FINE
Winter 2010/11
PREMIUM PROPERTY AND LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE
148 pages of the UKs most exclus ive properties
TO THE MANOR BOWEN Llewelyn-Bowen predicts the re-birth of the makeover
Jamie Oliver 30 Minute Meals
NEW YORK OFF THE TOURIST TRACK
Bathroom beautiful Inject a touch of glamour into your bathroom
PLUS: On trend fashion, gadgets, property news and interior insights
www.smallbone.co.uk
Š reg design & design right
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cooking sleeping bathing For your kitchen, bedroom and bathroom brochures or to arrange for a designer to visit please call 020 7589 5998 USA 1800 763 0096 Worldwide +44 20 7838 3636 London
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Contents
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WINTER 2010/11
PALACE IN WONDERLAND With stunning views over beautiful Wollaton Hall, Guy Phoenix knew this was where he wanted to build a palace of dreams
COVER STORY A palace of dreams overlooking Wollaton Hall on page 24
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A FINE VINTAGE With its elegant features, exquisite interior and beautiful gardens, Vine House is waiting to be sampled
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THAT RIVIERA TOUCH For years he had strolled along the beach, admiring the exquisite house in its enviable location.
HIGH SOCIETY
LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION
Set in sought-after Mapperley Park, with a sumptuous interior and exquisite circular design features
Beautiful Black Park Cottage has been used as a picturesque setting for many television series and music videos
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FEATURED HOMES 16
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Dating back to the 16th Century and with some fascinating tales to tell, Six Tunnels, with its exquisite Elizabethan chimneys, is a beautiful, modern day home
With its fairytale approach and fantastic accommodation, Rectory Grange, which has an indoor swimming pool and stables, is a home with a soul
From the elegantly proportioned façade to the magnificent 16th Century beams and fireplaces, Deans with its delectable golf course views has been cherished
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MY KINGDOM FOR A HORSE
A TRUE EPIC
DIVINE INSPIRATION
TREE OF LIFE
FAIRWAY TO HEAVEN
A MILLER’S TALE
With its own tale to tell, magnificent Cromarty is about to start a new chapter as its story with its current owner draws to a close with a happy ending
It has been 23 years since the Joneses first went to view their Grade II Listed home and discovered a fabulous period property with a splendid cedar tree in the grounds
Watching the Kingfishers and Swans from the terrace, Wendy and John Credland feel totally relaxed in their award-winning converted mill
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FOR YOUR EYES ONLY
With beautiful grounds, a stunning interior and an underground rifle range, Trinco could be the backdrop to a scene on the silver screen
DAYS OF THE RAJ
It was the gloriously unique colonial style of the 1890s’ house that first attracted Alan Mann to this fabulous jewel in Pebworth’s beautiful crown
FIT FOR A KING
A regal air surrounds Alison Salmon’s Grade II Listed home, which dates back to 1550 and is on the site of a former castle the Old Buckenham Abbey
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173 FEATURES
PROPERTY TYPES
COLUMNS
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FINE NEWS
Catch up on all the latest news from Fine. A new website and mobile applications as well as an insight into the property market from Fine’s National Sales Director, Dean Heaviside.
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JAMIE’S 30 MINUTE MEALS
Jamie Oliver tells us about the inspiration behind his new book such as a hassle-free recipe for spaghetti bolognese for his pregnant wife, Jools.
POOL BRITANNIA
Leisure time is essential in our busy lives and many of us in Britain are now taking the plunge, and opting for homes that come with their own swimming pools.
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A FEW OF OUR FAVOURITE THINGS
From accessories and furniture to kitchen designers and fabric, we have hand-picked a few of our favourite interior bits and pieces to give you a host of showstopping ideas and inspiration for your home.
BEAMING INSPIRATION
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Spacious, stylish and with the most spectacular of features - Fine believes it is time to celebrate the beauty of the barn.
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FIRM FAVOURITES
Whatever your needs, you will find Fine knowledgeable in equestrian homes, offering some truly winning properties for horse lovers - and in the most desirable of locations.
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GO GO GADGET
From the world of gadgets we bring you a selection of our favourites. You can decide how useful, weird or wonderful you think they are.
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THE BEST OF...
This winter, use our guide to get your hands on the best of entertainment over the coming months.
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TO THE MANOR BOWEN
FASHION 176
AT HOME IN THE SHIRES
Picture postcard, thatched homes nestling by quiet village greens and charming houses overflowing with period features, tucked away in the quiet countryside.
We visit the country home of interior designer Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen as he predicts a more adventurous style for the British public.
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BATHROOM BEAUTIFUL
Bathrooms are far from boring these days. The contemporary bathroom is a haven for relaxation and indulgence. 6 Fine Winter 2010/11
LADY LUXE
Structured tailoring and figure skimming dresses accentuate the best of the female form while a few old favourites make a long awaited comeback.
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WINTER WARMERS
This season wrap up warm with our pick of three top male trends.
INTERIOR FINDS
We have caught up with three of the country’s finest interior designers to get their insights on the top tips of the trade.
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TRAVEL
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NEW YORK
The city that never sleeps, the ‘Big Apple’ and the world in one place - New York City is as iconic as its skyline and a first choice when it comes to a trip stateside. We take you off the tourist track.
WELCOME
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elcome to the latest edition of Fine magazine, which is now established as the ‘must’ read publication for people with a property and lifestyle interest. This edition is our biggest yet with 148 pages of distinct and highly appealing properties. As well as individual features we have grouped together some of our favourite properties by type with pools (page 40) barns (page 126), character properties in the Shires (page 176) and equestrian (page 154). In our lifestyle section Jamie Oliver gives us the low down on his new book, Jamie’s 30-Minute-Meals (page 32) and Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen takes us on a tour of his stunning 17th Century country home (page 130). Three of the country’s most acclaimed interior designers provide us with some interesting insights and top tips from their trade (page 169), whilst our bathroom beautiful feature gives you all the inspiration you could need to create the perfect space for you to relax and indulge (page 181). Our regular columns include a selection of our favourite items for the home (page 70), gadgets galore (page 146) and your Fine entertainment guide for the months ahead (page 188). For anyone planning a trip to New York City in the near future our travel feature tells you what you need to know in order to get off the usual tourist track (page 173). Finally, our fashion pages are brimming with all the styles, trends and accessories for the season (page 93).
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All in all there is something for everyone in this latest edition of Fine. As ever, we value your feedback to help ensure Fine maintains its place as the best property and lifestyle read there is. If you are thinking of marketing your home and want to know more about how Fine’s marketing can make your property stand out from the crowd, or indeed if you would like to see your home featured in the Fine magazine, just call us on 0845 899 0008. Compiled, designed and edited by Dean Heaviside, Kim Dewing and Janice Carter in association with The Marketing Café Ltd. Contributing feature writers: Meg King, Abigail Saltmarsh, Hollie Miller, Gabrielle Fagan Lisa Williams Photographers: Haakon Dewing, Nick Read, Karl Morgan, Nigel Clarke
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Fine is published by The Marketing Café Ltd, Suite 29, Unit 1, Spiersbridge Business Park, Spiersbridge Way, Glasgow G46 8NL. Tel: 0141 621 3900 www.themarketingcafe.net. © The Marketing Café Ltd 2010. All rights reserved. All information correct at time of going to press. Reproduction in whole or part (including storage by any electronic means) is prohibited without prior permission of The Marketing Café. The Marketing Café and Fine Magazine accept no responsibility for the views expressed by contributors to the magazine. Advertising enquiries The Marketing Café, 0141 621 3900
Winter 2010/11 Fine 7
Fine|news The UK property market...
a fine view
A FABULOUS PORTFOLIO OF FINE HOMES SEES FINE SALES AND PLENTY OF REASONS TO BE CHEERFUL ON THE PROSPECTS FOR THE PRESTIGE MARKET
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easons to be cheerful? Fine’s Director, Dean Heaviside says “absolutely! I am delighted by the impact and progress that Fine has made through 2010. For me, the most rewarding element of our success is that our customers really get what ‘lifestyle’ is all about and see how it can benefit the sale of their home…and the reason for this is probably because they are immersed in lifestyle marketing in their everyday lives – through glossy property magazines and popular TV programmes. However, I have found customer appreciation of our unique marketing transcends that of traditional agency to really connect with buyers.” Dean continues, “Yes, our approach is proving that we can elevate individual homes to stand out from the plethora of properties on the market to achieve sales. Just take a look at some of the stunning homes that we are showcasing in this edition of our magazine and you can perhaps understand how our growing revolution is ‘wowing’ sellers and buyers alike.”
WHAT OUR CLIENTS SAY: “Fine have the right approach and the pictures and writing in the brochures are outstanding.” “Their advertising in the newspapers is superb.” “No other agent is doing it as well as they are.” “I was impressed by the marketing and liked the way they focus on the owner’s lifestyle.” “The brochure is lovely and does my house more than justice! I show it to all my friends with great pride. Yours is in another league!”
As part of Europe’s largest independent
new homes
provider of property related services, FINE has a specialist team whose services cover all matters relating to residential development. FINE’s dedicated department deals with every aspect of land and new homes, from the identification of a site prime for extensive refurbishment, conversion or new build, through to in-house creative and print and all elements relating to resulting project sales. For further information call 01932 576603
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Avail able on the
Go with the flow THE EAGERLY AWAITED NEW FINE WEBSITE IS NOW LIVE. TO SEARCH FOR HUNDREDS of unique and distinctive homes throughout the country in an engaging way visit fine.co.uk The new FINE website is now launched. If you are searching for homes of distinction throughout the country the site will be a valuable resource for you. It is the UK’s first property website to feature ‘property flow’, a unique and intuitive way of displaying search results online. There are three ways in which you can choose to view your search results - property flow, lifestyle gallery or map view. The property details are displayed in a clear lifestyle format with options to view a scrolling image gallery, floorplans and the online brochure. The PDF brochures for each property open on screen in a dynamic page flipping format.
2 ways to search From your home or on the move
Fine apps The new property application from Fine is a unique homefinders’ search tool. As well as locating properties for sale, it has the ability to give you valuable information on properties recently sold in an area, including the selling price and date of sale. With the built-in GPS facility the applications have the capability of bringing homebuyers to your door regardless of whether they know your area or not. Great for sellers and homebuyers alike. To download your FREE app visit fine.co.uk or the iTunes app store.
FEATURE YOUR HOME Featuring your home in Fine Magazine will ensure it gets seen by a select audience of serious homebuyers. For more information call 0845 899 0008.
Winter 2010/11 Fine 9
THAT
RIVIER A TOUCH For years he had strolled along the beach, admiring the exquisite house in its enviable location. Then he bought it and transformed the interior to enhance the glorious retreat
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elaxing in his sun-soaked garden, looking out to sea, the owner of Pebble Strand would rather be here than anywhere else in the world. His stunning coastal home, which overlooks delightful Cooden Beach, combines historical character with stunning interior design, all within the most sought-after and picturesque of locations. “I had always thought it was a very beautiful house, soft-looking and in many ways rather like the homes of The Hampton’s,” he said.
“It was traditionally built, in a slightly Arts and Crafts style, and is south-facing with incredible views out to sea. When I saw it was on the market and I could finally buy it, it was wonderful.” BEACH BEAUTY Dating back to the 1920s, the property is thought to have been built as a coastal retreat and entertaining venue for an earl. Very different at the back from the front, it was
designed to look its most impressive from the beach. “It is just amazing being right on the beach. I love the sea - and if you love the sea, it does not get better than this. The lawn goes down in front of the house, and then there’s the beach. It is just fabulous,” he said. REST AND RELAXATION He bought the house some 14 years ago and immediately decided to renovate the interior, to create a stylish home
“It was traditionally built in a slightly Arts and Crafts style and is south-facing with incredible views out to sea.”
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“It is just amazing being right on the beach. I love the sea - and if you love the sea, it does not get better than this.�
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with an almost spa-like appeal within the character-filled building. His aim was to create a place that embodied the tranquillity of its location and that was wonderful to escape to at weekends and during holidays. “There is a real sense of well-being here all year round,” he said. “In the winter we have a lovely real fire in the drawing room and it is wonderfully cosy. In the summer, you arrive here from London and it is like being in the Mediterranean.” EASY LIVING With its panelled walls, wooden floor, exposed brick fireplace and beautiful beams, the magnificent dining room now embodies an almost Gothic splendour.
The drawing room, which is also beamed, has been given a lighter look. This brings a tranquil Long Island seaside style. “The layout of the ground floor of the house works really well and is ideal for entertaining,” he said. “The dining room is a particularly lovely, quirky room to be in with friends, whether you are just sitting around having drinks or are enjoying a full-blown dinner party.” BEAUTIFUL SOUTH The kitchen, with its oak fittings and limestone floor looks fabulous and is well-designed for easy living. With space for a table and chairs, it is superb for family breakfasts and with good access to another Winter 2010/11 Fine 13
“It always feels as if you are on holiday. It is a very restorative place, a wonderful home in which to unwind.”
multi-purpose space, it is perfect for caterers to use for large parties and celebrations. “The loggia is another lovely room. This goes across the back of the house and has French windows on to the garden. It is south-facing and in winter it is just divine to go and sit in there with the papers in the morning. It is so serene,” he said. PEACE AND WELL-BEING Upstairs, the owner has really made every effort to create spaces that enhance the sense of well-being he wanted to bring to the house. Each bedroom has its own unique appeal. The fabulous guest suite has a bathroom overlooking the sea. “I have designed the first floor with a long corridor, and half way down it, the house becomes like a spa,” he explained. “The master bedroom is in this ‘spa wing.’ It is a massive room with an en-suite bathroom that features a Hansgrohe steam cabin with a rainforest shower and an infinity bath. There is another door to this bathroom from the corridor so guests can use it too. “It is wonderful to come up to the room after swimming in the sea and to have a steam or to sit in the bath in the middle of the room and to gaze out over the ocean.” And he added: “There is a great sense of peace and well-being in this house. It always feels as if you are on holiday. It is a very restorative place, a wonderful home in which to unwind.” 14 Fine Winter 2010/1 1
ABOUT THIS LOCATION ON THE BEACH Beach living has become extremely fashionable in the years since the owner bought Pebble Strand. Cooden Beach itself is a quiet and extremely beautiful location that is known for its peace and tranquillity. With glorious views out across the bay and the water, from here you can see right round
the coast to Beachy Head. “It is amazing, almost a secret beach,” he said. “I still find it incredible that I can leave London at the end of the day, drive out here and be swimming at this beautiful place by early evening.” HISTORICAL HASTINGS Hastings, another short drive from the house, is
generally considered to be up-and-coming. This is, of course, known for its connections with the Norman Conquest and is not far from where the famous Battle of Hastings was fought in 1066. William landed on the coast between Hastings and Eastbourne at a site now known as Norman’s Bay and it is thought the Norman encampment was on the outskirts of Hastings.
Property details With an elegance befitting the former beach home of an English Earl, this striking Lutyens-style house has been lovingly restored by a London-based designer as his seaside retreat. Boasting ever-changing, stunning ocean views, the charming interiors include five bedrooms and four reception rooms, while outside there is a professionally landscaped garden. Location Cooden Beach Type of house Coastal Home Price £1,950,000 Contact Homes in East Sussex 01892 458931 Winter 2010/11 Fine 15
My Kingdom for a horse DATING BACK TO THE 16TH CENTURY AND WITH SOME FASCINATING TALES TO TELL, SIX TUNNELS, WITH ITS EXQUISITE ELIZABETHAN CHIMNEYS, IS NOW A BEAUTIFUL, MODERN DAY HOME
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“This is a wonderful place if you do have children or if you enjoy having parties because there is so much room to spread out.”
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tanding at the window in the master suite, looking out across the fields and the equestrian estate he has created, the owner of Six Tunnels is proud of the changes he has made over the past six years. His historic Grade II Listed home has been extended and updated to create a substantial country haven to simply enjoy as a family. Today, the main house features bright spaces, such as the kitchen and family room, where an old well now forms the centrepiece as part of the table. Stables have been transformed into a play area and an indoor swimming pool has been built. Elizabethan barns have been converted into separate self-contained cottages and equestrian facilities of a professional standard have been created. “This is a wonderful place for older and younger children, and it is a peaceful place for adults to be.” HISTORICAL TALES According to local folklore, Six Tunnels either gained its name after being named Six Funnels because of its beautiful chimneys – and at some point “funnels” became “tunnels” - or because secret passages lie within the property. “But we don’t really know,” said the owner. “All we know is that a small section of the property is Winter 2010/11 Fine 17
“Not only was the house lovely looking but it had fantastic living accommodation and space for all the equestrian facilities we needed.” Elizabethan, the rest is Victorian.” The owner bought the property because his daughter was a European Champion show jumper, who represented Great Britain. “Not only was the house lovely looking but it had fantastic living accommodation and space for all the equestrian facilities we needed,” he explained. STUNNING VIEWS On top of that, he stressed, the location was stunning. “The views across the land were just tremendous,” he said. “The house did need a lot of work but we could see the potential.” Very carefully, and with great sympathy for the Grade II Listed buildings, he set about converting the Elizabethan barns into two self-contained, three-bedroom cottages. He put in an indoor swimming pool and extended the equestrian facilities. “Everything was even better than I had hoped after all the work was finished,” he admitted. 18 Fine Winter 2010/1 1
FAMILY HOME Today the kitchen is a fabulous space where the family gather together for meals. “We have a large table which has been made on top of the old well,” he said. “We can have about 14 people eating here. This is a huge, open plan space, which is great for entertaining and is somewhere the whole family can be together.” One of the stables was converted into an office while another is a play area. “This is a wonderful place if you do have children or if you enjoy having parties because there is so much room to spread out,” he added.
GUEST SUITES Upstairs in the main house, bedrooms enjoy the countryside panoramas. “The master bedroom suite is fantastic because the views are incredible. All the views are wonderful from upstairs, in fact. You can look right out across the land,” he said. The two converted barns make great extra accommodation, either for guests or for family members seeking some independence. They could also be let out as holiday accommodation or be used as staff quarters. “The barns are beautiful. There are three bedrooms in each so there is plenty of space,” he said.
COUNTRY LIFE After six years at his magnificent country home, the current owner admits he is now sad to be leaving. But he is proud of what he has achieved here – and the leisurely lifestyle he has created for others to enjoy. “I will miss the location and the wonderful views, as well as the fact it is so private here,” he said. “This is a fabulous place to live. It is like having your very own village.”
PROPERTY DETAILS A stunning Grade II Listed five-bedroom farmhouse with approximately 58 acres (STMS) and an indoor swimming pool complex. Within the grounds there is a detached Grade II Listed barn divided into two three-bedroom homes, while the first class equestrian facilities include 12 loose boxes, solarium, horse exerciser, manège, purpose-built show-jumping paddock and grooms’ rest area.
Location Gaddesden Row Price £5,275,000 Property type Period Farmhouse Contact Homes in Hertfordshire 01753 886177
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The
Beautiful Game
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SHENDA MAHER AND HUSBAND RICHARD BUILT THEIR STUNNING HOME IN APPROXIMATELY 10 ACRES (STMS) OF OUTSTANDING NATURAL BEAUTY – AND HAVE SEEN IT USED AS A SET FOR A MAJOR TELEVISION SHOW
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or Shenda Maher, living in Elsenham House is like being on holiday all year round because her home has everything she could desire under one roof. “In the mornings I can go to the gym and then take a dip in the inside heated swimming pool all without leaving home,” she said.
FRENCH CONNECTIONS The imposing six-bedroom house was completely rebuilt 10 years ago by builder Richard and designed in the French fashion to incorporate an historic feel and antique touches. Now it is so impressive that some of its rooms were used in the popular television series Footballer’s Wives. “It is a glamorous house with amazing views over the countryside. It feels like a grand hotel but is still a cosy family home at the same time,” said Shenda. THE GLORY DAYS The house was originally part of Elsenham stud and home to a number of racehorses including the famous Golden Miller. Today it has a long sweeping drive. “Tall trees hide the stable yard but we can see horses frolicking in the fields and rolling in the grass,” she said. “As you go round the corner you see the house in all its splendour.” The couple redesigned much of the house to give the impression of age. In fact, the whole house has a hint of the French influence with its curved doors, exquisite fireplace and romantic four-poster bed. “We wanted to make it look old so we used Farrow & Ball paint,” she explained. “We wanted something different; artistic, not modern.”
“It is a glamorous home with amazing views over the countryside. It feels like a grand hotel.”
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“In the mornings I can go to the gym and then take a dip in the inside heated swimming pool all without leaving home.” DESIGN AND SPACE Many of the spaces are simply breathtaking – and none more so than the large, designer Clive Christian kitchen, in cream and wood. “We eat in the kitchen everyday and have a TV and sofa in there,” she said. But for Shenda, it is the drawing room that is the centre of her home with its roaring open fire to bask in front of on winter nights. The producers of Footballer’s Wives used this room, among many others, in the programme. “It looked even grander on the television but it is such a beautiful room,” she said. FABULOUS ENTERTAINING The house also boasts a spacious dining room, where the couple hold dinner parties. In fact, she stressed, Elsenham House is ideal for entertaining. “We have a massive dining table and at Christmas we have the family over,” she said. “We play music and then sit at the bar drinking cocktails before dinner.” ENJOYING THE BUBBLES The couple have fond memories of the house and hold it in great affection. “We are lucky to be here. It is a nice family home, not flash but lived in,” she said. The couple are selling because they have a business in Spain and are aware that they will have to spend more time abroad in the future. But when they leave they will take some simply amazing memories with them, said Shenda. “I will remember all sorts of things about this house but especially spending nights in enjoying the sauna and whirlpool. I love lying in there with a glass of champagne.” 22 Fine Winter 2010/1 1
PROPERTY DETAILS An exceptional six-bedroom house set in grounds of approximately 10 acres (STMS). This is truly a home for luxury living and the property lives up to the highest of expectations. Situated in beautiful surroundings, yet convenient for access to the M11 and Stansted airport, Elsenham House really is a dream home.
Location Bishops Stortford Price ÂŁ3,750,000 Property type Detached Country Home Contact Homes in West Essex 020 8504 0977
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PALACE IN WONDERLAND
WITH STUNNING VIEWS OVER BEAUTIFUL WOLLATON HALL, GUY PHOENIX KNEW THIS WAS WHERE HE WANTED TO BUILD A PALACE OF DREAMS QUITE UNLIKE ANY OTHER HOME IN THE AREA
“This really is the most beautiful high-end house. It has been designed to include everything you could possibly want and to make the most of its unbelievable views and location.” 24 Fine Winter 2010/1 1
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uy Phoenix stands at the foot of the sweeping staircase in the middle of the reception hall and looks at the house he has created that ripples out around him. This was the starting point for the palatial home he designed and built to feature beautiful circular shapes and to incorporate stone, water, glass, wood and breathtaking lighting. “I chose this location because it is the only place that looks out over Wollaton Hall, with its impressive parkland full of deer,” he explained. “I then created the centre point for the house and let it flow out from there. I built
a home that featured luxury upon luxury, the likes of which had never been attempted before in this area.” PALATIAL DESIGN Today the dazzling home, which features five suites, incorporates wonderful entertaining and family areas. An indoor swimming pool features an underwater viewing area and an aquarium, and a cinema room has been fully fitted out with comfortable seating and state-of-the-art equipment. “Everything flows,” he said. “The shapes inside and outside the house give it a stylish and unique look, and wherever you go in the house, the views are paramount.”
HIGH SOCIETY Designed over seven split levels, Hall View has been created as the ultimate entertaining home. Guests will be welcomed into the sumptuous hall with its breathtaking six and a half metre chandelier. “I think the beautiful staircase here is probably my favourite feature in the house,” admitted Guy. And the magnificent dining room, where up to 14 people can be seated, will be the scene of dining parties set against a backdrop of subtle lighting and the gentle sound of the interior water feature. Winter 2010/11 Fine 25
LIFE OF LUXURY The beautiful indoor swimming pool and leisure area will be the perfect place for visitors to take it easy, while the cinema room, with its state-of-the-art viewing and sound equipment, and its professional seating, will be the ultimate space for settling down to a good film or sporting event with friends. “But this is also very much a family home,” stressed Guy. “The kitchen is stunning but has also been designed for ease of use. “Spaces such as the drawing room will be ideal for guests but also perfect for those cosy nights in when the family want to relax by the fire.” REGAL ROOMS With five spectacular suites - or seven depending on how the new owner chooses to configure their home – Hall View can accommodate family members and staff in comfort, and is also ideal for those who might wish to welcome guests. “The bedrooms are all wonderful but my favourite has to be the master suite. This is curved, with lots of glass, and overlooks Wollaton Hall. It has a balcony where the new owner will be able to sit with a drink to enjoy the view,” said Guy. “The en-suite bathroom is about the same size as many master bedrooms and has an island spa bath as well as a high tech shower with light therapy. Also in this suite is a walk-in wardrobe, salon area where the mistress of the house will be able to have her hair styled with her friends and a fabulous make-up and dressing room.”
