modern Glasshouse ranges are so comprehensive you don’t have to go anywhere else to find your beautifully crafted, high-quality Glasshouses from the widest of choices.

Visit us at the RHS Flower Show Tatton Park 20th - 24th July 2022

Discover the secret of Hartley Botanic by calling 0800 783 8083 or visit www.hartley-botanic.co.uk

NOTHING ELSE IS A HARTLEY

The only aluminium Glasshouses and Greenhouses endorsed by the RHS

® The Royal Horticultural Society. The Royal Horticultural Society, and its logo, are trade marks of The Royal Horticultural Society (Registered Charity No 222879/SC038262) and used under licence from RHS Enterprises Limited.

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ABSOLUTELY • PARTNERSHIP

AN EXCLUSIVE WOOD BURNING STOVE THAT THINKS OUTSIDE OF THE (PIZZA) BOX

NOVA AIR DOME

HIGH CAMP Sleeping under canvas can be glamorous with Boutique Camping

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outique Camping is the UK’s leading one-stopcamping-shop guaranteed to exceed the glampinggoals of any modern or traditional camper seeking a unique, luxury and home-away-from-home like tent to accommodate their festivals, staycations and adventures with.

With an impressive brochure of revolutionised designs, which can be customised down to size, door options, colour, fabric and more, there's never been a better time to upgrade your unloved, unpractical and boring camping equipment, transforming it from basic to Boutique!

Whether you're looking to buy for the festivals & staycation seasons ahead, upgrade your current camping-gear or are just eager to dabble in some mozy-mesh window shopping with the crew or the kids. Hosted in the beautiful gardens of The Dulwich Picture Gallery, Boutique Camping’s full range of tents, stoves, dressings + more will

Delivering unparalleled outdoor experiences by producing alluring ambiances and creative alfresco cook-offs, recognised through its success on crowdfunding platform Kickstarter, the Pizza Oven Plus's ferocious 300°c flames will turn up the heat and be the start, middle, and end highlight of your next outdoor or in tent adventure. Slick and stylish to the eye, it also effortlessly flaunts 5-in-1 innovative cooking capabilities, allowing you to stone-bake authentic 12” pizza in 3-4 minutes, all whilst frying, grilling, baking, warming and fire roasting simultaneously!

Don’t forget to check out their super savvy compatible accessoires, ranging from attachable water heaters to pizza shovels, eco fire starter + more.

Now whilst on sale + get an additional 10% off accessories when purchased together… it’s time to get a slice of the action.

be beautifully presented for you to see, feel and explore this July!

As well as prize raffles, photobooths, kids crafts tents and exhibitors flaunting their crafts you’ll have the opportunity to claim your new pitch-perfect equipment at an exclusive event rate, with additional promos and deals to be had. In true glamping fashion, you’ll also get to indulge at the ‘Boutique Bar’ and devour some freshly-cooked wood fired pizza.

Free tickets are now live - head over to their blog via their website for more information

THE NOVA AIR DOME The Nova Air Dome is one of Boutique Campings best known designs. Boasting a pole free, pump up, dome-like structure, this tent has been carefully crafted to compliment style-conscious campers who like to make the most of both their time and space. Shop now at boutiquecamping.com to take advantage of their £100 price drop.

PIZZA OVEN PLUS

B O U T I Q U E CA M P I N G Insta: @boutiquecamping | FB: @weareboutique 020 3319 1315 info@boutiquecamping.com boutiquecamping.com

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New WAV E S Absolutely’s favourite UK surf spots Wo r d s P E N D L E H A R T E

NEWGALE, PEMBROKESHIRE NEWSURF

BARRA SCOTLAND

B A R R A S U R F A DV E N T U R E S

It's a long way to the Outer Hebrides, which are 28 miles from the coast, but the vast, unspoiled beaches are worth the journey.

Plus, they receive the brunt of the Atlantic's force, which Barra and Vatersay are blessed with fantastic, uncrowded surfing beaches that are among the very best in the world.

Large, empty stretches of white sand and crystal clear waters are perfect for learning to surf, or for surfers to improve their skills. barrasurfadventures.co.uk

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This popular surf spot forms part of Pembrokeshire’s St Bride’s Bay. It’s one of the longest beaches in the area, stretching out for two miles of soft sand backed by a bank of pebbles. Surf conditions are usually reliable but it’s best to avoid high water when the waves hit the pebble bank. It’s suitable for beginners, and there’s always plenty of space. Newsurf is the only surf school situated on Newgale Beach but it’s perfect for all abilities, from beginners attempting to catch their first wave to those looking to improve their cut back. The school offers group and private lessons with a team of coaches who are all qualified surf instructors and qualified beach lifeguards. Other compelling factors include warm showers, a spacious car park and an on-site surf shop. newsurf.co.uk

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Surf essentials

A WETSUIT

The UK is not Mexico. You’ll need a wetsuit, even in summer, and probably a winter weight one. There’s nothing worse than freezing in cold water and for much of the year, surfing in the UK is eminently possible if you have the right kit. That will often include gloves, shoes and even a balaclava. mountainwarehouse.com

POLZEATH CORNWALL WAV E H U N T E R S

Polzeath might not offer the best surf in North Cornwall but it’s certainly one of the most popular spots. It’s a long beach and a friendly town with countless surf schools, surf shops and eateries aimed at surfers – non-surfers are in the minority here. Even David Cameron has been snapped catching waves in his wetsuit. Wavehunters will provide you with all the kit you need. wavehunters.co.uk

A BOARD

Dick Pearce’s stylish wooden belly boards are handcrafted in Cornwall and designed to last a lifetime. The classic boards come in a wide range of stylish contemporary shades as well as the original wooden finish. Wooden boards are simpler than the newer stand-up boards; until the 1960s, no family holiday to Devon or Cornwall was complete without one. dickpearce.com

SAUNTON DEVON

WA L K I N G O N WAV E S

One of the best beginner surf beaches in England, Saunton has manageable walls at all stages of the tide and is considered one of the premier long board waves in the country. These long, slow breaking left and rights dish out the perfect conditions to learn to surf in England, with 5-miles of open beach. walking-on-waves.com

TRANSPORT

It’s a long drive to Cornwall, and even further to Pembrokeshire, so weekending urbanites need to make sure that their cars are up to it. There’s a lot of kit and you may find yourself changing into a wetsuit in the back seat. The Mazda CX-5 is spacious enough to transport a family plus kit to even the remotest spots. mazda.co.uk

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S U M M E R I N T H E C I T Y

GRIPPED

For those seeking adventure and sky-high thrills, Gripped will provide aerial antics for all ages and abilities. It opens in Hounslow this month. begripped.com

ENTERTAIN THE CHILDREN WITHOUT LEAVING TOWN

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A N I M A L M AG I C T H E AT R E O N K E W

Fun, songs and adventure await in this outdoor performance of The Jungle Book. Join Mowgli on her journey through the jungle as she meets the wise Bagheera, the noble Akela and the irrepressible Baloo. theatreonkew.com

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WAT E R M A R K

HAMPSTEAD PONDS

Children aged eight and up are allowed to swim accompanied at the Hampstead ponds – as long as they pass the lifeguard test. And remember, the new booking system is still in action. cityoflondon.gov.uk

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SCREEN TIME THE LUNA CINEMA

Choose from 12 beautiful London locations, for an opena air cinematic experience like no other. Visit Kenwood to see West Side Story – and take a picnic. thelunacinema.com

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SW I N G I T

GORILLA CIRCUS

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The flying trapeze school returns to Regents Park with lessons for all ages and abilities. Be brave and sign up for a two hour class – you might find you're a natural. gorillacircus.com

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ESCAPE

artists Cluequest’s immersive experiences are fun for all ages

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L

ondon is full of immersive events and escape rooms, but clueQuest isn’t your average puzzle-solving experience. The longestrunning immersive venue of its kind in the UK, clueQuest is an adrenaline-pumping 60-minute adventure that is sure to unlock your secret agent potential. We’re talking about the infiltration of high-tech command centres, deactivating lethal weapons and immersing yourself in the world of espionage on one epic day out.

Escape rooms are an excellent way to create new meaningful memories with those you love. You and your team embark on a 60 minute story driven adventure to find clues and solve puzzles. But don’t worry, all you need is your wits and common sense, no outside knowledge is needed to play.

All puzzles are designed for spies 9 years

and older, where some missions are more suitable for the younger agents. It’s like being inside a movie where you are the hero, who gets to walk away from an explosion while putting on your aviators. (Don’t worry, no actual explosions are involved.) clueQuest offers four different scenarios to choose from. Each mission is set in a spy-themed universe filled with fun family friendly cartoon characters making it the perfect choice for the young and the young at heart. All missions can be played with a team of 2-6 players, each offering the chance to escape the real world for an hour at clueQuest’s Kings Cross HQ. After your visit to their King’s Cross venue, you can round up the day with a lovely walk to Camden market along the beautiful Regent’s Canal, or simply stay in the area and enjoy the many amenities at the recently redeveloped Granary Square and Coal Drops Yard with loads

of foodie options to choose from.

Whether you’re after something different to do during your visit to London, or looking for a novel way to get in some quality family or friends bonding time, clueQuest is a fantastic shout.

With a movie-like setting and all age inclusive themes, attitude and respectable reputation - Over 6,000 five star reviews across Google, TripAdvisor and Facebook - this is a memorable space for any kind of aspiring spy.

Your summer vacation days are numbered, so BOOK NOW with the code ABSOLUTELY at our online checkout and get a free photo frame with your team’s picture on it!

C LU E Q U E S T.C O.U K Group size: 2-6 players / game Prices: Starting at £25 per perso

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SUMMER • PARTNERSHIP

SUMMER AT

THE GLEN There is no better time to escape to the breathtaking Scottish countryside

G

lenmor Holidays offer guests the best of both worlds – luxury accommodation at The Gleneagles Hotel, with the space and privacy of a family home.

