Cambridge Property Edition December

Brought to you by Cambridge Edition

DECEMBER 2014

www.cambsedition.co.uk

PENSIONS INTO PROPERTY?

BOOMTOWN BULLETIN

PROPERTY NEWS TURN OVER FOR

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WELCOME

easons greetings, property hunters! As I write this I’m in the process of moving house myself – great timing, right before Christmas, I know.

After years of renting and writing about property it’s my first foray into the grown-up world of homeownership, and I’ve got to say it’s pretty exciting. The year of increasingly frantic house-hunting and being outbid by investors (please, we want to actually LIVE in this house, not rent it out!) not so much, but it’ll be worth it once I turn on the lights of my first Christmas tree, in our very own living room, then collapse happily into an exhausted heap reminding myself I don’t have to pay rent again.

I’m already eyeing up the vintage-inspired Christmas décor in our Ring in the Changes interiors feature on page 27, and there’s some great entertaining inspiration too if you’re planning on hosting a bash this year.

Also in Property & Home Edition this month, read about how aerial photography is taking property marketing to new heights, have a poke about a fascinating converted chapel and find out how changes to pensions are likely to affect property.

We also learned about a new scheme to make use of empty properties by offering them, for a low rent, to volunteers working in the local community. It’s a good incentive for young people especially to do their bit in exchange for their own space (you don’t want another year of living with the folks, right?).

New homes are coming soon to Trumpington Meadows and at the CB1 station rejuvenation scheme, Vesta, so keep your eyes peeled for those in the new year.

I hope you have a wonderful Christmastime. Now, back to those boxes…

JENNIFER SHELTON, FEATURES EDITOR

jennifershelton@bright-publishing.com 01223 499463 For commercial enquiries relating to Property & Home Edition, contact Claire McGrath on 01223 499450.

COVER STAR

This month’s cover shows festive decorations from Sainsbury's, with prices starting at £1. www.sainsburys.co.uk

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PROPERTY

WORDS JENNY SHELTON

PROPERTY NEWS

Edition takes a look at the latest happenings in the buzzing local property market

A BIRD’S EYE VIEW Is it a bird? Is it a plane? No, it’s a drone – the latest in aerial property photography.

Edition finds out more A new phenomenon has developed over the past 12 months in property photography and marketing. Now, as well as being able to flip through glossy brochures or browse an online image gallery, interested parties can swoop through the skies on a bird’s-eye video tour of their dream home, thanks to developments in drone technology.

One estate agent quick to jump on this new resource was Carter Jonas.

Jasper Feilding, partner, explains: “We did two or three earlier in the year for

large ‘institutional’ properties – one was a centre of learning on the edge of Oxford and the other was a Ministry of Defence premises. Both are difficult to capture using photographs and text, so we thought that by commissioning a drone video people could get a much clearer picture of what the property entailed. Not only do you get a clear idea of the property but the setting and surroundings too.”

Carter Jonas is now making use of drone technology for residential properties, especially larger homes and estates.

An example of which is Little Easton Manor (pictured) in Essex, which is being marketed by Carter Jonas Cambridge.

“Again, it would have been more difficult to show all the different components of that property without using the drone,” confirms Jasper. “And it has resulted in considerably more traffic to our websites, because people are curious and want to have a look.”

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It works by affixing a camera to a battery-powered, carbon fibre ‘drone’ or ‘hexacopter’ – like a mini, unmanned helicopter with six rotary blades, which can be controlled from the ground.

Drones are increasingly used to supply still imagery for property brochures.

“We use several different people: one is a traditional photographer who has adopted this technique having seen the way things are going, and another is a helicopter pilot,” says Jasper. “The video can be shot and put together with music in a matter of days.”

Jasper adds: “Many marketing tools we once thought were innovative are now run-of-the-mill: it was only about ten years ago, for example, that we started featuring floor plans in our brochures. But I think we have been at the cutting edge of this and it has been noticed.” www.carterjonas.co.uk

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PROPERTY

DREAM HOME Do you dream of a home with character, history and quirky nooks and corners? Then make a beeline for this converted chapel at White House Road, Little Ouse, Ely. Pleasantly located within this quiet hamlet, the former 19th century church now provides spacious and striking accommodation, as well as providing beautiful views over open countryside.

Included is a reception hall, drawing room, living room, study, family room, kitchen/breakfast room, utility, five bedrooms, a dressing room/bedroom six, plus four bath/shower rooms.

A driveway and garage provide ample space for parking, and there is a secluded garden to the rear.

