Absolutely Kensington & Chelsea March 2021

KENSINGTON & CHELSEA

Kensington & Chelsea

MARCH 2021 / £3.95

FLOWER FAIRY At home with Nikki Tibbles

MARCH 2021

New WEAVE Woven fashion from Maia London

Sleep Talk

Zandra Rhodes and colourful bedrooms

SPECIAL 50 Pages of inspiration and advice

Spring

DREAMS LIVING IN STYLE THIS SEASON

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ABSOLUTELY

Contents MARCH 2021

88 10

C U LT U R E ABSOLUTELY LOVES

HOME 60 TOP TEN

WHAT'S ON

64 ZANDRA RHODES

10 things we’re coveting this month

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32

Your diary for March

FOOD & DRINK 20 KITCHEN CONFIDENTIAL News from the industry

23 BOX FRESH

The best meals, delivered

24 RECIPES

One-pot dishes from Anna Jones

FA S H I O N 30 TEXTILE LOVE

Maia London's lovely woven fabrics

32 THE SHOOT Penelope Chilvers' fabulous footwear

All the best prints and patterns

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The designers' new bedheads

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NIKKI TIBBLES

On flowers, dogs and lockdown

88 COLOUR POP

How to brighten up your home

E D U C AT I O N 118 YOLANDA BROWN A musical childhood

124 TALKING HEAD

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

Emanuel School spotlight

A B S O L U T E LY M A M A 127 MAMAHOOD

10 pages of babies and bumps incorporating Absolutely Mama magazine

O N T H E C OV E R Fabienne Chapot; thebiascut.com

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

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EDITOR IN CHIEF PENDLE HARTE DIGITAL EDITOR ABBIE SCHOFIELD MAMA EDITOR CARLY GLENDINNING ART DIRECTOR PAWEL KUBA SENIOR DESIGNER MIKE ROBERTS MID-WEIGHT DESIGNER REBECCA NOONAN MEDIA CONSULTANTS JONATHAN MEAD, STELLA ADAMS, ANABELA KOLECI BRAND PARTNERSHIPS MANAGER NAVINDER LALL MARKETING MANAGER LUCIE PEARCE 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

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

Studio G06, Wenlock Studios, 50-52 Wharf Road, London N1 7EU; 020 7704 0588 zest.london Zest Media Publications Ltd. cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited submissions, manuscripts and photographs. While every care is taken, prices and details are subject to change and Zest Media Publications Ltd. take no responsibility for omissions or errors.

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

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Editor’s

Projektityyny We are obsessed with these beautiful gingham colourways.

LETTER ABSOLUTELY’S March issue highlights

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his issue is dedicated to the home, because who hasn't at least considered some home improvements in these long months? With spring in the air, now's the time to add some colourful elements to your home, whether it's a bright Zandra Rhodes headboard, a gingham quilt from our favourite discovery Projektityyny or a bright storage basket.

This issue has 50 pages of ideas for everything from kitchen storage to paint colours, via bathroom essentials, sleep aids and equipment for your home gym. Because the importance of exercise can't be understated, whether your regime of choice involves a Peloton (there's a waiting list, we hear) or a simple brisk walk. My own brisk walks have been improved enormously now that I'm marching around in a pair of Penelope Chilvers boots, which are tough enough to withstand the mud, yet still look great, making them officially the footwear of the moment. All this, plus an extended focus on healthcare, makes March an exciting month. We hope you enjoy the issue.

PENDLE HARTE EDITOR

Penelope Chilvers

The best boots.

Practical and stylish too.

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Off the wall

Beautiful historic designs, reinvented.

5

4 A nna Jones

Her excellent new book of one-pot dinners

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Nikki Tibbles

The dog-loving florist on her post-lockdown plans

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

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Wish LIST 10 things we Absolutely love COMPILED BY

ABBIE SCHOFIELD

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HELLO HERMÈS Luxury pre-loved consignment store Sellier Knightsbridge has one of the most swoon-worthy designer collections we've seen. From Chanel and Hermès to Bottega Veneta and Louis Vuitton, they are one of the UK's most trusted resellers. sellierknightsbridge.com

ROCK ROMANCE Gender fluid artist Harris Reed's collaboration with M•A•C Cosmetics is inspired by Renaissance paintings, glam rock and dandyish dressing, with products just as bold as their packaging. maccosmetics.co.uk

EDITOR’S PICK

R E N TA L R EVO LU T I O N WITH THE BAND Sustainable jewellery brand Leo + Lumi focuses on minimalist, everyday pieces that can be worn alone or stacked together. The whole collection is made with 14k gold and lab-grown diamonds. Rings from £135 leoandlumi.com

Renting clothes is the answer to conscious shopping — no more buying an expensive dress only to wear it once.

Peer-to-peer platform By Rotation allows you to rent out your own clothes as well as borrow other people's via an app. byrotation.com

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ABSOLUTELY • LOVES

FEELING FRESH

TO P T I PS

Ted Baker's SS21 collection is inspired by 'nostalgia, optimism and the joyous moments of everyday British life', with an uplifting film shot at the seaside by Felix Cooper. Cotton boilersuit, £149, trainers £119 tedbaker.com

Nail art is having a resurgence. And the 'it' style? The humble French mani. But rather than chunky white tips à la 2005, go for a thin line of a colour like Papaya by Peacći. £10 peacci.com

B E MY B U B B L E Supermodel Cara Delevigne and her sister Poppy have branched out into the world of wine. Della Vite is a light and floral Prosecco made in collaboration with a third-generation wine-making family in Italy. £25.95 dellavite.com

PRETTY P E TA L S Whether it's a birthday, commiseration or a simple 'I miss you', a flower delivery is always a joy, especially right now. New service Floward specialises in elegant bouquets crafted by their expert designers. Coral roses, £90 floward.com

L I L AC LOV E Lucy & Yak's corduroy boilersuit comes in a variety of shades, but we are particularly charmed by this one called Orchid Bloom — very fitting for spring. £68 lucyandyak.com

BRIGHT STUFF Spring cleaning shouldn't stop at dusting — it's the perfect time to clear out your drawers and replace tired underwear with beautiful matching lingerie, like this set by Marie Jo. Trust us, you'll feel better. Bra £69, Briefs £35 ameliesfollies.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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C U LT U R E

'POPFR-AIX', ED MOSES, C.2000. FEATURED IN WHIPLINES, WATERFALLS AND WORMS, JD MALAT GALLERY

What's on 14 • Competition 16 A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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The Agenda

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

T H E AT R E

Typical Ongoing SOHO THEATRE ON DEMAND The film version of hit stage play Typical is now available online. Written by award-winning playwright Ryan Calais Cameron, Typical uncovers the man behind the tragic true-life events of Black British ex-serviceman Christopher Alder and the injustice that still remains twenty years after his story came to light. sohotheatreondemand.com

H.E.R PRICELESS, WILLIAMS CHECHEN, 2020

Hyperflux A RT

O NL I NE • U NTI L 14 MARCH

Renowned contemporary Nigerian artist Williams Chechen is showing 28 works at gallery Retro Africa in Abuja; however, his pop art prints are also available to explore online worldwide. With a career spanning two decades, Chechen interrogates what it means to be African in a mass-consumerist, globalised world.

CO N C E RT

Musical Drive In Until 21 March ONLINE Stream this uplifting 10-hour performance of the most-loved musical hits ever, with special appearances from the likes of Lucie Jones (Waitress) and Layton Williams (Everyone’s Talking About Jamie). westendmusicaldrivein.co.uk

retroafrica.art

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CULTURE • TALKING TOPICS

A RT

Essence Until 21 March H O FA G A L L E R Y Sculptural painter Zhuang Hong Yi’s newest works will be on display at House of Fine Art Gallery this spring. His bright and emotive floral artworks are inspired

by Buddhist philosophy, Chinese culture and the impressionist tradition. A parallel virtual show will also be available online.

11 Bruton Street, W1J 6PY thehouseoffineart.com

REBIRTH, ZHUANG HONG YI, 2020

B ELLY L AU G H S

Lighten the mood and take an online comedy class

HOOPLA IMPROV THEATRE

I M P R OV Laugh through lockdown thanks to Hoopla’s online improv classes, which have been attended by over 1,000 people so far. They offer drop-in and taster sessions as well as longer courses for those wanting to improve their comedy skills. hooplaimpro.com

T H E AT R E

BARNES’ PEOPLE

This Month’s Must See

Until 31 July 2021 O R I G I N A L T H E AT R E O N L I N E Barnes’ People is a collection of four monologues by Peter Barnes’, originally commissioned by BBC Radio 3 in the 1980s and starring the likes of Alan Rickman and Jeremy Irons. Revived and filmed on stage at the Theatre Royal Windsor, you can now stream the compelling stories of a ventriloquist, a doctor, a Buckingham Palace footman and a man losing his faith. originaltheatreonline.com

ANGEL COMEDY CLUB

E D MOSE S

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O NGO I NG • J D MALAT GALLERY ON LIN E

solo exhibition from the iconic Californian painter and leader of the 'Cool School' of artists, Ed Moses, has opened virtually. Titled 'Whiplines, Waterfalls and Worms', it showcases the adventurous work from the last two decades of his life with an accompanying essay by friend of the artist Richard Davey.

jdmalat.com

S TA N D U P Known for hosting the best up-andcoming names in comedy, Angel Comedy Club offers masterclasses and courses in stand-up and comedy writing for all levels, plus one-on-one sessions. angelcomedy.co.uk

SKILLSHARE T U TO R I A L S Skillshare has dozens of video lessons from seasoned comedians on a range of topics, from '5 Techniques to Write Funny Jokes' to 'Mastering Sketch Comedy'. Plus, you can trial it for free. skillshare.com

GO GREEN WIP ON EILD, ED MOSES, 2008

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

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CULTURE • PARTNERSHIP ENGLAND IN ACTION

KICK OFF TIME Win two hospitality tickets to an England Rugby match, courtesy of Keith Prowse

“You'll watch the match from the upper tier's best seats with a full view of the action” BRITISH AIRWAYS ROSE GARDEN

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lthough we’re in unprecedented times, which may see this year’s Guinness Six Nations fixtures take place behind closed doors, rugby passion is rising.

Keith Prowse, the principal hospitality sales partner to England Rugby, is offering readers the chance to win a fully inclusive hospitality experience for two in the British Airways Rose Garden this autumn, when England will take on an Emerging Nation at Twickenham Stadium.

Taking its rugby heritage from the rose embossed crest given to Rugby School

by Elizabeth I, the British Airways Rose Garden is one of Twickenham’s liveliest match day venues with incredible views over London. Up to two hours before the match, you will be able to enjoy unlimited street food including stone-baked pizzas and a rotisserie carvery, washed down with a wide range of real ales, Guinness, premium lager and selected wines.

A build-up of live band music from the stage will create a vibrant atmosphere rich with anticipation.

You’ll then take your seats and watch the match from the upper tier’s best seats with a full view of the on-pitch action – don’t forget to pop back to the British Airways Rose Garden for a half time pint!

No game would be complete without the obligatory post-match analysis and guests are welcome to stay behind for ninety minutes after the game.

Don’t miss out on the chance to win this ultimate rugby hospitality experience courtesy of Keith Prowse.

H OW TO ENTER For the chance to win the ultimate rugby hospitality experience courtesy of Keith Prowse, visit: absolutely.london/win-rugby Terms and conditions apply.

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

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Hingstons Of Wilton Purveyors of Antiques and decorative items (est.1976)

�e Old Bell House, 2 Sha�tesbury Road, Wilton, Salisbury, SP2 0DR 01722 742263 | nick@hingstons-antiques.co.uk www.hingstons-antiques.co.uk

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FOOD & DRINK

AMUSE BOUCHE FINISH & FEAST

Finish & Feast launched in November 2020, and was the first at-home restaurant service to specialise in fine dining. Muse by chef Tom Aikens is the latest Michelin-starred restaurant to be added to the platform, delivering a luxurious menu direct to UK homes. finishandfeast.com

Food notes 20 • Meal kits 23 • Recipes 24 A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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WHAT TO DRINK

GRAPE news Wine recommendations for the month

TASTING NOTES

London’s food news and most exciting openings this month

By ABBIE SCHOFIELD

By BERRY BROS. & RUDD

2016 Viña Amézola Crianza, Bodegas Amézola de la Mora, Spain  £16.50 Aged for 15 months in oak, this wine gives subtle hints of vanilla spice and nutmeg. Fine-grained tannins are complemented by oozing dark blackberry fruit and lifted by a red-fruit freshness which mirrors the elegant nose. Try it with Vietnamese food or tapas.

2019 Sancerre, Blanc, Brigitte and Daniel Chotard, Loire  £19.95 This is an expert blend of parcels covering three distinct soil types – limestone, pebbly griottes and marl; each brings something to the party..

Fresh and grassy with subtle stone fruit character, this cuvée has a long finish with a saline note.

Berry Bros. & Rudd Crémant de Limoux by Antech, Brut, Languedoc  £13.95 A blend of 70% Chardonnay and 15% each of Chenin Blanc and Mauzac, this is a balanced wine, with elegant aromas of orchard fruit and honeyed spice. Aged traditionally on its lees, it shows more exotic fruits with a clean, pebbly backdrop.

BERRY BROS. & RUDD Berry Bros. & Rudd is Britain's oldest wine and spirit merchant, having traded from the same shop since 1698. Today the company also has offices in Japan, Singapore and Hong Kong, a Wine School and an exclusive fine wine and dining venue in St James's.

bbr.com

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Outside the Box P E T E R S H A M N U R S E R I E S CA F É

Petersham Nurseries has launched a four-course feasting box available for nationwide delivery from Restokit. Featuring luxurious seasonal dishes ready to finish and assemble at home, enjoy the likes of fresh tagliatelle with tema artichoke, anchovy, chilli and garlic pangrattato, and Haye farm porchetta, rolled with winter garden herbs. They’ll also send you a pretty hyacinth bulb in a terracotta pot and two rustic candles. restokit.co.uk

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FOOD & DRINK• NOTES

SWEET TOOTH Treat yourself to a dessert delivery

C A K E O R D E AT H

Family flavour

Letterbox brownie company Cake or Death is based in east London, but can deliver nationwide.

Choose from gooey caramel, raspberry, peanut, Biscoff or a mixture of them all, encased in Instagram-worthy pink packaging. cakeordeath.net

HERITAGE

A new Indian fine dining concept has opened, bringing family recipes and lesser-known inventive Indian dishes directly to Dulwich homes. There are four set menus to choose from, including the Heritage Rajputana with the restaurant’s signature dishes, a vegan option and the Coastal Sack featuring masala seabass and prawn curry. Each menu includes regional breads, rice, chutneys and sides to complete your meal.

Rosendale Road, SE21 8EZ heritagedulwich.co.uk

BEST OF B RI T I SH FENN

From the team behind Nest in Hackney, Fenn will open this month in Fulham.

Focusing on British produce, head chef Joe Laker’s set menu includes Lincolnshire Poacher cheese and truffle dumplings. Continuing with the local theme, the restaurant’s interior will showcase work by London artists.

Wandsworth Bridge Road, SW6 2UF fennrestaurant.co.uk

KIPFERL Known as one of the most authentic Austrian restaurants in London, Kipferl in Islington’s Camden Passage makes incredible Sachertorten — sponge cakes filled with apricot jam with a chocolate glaze. Available for delivery across the country, the traditional Viennese cakes can also be personalised. kipferl.co.uk/shop

AEGEAN E AT S PASCOR

Lakes to London SIMON ROGAN AT HOME

After a successful launch last year which saw Simon Rogan at Home deliver 10,000 meals nationwide, the chef is expanding to double capacity. Three-course fine dining boxes can be ordered from the Lake District, home to Simon’s restaurants L’Enclume and Rogan & Co. Each dish takes less than ten minutes to prepare with a handy video guide. simonroganathome.co.uk

PRIMROSE BAKERY Londoners looking to improve their baking skills can order Primrose Bakery’s at-home kit, with the choice of a five-layer rainbow cake, vanilla cupcakes or a simple decorating box.

Included are all the dry ingredients, food colourings and toppings you’ll need, plus a step-by-step recipe card. plateaway.com

Inspired by the cuisines of Bulgaria, Serbia, Greece and Turkey, Pascor serves meze and sharing plates with a focus on mangal cooking. Dishes include Spanish grilled octopus with blood orange, delica pumpkin and samphire.

Kensington residents can order via Deliveroo.

Kensington High Street, W8 6SG @pascor_restaurant A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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Book now for April 12th onwards.

Awarded the BEST ALFRESCO SPOT in South West London The Sanctuary by Yum Sa in Putney opens a fully climate controlled outdoor dining experience.

Serving our signature Veuve & Grooves Champagne Brunch on Saturday and Sunday from noon onwards with music and a 7 course Modern Asian Menu All Thai’d Up.

BY RESERVATION ONLY

VEUVE AND GROOVES BRUNCH @ 70 PER PERSON SERVED ON SATURDAYS AND SUNDAYS FROM 12PM  4PM Includes a bottle of champagne per person. House spumante and wines as well as alcohol free options available

YUM SA RESTAURANT 3 plaza gardens 88 upper richmond road putney, sw15 2dt (opp east putney tube station)

NEW SIGNATURE COCKTAIL MENU IS LIVE OPENING TIMES DAILY 1210PM

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WWW.YUM-SA.COM 020 3371 9111 #YUMSARESTAURANT

26/02/2021 12:42

FOOD & DRINK • MEAL KITS

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TA K A Excellent Marylebone eaterie Taka has launched Taka-way, with an impressive set menu for two. We loved miso-glazed plantain and popcorn shrimp tempura, plus lamb rack with ginger onion sauce, salmon tataki, tuna crunch rolls, edamame and tangy salad. This one's a real treat. £80, takalondon.com

B O X F R E S H OUR FAVOURITE FOOD DELIVERIES OF THE MONTH

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ATC H A Atcha delivers bold Indian flavours in light. lunch-friendly incarnations.

