ABS CHISWICK & RICHMOND NOV 22

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STYLISH / INTELLIGENT / ELEGANT Chiswick, West & Richmond NOVEMBER 2022 / £3.95 HEADING INTO WINTER IN STYLE TALK Straight SPECIAL Inspiration and ideas for your big day PLUS THE SHAPE OF THINGS Strange Clay at the Hayward Gallery • A CULTURE OF CLASH The power of pattern • HIT THE SLOPES Stylish skiing in St. Moritz
Carl Hansen & Søn Flagship Store
48A
Pimlico Road, Belgravia
London, SW1W 8LP CARLHANSEN.COM london@carlhansen.com @carlhansenandson_london +44 0 (20) 7730 8454 Monday - Friday: 10 am - 6 pm Saturday: 10 am - 5 pm

STYLISTICALLY CONSISTENT DESIGN

Asserbo Series consists of a table and bench made of solid, dark-oiled eucalyptus, and the series exudes a stringent, stylistically consistent design. The rounded shapes and visible screws of brushed brass give the series an informal aesthetic, and the visual clarity and strong structure clearly alludes to the Shaker style where Mogensen has let the materials speak for themselves. BM0699 Asserbo Bench with Backrest, Eucalyptus Grandis, Dark oil, FSC-Certi ed, £828 | BM0698 Asserbo Table, Eucalyptus Grandis, Dark oil, FSC-Certi ed, £1,657 | BM0700 Asserbo Bench without Backrest, Eucalyptus Grandis, Dark oil, FSC-Certi ed, £241 | CU BM0699 or CU BM0700 Cushion for Bench, £318

Asserbo Series by Børge MogensenBM0698 1961
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NOVEMBER 2022 CULTURE 14 ABSOLUTELY LOVES 10 things we’re coveting this month 18 WHAT'S ON Your diary for November 26 SHAPE SHIFT Strange Clay at the Hayward Gallery FOOD & DRINK 46 KITCHEN CONFIDENTIAL News from the industry 50 RECIPES New dishes from Ottolenghi Test Kitchen FASHION 58 THE SHOOT Madeleine Thompson's new season cashmere 64 JEWELLERY Art Deco style HEALTH & BEAUTY 69 BEAUTY NOTES What's hot and what's new 71 BEAUTY BUYS Oils for all occasions WEDDINGS 80 THE LIST Something blue... 92 LIHI HOD Gorgeous gowns for the new season INTERIORS 118 INSPIRATION News from the industry 140 LIGHT WORK Henry Holland's new lamps TRAVEL 154 SLOPE STYLE Learning to ski in St. Moritz ABSOLUTELY.LONDON 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. ABSOLUTELY Contents 154 ON THE COVER deveauxnewyork.com 50 92 11ABSOLUTELY magazines

EDITOR IN CHIEF PENDLE HARTE

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT RACHEL HOGG

MAMA EDITOR CARLY GLENDINNING ART DIRECTOR PAWEL KUBA

SENIOR DESIGNERS MIKE ROBERTS, SUZETTE SCOBLE MIDWEIGHT DESIGNER CARMEN GRAHAM

JUNIOR DESIGNER KAI NICHOLLS

PRODUCTION MANAGER DANICA BRODIE GROUP SALES MANAGER JOSEPH HAISMAN

SENIOR MEDIA CONSULTANTS STELLA ADAMS KATIE WOOD TANIA TOOHEY

FINANCIAL DIRECTOR JERRIE KOLECI

CREDIT CONTROL MANAGER ALEXANDRA HVID

DIRECTORS

CRAIG DAVIES, LEAH DAY, JAMES FUSCHILLO

NON-EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR ALEXANDRA HUNTER

MANAGING DIRECTOR SHERIF SHALTOUT

Follow Us On Facebook @ABSOLUTELYMAGAZINES Twitter & Instagram @ABSOLUTELY_MAGS Website absolutely.london For editorial enquiries please email: pendle@zest-media.com For advertising enquiries please call 020 3981 7187 or email: craig@zest-media.com zest.london Zest Media Publications Ltd. cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited submissions, manuscripts and photographs. While every care is taken, prices and details are subject to change and Zest Media Publications Ltd. take no responsibility for omissions or errors. We reserve the right to publish and edit any letters. All rights reserved. Beautiful timber windows & doors w w w . a y r t o n b e s p o k e . c o m 0 2 0 8 8 7 7 8 9 2 0 e n q u i r i e s @ a y r t o n b e s p o k e . c o m W a n d s w o r t h | C r o u c h E n d | D u l w i c h C o m m i s s i o n a m a s t e r p i e c e

For us, November brings a big focus on weddings. In this issue we look at all the loveliest gowns, gifts and venues for the big day, in an industry that's still trying to catch up on all the cancelled dates of the past few years. Weddings currently in planning are likely to be some of the most fabulous ever held, and the options are endless. And when we're not planning weddings this month, we're going to galleries, because the current crop of exhibitions is undeniably exciting, spanning everything from bizarre ceramics (the Hayward) to Korean style and culture (the V&A), Black fashion imagery (the Saatchi) and breathtaking wildlife photography (the Natural History Museum). It's an eclectic assortment, and we've been marvelling over ceramic squid in particular. Also this month we see the countdown to Christmas beginning to creep in – and we're already shopping for advent calendars. Enjoy November.

LETTER Editor’s On a plate Fabulous serveware
Image makers Black fashion photography at the Saatchi Gallery
ABSOLUTELY’S November issue highlights PENDLE HARTE EDITOR Ring my bell All the best engagement rings2 5 Ceramic art Unusual shapes in clay 1 3 4 Pattern party House of Hackney meets Anthropologie 13ABSOLUTELY magazines

CHECK MATE

The Barbour Lorelie seersucker dress features all-over checks for a stylish approach to casual dressing. Detailed with volume sleeves and a tiered gathered panel at the hem, it's an easy go-to garment to match with boots. barbour.com

BRANCH OUT

Donna Wilson has taken a new

directon with her art: Abstract Assembly is a collection of sculptures in wood and glass. scp.co.uk

BROWN SUGAR

Brodie loves a cashmere piece with a sporty twist. The Love 2.0 jumper is a cosy classic with a contemporary feel, £225. brodiecashmere.com

END OF

New to the Conran Shop are these stylish and tactile Fleck bookends, £49, in ochre and white, or white and blue. conranshop.co.uk

Wish LIST
10 things we Absolutely love 14 ABSOLUTELY magazines
EDITOR’S PICK

RED ALERT

ZERO

PRETTY CLAY House of Hackney's bold prints adorn a new range of ceramics at Anthropologie and we love this deceptively simple vase, £42. anthropologie.com 15 ABSOLUTELY • LOVES
We believe that Madeleine Thompson's cashmere is the so est and most stylish out there. This red cardigan is a winter essential. madeleine-thompson.com A NEW LEAF Flowerbx's autumn wreath is made up of exquisite fresh preserved oak leaves in a blend of vibrant red and earthy burgundy tones. £115. fl owerbx.com
CARBON Sheep Inc's ultra-fi ne, temperatureregulating, Merino wool beanies use yarn sourced from regenerative New Zealand farms and knitted using solarpowered, zero-waste machines. £50 sheepinc.com BRIGHT EYES New makeup from Paul and Joe features a graphic eye in limoncello yellow, pistachio green, marshmallow pink, coral orange or hot pink. paulandjoe.com ABSOLUTELY magazines
Tickets from £20 | Fine Dining from £169 +VAT pp Under 18s go free | Book now at ascot.com HOWDEN CHRISTMAS RACING WEEKEND In the countdown to Christmas, this weekend showcases top-quality, high-stakes Jumps racing across both days. On the Saturday, our dedicated family raceday, the racecourse will come to life in a traditional Nutcracker theme, with an abundance of activities, the chance to see Father Christmas himself, and much more. FESTIVE RACING & NUTCRACKER MAGIC 16 - 17 DECEMBER
What's on 18 • Strange ways with clay 26 • Spotlight on Korea 34 CULTURE CAMPBELL ADDY, ADUT AKECH, 2019, FROM THE NEW BLACK VANGUARD (APERTURE, 2019). © CAMPBELL ADDY 17ABSOLUTELY magazines

The

NOT TO MISS

In Plain Sight

UNTIL FEBRUARY 2023, WELLCOME COLLECTION

Sight holds a central place in society, which is interesting considering more than two million people in the UK live with some form of sight loss. This new exhibition seeks to question this centrality and invites visitors to encounter the di erent experiences of sighted, partially sighted and blind people. It brings together 140 objects and artworks, including fascinating medical studies and examples of eyewear that date back to the 1600s.

wellcomecollection.org

The Lavender Hill Mob

14 – 19 November

RICHMOND THEATRE

Witness one of the “greatest British films of all time” being brought to life on stage by acclaimed comic actors Miles Jupp and Justin Edwards. This theatrical adaptation of the delightful heist comedy is arriving at Richmond Theatre, and it's sure to be full of missteps and misbehaviour. lavenderhillmobplay.co.uk

You

5 - 26 November

KILN THEATRE

Londoners will once again have the opportunity to experience Amy Trigg’s remarkable debut play when it returns to the Kiln Theatre for a limited series of shows. Equal parts frank and funny, the monologue chronicles the story of a woman with spina bifida as she clumsily navigates her twenties. kilntheatre.com

ABSOLUTELY magazines
THEATRE EVENTS
IN LONDON
Agenda
THEATRE Reasons
Should(n't) Love Me EXHIBITION 18

Until March 2023

TATE MODERN

A pivotal figure in modern painting, Paul Cezanne has encouraged generations of artists to challenge convention. This exhibition brings together around 80 works from collections all around the world and is giving UK audiences their first opportunity in over 25 years to explore the breadth of the artist's career. tate.org.uk

TO WATCH

From the Woolwich Contemporary Print Fair

FIREWORKS

EVENT November 5

ALEXANDRA PALACE

The 'Glastonbury of Fireworks' will be returning once again to light up London's skyline. This legendary Bonfire Night celebration has been held on the grounds of the palace for over a century and this year’s display promises to be more explosive than ever. Pyrotechnics aside, there will be plenty on offer to keep attendees entertained. fireworks.london

This Month’s Must See

DOLLSHOUSE FESTIVAL

3, KENSINGTON TOWN

Dollhouse enthusiasts have been flocking to Kensington Town Hall since 1985 and this year’s showcase will see around 170 of the industry's best craftsmen, artisans and suppliers gathered together under one roof. Not only will attendees be able to find everything they could need for their house or model, but they will also have the invaluable opportunity to meet the artisans, discuss their projects and ask for their advice. dollshouseshowcase.com

• The Woolwich Contemporary Print Fair is the UK’s largest art fair dedicated to highly collectible print works. Expect the very best of contemporary print including a curated selection of independent international artists chosen through an open call, many well-known names, and specialist gallery booths at London’s historic Royal Arsenal.

• New this year, the Prints & Multiples department at Bonhams auction house will present a showroom at the fair for the first time. They will showcase a selection of works by renowned contemporary artists including The Connor Brothers, Harland Miller, David Shrigley and Tracy Emin and many more. Additionally, Jealous Gallery, a stalwart of the London print market, will be releasing a brand-new David Shrigley print, exclusive to the Fair.

• Meanwhile, the Living With Art booth o ers an exclusive free 20-minute one-to-one consultation with Fair Curator, Lizzie Glendinning, who specialises in curating art in the home. This personalised interior service will review your current art collection, introduce you to new pieces within the Fair, and look to develop innovative, bold and exciting ways to engage with them in your home.

Email info@woolwichprintfair.com to book your free and exclusive consultation.

woolwichprintfair.com

Art
DECEMBER
HALL
KENSINGTON
CULTURE • DIARY ABSOLUTELY magazines
FESTIVAL
ART Cezanne 19

Which WITCH?

It's an interesting time to revisit The Crucible. Arthur Miller's dark 1953 play that links the 17th century Salem witch trials with the McCarthyism of his age, resonates in a divided 21st century. It's an intense performance, a claustrophobic and hysteria-filled three hours that's as gripping as it is stylish.

Because the set, designed by multi awardwinning Es Devlin, is impressive – minimal and stark, mostly empty, with chairs that are moved around in various configurations, but also graphic and striking, with an increasing depth that emerges throughout the show, as the sense of urgency rises.

The audience enters to a curtain of rain pouring onto the stage, and the characters dutifully mop it up before chanting a sinister overture. Erin Doherty is nervy and vulnerable as Abigail Williams, and the group of children, dressed in frilled smocks, give a spooky act of quaking as though possessed by witchcraft. The story, with its tangle of allegiances, religion, fear, self-righteousness and flawed justice, is an emotional ride: exchanges between John Procter (Brendan Cowell) and his wife Elizabeth (an excellent, troubled Eileen Walsh) are full of depth and expression. People's willingness to demonise each other in order to clear their own names is shown in terrifying clarity, and this show's brilliant lighting and sound amplifies the sense of panic and foreboding that creeps up throughout. Director Lyndsey Turner's dark production is memorably unsettling.

THE

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CRUCIBLE
Until 5 November, National Theatre NT Live will release The Crucible in cinemas from
26 January 2023 nationaltheatre.org.uk
An intense and relevant new production of The Crucible
“The story, with its tangle of allegiances, religion, fear and flawed justice, is an emotional ride”
ERIN DOHERTY (ABIGAIL WILLIAMS) AND THE CRUCIBLE CAST ALASTAIR PARKER (THOMAS PUTNAM), TILLY TREMAYNE (REBECCA NURSE), MARTIN JOHNSTON (ENSEMBLE) AND ZOË ALDRICH (ANN PUTNAM) BRENDAN COWELL (JOHN PROCTOR) AND RACHELLE DIEDERICKS (MARY WARREN) CADENCE WILLIAMS (BETTY PARRIS) AND FISAYO AKINADE (REV. HALE)

the

of

creativity

22 ABSOLUTELY magazines NEW LOOKS Inside
Saatchi Gallery’s celebration
Black
1TYLER MITCHELL, UNTITLED (HIJAB COUTURE), NEW YORK, 2019, FROM THE NEW BLACK VANGUARD (APERTURE, 2019). © TYLER MITCHELL

The Saatchi Gallery’s new show The New Black Vanguard: Photography between Art and Fashion is a groundbreaking exhibition featuring 15 international Black photographers, all contributing to a new vision of the Black figure and reframing representation in art and fashion.

Curated by Antwaun Sargent, the exhibition focuses on fashion portraiture that is celebratory of Black culture, freeing the Black figure from photographic histories dominated by a white aesthetic. It is a celebration of Black creativity both in-front of and behind the camera. Featured works include Black stylists, models, make-up artists and creative directors who are bringing a radically new set of references and experiences to image making. American writer and critic Antwaun Sargent is

interested in exploring a new aesthetic of Black portraiture while examining the crosspollination between art, fashion, and culture in the making of images. He says: “This exhibition is an exploration of this generation’s Black image makers who are bringing fresh perspective to photography. Image by image, they have created a loose global network around their art that powerfully centres identity, community and desire. The artists in this show profoundly reanimate the possibilities of contemporary photography.”

The New Black Vanguard presents artists whose vibrant portraits and conceptual images fuse the genres of art and fashion photography in ways that break down

23 CULTURE • FOCUS
DANA SCRUGGS, FIRE ON THE BEACH, 2019, FROM THE NEW BLACK VANGUARD (APERTURE, 2019). © DANA SCRUGGS JAMAL NXEDLANA, JOHANNESBURG, 2019, FROM THE NEW BLACK VANGUARD (APERTURE, 2019). © JAMAL NXEDLANA QUIL LEMONS, NEW YORK, 2017, FROM THE NEW BLACK VANGUARD (APERTURE, 2019). © QUIL LEMONS NADINE
IJEWERE, UNTITLED, 2018, FROM THE NEW BLACK VANGUARD (APERTURE, 2019). © NADINE IJEWERE, FOR GARAGE MAGAZINE ABSOLUTELY magazines

long-established boundaries. Their work has been widely presented in traditional lifestyle magazines, ad campaigns, and museums, as well as on their individual social media channels, infusing the contemporary visual vocabulary around beauty and the body with new vitality and substance. The images open up conversations around the representation of the Black body and Black lives as subject matter. Collectively, the works celebrate Black creativity. Seeking to challenge the idea that Blackness is homogenous, the works serve as a form of visual activism delivered by emerging talents who are creating photography in vastly di erent contexts — be it in New York or Johannesburg, Lagos or London. The results — often made in collaboration with Black stylists and fashion designers — present new perspectives on the medium of photography and the notions of race, beauty, gender and power. This exhibition includes selected works from these groundbreaking contemporary photographers, as well as a salon wall presentation of images created by other young Black photographers contributing to this movement. Vitrines of publications, past and present, contextualize these images and chart the history of inclusion, and exclusion, in the creation of the Black commercial image. The exhibition proposes a brilliantly re-envisioned future.

The exhibition means a lot to its featured photographers. Campbell Addy said: “Many

moons ago, as a newly graduated student, Antwaun Sargent came to me to talk about the experiences in the industry and what's needed. Speaking about the book he hopes to create, I implored him and said: "If only I had seen a book like that when I was younger, a project of profound joy and happiness, that showcased Blackness in its variety in visual media. Maybe then it wouldn't have been such a struggle for me to just imagine myself as one of those artists." Seeing what The New Black Vanguard has done, and its evolution through many cities, brings me so much happiness. As I know there is a

young creative from a similar background to that of the exhibiting artists that is going to feel seen and feel acknowledged. Who may also feel challenged to create work. So it brings me profound joy and immense pride, that it is also going to be in London – in the same city that Antwaun and I met to talk about said book – many, many years ago. This moment in itself feels incredibly full circle.”

The New Black Vanguard: Photography between Art and Fashion, curated by Antwaun Sargent is at the Saatchi Gallery until 22 January 2023.

CULTURE • FOCUS
NAMSA LEUBA, SARAH, LAGOS, NIGERIA, 2015, FROM THE NEW BLACK VANGUARD (APERTURE, 2019). © NAMSA LEUBA
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“ PORTRAITURE THAT FREES THE BLACK FIGURE FROM PHOTOGRAPHIC HISTORIES DOMINATED BY A WHITE AESTHETIC”
RENELL MEDRANO, 1984, HARLEM, NEW YORK, 2018, FROM THE NEW BLACK VANGUARD (APERTURE, 2019). © RENELL MEDRANO

Intriguing shapes at the Hayward Gallery’s Strange Clay: Ceramics in Contemporary Art

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GAME SQUID

Strange Clay: Ceramics in Contemporary Art is the first large-scale group exhibition in the UK to explore how contemporary artists have used the medium of clay in inventive ways. Given the recent surge of interest in ceramics by artists around the world, as well as countless people who enjoy sculpting clay as a pastime, Strange Clay o ers a timely reflection on this vital and popular medium. Featuring 23 international and multigenerational artists, from ceramic legends Betty Woodman, Beate Kuhn, Ron Nagle and Ken Price, to a new generation of artists pushing the boundaries of ceramics today, the exhibition will explore the expansive potential of clay through a variety of playful as well as socially-engaged artworks.

Curated by Dr Cli Lauson, Strange Clay features eccentric abstract sculptures, large immersive installations, fantastical otherworldly figures and uncanny evocations of everyday objects. The artworks vary in scale, finish and technique, and address

topics that range from architecture to social justice, the body, the domestic, the political and the organic. Regardless of background or route into the material, all of the artists in the exhibition celebrate the sheer possibility and versatility of clay.

In a brand new commission for the exhibition, titled Till Death Do Us Part (2022), Lindsey Mendick explores the domestic realm as a site of conflicts and negotiations. A reflection on the ambivalence of domestic settings and relationships, the home is represented as a battleground where vermin infiltrate every corner of the house. David Zink Yi’s giant ceramic squid, Untitled (Architeuthis) (2010) sprawls across the floor of the gallery, spanning more than 4.8 metres and lying in what appears to be a pool of its own ink. Fascinated by the extreme biological di erences between humans and squids, he explores the relationship between mythmaking and the construction of identity.

CULTURE • ART
GRAYSON PERRY - WOMEN OF IDEAS BRIE RUAIS - UNCONTROLLABLE DRIFTING INWARD AND OUTWARD TOGETHER (130LBS TIMES TWO) RON NAGLE - SCHMEAR CAMPAIGN DAVID ZINK YI - UNTITLED (ARCHITEUTHIS)

In his ceramics sculptures, Takuro Kuwata radically reinterprets the shape of a traditional Japanese tea bowl or chawan – a vessel used to prepare and make tea for traditional ceremonies. Greatly varying in scale, the artist’s sculptures are glazed with elaborate colours and textures that evoke organic forms, pushing traditional techniques to create something entirely unique and surprising.

Fantastical creatures are displayed in a botanical installation from Klara Kristalova, featuring plants and ceramic sculptures. Roots, moss, grass and branches evoke the forest surrounding the artist’s studio in the Swedish wilderness and the woodland setting of fairy tales.

Woody De Othello’s surreal clay sculptures modify the shapes of traditional household objects into over-sized, twisted and sometimes anthropomorphic forms. With his distinct approach to ceramics, Othello reimagines the mundane with a humorous twist while o ering a serious reflection on society and race.

Strange Clay features works by Aaron Angell, Salvatore Arancio, Leilah Babirye, Jonathan Baldock, Lubna Chowdhary, Edmund de Waal, Emma Hart, Liu Jianhua, Rachel Kneebone, Serena Korda, Klara Kristalova, Beate Kuhn, Takuro Kuwata, Lindsey Mendick, Ron Nagle, Magdalene Odundo, Woody De Othello, Grayson Perry, Shahpour Pouyan, Ken Price, Brie Ruais, Betty Woodman and David Zink Yi.

STRANGE CLAY: CERAMICS IN CONTEMPORARY ART

To 8 January 2023; Hayward Gallery, Southbank Centre, SE1 8XX southbankcentre.co.uk

“Eccentric abstract sculptures, large immersive installations and fantastical otherworldly figures”
CULTURE • ART
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KEN PRICE - OKI HOUSE OF THE SOUTH BEATE KUHN - KAKTEENKRANZ LUBNA CHOWDHARY - SIGN 7

Show

SLEEPING BEAUTY

SADLER'S WELLS

Matthew Bourne's Sleeping Beauty celebrates 10 years since its premier at Sadler's Wells. Enter a wondrous world of magical fairies and vampires, where the timeless tale of good vs evil is turned upside-down, creating a supernatural love story that even the passage of time itself cannot hinder. Will Princess Aurora ever find her true love again? 29 November-15 January sadlerswells.com

MY NEIGHBOUR TOTORO

BARBICAN THEATRE

This enchanting coming-of-age story follows one extraordinary summer in the lives of sisters Satsuki and Mei as they are swept up in exciting adventures with their new neighbours – transported to a long-forgotten realm of spirits, sprites, and natural wonder. This landmark new adaptation of the celebrated 1988 animated film by Hayao Miyazaki is brought to you by its original composer Joe Hisaishi and written by playwright Tom Morton-Smith for the RSC. Until 21 January 2023 barbican.org.uk

DICK WHITTINGTON

EPSOM PLAYHOUSE

With stunning scenery, lavish costumes and a super talented cast including the much-loved pantomime dame, what more do you need for festive fun this season? Join Dick on his fantastical adventures, meet Tommy, the Cat with attitude, Idle Jack, Sarah the Cook and the very worst Captain and ship mate that ever set sail. 15 December-8 January epsomplayhouse.co.uk

THE NUTCRACKER

WOKING NEW VICTORIA THEATRE

The Northern Ballet's magical Nutcracker is an essential part of Christmas. Share in Clara’s adventures as she is swept away by her Nutcracker Prince into an enchanting winter wonderland. Don’t miss dazzling dancing snowflakes, the famous Sugar Plum Fairy and the notorious Mouse King in the ultimate festive entertainment. 10-12 November northernballet.com

CABARET

PLAYHOUSE THEATRE Cabaret takes place in a dingy German burlesque club where English dancer Sally Bowles and American writer Cli Bradshaw start an unlikely relationship. Outside, the Nazi Party is taking over the streets of Berlin, putting the rights of all under threat. A new cast includes Callum Scott Howells as Emcee, Madeline Brewer as Sally Bowles, Sid Sagar as Cli Bradshaw, Vivien Parry as Fraulein Schneider and Richard Katz as Herr Schultz. Booking until December 2023 playhouse.londontheatres.co.uk

In case you wanted to venture out of the county for festive fun...
TIME
MATTHEW BOURNE'S SLEEPING BEAUTY
THE NUTCRACKER
CABARET
top pick
MY NEIGHBOUR TOTORO
CULTURE • THEATRE ABSOLUTELY magazines 31
PRESENT Thurs 15th December 2022 to Sun 8th January 2023BOOK ONLINE: www.epsomplayhouse.co.uk BOX OFFICE: (01372) 742555 / 742227 SUPPORTED BY: A truly magical family pantomime
magazines
All the most fabulous advent calendars CULTURE • ADVENT L'OCCITANE Reusable advent calendar, £165 loccitane.com CANDY KITTENS Pop-up advent calendar, £12 candykittens.co.uk CARLUCCIO'S Advent calendar, £95 carluccios.com SMITH & SINCLAIR Naughty or Nice alcoholic gummy calendar, £49.99 smithandsinclair.com SEPHORA Discovery Beauty advent calendar, £44.99 sephora.co.uk PACT COFFEE Speciality coffee advent calendar, £29.95 pactcoff ee.com ACQUA DI PARMA Advent calendar, £450 acquadiparma.com MOLTON BROWN Advent calendar, £195 moltonbrown.co.uk 24 DAYS OF RUM Rum advent calendar, £99 harveynichols.com NET-A-PORTER 25 Days of Beauty advent calendar, £260 net-a-porter.com LIBERTY Beauty advent calendar, £245 libertylondon.com HARRY'S Men's grooming advent calendar, £69 harrys.com EDITOR’S PICK COUNT DOWN
STYLE The V&A’s new exhibition explores the Korean Wave Words EVE HERBERT 34 ABSOLUTELY magazines AESPA 'NEXT LEVEL' MV, 2021 © SM ENTERTAINMENT GANGNAM

Hallyu! The Korean Wave is the first exhibition of its kind to celebrate the colourful and dynamic popular culture of South Korea, following its early origins to its place on the global stage today.

