The Chartwell Journal - Eleventh Edition

A Chartwell Christmas

Estates Go Global

Le Bristol

Monaco Yacht Show

Chartwell Media give you an insight into the perfect presents for children, his & hers and around the home.

Chartwell Estates presents a selection of new and unique opportunities in some of the world’s most desirable locations.

One of Paris’s most sought after hotels located in the heart of the prestigious rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré.

Chartwell looks back over 2014’s recordbreaking year at the Monaco Yacht Show.

Chartwell Journal 11.

M CLASS 30M . 35M . 40M To make an entrance. Arrive in style

WWW.PRINCESSYACHTS.COM PRINCESS YACHTS INTERNATIONAL 路 MCLASS@PRINCESSYACHTS.COM

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Tenth Edition

Welcome

If you would like to advertise in the Chartwell Journal, have any editorial content that you feel would benefit our audience or require further information, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Welcome to the Eleventh edition of the Chartwell Journal!

www.chartwell-media.com Grace Sheppard Head of Chartwell Media / Editor in Chief grace.s@chartwell-london.com Victoria Sheppard Editorial victoria.s@chartwell-london.com Francis Holmes Editorial francis.h@chartwell-london.com Harrison Rose Journal Designer harrison.r@chartwell-london.com

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This issue is especially for you Francophiles: Parisian pleasures include a review of Le Bristol Hotel; Le Cuisine at Le Royal Monceau Raffles - Paris; and for all Cognac lovers there is an exclusive review of the House of Remy Martin.

Chartwell Estates take you around the world with their fine array of luxury properties. Chartwell Bespoke welcome a new member to the team and give an exclusive insight into their upcoming projects for 2015. Chartwell Monaco provides a recap of the year including the recent changes in Monte Carlo and have a festive message looking ahead to the New Year. Chartwell Assists offers a glimpse into the nuts and bolts of looking after UHNW individuals.

Chartwell Media are delighted to announce that we have been reappointed as a media partner for Top Marques supercar show in Monaco 2015. The event is once again under the patronage of Prince Albert II of Monaco, the supercar show features the world’s finest cars, yachts, helicopters and watches. We hope you can join us for this spectacular event which will take place from the 16th to the 19th of April 2015 at the Grimaldi Forum.

Edition 11 is the last Journal of 2014, we are currently working on themes and ideas for the 2015 Journals. If either you, your company or any brands that you represent have any news, events, updates or information which you feel may be relevant to our printed journal, newsletters or online blogs please contact me to discuss further.

We at Chartwell would like to take this opportunity to thank all our loyal readers and advertisers and welcome the new. We wish you a wonderful festive season and in true Chartwell spirit... a rich and fruitful New Year!

Designed and Published by Chartwell Media www.chartwell-media.com

Enjoy the read, Grace

Every attempt has been made to ensure the accuracy of published content. Chartwell Media does not endorse any advertisements or opinions expressed. Chartwell Journal is a registered trademark of Chartwell Media. All rights reserved.

No part of Chartwell Journal can be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without written permission of Chartwell Media.

Please do not hesitate to get in touch with us via twitter @chartwellmag, @ladychartwell or email pressoffice@chartwell-london.com with any comments, feedback or suggestions.

November 2014

Chartwell Media

Chartwell Bespoke

Chartwell Monaco

Chartwell Estates

Chartwell SARL

Chartwell Africa

17 Queen Street Mayfair, London W1J 5PH

78-79 New Bond Street Mayfair, London W1S 1RZ

Le Mirabel 4 Avenue des Citronniers MC 98000 Monaco

17 Queen Street Mayfair, London W1J 5PH

78-79 New Bond Street Mayfair, London W1S 1RZ

FF Towers, 13/14 Ligali Ayorinde Avenue, Victoria Island Lagos, PMB 8012

+44 (0)207 409 0545 office@chartwell-london.com www.chartwell-media.com

+44 (0)207 952 6366 office@chartwell-london.com www.chartwell-bespoke.com

+37 797 97 56 67 office@chartwell.mc www.chartwell.mc

+44 (0)207 409 0533 office@chartwell-london.com www.chartwell-estates.com

+44 (0)207 629 4582 office@chartwell-london.com www.chartwell-london.com

+44 (0)207 409 0549 office@chartwell-africa.com www.chartwell-africa.com

Chartwell Journal

Eleventh Edition

Bruce Munro, Field of Light, Hermitage Museum and Gardens, Norfolk VA, 2014 Image credited to Mark Pickthall

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Contents 6

London Remains on Santa’s Good List

54

Projects

8

Estates Goes Global

56

Welcome

12

Aphrodite Hills

58

Feeding Your Mind

16

Art Deco Sophistication

60

The Perfect Parisian Dining...

20

Style, Matchmaking And Falling In Love

64

The House of Remy Martin

22

Portofino

68

Exclusive Review of Le Bristol Paris

24

Tax Challenges

72

Travelling Route 1

28

Monaco Yacht Show

74

Christmas Gift Guide

31

Rolls Royce Phantom

78

It’s The Thought That Counts

34

What Does 2015 Hold For Chartwell Monaco?

81

Movers And Shakers

36

Les Pavilions

84

Make That One Night Outstanding

38

Mike Tyson: Undisputed Truth

86

Who Can You Trust When You Are Super Rich?