With a menu devised by an exCinnamon Club chef, options include a delicious no-butter chicken bowl and a tasty paneer sarnie on excellent sourdough plus various soups, salads and sides, all delivered to your door. atcha.co.uk

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ZESTED This environmentally conscious recipe box plants a tree with every order and contains almost no plastic packaging. Designed by chef Wil Hopson, the dishes are packed with seasonal goodness. We love the Soy chicken with shredded cabbage and Schezuan rice — like a healthy, gourmet Chinese takeaway!

From £12 zested.com

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S H O R T E AT S

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Our Short Eats delivery arrived by bike – this Sri Lankan/Trinidadian melting pot from East London couple Melissa and Shahnan Bakth is a winner. Our vegan set menu included aubergine curry, red lentil dhal,spiced chickepeas, spinach and rice plus raita and carrot sambal – all of it full of flavour and spice with a real homemade feel. £27 shorteatslondon.com

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DA N N Y JAC K

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'Eco chef' Tom Hunt has collaborated with chef Danny Jack to create a special recipe box based around his recent cookbook, Eating for Pleasure, People & Planet. The Regenerative Menu Box is a fivecourse feast for two with a themes — previous boxes celebrated Valentine's Day and Fairtrade Fortnight. £75 chefdannyjack.com

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One POT Spiced dishes for simple yet sophisticated suppers Wo r d s A N N A J O N E S Phorography ISSY CROKER

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FOOD & DRINK • RECIPES

Lemon, chickpea and green herb stew Serves 4-6

INGREDIENTS • Coconut or groundnut oil • Bunch of spring onions, thinly sliced • 2 cloves of garlic, chopped, • Small bunch of coriander, stalks chopped and leaves picked • 2 teaspoons ground turmeric • 3x400g tins chickpeas, drained and rinsed • 200ml hot vegetable stock • 1x400ml tin coconut milk • 2 unwaxed lemons, zested and cut in half • 2 shallots, peeled, halved and very thinly sliced To serve • Large handful of green herb leaves picked and torn (I use a mixture of mint, basil and coriander) • A pinch of dried chilli flakes

METHOD This lemony, coconut and herbtopped stew has a freshness I love, but it’s hearty and filling at the same time. You add the halved, squeezed lemons to the stew as it cooks, which imparts a great citrussy zin.

Not all chickpeas are created equal.

Some pre-cooked tinned chickpeas can be hard as bullets, so I plump for the jarred: I find that they are more carefully cooked and expertly seasoned.

1 Put a large saucepan over a medium heat, then add a little oil, the spring onions, garlic and coriander stalks. Cook for about five minutes or until the spring onion is soft and sweet. 2 Add the turmeric and cook for a couple of minutes to toast and release the oils. Add the chickpeas, stock and coconut milk, the zest and juice of both lemons and the squeezed lemon halves. 3 Bring to a boil and simmer over a medium-low heat for 20 minutes, until slightly thickened and a vivid yellow. 4 In a separate frying pan, heat three tablespoons of oil and fry the shallots over a medium-low heat until golden and slightly crisp. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on kitchen paper. 5 Once the stew is ready, scoop out the lemon halves, stir through most of the herbs and serve topped with the crispy shallots, remaining herbs and chilli flakes.

Cinnamon and cherry tomato koshari Serves 6

INGREDIENTS • 150g green/brown lentils • 750g fresh cherry tomatoes or 2x400g tins cherry tomatoes, drained • 4 cloves of garlic • 6 shallots, very thiny sliced • 5 tbls extra veiring olive oil • A small bunch of coriander, including stalks, • 1 teaspoon ground allspice • 1 stick cinnamon • 300g rice, rinsed • Rapeseed oil • Small bunch of parsley, chopped, • Small bunch of mint, chopped

METHOD 1 This bravely spiced rice and lentil dish is more than the sum of its parts and comes (mostly) from the store cupboard. It’s topped with a crown of crispy fried shallots, which brings a key level of crunch and contrast to what is otherwise soft and comforting.

In its pure Egyptian street food form there is pasta – macaroni to be precise – and often chickpeas too.

I’ve just used rice and lentils here for simplicity, but you could add a handful of macaroni to the rice, or a drained can of chickpeas to make it a little more authentic. 2 First, soak your lentils in 300ml warm water for an hour, then drain and rinse. Preheat the oven to 200C/180 fan/gas 6 3 In a large cast-iron pot with a lid, put the tomatoes, garlic, a quarter of the sliced shallots and 2 tablespoons of olive oil.

Chop the coriander stalks then add those as well, along with the allspice and cinnamon stick. Roast in the oven for 10 minutes then remove and sprinkle on the rice and rinsed lentils.

Add 900ml boiling water, season with salt, cover with the lid and place in the oven for another 25 minutes.

4 Meanwhile, make the crispy shallots. Fill a saucepan with a 3cm depth of room-temperature rapeseed oil. Put over a high heat and then once hot, add the remaining shallots.

Give them a quick stir so they are all evenly submerged in the oil, then leave to cook for around 4 minutes, keeping an eye on them as they cook.

Once they start turning a light golden colour, remove them from the oil with a slotted spoon and leave to cool completely on some kitchen paper.

5 Remove the rice from the oven and using an oven glove, take off the lid and remove the whole garlic cloves.

Let the rice stand for 10 minutes and meanwhile, pop the garlic out of its skin and mash with some sea salt and A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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FOOD & DRINK • RECIPES

a gas hob it will take 4-5 minutes on each side, so about 20 minutes in total. They need to be softened all the way through. Leave them to cool so that the skin comes away from the flesh. 3 For an authentic finish, peel the tomatoes (I sometimes skip this step if I am in a hurry); score a cross in the base of the fruit, place them in a heatproof bown then cover them with just-boiled water.

Leave for 30 seconds to a minute, then drain and cool slightly before peeling off the skin. Chop finely.

4 Heat the spices in a dry frying pan until fragrant. Add a glug of oil, tomatoes and garlic, season well and fry for a few minutes, until the tomatoes start to break down. Stir through the tomato puree, vinegar and sugar, then squeeze the flesh from the charred aubergine into the tomatoes. Simmer for 20-30 minutes until thickened slightly. Transfer to a bowl, then give the pan a quick wash.

5 If you are serving it with halloumi, heat the frying pan over a high heat.

Cook the halloumi for 2 minutes on each side until melting and golden brown. Serve it on top of the warm dip. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil, add the herbs and scoop it all up with warm flatbreads.

Spiced aubergines with halloumi Serves 4

INGREDIENTS • 2 medium aubergines • 600g tomatoes • A pinch of cumin seeds • A pinch of smoked paprika • Olive oil • 2 cloves of garlic, peeled and finely chopped • 1 tablespoon tomato puree • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar • ½ teaspoon sugar

To serve • 200g block of halloumi, sliced lengthways into 1cm slices • Extra virgin olive oil • Small bunch of mint, parsley or both, leaves picked • Warm flatbreads 1 This recipe is based on zaalouk, that I am told is half-dip, halfsalad, and is Morocco’s answer to baba ganoush. I eat it topped with grilled halloumi (but not in any way traditional, but delicious), with some flatbreads and a good green salad.

It would also be brilliant as part of a spread when you have people round.

2 Blacken the aubergines all over, either under a hot grill or on a foillined tray or by turning them with tongs over a gas hob or hot barbecue.

Make sure they char completely. On

One Pot, Pan, Planet by Anna Jones is published this month by 4th Estate, £26 h/b

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

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PARTY DRESS SHRIMPS

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LAURA MILES

Q&A

New

W E A V E Absolutely meets Laura Miles of MAIA LONDON to discuss her new collection and her love of handloom fabrics

Interview PENDLE HARTE

Q Your background is in textile design and this is your first independent fashion venture. How did Maia come about?

A I was introduced to the fabrics of Womenweave by a friend with a view to developing their collection further for the international market. While doing this I fell in love with the organisation and decided to launch a small collection of my own. I wanted to show that handloom fabric works really well in more modern styles and can also look completely different in brighter colourways.

“I wanted to show that handloom fabric works really well in modern styles ”

Q You have worked with countless brands and also taught at the Royal College of Art. What have been your career highlights so far?

A I have loved how much travel I have been able to do with my career, working with indigenous weavers in Uzbekistan and Indonesia has been a particular highlight. Another high point was waking up to see one of my textile designs splashed across all the front pages of the newspapers on Michelle Obama shortly after she became FLOTUS. Q Talk us through Maia’s new collection?

A For summer we are really focusing on

colour, lots of faded brights in primary

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FASHION • Q&A

and agricultural labourers with no family income thus empowering the weakest and poorest section of society. It’s a really joyful place to work and they also provide schooling for the weavers children and a creche for the younger kids so that the women can work happily knowing their children are safe and close by.

colours with accents of lilac and tangerine. We have recently added shirts to the collection in lighter fabrics which have been really popular, we will be making them in quirky pastel shades for the new collection.

Q Can you describe your own style?

A Pretty relaxed – I’m always on the go

either with my children or the dog or running around to various suppliers, so I dress comfortably to accommodate this but also don’t want to sacrifice on style. I now mostly wear Maia and I love how it works for the day but also also be dressed up for the night…. once we can finally go out again.

Q What designers do you admire?

A For day wear I love Isabel Marant,

its stylish but not too dressy so works for everyday life. For inspiration and textiles it will always be Dries van Noten and Chanel for their amazing tweeds.

Q What is it about woven textiles that interests you?

A I love that you are making something from nothing. Particularly in handloom each individual thread is placed there by hand and weaving has so many different processes from warping to thread the loom and finally weaving which are all enjoyable Q Tell us about the charity Women Weave.

A WomenWeave was founded by Sally Holkar and has supported the role of women in handloom weaving since its inception in 2002, working towards making handloom a profitable, fulfilling, sustainable and dignified incomeearning activity particularly for women in rural areas of India and keeping alive the traditional craft of handweaving.

WomenWeave favours women who are divorced, widowed, separated, disabled,

Q How have you managed to carry on during the pandemic?

A It’s been difficult but it was really important for me to keep working with Womenweave throughout this as there is very little state aid in India so the women rely on this for their income even more. I would usually travel there a couple of time a year but we have managed to work via zoom and whatsapp. I have had to take a slower approach to growing the business than I would have wanted. I do think that one side effect of the pandemic has been that consumers are buying less and that they finally care about where their clothes are coming from and what will happen to them at the end of their life span. We are committed to using natural fibres which will biodegrade once they can no longer be worn.

Q What’s next for you and Maia London?

A I want to grow the brand slowly,

adding more styles and expanding the sleepwear and home collection that we introduced in the last few months. maia-london.com

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

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FASHION • JEWELLERY

Rainbow vision Colourful jewels for a brighter mood

By ABBIE SCHOFIELD

38

MAYA GEMSTONES

KAVANT & SHARART

BUDREVICH

Ruler Bracelet, €2,500 mayagemstones.com

18k Yellow Gold with Tsavorite Earrings, £12,415 kavantandsharart.com

Versa Blue Ring, £2,750 budrevich.co.uk

CRYSTAL HAZE

EMILY P. WHEELER

BOODLES

Aquamarine Necklace, £79 crystalhazejewelry.com

Sunrise Ombre Ring, $7,400 emilypwheeler.com

Woodland Yellow Beryl Pendant, £7,500 boodles.com

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Green Tourmaline and Diamond Ring, £2,850 dinnyhall.com

Amethyst Pear Earrings, £3,500 budrevich.com

Long Cluster Drip Earrings, £275 simonerocha.com

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

C E LE B RAT E YO UR H E A LTH HUMAN HEALTH

Is your health holding you back from really enjoying life and doing the things you love?

Human Health knows how precious life is and they want you to be able to make the most of it as your healthiest self. drmhumanhealth.co.uk

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

Beauty notes 43 • The best fitness apps 55 • Women-run beauty labs 57 A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • NOTES

BEAUTY NOTES

The latest in luxury makeup and skincare

By ABBIE SCHOFIELD

EDITOR’S PICK

NO SCRUBS

S

By ABBIE SCHOFIELD

Winter equals dry skin, and if you need to level up from your regular body scrub, try the Dr Dennis Gross Exfoliating Body Treatment. The textured wipe is soaked in acids, enzymes and baukichol (hailed as the natural retinol) to lift off dead skin without stripping moisture. £58 for eight, drdennisgross.com

Patch UP MIJ

Celebrity skincare lines are the new celebrity fragrances (i.e. everywhere), but presenter Maya Jama's MIJ masks are worth paying attention to. Made from bio-cellulose (a top quality biodegradeable fibre) they contain hero ingredients such as hyaluronic and glycerin to boost radiance and hydration.

From £13.99, mijmasks.com

B O B B I B R OW N

Chinese actress NiNi is the face of Bobbi Brown’s new limited edition collection. Inspired by the illuminating glow of New York City, we love the Luxe Eye Shadow Quad and Highlighting Powder for a multidimensional, radiant look.

From £36.50, bobbibrown.co.uk

SKIN HERO Bespoke skincare boxes by West Room Aesthetics

DR DENNIS GROSS

R OSY G LOW

FOCUS

kincare boxes are hot right now. And what's not to like about purchasing a collection of best-selling luxury products in one go for a discounted price? They're normally compiled by big beauty retailers with a trusted ‘skinfluencer’ (like blogger Caroline Hirons and Cult Beauty's recent collaboration).

But the problem is, skin is not one-size-fits-all. While the products in a beauty box may be fantastic for some, they won't suit everyone, for example if you have sensitive skin.

There are also differences in skin anatomy depending on skin colour, and issues such as hyperpigmentation and inflammation can affect black women differently to white women.

To tackle this problem, Skin Health Specialist Dija Ayodele, founder of West Room Aesthetics, has created four different Skin Heroes boxes: Dry, Combi, Oily or Oily+. They contain products from top brands that Dija actually uses in her clinic such as Osmosis and Cosmedix.

“Every single product has been handpicked by me, backed by years of experience about what really works for skin, especially black and brown skin," says Dija. "I also want to uncomplicate skincare and reduce some of the negative noise and sensationalism around the options available to black women and the products we should be using.”

You can even subscribe and have your box automatically delivered every 12 weeks.

SKIN HEROES BOX

£345 with a complimentary facial westroomaesthetics.com

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

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • TREND

BEAUTY PIE

EDITOR’S PICK

Plantastic Apricot Butter Cleansing Balm, £50, £13.93 for members beautypie.com

ALLIES OF SKIN Molecular Silk Amino Hydrating Cleanser, £37 alliesofskin.com

IRENE FORTE Almond Cleansing Milk, £69 ireneforteskincare.com

HONEST BEAUTY Magic Gel to Milk Cleanser, £20 cultbeauty.co.uk

ERBORIAN Centella Cleansing Oil, £25 uk.erborian.com

DR DENNIS GROSS Meltaway Cleanser, £30 spacenk.com

JUST ADD WATER

ELEMIS

The best facial cleansers for removing makeup and dirt, tried and tested

Superfood AHA Glow Cleansing Butter, £30 uk.elemis.com

By ABBIE SCHOFIELD

HOUSE OF PURPLE ROSE Brighten & Clarify Cleanser, £18 houseofpurplerose.com

BIOSSANCE Squalane + Antioxidant Cleansing Oil, £25 cultbeauty.co.uk

THE ORDINARY Squalane Cleanser, £5.50 theordinary.deciem.com

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

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Human to

HUMAN Using traditional and modern medicine, Human Health is on a mission to transform our approach to health

DRMAYONIGOONERATNE

“Our society's approach to healthcare often focuses on fixing things rather than tackling the root cause” 46

I

B y H U M A N H E A LT H

magine this: it’s a beautiful morning, you have woken feeling refreshed, in the best of health and the day is yours. What are you going to do? Maybe you just want to potter about in the garden or tackle that DIY project you’ve been planning.

Maybe you fancy a game of tennis or a round of golf, or perhaps the grandchildren are visiting and you are looking forward to lifting them into your arms and giving them the biggest cuddle. You may even want to get out on your bike, go hiking, or even climb a mountain!

This is at the heart of what Human Health is all about: helping you to be in the best possible health so you can do all the things you love without your health holding you back.

Most of the time it’s only when our health becomes a problem that we think about it.

Our society's approach to healthcare often focuses on fixing things when they go wrong.

Taking a pill or medication is usually far easier and quicker than tackling the root cause of many chronic illnesses. Our busy lives mean we all too frequently put off seeing our doctor and when we do, it can be rushed. Our doctors aren't given enough time to really understand what’s going on, or

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

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • PARTNERSHIP

“Human Health is a doctorled service with a focus on prevention as well as cure” thoroughly investigate lifestyle factors that have been medically proven to have a high impact on our health and propensity for developing certain diseases and conditions.

Sometimes you can’t put your finger on what is wrong, but you just don’t feel right or as healthy as you did. It’s tempting to just soldier on accepting it, not wanting to bother anyone. It could be that our doctor has been unable to make a diagnosis or indeed we hope things will improve on their own. A slow deterioration can go unnoticed until it has become an acute issue.

Human Health is a doctor-led service that has been designed with these problems in mind, without the time constraints and with a focus on prevention as well as cure.

We want to know what ails you, we want to spend time understanding what good

health means to you, human to human.

Our approach is different — it's a bit like a pension but for your health. Regularly putting in even small amounts will help you to not only add years to your life but add life to those years! We know that many things are out of our control but when it comes to your health, it's time to take control of the things you can. The team at Human Health are experienced medical and healthcare specialists who can help you influence your health destiny through their expertise and passion.

So how do you feel today? Did you have a good night’s sleep? Are you tired, stressed, struggling to manage your weight, hormones all over the place, suffering with pain and mobility issues?

Have you got high-blood pressure,

diabetes, high cholesterol, or other chronic conditions? Have you got a benign lump or a bump that while harmless is annoying you?

