bh Exclusive | Edition 2 by bh Publications

l i f e s t y l e

l u x u r y

e d i t i o n

h o m e

‘An English Original’... ...Chewton Glen is a luxury country house hotel and spa set in 130 acres of Hampshire countryside on the edge of the New Forest National Park and just a few minutes walk from the sea. • Luxurious bedrooms and suites – from £205 • Full English afternoon tea – £22.50 • Seasonal lunch – £24.50 • Three-course à la carte dinner – £65 • Award winning Spa Day experiences – from £135

All prices include service and VAT. For further information, or to make a booking, please call reservations on 01425 275341 or email: reservations@chewtonglen.com

New Milton Hampshire England BH25 6QS. Telephone (01425) 275341 Fax (01425) 272310 reservations@chewtonglen.com www.chewtonglen.com

NEW XJ. NEW BENCHMARK. From first glance, you know that Jaguar has created a new icon of sporting luxury. Coupé-like lines and panoramic glass roof enclose a spacious and luxurious five-seat cabin, equipped with the latest intuitive Jaguar iTech technologies. The aerospace-derived aluminium bodyshell and choice of 3.0-litre V6 diesel or 5.0-litre V8 petrol engines combine to deliver astonishing performance and efficiency. Discover the new icon: contact us today. 0 8 00 091 4 86 8

WESTOVER, POOLE Westover House, West Quay Road, Poole BH15 1JF www.westover.poole.jaguar.co.uk

FUEL CONSUMPTION FIGURES FOR JAGUAR XJ RANGE: MPG (L/100KM): URBAN 15.4 (18.3) – 29.6 (9.6). EXTRA URBAN 32.5 (8.7) – 50.0 (5.6). COMBINED 23.4 (12.1) – 40.1 (7.0). CO2 EMISSIONS 289 – 184 G/KM.

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Welcome Hello again, and welcome to the second issue of bh Exclusive. From super cars to super yachts, the bh editorial team has been working and playing hard to bring you first-hand reviews of the very latest launches. Danny Cobbs test-drives the stunning Mercedes SLS AMG while Sunseeker Charters introduce their latest grand dame of the seas. We meet Wayne Hemingway MBE whose passion for the seaside has seen him breathe new life into Boscombe Overstrand, with its stylish Beach Pods enjoying their first full season this year. MSC Cruises will sail from Southampton next year, offering elegant suites complete with butler service. In the name of research we take a trip across the Med and nearer to home book in for a weekend of luxury at Lucknam Park. And turning our attention to the worlds of art and craft, we find out more about Poole Pottery’s Studio Collection and meet Bournemouth artist Paul Corfield, whose seascapes and landscapes are now sold across the world. From Blahnik to Bulgari, we reveal the most beautiful shoes and gems that money can buy and showcase the Spring/Summer collection of designer Marc Cain. We would like to thank our advertisers and indeed you, our loyal readers, for your much-valued support. Stuart Dykes Managing Director bh Publications Ltd.

ALL THAT GLITTERS

Why the sparkling gems of Bulgari continue to captivate

THE PERFECT COUNTRY HOUSE HOTEL

Pure luxury at Lucknam Park Hotel & Spa

A SUPERCAR WORTHY OF THE TITLE

Danny Cobbs gets behind the wheel of the Mercedes SLS AMG

VANCOUVER 2010

The British Olympic team takes on world-class talent

THE QUEEN OF FACIALS

Linda Meredith brings her unique skincare to Chewton Glen

ONE-TO-ONE AT THE WATERSIDE

Louise Kulaksiz meets Alan Roux

FASHION FOR BEAUTIFUL WOMEN

Introducing Marc Cain’s Spring/Summer 2010 collection

OUT OF AFRICA

Louise and Stuart Dykes tour the very best of the Western Cape

‘HIGH ENERGY’ MAKES HER DEBUT

26 44

Sunseeker Charters’ stylish new arrival

SLEEK SLEEP

Jason Vickers of Living Elegance reveals why the bedroom has become a style statement bh Exclusive is published and printed by bh Publications Ltd. bh Publications Ltd Unit 8 Branksome Business Park, Bourne Valley Road, Poole, Dorset BH12 1DW Telephone: +44 (0)1202 765988 Fax: +44 (0)1202 763997 www.bh-publications.co.uk Managing Director: Creative Director: Editor: Sales: With thanks to:

Stuart Dykes Simon Rodway Liz Kavanagh Louise Dykes, Nicola Cooper Louise Kulaksiz, Danny Cobbs, Christine Sadler, Natalie Court and Henry Gerard

bh Exclusive is published twice a year and offers advertisers an exclusive target audience of discerning, affluent readers. The magazine is distributed to an AB1 readership within Bournemouth, Poole and towns and villages as well as nationally to a selected database of high net worth individuals. bh Exclusive is also available in selected boutiques, estate agents, luxury hotels and spas and other carefully chosen establishments throughout the region. Each issue has an estimated readership of over 50,000 people. The next issue will be out in September 2010.

DESIGN DETAILS

Terence Conran shares his inspiration

SOARING HEELS AND KNIFE-EDGE TOES

The enduring appeal of the Manolo Blahnik shoe

TREASURES OF TOMORROW

Poole Pottery’s Studio collection

GRAND DESIGN

Wayne Hemingway on Boscombe’s Overstrand development

THE CHELTENHAM GOLD CUP

The trophy every jockey wants to win

SUITE DREAMS

102

Liz Kavanagh cruises without the crowds aboard MSC Splendida

For all advertising and editorial enquiries please contact bh Publications Ltd. Whilst every attempt has been made to ensure that the content in this magazine is accurate, bh Publications cannot accept, and hereby disclaim, any liability to any party to loss or damage cause by errors or omissions resulting from negligence, accident or any other cause. All Rights reserved. No part of this magazine can be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without prior written permission of bh Publications Ltd. Information correct at time of going to press. Views expressed are not necessarily those of bh Publications Ltd. Every effort has been made to trace the copyright holders of material used in this magazine. If any copyright holder has been overlooked, we will be happy to make any necessary arrangements. bh Publications do not endorse any advertisements or opinions expressed included within this magazine. Front Cover: The Mercedes SLS AMG (courtesy of Mercedes-Benz)

SEASCAPES AND LANDSCAPES

106

The work of Bournemouth artist Paul Corfield

A SCENT OF STYLE

110

How perfumers Floris of London found favour with royalty across the world

110 7

Introducing the breathtaking new Lotus Evora. It has all the spine-tingling performance, award winnning handling and to-die-for looks you’d expect from a mid-engined Lotus. But what’s rather more unexpected are the extra two seats in the back. You’ll be equally surprised by the supple ride, sumptuous leather interior and boot generous enough to take a set of golf clubs. Plus, it has the lowest emissions in its class. So, there really is room in your life for a Lotus. The Lotus Evora. From £48,550 OTR* *On the road (OTR) cost includes £950 for delivery, PDI, first service number plates, first registration fee, valet, 12 months Road Fund Licence and a full tank of fuel. Prices effective from 1st January 2010. Information correct at time of going to print. Lotus Cars reserves the right to amend prices or specification without prior notice.

www.lotusevora.co.uk

Westover Sports Cars West Quay Road Poole Dorset BH15 1JF Tel:01202 677511 Fax:01202666271

Lotus Evora – Fuel consumption in mpg (I/100km): Urban 22.8 (12.4), Extra Urban 43.5 (6.5), Combined 32.5 (8.7) CO2 emissions: 205g/km

There’s room in your life for a loTus.

Keira Knightley, adorned in a spectacular vintage necklace in yellow gold set with cabochon sapphires and emeralds

ALL THAT GLITTERS THE SPARKLING GEMS

OF BULGARI FOR OVER 125 YEARS BULGARI HAS CREATED JEWELLERY AND TIMEPIECES USING A DAZZLING ARRAY OF PRECIOUS STONES. WHILE THE WORLD HAS CHANGED OUT OF ALL RECOGNITION SINCE THE COMPANY’S EARLY DAYS, THE CREATIVE GENIUS BEHIND BULGARI’S HIGHLY-PRIZED COLLECTIONS HAS ENDURED. CHARLES CHURCHILL DISCOVERS MORE ABOUT THE ITALIAN JEWELLER. 11

hen Sotirio Bulgari

Bvlgari Bvlgari watch

opened his first shop on Via Sistina

in Rome in 1884 he could never have dreamed that over a century later his name would be known across the world. Sotirio had descended from a line of Greek silversmiths based in the small village of Epirus and, deciding to seek his fortune in Italy, he moved to Rome, where he began

Sotirio Bulgari

selling his wares from a stall in front of the French Academy on the Pincio. Bulgari jewellery was quite unlike anything else at the time, with Sotirio’s flamboyant combinations of precious metals and gemstones soon the talk of the city. With ongoing commissions, Sotirio acquired his own premises and moved to the elegant Via dei Condotti, where the flagship shop remains today. The steady stream of wealthy international tourists visiting the city meant that Bulgari jewels were soon being worn across the world, and by the 1930s business was booming. Sotirio died in 1932 and his sons, Giorgio and Costantino, took over. The period after the Second World War marked an important Bvlgari Bvlgari yellow gold pendant earrings with mother of pearls

turning point, with Bulgari moving away from the strict disciplines of the dominant French school to create its own unique style, inspired by Greek and Roman classicism, the Italian Renaissance and the 19th century Roman School Of Goldsmiths. By the 1960s Bulgari jewellery was highly stylised in unprecedented chromatic combinations which continue to characterise Bulgari’s unmistakable style even today. The creations of the 1970s were strongly influenced by pop art and during this decade the Bulgari-Bulgari watch was born; it continues to be a classic. Bulgari design in the 1980s was bold and innovative, while the 1990s saw the company diversify into silk scarves, fine fragrances

Vintage diamond and sapphire earrings

and luxury leather accessories. Today many of classic designs continue to feature across the collection, with gemme nummarie, or coin jewellery – using ancient coinage designs in place of gemstones – instantly recognisable as Bulgari. The serpent motif has become a classic that Bulgari has reinterpreted over the years, while the Bvlgari logo is now incorporated into many collections. As well as adorning royalty the world over, Bulgari jewellery has been favoured by stars of the silver screen since the 1940s, with Elizabeth Taylor boasting 16 bespoke pieces of enormous value, each with its own story. Richard Burton gave her a diamond brooch with a central emerald of over 18 carats to mark their engagement in 1962. She loved the piece so much that on her wedding day in March 1964 it was the only piece of jewellery she wore. Talking about his wife in a later interview, Burton famously quipped: “The only word in Italian that Liz knows is Bulgari.” Bulgari jewellery is available from Parkhouse The Jeweller, Southampton. Tel. 023 8022 6653. www.parkhousethejeweller.com

Bvlgari Bvlgari gold and mother of pearl necklace

Relax in one of the Largest Furniture Showrooms in the South

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THE PERFECT

COUNTRY HOUSE HOTEL LOUISE DYKES AND CHRISTINE SADLER ENJOY A LUXURY OVERNIGHT AT LUCKNAM PARK HOTEL & SPA ust six miles from the historic city of Bath is five red star Lucknam

To work up an appetite for lunch, we set out to explore the gardens,

Park Hotel, a Palladian mansion set in 500 acres of beautiful

which feature a dovecote – a listed building dating from the late 18th

parkland at the end of a mile-long avenue of lime and beech trees.

century – and a pretty courtyard with a perfectly striped lawn.

The building dates from 1720 and was a family home until 1987 before

Nearby flower beds were awash with an array of spring flowers, whilst

becoming one of the UK’s top country house hotels and a member of the

in the summer months rose and lavender gardens are the perfect setting

prestigious Relais & Chateaux group.

for afternoon tea. In Autumn, the parkland bursts into a palette of warm

We arrived at the hotel on a grey, rainy morning, but the weather was soon forgotten as we relaxed in front of a roaring log fire in the Library,

colours and the arboretum, with its 600 trees, has been designed to provide year-round interest and has many unusual specimens.

drinking coffee and eating delicious homemade shortbread. This was an

Away from the gardens, Lucknam Park offers a wide range of activities,

ideal opportunity to plan our stay. Lucknam Park has it all – a recently-

suitable for all the family. There are two all-weather tennis courts and

built Spa, an equestrian centre, beautiful gardens and two fabulous

a five-aside football pitch, croquet on the lawn and a 400 metre trim

restaurants. We didn’t want to miss a thing.

trail featuring a variety of exercise apparatus. Bicycles are available

for both adults and children and for those who

and vegetables are from a local supplier who has been involved in developing a

prefer a more leisurely pace there are maps with

walled vegetable garden on the estate. There are also plans to erect Victorian-

a number of suggested walks and nature trails.

style greenhouses, with a focus on growing traditional varieties of vegetables that

For the more adventurous, clay pigeon shooting,

are not available in supermarkets.

hot air ballooning, archery and falconry can also be arranged.

salad and chickpea purée, chosen from the healthy option menu. The

As well as being an ideal location for holidays

atmosphere was relaxed, with tables arranged around an open fire or by the

and short breaks, Lucknam Park is the perfect

windows overlooking the Mediterranean Garden. In summer, diners can eat

setting for a fairytale wedding. Arrival by helicopter,

outside on the terrace.

a candlelit wedding breakfast or romantic horse

After lunch we headed to the impressively appointed Equestrian Centre, home

rides around the estate are just some of the options

to over 35 horses and ponies, which provides facilities for riders of all ages and

on offer.

experience. Beginners can start their riding careers in the safety of an all-weather

Whilst exploring the grounds we had worked up

lunge pen, while the more experienced can hack on the estate, ride through the

an appetite so checked out the menus at the hotel’s

magnificent Cotswold countryside or take in the well-designed cross-country

two restaurants – The Park restaurant, which we

course, which includes challenging jumps for the skilful, and smaller fences to

booked for dinner, and the more informal Brasserie

inspire confidence in novice riders. The centre also offers excellent facilities for

which is located within the walled garden, and was

dressage and show jumping. For the younger set, there are Pony Club meetings

where we decided to have lunch.

and gymkhanas, and children’s training sessions, which are popular in the

Award-winning Executive Chef, Hywel Jones,

At The Brasserie we enjoyed a lunch of steamed salmon, sprouting broccoli

school holidays.

oversees both restaurants. Since his appointment

Lucknam Park has 13 suites and 29 bedrooms, some inter-connecting for

in 2004, Hywel has successfully raised the

families, and all with stunning views either over the park and gardens or the

standards of the cuisine, earning a much-coveted

attractive inner courtyard. Guests can choose from standard double-bedded

Michelin star. Most of his ingredients are locally

rooms, which are ideal for short stays, Deluxe and Park Suites that include

sourced. Herbs are from the hotel’s own garden

comfortable sitting areas, or magnificent Grand and Grand Master Suites that

feature open fireplaces, four poster beds, writing desks and larger sitting areas.

room, aromatic steam, sauna and tepidarium.