One of the most renowned destinations in the world, The Gleneagles Hotel is home to the Glenmor Village development, set around a traditional village green and located beneath the Ochil Hills. The two, three, and four-bedroom holiday homes are the perfect rural, secluded getaway, and are available for rent for up to seven nights.

The exclusive amenities at Glenmor are designed to make guests feel at home, whether that's enjoying a relaxing drink on the private balcony or preparing a family meal in the spacious open-plan kitchen and living area.

Every luxury lodge offers all the hallmarks

of the iconic Gleneagles experience – from crisp cotton bedlinen to beautiful countryside surroundings – but with the advantage of providing families with a peaceful space to enjoy entertaining and relaxing together, all while being immersed in nature.

For those looking for a more active stay the glorious playground that is Gleneagles is just a stone’s throw away from the lodges and will ensure endless opportunities for unique experiences. Families have full access to all of the facilities and activities on offer, including over 50 country pursuits and, under the expert tuition of the hotel’s guides and instructors, kids can try their hand at shooting, archery, horse-riding and golf. There are plenty of exciting group experiences, such as the Family Tennis Academy or the Own a Pony Experience, plus the chance for adults to learn new skills too, such as flying a Harris Hawk, training gundogs, shooting game, or fishing. Each Glenmor lodge also includes two

complimentary bikes for guests to further explore the stunning views and countryside in and around Gleneagles on two wheels.

Gleneagles is a golfer’s paradise, and an exciting added benefit for Glenmor guests is that each lodge comes with a Gold Card for use throughout their stay, providing one person with unlimited, complimentary golf on The King’s Course, The Queen’s Course, The PGA Centenary (host of the 2014 Ryder Cup) and the nine-hole wee course. Novices can use the Gold Card too, to practice and improve their swing at a PGA National Golf Academy, before hitting up the incredibly scenic, worldclass Gleneagles courses, which are just as fun for beginners as they are for the pros.

Following a day full of memorable experiences, Glenmor guests can enjoy the luxurious pools at Gleneagles. The beautiful indoor pool is perfect for families, while the adult-only pool is ideal for a more invigorating swim session. Outside in the fresh Perthshire air, the thermal bubbling pool soothes the body, mind and spirit, while a state-of-the-art gym boasts some of the finest gym technology.

Whether for pure relaxation, new adventures or to enjoy quality family time away from the day-to-day, Glenmor is the ultimate Scottish getaway – offering a world of unforgettable experiences.

For more information, visit gleneagles. com/Glenmor, call 01764 694 321 or email own@gleneagles.com A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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YOUR LOCAL SURREY HOT TUB DEALER OF EXCELLENCE The Vineries Garden Centre, Lower Road, Effingham, Surrey, KT24 5JP Tel: 01372 439238 | hottubhaven.co.uk HOTTUBHAVEN_HP_ABS_JUNE22.indd 1

25/05/2022 13:34

DISCOVER THE AZORES AND MADEIRA EUROPE, BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

Discover the island of eternal spring; a world bursting with vibrant flora and fauna, geologically dramatic landscapes and traditional Portuguese culture. Explore Madeira and visit the famed botanical gardens, meander along the levadas, go in search of wild marine life and journey over stunning volcanic backdrops.

Swathed in volcanic peaks, bubbling geothermal pools, staggering crater lakes and lush green forests, the Azores archipelago is a hidden gem of the Mid-Atlantic Ocean waiting to be explored. Gaze at the natural wonders, swim alongside wild dolphins, tour lava caves and relax in hot springs.

Explore the Azores and Madeira with Artisan Travel; your shortcut to travels most exceptional experiences. Call 01670 337 186 or visit us online at artisantravel.co.uk. © Greg Snell

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SUMMER • PARTNERSHIP

“Large grand rooms with impressive lake views”

To the LAKES

Storrs Hall is one of the most spectacular destinations in the Lake District, if not the whole of the UK

I

t's rare to find such a strikingly elegant building with private and peaceful lake frontage in the Lake District. Built in 1797 for a Yorkshire gentleman as an alternative to holidaying in the Swiss lakes, he chose the best location on lake Windermere. The Grade II* listed building is wrapped in 17 acres of grounds, enjoying miles of views.

His choice of location was equally appreciated by Tatler, who rated it one of the 101 Best Hotels in the World, 2022, while The Sunday Times listed it as one of the Top 80 British Hotels, 2021. It’s still working its magic.

The building retains its period architecture: large grand rooms downstairs ensure plenty of space for guests to relax, and most spaces feature those big lake views. In the restaurant and conservatory you'll find breakfast and evening A la Carte menus; in the characterful in-house Tower Bar there's an an informal pub-style menu, and resident guests can also pick from a lounge, and room service menu. All food is lovingly made fresh, in-house, from local ingredients.

Every bedroom is different, some with separate sitting rooms, and others interconnect. The main house is supplementd by six contemporary Lakeside Suites, and the original but luxuriously refurbished Boathouse.

The Lakeside Suites sit close to the main house in secluded woodland. Glass walls slide back to open these open-plan spaces to the natural world, each with a furnished private terrace and Japanese style cedar hot tub. Four look out west over the lake, while two face into woodland, with partial lake views from the terraces. Two are also discreetly fitted to be suitable for guests with limited mobility.

The Boathouse is in a world of its own, with a huge private lakeside terrace with a hot tub, fire pit, and seating by its own lily-pond fronting on to the lake. The interior supplies every creature comfort, with a luxurious bathroom and steam room, butler’s pantry, huge bed, and seating area looking out over the lake.

Storrs Hall is easily accessible and has a list of providers who can introduce you to any adventure activity you’d like to try, plus there's the beautiful Vintage Thames Slipperlaunch for private skippered cruises on Windermere.

With extensive private parking, eight VendElectric EV charging points and helicopter landing available on the south lawn, access is simple.

STO R R S H A L L reception@storrshall.com • 015394 47111 storrshall.com

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d n a l s i e n O h g u o n e r is neve

This is our home; experience the best of Greece with the island hopping specialists Every Greek Island has its own unique personality, so sometimes one just isn’t enough. And because no one knows the islands quite like we do, you can expect a little more from an Olympic Holiday.

Tailor-made island hopping Family-owned, arranging holidays to Greece, the Greek islands and Cyprus for more than half-century Flights from 26 UK airports Choice of islands, accommodation, length of stay and more Low cost to luxury, simple to special occasion British Travel Awards winner for nine consecutive years, with votes submitted by the public Why leave it at just Greece?

Island hop with us across the Canaries or Malta & Gozo

Tailor-made island hopping with Olympic Holidays.

Use code ISLAND200 to save £200pp*

Go Island Hopping, Go Olympic call 020 8492 6840 visit olympicholidays.com/island-hopping OLYMPIA AbsolutelyHOLIDAYS.indd Magazines Advert132 – July Travel Issue.indd 1

Terms & Conditions: ISLAND200. Save an extra £200 per person on all new Island-Hopping holidays for two people or more with no minimum spend. Can only be booked through the call centre and cannot be used in conjunction with any other discount, voucher code or offer. Discount code must be added at time of booking and cannot be added post transaction.

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SUMMER • PARTNERSHIP

include Rhodes, the largest of the Dodecanese islands with its stunning beaches and delightful Old Town, a labyrinth of narrow, cobblestoned streets paired with Halki, a tiny island where time has stood still and friendly locals welcome you like long lost friends.

Another addition is Kefalonia, an island brimming with sublime beaches, endless natural beaty and opportunities for infinite adventures twinned with Zante and its golden sands, buzzing nightlife, traditional charm, beautiful countryside and romantic seclusion.

OLD PORT, SKIATHOS

SYMI, DODECANESE

TRUE BLUE Explore the best that Greece has to offer with an Olympic Holidays island-hopping experience

W

hen it comes to choosing a Greek Island escape you are spoilt for choice.

But if you’re struggling to decide on which to visit this year, don’t limit yourself to just one. Why not island hop your way around Greece to experience the very best this incredible country has to offer?

Choose two, three or several islands and explore the different cultures of each while meeting the locals and experiencing warm Greek hospitality.

Whether you’re looking for peace, quiet and reflection in a small, deluxe hotel, some cultural immersion or perhaps you want to try scuba diving followed by partying ‘till dawn’, Olympic Holidays offers a range of bespoke island-hopping holidays with something for everyone.

Destinations include the Saronic Islands (Poros & Spetses) and Dodecanese (Rhodes, Symi & Kos), which are delightfully different and easily connected by ferries and catamarans. The Southern and Cyclades Islands (Santorini, Naxos, Mykonos, Paros & Crete) each with their own unique personality make them ideal for combining into one trip. The Sporades (Skiathos, Skopelos & Alonissos) with their fantastic beaches, crystal clear sea and lush green forests as well as the Ionian Islands (Corfu, Kefalonia & Zante), home to caves and lakes, ancient ruins and windsurfing hotspots plus five-star hotels with Michelin-star cuisine.