From K-pop costumes and a newly revealed interactive K-pop dance challenge, to K-drama and cinema props and posters, alongside photography, sculpture, fashion, video and pop culture ephemera, the exhibition invites visitors to delve into the phenomenon known as ‘hallyu’ – meaning ‘Korean Wave’. Hallyu rose to prominence in the late 1990s, rippling across Asia before reaching all corners of the world and challenging the currents of global pop culture today.

The exhibition explores the makings of the Korean Wave through cinema, drama, music and fandoms, and underlines its cultural impact on the beauty and fashion industries. The exhibition features around 200 objects across four thematic sections – including some loans never seen in the UK before – alongside pop culture ephemera and digital displays.

Highlights include an immersive recreation of Parasite’s bathroom set, and an array of iconic costumes and props seen in K-drama, film and music – including from hit Netflix series Squid Game, and outfits worn by di erent generations of K-pop idols, from PSY, to aespa and ATEEZ. It also presents

monumental artworks, including by Nam June Paik, Ham Kyungah and Gwon Osang; excerpts from well-known K-cinema, drama, and K-pop music videos; around 20 high fashion looks by Tchai Kim, Miss Sohee and Minju Kim among others; as well as early examples of advertising and branding, including an original poster from the Seoul Olympics, and the first Korean branded cosmetic from the 1910s. In the exhibition, hallyu will also be used as a gateway to explore traditional and contemporary Korean culture by connecting historic objects with popular culture and socio-political events.

The exhibition opens with a familiar example of hallyu: PSY’s viral 2012 hit single ‘Gangnam Style’, with his iconic pink suit jacket on display. The song and its quirky dance moves were an overnight sensation, and it became the first music video to reach 1 billion views on YouTube. The hugely successful video was an early reflection of hallyu’s international appeal that went on to launch a global phenomenon, inspiring parodies and cover versions across the world, several examples of which, filmed across multiple continents, also feature in this introduction.

Section one, ‘From Rubble to Smartphones’, provides historical context to the meteoric rise of hallyu, highlighting how – within living memory – South Korea rapidly evolved from a country ravaged by war in the late 1950s to

a leading cultural powerhouse by the early 2000s. Korea’s 20th-century history is marked by the Japanese colonial occupation, the territorial division that led to the Korean War, and the subsequent 27 years of military rule. In the 1960s and 70s South Korea experienced rapid industrialisation and economic growth, and the country was propelled onto the international stage in 1988 with the Seoul Summer Olympics, changing Korea’s image overseas for the first time. Despite the 1997 Asian Financial Crisis, bold strategies and IT innovations turned South Korea into one

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“HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE THE ICONIC PINK GUARD COSTUMES AND GREEN TRACKSUIT FROM HIT NETFLIX SERIES SQUID GAME”
BEAUTY ADORNING HERSELF, ATTRIBUTED TO KIM HONG-DO. JOSEON 18TH-19TH CENTURY © SEOUL NATIONAL UNIVERSITY A NETFLIX ORIGINAL SERIES. SQUID GAME ARTWORK © 2021 NETFLIX. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED PSY PERFORMS GANGNAM STYLE, ON TODAY, 2012, NEW YORK, USA. COURTESY OF JASON DECROW, INVISION, AP, SHUTTERSTOCK CULTURE • SPOTLIGHT ABSOLUTELY magazines 35

of the most digitally connected countries in the world by the late 90s. Korea’s modern history is represented and explored in the exhibition through photography, posters and archive materials, alongside objects ranging from Olympics posters to early examples of electronics – including the world’s first commercial MP3 player – and a monumental 1986 video sculpture by artist Nam June Paik, featuring 33 TV monitors.

Section two – ‘Spotlighting K-drama and Cinema’ –focuses on the remarkable success of K- drama and film, charting in turn their rise in popularity from the late 1990s to the present day, through multimedia, installations, posters, props and costumes.

Highlights in this section include the iconic pink guard costumes and green tracksuit from hit Netflix series Squid Game, and a recreation of the bathroom set from Bong Joon-Ho's Oscar-winning film Parasite. This is the first time the bathroom in the Kim family’s banjiha – or semi-basement apartment – has been re-created, under the guidance of its acclaimed Production Designer Lee Ha Jun. Traditional Korean costumes and props are also on display, including hats seen in Joseon era zombie series Kingdom, and the grooming kit from The Handmaiden. Finally, this section showcases webtoons, a Korean innovation of digital cartoons designed for mobile devices, as a source of inspiration for many K-dramas. It explores recurring themes in TV series, mixing genres and local narratives, such as the country’s relationship with North Korea as depicted on screen.

‘Sounding K-pop and Fandoms’, the third section, delves into the explosion of K-pop music around the world, as well as underlining the crucial roles social media and fandoms play in increasing their reach.

The final section in Hallyu!, titled ‘Making K-beauty and Fashion’, presents K-beauty and fashion, underlining their origin while showcasing the innovative and experimental approach that led to new aesthetic standards both inside and outside Korea. It also highlights how product placement in K-dramas and endorsements from K-pop idols have amplified the international profile of K-beauty and fashion. Featuring

cosmetics packaging from the 13th century to the present day, the exhibition traces packaging’s design evolution, from ornate porcelain pots to items including face mask wrappings boasting idols as superheroes. Hallyu! concludes with K-fashion, showcasing over 20 looks by contemporary hanbok and fashion designers from Korea and the Korean diaspora. Whilst K-fashion is often characterised by its fun, fastmoving streetstyle and gender fluid outfits as illustrated by Kye, D-Antidote and Blindness, other designers are reimagining the silhouette of hanbok, the national costume of Korea. The final display of the exhibition is dedicated to contemporary Korean fashion designers creating colourful, showstopping garments, including looks by Minju Kim, Münn, and Miss Sohee

HALLYU!

Hallyu! The Korean Wave continues until 25 June 2023 vam.ac.uk

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JI WON CHOI X ADIDAS. PHOTO FRANCESCA ALLEN, COURTESY ADIDAS THE PEONY DRESS BY MISS SOHEE, 2020 GRADUATION COLLECTION ‘THE GIRL IN FULL BLOOM’. PHOTOGRAPH
CULTURE • SPOTLIGHT
ABSOLUTELY magazines 37 PAINTED SCULPTURE "UNTITLED G-DRAGON, A SPACE OF NO NAME" BY GWON OSANG © COURTESY GWON OSANG MIRAGE STAGE BY NAM JUNE PAIK. SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA, 1932 - MIAMI, USA, 2006 © NAM JUNE PAIK ESTATE
Festive Fair Sparkle landmarkartscentre.org Ferry Road, Teddington, TW11 9NN 020 8977 7558 landmarkarts sparklecraftfair sparklecraftfair Image by: Judith Brown Registered Charity No: 1047080 Fri 18 1pm-8pm Sat 19& Sun 20 10am-4pm 18-20 Nov 2022 Admission: £5 , Concessions £4 , U16s & LAC Friends FREE CHRISTMAS AT THE ROYAL ALBERT HALL KATHERINE JENKINS � RICK ASTLEY’S SWINGING CHRISTMAS � THE NUTCRACKER � CAROLS HANDEL’S MESSIAH � GUY BARKER’S BIG BAND CHRISTMAS � LONDON COMMUNITY GOSPEL CHOIR Christmas_Half page ad_134x190.indd 1 13/10/2022 16:42:03

DEAREST Mother

Mrs Warren’s Profession comes to Richmond Theatre this autumn prior to a West End run. Caroline Quentin stars in a Theatre Royal Bath Production of one George Bernard Shaw’s greatest plays. Starring alongside her are Simon Shepherd, last seen at Richmond Theatre in My Cousin Rachel with Helen George, Matthew Cottle of and Quentin's real-life daughter, Rose Quentin.

Mrs Warren’s daughter Vivie has never really known much about her mother, Kitty Warren.

Vivie is intelligent and pragmatic, has a Cambridge education, a generous monthly allowance and now she has ambitions to go into the Law. She has come home to get acquainted with her mother for the first time in her life and learns that everything she has is financed with the profits of the world’s oldest profession. The play focuses on how the relationship between the two women changes when

Vivie learns what her mother does for a living.

Shaw’s acid test of a mother-daughter relationship is one of his wittiest and most provocative plays. Written in 1894 but banned for 30 years by a Lord Chamberlain who found it “immoral and improper,” Mrs Warren’s Profession is a ripe attack on English hypocrisy and its “fashionable morality”.

British Comedy Award winner Caroline Quentin’s many television roles have ranged from Men Behaving Badly, Kiss Me Kate and Jonathan Creek to Stephen Poliakof’s Dancing on the Edge, plus Strictly Come Dancing, and earlier this summer she starred onstage in the National Theatre's Jack Absolute Flies Again.

Simon Shepherd's many credits include ITV's Peak Practice and the West End productions of Posh, The Duck House, Rapture, Art and Hay Fever. Matthew Cottle has been a regular in many popular TV series including Game On, The Windsors and featured in Unforgotten, Bridgerton and Pistol. Vivie is played by Caroline’s real-life daughter, Rose Quentin, who recently created the role of Katrina Van Tassel on tour in the stage version of The Legend of Sleepy Hollow.

Mrs Warren’s Profession is directed by Anthony Banks who was Associate Director at the National Theatre from 2004 to 2014. His many directing credits include The Girl on the Train, Twilight Song, Gaslight, Strangers on a Train, After Miss Julie and My Cousin Rachel.

RICHMOND THEATRE

Mrs Warren’s Profession comes to Richmond Theatre for one week from 22 November. Tickets start at £13; atgtickets.com/Richmond

39 CU LTURE • PARTNERSHIP
ABSOLUTELY magazines
Richmond Theatre's new production of Mrs Warren's Profession is a show not to miss
“One of Shaw's wittiest and most provocative plays”
SIMON SHEPHERD MATTHEW
COTTLE
ROSE
AND CAROLINE QUENTIN

at HEART

The Wildlife Photographer of the Year show is back with more breathtaking images of the natural world

American photographer Karine Aigner was announced as this year’s Wildlife Photographer of the Year for her remarkable image of a buzzing ball of cactus bees spinning over the hot sand on a Texas ranch. In her bee-level close-up, all except one are males and they are intent on mating with the single female at the centre. Like most bees, they are threatened by habitat loss, pesticides, and climate change, as well as farming practices that disrupt their nesting grounds.

Karine is the fifth woman in the competition’s 58-year history to be awarded the Grand Title award.

Chair of the jury, writer and editor, Rosamund ‘Roz’ Kidman Cox OBE

41ABSOLUTELY magazines Wild
CULTURE • PHOTOGRAPHY
Battle stations by Ekaterina Bee, Winner, 10 Years and Under. Two Alpine ibex spar for supremacy, Pian della Mussa, Piedmont, Italy

says, ‘Wings-whirring, incoming males home in on the ball of buzzing bees that is rolling straight into the picture. The sense of movement and intensity is shown at bee-level magnification and transforms what are little cactus bees into big competitors for a single female.’

16-year-old Katanyou

Wuttichaitanakorn from Thailand was awarded the Young Wildlife Photographer of the Year 2022 for his creative image, The beauty of baleen. When a Bryde’s whale surfaced close to the boat, Katanyou was intrigued by the contrasting colours and textures of its dark skin, pink gum and the brush-like mass of baleen hanging down from its top jaw. Like other baleen whales, Bryde’s use a technique known as lunge-feeding to capture

large numbers of small schooling fish and use the plates of baleen to filter the small prey from the ocean.

A keen naturalist and a photographer since he was 12, this dynamic composition is Katanyou’s first award in the annual competition.

‘Out of the jaws of a Bryde’s whale comes this dazzling creation. The pin-sharp detail of the tiny anchovies is set against an abstraction of colour with the weave of brown baleen hair rimmed by a cascade of water drops,’ says Kidman Cox OBE.

The two Grand Title winners were selected from 19 category winners that highlight the natural world in all its wonder and diversity. In an intensive process, 38,575 entries from 93 countries were judged anonymously by an international panel of experts on

their originality, narrative, technical excellence, and ethical practice.

Dr Doug Gurr, Director of the Natural History Museum said: ‘Wildlife photographers o er us unforgettable glimpses into the lives of wild species, sharing unseen details, fascinating behaviours and front-line reporting on the climate and biodiversity crises. These images demonstrate their awe of and appreciation for the natural world and the urgent need to take action to protect it.’

WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR continues at the National History Museum until 2 July 2023 nhm.ac.uk

42 ABSOLUTELY magazines
CULTURE • PHOTOGRAPHY
“WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHERS OFFER GLIMPSES INTO THE LIVES OF WILD SPECIES”
The beauty of baleen by Katanyou Wuttichaitanakorn, Winner, 15-17 Years. The contrasting colours and textures of a Bryde’s whale, Phetchaburi, Thailand Ndakasi’s passing by Brent Stirton, Winner, Photojournalism the closing chapter of the story of a much-loved mountain gorilla, Senkwekwe Center, Virunga National Park, Democratic Republic of the Congo House of bears by Dmitry Kokh, Winner, Urban Wildlife. Polar bears shrouded in fog at the long-deserted settlement on Kolyuchin Island, Chukotka, Russia The big buzz by karine aigner, Winner, behaviour: invertebrates A group of bees compete to mate, South Texas, USA
Share the joy of the season with the mark of a truly delicious gift EXPERIENCE THE DIFFERENCE WHEN YOU VISIT A LE CREUSET STORE • BESPOKE CUSTOMER SERVICE • EXCLUSIVE PRODUCT RANGES AND OFFERS • PRODUCT EXPERTISE AND AFTERCARE • FREE DELIVERY OVER £50 • LOYALTY REWARDS • FREE RECIPE CARDS CALL & DELIVER | PAY BY LINK | FREE UK DELIVERY WHEN YOU SPEND £50 OR MORE | CONTACT THE STORE FOR MORE DETAILS LE CREUSET FULHAM ROAD, 156 FULHAM ROAD, LONDON. SW10 9PR. TEL: 0207 3707509 • E-MAIL: FULHAMROAD.STORE.UK@LECREUSET.COM LE CREUSET HAMPSTEAD, 31 HEATH STREET, LONDON. NW3 6TR. TEL: 0207 4356109 • E-MAIL: HAMPSTEAD.STORE.UK@LECREUSET.COM LE CREUSET ISLINGTON, 137 UPPER STREET, LONDON. N1 1QP. TEL: 0207 2261595 • E-MAIL: ISLINGTON.STORE.UK@LECREUSET.COM LE CREUSET MARYLEBONE, 6 NEW CAVENDISH STREET, LONDON. W1G 8UH. TEL: 0207 4865404 • E-MAIL: MARYLEBONE.STORE.UK@LECREUSET.COM LE CREUSET MUSWELL HILL, 74 MUSWELL HILL BROADWAY, LONDON. N10 3RT. TEL: 0208 8834394 • E-MAIL: MUSWELLHILL.STORE.UK@LECREUSET.COM LE CREUSET NOTTING HILL, 54 LEDBURY RD., NOTTING HILL, LONDON. W11 2AJ. TEL: 0203 2200017 • E-MAIL: NOTTINGHILL.STORE.UK@LECREUSET.COM LE CREUSET ST. ALBANS, 27 MARKET PLACE, ST. ALBANS, HERTFORDSHIRE. AL3 5DL. TEL: 01727 850453 • E-MAIL: STALBANS.STORE.UK@LECREUSET.COM LE CREUSET WIMBLEDON, 4 CHURCH RD., WIMBLEDON VILLAGE, LONDON. SW19 5DL. TEL: 0208 9440624 • E-MAIL: WIMBLEDON.STORE.UK@LECREUSET.COM

UNIQUE TASTE

Newly released Rare Rosé Millésime 2012 expertly balances three distinct families of sensations: floral, fruity, and spiced. Combining aromas and freshness, this third vintage rosé from Rare Champagne adds a new dimension to the Maison’s style. Inside we have some recipe pairings to make the most of this launch. rare-champagne.com

Food Notes 46 • Absolutely Eats Out 49 • New Recipes 50 FOO D& DRINK ABSOLUTELY magazines 45

Rioja

Old Vines

smooth,

full-bodied

a

the finish.

made from

wine

is a well-

combination

Cabernet Sauvignon,

is bright

of red

spice and toasty

carry

palate, which is

rich and long.

Added Spice

menu at

menu

diners

Peter Joseph has launched a brand

Indian restaurant o Sloane Square. The

Kahani’s deliciously light Indian

expect a selection of contemporary,

brought to

using the finest British

with rich Indian spices.

46 ABSOLUTELY magazines
London’s food news and most exciting openings this month NOTES TASTING
KAHANI Michelin-starred chef
new
his
new
showcases
cuisine and
can
sharing-style dishes, made
ingredients and
life
kahanilondon.com Wine recommendations for the month WHAT TO DRINK GRAPE news Made primarily using Tempranillo grapes that are grown in Baron de Ley’s Mendavia vineyards, this Reserva's deep cherry colour and complex aromas are the result of spending 20 months in new oak casks, followed by maturation in the bottle. coop.co.uk Baron de Lay
Reserva, Spain  £12 A beautifully
rich and
red with rich plum notes, light spice flavours and just
touch of cherry on
This Garnacha is
old bush vines 15 to 50 years of age, which give the
its concentrated fruit flavours. tesco.com Campaneo
Garnacha, Spain  £5 This wine
crafted
of Shiraz,
and Malbec. It
red with aromas
berries, fruit cake
oak. These characters
onto the
smooth,
coop.co.uk The Hidden Sea Red Blend, Australia  £7.50

New England Inspired

THE MAINE MAYFAIR

Old-world British elegance meets New England extravagance in this 18th-century townhouse on Hanover Square. The venue features three separate dining areas, each with its own distinctive decor, menu and ambience, so you’ll be sure to find somewhere to celebrate any kind of occasion. themainemayfair.com

WINTER WARMERS

Nostalgia Served

PIVOT

Award-winning Chef Mark Greenaway has extended his restaurant, Pivot across two floors of a historic English townhouse in Covent Garden. The venue is not the only thing expanding, a whole new menu has also been launched, that includes a hearty English breakfast, and other nostalgic classics. markgreenaway.com

THE LUCKY CLUB

Made of chilli and mezcal spiked Oaxacan hot chocolate and topped with a giant marshmallow, this drink is boozy, seriously indulgent and sure to keep you nice and warm. theluckyclub.com

ON THE MARKET

MARKET PLACE VAUXHALL

Following the success of its Peckham and Hounslow locations, Market Place London has launched its third food hall in Vauxhall. This new location is home to twelve exciting food and drink brands and explores a menagerie of global cuisines, including Italian, Jamaican, Sri Lankan and many more. marketplacelondon.co.uk

KNOOPS

This delicious pumpkin spice hot chocolate is naturally flavoured with ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves and allspice. It is the perfect drink to welcome in the autumn months. knoops.co.uk

TO TUCK-IN

HOTEL CHOCOLAT

It's safe to say that Hotel Chocolat has mastered the art of making hot chocolate. Their drinks are rich, velvety smooth and infused with a variety of interesting flavours. hotelchocolat.com

An exciting new addition is coming to the bustling Borough Market. At Salt Yard’s striking new venue diners will be transported to the intimate tapas bars of Spain and Italy. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a cocktail or two with friends, and don’t worry, there will be more than enough tapas dishes to go around.

saltyardgroup.co.uk

47 FOOD & DRINK • NOTES
TIME
Cosy up with these hot chocolates
ABSOLUTELY magazines
www.rare-champagne.com I @Rarechampagne_o cial Drink responsibly

ABSOLUTELY eats out…

Some people might remember when this dinky corner site was a Paul Smith store, a smaller o shoot of the main shop opposite.

It’s a suprise to find it reborn as a stylish eaterie – and the intimate space is cleverly configured to include a stylish large bar with seating, as well as several tables, plus there’s a separate downstairs dining room too. Cuisine is billed as Japanese fusion – it seems to be more Japanese than fusion – and

cocktails are a speciality.

We’re persuaded by the house cocktail, Shisorita, described simply as Jose Cuervo Especial, Mezcal Verde, lime or lemon and shiso, but is more than the sum of its parts: a smoky, citrussy, intriguing infusion with a seaweed rim. And the food’s the same: high class, intriguing and impressive.

Our feast includes butterfish tataki with citrus tru e ponzu, a delicate dish with a strong tru e kick and butterfish that really does taste of butter, a seaweed salad with sea vegtables and black goma dressing – sharp, tasty and salty,

PRICE

and grilled aubergine with tomato miso that was sweet, intense and unusual. Then there was a sashimi platter, beautifully arranged in a basket with slivers of salmon, tuna and swordfish with wasabi, and perfectly crispy tempura prawns with a ginger sauce. Then came a showstopping Kyoto miso black cod with mountain caviar, pickles and yuzu anori, which was aristically presented and cooked to perfection with a silvery sweetness and a luxurious texture. Clay pot gohan rice with mushrooms and seaweed was a delicious side, though possibly we were now into the realm of too much food, and with a second cocktail also into possible flavour (and Mezcal) overload. Still, a small pudding to share added extra interest, especially since it was ‘inspired by the forest’ and looked like a beautiful bird’s nest. A berry sorbet surrounded by chocolate sticks, chocolate shavings and lots of leaves and flowers on a bed of creme caramel, in fact. What a treat.

120 Kensington Park Road, W11 rikamoon.com

Excellent – more Japanese than fusion FOOD Small and stylish DECOR Small dishes £4.75£16; mains £24-£85
Expensive and VERDICT New Japanese fusion cuisine in Notting Hill
“A strong tru e kick and butterfish that really does taste of butter”
RIKA MOON
49 FOOD & DRINK • REVIEW ABSOLUTELY magazines
Words OTAM OTTOLENGHI and NOOR MURAD GOOD thingsMore gems from the Ottolenghi Test Kitchen 50 ABSOLUTELY magazines

Blackened chicken with caramel and clementine dressing

Serves 4

Don’t be afraid to really char your chicken thighs here (making sure to ventilate your kitchen well) – this’ll add an intense flavour alongside the vibrant dressing and make for a very punchy eating experience. That said, you can also grill your chicken thighs in the oven, or swap them out for chicken breasts, if you prefer. Use a pair of kitchen scissors to help you easily remove the bones from the thighs, or ask your butcher to do this for you, making sure to keep the skins intact. Feel free to swap out the clementines for orange segments in the dressing; it’ll work just as well.

INGREDIENTS

• 6 large chicken thighs (1kg),boneless and skin on (850g)

• 1½ tsp ground turmeric

• 1 tsp chilli flakes

• 1 tbsp fish sauce

• 2 tbsp olive oil

1• 2 spring onions,trimmed, washed well and dried (180g)

Caramel and clementine dressing

• 85g caster sugar

• 30g fresh ginger,peeled and julienned

• 2 red chillies,deseeded, halved widthwaysand julienned (20g)

• 3 tbsp rice wine vinegar

• 3–4 limes: 1 halved, to serve, and the rest juiced to get 3 tbsp

• 2 tbsp fish sauce

• 2–3 clementines (200g),peeled (140g)

• 5g fresh coriander,roughly chopped, to serve

METHOD

1 Put the chicken thighs, turmeric, chilli flakes, fish sauce, oil and 1 teaspoon of salt into a large bowl and mix well to combine. Leave to marinate for an hour, or cover and refrigerate for longer (up to overnight). If the latter, remove from the fridge 45 minutes before cooking. 2 Place a large cast-iron sauté pan on a medium-high heat and ventilate your kitchen well. Once hot, add half the chicken thighs, skin side down. Weigh down the thighs with a large saucepan around the same size, so they are well pressed into the pan. Cook for 6–8 minutes, or until the skin is charred and blackened. Remove the top pan and set the chicken thighs aside, then repeat with the remaining thighs. The second batch might blacken faster, so check them at the 5-minute mark.

Remove all the chicken, setting it aside, and let the pan cool for 5–10 minutes. 3 If needed, drain o all but 1½ tablespoons of the fat collected in the pan and return to a medium-high heat. Add the spring onions, using a pair of tongs to coat them in the fat, then put back the chicken thighs, skin side up, and any of their juices, nestling them into the spring onions, along with 90ml of water. Cook for 8 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a cutting board and leave to rest for 5 minutes before slicing each thigh into 2cm-wide strips.

4 While the chicken is cooking, make the caramel and clementine dressing. Heat a medium saucepan on a medium high heat. Once hot, turn the heat down to medium and sprinkle in the sugar to coat the base – it should immediately start to melt and colour around the sides. Swirl the pan, without stirring, so that all the sugar melts and turns deeply golden, about 11/2–2 minutes. Add the ginger and chillies, and stir continuously for 45 seconds, just to take o the spicy edge. Quickly add the vinegar, lime juice and fish sauce, stirring to combine. Cook for 30 seconds, then remove from the heat. Leave to cool for 10 minutes.

5 Use a small serrated knife to slice the clementines into 1cm thick rounds, then pull at them gently to halve them (don’t worry if they break apart further). Stir these into the cooled sauce. 6 To serve, transfer the spring onions to a large platter and top with the chicken and any pan juices. Pour the dressing all over, then sprinkle with the coriander. Lastly, squeeze over the lime halves.