All rooms are individually decorated and furnished to a high standard in a

The Spa has nine treatment rooms including a

traditional style with luxurious wallpapers, exquisite fabrics and carefully chosen

double room for couples. Clients can even choose

ornaments and pictures. Even the ‘Privacy’ sign is embroidered onto a small

their own music, whatever they find most relaxing.

cushion designed to hang on the door handle.

The expert therapists use two world-leading

The beautiful marble bathrooms are spacious with twin basins and good sized

products – Anne Sémonin aromatic oils and trace

baths, and many have walk-in showers. And for ultimate pampering, there are luxury

elements that can be mixed and matched to suit

robes and slippers, plenty of soft towels, and a range of Anne Sémonin products.

individual needs and Carita Paris – a global leader

Dinner in The Park restaurant was a gastronomic delight. We decided on the

in anti-ageing skincare.

Tasting Menu, a selection of seven delicious courses taken from the à la carte

One of the many highlights of our afternoon

menu. This included roast baby artichokes and truffled leeks, pot roast Everleigh

was the fabulously warm hydrotherapy pool that

Estate pheasant with dauphine potatoes, sloe gin sauce and roast foie gras and

continues through to the outdoors via a sliding

passion fruit cream, lemongrass and palm sugar sorbet and mango shot. Each

panel. Basking in the steaming water outside, we

course was accompanied by a complementary wine which included a first class

had just a friendly robin for company!

Pinot Noir and a 20-year old port. The meal more than matched the grand

Our visit to Lucknam Park Hotel & Spa came to

ambience of the dining room, with its elegant furnishings, magnificent display of

an end all too quickly. It was time to go. But as the

fresh flowers, and beautifully laid tables with starched linen cloths and napkins

hotel disappeared from view, we knew it wouldn’t

tied with red ribbon.

be long before we would return for a revisit.

We slept soundly and after breakfast of fresh fruit, scrambled eggs and smoked salmon and croissants it was time to visit The Spa which is cocooned within the walled garden of the hotel grounds. Opened in November 2008, it was designed in contemporary style and built of natural teak, local limestone and soft coloured glass. Inside there’s a 20-metre indoor pool, indoor/outdoor hydrotherapy pool, state-of-the-art fitness centre, and five thermal cabins: Japanese salt, amethyst

Lucknam Park Hotel & Spa, Colerne, Chippenham, Wiltshire. Tel. 01225 742 777. www.lucknampark.co.uk.

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For your every want and need. Premium quality vehicles. Premium quality care. Boasting heritage and dynamism, refinement and luxury, the Mercedes-Benz range is equipped with the style and innovation to suit the demands of any lifestyle. Whether looking for a versatile hatchback or elegant saloon, a powerful off-roader or a sporty coupé, there’s a wealth of exceptional models that each offer something unique.

requirement is fulfilled. From providing you with your luxurious new or Approved Used Car to the life-long specialist care offered by our Official Workshop, to our exclusive Mercedes-Benz Lifestyle merchandise collection, Mercedes-Benz of Poole ensures that your satisfaction is complete.

At Mercedes-Benz of Poole, the model of your desire awaits – and more besides. Beginning at the moment you first enter our showroom, your every Mercedes-Benz

For further information on our exclusive vehicle range, telephone 0845 120 4429 or go to www.mercedes-benzofpoole.co.uk

Mercedes-Benz of Poole Holes Bay Road, Poole BH15 2BD 0845 120 4429 www.mercedes-benzofpoole.co.uk OFFICIAL GOVERNMENT FUEL CONSUMPTION FIGURES MPG (LITRES PER 100KM) FOR THE MERCEDES-BENZ RANGE: URBAN 11.7(24.1)-53.3(5.9), EXTRA URBAN 23.2(12.2)-74.3(3.8), COMBINED 17.1(16.5)-64.2(4.4). CO2 EMISSIONS: 392-116 G/KM.

A SUPERCAR WORTHY OF THE TITLE

Mercedes has captured a nostalgic moment in time and repackaged it to trick our brain into believing our lives will be devoid of meaning unless we own this car.

DANNY COBBS TEST-DRIVES THE MERCEDES SLS AMG

t’s probably not something you’ve spent too much time

species), they don’t increase size in the department I’ll fondly

pondering over (if ever), but have you ever wondered what

refer to as the gentleman’s trouser area.

it takes to turn a car into a supercar?

Now, if they were called lust-after cars or great-power-to-

Let me put it this way: the prefix ‘super’ implies there’s

weight-ratio cars (that moniker might be a little too long to

something about to be offered that is far greater than if it

ever catch on), the Mercedes SLS would be right up there

wasn’t there. For instance, put ‘super’ in front of ‘man’ and

with the Ferraris, Lamborghinis and Bugattis of this world.

what you’ve got is a bespectacled bloke who has the ability

First, its gull-wing doors are pure automobile theatre. They

to stop a speeding train and generally save the world while

are undoubtedly a twist on the classic 1954 Mercedes 300SL

wearing his pants on the outside.

Gullwing: this is retro design at its finest and no bad thing.

Change ‘bug’ into ‘superbug’ and it will most likely kill you.

However, once you get past all the hoopla and drama of those

Likewise, superglue will have a much better bond than a

doors, the interior is slightly disappointing in comparison.

flour and water paste. I could go on, but I’m hoping by now

I was expecting something akin to Dan Dare’s cockpit, but

you’re getting my gist. So, here’s my dilemma: is any car truly

it wasn’t. Yes, there are highlights which make the interior

super?

that bit more special – like the circular air vents – but there’s

To date, and to the best of my knowledge, there is yet to be a

certainly nothing particularly spectacular about the inside.

car which at the press of a button sprouts wings and can fly, or

As a driving machine though, it doesn’t disappoint. With its

turns into a submarine, or can knit a cashmere jumper. Even

V8 engine mounted far back behind the front axle, the wheels

a simple task of being able to refuel itself would take it into a

pushed out into the corners, and the lightweight aluminium body

league all of its own. All the cars I know of which we consider

and suspension, the SLS has all the makings of a great car.

supercars do much the same job as every other car on the

With not much bulk to shift, the AMG 6.2-litre engine

road; they just cost more and go a bit faster. More importantly,

relishes flexing its muscles and showing off the 563bhp and

and contrary to popular belief (mainly among the males of the

479lb/ft of torque on offer. Against the clock that power

translates to a 0-62mph time of 3.8 seconds and an electronically limited 197mph top speed. It proves quick, but not savagely so that you feel as if you’ve just had your intestines pulled up through your nostrils, the acceleration being of a sustained, substantive type rather than explosive and fearsome. The civility it exhibits in the presence of its huge output impresses, the SLS demonstrating a depth of ability that runs far deeper than that of a mere speed merchant. Unusually for an AMG car the engine doesn’t entirely dominate the proceedings: the chassis is an equal that’s more than up to the job of dealing with the glorious high-revving V8; and the steering is the key player: the wheel exhibits a deftness and directness that’s unlike anything else wearing a Mercedes-Benz badge. Turn it and the response is immediate. The SLS AMG performance figures really don’t offer that much more than any other car costing upwards of £150,000. However, and this is a very big however, what it does do is make boys of all ages go gaga and gooey eyed. Mercedes has captured a nostalgic moment in time and repackaged it to trick our brain into believing our lives will be devoid of meaning unless we own this car. And if this is the true definition of a supercar then the SLS AMG is worthy of that title. To arrange a test drive of the Mercedes SLS AMG, contact MercedesBenz of Poole. Tel. 01202 666 330. www.mercedes-benzofpoole.co.uk.

Quick Facts Engine: 6208cc V8 naturally aspirated petrol Power: 563bhp at 6800rpm Torque: 479lb/ft at 4750rpm 0-62mph: 3.8 seconds Top speed: 197mph (limited) Fuel consumption: 21mpg (combined) Price: £150,000

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VANCOUVER 2010 FROM SKI JUMPING TO FIGURE SKATING, THE WINTER OLYMPICS ARE A VISUAL SHOWCASE OF SPORTING FINESSE. WITH TEAM GB BOASTING THE VERY BEST OF BRITISH, THE NATION’S ATTENTION WILL BE FIRMLY FOCUSED ON VANCOUVER, AS HENRY GERARD REVEALS.

ritish athletes will once again take on talent from across the world

Smith, Euan Byers and Graeme Connal narrowly missed out on a medal at

in this year’s Olympic Winter Games in Vancouver.

the last Olympic Winter Games but the British team are currently reigning

Over 40 British athletes will compete in six sports - curling,

world champions after defeating Canada in the final in April 2009.

skating, skiing, bobsleigh, ice hockey, and luge - and seven disciplines

Seven short track speed skating athletes will compete in the Winter

as well as biathlon events which combine cross-country skiing with small-

Olympics – a significant increase in numbers since just four took part in

bore rifle shooting.

the Turin 2006 Games.

All eyes will be on the British figure skating team, who are tipped to win

Other British medallist hopefuls include the bobsleigh team, who

their first medal at a Winter Olympics since Torvill and Dean became the

enjoyed a win at the World Championship last year, and alpine skier

highest scoring figure skaters of all time in 1984.

Chemmy Alcott, who is currently the only British female competing at

This year’s team is the biggest since 1994 and includes ice dance

World Cup level.

duo Sinead and John Kerr, who are ranked in the world’s top five. The Scottish siblings finished a creditable 10th in the 2006 Games in Turin and commentators expect them to bring home a British medal this year. Team GB will be sending both a men’s and women’s curling team to Vancouver. The men’s team of David Murdoch, Ewan MacDonald, Peter

Live coverage of Vancouver 2010 will be broadcast on BBC Two and BBC HD throughout the Games, and full details of Britain’s progress will be available at www.teamgb.com.

The Olympic Games provide a platform for the most accomplished athletes to demonstrate their abilities.

The sports in a nutshell Biathlon Athletes have to combine cross-country skiing with small-bore rifle shooting from both a standing and prone position. The athletes ski loops of the course, stopping each time to fire a prerequisite number of shots at the target. Participants incur a penalty for missing a target in all events and the athlete with the fastest time wins. Bobsleigh Bobsleigh consists of three events in the Olympics programme: the male four-man and two-man and the female two-man. Each event consists of four heats, held on two consecutive days. The four runs are timed to 0.01 seconds. The final standings are determined by the total time over the four runs. The winner is the sled with the lowest aggregate time. Curling Curling is a competition between two teams with four players each, consisting of the lead, the second, the third and the skip (team captain). The game is played on ice and the two teams take turns pushing a 19.1kg stone towards a series of concentric circles. The object is to place the stone as close as possible to the centre, called the tee. The team with the highest score wins. Ice hockey Ice hockey is said to be the world’s fastest team game. At the Olympic Winter Games women compete in an eight-team tournament whereas men compete in a 12-team tournament. The team of six players on the ice are the goalkeeper, two defenders, two wings and the centre. A regular game consists of three 20-minute periods, with 15-minute intermissions. Goals are scored when the puck enters the net or goes across the goal line propelled by a stick. Luge A competition based on a sled that takes place on the same run as bobsleigh and skeleton. Competitors sit on the sled and push themselves away from the start via bars either side of them. They then lie on their back and steer the sled with paddles on the inside of each calf. Medals are awarded for doubles, men’s singles and women’s singles. Skating Olympic skating is divided into three categories: figure skating, short-track speed, and speed skating. There are four Olympic figure skating events: ladies’ singles, men’s singles, pairs, and ice dancing, which is similar to ballroom dancing. Speed skating consists of 12 events, which along with crossUnlike most Winter Olympics events, time and speed are critical for a win. Short-track speed is one of the few events in which competitors race directly against each other rather than against the clock. Although the aim is still to be the first across the line, speed takes second place to tactics.

The Whistler Sliding Centre

country is the highest number of events per sport at the Games.

The Whistler Sliding Centre

Skeleton Skeleton takes place on the same runs as the Bobsleigh and Luge. Competitors reach speeds of over 100km per hour, pushing their sleds away from the start before lying down to use their bodyweight to steer. Skiing Skiing encompasses several disciplines. Alpine racing is conducted to a beat-the-clock format in which a skier goes down the mountain from point A to point B and the fastest time wins. Cross-country skiing involves racing over undulating terrain along a

FROM POOLE TO THE PISTE

series of prepared tracks against the clock. Freestyle is the ballet of the Olympic skiing disciplines, with booming music and spectacular performances which include jumps and aerial twists. Nordic combined skiing consists of a ski jumping competition and a cross-country skiing race. Snowboarding The snow version of urban skateboarding, snowboarding events include men’s halfpipe, parallel giant slalom and snowboard cross and ladies’ halfpipe, parallel giant slalom and snowboard cross. Ski jumping Ski jumping competitions are decided by a combination of points for distance and style. Each competitor jumps twice, with the gold medal going to the jumper with the highest aggregate points.

About the Olympic Games From the first Games in Olympia, Greece over 2,700 years ago, the Olympic Games have provided a platform for the most accomplished athletes to demonstrate their abilities. The first modern Olympic Games were held in the summer of 1896 and the first Olympic Winter Games were in 1924, in Chamonix, France.

he Vancouver Games will be Andrew Musgrave’s first Olympic Winter Games. The cross-country skiing champ is among the youngest members of the team at 19 but has established himself as an outstanding talent in

a gruelling sport.

The Winter Olympics in numbers 3 billion worldwide television viewers 5,500 Olympic Games athletes and officials

Born in Poole, Andrew is the first British skier ever to have earned a top 10 place in a world-class cross-country event, coming ninth in the World Junior Championships in France in 2008. Andrew said: “I’ve been training hard and feel in good shape so I’m looking

80 countries participating

forward to getting out on the slopes and achieving the best result possible. Getting

50 British athletes

to the Winter Olympics has been a massive achievement for me and I feel hugely

10 days of Paralympic Games

privileged to be here.”

“Cocooned in thick fluffy towels on a warm couch, I feel privileged to be in such good hands.”