39

Ollie Millroy

88

Chartwell Assist

40

Time Changer…

89

Cocktails With Chartwell

42

Bruce Munro

90

Chartwell Journal’s ‘In The Know’

45

One Canada Square

91

Members Only… Next Generation…

48

Recipe: Butternut Squash

92

Lady Chartwell

49

Recipe: Herdwick Double Lamb Chop

94

Mr. Chartwell

50

In the Bahamas

96

Social

52

Bruichladdich

98

Workspaces: Kelly Hoppen

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Chartwell Journal

Eleventh Edition

London Remains on Santa’s Good List

London’s air is crisp and cold and the shop windows are bright with their Christmas finery. The streets are ten-deep with shoppers along Bond Street, Oxford Street and the luxury boutiques of Mayfair, carrying thousands of pounds worth of gifts back to friends and family – there are no signs of the inward investment slowing, at least in London’s luxury retail sector. What is abundantly clear is that this is an international trend – the number of languages almost matches the variety of shopping bags on display. This time of year only goes to underline what a truly international city we live and work in.

We look into just a few of the variables that are shaping London’s on-going reputation as a safe haven as well as showcase our international reach with our opportunities in New York, Dubai, Singapore and Rio de Janeiro [please see pages 8-10]. A Private Brokerage and Advisory Service, Chartwell Estates operates as a bespoke office for the discrete acquisition or disposal of property-based assets, both privately and off-market. We only deal through established contacts, networking globally with private individuals, families and professional advisors.

Through our trusted network we also provide a broad range of specialist advisory and management services that are complimentary to our clienteles’ requirements.

Chartwell Estates would like to raise a glass and wish all our clients, colleagues and associates a peaceful festive season and a prosperous, successful and healthy 2015.

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With the global financial crisis finally receding, the London property market is once again booming, but many in our industry are already questioning just how long current investment levels will last.

The current attraction of London property as an investment opportunity is down to a rare conference of factors, several among which being directly attributable to the financial crisis and its immediate aftermath. With low base rates worldwide, investors have been forced to look for returns in alternative asset classes, property in the forefront. Meanwhile, with increasing numbers of institutional investors, competition for opportunities is also on the rise.

As political instability - from the Ukraine and Russia entering a grim, dark period to Syria and Iraq - has sent the wealthy on a quest to find safer places to stash their savings, the falling pound has made London property look cheap for those making the conversion to many foreign currencies. At the same time, the UK’s political landscape has been (relatively) stable, with a transparent legal system and a broad cross-party consensus allaying any concerns investors may have over whether their assets will be safe and free from an interfering government.

In fact, the UK government has taken a pro-active role in encouraging inward investment in the property market; in his six years as Mayor of London, Boris Johnson has actively set out to attract foreign money, going out of his way to court the Chinese in particular, with several visits to Asia.

To cap it all off, there is a positive feedback loop constantly fuelling the market – the presence of buyers and sellers attracts more participants, making it more liquid, which attracts more buyers and encourages more sales.

And so it goes on.

It’s impossible to say exactly how, when, or how quickly London’s current property boom will come to an end. It does seem likely, however, whether in a year or a decade, that the time will eventually come. Old hands in the London market can

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remember a time and a place, not so far away, when they were not in favour. And they know that it will happen again. All things, after all, are cyclical.

In the immediate future, as campaigning for the 2015 UK general election gets into full swing over the coming months, analysts fear that just a single misplaced policy announcement could be enough to panic existing and potential investors across the world. The big issue is political uncertainty, specifically in anything relating to the tax regime, appealing to overseas capital and the immigration rules [please see PFS article on page 24].

But what are the specific tipping points that could herald the end of the situation we are currently experiencing?

Ultra-low interest rates Many countries’ interest rates are at historic lows. As a result, mainstream investment classes are generating low yields. Fund managers who need to deliver certain levels of performance to their investors are searching desperately for assets that will produce higher returns.

With London property averaging yields of 5-6 per cent, the sector looks very attractive. As a result, cash is pouring into property assets. But this trend is not expected to continue indefinitely.

As countries begin to consider raising interest rates in the coming years, other investments are likely to start looking more attractive again.

Currency effects After the global financial crisis, the pound became relatively cheap compared with property buyers’ domestic currencies.

Between 2008 and 2013, sterling fell by nearly a quarter against the dollar and by 11 per cent against the euro. As a result, London property prices that looked eye-watering to locals seemed perfectly affordable to foreign buyers. But this trend has already begun to wane. The pound is appreciating once more, up 5 per cent against the dollar over the past 18 months and 8 per cent against the euro. This has taken some heat out of the London.

Geopolitics London has long been seen as a financial safe haven by wealthy investors seeking to move money out of their home markets.

Property in the capital is a popular choice as a store of value because its relatively opaque ownership structures make it more difficult to trace assets’ ultimate ownership. Property owners who hold their homes through a company structure need only to register the name of the company with the Land Registry, not the name of the beneficial owner. And, given the various Middle Eastern conflicts and rising tensions between Russia and the west, it is almost impossible to see how these safe-haven effects will not continue for the foreseeable future.