This unique home has a guide price of £425,000. For more information or to arrange a viewing, contact Carter Jonas on 01223 853774. www.carterjonas.co.uk

PENSIONS INTO PROPERTY The coming change in pensions is expected to see a rise in the number of people investing in property, predict estate agents Strutt & Parker.

It’s thought that around 200,000 people will take advantage of the Government’s plan to reduce the rate of tax paid on the withdrawal of a whole pension pot and use this money on holidays and property.

The Government shake-up will mean that from April 2015, people aged over 55 will be able to withdraw their entire pension fund and only pay their marginal rate of income tax in that year, rather than being charged 55% tax if they withdraw the whole pot. Of those planning to cash in their pensions, 16% plan to use their money for property and 12% for DIY. Cameron Ewer from Strutt & Parker in Cambridge says: “History has shown property to be a stable investment over the years. When investing in a buy to let property, the return can be

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almost immediate and provide a stable income, and that’s before potential capital growth even comes into play.

Ultimately, property is one of the best ways of future proofing and we expect to see a number of pensioners investing in their current homes and expanding their property portfolios in light of these new announcements.”

Christine Hertoghe of Cambridge Property Investors Network agrees that investing in property, especially now as prices rise and interest rates are low, could be worthwhile.

“Property investment provides several elements of financial return, with the potential growth in the value of a property just one of the benefits.

“A large part of the return on your investment will be based on the rental value. There are several ways to tailor your investment to ensure the greatest possible rental income. One is through

Christine Hertoghe

the conversion of a property to separate rooms for rent, especially in locations with high numbers of students or young people looking for accommodation.”

She adds: “Beyond rent and growth in the value, though, you can also add value to the property through refurbishment or renovation. If this is approached well and with appropriate expertise, the cost of refurbishment can be much less than the value it will add to the property, giving you an additional profit.” www.struttandparker.com www.pinmeeting.co.uk/cambridge

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PROPERTY

MARKET TOWN MARVEL A guide price of £345,000 is being asked for this lovely end-terrace home in Wellington Street, St Ives. The character property is beautifully presented within and features two bedrooms, a light, spacious sitting room, dining room, contemporary bespoke kitchen, staggered first-floor landing, bathroom and large attic room, currently being used as a studio/office. There are period features throughout, plus views from the first floor over the River Great Ouse.

Outside you will find a garage, driveway and courtyard garden.

The house is situated in the heart of the ‘old riverport’ quarter of this pretty market town. St Ives is famous for its medieval bridge and offers excellent schooling, a range of local amenities and good links onto the A14 and into Cambridge via the Guided Busway (approximately 25 minutes travel time into the city centre).

A guide price of £345,000 is invited for this attractive home. Contact Strutt & Parker on 01223 459502. www.struttandparker.com

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PROPERTY

EXCLUSIVE LETTINGS OFFER FROM STRUTT & PARKER This winter, local lettings firm and independent UK Property partnership Strutt & Parker is offering an exclusive, reduced rate for all properties listed with it between now and 31 December, 2014.

Landlords with rental property will be able to secure a fantastic rate of 5% plus VAT for fully managed tenancies, or £500 plus VAT for tenant-find only.

The offer is available whether you have one or 101 properties. Call them on 01223 459444 to register your interest

and get started, or pop into their office on the corner of Hills Road and Norwich Street – it’s the office with the big red phone box outside, you can’t miss it!

Strutt & Parker opened in Cambridge back in March 2013 to showcase the very best properties for sale in the area, ranging from stylish studio flats to spacious family houses. The business added a lettings arm to its services earlier this year.

Running this lettings service is Harriet Hustler, who has worked for the company

Sarah Webb and Harriet Hustler of Strutt & Parker Lettings

for many years in London, and Sarah Webb, who has extensive knowledge of the local lettings market having worked previously for another agent in the city of Cambridge. www.struttandparker.com

HOUSING FOR VOLUNTEERS We all know that finding a place to live can be a difficult process, especially in a city like Cambridge. Yet the number of empty buildings and shops has got people asking questions about whether or not these can be utilised to solve the housing problem.

One such scheme is doing just that.

Award-winning social enterprise Dot Dot Dot has secured a contract with a local housing association to offer homes that would otherwise be empty to community volunteers for an affordable price.

The properties are empty pending regeneration, so cannot be used to house long-term residents. However Dot Dot Dot will place people in the buildings as ‘property guardians’, supporting them as they take care of the properties until they can be brought back into use.