THE QUEEN OF FACIALS LINDA MEREDITH IS NO ORDINARY BEAUTICIAN. THE ‘QUEEN OF FACIALS,’ AS SHE IS KNOWN, IS SO RENOWNED THAT CLIENTS COME FROM ACROSS THE WORLD TO SEE HER. UNTIL NOW LINDA’S SKINCARE TREATMENTS WERE ONLY AVAILABLE IN KNIGHTSBRIDGE. BUT THEY’RE NOW AT CHEWTON GLEN, WITH THOSE IN THE KNOW BENEFITING FROM HER RESULTS-DRIVEN APPROACH CLOSER TO HOME. LIZ KAVANAGH WENT TO MEET HER. inda Meredith is very much a no-nonsense beautician, which is why

Today she works alongside a small team of therapists in a tucked-

her celebrity clients love her so much. Within her treatment room

away treatment rooms in London’s Beauchamp Place, spending as much

she tells it like it is, focusing on skin problems instead of types.

time as she can at Chewton Glen. To control every stage of the treatment

That means taking into account the health of the whole body rather than

process, Linda uses only her own range of beauty products, which are now

just the skin.

available mail order as well as in both London and at Chewton Glen.

“In the last 50 years, the impact of the pill and other medication has

I’ve booked in for the Haute Couture Facial which through a combination

seen our bodies become increasingly unbalanced with our skin suffering

of deep cleansing, gentle exfoliation and hydration promises to feed and

as a result,” she says. “Spots on the forehead relate to the digestive

plump dehydrated skin cells and is recommended as an anti ageing

system whereas those on either side of the chin can be down to hormonal

boost. The treatment uses Micro Glycolic serums which provide the

imbalances and so on.”

ultimate deep cleanse and melt away dead skin cells, whilst vitamin-rich

Rising to fame in the 1970s with the launch of The Linda Meredith School of Make-up, Linda became an authority on beauty, with her books best-sellers across the world. She went on to become head of make-up for Sky TV and from then on enjoyed a loyal celebrity following.

formulas containing nourishing essential oils help to smooth and diminish fine lines. “The ageing process begins as early as 25,” says Linda, “and preparing for it even before it is evident is vital. That’s why so many of my products

are anti-ageing. Using my own product range allows me to control every step of my treatments. I source the best possible ingredients and naturally-

I make a promise to myself that I will treat my skin with more respect and give it a regular seeing to with Linda Meredith.

derived oils and fruit acids to work in harmony with the skin. Far too many products use synthetic ingredients which strip it of its natural balance and leave it dehydrated and stressed. “I also don’t deal with skin types, because you can have oily skin, dry patches and dehydrated areas all on one face. My facials address all of these elements.” Cocooned in thick fluffy towels on a warm couch, I feel privileged to be in such good hands. Every pore is made to feel precious. Products are applied as and where they are needed, with my dry cheeks hydrated while my T-zone is balanced. Formulas are applied in stages allowing my skin to ‘drink’ up the benefits of each application, while areas of particular need are given additional attention. I combine my facial with Linda’s signature oxygen treatment during which a vitamin-enriched serum combined with beta-glucan stimulates the formation of collagen. The application of oxygen helps the serum to penetrate deep into the skin, further boosting cell renewal and gently tingles as it works its magic.

The Linda Meredith Product Range Made from natural active ingredients, essential oils and encapsulated vitamins, and free from mineral oils, parabens and other toxic chemicals, Linda Meredith products are suitable for both professional use and for a daily skincare regime at home. The product range includes V-Tox, a botanical cream that contains neuropeptides derived from natural algae, which relaxes the skin and de-stresses wrinkled muscle areas. A new product, Amazon contains Vitamin C, Omega 6 and Omega 9 – essential fatty acids which plump and refine – as well as high levels of antioxidants which maintain skin health and protect against the harmful effects of our living and working environment. The ultra-rich balm helps to repair the skin’s natural lipid barrier, preventing moisture loss and reducing fine lines.

I leave the treatment room with my skin glowing but it is the next day that I can really see the full benefits, with the lines on my forehead visibly reduced and my skin silky smooth. “Our skin is our body’s biggest organ,” says Linda, “but it’s often the most overlooked. It needs to be treated with kindness both in the way in which we feed it internally and the way that we look after it from the outside.”

Linda Meredith treatments are available at Chewton Glen Spa. Tel. 01425 277674. www.chewtonglen.co.uk.

Your skin’s future is in your hands LINDA ME REDITH Knightsbridge

LINDA MEREDITH Health & Beauty Clinic | 36 Beauchamp Place | Knightsbridge | London | SW3 1NU

020 7225 2755 | www.lindameredith.com

“My father has always been my best teacher. Whenever he is here I get him to try new dishes. He always offers me his opinion and I listen.”

Alain Roux © Ozan Kulaksiz at Apex Photographic

ONE-TO-ONE AT THE WATERSIDE LOUISE KULAKSIZ MEETS ALAIN ROUX

esidents of the picturesque village of Bray in Berkshire must find themselves in a unique quandary when it comes to dining out, having not one but two three-Michelin-starred restaurants in their

midst. One is The Fat Duck, famed for its innovation and experimentation, while the other is owned by one of the most iconic culinary names in the world. I am talking about The Waterside Inn and Michel Roux. Michel and his brother Albert rose to fame as the dynamic duo that brought fine dining to London in the 1970s, transforming the capital’s restaurant scene for ever. The Roux brothers’ first grand opening was Le Gavroche in Lower Sloane Street, which opened its doors in 1971. By 1972, when they opened The Waterside Inn, they had another three restaurants in London, each renowned for culinary excellence. Today their sons run the flagships, with Albert’s son, Michel Junior at Le Gavroche and Michel’s son, Alain, at The Waterside Inn. Yet rather than basking in the glory of their famous fathers, both chefs have carved out their own careers, with Alain Roux a charming, humorous and modest man who leads his brigade from the front. Alain joined the team at The Waterside Inn at the bottom of the ladder, the reins as chef-patron in 2001. Michel worked by his side for many years but is now very much taking a back seat, allowing his talented son to take the limelight. Alain might now be chef-patron but he says his father will always be ‘the big chief’. “My father has always been my best teacher,” he says. “Whenever he is here I get him to try new dishes. He always offers me his opinion and I listen. I might not change anything, but I listen and I still learn a great deal from him.”

Michel Roux © Martin Brigdale

and climbed step by step, spending five years as sous-chef before taking

Alain’s path to becoming a chef was carved out during his late childhood

Since then Michel, Albert, Michel Junior and Alain have enjoyed a

and early teens. After his parents’ divorce he moved to France with his

family bond like no other. “We’re forever talking about food,” Alain says.

mother and two older sisters, but his school holidays were always spent

“The others are even worse than me. Even when we’re sat around the

in Britain with his father.

table eating together they’re talking about what we are going to buy for

This was by no means an easy time for either of them to build a

lunch or dinner the following day. They never stop!”

relationship, with Michel at the peak of his fame and working around the

Over the years Michel and Albert have become household names,

clock. Alain says: “During those early years Dad was always at work and

with television programmes, cookery books and regular celebrity chef

had virtually no social life. I spent a lot of time in a corner of the kitchen

appearances ensuring they are never out of the spotlight. And while Alain

watching him and learnt a great deal about the workings of a restaurant

says he’d jump at the chance to cook on television alongside his father,

just by being there. I got to see everything: from the butchering and fish

uncle and cousin, for now his kitchen is firmly where his heart is.

filleting right through to the stress of the service.” By the time he was in his teens Alain knew he wanted to follow in his father’s footsteps. “At 15 I was really fed up with school,” he says. “School

“It’s the place I feel happiest,” he says, “and my customers like seeing me there too. A family cookery show would certainly be entertaining but I don’t think any of us would be able to stop talking!”

was probably pretty fed up with me too and I knew what I wanted to do and so began my apprenticeship.” Like his father, uncle and cousin, Alain began by studying the art of pastry. And after an intensive two-year training course he spent a further six years in the kitchen before he joined his father at The Waterside Inn in 1992.

The exquisite presentation of the pan-fried lobster medallions © Martin Brigdale

View from the river © In-Press Photography

Dining notes The feel of any restaurant is dictated by the service, and despite its three

We managed to squeeze in a sample from the British and French

Michelin stars The Waterside Inn puts its guests completely at ease.

cheese selection – a Roquefort which went perfectly with our dessert

Heading the team is the ebullient Diego Masciaga, who guides diners

wine – as recommended by Diego, before indulging in a much anticipated

through the menu with enthusiasm, charm and good humour.

tarte Tatin. Wafer-thin pastry and caramelised apple are always a winning

Diners are spoilt for choice, with three menus to choose from, and we chose from a combination, starting with lentil soup with chestnut pieces,

combination, but this tarte Tatin was in a league of its own, utterly wonderful and served with creamy cinnamon ice cream.

flaked confit pheasant and julienne of flat parsley, which my dining

As a final treat we sampled a selection of six mini desserts created by

companion rated as the best he had ever tasted. I opted for mackerel fillets

both Michel and Alain. Each mouthful was pure wickedness, with the

prepared in three different ways: these were light and delicious. Next came

craftsmanship of the tiny desserts making them almost too good to eat

pan-fried lobster medallions with a white port sauce and vegetable julienne,

(almost…).

and pan-fried escalope of foie gras, which was accompanied by home-

Our lunch was superb and the beautiful views of the River Thames

made gingerbread. These were divine dishes and packed full of flavour,

added to the experience. Alain Roux was not only in the kitchen but also

with every mouthful a treat.

in the restaurant, where he spent time with each of his guests, offering

Palates suitably cleansed by a lime sorbet with vodka, we moved on to

that all-important personal touch.

the main course: roasted magret duck and pan-fried escalope of foie gras,

The Waterside Inn achieves that delicate balance of seamless service

served with velvety spinach purée and green olives. The synchronised

and world-class dining in an unpretentious and charming atmosphere,

removal of a cloche never fails to impress, and, as one would expect, the

making a visit all the more memorable as a result.

duck hiding beneath was beautifully cooked.

The Waterside Inn, Ferry Road, Bray, Berkshire. Tel. 01628 620691. www.waterside-inn.co.uk

Exclusive Weddings at one of the most unique and romantic venues in Dorset

The Italian Villa at Compton Acres is now the largest venue in Poole to hold civil ceremonies. In addition to the wedding license we already hold for up to 120 guests, we can now offer weddings for up to 250 people in our Medici suite, providing brides and grooms to-be with even more possibilities for their big day. Available for exclusive hire, the Villa is a unique setting for couples to celebrate their special occasion. Set within the beautiful historic gardens of Compton Acres, the Villa benefits from direct access to the spectacular Italian Garden with authentic statues, an ornamental pond and plants and flowers which fill the garden with colour all year round. Distinguished in-house catering by Beales Gourmet.

The Italian Villa AT CompTon ACres

For more information please contact us on:

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FASHION FOR BEAUTIFUL WOMEN MARC CAIN’S SPRING/SUMMER 2010 COLLECTION

e’s an Italian couturier with an American passport and two great

The Spring Summer 2010 Collection is an eclectic mix of style and

passions in life: beautiful, well-dressed women and fast cars.

contrasts vintage leather biker jackets with feminine draped dresses in

Marc Cain went through fire and water for both – and they cost

refined prints. Sporty safari jackets are complemented by silk blouses and

him his life. On a highway between Modena and Bologna, he died in a

Cargo pants in flowing micro crepe de chine. Leggings and stilettos show

fatal accident at the wheel of his Ferrari.

off the contours of the leg and are teamed with long tops and blouses

If you ask the fashion house’s Managing Director Helmut Schlotterer exactly who Marc Cain was, he will confess – with a mischievous wink of an eye – that the couturier was actually a concept of his imagination. What is true however is that the fashion house was created in 1973 as the epitome of Italian style and with beautiful women in mind.

and knit dresses. Silk, satin, soft, washed leather, matt crepe jersey and gold lamé feature across the collection, with a scattering of rhinestones adding sparkle. Asked what kind of woman wears Marc Cain, Schlotterer smiles. “She is self-assured, open and curious. And she loves being a woman.”

Today Marc Cain has boutiques and stockists all over the world. The collections are based on coordinates, beautifully cut to accentuate feminine curves and include both a signature and sports range.

Marc Cain is stocked at Roberta; 20 Bournemouth Arcade, Bournemouth. Tel. 01202 556 290 and 1 Church Street, Christchurch. Tel. 01202 470 346.

more than just a... ... stunning restaurant Rhodes South is the latest offering from one of Britain's Top Chefs, Gary Rhodes, located in the magnificent grounds of the Christchurch Harbour Hotel in Dorset, with stunning views over Mudeford Quay. The collaboration with Michelin star chef, Gary Rhodes, has created a restaurant which ensures that guests and visitors to the area can

T: +44 (0)1202 483434 Rhodes South - 95 Mudeford, Christchurch, Dorset BH23 3NT E: reservationenquiries@rhodes-south.co.uk W:www.rhodes-south.co.uk

experience excellent food in beautiful surroundings. Rhodes South is a romantic setting for sunset dining as well as the ideal location to just drop in throughout the day or evening, or treat yourself to a light lunch or an evening meal. The restaurant is open five days a week Tuesday to Saturday, for lunch or dinner. www.rhodes-south.co.uk

anything but ordinary

Fun courses to bring out your inner chef

Combining their experience of working in Michelin star and AA rosette restaurants and picking up gastronomic tips from their travels around the world, our chefs have been selected for their expert knowledge, skills and fun teaching methods… making your courses as informative and enjoyable as possible.

01202 424445 info@flavourschoolofcookery.co.uk www.flavourschoolofcookery.co.uk

Flavours School of Cookery 1097 Christchurch Road | Bournemouth | Dorset | BH7 6BQ Between Iford and Pokesdown, near to Holdenhurst Avenue/Christchurch Road junction

The Marine at Hermanus

The Cellars-Hohenort overlooking the vineyard

The Plettenberg and its stunning views

SPLENDOUR AND MAJESTY LOUISE AND STUART DYKES TOUR THE WESTERN CAPE

here are hotels and there are hotels and on a recent trip to

The Cellars-Hohenort is a former 17th century manor house

South Africa we stayed in a collection of hotels in a league

and wine cellar and has a relaxed yet stylish feel, with muted

of their own.

colours offset by statement antique and modern furniture. Fabrics

Hotel proprietor Liz McGrath owns three five-star Relais

are sumptuous and elegant, suites spacious and the epitome of

& Châteaux hotels along the Cape, all of which are renowned

luxury while the facilities are extensive and include a spa, three

for their luxurious accommodation and gourmet food. Her

pools, a Gary Player designed chipping and putting green, tennis

commitment to achieving consistent excellence saw her named

court, gym and award-winning gardens.

Relais & Châteaux Woman of the Year in 2008.