New island hops for this summer include their ‘Jewel in the Crown’ which takes in Skiathos, Alonissos and the Pelion Peninsula, a relatively untouched part of Greece which is characterised by sweeping mountain vistas, enchanting villages, local charm and the splendour of a winding coastline. Other new options

Island hopping Olympic Holidays have an award-winning, dedicated island-hopping team to plan your trip

•

EMERALD GEMS

Skiathos, Skopelos and Alonisos A 10-night Island Hop package starts from £1,370pp* including return flights with baggage, premium accommodation, all ferries and private car transfers between the ferry ports

•

SANTORINI, NAXOS & MYKONOS

A 9-night Island Hop package starts from £1,390pp* including return flights with baggage, premium accommodation, all ferries and privatecar transfers between the ferry ports olympicholidays.com/island-hopping *Terms and conditions apply

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ou • B

tique Camping

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Dulwich Picture Gallery, London Sat July 23rd & Sun July 24th 2022

or scan fkets! ic free t www boutiquecamping.com www.boutiqu

Luxury Holiday Rentals at Glenmor Make yourselves at home in the heart of Gleneagles The Gleneagles experience is one of a kind – you can now enjoy it from the comfort of a Glenmor luxury holiday home, located in the heart of Gleneagles. On your stay you can enjoy complimentary golf for one person, plus access to all of the leisure, dining and pursuits of the 5 star estate. We have 2, 3 and 4 bedroom properties available, perfect for all the family. With prices starting from £3,500 for a 2 bed, £4,410 for a 3 bed and £4,840 for a 4 bed for 7 nights.

Find out more: GLENEAGLES.COM/GLENMOR +44 (0)1764 694321 OWN@GLENEAGLES.COM

The Timeshare, Holiday Products, Resale and Exchange Contracts Regulation 2010 requires Gleneaglesto provide you with certain key information in relation to the proposed seasonal ownership contract. A standard information form which contains this key information in relation to that contract may beobtained by contacted us via the above methods.

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C A P I T A L C L A S S Why Lisbon is a year-round destination of choice B y C A S P A R D AV I D

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isbon has around 290 days of sunshine each year, making it an excellent destination for a quick – or a longer – visit in any season.

With its eclectic variety of architecture, beautiful tiles and fashionable feel, there’s no wonder that it has become one of Europe’s most popular city break spots.

Lisbon is the westernmost capital in continental Europe and the only European city situated on the Atlantic coastline. The best way to travel around the city is to use the trams: quaint and yellow, they adorn the streets and trickle seamlessly through the tight twists and turns of the narrow streets.

Use them to get from A to B, or simply to sightsee and admire their original 1930s features of polished wood and brass interiors.

The Four Seasons Hotel Ritz is located in the heart of the city, with views over the rolling hills and brightly coloured facades.

The hotel, dating back to the 1950s, was

commissioned under instruction of the then Portuguese dictator António de Oliveira Salazar, wishing to create a hotel worthy of important foreign visitors. With luxurious rooms offering a nod to the 1950s, the hotel's public areas are a blend of Louis XVI style and traditional Portuguese architecture.

The recently added pool offers the calm and tranquillity needed to relax and unwind after a morning's sightseeing. Alongside sits the Ritz Pool Bar, serving a selection of summery dishes including a zesty salmon ceviche, a flavoursome wagyu beef burger, a Josper-grilled tuna, a vegetarian bao, and the Hotel’s classic club sandwich and caesar salad, paired with freshly-squeezed juice of the day, the Hotel’s signature Ritz Mojito or a chilled glass of Portuguese wine.

For the evening, CURA restaurant is the showpiece of Pedro Pena Bastos a, chef on a quest to distil the wonders of Portugal’s hero ingredients into their most expressive forms.

A culinary curator with an infectious zest for food exploration, Bastos has navigated

to symbiotic shores at CURA. Part art appreciation, part dining experience, this new restaurant is his perfect playground.

A limited menu of just a dozen or so dishes each showcase just a handful of the finest local organic ingredients. “The ingredients are our inspiration,” he explains. “They’re the highlight of everything we do.” In a restaurant where creative detail is king, you will be treated to a wonderful dining experience.

If pure self-indulgent luxury is right up your street, do not miss out on the spa. With an indoor pool, fully equipped air-conditioned gym you can pop in for a treatment or one-on-one Pilates session. Floor-to-ceiling windows give wonderous views of the city as well as the outdoor rooftop running track.

The Four Seasons Hotel Ritz and the city of Lisbon are a must for discerning travellers in search of a quick European getaway.

Rooms at Four Seasons Hotel Ritz Lisbon start from €610 for a superior city room. fourseasons.com/lisbon.

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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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E D U C AT I O N

SPEAKING UP More house in Knightsbridge sees confident communication as a top priority. Girls are encouraged to speak up in and out of class. Head Faith Hagerty says that the traditonal 'hands up' approach does not serve every child well so the school uses differentiated questioning to encourage whole-class participation. morehouse.org.uk

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YES, IT’S A CRYING SHAME…

…that she left it too late to apply for Hurtwood House, because it’s simply the best for acting, dancing, singing, film-making – “A utopia for creative minds” – as the Good Schools Guide says.

And crucially, this exciting school is equally successful academically. In fact, it’s statistically one of the top co-ed boarding schools in the UK. So, if you’re looking for a really exciting and rewarding change of school at 16 – don’t leave it too late.

Contact Cosmo Jackson or visit our website for more information.

T: 01483 279000

E: info@hurtwood.net

hurtwoodhouse.com

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EDUCATION • FOCUS

Wellbeing Markers

Caroline Bond of Pangbourne College outlines the key markers of a school that prioritises children's mental health and wellbeing

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ccording to the Mental Health Foundation, depression affects more children today than it ever has. So, how can you be sure that your child’s school is doing all it can to look after young people's mental health and wellbeing? Here are some of the key indicators to look out for.

Is there a ‘traffic light’ system to show up pupils struggling with mental health? This system helps pastoral staff to share information on those children who may need extra support. Background information on the child is confidentially shared with staff to ensure that everyone is aware of a particular pupil’s situation.

Staff then know which behaviours to look out for and appropriate actions to take.

Does the school use tools to flag pupils who are at risk? One example of this is AS Tracking, a social-emotional assessment tool which flags pupils and enables the school to put a plan in place to address the issues facing them. This is an excellent tool for uncovering issues which children may be hiding from those around them.

Is there an onsite counselling service?

Most schools provide access to counselling services, but an onsite counselling service makes it so much easier for children to get counselling as and when they need it and in a supportive and familiar environment.

"A school needs a culture of care – a setting which is values-led, with an ethos that encourages kindness and respect"

basis, is more likely to be able to help your child to take care of their mental health and wellbeing.

What about a peer mentoring programme? Some schools give their Sixth Form students the opportunity to peer mentor the younger pupils, who often feel more comfortable talking through their problems with someone closer to their age. These programmes help to create an ethos of care and kindness in the school.

PUPILS At Pangbourne College

Can parents get support too? Quite often, parents struggle as much as their child to understand what is happening, let alone how to support them through their difficulties. Tools such as the Wellbeing Hub from TeenTips provide excellent, practical advice on how to support a child, also giving parents useful information to help them understand more about wellbeing and mental health issues.

Is there an equal focus on physical health and exercise? According to a joint report from the Education Policy Institute and the Prince's Trust, frequency of exercise is a key factor affecting young people’s mental and emotional health. This shows that a school that encourages sport and other physical activities on a frequent and regular

Does your child’s school help them build resilience? Prevention is always better than cure, so your child’s school should do as much as possible to help them develop positive strategies to take care of themselves and cope with life’s inevitable ups and downs. Activities which foster a strong sense of resilience – in other words, the ability to face, overcome and ultimately be strengthened by challenges – include Duke of Edinburgh’s (DofE) Award and the Combined Cadet Force (CCF) Programme.

Is there a culture of care? Finally, and most importantly, a school needs a culture of care. This is a setting which is values-led, with an ethos that encourages kindness and respect, where positive mental health and wellbeing is accepted as an important aspect of school life, and where everyone is encouraged to take part in activities promoting wellbeing. This is most likely to be an environment where a child can flourish. If a school employs all of the above initiatives, it is clearly a place which also values and supports your child’s mental health and wellbeing.

C A R O LI N E B O N D Assistant Head Pupil Mental Health and Wellbeing, Pangbourne College A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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Set in more than 220 acres of beautiful North Yorkshire countryside

Welcoming day students from 3 months to 19 years and boarders from Year 3

Over 80% of our students go on to their first choice university | Rated ‘Excellent’ by ISI 2019 81% of our students achieved A*/A at A-Level

Queen Ethelburga’s Collegiate “To be the best that I can, with the gifts that I have.” www.qe.org | admissions@qe.org | 01423 333330 | York YO26 9SS

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EDUCATION • TALKING HEAD

THERE'S A WORLD OF OPPORTUNITY AT THE ORATORY PREP SCHOOL

FRESH START Andrew De Silva will be joining The Oratory Prep School in Goring Heath as head from September, he tells us what attracted him to the role Q What does The Oratory Prep School offer?

A Put simply: perspective, ambition and curiosity. The school’s motto is Cor Ad Cor Loquitur – ‘Heart speaks to Heart’. Through this, we are able to offer our pupils high academic expectations through a literature rich curriculum focusing on transferable skills to enable our children to thrive – not just in their next schools, but beyond. Gone are the assumptions that Preparatory Schools are purely transitional educational establishments. At The OPS, we educate children from 2 to 13; we therefore have a responsibility to ensure that they are happy, nurtured, confident and inquisitive during their 11 years at our school.

Q Why were you keen on taking over the role as headteacher?

A As educationalists, we all thoroughly love the schools we are in and this is certainly the case for my current school, which has so much to offer its pupils.

There are three main reasons which called me to the school. First, the people. The fact that the school educates its pupils through the lens of humanity really does resonate with my personal Christian faith and my belief as an educator. Second, the

journey. Whilst the school has a fantastic reputation, enviable facilities, resources and the most glorious site, I believe there is always more that can be achieved to ensure that children thrive educationally. I intend on enjoying the school's journey to becoming a market leader. Third, the group.

As a teacher, leader and educationalist, networking is incredibly important. I am proud to be joining the Bellevue family as it encourages schools to share best practices and work collaboratively.

Q How would you sum up your teaching approach?