In the following pages we showcase just a small example of our international opportunities, from New York to Abu Dhabi, Rio to the French Alps, Chartwell Estates’ reach is truly global yet retains its personal touch. This drive to listen to and deliver what our clients want is reflected in our joint offering of Chartwell Assist with our sister company – Chartwell Media [page 88] and in our ability to offer real estate-based investments that offer European residency [see the feature on Cyprus’ Aphrodite Hills and its associated residency opportunity – page 12] Michael J Christmas 0207 409 0533 michael.c@chartwell-london.com

Chartwell Journal

Eleventh Edition

Estates Goes Global Chartwell Estates have worked hard in 2014 to develop key relationships and establish a presence in some of the world’s key locations (as well as some of the most glamorous). As a result of these efforts, we now have local knowledge and presence in New York, Rio de Janeiro, the UAE, Singapore, The French Alps & Côte d’Azur. Our ability to help clientele is not limited to the high-end luxury residential sector synonymous with Chartwell Estates, but also in commercial investment and development opportunities too.

Singapore Commercial Opportunities Though the region is also facing various challenges, and despite the much anticipated interest rate hike next year adding concerns for the market, the growth trend in Asia remains positive. In fact, the continent continues to be fast growing and confidence in office rentals expectations is at a record high. Couple this with most office tenants also being more confident in taking on additional space, supported by the level of new leasing inquiries remaining largely the same, and the sector looks ripe for investment once again.

With this in mind, Chartwell Estates have a unique investment opportunity in Singapore, where office buildings are usually sold only as an entire tower by institutional investors and large corporates. Located in the middle of Singapore’s CBD and within three minutes’ walking distance to two major underground train stations, it is very rare to find Grade A offices in such a prime location available for sale on a strata (per floor) basis.

Interested parties can choose between buying half a floor to a full floor offering yields are approximately 3 - 3.5% depending on the exact location. Prices are US$15mil (half floor) to US$30mil (full floor).

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New York Penthouse Christmas in Manhattan is the stuff of dreams: snow blanketing the island; magical window displays in the stores along Fifth Avenue; ice skaters at the Rockefeller Center, and the Rockefeller Christmas tree dwarfed by the New York skyline. It’s a veritable winter wonderland, leaving no wonder as to why the city has been chosen to provide the backdrop to countless festive movies.

For someone looking to be part of the magic and have a permanent base in NYC, we have a fantastic penthouse in a 16-storey loft condominium built above a former gaslight factory. On the crossroads of Nolita, Noho and the Lower East Side, the penthouse commands views west over Soho, southwest toward Freedom Tower and east over Sarah D. Roosevelt Park.

Verbier - Premier Luxury Ski Residences Verbier - aka the St. Tropez of the Alps is synonymous with style, both on and off the slopes. Perched on a sunny plateau in the heart of the mountains, Verbier has been careful to maintain its charm as an alpine village. This is the gateway to the 4 Vallées ski area – with nearly 100 lifts and more than 400 km of ski runs for all levels of expertise at your feet and widely acknowledged as some of the best offpiste skiing in the world.

We’re privileged to present in this most exclusive of Alpine addresses, a unique ski residence; the Rosalps Residences. In a superb location 100 metres from the main Medran ski-lift station; the Residences are south-facing for spectacular views

and day-long sun. Energy-efficient lighting and geothermal heating; advanced audio, video and communications technology throughout as well as a 24hr concierge service which can arrange ski-hire and passes, transport, restaurant and club reservations, catering and flowers, groceries and domestic services.

Residents benefit from a private 600 sqm private leisure facilities spa, gym, treatment rooms and entertaining space.

There is of course, high-level security and secure all-round storage (including heated boot room with ski store) and secure underground parking. And when the owners are not out carving up the slopes, there is some serious retail therapy on hand with the Rosalp Residences hosting leading world exclusive retail outlets on the main ground-level concourse.

Chartwell Journal

Eleventh Edition

Waterfront Retreat in the United Arab Emirates Nurai Island, Abu Dhabi, is a ten-minute boat ride from an air-conditioned jetty house on Saadiyat Island. Speeding away, past the mangroves, thoughts of the bustle of the city melt away even before catching a first glimpse of the private, beachfront estates and water villas of Zaya Nurai Island. Once here, mind and spirit could easily be fooled into believing one had magically transported to a luxury resort in the Seychelles.

This is Abu Dhabi’s most exclusive address, with master plans including 32 luxury boutique retreats for hotel guests, a spa, restaurants, a marina, a nonmotorised water sports centre, a yoga studio, a gymnasium, a tennis court, a helipad and more.

All 23 residential, waterfront villas on the 4.3-million-square-foot island – each costing upwards of Dh20 million - have been sold. We are proud to present one of those villas; a magnificent, 6-bedroom property, unrivaled in the UAE. With a plot size in excess of 50,000 sqft, the villa is spread over two floors and offers over 17,707 sqft of living space, plus a wonderful garden boasting an amazing infinity swimming pool, built-in, top of the range outdoor dining areas and your own private beach located at the bottom of the garden.

With views over to the Abu Dhabi skyline, this property is the epitome of luxury.