Food and drink at The Cellars-Hohenort is superb. The Martini

Liz’s foray into the world of hospitality began in 1987 when she

Bar offers over 152 Martinis and a range of expertly shaken

decided to try her hand at creating a small, exclusive hotel which

and stirred cocktails. Dinner can be taken in the cellar where a

she called The Plettenberg. Within 18 months it was sporting

Sommelier’s Table seats up to ten amongst some 8,000 bottles.

the Relais & Chateaux gold fleur-de-lys, establishing it amongst

The hotel’s extensive collection of wine saw it recently honoured

the leading hotels of the world. In 1992 Liz opened The Cellars-

with the ‘Best South African Wine List’ award by Diners Card and

Hohenort Hotel in Constantia’s wine-growing region and her third

the cellar is popular with romantics, who can book candle-lit

Relais & Chateaux hotel followed in the form of the The Marine, a

dinners for two exclusively.

grand old hotel in Hermanus, which opened in 1998.

In the kitchen, Group Executive Chef, Peter Tempelhoff uses

The three hotels have now become landmarks in three of

organic produce wherever possible. The Cape Malay Restaurant

South Africa’s most renowned touring spots, with their locations

showcases the Cape’s unique cuisine while the more informal

of Constantia, Hermanus and Plettenberg rich in history and

Greenhouse Restaurant offers fine food with international

natural beauty.

influences.

South Africa’s Western Cape boasts some of the most stunning

From Cape Town, we travelled to Hermanus, a two-hour

scenery in the world with indigenous forest, pine plantations,

drive made all the more spectacular by the dramatic seaside

wild bush, soaring mountains and wide sandy beaches making

landscapes. Here we stayed at The Marine, perched on top of

a road trip all the more memorable. The region is also renowned

the cliffs with views across Walker Bay.

for its wine-growing, with its warm climate producing grapes of exceptional quality.

The hotel has 42 individually designed bedrooms and suites and has a relaxed, modern feel. ‘Seafood’ at The Marine is

Just outside Cape Town in Constantia, The Cellars-Hohenort

informal and busy, with the emphasis on the freshness of the

has long been renowned for its wine list. Constantia is regarded

fish from Walker Bay. An open kitchen provides diners with a

as the birthplace of South African wine and local vineyards have

close-up view of the action. The newly refurbished Pavilion at

been supplying fine wine to Royalty across the world since the

The Marine offers edgy, glamorous dining, with stunning views

eighteenth century.

across the bay.

The Plettenberg swimming pool

A premier suite at the Cellars-Hohenort The CellarsHohenort Gardens

The Sun Lounge Cocktail Bar at The Marine The Marine front terrace view

The pool terrace and view at the Plettenberg The wine cellar at the Plettenberg

The Martini Lounge at the Cellars-Hohenort

Whales in Hermanus

Impressive as our surroundings were, the sea was the star attraction here with

Away from Plettenberg’s marine attractions, The Crags Elephant Sanctuary

June to December seeing Southern Right Whales emerge from beneath the waves,

provides a safe haven for a herd of African elephants. The focus here is on

sending dramatic sprays across the bay. From our window, we watched them in

education through interaction and as well as learning about elephant behaviour,

wonder, booking in for a whale watching tour with Ivanhoe Sea Safaris the next

visitors are encouraged to get up close to the animals. A highlight of our trip was

day to get even closer to the action.

our ‘trunk in hand’ elephant walk – the sheer size and power of these beautiful

From Hermanus Plettenberg Bay is a full day’s drive away and was originally

animals awe-inspiring.

named ‘beautiful bay’ by early Portuguese explorers. Today this modern town is

Nearby Tenikwa Wildcat and Wildlife Trust offers alternative animal encounters

comparable with Monaco, with the blue waters of the Indian Ocean every playboy’s

and its popular Wild Cat Experiences allow contact with Wild Cats, Black Footed

paradise. Blessed with over 300 days of sunshine a year and a temperate climate,

Cats, Serval, Caracal, Cheetah and Leopard. On a Cheetah Walk, we joined

Plettenberg Bay has become a year-round mecca for the rich and famous.

Tenikwa Cheetahs on their daily meander, with the animals so relaxed it is possible

The hotel is built on a rocky headland with breathtaking views of sea, mountains

to stroke their cubs.

and miles of golden sand. As well as offering 23 rooms and 14 suites, a beauty

We ended our trip as we had begun it – in awe of both the South African

spa and two infinity pools with views over the bay, it has two villas with their own

hospitality we had received and also the spectacular scenery which makes the

pools and private chefs.

Cape so renowned. If you’re after a holiday that combines natural beauty with

Private dining for couples is available in the hotel’s award-winning wine cellar

absolute luxury, this part of the world is in a league of its own.

where rose petals and candles adorn the staircase on romantic occasions, while the hotel’s ‘Sand’ restaurant serves global cuisine with an emphasis on seafood. From October to early November, it’s possible to see shoals of dolphin and whales from the hotel’s windows, with whale-watching tours a popular day-time pursuit.

To find out more about Liz McGrath’s Relais & Châteaux hotels, visit www.relaischâteaux.com. Stuart and Louise Dykes flew in to Cape Town and out from Plettenberg’s George Airport with South African Airways. www.flysa.com.

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RELAIS & CHÂTEAUX. ALL AROUND THE WORLD, UNIQUE IN THE WORLD.

W W W. R E L A I S C H AT E A U X . C O M

02 078 0 8 8 762

‘HIGH ENERGY’ MAKES HER ENTRANCE SUNSEEKER CHARTERS CELEBRATES 30 YEARS OF WORLD-CLASS LUXURY CRUISING IN 2010 WITH THE MAIDEN VOYAGE OF A BRAND-NEW FLAGSHIP, THE SUNSEEKER 88 YACHT, ‘HIGH ENERGY’. UNVEILED AT JANUARY’S LONDON BOAT SHOW, HIGH ENERGY IS THE UK’S LARGEST LUXURY CHARTER YACHT AND WITH PARTNERSHIPS WITH THE SAVOY AND THE MICHELIN-STARRED VINEYARD, SHE ALSO PROMISES TO BE ONE OF THE MOST GLAMOROUS.

t’s known as the most famous hotel in London and when it opens

High Energy couldn’t be better equipped for entertaining, sleeping

again this summer, The Savoy will have undergone what is probably

eight, and providing a saloon deck with a large open-plan dining area for

the most lavish and ambitious refurbishment enjoyed by any hotel in

12, which opens up into a sizeable aft cockpit. This area can be laid for al

British history. As part of the two-year, £100 million investment, the hotel – originally

fresco dining or simply be used as a comfortable seating area. The large, spacious flybridge provides a second area for entertaining.

opened in 1889 by theatre impresario Richard D’Oyly Carte – will see

“The Savoy enjoys one of the finest settings in London on the banks

its world-renowned American Bar, River Restaurant and Savoy Grill

of the River Thames and we are delighted that by joining with Sunseeker

painstakingly restored. Claude Monet and James Whistler both painted the

Charters, guests will be able to not just enjoy the views of the river but to

River Thames when staying at The Savoy, it is said, and the 20 panoramic

also cruise The Thames in true luxury,” says Kiaran MacDonald, General

River Suites, overlooking The Thames on the south side of the hotel, have

Manager at The Savoy.

also been lovingly renovated.

It’s something of a truism to say that fresh air sharpens the appetite,

The refurbished Savoy will be matched in class by a new yacht available

but enjoying the very best ingredients freshly prepared by expert chefs

for charter from Sunseeker Charters. As in the case of The Savoy, with its

on the water is even better than indulging yourself on land. In keeping

sycamore details and muted, natural colours, the Sunseeker ‘High Energy’

with current trends, freshly-sourced local ingredients will be a particular

88 Yacht has an exquisite modern interior, every bit as classically elegant

feature of the new menus.

as that of its predecessors. But this new affinity goes deeper. The Savoy is partnering with Sunseeker Charters to create a charter itinerary harking back to a golden

As with the décor of The Savoy and the 88 Yacht, dishes have been created to offer the very best haute cuisine with an exciting contemporary influence.

age of stylish, elegant travel. Based out of St Katharine’s Dock in The City,

“Our partnership with The Savoy chefs and the state-of-the-art facilities

High Energy will embark from Savoy Pier, on the liveliest stretch of the

onboard the new 88 mean that we’ve been able to take both the menus

river and just steps from the hotel, for a variety of itineraries along The

and the presentation of our food to a new level,” says David Ward, Director

Thames and around the South Coast, and will also provide transfers to

of Sunseeker Charters, who co-founded the company 30 years ago with

the O2 Arena. On some charters, chefs from The Savoy will be onboard to

Stefan Wertans.

cater for guests, while the hotel itself is also ideally placed to offer drinks, dinner or accommodation before and after charters.

Cocktails have long been associated with The Savoy and with the world of elegant yachting. The last few years have seen a renewed interest in

The Vineyard’s new Executive Chef, Daniel Galmiche

this most sophisticated of aperitifs and here again Sunseeker Charters has

guests to sample en route, drawing from his kitchen’s famous twist on

celebrated an impressive heritage while subtly updating it – and adding

classic French cuisine, fused with both Mediterranean and Far Eastern

an element of theatre.

influences. As The Vineyard’s name suggests, you can be sure of exactly

Able to charm customers while shaking and stirring, the barman has

the right wine pairings too.

long been a key fixture of five-star hotels and yachts. His successor, the

Those looking for corporate charters in order to entertain important

mixologist has taken this skill and pizzazz a stage further. Sunseeker

clients or reward staff will find the 88 Yacht particularly appealing,

Charters is working with U-Mix, which offers training and consultancy

according to David Ward.

connected with bars and cocktails to provide an on-board service like no other.

“We can create a charter to meet almost any needs of a client, be they corporate or private,” he says. “These days, customers expect to have

Sunseeker Charters has also been working with The Vineyard at

as many options open to them as possible. We’re well placed to do this

Stockcross – an exclusive, privately owned hotel and spa in Berkshire – to

partly because of our experience but also because our connections with

create itineraries that combine luxurious accommodation and menus from

The Savoy and The Vineyard mean that we offer an extensive range of

the hotel’s two-Michelin-starred restaurant with the thrills of a high energy

amazing menus. The 88 is a versatile yacht and we have many interesting

88 Yacht charter on the South Coast. A one-day itinerary, for example,

ports and beautiful towns nearby us to choose from. It all adds up to a

could include a chauffeured drive in a Bentley down to Southampton’s

wonderfully luxurious escape.”

Ocean Village marina, from where High Energy would motor down the

Richard D’Oyly Carte would surely agree.

water to the Napoleonic forts and historic naval shipyard at Portsmouth; while another takes in the serene beauty of the Isle of Wight’s Needles before dropping anchor in Alum Bay, famous for its coloured sands. However you decide to indulge, The Vineyard’s new Executive Chef Daniel Galmiche will have prepared a delectable menu for you and your

Sunseeker Charters. Tel. 01202 682 890. www.sunseekercharters.net

Sunseeker Charters A powerful argument

For the ultimate in corporate hospitality and team building or simply an exceptional holiday, there’s never been a better time to charter a Sunseeker. We offer tailored packages to desirable destinations, including Australia, Balearics, Caribbean, Croatia, Egypt, Greece, Italy, Mexico, South of France, Sweden, USA and UK South Coast. Call today on 01202 682890, email us at info@sunseekercharters.net or visit www.sunseekercharters.net

Designers and suppliers of luxury kitchens 19-21 Bournemouth Road Lower Parkstone Poole Dorset BH14 0EF Tel 01202 740630 Fax 01202 722881

See more at www.kitchenelegance.co.uk

Designers and suppliers of luxury bathrooms Unit 4 Nuffield Trade Centre 11-17 Nuffield Road Poole Dorset BH17 0UF Tel 01202 675992 Fax 01202 675993

See more at www.bathroomelegance.uk.com

Designers and suppliers of luxury furniture 232-236 Wimborne Road Poole Dorset BH15 3DL Tel 01202 339910

See more at www.livingelegance.co.uk Supporter of www.copingwithchaos.org

The smooth curves of the lacquered doors create a soft a sensual feel within the bedroom

SLEEK SLEEP JASON VICKERS OF LIVING ELEGANCE REVEALS HOW THE BEDROOM HAS EVOLVED INTO A STYLE STATEMENT

Stopsol glass reflects the room’s composition

he bedroom has become a sophisticated living space according

“A sleeping space should be somewhere where day-to-day life can be

to designer Jason Vickers of Living Elegance. “The combination

forgotten, where clothes and work are firmly behind closed doors and

of sleek design and technological advance has added to both the

where with the lights down low, its inhabitants feel utterly relaxed.”

in which to sleep.”

which can be fitted to even the most unaccommodating of spaces, with

look and function of the bedroom, making it much more than just a room Based in Poole, Living Elegance opened in April this year as a result of demand from existing clients of its sister company Kitchen Elegance which was established in 1986. Its team of designers, craftsmen and fitters provide a bespoke service, renowned for its high quality.

Storage solutions at Living Elegance include spacious walk-in closets Italian glass and lacquered finishes adding to the sleek feel of sleeping spaces while also reflecting light. “Many of our projects are within sea-facing properties where the views outside the windows are spectacular,” says Jason. “The way in which we

Part of the bedroom’s transformation, says Jason, is due to the increased

design a bedroom will very much take into account its outlook, with the

popularity of open plan living as a way of opening up space. “Uncluttered, fluid

positioning of furniture key to the design. We recently installed a rotating

living areas feel relaxing because of their simplicity,” he says, “and applying

bed for a client who wanted to wake up with a view of the sea and still be

this sort of design to a bedroom makes it all the more of a sanctuary.

able to watch television without having to get up.