We want to know, we want to help, and there are many ways we can. Our foundation is in traditional medicine, but we also use modern methods to deliver our services and leading-edge technology when it comes to diagnostics. For example, our consultations are virtual so you can be seen in the comfort, safety and convenience of your own home. We use genetic testing to develop personalised nutrition plans. Everyone has their own unique genetic blueprint and we believe through the evidence shown that this is the key to unlocking our concept of the Future Human, someone who knows through understanding their individual make up, what lifestyle choices will give them the best possible health outcomes.

The founder and owner of Human Health is Dr Mayoni Gooneratne (MBBS, BSc, MRCS), a member of the British Society of Lifestyle Medicine and a London based general surgeon with over 18 years of medical and surgical experience. Her professional career began in medical surgery, as a graduate of St George’s Hospital Medical School in London, and she has been a member of the Royal College of Surgeons since 2002.

“Human Health came about because I truly wanted to look at how to serve my local community better," she says. "It has turned into something that can be delivered virtually and actually has a greater reach than I could possibly have hoped for. Even though we only launched at the beginning of this year, we are already seeing incredible transformations in the lives of our patients and I want people to know they can make these changes too. Ill health does not have to be an inevitable destination.

We already have a fantastic array of services such as a private GP, weight management, BHRT, pelvic floor therapy, minor skin surgery, physiotherapy, blood and Covid testing to name a few, but we have a lot more on the horizon!”

If you have a question you would like to ask Dr Mayoni, let us know as we will be featuring a Q&A on our website and social media channels in the very near future.

H U M A N H E A LT H 020 8054 9191 drmhumanhealth.co.uk

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • PARTNERSHIP

COLD SNAP

Do your hands get colder than other people's? You might have Raynaud's

D

o you know Raynaud’s? If you often experience cold hands, feet, fingers and toes, you could be one of the 10 million people in the UK affected

by Raynaud’s Phenomenon.

Raynaud’s is a chronic and incurable condition that may be linked to another, more serious autoimmune disease. You may not realise that you have Raynaud’s, however it is essential to find out; to help you control the symptoms and crucially, rule out any underlying causes.

The latest research released by national charity Scleroderma & Raynaud’s UK highlights a shocking lack of awareness surrounding

48

Raynaud’s. It reveals that millions of people would simply dismiss their symptoms, with almost half of us failing to recognise them at all.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

Symptoms are caused by changes in the extremities: usually the hands, feet, fingers and toes, often in response to cold temperatures or stressful situations.

• Cold fingers and toes • Colour changes in the affected area to white, then blue and then red • Numbness, tingling or pain • Stinging or throbbing pain upon warming up When we are exposed to the cold, blood vessels become narrower.

With Raynaud’s, this can be more

extreme and blood flow is restricted, causing noticeable colour changes to the skin: from white to blue and finally to red as the circulation returns. This is a Raynaud’s attack, which can be very painful. It is not just cold weather that could trigger an attack; sometimes just reaching into the fridge is all that it takes.

There are two types of Raynaud’s.

Primary Raynaud’s is the most common form that is not linked to any other health conditions.

Secondary Raynaud’s accounts for around 10% of cases and will be associated with another autoimmune disease such as scleroderma, which may become serious and will require specialist care.

TAKE THE TEST

If you recognise these symptoms, we have developed a quick and easy online test that is available at sruk.co.uk/testme. Most people receive results within 60 seconds, along with information about what to do next.

“I’ve always suffered with cold feet, hands and other extremities like my ears and nose, but because my sister had the same sort of symptoms, I thought it was just who we were. When I was younger, I would have to be really, really, really cold for my hands, feet, ears and nose to hurt.

Now, it doesn’t take a lot for them to start hurting. If I don’t wear gloves it’s painful and I can’t grip stuff, but the bits that hurt the most are probably my nose and ears because I can cover everything else up.” Steph, 39.

SCLERODERMA AND R AY N AU D Scleroderma and Raynaud’s UK is the only charity dedicated to improving the lives of people affected by Scleroderma and Raynaud’s. We exist to improve awareness and understanding of these conditions and to support those affected, and we fund research to ultimately find a cure.

For more information or to find out what to do next, please visit sruk.co.uk, email info@sruk.co.uk or telephone 020 3893 5998.

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • FOCUS

W H A T D O Y O U S E E ?

Increased screen time is taking a toll on our eyes. A trip to The Eye Place can help

By EVE HERBERT

A

lmost a year on, we did not expect to still be facing the challenges the pandemic has brought. For many this means nearly a year of working from home, juggling home-schooling, and trying to maintain some sort of schedule.

As a result of spending so much time indoors over the last year, many people have spent a considerable amount of time in front of digital devices, whether computers, TVs, phones, or tablets. The increase of screen time with minimal breaks can lead to eye fatigue, or eye strain. This is something that has become incredibly common with as many as 90% of computer users reporting symptoms of eye fatigue, and 8 out 10 millennials experiencing symptoms related to using digital devices.

Eye fatigue usually occurs when the muscles in the eyes become overworked.

This can typically be due to extended time in front of a screen, and long periods of concentration and focus, often leading to headaches, tiredness, dry eyes, and difficulty focusing which can impact your mood and productivity. There are a few ways in which you can help to alleviate your symptoms and help to reduce eye fatigue throughout the day.

It is advised to take regular breaks from the screen, and you can do this by following the 20:20:20 rule. Every 20 minutes look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds, this will help to give your eyes regular and short breaks during your working day. You also blink less frequently when spending long periods of time at the computer or concentrating so taking breaks and making a conscious effort to blink will help to keep your eyes hydrated.

The current lockdown circumstances could see people working from home for many more months, with some businesses continuing to work from home

permanently once the pandemic ends.

It is really important that you look after your eye health and keep up to date with your regular eye examinations. Over the last year thousands of people have missed their eye examinations and vital treatment, which can affect sight.

As an essential service The Eye Place remains open for eyecare services including eye examinations and purchasing spectacles. There are social distancing measures in place following government guidance to ensure the environment is clean and safe for patients and our staff.

Contact your local Eye Place today for more information regarding our Covid-19 measures or booking your eye examination.

T H E E Y E P L AC E Branches in Belsize Park, Fitzrovia, Fleet Street and Spitalfields the-eye-place.co.uk

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

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PARTNERSHIP

WITH YO U R B EST IN MIND How to overcome your own mental health preconceptions and help family members speak out

T

he events of 2020 have taken a mental health toll on us all. But stigmas could prevent people from getting the help that they need.

Mental health problems are increasingly common: one in four adults and one in 10 children are now thought to experience mental health issues, which means that almost all of us will know someone who is sufferingi.

COVID-19 has exacerbated this issue. Recent data from Bupa Global’s Executive Wellbeing Indexii found that 70% of high net worth individuals from around the world have experienced symptoms of mental ill-health since the pandemic started, with 21% suffering from fatigue, 23% enduring low moods and anxiety and 21% experiencing feelings of anger and impatience.

But it’s not just us – our families are struggling, too. A study by the University of Oxford of more than 10,000 parents of British children aged 4 to 10 years old found that they saw increases in their child’s emotional difficulties during the pandemiciii.

TACKLING MENTAL HEALTH STIGMA Even though so many of us are experiencing mental ill-health, talking about it is often still seen as a taboo. According to the Bupa Global Wellbeing Index, 41% of high net worth individuals feel that speaking about mental health would be seen as a sign of weakness and 33% feel it could impact on their professional reputation.

However, fortunately these taboos are diminishing for a number of high net worth individuals. According to Bupa Global’s

findings, 48% now take mental health more seriously than ever before and 29% say they will be open and approachable about mental health in the future.

Premium health insurer Bupa Global recognises that mental health is as important as physical health. This is why Bupa Global’s cover provides holistic health management for you and your family. To find out how a Bupa Global health plan puts you in control of your health, visit bupaglobal.com/withyou or call 0371 346 0409.

Calls may be recorded. Bupa Global is a trading name of Bupa Insurance Limited and Bupa Insurance Services Limited.

Bupa Insurance Limited is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority. Bupa Insurance Services Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. i https://www.england.nhs.uk/mental-health/ ii Bupa Global’s Executive Wellbeing Index, Sept 2020: https://www. bupaglobal.com/en/your-wellbeing/inside-bupa/wellbeing-index iii https://emergingminds.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/ CoSPACE-Report-4-June-2020.pdf

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

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • FITNESS

FITNESS

TOP

PICKS Net-A-Porter ’s new sports collection

NOTES

By A B B I E S C H O F I E L D

NET-A-PORTER.COM

FOR THE RUNNER APL’s TechLoom Breeze trainers remind us of a crisp spring sky. No excuses for not completing that Couch to 5k now. £190

F O R T H E YO G I This P.E. Nation triangle sports bra with adjustable straps is the perfect level of soft comfort for low-impact exercise. £65

GET APPY With gyms still closed, here are 3 wellness apps to try FO R T H E LO U N G E R With cream jersey at the front and brown terrycloth at the back, this JW Anderson sweater and joggers set is super cosy. From £230

FOR THE SPINNER The Centre Stage leggings by All Access stretch eight ways for the ultimate compression, plus the wide waistband supports the core. £120

TO N E & S C U L PT

S LE E P S C HO O L

D E L I C I O U S LY E LL A

 Rather than focus on weight loss, Tone & Sculpt encourages a healthy and sustainable approach to fitness. It has over 400 home and gym workouts to follow as well as customisable meal plans and a brilliant community to keep you motivated. Co-founder Krissy Cela is a mega-influencer with 2.3 million Instagram followers, and now powerhouse Danyele Wilson is onboard as a global trainer. An athlete gymnast and cheerleader, Danyele's motivational speeches are extra perk. £13.99 per month, toneandsculpt.app

 42% of the UK population's sleep has worsened since the start of the Covid pandemic. Sleep School offers evidence-based sleep support in various ways, from daily tips to seven-day or 30-day courses, guided by sleep expert Dr Guy Meadows. Each user is given a personalised sleep plan based on clinically proven education and tools rooted in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (a type of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy).

Even the app itself was designed with the help of neuroscientists. £29.99 per year, sleepschool.org

 Ella Mills’s plant-based empire has relaunched the Deliciously Ella app. Aiming to be a hub for all things holistic health, you can track your 'Five Pillars of Wellness' (sleep, eating, water consumption, mindfulness and movement) with the My Tracker tool as well as discover plant-based recipes and follow mindful workouts.

With more than 600 meal ideas to choose from and over 200 yoga, pilates and cardio videos, you’re truly spoiled for choice with everything in one place. 99p per month, deliciouslyella.com/app

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

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • SKINCARE PAI SKINCARE

FORMULA FOR

SUCCESS

The women-run beauty labs leading the small-batch skincare revolution

By ABBIE SCHOFIELD

NEIGHBOURHOOD BOTANICALS

MICAELA NISBET

MONTANA ASHLEY-CRAIG

T

ake a look at your beauty stash. That expensive night cream in your cupboard? It’s probably not as worth it as you think. It may surprise you to learn that most skincare is not created by the brand itself. Known as white label products, a cosmetic lab can produce a formula that any brand's marketing team can purchase off-theshelf. All the brand needs to do is design the packaging to give the perception of a totally unique product. But there’s a new wave of women in the beauty world who are creating their own formulas in independent labs.

Trained cosmetic scientists and formulaters, they are leading the way with small-batch and sustainable skincare that works.

Micaela Nisbet is a former sound engineer who fell in love with face oils while touring in the US. She took a formulation course to learn how to make her own blends, and Neighbourhood Botanicals was born. With a

focus on naturally-derived ingredients and raw cold-pressed oils, the brand’s original formulas are always backed by research.

Micaela has synaesthesia, a condition that links her senses together, which was a surprising advantage when it came to creating her own products. “All the ingredients have their own unique colours in my mind which allows me to find the perfect combination. I also chose the colours on the labels to reflect the smell and feeling of the products.”

Sustainability is key to Neighbourhood Botanicals, despite its challenges. “There is so much greenwashing in the beauty world, when brands use eco-friendly language when they are not. Being sustainable is often the more expensive or inconvenient option.”

Another female founder with a passion for sustainability is Montana Ashley-Craig, a Glaswegian cosmetic scientist with experience creating formulations for the likes of Aesop and Cowshed. Montana began her own brand, MONTAMONTA, after her friend (award-winning bartender Ryan Chetiyawardana) asked her to create a hand soap for his bar. Soon, she was creating bespoke products for bars and restaurants across east London.

Pai Skincare is perhaps a more wellknown brand using sustainable and ethical ingredients and processes. The brand has recently launched Pai Labs, which Justyna Jonczyk, Pai's New Product Development &

Formulation Chemist, calls “a new incubator branch of the brand that we created to bring product ideas to market faster and with more creative freedom. It's about testing new products and ingredients.

“The platform gives Pai the opportunity to be experimental with creative ideas that address very specific consumer needs, and bring them out as soon as they’re ready,” Justyna says. “That means producing in smaller runs, with pared-back packaging and only selling them through our website.”

It’s unlikely that the world’s beauty giants will move away from massproduced white label products any time soon. However, sustainability is high on the industry’s agenda for 2021 as consumers look for more considered, more effective and less wasteful products.

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

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SHADE SHIFT THE JOY OF COLOUR

A colourful home is a happy home.

Who agrees? Too much of a neutral can be joyless and any space can be revived with an injection of colour, even if it’s quite subdued. HOME looks at colour blocking. p88

inside this section: T H E T O P 1 0 : PAT T E R N S p 6 0 IN BED WITH ZANDRA RHODES p64 NIKKI TIBBLES – LIFE WITH FLOWERS p72 CUSHIONS AND GINGHAM: PROJEKTITYYNY p76 B AT H R O O M E S S E N T I A L S p 8 6 CROWN PAINTS SS21

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

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LINES OF B EAUT Y 10 of the best... prints and patterns COMPILED BY PENDLE HARTE

ANIMAL BEHAVIOUR

Safari Soirée features a mischievous cast of divine savages in an elegant yet playful wallpaper design that will bring character to any room. £140 divinesavages.com

LINE DANCE

The Geometric Modern pattern in brown is a chenille upholstery fabric that will add drama to a chair or sofa. £38.99 per metre yorkshirefabricshop.com

CODE BREAKER

The interlocking rectangles of Farrow and Ball’s Enigma wallpaper are inspired by the encoding machine of the same name, famously deciphered by Alan Turing during the Second World War. farrow-ball.com

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MATCH POINT

Matches Fashion’s iconic decorative marble pattern has become part of Summerill and Bishop’s stylish home collection as it adorns a new collection of table linen. Tablecloth £250. summerillandbishop.com

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

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H O M E | TOP TEN

SHELL SHOCK

British designer Catherine Rowe won the Liberty Open Call for a new iconic Liberty fabric in 2018 and since then she has launched a large collection of patterns inspired by nature and wildlife. This is the Shell with Pearl wallpaper design in lilac, £37. catherinerowedesigns.com

ON REPEAT Bert and May’s Majadas tile features a traditional pattern, but the simple repeating geometric shapes mean it’s just as at home in a contemporary space as a traditional one. firedearth.com

TWO WAY

The 100% wool Mika throw in its grey and pink pattern looks even better the other way round, with its inverted weave reverse pattern. We think so anyway. £95 j jtextile.co.uk

VICTORIAN STYLE

Match or recreate original Victorian tiles with the Rochester tile, part of a variety of reinvented patterns. originalstyle.com

SHAPE SHIFT

Mind The Gap wallpapers begin in their design studio where a talented team of artists creates and transposes every idea into a pattern. Well-known patterns combin with the newest printing technology. £175 ionianinteriors.com

BLOCK PARTY

These colourful organic linen cushions are hand block-printed in Jaipur . The Campbell Collection’s hand-crafted homewares take time to make and require a lot of skill. thecampbellcollection.co.uk

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

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CONNECTED SPEAKERS

Super ior sound th at ’s m ade to move Introducing Beosound Level. A portable WiFi speaker that promises an exceptional listening experience in any position, in any room.

B E OV I S I O N CO N TO U R BEU OP VG I SRIA ODNE CYO ON RM E E N T E R TA I N M E N T UTROHUO U P G R A D E YO U R H O M E E N T E R TA I N M E N T

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

T Hfrom E H O M E CThe I N Ecustomisable M A E X P E R home I E N Ccinema E At first sight, the timeless design declares iconic refinement. And experience delivers vivid At first sight, the timeless design declares And from the moment you turn it on, the 48” OLEDiconic screenrefinement. and award-wining sound The customisable homeclarity, cinema experience vivid The home cinema sound. experience d image and a customisable superiordelivers range of dynamic is it indeed a Bang & Olufsen television experience. the confirm momentthat youthis turn on, the 48” OLED screen and award-wining image clarity, and a superior of dynamic sound. image clarity, and a superior range of dynam Thesound customisable home cinema experience delivers vivid Flexibility to range build and expand your system over time.

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22/0

H O M E | NEWS

FROM THE ARCHIVE

CREATIVE

S U R FA C E V I E W

Surface View archival prints and patterns - from William Morris wallpapers to Japanese block print designs - are made to order and available in mural wallpapers, printed ceramic tiles, art canvases, art prints, wall charts, blinds and window films. surfaceview.co.uk

R E V I E W Updates from the industry Compiled by P E N D L E H A R T E

19 70 V I N TAG E BELLA FREUD

The Bella Freud Ceramic Candle Collection is a new oversized take on the original 1970 Bella Freud candle. Blended in the UK, the fragrance is inspired by the incense-heavy scents of the era. £95 bellafreud.com

RADIO HEAD

CO LO U R DROP

RUAR K AU D I O

NIMI PROJECT

The leading purveyor of stylish standalone sound systems, Ruark Audio, has updated its iconic R1 DAB/Bluetooth radio. An evolution of the original design, the new model sees a more progressive style available in Light Cream and Espresso finishes, including a handcrafted slatted wood grille. £229 ruarkaudio.com

Moheim fuses contemporary design with revered Japanese craftsmanship to create functional homeware that will never go out of style. These Color Drops bud vases make a single bloom as joyful as a full bouquet. £28, nimiltd.com

SILK CUT CAROLINE DICKINSON

Caroline Dickinson's debut collection of limited edition printed silk scarves has a focus on sustainability. Designed to be framed and hung on the wall as statement pieces, they are inspired by summer landscapes and moments with soft tonal shapes and brushstrokes.

carolinedickinson.co.uk

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

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“I don’t think people should be afraid of colour, colour isn’t frightening”

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

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H O M E | PROFILE

S h e ’ s

a

R A I N B O W Zandra Rhodes has turned her attention to sleep in a luxurious new collaboration with Savoir Beds. Absolutely meets her

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

K

nown for her pink hair and colourful presence, Zandra Rhodes has had a fascinating and varied career. She has designed clothes for icons as diverse as Lady Diana and Freddie Mercury; she has created costumes for the English National Opera and the San Diego Opera; she founded Bermondsey’s Fashion and Textile museum, the iconic pink and orange building where she also lives. But until now, Rhodes had never designed a bed. Her latest collaboration is with Savoir Beds, the luxury bedmaker that takes its name from the Savoy Hotel, for which it has famously supplied hand-made beds since 1905.