Properties will be available for a fraction of ordinary market rent: guardians will pay between £40 and £70 per week for a home, on top of receiving support to increase their volunteering and make a bigger impact in the local community.

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Guardians must commit to a minimum of 16 hours voluntary work a month, though many current guardians do far more than this.

In fact, over the past 12 months, volunteers have contributed over 20,000 hours to great causes – the equivalent of 11 people working full-time all year.

“We’re delighted to be expanding our model into Cambridge,” says Dot Dot Dot director Katharine Hibbert. “It’s a vibrant city with strong community networks.

We are excited to provide low-cost housing and support to the dedicated volunteers who make Cambridge safer and friendlier.”

Dot Dot Dot is seeking flexible and reliable people over the age of 21 who are willing to give 16 hours a month or more to a charitable cause of their choice. If you are interested in getting involved as a guardian, head over to the website to learn more about the criteria and fill in an application form online. www.dotdotdotproperty.com

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PROPERTY

BOOMTOWN BULLETIN The latest from Cambridge’s new property developments

AURA TICKS BOXES FOR DOWNSIZERS New homes – especially those close to local amenities – are proving popular with downsizers, according to recent research from Savills. The survey found that more than half of those aged over 60 said they would buy new, compared with just 31% of 30-39 year olds.

With more than 2,000,000 homeowners over 55 planning to downsize in the next few years according to Prudential, this accounts for a substantial sector of the market. As a result, newbuild developments with good facilities and public transport links such as the townhouses at Aura in Cambridge are in high demand from downsizers.

Savills also found that downsizers often move from a family home in the countryside to an urban location for the local conveniences as they grow older.

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Andrew Loveday, sales and marketing director for Countryside, comments: “One of the main motivations when downsizing is to find a property that is easier to manage and requires less maintenance, so it’s no wonder that new-build properties are popular. In our experience downsizers still want a decent-sized house big enough for family to come and stay, which is why the Byron townhouses are a great option.

With Cambridge city centre close by as well as all of the fabulous facilities plus a new 120-acre country park, Aura ticks all the boxes for downsizers.”

The Byron offers over 1,440 square foot of living space on three floors, including a spacious open plan living/dining/kitchen area, master bedroom with en suite, two further good-size bedrooms and a family bathroom, with gated parking for two cars.

The properties occupy a leafy location on the edge of Cambridge city centre, with its attractions, shops and culture just 1.5 miles away and the mainline railway station also close by. Residents at Aura also have easy access to the new 120-acre country park at Great Kneighton where they can enjoy walking and cycling. They will also be part of the developing, friendly and exciting new community well served by a host of new facilities.

Public transport from Aura couldn’t be better with the Cambridgeshire Guided Busway just moments away offering regular services to the city, train station, Addenbrooke’s Hospital and the Science Park. A foot/cycle path running alongside provides an alternative travel option.

The Byron starts at £695,000. www.auracambridge.co.uk

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PROPERTY

TRUMPINGTON: PHASE TWO New homes are soon to be released at Trumpington Meadows, the awardwinning development of new homes situated just south of Cambridge city centre. The village is becoming one of the most exciting Cambridge addresses, within easy reach of the city centre

and transport links, and a new phase has recently been introduced to offer more people a chance to be a homeowner within this up-and-coming community.

Steeple View comprises beautifully designed, thoughtfully laid-out three-, four- and five-bedroom homes, with all-

new amenities. And the houses benefit from being right on the doorstep of a scenic country park.

To find out more about Trumpington Meadows contact Barratt Homes on 08448 114888 or visit the website. www.barratthomes.co.uk

COMING SOON TO CAMBRIDGE… A striking development of 137 new oneand two-bedroom apartments is set to be released near Cambridge station, offering more opportunity for Cambridge people to realise their dreams of homeownership.

Vesta – named after the Roman goddess of home and hearth – will be situated next to Ceres, within the CB1 regeneration area

on Station Road. It will comprise three buildings, interspersed with two new parks to soften the scheme and offer places in which to relax and enjoy the outdoors.

With Cambridge station just moments away, offering fast trains to London King’s Cross in less than 45 minutes, these apartments are expected to generate

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plenty of interest. This flourishing area now also offers several shops, restaurants and other amenities, while Cambridge Leisure, with a cinema, bowling alley, gig venue and more, is just five minutes round the corner. Cambridge city centre itself is only a 15-minute walk away and an easy cycle. www.bidwells.co.uk

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ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

Photography by: Jon Mold

We quizzed the owners of Eadonstone about their stunning new kitchen showroom and what sets their business apart Q. How did Eadonstone come to be?