A I have a specific vision as to how children learn best, but for me, it comes down to: - Building positive relationships - Quality planning which varies the learning to meet the needs of all - Well-thought task design that excites learning and is relevant - Continual assessment to ensure that children are praised and challenged Q Outside of the classroom, what kind of opportunities does The Oratory Prep School offer?

A In addition to excellent classroom teaching and learning, the facilities,

ANDREW DE SILVA

networks and expertise afforded to our pupils enables them to have an extensive range of co-curricular provision – ranging from Public Speaking, Science Club, Lego Club and Mandarin. Like many of our counterparts, we provide our children with a wide variety of extra opportunities, including a competitive schedule of sport fixtures throughout the academic year and a vast array of activities for children to showcase their talents.

Q What kind of boarding experience would we find?

A Not one which believes in being just a home from home. We are proud to be able to offer boarding from Year 3 and above and to provide our ‘family’ with an enjoyable and enriching experience.

Children have the option of full-time, weekly, or flexible boarding to suit each family’s individual needs and we also offer shortterm placements for international students from countries such as France and Spain.

Q What are you looking forward to most when you take over?

A There are certainly many aspects that I am looking forward to. I am tremendously excited to meet with parents and the wider community, and I look forward to forming relationships with all those involved in the school. I have already had the privilege of spending a few days in school before the summer holidays, and have already learnt so much, and I look forward to continuing to do so when I start as head in September.

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Where academic stretch meets love and laughter Open Mornings 14 September 6 October 19 October morehouse.org.uk

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TOP SUMMER M U ST READ 8+

From an exploration of trees and the inspiring life of Leonardo Da Vinci to a new edition of a book about the ultimate ‘keel’ hero and a mystery out at sea, here’s our pick of great reads for the summer ahead

Leonardo Da Vinci’s Life of Invention

by Jake Williams PAVI LI ON, £1 2 .9 9

T

he life of Leonardo Da Vinci is a worthy subject for any age group, but Jake Williams combines context and detail to make the story fascinating for younger readers. It begins with an exploration of the man – reminding us that in his lifetime the world’s most celebrated polymath thought of himself as a failure.

Then the book covers his achievements, dividing them up into The Natural World, Inventions and Work of Art. It’s an inspiring dip-in guide to encourage further reading and exploration of both his life and his inventiveness.

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8+

THE RIDDLE OF THE SEA

by Jonne Kramer translated by Laura Watkinson Illustrated by Karl James Mountford P ICCA D ILLY, £7.99

First published in the Netherlands in 2019, and now translated by Laura Watkinson, Jonne Kramer’s debut novel was nominated for several prizes, including the Dutch Children’s Jury Prize. It’s a gripping yarn centred on Ravian’s search for his fisherman father. Troubled by the stories of The Night Raider and fearsome Pirate Bank, he sets out with his trusty seagull friend Marvin.

The adventure that follows includes an encounter with a bad-tempered pirate, help from a kind boy and epic battles with storms and giant squid.

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EDUCATION • BOOKS

6+

THE YOUNG DESIGNERS

Editor's pick

by Paul Smith illustrated by Sam Usher PAVILION, £12 .99

This is the second book from the iconic British designer Sir Paul Smith detailing the adventures of the famous designer Mr Brown (a monkey) and his assistant Moose. In this story, Moose is put in charge of the office when Rainbow Class schoolchildren come to learn how to be a designer. A madcap trip round London for design inspiration and a mishap with the new-season collection ensue, but all ends well. It’s a fun read, and with delightful illustrations by Sam Usher.

2+

4+

THE WILD GARDEN

All Around Bustletown: Nighttime

by Cynthia Cliff PRE STEL , £11.99

The Wild Garden centres on two distinct patches of land in Mirren. There’s the orderly community garden and, on the other side of the wall, a lush wilderness of trees, meadows and pond. This is where Jilly, her dog Bleu and her grandfather explore nature and forage, so they are unhappy when the community decide to tame the wild place. But a plan is agreed that encourages the best of both worlds – produce to eat and space for nature. Clear text and evocative illustrations make this a great introduction to gardening and the benefits of working together.

by Rotraut Susanne Berner PRESTEL, £9.99

7+

AROUND THE WORLD IN 80 TREES

by Ben Lerwill illustrated by Kaja Kajfež

WELBECK EDITIONS , £14.99

This fact-packed book tells stories about the world’s trees – from the ancient Bristlecone Pine in the White Mountains of California to the vast Montezuma Cypress in Santa Maria del Tule, Mexico. Travel writer Ben Lerwill brings a globetrotter’s perspective to the most distinctive trees of every region of the planet. There’s also plenty of scientific information – from trees’ ‘family trees’ to the wonders of pollination and collaborative root systems.

Illustrations by Kaja Kajfež add detail and a sense of place in a book that will inspire budding botanists and geographers alike.

T

his new book in the Bustletown series explores life in the busy town after dark.

As ever, wonderfully vivid illustrations by Rotraut Susanne Berner bring a whole community to life.

The large format size and sturdy boards make it a perfect way to engage toddlers with the world of books, with minimal text but lots to explore in each of the seven illustrations.

Each of the scenes can be used to help children identify familiar objects and activities and discuss what’s going on in the pictures.

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EDUCATION • PARTNERSHIP

FOUNDERS JULIE-ANNE GRAHAM & SINÉAD TIERNAN

POWER TOOLS Win an Emotional Toolkit for your child and four friends

W

hen children have emotional outbursts, parents can sometimes find it hard to know the best way to help. What if your child had tools they could turn to every time they feel anxious, sad, frustrated or angry?

Studies show that children who can manage their emotions feel more confident, have higher self-esteem and are more resilient, which means better friendships, better exam performance and greater well-being.

Inspired Creators, an educational platform for kids, is offering readers the chance to win access to their online courses teaching children how to manage their emotions.

Your child will receive access to The Emotional Toolkit (worth £85) and Tapping

& Positive Practices (worth £40). But the prize isn’t just for them, you’ll also receive access for four other children. Their friends or cousins can all benefit too.

The Emotional Toolkit is an online course for children aged 7-12 which offers a pick-and-mix set of tools that the child can choose depending on the emotion they are feeling. Each tool comes with a 3-5 min explainer video, and a worksheet. With a range of 20 tools altogether, the kit covers emotions across the whole spectrum.

Developed by long-time friends JulieAnne Graham and Sinéad Tiernan, the idea was sparked after years of personal development, and training as coaches.

‘We’ve taken the most powerful tools we have discovered in 40+ years of personal development, ones we use ourselves daily, and presented them in a kid-friendly fashion’ Julie-Anne says.

‘Kids first identify what they’re feeling on the Wheel of Emotions poster, then they go to the Tool Selector Poster which helps them identify which tool to use. This makes it as simple as possible, so that kids can find the tool they need when they’re feeling anxious, worried, or needing some support.

Tools include breathing exercises, acupressure points that work on the body, creative activities, meditations and journaling. The second course Tapping and Positive Daily Practices builds on The Emotional Toolkit. This course sets children up with a daily mindset and journaling practice and teaches them how to ‘tap’ on acupressure points to release negative emotions. This has been shown to be highly effective at reducing emotional intensity in all kinds of situations, from exam anxiety to conflicts with others.

The kit has been given the stamp of approval by parents, teachers, and child psychologists who have praised its content, design and delivery.

E M OT I O N A L TO O L K I T S There are three packages available, worth £625 each. For a chance to win simply fill in the blanks below at absolutely.london.

Life is ______% what happens to your child and ______% how they react to it.

For a hint, view theinspiredcreators.com

I N S P I R E D C R E ATO R S Inspired Creators strives to support children's mental and emotional wellbeing. For more information, visit theinspiredcreators.com or follow @theinspiredcreators on Facebook and Instagram.

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North Bridge House

Join our Saturday Open Day Fairs

North Bridge House is on a constant journey of getting to know and understand every child as an individual, realising their true academic and personal potential through specialist provision at every school stage.

NURSERY & PRE-PREP WEST HAMPSTEAD 2 - 7 YEARS SATURDAY 17 SEPT

NURSERY & PRE-PREP HAMPSTEAD 2 - 7 YEARS SATURDAY 1 OCT

PREP SCHOOL REGENT’S PARK 4 - 13 YEARS SATURDAY 24 SEPT

SENIOR HAMPSTEAD 11 - 16 YEARS SATURDAY 17 SEPT

SENIOR CANONBURY 11 - 18 YEARS SATURDAY 24 SEPT

Book an open day or private tour at northbridgehouse.com/open

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SPECI A L ISSUE

absolutely-mama.co.uk

SUMMER DAYS The mama and mini collection from German brand Liilu is inspired by the simple things in life. Made from 100% organic cotton, the brand’s signature muslin is designed to protect little ones’ sensitive skin and each piece is crafted under fair working conditions in Portugal. @liiluorganics liilu.de

In this section:

TRAVEL ESSENTIALS

Everything you need to get away

•

HOLIDAY STYLE

How to dress your little ones

•

P H O T O G R A P H Y: E S P E R A N Z A M OYA

TRAVEL NOTES

Family friendly destinations

•

TOT GEAR

The latest parenting launches

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MY VEGGIE BUBBA P.158

Editor’s

LETTER

DJECO P.153

S

ummer is finally here and like many other families, we’re off on our first big trip abroad since lockdown. We’re slightly nervous about flying long haul with a toddler, but are excited to take our daughter away for the first time.

If you’re planning a trip with your little ones too, this issue has everything from family-friendly travel inspiration, to advice on what to pack, as well as the best holiday style for minis.

Elsewhere in this issue we have the latest new parenting product launches in our Tot Gear and Tried & Tested sections. We also meet Nital Ruparelia, the founder of baby meal delivery service My Veggie Bubba.