Tropical Island in Angra dos Reis, Brazil The trend in Brazil is towards more and more globalisation, from a business as well as a real estate perspective. On the former, comfort can be gained from the fact that Brazil has signed up to the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), making it easier for a foreign investor to buy a Brazilian company. The same goes for real estate valuations with the adoption of the Red Book and International Valuation Standards (IVS). On top of this, the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) is working closely with over 30 associations, including Secovi-SP, on International Property Measurement Standards (IPMS).

Talk of a bubble in the Brazilian market is akin to such talk in the UK market – such assessments being too general to be meaningful. Quality is perennial and those who can afford quality know where it can be found.

For those who value privacy alongside elegance, we are excited to offer a beautiful Tropical Island and a perfect property in the fashionable area of Angra Dos Reis (Anchor of the Kings). Maná Island is located 3km from the secure port of Brachuy, which in turn is a short flight from Rio or Sao Paulo, on the Costa Verde in the state of Rio de Janerio. As part of a larger archipelago in the bay, the area is protected from the open ocean and blessed with warm emerald green.

The Island comprises a main house, four guest bungalows with a common bar and seating area surrounded by a large deck, from which one can dive into the sea. The lawns lead down to a natural freshwater pool carved in stone by the water, whilst there is a decked walkway connecting the main house and the bungalows, which also links the helipad and the docking area for boats.

For further information, to book a consultation with the team or for viewings please contact: estates@chartwell-london.com

EXC EPT IONAL

P R O P E RT Y

WO R L DW IDE

Chartwell Estates is a Private Brokerage and Advisory Service for UHNW individuals and families. The company operates as a bespoke office for the discreet acquisition or disposal of property-based assets, both privately and off-market. We only deal through established contacts, networking globally with private individuals, families and professional advisors. Through our trusted network we also provide a broad range of specialist advisory and management services that are complimentary to our clienteles’ requirements.

London: +44 (0)207 409 0533

privateoffice@chartwell-london.com

www.chartwell-estates.com

Chartwell Journal

Eleventh Edition

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Aphrodite Hills Chartwell Estates are proud to present an outstanding opportunity to invest in your choice of exclusive, luxury properties at one of the world’s ‘TOP 20’ multi-award winning resorts, and have the option of obtaining European Citizenship.

Aphrodite Hills is situated on two plateaux and divided by a dramatic ravine that overlooks the exact spot where ‘Aphrodite’, the Greek goddess of love, is said to have emerged from the sea. Leading the way in island property, this is the first 5 star integrated leisure, golf, and gated real estate resort in Cyprus. With its warm, sub-tropical climate and easily accessible location in the south west of Cyprus, the Port of Limassol is just 30 minutes away, and Paphos International Airport closer still at 15 minutes. It also boasts daily flights from UAE, Russia, UK and other European destinations and access from mainland China via daily flights from Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Moscow.

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Chartwell Journal

Eleventh Edition

The setting is low-density, village-style luxury, nestled in 234 hectares of stunning countryside. These stylish, individual villas, junior villas and spacious, elegant apartments stand in carefully chosen locations, to make the most of the stunning views over the resort and the Mediterranean Sea. Impeccable attention to detail is evident everywhere, with the highest quality Italian-style kitchen units, luxury appliances, lavish Crema Royal Marble bathrooms, and marble or parquet flooring throughout. At the heart of the resort, is the bustling Village Centre with its bars, restaurants, shops and traditional Byzantine-style chapel.

Aphrodite Hills’ facilities are second to none, including an iconic 18-hole championship golf course, the superb 5 star Aphrodite Hills Resort Hotel, one of Europe’s best Retreat Spas and a professional Annabel Croft Tennis Academy. The nearby luxurious Zias Beach Club, the relaxing Cove Beach and Aphrodite’s Riding Club, bring the whole package together to make sure all the family are cared for. First class property management services are also available to ensure that resort living remains carefree.

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For those looking for freedom of movement and a luxury lifestyle, this is the perfect time to take advantage of the now stable economy. In early 2014, the Cyprus Government announced changes to legislation which enable a foreign investor to become a Cypriot citizen and obtain a Cypriot passport through naturalisation, making it more accessible and more affordable than ever before. Cypriot passport holders may enter, reside, study and work in the European Economic Area (European Union, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway) and Switzerland without a visa, and are entitled to travel visa free to more than 140 countries.

Further information can be provided regarding the ‘criteria for citizenship’, on request.

Chartwell Estates look forward to assisting you on your first step to paradise…

Chartwell Estates +44 (0)207 409 0533 www.chartwell-estates.com

Chartwell Journal

Eleventh Edition

Art Deco Sophistication In An Exclusive W2 Development Weaving together its past as a fashionable draper’s shop with the elegance and attention to detail demanded by the design savvy homeowners of W2, Alchemi Group’s ambitious design has transformed an uninspiring office block into an exquisite and prestigious building with a hint of Art Deco elegance.

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We aspire to always use the best quality materials for our developments, which is why we flew out to Denmark with the award winning architects, Stiff + Trevillion.

We felt it was important to see firsthand the level of craftsmanship that goes into the beautiful bricks before specifying them for the exterior.

Laura Marino, Creative Director and Co-Founder

Westbourne House, in Westbourne Grove, is an exclusive development, with 20 uniquely spacious apartments, including a stunning split-level penthouse with 360 degree views from its 1,386 square foot terrace.