Lounge furniture creates an attractive centrepiece

A walk-in closet combines practicality with style

“Lighting after dark is also important for creating the right ambience. Overhead lights are too harsh for the bedroom, with low lighting options now available within furniture. Many of our wardrobes are fitted with light sensors so once their doors are open their contents can be seen without having to turn on the main bedroom light. Floor lights create a subtle glow while movement sensor pathway lights allow for discreet entrances and exits during the night.” The rise in popularity of the boutique hotel has made a big impact on bedroom design, says Jason, who has created schemes based entirely on the boutique look, with eclectic furniture combinations and chic minimalistic details. “While getting the look of a bedroom right is important, creating a space that offers a relaxed haven is vital,” he says. “It’s often the little things that count, like enjoying a cup of coffee in bed in the morning without having to go to the kitchen to get it. There’s nothing to stop you installing a coffee machine and fridge within your bedroom space or if high-tech gadgetry is your passion, then a bed with a built-in television is worth considering.” Bedroom colour schemes have changed beyond recognition over the last 20 years, says Jason, with pastel florals replaced by neutral tones. “Simple use of colours which take their inspiration from nature is much more subtle than dominating pattern, yet combined with unusual textures

A symmetrically appealing leather handle with contrasting stitching adds another dimension to the wardrobe doors

it can be every bit as stylish,” he says. “Texture is as important as colour in that sense,” he adds. “Particularly in a bedroom where the feel of a bed and the way it is dressed set the tone for the whole room. The feel of a soft carpet underfoot or cashmere against your skin can be as sensual as low light.” Where once kitchens and bathrooms sold houses, today says Jason, the bedroom has become every bit as important. “Pressured lifestyles and increased travel have made home owners think much more about the rooms they relax in,” he says. “Hotels are becoming increasingly aware that they need to provide more than just a comfortable bed for their guests and the design, lighting, functionality and ambience of a bedroom are all key to a good night’s sleep. “For most people, the bedroom is the room in the house in which they spend more time than any other, so making it a comfortable retreat is all the more important.” The Living Elegance showroom can be visited at 232-236 Wimborne Road, Poole. Tel. 01202 339910. www.livingelegance.co.uk.

Much more than just a corner. Gliding bifold doors reveal a variety of storage.

• • • • •

Interior Design & Specification Residential Interiors Commercial Interiors Showhomes Turnkey Furniture Packages

tel 01202 722796 email enquiries@jigsawinteriordesign.com web www.jigsawinteriordesign.com

A selection of properties sold in Bournemouth and Poole

sold

Evening Hill, Poole Guide £2.85 million

sold

East Avenue, Talbot Woods Guide £1 million

sold

Canford Cliffs, Poole Guide £2.295 million

sold

Westray Hall, West Cliff Guide £850,000

sold

Branksome Park, Poole Guide £675,000

sold

Bath Hill Court, Bournemouth Guide £369,950

Savills Bournemouth 122 Old Christchurch Road Bournemouth BH1 1LU 01202 255552 bournemouth@savills.com

savills.co.uk

Savills Canford Cliffs 34 Haven Road Canford Cliffs Poole BH13 7LP 01202 708888 canfordcliffs@savills.com

It’s no secret that international money is seeking out UK property. Savills has over 200 offices and associates globally. This gives us access to buyers and tenants across the UK and around the world, right here in Bournemouth and Poole. If you’re selling this spring, talk to Savills.

ADVICE THAT GIVES ADVANTAGE.

savills.co.uk

Hurn South East Dorset Steeped in History The principle and central apartment spread over four floors within this grade II listed manor house – with significant architectural features and extensive gardens n 2 master bedrooms with full en-suites n 3 guest bedrooms n bathroom and a separate shower room n formal sitting and dining room n study n kitchen n double garaging plus two additional parking spaces Guide Price £1.5 million

Bournemouth Glynn Evans gevans@savills.com

01202 255552

savills.co.uk

Talbot Woods Dorset Extensively modernised Detached 1950’s family home n 4 reception rooms n kitchen/breakfast room n master suite with dressing room and stunning en-suite n 3 additional bedrooms n family bathroom n Jack and Gill en suite to bedrooms 2 and 3 n westerly rear garden with swimming pool n electric gates (2 sets) Guide Price £925,000

Bournemouth Glynn Evans gevans@savills.com

01202 255552

savills.co.uk

Throop Dorset A luxury barn close to the river This impressive conversion of a two hundred year old property was completed two years ago with no expense spared n 4 bedrooms n 3 bath/shower rooms n open plan split level principal reception n 1 bed, annex (self contained) n double garage and swim simulation hot tub Guide Price £999,950

Bournemouth Glynn Evans gevans@savills.com

01202 255552

savills.co.uk

Boscombe Spa Village Dorset One of Bournemouth’s largest penthouses Exceptionally large penthouse apartment n 4 bedrooms n open plan living and kitchen n 3 large balconies and roof garden n hot tub n sea views n contemporary styling throughout n 2,500 sq ft interior n 1600sq ft terrace/balconies Guide Price £895,000

Bournemouth Glynn Evans gevans@savills.com

01202 255552

savills.co.uk

Stunning in every aspect Branksome Park, Poole Canford Cliffs shops 1 mile, Branksome Chine beach 1 mile, Bournemouth centre 2 miles, Poole centre 3 miles 5 bedrooms n en-suite bathrooms n large reception hall n kitchen/breakfast room n drawing room n dining room n study n gymnasium n utility room n cinema room n indoor pool complex n triple garaging n three quarters of an acre of landscaped gardens n approximately 12,500 sq ft n high standard of specification throughout Guide Price £5.450 million

Canford Cliffs Keith Fensom kfensom@savills.com

01202 708 888

savills.co.uk

Highly desirable Canford Cliffs, Poole Poole Harbour 250 metres, Canford Cliffs shops 1 mile, Sandbanks beach 1 mile, Bournemouth centre 4 miles, Poole centre 2 miles 5 bedrooms n 6 bathrooms n reception hall n kitchen/breakfast/family room n dining room n drawing room n cinema room n study n utility room n triple garaging n sun terraces n approximately 6,100 sq ft n over half an acre of landscaped gardens n sought after road n built and finished to exacting standards Guide Price £2.25 million

Canford Cliffs Keith Fensom kfensom@savills.com

01202 708 888

Lilliput

£2,995,000

A truly stunning waterside home enjoying fabulous views and having exceptional accommodation extending to approximately 5,500 sq.ft. • • • • • • •

4 Bedrooms all en-suite Open plan living area Siematic kitchen with Miele and Gaggenau appliances Gym, Media/Games Room Sun room Bathrooms by Antonio Lupi and Villeroy & Boch Luxuriously furnished throughout

Lilliput

£995,000

An imposing modern detached property approximately 12 months old and finished to a high specification throughout with some harbour views. • • • • • • •

Magnificent open plan lounge/dining/kitchen Master bedroom with en-suite and dressing area Two further bedrooms Study/bedroom 4 Media Room Integral garage Access to private slipway

Lower Parkstone

£895,000

A unique penthouse in this prestigious development of just 5 built by Whitelocks commanding panoramic views over Poole Harbour. • • • • • • • •

Open plan kitchen/living area Study/Bedroom 4 4 Balconies 3 Further Bedrooms 2 En-Suites Cloaks/shower room Utility room Double Garage

Canford Cliffs

£675,000

A beautifully appointed and spacious cliff top apartment enjoying delightful sea views with private path to the beach. • • • • • • • •

Sitting room Open plan kitchen/dining area 3 Bedrooms with fitted wardrobes En-Suite & Family Bathroom Balcony Double Garage Refurbished throughout Level access to Canford Cliffs Village

T. 01202 708383 E. info@berkeleys.com www.berkeleys.com Associated Park Lane Office: 020 7079 1535

Lower Parkstone

£795,000

A stunning contemporary home enjoying delightful views towards Poole Harbour, Brownsea Island and the Purbeck Hills. • • • • • • • •

Open plan kitchen/living area with galleried room over Cloakroom Sitting room/bedroom 4 3 bedrooms all en-suite Media Room Utility Room Off road parking Cul-de-sac location

Canford Cliffs

£1,395,000

A luxury 4 bedroom detached property built to a high specification within a much sought after location. • • • • • • • •

3 Reception rooms Rationale Kitchen with Gaggenau main appliances Kitchen/breakfast room 2 En-Suites Family Bathroom Sound system to principal rooms South facing rear garden Double garage

Sandbanks

£745,000

Situated on the sought after Sandbanks Peninsula a well presented holiday getaway refurbished to a high standard throughout. • • • • • • • •

Stunning marine style house 3 Bedrooms Master bedroom with en-suite Luxury Kitchen Lounge with feature glazed roof Dining hall with oak flooring Secluded garden Ideal investment

Sandbanks

£995,000

A substantial detached property finished to a high specification throughout within this sought after location. • • • • • • • •

Open plan living area Well appointed kitchen Master bedroom with dressing and en-suite 3 further bedrooms 2 bathrooms Utility room Cloakroom Double Garage

T. 01202 708383 E. info@berkeleys.com www.berkeleys.com Associated Park Lane Office: 020 7079 1535

Estate Agents - Valuers Property Lettings

Christchurch Town Centre Unique town central contemporary detached house, situated on the banks of the River Avon in Christchurch. The property has the benefits of its own private mooring, on a beautiful waterside location, with decked gardens to the rear and parking spaces to the front. The property also has the optional benefit of a separate workshop unit with gas central heating, electricity and gardens (making an ideal studio/workshop/storage facility for vehicles etc. This will be an additional £90,000 for the unit.)

Price Guide: £575,00

Sopley The Homestead is a stunning house, parts of which are believed to date back to the 16th century. Although the exact date when it was built is unknown, it is recorded that the house was extended in the early 1800's and was formerly known as The Elms and Racedalls. The present owners have undertaken a sympathetic programme of improvement and the house is beautifully presented throughout. Features include 3 car garaging, outbuildings, a heated swimmimg pool and just over 3 acres of land.

Price Guide: £1,695,000

For more information on the above properties please contact our Christchurch Office on 01202 484748

denisons.com

Mayfair Office 0207 4675332

Mudeford Quay A modern styled home situated on the Quay at Mudeford having the benefit of outstanding harbour side views. The property is on 3 levels with terraced balconies off two floors, a roof garden and sun terrace on the top floor. The property also benefits from an enclosed small garden and 2 garages. The internal accommodation has been beautifully re-mastered and rebuilt providing a spacious and modern home.

Price Guide: £950,000

Christchurch Town Centre A stunning contemporary waterside home situated close to the town centre of Christchurch. The property is extremely individual in style having been virtually rebuilt and re-designed by the current owners. Fronting onto the River Stour, the property benefits from its own berth, which we are informed would comfortably take a 28ft boat. Viewing is strictly by appointment through vendor’s Agents Denisons on 01202 484748.

Price Guide: £1,250,000

For more information on the above properties please contact our Christchurch Office on 01202 484748

denisons.com

Br ew er yS qu ar e to is co m in g

“A four star hotel and spa, a health centre… and very smart shops. The apartments are selling off plan” The Daily Telegraph

“Brewery Square will give the town a new theatre, cinema, hotel, spa, shops, restaurants, and apartments as well as Britain’s first solar powered railway station at Dorchester South. Off-plan apartment pre-sales have made it Savill’s most successful development in the past six months” Country Life Magazine

u Sq BBwery re HOto B

g in m co is

Phase 1: Sold out. Phase 2: Over 50% pre-sold off plan. Visit The Marketing Suite to see why!

e ar

“This is as near to the centre of Dorchester as you can get. It’s so tastefully done; you couldn’t compare the finish with any other development” The Financial Times

The Marketing Suite is open: Mon - Fri 10am to 5pm Saturday 11am to 4pm 21 Weymouth Ave, Dorchester

01305 757000

brewerysquare.com

LONDON • BOURNEMOUTH • SANDBANKS

East Cliff - BournEmouth Arguably one of the finest penthouse apartments on the south coast having been interior designed and finished to the highest standards with unrivalled 180 degree views of the bay and coastline within a short walk to town centre and beach. Reception hall, cinema room, large open plan sitting/dining room (giving access to 1000 sq.ft. of terrace with stunning sea views), three bedroom suites with dressing room to master suite, bespoke fitted kitchen/breakfast room, study/bedroom 4, utility, cloakroom, Crestron automated aircon lighting and audio, security lift, secure parking for four cars and storage.

£1,950,000 3-5 Yelverton Road, Bournemouth BH1 1DB email:info@bournemouth-property.co.uk

+44 (0)1202 557766

www.bournemouth-property.co.uk

LONDON • BOURNEMOUTH • SANDBANKS

sandBanks poolE harBour A select development of just four apartments located within 50 yards of Poole Harbour and its award winning beaches which are recognised as one of the finest windsurfing locations in the country. Alcyone incorporates contemporary south facing open plan living and enjoys beautifully fitted kitchens and bathrooms as well as home management systems and high levels of security. �nder��oor heating, secure garaging, storage and lift.

prices from £695,000

3-5 Yelverton Road, Bournemouth BH1 1DB email:info@bournemouth-property.co.uk

+44 (0)1202 557766

www.bournemouth-property.co.uk

LONDON • BOURNEMOUTH • SANDBANKS

lilliput dirECt harBour aCCEss

A unique individually designed waterside house with stunning sea views and direct access to Poole Harbour. The well designed and exquisitely thought out accommodation was planned by the owners to maximise this stunning location and provide views from all the principle rooms. The house extends to approximately 4,000 sq.ft. with meticulously laid-out gardens. Reception hall, open plan sitting room, dining room and fully fitted kitchen, four double bedrooms, four bathrooms/shower rooms, cloakroom, study/ bedroom 5, balconies and terraces from most rooms, facility for lift, under��oor heating, secure garaging.

3-5 Yelverton Road, Bournemouth BH1 1DB email:info@bournemouth-property.co.uk

+44 (0)1202 557766

price guide £2,350,000

www.bournemouth-property.co.uk

LONDON • BOURNEMOUTH • SANDBANKS

ChaddEslEY GlEn Canford Cliffs A striking pair of brand new contemporary houses overlooking Poole Harbour and the Sandbanks Penninsula within five minutes walk of the award winning seven miles of beaches. Beautifully finished with class leading interiors of the highest standards incorporating: open plan living areas, fully fitted kitchen, dining room, study, four double bedrooms, four bathrooms/shower rooms, state of the art HD cinema room, south facing garden, fully integrated home automation systems incorporating sound systems, lighting and under��oor heating. Double garaging.

prices from £1,750,000 3-5 Yelverton Road, Bournemouth BH1 1DB email:info@bournemouth-property.co.uk

+44 (0)1202 557766

www.bournemouth-property.co.uk

The Cliffs, Swanage. Imagine waking up on top of the world every morning, in one of our exclusive luxury apartments overlooking Swanage Bay. The Cliffs, Swanage Purbecks first million pound apartment

A cut above the rest

Though the first six beautiful 2 bedroom apartments at The Cliffs have a special offer release price starting from £350,000, the picturesque and unspoilt Dorset seaside town of Swanage is home to its first £million penthouse.

The two beautiful penthouse apartments at The Cliffs provide the development’s piece de resistance. Firstly, there is Swanage’s foremost £million apartment: the three bedroom Purbeck Sky penthouse. This genuinely unique home offers well over 2,000 sqft of living space, including a large open plan lounge/kitchen/dining area that is ideal for entertaining.