Enjoy and get packing as it’s going to be a great summer!

LEO SUN P.156

C a rly Gl e n di n n i n g E DITOR

MONKIND P.157

@carlyjglendinning carly@zest-media.com BIBS CUDDLE CLOTH P.161

ON TH E COVER: @liiluorganics liilu.de

Photographer: Esperanza Moya @esperanzamoya

LIEWOOD P.157

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Holiday Packing Carly Glendinning rounds up everything you need to get away with little ones

DRY O F F LIEWOOD

Drying off at the beach or pool is much easier with this poncho towel from Liewood.

Perfect for snuggling up after a long day of splashing and sandcastle making, or for staying out of the sun. £35; liewood.com

Summer Breeze

SHADES OF COOL LONDON

A traditional Indian summer blanket, this dohar from Shades of Cool London is made from three layers of beautifully soft ‘Mul-Mul’ cotton. The layers trap cool air in the summer months, helping to regulate little ones’ temperature as they snooze. £45; shadesofcoollondon.com

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LET’S GO STOKKE

Stokke’s summer collection has everything you’ll need to make travelling with little ones a breeze. From the JetKids™ by Stokke® BedBox for comfy plane travel, to the foldable Flexi Bath® Tub, quick assemble Clikk™ High Chair and easy-to-transport CloudSleeper™ JetKids™ by Stokke® Inflatable Kids’ Bed. stokke.com

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mama TRAVEL

BUYS

5 T R AV E L

E S SENTIAL S Make sure to pack these must-have products

SAND CASTLES

1

OYOY LIVING DESIGN

This beach set from OYOY Living Design is made from silicone, so there’s no need to worry about it taking up too much space in your suitcase. We love the cute moulds it comes with, which are perfect for sand castle building. £41; oyoylivingdesign.co.uk

SLEEP ANYWHERE BABYBJÖRN

Super lightweight but sturdy, this travel cot from BabyBjörn couldn’t be easier to assemble.

The comfy mattress makes it a cosy place to sleep wherever your family travels to. £247; babybjorn.co.uk

Editor’s Pick

Easy Rider

LECLERC

Super lightweight and with a onetouch auto-folding mechanism, the Influencer Stroller from Leclerc Baby is perfect for travelling with your little one. It also fits in most overhead airplane compartments. £378,06; leclercbaby.com

2

3 54 1. Infantino, Convertible Carrier, £40; amazon.co.uk 2. Tonies, Toniebox Starter Set, £79.99; tonies.com 3. Djeco, Graphic Suitcase, £27.99; tickety-boo.co.uk 4. My Carry Potty, Pastel Green Carry Potty, £26.99; mycarrypotty.com 5. Snoozeshade, Travel Cot Cover, £59.99; snoozeshade.com

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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

www.rpps.co.uk RPPS_PRINT.indd 1 RPPS.indd 1

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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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TRAVEL

TROPICAL FUN H I LT O N S E YC H E L L E S L A B R I Z R E S O R T & S PA

This summer Hilton Seychelles Labriz is launching CampCation – an activity program for kids aged 6-12. Little holiday makers will have the chance to experience different sports and activities while making new friends. hilton.com

mama’s

T R AV E L NOTES

Carly Glendinning rounds up the most exciting family travel destinations we love

SUMMER IN THE CITY

REST & RELAX

ROOM 2

C R I L L O N L E B R AV E

Room 2’s Chiswick property is located within minutes of the area’s leafy green spaces. The hometel provides a calm and adaptable space for families. Independent kitchenettes allow families to cook what they want when they want and are perfect for fussy little ones. room2.com

Picture-perfect Provencal Hotel Crillon Le Brave has introduced French natural babycare brand, Minois, as its new amenity partner. Welcome surprises await little guests upon arrival, including Minois products, bibs, bathrobes, and slippers. crillonlebrave.com

3 d e s t i n a t i o n s f o r FA M I LY W E L L N E S S Quinta do Lago Nestled in the picturesque Algarve region, luxury leisure and lifestyle resort Quinta do Lago has a wide variety of fitness and wellness activities on offer for kids and parents to enjoy.

Wind jammer Landing

Wyndham Hotels & Resorts

Pamper the whole family with one of the resort's spa packages, which include couples massages for parents, as well as braiding and mini manicures for little ones.

This golf resort has plenty on offer for active families this summer. Your little ones will love the countless pools and kids club activities.

quintadolago.com

windjammer-landing.com

windhamhotels.com

ALGARVE

ST LUCIA

TENERIFE

KIDS FITNESS AT QUINTA DO LAGO

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FA S H I O N NOTES Carly Glendinning rounds up the month’s best styles, looks and launches

STEP OUTSIDE LIILU

Inspired by the simplicity of the outdoors, the summer collection from LiiLU is full of natural shades and eco-friendly fabrics.

Everything is allergy friendly and washed with LiiLU’s signature scent too. liilu.de

we love T H R OW I N G SHADE LEO SUN

These super-cool sunglasses from Leo Sun are anti-scratch and shatterproof making them perfect for summer adventures. Suitable for little ones aged 3-10. andostores.com

156

Beach Days ORGANIC ZOO

Inspired by vintage seaside chic, Organic Zoo’s summer collection is full of chunky rib knits, Bretons and shell prints. Perfect for little holiday-makers this summer. organic-zoo.com

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mama KIDS

Berlin Baby

FASHION

nd Bra us Foc

MONKIND

Organic and sustainable, we love the play-ready pieces and eye-catching prints in the current collection from Berlin-based brand Monkind.

Perfect for summer fun. monkind.com

POLARN O. PYRET LITTLE SOFTIES

The Swedish brand’s high summer collection is full of playful prints and plant-friendly design

MORI

T

MORI’s terry towelling collection is made from moisture wicking fabric, which is brilliant for warmer weather this summer.

Look out for beach-ready rompers, shorts and tees. babymori.com

5 of t he b e st SW I M W E A R

MORI Long Sleeve Swimsuit, £28; babymori.com

GALAGO JOE Swim Shorts, £35; galagojoe.com

LIEWOOD Swim Jumpsuit, £45; liewood.com

BEBE ORGANIC Lilian Bikini, £64; bebe-organic.com

ORGANIC ZOO X PIM PAM Reusable Swim Nappy, £11; organic-zoo.com

ake a walk past any of Polarn O.Pyret’s stores and it’s hard not to smile at the windows full of rainbow bright colours and happy prints. The Swedish brand is synonymous with the playfulness of childhood and their high summer collection is no exception.

Following last year’s popular debut, the childrenswear favourite has collaborated with Sarah Sheppard once again. Mini fans of her bestselling books ‘Sharks’ and ‘Animals in the Water’, will love seeing the children’s illustrator and author’s vibrant designs on dresses, shorts, tees and swimwear.

The brand’s print game is strong this season, and elsewhere in the collection there are animal motifs, florals, stripes and tie-dye galore.

But it’s not just the joyful design that the brand has put a lot of thought into, the pieces are also planet-friendly. The swimwear collection uses post-consumer PET bottles, and the baby range for little ones aged 0-1 is made from 100% GOTS organic cotton.

Perfect for holidays, picnics in the park and family bbqs this summer. polarnopyret.co.uk

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P L A N T P O W E R Absolutely Mama meets Nital Ruparelia, the founder of My Veggie Bubba I n t e r v i e w C A R LY G L E N D I N N I N G

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ma m a PROFILE

Q Tell us about My Veggie

Bubba. What’s it all about?

A My Veggie Bubba is an exciting new range of freshly frozen plant-based Indian meals filled with fragrant spices and hidden veggies to help boost immunity and growth. These are packed in semi compostable trays and easily stored in a freezer. Our meals are tailored for weaning and contain no salt or added sugar, and each meal has passed the taste test by our My Veggie Bubba taste testing squad.

Q How did you come to launch it?

Did you have a lightbulb moment?

A As a mum myself, I know juggling daily

life with a child can be hectic. Between working, cleaning and school/nursery runs we all struggle to find the time to make fresh meals. I used to batch cook a lot of curries and meals for Josh as I was working full time. I spent most of my weekends batch cooking which meant less time with him! Whilst weaning, I found there were no freshly frozen fully Indian plant-based meals available on the market. You have your food pouches and baby food jars that are found on the supermarket shelves but they lack flavour and are all heat treated which means most of the nutrients are diminished.

meals are packed in cardboard boxes with a wool liner. The wool liner can be re-used for many purposes such as gardening, upholstering and insulation.

kitchen was always in full swing all day every day. Josh loves cooking as well, he has his own apron and rolling pin.

He loves eating the foods he makes!

Q Why plant based?

A I was brought up in an Indian vegetarian

Q How are you innovating in the

household where the majority of the meals we had were plant-based. Over the years dairy allergies and intolerances have increased not just in adults but in children too. Plant-based foods are not just healthy but they are more sustainable for the planet. A plant-based diet is healthy and safe for toddlers; as long as it’s well balanced and full of variety. One of the most attractive reasons to me is that you’re setting up your child with sustainable habits for the future. By teaching them from an early age the array of flavours, textures and nutrients that come from plants.

Q When did your love of food begin?

Did you learn to cook growing up?

A I have always loved cooking from an

early age. I used to help my mother and grandmother cook in the kitchen. I grew up in a large extended family, our

“Plant-based

foods are not just healthy, they are more sustainable for the planet”

baby and children’s food space?

A Currently on the market there’s no fully

plant-based Indian inspired meal delivery service for babies and children. Our meals are loved by children and led by nutrition.

Q Proudest moment since

launching My Veggie Bubba?

A Our proudest moment since

launching MVB meals is seeing all the lovely videos and reading all the incredible reviews about our meals!

Q Favourite meals to cook

with your own family?