A. Eadonstone is a fusion of two firms: a long-established stonemasonry business – Stonetime – and an independent kitchen retailer called Picture Plan Perfect, which has nearly 50 years of experience. It made sense to bring the two together, as if you’re looking for a new kitchen you’ll also be looking for new worktops, which is where the stonemasonry comes in.

Q. Can you talk us through the new showroom?

A. Our new showroom is based in Bottisham and is full of ideas for designs and layouts, from the ultra-modern to a more traditional look.

Our kitchens are produced by two leading British kitchen manufacturers, Charles Yorke and Mereway. Both companies have enviable reputations within the sector. Some of our customers will want a simple, uncomplicated design, but for those wanting something a bit different, we will always find a way to add a designer touch that will make your kitchen stand out from the crowd.

The Charles York kitchen, which incorporates a curved seating area, has that real wow factor, and we have a ‘knock to open’ dishwasher which also turns a few heads. But really we can offer the customer something bespoke: whatever suits the size of their space and their lifestyle.

Q. What does Eadonstone offer that sets it apart?

A. The USP is our in-house stonemasons, which is unique in East Anglia and gives customers a huge amount of choice, ranging from stone to marble and granite.

And people really enjoy coming to look around the yard and see the stonemasons in action. They can see and feel and ultimately decide which product will be best for them.

The finishing touch to your kitchen, the worktops, are manufactured on site in our factory. This enables us to offer a truly bespoke work surface. As well as the more familiar granites and quartz stones, we also offer a service where we can source an exclusive stone for a particular effect.

For example, an island unit can look

stunning finished in a stone that has a lot of movement, swirls and contrasting colours.

Q. How would you advise potential purchasers coming to Eadenstone?

A. Our dedicated designers can talk you through all the different ranges in the showroom and, once you’re ready, we arrange a home visit in order to enable us to design a kitchen perfectly matching your needs and your home environment, and within your set budget. We have a highly experienced team of kitchen fitters and you will be assigned your very own project manager to look after the whole process.

Q. We understand you’ve been endorsed by a celebrity chef?

A. Currently we have an offer which means anybody who purchases a Charles York kitchen from us will win a dinner party, cooked for them in their home by Masterchef’s Alex Rushmer, who owns the nearby gastropub, The Hole in the Wall.

With his modern approach and flair, we felt he was a really good fit for us. The offer runs until the end of the year.

Eadonstone is open six days a week and has free parking on site.

The Stone Yard, Whitelands Farm, Newmarket Road, Bottisham CB25 9BD 01223 811111 | www.eadonstone.co.uk

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INTERIORS NEWS

A MONTHLY GUIDE TO WHAT'S HOT IN THE WORLD OF CAMBRIDGE INTERIOR DESIGN

A VERY VINTAGE CHRISTMAS Burwash Manor in Barton is one of our very favourite spots for Christmas shopping. Away from the craziness of the city centre out in the countryside, it boasts loads of great independent shops and, crucially, no queues, lots of parking and a nice spot to sit down and have a proper coffee and a wedge of cake when you need to refuel.

Be sure to stop in at Homestuff with History, where they’re getting well and truly into the spirit with a range of quirky, one of a kind Christmas decorations and gift ideas.

Whether you fancy picking up a vintage Christmas tin, some retro baubles or even a pair of traditional ice skates, this is your place for a truly unique festive find.

Whilst you’re there, a visit to Burwash’s Secret Garden Christmas shop is also a must. Inside this cosy grotto of a marquee you’ll be able to browse all sorts of lovely crafty Christmas decorations, and there’s plenty of gorgeous gifts too, from soft toys to books. www.burwashmanor.com

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INTERIORS NEWS

EDITION LOVES Just in time for our Christmas list, this month we stumbled across the lovely soft furnishings by Walnut Tree Home. Based in Great Eversden and available to buy online, the company offers a range of gorgeous handmade cushions, vintage-style bunting, tea towels and more, in lots of great retro fabrics (we adore the Daschund print pincushion especially!). If you fancy having a look in person, Walnut Tree Home will be selling their wares at Mill Road Winter Fair, or alternatively, visit the website. www.walnuttreehome.co.uk

HOMESENSE CHRISTMAS CHARITY CAMPAIGN Leading children’s charity Action for Children has partnered with Cambridge homeware retailer HomeSense to launch a charitable Christmas campaign.

Customers at HomeSense Cambridge are invited to buy a Christmas bauble for £1, on which they can write a festive message or their happiest Christmas memory before hanging it on a special HomeSense Christmas tree in the store.