The Cliffs is a stunning development of just 12 luxury apartments and two exquisite penthouses, all set in an enviable cliff top position with breathtaking views over Swanage Bay. It has set a new benchmark for quality and excellence in the town.

However, Purbeck Sky’s key feature and talking point is its spectacular glass sliding roof which is accessed via a helical staircase and leads to a roof garden. From here there are dramatic and breathtaking 360 degree views of the sea, Ballard Down and over Swanage town.

Ideal homes, idyllic position Located in a quiet and established tree-lined avenue that’s highly convenient for all the attractions of this historic town, The Cliffs is in an elevated position with fully landscaped gardens that run to the cliff top. As a result, many of the homes at The Cliffs offer sea views while others have the dramatic backdrop of Ballard Down to enjoy. And as every home has either a private terrace or balcony to bring the great outdoors into the owner’s life, this wonderful outlook can be enjoyed to the full.

Styling and specification to equal the unrivalled location The external styling of The Cliffs chimes with Swanage’s characterful architectural heritage, so classic features such as hand made Swanage red brick (as used by Elton John & Buckingham Palace), relief work in Purbeck stone, bay windows and attractive gable ends abound. However, the extravagant internal specification that comes as standard in every home at this superb development is totally contemporary. The comprehensive specification ranges from luxury Miele kitchens, Villeroy & Boch bathrooms and ensuites with up market brand name fixtures and fittings, to leading edge heating, lighting and alarm systems. Materials such as oak, marble and brushed steel are used extensively throughout. Another key feature of the The Cliffs is the intelligent use of the space, natural light and views available, so that the apartments and penthouses offer an incredibly bright and airy environment. The open plan living/dining/kitchen areas greatly enhance this feeling of spaciousness.

There is also an innovative lighting system which allows the colour schemes of all the major rooms to reflect the mood of the owner or the occasion. Another key feature is the spacious master bedroom with walk in wardrobe and a luxurious ensuite that includes matching ‘his and her’ basins. Purbeck Sky is a home in a million, and its special combination of location, living space, specification, key features and breathtaking 360 degree views justifies its seven-figure price tag. The second of The Cliffs luxurious penthouses is the two bedroom Sea Dream. Providing over 1,500 sqft of living space, glorious ocean views from a private balcony, a dramatic cathedral style vaulted ceiling and a revolutionary lighting system, Sea Dream is nothing less than a dream home.

An investment in peace, tranquility, beauty and the Isle of Purbeck ‘lifestyle’ The first six 2 bedroom apartments at The Cliffs have been released with a special introductory offer starting price of from £350,000. Once these six stylish homes are sold, the remaining apartments will be priced from £395,000. So a great deal can be had by the first six home owners at this stunning development. For more information about The Cliffs apartments, please visit wwww.thecliffsswanage.co.uk or contact: Corben & Sons, Swanage, 01929 422284.

Not many gardens have a view like this Take an established, tree lined avenue in an elevated position, add a superb collection of two bedroom apartments and two penthouse suites each finished to international standards. Complete with character styling and contemporary flourishes. Last but not least, place in a beautiful cliff top garden with breathtaking views.

Now come and experience The Cliffs for yourself. Our first six, two bed apartments offered at a special pre launch price from just £350,000...after which our prices will start from £395,000

The

Exclusive luxury apartments An investment in peace, tranquility, beauty and the Isle of Purbeck ‘lifestyle’

www.thecliffsswanage.co.uk

For all enquiries Please call 01929 422284 or visit our website www.corbens.co.uk

For our inspirational garden building brochure call 01538 398488 or click www.breezehouse.co.uk S H O W R O O M

O P E N

B Y

A P P O I N T M E N T

AH Design offers you the complete service. T: 01202 375651 www.ahdesign.co.uk

“I live with design. Every moment of the day and quite a lot of the night I am thinking about the design of things or spaces.” 80

FIRST PERSON

TERENCE CONRAN SHARES HIS INSPIRATIONS I

live with design. Every moment of the day and quite a lot of the night I am thinking about the design of things or spaces. With so many projects on the go, there is always an urgency to come

up with solutions and directions. I find that even when I simply put things on a shelf or a table I am making decisions about how groups of objects look together. Eduardo Paolozzi, my tutor at design school, gave me a piece of advice that I have never forgotten: to go out and see as many things as possible, stock up your brain with images, and your imagination will have a resource to fall back on for many years. I love museums for that reason, and also flea markets and junk shops. The museums I like best are the rather fusty ones, such as The Science Museum or The Natural History Museum in London. There is one in Paris called the Quai Branly which is wonderful because it is almost over-filled with indigenous ethnic artefacts, and you feel you might find inspiration for practically anything there. These places seem to have an authenticity that is sometimes missing from many contemporary museums where everything appears extremely precious. Rummaging around flea markets is another great spur to the imagination. I like seeing the incredible diversity of things people have made and spotting objects that, for me, connect to something else, which may be far removed from the objects’ purpose. When I discover something I like, it is generally because it has a sense useful things, such as old carpenters’ tools that feel right in the hand, or a milk jug that has a certain modest elegance. I find that some of the most evocative objects are handmade – they have an ability to convey meaning and feeling that many manufactured pieces lack.

Throughout my home I have things that are an inspiration to me and this is one of them. It is a metal sculpture signed ‘par Aolossi – Arles 2004’ and I like it because it hovers half way between art and artifact

of proportion, balance and individual character. I like plain, simple and

In the 1950s I worked for Midwinter Potteries on designs that were considered radical at the time which included rimless plates. This piece is a favourite from the Nature Study range.

Simple things can also be inspiring. Traditional craftsmanship has a truthfulness to it that sometimes cannot be found elsewhere. An old stone bridge can be just as arresting as Norman Foster’s latest piece of engineering and there should be a place for both. I am also passionate in the belief that intelligent design should be accessible to all, both in our public spaces and in the things we put in our homes. I think I would have to agree with those who say that Habitat has been my great success, because it brought things that were well designed to the mass market at a price people could afford, and it made other retailers do the same. Design for me is hugely important. It has such a penetrating influence on how we live in the world that I feel strongly it should be at the centre of the cultural agenda. One of the great things about being a designer is that you have the opportunity to create something that can potentially improve the quality of life, even in a small way. What I find most exciting about my work is the challenge of coming up with new solutions – my happiest moments are those with a 3B pencil and a pad of paper, especially when inspiration flows like adrenalin.

Terence Conran is one of the world’s leading designers, furniture-makers, restaurateurs, retailers and founder of Habitat, which revolutionised home furnishings in the 1960s. His latest book ‘Terence Conran’s Inspiration’ is published by Conran Octopus and available at all good bookshops. A selection of Conran homeware is available at John Lewis, Bournemouth and Poole.

My office – a showcase for anything that catches my eye. © Photography: David Brittain

award winning garden design by Redcliffe • bespoke gardens created • friendly, professional teams • a complete, award winning service • CAD drawings, build & planting • paving, ponds, water features • patios, terraces and driveways • visit www.redcliffegardeners.co.uk for examples of our work or call for a free consultation

Bespoke garden rooms, designed and built to your specification Giving your house another room at an affordable price

come and see for yourself the artiﬁcial grass brand Visit the Redcliffe Garden Centre (Bashley Road, New Milton, BH25 5RY) to view our unique landscaping displays and range of incredible artiﬁcial grass by NAMGRASS which can be bought directly off the roll.

michael cullinane garden offices tel: 01305 257 161 | mob: 07899 894 733 email: michael@michaelsgardenoffices.co.uk web: www.michaelsgardenoffices.co.uk

www.redcliffegardeners.co.uk

“Shoes help transform a woman. Every woman of power and influence has been hooked on shoes.”

SOARING HEELS AND

KNIFE-EDGE TOES MANOLO BLAHNIK SHOES CONTINUE TO CAPTIVATE HIS SHOES HAVE AN INTERNATIONAL SET OF ADORING AND LOYAL DEVOTEES. VOGUE EDITOR ANNA WINTOUR REFUSES TO WEAR ANYTHING ELSE, PALOMA PICASSO HAS BEEN A FAN SINCE SHE WAS 14 AND BIANCA JAGGER, JOAN COLLINS AND KATE MOSS ARE FELLOW ADDICTS. MANOLO BLAHNIK’S SOARING HEELS, KNIFEEDGE TOES AND EXOTIC EMBELLISHMENTS HAVE MADE HIM ONE OF THE MOST INFLUENTIAL FOOTWEAR DESIGNERS ACROSS THE GLOBE – YET THE TRUE SECRET OF HIS SUCCESS, HE SAYS, IS DESIGNING SHOES THAT TRANSFORM AND INSPIRE.

orn in the Canary Islands in 1942 to a Spanish mother and a Czech father, Manolo Blahnik studied languages and art in Geneva before moving to Paris in 1965, where he became a set designer.

But a visit to New York in 1970 changed his life forever when he showed off some

designs for theatrical accessories to Diana Vreeland, then editor-in-chief of American Vogue. Admiring one particularly whimsical drawing of a shoe that crept up the ankle and became entwined with ivy and cherries, she said: “You should do shoes.” And so he did. Blahnik was soon learning the art of making shoes and visited factories where he talked to machine operators, pattern cutters and technicians. By 1971 he was in London making his own. A year later Ossie Clark, then the most famous designer in London, used his shoes and from there his career blossomed. In 1973 he opened his first shop in London’s Chelsea and four years later the first pairs of Manolo Blahniks were sold in America at Bloomingdale’s.

Bimbolla

Petasap

Rrida

Rebord

Amacha

As word of his craftsmanship spread, the world’s great designers were soon clamouring for collaborations. Blahnik began by designing for Calvin Klein and has since worked with John Galliano, Bill Blass, Carolina Herrera and Oscar de la Renta. Manolo Blahnik shoes are now coveted by royalty and celebrities the world over, and have even made it to the big screen, featuring most recently in Sex And The City and Marie Antoinette, for which Blahnik designed an entire period collection. Blahnik is a craftsman. The exquisitely shaped lasts and heels he creates for his shoes are still perfected by his own hands; a Manolo Blahnik shoe is renowned for its workmanship. “Shoes,” he says, “help transform a woman. Every woman

Brick, 1971

of power and influence has been hooked on shoes. Look at Josephine Bonaparte, Eva Peron, Marie Antoinette: they all had wonderful shoemakers creating things for them. Shoes are transforming. When you put on a pair of shoes, especially high heels, you walk differently, you feel differently, you become somebody else.”

Blahnik Spring/Summer 2010 If were forced to choose one shoe from my spring/summer collection as a favourite,” Blahnik says, “it would have to be Rebord, a tiered sling back inspired by New York’s Guggenheim Museum of Art. It is the embodiment of what I set out to do: a shoe that transcends mere footwear to become a feat of craftsmanship.” But asking a designer famous for being prolific when it comes to themes and ideas to choose a favourite is a bit of a tall order and it isn’t long before a few more favourites are added to his list. There’s Petasap, for example, which was inspired by the work of American sculptor Alexander Calder and has interlinking fluid lines which give the impression that Blahnik has doodled his idea directly onto the foot. Bimbolla is a square

Tricidia, 2002

heeled bottine which comes in white leather or a delicate blue rose Liberty print, with a corset-like row of buttons on the side. And then there’s Denz, a 1950s-style silhouette peep-

Collected together for the first time, Manolo

toe sandal brought bang up to date with seductive criss-cross

Blahnik Drawings, published by Thames &

ankle straps.

Hudson, reveals over 120 of his exuberant,

‘This season I wanted to follow my wildest dreams and

colour-rich sketches, which are as coveted

ideas without any hesitation and draw from all of my lifetime’s

as the shoes themselves. The book features

inspirations’ says Blahnik.

a foreword by American Vogue editor Anna

The outcome of this is a collection with a shoe for even the most demanding princess.

Wintour and quotations from some of the world’s most fashionable women about their ongoing passion for Manolo Blahnik shoes. Manolo Blahnik Drawings is available at all

Manolo Blahnik shoes are available exclusively at his London boutique at 49-51 Church Street, London SW3. Tel. 020 7352 8622. www.manoloblahnik.com.

good bookshops, at £24.95.

Eschnapur

ntasy

a Tokyo F

mmer

Hot Su

iger

Sea T

Deep Se

FASHION SWIMWEAR AND FABULOUS

FITTING

Rainbow Tiger (left) Sunflair® at its best! Brilliant colours merge with each other in a sea of sensuality that irresistibly attract the eyes of the beholder. The colours are combined with inserts in tiger-print that undergo a totally new interpretation. The line is sold in two colour ranges, one dominated by red in combination with yellow and blue and the other in green combined with yellow and turquoise.

Eschnapur A bold tiger print in black and white on a black background. A small but exquisite product line.

Tokyo Fantasy Just as the colours turquoise, golden brown and white look discrete on a black background, so is the print absolutely breathtaking. The graphical and floral elements scattered as if by accident sparkle beautifully on the dark black background.

Sea Tiger A wonderful interpretation of the eternally young tiger print. Bold shades of brown and yellow interchange and merge with a brilliant blue. A line that attracts attention.

Hot Summer Bright red material printed with a few enormous palm fronds in green with just a hint of yellow and black. A line that is a real bombshell: exciting, stimulating, sensuous and something quite special.

Deep Sea Stripes and leaf elements combined into a symphony of colour reminiscent of a deep, turquoise sea. A very beautiful, easily wearable line in turquoise and discrete aqua shades.

e er

h s ay ew w m Al So er m m Su

BEACH AND BODY

SWIM/BEACH WEAR & ACCESSORIES

13 Seamoor Road • Westbourne Bournemouth • BH4 9AA

www.beachandbody.co.uk Telephone: 01202 759818

TREASURES OF TOMORROW INTRODUCING POOLE POTTERY’S STUDIO COLLECTION

ince 1873, pottery made in Poole has played

such as Delphis, Aegean, Ionian and Atlantis became

an important role in the development of British

household names.

art and design, most notably contributing to the

The Poole Pottery Studio collection launched last

Art Nouveau, Art Deco and Modernism movements.

year and combines innovative craftsmanship and

Poole Pottery as it is known today was first

design with traditional techniques from the past.

established as Carter & Company and specialised

The collection’s design team include master potter

in garden and architectural tiles. The company

Alan White, whose work is widely-acclaimed and

produced much of the ceramic tiling used on London

who has been associated with Poole Pottery for over

Underground stations built in the 1930s, with relief

40 years.

tiles showing symbols of London still seen at stations such as Bethnal Green.