“The mistress of the house will be able to have her hair styled with her friends and there is a fabulous make-up and dressing room.” 26 Fine Winter 2010/1 1
COURTING EXCELLENCE The house has been designed to open up on to its glorious setting and so features an enormous terrace and outdoor seating area. “Everything you could possibly want for outdoor entertaining is here. We have 20 to 30 chairs arranged on the terrace and the garden is ideal for hammocks and sun beds. There is also an outdoor fireplace,” he said. And he added: “This really is the most beautiful high-end house. It has been designed to include everything you could possibly want and to make the most of its unbelievable views and location.”
PROPERTY DETAILS Contemporary beauty is the hallmark of this unique home where the stunning mezzanine levels have been cleverly designed around a striking central hall to make the most of the unrivalled views. The accommodation includes five bedroom suites, expansive reception space, a home cinema and underground parking.
Location Nottingham Price Guide price ÂŁ3,500,000 Property type Luxurious Contemporary Home Contact Homes in Nottinghamshire 0115 981 4509
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“With a lot of love and hard work, we’ve made it a perfect home that is truly special to us.”
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itting in the library, silently reading a good book, the current owner’s imagination drifts off into another world. Relaxing, impressive Cromarty, with its fabulous indoor pool and stunning grounds, is the perfect place to lose oneself. “It has been our dream house,” said the owner. “When we first saw it, we could see its incredible potential,” Music and reading were particularly important pastimes for the family – and they therefore ensured Cromarty could cater for their needs. “We were keen to create a library after having one before, and I’m pleased we did as it’s such an amazing space,” she said.
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a true epic WITH ITS OWN TALE TO TELL, MAGNIFICENT CROMARTY IS ABOUT TO START A NEW CHAPTER AS ITS STORY WITH ITS CURRENT OWNER DRAWS TO A CLOSE WITH A HAPPY ENDING
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“Guests love it. When people come and visit, they don’t want to leave, it’s a very warm and welcoming house.”
A PERFECT HOME The property, named after the Scottish location, has undergone a major renovation with the current owners. “We’ve rebuilt it over the last six years. It was the property’s potential for rebuild and the amount of land that it had that really attracted us to it,” she said. “With a lot of love and hard work, we’ve made it a perfect home that is truly special to us.” The expansive house now has seven double bedrooms, all with en-suite bathrooms. The family also added the large library and a conservatory. “We were keen to keep some of the original features, however,” she said. “We didn’t touch the snooker room much, but we did add some oak panelling and put in a bay window. A lot of care and effort went into the redesign and we thoroughly researched everything for its character.” IDEAL FOR ENTERTAINING The beautiful house and its three quarters of an acre grounds (STMS) also now make a fantastic venue for 30 Fine Winter 2010/1 1
events. “My son got married here. We had a huge marquee, and put in some decking by the pool for the band. There’s a walkway that links the indoor pool to the house so everyone could happily wander around. It was a brilliant day,” she said. “We also have a lot of business meetings and parties here. Guests love it. When people come and visit, they don’t want to leave, it’s a very warm and welcoming house.” SUPERB SPACES Today the beautiful large kitchen and breakfast room area opens on to the air conditioned conservatory, and then the impressive drawing and dining rooms. There’s plenty of space for people to mingle and admire the property and to plan their next visit. “When we go away on holiday, there’s no shortage of volunteers to look after our home!” she added.
PROPERTY DETAILS A much improved home, set in a plot of 0.7 acres (STMS) on the prestigious Hutton Mount private estate. Subject to enlargement and restoration when the present owners acquired the property, Cromarty offers a lifestyle second to none. Location Hutton Mount Price POA
Property type Detached Family Home Contact Homes in West Essex 020 8504 0977
A DREAM HOME The three-storey home also encompasses a spectacular second bedroom suite that is used by the owner’s daughter, so it’s perfect for long-term guests or for young adults craving a bit more independence. “Here we have added some feature walls to make it more modern,” she said. “But we’ve generally kept the décor fairly simple in the rest of the house with subtle warm colours of creams and beiges.” She continued: “We love the house and have really enjoyed living here - it’s just too big for us now. The children have left home now, and my husband works away a lot and is moving towards retirement, so we can’t spend as much time here as we’d like. “But one thing is certain - whoever buys this house will have purchased a dream home.”
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Jamie makes time for the family JAMIE OLIVER TELLS US WHY HE LIKES TO ORDER PEOPLE AROUND IN THE KITCHEN, HOW A HASSLE-FREE RECIPE FOR SPAGHETTI BOLOGNESE MADE HIS WIFE HAPPY AND WHY HE RARELY ORDERS A PIZZA WORDS: Lisa Williams
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amie Oliver could do with some time-saving tips now he’s dad to four children under the age of ten. The latest addition to his family is baby Buddy Bear, who arrived in September 2010 and who is the first boy to be born after his three big sisters. “We’re a proper clan now so you’ve got to keep your eyes peeled,” says a rather breathless-sounding Oliver.
Although he admits that during the week much of the childcare and housekeeping is managed by his wife Jools, his ever-expanding brood has inspired his latest food idea. This autumn, Oliver launched a new TV series with accompanying book called Jamie’s 30 Minute Meals. His aim is to offer up tried and tested instructions on how to 32 Fine Winter 2010/1 1
create a range of delicious dinners - complete with side dishes, drinks or pudding - in just half an hour. “I really think it can change the way people cook for the rest of their lives,” he says, audibly brimming with enthusiasm. “To me, the great thing about 30 Minute Meals is that every meal looks pretty, and the personality of the dishes is quite abrupt and in-your-face. It’s quite bold and exciting.” Oliver – who says if he hadn’t become a chef he’d be “something else which involved me hands” argues that an impressive meal can be made in the same time it takes to order and wait for a pizza. “I’m not anti-takeaway, I just think the problem with the food industry isn’t that we have all this wonderful choice,
the problem is there are massive proportions of people basically growing up and only living on certain options, like fast food,” he says. “I get the odd pizza or takeaway curry but it’s not very often, because there’s always food in the fridge, it’s much less hassle and it works out cheaper to do it yourself.” Oliver’s direct approach is obvious in the wording of his recipes and how he talks to viewers. “I’m not doing the show or the book to be people’s best friend,” he states. “It’s not like, ‘You could do this’. It’s like, ‘Do this, this happens’ so I’m much more of a drill instructor in this. “But I’ve already seen how it empowers people to get amongst it and approach their kitchens in quite a creative
Tasty Cod Winter 2010/11 Fine 33
Pregnant Pasta - made to satisfy Jools’ craving for Bolognese 34 Fine Winter 2010/1 1
“To me, the great thing about 30 Minute Meals is that every meal looks pretty, and the personality of the dishes is quite abrupt and in-your-face. It’s quite bold and exciting.”
Jamie’s 30 Minute Meals is published by Penguin, priced £26.
and aggressive way, and I think that’s the trick in 2010. It’s a busy book for busy people.” The 35-year-old chef is asking people to declutter their kitchens, to keep their most useful equipment to hand and to make the most of electrical appliances such as kettles, food processors – and even the microwave. “I’ve never done microwaves in a show before but we’ll do something clever with it, which will hopefully make people go, ‘A-ha!’” he says. The recipes, which include Peri Peri Chicken, a Moroccan feast and even a full Roast Dinner with Yorkshire Puddings and Gravy, also make the most of shortcuts such as readymade pastry and tinned fruit. But worry not, the Essex lad hasn’t turned his back on the healthy ingredients, high quality cuts of meat, fresh herbs and ‘good lug of olive oil’ which have characterised his cooking so far. The chef burst on to the scene in 1999 with trendy television series The Naked Chef,
Peri Peri Chicken after being spotted at work at The River Café in South London. His infectious personality and fun, unfiddly food made him rise up the ranks to become one of the nation’s most popular celebrity chefs, a position he’s since used to campaign for healthier school dinners. More recently he travelled to America to attempt to tackle the obesity crisis. Although his stance was criticised by some critics across the pond, he remains cheerful and dedicated to the cause. But while his latest book and TV series definitely remain true to Oliver’s ideals, the 30 Minute Meals concept also reveals a more personal side to the chef. One of the recipes featured in the book is for Jools’ Pregnant Pasta, a dish which a hassled Oliver created after coming back late from work to discover his wife – pregnant with their youngest daughter Petal – hungry and craving Spaghetti Bolognese. “Bolognese obviously needs a couple of
hours blipping away, so I had to come up with a way that delivered the flavour and the tenderness and all that sort of stuff in half an hour. That’s why we’ve had to be a little bit clever and used the sausages instead of mince. The flavour is slightly different but the end product is brilliant and I’ve probably cooked it for her 16 times,” he says proudly. As well as creating delicious dinners, there’s also a focus on presentation in 30 Minute Meals, with ideas on how to lay the table for an enjoyable and sociable meal. Oliver thinks it’s important for families and friends to eat together in this way: “Most of my sitting down with the family happens at the weekend. I don’t really see my kids during the week that much, to be honest. I wish I could but I think I’m probably the same as most dads,” he says. “Sixty five per cent of women work now as well, so everyone feels a tiny bit guilty, and feels that they could do better, so any excuse to get around the table, even a couple of days a week is great.” Winter 2010/11 Fine 35
A FINE VINTAGE WITH ITS ELEGANT FEATURES, EXQUISITE INTERIOR AND BEAUTIFUL GARDENS, LANDSCAPED WITH INPUT FROM CELEBRITY DESIGNER DIARMUID GAVIN, VINE HOUSE IS WAITING TO BE SAMPLED
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“When you drive through the gates at the end of a busy day, park the car, grab a coffee and take it out to the terrace, it is like living in a remote paradise.”
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or Christian and Ulli Kaiser, living at Vine House with its quiet setting and swimming pool complex has been akin to living in a remote paradise. “When you drive through the gates at the end of a busy day, park the car, grab a coffee and take it out to the terrace, it is like living on an island,” said Ulli. With parts of the house dating back to 1760, the Georgian influence is apparent in the large rooms which have high ceilings. “The house is quietly elegant without being at all pompous and its original features blend beautifully with its contemporary styling,” she said. SPACE ABOUND But it is not only the gentle pace of life that their Worplesdon home has afforded them, they have also delighted in the spaciousness of the house and the openness of its grounds. Boasting seven bedrooms and four reception rooms, Vine House also has its own swimming pool and leisure complex, where the seventh bedroom and store room provide ideal accommodation for visiting guests or for staff. And the wonderful, landscaped gardens have been created in consultation with well-known garden designer Diarmuid Gavin. Winter 2010/11 Fine 37
“I had many of the rooms painted white to enhance the space and added splashes of colour through the soft furnishings.”
RESTORATION ERA The couple moved their family to the house nine years ago and have since made their own mark on the property. They extended it by building on the swimming pool and the adjoining guest suite. Built originally as a farmhouse, the house has exposed beams in the kitchen that are testament to its country style. The house was extended in 1870 and again in 2000. At one time it was used as a dormitory for the agricultural college nearby. “The house was taken on by a developer, who has taken great care in restoring many of its original features,” explained Ulli. Large sash windows, inglenook fireplaces, deep cupboards and shelving are plentiful in the house. ARTIST’S EYE Ulli, who has an artistic background, has delighted in designing the interior of the house. “I had many of the rooms painted white to enhance the space and added splashes of colour through the soft furnishings,” she said. The kitchen is totally bespoke with its Starck and Grohe fittings, and a wonderful separate dining space, it is a room the family have enjoyed hanging out in and entertaining. “On cosy winter evenings we have enjoyed gathering around the wood burner in the inglenook fireplace and toasting marshmallows,” she said. 38 Fine Winter 2010/1 1
ROOM WITH A VIEW The magnificent drawing room has provided the perfect setting for entertaining guests on more formal occasions, but the family tend to use what is effectively the dining room next to the kitchen, as their family room. Both Christian and Ulli have their own work rooms too and it was really Ulli’s study that sold the house to her. “I just love my room. The French windows open to the full width of the room and from there you can step out to the terrace and look right out across the gardens,” she said. Visitors step into a large, bright entrance hall, with wonderful wood flooring and a large wooden staircase which sweeps up before them. “I have placed seating in the hallway and at the top of the staircase there is a lantern which casts light down,” she said. PROPERTY DETAILS With parts dating back to around 1760, Vine House is a seven-bedroom home that offers the perfect blend of character and practicality. Later additions to the property provide beautifully proportioned rooms and inspirational views over the 4.2 acres (STMS) of gardens that create an idyllic setting.
Location Worplesdon Price £2,950,000 Property type Detached Character Home Contact Homes in Surrey 01483 346206
ADAPTABLE SPACES From its reception rooms to the beautiful bedrooms upstairs, they all have their own individual styling. The couple have absolutely loved living at Vine House, but with their family growing up and their needs changing, they have decided to sell. Ulli said: “We have had a wonderful time here and are very fortunate to have lived in such a lovely house.” Winter 2010/11 Fine 39
Woodland Cottage Broadstairs Price £675,000 Homes in Kent 01843 860180
Pool Britannia Leisure time is essential in our busy lives and many of us in Britain are now taking the plunge and opting for homes that come with their own swimming pools. Whether you fancy an indoor leisure complex that comes with a gym, sauna and steam room as well, or you would like to bask in the sunshine beside the water and enjoy the outdoors life, Fine can help you dive right in.
BARN DANCING
MY KINGDOM FOR A HORSE
POOL OF THOUGHT
Guide price £1,300,000
£5,275,000
£995,000
Jane and Bert Hunt love nothing more than putting on the music and throwing a party for friends at their beautifully converted barn, with its fabulous indoor pool
Dating back to the 16th Century and with some fascinating tales to tell, Six Tunnels, with its exquisite Elizabethan chimneys, is now a beautiful, modern day home
The owners of Hollydene House had the vision to transform it into a much loved, beautiful home with a swimming pool that is now the perfect place to unwind
Homes in Essex 01206 617155
Homes in Hertfordshire 01753 886177
Homes in Buckinghamshire 01753 886177
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THE CHOSEN ONE
THE BEAUTIFUL GAME
HOUSE OF DREAMS
£2,450,000
£3,750,000
Members of the family went to see it one by one – and each of them fell in love with Edgehill’s space and the pool area they knew would give them hours of pleasure
Shenda Maher and husband Richard built their stunning home in approximately 10 acres (STMS) of outstanding natural beauty – and have seen it used as a set for a major television show
£3,250,000 Taking an early morning swim, enjoying a film in the cinema room or relaxing on the terrace as the sun goes down Heywood House offers a lifestyle that is out of this world
Homes in Middlesex 01753 886177
Homes in Hertfordshire 020 8504 0977
Homes in West Essex 020 8504 0977
A TRUE EPIC
AMERICAN DREAM
PALACE IN WONDERLAND
POA With its own tale to tell, glorious Cromarty is about to start a new chapter as its story with its current owner draws to a close with a happy ending
£3,500,000
Guide price £3,500,000
Set in grounds that boast 200-year-old oak trees, and based on a home owned by US tycoon Donald Trump, Eamonn Ryan’s house is everything he dreamed it would be
With stunning views over beautiful Wollaton Hall, Guy Phoenix knew this was where he wanted to build a palace of dreams quite unlike any other home in the area
Homes in West Essex 020 8504 0977
Homes in Essex 01206 617155
Homes in Nottinghamshire 0115 981 4509
FAMILY MATTERS
DIVINE INSPIRATION
WHOLE IN ONE
OIRO £1,800,000
OIRO £1,500,000
OIRO £1,600,000
With its fairytale approach, delightful setting and fantastic accommodation, Rectory Grange, which has an indoor swimming pool and stables, is a home with a soul
Watching the children play in the pool while enjoying glorious valley views, Anthony and Linda Leaper feel their five-bedroom house is everything a family home should be
The owners of imposing Cherry Trees had always dreamed of living beside a golf course so the impressive Georgian-style house was their perfect home
Homes in Buckinghamshire 01908 969129
Homes in Bedfordshire 01908 969129
Homes in Oxfordshire 01604 949086
A FINE VINTAGE
LIVING THE DREAM
THE ART OF LIVING
£2,950,000
£2,750,000
£4,950,000
With its elegant features, exquisite interior and beautiful gardens, landscaped with input from celebrity designer Diarmuid Gavin, Vine House is waiting to be sampled
Imposing Arts and Crafts home Walcot has been restored to its former period glory and given a sumptuous, comfortable interior perfectly suited to modern day living
Inspired by the grandeur of some great design classics, Mark Harris, the owner of stunning Lulworth has brought magnificent style into his thatched property
Homes in Surrey 01483 346206
Homes in Kent 01892 458931
Homes in Kent 01689 638452
Winter 2010/11 Fine 41
for your eyes only WITH BEAUTIFUL GROUNDS, A STUNNING INTERIOR, SEPARATE BUNGALOW AND AN UNDERGROUND RIFLE RANGE, EXQUISITE TRINCO HOUSE COULD BE THE BACKDROP TO A SCENE ON THE SILVER SCREEN 42 Fine Winter 2010/1 1
“This is an amazing location – we sit out in the evening and we enjoy the sweeping views and the peace, as we watch the sun set.”
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laying with friends in the snooker room or walking through their grounds on a summer’s evening, life at Trinco House has offered its current owners comfort, style and fabulous leisure opportunities. Set against rolling hills, the property has an almost magical quality, and would not be out of place as a backdrop to a scenic film or even as a home to a movie star. “We believe it was built in late Victorian times and was bought by a Russian farmer who named it after his home village,” explained one of the owners. “After buying it we completely renovated and modernised Trinco House giving it a bright, 21st Century interior.” Today, as well as the main house, Trinco also features a three-bedroom annexe with gym, a separate bungalow, detached workshop and a coach house, which could become further accommodation, an office or stables. “It also has a full 25m underground shooting range!” he added. LIVING WITH DAYLIGHT The main house is now well laid-out, with appealing, carefully designed, light-filled spaces. “It is a beautiful, up-to-the-mark home,” he explained. “There are features such as a bespoke, high specification kitchen.” He continued “The kitchen is, in fact, very much the heart of the home, with its bespoke cabinets and modern appliances.” Other highlights of the home are its snooker room, where the owners enjoy a game or two together at weekends, and the barbecue area outside, where they would entertain friends. Winter 2010/11 Fine 43
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“We renovated it completely, redecorating and modernising it, and giving it a bright, 21st Century interior.” YOU ONLY LIVE ONCE “The main bathroom is a wonderful place to relax” said the owner, “and the second sitting room is invaluable when you have guests”. The three double bedroom annexe is also frequently used by the owners. Here they have their large gym area and games room, where they work out and play table tennis. SPACE IS MORE THAN ENOUGH The annexe also features a drawing room, hall, kitchen dining room and large bathroom. This has been perfect as a guest suite for visiting friends. “It was also ideal
because we were able to stay here while we were renovating the main house,” the owner explained. “It was extremely comfortable.” A further one-bedroom bungalow, with its own lounge, kitchen dining room and bathroom, provides yet more self-catering space. This would be ideal for staff or for extended family members. A VIEW TO A THRILL Nestled in approximately 2.2 acres of land (STMS), Trinco House offers privacy and seclusion. From inside and outside the house, the owners always feel close to the beautiful countryside around them. “The location
here is amazing. There is enough land here to ensure total privacy but not so much that it is difficult to look after,” he said. “We love the outlook over our own grounds and the countryside. On three sides we have views that sweep across the valleys. “There is nothing we enjoy more than sitting out with our friends and family, having a barbecue and watching the sun set.” And he added: “This is a special place and we will look back on our time here with wonderful memories. We have been very happy here.”
PROPERTY DETAILS Set in just under 2.2 acres (STMS), Trinco House enjoys the seclusion of its delightful location being situated on the outskirts of the small village of Penhow. Refurbished throughout, the spacious and contemporary living accommodation incorporates six bedrooms, four en-suites, an impressive gym/games room, snooker room plus a threebedroom annexe. Outside, there are expansive gardens and garaging for five cars. Location Penhow Price £2,300,000
Property type Modern Mansion House Contact Homes in South Wales 02921 159148
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“I guess the fact it is just oozing historical charm is the reason the house has been in such demand as a location.�
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LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION A MAGNIFICENT 16th CENTURY PROPERTY WITH GOTHIC STYLING, BEAUTIFUL BLACK PARK COTTAGE HAS BEEN USED AS A PICTURESQUE SETTING FOR MANY TELEVISION SERIES AND MUSIC VIDEOS
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t featured in the very first Midsomer Murders, as well as programmes such as Spooks, Waking the Dead, The Professionals and Dr Who - and it is where the piano Frank Sinatra famously played at the Savoy can be found. But for Noreen Cullen and Adrian Burns, it is home. Situated in the woodland of Black Park itself, used as a filming location for many films such as Harry Potter and James Bond, the couple, who are both musicians, fell in love with Black Park Cottage as soon as they saw it. Of all the splendid rooms in their magnificent home, they remember the impact of its impressive, galleried
hall the most – a space they still relish today. “It’s not just an entrance to the house, but a room that we like to eat and play music in,” said Noreen. “I love the galleried stairway and the large open fire. It just has great ambience, is a lovely space for entertaining and great for putting up a very tall Christmas tree.” IN LIGHTS The village’s claim to fame is that it has a number of famous residents including big Hollywood names – and just the other side of Black Park is Pinewood Studios, so
seeing famous faces around the place is not unusual. The cottage itself has been used numerous times as a location for a variety of films and television series. “It’s nice to have celebrities wandering around the house, and to also get paid well for the privilege!” she added. TUDOR FEATURES Despite having stood for centuries as the only residence within Black Park, the property includes a host of modern appliances and storage areas, all cleverly hidden away behind exquisite gothic panelling. Winter 2010/11 Fine 47
“We do like having friends over and we have designed the house to make it easy to have lots of people here.�
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Materials including reclaimed wood from a variety of sources, such as King’s College, Cambridge, have helped turn it into an impressive home. “We probably spent about two and a half years renovating the house and it really is something quite special now,” said Noreen. “It has lots of beams and we decided to restore it to its original condition.” MEDIEVAL AMBIENCE The accommodation is set over three floors and leading from the mightily impressive entrance hall, which boasts a 12ft marble fireplace, is the kitchen/breakfast room. Beautiful, period oak panelling has been fitted throughout the rooms offering plenty of concealed storage space. “Along with the stone work tops, butler sink, York stone flooring, Aga and inglenook fireplace, there is also panelling in the kitchen,” she said. “It really has a medieval feel to it.”
THEIR WAY To create one, large, living space, the couple opened two rooms into one, to provide a formal dining area in one half and in the other a music room. “This space is what you would call the drawing room, but as we are both musicians, we often have other musicians over to play with us. We keep all our instruments in here and it is where we like to hang out.” Taking pride of place is the grand piano which the couple purchased at auction and has the tag of the “world’s most famous piano.” This was once a feature at the recently reopened Savoy Hotel – and was where “Ol Blue Eyes” would famously play when he visited. PARTY HOME To make it easy for entertaining, there are double doors that open out on one side to a terrace featuring a large
pond and waterfall; and on the other side of the room to the outside there is a covered entertaining area, which has its own built-in bar and barbecue. “This is very much a party house,” she said. “We do like having friends over and we have designed the house to make it easy to have lots of people here.” PAMPERING SPOT Across a small gravelled area is the pavilion which houses a purpose-built gym. “People think we are crazy selling the house,” said Noreen. “But we are just ready for a change and want something that has a little bit more land with it. We will be sad to leave here, especially after all the hard work we have put in transforming the place, as it really is something quite special.”
PROPERTY DETAILS The only private residence within the beautiful location of Black Park Country Park. Surrounded by 530 acres (STMS) of attractive woodland, grassland and heathland. A rare opportunity to find a period cottage enjoying so much privacy. Completely renovated throughout. The property is both unlisted and unaltered thus still providing enormous potential to extend (STPP).
Location Fulmer Price Guide price £2,000,000 Property type 16th Century Home Contact Homes in Buckinghamshire 01753 886177
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THE
GREAT ESCAPE They fell in love with its 1600’S charm, and since then have transformed outbuildings and added stables and an indoor pool to create their own private 10-acre world
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“I loved all the old barns and buildings that came with the property, as well as the cottage-style of the main house itself.”