Sweepingly elegant from first sight, Alchemi Group drew inspiration from the brick and render buildings surrounding Westbourne House, to re-invent the drab exterior with elongated Petersen Koluma brick sections creating incisive definition between the floors. The windows are alternated with stylish decorative glazed faience panels, embossed with large-scale extracts of a bespoke weave pattern motif, adding sharp detail to the exterior. That attention to detail is seen again as the crisp weave motif is embossed within the bronzed metalwork balcony balustrades and the metal screens of the gorgeous Penthouse. The weave pattern is derived from the building’s past as the William Owen Linen Draper shop, a clean and bold design with a geometric edge.

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Chartwell Journal

Eleventh Edition

The mix of contemporary flair and homage to the past is reiterated in the timeless sophistication of the interiors. From the second one enters the lobby of Westbourne House, with its 24 hour concierge service, luxurious materials such as warm walnut panelling, graphic tiled flooring, soft feature lighting and textured wallpaper create the feeling of exclusivity.

“As one of the first two residential developments on Queensway,” Marino explains, “there was a chance to recreate a real sense of design harmony between

flawless interiors. Expansive floor-toceiling windows give stunning cityscape views whilst letting natural light flood in.

The interior design has been carefully crafted, a nuanced overtone of Art Deco with a cool modern twist for the discerning. The colour palette is subtle but not invisible, sparkling chromes and silvers are matched with gentle greens and greys, warmed with hints of pink and taupe undertones, and contrasted with sharp black accents.

The history of the area inspired the design deeply. “Since the building had a history as a textile shop, it was important for us to build that history into the design,” Marino elaborates. “We used texture concepts and patterns throughout the design process to create a sophisticated and contemporary tribute to the area’s history.”

The open plan kitchens are an airy and practical environment, fully-fitted for the discerning cook, with appliances from Miele adding performance excellence.

Again, Alchemi’s attentiveness to every element of the design creates a unified scheme. The Italian units from Mesons have 30mm thick cabinet doors, finished

Westbourne House and another Stiff + Trevillion project: their collaboration with Derwent London on the restoration of the Grade II listed Queen’s Cinema.

There was a natural synergy between the history of the area and the buildings, and we wanted the projects to be different but harmonious.”

Alchemi and Stiff + Trevillion’s intelligent design has created spacious lateral apartments whose open plan layouts put enjoyment and relaxation at the heart of the living areas. The rich bespoke, solid oak flooring, laid in a herringbone pattern, introduces depth and refinement to the

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effortless with connections to local, domestic and international destinations.

Westbourne House has some of the capital’s most attractive neighbours.

Notting Hill Gate, Holland Park and Bayswater wrap around Westbourne Grove, with the nature of Hyde Park and the culture of Kensington directly south.

Westbourne House itself is located amidst a thriving social scene, with plenty of shopping, dining, entertainment and leisure opportunities.

in a gloss lacquer with polished stainless steel trim that acts as a subtle handle detail, whilst features such as the antique mirror splashback and Silestone worktops finish the kitchens with a glittering flourish.

By contrast the bedrooms provide a calm private haven, generously proportioned and equally exquisitely detailed. The Master Bedrooms include private ensuites, large walk-in wardrobes and practical dual access to allow early risers to get ready discreetly. The Art Deco chic is followed through into the spacious bathrooms. Classic materials like marble are mixed with sharp contemporary detailing, including hand crafted ceramic tiles and bespoke mosaic rugs, to create a luxurious, timeless finish.

The Penthouse is literally and figuratively the pinnacle of Westbourne House, with unparalleled and unobstructed 360˚ views of the city. Alchemi skilfully added an additional floor to the building in order to create a unique duplex Penthouse with unequalled and unimpeded panoramic views. Entering the 7th floor direct from the lift, the visitor is presented with a wonderful first impression - the magnificent open plan kitchen, dining and living space with dramatic sweeping views and the ultimate indulgence; a 1,386 ft2 wrap around terrace that is larger than

many central London homes. With details such as bespoke bronze sliding screens and a privacy nook with a soaking bathtub in the master en-suite, the Penthouse at Westbourne House is a glamorous, sophisticated haven floating above the noise and bustle of the City.

The detail and grandeur of Westbourne House speak directly to the history and narrative of the area. Rich and vibrant, its heritage is characterised by culture, history and reinvention. Until the 19th Century, Notting Hill was a popular country escape from the bustle of London city life.

In the 1850s, tradesmen came to the area, establishing exclusive textile and drapery shops that transformed Westbourne Grove from a leafy country retreat to a world fashion hub. Commercially successful and entirely self-sufficient (even with its own currency) Westbourne Grove was so glamorous that by 1879, local historians referred to it as “the Bond Street of the West”. Those mid-19th Century pioneers fostered an independent atmosphere mere miles from London’s epicentre, which led to many redevelopments over the years, culminating in Notting Hill’s acknowledged status as one of the world’s most affluent and fashion-forward areas.

Westbourne House is in a truly enviable location. Perfectly poised to enjoy the vibrant city of London, direct travel is

Local and critics’ favourites include cutting-edge movie house ‘The Electric’, the 2-Michelin-star ‘The Ledbury’ and Tom Pemberton’s ‘Hereford Road’.