It’s perhaps an unlikely match, the traditional bedmaker with its values of quality materials, longevity and comfort, and Dame Zandra with her penchant for clashing colours and bold prints – but there is a shared appreciation for luxury. Rhodes in fact trained originally in furnishings at the Royal

College of Art and only switched to fashion when she couldn’t sell them, so for her this is also a kind of return to her roots. The venture came about when Rhodes encountered Savoir at a showcase of Walpole’s luxury brands. Rhodes says: “We were asked to decorate the foyer and there was a gorgeous bed there; we threw some cushions at it. But when you sat on it, it was a dream – that was how I learnt about the incredible brand and we started talking about me doing a special headboard for it.”

Rhodes’s collection for Savoir is all about the headboard, which sits atop the classic Savoir bed and mattress as enjoyed by Sir Winston Churchill, Giacomo Puccini and Marilyn Monroe, among other glamorous guests of the Savoy. Savoir’s Bed No 1, for instance, requires at least 120 hours of handcrafting and materials include horse tail, sheeps wool and pure cashmere as well as Mongolian yak hair - and not just any old yak hair either. This stuff is hand-combed once a year from semi-wild yaks that roam on the mountains Khangai region of Mongolia. That’s how special these beds are, and explains why fewer than A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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H O M E | PROFILE

“I wanted it to feel almost like a rainbow behind your head. It creates a mood” 1,000 are made each year. The pocket springs are hand-tied, the horse hair is hand-teased. And now Zandra Rhodes’ headboards are designed to crown the beds with a rainbow, says Rhodes. “I wanted it to feel almost like a rainbow behind your head. It creates a mood, the peaceful never-ending curve of a rainbow. It’s feminine but not too feminine.”

Rhodes’ print design for the headboard is based on her classic lily design, inspired by a lily given to her by Issy Miyake in Japan in 1971. “I started drawing lilies with my classic wiggle and was thinking about the idea of bringing nature into the home. Isn’t it lovely to wake up with lillies?” It comes in six colourways that create quite different looks. “Blue and white gives complete peace, then there’s silvery greys, and a green one that’s very lively,” says Rhodes. “I don’t think people should be afraid of colour, colour isn’t frightening, it can work on you psychologically without you realising it and it can create a different mood.”

For Alistair Hughes of Savoir, it’s all about creating the best possible sleep environment, and he believes that Rhodes’ colourful designs make a positive contribution to wellbeing. “We’re all aware that sleep is incredibly important for mental and physical health. People are really keen to get their bedrooms right and to sleep on something that supports them in the right way. Savoir has always been about creating the right environment for sleep,” he says. “We expected an explosion of colour from Zandra - but some are quite subtle. What can be better than to have your favourite colours in your sanctuary?”

These beds are more than special. Hughes explains: “What we have produced here is something so considered, each one is printed bespoke, headboard by one craftsman for a particular client, signed by the craftsman and also by Zandra. There’s a real connection there.” This explains the hefty price tag: Lilies is available on a Savoir Nº2 Slim Bed Set, UK Super King from £33,680. It really is the ultimate in sleep luxury. savoirbeds.com A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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H O M E • ACCESSORIES

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S L E E P T EC H

CA R PE DIEM BEDS

S W E E T D R E A M S WORLD SLEEP DAY IS 19 MARCH. HERE ARE SOME NIGHTTIME ESSENTIALS

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Swedish experts Carpe Diem Beds have devised the floating bed, which is the ultimate in sleep tech. Adjust your position for maximum comfort using the handheld remote or your smartphone and use an app to adjust and save your favourite positions. carpediembeds.com

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W H AT TO W E A R ?

YAW N

Yawn is a British sleepwear brand using beautiful prints that are hand-drawn in their London studio. All fabrics are bespoke cotton blends (most of which are organic and breathable). You're almost guaranteed to sleep well. loveyawn.com

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C A N ' T TO P I T PA N DA L O N D O N

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Revive your mattress with Panda's insanely comfortable hydrofoam mattress topper. It adds a thick layer of blissfully supportive gel-infused technology to your bed, and its breathable, ethically-sourced bamboo cover is hypoallergenic too. From £99 mypandalife.com

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LOV E L I N E N TOM AND DICK'S

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5

Tom and Dick’s Portland linen range is laid back and light with a beautiful natural texture. Linen keeps you warm in winter and cool in summer, and its casually rumpled look is a beautiful addition to your bedroom.

Tom and Dick’s stylish packaging is a real treat too. Bundles from £125, tomanddicks.co.uk

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PATC H P E R F EC T PROJEKTITY YN Y

The Leinikki gingham patchwork quilt is hand-made and embroidered in 100% linen, making it a beautiful and comfortable addition to any bedroom, £375 projektityyny.com

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

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bringing stone to life for over 50 years

www.stone-circle-home.com | 0333 003 0621 showroom open by appointment only

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photo & artwork | marco joe fazio

stonework for the discerning client

22/01/2021 11:32

H O M E | NEWS Compiled by

PENDLE HARTE

I N T H E N E WS U P DAT E S F R O M T H E I N D U S T R Y WOOD WORK ANDREW DOMINIC Andrew Dominic Furniture has returned to Devon from South Africa. Each piece is handcrafted using age-old methods and timehonoured skills, from sustainably sourced hardwood with natural oil and water-based finishes – and they’re close to creating a zerocarbon footprint in their workshops. andrewdominicfurniture.com

IN THE MIX CUISINART This dinky cordless blender is a clever tool for on-the-go smoothies. With its USB charger it's great for taking to work or even for picnics, and it's handy at home too. Whether it's a healthy smoothie, a pina colada or a salad dressing, it'll become an instant essential. £100 cuisinart.co.uk

TH E H EAT IS ON CASTRADS

PAN LONDON

Perfectly suited for London’s Victorian properties, the Neptune cast iron radiator is the best choice to bring style to your heating system, an exceptional radiator for remarkable interiors. Neptune II 620mm with 8 sections finished in Beaten Brass and accessorised with Windsor Natural Brass valve, £1,427. castrads.com

SMEG

Smeg's all-new cookware embodies the brand's 50s retro style signature look. Comprising two different sized frying pans, a wok and a casserole dish, the range will complete your stylish kitchen. smeglondon.com

BASKET CASE L A BASKETRY Make your own basket with one of LA Basketry's brilliant home kits that come with full instructions. With a bit of patience and concentration you'll create a colourful piece and probably get the bug. labasketry.com

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

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FLORAL

Nikki Tibbles leads the way in stylish flowers.

HOME meets her to discuss lockdown, interiors and dogs Words P E N D L E H A R T E

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hen Nikki Tibbles first opened Wild At Heart in Westbourne Grove’s iconic Turquoise Island, she revolutionised the floristry scene. Her bold and generous bouquets infused the industry with a new aesthetic, a stylish and modern look that suddenly made flowers cool, and left lesser florists looking tired and dated. Her hand-tied, effortlessly asymmetrical look caught on and became the dominant look for all style-conscious urban florists, spawning countless copycat businesses and introducing a more natural approach to packaging – brown paper rather than sellophane. Tibbles might have been in the flower business for nearly 30 years, but that’s not all she does. Her love of dogs led her not only to rescue dogs herself but to set up a foundation dedicated to rescuing dogs all over the world.

So we’re here to discuss flowers, dogs and lockdown.

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How has her lockdown been? She sounds brisk and upbeat. ‘I have a little house in the country and I stayed there with my dogs, I felt lucky to be outside and able to keep walking.’ Being holed up in the Cotswolds with her dogs sounds nice, I say. But still.

“I don’t enjoy not seeing people and not giving people a hug. Not being able to sit in a room with people and smile and enjoy company is very hard - it doesn’t work over Zoom. I’m not a laptop all day person.”

Still, with 20 acres in the South Downs, the house sounds dreamy. “It’s run down and full of stuff, with a fireplace in every room and no overhead lighting anywhere. It’s very different to my London house, which is full of colour and big floral wallpaper and big open spaces.”.

One of the things she has been busy with is rebranding. The whole look and feel of Wild at Heart has changed in a new relaunch. “Being in lockdown we have put all our effort into online and we thought we’d make the website like you feel you’re in a flower shop. Sadly not the smell – but everything else. We’ve made the packaging, the way we sell flowers, the whole look much more immersive because you can’t go to shops at the moment. It’s much more modern and we’ve taken inspiration from Dutch master paintings too. Plus, everything is sustainable now – no cellophane or ribbon.” Tibbles had had enough of the grey that used to characterise her branding.

“Flowers are all about colours and life and texture and I want people to open the box and think, wow.

Which you don’t feel when it’s a little box of stems that take 12 days to open.” Her grand plans are set to

Her hand-tied, effortlessly asymmetrical look became the dominant look for all style-conscious urban florists

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H O M E | PROFILE

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

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A playful and upbeat type of modernism has been applied to the textures, patterns and colour palettes throughout the space

continue when shops reopen – she’s looking for a big new site where she can create a whole flower concept store. “I want a huge space with everything. Where you can learn and watch, and bring your dog. I want to do fragrance launches, events and everything .

You’ve got to give people a reason to come back out.”

Note the dog angle. Tibbles has a lot of energy and although she’s known primarily for her flower business, she has become well known in the dog world for her focus on rescue animals. She lives with six dogs – yes six, and large ones too; five years ago she set up the Wild at Heart foundation, formalising the work she had already been doing for years, rescuing dogs from Spain and Romania among other places. It’s a huge labour of love for Tibbles, who is consumed with worry about the plight of the world’s 600 million stray dogs and the cruelty widely inflicted on them. As a dog-lover, she’s a world away from the lockdown puppy owner, about

As a dog-lover, she’s a world away from the lockdown cockapoo-owner whom she’s quite scathing. “I think it’s terrible.

Dog thefts have gone up 180% - there are horrific puppy mills in Eastern Europe, and more here and in Ireland too because of people wanting a cockapoo instantly. People aren’t considering where the dogs came from. They should be rescuing – there are so many dogs that need homes,” she rages. This is something that she’s so passionate about that she’s deivsed an educational programme set to roll out in schools , designed to teach empathy, kindness, understanding and compassion. The project is sponsored by Manolo Blahnik, and ten per cent of Tibbles’ flower profits go to the foundation. She’s not short of dog rescuers – she has 50 dogs arriving in the UK this month (“despite Brexit”) and they all already have homes. “It’s a myth that rescue dogs are damaged,” she insists. “They might need a bit more time to become confident – but no dog wants a three-year-old pulling its tail.” There is no stopping Nikki Tibbles – her creativity and dedication is remarkable. Go Nikki. wildatheart.com wildatheartfoundation.org A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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HOME meets Nora Evans, founder of stylish textile brand Projektityyny Words P E N D L E H A R T E

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H O M E | DESIGN

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Your textiles are beautiful. Can you describe your style?

Well I love colour and am very particular and passionate about how colours are combined. I think fresh colourways can bring a real contemporary twist to age-old traditions like patchworking or handloom weaving. All our quilts are handmade and I think that also shows - that beautiful element of wabi sabi.

How did you come to be involved in textiles?

I have worked as a fashion buyer for over 10 years so have had a very close connection to textiles and working with fabrics from the start.

Where does the name Projektityyny come from?

It simply means ‘cushion project’ – that was the humble beginnings of my brand some years ago.

You are stocked in Liberty, which is exciting for a brand. How did that come about?

I have been working with Liberty a couple of years now. It is my favourite store in the world! I had been in touch with the Homewares Buyer there a few times and then one summer during our holidays in south of France I received an email; I think it was when I became more active and visible on instagram they had spotted my brand. I give a lot of credit to instagram for the way my brand has spread. We were part

Fresh colourways can bring a real contemporary twist to age-old traditions like patchworking of the amazing Floribunda range - a curated edit by a select 12 women-led brands which launched October19 – and we have been part of their homewares offering ever since.

What is your own home like?

We live in a tiny hamlet near a small historical village in West Dorset. There are about five houses and lots of space. My home of course is a reflection of me, most of our furniture has been scoured and found from vintage markets and all the textiles come from my range. Everything has a meaning and everything is treasured and most of our objects have a function. I like to think that even the smallest thing can be made beautifully. I love light spaces and the whole of our downstairs is one open space, with no curtains. I love how it feels going downstairs in the morning and seeing all that light engulf the space. We have three children and a dog so our home isn’t always as harmonious as I’d like (especially during lockdowns) - but having space definitely makes that easier.

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H O M E | DESIGN

How did you come from Finland to Dorset?

I didn’t. I moved from Finland to London, firstly to study and then I worked in TV, then in fashion. I lived in London about 23 years and it was only four years ago that we moved to Dorset, a month before my youngest was born. It was time for me to do something on my own, have some creative freedom (I had worked as a fashion buyer over 10 years previously) and escape the hectic city.

What inspires you?

I always find this question very hard - everything inspires me! I have my camera on me all the time, there almost isn’t a day that goes by that I don’t see something that I want to capture and remember. I see detail that many people don’t. I take in a lot from the simplest of everyday events.

How do you spend a normal day?

Are we talking about pre-covid normal or current ‘new’ normal? When the kids are at school, we have the normal big rush in the morning to get them all ready. After that I go to my studio in an old barn, which is just a few minutes from our house. It’s the most gorgeous, peaceful place to work - I have total peace to concentrate and create.

I always start with emails from India as it’s very

I always have my camera on me. There isn’t a day that goes by that I don’t see something that I want to capture late there and we often need to communicate on urgent production issues etc. Then I do all other emails - reply to retailers, customers, press etc. As a one man brand I do everything. I will spend the day either designing new product and dealing with all the details, or planning shoots and seeing how it all comes together. I work on costings, deal with deliveries, and suppliers. I also deal with orders, packing, post updates on social media, accounting etc etc - anything and everything the day throws at me. The focus shifts depending on the time of the year ; at the end of the year there is naturally a sales peak so most of our time goes into packing orders, then in January most of my time is taken by finance and accounting, as well as dealing with all the new product that has gone into work before Christmas. projektityyny.com

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Rebel R ses

Bespoke Faux Flowers 30 Elizabeth Street London | SW1W 9RB By appointment

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rebelrosesinfo@gmail.com 07738 064 956 www.rebelroses.co.uk

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H O M E | TREND

CHARLOTTE JADE Colony Luxury Velvet Cushion, £130 charlotte-jade.co.uk

BARKER & STONEHOUSE Sunburst Mirror, £60 barkerandstonehouse.co.uk

&YOU The Bel Meditation Candle £165 andyoulifestyle.com

BARKER & STONEHOUSE Pink Wonder Framed Print, £99 barkerandstonehouse.co.uk

COLLINGWOOD OF SOMERSET Butterfly Gift Set, £60 collingwoodofsomerset.co.uk

Mother’s DAY

MONOWARE Ceramics from £17 monoware.com

Stylish interiors gifts for the mums in your life

By A B B I E S C H O F I E L D

SMYTHSON Wonder Woman Soho Notebook, £165 smythson.com

BEARDS & DAISIES Medinilla Magnifica, £22.99 beardsanddaisies.co.uk

BARKER & STONEHOUSE Rabbit Table Lamp, £135 barkerandstonehouse.co.uk

BARKER & STONEHOUSE Luella Rug, from £229 barkerandstonehouse.co.uk

JIA JIA Celestine Geode, £335 net-a-porter.com

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H O M E | DESIGN

Guy Stansfeld of 23+GS/318 Architects unveils a recently completed Holland Park townhouse Words G U Y S TA N S F I E L D Photography M AT T C L AY TO N P H OTO G R A P H Y

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he scheme involved the remodelling and extension of a semi-detached Victorian villa to create a bright and spacious family home. The property underwent a complete reimagination and as with many of 23+GS/318’s projects, a stunning staircase was at the heart of the design. A new staircase was installed, adding a dramatic centrepiece to the entrance hallway and through the core of the house. More traditional materials were selected for the balustrade components, but were designed to give a cleaner, more contemporary feel. Inspired by the work of Carlo Scarpa and Japanese Lacquerware, the bannister was a bespoke design, fabricated from solid natural brass flat bars to form the balusters, with a black oil finish to the steel brackets and a stained oak handrail. This aligned with the clients’ general outlook, to create a modern home with well-placed traditional flourishes and palette.

A new staircase was installed, adding a dramatic centrepiece to the hallway

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Excavation of the lower storey provided generous ceiling heights and brought in natural light

The general refurbishment included excavation of the existing lower storey to provide generous ceiling heights and to bring in additional natural light to improve the quality of the key living spaces.

Enlarged glazed aspects looking onto the garden further served to give an airy feel to what had previously been a dark area of the existing building.

Increasing the size of the garden terrace also served to provide a better connection between the internal and external functions of the house.

The property required close collaboration on the interiors and Guy worked in conjunction with Samantha Todhunter Design (samanthatodhunter.com).

Elements from the bathrooms to the bedrooms, kitchen, living space and entrance were all designed with a collaborative approach.