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alking out to see the horses and donkey early in the morning, the owner of Abbotts Hall Farm surveys his estate. He has spent the past five years transforming his Grade II Listed home, making it into an equestrian property, complete with indoor swimming pool, for all his family to enjoy. “It has worked very well for us. The stables can be kept completely separate from the house but it is also nice to have them close by,” he said. “We have loved the ‘olde worlde’ charm of the place, as well as having everything we need right here.” HISTORIC APPEAL Abbotts Hall Farm, which is thought to date back about 400 years, is believed to have once been attached to a monastery. The current owner admits he was attracted to its historic character but its possibilities
for a comfortable, modern lifestyle were also greatly appealing. “I loved all the old barns and buildings that came with the property, as well as the cottage-style of the main house itself,” he said. “With its weatherboarding and open fireplaces, it had a lot of charm.” ORIGINAL FEATURES Since moving in, he has completely renovated the main farmhouse. Today, with much of its original timber and brickwork revealed, it still embodies a great sense of its past while holding huge appeal as a welcoming and relaxing home. Through careful updating and beautiful additions, the owner has managed to make the most of the original features while also rendering his home a comfortable place to spend time with family and friends. “We brought in a new kitchen and gave the house new bathrooms,” he said. “The whole house was redecorated throughout, with oak flooring and carpets laid.” Winter 2010/11 Fine 51
WINTER WONDER With its open plan kitchen and dining area, Abbotts Hall Farm is a superb family home, he said. In the summer, the family spend time outside and beside the pool. In the winter, they light the wood-burner and settle down in its cosy glow. “With the oak floors, beautiful beams and fireplaces, the house is lovely in the winter,” he said. During the day, the kitchen is a busy hub of activity while, in the evening, the adults enjoy relaxing quietly in the drawing room. “The whole house feels very quiet and secluded yet at the same time it is a great place to have parties,” he added. PERFECT PLACE The children have relished the freedom that life at Abbotts Hall Farm has given them. With open space
and the countryside on their doorstep, they have also had everything they need to entertain them right at home. “The kids love the indoor swimming pool, and use it a lot,” he said. “It opens out on to the garden, which is nice in summer and great for parties.” LEISURE AND PLEASURE With beautiful views all around, and so many outbuildings, the property has huge potential for all sorts of uses, said the owner. His family have enjoyed being able to keep their horses and donkey so close to home, but for others different leisure pursuits could be enjoyed here. “When we leave I will miss the beautiful house and the lovely setting,” he said. “It is just so peaceful here.”
“The stables can be kept completely separate from the house but it is also nice to have them close by.” “The stables can be kept completely separate from the house but it is also nice to have them close by.”
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PROPERTY DETAILS Sitting in a plot of approximately 10.5 acres (STMS) and surrounded by beautiful countryside, this outstanding Grade II Listed farmhouse combines charm and character with spacious accommodation. Ideal for equestrian pursuits, there are nine stables, a manĂŠge and paddocks, plus a separate two-bedroom annexe/bungalow.
Location Barling Magna Price OIEO ÂŁ2,000,000 Property type Country Farmhouse Contact Homes in Essex 01702 826037
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Divine Inspiration WITH ITS FAIRYTALE APPROACH, DELIGHTFUL SETTING AND FANTASTIC ACCOMMODATION, RECTORY GRANGE, WHICH HAS AN INDOOR SWIMMING POOL AND STABLES, IS A HOME WITH A SOUL
I
t was 13 years ago that the owners of Rectory Grange first stepped into the property that was to become their new home. And even then they knew it was something special. Since those days, they have more than doubled the house in size and added a range of features, including an indoor swimming pool that is almost 50ft long. Now the property makes the most fantastic family home, somewhere with something for everyone to enjoy. “This house was always somewhere special. Now we have improved it further and turned it into somewhere that suits us,” said the owner.
“We wanted to be able to come in from work, school or riding and to find ourselves in the warmth of the house immediately.”
SPLENDID ISOLATION Dating back to the early 20th Century, the property has been home to the current owners for 13 years now. They were first drawn to the house for its tranquil location. “The house is in splendid isolation. It is close to motorway links and to Milton Keynes yet it is like being in the middle of an oasis. We just loved the sense of peace it had,” he said. “You come down a very long drive towards the house and it is like approaching a fairy castle.” SUMPTUOUS HOME Since moving into the house, the owners have carried out a variety of careful extensions that work beautifully together to create their sumptuous, six-bedroom, rural idyll. “We wanted to create a home that suited our lifestyle,” he explained. “Somewhere with plenty of space, an indoor pool and the riding facilities, but somewhere that was also
welcoming. We wanted to be able to come in from work, school or riding and to find ourselves in the warmth of the house immediately.” FAMILY KITCHEN The property now features a beautiful, bespoke, expansive wooden kitchen where the family come together to prepare meals, eat and catch up after their busy days. “This is the heart of the home, this is where everything happens,” he said. “We all tend to come straight into the kitchen when we arrive home.” He continued: “The bedrooms are also nice. We have the master suite on one side of the house and the children’s bedrooms on the other, with a great big hall in the middle. “The house is large enough that everyone can always spread out and find peace somewhere or other.” Other much-enjoyed features include the gym and the cinema room.
“There is also plenty of great hacking here. There are lots of great bridle paths. You can really ride out from the house in any direction.”
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PARTIES IN THE SUN The spacious home is perfect for entertaining all year round, said the owner. In the winter, guests arrive into the grand reception hall and flow on through into the spacious drawing room. In the summer, barbecues are held outside with guests relaxing in the sunshine as they take in the fabulous views. “We do tend to entertain more in the summer than in the winter,” he said. “But this is a wonderfully sunny house both outside and in all year round.” A SPECIAL HOME With a brook that runs round the property and plenty of wildlife to spot, the owners enjoy strolling round their seven acres (STMS) at the weekend. “I will miss the serenity of this place and being close to nature so much when we go,” said the owner. “There is something very different about this house and I don’t think we will ever find anywhere like it again.” And he added: “This place is special - it is a house with a soul.”
PROPERTY DETAILS Surrounded by beautiful grounds that incorporate a helipad, this sumptuous six-bedroom home is accessed via large electric gates that open to an impressive drive and turning circle. The luxurious interiors include a bespoke kitchen, gym, cinema room, grand reception hall and indoor heated swimming pool, while the house enjoys a private and rural setting with approximately seven acres (STMS) of land.
Location Emberton, Nr Olney Price OIRO £1,800,000 Property type Detached Home Contact Homes in Buckinghamshire 01908 969129 Winter 2010/11 Fine 57
“My wife lives in the conservatory, which is south-facing. It is lovely because there is a flow straight out of the kitchen into the conservatory.� 58 Fine Winter 2010/1 1
Tree of Life IT HAS BEEN 23 YEARS SINCE THE JONESES FIRST WENT TO VIEW THEIR GRADE II LISTED HOME AND DISCOVERED A FABULOUS PERIOD PROPERTY WITH A SPLENDID CEDAR TREE IN THE GROUNDS
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trolling across the lawn towards their magnificent 200 year-old cedar tree, Jeremy and Laura Jones take in the wonderful serenity of their beautiful property. When they first visited the substantial house, which dates back to the 1670s but has exquisite Georgian additions, they realised it had incredible potential. Today it is a splendid example of a six/seven-bedroom country home, with sumptuous rooms and magnificent period features. The grounds of just more than two acres are beautiful, and the gate cottage, which is now let out, serves as a self-contained annexe. “The position of this house is fabulous and we realised it would be a wonderful place to live,” said Jeremy. “And it has been everything we hoped it would be – in many ways, it has been the rock on which our family has been built.” FORMER GLORY It was 23 years ago that the couple took on the Grade II Listed property. Jeremy, whose family lived at Castle Donington, knew it as a notable house of the area. “There are three distinct periods in its architecture,” he explained. “It was built in the 1670s, then extended and squared off in Georgian times before being ‘Jonesified’ by us in the late 1980s and early 1990s.” Winter 2010/11 Fine 59
This process saw the couple work their way through the house, room by room, slowly restoring it to its former glory. “We also added a new kitchen and conservatory, and built out into the first part of our outbuildings to create offices downstairs and a bar and snooker room upstairs,” he remembered. SUMPTUOUS STYLE Today, an exquisite example of a country home, the house offers modern day comforts combined with the sumptuous style of its past. Favourite rooms include the elegant conservatory and music room areas, where the couple’s daughter plays the grand piano and flute. “My wife lives in the conservatory, which is south-facing. It is lovely because there is a flow straight out of the kitchen into the conservatory and then into the music room. It is superb in the summer when the doors on to the garden are open as well,” he said. “I also like the snug, where I go to watch sport, and the fabulous cellars we have, where we keep the wine.” 60 Fine Winter 2010/1 1
PLACE TO ENTERTAIN The Cedar is just perfect for entertaining, he went on. The opulent drawing and dining rooms, which feature designer wallpapers and fabrics from the likes of Osborne and Little and Jane Churchill, have seen numerous formal occasions over the years. \“We have done a lot of great entertaining here over the years, hosting up to 400 or 500 people for weddings, 18th birthdays, 21sts and 50ths. We have had a marquee up too, which makes it a massive entertaining home,” he said. COUNTRY RETREAT Upstairs, the feeling of luxurious comfort continues, with a four-poster master bedroom and bathrooms featuring roll-top baths. “Five of the bedrooms are on the first floor,” explained Jeremy. “There were two more rooms on the top floor that we converted into a bedroom and entertainment room for my daughter when she was 16. It was great because she could make as much noise as
she wanted up there.” Indeed, the children have relished growing up at The Cedar, he said. Now as adults they enjoy returning as often as possible with their friends. “The children consider it to be their country retreat, I know they will miss it when we move,” he said. And he added: “We are dreading moving as well. We know we will miss everything here, from the wonderful house through to the beautiful gardens, with the pond and the fish, and, of course, the tree.”
“Today, an exquisite example of a country home, the house offers modern day comforts combined with the sumptuous style of its past.”
PROPERTY DETAILS Commanding and elegant, this Grade II Listed home is nestled in approximately two acres of manicured grounds. The striking architecture is indicative of what lies within where the striking accommodation includes six/seven bedrooms and a beautiful conservatory. Amid the grounds there is also a detached two-bedroom cottage. Location Castle Donington Price Guide price £1,700,000 Property type Detached Country Home Contact Homes in Derbyshire 0115 9814509
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Mogul’s Mansion
ONCE OWNED BY BRITAIN’S FIRST PRESS BARON, NORTHCLIFFE WAS AN IMPOSING HOME THAT DESERVED TO BE RESTORED TO ITS FORMER GLORY AND TRANSFORMED INTO A MODERN DAY XANADU
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ucked away in splendid seclusion, and dating back to Tudor times, handsome Northcliffe, with its beautiful features, was immediately appealing to Adrian Howson-Ball. He knew its colourful history as the former home of Britain’s own Citizen Kane, Sir Alfred Harmsworth, founder of the Daily Mail and Daily Mirror. The man who was also credited with rescuing The Times and The Observer had relished his Broadstairs retreat, keeping his famed collection of alligators here and once apparently narrowly missing being shelled by a German U-boat when Churchill came to visit. “When I bought it, the house had been divided into three pieces. I bought each section as it became available and brought it all back together again,” said Adrian.
“Stretching to around two acres in size, the beautifully landscaped gardens at Northcliffe hold an aura of quiet seclusion.” Winter 2010/11 Fine 63
BEAUTIFUL HOME Originally known in its entirety as Elmwood House, the building was overflowing with great possibilities, said Adrian. He bought the middle section, Northcliffe, first, then over the following years, the wings known as Elmwood and Holm Oak, on either side. “The house is very secluded – no-one can ever find it. I liked its vaulted ceilings and panelled bar area, and the fact it is just a quarter of a mile from the beach,” he said. “It was a beautiful property and although it needed work, I could see its potential.” PERIOD HOME Renovation on the Grade II Listed home took place in careful phases, with Adrian paying attention to every last detail. “One of the great things was that a lot of the rooms had been left, with features just boarded over,” he explained. “We pulled the boards off and discovered open fireplaces in many rooms, for example.” Much of the house has since been furnished with antiques and items bought at auction. Period items were sourced to replace fittings that had been removed. Today, the library, with its great vaulted ceiling, makes the perfect place for a full-size snooker table. And the bar area, which is panelled, is superb for entertaining. “It is almost like a small English tavern in there,” he said. 64 Fine Winter 2010/1 1
“Whichever room you sit in during the winter, you can have a fire in.”
FAMILY LIVING Despite its grandeur and heavily traditional interior, the expansive home retains an air of warmth. “The kitchen is very nice, for example. It has an older style with made-tomeasure units and a Mrs Beeton-like cook’s table in the centre,” he said. “This is a good family home – the perfect place to bring up children.” And he went on: “When you walk into the house there is a very welcoming feeling. It is also a very comfortable house in which to live. Whichever room you sit in during the winter, you can have a fire.”
PROPERTY DETAILS An impressive Grade II Listed period home set in grounds of approximately two acres (STMS). Amid the beautifully presented accommodation there are eleven bedrooms, five reception rooms, a snooker room, self-contained two-bedroom flat plus pool house with hot tub. Location Broadstairs Price £1,600,000 Property type Impressive Period Home Contact Homes in Kent 01843 860180
HOUSE OF LEISURE Yet Northcliffe is also a home into which guests can be welcomed as well as family. With up to 11 bedrooms, there is plenty of space. “The master bedroom is particularly nice. This is large enough for a four poster bed and has an attractive fireplace,” said Adrian. “It has pretty sash windows that look out over the main part of the garden and the swimming pool.” With its magnificent outdoor swimming pool and glass-ceilinged hot tub room, Adrian has restored a sense of leisure, opulence and glorious relaxation to Northcliffe. “This is a wonderful house and I have enjoyed putting everything back into it again,” he said. “It has been a lovely place to live – and I am sure there is someone else who will enjoy it as much as I have.” Winter 2010/11 Fine 65
STILL WATERS FROM THEIR EXPANSIVE FAMILY HOME AT THE HEART OF THE BEAUTIFUL NORFOLK BROADS, MAGGIE AND STEVE BRUNDLE ENJOY STUNNING SCENERY AND FABULOUS TRANQUILLITY
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alking through their gardens of more than six acres (STMS), Maggie and Steve Brundle catch sight of deer in the woodland and kingfishers overhead. In the 10 years they have spent at Little Holland in Ludham, they have created a substantial family home to enjoy and gardens where they can relax and make the most of their leisure time. With eight bedrooms and five reception rooms, there is plenty of space for both family and friends. And with an annexe, guest suite and outbuildings that have been made into a play area, snooker room and office, as well as a tennis court and their own private slipways to The Broads, the property has given them a simply idyllic lifestyle. “This is an incredible place to live. It has so much to offer and, overlooking the river, it is in such a beautiful spot,” said Steve.
“What we have here really is unique. It is in a beautiful location and offers a wonderful lifestyle.”
THE BEAUTIFUL BROADS The family, who have always loved the beauty of the Norfolk Broads, were originally looking for a holiday home. But when they saw Little Holland they were tempted to make a life-changing move. “When we were first saw this place we just loved its grounds but thought it would be too much to look after at weekends only. Then we realised that with the different stages the children were at it would actually be possible to move up here properly – so we did,” said Maggie. The house, which dates back to 1912, had just three bedrooms at the time so they set about transforming it. “We began by developing the house and then moved on to the outbuildings,” she added. “We added an annexe and extra bedrooms for the children.” Winter 2010/11 Fine 67
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“On warm days we sit and watch the water and in the evenings we enjoy the most magnificent night time skies.” FABULOUS FAMILY HOME The aim, she stressed, was to create a substantial home in the magnificent setting that would offer plenty of space for Maggie and Steve, Maggie’s parents, the children and the dogs. “It really is a lovely family home now that has a friendly feel to it as soon as you come in,” she said. “It has also been great for entertaining. At Christmas time it is a wonderful place for everyone to come home to. “We have held my mother’s 80th birthday party here and my 50th. It is lovely when we have parties outside in the summer.” LIGHT SPACES The house itself has a simple yet stylish interior. Rooms are of generous proportions and are light and bright. Spaces have been painted in carefully chosen Farrow & Ball shades. “I love the kitchen and open plan area at the back of the house. There are a couple of seating areas here where you can sit and look out over the River Ant. This is a fantastic family space, which catches the sun all day,”
said Maggie. The drawing room, another large space, is a superb room to come back to after a long winter walk when the log fire is roaring. The conservatory, which has a wood-burner, is another space that is greatly enjoyed all year round. UNIQUE LIFESTYLE With the annexe, which has been ideal for Maggie’s parents, the office, that has made working from home easy, and the games areas, which have been great leisure spaces for adults, children and teenagers alike, Little Holland has offered its own idyllic world. “It is like being permanently on holiday,” said Steve. “Being close to The Broads is wonderful if you enjoy spending time on the water. We have mooring space for lots of boats here and have developed the quay and created a water lodge. “This is such an incredible place to live. It has been lovely for the children and wonderful for us. What we have here really is unique. It is in a beautiful location and offers a wonderful lifestyle.”
PROPERTY DETAILS From its idyllic Norfolk Broads setting to the 6.5 acres (STMS) of grounds that surround it. This wonderful Edwardian home, originally built in 1912, is beautifully presented with eight bedrooms including a two-bedroom annexe, guest suite and river lodge. Location Ludham Price OIEO £1,500,000
Property type Waterside Home Contact Homes in Norfolk 01603 622017
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SILK FABRICS James Hare silk fabrics bring you the finest in English design and quality. Our favourites are from the new Natural Look Collection Volume 4. Prices from: £18 - £59 per metre (RRP) www.james-hare.com
ARAN DINING TABLE Italian furniture designer Cattelan Italia have brought us this Aran dining table topped with walnut canaletto. £2,215 www.cattelanitalia.com
favourite things. A FEW OF OUR
FROM ACCESSORIES AND FURNITURE TO KITCHEN DESIGNERS AND FABRIC ,WE HAVE HAND-PICKED A FEW OF OUR FAVOURITE INTERIOR BITS AND PIECES TO GIVE YOU A HOST OF SHOW-STOPPING IDEAS AND INSPIRATION FOR YOUR HOME
BANTIE PARADIS CUSHION Bringing a little bit of fun into aesthetic design, Swedish print legends Bantie have shared their fun with us in this cute cushion. £75.00 www.bantie.se ALFONSE FLOOR LAMP Combining fired copper with bright gold, this Alfonse floor lamp oozes style and elegance. £1,739 www.portaromana.co.uk 70 Fine Winter 2010/1 1
VINTAGE ACCESSORIES From a classic oval painted mirror to individually hand embroidered felt hearts, add a touch of charm to the living area or bedroom. This range starts from just £5 for a set of three embroidered hearts. www.johnlewis.com
CHANDELIER For an elegant centrepiece, we love this chandelier detailed with beautiful silver satin shades. £4,072 www.portaromana.co.uk
PIED A TERRE CUSHIONS Use bold, textured cushions to add sparkle and texture to the room. The Autumn/Winter range from Pied a Terre is simply devine. Prices start from £25 www.houseoffraser.co.uk
SITTING ROOM FURNISHINGS This sitting room oozes style and class using contrasting tones and texture to create inviting depth. All furnishings by Casa Couture. Sofa £2,699. www.houseoffraser.co.uk
BEDSIDE TABLE Topped with white carrara marble, this Silenia Yndro round bedside table is simply stunning. £1,317 www.macandmacinteriors.com
SCHIFFINI KITCHENS We love the Mesa kitchen collection in matt white lacquer with a stainless steel work surface and splashback, designed by Alfredo Häberli featuring a random 3D design. Schiffini kitchens start at £25,000 exclusively from www.designspacelondon.com
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DAYS OF THE
RAJ
IT WAS THE GLORIOUSLY UNIQUE COLONIAL STYLE OF THE 1890’S HOUSE THAT FIRST ATTRACTED ALAN MANN TO THIS FABULOUS JEWEL IN PEBWORTH’S BEAUTIFUL CROWN
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“We have had murals of Indian scenes painted in the entrance hall and upstairs on to the landing.”
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andering out on to the veranda as the summer day draws to a close, Alan Mann can almost imagine that it is a balmy evening in India. The handsome seven-bedroom property that has been his home for more than 10 years certainly embodies a truly unique colonial style. With its sweeping staircase, magnificent entrance hall and veranda running round three sides it harks back to the days of the Raj and echoes some of the grand homes designed by the British in India. “It was built by a retired army officer Colonel Hallen, who had returned to Britain from India,” he explained. “It is quite unusual but it is the most wonderful place to live.” AN ENGLISH VIEW Pebworth Fields House sits in a stunning position that Alan still finds captivating even after all this time. “The location of this house is incredible. There are fields and woods as far as the eye can see, and from the front you can see the beginning of The Cotswolds,” he explains. “The views are unspoiled and extremely beautiful. We see deer running through the garden from time to time, and have spotted all three types of woodpecker. There are a million walks to go on and it is just fantastic if you like cycling. Yet at the same time it is a convenient place to live if you need to travel.” Winter 2010/11 Fine 73
“People often say this feels like a magical place, especially in summer. They say coming here is like going on holiday!�
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PASSAGE TO INDIA The 1890’s home is impressive inside and out. And the family have carried out “extensive” work to keep it of a high standard. The imposing entrance hall, with its sweeping staircase and tessellated floor tiles, makes an immediate impact, its careful decoration echoing the grand colonial villas of Asia. “We have had murals of Indian scenes painted in the entrance hall and upstairs on to the landing,” said Alan. “We wanted to keep the décor in context with the house itself.” Period features, such as covings, ceiling roses and fireplaces have been enhanced and where replacements, such as the ebony door furnishings, have had to be replaced, the Manns have been careful to replicate original style.
INDIAN SUMMERS With its large windows and high ceilings, the house is airy throughout. French windows in the ground floor rooms open on to the garden, making it easy for the family and their guests to wander in and out. “I particularly like the drawing room. It is such a light, calm room, it is lovely looking out on to the garden and just settling back to read the papers or to write in the tranquillity,” said Alan. “The master bedroom is another lovely room. This faces both southerly and easterly so it catches the early morning sun. It is a joy to wake up in there.” Guests enjoy staying right at the top of the house, from where they can enjoy a spectacular view out across the
countryside. “We find it hard to get them down again once they have been up there!” he added. MAGICAL HOME The house is great for entertaining, he went on. It has numerous reception rooms, from which, in the summer, guests enjoy spilling out on to the wrought-iron veranda or out into the pretty garden. The family hold picnics in the grounds and lunch parties out on the lawn. “People often say this feels like a magical place, especially in summer. They say coming here is like going on holiday!” Alan said. And he added: “This house is eccentric but quite charming. As soon as I saw it I knew I wanted to live here. It is very special indeed.”
PROPERTY DETAILS Pebworth Fields House is a substantial ‘Colonial Style’ country home dating back to around 1890 and situated on a plot of approximately 12 acres (STMS). Having undergone sympathetic restoration over recent years the accommodation is arranged over four floors and offers seven bedrooms, five reception rooms, outbuildings and beautiful landscaped gardens.
Location Pebworth Price Guide price £1,500,000 Property type Country Home Contact Homes in Warwickshire 01604 949086
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WRITTEN in the
STARS With two beautiful homes, a health spa and pool, as well as top class equestrian facilities, the sky is the limit when it comes to living a life of luxury on The Willow Estate
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fter months of hard work, they now enjoy two fully renovated and carefully modernised detached homes. They live in the fourbedroom top of the range Willowholme, and run the neighbouring three-bedroom Willowdene as a successful holiday-letting business where guests love the fusion of indulgent style and original 1920s features. With horses in the four paddocks, lakes, well-kept gardens and a luxury feel extending from the steam room and sauna to the heated pool, there’s truly something special about living here, according to the owner. “It is just wonderful. It is so beautiful and everything is finished to such a high standard it’s like having your own piece of perfection, whilst still feeling like home.”
Sense of Style “With top quality materials and craftsmanship throughout, both modern homes offer all the comforts imaginable” said the current owner, who has combined top of the range fittings, lighting and hi-tech solutions with an abundance of natural materials. As sunlight streams in, highlighting the handmade oak stairs, doors and floors, as well as Italian stone floors of Willowholme, one cannot miss the distinctly contemporary country feel.
“After months of hard work, they now enjoy two fully renovated and carefully modernised detached homes.”