Coconut broth prawns

with fried aromatics

Serves 4

INGREDIENTS

• 750g large tiger prawns, shells and heads on

• 2½ tbsp olive oil

• 2 tbsp tomato paste

• 6 garlic cloves,peeled and bashed

• 40g fresh ginger,thinly sliced

• 50g lemongrass stalks (about 4),roughly sliced

• 8 large makrut lime leaves

• 3 red chillies,roughly sliced

• 1 tin of full-fat coconut milk (400g)

• 60ml double cream,plus 2 tbsp extra to serve

• 250g datterini or cherry tomatoes

• 1 lime,cut into 4 wedges

Fried aromatics

• 105ml olive oil

• 6 garlic cloves,peeled and thinly sliced

• 2 red chillies,thinly sliced at a slight angle,seeds and all

• 30g fresh ginger,peeled and julienned

• 15g coconut flakes

• 15g picked basil leaves

METHOD

1 Peel the prawns – remove the heads and shells and set aside. Devein them and refrigerate. 2 Heat the oil in a large sauté pan, for which you have a lid, over a medium-high heat. Add the tomato paste and prawn heads and shells and cook, stirring

ABSOLUTELY magazines 51 FOOD & DRINK • RECIPES

occasionally, for 3 minutes or until deeply red. Add the garlic, ginger, lemongrass, lime leaves and chillies, and cook for a minute more, until fragrant. Add the coconut milk, cream, 450ml water and 1 teaspoon salt, bring to a simmer, then turn the heat down, cover and leave to cook for 25 minutes. Strain through a sieve set over a large bowl, pressing down on the solids. 3 Meanwhile, make the fried aromatics. Put the oil, garlic, chillies and ginger into a large frying pan over a medium heat. Cook for 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, then add the coconut flakes and a tiny pinch of salt and cook for 4 minutes more. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the solids to a plate lined with kitchen paper. Add the basil leaves to the frying pan and cook for 2–3 minutes more. Drain them in a sieve set over a bowl, reserving the aromatic oil. Transfer the basil to the plate of fried aromatics. 4 Add a tablespoon of the aromatic oil to the large sauté pan and place over a medium-high heat. Once hot, add the tomatoes and cook for 6–7 minutes, or until charred and starting to burst. Add the strained broth and simmer for 3 minutes, then keep on a low heat. 5 Heat the large frying pan on a mediumhigh heat. Toss the prawns with teaspoon of salt and 2½ tablespoons of the aromatic oil and fry for 60–90 seconds per side. 6 Divide the broth between four bowls and top with the prawns. Squeeze a lime wedge and drizzle each bowl with ½ tablespoon of the extra cream and a teaspoon of aromatic oil. Top with the fried aromatics.

EXTRA GOOD THINGS by Yotam Ottolenghi and Noor Murad is published by EBURY PRESS, £25

Confit leeks with puy lentils and leek cream

Serves 4

Cooking the leeks in this way gently so ens them without colouring, and releases their allium flavour into the oil.

Blending the confit leeks with cream creates a lovely sauce to bring the whole dish together, which could easily stand as a substitute for gravy alongside your choice of protein. If you can’t find puy lentils, then swap them out for other lentils, such as green or beluga. Serve this dish warm or at room temperature, and eat alongside some roasted potatoes, if you like.

INGREDIENTS

• 1kg leeks,trimmed,cut into 2cm-thick rounds (white and light green parts only) (620g)

• 10 garlic cloves,peeled

• 10g thyme sprigs

• 200ml olive oil

• 150g dried puy lentils, washed

• 60ml lemon juice (from 2–3 lemons)

• 5g parsley leaves,roughly chopped

• 5g dill leaves,roughly chopped

• 5g tarragon leaves,roughly chopped

• salt and black pepper

Leek cream

• 100g cooked confit leeks and 5 confit garlic cloves

• 100ml double cream

• ¾ tbsp Dijon mustard

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

METHOD

1 Preheat the oven to 160°C fan.

2 Soak the cut leek rounds in a large bowl of water to get rid of any excess grit. Drain, then pat dry, being sure to keep the rounds intact. 3 Put the leeks, garlic, thyme, 1 teaspoon of salt and a good grind of pepper into a baking dish roughly 30cm x 20cm in size. Mix gently to combine, then pour over the oil. Arrange the leeks so they are cut side up, then cover tightly with foil and bake for 35 minutes. Remove from the oven and gently turn the leeks over. Cover again with foil and return to the oven for 35 minutes more, until completely softened. Remove from the oven and turn the temperature up to 180°C fan. 4 Meanwhile, cook the lentils in plenty of boiling water for 12–15 minutes, or until tender but not at all mushy. Drain well and set aside.

5 When ready, remove the confit leeks from the oven and transfer 100g of the cooked leeks plus five garlic cloves to a bowl. Add the lentils to the remaining leeks in the baking dish along with ¼ teaspoon of salt and a good grind of pepper, and mix gently to combine.

Cover again with the foil and return to the oven for 15 minutes. Remove the foil and leave to settle for 10 minutes. Discard the thyme sprigs.

6 While the lentils are in the oven, make the leek cream. Add the measured-out leeks and garlic to a food processor along with the cream, mustard, lemon juice and ⅛ teaspoon of salt, and blitz until smooth. 7 When ready, stir the lemon juice and the chopped herbs into the lentil and leek mixture. Transfer to a rimmed platter and serve with the leek cream in a bowl alongside.

52 ABSOLUTELY magazines
FOOD & DRINK • RECIPES
SCAN HERE

THE HOUSE OF COLOUR

Each freshly laid Clarence Court egg is unique. These colourful treasures are patiently laid by traditional breed birds originating from rare breed ancestors. Their heritage gives them a unique hue and flavour reminiscent of a bygone era. For eggs how they should be, simply look for the crown.

cut it into thin

a plate, alternate cuts of

RED

RECIPE PARINGS

Prepare the

in a

in an oven with

spices and citrus zest.

the

with

of raw

until a beautiful circle has been made.

with olive oil and lime zest, then season with fleur de sel, sumac and Espelette pepper.

Add a little beetroot curry and a quenelle of beetroot sorbet at the centre.

crushing a ripe avocado

a fork. Add olive oil, lime juice, and fresh, finely cut coriander. Season.

the bottom of the plate with guacamole. On top, add Frisée

pomegranate seeds, slices of radish and chopped coriander. 4 Pour the gazpacho all around the plate.

greens pesto,

the washed greens and mixing with olive oil, roasted almonds and ground parmesan. 3

the various colours of radishes into di erent shapes.

more at rare-champagne.com

BRETON LOBSTER CARPACCIO with beetroot and soft spices Starter INGREDIENTS Breton lobster • Yellow, pink and red beetroot • Beetroot curry • Beetroot sorbet • Lime • Sumac • Espelette pepper PREPARATION 1 Boil the lobster in a court-bouillon for four minutes. Shell the lobster and
pieces. 2 On
lobster
slices
beetroot
3 Dress
4
The Chef Mélanie Serre rustles up a starter, main and vegan course to accompany a bottle of Rare Rosé Millésime 2012 FOOD & DRINKS • RECIPES 55ABSOLUTELY magazines
BRETON LOBSTER CARPACCIO CANDIED LAMB
CANDIED LAMB with prunes, radish and radish greens pesto Main course INGREDIENTS Lamb shank • Red radish • Blue meat radish • Red meat radish • Pruneaux d'Agens, stones removed • Roasted almonds • Olive oil • Grated parmesan PREPARATION 1 Colour the lamb shanks
frying pan, then slow-cook
lamb broth,
2 Prepare
radish
blending
Finely slice
See
CABBAGE GAZPACHO with guacamole and fresh herbs Vegan course INGREDIENTS Red cabbage • Avocado • Lime • Coriander • Olive Oil • Curly endive • Pomegranate • Radish PREPARATION 1 Blend a red cabbage. In the blender, mix the red cabbage juice with a tablespoon of mayonnaise, a tablespoon of red wine vinegar and gluten-free whole wheat bread. 2
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SEQUINS AND SASS

Madeleine Thompson's
knits 56 • Art Deco jewellery 62 FASHION
KOIBIRD For winter, Koibird specialises in 'sequins, feathers and sass'. Which is what we all need to brighten our days as party season approaches. koibird.com ABSOLUTELY magazines 57
Madeleine
Thompson Greenwich
onesie £205 and Hereford Bomber £215
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Portobello
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Art Deco

It’s time to revisit the Roaring Twenties

ANNOUSHKA

Gold & Diamond Arrow Feather Lapis Earrings, £2,790 annoushka.com

KOJIS

Platinum Art Deco Plaque Ring, £3,950 libertylondon.com

VILTIER

Magnetic Diamond, Bull's Eye & Gold Earrings £12,400 matchesfashion.com

EMMA CLARKSON WEBB

Bespoke Yellow & White Gold Joanna Ring, £POA emmacwebb.com

V BY LAURA VANN

Thalia Sterling Silver Bracelet, £159 vbylauravann.com

MONICA VINADER

Baja Deco Ring, £100 monicavinader.com

RAINBOW K

Shield Gold, Ruby & Diamond Ring, £2,905 net-a-porter.com

RACHEL JACKSON

Statement Art Deco Padlock Necklace, £250 racheljacksonlondon.com

THE VINTAGE RING COMPANY

Ottilie Antique Victorian Ruby & Diamond Ring, £2,980 thevintageringco.com

64 ABSOLUTELY magazines FASHION • JEWELLERY
GOLDSMITH & JEWELLERY RETAILER Nº 1 Church Road, Wimbledon Village, London SW19 5DW / Open Tuesday–Saturday michaelplatt.co.uk / 020 8947 4772 / info@michaelplatt.co.uk Sensational jewellery in stock to view. Complex Restoration Work and Valuations undertaken on-site, call or email for an appointment. In a World of change our Values, Craftsmanship, Expertise and High Standards remain constant. Specialist Bespoke Design Service for new, dated or inherited jewels.

Stop living with pain and get back to living life

Nestled in the heart of Marylebone, King Edward VII’s Hospital is here to help you on the journey back to health.

From diagnostics at our brand-new dedicated outpatient centre, to treatment from world-class consultants and follow ups with highly-trained physiotherapists, you’ll receive seamless care tailored for you.

Find out more about receiving private treatment at a time that suits you at kingedwardvii.co.uk or speak to our friendly team on 020 45712 097.

Rated Excellent on Doctify 4.82 out of 5 based on 2130 patient reviews. Bespoke private healthcare tailored for you 5-10 Beaumont Street, Marylebone, London, W1G 6AA

EXCITING ARRIVAL

An American beauty giant has finally arrived on UK shores. As of last month, what used to be feelunique.com has officially become sephora.co.uk. This exciting online launch will be accompanied by the opening of the country's first in-person store in the Spring of 2023. sephora.co.uk

Beauty Notes 69 • Outstanding Oils 71 • Fitness Notes 73 HEALTH & BEAUTY
SEPHORA
67ABSOLUTELY magazines

Respect the remarkable

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

BEAUTY NOTES

The latest in luxury makeup and skincare

Ancient SCIENCE

FOREST ESSENTIALS

An indulgent haven will be coming to Covent Garden in November when the luxury Ayurvedic beauty brand, Forest Essentials, opens its first UK standalone store. Inside its doors, customers will be able to uncover the secrets of centuries-old Indian beauty treatments and access holistic healthcare advice. forestessentials.co.uk

Yours Forever

REIA

We’ve found the perfect subscription for any eco-conscious beauty lovers looking to reduce the presence of single-use plastic in their bathrooms. Subscribers are each sent a glass ‘forever bottle’, which can be refilled with one of the innovative pouches, that are delivered as o en needed. reia.store

TREAT YOURSELF

MOLTON BROWN

Take the most luxurious shower of your life courtesy of this new product by Molton Brown. The Mesmerising Oudh Accord & Gold Bath & Shower Gel contains a combination of rare and rich ingredients and is infused with flakes of 23.5-carat gold. You’ll love the heady fragrance, with its base of honeyed resins, heart of heavy Oudh accord, and top notes of shimmering bergamot. moltonbrown.co.uk

Skin Laundry prides themselves on having made laser facials ‘a thing’, so this month I stopped into their Soho location to see what all the buzz is about. I was advised to start o with their Signature Laser Facial, which acts as an introduction to their laser procedures. The treatment is performed using a YAG laser, which works by penetrating deep into the skin. This second layer of skin is where most of the problems exist, hence why laser treatments are a cure-all for most skincare a ictions. As it was working, the technician explained how the laser is able to target each of my major skin concerns, which are hormonal acne, fine lines and hyperpigmentation. I wouldn’t describe the procedure as uncomfortable, but as the laser works, you do feel a zapping sensation, which is similar to how laser hair removal feels, just less intense. I noticed the laser getting louder and slightly more painful in certain areas, which is apparently because that is where there was more congestion or pigmentation. Any discomfort was only temporary, the technician did just four passes over my face and I was in and out of the door in under thirty minutes. This, and the minimal downtime afterwards is why I think this facial would be perfect for anyone wanting to squeeze a quick treatment into their lunch break.

SKIN LAUNDRY

To find a clinic near you visit, skinlaundry.com

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • NOTES
FOCUS
BATHED IN GOLD
EDITOR’S PICK
We have found the perfect facial for the busy o ce worker
Empowering gents to look and feel fantastic every day!
71ABSOLUTELY magazines These hydrating oils will see you through the winter season OILED-UP
HEALTH & BEAUTY • TREND OLAPLEX No.7 Bonding Oil, £28 cultbeauty.co.uk CHANEL Coco Mademoiselle Body Oil, £62 chanel.com BIOSSANCE 100% Squalane Oil, £26 sephora.co.uk ATHLETIA Dual Essence Body Oil, £48 athletia-beauty.co.uk EDITOR’S PICK CHARLOTTE TILBURY Collagen Superfusion Facial Oil, £60 charlottetilbury.com BREAD BEAUTY SUPPLY Hair-Oil: Everyday Gloss, £22 MALIN + GOETZ Cannabis Perfume Oil, £27 malinandgoetz.co.uk OUAI Rose Hair & Body Oil, £26 cultbeauty.co.uk LA MER The Renewal Oil, £205 cremedelamer.co.uk L’OCCITANE Almond Supple Skin Oil, £38 uk.loccitane.com
DISCOVER OUR RANGE OF TREADMILLS, BIKES, CROSS TRAINERS, RACKS, WEIGHTS & BARBELLS Open 7 days a week Try before you buy use code ABLON1122 Deluxe Folding Power Rack List Price £1,349 Our Price £999 Intuitively built to provide all the functionality you would get from a standard Power Rack, the Deluxe Folding Power Rack unfolds from flat in just three simple movements to save on valuable floor space. It comes packed with accessories for total-body training, and its heavy-duty construction means it’s guaranteed to withstand your heavy home strength sessions! *Code expires 4th December 2022. † Subject to age and status. Visit us at Hyde House, The Hyde, Colindale, NW9 6LH Call 0203 3708 855 or email nl@fitness-superstore.co.uk Try Before You Buy Expert In-Store Advice Never Beaten on Price 0% Finance Available †

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1. TAKE YOUR TIME

The temptation is to just put your trainers on and start running, but most injuries occur from doing too much too soon, so you need to think long term and follow a training plan. The body can do incredible things if given time to adapt and plenty of opportunity to recover from the stress of training. You will need to give yourself enough time to build up to a marathon, but how long exactly depends on your starting point, for example, the beginner plan on the Onetrack app is 16 weeks.

2. KNOW YOUR BODY

Before taking on any sport it's a good idea to get yourself ready to perform and have your mechanics evaluated. With running, the most important thing is to assess if your body has the capacity to distribute the load evenly. The biomechanics screen at our Onetrack studio is able to identify what could lead to excessive stress being placed on any one joint, muscle or ligament. Knowing this information helps us implement the most impactful corrective exercises and hopefully minimise the risk of injury.

3. FIND SOME SUPPORT

Finding and staying connected to a community of runners is essential because it can help you feel more motivated and give you a sense of accountability. Many people also find working with a coach during the training process very beneficial, as it’s a soundboard to vent at and a source of reassurance. You can access the support of coaches easily via the Onetrack app, which is available to download from the App Store and Google Play, with subscription plans starting at £15 per month.

73
HEALTH & BEAUTY • FITNESS
HOKA HAS A SHOE FOR EVERY
SURFACE
Founder of run coaching platform Onetrack, Anthony Fletcher, gives us his top marathon training tips
ON -TRACK
shine with the Challenger series. These water-resistant all-terrain shoes will take you everywhere, no matter the weather conditions.
surfaces, the Bondi series are some
the hardest working shoes in the HOKA lineup, and offer an incredibly so and balanced ride.
series is durable and protective enough for longer distances, and are designed with Hoka's lightest and most responsive foam. ABSOLUTELY magazines
styles mentioned are available for purchase at hoka.com

IT’S SKIN REJUVENATION

Advanced rejuvenation treatments with Dr Kim

LIPOFIRM FACELIFT

The LP FaceLift is our clinic’s most popular non-invasive treatment to tone, tighten and lift the skin on the face and neck. Radiofrequency (RF) delivers instantaneous skin tightening and induces longer term collagen induction and stimulation of the body’s own elastin and hyaluronic acid. Dynamic Muscle Activation tones the facial muscles and the lower face to firm the jawline and under-chin.

HYBRID ENERGY RF MICRONEEDLING

Radiofrequency microneedling is without a doubt the treatment of the moment, to help tighten and firm skin on the face and body. New generation hybrid energy treatments lead to enhanced results with minimal discomfort and recovery time. Some newer treatments like VoluDerm HE also help to restore volume to the deeper layers of the skin so are great alternatives to injectable dermal fillers.

NON-SURGICAL FACELIFT PROGRAMMES

As much as we love the healthy glow of summer, there is a bright side to the colder months where lower exposure to UV rays from the sun means that it is time to focus on the more advanced rejuvenation treatments and restoring your youthful skin. Dr Kim discusses a few of her all-round winter skin winners.

SKIN CARE

Skin can feel dry and unsettled so you may want to change moisturiser or apply a hyaluronic acid serum underneath. It’s also time to re-start your retinol after a summer break and use of regenerative ingredients (peptides and growth factors) will also help restore firm and glowing skin.

GENEO GLAM

There is no need to introduce the Geneo Superfacial, beloved by celebrities and beauty bloggers, and recently

awarded the Forbes no.1 ‘Facial of the Future’ accolade. It’s a 4-in-1 treatment that combines radiofrequency skin tightening and deep exfoliation with an infusion of oxygen, hyaluronic acid and amino acids into the skin. The exciting new Geneo Glam OxyPod is formulated with pure gold flakes and silk amino acids to improve skin elasticity and firmness, along with a combination of ingredients to help minimise the appearance of wrinkles with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits.

PROFHILO

For a quick-acting plumping and hydrating skin boost, an injectable treatment like Profhilo may be the answer. A complex, highly concentrated hyaluronic acid is injected into specific points in the face or neck, di using through the tissue planes to draw over 10,000 times its weight in water to the skin. Treatments are repeated after 28 days for a longer lasting biorevitalisation e ect.

Combination programmes like the Legend M3 or Pyramid FaceLifts deliver highly e ective results, even in mature skins. Muscle toning, RF skin tightening, volumising and resurfacing treatments are combined in a single session and conducted as a course of 3 to 6 treatments.

DR KIM

If you have any questions you are welcome to email Dr Kim on drkim@psmd.co.uk or call 01372 371201. penroseclinic.co.uk and drkpclinic.co.uk @dr.kimprescott @penrosebodyandskin

74 ABSOLUTELY magazines
HEALTH & BEAUTY • PARTNERSHIP SEASON
“New generation hybrid energy treatments lead to enhanced results with minimal discomfort”
020 3489 8010 | 7 High St, Cheam, Sutton SM3 8RQ info@definitionskinaesthetics.co.uk | definitionaesthetics.co.uk Advanced Skin & Body Aesthetics Clinic DEFINITION_SKIN_AESTHETICS_HP_ABS_AUG22_v5.indd 1 29/09/2022 10:46 020 4579 2199 www.countrycourtcare.com Picton Street, Camberwell, London, SE5 7QH Camberwell Lodge Care & Nursing Home Luxury residential and dementia care home Our care is the kind we’d all want our loved ones to receive. Camberwell Lodge Care & Nursing Home provides the highest standards of familyled nursing, residential and dementia care. Our state-of-the-art home is luxurious and beautifully furnished, whilst retaining a warm family atmosphere that makes Camberwell Lodge feel extra special. • 98 Spacious en-suite bedrooms • Sociable lounge and dining areas • Daily fine dining and hospitality suite To find out more about life at Camberwell Lodge Care & Nursing Home contact Senior Customer Relations Manager Nina Rogers on 07549 035 654 or email nina.rogers@countrycourtcare.com Vista Bar & Roofterrace garden Wellness Suite Tailored meaningful activities

BIG QUESTION

milestone in answering the fundamental question ‘when to start a family?’.

At IVF London, they o er a Fertility Wellness Check, where within a few hours, you have a pelvic scan, a blood test (AMH), Semen Analysis and time with a consultant to understand where you place on the fertility scale and if there are any factors that need addressing.

Egg Freezing is a process that allows women the freedom of choosing the time at which they wish to become mothers. A woman can freeze her eggs and at a later time of her choosing decide to use them.

Artificial Intelligence is a new and exciting avenue available at IVF London that allows their embryologists to choose the best embryos for transfer. Another avenue for screening is (PGD) Pre-implantation Genetic Diagnosis which allows them to screen for some of the genetic hereditary ailments.

The experts at IVF London ensure the journey to parenthood is informed, well thought out and comfortable. They are an end-to-end clinic, with state-of-the-art facilities, where patients get to know the team and have continuity of care.

How do we know when it is the right time to try for a baby? This fundamental question often plagues many of us. Clinic Director and Embryologist of IVF London, Mr Alpesh Doshi with 30 years under his belt, says: “It’s a huge dilemma for women who want to focus on their career or education. Often women face the conundrum between taking a break in their career/ education to pursue their familial plans.”

The stark truth of a women’s reproductive health is set in stone in that

the women’s reproductive health starts to decline after the age of 35 and the decline only accelerates as she nears 40. This can sometimes make IVF the only option with reduced chances for patients who have left it later in life to embark on their fertility journey. The buck doesn’t stop with women; men equally face challenges brought on by lifestyle choices, poor habits inculcated by a demanding work life and stress that directly impact a man’s fertility.

There are measures in place to help understand and assess reproductive health. A little investment of time allows one to gauge their reproductive health and helps give a realistic

ABSOLUTELY magazines 77
ivflondon.co.uk
THE
How IVF London can put your mind at ease when deciding when is the right time to have a family
“Artificial Intelligence is a new avenue available that allows their embryologists to choose the best embryos to transfer”
HEALTH & BEAUTY • PARTNERSHIP
ALPESH DOSHI CONSULTANT
EMBRYOLOGIST
www.rosa-clara.com 2023 COLLECTION
SPECIAL ISSUE absolutely-weddings.co.uk A BRIDAL WISHLIST 78 TOP RUNWAY LOOKS 82 LIHI HOD’S FAIRYTALE GOWNS 90 CAN DIAMONDS BE SUSTAINABLE? 97 VENUE GUIDE 103 In this section LEEZ PRIORY Nestled in 40 acres of parkland, a sweeping driveway leads you to the front of the stunning Tudor manor house that is Leez Priory. Manicured lawns give way to sparkling lakes and secluded woodland, while the picture-perfect inner courtyard is overlooked by the historic Great Tower and provides an impressive backdrop to a truly unforgettable day. leez-priory.co.uk Smart MANOR 79ABSOLUTELY magazines

EMMA DODI

CAKES

Since founding her business in 2016, Emma Dodi has designed unique cakes and handpainted macarons that are both luxurious and visually spectacular. emmadodicakes.com

These 'something blues' may bring a little luck to your wedding day

& CO

The Celebration Collection by luxury childrenswear designer, Pepa & Co, has been designed for life’s most memorable moments. The line features a selection of timeless styles alongside a range of complementary accessories. pepaandcompany.com

BENVENISTE COUTURE

The ‘Thea’ dress by Benveniste Couture is a full-skirted dress made in a luxurious cotton satin. The soft romantic print and elegant cut make it the perfect outfit for a garden ceremony, £5,300. bnvcouture.com

80 ABSOLUTELY magazines Absolutely LOVE THINGS WE 10
PEPA

DUNE LONDON

Dune’s Wedding Collection offers an exquisite range of beautifully crafted bridal shoes and accessories. The 'Daliah Satin Ankle Tie Wedding Shoes' have a luxurious satin tie that wraps elegantly around the ankle, and if you look underneath, you may find a little something blue, £155. dunelondon.com

AZAZIE

Azazie knows that no two bridesmaids are alike, which is why their range of bodyinclusive dresses has been designed with easy alteration in mind and is available in a variety of colours and fabrics. azazie.com

LAVENDER GREEN

Lavender Green Flowers has built a reputation as one of London’s most trusted florists and have been commissioned by some of the country's top historic houses. Their expert team of florists and designers has been bringing brides' visions to life for nearly three decades. lavendergreen.co.uk

ANNOUSHKA

These exquisite drop earrings feature the winged silhouettes of doves, the talismanic symbols of love. Each pearl represents purity and hope, whereas the tranquil aquamarines not only embody vitality and loyalty but mark the age-old tradition of something blue, £9,900. annoushka.com

JW PEI

The ruched Gabbi bag is this season’s chicest wedding companion, £75. jwpei.co.uk

LEOCÉ COUTURE

This stylish blue silk nightdress has the power to make you feel dressed up even as you wind down, £60. leocecouture.com

MICHELLE OH

This bespoke ring by London-based designer Michelle Oh is made of recycled white-gold and conflict-free stones, £POA. michelle-oh.com

81 WEDDINGS • 10 THINGS ABSOLUTELY magazines
Responsibly Sourced Beautifully Crafted BESPOKE ENGAGEMENT RINGS & FINE JEWELLERY LONDONDE.COM | +44 207 859 4754 | LONDON, 25 HATTON GARDEN, EC1N 8BQ

SAY YES

London’s premier ethical bespoke jeweller

London Diamond and Emerald Fine Jewellery are the engagement ring experts

Based in the heart of London’s historic diamond district at 25 Hatton Garden, London DE have been providing couples with engagement rings for over nine years. Their founder Philip Spencer o ers his expert advice to couples on how to find the perfect engagement ring ahead of engagement season.