For shopping, the world-renowned Portobello Road is a mere 10 minute walk away and stores including Jonathan Adler, one of Fiorentini + Baker’s only dedicated shoe stores outside of Italy, and the famous Notting Hill Bookshop are all around the corner.

The glittering transformation of Westbourne House is just another facet in the history and continuous reinvention of Westbourne Grove. Honouring the creativity, energy and elegance of the past and present, Westbourne House’s intelligence and exquisite attention to detail sets it as a champion for quality and design well into the future. www.westbournehousew2.com Westbourne House is due for completion in early 2015. The Westbourne House marketing suite is located at 118 c Westbourne Grove and is available to view Wednesday to Sunday between 9am and 6pm, please contact 0207 221 6486 or Chartwell Estates on 0207 409 0533

Chartwell Journal

Eleventh Edition

Style, Matchmaking And Falling In Love What could be better than having the world’s best interior designer or architect at your fingertips? The answer: having a choice of the very finest, with expert advice in finding the perfect match for your taste and personality.

As with so many brilliant ideas that now seem obvious, this one was born of intense personal experience.

Sandy Mitchell, founder of the RedBook Agency, felt mounting frustration when remodeling his London apartments and enlarging his own family home—an 800-year-old manor house in the English countryside. ‘How could I find exceptional architects, interior designers or garden designers? Friends’ recommendations and professional advisers’ suggestions did not present me with the wonderful talent that I knew must exist, nor did they help me at all in choosing between practices.’

So Sandy created a specialist consultancy to help clients facing similar challenges find and select the ideal creative practice for their project. The RedBook Agency, which he founded four years ago, has enjoyed extraordinary success and is now advising clients on some 70 projects.

Sir Roy Strong, one of RedBook’s Advisory Panel who also guided Prince Charles at Highgrove House, says, ‘What Sandy and his team are doing is unique and exceptionally valuable for clients. If only someone had understood the need for this service years ago.’ The agency’s Advisory Panel carefully curates the range of practices it works with.

Emily Rance, creative director, with Sandy Mitchell, Founder of The RedBook Agency

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Clients find the benefits of this service include:

t t t t t

Access to a range of talent almost impossible to source otherwise.

Ease and time-saving in selecting exactly the right expert for their project.

Enhanced enjoyment of the project itself, working with design professionals with whom they share chemistry.

Optimising the outcome of the project aesthetically and financially.

Confidence in the choice of creative partners, underpinned by RedBook’s close analysis of ideal matches and its deep knowledge of the practices it introduces.

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A highly attractive aspect of RedBook’s service is its low cost to clients. Clients pay only a small engagement fee, as the company’s revenue comes principally from the 80-plus practices it works with—all selected by the Advisory Panel as the best in their field.

While the creative practices the company works with are based in England, their experience spans the entire globe.

No doubt influenced by Sandy’s training as a lawyer at Oxford University, he and his four colleagues are analytical as well as intuitive when assessing client’s projects and needs. ‘Due diligence, de-risking and our careful process in the choice of creative partners are a key part of our approach. This is why we have so many referrals from lawyers, family offices and property specialists. But we have to engage our hearts as well as our heads,’ explains RedBook’s creative director, Emily Rance.

The most valuable word of advice to any property owner with a project in view?

‘When selecting your creative partner, be sure their personality attracts you just as much as their look. It is rather like choosing a husband or wife,’ says Sandy.

‘That is our touchstone in advising clients.’

Sandy Mitchell, founder and director, The RedBook Agency

RedBook is currently helping clients with projects on all scales. These range from remodeling flats and houses in London—Knightsbridge, Chelsea, Mayfair, Belgravia, Notting Hill and other prime addresses—to building new country houses.

Some of its clients’ projects are almost imperial in scale. These include a new house in central London of 3,000 sq/m— requiring architects, interior designers and landscape designers—and a superlative new house in the country of 10,000 sq/m built of stone in the exquisite style of English Palladian architecture, with a landscaped park. This house is set to be the largest built in Britain for decades.

Tel: +44 (0)20 7622 3882 For a complimentary consultation to discuss your project, please call + 44 (0)207 060 6222.

Or email: sandy@redbookagency.com www.redbookagency.com

Chartwell Journal

Eleventh Edition

The Pearl of the Mediterranean: Portofino Chartwell Estates are proud to present a rare chance to own a historical slice of Portofino, one of Italy’s most picturesque, enchanting and romantic destinations.

Exclusive, glamorous and expensive, Portofino has always stirred great emotion within its inhabitants.It was saved from Nazi destruction by Baroness von Mumm, the widow of the heir to the famous Mumm champagne brand.

Portofino graces the coastline of Liguria, Italy’s smallest region which stretches from the French border to La Spezia in

the east. This ‘Pearl of the Mediterranean’ was put firmly on the celebrity map when Elizabeth Taylor and Eddie Fisher enjoyed their intimate honeymoon – her fourth – there in 1959. Since then, Portofino has attracted more than its fair share of film stars and fabulously famous people. Humphrey Bogart, Greta Garbo, Rita Hayworth and Frank Sinatra enjoyed its charms around the time that

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Liz and Eddie honeymooned there, while Aristotle Onassis steered his famous yacht, ‘Cristina’, into its quaint harbour for many years. Giorgio Armani, Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana all have holiday homes there, while Madonna, Rihanna, Jennifer Lopez and Eva Mendes have been spotted wandering around the piazza or boarding huge yachts.