A Nothing beats a good detoxifying

plant-based Kichari (rice and lentils) with an eggplant curry. This meal is not just healthy but comforting too. This is our go-to Monday meal, especially after a hectic weekend!

Q And finally, is there anything

exciting coming up for My Veggie Bubba we should know about?

A Our meals will be launching soon in local stores around North London, and we are constantly uploading new plantrecipes on our website. We are also working very closely with our nutritionist to bring out more educational blogs about plant-based meals for babies and toddlers, weaning and much more! myveggiebubba.com

Q How are your meals made and

how do you select the ingredients?

A Our meals are made using fresh

ingredients that are locally sourced.

Majority of our spices are organic and are bought from our local eco-friendly sustainable business – Refillabell in Bushey.

Q How important is sustainability

to the business?

A Sustainability is key to our business. We

have tried to be as sustainable as possible and are constantly thinking of new ideas to be more sustainable. All our packaging is recyclable, our trays are semi-compostable and are soon to be fully compostable. Our

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TOT GEAR

SLEEP HEROES SERAPHINE

Seraphine has just launched their new Easy Zip Cotton Sleepsuit that aims to make baby changing easier and also reduce waste. The clever design has a two way zip opening as well as roll down arms and legs to enable longer wear, £49 for a pack of three. seraphine.com

TOT GEAR

Inspired kit to make parenting easier

CUDDLE UP

LOVED

by MAMA

by Carly Glendinning

What we’re using for our own babies this month

B I B S K AN GAROO CU D D LE CLOTH

M

MOOCHICBABY Designed in London and made in Jaipur, MoochicBaby’s products are handcrafted by the brand’s talented team of artisans using an age-old block printing technique.

We love their super cute muslins, blankets, pyjamas and towels. moochicbaby.co.uk

SWEET DREAMS SNÜZ

The SnüzFino range is a stylish new nursery furniture collection from the designers behind the iconic SnüzPod Bedside Crib. The collection comprises a cot bed, changing unit and wardrobe, that can be purchased as a set or individually. snuz.co.uk

y daughter has recently started nursery and as she only goes part time, it’s taking a little bit longer for her to settle in. The nursery suggested a ‘lovie’ to help her feel more secure, she’s very affectionate and loves cuddling her toys. A new launch for Danish brand BIBS, The Kangaroo Cuddle Cloth has been just the thing.

Made from super soft organic cotton, it has textured kangaroo ‘ears’ that my daughter loves to stroke. It also has a clever pacifier ring and pocket, so that she can find her dummy easily at nap time.

The Kangaroo Cuddle cloth comes in a range of beautifully muted shades, that all match with BIBS pacifiers. It washes beautifully and is perfect for providing comfort for little ones whenever they need it. My daughter has been carrying hers around with her constantly since it arrived and it’s definitely made the transition to nursery a little bit easier.

Kangaroo Cuddle Cloth, £17.50 bibsworld.com

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TRIED & TESTED

IN-DEPTH REVIEWS OF THE LATEST PARENTING KIT

ma m a REVIEWS

Venicci Tinum 2 R e v i e w e d b y L E A H DAY

L

ast year we road-tested the new Tinum SE 2.0 which was a superb upgrade from the original Tinum and we are delighted to get our hands on the new colourway that is set to turn heads.

When it comes to forwardthinking designs for baby and parents alike, the Venicci Tinum 2 has it all. The stunning new stylish navy colourway with its luxurious fabric, rose gold-accented details and shimmering navy chassis will attract attention wherever you go.

The carrycot offers deep quilting throughout and the tapered mattress is plush and perfectly cushioned to ensure your baby has the most comfortable ride. A hidden panel in the hood expands to offer an additional sunshade and provides

superb coverage. My favourite part of the carrycot is the removable panel which provides panoramic airflow. This allows air to circulate inside the carrycot and can be used as an occasional overnight cot, perfect for trips away.

The seat unit comes with a swivel bar that is completely removable and the fabric is wipe-clean and UV50+. The footrest has a hidden extension to accommodate your baby as they grow; it is lovely and spacious so they are not going to feel cramped. The seat unit fully reclines and is suitable from birth

but we would recommend you use the carrycot until they are sitting up.

The push bar is adjustable to allow you to push at a comfortable height and there are also two handy connectors for your changing bag to keep it neatly in place and perfectly displayed. The basket also has plenty of room and there is a hidden panel at the front to extend if you need extra space.

The pushchair is foldable with both the seat unit on or off. To fold, simply bring the backrest inline with the handle and pull the footrest up to meet it and expose the handle, twist the handle to collapse the frame. There is an additional carry strap too, to make carrying really easy and it stands unaided when collapsed to save on space. To open it back up simply pull the handlebar back up again and you’re all set.

The 10-piece bundle comes complete with a car seat, adapters, raincover, changing bag, mosquito net, and a beautiful cosy footmuff.

From £859; venicci.com A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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TRIED & TESTED

IN-DEPTH REVIEWS OF THE LATEST PARENTING KIT

ma m a REVIEWS

Dr Brown’s Electric Steriliser and Dryer R e v i e w e d b y C A R LY G L E N D I N N I N G

you to choose from. You are also able to adjust the firmness with the ‘pebbles’ to provide the best comfort and support for you and your little one. My daughter is weaned now, but she still loves to lie on her bbhugme before bed whilst she has a bottle. It’s our little routine and it makes snuggles super easy and comfortable for both of us. We couldn’t recommend bbhugme more and if you already have the Pregnancy Pillow, it’s definitely worth getting the Nursing Pillow as well. £82; uk.bbhugme.com

£109.99; drbrowns.co.uk

bbhugme Nursing Pillow R e v i e w e d b y C A R LY G L E N D I N N I N G

C

onsidered the holy grail of pregnancy pillows, I used my bbhugme through every trimester and when my daughter arrived I’d come to rely on it so much, we just continued using it as a nursing pillow. Whilst the bbhugme Pregnancy Pillow is perfectly fine for nursing, we decided it might be good to get the Nursing Pillow as well – for several reasons. The Nursing Pillow is essentially a more compact version of the Pregnancy Pillow, making it great for travel and feeding-on-the-go. It comes in an over-the-shoulder carry case and is very easy to transport, so you can take it with you wherever you go. Much like the Pregnancy Pillow, you can change the covers for straightforward cleaning, and a range of beautiful colourways are available for

D

r Brown’s Electric Steriliser and Dryer is a handy piece of kit for any bottle-feeding parent. Let’s face it, sterilising bottles and then making sure they are still sterile once dry can be a major faff. Easy to set up, Dr Brown’s Electric Steriliser and Dryer can clean up to 6 bottles and can also be used for pump parts, dummies, teethers etc. The Clean Steam kills 9.99% of bacteria and the two included HEPA filters capture 95% of airborne particles to ensure your bottles stay sterile once dry. With the push of a button you can select sterilise and dry (which takes just under an hour), or if you’re in a rush, you can just sterilise your bottles (about 10 mins) and go. We found it to work really well, as you would expect with Dr Brown’s products. With its minimalistic design, it’s an unassuming piece of equipment for your kitchen countertop and the tall height ensures it doesn’t take up too much space. The only slight downside is that you need to use distilled water so that you don’t damage the heating plate. Overall though, we love this steriliser and couldn’t recommend it more if you’re bottle-feeding.

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

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PROPERTY

BARNFIELD ROAD W5

£1,200,000

his stunning end of terrace square-bay fronted family home in the heart of Pitshanger Village has been extended and modernised throughout by the current owner. The Edwardian property offers spacious living accommodation and an array of period features, with four bedrooms and a delightful west-facing rear garden.

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

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EALING W13

£1,100,000 FREEHOLD

A beautifully updated, traditional period style villa full of character within easy walking distance of Pitshanger Village. The accommodation, which retains an array of period features, offers a spacious intercommunicating reception room, L’ shaped kitchen/dining area and ground floor cloakroom. To the first floor are three good sized bedrooms and family bathroom and to the second floor, in the extended loft space, is a large bedroom and en suite shower room. The property has gas fired central heating and a private rear garden with direct access to Pitshanger Park. Energy Performance Certificate C

82 Pitshanger Lane, Ealing W5 1QX jmesales@johnmartinestates.com JOHN MARTIN.indd 170

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“PITSHANGER’S COMMUNITY ESTATE AGENT”

EALING W5

£8

, 50 FREEHOLD

An a ractive bay fronted period villa on the ever popular rentham arden Estate. The property is well presented and offers spacious intercommunicating reception rooms and traditional fi ed kitchen to the ground floor, two bedrooms and large family bathroom with separate shower cubicle to the first floor and further bedroom to the second floor. There is an array of period features including fireplaces and coved ceilings, good storage throughout, gas fired central heating and a lovely south facing rear garden. Energy Performance Certificate E.

T: 020 8998 3333 JOHN MARTIN.indd 171

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www.johnmartinestates.com 1995-2020

EALING W5

£8 5,000 FREEHOLD

A charming end of terrace rentham co age in the heart of the popular Conservation Estate. The property is offered in good decorative order and has a bright and airy feel throughout. The accommodation is larger than average comprising two reception rooms, ground floor cloakroom, modern fi ed kitchen, three excellent sized bedrooms and modern family bathroom to the first floor and further bedroom to the second floor. There are a number of period features and an excellent sized, well stocked, split level rear garden as well as garden room/ o ce. Energy Performance Certificate E.

82 Pitshanger Lane, Ealing W5 1QX jmesales@johnmartinestates.com JOHN MARTIN.indd 172

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“PITSHANGER’S COMMUNITY ESTATE AGENT”

EALING W5

£

5,000 LEA EHOLD

An a ractive well presented split level maisone e in a uiet cul de sac only moments from Pitshanger Village.