The family home has been completely transformed with new interiors and extensions.

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H O M E • ACCESSORIES

1 B A T H T I M E UP YOUR BATHROOM GAME WITH THESE ACCESSORIES

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IT' S A STEEL THE FIND STORE

These black steel bathroom baskets can be fixed to the wall to provide versatile storage for bathroom essentails. Affix them to tiles in the shower or on any wall. thefindstore.co.uk

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HUNG UP

KINFOLK DECOR

Wooden peg racks are on-trend for styling with wooden accessories and natural utilities. This pale oak peg rail will look simle and stylish in any bathroom, and is a practical solution to storing essentials. £15 kinfolkdecor.co.uk

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TILE ST YLE B E R T A N D M AY

Patterned tiles create an instant style update and Bert and May's geometric styles are brilliant for bathrooms, whether it's a floor-toceiling look or a stylish splashback. bertandmay.com

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R A I N S H OW E R GROHE

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Grohe's innovative Rainshower Smartactive shower head offers three different spray patterns: an invigorating rainshower, a stimulating massage and a powerful jet. Switch between them seamlessly with the ergonomic smartcontroller to update your shower instantly. grohe.co.uk

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H O M E A N D D RY POLKR A

Polkra's towels are the ultimate in luxe with their thick feel and super softness. Made of combed cotton with a percale ribbon border, they're weighty and quick to dry, recreating the luxury hotel feeling at home. polkra.com

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COLOUR

POP

Take a long, hard look at your space – there may be elements that are perfect candidates for colour blocking

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H O M E | COLOUR TRENDS

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Tired of grey? Add colour to your life with a bold colour-blocking approach Words G E R A L D I N E JA M E S

C  A brave up-and-over block of vibrant glossy tangerine adorns this wall and ceiling.

The effect is decidedly retro thanks to the addition of the mid-century sideboard and bamboo lounger. This look would be easy to recreate with a ruler, masking tape and a small pot of gloss paint.

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olour blocking is painting certain areas of a wall or interior, or even putting together two or more different colours in one space.

It’s a versatile way to add a pop of colour and a sense of personality to your interior.

And it isn’t a huge commitment because you can always cover the effects over with another coat of paint. It’s also a fun way to use up any sample pots that you have left over from other decorating projects.

The first step is to decide which areas or walls to paint and how to introduce visual interest through blocking. It may be that you already have architectural features such as skirting boards/baseboards, cornices/crown molding, picture or dado/chair rails that provide you with natural guidelines. Otherwise, I suggest using masking tape to mark out the areas to be painted (use a spirit level if you do it yourself, as

wonky lines will spoil the effect). Don’t forget the ceiling – often described as the fifth wall. If you have a very tall room, painting the ceiling a colour will make the space cosier and more cocooning. Or you could paint a broad stripe up one wall and extend it onto the ceiling to frame a large bed or a beautiful fireplace. Take a long, hard look at your space – there may be elements that are perfect candidates for colour blocking, such as window recesses, empty wall space, niches and nooks or other features that demand to be highlighted.

Now for your palette. Some interiors feature tonal blocking using different shades of the same colour, while others combine colours that you might not imagine would work together at all.

It’s important to clarify how the room is used – is it a space for peace and relaxation, or somewhere you require focus and energy? This will help you make the right choices. Alternatively, you might want to follow the latest trends or change things to suit the seasons.

If you’re only painting a small area, a sample pot may be enough, which will keep costs down. For a trial run, cut shapes from card or paper and paint each a different shade before sticking them to the wall.

Enjoy experimenting!

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H O M E | COLOUR TRENDS

 Coral pink and cobalt blue are an unexpected combination but work well together, probably due to the fact that the contrasting colours are equally dense and saturated.

This effect is not for everyone but is incredibly modern and looks fabulous in photos. It would not be difficult to recreate it using MDF and wooden battens for the wooden panelling. The wall shelves have been painted the same colour as the panelling, but would also look strong if painted the same coral shade as the wall.

 Big open-plan spaces need to be divided up into zones for different activities. This towering wooden room divider painted banana yellow seems a daring choice, but the solid block of colour makes the space come alive and brings the seating area a sense of privacy, despite the cavernous space.  In my opinion, blue and green should always be seen. They work so harmoniously together, as seen here. The owners have made full use of their curved stairwell, creating abstract blocks of colour that almost look like draped fabric.

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Extract taken from A POP OF COLOU

by Geraldine James, published by CICO Books (£23) Photography © CICO Books

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H O M E | TREND

OTTOLINE Tulips of Belgravia cushion £148 ottloine.co.uk

CROWN PAINTS Witty Mid - Enchanted Ivy and Satin Lining Flat Matt Emulsion, English Fire, Mustard Jar and Powder Blue Matt Emulsion, Dance Fever Feature Wall crownpaints.co.uk

ORIGINAL BTC London table light, £293 dusklights.co.uk

AUDENZA Gianna LED neon canvas, £265 audenza.co.uk

BEAUMONDE Ultramarine green vase, £45 beaumonde.co.uk

DYBERG LARSEN EJKA pendant light, £220 limelace.co.uk

HELLE MARDHAL

TRUE CO LO U RS

Bon Bon vase in bubblegum, £425 couvertureandthegarbstore.com

Bright ideas to lift the mood

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

LOLA & MAWU Bolga vase basket, £89 lolaandmawu.com

KIP & CO Petal cushions, £45 playhausinteriors.com

BOMBAY DUCK Question mark linen cushion £25 bombayduck.com

THE FRENCH BEDROOM CO Chartreuse yellow velvet throw, £220 frenchbedroomcompany.co.uk

GREEN TONES Orange eco dining set £20 greentones.co.uk

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new houses | extensions | refurbishments | basement excavations | swimming pools

If you have an architectural or interior design project please email gp@gregoryphillips.com

LONDON | LOS ANGELES

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@gregoryphillipsarchitects

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New bathroom showroom Visit ripplesbathrooms.com to find out more or to book a free virtual design consultation

Ripples Chelmsford, 8 Bond Street North, Chelmsford, Essex CM1 1GH Tel: 01245 287977

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H O M E | BATHROOMS

Wellness in water

Discover the new generation of hydromassage baths doing wonders for the mind and body Words E V E H E R B E R T

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t’s never been more important to focus on physical health and mental wellbeing, and what better way to do so than by creating a spa-like retreat in the comfort of your own home. We spoke to bathroom retailer Ripples about the benefits of spa baths and hydromassage.

Hydromassage is a treatment whereby the body experiences pressure caused by water jets. Bathtubs equipped with hydromassage technology can stimulate the circulatory (cardiovascular system) and lymphatic systems (part of the immune system) to help improve both physical and mental wellbeing.

Mind and body

Regular hydromassage sessions in a specialised spa bath can help you to unwind and destress. During immersion in hot water, the parasympathetic nervous system (sometimes called the ‘rest and digest’

system) produces hormones that help the body to relax, reducing any stress-related symptoms which might have accumulated during the day. The increased pressure of the massage helps to produce endorphins too, generating feelings of happiness and positivity. As such, bathing in the morning can be great for an uplifting start to the day, whilst bathing in the evening can help calm the body and prepare it for sleep.

Restoration

The bubbles generated during a hydromassage session can help rid the body of toxins, waste and other unwanted fluids whilst also stimulating the lymphatic system.

Hydromassage can help combat the accumulation of fat on the body, reducing the appearance of cellulite and leaving skin feeling smooth, polished and toned. You can amplify the benefits of a hydromassage bath by exfoliating before and using a hydrating cream on the skin afterwards.

A selection of Ripples baths also feature an inbuilt ‘Natural Air’ system which surrounds the body in a soft cloud of oxygen bubbles, hydrating the skin and boosting collagen production.

During immersion in hot water, the nervous system produces hormones to help you relax Atmosphere

Ripples collection also features baths with the latest technology, including built-in Bluetooth speakers and lighting controlled by a dedicated remote. You can simply select a playlist and immerse yourself in an atmosphere of total wellbeing. Take it up a notch with a touch of light therapy – when you need to re-energise, opt for warm colours like red and orange or alternatively, create a relaxing environment by setting the hue to blue and green.

Discover the brand-new Ripples Chelmsford showroom at 8 Bond St North, Chelmsford CM1 1GD. Call 01245 287977 or visit ripplesbathrooms.com to book a free virtual design consultation.

Ripples is an award-winning bathroom retailer offering a truly tailored bathroom service, from product sourcing and design consultancy, through to installation from trusted local suppliers. With a dedicated team of in-house designers, a bathroom from Ripples is always thoughtfully designed and beautifully finished.

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H O M E | GYM

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P E DA L P U S H E R Immerse yourself in the world of virtual races and trainer-led studio classes at home with the Schwinn IC8 Indoor Cycle. With 100 micro-adjustable resistance levels to challenge you, the IC8 can connect to the Peloton, Zwift and Explore the World apps for a cycling experience that’s hard to beat. £1,099 fitness-superstore.co.uk

C R U N C H T I M E

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ROLL WITH IT The M Life Mini Massage Roller is a brilliant tool for releasing muscle tightness and avoiding soreness post-workout. Its pyramid ridges allow you to apply the exact amount of pressure needed, and it's free from latex and ozone-depleting materials. There's also a seafoam green resistance band to match. £12 oliverbonas.com

BUYS TO COMPLETE YOUR AT-HOME GYM

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PRESSURE POINT Yogi Bare's Acupressure Kit allows you to recreate acupuncture therapy at home. The mat and pillow are covered in rounded plastic spikes that are gentle on the skin, and it's recommended that you lie on the mat twice a week, for 20-40 minutes at a time, for maximum benefits. £42.50 hush-uk.com

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F LO O R WO R K

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Designer Charlotte Jade's new range of luxury exercise mats are as stylish as they are practical.

Made from eco-friendly, anti-slip natural rubber, there are five exotic patterns to choose from including this Balearic Palm print. Charlotte Jade's designs also include natureinspired wallpapers, face masks, cushions and posters. £70 charlotte-jade.co.uk

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AC T I V E W E A R Combining fashion with athleisure, Topshop Active is the brand's capsule workout collection, featuring 20 versatile pieces in muted colours. The logo references the geographical location of Topshop's Oxford Street store, but as the retailer is now part of the ASOS family, you can shop online.

From £17.99 asos.com

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CIRCLE TIME Kitchens are working harder in lockdown than ever before, says stoneCIRCLE’s Steve Vanhinsbergh Words E V E H E R B E R T

This large Dekton island has plenty of seating space for all the family

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H O M E | FOCUS

You don’t need to sacrifice looks to achieve practicality he last year has seen many of us working from home at the same time as the kids are being home schooled, and made us realise that our homes aren’t set up for it.

Steve Vanhinsbergh, director at stoneCIRCLE, one of the largest stonemasonry companies in England, talks us through how to adapt your kitchen to make it a great place for work and school.

S PAC E

Although it’s not always practical to create more space in an existing room, lockdown has made us realise that the kitchen is the heart of the home, and is often the area chosen to work in. As such it deserves to have as much space dedicated to it as possible.

A large island top with a seating area keeps everyone together, and lets adults work while keeping an eye on the kids to make sure that they are doing their school work. Sockets built in to the top mean that there is no problem with charging laptops. Food preparation areas can be kept separate from the seating area by using different heights of worktop.

B E AU T I F U L P R AC T I CA L I T Y

You don’t need to sacrifice looks to achieve practicality. Your kitchen can work hard for you as a family, and still look stunning. Using natural stone is a way of ensuring that it will stand the tests of both design and time.

Stone is one of the most durable and easy to maintain materials for a kitchen worktop, whether you choose granite, quartz or sintered stone. You can ring the changes by using different types or colours of stone to delineate zones in your kitchen dedicated to food preparation, eating and working.

WHICH TYPE OF STO N E ?

Granite is the most suitable natural stone for kitchen worktops: strong and durable, it is easy to care for and will stand the test of time. There are hundreds of different granites available, from the understated speckled Bethel White, to more dramatic veined and coloured varieties, such as White Beauty with its abstract patterns of white, green and black.

For those that prefer a more uniform look than is possible with natural stone, quartz is the traditional choice and is available in

many different brands and colours – some of the most popular being manufactured by Silestone and Caesarstone. Alternatively, sintered stones such as Dekton, from the makers of Silestone, are extremely tough, heat and scratch resistant and are available in designs which mimic natural marble, a stone which is not recommended for kitchen worktops due to its tendency to staining and acid etching. stoneCIRCLE has been in business for over 50 years fabricating beautiful stone for interiors. Everything that they produce is done to the client’s specification in the stone of their choice. The showroom staff can guide you through the process, helping you decide on the best stone for your kitchen, and create the kitchen of your dreams.

STO N E C I R C L E Find out more at stone-circle-home.com or contact the showroom for an appointment.

0333 003 0621; sales@stone-circle.com A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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Luxury Kitchens since 1892

Clear structures, sensible space. +SEGMENTO Y

Poggenpohl Wigmore 118 Wigmore Street London | W1U 3RT phone 020 7224 1986 wigmore@poggenpohl.com www.wigmore.poggenpohl.com

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Poggenpohl Chelsea 107 Pimlico Road London | SW1W 8PH phone 020 7730 7927 chelsea@poggenpohl.com www.chelsea.poggenpohl.com

Poggenpohl Hampstead 477-481 Finchley Road London | NW3 6HS phone 020 7794 7801 hampstead@poggenpohl.com www.hampstead.poggenpohl.com

19/11/2020 11:49

H O M E | FOCUS

Great outdoors Coco Wolf’s outdoor furniture is both stylish and sustainable Words E V E H E R B E R T

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xquisite design and craftsmanship unite to impeccable effect in striking furniture collections designed for year-round outdoor use.

Founded in 2014, Coco Wolf is the inspired creative collaboration between a talented husband-and-wife team, James and Rebecca Lorimer. The native New Zealanders brought their passion for innovation – as well as Rebecca’s 15 years of interiors and furniture design experience - to London, establishing a boutique outdoor furniture business that quickly evolved into a soughtafter, design-led, ethical brand. Today, the company has its own manufacturing facility, with a talented team of over 50 staff.

Coco Wolf take inspiration from the best maritime designs, using hard-wearing, water-resistant construction and upholstery materials to create low-maintenance furniture pieces that are built to last.

From the earliest days Coco Wolf has been unwavering in its commitment to quality.

These designs can transform a terrace, lawn or poolside into an elegant living space While the scope may have expanded, their ethos remains the same: create desirable, durable and distinctive furniture that performs brilliantly and is perfectly at home in the outdoors – whatever the environment.

The design and fabrication process is a labour of love. Coco Wolf workshop in Long Eaton, Derbyshire, is home to a proud team of experienced furniture makers who employ age-old artisanal skills to craft furniture to the highest standards. Coco Wolf believe that an instinctive, traditional approach harnesses a level of energy and integrity that is not replicable via mass manufacturing. Together, the team creates contemporary classics, each season’s col-

lections showcasing fresh styles that both delight and inspire.

The big statement their furniture makes with any outdoor setting is perfectly contrasted by their commitment to a minimal environmental impact in production.

They prioritise sustainable strategies at every stage of engineering, carefully selecting only FSC®-certified timber from managed forests, as well as reusing and recycling raw materials where possible.

The factory power comes from renewable sources, while the innovative precision manufacturing processes we employ minimise waste, creating sustainable pieces that are better – and greener – by design.

It’s more than a corporate philosophy – it’s a commitment to a way of life.

Every collection piece is handcrafted and finished to the highest standard employing traditional and pioneering manufacturing techniques to create designs that boast unparalleled resilience and durability, making them a perfect match for any outdoor space. Coco Wolf collections complement a wide range of architectural styles, delivering flawless designs that can transform a terrace, lawn, or poolside into a truly elegant and luxurious living space. cocowolf.co.uk

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Create squares in your living space

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hat can we do to create a positive environment in our homes? Celebrity Feng Shui expert Marites Allen shares her expertise on how to create the ultimate environment for wellness in 2021.

Time for Chi Create ultimate wellness in your home with Feng Shui & Marites Allen Words E V E H E R B E R T

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Q What is Feng Shui and how does it help your energy?

A Feng Shui is a science that dates back over 4000 years and is based on categorising the universe or environment into five basic elements: fire, earth, wood, water and metal.

Each element attracts either positive or negative energy. This energy is called Chi and it brings good fortune to those who are surrounded by it. The literal translation of Feng Shui is wind and water. Combining these two elements creates magical harmony as balance is achieved. Using the basic five elements in any given space is going to create more Chi, which means more harmony and thus more health and happiness.

Practicing good Feng Shui principles can increase energy levels and keep you physically and mentally healthy. Great interior design and space planning actually follows basic principles of Feng Shui. Sometimes without you even realising it, the way you position your sofa in relation to your television, or the way you position your head in your bedroom can affect your health – this is where basic feng shui principles can be useful for creating more positive energy within yourself.

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H O M E | FOCUS

Fruit symbolises abundance, health and wealth

Practicing good Feng Shui principles can increase energy levels and keep you healthy Never position your desk facing a wall

Q What does clearing clutter mean ?

And in what area of the home?

A One main area to avoid clutter is the front entrance. Make sure shoes are on a shelf, not in a pile and that keys, coins, and wallets are in a tray or hidden. If possible, place a plant in the entrance of the home, as a living plant is a great way to help Chi come in and flow through the space. One of the key elements with a front entrance is to make sure that there is not a direct line of sight to the back door. If there is, all your energy or good luck is going to leave straight away.

The front door shouldn’t have direct access to a back door. If this is unavoidable, place a sofa, a chair, or even accent a table with a floral arrangement to block the pathway and allow Chi to land in the rest of the house.

should be on the south side, otherwise things will be off balance. Also, hide the knives in a drawer. Feng Shui is all about symbolism and knives represent discomfort. Hide your trash can in a cupboard under the sink. Keep a bowl of fruit on the counter: fruit symbolises abundance and health and wealth.