Offering the very best shopping from Gucci to Pucci and excellent restaurants and hotels – among them the famous Hotel Splendido, widely believed to be the best hotel in the world – Portofino also boasts natural beauty for those more inclined to reconnect with nature. Hikes up Monte Portofino will reward those energetic enough to scale her peak with a vista encompassing the two bays around the peninsula, from the Bay of Tigullio to Sestri Levante, from Paradise Bay to the island of Bergeggi and, in the distance, the French island of Corsica, one of the largest in the Mediterranean.

Portofino also boasts one of the highest concentrations of flora in the Mediterranean and some of the most renowned seascapes in the world.

The sea around the peninsula is of great importance for preserving the Mediterranean’s biodiversity and it contains a large variety of species in a small area.

Portofino’s new yacht club, established by young and dynamic CEO Giovanni Copello– is a club with a difference. By day the club is open to its yachting members only, giving captains, owners and crew a space to relax and enjoy themselves. Nonmembers are welcomed during the day by invitation only, and a small fee is payable.

But by night the club is open to everyone and has become the ‘go to’ venue for celebrities, tourists and locals alike.

Perched above this richly diverse and picturesque harbour is the delightful ‘Villa del Tiglio’. The villa was given its name by the current owners due to the presence of the oldest lime – or ‘tiglio’ in Italian – tree in Portofino. About 120 years old and so big that it gives the expansive, lush garden paradise its unique character and presence, the tree is estimated to be worth around €15 000. Lime wood was used to build the Ligurian fishing boats called “gozzi” in the past and artist Andrea Mantegna (1431 – 1506) made a cross out of the same wood, which is believed to be worth millions.

The villa itself was built in the early years of the 19th century, when it belonged to an Italian noble family and, since then, it has been owned by several well known Italian personalities. In the late 80’s it was sold to Emanuele Pirella, who is known as the father of Italian advertising. Pirella was a very good friend and partner in business of

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Sir Frank Lowe, with whom he founded his advertising agency: Lowe Pirella.

Famous neighbours have included Italian prime minister Amintore Fanfani, Lord Cameron, and the Augusta family known for their global helicopter business.

Offering jaw-dropping views of Portofino and the Mediterranean beyond, and direct access to the piazza, the villa has four bedrooms – three with their own private balcony or terrace – four bathrooms, a guest cloakroom, a generous lounge with fire place, separate dining room leading onto a charming patio, and a rooftop veranda which serves as a sun deck with its own small winter garden room.

All of these private patios and terraces, as well as the extensive, multi-level Mediterranean gardens, invite you to enjoy quiet moments with a glass of delightful local wine.

After all, as the old gourmet-traveller Samuel Chamberlain once said, “After Portofino, anything would be an anti-climax.”

Chartwell Estates +44 (0)207 409 0533 www.chartwell-estates.com

Chartwell Journal

Eleventh Edition

HNWIs And The Modern Family Office: Tax Challenges As traditional family offices modernise and evolve and HNWIs adopt an increasingly family office-style approach to meet the challenges of today’s business and investment needs, the demands on family office professionals and their principals to stay fully briefed have never been greater; none more so than the challenges posed by the ever-changing world of Taxation.

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From asset protection to art investments, stocks and shares to succession planning; business ventures and boats – Tax (unfortunately, some may say...) runs through it all!

Understanding and identifying changes in tax law and navigating potential pitfalls are at the centre of every successful family office.

Professional and Fiduciary Services (PFS) provide a comprehensive tax consultancy service tailored especially for HNWIs and family offices.

Over the past 12 months PFS has assisted its clients with a vast range of tax-related challenges, including: Making Direct Investments As family offices continue to move away from investing via private equity houses, in order to enhance their investment profits, the need for detailed and bespoke tax advice on how to minimise tax leakage on returns from specific asset classes and specific jurisdictions has greatly increased. Unlike structured investments via private equity companies which include in-built tax considerations, direct investments are a blank canvas where tax planning is a critical element of the investment’s success.

Streamlining Operating Costs – Maintaining Professional Capabilities Traditional family offices which have invariably evolved over time across different business sectors, asset classes and jurisdictions often consist of a complex web of special purposes vehicles, trading entities, trusts and foundations.

Each of these entities requires a different set of legal and professional expertise to enable it to transact and maintain its accounts/regulatory obligations.

As a result, the cost of maintaining these structures is incredibly high. PFS has worked with its family office clients to develop the concept of the “variable cost family office structure”, which enables real depth of professional and

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legal capability to be provided to family offices in a harmonised and centralised structure, with great cost efficiency and tax protection.

Succession Planning and Inheritance Tax (IHT) Whilst various trust-based IHT solutions have been used by wealthy families for many years to mitigate 40% IHT, changing UK Tax laws now prevent certain outdated structures from being used to pass assets from one generation to the next in a way in which the management and enjoyment of those assets, is retained. New cutting edge structures are emerging to solve these problems and PFS is at the forefront of advising family offices on how to make the transition.