Twice the Life While Willowholme has a contemporary feel, Willowdene retains charming original features with its luxury update. The house seems to adapt to the changing seasons too, with the drawing room being a Winter 2010/11 Fine 77
“Stepping into a luxury hot tub, diving into the pool, or lying back and enjoying the heat of the sauna and steam room are true delights here.�
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cosy spot to head to in the winter, and the spacious conservatory, with its view of the garden, being particularly wonderful in the summer. Socialise in Style Parties are very popular on The Willow Estate, with family and friends always dropping in to sit and chat in the kitchen, sunbathe by the pool or share a glass or two of bubbly in the hot tub. “Everyone feels at home, whatever the time of year; and our winter hot tub and pool parties are fantastic.” As well as being a great home, The Willow Estate is a business for the family, too. At Willowdene there is an ongoing stream of happy holidaymakers who love its style and setting, and there is great demand for horses at livery too. “This property is wonderful for a family, a sociable couple, an investment or business opportunity – it satisfies a fantastic diverse range of requirements”
Property details Set in the beautiful countryside of East Sussex and boasting rural and sea views, The Willow Estate offers a unique setting and immeasurable style. Amid the nine acres of grounds (STMS) there are two stunning detached homes, heated swimming pool, spa complex, stables and outbuilding, making it ideal for equestrian pursuits. Location Bexhill-on-Sea Type of house Two Beautiful Detached Homes Price Guide price £1,300,000 - £1,500,000 Contact Homes in East Sussex 01892 458931 Winter 2010/11 Fine 79
high society SET IN SOUGHT-AFTER MAPPERLEY PARK, WITH A SUMPTUOUS INTERIOR AND EXQUISITE CIRCULAR DESIGN FEATURES, CEDAR HEIGHTS IS ANOTHER OF GUY PHOENIX’S BEAUTIFUL CREATIONS
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“It is an extremely comfortable and sociable house, which has a great summer feel but is also cosy in winter.”
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elaxing in the opulent master bedroom, indulging in the view into his aquarium, Guy Phoenix has relished the comfort and luxury of life at Cedar Heights. The property developer, who is renowned for his cutting edge and high-end homes, has spent the last three years enjoying life at the Mapperley Park home himself. “This is a very family-oriented home. It is open plan in many areas and so offers very easy living. It is an extremely comfortable and sociable house, which has a great summer feel but is also cosy in winter,” he said. The house, which features the circular shapes Guy loves so much, encompasses a gym, sauna and steam room, as well as expansive living spaces and sumptuous bathrooms and bedrooms. “It is also in a fabulous location, just five minutes from the city but it feels as if you are living in the countryside,” he added. SUMPTUOUS SPACES The family have lived in the house Guy built for nearly three years now, and have relished the comfort it has offered them. “I love the master bedroom. It has a very nice feel to it and lovely views on to the aquarium,” he said. Winter 2010/11 Fine 81
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“This is a very family-oriented home. It is open plan in many areas and so offers very easy living.”
“This has been used for sharks before but the new owners will be able to choose whatever they like for it – perhaps a beautiful coral reef.” The bedroom also features an en-suite bathroom, with Italian hand-polished tiles, and stairs up to a galleried level with a dressing room. “The guest suite is also fantastic. This has its own comfortable seating area and ensuite bathroom,” he added. STYLISH CIRCLES With views from upstairs over the leafy surroundings, pretty rooftops and 18th Century turrets of surrounding buildings, the house feels light throughout. Port hole windows echo the circular theme in the interior features, such as the spiral staircase, galleried landings and breakfast bar. “There is also a circular children’s entertainment area. We have three small boys and this is a wonderful house for them,” he said. And he added: “With eight sets of French windows on to the garden they can go in and out as they please, and the garden is enclosed so it is safe.” PARTY HOUSE The house, which has been fitted with high definition televisions and music systems throughout, can also be opened up on to the decked area for entertaining. “The sun hits the deck first thing in the morning and then moves to the back in the evening. It has been wonderful having barbecues out on the decking – it’s great for entertaining too,” he said. In fact, he stressed, the whole house is ideal for welcoming guests into. The magnificent kitchen and the circular dining space have been the setting of many superb occasions, and the drawing room has been the perfect space for relaxing with friends over a glass of wine. “Because we have lots of half walls, the house feels very open, which does make it ideal for entertaining, and for spending time with the family,” he said. “We will take some wonderful memories with us when we leave. Living in this beautiful house, in this lovely conservation area so close to the city has been fabulous.”
PROPERTY DETAILS Set in a tree-lined avenue with gated entrance, lighting and fountains, this striking architect-designed home boasts split level open plan reception rooms that are designed to incorporate yet subtly separate each area. Additionally, there is a large office, gym and sauna, while the five bedrooms with dressing rooms and en-suite bathrooms lead off from a central circular galleried landing.
Location Nottingham Price OIRO £1,250,000 Property type Contemporary Family Home Contact Homes in Nottinghamshire 0115 9814509 Winter 2010/11 Fine 83
FOREVER ENGLAND
With its fragrant roses, beautiful lawns and Victorian greenhouse, 17th century The Hermitage is a quintessential English home, right in the heart of Constable Country
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ooking round the light-filled, detached studio, owner of The Hermitage, Lady Jane Barran, suggests her beautiful home would be the perfect place for anyone looking for creative inspiration. Located right in the heart of Constable Country, the views out over the beautiful rose garden are simply sublime and the tranquillity of the setting is just magnificent. “The studio would be fabulous for an artist as it has a northern skylight that fills it with light and all the doors and windows open up onto the garden,” she said. Lady Jane inherited the house from her father-in-law who bought it in the late 1950s. She said it has proved to be a fantastic home, much loved by the whole family,
especially the children who have found its many rooms and extensive gardens ideal for games of hide and seek. “The house is fabulous for entertaining. We’ve had several celebrations and parties here,” she said. “It’s an incredibly hospitable house. My husband was involved in the local cricket club and we’d often have up to about 100 people here for events.”
“With all the wonderful beamed rooms and open fireplaces, the house is brimming with character.”
SUPERB CHARACTER The six-bedroom Grade II Listed property, in the beautiful sought after village of East Bergholt, offers a fantastic opportunity for a new family to own an important and historic house. With all the wonderful
“The village has been voted one of the best places to live in the UK.”
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beamed rooms and open fireplaces, the house is brimming with character. “The dining room and the library are lovely with their traditional features,” she said. “The beams really make them come alive and the fireplaces make the house feel really cosy.” Five of the bedrooms are doubles, with one single bedroom, so there’s plenty of space for a large family or for guests. Another celebration was their daughter’s wedding, when a huge marquee was erected in the garden. At Christmas, the house has also really come into its own. The dining room comfortably seats 14 people and when lit by candles, with ivy decorating the beams, it can create a wonderful atmosphere. ROSE GARDEN The pretty kitchen is linked to the dining room by the utility room and all the rooms flow nicely into one another. There’s also a separate staircase leading up to a flat complete with its own bedroom and bathroom. “It would make a good room for an au-pair or older
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relatives who would like their own independence as although it’s part of the house - it provides a separate living area.” All the main reception rooms in the house benefit from having French windows which open out onto a terrace surrounded by the pretty rose garden with views further out across the land. There are even a couple of outbuildings that could be converted into stables if required. GARDEN LIFESTYLE The large drawing room is one of the rooms which opens out onto the garden. “The garden is such an important feature of the house - we’ve eaten and lived out there for most of the summers we’ve been here. It’s been a lovely lifestyle living at The Hermitage. It is in a brilliant village, it’s been in the family for years and it’s been an amazing home for us all. It’s a glorious house and it really has a lot of potential for the next family who would like to own such an important property.”
“The studio would be fabulous for an artist as it has a northern skylight that fills it with light.”
Property details A beautiful Grade II Listed 17th Century home, with stunning grounds that extend to approximately 2.1 acres (STMS) and a fabulous countryside surround. Internally, the spacious accommodation includes six bedrooms and five reception rooms.
Location East Bergholt Type of house 17th Century Home Price Guide price ÂŁ1,150,000 Contact Homes in Essex 01206 617155 Winter 2010/11 Fine 87
A TOUCH OF
CLASS BEAUTIFUL MILL FARM HOUSE HAS ALL ITS ORIGINAL CHARACTER BUT ITS INTERIOR DESIGNER OWNER HAS BROUGHT IN HER OWN VERY STYLISH TOUCHES
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elaxing in her 1620 home, Rachel Cooper admits she has transformed the character-filled property into a stylish home with very modern comforts. In fact, interior designer Rachel readily admits her favourite place in the stunning home is the fabulous new dressing room off the master bedroom suite. “I have a chair in the middle of the room and I like to just sit there for a while in the morning while I decide what I am going to wear,” she said. “It is absolutely my favourite place in the whole house.” The magnificent walk-in wardrobe has been hand built by renowned local cabinet maker Bryan Turner, who has also made the stunning, bespoke kitchen in the house. “It has been a lot of hard work making the changes to the house that we have, but it has also been very rewarding,” she said. Rachel and her family moved into the house in 2008. “We loved the house for its style, character and location. It is in a very secluded spot, well back from the road, and it really is a hidden gem,” she said. Although the front of the property is clearly Georgian, there is an original flint wall, which is believed to date back to the days of Cromwell. “We ended up doing a lot more to the house than we originally planned. We have extended it, removed interior walls and lowered all the floors at ground level,” explained Rachel. “However, we have done everything sympathetically to the age of the property.” Much of the beaming in the house had been painted, so Rachel and husband Grenville set about stripping it back to the natural wood. As an interior designer, Rachel’s impeccable taste is stamped on every room in the house. “I have thoroughly enjoyed choosing the colour schemes and the accessories to make each of the rooms stand out individually,” she said. 88 Fine Winter 2010/1 1
“The house is in a very secluded spot, well back from the road, and it really is a hidden gem.� Winter 2010/11 Fine 89
“We loved the house for its style, character and location.”
The fabulous kitchen always draws gasps of delight from visitors and it is easy to see why. The light cream cabinets blend beautifully with the beamed ceiling and the period styling has been given a very contemporary twist. The central work island is equipped with plenty of drawers and is a handy spot for Rachel’s daughter to do her homework. “She often sits at the island with her laptop while I am peeling the vegetables for tea,” said Rachel. The kitchen, which features a double Villey & Boch butler sink, is almost open plan forming an L-shape with the formal dining room, which the family use on a daily basis. “I am very much into having the cooking and eating spaces open so that when you have guests, no one feels left out,” said Rachel. The inviting drawing room with its two large, leather sofas swathed in cushions and nestled next to a brick, inglenook fireplace with wood burner, has been finished off with book shelving along one wall.
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The room’s soft tones and matching soft furnishings make it the ideal place to relax in. “The drawing room catches the sun in the afternoons and is a very cosy place to be,” she said. The conservatory, which was added on by previous owners, is another favourite space. “It is lovely to sit here and just take in the wonderful views of the gardens,” she added. Upstairs the four inspirational bedrooms, two of which have en-suite bathrooms have been decorated to a high standard. “I think a bedroom is a really important space and should be a place you can really relax in,” she said. “I very much like the styling in boutique hotels and that is what I have tried to convey in all of the bedrooms in the house.” Another eye-catching feature in the house is the open wooden staircase the couple have installed. “We will be sad to leave this house, but we are always looking to do another project, which is why we are selling,” said Rachel.
PROPERTY DETAILS Mill Farm House is an outstanding four-bedroom family home which has been sympathetically refurbished standing in beautiful landscaped grounds of approximately four acres (STMS) including a barn with full planning permission. Location Snetterton Price OIEO £1,000,000 Property type Farmhouse Contact Homes in Norfolk 01603 622017 Winter 2010/11 Fine 91
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on trend.
Lady Luxe
THIS SEASONS MOST WANTED STYLE IS TIMELESS ELEGANCE AND GLAMOUR. STRUCTURED TAILORING AND FIGURE SKIMMING DRESSES ACCENTUATE THE BEST OF THE FEMALE FORM, WHILE A FEW OLD FAVOURITES MAKE A LONG AWAITED COMEBACK. PENCIL SKIRTS, CAMEL COATS, TAILORED TROUSERS AND STATEMENT PIECES COMBINE IN A WIDE RANGE OF WONDERFULLY LUXURIOUS MATERIALS. A FUSION OF SILK, FUR, TWEED AND VELVET MAKE THIS SEASON THE MOST GLAMOROUS OF 2010. READ ON TO DELVE INTO THE SEASONS TOP TRENDS AND OUR FAVOURITE ESSENTIAL ITEMS TO UPDATE YOUR WINTER WARDROBE.
Blouse £60 Untold, necklace £25 Untold, faux fur jacket £75 Therapy, pencil skirt £120 Episode, clutch £150 Michael Kors, tights £15 Wolford. All at House of Fraser. www.houseoffraser.co.uk
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Cape £160 Esprit esprit.co.uk
Scarf £185 Pucci houseoffaser.co.uk
Dress £1,625 Herve Leger cruise.co.uk
minimalistperfection
This season, 90’s inspired minimalism has been reworked for the 21st Century by the elite of fashion. Be fuss-free, polished and poised. Replicating the style of the greatest fashion icons ever known - Katherine Hepburn, Grace Kelly and Carolyn Bessette Kennedy to name a few - 2010 adds a hint of modern elegance to times gone by. Grey, black, white, cream and camel utter simplicity as the core colours to pull off this trend. Think crisp white shirts, black tailored trousers and camel coats topped off with a splash of deep colour or a hint of luxe material.
Bag £1,100 Miu Miu cruise.co.uk
Best worn with barely-there make-up, simple hair and understated accessories, this season we get back to basics.
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Remember - perfect need not be boring. We have chosen our favourite perfect items of the season to whisper “glamour” to all those in ear shot.
Shoes £130 Carvela kurtgeiger.com
Nail Polish £14 Deborah Lippmann houseoffraser.co.uk
Cape £60 Great Plains greatplains.co.uk
Blazer £62 Esprit esprit.co.uk
Hairband £12 Accessorize accessorize.co.uk
Gilet £75 Monsoon monsoon.co.uk
Blouse £65 Mint Velvet mintvelvet.co.uk
COMPLEMENT THIS SEASONS ELEGANT STAPLES WITH THE ULTIMATE GLAMOUR HIT COMING STRAIGHT FROM LUXE FABRICS RANGING FROM FUR TO FEATHERS AND SILK TO SATIN. VENTURE INTO THE MOST FLOATY SHAPES AND EXPERIMENT WITH DEEP, LUXURIOUS COLOUR.
glamourhit
Top £75 Biba houseoffraser.co.uk
Skirt £80 French Connection frenchconnection.co.uk
Poncho £60, leggings £12.50, stacatto necklace £20 weave twist necklace £25 greatplains.co.uk
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allwrappedup... WE HAVE CHOSEN OUR TOP THREE COATS ON THE SHELVES RIGHT NOW SHOWCASING OUR FAVOURITE TRENDS THIS WINTER. Left to right: Cape £725 ralphlauren.com Coat £190 frenchconnection.co.uk, Coat £269 hobbs.co.uk
Dress £130 phaseeight.co.uk
Necklace £55 Hobbs hobbs.co.uk
Skirt £265 Milly cruise.co.uk
Coat £220, hat £25, shirt £65, cardigan £75. French Connection frenchconnection.co.uk
Shoes £95 Dune dune.co.uk
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Purse £145 Givenchy harveynichols.com
Dress £100 Biba houseoffraser.co.uk
Gloves £22 Accessorize accessorize.com
Shoes £95 Dune dune.co.uk
Blazer £45, skirt £37, Wallis wallis.co.uk
eleganttones.
OOZE SOPHISTICATION THIS SEASON BY TEAMING THE LADY-LIKE ELEGANCE OF FRESH TAILORING WITH TONES OF MOLTON GOLD, CAMEL, BLACK AND CREAM. ADD A SPLASH OF DEEP COLOUR WITH A CAREFULLY CHOSEN ACCESSORY AND TEAM WITH THIS SEASONS MUST-HAVE FOOTWEAR - LACE-UP HEELS AND PEEP TOE ANKLE BOOTS. THE STARS OF THIS SEASON ARE STAPLES FROM ICONIC STYLE ERAS, THINK ‘80s CAMEL COATS, ‘60s SHIFT DRESSES AND ‘40s CLOCHES.
Tunic £46 Wallis wallis.co.uk
Trousers £159 Hobbs hobbs.co.uk
Hat £26 Accessorize accessorize.co.uk
Jacket £615 Alexander Wang cruise.co.uk
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on trend. Winter Warmers THIS SEASON WRAP UP WARM WITH OUR PICK OF THREE TOP TRENDS. SHOWCASE THE BEST TRADITIONAL WOOL PATTERNS WITH THE KNITTING BEE TREND; GET SET FOR A 50’S ROAD TRIP WITH THE BEST OF BIKER BASIC; OR TEAM TWEED, CORD AND LEATHER PATCHES TOGETHER FOR A COUNTRY CASUAL CHIC LOOK.
Knitted Jumper £50 Next www.next.co.uk
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Leather jacket £499 GStar johnlewis.com
Jacket £115 Levis houseoffraser.co.uk
biker basics
Jeans £125 Dunhill dunhill.com
THIS SEASONS BIKER LOOK IS ONE OF THE BIGGEST OF THE SEASON FEATURING MASCULINE SHAPES AND RUGGED
MATERIALS. ROUGH AROUND THE EDGES, THIS LOOK IS BEST TEAMED WITH WELL-WORN BOOTS, HEAVY DENIM AND LEATHER.
Boots £99 Dune dune.com Denim shirt £55 French Connection frenchconnection.com
knittingbee
This winter, knitting is not to be scoffed at. Oversized hats, kitsch patterns and cable jumpers are huge on the shelves right now, but be warned one
Gilet £120 Diesel johnlewis.com
Red & grey scarf £50 Diesel houseoffraser.co.uk
knitted item at a time is plenty for anyone. Beanie Hat £45 GStar johnlewis.com
Sweater £110 French Connection frenchconnection.com 100 Fine Winter 2010/ 1 1
Cardigan £124.99 Superdry superdry.com
Shirt £205 Vivienne Westwood viviennewestwood.com
country casuals
Jumper £210 Stone Island harveynichols.com
Scarf £40, Fred Perry at House of Fraser houseoffraser.co.uk Jacket £295 Polo by Ralph Lauren ralphlauren.com Shoes £410 Vivienne Westwood viviennewestwood.com
THIS SEASON, TEAM CHECKED PATTERNS, TWEED, WOOL AND CHINOS TO PERFECT THE COUNTRY CASUALS LOOK. LEATHER ELBOW PADS AND SHINY BROGUES ARE THE PERFECT ADDITIONS TO SET OFF THE LOOK. Chinos £100 Paul Smith paulsmith.co.uk
Gloves £60 Tommy Hilfiger at House of Fraser houseoffraser.co.uk
T-shirt £12 Linea, hooded top £115 Polo Ralph Lauren, shirt £49 Howick, chinos £39 Linea, belt £60. houseoffraser.co.uk
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“Its gardens are enchanting with profusely planted borders, abundant roses, extensive lawns and terrace.”
fairway to heaven FROM THE ELEGANTLY PROPORTIONED FAÇADE TO THE MAGNIFICENT 16TH CENTURY BEAMS AND FIREPLACES, THE COUPLE HAVE CHERISHED THE DEANS AND ITS DELECTABLE GOLF COURSE VIEWS
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Bill. However the tall chimneys and the exposed beams on the side elevations bear witness to this home’s 16th Century origins. Inside too the beams and fireplaces are redolent of the era.
DRAGON’S DEN Built in 1540, the house has evolved over the centuries. “The façade was put on the house later. It’s referred to as an early Queen Anne front elevation,” explained
A particularly unusual highlight in the drawing room is an exceptionally fine dragon beam – placed there by the 16th Century builders of the home, to give added support to the timber frame. “The dragon beam is a great feature,” Bill said. This is the room where the owners love to relax and unwind with its views over the golf course to the front and French windows on to the garden at the rear. “It’s got an old fireplace and is panelled on one side and is very cosy,” he continued. Bill also likes to spend time at his desk in the study at the rear of the house with lovely views over the garden. “In what was the fireplace for the old kitchen to the house we’ve put in a bar,” he added.
ntertaining in the courtyard or relaxing in front of a roaring log fire, Bill Charity reflects that The Deans is both a house of exquisite character and a delightful family home. It’s now 31 years since the couple moved into this exceptional Grade II Listed house. “I was coming to work just near Ipswich and we looked at an awful lot of properties. Then I just came across it by chance and thought this house and the position was so good. It was ideal,” Bill said. The Deans commands an outstanding position on the village green, beside a golf course. “The uninterrupted view over the golf course from the house is terrific – from both upstairs and downstairs,” he added.
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DECK THE HALLS Christmas in the great hall at The Deans holds a special place in Bill and Jean’s affections. Then the cavernous open fireplace becomes a focus of festivity. “Once we put logs on, it is wonderful – you can just imagine it, with the Christmas tree there and the children and grandchildren all around,” Bill said. He added: “Originally the hall would have been the dining room. It’s very imposing as you come in. Nowadays the dining room is located more conveniently near the modern kitchen and is another superb room. In the dining room we’ve had some feasts that have been very memorable over the years. It’s a great room,” he continued. However the couple often choose to eat in the spacious kitchen with its Aga creating a wonderful country kitchen ambience. MORNING HAS BROKEN As well as the five bedrooms upstairs – all with en-suite bathrooms – there is a snooker room. 104 Fine Winter 2010/ 1 1
“The uninterrupted view over the golf course from the house is terrific – from both upstairs and downstairs.”
The master suite, which is in the middle of the three bedrooms to the front of the house, also has a dressing room. “The bedrooms are exceptionally large with high ceilings, which you don’t tend to get with houses from this period, and all have beams and fireplaces,” Bill said. “It’s nice to wake up in the morning and throw open the curtains and see all you survey.” FAMILY MEMORIES With 30 years of memories, some very special times stand out for Bill and Jean. Both their daughters celebrated 21st birthdays at The Deans and were married from the family home. “We had huge marquees put up in the garden taking up to 250 people,” Bill said. However the couple feel that now is the right time for them to downsize. “It’s a great family house and very welcoming,” he observed. “You feel when you walk through the front door that you have left all your cares behind. It’s a great sanctuary and a marvellous place to bring up children.”
PROPERTY DETAILS Overlooking Newton Green’s stunning 18-hole golf course, The Deans is an elegant Grade II Listed period home of special architectural and historical interest. The accommodation includes five bedrooms, four reception rooms and a snooker room, while outside the grounds extend to approximately 1.4 acres (STMS) incorporating stunning gardens and a tennis court. Location Newton Green Price OIEO £995,000 Property type Detached Period Home Contact Homes in Essex 01206 617155 Winter 2010/11 Fine 105
FIRST LADY Elegant and beautiful, The White House at Halstead has been a constant joy to Ken and Elaine Bradley as they have made their life together
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aughing and chatting with friends in the sunny terrace room as they look over the garden and plan the next big family party, Ken and Elaine Bradley reflect on the happy times they have shared at The White House. Their beautiful home has dominated the High Street in this market town for centuries, and the couple themselves have spent more than a decade carefully restoring it to its former glory. Certainly fit for a president now, the Grade II Listed house still retains its history and many original features as well as the relaxing air they loved when they first saw it. “It certainly does have a lot of the wow factor. It is a fantastic looking house,” said Elaine. “The rooms are large but it is so comfortable too. We fell in love with the ambience because it just feels like a home.” FORMAL YET EXQUISITE The versatility of their Tudor and Georgian home, with its coach house which has been converted into a comfortable apartment, is one of the joys of living here, according to the couple. “It is totally unique with all this space and character,” said Elaine, pointing out the way sunshine sends a cascade of light through the Venetian window. While she adores the formality of the drawing room and the very spacious dining room with its high ceiling and feature fireplace, she - and family and friends - are also naturally drawn to the exceptionally sunny terrace room. “It has an entrance to the garden. It is a very gracious room, but it has this feeling of fun too. We’ve had some brilliant parties in there and it is great
“The couple have spent more than a decade carefully restoring it to its former glory, enhancing its history and many original features.” Winter 2010/11 Fine 107
when you want to take breakfast out on to the terrace as well. “I can just imagine weddings too, it would be wonderful to get married in here,” she added, delighting in its rich Egyptian blue decor, gilt-framed mirrors, chandelier and classical artwork.
it’s so easy to do both.” The couple enjoy emphasising its genteel, luxury air, playing music from the ‘30s and ‘40s and throwing lavish parties. Everyone loves to stay too, enjoying the spaciousness and sunny air of the bedrooms and luxury bathrooms.
HIGH OFFICE The original house dates back to 1480, with Georgian additions. Ken and Elaine researched period style before renovating their home and are pleased with the result, which has seen the interior feature a French twist. Today, it still features its timber flooring in the main rooms, high ceilings, original fireplaces and 16th Century wood panelling in the study. Currently used as a bar, the study can easily revert back to its original quiet purpose. “We love that about this house. It is an amazing lifestyle for a family or it can be used for guests,
The couple add that the kitchen at the house, where they once ran a restaurant, currently arranged for
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“High ceilings and wellproportioned rooms give a sense of space, emphasised by the large windows.”
commercial use, would be an absolutely spectacular family kitchen. “It is so big. It is fabulous for working in,” she added. STAR QUALITY Once divided into seven small rooms for servants, the attic is now one big space - ideal for a den, studio or, like the coach house, for a secret space away from the activity of the main house. Ken, a designer, knew exactly what he wanted when they decorated The White House, and is delighted with the finished look which blends traditional heritage paints and wallpapers to create a warm and inviting, yet lavish feel. “This is a ‘once in a lifetime’ house, it’s one of those places that you cannot believe is yours,” he said. “It looks amazing and has such a relaxed feel. We loved it as a restaurant and as a home, we’ve felt so lucky to live here.”