Q How do you create more wealth, and success in an office space?

A The first rule is declutter. Remove all loose paper on your desk; file it all in a tray. Hide unsightly cords. Cords represent competition. Most importantly, your desk must not face the wall. Make sure that you have a direct visual eye line to the door. This symbolises that you don’t want someone to sneak up on you.

Q What are the main rules for the bedroom? For a better night’s sleep?

A One of the questions that I get asked the most is where do I place the headboard in a bedroom? You want to make sure that when you’re lying in bed you have a direct visible eyeline to the entry door. Someone opens the door and you can see them right away so no one can sneak up on you. Mirrors are a great way to help the energy flow especially if they reflect something really beautiful but they mustn’t reflect your bed. That’s like inviting a stranger into your bedroom. If you’re married it almost symbolises that someone’s cheating.

Q What is the key to a shared space like a living room?

A The first rule is bring as much natural light into the space as possible. Always have your drapes open to bring in natural light and good energy. Opening the windows also allows stale energy to dispel. The rule is, create or place square furniture in its layout so that things will be squared off.

This creates communication and conversation between those who live in the space.

Q What kind of energies are found in the kitchen?

A To have great energy in the kitchen requires one main thing: great lighting. The sink (symbolising water) should be on the north side while the stove (symbolising fire)

Celebrity Feng Shui Expert Marites Allen has been advocating Feng Shui for over two decades and was the first Filipina to be awarded the prestigious title of ‘Master in Feng Shui’ by the International Feng Shui Association in 2013. She has cultivated a wide global following from her own TV show, annual conventions and talks, self authored books and works on projects with international architects and commercial contractors in the property sector, from planning stages to implementation and design. She frequently appears on global radio, TV and social media guestings. Allen consults for Fortune 500 companies and is the CEO of Frigga Charmed Life, a lifestyle brand whose lucky fashion accessories fulfill the need to be stylist and auspicious at the same time.

She currently lives in London.

For home consultations, destiny readings, guidance on wellness and spirituality practices, auspicious dates and Geomancy Service, contact maritesallen.com. Shop lucky charms and guides at frigga.co.uk.

Follow her on Instagram @maritesallen

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Great ideas set in stone

Luxury natural stone and handmade terrazzo products 132-136 Ormside Street, London SE15 1TF. 020 7358 0160

diespekerliving.com

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H O M E | DESIGN

Elegant Touch

Bespoke mouldings and cornices can bring character to any home Words E V E H E R B E R T

Nothing beats a grand fireplace, decorative ceiling moulding or ornate coving

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here’s a reason that London town houses with original period features are so highly sought-after. While a pristine, modern property has its appeal as a blank canvas, nothing beats a grand fireplace, decorative ceiling moulding or ornate coving to add character and interest to a room.

If your home wasn’t built with such elements, never fear. Rather than pay above and beyond for a period property, many homeowners are cottoning on to the idea of renovating their modern home to have the period-inspired features they want, without the maintenance that comes with owning an older house. You can install your own fibrous plaster mouldings to suit any space, from traditional Georgian, Victorian, Gothic, or Art Deco styles right through to modern day contemporary designs.

Hodkin & Jones have been specialists in the design, manufacture and installation of fibrous plaster mouldings for over 150 years. They have experience not only building high quality mouldings, but repairing and restoring originals, with an impressively broad project portfolio that includes 10 Downing Street, Harrods Knightsbridge, the Royal Armoury and the Victoria and Albert Museum.

Hodkin & Jones offer a completely bespoke service, as they are able to manufacture mouldings to any exact dimensions, whether it’s a ceiling design or an unusually shaped cornice. Other plaster products in their range include decorative ceiling and

wall panels, centerpieces, door surrounds, fire surrounds, arches and columns, all of which are delicately handmade by their highly skilled craftsmen.

If you’re looking for a quick interior design fix, Hodkin & Jones also have a large quantity of cornice and mouldings in stock, ready for delivery or collection.

Restoration of Listed buildings and historical properties is also a speciality of Hodkin & Jones; they can match any plaster design, no matter how complicate, and mouldings are then reproduced and installed by their team of fixers.

So whether your home has an abundance of beautiful features in need of repair or you want to create your own traditional designs, involving a specialist supplier will get you the best results.

HODK I N & JON E S For a free hard copy of the brochure or to discuss your project requirements, call 01246 641214 or email info@hodkin-jones.co.uk hodkinandjones.co.uk

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

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

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RUG STORE specialise in a wide selection of new, old and Antique Persian, Turkish, Caucasian and Turkmen Carpets. Various antique, old and new Kilims are available.

We offer a professional hand-cleaning and restoration service. We buy old and antique carpets - even damaged rugs. Part exchange and evaluations.

312 UPPER RICHMOND ROAD WEST, EAST SHEEN, RICHMOND, LONDON, SW14 7JN. TEL / FAX: 020 8876 0070 INFO@RUGSTOREONLINE.CO.UK WWW.RUGSTOREONLINE.CO.UK

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H O M E | STORAGE

Rethinking Storage Storage is more than a practical solution to clutter – it can be a key aspect of home design Words E V E H E R B E R T

Highly customisable cabinets can be designed to suit your individual needs

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itchens are now more than ever the heart of the home. The space needs to be both functional and have the capacity to be effortlessly transformed into a suitable environment for entertaining or casual relaxation with minimal effort.

A new design trend is to quite simply rotate the oven and cooking appliances 90 degrees and integrate them onto the end of a kitchen run of tall cabinetry. The effect leaves the kitchen feeling more like fitted furniture, rather than having the lines disturbed by utilitarian appliances such as microwaves, ovens and steam cookers.

Another growing trend is to build furniture to take full advantage of the height and architecture within the home, using every inch of space efficiently. Floor to ceiling units can be used as pantries and housing units for integrated appliances can be stacked on top of each other.

The need for this individuality and flexibility within the home means storage solutions need to be adjustable to each personal requirement. For example, the innovative concept +STAGE embraces the changing demands on the home environment, offering the utmost individuality when it comes to kitchen designs. A space can be equipped solely to suit your habits, preferences and interests, which has many flexible planning

and integral solutions. The functions of +STAGE can be individually defined and grouped together by means of specially developed equipment features. Poggenpohl offers complete themed design packages such as“Bar”, “Office”, “Breakfast”, “Wardrobe”, “Kitchen” and “Tea”. These are highly customisable cabinets that can be designed to suit your individual needs, from cleverly disguised breakfast cabinets, hiding the toaster, coffee machine and morning chaos, to something much more dramatic such as a bespoke bar cabinet including integrated wine chillers, and glass storage.

Architect Jorge Pensi came up with the radical idea when he decided to open up the space between the worktop and base cabinets, formally known as classical storage space, to create a transparent area that can be used for personal arrangements with accessories like vases, art objects, pots or expensive porcelain. The special details of the elegant in-between space includes tray-like pull-outs that are fitted seamlessly on top of the base cabinets, which are spacious enough for plenty of subtle storage.

Thanks to the optional glass walls, these trays are transformed into elegant display cases where even kitchen utensils can be presented effectively. +MODO can be extended with the +STAGE stand-alone unit for people who are not primarily looking for the strict arrangement of a fitted kitchen but a creative place for their home life.

P OG GEN P OHL U K poggenpohl.com

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H O M E | SPOTLIGHT

C H E F S P E C I A L Professional quality, handcrafted kitchens are the focus at Inglis Hall Words E V E H E R B E R T

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nglis Hall was founded in 2013 on the belief that there is a discerning audience that want exquisite handmade kitchens that combine a considered attitude to modern design, fine craftsmanship and real materials. This is the niche in the market that Inglis Hall satisfy.

Working from their Workshops and Design Studio in the picturesque county town of Lewes, they have a devoted following across Sussex and the South East, but with ever increasing demand and new workshops planned for next year, they are set to be the next big thing on the London scene.

So what is so different?

Firstly, their combined love of food and all things cookery. Drawing inspiration from professional kitchens and restaurants, a unique approach to kitchen layout is the foundation which underpins everything.

Secondly, their use and understanding of real materials and true craft. With a love

“Our aim is simple: to design and make wonderfully considered kitchens” of raw Band-Sawn oak from his years as a timber frame carpenter, founder Toby Hall has perfected a method of working with this tactile, organic material within a modern designed kitchen. Band-Sawn oak cabinetry, both in a ‘raw’ and ‘blackened’ finish, are at the very heart of their kitchens.

Considered design and beautiful detailing, the Band-Sawn oak texture is balanced and complimented by a select range of modern panel products including Richlite, a compressed paper that ‘is so dense that it dulls even the finest cutting edge’ explains Toby.

With a current capacity of just 20 kitchens a year, the level of service, including an industry first anniversary check-up and lifetime guarantee, is personal and dedicated.

So how do they do it?

It requires a dedicated team of people, with a shared set of standards and processes that are continuously being improved. A balance of precision modern machinery as well as skilled experienced hands invest an average of over 700 hours of careful work into every kitchen that Inglis Hall produce.

The result is enduring quality…..

Inglis Hall would love to hear about your kitchen projects.

INGLIS HALL Unit 3, Phoenix Works, Lewes, BN7 2PE 01273 486 177 inglishall.com

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Contemporary

Textiles fair

Online

19 - 28 March 2021 www.landmarkartscentre.org

SHOP - TALKS - DEMOS WORKSHOPS contemporarytextilesfair landmarkarts Registered Charity No: 1047080

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An Excellent rated (ISI) school welcoming children aged 3 months to 19 years.

Join us on our virtual open day on 13 March 2021.

Visit www.qe.org for details.

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

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E D U C AT I O N Maida Vale School 115 · Mind Games 122 A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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EDUCATION • TALKING HEAD

Fresh Start

The Headmaster of newly opened Maida Vale School on how its approach enables trust and community spirit in extraordinary times

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he Gardener Schools Group opened Maida Vale School last September with pupils in Years 7, 8 and 9. In these extraordinary times, many people have commented on the level of trust that our parents have shown in us by taking the leap of faith for their child to join a new school.

For us, it is our approach to values-led education that engenders that trust and means that our pupils will be thoroughly prepared for their lives beyond school.

We have five key Pupil Learning Values: creativity, resilience, problem solving, reflection, and supporting and inspiring others. These values underpin all the learning that happens across Maida Vale School. If we have learnt anything from the pandemic, it is that resilience is one of the key values of success. We teach

“Our values-led education means our pupils will be prepared for life beyond school”

and responding effectively to others.

At Maida Vale, most lessons are 90 minutes long. This gives teachers the time to be forwardthinking and varied with lessons plans.

Longer lesson times also allow us to incorporate reflection into our curriculum through DIRT (Directed Independent ABOVE Reflection Time) & BELOW and reporting Maida Vale School sessions with Personal Tutors.

All students need pupils not just how to keep going when to know how to draw their learning they find things difficult, but also to know together so that they can set targets that they can take a risk and fail. For it for themselves based on their own is our failures that provide us with our reflections and feedback from teachers. greatest learning. We talk to them about Reflection develops resilience, problemthe importance of being experts in failure. solving skills, creativity and the ability Educational psychologist Benjamin to support and inspire others.

Bloom listed creativity as the highest of None of this is possible if we, as a thinking skills. By embracing creativity community, do not come together. At and problem-solving, young people are Maida Vale School, every member of staff ready to flourish in an age dominated by has a responsibility for the pastoral care Artificial Intelligence. In every lesson, of every pupil. We work as a community not just the performing and creative arts, to promote our values of respect, our pupils are encouraged to be creative tolerance and compassion – and celebrate and problem solve. We also believe that the moments in the school week when through our performing arts programme, these values are demonstrated via our young people can develop newsletters and on social skills to support and inspire media. It is also important one another. They all study to us that our parents feel drama and music and we fully part of our community. provide a range of wholeThis is enabled through our school and small-ensemble Open-Door Policy, being opportunities for them to able to use the Parent Café perform. In performing, and the fact that there are students develop resilience no false hierarchies. As STEVEN WINTER and self-confidence but, adults, parents and staff are Headmaster more importantly, they on first name terms here Maida Vale School learn the value of listening at Maida Vale School!

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EDUCATION • OPINION

“Bilingual people can not only communicate more widely but also build bridges between societies”

ABOVE Lycée International de Londres

Global

R EACH

The pandemic has underscored our interdependency, says the International Programme Coordinator at Lycée International de Londres

By MAAIKE KAANDORP

T

he COVID-19 crisis prompted many countries to turn inward and focus on the needs of their own people. But the inexorable trend toward globalisation is bound to re-emerge when the pandemic fades. That’s why we’ve never wavered from our mission to educate students concurrently in at least two languages and to give them the cultural awareness they need to succeed as global citizens in the 21st century.

The world is changing quickly and nations are continuing to become more interdependent, whether in trade or in public health. Language learning unlocks access to this emerging world because bilingual people can not only communicate more widely but also build bridges between

societies. Equally important, learning in multiple languages gives students a more nuanced understanding of the material they’re studying because they learn to see it from different perspectives.

Isn’t it enough to speak just English these days when it comes to business and entertainment? No, is the answer. Counting on other people to span the gap lessens the opportunity for interpersonal connection and can lead to misunderstandings. What’s more, there are benefits to bilingualism at a personal level that go far beyond international exchange.

The students at our school, for instance, have very diverse backgrounds and needs.

Some of them have parents from two different countries, say Britain and France.

Or maybe their parents are both native French speakers but they grew up in the US or another country, attending school in

English. Mastering both French and English puts them in touch with different sides of their identity, helps them appreciate their background, and boosts their self-esteem.

Being bilingual opens yet more doors after graduation. Our students are admitted to universities all over the world — the US, Canada, the Netherlands, and, of course, Britain and France. This is partly due to their language skills, but also because they often have more self-confidence. Their education gives them a greater awareness of the links between languages and cultures, and they are less afraid of engaging with others than students who haven’t had the same opportunity. Furthermore, their ability to tap into sources in different languages helps them develop strong critical-thinking skills and broader understanding of particular topics.

That can lead eventually to better career opportunities. Studies have shown that even in the US, people who speak additional languages have preference in hiring. As the job market becomes more global, intercultural understanding and awareness are becoming appreciated as critical components of professional success.

To accommodate the myriad needs of our families and community, Lycée International de Londres Winston Churchill has crafted curricula that lean more heavily toward French or toward English, including an authorised English-language International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme. But in the end, the goal is the same: helping students get ready for a world that needs their talents to move beyond the understandable self-interest of recent times and into greater mutual support and cooperation.

MAAIKE KAANDORP International Programme Coordinator Lycée International de Londres Winston Churchill A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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Music

CHAMPION The MOBO Award-winning saxophonist and broadcaster – and Bancroft’s alumnus – YolanDa Brown talks about her work to get young people making music

Where did you go to school and what inspired you to start making music?

I went to Bancroft’s School in Woodford Green. I loved the school and there were lots of extra-curricular activities to get your teeth into. From an early age, my interest in learning an instrument was supported by my parents and at school. I had piano lessons privately, while at school I learnt the drums and then, from 13, the saxophone. I loved that I could apply my music making outside of oneto-one lessons into groups like the wind band and concert band. I was also in a saxophone quartet with three of my close friends – we were called the Sax Pack!

Who/what were your key music influences and why the saxophone?

I think my primary influence was the wide variety I heard growing up. My Dad has an amazing record collection and I was hearing an eclectic range of music – from soul to classical, rock-and-roll to Latin jazz, opera through to reggae. I couldn’t wait to start making my own music. The saxophone was my first wind instrument and I instantly loved the connection I had with it. Using my breath to create sound was a new experience. Every other instrument I had learnt I was playing on – but the saxophone was my voice.

You moved into music after a FirstClass degree, PhD and a potentially star career in management science. So, what gave you the courage to swap paths?

I don’t think I ever saw either path as more perilous. I remember not knowing what I wanted to study at university and a family friend asked me what my favourite subjects were. I loved Business, Maths and Spanish, so that’s what let me to study Management Science, which included a year in Oviedo, Spain as part of the Erasmus project. I did take my saxophone to university and to Spain and music was always a great way to meet people, join jam sessions and just enjoy the instrument. I joined a band in the summer before my PhD and it all grew organically from there. Four years later, while teaching undergraduates and reading for my PhD at the University of Kent, I realised that I was spending more time working in music than on campus. I had to make the difficult decision. An encouraging sign was that a couple of months after making the decision, I was awarded an honorary doctorate for my contribution to music by the University of East London. That

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EDUCATION • PROFILE

was a moment of confirmation for me that I had made the right choice.

With two MOBOs, TV appearances and a phenomenal range of collaborations, what inspired you to reach out to very young audiences?

I have always been passionate about music education and offering young musicians and young people the opportunity to learn in a way that resonates with them. On tour I always make sure I hold workshops in local schools (across all ages) and in music schools, based on improvisation and exploring the students’ interests and building around their learning. I am thrilled that my journey has allowed me to build on that year on year.

Could you explain more about your philanthropy work and role with Youth Music, BBC Teach and The Prince’s Trust?

I think it is very important to give back. I love working with the variety of charities in the different roles that I have, both as an ambassador and patron. It has been a joy to be the Chair of Youth Music (the largest music education charity in the UK) and helping young people have access to music-making opportunities. I also launched my charity with businessman and philanthropist James Drake. Called the Drake YolanDa Award, it provides funding for independent and emerging artists for their music careers.

ABOVE YolanDa Brown developed her passion for music at school and at home

“It has been a joy to be Chair of Youth Music – the largest music education charity –and help young people have access to more opportunities”

Your hit CBeebies show YolanDa’s Band Jam has inspired a new album. Tell us more about the show and the album.

Hearing how children around the country are dancing and playing along with their toy instruments and learning about different aspects of music is so heart-warming. We have a great time in the studio when filming, I’m so glad this comes through on screen. I have also loved hearing from teachers, who have said they use the show as a resource for music lessons. The album features some of the favourite songs from series 1 and 2, so families can listen whenever they want to. The music gets you up and moving and introduces some music terms. We have built a music lesson resource for schools around the songs, developed in collaboration with Super and Sony Magic Star, for young music makers to get involved.