The property, arranged over the second and third floors, offers spacious lounge, modern fi ed kitchen/diner, two good sized bedrooms, modern bathroom with separate cloakroom, part gas fired lower level and part electric heating upper level , uPVC double glazed windows, well maintained communal gardens and unallocated parking space. Energy Performance Certificate D.

T: 020 8998 3333 JOHN MARTIN.indd 173

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G ro ve P ark G ardens, W4

£2,8 0,000 G ros venor Road , W4

Set over four floors, a five bedroom family home with a generous garden, roof terrace and off-street parking. here is a rising floor in the atrium which uncovers a hidden pool, energy rating c.

his five bedroom detached house has been completely remodelled with bespoke fittings. ffering , 10 s . ft of living space, this home has high ceilings and an abundance of natural light, energy rating d.

020 8987 000 chiswicksales@fletcherestates.com

Whitehall P ark Road , W4

£ ,1 0,000

£1,600,000 F ielding Road , W4

020 8987 000 chiswicksales@fletcherestates.com

£1,600,000

etaining period features with a contemporary finish, a five bedroom A four bedroom house with a through reception room leading to ictorian house with a double reception room and an open plan an extended kitchen and dining room. here are large glass doors kitchen which leads onto a landscaped rear garden, energy rating d. opening to the south facing garden, energy rating d.

020 8987 000 chiswicksales@fletcherestates.com

020 8987 000 chiswicksales@fletcherestates.com

fletcherestates.com

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0

0 m

Airedale Avenue, W4 Positioned on one of Chiswick’s premier roads, a six bedroom house with a modern kitchen and two reception rooms, one of which has direct access onto a well-maintained garden, perfect for those summer months. Ideally located close to transport links, energy rating d.

£1,961 per week 020 8742 4100 chiswicklettings@fletcherestates.com

0

0 m

Rusthall Avenue, W4 Situated in the enviable Bedford Park, this charming home offers five double bedrooms and four bathrooms, two of which are en suite. Arranged over three floors, there is a spacious open plan kitchen with dining space, two reception rooms and a study, energy rating e.

£1,661 per week 020 8742 4100 chiswicklettings@fletcherestates.com

fletcherestates.com

m

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A BESPOKE AGENCY FOR THE DISCERNING CLIENT

S andb ank s, B ou rnem ou th Sole Agency - Coming Soon Guide Price - £6,500,000 Direct Access to the Beach

5 & 6 Crescent Stables, Upper Richmond Rd, London SW15 2TN 020 4524 9345 | 07931 771760 FINE AND COUNTRY.indd 176

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Vincent House

£4.850,000

A delightful, large family house perfectly positioned on a gated private road in the Coombe Estate. Vincent House is a grand, recently built 6 bedroom house with superb entertaining space and only a 2 minute walk to Royal Richmond Park. With exceptionally high ceilings throughout, an exquisite large kitchen/dining area and truly elegant reception rooms; the house manages to be both impressive and welcoming.

Coombe Office Sales: 020 8947 1100 ROBERT HOLMES.indd 177

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Thornton Road, Wimbledon

£6,495,000

Lingfield Road, Wimbledon Village

£6,750,000

In a sought after location with gym, self-contained apartment and garden with swimming pool. Drawing room, open plan kitchen/dining/family room, reception room with kitchenette, gym, study, wine store, main bedroom suite, 5 further bedrooms, 4 further bath/shower rooms, terrace, OSP ER/C

In an enviable location in the heart of Wimbledon Village and close to the Common. Grand entrance hall, 3 reception rooms, study, open plan kitchen/ dining/family room, principal bedroom suite, 5 further bedrooms, 2 further bath/shower rooms, garage & OSP, walled garden ER/D

Kinsella Gardens, Wimbledon Common

Vineyard Hill Road, Wimbledon

£6,000,000

A classically designed house of great quality backing onto the Royal Wimbledon golf course. Entrance hall, double drawing room, conservatory, dining room, study, cellar, main bedroom suite, 5 further bedrooms, 4 further bath/shower rooms, south facing garden, garage & OSP ER/D

OIRO £4,000,000

In a highly regarded residential road with a wonderful 119’ westerly garden. Entrance hall, 3 reception rooms, conservatory, kitchen, breakfast room, 6 bedrooms, 3 bath/shower rooms, 2 cellar rooms, garage & OSP ER/E

Wimbledon Village Office Sales: 020 8947 9833 Lettings: 020 8879 9669 ROBERT HOLMES.indd 178

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www.robertholmes.co.uk

The Moat

£2,100,000

Orchard Rise

£1,950,000

A rarely available, modern link-detached family house in a quiet, gated cul-desac with a delightful outlook over a duck pond with a magnificent kitchen/ breakfast/family room and double garage. 4 Bedrooms, 2 bathrooms (one en-suite) with a large mature garden and a newly built sun deck over the pond.

Room to extend subject to planning consent.

Located on a popular, private road in Coombe Hill, this charming detached house is within a short walk of Norbiton Station and several excellent schools. The property comes with the benefit of planning permission for a kitchen extension and a summerhouse at the end of the garden. There is also a separate double garage with loft storage, and a beautifully landscaped walled garden stretching to nearly 125 feet.

The Mount

Crown Road

£1,295,000

Lovely 3 bedroom house featuring a large, modern open plan kitchen/dining room, a separate reception room and a very useful study. The south facing garden has several entertaining spaces, an outdoor kitchen and built in jacuzzi.

The Mount is a popular road for families being convenient for the shops and station in New Malden as well as Beverley Park which is a 2 min walk.

£1,700,000

A bright and spacious family house that has been skilfully extended to create a fabulous kitchen/dining/family space with doors opening onto the sunny rear garden. There are two further reception rooms, a conservatory and five bedrooms with two bathrooms. Ideally located within the much favoured Coombeside, and within a few minutes’ walk of Coombe Hill School, Rokeby and Holy Cross.

Coombe Office Sales: 020 8947 1100 ROBERT HOLMES.indd 179

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Heights Close, Wimbledon SW20

£1,075,000 freehold

Lambton Road, Wimbledon SW20

£1,200,000 freehold

A charming 3 bedroom modern property consisting of bright, spacious rooms and adaptable accommodation throughout, ideally located in the heart of West Wimbledon. 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, living room, dining room, kitchen, garage, study and garden.

A delightful 4 bedroom period house with charm and character situated in the Lambton Conservation Area close to mainline railway station, shops and excellent schools. 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, living room, dining room, kitchen, garden and off-street parking

The Quadrant, Wimbledon SW20

Lambton Road, Wimbledon SW20

£1,475,000 freehold

A truly breathtaking 5 bedroom semi-detached home has been completely refurbished throughout to an exceptional standard to create modern living accommodation. 5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, living room, kitchen/dining room, studio, garage and garden

£2,500,000 freehold

An exceptional double fronted 4 bedroom house, occupying a substantial plot of 0.13 Acres with a beautiful south-westerly facing garden. 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, living room, drawing room, family room, kitchen/dining room, garage, garden, gated carriage driveway

West Wimbledon office: 316 Worple Road, Wimbledon SW20 8QU Tel: 020 8947 4764 westwimbledon@fullergilbert.co.uk FULLER GILLBERT.indd 180

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West Side Common, Wimbledon SW19

£795,000 leasehold

Kenley Road, Kingston upon Thames KT1

£1,250,000 freehold

Beautifully presented 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom flat on the ground floor of this Grade II listed 18th century converted house overlooking Wimbledon Common. 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms (1 en-suite), kitchen, living room, utility room, parking, communal garden

A great opportunity to acquire a fabulous 4 bedroom detached new build house of approx.. 1915 ft2 arranged over three floors. 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, living room, kitchen/dining room. Completion November 2022

The Drive, Wimbledon SW20

Coombe Park, Kingston upon Thames, KT2

£3,500,000 freehold

A newly built 4 bedroom semi-detached house with views over south west London, while being securely located in a gated private development close to Wimbledon Village. 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, living room, study, kitchen/dining room, family room, garden and garage.

£4,250,000 freehold

A unique, 6 bedroom detached family home arranged over four floors, now suitable for renovation. The house is ideally located within a private gated development. 6 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, living room, kitchen/breakfast room, dining room, 2 studies, garage, garden

Wimbledon Village office: 95 High Street, Wimbledon Village, SW19 5EG Tel: 020 8016 9700 wimbledonvillage@fullergilbert.co.uk FULLER GILLBERT.indd 181

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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

THE POWER HOUSE, W4 FAIRLAWN AVENUE, W4

GUIDE PRICE £1,900,000 £465,000

LETTINGS

Set in this iconic Grade II listed building ‘The Power House’, an extremely versatile 3/4 bedroom penthouse with two west-facing roof terraces and secure An amazingly light, well presented triple aspect the added of a the balcony and privatecomprising garden. Three luxury double bathroom, gated parking. The apartment is situated at the top offlat thewith building with liftbenefit access with accommodation masterbedrooms, suite, two further 14' reception room, fully integrated kitchen, gas ceiling fired central heating, share16’ inwest the facing freehold, and integrated private garden with side access.

Ideally bedrooms, luxury bathroom, spectacular 18’ vaulted reception room onto roofbalcony terrace, fully kitchen, mezzanine study, office/bedroom secure gated parking, automatic lift. Ideally located for extensive Chiswick High Road’sand shops, cafes andfacilities restaurants.

TransportHigh facilities include both situated within 4, close proximity of Chiswick Park tube station and the shopping restaurant on Chiswick Road.

Stamford Brook and Turnham Green tube stations, numerous bus routes and the A4/M4 for routes in and out of London.