Funds raised will go to Havilland Way, a service which provides residential longterm and shared care to disabled children and young people in Cambridgeshire.

Mandy Start, manager at the Action for Children service, says: “We’re thrilled to be involved with the HomeSense ‘hang a bauble’ initiative again. The money raised last year helped us improve our sensory equipment which supports development and learning in children with disabilities. We also used the money to build a fantastic new wildlife and sensory garden which has been so popular with the children and their families since opening in the summer.

“We’re hoping to use the money raised this year to buy more educational and fun toys and equipment. Thank you

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to HomeSense and to all those who donate; you’re bringing untold happiness to the children and young people we work with.”

Emilia Carman, head of high value fundraising at Action for Children, adds: “We have worked with HomeSense for the past four years and we are very grateful for the support of the store and its customers. Last year HomeSense raised over £75,000 for Action for Children and we are sure our partnership will be even bigger and better this year, helping us to support even more vulnerable children and young people.”

Suzanne Inch, head of retail for HomeSense, says: “At HomeSense we believe in supporting our local communities and helping vulnerable children achieve their potential. With each HomeSense store raising money for local Action for Children projects, it means the money our customers give is reinvested locally. HomeSense is part of TJX Europe which has had a longstanding relationship with Action for Children, supporting the charity for over a decade.” www.homesense.com

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INTERIORS NEWS

CHRISTMAS PUDDING BIN BAGS (PACK OF 12) £10 JOHN LEWIS, DOWNING STREET, CAMBRIDGE

CHRIST-MESS SAVIOURS! Very silly, we know, but we couldn’t resist these Christmassy bin bags from John Lewis – sure to brighten up this most dreary of tasks.

STARRY SANTA SACKS Christmas needn’t mean compromising in the style stakes. Sack off tradition and store your pressies in these bright patterned jute bags from Graham & Green. They’re reusable and hard-wearing too, meaning that you can use them post-Christmas for storing anything from laundry to toys (£17.50).

GIFT IDEA! Stuck for ideas for what to buy the homeware lover in your life?

Remodelista: A Manual for the Considered Home is a gorgeous guide to home design which covers everything from kitchen and bathroom ideas to a peek inside reallife dream homes and tried and tested buys (£25.99, Heffers, Trinity Street).

WINTER WALLS For the interiors enthusiast for whom simple baubles and tinsel will never be enough: this self-adhesive wallpaper by Oakdene Designs is the ultimate Christmas decoration. Transform your living room into a winter wonderland with an authentic alpine mural, which is sold in strips and easy to apply to walls, as well as being simple to remove and suitable for reuse year after year (starts at £43, available from www.notonthehighstreet.com).

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INTERIORS

TIME! FIVE HONEYCOMBS PASTEL BY LIFE’S A PARTY! £15.50 NOTONTHEHIGHSTREET.COM

POP! POSH PARTY PROPS BY POPBOX PARTY £13.50 NOTONTHEHIGHSTREET.COM

Host a stylish soirée for Christmas or New Year with these entertaining essentials DRINKS TROLLEY £195 OLIVER BONAS, SIDNEY STREET, CAMBRIDGE

RECYCLED CANDLE STAND GREEN £9.50 GRAHAM AND GREEN JASPER CONRAN FOR WEDGWOOD CHINOISERIE GREEN ESPRESSO CUP £27.50 AND SAUCER £22.50 JOHN LEWIS, DOWNING STREET, CAMBRIDGE

STAR BY JULIEN MACDONALD GLASSES FROM £7 DEBENHAMS, GRAFTON CENTRE, CAMBRIDGE ALESSI SOMMELIER CORKSCREW PARROT PROUST £36 JOHN LEWIS, DOWNING STREET, CAMBRIDGE

GLASS COCKTAIL SHAKER £99 KELLY HOPPEN SHAKE JAR £3.95 ROSE AND GREY HAY KALEIDO TRAYS FROM £11 JOHN LEWIS, DOWNING STREET, CAMBRIDGE

WIRE RING BOWL £16 OLIVER BONAS, SIDNEY STREET, CAMBRIDGE TOP HAT ICE BUCKET £55 GRAHAM AND GREEN

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INTERIORS

changes Image courtesy of Sainsburys

RING IN THE

WORDS ANGELINA VILLA-CLARKE

Whether you go for glittering, traditional dĂŠcor or something a little more pared back, this time of year is all about letting your imagination run wild and festooning your home with cheer.