“Traditional heritage paints and wallpapers have been blended to create a warm and inviting, yet lavish feel.” Property details Formerly run as a restaurant, The White House is a unique and important Grade II Listed home set within the heart of the ancient market town of Halstead. With its stunning Georgian façade the property dates back to Tudor times and boasts beautiful features throughout the eight-bedroom accommodation. There is full business potential on the ground floor plus a separate coach house. Location Halstead Type of house Grade II Listed Home Price Guide price £865,000 Contact Homes in Essex 01206 617155 Winter 2010/11 Fine 109
Rustic Charm WITH ITS BEAUTIFUL SHAPES, EXQUISITE INTERIOR AND FABULOUS RUSTIC CHARACTER, THE BARNS HAS BEEN A SUPERB BASE FOR ITS COSMOPOLITAN OWNER TO ENJOY WHENEVER HE RETURNS TO WALES
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erving drinks to his guests on the terrace or dishing up delicious meals in the kitchen, the owner of The Barns is in his element whenever he spends time at his Pontyclun home. A seasoned traveller, he bought the handsome Grade II Listed building and oversaw its conversion in order to give himself a wonderful home to return to. “He wanted to have a base that was close to his family,” explained his sister, who also stays there as often as possible. “He has made it into a truly beautiful home, which looks wonderful but also still has a homely feel.”
“The Barns has an exquisite interior, carefully designed by the owner to marry modern style with rustic charm.”
SECLUDED LOCATION The two beautiful stone buildings were in a perfect location, close to a village yet in a tranquil setting, she went on. “My brother liked the idea of being able to start from scratch with a home,” she explained. “He knew he would be able to create a house from the barns that he could really relax in - yet at the same time be within easy reach of his family and of major roads so he could travel easily.”
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“He has made it into a truly beautiful home, which looks wonderful but also still has a homely feel.” MAGNIFICENT CHARACTER He was also taken with the potential of The Barns, the fabulous spaces they offered and their magnificent character. “He knew it would still feel like a barn, particularly with all the beams and stonework,” she said. “It was a large building that was clearly built for someone wealthy. There is now a row of beautiful windows along the side in what must have been original archways.” OPEN PLAN STYLE The owner, who has lived in America, designed his home to have an open plan feel. He wanted a kitchen where he could talk to his guests while he cooked for them and living spaces that would flow easily. “My brother is a great cook and so he loves his kitchen. People can be in there while he prepares meals – he loves the fact they can move from area to area,” she said. The whole house has an incredible feeling of space, she went on, with vaulted ceilings and high windows which bring the light streaming in. “The drawing room is double height and is wonderful for entertaining. He hosted my 80th birthday party at the house and it was amazing,” she said. 112 Fine Winter 2010/ 1 1
IMPRESSIVE INTERIOR The Barns has an exquisite interior, carefully designed by the owner to marry modern style with rustic charm. Areas of exposed stonework are complemented with light walls, beautiful furnishings and lots of wood. “The master bedroom is very impressive. It is huge – a gorgeous area with an en-suite bathroom and dressing area,” she said. “There’s also a lovely guest suite. This is also a large room. It has lots of character, with three steps up to its bathroom, and is very pretty with its stone walls and cute windows.” BEAUTIFUL BARN When the sun is out, the family enjoy gathering together in the garden at The Barns. The beautiful country house is greatly enjoyed by all of them but as the owner is now finding he has to travel more, he has decided the time has come to sell. “I think he will miss all the space he has inside the house,” said his sister. “It is a wonderful home and I know he has thoroughly enjoyed every opportunity he has had to spend time there.”
PROPERTY DETAILS A stunning Grade II Listed barn conversion, offering contemporary living throughout and set within its own beautiful grounds. With four bedrooms, an abundance of reception space and a beautiful bespoke kitchen. Location Pontyclun Price £795,000 Property type Country Barn Conversion Contact Homes in Mid Glamorgan 02921 159148 Winter 2010/11 Fine 113
Beaming Success BRINGING OUT THE NATURAL BEAUTY AND STUNNING HISTORICAL FEATURES OF THEIR SPECTACULAR LISTED FARMHOUSE WAS DEFINITELY THE RIGHT DECISION FOR RUPERT AND CHRISTINE FAIRCLOUGH
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rom the original beams and amazing brick fireplaces to the under-floor heating and bespoke open plan kitchen, the Faircloughs love their farmhouse home. They rebuilt the property’s main barn so it now forms part of their glorious five-bedroom home.
with friends or hosting a lively party in the garden. “We felt that a historic farmhouse should look and feel like a farmhouse, and be exceptionally comfortable too,” said Rupert. “It’s been a lot of work but so worth it. It’s a brilliant family house.”
The couple completely renovated the 17th Century farmhouse from top to toe, searching for the very best materials and craftsmen to give them the period style with the modern day luxury that they wanted. Now they enjoy life to the full here, whether sitting down to dinner
DISCOVERING HISTORY The couple spent eight months discovering and restoring their home’s historical features. Rupert said it was rewarding uncovering original fireplaces, stripping back the beams to discover beautiful wood and revealing historic
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“It’s a brilliant place to live, it’s been perfect for us and I think it would be ideal for another family.”
steps. They also added traditional Victorian radiators, top quality stone flooring and modern fittings which were in a style sympathetic to the Grade II Listed home. “We have completely transformed it,� said Rupert. INSPIRING SPACES Today, the house is striking from the moment you step into the spacious, double-height hallway, which is also a music room. In summer, the sunshine simply floods in and light beams on to the softly shaded walls. At Christmas, it is the perfect place for a four metre Christmas tree. Winter 2010/11 Fine 115
“We felt that a historic farmhouse should look and feel like a farmhouse, and be exceptionally comfortable too.”
“It is rather stunning and makes quite an impact when you walk in,” he said. The inspiring feel continues throughout the house, from the delightful drawing room with its large inglenook fireplace and stone hearth to the family games room which has an impressive vaulted ceiling, situated in the rebuilt barn at the opposite end of the house. “That’s a fantastic space because it is new, but it complements the rest of the house. It has a more modern style and the children spend a lot of time there with their friends.” CELEBRATE HERE The house is always popular when it comes to parties, with space for large numbers of guests. Often the 116 Fine Winter 2010/ 1 1
teenagers head to the games room while the adults take over the drawing room, dining room and kitchen. “We do like a party and we have had some large parties here, it easily fits 80 to 100 people,” added Rupert. Throughout the restoration, the couple paid careful attention to detail, which they feel has paid off. A keen chef, Rupert loves the kitchen with its bespoke handmade, painted wooden cabinets and island. “The kitchen works perfectly. People do tend to come in here first, to sit and chat. I am into wine and as there is so much room we were able to put in a wine fridge as well as everything else,” he said. They also love sociable meals in the dining room, with its long table and bench seating later retiring to the large drawing room.
PROPERTY DETAILS A Grade II Listed farmhouse, situated in a sought after area with a rich history. This five-bedroom detached farmhouse has been refurbished to the highest standard and offers an abundance of reception space and stunning landscaped gardens. Location Bow Brickhill Price OIRO £779,999
Property type Detached Country Cottage Contact Homes in Buckinghamshire 01908 969129
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“The white walls of Lenwade Mill have been a Norfolk landmark for decades, and it’s believed there’s been a mill on the site for at least 700 years.”
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istening to the soft sound of the river gently meandering by, the Credlands simply relax and enjoy their Norfolk life. With extensive gardens, five bedrooms, oak and stone floors and cottage doors, as well as exposed beams, their home enjoys character as well as tranquillity. They also love the established feel of the historic Norfolk landmark, which even has an unobtrusive piece of mill engine drive shaft in the kitchen. “It is in a perfect location and an absolutely fantastic house to live in,” said Wendy. SOOTHING WATER There’s been a mill here for hundreds of years. The Grade II Listed building dates back 120 years and was
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A Miller’s Tale WATCHING THE KINGFISHERS AND SWANS FROM THE TERRACE, WENDY AND JOHN CREDLAND FEEL TOTALLY RELAXED IN THEIR AWARD-WINNING CONVERTED MILL
used as a working mill until the mid 1980s. John and Wendy love the history of their home. In fact, it was the established air that first drew them to the property, which they only looked at by chance. “It was a lovely sunny day, we sat in the garden and it just felt perfect, and it has been perfect,” said Wendy. She points to its idyllic setting and island feel, framed by the beautiful mill pond, mill race pool, River Wensum and pretty bridge across. The soothing sound of the water naturally complements the mill’s organic style, where original features are incorporated into its new life as a home. So the wooden and stone floors work perfectly with the exposed beams, highlighted by the large windows and open plan feel. Winter 2010/11 Fine 119
RELAX INTO LIFE Wendy, a silk textile designer, particularly loves her light filled studio - the former engine room - with its glorious outlook over the water. “I do spend an enormous amount of time drinking coffee and looking out of the window and watching the water flow by,” she said, adding that it would also be a fabulous master bedroom suite. Other family members find it hard to leave the roomy kitchen diner or the sunny drawing room. ORIGINAL FEATURES The beamed drawing room is a favourite spot for admiring the view. Everyone loves the airy feel, and the relics of its working life, such as the flour sack loading doors which remain. “We like having lots of original features,” said Wendy, who has emphasised its past with industrial fittings and straightforward decor, using shades of white and occasional splashes of nature-inspired colours. “The kitchen is pretty much the whole of the downstairs and so big and open. We have a large table and chairs and a sofa and we do spend a lot of time here,” she said. CHARACTER-FILLED HOME Meanwhile, the grandchildren love the large garden but cannot wait for bedtime, when they’ll race past the main bedrooms on the second floor and pile into the spacious top floor bedroom, with its angular ceiling and beams. “It is a bit quirky looking. I do love the beams, they are old and all different. It’s a very interesting house,” said Wendy, adding that it is mentioned frequently by the famous Parson Woodforde in his 18th Century diary. She likes to imagine the various people who would have visited the mill over the years. COFFEE TIME The Mill is a popular social venue too where guests flow through the house and, with such spacious rooms, they love to stay. Wendy adds that their grown-up children and friends traditionally take the Mill over for New Year and enjoy an extended house party. It’s the ideal house for dining and dancing, and for relaxing too. “It is wonderful when it is full of people, but it is so tranquil too. The setting and the space and the light are fantastic here. Everyone says that it’s going to be such a wrench to leave.” 120 Fine Winter 2010/ 1 1
PROPERTY DETAILS Set amongst beautiful gardens and on the edge of the river. Lenwade Mill occupies a privileged position with exceptional views. The Grade II Listed home forms part of the converted mill and incorporates five bedrooms, a spectacular first floor sitting room and an open plan kitchen/family room with access to the private gardens and terrace. There is also a double garage and an additional four acres (STMS) of communal gardens.
Location Lenwade Price £735,000 Property type Part of Converted Mill Contact Homes in Norfolk 01603 622017
“We often take breakfast, lunch and supper on the terrace, watching the water flow by in the river or looking out for fish surfacing.”
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PLAYING TO THE
GALLERY WHEN EMMA AND ANDREW BENTLEY FIRST SET EYES ON HEWLANDS HOUSE THEY WERE CAPTIVATED BY THE SPACIOUS, LIGHT-FILLED INTERIOR OF THIS GLAMOROUS CONTEMPORARY HOME
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tepping down the spiral staircase from the mezzanine into the impressive open plan living space, owner Emma Bentley reflects that this home is perfect for parties and family life. The fluid layout is ideally suited to modern lifestyles. The open plan living space, with its vaulted ceiling and stylish glass and steel bar area, leads into a sunroom and there’s also a dining hall and kitchen dining room. Hewlands House was designed and built in the 1980s by an architect with the option to have up to five bedrooms. It is desirably located in a leafy, private road
just north of Nottingham’s city centre in the Mapperley conservation area. “Nottingham is famous for lace and our house is in what was the garden of the original lace-makers house, which was the original house on the road,” Emma added. The Bentleys, who moved in six years ago, are just the second family to live here. The first owner had divided the property into two, and Emma and Andrew opened it up again. Adding new flooring, the couple paid careful attention to the choice of materials. “We put South American slate in the dining hall and through into the kitchen dining
“The views from the sunroom are lovely and from the mezzanine office area you can see for miles.”
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“We put South American slate in the dining hall and through into the kitchen dining room, and in the living space we put a solid oak floor.� 124 Fine Winter 2010/ 1 1
room and in the living space we put in a solid oak floor,” Emma said. She added: “We also re-jigged the kitchen to open it up slightly.”
favourite spot. “The views from the sunroom are lovely and from the mezzanine office area you can see for miles,” she said.
INSPIRATIONAL SPACE The open plan living space has exposed wood beams providing a striking contrast to the white vaulted ceiling. A spiral staircase leads to a mezzanine level that is used as an office space. When the Bentleys moved in they added a glass and steel bar area at the other end. With French windows and skylights, the living space is exceptionally light and airy. There is also a balcony off the mezzanine further opening the interior up to the outside. “It is flooded with natural light and very spacious,” she added. The family also love to relax in the sunroom. With a strip of windows wrapping round three walls, this room has a lovely outlook over the garden and is Emma’s
CHIC CUISINE Emma loves to cook and the L-shaped kitchen is a real hub of activity for the family. The beech cabinets provide a striking counterpoint to the dark grey tiling and granite work surfaces. “The style of the kitchen is very contemporary,” she said. “We have three children and day-to-day we tend to eat in the kitchen rather than the dining room.” However, for more formal occasions and at Christmas the large dining hall really comes into its own. “We’ve got a bespoke oak dining table that can seat ten people in the dining hall,” she explained.
PROPERTY DETAILS An architect designed detached home, in a much sought after area, just five minutes drive from the city centre. Ideal as one home with flexible accommodation or split into two homes for extended families, while outside there are landscaped gardens.
AND SO TO BED The glamorous master bedroom suite is a luxurious haven. With a lozenge-shaped internal window allowing glimpses of the spacious dressing room, a curvaceous freestanding bath is at the centre of the en-suite bathroom. Another bedroom on the ground floor has a linked sitting room or play room. Two further bedrooms are found on the upper storey and there’s the option to have the room the owners currently use as a gym as a fifth bedroom. Emma and Andrew have loved their time at their stunning home. “The thing we really love about this house is the flexibility,” Emma explained. “It’s a fabulous home for entertaining and the flexibility has allowed us to accommodate our growing family. There’s so much space for the children to run around in and play.”
Location Mapperley Park Price £625,000 Property type Individually Designed Home Contact Homes in Nottinghamshire 0115 981 5409
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beaming
inspiration
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SPACIOUS, STYLISH AND WITH THE MOST SPECTACULAR OF FEATURES - FINE BELIEVES IT IS TIME TO CELEBRATE THE BEAUTY OF THE BARN. ABIGAIL SALTMARSH REPORTS
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hey have graced our landscapes for centuries and now they make some of the finest homes in Britain. The barn conversion has won the hearts of the British homeowner through its inherent beauty and its fabulous lifestyle opportunities. Director, Dean Heaviside has had years of experience of working with barns and has watched as conversions have become increasingly creative and design features have become ever more breathtaking. Dean believes the beauty of the barn lies in its flexibility, as well as in its almost unique ability to combine character and charm with contemporary living spaces. “These buildings are the cathedrals of the countryside,” he continued. “They were built in the most stunning of settings – in open fields, by great expanses of water and against the most dramatic landscapes and skies. It is not difficult to see why people wanted to start converting them into homes. Many of the barns we see today are simply magnificent,” he said. “At Fine, we have an exciting spectrum, from exquisite listed buildings where the very fabric of the building has been worked into a design that is overflowing with character, through to spacious country homes with panoramic views and the very latest in contemporary design and high tech features.”
STRIKING GALLERIED LANDING Church End Farm, Husborne Crawley - detached six-bedroom barn with potential for further development, approved planning for swimming pool complex and stables.
“I was looking for an old, historic property with character and some land. I loved it as soon as I walked in.” Winter 2010/11 Fine 127
“You find barns in the most fantastic of locations, places where you would never, ever achieve planning permission to build a new house these days.” FOREST SETTING
Marshalls Barn, Woodside – Grade II Listed, 17th Century Essex barn with magnificent great hall.
“The sense of space really appealed to us and its rural location is amazing.” EXQUISITE INTERIOR
The Barns, Pontyclun - lovely Grade II Listed barn, with beautiful bespoke kitchen and some wonderful internal features.
“The Barns has an exquisite interior, carefully designed by the owner to marry modern style with rustic charm.” 128 Fine Winter 2010/ 1 1
A SPACE IN THE COUNTRY Barn expert John Morfoot, of Morways Developments, has carried out all manner of conversions over the years. His intrinsic love of the beautiful agricultural buildings has seen him approach every project with sympathy for the existing structure and a keen eye for creating aweinspiring living spaces. “There are cases where people try to cram as much as possible into a space but the best barn conversions are those which aim to create a whole lifestyle,” he said. “Many barns are little more than shells to begin with but it is wonderful being able to use the space they offer. Where else would you have that kind of space to use to create a modern home?”
And this passion just blossoms further with every new barn it takes on. “We have a wonderful selection of barns available at the moment, in all sorts of different locations right across the country, and with very different characteristics,” said Dean.
PERSONAL VIEWS Dean stressed that barns also have an almost unique hold on some of the most stunning views in the country – they are located in all kinds of landscapes, from rolling green hills to the open countryside beneath enormous skies. “You find barns in the most fantastic of locations, places where you would never, ever achieve planning permission to build a new house these days. But because these old buildings already exist, developers are able to go ahead and convert them into homes,” he said. “Don’t forget, many of these views are protected. You just would not find them with many other homes.”
BARN TO THE LIFESTYLE Examples of Fine’s exquisite barns include beautiful Malting Barn at Layer-de-la-Haye, in Essex. As well as six bedrooms and five reception rooms, this includes an indoor swimming pool complex. “We have some incredible barns that have their own fabulous characteristics right across the country,” said Dean. “In Norfolk, for example, we have Waymeadow Barn, with its impressive billiards room, exposed beams and solid oak internal doors and Mediterranean-style courtyard, while in Monmouth we have stunning 18th Century Talbot’s Barn, which has magnificent views.” And he added: “Anyone keen on finding out more about barn living should contact Fine so they can peruse what we currently have available – and anyone with a barn to sell should contact us to discover more about our lifestyle marketing and its huge success with exactly these kinds of homes.”
FLOWERING PASSION Fine is passionate in its promotion of barns, understanding that the very individual attributes of each one need to be highlighted and really showcased to potential buyers.
“We get great pleasure from being able to really concentrate on these superb homes.” He went on, “Fine specialises in unique homes. Our lifestyle marketing techniques, using professional journalists and photographers, really brings out the individual attributes of every single property we market – and nowhere is that more apparent than in our beautiful barns.”
SWIMMING POOL
SELF-CONTAINED ANNEXE Malting Barn, at Layer-de-la-Haye – 300 years old and the ultimate entertaining home.
“We have done quite a lot to the barn since we moved in including converting one of the outbuildings into a leisure centre and separate annexe.” MEDITERRANEAN-STYLE COURTYARD
Talbots Barn, Linton - stunning 18th Century barn, grounds
Manor Barn, Monmouth - A unique and highly desirable Grade II Listed barn conversion which retains many original features and private gardens.
“It is just gorgeous sitting out there. It is a real suntrap but you can still find corners of shade.”
of approximately 2.4 acres (STMS), beautiful setting.
“It had the most spectacular views. You could see for miles and miles across the countryside towards the Malvern Hills.”
“We get great pleasure from being able to really concentrate on these superb homes.” Winter 2010/11 Fine 129
FAMOUS FOR HIS OUTRAGEOUS SENSE OF STYLE, INTERIOR DESIGNER LAURENCE LLEWELYNBOWEN PREDICTS WE’LL ALL SOON BE FOLLOWING SUIT. WE VISIT HIS COUNTRY HOME TO FIND OUT WHY
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t’s somehow surprising to find flamboyant interior designer and TV presenter Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen living in a house that oozes with staid respectability and tradition. A beautiful 17th Century manor house, with roses growing up its honey-coloured Cotswold stone walls, it nestles unobtrusively in the chocolate-box Gloucestershire countryside. Surely it’s the sort of residence that during his reign at BBC’s Changing Rooms in the 90s, where he first found fame, he would have delighted in revamping with an outrageous kitsch twist. So have the years mellowed the former maestro of the makeover? Is he now secretly living in rooms decorated with those predictable rural ingredients of fussy florals, cosy chintz and glinting horse brasses? Not a bit of it! When he welcomes me inside, the interior is a glorious celebration of his idiosyncratic, exuberant style with colour, pattern and quirky touches. “I will never settle for the boring or the beige-oir! But, I have to admit, when we have our neighbours for dinner they’re pretty taken aback,” he says proudly. “Most country homes around here are done in shades of English heritage ‘snot’ or pebbledust24 or whatever those awful colours are called that actually just amount to clashing magnolias. “In fact, our decor is so unusual that I swear we’re now on the official Cotswold tourist trail. We have coach loads of Japanese tourists stopping outside and a guide with a megaphone regaling them with a run down of the house’s colour chart!”
To the MANOR BOWEN
He’s only half-joking about that notoriety because his dramatic, technicolour re-invention of this once derelict house must have caused a stir. It’s now a family home for him, his wife Jackie, their daughters, Cecile, 14, and Hermione, 11, and four Spaniels. But colour-phobes beware! Laurence predicts we’re all soon going to echo his style of decorating in our own homes.
Laurence and his wife Jackie
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“We’re seeing the re-birth of the makeover,” he says gleefully. “People are suddenly remembering how much fun and how easy it was to make a complete difference to a home with some paint and wallpaper. People want to invest in their homes emotionally and make them personal, nurturing spaces. So they’re rejecting skinny minimalism and embracing my style of ‘full fat decorating’ - finally allowing rooms to have personality and a touch of eccentricity for which the British are renowned.” He believes that compared to the beginning of the Changing Rooms era, 15 years ago, we’re more design literate, confident about expressing our taste and finally willing to “break loose from the taste dictatorship of the Queen of Neutrals, Kelly Hoppen, wriggle free from the iron grip of Kirsty and Phil, and ignore the thin-lipped design diktats of Kevin McCloud.” Laurence, who sees
“Really, this house is a dirty great Barbie doll which I play with, change and dress with new ideas and effects. I’m always revamping rooms, I’ve already given our bedroom three makeovers.” himself as the self-appointed leader of the interiors revolution, also claims that some estate agents are even advising people to ‘do a Laurence’ to improve their chances of a sale. “Previously, people were advised to standardise their interiors and make them uniformly dull when entering the property market. That’s so wrong nowadays, it’s homes with colour and character that are selling. ”So after what he lyrically describes as years in exile battling virtually single-handedly against the tyranny of beige and taupe, Laurence is celebrating coming out of the wilderness with his book, Decorating With Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen. It’s his seventh book, and a practical guide to changing rooms 2010 style - “turning humdrum rooms into fabulous spaces.” Among the glamorous settings featured is his own home where he’s tried and tested many of the concepts. He takes me on a tour. His rooms are certainly
The sitting room at the Manor Bowen a feast for the eye and somewhat of a triumph, as when they moved in three years ago, the house was a derelict shell with few original features. Now, the main living room is a panelled book-lined sanctuary decorated in good-enough-to-eat shades of chocolate, orange and tangerine, and a ‘thriller’ touch. Laurence, 45, reveals: “I’ve added an Agatha Christie touch - a secret door to a passageway concealed in a bookcase.” A spacious green and canary yellow kitchen, with glossy cabinets made from MDF sprayed with car paint, is the setting for family meals. It’s “soft, romantic scheme with icing sugar patterned wallpaper” was influenced by Jackie, who also had a hand in the most conventional room, the dining room, with soft floral furnishings. Upstairs is undiluted lavish Laurence with an exotic master bedroom inspired by Eastern style and the ‘30s era and sensual fabrics such as silk and satin. Colours like cool oyster, dull gold and ruby make this an opulent boudoir. Black chiffon drapes frame a bed raised on a black carpeted plinth. It’s adjoining decadent bathroom showcases a vivid red lacquered bath. He was inspired for its look by icon of feminine glamour, Marilyn Monroe, and gushingly describes it as “an unapologetic fantasy room - a cocoon in which to escape the grey, grim reality of 21st Century living”. More theatrical touches abound throughout the house with a
shower and toilet transformed into a luxurious marbleclad room overlooking a canal in Venice. But it’s an illusion conjured up on a budget with vinyl and a digital print - one of the many inexpensive but striking effects included in the book. And if the looks are too full-on for individual taste, Laurence says it’s easy to “dilute them like orange juice” to suit individual desires. “Really, this house is a dirty great Barbie doll which I play with, change and dress with new ideas and effects. I’m always revamping rooms, I’ve already given our bedroom three makeovers.” But while Laurence may be winning over the nation, there are small signs of domestic rebellion stirring in the Bowen household. His teenage daughter is planning a makeover of her bedroom while Jackie is insisting on furnishing the garden summer house in neutrals. “Jackie wants terribly tasteful shades of beige and cream linen upholstery. But my prediction is it won’t last - she’ll surely go mad in there!” And he strides back into the house, dogs at his heels, to mastermind another scheme for those ‘changing rooms’. Decorating With Laurence LlewelynBowen, £20, published by Quadrille. Out now
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American Dream Set in grounds that boast 200-year-old oak trees, and based on a home owned by US tycoon Donald Trump, Eamonn Ryan’s house is everything he dreamed it would be
“I’m very proud of this house, it is the biggest house I’ve built in my career and it is certainly very impressive.” 132 Fine Winter 2010/ 1 1
“Two families could live here, perhaps even a family with their parents, there is so much space.”