Q What’s your top piece of advice for those looking for the perfect engagement ring?

A It’s important to remember that an engagement ring is the one piece of jewellery that your partner will

wear everyday, forever. They should not only enjoy the ring now, but it should also grow with their style for years to come. Longevity is the most important thing, making sure that your ring is made with the highest possible craftsmanship, while also sitting in harmony with your partner's hand and their own personal style.

Q What about proposing with a bespoke engagement ring?

A Buying an engagement ring is a once-in-a-lifetime experience and choosing to propose with a bespoke engagement ring gives you complete control over the design and style. When designing a bespoke engagement ring, you’ll have the

freedom to choose every design aspect from setting to stone. While the bespoke process might initially seem daunting, once you find a jeweller that you trust, creating a bespoke ring is an enjoyable and personal act. For this reason, going bespoke can be especially romantic. We’ve recently noticed an increasing number of couples opting to design their rings together, attending a bespoke design consultation as a pair and planning a surprise proposal later down the line. Ultimately, whether you choose to design an engagement ring alone or together, opting for a bespoke ring allows you to transform your dreams and ideas into a real one-of-a-kind heirloom piece you and your family will treasure many generations.

Q What new trends for engagement rings have you seen recently?

A We’ve recently seen a trend towards coloured gemstones within engagement rings. Colour gives more scope for showcasing individuality and personality, with ethically sourced sapphires and Colombian emeralds proving especially popular in recent years. Plus, emeralds are also symbolic of truth and love, making them the fitting choice for an engagement ring.

Bespoke engagement rings starting from £2,495.

25 Hatton Garden, EC1N 8BQ +44 (0)20 7859 4754

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Just

Runway looks

From sharp tailoring to short glamour, crystal detailing and lavish silk gowns, here are six runway looks we love for the season to come

6
1 2 Photography BARCELONA BRIDAL FASHION WEEK WE LOVE 84 ABSOLUTELY magazines

1

TAILORED EDGE Isabel Sanchis

We're delighted to see a new crop of sharp separates in the mix for the season ahead – perfect for less formal or two-event celebrations and for brides who prefer to stride down the aisle in... strides. Isabel Sanchis, as ever, gets the look spot on with this long-line white blazer and form-flattering trousers. We love the edgy safety-pin fastening, a discreet nod to the punk-bride spirit.

isabelsanchis.com

2

BALLROOM SPIRIT Pronovias

There are plenty of ballgown and regal styles in the mix for the season to come, and some of our favourites have a 1950s vibe. This Hollywood-worthy number from Pronovias taps into that trend. It channels this season's focus on big sleeves – many, like these, are detachable for a quick change of style. It also introduces a welcome pop of glitter on the bodice and is created from rich silk in soft pastel pink.

pronovias.com

3

SHARP SHIFT

Jesús Peiró

There are plenty of cool bridal looks for the resort or high-summer celebrations among the new season designer collections, but this shift dress caught our eye for its wearability and throw-on elegance. With a subtle hi-low hemline to show o your wedding heels, it has a gorgeous cutout lace panel to add interest and highlight that tan. Pockets add a laidback vibe to a dress that would earn its keep on honeymoon too.

jesuspeiro.com

4 ICE MAIDEN Vestal

The Barcelona Bridal Week runway glittered during couturier Vestal's runway show, with some deliciously detailed gowns in the mix. This one tapped into an ongoing trend for regal gowns. The elegant highneck, half-sleeve bodice studded with flower embellishment is paired to a shimmering full skirt with more trailing flowers to emphasise the waist. The soft silvery hue of the gown adds to the showstopping e ect – definitely a gown fit for a princess.

k-vestal.com

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ABSOLUTELY magazines 85 WEDDINGS • RUNWAY LOOKS

5 CUT ABOVE

Lush high-shine silks are a strong fashion story for new-season bridal, and Rosa Clará's new collection features some beautiful gowns cut to show o the potential of this wonderful fabric. This gown channels an almost 1930s film-star vibe with its long sleeves and neat cu s. But the plunge neck and on-trend cutaway detail around the midri are relaxed elements that make it a great choice for glamorous destination brides. rosaclara.es

6

BUTTONED UP Nicolas Montenegro

A new name on the runway at Barcelona Bridal Fashion Week, Nicolas Montenegro is one to watch. Trained in Milan, he worked at a top design house (dressing Beyoncé and Kylie Minogue) and started his eponymous brand in his home village outside Seville in 2020. We just love his collection with its hallmarks of superb tailoring, clever details and form-flattering lines. This was one of favourites for its flattering sleek cut, three-quarter sleeves and oversized buttons. nicolasmontenegro.com

5 6
WEDDINGS • RUNWAY LOOKS 86 ABSOLUTELY magazines
- OFFICIAL FORMALWEAR PARTNERS -

Clean

CUTS

Caroline Castigliano is the connoisseur of luxury bridal and evening wear in the UK. Her name is synonymous with understated chic and contemporary designer style. An inspirational force, Castigliano has dressed some of the world’s most stylish women for their weddings and red carpet events. Among her many clients is an enviable list of celebrities, film stars and dignitaries.

Castigliano’s signature is a silhouette that's unquestionably feminine and e ortlessly elegant. Her unique ability to cut and construct garments enables her to create a gown that is confident and sexy, yet exudes a deep sense of style. Everything about a Castigliano gown is unique, from the exquisite choice of fabric to the foundation of the gown, created using unique corsetry and undergarment techniques.

The Castigliano evening and event wear collection is designed to create impact from the moment you walk into a room. The aim is to always make a woman look more beautiful than she ever has before.

The Caroline Castigliano label is known for classic pieces with a contemporary modern twist. Each gown is meticulously handcrafted in the designer’s own specialist facility in the UK.

Caroline Castigliano comments: “I believe in designs that never date. I love women to look as if they have never made an e ort. It is the hardest look to achieve but when done well it is style personified.”

This year, Caroline Castigliano celebrates 30 years as the UK's leading luxury bridal designer. Caroline Castigliano specialises

in individual handcrafted gowns using her signature silhouette style. Her business is focused on her own flagship boutique in Knightsbridge together with an important number of select stockists who share her ethos located in the UK, Europe, USA, Canada, Hong Kong and Japan. Whether it's the dream wedding gown of a lifetime or an evening dress for a special occasion, Caroline Castigliano o ers clients a sense of style that exceeds all expectations.

CAROLINE CASTIGLIANO 154 Brompton Road SW3; + 44 (0) 207 590 9120 carolinecastigliano.com PETRA JACKET; LARA DRESS FANFARE AIR ABSOLUTELY magazines 89 WEDDINGS • PARTNERSHIP
Caroline
Castigliano's
dream gowns are e ortlessly elegant

Pure STYLE

Rosa Clara continues to create fresh looks for today's brides

Bridal fashion is undergoing a shift, and Rosa Clara is at the forefront of the new movement. Remaining faithful to the trademark minimalist, elegant style that's defined the brand for more than 25 years, and shunning excessive ornamentation, Rosa Clara's wedding dresses boast pure lines, plain fabrics and current designs to o er fresh looks for the bride of today.

For 2023, it's all about simplicity. Plain and smooth dresses made in stretch crepe are the stars, boasting innovative structuring to sculpt the figure. For an altogether sexier look, the brand proposes mermaid-style wedding dresses in this same fabric, with strapless necklines complemented by stunning lace appliqués at the hem. These lace mermaid-style wedding dresses come with added romance, in the form of tulle capes with appliqués or sleevelets, o ering even more options for the multilook trend.

The Boheme 2023 collection also reflects the new bridal trend for a less ornate look. Pure lines predominate, in sheath-style or A-line wedding dresses in georgette and crepe with unique, standout detailing to enhance the silhouettes and necklines. Delicate pleated silk muslin dresses simply breathe romance. New additions are the show-stopping strapless lace mermaidstyle dresses featuring geometric and floral motifs in guipure lace with relief, or large medallion lace details. For the ultimate in sophistication there are gingham organza A-line wedding dresses with bodices in Provencal lace or micro-beadwork: enchantingly elegant and delicate.

Meanwhile the Rosa Clara Soft bride is set to sparkle, swathed in dresses with intricate lace bodices with relief and

subtle micro-beadwork, complemented by sexy skirts in stretch crepe.

Rosa Clara Gatsby o ers a journey back to the luxurious, ostentatious golden 20s, with dresses defined by simple lines and embellished with Art Deco-inspired embroidery with crystals and sequins. Geometric and linear motifs combine with micro-floral patterns in dresses made to shine, sparkling with restrained opulence. The collection also debuts new mermaidstyle dresses with strapless or V-necklines with soft, cotton-look lace accented by micro-relief embroidery for mermaid-style dresses unlike any you've seen before. rosa-clara.com

90 ABSOLUTELY magazines
ROSA CLARÁ GATSBY ROSA CLARÁ BOHEME ROSA CLARÁ SOFT
WEDDINGS • PARTNERSHIP
INTIMATE COUNTRY HOUSE The ultimate, intimate wedding venue with 12 magnificent bedrooms and a day spa - with surrounding views of Constable Country and the Dedham Vale. All available for exclusive hire. PLAN YOUR PERFECT DAY RIVERSIDE MARQUEE Our all-white Marquee, looking down the river Stour, with perfectly manicured lawns and food from the outstanding Talbooth Restaurant chefs. love the Milsom Weddings team ENCLAVED IN WOODLAND Magnificent Georgian mansion nestled in 40 acres of impressive parklands, with vast blue skies, sweeping lawns and stunning sunsets – an elegant backdrop for capturing your treasured memories. SPEAK TO OUR WEDDING TEAM ABOUT VENUES, HOSPITALITY & PLANNING WEDDINGS@MILSOMHOTELS.COM 01206 321 102 WE COME TO YOU If you want the taste of Milsom hospitality on your special day, Milsom Catering is the key ingredient. We are sole caterer for Hengrave Hall, and we also cater weddings at other venues, including Houchins, private homes or marquees. Bookfor 2023 with Milsom Weddings Credit: Emily Tyler Credit: Bushfire Credit: Katie Drouet Credit: Neil Fortescue WWW.MILSOMWEDDINGS.COM Credit: Terri Pashley
flower Mystic Observing garden flowers in bloom provided inspiration for the new collection from Lihi Hod LIHIHOD.COM Noa dress
Nadia dress
Nova dress
Camille dress
Knightsbridge

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SPARKS Bright

Are diamonds ethical?

SKYDIAMOND TIMELESS COLLECTION - PENDANTS, STUDS AND RINGS

Diamonds may be a girl’s best friend but are they friends of the earth?

Anyone wanting to tie the knot with a sustainable or ethical diamond needs to do their homework.

Diamond mining has a long history of unethical practices and financial entanglement in war zones, but the problem of ‘blood diamonds’ has now essentially been eradicated by the introduction of a certification system whereby a stone’s provenance is traceable. But still, diamond mining carries significant environmental implications. A recent study from Imperial College concluded that: “Mineral resource exploitation causes irreversible damage to the natural environment shown through negative impacts on water resources, air quality, wildlife, soil quality, and climate change consideration.”

It’s a damning report, and it also asserts that even if “mining and its industries are critical for the socio-economic development of a country… the negative environmental impacts could outweigh the positive benefits”.

In recent years, lab-grown diamonds have become a viable alternative. These are, as the name suggests, made in a lab. But they’re not replica diamonds: lab conditions recreate the combination of heat, pressure and time that lead to the natural formation of diamonds. Even experts can’t tell the di erence between lab diamonds and mined diamonds – though the value of lab diamonds is about half of that of mined ones. Jeremy Kanzen of The Diamond Store says: “It’s the only industry where it’s cheaper to be sustainable.”

Lab diamonds start out with a fragment of mined diamond enclosed in a sealed chamber which is heated to extreme temperatures for

1CT SAPPHIRE AND LAB DIAMOND HALO EARRINGS £869, THEDIAMONDSTORE.CO.UK,

7CT CLUSTER LAB DIAMOND TENNIS BRACELET H/SI SET IN 18K YELLOW GOLD, £3899, THEDIAMONDSTORE.CO.UK

a few weeks. The longer it’s left, the bigger it gets, though also the greater the risk of impurities – so it’s a bit of a gamble. There’s an element of accident to the process and you can’t make shapes or sizes to order. That’s what makes it “a fusion of art and science,” according to Kanzen, and the chance involved ensures that a lab diamond retains the wonder of its mined equivalent.

The process can be quite energy intense, though the world’s first carbon-negative diamonds launched recently, using 100% renewable energy from sun and wind, with recycled rainwater, to turn carbon from the atmosphere into diamonds. These are

skydiamonds, which claim to be the world’s most sustainable diamonds. They say:

“Skydiamonds are physically and chemically identical to ground-mined diamonds ” If a diamond is a solid form of pure carbon then a carbon-negative diamond is an interesting concept, and with production for Skydiamonds based in Gloucestershire, they are eliminating the carbon implications of transport too.

So it’s not taboo to be proposed to with a lab diamond, as says Jeremy Kanzen says. In fact, the mined kind could be on their way out.

thediamondstore.co.uk skydiamond.com

WEDDINGS • JEWELLERY
99
Absolutely looks at the rise of lab-grown stones
ABSOLUTELY magazines
DIANA YELLOW LAB DIAMOND PEAR HALO RING 1.60CT IN PLATINUM, £3775; THEDIAMONDSTORE.CO.UK
JOULBERRY JEWELLERY EST.2010 ToLove&Behold ‘Mysoulhastravelledlongandfartofindyours’ JOULBERRYBOUTIQUE|28BRIDGEROAD|EASTMOLESEY|KT89HA|02089795774 WWW.JOULBERRY.COM|INSTAGRAM@JOULBERRY BenMaxfield LUNAWhiteGoldDiamondEclipseNecklace£1,350 DiamondSpec:Carat:0.34ct|Colour:H-I|Clarity:VS GATSBYWhiteGoldDiamondMargotRing£11,200 DiamondSpec:Carat:1.36ct|Colour:I-J|Clarity:VS CASSIDYPlatinumDiamondEternityClaraRing£1,650 DiamondSpec:Carat:0.28ct|Colour:F-G|Clarity:VS BOHOWhiteGoldNooraTwistDiamondTennisBracelet£7,300 DiamondSpec:Carat:2.50ct|Colour:H-I|Clarity:VS BARDOTWhiteGoldScarlettDiamondHuggiesEarrings£2,650 DiamondSpec:Carat:0.60ct|Colour:H|Clarity:VS 07534617059 enquiry@peboryon.com peboryon.com Made in Cornwall, loved in London PEMBORYN_QP_ABS_NOV2022.indd 1 25/10/2022 12:13 CASTLE STREET, GUILDFORD, SURREY, GU1 3UW 01483 566845 THEMADHATTERMILLINERY.COM MAD_HATTER_QP_ABS_MAY22.indd 1 21/04/2022 10:53

JOULBERRY

This platinum ring features two pear shaped diamonds on either side of a vibrant 1.04-carat teal sapphire that takes its place on centre stage. £2,900 joulberry.com

BUDREVICH

Renowned for their timeless designs and impeccable craftsmanship, Hatton Garden jewellers Budrevich bring a little bit of Bond Street to London’s historic jewellery quarter budrevich.co.uk

RACHEL BOSTON

To celebrate a decade in business, Rachel designed a collection of ten one-off rings. The unique diamond cuts and antique stones, are set in designs inspired by her trademark modern Art-Deco aesthetic. rachelboston.co.uk

SMILING ROCKS

Smiling Rocks cultivates labgrown diamonds that have all the properties of a mined stone but are much kinder to the earth smilingrocks.com

LEBRUSAN STUDIO

This vintage-inspired bespoke engagement ring boasts a bold, symmetrical structure and a large, emerald-cut centrepiece. £POA lebrusanstudio.com

Say I Do

MAREI NEW YORK

The Dorian Floating Teardrop-Shaped Engagement ing features a brilliant-cut pear-shaped royal blue natural sapphire designed to mirror a water droplet delicately held in suspension. £POA mareinewyork.com

MEADOWLARK

The Dahlia ring features a round brilliant stone surrounded by a halo of diamonds and encircled with petals, set with more diamonds. £3,846 meadowlarkjewellery.co.uk

MICHELLE OH

This London-based designer specialises in using natural gemstones to create unique alternative engagement and wedding rings for modern lovers michelle-oh.com

SHAHLA

Set low and flush to the finger, this stunning three-stone marquise engagement ring has been designed with comfort in mind. £POA shahlakarimi.com

LONDON DIAMOND & EMERALD FINE JEWELLERY

This emerald and diamond ring is a treasured heirloom piece with an emerald centre stone elevated by the surrounding diamonds. £7,450 londonde.com

From the traditional to the unconventional, we’ve found a ring to suit every love story
ABSOLUTELY magazines 101 WEDDINGS • RINGS

Opened in 1865 as Europe’s first ‘Grand Hotel’, The Langham, London has an unrivalled location at the top of Regent Street. With a history of hosting royals and aristocrats, more than 155 years later, The Langham remains a London icon where the finest events and grandest celebrations take place.

Celebrate your special day in true romantic fashion by saying “I do” in our opulent Grade II Listed Grand Ballroom, rose-filled Courtyard Garden, or elegant private dining rooms. With menus overseen by two Michelin-starred chef Michel Roux Jr, and a dedicated wedding specialist to guide you every step of the way, we shall ensure your life together begins on the perfect note.

1c Portland Place, Regent Street, London W1B 1JA T (44) 020 7636 1000 | tllon.weddings@langhamhotels.com langhamhotels.com/london

Your Biggest Day, The Smallest Details

HOUR Cocktail

Mediterranean Rosemary

Green

Man Wildwood Gin is the world's first spirit to be packaged in a cardboard bottle. Not world saving by itself, we admit. But if we're going to do what's right by the earth, we figured we'd do it right here, where we live, in Britain's most wooded county. Enjoy top notes of fresh pine, birch leaf and fir which give way to a herbal mid-palate of rose hips and apple with a woody, rooty finish, paired perfectly with the fresh and herbaceous notes of Fever Tree Mediterranean Tonic.

INGREDIENTS

• Cubed ice

• 50ml of Greenman Wildwood Gin

• 150ml of Fever Tree Mediterranean Tonic

• A sprig of Rosemary

METHOD

In a tall glass, and plenty of ice, 50ml of Greenman Wildwood Gin layered with 150ml of Fever Tree Mediterranean Tonic and garnish with a sprig of Rosemary to enhance the forest floor flavours.

Green Man Wildwood Gin is available for purchase directly from Silent Pool for £30

Grapefruit & Pink Pepper

Rare Citrus is an innovative and alluring gin handcra ed with the world’s rarest citrus.

balances bright and zesty notes of Buddha’s Hand with enticingly rich notes of Natsu Dai Dai, subtly sweetened with Hirado Buntan with aromatic spice, perfectly paired with London Essence Pomelo and Pink Peppercorn Tonic, creating Fresh, zingy and deliciously fragrant G&T. This citrus infused gin is best served with seafood.

INGREDIENTS

• Cubed ice

• 50ml of Silent Pool Rare Citrus Gin

• 150ml of London Essence Pomelo and Pink Bergamot Tonic

• A slice of grapefruit

METHOD

In a copa glass, and plenty of ice, 50ml of Rare Citrus Gin layered with 150ml of London Essence Pomelo and Pink Bergamot Tonic. Garnish with a slice of grapefruit. Silent Pool Rare Citrus is available for purchase directly from Silent Pool for £39.50.

Grapefruit, Bergamot and Orange Silent Pool Gin is a luxury English gin handcra ed with 24 botanicals in the Surrey Hills. Full-bodied and fresh with clarity and depth of flavour. A rich, juniperdriven spirit with floral layers of lavender and chamomile paired perfectly with a burst of citrus forward tonic, Grapefruit & Bergamot from Franklin and Sons. This gin is best served with cucumber sandwiches or smoked cheese. INGREDIENTS • Cubed ice • 50ml of Silent Pool Gin • 150ml of Franklin and Sons • Grapefruit & Bergamot Tonic • Silent Pool Gin’s Aromatic Liquid Garnish of Bergamot Orange or a slice of orange. METHOD In a copa glass, and plenty of ice, 50ml of Silent Pool Gin, layered with 150ml of Franklin and Sons Grapefruit & Bergamot Tonic and garnished with SilentPool Gin’s Aromatic Liquid Garnish of Bergamot Orange or a slice of orange. Silent Pool Gin is available for purchase directly via Silent Pool for £39.50. Three perfect wedding mixes from Silent Pool WEDDINGS • PARTNERSHIP 103ABSOLUTELY magazines
Silent Pool
Expertly

ROMANCE

Storrs Hall is a beautiful and unique destination wedding destination – arguably one of the most spectacular venues in the Lake District, if not the whole of the UK.

It's rarer than you'd think to find such a strikingly elegant building, with private and peaceful lake frontage, in the Lake District. The Grade II* listed building is wrapped in 17 acres of grounds and enjoys miles of spectacular views both north and south.

The venue o ers six licenced ceremony spaces, three indoors and three outside. Inside, the main hall the Drawing Room, Study, and Private Dining Room are all licenced for ceremonies to suit parties of any size. So too are the outdoor areas, and guests can

choose from the South lawn, Garden Pavilion, and Boathouse Terrace. All of these settings have beautiful lake view backdrops, which are perfect for photos.

Storrs Hall is easily accessible, being just thirty minutes from junction 36 of the M6, and two miles south of Bowness on Windermere. The team have a list of activity providers who can introduce you to any adventure activity you’d like to try – and they also have their own beautiful Vintage Thames Slipperlaunch for private skippered cruises on Windermere.

Storrs Hall o ers extensive private parking, and eight VendElectric EV charging points. Helicopter landing is available on the south lawn, which is perfect for any dramatic entrances and exits.

105 WEDDINGS • PARTNERSHIP
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storrshall.com WEDDINGS • PARTNERSHIP
Storrs Hall is the wedding venue that has it all
LAKESIDE

DREAM

SCENES

Three of the best venues from Country House Weddings

ST AUDRIES PARK

Nestled between the rolling Quantock hills and the glorious Somerset coastline, St Audries Park wows with its Victorian Orangery and awe-inspiring Banquet Hall.

This exclusive-use wedding venue, which allows couples, and their guests, access to the entire venue throughout their day, boasts a rich history which is evident as you walk around. A winding driveway leads to a dramatic Gothic entrance, and once inside you’ll find an imposing feature fireplace, ornate solid-oak, hand-carved dining table, a gilded drawing room with baby grand piano, and ornate ceilings.

This stunning venue o ers a peaceful ambience and elegant retreat for couples wanting to get married in Somerset. There is a 100-acre deer park enveloping the grounds, breath-taking views, and well-manicured grounds, maintained all year round. The panoramic views stretch as far as the Bristol Channel.

St Audries can accommodate 130 day guests, up to 250 evening guests, and has overnight accommodation for over 100.

GOSFIELD HALL

Former Royal Palace Gosfield Hall in Essex exudes charm from its historic rooms with ornate details and period features. Oak-panelled walls, extravagant ceilings and cosy furnishings create an exquisite setting that will make your day extra special whether you choose to marry inside or outside.

Couples and their guests get exclusive use of the 16th century venue and its 10 acres of manicured lawns, gardens and parkland, to ensure their big day is special to them.

There are a number of choices for your ceremony, including Queen Charlotte’s Gallery boasting a 120-footlong aisle, The Grand Salon with high hand-painted ceiling and double-height sash windows, and the Outer Courtyard, to enjoy a lovely outdoor ceremony.

This immaculate venue has capacity for 116 day guests and up to 250 evening guests, plus there are 23 period bedroom suites. The Yewtree Cottage is also available to the wedding party the night before as well, and total capacity for night before accommodation is 30.

CLEARWELL CASTLE

Clearwell Castle o ers romance and enchantment in Gloucestershire's Forest of Dean. Surrounded by 20 acres of grounds, it is the perfect setting for your fairytale wedding.

This impressive castle has a sweeping tree-lined driveway and o ers grand reception rooms, two well-stocked bars and di erent ceremony options. Choose to be married in The Ballroom with an elegant 75-foot long golden aisle or immerse yourself in the beauty of the grounds with Clearwell Castle as your backdrop by getting married in the Bandstand – perfect for spring and summer weddings.

You and your guests will have exclusive use of the castle for your wedding ceremony and wedding celebrations. Clearwell Castle can accommodate 150 day guests, up to 250 evening guests and can provide overnight accommodation for 79 guests. A night-before party facility is available if you’d like to make your wedding into a two-day extravaganza, complete with private bar, restaurant and 24 rooms.

COUNTRY HOUSE WEDDINGS countryhouseweddings.co.uk

106 ABSOLUTELY magazines
WEDDINGS • VENUES
GOSFIELD HALL CLEARWELL CASTLE ST AUDRIES PARK
THE WALLED GARDEN AT COWDRAY WEDDINGS - CEREMONIES - EVENTS www.cowdray.co.uk Tel: 01730 814522 | walledgarden@cowdray.co.uk Riverground Stables, Cowdray Park, Midhurst, West Sussex, GU29 9AL

Grand

The Langham, London first opened in 1865 and occupies an unrivalled location at the top of Regent Street. With a history of hosting royals and aristocrats, more than 150 years later, The Langham remains a London icon where the finest events and grandest celebrations take place.

Because every wedding is unique, The Langham o ers a selection of luxurious event spaces, including stunning private dining rooms, not to mention a restaurant and a glorious pub that can all be privatised. The Grand Ballroom is a luxurious and elegant space that has been the cornerstone of The Langham since its opening. It boasts hand-blown Murano Glass chandeliers and dramatic renaissance pillars, providing the perfect setting for a ceremony and dinner dance for up to 200 guests. In the warmer months, you can take advantage of the Courtyard Garden, a hidden oasis that is one of the oldest private gardens in the West End and can entertain up to 200 people.