Specialising in hand-thrown pots and intricately carved pottery, Alan uses a delicate colour spray

Over the years, the range extended to include

finish in his Storm pieces. His African-themed wall

domestic pottery and the brand name Poole Pottery

plaques are stunning and decorated in bold colours

was born. During the 1950s, 60s and 70s collections

inspired by African sunsets.

Swirl plate by Lorna Whitmarsh

New shapes and forms are the creation of award-winning designer Andrew Tanner while Lorna Whitmarsh’s bold use of colour and abstract design has become her trademark. Giving the collection additional finesse is Jane Brewer who uses glaze colours painted directly onto unfired clay which when finished create a unique ‘fine art’ look. Many of Poole’s private commissions are created by Nicola Massarella who has worked with renowned Poole designers Barbara Linley-Adams and Tony Morris and has designed an insect range featuring intricate carvings and painting techniques. Floral vase by Alan White and Lorna Whitmarsh

Early Poole has achieved record sums at auction and is now much soughtafter, with a 1930 tile panel painted by Edward Bawden selling for £15,000 at Christies in 2004.

Owl vase by Alan White and Jane Brewer

Contemporary Studio pieces can be bought from £100, making them excellent investments for the future. Poole Pottery, The Quay, Poole. Tel. 01202 668681. www.poolepottery.co.uk

Poole Pottery, The Quay, Poole. Tel. 01202 668681. www.poolepottery.co.uk

STUDIO COLLECTION

Exclusive, hand painted, created by our vastly experienced artisans, only on Poole Quay. Highly desirable and collectable works signed by the artist. Unique pieces and commissions for bespoke creations. Visit us on Poole Quay and see the the studio range as well as over a dozen other ranges, only at the world famous Poole Pottery. Poole Pottery, The Quay, Poole, BH15 1HJ 01202 668681 www.poolepottery.co.uk

GRAND DESIGNS ONE TO ONE WITH WAYNE HEMINGWAY HE ROSE TO FAME AS THE CREATOR OF FASHION LABEL RED OR DEAD AND HAS SINCE BREATHED NEW LIFE INTO LIVING AND WORKING SPACES OF ALL KINDS, WITH THE BOSCOMBE OVERSTRAND AMONG HIS LATEST REJUVENATION PROJECTS. WAYNE HEMINGWAY MBE IS TODAY REGARDED AS ONE OF THE UK’S GREATEST DESIGNERS, BUT HE’S STILL GOT HIS FEET FIRMLY ON THE GROUND.

here’s something about the seaside that energises Wayne Hemingway,

and the more expressively they could be worn, the better. “I was always

he says. “I live by the sea in Sussex and grew up in Morecambe,

experimenting with style and would reinvent my look as soon as the next

where I would spend hours on the beach. In our hectic lives the sea

big thing came along,” Wayne says. “I was into northern soul by 13, then

is all the more important as a place of escapism and relaxation.” Boscombe’s Overstrand 1950s building had been empty for over

disco, punk, new romantic and rockabilly. I still have the photographs to prove it!”

10 years when Wayne first set eyes on it. “It was a neglected concrete

To help pay the bills during his college days Wayne and his then

eyesore,” he says. “The plan was to bring it back into life while keeping

girlfriend and now wife Gerardine set up a market stall at London’s

many of the original features and adding a modern twist.”

Camden Market. They started small, selling second-hand classic clothes,

This summer the Overstrand pods, as the new beach-side chalets are

and began customising and producing garments of their own. As interest

known, will enjoy their first full season, having been transformed into

rose the business expanded, and Red or Dead was born. It was soon an

contemporary living spaces complete with mains electricity, hot and cold

international brand with shops across the world.

running water and private balconies overlooking the beach.

Wayne says: “We fell into Red or Dead with no money and fell out in

As well as featuring bespoke kitchens, Hemingway Design printed

1999 when we sold the company with lots, which helped us to move into

curtains and limited edition beach furniture, each pod provides direct

other creative areas. We were lucky that even from the beginning we had

access to Boscombe’s new surf reef and Urban Reef restaurant.

a great team of people working with us.

“The Overstrand regeneration has done much more than giving an old

“We also had a strong philosophy that we wanted to break down the

building a new lease of life,” Wayne says. “Media coverage of both this

elitist barriers that had characterised the fashion industry. Red or Dead

project and Boscombe’s surf reef has attracted a new tourist market to

played a part in making fashion accessible to the masses and paved the

the area and with that there has been an injection of new businesses into

way for brands like Topshop and Topman, which launched soon after.

the town. The regeneration has put Boscombe on the map in a way that it wasn’t before.” Born in 1961, Wayne Hemingway had his creative streak nurtured by his mother and grandmother, whose dressmaking skills saw the young Wayne styled as Elvis, a Beatle or Tarzan as the mood took them. Even from an early age clothes mattered in the Hemingway household

“Red or Dead was never overtly branded and I’ve always loathed that sort of thing. Too many people want to belong simply by wearing a label.” It’s a philosophy that Wayne continues to believe in. He’s not someone you’d ever see at glitzy launch parties making small talk, preferring to invest his time in getting hands-on in his studio.

The Overstrand, Boscombe

“Regeneration has put Boscombe on the map.”

“I’ve always been very much a doer,” he says, “and the trappings that come with fame don’t interest me very much. I’d far rather let our work speak for itself than have to attend endless London parties as a way of getting on.” Following the sale of Red or Dead, Wayne and Gerardine set up Hemingway Design, which specialises in affordable and social design and has worked on everything from the award-winning Staiths South Bank, an 800-property mass-market housing project on Tyneside, to The Bridge, Dartford, which will be the first Thames Gateway scheme for the area. “We were lucky that the Hemingway name became well known enough

A Beach Pod

to open doors,” Wayne says. “Turning ideas into living, breathing spaces for people is vastly more satisfying than creating clothes.” Other work has included the highly acclaimed new club for the Institute of Directors in Pall Mall, consultancy on projects including carpets

Wayne gets up at 5am each morning to do just that. “There’s always

for Milliken, the 4Walls range of wall coverings for Graham & Brown,

so much to do,” he says. “I’ve been working with Gerardine for nearly 30

technology (www.thebug.com) and a tile range for British Ceramic Tile.

years now and we still get a buzz from it all.”

This year Hemingway Design will launch Vintage at Goodwood, an event to celebrate five decades of British music and fashion, which takes place over three days in August. “Organising a festival is something new for us,” Wayne says, “but like a lot of our projects the idea came from a personal desire to offer something different whilst also having fun. I couldn’t do the hours I do in the office without looking forward to getting stuck in each day.”

For more information about the Boscombe Overstrand visit www.boscombeoverstrand.co.uk. Vintage at Goodwood takes place from 13-15 August at the Goodwood Estate, West Sussex: www.vintageatgoodwood.com. For more information about Hemingway Design visit www.hemingwaydesign.co.uk.

GOING FOR GOLD IT IS THE RACE EVERY OWNER DREAMS OF WINNING, WITH THE CALIBRE OF HORSES MATCHED BY THE WORLD’S BEST JOCKEYS ON THE TRACK. NATALIE COURT LOOKS FORWARD TO THE CHELTENHAM GOLD CUP.

he totesport Cheltenham Gold Cup is to jump racing what the

the importance of the Festival that almost every top race run in the three

British Grand Prix is to motor racing: the climax of the National

or four months before it is considered to be a Festival trial. It is a race

Hunt season. It’s an event where years of preparation, hard work

meeting where everyone wants to win.

and dedication culminate in one phenomenal race.

First run in 1924, the Gold Cup has a history that features inspirational

Only the finest and strongest racehorses compete, covering the 3.25

displays of talent – many of which are unlikely to be repeated and others

miles and jumping the 22 fences that make up the course. The owners and

very rarely so. The premier of these was by Golden Miller, a star who

trainers of each participant have the same goal: to raise the coveted trophy.

won five successive victories from 1932-36, an achievement that put the

The race forms part of the Cheltenham Festival, a four-day meeting that

Cheltenham Gold Cup on the racing map. The next exemplary sequence

takes place annually in mid-March. The Cheltenham Gold Cup is held

of performances followed from 1948-50, when Irish duo Cottage Rake

on the last day of the event, which attracts over 65,000 people; well over

and trainer Vincent O’Brien achieved a hat-trick of victories. It was this

200,000 attend during the course of the Festival. They all converge on

accomplishment more than any other that heralded the start of the

the Gloucestershire racecourse, the atmosphere being nothing short of

unofficial rivalry at the Festival between the English and the Irish.

electric as hundreds of millions of pounds are wagered on the outcome

Each year thousands of our Gaelic neighbours cross the Irish Sea on

of the 26 races. For bettors as well as owners, trainers and jockeys the

an annual sports pilgrimage. In 2009 the score was Britain 17, Ireland 9,

Gold Cup is the race of the week. Anticipation hangs in the air as the roar

but, with the Irish failing to land any of the major championship races, they

of the crowd signals the rise of the tape and the start of one of the most

will be hoping for the balance to tip back their way in 2010. The Irish last

important horse races in the world.

won the Cheltenham Gold Cup in 2006, courtesy of War of Attrition, owned

Spectators hold their breath as the horses and their jockeys approach

by Michael O’Leary, chief executive of Irish airline Ryanair. Now, as Irish

each obstacle, caught up in the excitement and praying that their

punters revel in taking on the Cheltenham bookmakers each year, their

investment will pay off. Only when each fence has successfully been

presence at the Festival is part of what helps to make the event so vibrant.

cleared do they allow themselves to exhale in relief and hope that their chosen horse will battle up the unforgiving Cheltenham hill to victory.

Stars of more recent years include Desert Orchid, who became a household name after winning the Gold Cup in breathtaking fashion in

The public, as much as the professionals whose business this race

1989 despite heavy rain, and Best Mate, who won three consecutive titles

is, feel the significance of this event. From the showcasing of the horses

between 2002 and 2004. His wins established trainer Henrietta Knight as

in the parade ring before the start to one very special horse crossing the

the most successful female trainer in Cheltenham Gold Cup history.

finishing line in glory, it is a much loved contest that tens of thousands of spectators each year just would not miss.

With the glory of winning the race comes the prize money: after all, this is a sport where millions are invested, wagered, won and lost. The cup

The enthusiasm for the race is founded on two grounds. The first is

itself is worth between £12,000 and £13,000 and a new one is made each

its historical significance and the fact that it has marked the coming of

year. The total prize money for this one race is almost £500,000, making it

age of some of the most legendary talents in jump racing from Britain,

the most prestigious jump race in Britain outside the Grand National.

Ireland and France. The second is that as it is the most prestigious race

The 2009 Festival was dominated by Somerset-based champion trainer

in the jump racing calendar the atmosphere and sense of occasion are

Paul Nicholls and his jockey Ruby Walsh. Both broke previous records,

apparent even from the first day of the wider Cheltenham Festival. Such is

with Nicholls claiming five wins and Walsh an astonishing seven.

Punjabi’s neck defeat of Celestial Gold in the Smurfit Kappa Champion Hurdle was all that stood between an unprecedented clean sweep for the dynamic duo in the four biggest championship races. They look certain to be the team to beat in 2010. Punjabi’s victory was in itself a notable milestone for one of the Festival’s most successful trainers, Nicky Henderson, who

Cheltenham exclusive A spa town specifically designed for leisure and pleasure, Cheltenham rose to fame for its medicinal waters which were sampled by King George III in 1788. Other aristocratic and distinguished figures of the period soon followed – and Cheltenham’s transformation into a fashionable resort began…

had claimed over 30 Festival victories but

Where to stay: Stay at Hotel du Vin in the

had not won the Champion Hurdle since

chic Montpellier district. The stylish boutique

See You Then’s third win in 1987.

hotel has just 49 rooms and suites as well

Master Minded defended his title in the

as spacious public areas centered around a

Seasons Holidays Queen Mother Champion

showpiece spiral staircase.

Chase in 2009 and is already a hot favourite

The Hotel Du Vin Bistro serves a sumptuous

to notch up a hat-trick in 2010, while Big

menu of modern European cuisine while the

Bucks, the gritty winner of the Ladbrokes

Champagne bar and Grape & Grain Bar offer

World Hurdle, is another champion who will

elegant pre-dinner drinks.

be hard to beat.

Tel. 01242 588450. www.hotelduvin.com.

The beauty of racing is that nobody knows

Where to dine out: Chef/patron David Everitt-

who will win, but it is certain that the buzz

Matthias of Le Champignon Sauvage on Suffolk

will be as strong as ever as the best jump

Road boasts two Michelin stars and offers

horses from all over Europe thrill huge

sublime French food in intimate surroundings.

crowds determined to enjoy themselves to

Tel. 01242 573449.

the full.

www.lechampignonsauvage.co.uk.

The Cheltenham Festival takes place at Cheltenham Racecourse, Prestbury Park from 16 to 19 March. Tel. 01242 513 014. www.cheltenham.co.uk.

Regency Cheltenham

The Hotel du Vin, Cheltenham

Where to do cocktails: The Circle Bar at The Daffodil, a former 1920s Art Deco picture house in Suffolk Parade with sweeping staircases and beautifully restored period details. Tel. 01242 700 055. www.thedaffodil.com. Where to shop: Cheltenham’s finest independent boutiques and specialist shops can be found in the Montpelier quarter. Couture designer, Caroline Charles has a shop here as do many local names with a reputation for special occasion collections, evening wear, lingerie and antique jewellery. To complement these are health and beauty specialists including Neal’s Yard Remedies, contemporary furniture shops, kitchen suppliers and art galleries. Where to take the waters: The Pump Room – a magnificently austere, Grecian-style edifice, surrounded by the imposing Italianate villas from where Cheltenham’s medicinal waters continue to be dispensed. The building overlooks the picturesque gardens and lakes of Pittville Park. Tel. 01242 522878. www.visitcheltenham.co.uk. Where to spa: A range of spa treatments can be enjoyed at Cheltenham’s 1816 Portland Chapel in North Place which was converted into a day spa in 1986. The spa has a small hydrotherapy pool and steam room and daily mind and body classes which include yoga and pilates. Tel. 01242 518075. www.chapelspa.co.uk.

100

The Pump Room

The Chapel Spa

Mr R Morgan BDS (Brist) DPDS (Brist)

M. Jane Brooks LDS RCS (Eng) DPDS (Brist)

Mr C Thickett BDS Hons (Lond) BSc Hons

Serena McKenna BDS (Lond)

Mr J R Gray BDS (Edin)

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“I like travelling in style and everything was taken care of.”