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ooking out across woodland where deer roam and birds nest, Eamonn Ryan is rightfully proud of the beautiful nine-bedroom home he has created in grounds of almost four acres (STMS). Approaching the magnificent frontage and entering through the large oak doors, there is a sense of grandeur but also a warm welcome into the stunning family home, which has its own private pool complex. “The idea for the design of Thistlecroft comes from one of Donald Trump’s American homes,” he explained. “I’m very proud of this house, it is the biggest house I’ve built in my career and it is certainly very impressive.” Set on a private lane and with beautifully designed spaces that include 10 bath and shower rooms, a cinema room and a wine cellar, Thistlecroft boasts no near neighbours and offers a lavish and secluded lifestyle. “When I first bought the land from a Harley Street surgeon it was a small two-bedroom house which we demolished and built a five-bedroom family home in 1977. “I later demolished that house and two years ago Thistlecroft, in its new incarnation was completed,” he said.
Property details Approached via a private road, Thistlecroft offers the utmost privacy and delightful grounds, while inside the accommodation is arranged over three floors providing a spacious home that is perfect for family life.
Location Danbury Type of house Impressive Detached Home Price Guide price £3,500,000 Contact Homes in Essex 01206 617155 Winter 2010/11 Fine 133
Period Drama NEARLY SIX YEARS AGO LEE AND CAROL HIPGRAVE PURCHASED THEIR DREAM HOME, A REGENCY-STYLE HOUSE SET ON AN ESTATE WITH ITS OWN FISHING LAKES AND EQUESTRIAN CENTRE.
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n the last few years the owners have enjoyed transforming their Fobbing property into a princely home, perfect for entertaining. The couple, who both grew up in the area, knew the house well. When they were teenagers, Carol used to keep her horses at the stables on the estate. “We used to say that if we ever got rich we would buy this place,” said Lee. “As luck would have it we did strike it rich - and the first thing we did was buy this property. Now we love to have a glass of wine on the terrace by the swimming pool. It really is a dream home and we have made it into the perfect place for entertaining.” INTERIOR DESIGN Whitehall Farm has been a main house on this small country estate since 1703, but the current Regencystyle house was built in 1973. It is situated on about forty-four acres (STMS) and the property also includes a one-bedroom annexe, guest cottage, stabling and indoor equestrian arenas, two fishing lakes, caravan park and tennis courts. The main house had just been refurbished when Lee and Carol bought it and has been finished to a very high standard featuring luxurious interior design. The fabulous family kitchen is large enough to house its own
“The super equestrian centre at the property features two outdoor arenas and one indoor arena as well as 51 stables.”
sofas, dining table and a wall-mounted television. It also leads to the stunning conservatory. “The kitchen and conservatory create a large living area and it is where the family tends to hang out,” said Lee. “It really is my favourite place to be in the house.” STUNNING VIEWS The large, carpeted drawing room has an attractive fireplace with a wood-burner installed and, with three sets of glass doors opening directly on to the terrace and manicured lawns of the rear garden, is a particularly light and airy room. “I suppose really this is the room where we like to relax and watch the television,” said Lee. Also on the ground floor is an office and a purpose-built games room. The accommodation is spread over three floors and the first floor boasts three double bedrooms and en-suite bathrooms. The master bedroom is superb, especially with the sunken spa bath in the middle of the room. There are also ‘his’ and ‘hers’ dressing areas and a fabulous en-suite bathroom complete with wet room. “A balcony leads off the master bedroom and I particularly like going out there early in the morning to see the horses in the fields and the stunning views all around,” he said.
PROPERTY DETAILS A small country estate in a delightful rural setting. The extensive grounds provide superb equestrian facilities plus guest cottage, fishing lake, tennis courts and so much more. Location Fobbing Type of house Country Estate Price Guide Price £2,400,000 - £2,700,000 Contact Homes in Essex 01702 826037 Winter 2010/11 Fine 135
Manor
to which he is accustomed SIPPING A LONG, COOLING DRINK ON THE TERRACE AFTER AN EXCITING GAME OF POLO IS THE OWNER’S IDEA OF RELAXING IN HIS 115-YEAR-OLD HOME OF THEYDON MANOR
“The large six-bedroom house, built of warm glowing red Victorian bricks and with beautiful views, is the perfect place to welcome guests.” 136 Fine Winter 2010/ 1 1
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iding across the fields in the sunshine or relaxing in the drawing room by the French windows, the owner relishes his lifestyle at impressive Theydon Manor, which is believed to date back to 1895. The former rectory, which has a separate guest cottage, sits in six acres of grounds (STMS), including paddock areas. The large six-bedroom house, built of warm glowing red Victorian bricks and with beautiful views, is also the perfect place to welcome guests. “We have two terrace areas. One is great for parties as we can have 40 or 50 people out there. The other leads from the drawing room, through French windows, and is a brilliant place to relax with drinks and food,” he said.
“We have two terrace areas. One is great for parties as we can have 40 or 50 people out there. The other leads from the drawing room, through French windows, and is a brilliant place to relax with drinks and food.”
ORIGINAL FEATURES The owner has a building company that designs and builds properties in London and Essex so when he bought the fabulous manor four years ago he brought along his team of professionals to modernise it. He gave it a contemporary look while also ensuring all its beautiful original features were retained. “There are eight original fireplaces in the manor. We cleaned them up and swept the chimneys,” he said. “We also put in new kitchens and bathrooms throughout. There are two kitchens in the main house now. We added a huge breakfast bar and thick black mottled granite tops in the main kitchen.” This opens up into the drawing room, which itself leads on to the terrace. “This really brings the outside inside. It is a huge room and wonderful living area,” he added.
PROPERTY DETAILS This imposing six-bedroom detached period house is set in grounds of approximately six acres (STMS). With an additional twobedroom detached guest cottage, the luxurious accommodation is ideal for family life, whilst being convenient for access into Central London. Location Theydon Garnon Type of house Detached Country Home Price OIEO £2,500,000 Contact Homes in West Essex 020 8504 0977 Winter 2010/11 Fine 137
exclusive by
design
TUCKED AWAY IN A PRESTIGIOUS LOCATION AND BEAUTIFULLY DESIGNED FOR SUMPTUOUS MODERN DAY LIVING, THREE-STOREY CHANDON OFFERS SOME TRULY UNIQUE AND EXCITING SPACES
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“One of the many exciting things about this house is that it would suit any number of configurations.”
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ining with friends as the sun streams in from the garden or having breakfast on the terrace on a Sunday morning, the new owners of Chandon will be able to relax and enjoy the leisurely pace. The magnificent seven-bedroom home has been exquisitely designed to offer a unique lifestyle experience in a sought-after Surrey location, bringing together cutting edge style with a very clever use of space. “At the back, there are two storeys as the first floor has double height. This gives an incredible feeling of space and makes the house very unusual.” Combining high quality, traditional materials with state-ofthe-art modern technology, the developer also chose Chandon’s plot very carefully. “There are fantastic views from the front – on a clear day you can see right across the whole of London,” he said. “This is also a gated estate, which is within easy reach of the station and some top schools.”
PROPERTY DETAILS An elegantly constructed new build detached family home with an extremely high specification. There are four spacious reception rooms and a bespoke kitchen/breakfast room and utility to the ground floor, whilst the upper floors have four bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms and a well proportioned master suite. Two further bedrooms can be found on the top floor. Location Oxshott Type of house Stunning Detached Home Price OIEO £2,495,000 Contact Homes in Surrey 01932 5786600 Winter 2010/11 Fine 139
Family Matters WATCHING THE CHILDREN PLAY IN THE POOL WHILE ENJOYING GLORIOUS VALLEY VIEWS, ANTHONY AND LINDA LEAPER FEEL THEIR FIVE-BEDROOM HOUSE IS EVERYTHING A FAMILY HOME SHOULD BE
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“It is quite a property. I love the seclusion. There is nothing like a crisp spring or autumn morning walking around the grounds.”
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here is something very special about Lodge Farm, according to Anthony and Linda Leaper. The couple followed their hearts when they first noticed it was for sale – and they have not regretted it once. They wanted a safe, happy home, full of character, with space for their three children to enjoy the freedom of a countryside upbringing. And as soon as they turned into the drive to see it, they realised Lodge Farm would be ideal. Now with an indoor pool with gallery windows to maximise the views, a two-bedroom cottage and an apartment, as well as the cinema room, games area, and many other features - including helicopter landing rights - they love their delightful home. HISTORIC LOOK Lodge Farm was built as a new, luxury, sunlit home by a local craftsman for his own family using stone and timbers reclaimed from the farm’s original cattle barn and dairy. This gave it a historic look but with modern efficiency and comfort. From the moment they step through the reclaimed church door and into the airy hallway with its impressive staircase and double height window, framed by medieval-style curtains, the family is embraced by the richness of their home. “It looks incredible,” said Anthony.
PROPERTY DETAILS Enjoying a high degree of seclusion, this imposing five-bedroom home is accessed via electric gates that open to a sweeping drive. In addition to the 5.5 acres of grounds (STMS) and heated indoor pool, there is a one-bedroom annexe, two-bedroom cottage, and a detached garage block Location Carlton Type of house Imposing Family Home
Price OIRO £1,500,000 Contact Homes in Bedfordshire 01908 969129 Winter 2010/11 Fine 141
WORK, REST AND PLAY
THE OWNERS OF THIS STUNNING, PERIOD HOME FELL IN LOVE WITH ITS CHARACTER AND CHARM AS WELL AS ITS BEAUTIFUL, SECLUDED SETTING CLOSE TO BEWL WATER.
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CONTEMPORARY LIVING Originally divided into three farm worker’s cottages, parts of the house are believed to date back to the 16th Century. Today it still has many original features but has also been renovated to make it perfect for contemporary living.
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hen he finishes work, the owner of Huntleys leaves his annexe and immediately heads for the fully-equipped gymnasium in the house. Believed to date back to the 16th Century, this charismatic home not only has many original features but has also been renovated to make it a house perfect for contemporary-style living. As well as the gymnasium and detached annexe, it boasts five bedrooms, an outdoor, heated swimming pool and substantial, landscaped gardens complete with a children’s play area. “I have to say my favourite room in the house is the gym. I had it fitted out and I work out every other day,” he said. “We have spent a lot of time and effort making this beautiful home exactly how we wanted it.”
“I suppose one of the fondest memories this house will always hold for us is the fact that my wife and I held our wedding reception here.”
Since moving in nine years ago, the owners have carried out a wide range of refurbishments including works to the roof and the house cladding, redecoration and fitting new bathrooms and kitchen. They also uncovered some of the beams in the house and two fireplaces were also opened up. “We have spent a lot of time and effort making our home exactly how we wanted it.” SETTLING DOWN Now Huntleys boasts spacious living areas including a stunning, triple aspect drawing room which has an inglenook fireplace fitted with a wood-burning stove. It also has French windows, which open out to a side terrace and exposed, brick columns as well as some timber beams. “The drawing room gets used a lot more in the winter. It is very cosy when you light the stove and it’s a nice place to get all snug and watch a good film on the TV,” he said.
PROPERTY DETAILS A substantial detached five-bedroom family home, the original framework of which dates back to circa 1600. Rebuilt, renovated, extended and modernised, the property retains many period features including exposed beams and timbers and is surrounded by wonderful gardens of about one acre (STMS) and a swimming pool. Location Ticehurst Type of house Detached Family Home
Price £1,495,000 Contact Homes in East Sussex 01892 458931 Winter 2010/11 Fine 143
dramatic impression
THE OWNERS STILL REMEMBER THEIR FIRST VISIT TO THE BARN, IN THE GROUNDS OF OLD SURREY HALL, WHEN THEY FELT AS IF THEY HAD WALKED ONTO A FILM SET FOR A COSTUME DRAMA
“Not only did the house look spectacular but it was also surrounded by farmland so felt extremely private and had a lovely rural feel.” 144 Fine Winter 2010/ 1 1
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elaxing in the sizeable and light drawing room, where the French windows can be opened in the summer to add to the feeling of space, the owners enjoy the lovely view out over the garden. But it wasn’t just the beautiful house that first attracted the couple. They were, in fact, won over long before they had even stepped over the threshold. With two impressive buildings lying in the grounds of Old Surrey Hall, one of which is the Grade II Listed barn conversion, the drive up to the courtyard reminded the owners of a period drama. “I turned into the courtyard and my mouth dropped open,” she said. “The location was a real winner.”
PROPERTY DETAILS The Barn at Old Surrey Hall is a Grade II Listed barn with Oast, situated in a stunning semi-rural setting. The charming interiors are brimming with character and include seven bedrooms and four reception rooms, while the three acres (STMS) of grounds and stables offer the potential for equestrian pursuits.
Location East Grinstead Type of house Barn Conversion with Oast Price £1,350,000 Contact Homes in Surrey 01306 898117 Winter 2010/11 Fine 145
go go gadget... From the latest releases of the usual suspects to
the weird and wonderful in the world of gadgets, we have brought you a few of our favourites guaranteed to bring you hours of entertainment FaceTime Golden Gigs Back up all your data on this sexy LaCie Golden Disk hard drive. With a terabyte of memory, this hard drive is enough for even the worst downloading offender. Also works on a Mac. £125
lacie.com
FaceTime for Mac is an entirely new application that allows Mac users to video call iPhone 4 and iPod touch users as well as other Macs. Featuring an easy to use interface, FaceTime for Mac automatically uses your Address Book contacts so there’s no need to create special buddy lists, and it works seamlessly with the builtin camera and mic on Mac notebooks, iMac and Apple LED Cinema Displays. See apple.com/uk/mac/facetime for more information
Tag Trick The first watch to feature driving belts and ball-bearings instead of the conventional wheels and pinions, the Tag Heuer Monaco V4 is certainly one of a kind. £60,000
tagheuer.com
3D TV goes super-wide Topping all the 3D charts right now is the new super widescreen 21:9 Platinum 3D TV from Panasonic. With a whopping 58 inch full HD screen and three-side ambilight, this is about as close to home cinema as one TV can be. £4,000
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philips.com
Nice Nano The new iPod nano has become more like the shuffles older brother with a new square shaped face and touch screen. Say goodbye to the clickwheel and hello to VoiceOver (spoken feedback) FM radio and a pedometer. Perfect for the gym. From £130
apple.com/uk
Air Dynamics The new MacBook Air introduces the first of a next generation of faster, more reliable, lighter and smaller notebooks. All that aside, they look pretty cool too.
Kinect This
From £849.99
apple.com/uk
Kinect for Xbox 360 lets you use your body and voice to play your favorite games and entertainment, literally turning you into the controller. Simply step in front of the revolutionary sensor, and Kinect sees you move, hears your voice and learns how you play. No buttons. No barriers. Just you. £129.99
xbox.com/kinect
Galaxy Galore
Introducing the Panasonic HDC-SDT750 3D, the world’s first consumer 3D camcorder. Dynamic 3D images can now be recorded by anyone – so smile – you’re on 3D camera.
The iPad has met it’s match with the new Samsung Galaxy. The 7-inch TFT-LCD display is perfect for viewing films, images, e-reading or sharing documents. In design, its light (380g) build provides perfect portability, with its svelte dimensions making it easy to grip and use. Supporting the latest Adobe Flash Player 10.1, the Samsung GALAXY Tab fully supports swift, seamless viewing of every single page of the web. Better still, the new GALAXY Tab is a phone too. Communicate via e-mail, voice and video call, SMS/MMS or social network - the choice is yours.
£1,068
From £530
3D Recording
panasonic.co.uk
samsungmobile.com
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Over the
Rainbow
GLITTERING IN THE SUN ON THE SITE OF AN OLD COUNTRY ESTATE, SIX-BEDROOM TREE TOPS IS A FUN HOME THAT IS MUCH LOVED BY GENERATIONS OF THE THOMPSON FAMILY
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“We pull back the by-folding doors which span the whole of the back of the house and we are in the garden.”
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ike Dorothy in The Wizard of Oz entering the Emerald City, Beverley Thompson was dazzled by the light and space of Tree Tops, with its myriad of colours sparkling through the huge glass windows, when she first saw it. “We always have rainbows in the house,” she said. In the summer, the family relax in their garden while never having to leave the house. “We pull back the bi-folding doors which span the whole of the back of the house and we are in the garden,” said Beverley. “Everything is open plan and it makes you want to get up and go.” Adding to the fairytale effect, Beverley built a sweeping glass staircase and replaced the laminate with white porcelain floors throughout the whole six-bedroom property. “The grandchildren love all the shiny surfaces and go running through the house,” she said. Tree Tops, so called because it was built on the site of a single storey home in 2000, has been completely refurbished by Beverley and her family. “We didn’t want to change the open plan style but we improved the modernity of it and upgraded everything,” she said. There is a trendy new kitchen, designed in black and white, and six new bathrooms, some with stone features, and all with white porcelain floors.
PROPERTY DETAILS This beautifully refurbished, six-bedroom home combines contemporary open plan living with striking features such as vaulted ceilings and a glass staircase. The clean, sleek lines of the exterior elevations are complemented by landscaped gardens that incorporate a number of water features. Location Ashtead Type of house Detached Contemporary Home
Price Guide price £1,300,000 Contact Homes in Surrey 01932 576600 Winter 2010/11 Fine 149
putting on
the ritz WITH A LAS VEGAS-STYLE DESIGN AND AN INTERIOR INSPIRED BY ONE OF LONDON’S MOST EXCLUSIVE HOTELS, THE HOUSE HAS BEEN EVERYTHING THE OWNERS DREAMED OF
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ooking out over the estuary as the sun sets, welcoming their guests into their spectacular home, the owners admit they have thought of every last detail. From the music that plays inside and outside the property, to the beautiful chandeliers and the bubbling spa pool, everything at their exclusive Vicarage Heights home is exactly as they wanted it. “We had the house built to our specifications,” she explained. “We had lived in Las Vegas and liked the open plan style they had out there, with vaulted ceilings and lots of windows. “At the same time, we wanted to bring the elegance of The Ritz into the house. We employed interior designers and actually had a lot of antiques from The Ritz brought in. “In many ways this is our dream house, right down to the smallest detail.” GLORIOUS SUNSETS Located on a quiet, gated cul-de-sac, in walking distance of Boyce Hill Golf Course, the exclusive house is well-positioned for taking in its surroundings. “The views over the estuary from here are amazing, and we have the most wonderful sunsets,” she said. “You can look out from the kitchen window or other rooms at the front of the house, and it is just breathtaking.” At the back, the house opens out on to the garden where there is a music system, a Las Vegas-style outdoor entertaining area and a hot tub. “It is the same as one of the ones from the QE2,” she said. “We have had many a wonderful night out there under the stars.” ALL THE GLITZ The sparkling interior of the house has been carefully planned by the couple, with lavish touches that ensure it remains eye-catching as well as sumptuous. “I just love the drawing room and dining room area,” she stressed. “It is a most beautiful room that really has ‘wow factor.’ We have a wonderful chandelier in there that came from The Ritz, there are magnificent silk drapes and we have a Chesney’s fireplace that really makes the room.” And she added: “We also have two marbleised columns in there and we copied The Ritz by mounting a mirror that turns into a television!”
“We had lived in Las Vegas and liked the open plan style they had out there, with vaulted ceilings and lots of windows.” PROPERTY DETAILS Situated in a select gated development in a highly prestigious location, this beautiful modern home has imposing elevations and three floors of stunning interiors. Inside, there is a striking reception hall, four reception rooms, a fabulous kitchen/ breakfast/family room and four opulent bedroom suites. Location Benfleet Type of house Beautiful Modern Home Price £1,300,000 Contact Homes in Essex 01702 826037 Winter 2010/11 Fine 151
fit for a king A REGAL AIR SURROUNDS ALISON SALMON’S GRADE II LISTED HOME, WHICH DATES BACK TO 1550 AND IS ON THE SITE OF A FORMER CASTLE AND THE OLD BUCKENHAM ABBEY 152 Fine Winter 2010/ 1 1
“The house has so much history and character that I just fell in love with it immediately.”
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estled within its own extensive grounds and steeped in history, Alison Salmon’s Grade II Listed home, Buckenham Priory, has it all. “It’s just the best place in the world to live,” she said. “It is totally private and secluded, and I love the fact that you feel totally away from the rest of the world when you are here.” Buckenham Priory is a substantial country home which has many original features and a wealth of outbuildings – and even its own moat. “The house has so much history and character that I just fell in love with it immediately,” she added. Extensive renovations were carried out by the Guy family, who moved into the house in 1939 and finished the works in the
1960/70s. Alison herself arrived 10 years ago and in 2003 carried out a number of works including putting in a new kitchen in the main house, upgrading the bathrooms and installing another kitchen in the annexe. Previously called Abbey Farm, the history of the house can be traced back to the time of Edward the Confessor and the original Buckenham Castle, of which the mound and moat remain within the grounds. The old, wooden castle is believed to have been destroyed in 1146 and in its place a priory was founded by William the Strong, which housed 10 Black Cannons of the Order of St Augustine’s. It was a previous owner and keen historian who decided to change the name back from Abbey Farm to Buckenham Priory.
PROPERTY DETAILS A wonderful Grade II* Listed former priory, set within 18 acres (STMS) of grounds, on the edge of a popular Norfolk Village. The interiors include a striking vaulted ceiling to the Priors Great Hall and outside are the historic remains of Buckenham Priory. Location Old Buckenham Type of house Former Priory
Price £1,300,000 Contact Homes in Norfolk 01603 622017 Winter 2010/11 Fine 153
EQUESTRIAN LOCATOR 1. THORPE BAY Abbots Hall
2. CHIGWELL Theydon Manor
3. GERRARDS CROSS Six Tunnels
4. GERRARDS CROSS Springfield Farm
5. COBHAM / OXSHOTT North Lodge
6. DORKING Manor Cottage
7. NORWICH Manor Farm
Firm favourites Some are set in acres of land with paddock after rolling paddock, and feature the very best in indoor and outdoor facilities - others perhaps have a stable or two that would be perfect for the family pony. Whatever your needs, you will find Fine a specialist in equestrian homes, offering some truly winning properties for horse lovers - and in the most desirable of locations.