Has lockdown altered perceptions about the value of music and sharing music in childhood?

Music is very important to our health and well-being. When our everyday life is disrupted and there are lots of changes plus emotions to deal with, music becomes an important escape. It is a way to communicate and connect, change moods and add inspiration. Also, the use of technology to link virtual choirs and stream performances, has been a great way to stay engaged with music.

In childhood, the opportunity to be expressive in your own way is so important and that freedom in music should be encouraged.

What is your roadmap for improving music opportunities for young people?

I feel the pull to be a part of bringing more

music-making opportunities into schools, also enabling young people finding their own voice in music. I am really excited about my ‘Join the Jam’ resource, which provides readymade lesson plans that teachers can bring straight into the classroom. I am also passionate about the music industry providing opportunities for young people to get involved in the industry – from production to live events and the commercial elements of releasing music – to help and support a smoother transition into careers, or simply to gain knowledge.

YolanDa’s Band Jam is out now via Magic Star. yolandabrown.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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FLYING COLOURS

How can families prepare for 11+ success?

Enjoy Education provides its expert advice for school entrance exams

By EVE HERBERT

W

ith the everchanging flux between the challenges of home learning and the return to school, practicality and planning remain essential for parents to support their children as fully as possible. This is particularly valuable for parents with children aged eight and upwards where 11+ tests are on the minds of many families. Being prepared and maintaining consistency in learning will equip children with the best tools to succeed.

Enjoy Education, a Londonbased Education Consultancy,

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has fifteen years’ experience in supporting primary level students to prepare for entrance tests.

Enjoy’s founder Kate Shand says, “We advise our families to have a solid understanding of how their child is doing in their core subjects ahead of entrance tests.

Appraising and building on your children’s areas of strength, while identifying and addressing areas of development can provide the key to successful 11+ prep.” The advice is to remove as many unknowns as possible to help parents feel empowered when it comes to their child’s education, which should result in children feeling more confident ahead of tests.

“11+ prep is best regarded as a marathon, not a sprint — Enjoy's mantra is 'little and often'”

EDUCATION • 11+

Enjoy Education recommends consistency in tracking progress; this will facilitate planning in the months to come. 11+ prep is best regarded as a marathon, not a sprint – Enjoy’s mantra has always been “little and often” when it comes to school entrance exam preparation, maintaining consistency and a manageable level of work.

Teachers are usually on hand to assist parents and students with 11+ preparation; however, families can think about where their child needs support and who is best placed to assist - be it a parent, relative or tutor. Everyone has felt pressure in these past months and the benefit of introducing a tutor or relative to act as a mentor for their child, can help to maintain perspective and keep confidence levels high.

The decisions to be made about future schools can also be daunting whilst school visits are on hold but there are ways to ease this stress.

Many schools have been proactive in providing virtual open days which offer a useful opportunity to meet the Head and explore the character of schools. Enjoy Education is also here to support your family along this journey with expert schools advisors on hand, as well as academic assessments, to help parents make the best decisions for their children.

Each child is unique and rest assured, the right school is out there for them.

E N J OY E D U CAT I O N Call Enjoy Education on: 020 7352 8800 for a consultation to create your own bespoke Student Learning Map or go to: enjoyeducation.co.uk for more information and downloadable resources.

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EDUCATION • FOCUS

LEFT The Positive Doodle Diary helps children process their feelings

Mind

GAMES

A new crop of games and journals offer fun and useful tools to help even young children get in touch with their feelings and express themselves

O

ne of the legacies of 2020 is a focus on how we maintain mental health in tough times.

Even before the pandemic there was a growing awareness of the risks when feelings stay bottled up.

While it can be hard enough for adults to process negative thoughts, children may not be able to understand or name what the feeling is. Games and journals are riding to the rescue here and offer a useful way for young people to make connections with their emotions – also helping adults to be more open. So here are three of our favourite ideas to help start the process.

THE POSITIVE DOODLE DIARY

Founded by a creative team with personal experience of low mental health, The Positive Planner has been designed to encourage everyday positivity through journaling with added mindfulness. There are diaries and books in the collection for adults, but The Positive Doodle Diary is designed especially for children aged from 5 to 10, although younger children may appreciate a bit of adult input to get them started on their diary-keeping journey. It's brilliantly designed, with cheerful graphics and ideas for simple creative activities. These range from colouring in to breathing exercises, as well as prompts and positive reinforcement messages to help them both record their thoughts and absorb confidence-building messages. thepositiveplanners.com

FEELIT! ABOVE FEELIT! card game

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A game designed for all the family to play together, FEELIT! was created by Nadim Saad, a parenting coach and the author behind Kids Don't Come with a Manual.

The game can be played multiple ways to

suit the age and stage of players, with Snap, Articulate or Charades as options. Each of the 52 cards lists a feeling with a definition.

The cards are colour coded into pleasant and unpleasant emotions. So, in the green and yellow corner we have Loved, Grateful, Hopeful and Proud, while red and blue include Shy, Confused, Angry and Afraid.

The thinking behind the cards is that if we can identify and name the emotion, we can start to understand and manage it – in other words, build emotional intelligence and resilience. It's one of a collection of products being designed under The Happy Confident Company umbrella and the website also has some useful tools and exercises for children and families. happyconfident.com

WISDOM WHILE YOU WORK

Libbla Kelly describes herself as a nanny, aunt, godmother and stepmother, but she also has a long career in personal training and positive psychology. Wisdom While You Work is a journal that distils some of her understanding of how to turn things around when life is looking less than rosy.

The journal is perfect for doodles and note taking and each page has a line of wisdom at the top and an explanation about why it matters. Core values are covered, along with thought-provoking lines about character traits, happiness, positivity and citizenship.

The book is already used by schools as part of PSHE, and it's a great gift for stationery -loving teenagers who want to write their thoughts, and hear positive messages and words from the wise. The company has now published a set of revision cards as part of its collection. wisdomwhileyouwork.com

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EDUCATION • OPINION

HEAR the NOISE

Celebrating all creative forms – from classical to rock and electronic – is inspiring a school music revolution, says Emanuel's Director of Music

By CHARLES JANZ

I

t is important to remember the vital role creative subjects play in the academic development of young people. Marvelling at the output of our finest composers, soloists and conductors, we can perhaps forget that their journey to artistic greatness will be rooted in an astonishing creative intelligence.

Many music departments offer a broad range of curriculum and co-curricular opportunities – classical, jazz, rock, music technology – but the provision is often unbalanced, with weighting tipped towards classical music. We all wish to expose our pupils to the music of the great classical composers, their compositions being some of the most significant and remarkable achievements in Western civilisation, yet an uneven approach may mean that contemporary music is diminished.

At Emanuel, we believe very strongly that if a pupil arrives playing the bass guitar they should benefit from BELOW Modern music the same opportunities in all its forms as a classical is encouraged at Emanuel violinist. We invest

Year 7s write Electronic Dance Music, Year 9s are taught how to re-mix a vocal sample, while GCSE pupils compose a rock song

as much energy in supporting our rock bands as we do with our choirs, orchestras and chamber ensembles.

The bands will have termly concerts, external gigs at notable London venues, recording opportunities, workshops with leading specialists and access to the best instruments and technology we can provide to facilitate their development.

We are actively invested in nurturing our music scholars, whose specialisms range from the violin and oboe, to the drums and DJ-ing. Only recently, we had representatives in from Fabric Nightclub, the dance music record label CR2 and global leader in DJ equipment

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Pioneer DJ to discuss careers in their respective areas of the music industry.

Emanuel’s music curriculum has undergone a revolution because we have faith in contemporary music delivering the same fundamentals that classical music does. Within our curriculum, Year 7s learn to write Electronic Dance Music, Year 9s are taught how to re-mix a vocal sample, while GCSE pupils compose a rock song for a professional band who will perform their work. At A level, we use every genre of contemporary music imaginable to teach the most advanced harmony.

With this approach, we find our pupils are more engaged in the subject.

Increasing numbers are taking Music for GCSE and A level and several pupils have gone on to study the subject at leading universities and conservatoires. What is more, some have emerged from within the pupil body who had been silently immersed in their style of music at home but never had the chance to demonstrate and develop their skills at school.

When I see all the pupils in my Year 9 ‘remix class’ successfully harmonise a vocal sample, analyse its harmonic rhythm, compose a syncopated, pentatonic bass line and add polyrhythmic layers of percussion, then I know we’ve made the right choice to broaden and enliven our music offering at Emanuel.

C H A R L E S JA N Z Director of Music Emanuel School

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

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• HALVES QUARTERS_USE.indd 7

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Design: Peter Opsvik

A chair for life

T H E C H A I R T H AT G R OW S W I T H T H E C H I L D™ TRIPP TRAPP® The Tripp Trapp® Newborn Set is designed to encourage bonding during meals and family time. Comfortable and spacious, it cradles your newborn, lifting them to table height for connection. The ergonomic design offers leg support as well as unique angle adjustability. Visit stokke.com to see its versatility and more features. stokke.com | @stokkebaby | #Chairforlife

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SPECI A L ISSUE

absolutely-mama.co.uk

In this section:

MOTHER’S DAY

H EY MAMA

Gifts you’ll really want • SLEEP ADVICE Tips from the experts • TIMELESS STYLE Classic childrenswear • TRIED & TESTED We review the latest kit

IMAGE: STO RQ .CO M ; @ STO RQ

Mother’s Day is nearly here and because we deserve it even more than usual this year (homeschool anyone?!), this special issue brings you the gifts that you’ll actually want. We also have baby sleep tips from best selling author and paediatrician Dr Harvey Karp, because what could be a better present than a more restful night? Enjoy mamas!

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

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Luxury travel experienced in a completly new way • Compact size and lightweight • One-hand fold • Seat unit from 0kg up to 22kg • Folds with the seat unit on • Large solid and Puncture-Free wheels • UV50+ and Water-Repellent Fabric • Cosy footmuff included • 2-years warranty • Suitable for multi terrain • Panoramic ventilation

Explore the Tinum Special Edition of the prestigious, exceptional quality unique compact pram. One hand fold is easy and quick. The pram stands on its own when folded and can be folded with or without the seat unit attached. Tinum will always be a light and compact companion on your trips.

For more details visit our website www.venicci.co.uk or email customerservice@venicci.co.uk

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mama E SSENTIALS

Mother’s DAY The gifts to start dropping hints about now...

editor’s pick

MERCI MAMAN Signature Disc Necklace, from £79; mercimamanboutique.com

NEU OIL Sleep Set Duo, £36; jojomamanbebe.co.uk

SMALLS Sleepy Eye Mask, £35, smallsmerino.co.uk JEM AND BEA Jemina Bag, £285; jemandbea.com THE PREGNANCY CALENDAR CO. The Deluxe Pregnancy Calendar, £299; thepregnancycalendar.co.uk

BABYBJÖRN Baby Carrier Mini Leopard Anthracite, £90; babybjorn.co.uk

we love SOAK SUNDAY Midnight Storm Candle, £21; soaksunday.com

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

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mam a FASHION

Pepa and her son Matthew

T I M E L E S S S T Y L E Absolutely Mama meets Pepa Gonzalez, founder classic childrenswear brand Pepa & Co. I n t e r v i e w C A R LY G L E N D I N N I N G

Q Congratulations on the arrival of your son! How has new motherhood been so far?

A Thank you, it has been a bit of a whirlwind since Matthew arrived in July during a pandemic, but we are taking each day as it comes. I am enjoying the newborn bubble so far and each and every development.

These precious moments won’t ever come back and I don’t want to miss a single bit. However, it is true that I never had a conventional maternity leave when you can put everything aside for a year and focus completely on the baby. At the same time, I think I am lucky as I find it mentally healthy to focus for a few hours per day on something that has nothing to do with the sometimes physically and mentally exhausting work of looking after a little new life.

Q How did you come to launch Pepa & Co.?

A Back in 2010, I moved to London to work in the marketing department for the Spanish Embassy, but when that contract finished and while I was looking for a new job, I worked as a nanny in London, working with British and International families in central London.

It was then I realised how difficult it was

to find high-quality traditional and vintage inspired clothing for children in the UK. I decided to launch Pepa & Co. in 2013 and move to a new sector that I had no official training in, but I loved even more. It shows how you can start something from scratch which you have never been trained for, any time, as long as you love what you do.

Q How are the pieces made and what makes a Pepa & Co. garment so special?

A We take great pride in the design and manufacture of our clothing. Our clothing is made in Spain and other countries nearby as the manufacturers there really care about the design detail. That we know them well and keep a good relationship with them.

This also means high quality materials and that the process in producing clothing is fair. We want to source the best materials so tend to go to Peru for pima cotton, Italy for wool and fine fibres and fabrics. Portugal for other cottons... There is great attention to detail from the cut, the designs we follow, the fabrics to the buttons we use. It is a long process from start to finish but we believe our use of high-quality materials and designing with the client in mind makes us stand out from the other brands.

Q How important is sustainability to the brand?

Sustainable production is of huge importance to us as a brand. Our clothing is designed to last and be passed onto future generations, so we feel we are taking some steps to reduce environmental impact. We are completely the opposite of fast fashion and believe in making clothing which has longevity. We have been working during this year on improving our packaging to reduce the impact. We also work with high quality natural fibres that reduce any negative impact on the environment.

And finally, what can we expect from the new season collection?

A Expect to see a collection of elegant childrenswear from limited edition handsmocked dresses, pretty rompers, bloomers and the softest knitwear for babies alongside complementary accessories. The spring / summer 21 collection uses a colour palette of summer pastels with delicate florals alongside the traditional nautical-inspired navy, red and white. Our new collection includes many organic cotton pieces which we think our customers will love. pepaandcompany.com

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

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on

Mo Full

on

Mo Full

lipse

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Ec unar

F LY M E TO T H E M O O N J E T K I D S ™ B Y S TO K K E ® The Moon has fueled our imagination for centuries. Its mystery and beauty have been the subject of myths, songs and fairy tales. It’s no wonder this magical orb inspired JetKids™ to create 2 new colors: Full Moon and Lunar Eclipse. Your next adventure with kids will be out of this world with our travel must-haves. stokke.com | @stokkebaby

STOKKE.indd 2

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mama WELLNE SS

ROCK ON Pediatrician, author and parenting expert Dr Harvey Neil Karp on baby sleep...

D

r Harvey Neil Karp is a pediatrician and author of ‘The Happiest Baby on the Block’, the 2002 book on newborn sleeping and soothing techniques that has sold more than a million copies and still remains in Amazon’s top 10 best-selling parenting books. He also coinvented the SNOO Smart Sleeper with his wife Nina Montée, an ingenious bassinet that lulls your baby to sleep using white noise and rocking motions. Here the parenting expert gives his advice on baby sleep.

Don’t let the phrase “sleeping like a baby” fool you. Babies sleep a lot, but it’s broken into a dozen bits and pieces scattered throughout the day and night. But, don’t lose heart! There is an absolutely miraculous solution to help

babies sleep an extra hour or two… simply drive them all night long in the car!

Trouble with that is the baby will sleep, but you won’t.

Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to imitate your baby’s beloved car ride—from the comfort of your home— to help your little bub fall asleep faster, sleep longer… and become an all-star sleeper!

After centuries of myths and confusion, it is now clear that the root of baby sleep woes is when we naively deprive babies of the calming rhythms of the womb. For three trimesters, babies live a happy life in the womb, where they are rocked with each breath mum makes, constantly shushed (with a rumbly noise—the placental blood flow) and embraced by the velvet walls of the womb. Is it any wonder that babies have a difficult time sleeping when we take all those comforting sensations away?

If I could teach all parents just one key idea about baby sleep, it should be… the 4th trimester. Parents who give their babies lots of rocking, white noise, and other womb-like sensations find that they sleep longer and better.

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

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mama WELLNE SS

“When gently roused,

babies often slip back into sleep in under a minute” So, how do you turn baby’s room into… a womb? Here are the top 5 soothing tips: Swaddling (snug holding), Side/stomach position, Shushing, Swinging, and Sucking... I call these the 5 S’s.  Swaddling: Snug wrapping recreates the cozy embrace of the womb, decreases startling, and boosts sleep. It’s the cornerstone of calming, but needs to be stopped around 2 months, when babies start to roll.  Side/stomach position: Activate this S by holding your baby rolled to the stomach or side. This can help soothe them before placing them back in bed—on the back.

Note: This is just for calming crying. The back is the only safe position for sleeping.  Shush: In the womb, the rumble of the blood flow is louder than a Hoover! Imitate this sound with low pitch, white noise played for naps and through the night.  Swing: Slow rocking quiets sleepy babies, but jiggles work better on squawking infants. In the womb, babies move the most when mum is working quietly or sleeping… and the little jiggles of the day have stopped.  Suck: Give your baby a dummy! Lots of fussy babies are best able to relax when they suck on a pacifier.

Dr Harvey Karp

Stretch baby sleep by filling their bellies

Once you’ve mastered the 5 S’s and your baby is falling asleep, the key to fewer wakeups could be through your baby’s… tummy! For the first month, your little one will have to feed every two to three hours but by giving more daytime feeds— every hour to hour-and-ahalf—many babies need fewer feeds at night.

Another helpful trick is dream feeding.

Babies who hit the hay between 18:00 and 20:00 often wake out of hunger in the middle of the night. Research shows that sneaking in a dream feed between 22:00 and midnight often helps babies skip a night waking.

Build stellar sleeping habits by… waking your baby

Yes, you read that right... it’s called the wakeand-sleep approach. Here’s what you do: Turn

on your white noise and top your baby up with a feed. Then, cuddle and rock your little one, BUT after placing your lovebug in bed, jiggle them slightly awake.

Sound nuts? It actually quickly helps babies become better sleepers. When gently roused, babies are often so drowsy that they slip back into sleep in under a minute. And as a big bonus: this crazy little tip can prevent sleep problems before they develop and bring you hours of added slumber.