Whether you seek an intimate candlelit dinner with family or a sustainable and casual a air with your nearest and dearest, the team at the Langham would be delighted to play a part in your most important day. The wedding menus have been carefully crafted in collaboration with renowned chef Michel Roux Jr. They can be adjusted to cater for specific dietary requirements and are sure to delight any palate.

One of the many joys of celebrating your wedding at The Langham is the ability to extend your festivities so that they last the whole weekend. With 380 stylishly

appointed bedrooms and suites, you can surround yourself with close friends and family for some pre-ceremony pampering, and dance until the early hours with your luxurious bed only a lift away. For guests staying in Executive rooms and suites, The Langham Club will prove to be a delightful ‘home away from home’ and o ers a host of complimentary services.

The Langham’s wedding specialists are on hand to help you as little or as much as you wish throughout the planning process.

Comprehensive wedding packages are available that will include all the essential elements to make your special day one that will be remembered for years to come.

From the first show round to right up until the last guest turns in, the team at The Langham, London will ensure your wedding is a flawless and spectacular occasion.

108 ABSOLUTELY magazines
THE LANGHAM LONDON For appointments and enquiries; 44 (20) 7636 1000 tllon.weddings@langhamhotels.com ABSOLUTELY magazines 108 WEDDINGS • PARTNERSHIP Celebrate in luxury at Europe's first 'Grand Hotel' The Langham, London AFFAIR
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 Elope, (Just you two). Celebrate with your Friends and Family. Follow us on storrshall storrs_hall © Copyright Skylark Aerial Photography WEDDINGS AT STORRS HALL

The Walled Garden at Cowdray is a historic and charming setting for weddings and celebrations. The venue is surrounded by beautiful private gardens and set against the stunning backdrop of Cowdray Ruins. This hidden gem consists of two spacious reception rooms and a first-floor dressing room. At its centre is a flourishing walled garden featuring many floral delights including lavender, roses and cherry trees.

The space is licensed for both indoor and outdoor ceremonies, so couples can choose whether they want to exchange their vows inside or outside. You could stand underneath a wooden pergola in the beautiful garden, or in the comfort of one of the venue's charming reception rooms.

The Castle Room and the Courtyard Room, with their high-ceilinged spaces and

muted colour scheme, are light and airy and provide the perfect blank canvas for your wedding. The Castle and Courtyard Rooms can accommodate a total of 100 guests seated and up to 130 for receptions.

Upstairs the newly refurbished bridal suite is the perfect place for the bride to get ready surrounded by friends and family. With panoramic views over the garden and plenty of natural light, the bridal suite is available exclusively on the day of your wedding. The gardens and the nearby Cowdray Ruins also provide a beautiful setting for wedding photographs.

The events team is on hand to help couples create their perfect day. Cowdray o ers a range of carefully chosen topquality caterers and suppliers to choose from who are experienced in a variety of events ranging from intimate gatherings to large banquets. Cowdray's trusted partners will ensure that your wedding day is one to cherish forever.

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COWDRAY Cowdray Park, Midhurst GU29 0AQ 01730 812423 cowdray.co.uk
GARDEN PARTY
The Walled Garden at Cowdray is an enchanting and versatile event space, whatever the season
THE CASTLE ROOM RECEPTION AREA THE WALLED GARDEN OUTDOOR CEREMONY AREA WEDDINGS • PARTNERSHIP
Classic Car Hire is a privately owned chauffeur company To book a car for your special day or to arrange to view our fleet, please call us on 020 8398 8304 or email us at info@ucchire.com www.ucchire.com #ucchire Showroom Address:Woodhall Barnes, Hungry Hill Lane, Send, Surrey, GU23 7LG daphne_stephenson www.daphne-stephenson.com 07799431680 Luxury Silk Designer Scarves 20% o £185 inc. p&p DAPHNE_STEPHENSON_ART_ABS_NOV2022_v3.indd 1 27/10/2022 20:57 DRAPERS_ABS_NOV22_v4.indd 1 28/10/2022 10:57

Magic CASTLE

Why Hever Castle is a venue to suit all wedding dreams

and can also be extended for your drinks reception, and guests will be able to take in the views from the stone piazza complete with their very own Trevi inspired fountain.

hether it’s the stately grandeur of the castle itself, the country house atmosphere of The Astor Wing or the stunning lakeside location of The Italian Garden, Hever Castle o ers a wedding venue to suit all your wedding-day dreams.

The Astor Wing dates back to 1903, created in Tudor style by then owner, William Waldorf Astor. O ering peace and tranquillity, the Astor Wing is an exclusive-use venue in one of the most historic and beautiful settings in England. The oak-panelled Tudor Suite Sitting Room overlooks the castle and Tudor Lawns and provides a stunning location for an intimate ceremony with 25 to 60 guests.

Reception drinks are served in The Music Room, or, weather permitting, on the Tudor Suite Terrace overlooking the croquet lawn and moat. The Tudor Suite Dining Room,

Wwith its intricately carved oak panelling and a magnificent fireplace, can host a wedding breakfast for up to 60 guests.

Summer months see the award-winning Italian Garden come to life as weddings take place under the beautiful arched columns of the Italian Loggia overlooking the 38acre lake. This magical lakeside location accommodates between 70 – 180 guests

Extensively refurbished in the Palladian style, the vaulted ceilings and full-length arched windows make for a light and airy atmosphere with a romantic backdrop of the lake and gardens. With a license until 1.00 am, the Guthrie Pavilion is also suitable for eveningreceptions and discos or live bands to round o your special day.

Another recent addition to the wedding opportunities at Hever Castle is a versatile stretch tent marquee that looks stylish and elegant on the Winter Garden Lawn and has views across the moat to the castle.

The sta at Hever Castle will help make sure your day runs smoothly. The experienced and friendly wedding planners are always on hand to guide you through your wedding journey. The castle's caterers are renowned for their impeccable standards of cuisine. Kent o ers an abundance of local and seasonal produce, which are incorporated into the menus by a skilled team of chefs.

HEVER CASTLE

To learn more call 01732 861 800, email weddings@hevercastle.co.uk or visit; hevercastle.co.uk

113 WEDDINGS • PARTNERSHIP
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PHOTO: VICTORIA GREEN PHOTO: TERI VINCENT THE TUDOR SUITE DINING ROOM HEVER CASTLE THE LAKESIDE ITALIAN LOGGIA

Meadow BLOOMS

Set in 240 acres of idyllic parkland and just 45 minutes from London, Coworth Park o ers the ultimate bespoke weddings in the English countryside. Coworth Park is ideally suited to those seeking a truly memorable and romantic setting for their special day, with its beautiful wildflower meadow providing an especially breathtaking backdrop for ceremonies and wedding photography.

Coworth Park can accommodate any size of party, from a small intimate gathering to a lavish reception for 100 people. For those couples looking for an additional level of privacy, or wanting to host a larger celebration, exclusive hire is also an option.

For smaller ceremonies, guests can wed in the Dower House, the private house situated on Coworth Park's estate. The Dower House has its own dining room, sitting room, kitchen and a secluded

garden overlooking the lake that is home to Coworth Park’s family of swans.

From walking down an aisle of wildflowers outdoors, to a grand celebration in the magnificent Oval Room, there’s something charming and unique available to create the perfect countryside wedding for every couple. There are a number of beautiful churches in close proximity to Coworth Park, allowing couples to have options for a traditional church ceremony.

The eco-luxury Spa at Coworth Park guarantees that the wedding party looks radiant on their special day, while a jog around the sprawling estate can calm any pre-nuptial nerves. Guests can also enjoy a swim in the indoor pool or even a quick round of golf at neighbouring Wentworth

Flowers are integral to any wedding ceremony and only the best are provided at Coworth Park. From the initial brief to the special day, Lavender Green work with the couple to ensure their ideas are brought to life in the most spectacular way.

Whether it’s a small or large ceremony, or a lavish or paired-back reception, Coworth Park o ers a remarkable setting for couples to begin their journey into married life.

COWORTH PARK

Blacknest Road, Ascot Berkshire SL5 7SE

dorchestercollection.com

ABSOLUTELY magazines 115
Set in beautiful Berkshire Coworth Park evokes the timeless romance of the English countryside
THE DOWER HOUSE THE OVAL ROOM WEDDINGS • PARTNERSHIP
BOOK AN APPOINTMENT TO VISIT OUR LUXURY LIFESTYLE SHOWROOM UXBRIDGE ROAD HATCH END MIDDLESEX HA5 4JS | 020 8421 1779 WWW.CHAPLINS.CO.UK
INTERIORS Interior Inspirations 118 • House Tour 124 • Henry Holland's Lighting 140 OFF THE WALL TEMPERLEY FOR ANTHROPOLOGIE An exclusive range of fashion and homewares by Alice Temperley for Anthropologie includes these beautiful printed pillows, designed to create a luxe, bohemian feel. anthropologie.com 117ABSOLUTELY magazines

NOTES INTERIORS

Ideas, designs and styles for your home

PRETTY

G REEN

A palette of 11 new paint shades has joined the fold at Farrow and Ball, and they range from the subtle to the bold. Pictured is Beverley, a joyful green that we think is perfect for a kitchen, while new neutral Stirabout – named for an Irish porridge – has already gained lots of attention for its intriguingly warm hue.

farrow-ball.com

COLOUR WAYS

Eva Sonaike's new Kano collection interprets intricate motifs from the Hausa buildings in Nigeria's Kano into an elegant collection of cushions, lampshades and wallpaper that fuses cultural heritage with contemporary design. evasonaike.com

118 ABSOLUTELY magazines

DESK SPACE

BISLEY

Known for its iconic

offi

Bisley has expanded to

purveyor of

in a variety of colours. This pebble desk in plywood with hairpin legs comes in several colours, £295. bisley.com

LIGHT WORKS

BLUE GREEN WORKS

Drawing inspiration from the beach modernism of the Fire Island Pines resort of New Yorks Long Island, the Palm pendant combines hand-rolled,

glass and

machined steel or brass elements. to the metal’s strict lines. It's exclusive to SCP, £7,788 scp.co.uk

119magazines
metal
ce fi ling cabinets,
become a stylish
practical furniture for homeworkers
Advent candles TAKE FIVE
kiln-slumped
precision
ANTHROPOLOGIE Designed by Temperley exclusively for Anthropologie, this charming bedding collection is cra ed from 100% organic cotton, strewn with brand signature blooms that whisk a breath of fresh air into your boudoir. anthropologie.com
BRIGHT BLOOMS INTERIORS • NOTES IVYLINE Advent countdown candle ivylinegb.co.uk LIME LACE Round tealight holder, £59 ATELIER 38 Gold engraved advent candle, £22 limelace.co.uk atelier38.co.uk ST EVAL Red advent candle, £5.25 st-eval.com TALKING TABLES Red Christmas pillar candle, £12 talkingtables.co.uk holder, £59
*Promotion valid online and in-store until Tuesday 31st January 2023. Offer not valid with any other discount codes or clearance lines.

THE COUCH

PICK
ON
All the best sofas for sinking in to INTERIORS • TREND LIGNE ROSET Souffl ot Sofa, from £3,436 ligne-roset-westend.co.uk SOFAS AND STUFF Velvet Helmsley Snuggle, £2,509 sofasandstuff.com ERCOL Forli Chaise, £3,615 ercol.com MADE Scott sofa, £1,500 made.com DANIEL SCHOFIELD Dover sofa, from £5,322 scp.co.uk BORNALDO Saddle sofa, £3,090 gomodern.co.uk ROSE & GREY Harry Chesterfi eld Sofa, from £2,125 roseandgrey.com LOAF Squisharoo sofa, £1,445 loaf.com PIET HEIN EEK Home sofa, from £7,309 scp.co.uk SNUG The Rebel 3 Seater Sofa, £1,429 snugsofa.com JONATHAN ADLER Ether Cloud Settee, £3,320 sweetpeaandwillow.com THE CONRAN SHOP Sereno sofa, from £2,985 theconranshop.co.uk SOFA.COM Snowdrop Button Back 2.5 Seat Sofa, £1,540 sofa.com

PERIOD

This full renovation and restoration of a large Arts and Crafts period home in Hampstead Garden Suburb is an excellent example of an old building remodelled for contemporary use. In redesigning and expanding the floors, Robert Hirschfield Architects haven’t just created a house with extra space – they have designed a home that intelligently and emotionally connects all the way through.

Looking to take advantage of the change in level from street to garden and the magnificent backdrop of the woodland at the end of the site, the architects opened the house up to encourage the family to make better use of the under-utilised lower ground floor, which opens out onto the rear

garden. “To better enjoy this level, we excavated down to create more generous floor to ceiling heights,” says Robert Hirschfield, “and introduced a double-height space in the dining area, up towards the ground floor, to allow for better connection across the two levels.” The large, diagonal bay window was an original feature of the building that had previously looked down the centre of the garden, until a neighbouring house was built in close proximity. “We restored the majesty of this architectural feature by pulling back the ground floor at this point,” says Hirschfield, “creating a double-height window. Those enjoying this feature at lower ground level are enveloped by the banquette, with a backdrop of greenery seen through the windows.”

The view from the ground floor is now farreaching across the garden’s woodland and tree canopy. “We wanted to encourage the use of the lower ground floor and reconfigured the home to create more space downstairs,” says Hirschfield. The kitchen and dining area have both been relocated into one open-plan space, which sits alongside the snug TV room located below

LIVING

How this Arts and Crafts house was transformed into a contemporary home

125ABSOLUTELY magazines INTERIORS • HOUSE TOUR
Words PEARL BOYD Photography LEIGH SIMPSON

the new study, and internal glazed partitions create better connections between the floors. The ground floor living room was enlarged and panelled to create both period detailing and space. Painted timber shutters can be closed o to give a sense of privacy, and in keeping with the traditional Arts and Crafts style, the use of timber lends a handcrafted quality throughout the project. Internal doors were remade as interpretations of the existing period panel doors. Three new staircases run through the home, all of which work independently of each other. “These were designed to create more leisurely movement around the house and encourage the user to pause at the end of one flight of steps before going on to the next one,” says Hirschfield. Each staircase was designed with something specific in mind. The wide new staircase on the axis with the front door at ground floor level deliberately looks to draw the user downstairs to the new living space on the lower ground floor, while the staircase in the middle of the home is more playful and adorned with colourful bookshelves. Its slatted bannister and open treads allow more natural light to pass through. The third staircase continues the slatted theme, but o ers a more functional under-carriage incorporating storage below. All three staircases use the same olive ash timber, allowing for a common sympathetic approach in terms of their materiality.

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“Internal glazed partitions create better connections between the floors”
INTERIORS • HOUSE TOUR
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LINE

SIGHT

Exploring the linear pendant light trend with Chaplins

Over the last year we have been easing into the vogue for homes designed around our comfort, spaces created to make us calm, relaxed and content – while ticking o the good-looking box too. The contemporary home says ‘come on in’, ‘sit here,’ or ‘just do nothing for a moment’. We want our rooms to be deeply saturated with cosiness and comfort. Conjuring this mood becomes all the more challenging-yet-important in the depths of winter, the dark nights having a noticeably negative e ect on how we feel.

The key to a welcoming atmosphere is lighting. Imagine walking in from a long, cold day into a room lit with warm, rich, inviting brightness and it’s easy to envisage the e ect: shoulders dropping and spirits soaring.

The lighting designs shepherding us through the lengthening nights are based around simplicity and linearity, pendants made from elegant, slimline forms that range from the calligraphic – twisting and turning in mid-air – to the steadfastly straightened. Such considered minimalism creates a gentle glow, not the main source of light, but the finishing touch adding ambiance and setting the tone.

The Oneline pendant by artist Kasper Friis Kjeldgaard for Fritz Hansen is a sleek slash of brightness which rotates 360 degrees to cast light in any direction. “Creating something that appears simple is always the most complex,” says Kasper. At the other end of the linear spectrum is Cattelan Italia’s Nahun lamp by Studio Kronos, which seems almost typographical in its form. Its outer LED strip alight with an inconspicuous, di used glow ideal for a subtle dash of brightness. Lodes’s Elara pendant by Nika Zupanc is a pair of ultra-delicate rings, the loops silently interacting with and orbiting each other, while the Gravity Chandelier

by Paul Cocksedge for Moooi is made up of elegant flexible arms which fall naturally in flowing curves, the shapes defined by where its glass shades are positioned, the most modern and minimal of chandeliers.

Turned o , these contemporary pieces enrich spaces with their ornamental beauty, but it’s when switches are flicked that the true power is revealed. A room gently draped in an enriching, warm radiance is an invitation to hang up your coat, take your shoes o , and exhale. The right lighting soothes the soul, forming instant feelings of cosiness and turning the entire home into a luminous anti-winter den.

For the latest in lighting, visit chaplins.co.uk

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ONELINE PENDANT BY FRITZ HANSEN, FROM £727 NAHUN CEILING LAMP BY CATTELAN ITALIA, FROM £952 ELARA PENDANT LIGHT BY LODES, FROM £855
“Imagine walking in from a long, cold day into a room lit with warm, rich brightness”
OF

Handcrafted with CHARACTER & SOUL

One of the most important things to consider when designing your interior is how you want your space to feel. Whether a quiet moment alone, relaxing together with loved ones, or the unbridled joy of life’s celebrations, Timothy Oulton’s use of beautiful materials, finishes, forms and craftsmanship techniques connect deeply through the senses and through stories of meaning.

Having begun his career in the antiques industry, Tim Oulton launched his furniture company in 2008, marrying his love of traditional handcraftsmanship and timeless design with a creative quest for innovation. Materials are always the starting point for every new design and the team scours the globe in search of new and authentic materials. Aniline leathers are brought in from Brazil and Argentina, sheepskin from New Zealand, marble from Italy, rock crystal from Madagascar, and centuryold reclaimed timber from England.

“We’re not purely a design company per se”, explains creative director Oliver Oulton. “It’s more than that, it’s about the craftsmanship, the materials, the story. We feel a material in our hands first and the shape comes later.” Every Timothy Oulton piece is meticulously made by hand using time-honoured techniques such as handcarving, traditional joinery and hand-tufting.

The company is renowned for its signature aniline-dyed leathers, which undergo several stages of complex handfinishing to achieve their distinctive look and hand-feel. Only a select group of tanners are skilled and experienced enough to apply the centuries-old techniques.

This exceptional craftsmanship is exemplified in the Westminster sofa, a classic chesterfield remastered for the modern day in an exciting range of hand-distressed leathers and exotic velvets. For the ultimate bliss-out, the Noble Souls modular sofa collection o ers disarming comfort and softness, filled with the purest of goose down feathers and swathed in organic vegetable-dyed linens in a range of shades.

To experience Timothy Oulton’s character-filled furniture, lighting, and home accessories, visit its London galleries and experience a world of comfort, creativity, and personality-rich design.

TIMOTHY OULTON

Discover more at the flagship gallery on the King's Road, or visit the brand’s other London locations on Tottenham Court Road or Liverpool Street timothyoulton.com

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It’s all unexpected contrasts and unusual materials at Timothy Oulton
“Every piece is meticulously made by hand using time-honoured techniques”
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COSY THIS

Update your home with furniture and accessories from Holloways of Ludlow

For over 30 years Holloways of Ludlow have been supplying the UK with some of the world’s best designer lighting and furniture. From ambient indoor lighting and luxurious throws to sofas to snuggle on, at Holloways of Ludlow you'll find everything you need for a cosy winter season.

This year more than ever, it’s important to create a warm, welcoming atmosphere in our homes, and one of the best ways to do that is with quality seating. A modular sofa, like the Quilton by HAY, acts as a central platform for working, socialising and relaxing. With generous dimensions, sculpted forms, and bold and classic textile options, the Quilton was designed for exceptional comfort and versatility. Pair it with a classic lambswool throw by Scottish designer

William McNutt in a contrasting colour for an added dose of style and warmth.

Another outstanding modular option is HAY’s Mags Sofa (currently with 20% o ). Featuring rounded edges and sumptuously soft cushions, the Mags has a low frame and deep seats that give an inviting feel you’ll instantly want to relax into. Whether you need a 2.5 seater, 3 seater or corner sofa, the Mags o ers a timeless contemporary style that will complement virtually any interior. Buttery smooth textiles in classic colours seal the deal, and the addition of a cushion like the Knot by Design House Stockholm add visual interest and a comforting touch.

For those looking for a warming companion, why not add some light to your evenings? The IC Floor Light by Flos balances a glowing orb on its delicate frame o ering the impression of a moon hanging in the night - a striking

minimalist option for any contemporary interior. Or for those looking for a light that can set the mood wherever you happen to be, the Muse Portable Lamp by Tala is a standout piece. An elegant nod to the British pleasure garden of old, the Muse is perfect for everything from late night reading to romantic dinners, and can be easily transported from room to room. Rechargeable with a USB cable, this space and energysaving option is a winter must-have.

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HOLLOWAYS OF LUDLOW Brook Green - Wimbledon Village - Bermondsey hollowaysofludlow.com QUILTON
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134 ABSOLUTELY magazines HOUSE STYLE

House of Hackney’s bold prints adorn a new collection of homewares for Anthropologie

House of Hackney is known for its bold prints, spanning the iconic palm print, lots of large-scale florals and unusual designs featuring dinosaurs, landscapes and botanicals. The repertoire includes countless colourways and the House of Hackney look is a maximalist approach to pattern, with rooms featuring strong printed wallpaper, curtains and upholstery in a firm anti-minimalist style.

Founded by husband and wife team Frieda Gormley and Javvy M Role in 2010, House of Hackney has now grown to become a community of artists, designers, producers

and collaborators from around the world. The flagship concept space of St Michaels in the City of London is its central hub, designed to be a melting pot of creativity and experimentation, both physically and virtually, visitors can immerse themselves in the iconic prints, colours and textures that House of Hackney are renowned for.

But now the brand has, for the first time, teamed up with Anthropologie to create an exclusive collection of homewares and accessories. It explores both brand’s love of bringing the outdoors, in, through adventurous prints, colours and fabrics, all with a luxury feel. This has culminated in a collection of lovingly crafted products designed to become ‘future heirlooms’.

The collection includes dinnerware

and tabletop, spun in elements of animal print, ornate detailing and subtle iconic House of Hackney features. Giving traditional styles a bespoke modern twist, these pieces are perfect for creating the perfect laden dinner setting.

Boudoir accessories also run through the collection, cut from a mix of soft velvets, jacquard and silk. In rich jewel tones, find matching throws, quilts and bedding with quintessentially English countryside inspired floral prints. Extend the glamour into your bathroom with the range of towels, shower curtains, bath mats and more.

This collection contains 48 pieces, ranging from a wrap roll priced at £8, to a large quilt at £328. Frieda Gormley says: “At House of Hackney we believe that there are no rules when designing your home. We have always encourageed our customers to build homes where they can be themselves, and surround themselves with objects that bring them joy, and most importantly, grow with them, hopefully being passed down through generations to come. We can’t wait to see how Anthropologie’s customer receives the collection and how they weave House of Hackney throughout their homes.”

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INTERIORS • STYLE
anthropologie.com

Action from

every angle. Turn every sporting moment into an epic event with Beosound Theatre, a game changing soundbar that delivers crisp spatial sound and jaw dropping bass. Add Beolab 28 to the rear with a £1200 discount, and enjoy a fully immersive surround experience. *Offer applies to a purchase of any variant of Beosound Theatre together with Beolab 28 set Originally Beolab 28 set RCP from £10,900 Now Beolab 28 Campaign RCP from £9,700 Offer valid from October 15, 2022 December 31, 2022 in participating Bang & Olufsen stores Subject to availability Cannot be combined with other promotions This offer is non transferable non assignable and cannot be converted to cash or a cash discount Price excludes installation Offer valid in participating Bang & Olufsen stores and bang olufsen com Bang and Olufsen of Ealing 17 Bond Street, London, W5 5AP Tel & WhatsApp: 020 8840 1010 Beosound Theatre Beolab 28

Case STUDY

The iconic Zenit shelving system was first designed by Giuseppe Bavuso 25 years ago and still remains faithful to its original design today. This enduring relevance is thanks to its ability to embody Rimadesio's founding values: technological innovation, stylistic research, and ecological awareness. Precision, reliability, and functionality are just some of the main advantages that make Zenit a unique and distinctive product. With the Zenit, Rimadesio innovated the "upright bookcase" and while the design has been enriched with numerous variations over time, many of the key components have remained the same, and so has its position as a consistent best-seller within the collection.

Its versatility makes it perfect for displaying and storing items in both domestic and professional spaces, as it is capable of being transformed from a bookcase with storage elements, to a TV stand, or an equipped walk-in closet. The system uses an exclusive hooking system that guarantees maximum structural solidity and allows you to level every element.

The uprights are able to be fixed from the floor or the ceiling and are always made to measure, which allows for the possibility of free arrangement of the equipment and modification as desired. The Zenit is o ered in a variety of finishes, from glass to wood and aluminium which allows for easy stylistic integration into any environment.

Moreover, like all Rimadesio products, the Zenit system is made in accordance with the principles of safeguarding the environment

and its resources. The Zenit is made using 100% recyclable glass and aluminium and these materials are actively recovered in the production cycle. It is finished using Rimadesio's exclusive Ecolorsystem* range of lacquers that are composed purely of water-based paints, which guarantees the total absence of harmful substances.