8. WADHURST The Willow Estate
9. MONMOUTH Shap House
10. MONMOUTH Fairfield Manor
11. WICKHAM BISHOPS White House Farm
6. A STABLE OUTLOOK
Chertsey OIEO £1,250,000 On a private lane in the Surrey countryside, Manor Cottage has been a rural idyll for Trevor, Helen and their beloved horses Homes in Surrey 01306 898117
8. WRITTEN IN THE STARS
Bexhill on Sea £1,300,000-£1,500,000 With two beautiful homes, a health spa and pool, as well as top class equestrian facilities, the sky is the limit when it comes to living a life of luxury on The Willow Estate Homes in East Sussex 01892 458931
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1. THE GREAT ESCAPE
2. MANOR TO WHICH HE IS ACCUSTOMED
3. MY KINGDOM FOR A HORSE
Barling Magna OIEO £2,000,000
Theydon Garnon OIEO £2,500,000
They fell in love with its 1600s’ charm, and since then have transformed outbuildings and added stables and an indoor pool to create their own private 10-acre world
Sipping a long, cooling drink on the terrace after an exciting game of polo is Richard Newman’s idea of relaxing in his 115-year-old home of Theydon Manor
Gaddesden Row £5,275,000 Dating back to the 16th Century and with some fascinating tales to tell, Six Tunnels, with its exquisite Elizabethan chimneys, is now a beautiful, modern day home
Homes in Essex 01702 826037
Homes in West Essex 020 8504 0977
Homes in Hertfordshire 01753 886177
4. SIMPLY IRRESISTIBLE
5. DAYS WITH THE HORSES NORWICH (7)
Abingdon £2,350,000
Headley Guide price £1,850,000
When Derrick and Jane Taylor first found Springfield Farm, they found it totally irresistible – now they have added to its appeal with an indoor leisure complex
Buying North Lodge really was a dream come true for Liz Legg, who was first attracted to the equestrian property while riding past as a teenager
WICKHAM BISHOPS (11)
Homes in Oxfordshire 01753 886177
Homes in Surrey 01932 576600
MONMOUTH (9 & 10) GERRARDS CROSS (3 & 4)
CHIGWELL (2) THORPE BAY (1)
7. A GENTLE MANOR COBHAM / OXSHOTT (5)
DORKING (6)
WADHURST (8) Little Dunham £975,000 She loved the traditional country house, which was set in a delightful village and surrounded by paddocks and beautiful gardens, for its features and its quiet setting Homes in Norfolk 01603 622017
9. PREMIER CLASS
10. MANOR FROM HEAVEN
11. PRESIDENTIAL HOME
Yorkley £1,250,000
Llandevaud £1,500,000
Wickham Bishops £2,600,000
For eight years now the owner has lived at her beautiful 18th Century farmhouse and overseen her equestrian showground and holiday cottages
With stunning views through their great glass windows, the owners of striking new eco home Fairfield Manor enjoy the best of green living, both inside and out
Homes in South Wales 01600 228101
Homes in Gwent 01600 228101
Set in approx 20 acres (STMS), with stables, fishing and woodland, Michael and Joanne’s expectations were met when they moved into the 500 year-old White House Farm Homes in Essex 01206 617155
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Sky moat song WITH GLORIOUS RURAL VIEWS ONTO THE MOAT AND COUNTRYSIDE BEYOND, WATERMEAD IS A STUNNING ARCHITECT-DESIGNED HOME AND THE PERFECT PLACE TO WATCH THE SUN SET
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aking in the beautiful view across to the village church, David Richards looks from the window of the gorgeous kitchen breakfast room and reflects on the wonderful years that he and Valerie have enjoyed at Watermead. The Richards had Watermead built to their own design 12 years ago and have created a magnificent family home, with five bedrooms, including a dedicated guest suite, a study and three further reception rooms.
PROPERTY DETAILS Set well back from the road in approximately 3.5 acres (STMS) of grounds, Watermead enjoys stunning surroundings, including a 13th Century moat. Designed by the current owners, this idyllic family home boasts five bedrooms, four receptions and a stunning kitchen/ breakfast room.
The Buckinghamshire property sits on a plot that exceeds three and a half acres (STMS) and has beautiful landscaped gardens, so it offers the ultimate in seclusion and privacy, but has a wealth of amenities within very easy reach.
“The views are absolutely glorious from here and we just have so much space, it’s perfect for entertaining.”
Location Edlesborough Type of house Detached Country Home Price Guide Price £1,250,000 Contact Homes in Bedfordshire 01908 969129 Winter 2010/11 Fine 157
Window on the
World FROM THE FRONT IT LOOKS LIKE A SUPERB SURREY HOME BUT WHEN VISITORS STEP INSIDE THEY DISCOVER EVEN MORE - A STUNNING INTERIOR AND A GREAT GLASS WALL ON TO THE WORLD BEYOND
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ulling back the huge windows to bring in the warmth of the summer morning, the owners of The Maples still marvel at the transformation of their home. After falling in love with the roomy 1920s house and its prime location they decided to open it right up on the ground floor to make the most of the views on to the garden. Today, the house features an impressive family area, complete with contemporary kitchen, dining and relaxation spaces. Light streams in on winter days and in the summer the doors are thrown open to bring the house together with the garden. “It is wonderful – you can be sitting in the kitchen or even watching television and it feels like you are living outside,” said the owner. “The huge windows now give us a fantastic view of the garden and the open plan area has given us a perfect family and entertaining space.”
PROPERTY DETAILS The Maples is a fabulous amalgamation of two eras, with the first impressions being a delightful 1920s façade through to a spectacular 21st Century extension to the rear. Internally, the property has been completely modernised to an extremely high standard, with beautifully presented accommodation that includes four bedrooms, two reception rooms and a fantastic open plan kitchen, sitting and dining room. Location Dorking Type of house Contemporary Home Price £1,000,000 Contact Homes in Surrey 01306 898117 158 Fine Winter 2010/ 1 1
“It is fantastic because everybody can do what they want to be doing and we are able to keep an eye on the children at the same time.�
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WONDER WYE Surrounded by the glorious woodland of the Wye Valley, Dale Lodge is a unique and wonderful home in an idyllic rural setting, just minutes from city life
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itting on the terrace, watching the sun setting over the beautiful Monmouthshire countryside, Geoffrey and Tracey Platts reflect on the many happy memories they have gathered during their family life at Dale Lodge. In an absolutely perfect rural setting, Dale Lodge has given them just the right amount of privacy and seclusion, while being ideally placed for access to three major cities. Once a woodman’s cottage, Dale Lodge is still surrounded by land managed by the Forestry Commission and is a truly unique home - and a very careful blend of old and new. With four bedrooms, two reception rooms and a stunning kitchen breakfast room, as well as a leisure complex, it has been the ideal family home for the couple and their family for many years.
“We’ve really loved living at Dale Lodge, we’re surrounded by wildlife and have a beautiful rural outlook, but we’re so convenient for nearby cities too.” PROPERTY details Formerly a woodman’s lodge, this charming four-bedroom detached country home enjoys an idyllic setting with formal gardens and paddocks that extend to approximately 6.5 acres (STMS). Location Caldicott Type of house Country Home Price £995,000 Contact Homes in Monmouthshire 01600 228101 Winter 2010/11 Fine 161
BESPOKE IN
OAK Nick and Patricia Maestrani were able to stamp their personality on the spectacular Spring Hall when they built the property from their own designs seven years ago
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ith the warm water lapping up against their legs, Nick and Patricia Maestrani can sit on the wide steps of their pool, sipping an evening glass of wine as the sun goes down. “It’s a lovely secluded spot, so you can relax and take in the lovely views from the edge,” Nick said. The Maestranis bought the land about 18 years ago and had been running a business from the location.
“It has a very soft and tactile look about it and everything is of the most fantastic quality.”
After deciding to take the original house down, they then had a blank canvas to work with to create their dream family home. The couple had a very clear vision of what they wanted to achieve – the swimming pool, equestrian facilities and rooms built to make the most of the sun but with a very traditional feel. “It’s a new house, but we’ve built it in the style of a 300 year-old farmhouse,” he explained. Oak has been used throughout the property bringing an “olde-worlde” feel and attention to detail. Large doors feature clinch nails, for example, to make it look extremely authentic and to enhance the old farmhouse style. The couple hand-selected the French oak and everything was specially made to fit the spacious three-level house. The carpentry took nearly three years to complete - with the grand oak staircase as one of the bigger challenges, taking five and a half months. “The time spent was well worth it,” Nick said. “It all looks amazing, I feel like a little piece of me went into our home.
“It’s a lovely secluded spot, so you can relax and take in the lovely views from the edge of the pool.” Property details A splendid bespoke, family five-bedroom detached house, built in a traditional style with character features. Situated in grounds approaching 3.4 acres (STMS) and incorporating equestrian facilities, an outdoor pool and games/gym complex. Location Little Bentley Type of house Detached Bespoke Home Price Guide price £900,000 Contact Homes in Essex 01206 617155 Winter 2010/11 Fine 163
winning home
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njoying the view with friends on the terrace as the sun goes down, Neville Middleton is delighted with the relaxing feel at his award-winning home. From the large, open plan kitchen to the beautiful drawing room, galleried landing and spacious dining room, he’s packed Glebe House with character, and ensured it is practical too. Neville put all his years of expertise as a building contractor into creating the ideal, spacious, stylish home for his family. Using high quality materials, he created a traditional looking house full of exposed beams and wooden floors. “People often think this is a historic house, that’s just what I wanted,” said Neville. He designed good-sized family rooms, which look beautiful throughout the year. There are also large windows that add to
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A DREAM HOUSE CAN SEEM IMPOSSIBLE TO FIND, SO NEVILLE MIDDLETON HAD HIS STUNNING SIX-BEDROOM, HERITAGE-STYLE HOUSE BUILT FOR THE FAMILY - AND IT’S PROVED TO BE A WINNER
“This is the ultimate house. It is superb, it is absolutely perfect.”
the sense of space and bring the light flooding in. “There is a lot of character here. I have worked on a series of houses over the years and this is the ultimate house. It is superb, it is absolutely perfect,” said Neville. Easy living is the theme throughout. The drawing room is always a favourite area, with its double doors on to the terrace ideal for making the most of long summer evenings. In the winter it is particularly cosy sitting in front of the large inglenook fireplace when the fire is lit, the curtains are drawn and the lights are low. This is the room where people love to relax with a glass of wine or, for an even quieter time away from the family, they may head to the snug, which is also oak floored. Here they can choose a book from the shelves or sit with a favourite magazine for an hour or so.
PROPERTY DETAILS Surrounded by beautiful Norfolk countryside, Glebe House is an outstanding six-bedroom family home. Lovingly built by its current owners to provide character and style with an abundance of reception space and three acres (STMS). Location Beeston Type of house Detached House
Price OIEO £765,000 Contact Homes in Norfolk 01603 622017 Winter 2010/11 Fine 165
Standing on
Ceremony Alan Goggin and his wife Mary have been custodians of their elegant, Edwardian home, Rydal, for the past 10 years
“We have carried out quite a lot of work to the house, but we are a traditional couple and we have tried to maintain many of the original features.�
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eing heavily involved in the local and civic community Alan and Mary Goggin wanted a home that was both a comfortable and welcoming place to live in and somewhere they could entertain people. “We have had all sorts of functions here and we often host committee meetings, which is probably why I love the drawing room so much. It is spacious enough to allow us to do it,” said Alan. Having both grown up in the area, the couple knew the house well and had previously tried to buy it twice, before finally moving in, during 2000. The handsome, three-storey, Edwardian house dates back to 1914 and has been extensively refurbished and extended by the current owners “The house is one of four built around the same time and is well known by the local community,” said Alan. “We have carried out quite a lot of work to the house, but we are a traditional couple and we have tried to maintain many of the original features.” When Alan and Mary moved in, the whole house was carpeted, but when they set about putting their own stamp on the property they discovered original oak and mahogany flooring in all the downstairs’ living rooms. “We uncovered magnificent block wood flooring,” said Alan. “So we got the professionals in to restore and polish it.”
Property details Commissioned and built in 1914 for the local shipyard owner - AJ Aldous - this truly stunning five-bedroom, four-reception room Edwardian three storey town house is located within close proximity to the marina which is ideal for water sport enthusiasts.
Location Brightlingsea Type of house Three Storey Edwardian Home Price Guide price £595,000 Contact Homes in Essex 01206 617155 Winter 2010/11 Fine 167
“This house is perfect for happy family living – all the rooms are well-used and there is plenty of space for everyone to have their privacy.”
Wind in the willows
Looking out across her peaceful garden, towards the weeping willow at the end, the owner of Windwood House relishes the privacy, position and location of her home
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ntertaining friends by the pool or relaxing with the children in the den, Windwood House has been designed to have family appeal. The bright five-bedroom home, set on a prestigious, private Surrey estate, has been extended and decorated by the current owners to create large, airy spaces offering ease of living. “I love the south-facing position of the house and the fact it is on a level plot, which is secure for children,” she said. “It feels very secluded and safe here, and the garden, with its weeping willow at the bottom, is extremely private.”
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PROPERTY DETAILS Approached through secure electric gates, Windwood is set in a leafy, prestigious location and offers comfortable family living in a peaceful environment. The property has adaptable accommodation with annexe potential Location Oxshott Type of house Detached Family Home Price £2,350,000 Contact Homes in Surrey 01932 576600
interior finds FINE HAVE CAUGHT UP WITH THREE OF BRITAIN’S MOST ACCLAIMED INTERIOR DESIGNERS TO GET AN INSIGHT INTO SOME OF THE GOLDEN TIPS OF THE TRADE. FROM DESIGNING A SPA AND SWIMMING POOL AREA, TO INCORPORATING ANTIQUES INTO A CONTEMPORARY HOME, WE HAVE BROUGHT TO YOU THE BEST-KEPT SECRETS OF THE WONDERFUL WORLD OF INTERIORS.
Design by Mark Gillette
PERIOD PROPERTY AND ANTIQUES THE EXPERT: MARK GILLETTE Mark Gillette has 23 years of experience in the interior design industry, following a career change from art therapy. Attending the Inchbald School of Design and training with a long-established design firm for seven years gave Mark a solid base from which to establish his own consultancy, Mark Gillette Interior Design Ltd. Marks first commission was the re-decoration of an Elizabethan manor in North Wales. Over the past 16 years he has been lucky enough to work throughout the UK and Europe. Mark describes his design speciality as “assisting a client to gain a greater understanding of their own taste. I love to take the saddest looking house and turn it into a home.” Having gained a reputation for undertaking commissions on period properties including Georgian and Regency country houses, a fortress in Salzburg and a 19th Century lodge in Scotland, Mark is an expert in historic property and antiques.
What is the most important aspect to consider when decorating a Grade I or II Listed building? Without question the most important element is to ensure that you comply with any restrictions specific
to the property listing and local planning office. For the individual I think not to be overwhelmed by a building is a big issue. A house with distinctive architecture and a “history” can often intimidate. Don’t be afraid, and make sure that your decoration ensures you gain ownership.
What is the benefit of employing an interior designer to refurbish period buildings? Employing an interior designer means that you have a link between the architecture, decoration, and your taste. A good interior designer listens and guides you. With years of experience and a wealth of knowledge you can see your vision turn into reality. An interior designer has access to a vast library of information and products. A great skill is to incorporate modern amenities in a sympathetic way into a period property – timeless functional bathrooms are an essential for anyone. A designer with a good historical knowledge can take risks and often create calculated exciting interiors that stand the test of time.
What factors do you need to consider when introducing antiques and specific art pieces to a room? There are two approaches in my opinion either the school of the “purist” where period and style accuracy are of maximum importance, this is often to achieve a “collection” and like everything is driven by personal
taste. Alternatively, there is the “evolved” interior. This reflects the natural development, taste, and maybe several generations giving the English country house its uniqueness. In my experience mixing periods and styles creates exciting and vibrant interiors. Period houses benefit from the new and modest as well as the old and precious.
Can antiques be incorporated into contemporary rooms? I really like to bring antiques into contemporary interiors, if done well it looks very exciting. This is where less is more. The pieces should be bold, good quality and placed to achieve maximum impact. A single 18th Century continental desk or commode in a living room, a big Italian faded gilt mirror in an entrance space or even an early 17th Century tapestry all can work well in a clean simple, pared down interior.
Do you have any golden rules or top tips for people looking to experiment with antiques and traditional art? Always buy at the top end of your budget as it is often an investment. If you are buying at auction, always view the sale (do not buy from a catalogue) and get a condition report. Staff at auction houses tend to be very helpful. Run your ideas for a purchase past your interior designer, they see a bigger picture.
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Design by Rebecca Leivars, whilst working for Tussuto Grade II Listed Georgian Townhouse, former Listed artist studio converted into a three-bedroom duplex home, including basement dig out and creation of a mezzanine media room. Complete refurbishment throughout, wiring and automated media and lighting system.
LIGHTING DESIGN AND CONTEMPORARY STYLE THE EXPERT: REBECCA LEIVARS Rebecca retrained in interior design at KLC School of Design after ten years of a different career path. Winning the coveted Student of the Year Award 2007 at KLC was the affirmation she needed that the right choice had been made. Within three years Rebecca formed her own company, Rebecca Leivars Designs Ltd., and worked on over twenty projects, from complete redevelopments and strip-outs to bespoke interior design. In her design, Rebecca focuses on the existing architectural lines of the property she is working with. Her natural style is based on very clean lines, European/ Industrial contemporary with fine or unusual finishes, balanced with luxurious textiles and great art. With a passion for lighting, she focuses on this first and foremost with any design.
Why is lighting so critical in design? Lighting is critical in any design and the one area I always ask clients not to compromise on within their budget and it’s the one area client’s never wish to come back to once a project is complete, so better to get it right from the offset. I focus on both utilising
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natural light and introducing architectural light to enhance key features of the existing architecture or points of interests.
What factors do you need to consider when converting a traditional home to a contemporary, light-filled space? Taking lighting alone, you need to consider what restrictions are in force, if permissions are needed for any structural work and whether work falls within permitted development for that borough or area of residence. Questions you may need to ask could be: Does the architecture allow for that particular style or is a balance of styles required? What natural daylight exists and what is the orientation of the property? What electrics are currently in place and do circuit boards need to be replaced to cater for any additional lighting circuits? Is there sufficient space between ceiling and joists for new light fittings and fire hoods if the ceilings are non-concrete based? The list is extensive. Traditional homes can often come with old style plumbing, electrics and heating systems. Replacing bathrooms often means new pipe work and it is common to find, particularly in London that water pressures are low and therefore not adequate for contemporary taps and showers which generally
require higher bar pressures, so pumps are often required. If you are unsure about the restrictions, ask an expert to make a full assessment of your home and advise you on what can be achieved.
What considerations come into play when planning lighting design? When planning lighting design, you need to consider what it is that you are actually lighting. How often have you been into a show-home to see a series of grid lighting with little purpose that are harsh on the eye? Lighting should be respected at the earliest stage, with key questions asked such as, what is the function of the room and does what you’re trying to light have a purpose. Subtle and layered lighting is key to any successful design. Also, where the light is not a feature i.e. pendant or side lamp, the light source should be concealed. In any room there should be a good balance between ambient, mood and task lighting. Good design will allow the lights to be layered by having them on different circuits and dimmable, either manually or through lighting control systems which are more energy efficient. Having beautiful cornice detail or stairs subtly lit creates a striking impact if done well and with knowledge. However, most important is ensuring that at all times consideration is given to energy efficient lighting and that any changes to lights comply with current building regulations.
Design by Wilkinson Beven Design Pool and spa facilities were formed within the lower basement footprint of the alpine ski chalet. Taking inspiration for the alpine mountains, careful lighting design created a controlled vista within the spa.
Image: copyright of Marc Berenguer
LEISURE AND SPA AREAS IN THE HOME THE EXPERT: JOHN BEVEN John Beven is one half of the consultancy Wilkinson Beven Design, paired with Richard Wilkinson. A member of the British Institute of Interior Design (BIID), John has evolved an expertise in the design of high quality residential and commercial projects, both in the UK and abroad. Focusing on attention to detail, from concept stage to completion, consistently results in his designing of successful interiors. Spatial planning, design detailing, furniture selection and materials specification are all central to his design process. Wilkinson Beven Design aims to provide an exciting and comprehensive approach to client projects. The varied work has allowed the partners to develop key skills and knowledge in specialist areas such as swimming pool and spa design.
Is there much call for the design of leisure areas in the home? Absolutely, there is more call for this design service today than ever before. In fact, domestic pools, saunas, steam rooms and gyms are becoming increasingly popular as cash rich and time poor clients want to enjoy all the benefits of a five-star health club at home.
Can an individual design their own swimming pool area? Individuals can design their own leisure and pool area, however the actual implementation of the project requires various expert opinions and careful liaison between design and construction processes. The benefit of interior designers in a project such as this is that years of experience allow us to call on a strong team of suppliers and specialists within the industry, it is the control of these teams and our attention to detail that achieve the finish we expect and require. The production of working drawings and specification documents for construction teams, gives greater control and clear information for contractors to interpret our designs. My advice to someone looking to design the leisure area himself or herself would be to work alongside a seasoned professional who will listen to your plans and ideas and assist you in the actual implementation of them.
Pool and leisure areas are popular in holiday homes as well as in the UK, do you have advice for individuals looking to develop these facilities in holiday homes abroad? Certainly, we have a wealth of experience with development of holiday homes because our success has encouraged clients to use us both in the UK and abroad. Having already worked abroad, we now have
relationships with contractors all over the world, from the French Alps to Barbados. Individuals should research their contractors in detail and consider whether they are insured for the work they plan to carry out. Each country varies in planning rules and building legislation, so always ensure you have the correct legalities in place before conducting the project.
What is the most important aspect for people to consider when designing a leisure area? You need to be clear on the function of the facilities first and foremost. Consider the following: Will it be a place for relaxation? Will the pool be used for exercising? Will children be near the pool? The practicalities of a leisure area are vital to the design process. The depth of the pool needs to be decided at the outset, along with access and safety considerations. Correct material choice is also important so that all materials chosen work well within a wet environment, non-slip floor tiles are essential. The most important aspect in the aesthetics of the area is the internal finish of the swimming pool, which reflects the water’s colour. Particularly in basement designs, lighting is key to atmospheric spa design, creating a sense of drama.
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“I really like the seclusion and the lovely setting of our home. The big, bright rooms and the garden make it really special – it’s been our ideal home.”
single page property
Dazzling dream After falling in love with the leafy Kent location, Ray and Susan Dukes set about creating their ultimate dream home
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elaxing in the conservatory overlooking the beautiful garden surrounded by trees, Ray Dukes relishes the delightful outlook of this impressively proportioned house. It’s now 15 years since the Dukes had their dazzling dream home built and they still adore its many fantastic features – from the magnificent mahogany staircase to salvaged marble fireplaces. And with a self-contained bar and entertaining space, it’s fabulous for parties. “You can’t usually buy houses with rooms this size, you have to design them,” Ray said. “In the summer we spend a lot of time out on the terrace, where we have the barbecue. The garden is southwest facing and gets sun all day long.”
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PROPERTY DETAILS Set over three floors, this palatial five-bedroom home encapsulates spacious living and stunning interiors. Its grand receptions rooms, marble fireplaces and bespoke mahogany staircase make this house the unique and memorable family home it is today. Location Wilmington Type of house Detached Family Home Price Guide price £1,475,000 Contact Homes in Kent 01689 638452
New York the THE CITY THAT NEVER SLEEPS, THE BIG APPLE AND THE WORLD IN ONE PLACE - NEW YORK IS AS ICONIC AS ITS SKYLINE AND A FIRST CHOICE WHEN IT COMES TO A TRIP STATESIDE
off tourist track
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Try authentic cuisine, shop in the back-street boutiques and enjoy entertainment away from the traditional Broadway shows.
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hink of the crowded streets, Times Square and yellow cabs as well as famous attractions including Lady Liberty, Wall Street and the Empire State Building. New York is a year round destination but nothing is more appealing than the window displays in the stores of Fifth Avenue during the festive season. Winter in New York conjures up ideas of sparkling Christmas lights, skating on the Rockefeller Centre’s ice rink or taking a sleigh ride in Central Park - but how about the route less travelled? Why not uncover the best places where New Yorkers are found and avoid the tourist trail? Try authentic cuisine, shop in the backstreet boutiques and enjoy entertainment away from the traditional Broadway shows.
From top to bottom right: Manhattan skyline with Brooklyn Bridge, typical NYC street sign, Katz Deli est. 1988 and Chinatown.