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INTERIORS

Starry nights

ABOVE Vintage-style baubles from Sainsbury’s Dreamscape range, from £1 (www.sainsburys.co.uk).

BELOW Stock up on candles and silver accessories from The White Company, from £10 (020 375 89 222; www.thewhitecompany.com).

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There’s something wonderfully elegant about a streamlined Christmas design scheme, especially when it’s centred around sparkling crystal and silver decorations. Touches of blue will reflect the icy tones and dark skies of winter and will also give a splash of colour to your interior.

Look to using highlights of indigo blues, which are very much of the moment when it comes to wider home trends, meaning that you can pick up many affordable items on the high street.

Sainsbury’s, for instance, has a wonderful selection of midnight blue baubles, as well as snowflake-inspired decorations from just £1. Laurie Houghton, Sainsbury’s (www.sainsburys.co.uk) seasonal buying manager, says: “Our Indigo Blue Christmas collection will transform the home this Christmas into a glittering midnight haven. We’ve brought together a palette of indigo blue, sparkling silver and snow white to give an elegant and timeless look.”

At online home emporium Out There Interiors (020 8099 7443; www. outthereinteriors.com), director Jenny Hurran suggests going one step further by investing in pieces of silver furniture, such as French chests and occasional tables. These are perfect for Christmastime but also give the home a hint of glamour all year round: “With copper and brass continuing to enjoy popularity in the interiors space, silver has taken a bit of a back seat,” she says.

“But Christmas is the perfect time to reacquaint yourself with this super-luxe finish. Chrome metal effect and silver leaf pieces sparkle under fairy lights, adding wintery magic to your space.

Combine with glassy objects and turquoise decorations for ice queen elegance.”

The White Company (020 375 89 222; www.thewhitecompany.com) is, as the name suggests, the go-to store for ultimate accessories to make the glam ice look, from its heart-shaped stoneware plates and dishes to its silver candleholders. One effective way to achieve the scheme is giving your Christmas table a cohesive, pulled-together approach using all-white china, white linens and white candles, and highlighting with silver candelabras and clear glass baubles.

For drama on the big day itself, festoon the table from above with The White Company’s wonderfully retro paper snowflake decorations, star garlands and

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INTERIORS

bells (from £8) and you’ll feel like you’re eating in a snowy wonderland.

This is a scheme to not hold back on, as there’s no danger of overdoing a white-on-white design – in fact, a ‘more the merrier’ approach makes for a sumptuous appeal despite its neutrality. Stock up on affordable decorations at Asda (www.asda. com), which this year has a White Romance collection of angels, tree decs and beaded accessories. John Lewis also excels in glass birds, baubles and drops for the tree, from £3, with some particularly eye-catching pieces in turquoise blue (www.johnlewis. com). Make sure lighting is all-white to create a dreamy quality and, for real refinement, make sure the presents under your tree are all wrapped in the same colour scheme – white paper trimmed with metallic silver for soft sparkle. An air of luxury with relatively little effort.

An atmospheric place to source accessories and decorations is Barton’s Burwash Manor (01223 260040; www.burwashmanor.com), a group of converted farm buildings housing 15 independent shops, a day spa and tea room. Here you’ll find the Secret Garden Christmas Shop, a one-stop wonderland of decorations and homewares for the season.

“If you want your home to glisten like the first snowfall, use cold colours, lots of light and a hint of sparkle. Think blues, silvers and glass,” the Christmas Shop team advises.

ABOVE (clockwise from top right): Clear bauble with feather from John Lewis, £3; blue baubles from John Lewis, from £2.50 (www.johnlewis.com); hedgehog, £4.15, and wreath, £6.25, both from Burwash Manor Secret Garden Christmas Shop (01223 260040; www.burwashmanor.com).

BELOW LEFT: the traditional festive look, as seen here at Marks and Spencer, accessories from £3, is an inviting one (www.marksandspencer.com).

We three kings

Harking back to Dickensian times is a traditional colour palette of red, gold and green. So evocative of the Christmas period, this powerhouse trio of colours – chanelling the triumvirate that is the Three Kings – lends warmth to the home and also rouses the ultimate in festive feelings (even in the most ‘humbug’ of guests). The look particularly suits period homes, so hang a classic wreath on your door and, if you have fireplaces, make the most of these spaces by placing garlands of greenery, tied with red and gold ribbon, on the mantelpiece – for a timeless look.

“These days Christmas comes in every colour, but nothing brings back the magic like the bold, traditional colours,” comments Jenny Hurran, director of Out There Interiors.