102

SUITE DREAMS LIZ KAVANAGH ENJOYS A WEEK OF LUXURY ABOARD MSC SPLENDIDA

here are two types of cruise passengers: those who love the pomp

Jacuzzis, the Top Sail Lounge offering round-the-clock gourmet food and

and formality of gourmet dinners and dressing up and those who

a bar service, and a dedicated concierge reception.

would never be seen dead in a suit and book a cruise for the vast

variety of activities that can be enjoyed on board.

All suites have large balconies or panoramic windows, with elegant interiors including plasma televisions, marble bathrooms and king-size beds.

While the former might sniff at the very thought of aqua aerobics in

But it’s the little touches that make Yacht Club guests feel so special.

the pool, for the latter the concept of the captain’s table is about as far

Reservations in the ship’s à la carte restaurants are made for the best

removed from what they would consider to be a good time as the moon.

tables, priority seating is available in the theatre and a transfer service by

Somewhere in the middle of the two camps is the passenger who wants

private car is arranged to and from the airport, ensuring that guests are

informality and luxury, who wants exclusivity while also being able to dip a toe into the spirit of travelling en masse. And that’s how I found myself aboard MSC Splendida, the latest liner in the company’s 10-strong fleet, which not only has all the facilities you’d expect from a sparkling new cruise ship but also offers VIP stays in 99 MSC Yacht Club suites.

treated to VIP service from the moment they step off the plane. I like travelling in style, and everything was taken care of. We flew to join the Splendida in Barcelona and were met by car, with our luggage arriving in our cabin almost before we did. Service throughout our cruise was top-notch. Titan, our butler, was fastidious, with our bed turned down at a pre-arranged time, our

Capable of carrying nearly 4,000 passengers and with 18 decks to

newspaper preference and delivery time noted and a pillow menu offered

roam and explore, MSC Splendida is very much a floating city, with an

to us to ensure a blissful night’s sleep. When we ordered room service he

impressive service ratio of one crew member for every three passengers.

personally oversaw its presentation and delivery. When we mentioned that

Book one of the 99 suites and the ratio goes up a notch, with your very

we enjoyed the peaches in our fruit bowl he ensured they were replenished

own butler on hand to cater for your every whim. The MSC Yacht Club,

each day. Attention to detail like this is often hard to find in some of the

located on the most desirable foredecks, boasts its own private pool and

best hotels, yet within the Yacht Club it appeared effortless.

103

One of the beauties of MSC Splendida is the quality

Italian cuisine featured widely across menus, which changed daily and

and variety of its leisure and entertainment facilities.

included dishes from each of the countries we visited. We enjoyed a lobster

Sports facilities include a squash court, a tennis court,

tagine in Tunis, bouillabaisse in Marseille and paella laden with seafood

a jogging track and a gym complete with state-of-the-art

in Barcelona.

fitness and resistance training machines. Those wanting extra pampering could indulge to the full in the Aurea Spa Wellness Centre, where Balinese masseuses,

In Marseille we browsed a bustling street market before taking the tourist

beauty therapists, acupuncturists and pressure-point

road train to Notre-Dame de la Garde, an ornate neo-Byzantine church which

therapists offered a wide range of treatments.

overlooks the city. Here the local nuns run a restaurant overlooking the harbour,

When we wanted to slip away from the rest of the ship

and our lunch, though simple, was delicious and the service full of smiles.

we headed off to the Yacht Club pool, which we virtually

From Tunis we headed to Sidi Bou Said, a picturesque blue-and-white-

had to ourselves. Guests here were treated like royalty,

painted town perched on the cliffs overlooking the Bay of Tunis which inspired

with cocktails brought to the pool side and towels waiting

some of the world’s great artists, including Paul Klee, Gustave Henri-Jossot

on the sunbeds.

and August Macke. Café des Nattes became their hang-out and it is a popular

After dark the ship’s shops and boutiques came into their own, selling a selection of designer wear and fine

In Malta we docked in Valletta, the Maltese capital and a World Heritage Site renowned for its stunning baroque architecture. Founded by the Knights

a games arcade, a Formula 1 simulator, a photo gallery

of St John during the crusades, the city is rich in history, with its fortifications

and a theatre. The nightly shows were impressive, with

testament to its desirability as conquered land. From 1800 Malta was under

slick dance routines and performances.

British rule and only became independent in 1964. British influence is still

Swimming and sunbathing on top deck A Yacht Club Suite interior Just one of the ship’s glittering bar areas

very much apparent, with red letter boxes looking strangely familiar in the sun-soaked streets.

included the à la carte Villa Verde restaurant, open to all

The Splendida’s own excursions were expensive, we thought, but at many

passengers as well as a European fine-dining restaurant,

of the destinations we visited it was easy to explore independently. Each day

L’Olivio, the Tex-Mex Santa Fe and the smart L’Enoteca

the ship’s newspaper provided a mini guide to the key attractions, and armed

wine bar, which were chargeable.

with a guidebook we enjoyed doing the sights in our own time, returning to

Passengers in suites benefit from complimentary

The French city of Marseille soaked in sunshine

worth a visit for its spectacular architecture.

including a casino, a 4D interactive cinema, nightclubs,

as a large cafeteria the Splendida’s dining options

The stylish and sophisticated Yacht Club lounge

spot for mint tea, while the nearby former palace of Baron d’Erlanger is well

fragrances. But there were plenty of other distractions too,

I’m not a big fan of queuing for buffets, but as well

104

Our week-long Mediterranean cruise took in six ports, with each stop offering something new.

ABOVE IMAGES (CLOCKWISE):

the boat at leisure.

dining at both the Villa Verde and L’Olivio restaurants, with

We left MSC Splendida on our final day as we had arrived – in style – with a

a large selection of wines and spirits also complimentary

personal escort from our cabin and a car waiting to take us back to Barcelona

in restaurants, in the Yacht Club bar and from the well-

airport. From start to finish we had been treated like royalty, whilst also being

stocked suite minibar, which was replenished every day.

able to kick off our shoes and enjoy the very best of the Med.

MSC Cruises can be contacted on Tel. 0844 561 1955. www.msccruises.co.uk. From 2011, MSC Cruises will offer departures from Southampton to Northern and Western Europe.

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“The Dorset landscape is a constant source of inspiration.” 106

‘Sailing’

SEASCAPES AND LANDSCAPES THE WORK OF REALIST PAINTER PAUL CORFIELD

any of the world’s great painters have historically come to their art through a time of life-changing turmoil and never has that been more the case than for internationally-acclaimed Paul

Corfield.

Born in Bournemouth in 1970, Paul has lived within ten miles of the town for all his life and grew up determined to be an artist. “I can’t remember exactly when it was, but I know I was very young when I first started learning to draw,” he says. “Detail was always my thing; if my drawing didn’t look like the object or scene I was looking at then I would find it a most infuriating experience.” After applying to Art College, it was a lack of confidence in his abilities that saw Paul turn down a much sought-after place. “For the next 13 years I worked at an engineering firm and painted in the evenings,” he says. “The end of every day couldn’t come soon enough.” Paying the bills trapped Paul for many years in his job but romance at work blossomed and work colleague Sara soon become his wife. And just when everything seemed to be on the up, life changed completely. “After we were married Sara became pregnant and it became apparent that she had a rare blood disorder which would cause her to keep having miscarriages,” Paul says. “A week after the birth of our first child Sara came off the medication that had kept the baby alive and suffered a massive stroke. “I prepared myself to look after her for the rest of my life and all thoughts of my art were firmly forgotten. The gods must have been looking down on us though as she made a full recovery and four years later we had another baby without any problems.” Sara’s stroke had made the couple appreciate the value of living to the full and in 2002, after being offered voluntary redundancy, Paul decided to throw himself fully into his art.

107

Paul Corfield Editorial ‘Pastures New’

“The plan was to use the redundancy money to live off for a year so

“At the other end of the scale I am inspired by paintings with good

I could paint and see where it took me. It was a big gamble as we have

brushwork. I love traditional oil painting techniques and incorporate many

two children to feed. Everyone was telling me not to leave work and that

of them into my work.”

no-one could make a living from art. My wife was the only person to back me 100 per cent.”

Paul’s working week is now divided between sketching and painting days. “I rarely mix the two and instead prefer to channel all my creative

The gamble paid off for Paul and his passion for realism saw his art

energy into one or the other,” he says. “Sketching days will be an all-day

evolve into the highly stylised form it is today. He began to sell his work on

affair where I put on my headphones, fill my head with my favourite music

ebay and was soon attracting a loyal following from American buyers.

and the ideas start to flow.

A London gallery spotted him and a little later a gallery in America

“If nothings happening I’ll change the style of music and play some rock or

signed him up. His big break came when UK art publisher Washington

something very soft – I have a very wide range of musical tastes. Some days

Green Fine Art began to represent him and today Paul’s work is sold

only one sketch will be any good whereas on other days, they’ll all be good.

across the world. Many of his paintings are inspired by local landscapes. “Living in Poole, Dorset, means that I am only a few minutes from the countryside and the sea so they will always feature in my paintings,” he says. “The Dorset landscape is a constant source of inspiration. Whenever

“With each painting I don’t really have any preconceived ideas on a colour scheme, it happens along the way, almost sub consciously. Each painting takes on average four days to one week to finish.” Paul has now been painting full-time for eight years and says he never tires of it.

possible I take the family off to the countryside to explore nature; it’s

“Painting is what I was born to do,” he says, “and it has been part of me

something I always did as a child. My children are also an indirect source

for all my life. To make a living from something I love doing is incredibly

of inspiration as the programmes they like to watch on TV have also had an

satisfying.”

impact on my work. The rolling landscapes in programmes like Postman Pat and Bob The Builder have an idyllic simplicity about them and made me think about seeing the world through a child’s eyes.

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Paul Corfield’s paintings are available for sale at a number of prestigious galleries. Visit www.washingtongreen.co.uk for details.

HAPPY CHILDREN SUCCEED

orres Sandle Manor is more than a school, it is an extended family, the members of which know and care for each other day by day, hour by hour. Our very high staff/pupil ratio ensures that each individual child is given the support, attention and care which all children require. The aim of the school is, above all, to ensure that children are happy and secure in all that they do and that they discover and use their talents to the full. Dick Moore, Headmaster

Fordingbridge, Hampshire, SP6 1NS

01425 653 181

www.fsmschool.com

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A SCENT OF STYLE FOR 280 YEARS ROYALTY AND CELEBRATED PATRONS HAVE ENJOYED FINE FRAGRANCES BLENDED BY FLORIS OF LONDON, AND EVEN TODAY THE QUEEN AND PRINCE CHARLES ARE AMONG THE COMPANY’S DISCERNING CLIENTS. LIZ KAVANAGH EXPLORES THE HISTORY OF ONE OF ENGLAND’S FINEST PERFUMERS.

rom the 18th century to the present day Floris of London has long

Initially fragrances were blended for customers on an individual basis,

been considered a perfumer of excellence, with many of its fine

their formulae carefully recorded so further supplies could be made, but

fragrances based on formulae dating back to its early days.

word of his perfumes soon spread and Floris began offering customers

The first Royal Warrant granted to J Floris Ltd was in 1820 as ‘smooth

pointed comb makers’ to the then newly crowned King George IV, and ever since then Floris has always held at least one Royal Warrant and today holds two: one from Prince Charles for ‘toilet preparations’ and the other as perfumer to the Queen. Perfumers were much sought after in 18th century Britain, where only the most privileged could afford to pay for individually-created fragrances to single them out from those around them. Juan Famenias Floris was keen to be part of the London set and, arriving in England from his native Menorca in 1730, he set up in business at 89

ready-made formulations, and the range rose to over 100 perfumes. Today the Floris range encompasses perfumes of all kinds – many of which have a fascinating past. Horatio Lord Nelson was a loyal customer, with Floris records containing orders he sent from overseas for perfume and other luxury goods for Lady Hamilton. Special 127, produced for Russia’s Grand Duke Orloff in 1890, was named after the page number of the Specials formula book which it occupied. A citrus blend of bergamot and orange with neroli, lavender and geranium, this floral cologne was favoured by Eva Perón.

Jermyn Street, London, as a barber and comb maker, choosing the elegant

Limes, a vibrant burst of lime flowers, lemon zest, lime blossom, neroli

quarter of St James’s, the epicentre for distinguished London gentlemen.

and lily of the valley, was introduced by Juan Floris in the late 18th century

Close to the Royal Court and at the heart of gentleman’s club-land, it

to combat the oppressive heat of the city in summer, while Bouquet de La

was also a fashionable location for the wealthy to keep a London address,

Reine – The Queen’s Bouquet – first appeared in the Floris repertoire in

and was home to the Duke of Marlborough, poet Thomas Gray and artist

1860. A modern contemporary adaptation was created and introduced

Sir Thomas Lawrence.

to celebrate the Queen’s Golden Jubilee: it is a fruity floral fragrance with

Floris began to blend his own oils, essences and fixatives into the first Floris fragrances, using skills he had acquired in Montpellier, which at the time vied with Grasse to be the capital of French perfumery. While those around him offered heavy, intense fragrances, often

top notes of bergamot, blackcurrant buds and peach. The world outside Floris’ doors has changed beyond recognition since the days when perfume was reserved strictly for the privileged few, yet Floris continues to cater for clients who appreciate the finer things in life.

created to mask unpleasant aromas, Floris’ perfumes were inspired by

Velvet mahogany change mats remain on the counters, dating from

his Mediterranean background, using the light and refreshing scents of

the late 19th century, when it was considered extremely ill form to give

the plants and flowers he had grown up with.

customers dirty or crumpled change.

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89 Jermyn Street in the late 1800s

All coins were taken downstairs and scrubbed clean and notes were pressed flat so that change would always be presented clean and sparkling on the mats, thus ensuring that neither staff nor customers would suffer the embarrassment of their hands touching or ladies dirtying their gloves. The days of pressing banknotes have sadly gone, but personal consultations are still available with Floris perfumer Shelagh Foyle, offering bespoke fragrances created with clients from the immense collection of aromatic fragrances and essential oils. Priced from £100, a custom-blended eau de parfum includes a certificate of provenance. For ultimate luxury a bespoke perfume can also be created, with the £2,500 fee including five repeat orders. The Floris customer may no longer arrive by carriage at 89 Jermyn Street but the quality and tradition of the perfumer remains, ensuring it continues to feature in the pocketbooks of the discerning to this day.

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89 Jermyn Street today

J Floris, 89 Jermyn Street, London. Tel. 0845 702 3239. www.florislondon.com A selection of Floris perfumes and toiletries are available from House of Fraser, Bournemouth. Tel. 0844 800 3709.