Rimadesio’s packaging is made using only recycled materials and any waste that is produced is mechanically compressed and sent to neighbouring paper mills to be turned into high-quality recycled paper. The Zenit system itself can also be completely disassembled at the end of its life, which ensures that each component is properly recycled, in compliance with international standards on environmental protection.

rimadesio.it/en

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“The iconic Zenit shelving system remains faithful to its original design”
INTERIORS • PARTNERSHIP
How Rimadesio’s sustainable Zenit bookcase stood the test of time
312 UPPER RICHMOND ROAD WEST, EAST SHEEN, RICHMOND, LONDON, SW14 7JN TEL / FAX: 020 8876 0070 • INFO@RUGSTOREONLINE.CO.UK WWW.RUGSTOREONLINE.CO.UK When it comes to choosing the right carpets and rugs for your home and office spaces you can rely on us RUG_STORE_ABS_OCT2022_REDESIGN.indd 1 27/10/2022 20:38

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EDITOR’S PICK ABSOLUTELY magazines
OVER A look at the loveliest ceramics of the moment INTERIORS • TREND 139
KANEKO FOR SCP Terracotta jug, £85 scp.co.uk
AND COOK Petunia dinner plate, £18 quinceandcook.co.uk
LIVING 70s bowl on foot,
nordicnest.com HOUSE OF HACKNEY Dessert plate, £16 anthropologie.com
& WILLOW Orca jug, £35 sweetpeaandwillow.com MARIMEKKO Karhuemo Mug, £14 marimekko.com ARIANNA DE LUCA Exclusive vases, from £85 conranshop.co.uk THE CURIOUS DEPARTMENT Insect Mandala Tea Cup and Saucer,
thecuriousdepart-
COX & COX Ribbed stoneware vase, £60 coxandcox.co.uk MICUCCI INTERIORS Folkifunki Grimace vase, £590 micucci.co.uk
Terracotta Vase
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heavenlyhomesandgardens.co.uk VAISSELLE Jughead jug, £90 conranshop.co.uk REX LONDON Moorish Cinnamon fl ower plate, £8.95 rexlondon.com
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Lighten

This new collection of ceramic pieces was hand-built in Hackney by Henry Holland and his small team of ceramicists. As an extension of his signature nerikomi technique, a process of stacking di erent coloured clays on top of each other, Holland designed his first capsule of floor and table lights that brings this look to a new area.

“Lighting felt like an exciting next step for us at the studio, moving our ceramic work on to something quite unexpected for the home” he explains. “I started to explore what a Henry Holland Studio lamp could look like by combining existing shapes and forms in the main ceramics collection, drawing from our vases, dinnerware and planters and building new silhouettes for each base.”

The fashion designer launched his first ceramics collection during the pandemic and the new lamps sit alongside a collection of plates, bowls and vessels. “My aim was to create pieces with dramatic scale

that would become central talking-point pieces for a room. As with all of our other collections, it was important for us to retain our process of working with artisanal makers in the UK and so we worked with a frame maker, furniture designer and lampshade maker to create all of the various elements by hand. Working with numerous processes on a single piece really reminded me of the work involved in making fashion pieces, with a team of creative skill sets all coming together to create the final designs.”

The table lamp base is based on the idea of stacking balls. “I’ve always been a fan of the bobbin technique used in wooden furniture and I started toying with the idea of creating ceramic spheres that would stack - like an abacus - over a solid oak frame to form the base of the lamp and create a similar silhouette. Instead of uniformity however, I’ve mixed di erent sizes here which I think gives this a unique profile and makes a strong stand-alone statement.”

A similar technique was used to create a side table. “Admittedly this isn’t lighting but I got carried away when designing

and thought that the ceramic lamp bases could translate very well as side table. It was an experiment, but one that I’m excited to explore further as we look to develop what other furniture pieces we could potentially create in the future.”

A range of ceramic lamps create a di erent kind of light from the glow of a linen lampshade. “These slender ceramic lamps are designed to cast light upwards on walls and ceilings, and to give a contrast to the wider shade designs in the collection which take up a bit more space. Made entirely of ceramic, I picture these pieces at either side of a bed to create a relaxed lighting scheme when turned on, but also to act as interesting sculptures when not in use.”

And the collection’s largest piece is a floor lamp. “The big boy. I love the impact of this lamp and that it can just stand on its own as a piece of sculpture within a space. The irregularity of the di erent shaped marbled spheres draws the eye and the bespoke linen shade reflects the curvaceous profile while casting a relaxing, warming glow. The ceramic glaze also reflects the light beautifully.”

The collection is available exclusively at henryhollandstudio.com and Sister by Studio Ashby.

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INTERIORS • DESIGN
Henry Holland moves further into homeware with a new collection of lamps
UP
HENRY HOLLAND
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BACK TO BASICS

In need of a home revamp? Try Cult Furniture

Interior transformations don’t have to be grand a airs. If you’re in need of a home revamp ahead of those long cosy evenings, but are worried about budgeting this winter, Cult’s got the answer. Every day can be an add-to-cart day, with the new Essentials Collection. This range of designer-inspired dining sets, compact furniture, lighting and home accessories is curated for those who need a cost-e ective way to add a splash of style to their homes. With prices starting from only £29 you can start saving on designs that are far from basic.

A great way to add some instant wow factor is with statement dining chairs. The Rayner Scandi-inspired dining chair (from £59) is a great example and is available in a range of fabrics to suit any home interior, from trendy boucle to sumptuous velvet. Perfect for adding a wallet-friendly touch to your dining room.

Bringing a luxurious focal point to your dining area is key and a table can bring all the practicality of eating together as a family, plus it acts as a place to display flowers and home accessories. First, you need to scope out the size of your dining area. The Milton range is a great go-to, with its classic mid-century style with walnut finish, it is completely timeless. Available as a four-seater (£299) or there is an extendable option that seats six to eight people (£499). For the extra savvy shopper, you’ll love the full dining set consisting of a table and four dining chairs for under £500.

If your kitchen is crying out for some love, why not inject some colour by adding some fun stools? The Regent kitchen stool range (from £49) boasts a plush padded seat and is perfect for a comfortable perch at any breakfast bar.

Adding home decor is a cheap and easy way to show some personality in your home. From rugs and lighting to art and decorative vases, you should never underestimate the power of accessorising. The Neeson rug (from £39) will elevate any living space, bedroom or home o ce.

Creating a cohesive look in your home is often overwhelming. Our top tip for picking your palette is to start with a few key colours and go from there. Then tie in home decor that matches the tones in your furniture. Have fun with texture, look for sumptuous fabrics like flu y boucle and velvet, as these will always pair well with woods, metals and even concrete, whilst bringing some warmth to the space.

The Cult Essentials range has a coste ective style to suit everyone, and with 24-hour delivery on all in-stock products, your dream home makeover is within reach. Cult’s London showroom is a great place to start, brimming with ideas to elevate your interior at a ordable prices.

showroom 811 - 813, Wandsworth Road, SW8 3JH +44 (0) 20 8150 3257

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THE
REGENT KITCHEN STOOL IN IVORY WHITE BOUCLE & BRASS, £59
THE REGENT KITCHEN STOOL WITH BACKREST IN TEAL VELVET, £69 THE RAYNER DINING CHAIR IN IVORY WHITE BOUCLE, £69
“Every day can be an add-tocart day with the new essentials collection” THE MILTON EXTENDING DINING TABLE IN WALNUT, £499 Use the code: CULTLDN online or at Cult’s showroom for a 10% discount on full price items Valid until 31 January 2023 CULT FURNITURE London
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AGE SPACE

TThe brief for this kitchen formed part of a wider brief which involved making changes to the layout of the ground floor in order to meet the needs of our client’s young family. This gave us the opportunity to create the ideal kitchen space required to meet the client’s brief for the kitchen

– both practically and aesthetically.

Our client’s aim was to create a space that would truly be the heart of their home. A welcoming place for entertaining large groups of friends, or just preparing the family’s favourite meal on a weekday evening. A space for people to gather, chat, and relax in.

To create a welcoming and relaxing space in a busy household with young children, a walk-in pantry and a large fridge freezer were ‘must-have’ items. The generously proportioned walk-in pantry

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How Kitchens by Holloways designed and built this practical and stylish family kitchen

became a defining feature of the kitchen design, providing additional worktop space to avoid cluttering up the worktops in the main kitchen. It even enabled us to include a second dishwasher for when one isn’t enough. The ovens and hob are located in a space where foot tra c never needs to cross the cook’s work space.

Our clients like to cook on a gas hob, so we recommended Miele’s flush-fitting gas hob so that it could be integrated into the island worktop without detracting from the overall look. E ective extraction is important when cooking with gas, so we installed a flushfitting ceiling extractor from Westin which is powerful but unobtrusive.

There are seating options for all occasions, whether it’s dinner around the table, a friend stopping buy for co ee and a chat, or the family sitting together to read or do homework.

Our clients style appointed Elizabeth McFarlane from MacFarlane Van Der Heul as their interior designer. Elizabeth developed an initial palette of colours, materials and textures which we were able to build upon for the kitchen. A terrazzo-inspired composite stone from Caesarstone was selected for the worktops to contrast with the kitchen cabinets, which were hand painted in a mix of "Brompton Road" No.205 from Mylands and "French grey no. 162" from Little Greene. Solid oak was used for making the drawers and doors at the back of the island, and the splashback is made using patinated brass to complement the brass taps and handles. The use of these natural materials add texture, warmth and character to the overall look and feel of the kitchen.

kitchensbyholloways.com INTERIORS • KITCHEN OF THE MONTH
“A walk-in pantry and a large fridge freezer were ‘must-have’ items”

AGE OLD INSPIRATION

Top tips for timeless interiors over the holiday season

With the holiday season approaching, we start to think about how we’re going to decorate our homes. This can be a little daunting to some, particularly if like us, you’re going to be on trend and opting for a timeless look.

The traditional red and green festive tones are a great place to start. Add elements of this to your home through oversized garlands wrapped around the staircases and make sure your external doors each have a big beautiful wreath hanging on them, using red, gold and silver decoration to embellish both the garlands and wreaths. This sets the tone on entry to your home and carries it through to your hallways. In the living room, think about adding in cushions, throws, ornaments and potentially some artwork, perhaps from a young upcoming artist, in further tones of red and green to continue the story. Flourishes of ribbons, stars and tassels in gold will finish o this traditional look.

If you’re after a a Winter Wonderland look that’s a little more subtle than our first suggestion, look to incorporate neutral tones and textures inspired by nature. On your co ee table, fill a large wooden bowl with pine cones, which will deliver a beautiful subtle scent in addition to adding visual texture to your room in muted tones. For your winter throws and cushions, place a woven wicker basket next to your sofas for a stylish and functional storage solution. Decorate your

fireplace with found branches that you can hang decorations o . Finish o with scented plants, such as eucalyptus, rosemary or heather placed in wooden vessels.

Create a festive atmosphere with multiple candles placed around the rooms you’ll be using this winter. From votives, to pillar and tapered candles, you can use di erent types that cast di erent types of light across the room. Consider the bulbs in your lamps, make sure they are warm light and not cool, the warm light will create a cosy and festive atmosphere – perfect for when hosting guests or snuggling up on your sofa.

Our final design tip is to use odd numbers and multiple sized items grouped together when styling up, this is an age old interior stylists trick and it creates visual interest and draws attention to the work you have done.

As you start to plan your holiday decorations for the end of the year, keeping these tips in mind will help you create a festive atmosphere while maintaining a timeless appeal.

SARAH BARCLAY is the founder of Barclay Interiors based in Ascot –for more information, visit barclay-interiors.com

146 ABSOLUTELY magazines
“The traditional red and green festive tones are a great place to start your Christmas decorating”
INTERIORS • TRENDS
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Ease the

It’s the most wonderful time of the year... but it can be challenging. Christmas seems to get more complicated and stressful every year, so we have laid out a few digital tricks to help your day run a little smoother.

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THE DEALS

Black Friday and Cyber Monday are two of the biggest shopping events of the year. People generally fall into two camps when it comes to these discountcrazy days – they either love scanning their favourite shops for deals, or hate the days and everything about them. The end of November might seem a bit early to be buying Christmas presents, but for the forward-thinkers it’s a great time

to snap up discounted presents for the family. Just make sure you can keep them hidden for a month! Speaking of which...

OPEN SOME PRESENTS EARLY  We are not suggesting you tear through the wrapping paper and ruin the fun of Christmas morning, but some gifts can benefit from a bit of advanced planning. Have you bought a new laptop for your mum? Or maybe a PlayStation is sitting under the tree, waiting for the kids.

This kind of tech takes a while to set up, so rather than dealing with the little ones moaning all morning while the right games download, or struggling to cook Christmas dinner while simultaneously helping set up the new laptop, open them a few days early and do the set ups. You’ll thank us when you’re enjoying a relaxed Christmas morning in peace.

CALLING DISTANT RELATIVES? SCHEDULE A ZOOM

There’s no getting away from it, 25 December is a busy day. What should be a day of relaxation is usually packed with cooking, tidying up wrapping paper, watching Christmas TV and... maybe a little bit of champagne. It's the same for almost everyone, and it can seriously mess up those happy yuletide phone calls – especially if you’re calling someone who lives in a di erent time zone.

It might sound neurotic, but getting a schedule sorted in advance can make things much easier. Drop people a text or email a few days earlier letting them know you’re going to call them at a certain time to make sure you can actually get hold of them.

UPGRADE YOUR INTERNET

There’s no better time to see just how much your home would benefit from lightning-fast fibre broadband than the festive season. Worried about bu ering during your Christmas films binge or the internet slowing down when all the relatives join your Wi-Fi network? You can avoid it all by upgrading to Full Fibre broadband from Swish.

Swish's 10,000Mbps-capable broadband (*speed test taken on 28 May 2021. See SwishFibre.com for full details) is the fastest available in the UK – and to help you through the Christmas period, you can get the first six months for free when you take out an 18 month contract.

SWISH FIBRE

Make sure nothing slows your Christmas down this year. Join the world of Full Fibre and super-fast broadband by visiting SwishFibre.com

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Swish Fibre o er up four digital tips to make Christmas that little bit easier INTERIORS • PARTNERSHIP STRAIN

IX AND M ATCH

Mixing patterns within an interior scheme helps create dynamic spaces, filled with energy and textural interest. It is an interior style that many aspire to achieve, but often don’t know how to begin. There are some simple rules you can follow – start with your desired colour palette. Keeping one colour in mind, but varying the scale and intensity of it will create depth while at the same time lots of interest. Don’t be shy of piling floral on floral, as long as there is a single relating factor.

Collect samples of any fabrics that appeal to you, as many as you like, you will be surprised what you can make work together and don’t forget any existing

patterns and textures that you are going to keep in the room. Play with the fabrics in the room you are redecorating, the light will have an e ect on the impact of the fabrics so place them around the room and work out how they will make the best impact.

Combining patterns with di erent scales will help to create balance across your interiors. A good rule of thumb is to focus on one large-scale pattern, so that the focus of the room is clear. You may also want to consider a patterned rug, this can often dictate the overall feel of the room and is a great basis for layering on the pattern.

Next build smaller patterns into the room throughcushionsand throwsthat sit in areas of space to fill in the gaps.

It is also important to break up your patterns withneutralvariations or blocks of colour to give the eye a rest.

Combineweaves,printsandembroideries, and add some interestingtrimmings.

If you’re worried about your room becoming too cluttered or want to keep things feeling lightweight and fresh, start with plainpainted wallsto lift the room. Mix a small amount of patterns together across the space, using di erent designs more than once on di erent pieces. This repetition will still inject that active feeling that patterns bring to an interior, but will alsohelp to create a feeling of order that will stop it feeling overwhelmed.

Picking a theme to keep in mind as you add patterns will provide a framework to work within. As you build in confidence, you

may wish to mix themes to add interest to your space and create something truly unique. Florals and stripes work together, as docoastal themesand busy jungle patterns. Geometrics tend to work well with everything and can be slotted in here and there to add di erent shapes and scales across your room.

Adding pattern doesn’t automatically mean your space is going to be bright and overwhelming. By choosing more muted colourways and selecting softlighting for your room, you can tone down patterns to create a cosy and comfortable vibe.

Mixing patterns is a voyage of discovery that will evolve over time, and taking risks is a big part of the journey. Staying open minded to new designs and being brave to experiment with un-obvious options is key to finding the patterns that work to achieve the look you desire.

Emma Vans Agnew is the Design Director at Sussex-based F&P Interiors. Find out more at fabricsandpapers.com

When it comes to inspiring room designs, look to mix it up
M
INTERIORS • SPOTLIGHT

MOUNTAIN

TRAVEL Skiing in St. Moritz 154 • The best ski gear 157 • A weekend in New York 162
HIGH CARLTON ST. MORITZ Where better to learn to ski than in the luxurious environs of postcardperfect St. Moritz? Blue skies are almost guaranteed here, and there are winter activites galore, even for non-skieers. tschuggencollection.ch 153ABSOLUTELY magazines

PEAK LUXURY

Learning to ski as an adult isn’t easy – but skiing’s not the only thing to do in St. Moritz

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THE CARLTON, ST MORITZ

hen is it too late to learn to ski? Everyone knows that you should start young but when are you actually too old? Partly it’s just embarrassing. Especially when you’re in St. Moritz, one of the world’s oldest and most luxurious ski resorts. Everyone here can ski, of course. Even if some of them prefer not to crease the luxe skiwear purchased from boutiques that make Bond Street look a bit low rent.

Because nothing about St. Moritz is anything less than uber glamorous. We’re staying at the stylish Carlton Hotel, where people routinely order lobster (lobster in the alps!) and ask the concierge to book them “the most expensive activity, whatever it is” (it’s heli-skiing) and leave former Olympic champion ski instructors waiting for hours while they rethink their outfits. The Carlton o ers comfort and discretion at all times,

Was it has done since its inception in 1913.

I’m here to learn to ski, and the Carlton has arranged a private instructor for me, which is the only way to learn if you’re an overgrown beginner unsuited to a group of toddlers. Elisa is a pro – she grew up on skis in the Dolomites and competed at the Olympics before settling into a quieter life teaching, and she’s not only unphased by my never having skiied before, but she a ects to be impressed with my skills on day one and claims never to have seen someone start o so well. By lunchtime I’m thinking of myself as a natural talent and regretting all those wasted nonskiing years. The smug feeling lasts all evening and well into the next morning, until my strength fails on the first run, my confidence disappears and I collapse in Elisa’s arms, a failure on skis. Heroically, she carries me over the mountain so as not to miss our lunch booking, where plates of steaming spaetzle and glasses of Prosecco make up for my poor performance.

So it probably is too late. Anyway, there are lots of other things to do here. The hotel has a dedicated Outdoor Butler who’s an expert in the region and will guide guests on nature walks or take them snowshoeing, for example. He takes us on an unforgettable torchlit midnight hike – and by torch he means the fire kind – where we follow him to a frozen lake, blow out the torches and look at the stars in total mountain darkness. The next day, we head to another frozen lake with the aim of immersing ourselves in it, thanks to a small square cut in the ice. It’s all in the breathing, we’re told, though the actual immersion proves a step too far for me. Happily, it’s only a quick drive back to the hotel and to the welcoming arms of the spa, where a relaxing facial and a dip in the pool aren’t cold or exhausting at all.

Meals at the Carlton are predictably impressive, with the hotel’s Da Vittorio restaurant having two Michelin stars and serving an elaborate tasting menu of clever and tiny dishes. At the Romano restaurant, a new programme called Moving Mountains is dedicated to healthy

pursuits and healthy eating, and part of this includes a focus on vegan dining, which is done with creativity and great skill. There’s a sunny terrace for lunch (St. Moritz enjoys more than 300 days of sunshine every year, apparently, so even when the temperature says minus 11, you can be eating outside in sunglasses) and – our favourite – a row of decommissioned gondolas outside the hotel entrance that function as cosy fondue booths with blankets provided. Who needs to actually ski?

CARLTON HOTEL ST. MORITZ is available from CHF 880 per room per night based on two adults sharing on a B&B basis, with 100 CHF food and beverage voucher per adult per day, butler service, minibar, service, VAT and complimentary access to the hotel’s spa. carlton-stmoritz.ch +41 81 836 7000

Flights and rail passes were sponsored by Switzerland Tourism. myswitzerland.com

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“NOTHING ABOUT ST. MORITZ IS ANYTHING LESS THAN UBER GLAMOROUS”
TRAVEL • SKI
FONDUE BOOTHS THE OUTDOOR BUTLER

Luxury Holiday Rentals at Glenmor

Make yourselves at home in the heart of Gleneagles

The Gleneagles

is one of a kind

it from the comfort of a Glenmor

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

Some

Cardiff Christmas Express Tuesday 22nd November

Ascot,

Christmas Sussex Belle Thursday 24th November

seaside town of Eastbourne.

Worcester Christmas Fayre Thursday 1st December

London Victoria, Staines, Reading and Didcot to visit Worcester. Lindum Fayre Saturday 3rd

London Kings’s Cross, Potters Bar, Stevenage and Peterborough

Sherborne Christmas Carol Tuesday 6th December

from London Victoria, Staines, Woking and Basingstoke to visit

Bath & Bristol Christmas Market Saturday 10th December

London Victoria, Staines, Woking, Winchfield/Basingstoke

OWN@GLENEAGLES.COM
experience
– you can now enjoy
luxury
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. Join us for a trip from London’s Ealing Broadway to York and an opportunity to experience the Festive Season’s activities. The city of York is world famous for its variety of visitor attractions and home to the National Railway Museum. We travel north via the Midland Main Line stopping at stations to pick up further passengers. Our train will be diesel-hauled between London and Leicester where Princess Coronation class steam locomotive No.46233 Duchess of Sutherland take charge for the run to York and return. Price Standard Class £115pp/£358 family – includes a reserved seat usually at a table for four. First Class £185pp/£565 family – includes morning tea or coffee with a bacon/ breakfast roll and a muffin and an afternoon service of tea or coffee with a savoury of the day followed by a scone with butter and jam. Premier Dining £285pp/£870 family – includes a full English breakfast and a four course dinner freshly prepared on board and silver served at your seat. The York Yuletide Express Saturday 26th November 2022 KU STEAM RAILDAY T £115PIR from Bob Green 01553 661 500 www.railwaytouring.net
Join us from London Victoria, Staines,
Reading and Didcot to visit Gloucester or Cardiff.
Join us from London Victoria to visit the
Join us from
December Join us from
to visit Lincoln.
Join us
Sherborne or Yeovil.
Join us from
to visit Bath or Bristol.
of our other Festive Day Trips from London… Have a great day – The Safe Way – your welfare is our priority. Our travel procedures are available on our website. Refreshments available to purchase on board. Tables for two can be guaranteed in First/Premier for a £30pp supplement subject to availability. The Railway Touring Company’s standard conditions of booking and travel apply – see website for details. EST.1997 25 For more information please visit our website or call us.
TRAVEL • TREND MESSYWEEKEND The Achton XEP Goggles in Army Green, £175 messyweekend.com EDITOR’S PICK STELLA MCARTNEY KIDS Green & White Ski Goggles, £100 childrensalon.com roxy-uk.co.uk magazines QUIKSILVER Fly High Men’s Technical Snow Bib in True Black, £220 quiksilver.co.uk MOLO Rainbow Ski Jacket, £199 childrensalon.com ROXY Jetty Women's Snow Gloves in Black Flowers, £50 roxy-uk.co.uk DEUX PAR DEUX Girls Black & Pink Pom-Pom Hat, £29 childrensalon.com MOON BOOT Navy Blue Logo Snow Boots, £120 childrensalon.com ROXY Cozy Sound Women’s Technical Jumper in Medieval Blue, £90 roxy-uk.co.uk MY SUNDAY SKI The Élégance Méribel, St.Moritz & Courchevel Ski Suits, £445 mysundayski.co.uk Get the whole family ski-season ready LET IT SNOW

Costal GLAMOUR

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Palatial style at the fabulous Hostal de la Gavina, a gem in Catalonia’s crown

The Costa Brava (rugged coast) stretches north from Barcelona to the Spanish-French border.

It’s a magnificent part of Catalonia with unspoilt coves, spectacular seascapes and charming towns dotted through the lush landscape. We’re heading just over an hour’s journey from Barcelona to the imposing Hostal de la Gavina.

Perched on a hill overlooking the sweeping bay of Sant Pol and the tempting S’Agaro beach, the hotel opened in 1932. It’s the brainchild of Josep Enesa, whose vision was to create one of the most stylish and exclusive destinations on the Catalan coast. And that’s just what he’s done.

Hostal de La Gavina blossomed tremendously in the 1950s when the area became famous as a film set, resulting in stars like Ava Gardner and Elizabeth Taylor staying there. There’s even a story about a legendary encounter between Gardner and Frank Sinatra in the hotel’s bar, but that’s for another time. More recently, famous personalities like Salvador Dali, Placido Domingo, Sean Connery, Jack Nickelson, Robert De Niro and Lady Gaga

have graced the elegant hotel with their presences. The corridors are peppered with their portraits, and it seems like they sprinkled some of their glamour into the very foundations of La Gavina. The hotel oozes class and opulence around every corner. From the grandeur of the marble lobby to the magical gardens with flowers in all colours of the rainbow and the large, sparkling azure pool with its luxury loungers and private cabanas, everything made us feel like we were living our dream.

Even more so when we were shown to our room. Beautifully spacious and decorated in shades of regal reds with an impressively large bed as its centrepiece. Large doors opened onto our balcony with its gasp-inducing views across the verdant gardens and the sea beyond. The luxurious bathroom was packed with Palais Jamais Etro toiletries, the plushest of gowns and comfy slippers. Certainly fit for royalty, Hollywood or otherwise. And you’re also guaranteed to eat like a king. Poolside restaurant Garbi

159ABSOLUTELY magazines TRAVEL • SPAIN
“Magical gardens with flowers in all colours of the rainbow”

serves Mediterranean delights. The hotel’s fine-dining o ering, Candlelight by Michelin-starred chef Romain Forell, o ers a delectable and inventive tasting menu set to the background of tinkling piano music. The courtyard glitters with fairy lights, and a bubbling fountain completes a magical dining experience.