“Traditional doesn’t have to be boring, though! Try a quirky centrepiece in bold red, or serve up hot drinks in green-handled cups. Swap your usual

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cushions for green, red and gold for an easy and effective festive update.”

Bernice Day, director of luxury homewares store Oliver Hayden (0844 3350710; www.oliverhayden.com) agrees: “You can't go wrong with the traditional red, gold and green to add some festive cheer to your room. But, as we don’t do normal at Oliver Hayden, we like to add some fun – whether it’s adding LED lights to traditional Christmas sayings, with our beautiful canvas collection, or by making a feature wall with our ‘blinged-up’ deer heads.

“For the perfect present under £50, our vintage, fairground-inspired show lights are perfect,” she continues. “If stars are your thing, then we have it covered with our large star at £45 or the smaller design at £25.”

Based in the centre of Cambridge, Jack’s on Trinity (01223 354403; www. jacksontrinity.co.uk) celebrates the best of British, and is the place to source items for a traditional Christmas scheme.

Anne Bannell, owner, comments: “We love to celebrate Christmas with

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a touch of nostalgia and vintage style. We are therefore stocking up on Victoriana and retro decorations: think Dickensian, tradition and the cosy family Christmases we all love. From charming decorations to unusual gifts and stocking fillers, there is something for everyone and every pocket.”

A red, gold and green colour scheme also lends itself to creating a showstopper of a Christmas table. Choose linens in traditional checks, stripes and tartans; check out Ian Mankin, renowned for its range of tickings and stripes (020 7722 0997; www.ianmankin.co.uk) and the Lexington Company for a choice of deep crimson tablecloths, blankets and retroski inspired pillows from its Lexington Holiday 2014 Collection (0854 555 800; www.lexingtoncompany.com).

Expert in table décor is managing director of partyware shop Talking Tables Clare Harris (020 7627 6767; www. talkingtables.co.uk): “Think scale when you’re creating a dramatic table setting.

CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE: Create atmosphere with a cohesive table scheme, accessories from Talking Tables, from £1.50 (020 7627 6767; www.talkingtables.co.uk). Vintage-style decorations from Jack’s on Trinity, from £9.99 (01223 354403; www.jacksontrinity.co.uk). Bring neutrals together with a pop of colour; Eleena White Dinner Table, £995, accessories from £20, from Out There Interiors (020 8099 7443; www.outthereinteriors.com).

You don’t want to block guests’ views with a huge candelabra or floral arrangements, but neither do you want your table to look too minimal.

“Baubles, battery-operated fairy lights and table scatter create an atmospheric glow,” she advises.

“After years in the design wilderness, gold is back with a vengeance. If you’re not keen on gold cutlery or glassware, paper tableware is an easy way to dip into the look. Once you’ve decided on your scheme, extend it beyond the table – hang garlands over the fireplace and tie baubles to chair backs for added flair.

“Go through your cupboards in the run-up to Christmas and collate your box of table dressing tricks. Gather everything you have in your chosen palette and create a 3D table runner down the centre of the table – from layered plates and tree decorations to coasters and cake stands, anything goes.”

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INTERIORS Make the most of your Christmas table with garlands from The White Company, from £8 (020 375 89 222; www.thewhitecompany.com).

Winter lands

Invest in an elegant lantern from Lara Bohinc for Skultana, from £50, (www.larabohinc.com).

Natural woods, pretty lanterns, folklore decorations and pine trees – a Nordic Christmas home style is chic and heartwarming. The essence of this look is all things natural, with pretty pops of red. Natural wood accessories, fir tree decorations and pine cones are all intrinsic to the design.

Expert in the look is Gisela Graham, who is one of Europe’s leading makers of Christmas decorations (020 7708 4956; www.giselagraham.co.uk): “Scandinavia has even darker and longer winter nights than in north Germany where I grew up,” she reveals. “That must be why red is the most popular colour for decorating a Christmas tree and for Christmas ornaments and tableware. I love that simplicity of Scandinavian designs, red and white, based on old folk art traditions that have come down through the centuries.”

Lanterns and candlelight also lend a certain romance and a cosy feel to

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ABOVE Mini Christmas trees, from £36, and candle wreath, £33, from Des Res Design (01386 793240; www.desresdesign.co.uk). RIGHT silvered candlesticks, from £8 (020 375 89 222; www.thewhitecompany.com).

a home at Christmastime, and this harks back to a Nordic sensibility.