LINDEN GARDENS, W4

LAMB COTTAGE, SPENCER ROAD, W4

£330 PER WEEK

£1.600,000 GUIDE PRICE £575,000

A newly decorated lower ground floor garden flat with private west facing garden. Large double bedroom with wardrobes, reception room with A spectacular period conversion flat with 10’ ceiling height and full-length windows in the front reception room, ideally located in this sought-after treewood floors, bathroom with shower over, fitted kitchen, garden. The flat is on one of Chiswick's best located roads, moments from the shops, lined residential road close to numerous amenities. Comprising an 18’ reception room, 15’ double bedroom, a large entrance hall with study area, a luxury restaurants cafés on the High Road and 5 minutes from Turnham Green station. The property is available early September, furnished. shower room, a fully integrated kitchen private 62’ west-facing landscaped garden area. Offering a long lease with a share of freehold and low outgoings.

Situated within this majestic Victorian villa offering close proximity to Chiswick station, local shopping facilities, Chiswick House and The River. No chain.

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LETTINGS CAVENDISH ROAD, W4

POINT WHARF LANE, TW8

GUIDE PRICE £3,500,000

£350 PER WEEK

A unique double fronted detached family home of 3500 sqft offering an excellent balance of living and entertaining space, unrivalled views across playing Beautifully presented two bedroom second flatfamily in this highly sought after riverside development. a stunningroom open plan fields, and sitting on a plot of double approximately 1/3 acre.

Thisfloor superb home offers a master bedroom with a large ensuiteBoasting bathroom/dressing and balcony overlooking garden, furtherand bedrooms with wonderful views, three further (one ensuite), a majestic entrance hall with kitchen reception room,the a river sidefour balcony a masterallensuite bedroom.

Large open plan bathrooms reception room, fully fitted kitchen with granite work galleried landing, stunning reception with feature curved glass French opening onto the garden, two further reception rooms, 40’ bespoke tops, fitted wardrobes and riversideroom views.

Underground parking space doors included. kitchen/dining/family room, 125’ x 91’ (at maximum) private landscaped garden with stunning raised deck area and off street parking for three cars. Ideally located in this prestigious residential road as a stand-alone residence with uninterrupted views and close proximity to numerous amenities.

QUEEN ANNES GROVE, W4

LAMB COTTAGE, W4 SAVILLE ROAD, W4

£430 PER WEEK

GUIDE PRICE £1,500,000

A large, light and beautifully presented two double bedroom flat on this highly desirable road in the heart of Bedford Park, just minutes from

A fabulous four-storey semi-detached period property with a stunning 66’ landscaped garden located on this quiet residential street a short walk from Chiswick High Road’s Turnham Green underground station. Top floor position ensures beautiful views from the reception and bedrooms. numerous amenities. The house offers flexible accommodation throughout and comprises a 15’1x14’2 sitting room, fitted kitchen opening on the dining room, raised £1.600,000 ground floor reception room with bay window, master bedroom with ensuite shower room and air-conditioning, three further double bedrooms, family bathroom, guest cloakroom, bespoke joinery throughout, eaves and understair storage. A key feature of the house is its exquisite garden, which extends to 66’ and has been designed by an award-winning landscape gardener. Saville Road is close to a number of parks, gastro pubs and shops with Chiswick High Road’s more extensive amenities easily accessible.

Transport links include Turnham Green and Chiswick Park tube stations, South Acton Overground station, local bus routes and the A4/M4 for routes in and out of London.

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HOUSE.indd house..indd Untitled-2 2 1184

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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. h st t

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0800 917 0447 info@housepartnership.co.uk

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YOUHOME.indd 186 YH.indd Untitled-2 1 2

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Building I N D I V I D U A L I T Y

INTERIORS • FOCUS

iHus is empowering families to begin a new chapter in their lives, and discover the delights of stylish independent living, with their very own iHus granny annexe

I

Hus has hand crafted stylish new annexes for over 280 families – and they’re proud of every single one, drawing inspiration from seeing generations coming together whilst still enjoying independent living.

Each elegant granny annexe is as individual as the person who’ll live in it. Each annexe is skilfully designed to maximise space and natural light, and every one boasts a wealth of contemporary style and features.

The business’s team of designers provides customers with the freedom to change layouts and add finishing touches – to make each iHus a home to truly call their own. “Freedom to live life to the full in a detached home of your own – yet still be close to your grandkids, that’s what the iHus is all about,” says CEO, Trevor Smeaton. “And it’s what hundreds of families have come to enjoy.”

CHANGING THE WAY WE THINK ABOUT ELDERLY CARE With care home costs continuing to rise, a granny annexe can prove to be a cost-effective elderly care alternative. When compared to the UK average cost for residential care, a typical iHus granny annexe will pay for itself within the first two to three years.

One of the key reasons for downsizing to a granny annexe is lack of companionship. Having family members nearby can provide peace of mind for everyone.

It is a sociable and independent nursing home or elderly care alternative. Releasing equity to buy a granny annexe is not only a savvy investment, but a great way to support the mental wellbeing and safety of loved ones.

CARING FOR ALL CEO Trevor Smeaton adds: “We want today’s grandchildren to grow up in a cleaner, safer world.

That’s why our commitment to sustainable building and ecofriendly materials is tangible in every aspect of our homes. That is why we created Green Hus. “As well as incorporating established eco-friendly techniques in our homes, we found surprising new ways of reducing our footprint.

It’s not always the easiest or quickest solution for us, but Green Hus is the right thing to do.” ihusannexe.com A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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

Lords Wood Lane, ME5 OIEO £1,500,000 F/H

A conte porar and ni e fi e edroo detached family residence situated on a pri ate road 4

5

4

B

Contact Rainham 01634 969 676

Knatts Valley Road, TN15

Bellingham Road, SE6

An i pressi e detached fo r edroo ngalo in a secl ded setting, ith a ast rear garden and off street par ing to the front for ltiple ehicles

A rand ne one edroo apart ent, pro iding a st lish open plan itchen li ing area, pri ate patio and a ea tif l entrance lo area A aila le ith Help to B

£1,195,000 F/H

1

4

2

Contact Swanley 020 3861 0222

E

OIEO £350,000 L/H

1

1

1

B

Contact Catford 020 8333 4488

Visit us online at acorngroup.co.uk

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NOW COMPLETE AND READY TO MOVE IN A striking collection of brand new three-storey, three/four bedroom townhouses for sale in SE6. All homes come with beautiful open-plan living spaces, spacious bedrooms and private courtyard gardens.

Arrange a viewing today: 020 8315 6996 acorngroup.co.uk/newhomes

Prices from £625,000

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

Willoughby Lane, BR1 £1,750,000 L/H

This luxurious two bedroom, two storey apartment sits within the beautifully restored Grade I listed Mansion at Sundridge Park.

2

2

2

Contact Bromley 020 8315 5544

Crowhurst Lane, TN15

Rushmore Hill, TN14

his 2,719 s ft st nning fi e edroo detached eorgian fa il ho e offers panora ic co ntr side ie s across the alle and is ithin eas reach of o tstanding schools, transport and road lin s

A ea tif ll presented, detached si edroo ho e ith s per gardens e tending to 1 acres, located on the so ght after R sh ore Hill in noc holt illage, Se enoa s

Guide Price £1,700,000 - £1,800,000 F/H

3

5

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Contact Sevenoaks 01732 443 333

Guide Price £2,950,000 F/H

4

6

5

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Contact Locksbottom 01689 882 988

Visit us online at acorngroup.co.uk/lr

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Over 50% now sold Now complete and ready to move in, Vixen Heights is a brand new development of 1, 2 & 3 bedroom apartments for sale in Grove Park.

Featuring modern, high-tech specifications, open-plan living spaces and private balconies or terraces to all apartments.

Available with a 5% deposit on Help to Buy.*

*Subject to terms and conditions

To arrange a viewing, call 020 8315 6996 or visit acorngroup.co.uk/vixen

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

Orchard Drive, SE3

Guide Price £4,250,000 F/H A spacio s and tastef ll reno ated, si edroo , three athroo d ardian fa il ho e ith st nning ie s of the heath 3

6

3

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Contact Blackheath Village 020 8318 1311

Hyde Vale, SE10

Taunton Road, SE12

A si do le edroo rade listed to nho se, hich has een reno ated to an e tre el high standard and is located on arg a l the ost prestigio s road in est reen ich

A spacious three bedroom Victorian semi-detached family home enefitting fro an e tension to the rear, creating a s per open plan itchen dining space ith central island

POA F/H

3

6

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Guide Price £925,000 F/H

C

Contact Greenwich West 020 8858 9911

2

3

1

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Contact Lee 020 8852 8633

Visit us online at acorngroup.co.uk/jp

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70% now sold – new plots released Hillcross Place is a stunning new collection of 2 bedroom apartments for sale.

Prices starting from £425,000, available with a 5% deposit on Help to Buy.*

Computer generated image

Perfectly positioned on Sidcup Hill, each apartment has been designed with attention to detail and features an enviable specification to bring you the best of spacious, modern living.

Hillcross Place is located a short walk from Sidcup High Street, where you can enjoy a kaleidoscope of shops and a delicious selection of restaurants.

Commuting from Hillcross Place is easy with quick access to the A20, leading into central London. You are also within a 20-minute walk of Sidcup Railway Station, with trains to London Bridge in under 30 minutes.

Show home open Thursday-Monday, 10am-5pm.

Call 020 8315 6902 or visit acorngroup.co.uk/hillcross

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Developed by:

Subject to terms & conditions

*

Selling agent:

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A co-educational independent school for 11-18 year olds

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“Maida Vale School will be modern and innovative yet reflect many of the traditions and values established over thirty years at our schools.”

- Gardener Schools Group

Book an open event by visiting www.maidavaleschool.com/openevents www.maidavaleschool.com T. 020 4511 6000

E. admissions@maidavaleschool.com

Maida Vale School, 18 Saltram Crescent, London W9 3HR

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@MaidaValeSchool

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