We loved La Taverna del Mar, perched on the beach's edge, resplendent in shades of blue and white and blending seamlessly into the ocean. With the softest sea breezes wafting through the arched picture windows, we tucked into seafood extravaganzas and classic rice dishes. Lunchtime heaven.

Catalonia is bursting with historical and cultural treasures. We explored the nearby university town of Girona, enjoying a food tour and soaking in the atmosphere of the bustling market and magnificent architecture. At the same time, we sampled myriad tasty flavours of the region, from jamon to Cava. We also visited Gala’s Palace in nearby Pubol and heard the fascinating and somewhat bizarre story of Gala and Salvador Dali - Catalonia’s very own royalty.

The region is also home to dramatic scenery. We enjoyed daily strolls on the Camino de Ronda walking trail with the wild beauty of the coastline just below the hotel with its secluded coves and the bluest seas. The perfect way to start the day.

Before returning to indulge ourselves in palatial style at the fabulous Hostal de la Gavina. A gem in Catalonia’s crown.

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“Resplendent in shades of blue and white and blending seamlessly into the ocean”
lagavina.com TRAVEL • SPAIN
Cadogan Hall, Chelsea, Thursday 22nd December 2022 at 1.30 and 4.30 Tickets: £32, £30, £25, £16 from the Cadogan Hall Box Office Tel: 020 7730 4500 www.cadoganhall.com All orders subject to a transaction fee unless made in person © Snowman Enterprises Limited “The Snowman” by Raymond Briggs is published by Puffin. Image © Snowman Enterprises Ltd www.thesnowman.com “You would be hard pushed to find a more magical Christmas experience” e Times HOWARD BLAKE The Snowman Projected onto a large screen with a live orchestral accompaniment CONDUCTOR: PHILIP MACKENZIE SOPRANO: ALICE MACKENZIE find a more Christmas MOZART SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

ROCK on

It’s all about music at the Hard Rock Hotel New York

Anew addidion to the New York skyline this year is the Hard Rock Hotel. In the heart of Midtown Manhattan, it’s just steps away from iconic landmarks including Radio City Music Hall, Rockefeller Centre and the Theatre District. The Hard Rock o ers a backstage pass to the city’s historic Music Row, honouring its legacy through intricate design, curated amenities, and award-winning guest experiences. Hard Rock has had a presence in the city for decades with this new location delivering an entirely new - and luxurious - experience.

Hard Rock Hotel New York features 446 exquisitely designed guest rooms and speciality suites o ering floor-to-ceiling windows that showcase the city’s vibrant energy. The rooms are designed with

striking blue tones and gold accents, which are inspired by the city lit up at dusk, when the night falls and marquee lights shine. Guests will find iconic imagery of notable artists printed on glass doors along with sound wave carpet patterns and sculptural artwork above the headboards. On the 36th floor is the Rock Star Suite, a glass-enclosed penthouse with expansive city views, original contemporary artwork, bespoke music memorabilia, and one of the largest terraces for entertaining in New York City.

From the moment of arrival, guests are greeted by an artistic expression of music, transporting them to a new, exciting, and engaging atmosphere that brilliantly exudes the energy of New York with the culture and history of Hard Rock. Spearheaded by award-winning design firm Je rey Beers International, the artistic expression of music is layered in meticulous detail throughout every area of the hotel. In

each space, the guest discovers a design or sculptural homage to either musical instruments, such as guitars and brass wind instruments, or to music notes and sound waves. Bold materials include lush dark woods, striking marbles, luxurious brass finishes, and tactile leather and velvet fabrics. The rich colour palette features the property’s signature blue, rich browns, warm golds and brass, and pops of metallic silver, lush greens, and vibrant reds. Signature Hard Rock memorabilia lines the walls with displays from artists across generations, including a classic leather motorcycle jacket owned and worn by Joey Ramone; a pair of silver patent leather boots worn by Lady Gaga; handwritten lyrics for John Lennon’s 1972 ode to his adopted home, “New York City,” and custom outfits from Jay Z and Beyoncé among other iconic pieces.

In true Hard Rock style, a variety of signature brand experiences and amenities exclusive to Hard Rock Hotels can be found in New York. Amenities include the Sound of Your Stay® which allows guests to listen to Tracks® curated playlists inspired by the city they’re in, Crosley record players available upon request with Wax®, or play a Fender guitar with Picks® in the privacy of their room.

hardrockhotels.com/new-york

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TRAVEL • PARTNERSHIP
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. Book your place at one of our Open Events at www.kewhouseschool.com/ openevents @KewHouseSchool DISCOVER MORE T: 020 8742 2038 W: www.kewhouseschool.com An independent co-educational senior school for students aged 11-18 in West London

GIRL

EDUCATION Horses in the community 167 • Breaking bad news 169 • Success talk 173 Marymount International School London, independent Catholic day and boarding school for girls aged 11 to 18, fully committed to the academic, emotional, spiritual, and social development of its students.. marymountlondon.com
POWER 165ABSOLUTELY magazines
Welcoming day students from 3 months to 19 years and boarders from Year 3 “To be the best that I can, with the gi s that I have.” www.qe.org | admissions@qe.org | 01423 333330 | York YO26 9SS Queen Ethelburga’s Collegiate Set in more than 220 acres of beautiful North Yorkshire countryside “You cannot help but be impressed by the sheer ambition of QE. Facilities are spectacular, sta committed and clearly able, students delightful.” e Good Schools Guide Call to arrange a private tour or join us at our next Open Day on 26 November

Pony PARTNERSHIP

Bassett House has celebrated the launch of a unique community partnership with Wormwood Scrubs Pony Centre

Pupils, parents, ponies and stable sta celebrated the o cial launch of a community partnership between Bassett House School and Wormwood Scrubs Pony Centre (WSPC). Bassett House children in Years 5 and 6 are now enjoying riding lessons and ‘living curriculum’ classes at WSPC, just a few minutes away from their school.

As well as learning to ride – on both real and mechanical horses – the pupils are finding out about all aspects of horsemanship, including caring for ponies. Bassett House is also using this opportunity to take learning out of the classroom, so pupils are studying animal science and physiology in WSPC’s learning centre.

The school’s support for the WSPC helps to ensure its long-term viability. The much-loved west London charity, which was founded in 1989 and is an RDA school, provides riding opportunities and equine therapy to students with physical disabilities and learning di culties. It also o ers riding

and other horse and pony care activities to members of the local community.

Bassett House Head Kelly Gray and WSPC’s Founder and CEO Sister Mary Joy Langdon cut the ribbon at the celebration ceremony. “We are so grateful for this community connection with Bassett House School. Long may it last and develop,” said Sister Mary. “There is so much more than riding here, so much for young people to gain from coming to the Pony Centre.”

Kelly Gray spoke of the “precious experiences” that Bassett House pupils are having at WSPC – their commitment to community service, as well as the thrill at being with the horses and learning to ride – and the extra benefits that brings. As WSPC is a registered equine therapy centre, children are taking part in therapeutic exercises during their riding lessons designed to enhance their wellbeing.

For the pupils of Bassett House this is pony heaven, with regular opportunities to ride and engage with the equines of WSPC and also understand more about how a stable works. One parent has commented that her daughter didn’t draw breath for about an hour describing the grooming, the riding and a special pony called Magic. Another pupil said simply: “I have had my best day at Bassett yet!”

To find out more about the work of Wormwood Scrubs Pony Centre, visit wormwoodscrubsponycentre.org.uk

BASSETT HOUSE PUPILS LOVE MEETING THE PONIES
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WSPC FOUNDER SISTER MARY JOY LANGDON AND BASSETT HOUSE HEAD KELLY GRAY

Breaking news

The death of The Queen, the war in Ukraine, climate change, costof-living crisis – today’s breaking news headlines are worrying for us all but can be particularly frightening for younger children if not handled sensitively. Developing an understanding of world events and global issues is an important part of a good education, but current a airs and political threats need to be discussed in an age-appropriate way.

Many schools use assemblies or ‘circle time’ to talk about news-related topics. Secondary school students have exposure to news at home and, of course, via their smartphones and social media channels, and increasingly schools are having to provide students with workshops on how to spot ‘fake’ news. These encourage students to evaluate news sources and examine why governments or organisations might want to spread false information.

Students might be encouraged to have an open classroom discussion and to explore topics from di erent angles and di erent points of view. For example, the recent death of the Queen can be placed in a historical context and perhaps can open up debate into the role of the monarchy. These concepts are likely to be a little too sophisticated for the younger prep school pupils. They will relate more closely to the very moving images of Prince George and Princess Charlotte at the funeral. Quite often these issues dovetail closely with a school’s PSHE (personal, social, health and economic education) programme and can be approached from

a pastoral care and emotional wellbeing perspective. This might entail happiness and wellbeing projects such as ‘Think Positive’ and ‘Time for Laughter’, providing ‘worry’ buckets for pupils to share their concerns and, when appropriate, speaking to children individually and providing them with comfort and reassurance.

Whatever the age of the students, combatting any feeling of helplessness is very important and finding a way for pupils to respond positively to a crisis can be mutually beneficial.

Fundraising is an excellent way to provide ageappropriate information and to help children engage positively with global issues.

For instance, recently we saw many schools in the UK fundraise considerable amounts to support Ukrainian refugees. At Redcli e, students, sta and parents supported the Refugee Response programme run by the local

church to provide refugees and asylum seekers with hot meals and English lessons. In March, we were lucky enough to have a visit from His Royal Highness, King Charles III, who came to learn first hand about the important work the church was doing.

Environment is another area where schools are doing fantastic work in harnessing students’ energy and passion into positive action. Many schools run schemes to discourage car use for the school run, promote recycling, cultivate their own vegetables and plant trees. For younger children there are age-appropriate news resources, such as The Week and BBC’s Newsround, which can be invaluable. But being in a smaller school where teachers can quickly spot and step in if a pupil is upset can also really help. Sometimes just taking time to really listen to a child’s concerns and letting them know that it is OK to be worried is what is needed most.

Sarah Glencross, the new Head of Redcli e Gardens School, examines how to discuss upsetting news stories, particularly with younger children.
“Combatting any feeling of helplessness is important and fi nding a way to respond positively can be mutually beneficial”
KING CHARLES VISITED REDCLIFFE GARDENS IN MARCH
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Celebrate OUTCOMES

This summer there were families up and down the country celebrating with their children after the release of this year’s public exams results. Many schools published headlines with photos of smiling students and their ‘best ever results’ on their website and social media feeds. But what about those students who don’t get A*s?

The reality is that below the headlines of As and A*s there are hundreds, if not thousands, of students whose results are an enormous personal triumph and will be, in most cases, what they need to move on to their next stage. As school leaders, we wouldn’t want to make headlines out of personal stories of real trauma and distress; nor are the media interested in the student who has two Cs and a D with a place on a fabulous course at a great uni to

do what they really want to do for the next three or four years. For those whose results are genuinely disappointing, there is always lots of advice and support from schools to work out what their best next step will be.

At Channing we talk about ‘Girls Enjoying Success’, however they define it, and whilst we have lots of the headlines which prospective parents like to see –including great A-level and GCSE results – much more exciting is what they choose to do with these results. Often parents look at Oxbridge, medical school or veterinary school places as a shorthand for success (and yes, our students achieve places on these courses every year), but that’s not just what Channing, or life, is about. It’s about success, as each student defines it, so that they go on to do what they want to do – whether that is university, art foundation, conservatoire or gap year.

Good schools spend lots of time listening to those students who don’t shine in exams and work with them, often from as early as Year 9

or 10, to guide them to the right next step. It may be university, an apprenticeship or other training, or straight into employment – all equally valuable paths if they help the individual continue to explore who they are and what they want out of life.

When you are choosing a school, it’s easy to be wowed by the headline results and the facilities but do also take some time to find out more how the careers and higher education programmes work. How do they help students to think about their next steps? How will they support those who are not academic high-flyers but want to access the best possible university and course available to them?

And what provision is in place there for those who want to take the path less travelled after school?

Our inclusive ethos means that we focus on outcomes, rather than grades. If our A-level students are smiling at the end of results day because they are set firmly on their chosen path – whatever that may be – then I think that’s job done.

LINDSEY HUGHES Headmistress, Channing
The Headmistress of Channing says we should consider outcomes, not just exam grades, when we look at student success stories
“It’s about success as each student defi nes it – university, art foundation, conservatoire or gap year”
CHANNING STUDENTS
EDUCATION • OPINION ABSOLUTELY magazines170
INDEPENDENCE THROUGH Visit stbenedicts.org.uk SENIOR SCHOOL 11+ SIXTH FORM 16+ You are unique, and with our excellent teaching, caring community, and breadth of opportunities you will thrive and fulfil your potential. FULLY FUNDED BURSARY PLACES AVAILABLE A Leading Independent Boarding & Day School For Girls Aged 11-18 +44(0)1249 857200 www.stmaryscalne.org ‘Pupils excel in a wide variety of co-curricular activities both individually and collectively, and benefit from the excellent coaching from staff.’ ISI Report For Open Days & further information, contact: admissions@stmaryscalne.org01372 371035 info@ciceroeducation.com www.ciceroeducation.com EDUCATION Realising your potential • Face to Face, Individual Tuition in Fetcham Park with Qualified Teachers • Preparation for 11+ / CE / GCSE / A Level • Support for those whose education has been impacted • Holiday Courses for revision, catching up or extra-curricular interests • School Placement Consultancy to find appropriate schools for your children EDUCATION Realising your potential 01372 371035 info@ciceroeducation.com www.ciceroeducation.com • Face to Face, Individual Tuition in Fetcham Park with Qualified Teachers • Preparation for 11+ / CE / GCSE / A Level • Support for those whose education has been impacted • Holiday Courses for revision, catching up or extra-curricular interests • School Placement Consultancy to find appropriate schools for your children 01372 371035 info@ciceroeducation.com www.ciceroeducation.com EDUCATION Realising your potential EDUCATION Realising your potential 01372 371035 info@ciceroeducation.com www.ciceroeducation.com • Face to Face, Individual Tuition in Fetcham Park with Qualified Teachers • Preparation for 11+ / CE / GCSE / A Level • Support for those whose education has been impacted • Holiday Courses for revision, catching up or extra-curricular interests • School Placement Consultancy to find appropriate schools for your children • Face to Face, Individual Tuition in Fetcham Park with Qualified Teachers • Preparation for 11+ / CE / GCSE / A Level • Support for those whose education has been impacted • Holiday Courses for revision, catching up or extra-curricular interests • School Placement Consultancy to find appropriate schools for your children • Individual Tuition for Ashtead/Cobham/ Epsom/Leatherhead/Oxshott area from our base in Fetcham Park • Preparation for 11+ / CE / GCSE / A Level • Support for those whose education has been impacted • Holiday Courses for revision, catching up or extra-curricular interests • School Placement Consultancy to find appropriate schools for your children 01372 371035 i nfo@ciceroeducation.com www.ciceroeducation.com
Where personal growth meets global action Sixth Form Information Evening 22 November 2022 Open Mornings 3 May 2023 7 June 2023 22 June 2023 morehouse.org.uk FROM CHARING CROSS Arrange a visit: admissions@tonbridge-school.org tonbridge-school.co.uk Trains from Charing Cross to Tonbridge run very frequently. The trip takes only 40 minutes and is followed by a quick walk down Tonbridge High Street to the School. Once there, you will see some of the finest school buildings and facilities in the land and you may even spot our boys romping home from The CRAS – an annual inter-house cross country run across our huge expanse of fields. Even more importantly, you will come face to face with some of the most accomplished teaching talent in the country. TO CROSS COUNTRY

We need AMBITION

As the new Headteacher of Kew Green Preparatory School, I believe it is essential for ambition to be embedded in all areas and aspects of school life, learning and culture.

When asked to state my educational philosophy, I often speak about collaboration, innovation, creativity and high self-esteem, alongside the core values of compassion, respect and resilience. This is reflective of my view that all children are unique and that the environment in which they grow must be inspiring. I might also add that I often stop short of mentioning a further value that I hold – ambition.

Why is my first instinct to act with caution when admitting that I am ambitious, both for myself and in what I seek to achieve as Headteacher for my school? Perhaps it is time to stop cautiously admitting that we are ambitious. Instead, we should start embracing and promoting this as a proud quality and an essential part of any educational philosophy.

Being ambitious in a competitive

environment provides a motivating context to achieve, and in a school context it ensures that my pupils are happy in wanting to be successful. It is through having ambition that the highest quality of education, established within an outstanding school community, can be achieved. Indeed, it is through the process of achieving our goals that, as educators and school leaders, we provide the very best education and thereby enable all our pupils to succeed.

Ambition is integral to all that we do here at Kew Green, both at Kew Green Nursery and the Preparatory School. It is the fabric and the make-up of our ethos and is underpinned by four key aspects: aspiration, motivation, e ort and achievement. This ethos should be visible in pupil progress and learning outcomes, a product of ambitious teaching and a dynamic curriculum. It should also be evident in the high self-esteem and aspiration of pupils. Ambition should be felt as soon as you step through the school gates.

One of the main purposes of

any school is to ensure that the educational provision in place provides appropriate building blocks to allow opportunity and achievement for all pupils. In London, most preparatory schools are regulated by the rigorous expectations and demands set by the 11+. While this can give rise to fierce competition, the pressure it places on Year 6 pupils underpins the aspirations we have for all our pupils, and I would argue that ambition must be at the core of the whole process.

The adage that ‘good can always be better’ underpins my philosophy of ambition. It is through a culture of ambition and a truly rounded experience that an independent school such as Kew Green enables successful pupil outcomes, both academically and in children’s personal development. I would urge us all to embrace ambition, finding a place for it in our own personal development, and to proudly seek out and celebrate its presence in our schools. After all, as Salvador Dali said: “Intelligence without ambition is a bird without wings”.

SASHA DAVIES
Headteacher, Kew Green Preparatory School
The new Headteacher of Kew Green Preparatory School, Sasha Davies, argues that it’s vital to celebrate ambition
“I would urge us all to embrace ambition and to proudly seek out and celebrate its presence in our schools”
KEW GREEN PREP PUPILS
EDUCATION • TALKING HEAD ABSOLUTELY magazines 173
} Embedding key values and developing ‘the whole child’ through a unique, continuous five-year curriculum } Focusing exclusively on cutting edge Early Childhood Education (age 2+ to 7+), the most crucial period in a child’s life } Transitioning seamlessly from play-based to more structured learning, preparing the children to move on at 7+ with that special Herne Hill School spark } Expert staff operating under the ethos of Love · Care · Excellence in which children excel and learn with fun and enthusiasm } Extensive wrap-around care from 7.45am to 4.45/6pm depending on the year group hernehillschool.co.uk enquiries@hernehillschool.co.uk 020 7274 6336 The Old Vicarage 127 Herne Hill London, SE24 9LY Herne Hill School for Kindergarten from 2+ or call the office for chance vacancies in other year groups Register now The perfect setting for your child’s early schooling: PRE-PREP OF THE YEAR Rated ‘excellent’ in all categories

ADVENT CALENDARS

WINTER

HEY MAMA

SPECIAL ISSUE 175
Get ready for the countdown to Christmas 10 THINGS What we’re loving
WARMERS Snuggly style for little ones In this section: ABSOLUTELY magazines right now
Beyond Nine makes stylish maternity and postnatal wear. The UK brand’s AW22 collection includes an update some of their best-selling pieces as well as new trouser and dress styles. Each piece is designed to be worn throughout all of the changes your body goes through during motherhood and is made using eco-friendly materials. beyondnine.co.uk @_beyond_nine

the Toniebox

Meet
The musical storybox for kids © Disney

Editor’s

LETTER

the weather turns cooler, I’ve been excitedly buying teddy bear coats, furry lined boots and fluff y beanies for my toddler. And whilst I was shopping, I made sure I earmarked all the best pieces for our Winter Warmers edit – check it out on page 182.

in this issue, we have the best advent calendars for counting down to Christmas; our top ten favourite things for little ones; as well as all the best new parenting launches in our Tot Gear and Tried and Tested sections.

I hope you and your

ones stay cosy this November.

mama WELCOME 177ABSOLUTELY magazines
As
Elsewhere
Enjoy, and
little
ON THE COVER: @_beyond_nine beyondnine.co.uk @carlyjglendinning carly@zest-media.com Carly Glendinning EDITOR MABLI P.182 LIEWOOD P.179 BINIBAMBA P.182 BIBS P.178 AVERY ROW P.181 YOUNG SOLES P.183

ECO STYLE

KIDSWEAR COLLECTIVE Kidswear Collective, the UK’s largest preloved kidswear consignment platform, has expanded its partnership with Selfridges – with collections in three stores: Oxford Street, Birmingham, and Manchester Tra ord. kidswearcollective.com

MAMA COOL

BUMP AND MILK Maternity and postnatal-friendly, Bump and Milk’s pieces are designed to be worn through every trimester and incorporate clever hidden zips for nursing. The new AW22 collection is available now. bumpandmilk.com

Check Mate

WILLA AND THE BEAR Block printed by hand by artisans and cooperatives in India and Nepal, Willa and the Bear’s gingham muslins are edged with satin. They make the perfect super so comforter once the mopping up phase has passed. £20; willaandthebear.com

PLAY TIME

TOTTER + TUMBLE Totter + Tumble has collaborated with British design house Morris & Co on a collection of playmats. Inspired by the British countryside, the timeless florals are designed to blend effortlessly with your interior. totterandtumble.co.uk

10 things we Absolutely The
products and brands getting our attention this month
178 ABSOLUTELY magazines L O V E

STACK UP

Bibs has launched

The Wobbly Tower. Designed

children’s

BIBS

CUDDLE TIME

KALOO

So toy brand Kaloo makes the cutest companions for little ones.

‘Doudou’ bear comforter is

ed from recycled materials – including the stuffing, which

made using plastic bottles. kaloo.com

HEY DOLL

LIEWOOD

With a minimal aesthetic, this threestorey doll’s house from Liewood provides a stylish backdrop for smallworld play. Beautifully made and will look just as good in your living room as your little one’s bedroom. £130; liewood.com

Splish Splash

BAEBEA

Baebea’s eco-friendly

baebea.com

£20.95; bibsworld.com

SO SOFT

LITTLE BUTTERFLY

Little Butterfly London, organic-certified skincare

for mums, babies and little ones, has launched a new formulation of their Dewdrops at Dawn Body Lotion. The lotion has been clinically proven to improve skin smoothness and hydration, while calming irritated and dry skin conditions. littlebutterflylondon.com

bath boats are made from wheat straw – a safe, earth-conscious alternative to plastic. This stylish bath toy can be stacked, interlinked, used to scoop water or simply le to float. £12.99
a stacking toy named
to develop
fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination and spatial reasoning, it can be stacked, used as a Babushka, a rattle, cups, or a bath toy.
ABSOLUTELY magazines 179 mama LOVES
Their
cra
is
Editor’s Pick FORWARD THINKING PETIT PLI Chosen as Amazon Launchpad 2022 European Startup of the Year, Petit Pli uses recycled water bottles to make their range of kids clothes that grow up to seven sizes. Innovation at its best. amazon.co.uk/launchpad/ innovationweek
brand

Christmas, Naturally

The first Christmas with a baby is extra special and an ideal time to create new traditions. This year, is there a way of creating that festive magic that’s more cost e ective and environmentally friendly?

es! It’s called “going natural” for Christmas. Throughout the year, most of us are conscious of recycling and making sustainable choices and Christmas can be just as environmentally friendly. We can gift intentionally (buying things family and friends need and will use) and we can also decorate our homes sustainably too!

Just in time to celebrate, new Sudocrem Naturals Nappy Cream, which is 96% naturally derived, has hit the shelves. It has been developed using the power of nature and Sudocrem’s 90 years of experience to soothe and protect your baby’s precious skin.

As the festive season rolls around once again, why not start your own sustainable Christmas tradition inspired by nature?

Here’s to a soothing, naturally inspired Christmas!

Advent CALENDARS

Countdown to Christmas in style this festive season… mama ESSENTIALS ABSOLUTELY magazines 181 we love editor’s pick MERI MERI Nutcracker Theatre Advent Calendar, £80; merimeri.co.uk LIEWOOD Advent Calendar, £75; liewood.com OYOY LIVING DESIGN Rainbow Advent Calendar, £55; oyoylivingdesign.co.uk STYCH Keepsake Advent Calendar, £35; stychaccessories.com PLAYINCHOC Advent Calendar, £49.95; playinchoc.com MERI MERI Dog Advent Calendar Suitcase, £42; merimeri.co.uk AVERY ROW Frosty Friends Advent Calendar, £69; avery-row.com

Winter Warmers

The cosiest pieces for keeping little ones warm this winter…

WINTER READY

Pick

BEBE ORGANIC

Super soft eco-friendly yarns, chunky knits, delicate ribbing, and pom poms –the AW22 collection from Bebe Organic has it all. The sustainable brand’s pieces are all designed to be gentle on little ones’ sensitive skin too. bebe-organic.com

LIEWOOD

Snowsuits don’t get much cuter than this cosy teddy bear style from Liewood. With foldover hands and feet, it will keep little ones toasty all winter long. liewood.com

COOL

MABL MABLI’s Welsh Tapestry inspired pattern cardigan is the perfect blend of retro style and cosiness. Made from 100% extrafi ne Merino wool, it’s the sort of special piece you’ll want to pass down too. mabli.co.uk

HERITAGE
SNUGGLY STYLE ABSOLUTELY magazines182 Editor’s

BEARY CUTE

BINIBAMBA

Shield little ears from the cold with Binibamba’s adorable new Teddy Hat. Made using 100% Merino wool on the outside and super soft jersey on the inside. binibamba.com

COSY TOES

YOUNG SOLES

These adorable boots from Young Soles are perfect for keeping little feet cosy and warm. They’ll go with just about anything in your little one’s wardrobe too. youngsoles.com

LAYER UP

SMALLS

Perfect for layering and lounging, Small’s Merino essentials couldn’t be softer. The British brand only works with ZQ Merino certified farms – ensuring their wool is held to the highest standards of farming, land management and animal welfare. smallsmerino.co.uk

fub.dk

Jumper,

pepaandcompany.com

Pacifer

£22; andostores.com

Braces, £15; andostores.com

Coat, £44;

nlayandfriends.co.uk

1 ABSOLUTELY magazines 183 mama WINTER WARMERS
5 ON OUR WISHLISTS
1. FUB, Wool Mittens, €31.50;
2. Pepa & Co, Fair Isle
£89;
3. Dappermaentje, Moon
Clip,
4. Silly Silas, Rib Tights with
5. Hunter + Rose, Teddy
riverfi
There’s no need to crank the heating up with these cosy extras.. 5 3 2 4

A RISTMAS KE NOOTHER

This kind of Christmas comes but once in a lifetime. Whisk your

away to magical Lapland and

the Great Search for Santa with Santa’s Lapland.