Hannah Browne, owner of Pastel Lane (07949 339416; www.pastellane.co.uk), an online home store, advises: “Candlelight can be used to great effect during the winter months, and the cosy, warm glow it gives off is perfect for creating your own winter wonderland. Our ornate metal lantern looks beautiful holding a flickering candle; add a bit of foliage such as seasonal holly and berries for a lovely festive touch. They make for great table centrepieces or you can use them decoratively around the house.

“Candlestick pillars can also be dressed up at Christmastime; our rustic candlestick pillars are complemented perfectly with the natural colours of real foliage, berries and pine cones for a traditional Christmas look that never dates. Using pillars of varying sizes makes an interesting display.”

For a contemporary take on lanterns, look to jewellery designer Lara Bohinc’s (www.larabohinc.com) gorgeous collection of candleholders designed for Swedish

company Skultana (skultana.com). Etched in brass, the graphic, metalwork designs are like jewellery for the home and look enticingly dramatic lit from within.

For homespun charm, shop at Des Res Design (01386 793240; www.desresdesign. co.uk), which has a selection of pared-back decorations in the shape of wicker Christmas trees, wreaths and star lights.

Online boutique Adventino (0845 120 3224; www.adventino.co.uk) has pine-cone candles, wooden reindeer decorations and birch bark motifs which also fit the rustic Scandinavian theme.

Finally, achieve the ultimate in cosy-cool by adding faux fur accessories, such as throws and cushions by Helen Moore at gift website Cuckooland (01305 231231; www.cuckooland.com). Cuckooland’s home furnishings buyer Nathalie Davis comments: “Designers at Cuckooland.com recommend using faux fur to add instant warmth and rugged cosiness to a winterthemed room. The Siberian Wolf range

by Helen Moore provides the ultimate in sumptuous arctic chic this Christmas.”

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FAUX FUR by Helen Moore at Cuckooland, from £40 (www.cuckooland.com).

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Regal Christmas Lovers of opulence and glitz come into their own at this time of the year. After all, there’s no restraint on using rich velvets, jewel colours and dramatic embellishment at Christmastime. “For a regal Christmas you need to focus on decadence using rich warm tones, gold sheen and mix in some bright, bold colours – reds, purples and burgundy. Lots of candles will add warmth and light,” say the team at Burwash Manor’s Secret Garden Christmas Shop (01223 260040; www.burwashmanor.com).

Purples, golds and plum colours work well together and for sheer drama why not opt for a coloured faux Christmas tree, such as a gold or black version (available at www. christmastreeworld.co.uk; 01257 478 648).

Christmas tree decorations in royal colours are widely available this year.

Asda, for instance, has a Hidden Treasures collection of sumptuous golds and purples, inspired by peacock tails and sophisticated gems (from £1, www.asda.com). While at Sainsbury’s, its Dreamscape Christmas is made up of vintage style decorations.

“The opulent metallic and pink hues of the Dreamscape trend make for a fantastical and dreamlike aura,” Laurie Houghton, Sainsbury’s seasonal buying manager says.

“High gloss, glitter and beaded decorations help create a glamorous and luxurious feel for the home.”

ABOVE P.38 FIND A JEWEL: a plum velvet sofa, such as this Yanna two-seater in Sloe, from sofa.com, £1,240, is utterly decadent for the festive season (www.sofa.com). Keep Christmas interesting with gems such as these champagne flutes, £49.50, and scented candles, £11, from Ark Cambridge (01223 363372; www.arkcambridge.co.uk).

MIDNIGHT BLUES The Indigo collection of accessories from Sainsbury’s is bang on trend, from £1, (www.sainsburys.co.uk).

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The ultimate way to play this theme out is with opulent chandeliers, such as those available at lighting specialist Renaissance London (020 7251 8844; www. renaissancelondon.com) and jewel-coloured velvet tub chairs and sofas from Sofa.com (0333 220 4950; www.sofa.com) – all of which will look glorious all year round.

Kate Hassard, marketing manager for Sofa.com, comments: “Everyone has their own take on Christmas but using jewel colours is a sophisticated twist on the traditional. Adding decorations with a contemporary twist, using tasteful accents of bold colour and sparkle and rethinking the traditional layout can make it look fresh.”

Finally, Jane Richards owner of gift shop Ark Cambridge (01223 363372; www. arkcambridge.co.uk) gives her advice on achieving the ultimate Christmas, no matter what scheme or trend you go for: “Turn on the fairy lights, hang the tinsel wreath, spell out your greetings in aluminium letters, light a festive candle, slip into a luxurious dressing gown, pour the wine and give fantastic gifts to interesting people.”

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