Above all, practice safe sleep Tragically, SIDS claims the lives of 230 babies a year in the UK… which is why the most important sleep advice I can give is to make sure your little one is snoozing safely.

Alone—bed sharing definitely increases sleep-related deaths; on the back; and without any loose blankets or cot bumpers, which pose a suffocation risk.

D R H A RV E Y K A R P Pediatrician, author and parenting expert @happiest_baby_uk thehappiestbaby.co.uk

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

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mam a PARTNERSHIP

A MAMA FITNESS

Maricarmenfitness empowers mums and mums-to be to achieve their goals...

s the founder of Maricarmenfitness, with a background in Paediatric Nursing and as a mother of two, my passion and drive is to empower mums in achieving their goals whether it be fitness, weight loss, mindset or nutrition.

I am a fully qualified pre and postnatal fitness coach, supporting mums on their fitness journey through pregnancy, during the post-natal period, and beyond.

To see the full services I offer for pregnancy and post-natal fitness visit: https://www.maricarmenfitness.com/ pregancyandpostnatalfitness.

I specialise in holistic online programmes – perfect for busy mums.

Ranging from a monthly subscription programme for those who are self motivated but looking for at home workouts and weight loss support, to my 1:1 personalised transformation programme. Visit: https://www. maricarmenfitness.com/online-fitness-

programmes for more information on the programmes that I offer.

As a mum myself I know how challenging being a mum can be, which is why I have developed all my programmes to focus on mind, health, exercise as well as a nutrition plan that is suitable for the whole family.

Visit: https://www. maricarmenfitness.com/blog/ toptipsforlosingweight to read some articles and blogs that I have written covering these topics.

Why you should choose me to be your coach? I set achievable and realistic goals. I stand by a sustainable and long-term strategy, I don’t believe or promote filters or fads. I hold people accountable whilst making it enjoyable and fun for long lasting results. Don’t be shy, get in touch and start your transformation today.

MARICARMENFITNESS Mari-Carmen is a pregnancy and post-natal fitness coach. maricarmenfitness.com

WIN

A JETKIDS BEDBOX™

BY STOKKE®

Absolutely Mama has teamed up with Stokke, the Norwegian company that is recognized worldwide for best-in-class solutions for children, to offer one lucky reader a JetKids BedBox™ by Stokke® The JetKids BedBox is the world’s only ride-on suitcase for children with an inflight bed/leg-rest feature. This travel essential combines Scandinavian style and aviation-inspired design with practical features for the entire journey and allows your child to rest comfortably or sleep during long and short travels. The ride-on suitcase is suitable for children 3-7 years, and the bed feature is best suited for children over 2 years.

For more information on Stokke visit https://bit.ly/37FHfLZ

Visit absolutely-mama.co.uk/win-a-jetkids-bedbox/ to be in with a chance of winning STOKKE.indd 1

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26/02/2021 10:25

TRIED & TESTED

IN DEPTH REVIEWS OF THE LATEST PARENTING KIT

mama REVIEWS

Silver Cross Buf fet High Chair

I

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

Micralite FastFold Limited Edition Aqua

N

Re vie w e d b y A N NA WO O L F

ever has there been in a time where the importance of a good, weather-proof pushchair has been more paramount.

Locked down again in the UK (and rightly so), we have, as a family found ourselves layering up for the weekly walk around our local park and woods. It’s nice to be outside, but with a 1 year old baby, pushing a pushchair through mud-clogged paths whilst navigating puddles, ice and snow has been difficult. Enter the Micralite FastFold. Billed as lightweight and robust, this stylish pushchair can be pushed over anything. With pumped up back tyres the FastFold makes pushing a heavy toddler a breeze.

The pushchair is cozy, it resembles a hammock, and offers two positions: reclined for a nap and upright for a snack. The clever rain cover zips baby in, no soggy snowsuits, feet or fingers here. With a nice big basket you can easily fit essential shopping underneath. The only quibble (as with all pushchairs) is the collapse and fold. You know what I mean. Once you’ve got the knack however, you realise that this is the only pushchair an active family ever needs. And with lockdown restrictions lifting slowly in the UK, we’ll be spending a lot more time outside this year. I only wish they made one for grown ups.

t’s been 35 years since the household name has come to the table with a highchair offering, and it doesn’t disappoint. Suitable from birth, this super stylish seat will see your baby through to 15kg which is around 3 years old.

As always, Silver Cross have thought of everything. It’s light as a feather at only 5kg, super compact, and the tray has a clever storage mode at the back to make it even more streamline when you’re not using it. Suitable from birth, there is a 5 point safety harness and unique cradle position, making mealtimes inclusive from day one. The elegant leather look fabric is easily wiped clean and the tray comes with a dishwasher safe divider. There are 5 adjustable height positions to suit your furniture, and a t-bar for safety which is also removable when you want to turn your highchair into a toddler seat. Absolutely Mama highly recommends this product and if you would like to see more, check out the full unboxing video review at absolutely-mama-co.uk.

£149; silvercrossbaby.com

£375; micralite.com A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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PROPERTY

TWO THREE SEVEN

BRIXTON HILL SW2 Prices From

£450,000

ver 80% reserved, Two Three Seven Brixton Hill is a modern new development of 1 and 2 bedroom apartments for sale. Finished to a high specification, all apartments are fitted with the latest smart home technology.

Situated just a few minutes away from the buzz of Brixton town centre. Available with a 5% deposit on Help to Buy.

O

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

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www.johnmartinestates.com 1995-2020

TO T W KE NE AR M

EALING W13

£695,000 Leasehold

A stunning well proportioned conversion flat occupying the entire ground floor of this double fronted detached period property between Walpole and Lammas Parks. The property offers a large west facing lounge with direct access onto garden, well-arranged fitted kitchen/diner, shower/wet room, utility/cloakroom and two spacious double bedrooms. The property also benefits from partial under floor heating, gas fired central heating, sole use of the 85’ - 90’ west facing rear garden with side access and off-street parking. Energy Performance Certificate E.

82 Pitshanger Lane, Ealing W5 1QX jmesales@johnmartinestates.com JOHN MARTIN.indd 1

25/02/2021 11:00

“PITSHANGER’S COMMUNITY ESTATE AGENT”

TO T W KE NE AR M

EALING W5

£495,000 Leasehold

A beautiful two bed second floor flat on this prime residential road beside Ealing Common and close to Ealing Broadway. The property offers a spacious west facing lounge, large well arranged fitted kitchen, modern bathroom, en suite shower room and two good sized bedrooms. There is electric heating, double glazed windows, lovely rear communal garden and an allocated secure underground car parking space. Energy Performance Certificate D.

T: 020 8998 3333 JOHN MARTIN.indd 2

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www.johnmartinestates.com 1995-2020

EALING W5

£2,500 Per Calendar Month

A stunning four bedroom bay fronted end of terrace family home situated in the heart of award winning Pitshanger Lane. The property offers modern fully fitted open plan kitchen, separate reception room, family bathroom, en suite to master to the second floor and three further good sized bedrooms to the first floor. There is gas fired central heating, double glazing, unallocated on street parking and a lovely rear garden. Offered unfurnished. Energy Performance Certificate D.

82 Pitshanger Lane, Ealing W5 1QX jmesales@johnmartinestates.com JOHN MARTIN.indd 3

25/02/2021 11:01

“PITSHANGER’S COMMUNITY ESTATE AGENT”

TO T W KE NE AR M

EALING W13

£2,250 Per Calendar Month

A beautiful four bedroom square bay end of terrace family home situated a stone’s throw from West Ealing station (soon to be a CrossRail station). The property offers a large intercommunicating reception room, extended modern fully fitted kitchen/diner, family bathroom, en suite shower room and four good sized bedrooms. There is gas fired central heating, delightful rear patio garden and unallocated on street parking.

Offered unfurnished. Energy Performance Certificate D.

T: 020 8998 3333 JOHN MARTIN.indd 4

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Cleveland Avenue, W4 Set over three floors, this fantastic home is located on a centrally located residential road.

The house has plenty of entertaining space with two reception rooms, five bedrooms and three bathrooms on the first and second floors, as well as original features throughout, energy rating c.

Duke Road, W4 This superb four bedroom house in the popular Glebe Estate in Chiswick has been meticulously upgraded with bespoke fittings. The open plan kitchen is the central hub of this family home offering plenty of natural light from bi-folding doors leading out to the garden, energy rating c.

£1,699,950 020 8987 3000 chiswicksales@fletcherestates.com

£1,625,000 020 8987 3000 chiswicksales@fletcherestates.com

fletcherestates.com

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26/06/2018 16:17

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

Estate agency has moved on. house. is different We know people are starting to consider online only estate agents, but still want the reassurance of face-to-face help from local experts.

You get both with us, because we provide that personal service without expensive high street locations that customers have to pay for.

We also go further to ensure your property and the lifestyle it enables is shown in the best possible light.

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The premium online estate agency.

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SALES

5 -7 Tur n h a m G re e n Te rra ce, C h isw ic k , Lon don , W4 1R G Te l 0 2 0 8 7 4 7 8 8 0 0 · Fa x 020 8995 7275 E-m a i l i n fo @wh i t m a n a n dco.com · We bsite w w w. w h i t m a n a n dco. co m

FAIRLAWN AVENUE, BINNS ROAD, W4 W4

£465,000 £1,395,000

LETTINGS

A presented, fullpresented extended period located theadded heart ofbenefit the sought ‘Glebeand Estate’ . Arranged overThree three bedrooms, floors, the accommodation Anbeautifully amazingly light, well triple property aspect flat withinthe of aafter balcony private garden. luxury bathroom, comprises; master bedroom with ensuitekitchen, shower room, full-width bedroom vaulted ceiling, two further bedrooms, familygarden bathroom separate 14' reception room, fully integrated gas fired central heating,with share in the freehold, balcony and private withwith side access.walk-in Ideally shower airingclose cupboard, 25’ through reception rearextensive extensionshopping incorporating kitchenfacilities and dining private 28’Road. landscaped situatedand within proximity of Chiswick Parkroom, tube wrap-around station and the andfitted restaurant on room, Chiswick High garden and cloakroom. Binns Road is a quiet residential street within a short walk of Chiswick High Road’s extensive shops, cafes and restaurants. Transport links include Turnham Green Station, local bus routes and the A4/M4 for routes in and out of London.

LINDEN GARDENS, W4W4 LAMB COTTAGE, W4 THE POWER HOUSE,

£330 PER WEEK £1.600,000 £1,750,000

A newly ground floor flat with private west facing Large doublewith bedroom with wardrobes, reception room with Set in this decorated iconic Gradelower II listed building ‘Thegarden Power House’ , an extremely versatile 3/4garden. bedroom penthouse two west-facing roof terraces and secure gated wood floors, bathroom with shower over, kitchen, The flatthe is accommodation on one of Chiswick's bestmaster located roads, moments from the shops, parking.

The apartment is situated at the top of fitted the building withgarden. lift access with comprising suite, two further double bedrooms, restaurants cafésspectacular on the High and 5 minutes from Turnham Green station.

The property availablekitchen, early September, furnished. luxury bathroom, 18’Road vaulted ceiling reception room onto 16’ west facing roof terrace, fully is integrated mezzanine room, secure gated parking, automatic lift. Ideally located for Chiswick High Road’s shops, cafes and restaurants. Transport facilities include both Stamford Brook and Turnham Green tube stations, numerous bus routes and the A4/M4 for routes in and out of London.

WHITMAN.indd 2

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LETTINGS POINT WHARF LANE, TW8 RUSTHALL AVENUE, W4

£350 PER WEEK GUIDE PRICE £1,650,000

An immaculately presented period family home located onfloor this popular street on the borders Bedford Park. OfferingBoasting circa 2000sqft of accommodation, Beautifully presented two double bedroom second flat in residential this highly sought after riverside development. a stunning open plan the housereception comprisesroom, a spacious entrance hall withand original tiles, 27’ doublebedroom. receptionLarge room with fireplace, bespoke storage andkitchen access to a small kitchen a river side balcony a master ensuite openfeature plan reception room, fully fitted with granite work courtyard, kitchen/dining roomriverside with hand-built kitchen and large frenchspace doors which lead out onto a landscaped west facing garden, master bedroom with tops, fitted wardrobes and views. Underground parking included. luxury ensuite, three further bedrooms, further ensuite shower room and a family bathroom. The house also benefits from rear loft and eaves storage, utility room, cloakroom, cellar and front garden with bespoke bike and bin storage.

QUEENCOTTAGE, ANNESROAD, GROVE, W4 LAMB W4 W4 BLANDFORD

£430 PER WEEK £1.600,000 £2,600,000

large, double light and beautifully presented twoon double bedroom flatstreet on this highly desirable road in the heart of of3000sqft BedfordofPark, just minutes from AAsuperb fronted period property located this quiet residential in the Bedford Park area offering in excess accommodation.

The Turnham Greenextended underground station. Top floor position ensures beautifula views from the reception and bedrooms. house has been and refurbished by the current owners and comprises wide entrance hall, an impressive 43’x20’ kitchen/reception/family room, dining room, 61’ landscaped garden, garden studio, master bedroom with ensuite and dressing room, five further bedrooms, family bathroom, shower room, utility room, cloakroom, extensive built-in and eaves storage throughout. The house is situated at the cul-de-sac end of Blandford Road within a short walk of Chiswick High Road’s shops, cafes, and restaurants as well as the independent traders on Turnham Green Terrace.

WHITMAN.indd 3

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Parkside, Wimbledon SW19

Guide Price

£7,350,000

Regency Place, The Drive, Wimbledon SW20

Guide Price

£2,695,000

A detached Edwardian family house, overlooking the Common, offering bright, spacious and versatile accommodation less than 500 metres from the bustling High Street. 8 beds, 5 baths, 5 reception rooms, swimming pool, garden, off-street parking.

An elegant, classically-styled property built approximately 11 years ago as part of a small and exclusive gated development. 5 beds, 4 baths, 2 reception rooms, garden, off-street parking.

Blossom Square, The Drive, Wimbledon SW20

Durham Road, Wimbledon SW20

Prices From

£2,850,000

An exclusive collection of newly built Freehold houses set in a secure private courtyard development in Wimbledon. 4 beds, 3 baths, 3 reception rooms, garden, garage, off-street parking.

Guide Price

£1,150,000

An impressive, brand new, detached single-storey house with expanses of glass and high ceilings giving an exceptional feeling of light and space. 2 beds, 2 bathrooms, kitchen/breakfast room, reception room, 2 patio gardens, off-street parking.

Wimbledon Village Office Sales: 020 8947 9833 Lettings: 020 8879 9669 • ROBERT HOLMES_2021.indd 1

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www.robertholmes.co.uk

Coombe Hill Road, Kingston upon Thames

Guide Price

£4,650,000

Dickerage Road, Kingston upon Thames KT1

Guide Price

£1,200,000

A lovely residence in a secluded setting in the heart of the Coombe Estate with elegant rooms, beautiful gardens, indoor swim spa and gym. 5 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, 4 reception rooms, indoor pool, garden, off-street parking and double garage.

A spacious and well-presented 4 bedroom family semi-detached house in a sought after location. 4 beds, 3 bathrooms, 2 reception rooms, off-street parking, large garden.

Kingston Vale, London SW15

Coombe Lane, Wimbledon SW20

Guide Price

£2,750,000

A well-presented detached house with generous accommodation situated behind a gated drive and backing onto Richmond Park. 7 beds, 4 baths, 3 reception rooms, garden, off-street parking and double garage.

Guide Price

£1,300,000

Very attractive 4 bedroom family house. Completely refurbished by the current owners to a high standard. 4 beds, 3 bathrooms, 2 reception rooms, off-street parking, summer house, garden.

Coombe Office Sales: 020 8947 1100 • ROBERT HOLMES_2021.indd 2

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They have sold over 5,000 London homes in their careers priced between £500,000 and £20,000,000.

That is about £5,000,000,000 worth of property.

They deliver exceptional advice, service, communication and results for each individual sale.

Their personal approach and unique marketing and research platform, triples the chances of selling your home.

E. ldn@youhome.co.uk

@YOUhomeLondon

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@YOUhome_ldn

T. 020 7908 9280

@YOUhome_ldn

youhome.co.uk

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This team has sold over 5,000 properties in their careers.

They have over 200 years property selling experience.

How much is your property worth?

Request a free, confidential, no obligation valuation consultation from your local YOUhome expert.

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ONLY 2 REM A I NI N G / O N LY 2 R E M A IN IN G / O N LY 2 R E M A IN I N G

URBAN, STYLISH, NOW COMPLETE AND READY TO MOVE IN, ‘TWO THREE SEVEN BRIXTON HILL’ IS A MODERN NEW DEVELOPMENT OF 1 AND 2 BEDROOM APARTMENTS FOR SALE. PR I CES F ROM £ 45 0 , 0 0 0 – AVA I L A BL E W I T H A 5% D EP O S I T O N H EL P TO BU Y For more information call 020 7089 6566 or visit: acorngroup.co.uk/newhomes

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HELP TO BU Y AVA I L A B L E VIDEO TOUR AVAILABLE

BUY NOW WITH JUST A 5% DEPOSIT

SHOW A PA RT M EN T NOW AVA IL A BL E TO V I E W Teulon House offers a collection of spacious 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments all finished to a high specification.

All apartments boast large windows which flood rooms with natural light, and there are good-sized private balconies or terraces to selected apartments.

Situated in a prominent position on Blackheath Road, Teulon House is just a short stroll from the historic centre of Greenwich, as well as the buzz of trendy Deptford and both Greenwich and Deptford Bridge stations.

PRICES FROM £440,000

To arrange a viewing call 020 8315 6996 or visit acorngroup.co.uk/newhomes

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New bathroom showroom Visit ripplesbathrooms.com to find out more or to book a free virtual design consultation

Ripples Chelmsford, 8 Bond Street North, Chelmsford, Essex CM1 1GH Tel: 01245 287977

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