Choose from a 2 or 3-night adventure - will you go for

Santa’s Magic or Santa’s

there’ll be a

Santa’s

family
join
our
Aurora experiences? Either way
reindeer ride, sledging with huskies, tobogganing, lots of snowy activities and so much more! Quick, jump in your sleigh. Track the magical glow trail Santa leaves behind. Where’s it going? Will we find
home? Christmas 2022 and 2023 on sale now Visit SantasLapland.com

TOT GEAR

Inspired kit to make parenting easier

LOVED by MAMA

What we’re using for our own babies

DESIGNS SUSTAINABLE COLLECTION

Istocked up on Bravado Design’s popular ballet-style nursing bras before my daughter arrived, packing them in my hospital bag ready to start breastfeeding. They’ve been some of the most comfortable lingerie in my postpartum arsenal, so I was excited to see that the brand’s core nursing styles are now available in sustainable fabrics. Ticking all the boxes on comfort, support and accessibility, the range is made from Bravado Design’s Eco-Stretch™ fabric – a blend of sustainable recycled nylon and highperformance LYCRA®. It washes well and the quality is top notch.

The collection features a range of easy-to-wear

– from clipped

to designs for pumping as well as matching briefs. I was also impressed by the colour range – which includes everything from nude tones, to subtle prints, and fun colour pops. I couldn’t recommend this collection more – whether you’re expecting, currently breastfeeding, or a postpartum mum, there’s something for everyone.

mama TOT GEAR
ABSOLUTELY magazines 187
styles
nursing bras,
this month BRAVADO
Bravado Designs Sustainable Collection bravadodesigns.com
TIME BIBS Danish brand BIBS has launched a stylish new mealtime collection. Everything is made from 100% safe and food-grade material, free from BPA, PVC, and phthalates, and is practical, easy to clean, and stackable. bibsworld.com Sudocrem Naturals Nappy Cream is the latest addition to the Sudocrem family. Developed to soothe and protect your baby’s precious skin, it’s 96% naturally derived and enriched with 15 hardworking, natural ingredients. sudocrem.co.uk SKIN SAVIOUR SUDOCREM HUGS PLEASE BBHUGME Award-winning maternity brand bbhugme has launched three new prints for its popular pregnancy pillow. The collection includes the pretty ‘Blushing Roses’ print, as well as ‘Seashell Beige’ and ‘Midnight Blue’. bbhugme.com
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 Kew Green Preparatory School Layton House, Ferry Lane, Kew Green, Richmond TW9 3AF www.kgps.co.uk KEW GREEN preparatory school To book your place on an open morning, please go to www.kgps.co.uk/openmornings or phone 020 8948 5999 KGPS.indd 1 22/07/2020 12:52 preparatory school RAVENSCOURT PARK An Independent School for Boys and Girls aged 4-11 Ravenscourt Park Prep School 16 Ravenscourt Avenue, London W6 0SL www.rpps.co.uk Open Mornings To register your attendance at one of our open mornings, please phone 0208 846 9153 or mail secretary@rpps.co.uk 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 9.15am Tuesday 14th November 9.15am Thursday 18th January 2018 9.15am Thursday 1st February 2018 Open Mornings 9.15am Thursday 9th May 2019 9.15am Tuesday 11th June 2019 To book your place on an open morning, please go to rpps.co.uk/admissions or phone 020 8846 9153 RPPS.indd 1 23/04/2019 12:48 To book your place on an open morning, please go to www.rpps.co.uk/openmornings or phone 020 8846 9153 RPPS_PRINT.indd 1

Boori Tidy Multipurpose Slide

My little one is obsessed with the toddler slide

at her nursery school, but living in a teeny tiny London flat we don’t have a playroom or space for bulky play equipment at home. Our space issue means that I have to think very carefully about new toys – how much play will she get out of them, how versatile are they, and how easy are they to store. So I got very excited when I saw that Boori had designed a toddler slide that converts into a stool and an easel. The Boori Tidy Multipurpose Slide was fairly easy to build and set up. Available in three colourways (cherry, white, and blueberry), it’s also so stylish that

you won’t mind if it has to be stored in your living room. In slide mode, it’s fairly compact and the perfect height for my 18 month old to climb and whizz down herself. Detach the slide from the steps and you can make it into an easel and a stool. We couldn’t recommend the Boori Tidy Multipurpose Slide more – especially if you have limited play space.

£119; boori.com

Step Up Baby Montessori Toddler Tower

At 18 months old, my little one has reached an age where she’s become very curious about what’s going on when I’m cooking, washing up, and doing other household tasks. Following the Montessori principle of teaching little ones to be independent, learning towers enable children to stand at counter height and join in with day-to-day activities around the house. However, many learning towers are quite bulky and we live in small flat with limited space. The Montessori Kitchen Tower from Step Up Baby has been the perfect solution. Its sleek design fits seamlessly into our interior and it’s super lightweight so I can easily carry it between the kitchen and the bathroom. It comes in white, grey, varnished wood, and there’s also a genius natural wood option that you can paint yourself. My daughter has really enjoyed using it. It’s a safe place for her to eat snacks whilst I’m cooking; we use it at bedtime for teeth brushing; and we’ve (attempted!) some baking activities together. And the best bit?

The step is adjustable as your little one grows – so we’ve got plenty of time to work on our cooking skills.

stepupbaby.com

TRIED & TESTED IN-DEPTH REVIEWS OF THE LATEST PARENTING KIT mama REVIEWS 189
£119;
GLENDINNING
ABSOLUTELY magazines
THAMES DESIGN AND BUILD provides architectural design and/or construction services to clients across Surrey. We offer: • A free consultation to discuss your ideas and advise you on the possibilities and permissions • A fixed quote for all stages of architectural work • A fixed quote for your build – we are equally happy to provide a build quote in respect of your existing designs Are you considering an EXTENSION , LOFT CONVERSION or OUTBUILDING ? Call us on 020 8398 9252 info@thamesdesignandbuild.com | thamesdesignandbuild.com Ditton Garages, Southville Road, Thames Ditton, KT7 0UL

Arare opportunity to acquire this large semi-detached Edwardian style villa in the heart of Pitshanger Village. It has been modernised and extended by the current owner, but maintains an array of period features. The property o ers spacious living accommodations, including a fitted kitchen, two excellent sized reception rooms, five bedrooms, two bathrooms and a study over three floors.

8998 3333

ABSOLUTELY magazines 191
JOHN MARTIN ESTATES 020
johnmartinestates.com PROPERTY SELBY ROAD £1,200,000 W5 FREEHOLD
www. ohnmartinestates.com 2 Pitshanger Lane, Ealing 1 mesales ohnmartinestates.com 1995-2020 A charming centre terraced co age on this deligh ul road in the heart of the Brentham arden conser ation estate. The property offers two reception rooms and well arranged fi ed kitchen on the ground floor and, to the first floor, three good sized bedrooms, bathroom and separate cloakroom. To the second floor is a further bedroom and en suite bathroom. The property has gas fired central heating and deligh ul front and rear gardens, the la er approx. 0 in length. Council Tax band . Energy Performance Certificate . EALING W5 £ ,000 EE OL
“PITSHANGER’S COMMUNITY ESTATE AGENT” T: 020 8998 3333 A beautiful two bedroom apartment situated a short walk from the heart of Ealing Broadway. The property offers spacious lounge, modern well arranged fi ed kitchen, modern bathroom and two good sized double bedrooms. There is wood flooring in li ing areas, carpets in bedrooms, gas fired central heating, double glazing and unallocated on street permit parking. Offered unfurnished. Council Tax band . Energy Performance Certificate . EALING W5 £1, Per Calendar Month MARKETNEWTO
www. ohnmartinestates.com 1995-2020 2 Pitshanger Lane, Ealing 1 mesales ohnmartinestates.com A modern two bedroom apartment situated in the heart of Ealing Broadway. The property offers spacious open plan li ing area/bespoke designer kitchen with granite worktops, modern bathroom with Villeroy Boch fi ngs and two good sized double bedrooms. There is wood flooring in li ing areas, carpets in bedrooms, electric heating, intruder alarm, ideo door entry system, basement storage, bike racks and li . Offered unfurnished. A ailable immediately. Council Tax band E. Energy Performance Certificate . EALING W5 £1, 0 Per Calendar Month MARKETNEWTO
“PITSHANGER’S COMMUNITY ESTATE AGENT” T: 020 8998 3333 A superb one bed ground floor apartment situated moments from award winning Pitshanger Lane. The property offers a spacious lounge/kitchen, double bedroom and modern bathroom. There are uPVC double glazed windows, gas fired central heating, entry phone system and on street parking. Offered part furnished. Council Tax Band C. Energy Performance Certificate C. EALING W5 £1,200 Per Calendar Month

Addison Gardens, W14

£2,230 per week

ituated in the heart of rook reen, this ictorian house has five bedrooms, a stylish reception room and an e tended kitchen. There is a roof terrace and a landscaped garden, energy rating d.

Black Lion Lane, W6

£1,9 2 per week

ocated in the desirable t Peter s quare onservation rea, a four bedroom, end-of-terrace house finished to a high standard. Retaining period features with a blend of contemporary living, energy rating d.

020 7 03 0 03

brookgreenlettings@fletcherestates.com

020 87 2 100

chiswicklettings@fletcherestates.com

Elsham Road, W14

£725 per week

et on the lower ground floor of a ictorian conversion, this three bedroom apartment has an open plan kitchen and a study, moments from the green space of olland Park, energy rating e.

Dale Street, W4 £715 per week

lose to a wide range of shops and restaurants, a two bedroom home which has been recently refurbished. There is a generous kitchen with bi-folding doors opening onto a patio garden, energy rating d.

020 7 03 0 03

brookgreenlettings@fletcherestates.com

020 87 2 100

chiswicklettings@fletcherestates.com

fletcherestates.com

Positioned

fletcherestates.com 020 8987 3000 chiswicksales@fletcherestates.com £1,850,000
on the bank of the River Thames, a boutique development of two and three bedroom apartments built by award-winning developers, Fruition Properties. The homes combine classic contemporary finishes with high quality materials and generous living spaces. Corney Reach Way, W4

In

Murray Road, Wimbledon

In

Home Park Road, Wimbledon

Enjoying

Wimbledon Village Office Sales: 020 8947 9833 Lettings: 020 8879 9669
Village £5,450,000
a highly regarded road just off the Common close to the High Street and good local schools. 2 reception rooms, study, kitchen/dining room, 6 bedrooms, 4 bath/shower rooms, southerly garden, garage & OSP ER/D Grade II listed house set in a small, exclusive gated development built in the former grounds of an historic mansion. Reception room, kitchen/dining/ reception room, main bedroom suite, 2 further bedrooms, bathroom, south facing garden, detached studio/home office, carport and parking ER/E Prospect Place, Wimbledon £2,495,000
£4,325,000
far reaching views to the east and west across Wimbledon Park. 2 reception rooms, kitchen/dining/family room, multi-purpose room, main bedroom suite, 3 further bedrooms, 3 further bath/shower rooms, southerly garden and terraces, garage & OSP ER/C
a lovely semi-rural setting directly opposite Wimbledon Common with superb views over the golf course. Drawing room with study area, reception room, kitchen/dining/family room, 5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, original features, south facing garden, OSP ER/D North View, Wimbledon Common £5,650,000
www.robertholmes.co.uk Coombe Office Sales: 020 8947 1100 Coombe Park, Kingston Hill £2,800,000 An outstanding home with a generous combination of entertaining and living space set in a quiet cul-de-sac. 2 Reception Rooms, Kitchen, Breakfast Room, Dining Room, Utility, 5 Bedrooms, Study, 2 Bath/ Shower Rooms, Garden, OSP, Garage, ER/D n immacu ate mid centur , detached fami home ooded ith natura light and with good proportioned rooms. Drawing Room, Dining Area, Kitchen/Family Room, 4 Bedrooms, 2 Bath/Shower Rooms, Garden, Balcony, OSP, Garage, ER/D Edgecoombe Close, Coombe Estate, KT2 £1,995,000 An attractive family house, immaculately presented and situated in a sought after location. Drawing Room, Dining Room, Kitchen, Breakfast Room, Study, 5 Bedrooms, 3 Bath/Shower Rooms, Garden, OSP, Garage, ER/D Beechcroft Avenue, New Malden, KT3 £1,450,000 A stylish 4 bedroom family home situated within the frequently requested Coombeside area. Reception Room, Kitchen/Family Room, Study, 4/5 Bedrooms, 3 Bath/Shower Rooms, Garden, Summerhouse, OSP, ER/D Coombe Neville, Coombe Estate £2,890,000
SALES
LINDEN
GARDENS, W4 £330 PER WEEK A newly decorated lower ground floor garden flat with private west facing garden. Large double bedroom with wardrobes, receptio n room with wood floors, bathroom with shower over, fitted kitchen, garden. The flat is on one of Chiswick's best located roads, moments from the shops, restaurants cafés on the High Road and 5 minutes from Turnham Green station. The property is available early September, furnish ed. LETTINGS 5-7 Turnham Green Terrace, Chiswick, London, W4 1RG Tel 020 8747 8800 · Fax 020 8995 7275 E-mail info@whitmanandco.com · Website www.whitmanandco.com FAIRLAWN AVENUE, W4 £465,000 An amazingly light, well presented triple aspect flat with the added benefit of a balcony and private garden. Three bedrooms, luxury bathroom, 14' reception room, fully integrated kitchen, gas fired central heating, share in the freehold, balcony and private garden with side access. Ideally situated within close proximity of Chiswick Park tube station and the extensive shopping and restaurant facilities on Chiswick High Road. LAMB COTTAGE, W4 £1.600,000 A charming and truly unique double-fronted link-detached cottage with a fabulous garden located a stone’s throw from The River and Chiswick Mall. The house originally formed part of the stables for Green Ash on Chiswick Mall, so is steeped in history. There are many impressive features throughout including vaulted ceilings, arched windows, tile-hung facades and lovely front and rear gardens. With a frontage of 50’ the accommodation is laterally arranged over two oors and comprises a stunning dual aspect 23’6 reception room with a vaulted 4.64m high ceiling and feature arched window overlooking the front garden and park, a kitchen/breakfast room, master bedroom and two further bedrooms, family bathroom, artists studio, guest cloakroom, garage, o -street parking, exceptional 52’2x51’10 mature landscaped garden with lovely open aspect and shed. There is further potential to extend subject to the necessary consents. Mulberry Cottage is conveniently located within a short walk of Chiswick High Road’s shops, cafes and restaurants. Transport links include Turnham Green and Stamford Brook stations, local bus routes and the A4/M4 for routes in and out of London. No onward chain.
MULBERRY
COTTAGE, W4 GUIDE PRICE £2,250,000 An exceptionally spacious four bedroom semi detached house with a magni cent 86’ garden, garage and o -street parking ideally located in this tree lined cul de sac. This fantastic four bedroom/two bathroom family house comprises formal living room, 20’ bespoke kitchen/breakfast room, utility room, cloakroom, private 86’ landscaped garden, garage and o - street parking. Situated in this prestigious residential road o ering close proximity to numerous amenities including Chiswick House Grounds, The River Thames, Dukes Meadows, local shops and restaurants, bus routes and Chiswick Main Line station. No chain. WILMINGTON AVENUE, W4 GUIDE PRICE £1,850,000

Rare

Beautifully

POINT WHARF LANE, TW8 £350 PER WEEK
presented two double bedroom second floor flat in this highly sought after riverside development. Boasting a stunning open plan kitchen reception room, a river side balcony and a master ensuite bedroom. Large open plan reception room, fully fitted kitchen with granite work tops, fitted wardrobes and riverside views. Underground parking space included. QUEEN ANNES GROVE, W4 £430 PER WEEK A large, light and beautifully presented two double bedroom flat on this highly desirable road in the heart of Bedford Park, just minutes from Turnham Green underground station. Top floor position ensures beautiful views from the reception and bedrooms. LETTINGS
to the market, this immaculate ve-bedroom, semi-detached, Grade ll listed house attributed to Norman Shaw, is ideally located on one of Bedford Park’s premier roads and has the added bene t of a 50’ south-facing landscaped garden and o -street parking. Having undergone a meticulous schedule of sympathetic modernisation by the current owners, arranged over three oors, this house has an excellent balance of living and entertaining space. The generous master suite has a luxury bathroom, dressing room and fabulous south-facing roof terrace, four further bathrooms complete the upstairs accommodation. The ground oor has a grand entrance hall leading onto a formal reception room, family room, bespoke kitchen/breakfast room, utility room, cloakroom and study/snug. All rooms are ooded by natural light with additional features including acoustic insulation, double glazing, zoned heating and a double cylinder pressure water system. A truly unique house ready to move into with no chain. ADDISON GROVE, W4 GUIDE PRICE £5,000,000 LAMB COTTAGE, W4 £1.600,000 Exclusive boutique development of four apartments, comprising three one bedroom ats and a duplex two bedroom at with private entrance. Finished to an exceptionally high standard and o ering bright contemporary accommodation, the ats o er integrated kitchens, luxury bathrooms, hardwood ooring, bike storage, video entry phone, extensive built-in storage, 250 year leases, terrace/patios to three of the four apartments, and no restrictions on applying for parking permits. Ideally situated within close proximity of numerous transport facilities and the extensive shops, bars and restaurants on Chiswick High Road. No chain. BEAUMONT ROAD, W4 £399,950 - £795,000
FOUR GABLES
0330 111 2266 | contact@finestgroup.co.uk | finestproperties.co.uk A magnificent period country house with portfolio of luxury holiday cottages Stunning Period Country House | Three Luxury Holiday Let Cottages | Exceptional Quality Throughout Successful & Established Business | Glorious Countryside Location Access to a Host of Scenic Attractions | Convenient For Local Amenities & Transport Network 7 bedrooms | 4 bathrooms | 3 reception rooms 4.29 acres | EPC exempt | Guide Price £1,950,000

ESCAPE

Currently on the market via Finest Properties with a guide price of £1.95 million, Four Gables is an enticing property for anyone looking to make an escape to the country.

Sitting majestically amongst beautiful grounds, the magnificent country house is more than enough to get the heart racing, but it is the spectacular trio of luxury holiday cottages that make this property truly irresistible.

“Life in the country o ers a captivating mix of simple pleasures and sophistication,” says Ryan Eve, Managing Director of Finest Properties. “Those searching for a stunning country home, new business venture or change of lifestyle will be hard pressed to find a property more remarkable than Four Gables.”

Currently operating as a successful lifestyle and business venture, Four Gables consists of a stunning private home and three luxurious self-catering cottages that consistently receive five-star reviews. Occupying an idyllic position, the property o ers peace and seclusion whilst simultaneously being within easy reach of market towns, beautiful beaches and the

spectacular fells of the Lake District.

“Proximity to good rail, road and air links makes this property all the more appealing,” says Ryan. “The site itself also o ers outstanding potential to interested parties considering other business ventures. This could allow for the expansion of the holiday business or the creation of alternative income streams, whether it be a wedding venue or wellness retreat.”

The main house and cottages have been sensitively renovated to o er accommodation of the highest standard. The largest of the cottages is a sumptuous barn conversion with five bedrooms, that can sleep up to ten guests. The second cottage can accommodate six guests, whilst the third o ers two bedrooms.

The eco-credentials are also highly impressive, including a biomass boiler that was installed under a commercial RHI scheme. “The index-linked payments have so far covered all fuel costs for the entire site,” explains Ryan "and payments will continue until 2035.”

As you arrive at Four Gables, it will be a case of instant, hopeless, love-atfirst sight. The extensive parkland-style gardens are a pleasure to behold and they incorporate several outdoor seating areas, so there’s always somewhere to enjoy the sun, whatever the time of day.

FINEST PROPERTIES

Finest Properties specialise in marketing unique and distinctive properties across the UK.

203ABSOLUTELY magazines PROPERTY • PARTNERSHIP
finestproperties.co.uk
If you're looking for a change of lifestyle, Four Gables could be the property for you
FOUR GABLES OFFERS
THREE SELF-CATERING
COTTAGES IDYLLIC

Bryanston Court

We are delighted to offer this spacious four bedroom flat located on the sixth floor of this prestigious block in Marylebone. The block is famous for being home to Wallis Simpson, the American lady who married Edward VIII in 1937. This is where she lived when they first met.

The flat has been decorated in a Middle Eastern style with doors imported from Dubai, ornate coving to ceilings and parquet wooden flooring. There is a 24 hour concierge. The flat also benefits from 3 bathrooms and beautiful communal gardens.

The flat is located close to the open spaces of Hyde Park, Marble Arch tube station and Marylebone High Street.

Fine

£2,950,000
& Country with over 300 offices worldwide. Head Office Park Lane, London and our new hub office in Putney. Contact Sara May for a market appraisal on 020 4524 9345 / 07931 771 760 www.fineandcountry.com
AWARD WINNING BATHROOM SHOWROOM & TILE GALLERY Tel: 01784 426900 193 L ondon Road I Staines-upon-Thames I TW18 4 HR E-mail: sales@batheandbeyond.com Monday - Saturday: 9.00am - 5.00pm www.batheandbeyond.com PROUDLY INDEPENDENTSince 1989 Over 50 Bathroom Displays l Working Displays l 4D Design Service l Quality Brands l Large Car Park
Visit us online at acorngroup.co.uk 453 D Chestnut Road, SE27 £2,500,000 F/H Contact Streatham 020 8768 6373 Beechhill Road, SE9 Guide Price £1,250,000 - £1,350,000 F/H A stunning example of a double-fronted Corbett house on one of Eltham’s most sought-after roads. Rushetts Road, TN15 OIRO £1,450,000 F/H This bespoke five bedroom detached family home is located in the heart of West Kingsdown, in a semi-rural location beside ancient woodland with easy access to local amenities. Contact Swanley 020 3861 0222 Contact Eltham 020 8860 9999 352 252 An imposing double-fronted period home nestled within a quaint tree-lined road. The property has been fully upgraded with no expense spared both inside and out. Here for your property journey, wherever it takes you. acorngroup.co.uk/journey C D

a viewing today:

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.

from £625,000

Arrange
020 8315 6996 acorngroup.co.uk/newhomes
Prices
NOW COMPLETE AND READY TO MOVE IN
Visit us online at acorngroup.co.uk/lr Forest Ridge, Keston Park BR2 £12,000,000 F/H A substantial and imposing family home with planning permission to extend, residing on 1.5 acres within the private, gated, Keston Park. Montreal Road, TN13 Roxburgh Place, BR1 £1,400,000 F/H OIEO £2,000,000 F/H A spacious four double bedroom detached family home, arranged over three oors and located on a highly sought-after private road just 0.75 miles from Sevenoaks Train Station. A stunning six bedroom detached family home located in a quiet development on the borders of Chislehurst and Bickley, set behind electrically controlled gates. Contact Sevenoaks 01732 443 333 Contact Chislehurst 020 8295 4900 Contact Locksbottom 01689 882 988 242 E 463 Here for your property journey, wherever it takes you. acorngroup.co.uk/journey 774 B B
Over 75% 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 ecifications, open-plan living aces and private balconies or terraces to all apartments. To arrange a viewing, call 020 8315 6996 or visit acorngroup.co.uk/vixen
Visit us online at acorngroup.co.uk/jp 1312 Here for your property journey, wherever it takes you. acorngroup.co.uk/journey 42 C D Vanbrugh Hill, SE10 £849,999 F/H Beautifully presented Victorian end-of-terrace house, located on this popular residential road. Situated within close proximity to superb transport links and convenient shopping facilities. Contact Greenwich East 020 3846 1414 St Josephs Vale, SE3 £899,950 F/H Contact Blackheath Village 020 8318 1311 Gorgeous detached, Edwardian home, sat on a premier tree-lined street in the heart of the Westcombe Park conservation area. Contact Blackheath Standard 020 8858 6101 362 D This is a superb and immaculate, end-of-terrace house which has been extended to the rear. Peacefully situated within this leafy and highly regarded private development. Hardy Road, SE3 £2,500,000 F/H

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.

Over 90% sold –ready to move into

Hillcross

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.

Developed by:

Show home open Thursday-Monday, 10am-5pm. Call 020 8315 6902 or visit acorngroup.co.uk/hillcross

Selling agent:
Place is a stunning new collection of 2 bedroom apartments for sale. Prices now starting from £535,000
Indoor & Outdoor Gym . Tennis Courts . Squash Court . Unlimited Classes HIIT Studio . Bar & Restaurant . Pool and Spa Pool . Steam Room & Sauna Chiswick’s Premium Independent Health Club Chiswick High Road Stamford Brook FIND US ON Airedale Avenue Turnham Green www.thehogarth.co.uk Airedale Avenue W4 2NW THE HOGARTH CLUB enquiries@thehogarth.co.uk BOOK A PERSONAL TOURDiscover a multitude of fitness facilities designed to inspire your wellness lifestyle. Join on a monthly no tie-in contract. Who you will be at The Hogarth Club?
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