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SHOPPING While Tiffany’s, Saks and the stores of Manhattan have long since established their place in the retail world, New York has many quirky alternatives that provide more variety and bang for your buck. Hop on the subway or hail a cab and follow the route to the vintage boutiques, hippy markets and retro stores of the outlying NYC districts. Greenwich Village is a great start to your shopping adventure; bag a pretzel for sustenance, because you’ll need it as rows of small designer stores displaying handmade goods will entice you in. Pick up an item of bespoke jewellery at The Crangi Family Project store in the West Village. Each item is designed to look like a piece of forgotten treasure and makes for a unique gift or keepsake. Claudine is a colourful and welcoming
store where the racks are filled with clothes from local designers and owner Kyung Lee is happy to take an order for a one of a kind dress - perfect for those upcoming festive parties. If you are still craving the labels of Fifth Avenue, book an appointment at Pas de Deux, where you will be spoilt for choice with the latest names in men’s fashion. For funky novelty items head to the thrift shops of the Lower East Side. Edith Machinist is a popular hang out with the arty crowd. Rummage through its shelves of vintage clothes, furs, boots and bags to find your perfect look. Located only a short walk away, A.Turen is a great little store for kitsch fashion pieces including leather fringed trousers and leopard print shirts. The clothes are designed by the owner Ashley Turen who also welcomes each customer at the door. For a different approach to shopping rise early and head to the NYC flea markets such as Soho Antiques Fair and Greenflea. Browse through stalls, chat with the colourful characters and barter your price for antiques, music and trinkets. FINE DINING It is estimated that New York is home to over 19,000 restaurants - a staggering statistic and one made even more so by the fact that most tourists opt for the nearest fast food joint. So while fries, hotdogs, shakes and cheeseburgers seem the typical American fare, take advantage of the range of nationalities that call NYC home and sample a variety of cuisine. Jump the subway to the Lower East Side where the Italian community will welcome you with the finest pastrami and most authentic stone baked pizza found this side of the Atlantic. First established in 1888 - eat with the locals at the Italian favourite Katz’s Deli, a popular choice with New Yorkers. If Mexican is more your style then head to the West Village and pull up a seat in Cabrito, a lively restaurant serving a red hot signature dish of goat with salsa borracha and tortillas. In the evening the atmosphere cranks it up a notch as the bar transforms into an exotic cocktail paradise fusing traditional ingredients such as Tequila with chilli pepper. Spend a refined afternoon exploring the quaint yet bohemian cafés of Greenwich Village and stop in on Tea & Sympathy. An ode to British life, this restaurant serves roast dinners, cupcakes and a large selection of caffeinated beverages. On a chilly day unwind in one of the window seats and take in the bustling street scene. Of course no trip to the Big Apple would be complete without wandering around the vibrant Chinatown area. Wrap up warm
and visit the seafood market stalls of Canal Street selling fresh lobster, crab, shellfish and langoustines. This colourful area offers a mix of Cantonese, Szechuan and Malaysian restaurants and is considered one of the friendliest places in New York City. Start the day with a steaming pot of chai at the cosy Nom Wah Tea Parlor. Cleverly tucked down a side street this restaurant is an old fixture with a rough and ready exterior giving way to authentic food at low prices. NIGHT LIFE From burlesque to cabaret, techno to jazz the East Village is an exciting blend of tastes. It is said this district is more alive at night and with rows of bars, clubs and late night diners it’s easy to see why. Antarctica is a laid-back bar with a student vibe and a great place to get chatting with native New Yorkers. For a sophisticated and possibly romantic encounter try the candlelit Bourgeois Pig wine bar - widely regarded as an ideal spot for couples on a first date. For a livelier night, pay homage to 1950’s pin-ups and enjoy drag acts and cabaret performances at the Nurse Bettie cocktail bar. The chic décor and elegant clientele make this an unforgettable evening. New York City is the capital of performance and a nurturer of the live music scene so be sure to take in a set from an up and coming band. The Bowery Ballroom is a cultural reference point for many of New York’s youth, and features live music and club nights. Similarly, Arlene’s Grocery pulls much of the student crowd. For those who enjoy karaoke, book your table in Winnie’s, the city’s liveliest karaoke bar and watering hole for a variety of regulars from Chinatown pensioners to pop star hopefuls. If dancing is your thing then hit the neon dancefloor at Cielo in the Meatpacking District to rub shoulders with the cool crowd and spot a famous face or two.
New York skyline from Central Park
Avoid the crowds queuing for the Ellis Island ferry, swerve past the tourist stores near Times Square and shun the fast food outlets that can be found on most street corners. Below: Typical New York café
Immerse yourself in the hidden side of New York. Avoid the crowds queuing for the Ellis Island ferry, swerve past the tourist stores near Times Square and shun the fast food outlets that can be found on most street corners. Choose instead to live like a New Yorker and walk the streets of Williamsburg in Queens, explore the tree-lined neighbourhood of Chelsea and eat authentic meals in the diners and delis of Greenwich Village. From a city that produces world renowned fashion and music look deep into the heart of the stores and venues of the back streets and see New York for all that it offers and more. Winter 2010/11 Fine 175
At home in The Shires
PICTURE POSTCARD, THATCHED HOMES NESTLING BY QUIET VILLAGE GREENS AND CHARMING HOUSES OVERFLOWING WITH PERIOD FEATURES, TUCKED AWAY IN THE QUIET COUNTRYSIDE - AT FINE WE BELIEVE IN STRENGTH OF CHARACTER. FROM THATCHED COTTAGES TO QUAINT LOCAL STONE RETREATS, OUR HOMES OFFER A VERY ENGLISH WAY OF LIFE.
oasis of calm
Grayshott £799,950 For 40 years now Folly Cottage has been a magnificent retreat, somewhere for Vivien and Peter Harrison to soak up the tranquillity and escape the busy world Homes in Surrey 01428 288097
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romance in the air
inner beauty Moulsoe £945,000
Croxton Kerrial £625,000
With its thatched roof, wealth of original features and roses round the door, fairytale home Chaters Cottage appeals straight to the heart
Alex and Jeremy Bancroft happened upon Holly Cottage almost by accident but when they saw its beautiful outlook, they knew they had found a winning country home
Homes in Buckinghamshire 01908 969129
Homes in Lincolnshire 0115 981 5409
tudor rose
taste of norfolk
Bures £320,000
Bunwell £499,950
With its original stone floor, exposed beams and inglenook fireplaces the beautiful country home, with its ancient ash tree and English gardens, took them back to the days of old
The pretty, 17th Century chocolate box cottage with its many attractive features was in a perfect spot to enjoy the very best of the beautiful South Norfolk countryside
Homes in Essex 01206 617155
Homes in Norfolk 01603 622017
english rose
perfect in paradise
Bedford Guide price £875,000
Flore Guide price £360,000
Nestling in the pretty English countryside and featuring attractive areas of woodland, thatched Roselea was so enticing that the owner knew she just had to make it her home
The chocolate box cottage steeped in history was the perfect home for Amy and Richard and its pretty English garden offered them their very own Eden
Homes in Bedfordshire 01908 969129
Homes in Northamptonshire 01604 949086
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“The moment we set eyes on the house we could tell it was a warm, friendly family home.”
The colour of glass
With its welcoming and colourful stained glass front door, and its ornate coving, the beautiful former vicarage was the ideal home for Jane and Christopher McCarthy
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ane McCarthy loves to relax in her comfortable drawing room, with its many period features. The Victorian house, which was once a vicarage, and is set in the beautiful Kent countryside, has been a perfect home to the family over the years. “The moment we set eyes on the house we could tell it was a warm friendly family home,” said Jane. The impressive, detached house was built in the 1890s, and was appealing to the couple as soon as they stepped over the threshold. Its large expansive rooms, with high ceilings, were exactly what they were looking for. “The stained glass windows and door in the entrance are very attractive and inviting to visitors,” she said. “The beautiful coving and ornate ceiling roses caught my eye at once. It was so in keeping with when it had originally been a Victorian vicarage to the now defunct St John’s the Devine church.” And she added: “The house welcomed us with open arms.”
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PROPERTY DETAILS Situated in Dunton Green and dating back to the 1890’s, this magnificent Victorian home retains many of its original features. Inside there are six bedrooms, a beautiful kitchen and an abundance of reception space, while outside the grounds extend to 0.7 of an acre (STMS). Location Dunton Green Type of house Detached Country Home Price £1,095,000 Contact Homes in Kent 01689 638452
“You can lie back in the bath and soak up the wonderful views of the garden and the fields beyond. It is beautiful, especially around dusk.”
At home on the farm When the owners of Staffords Farm first saw the property they knew it was the right place for them - it had all the makings of the perfect family home.
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he owner of Staffords Farm is rightly proud of her home for being a normal, welcoming place for her and her family. “I love my home. It is just perfect,” she said. “When we first saw it, we loved the village location and the fact the property had loads of character.” Built in the 1800s the property was originally a dairy farm, but since moving in 23 years ago, the owners have put their own stamp on it. They have carried out renovations and made some additions including a purpose-built, indoor swimming pool and a two-bedroom barn complex. “We saw the potential for creating a wonderful family home,” she said.
PROPERTY DETAILS
Set within 19 acres (STMS) of grounds and surrounded by beautiful Norfolk Countryside, Staffords Farm is an impressive family home with four double bedrooms, swimming pool complex and paddocks. In addition to the main accommodation there is a detached two-bedroom barn conversion. Location Rockland All Saints Type of house Farmhouse
Price OIEO £1,000,000 Contact Homes in Norfolk 01603 622017 Winter 2010/11 Fine 179
Georgian finery
“The thing we love about this house is its position. You would think you were in the countryside not the middle of the city.”
The architect owner and his wife have lovingly restored their Georgian, Grade II Listed farmhouse and given it back its 19th Century finery
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very year around November 5th, the owners host a firework party for all their neighbours in the garden of their splendid home. “There is a great community here and it has become something of a tradition for us to hold a bonfire party,” said the owner. The Grove sits on top of a hill in a quiet cul-de-sac tucked away in a conservation area, close to the Roman Catholic Cathedral in the heart of Norwich. Before moving in to the property, which has a separate guest annexe, seven years ago, the couple spent months renovating the house and restoring it to its full Georgian glory. The owner said: “We have peeled off its 1970s/80s clothing and dressed it up again in its 19th Century finery.” 180 Fine Winter 2010/ 1 1
PROPERTY DETAILS From its striking Georgian exterior to the beautifully landscaped gardens that surround it, this stunning Grade II Listed home has been lovingly returned to its former glory, with five bedrooms, a wealth of reception space and a detached one-bedroom stable house. The Grove is a stunning home. Location Heigham Grove Type of house Georgian Detached Family Home Price OIEO £1,000,000 Contact Homes in Norfolk 01603 622017
Use of a bold patterned wallpaper introducing pattern and texture to a luxurious bathroom. Brian Yates 01524 35035 www.brian-yates.co.uk
bathroom
beautiful.
BATHROOMS NEED NO LONGER BE STERILE, WHITE, OR BORING. GONE ARE THE DAYS OF A THREE-PIECE BATHROOM SUITE, SELF-COLOURED TILES AND MATCHING TOWELS. TODAY, THE CONTEMPORARY BATHROOM IS A HAVEN FOR RELAXATION AND SHEER, UNADULTERATED INDULGENCE
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nject a touch of glamour into your bathroom as we explore some of the most decadent bathroom materials available. From designer shutters, glittering wallpaper and glistening chandeliers to freestanding baths and top of the range showers; be inspired to transform your functional bathroom into your very own heavenly retreat. CHIC BOUTIQUE Drawing inspiration from boutique hotels, bathroom interior trends of the moment combine contemporary sleek lines with classic, ornate accessories in a broad range of spellbinding textures. Blend natural features of the room with your own luxurious statement pieces and accessories to create that chic look.
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Four Jacuzzi® jets and six rotating back massage jets have been used to create the ‘Nova’ freestanding whirlpool bath. Prices start from £8,000
STATEMENT SUITE The best way to create a show-stopping bathroom is to spend on wonderfully unique bathroom necessities. Space permitting, make a statement with a stand-alone bath, jacuzzi or shower each of which can be as ornate or as simplistic as you choose. The freestanding Spittal shower from Drummonds is the perfect addition to a classic, elegant bathroom. When space is limited, use basins and vanity areas to enhance the look of the room by making a feature out of the area, opting for an eye-catching statement basin sitting above the surface for all to see. The Serpentine Bronze Conical Bell Vessels basin from Kohler is inspired by a Chinese bronze basin dating from 475-221 B.C., bringing exotic beauty to any bath or powder room. Although a choice of a more simplistic bathroom suite will allow for more flexibility when accessorizing and designing, the modern bathroom has no limits to decadence whatsoever.
Jacuzzi UK 01274 654 700 www.jacuzzi.co.uk
Make sure your shower feels as good as it looks with a quality product. Sieger Design have created a new generation of rain showers recreating the way that water falls in nature, or invest in Water Points that can be combined with any product to serve as additional outlets in the shower to suit individual preferences.
Serpentine Bronze design on Conical Bell Vessels basin £1,187 Wall mount basin mixer in vibrant brushed bronze £600 Kohler 0844 571 0048 www.kohler.co.uk
Drummonds freestanding Spittal shower Price from: £15,000 Drummonds 020 7376 4499 www.drummonds-uk.com
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The Athena cast iron bath, £1,326 from Aston Matthews, features ornate feet and gently sloping ends - making it an extremely comfortable bath. Shown here with the Tradition bath shower tap £645
Aston Matthews 020 7226 7220 www.astonmatthews.co.uk
The WaterPoints can be combined with any product to serve as additional outlets in the shower to suit individual preferences. By Sieger Design. Dornbracht +49(0)2371 433-0 www.dornbracht.com
PRETTY PETITE They say good things come in small packages so surely small spaces can be just as glamorous as large spaces? They absolutely can be, with carefully planned design. The new generation of rain showers recreates the way that water falls in nature. The design has been pared down further and the spray area is rounded off in line with the shower head. By Sieger Design. Dornbracht +49(0)2371 433-0 www.dornbracht.com
Opt for a pale colour palette to maximize the light in the room and introduce reflective accessories where possible. Mirrors are essential in a small bathroom and when placed at right angles to the light source, can increase the feel of space in the room significantly. Use an ornate, antique mirror to add period glamour to the room. The wet room shower is perfect for a smaller space, with floor to ceiling glass enhancing the size of the room. Rather than a vanity unit, why not opt for a freestanding basin when space is limited? The cone natural stone basin from Aston Matthews is ideal for a space-saving option.
Matki’s wet room walk-in shower enclosure: single panel with return and side panel, 8mm safety glass. Price: £1545 Matki 01454 322888 www.matki.co.uk
The cone natural stone basin, £1,149 from Aston Matthews, has a 400mm diameter and sits on a rough stone pedestal. Shown here with Zyam wall taps £309 Aston Matthews 020 7226 7220 www.astonmatthews.co.uk Winter 2010/11 Fine 183
Sandblasted triangular shutters with 89mm blades from The New England Shutter Company. Prices start at £375 per square metre The New England Shutter Company 020 8675 1099 www.tnesc.co.uk
Use metallic stripes to enhance light reflection and height in a small space. Brian Yates 01524 35035 www.brian-yates.co.uk
BATHROOM LIVING The boutique bathroom trend sees bathroom furnishings become closer to those of a luxurious living area, introducing touches of luxe wall coverings, tailored curtains, sofas and even coffee tables to the fore of bathroom décor. Stick to similar tones to create a relaxed ambience and inject style through a carefully chosen statement piece
Metallic stripes to enhance lighthasreflection and height in apatterns smalltospace. or bold wall coverings. Brian Yates a wonderful selection ranging from metallics. The perfect way to add glamour to any room is the addition of a statement chandelier. Lighting design has moved with the trends with the common creation of IP-44 rated products that have been specifically designed for the Yates bathroom, allowing us to introduce decadence to the bathroom safely, for the first time.
Brian 01524 35035 When bringing soft furnishings, open lighting and wallpaper into bathrooms, the practicalities need attention. www.brian-yates.co.uk
Ensure that you have sufficient ventilation for the room in order to prevent damp occurring. For rooms with windows, introduce a shutter system that allows air to flow easily. An air conditioning system or a fan with a humidity sensor is an excellent option particularly for families with young children, where ventilation awareness may not be possible.
Stone One bath and basins from CP Hart. Prices: bath £6,000 and basins £2,000 each. CP Hart 0845 600 1950 www.cphart.co.uk
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“The house is also in a fabulous location. We have lovely beaches nearby and some nice shops in Aldeburgh.”
A Rare Catch
When they drove past Heron House and saw its beautiful, traditional design spreading out before them, they decided to fly their current nest and to buy it on the spot
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ntertaining in the dining room or listening to the children playing music in the family room, Heron House has been a happy home for about five years now. The current owners, who, with their nine children, have enjoyed every aspect of life at the spacious property, were the first people to move into the sunny home. “We happened to be driving past when we saw the house being built in a farmhouse design and were immediately impressed by its style and quality,” remembered the owner. “We made a decision, and shook hands on the spot, which was wonderful because we were then able to have input into how it was finished.” Solid oak flooring downstairs, beech upstairs and heritage paints throughout have helped to give the expansive home a really welcoming ambience since then. “I love the homely atmosphere of the house now – we will really miss it when we leave,” she added.
Property details Built in 2004, Heron House is a delightful detached home set in a beautiful location on the heritage coastline. Exuding an elegant charm, the stunning interiors include six bedrooms, two en-suites, three reception rooms, a study and manicured south-facing gardens.
Location Aldeburgh Type of house Detached Coastal Home Price Guide price £800,000 - £900,000 Contact Homes in Suffolk 01394 548158 Winter 2010/11 Fine 185
“You can really imagine the artist Sir Alfred Munnings living here. Coming in is like stepping into the past.”
Magnificent masterpiece
Formerly the home of renowned artist Sir Alfred Munnings and dating back to the 1600s, beautiful Mendham Hall still celebrates its place in British history
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azing out at the scenery that acclaimed painter Sir Alfred Munnings so enjoyed, the current owner of Mendham Hall appreciates just why the Suffolk home was so important to the renowned artist. Dating back to the 1600s, the six-bedroom home still features its beautiful beams and leaded windows. With rooms that overlook the garden and sunny corners in which to relax, it would have been the perfect place to conjure up images before putting them to canvas in the studio later on. “I am an artist too and I loved the fact that he lived here and that the house is mentioned in his autobiography,” she said. “This is a very peaceful, restful place. It is my dream home.” 186 Fine Winter 2010/ 1 1
PROPERTY DETAILS Mendham Hall is a magnificent Grade II Listed six-bedroom house. Inside this incredible space, there are four formal reception rooms and a country kitchen/breakfast room, all enjoying original and striking features. Location Mendham Type of house Historical Detached Home Price OIEO £600,000 Contact Homes in Norfolk 01603 622017
“The little white gate through which the school mistress would have walked to school is still part of the hedge, although the school shut a long time ago.”
Best days of their lives
Peter and Jane Blowers enjoy the sense of history at their Victorian, former school mistress’s house, and have carefully updated it to create a beautiful home
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oining the grandchildren in the heated pool before hosting a family barbecue in the afternoon sunshine, Peter and Jane Blowers adore sharing their spacious fourbedroom home and garden. Indeed, it’s a rare day when the couple have the red brick house, which was once a school mistress’s home, to themselves and they wouldn’t have it any other way. With a large family close by, children, grandchildren and friends are always calling in to enjoy a noisy Sunday lunch in the dining room, or to doze under the sunshine in the mature garden, listening to the birds. “It is a home for enjoying with the family - it’s got that feel about it,” said Jane. “We love having them here. There is nothing nicer than the sound of children laughing and it is lovely to have all this space for them.” Peter and Jane felt the potential of attractive Ley House - named after the local vicar at the time it was built - as soon as they stepped through the door ten years ago. Sourcing reclaimed bricks, tiles and wood to match the original style, they went on to add a large, triple aspect drawing room and two bedrooms, while also renovating and restoring the vibrant Victorian style of the house throughout.
PROPERTY DETAILS Enjoying striking elevations and stunning interiors, Ley House is a charming four-bedroom Victorian home that is perfect for family life. In addition to a host of original features, the house boasts a beautiful drawing room, heated swimming pool, breathtaking gardens and a detached double garage. Location White Colne Type of house Detached Victorian Home Price OIEO £575,000 Contact Homes in Essex 01206 617155 Winter 2010/11 Fine 187
the best of... LIVE GUIDE
THIS WINTER, USE OUR GUIDE TO GET YOUR HANDS ON THE BEST OF ENTERTAINMENT OVER THE COMING MONTHS. FROM CONCERTS AND EVENTS TO BOOKS AND FILMS, WE HAVE A LITTLE SOMETHING FOR EVERY TASTE, WHETHER YOU FANCY A NIGHT OUT OR A NIGHT IN. ROGER WATERS The driving creative force behind Pink Floyd’s classic albums ‘Dark Side of the Moon’ and ‘The Wall’, Roger Waters is a true rock and roll legend. Also a successful solo artist, Roger has been lauded for his live shows which brilliantly re-create even Pink Floyd’s most ambitious songs like “Money” and “Comfortably Numb.” The Rock legend is finishing his world tour of ‘The Wall’ here in the UK in June of 2011. www.livenation.co.uk
ENRIQUE IGLESIAS Tickets for the Hispanic hero are on sale now for the singer’s 2011 UK tour. The tour will take place throughout March 2011 at some of the UK’s biggest arenas in support of his latest studio album, Euphoria. Visit www.ticketmaster.co.uk
MICHAEL BALL Michael Ball, one of Britain’s leading musical stars, has appeared on Broadway and dominated the marquees on many of the leading West End shows for more than two decades. All Michael’s twelve solo albums have held commanding positions in the UK charts, all rapidly going gold within weeks of their release. Tickets for his June 2011 UK ‘Heroes’ Tour are on sale now at www.livenation.co.uk
CIRQUE DE SOLEIL: TOTEM Discover TOTEM, Cirque du Soleil’s brand new touring show and a fascinating journey into the evolution of mankind. Inspired by founding myths, this spectacular new production traces the journey of the human species from its original amphibian state to its ultimate desire to fly. Showing from 6th 30th January 2011, this is the perfect way to kick start your new year. www.royalalberthall.com ENGLISH NATIONAL BALLET THE NUTCRACKER Winter is not winter without a beautifully conducted rendition of The Nutcracker. Lucky for us, The English National Ballet are performing in the London Coliseum from 10th - 30th December 2010. www.eno.org 188 Fine Winter 2010/ 1 1
OUR NUMBER ONE PREDICTIONS...
TOY STORY 3
MICHAEL MCINTYRE
A cartoon loved by all ages, Toy Story 3 will be a regular in your DVD player over the next few months. Cry a little, but laugh a lot with this cult classic.
Michael McIntyre has taken the comedy scene by storm since he skipped onto it just a few years ago. His standup collection is packed full of laughs and giggles offering fun for the whole family.
TAKE THAT Back to their original five, Take That’s new Progress album is set to massively outsell everyone else on the albums front this Christmas. Progress will appeal as much to your gran as it will to your five-year old.
BEST CELEBRITY READS That time of year is upon us where our favourite personalities share their new releases with us. We have chosen our top celebrity books of the season.
DAWN FRENCH
NIGELLA LAWSON
KEITH RICHARDS
STEPHEN FRY
A Tiny Bit Marvellous
Kitchen
Life
The Fry Chronicles
Mo is about to hit the big 50, and some uncomfortable truths are becoming quite apparent: she doesn’t understand either of her teenage kids, which as a child psychologist, is fairly embarrassing. Dora is about to hit the big 18 and about to hit anyone who annoys her, especially her precocious younger brother Peter who has a chronic Oscar Wilde fixation. Then there’s Dad - who’s just, well, Dad. Published by: Michael Joseph £18.99
When the nights are dark and the snow is falling, a little indulgence is certainly called for. In her new book, ‘Kitchen’ she offers the reader a mouthwatering array of new recipes, both comforting and exciting - from clams with chorizo to Guinness gingerbread, and reminds the reader how much pleasure there is to be had in real food. Published by: Chatto & Windus £26
With the Rolling Stones, Keith Richards created the riffs, the lyrics and the songs that roused the world, and for over four decades he lived the original rock and roll life. Now, he tells us the story of life in the crossfire hurricane. In a voice that is uniquely and intimately his own, with the disarming honesty that has always been his trademark, Keith Richards brings us the essential life story of our times. Published by: Weidenfeld & Nicolson £20
Much loved by the public and his peers, Stephen Fry is one of the most influential cultural forces in the country. This dazzling memoir is a courageously frank, honest and poignant read. It details some of the most turbulent and least well known years of his life with writing that will excite you, make you laugh uproariously, move you, inform you and, above all, surprise you. Published by: Michael Joseph £20
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fine confidential A discreet property service that’s in a league of its own.
Fine Confidential is a discreet property service for people who prefer to keep their business to themselves. It requires a particular skill to effectively market a property in a subtle and unobtrusive way. Fine are well placed to provide this low-key service as we specialise in selling properties of unique character and distinction throughout the country. Clients who use this service include: - Sports personalities including premiership footballers - Celebrities - High profile business people - People who for whatever reason value their privacy For a confidential market appraisal and to find out how Fine can make the difference in the sale of your home call 0207 998 0207.
Quality. Precision. Style. Elegance.
Timeless Elegance The pieces featured are available from our fine collection of Victorian and Edwardian period jewellery. Here at Michael Jones Jeweller, our aim is to give you the best possible purchasing experience as we understand that you’re buying more than just an object. To find the perfect piece, come in and see us or browse our NEW online store at: shop.michaeljonesjeweller.co.uk
One Gold Street, Northampton NN1 1SA Tel: 01604 632548 The Grosvenor Centre, Northampton NN1 2EB Tel: 01604 636633 79-80 High Street, Banbury OX16 5JG Tel: 01295 263540
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