Taxation of Enveloped Dwellings Recent legislation known as the Taxation of Enveloped Dwellings introduced various measures aimed at prohibiting the acquisition of residential property in offshore companies/SPVs. The restrictive measures included enhanced Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) at 15% of the property acquisition value, an annual charge (ATED) based on the property value of up to £140k approximately, and enhanced capital gains tax of 28% on disposal of the property.

As a result of these restrictions imposed on corporate purchasers there have never been more tax considerations to take into account when structuring a land purchase.

Privacy, Confidentiality and the Disclosure of Tax Information Rules (“UK FATCA”) These rules are part of a broad package of tax rules aimed at identifying UK residents with bank accounts or connections to offshore trusts or structures in the Crown Dependencies (Jersey, Guernsey and Isle of Man) and the overseas territories of Antigua, Bermuda, the British Virgin Islands, the Cayman Islands, Gibraltar, Montserrat and the Turks and Caicos Islands. Being aware of the impact of these rules has been a hot topic for many family offices.

Chartwell Journal

Eleventh Edition

Safeguarding against Family Disputes (or divorce)

in a compliant format by 5 April 2016, to avoid tax charges.

Traditional family office structures which use archaic and inflexible trust arrangements can become particularly problematic should there ever be a dispute between the members of a family office as to how such assets should be dealt with. In the event that family office assets are to be divided, certain structures, if put in place prior to a dispute arising, can provide a flexible, legally certain and tax efficient method of dividing control over various asset classes and investments. PFS prides itself on the sophistication and robustness of its asset protection strategies.

2015 Changes to Capital Gains Tax (CGT)

Change to Remittance Rules: Using Foreign Income/gains as collateral PFS is advising HNWIs and family offices on the recent change to the remittance rules of taxation. From 4 August 2014 UK resident non-domiciled individuals (‘Non-Doms’) using foreign income/gains as collateral for borrowing (brought to or used in the UK) will be taxed on the remittance basis in respect of the funds used as security.

Non-doms have until December 2015 to confirm to HMRC that their foreign debt security arrangements will be restructured

2015 is set to see a dramatic change to the basis on which capital gains tax is charged in the UK. Under current law a person who is not resident in the UK for tax purposes is not subject to UK CGT on any gains made on the sale of the property. This approach has often been criticised as being unfair – given that UK residents would be subject to tax on the sale of the same property.

From April 2015, non-resident individuals, non-resident corporations, non-resident trustees and non-resident partners in tax transparent partnerships will all be within the charge to UK CGT on the disposal of residential UK property. Preparing for these changes is high on the list of priorities for many family offices.

For a consultation on any of the taxrelated issues mentioned in this article, or for a bespoke review of HNWI or Family Office tax operations, please contact our Mayfair office on 020 3691 6493. For further information on PFS’ services and expertise, please see www.think-wealthfreedom.com enquiries@think-financialfreedom.com

Stamp Duty Land Tax · Inheritance Tax · Annual Tax on Enveloped Dwellings · Capital Gains Tax

PROPERTY TAX IS CHANGING New proposals for non residents from April 2015 have been announced with the finer details expected late 2014 Non Residents on borrowed time New proposals for non residents owning UK property have been announced with the finer details expected late 2014.

From April 2015, non UK Residents selling UK residential property will be

subject to Capital Gains Tax (CGT) on future sale: • Regardless of value • To gains made after April 2015 • At a CGT rate likely to be 28% Solutions are available to those already exposed, but action is needed prior to April 2015 to ensure no further tax is incurred.

With a complex tax regime, the taxation of property investments in the UK has changed significantly in recent times.

Investors should make sure that they obtain the most up to date tax advice on issues relating to real estate.

Cornerstone Tax is a proactive tax advisory firm, specialising in property taxation in the UK.

We pride ourselves on being at the cutting edge of developments in all areas of property tax including: • Stamp Duty Land Tax • ATED “the Mansion Tax” • Inheritance Tax • Capital Gains Tax

David Hannah ACA CTA · Principal Consultant 01858 439 033 · DHannah@ctatax.uk.com Tel 01858 439 033 · www.ctatax.uk.com · enquiries@ctatax.uk.com · @cornerstone_tax

TAX ADVICE | BESPOKE PLANNING | MITIGATION

Chartwell Journal

Eleventh Edition

Monaco Yacht Show Chartwell Media take a look back over this years record-breaking Monaco Yacht Show.

2014 saw more yachts and international visitors than ever before, with an attendance of over 33,000 and over 115 superyachts were on display and filled Monaco’s recently expanded port.

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Chartwell Journal

Eleventh Edition

Forty of the yachts on display made their debut at this years show and had not been viewed before. The others are mostly contemporary models from the last few years, though there are some older classics. Quite often the yacht charter companies don’t know which yachts will be attending the show until the last minute as owners often change their mind days before the show – perhaps to take a holiday or a charter gets agreed which can’t be turned down. With the yachts summoning up to hundreds of thousands of pounds per week for charter, this decision is easy to understand. Furthermore, it is up to the charter companies or builders to ensure the right guests are onboard during the glamourous evening drinks receptions – a couple of hours with touring the yachts avec a glass of champagne could lead to substantial bookings.

This years show stoppers included the 1983 Illusion – a 180 foot Burgess classic, the 160 foot Mangusta by Overmarine and one of our favourites, perhaps for

the name, Fraser’s ‘My Trust Fund’ – a stunning 147 foot superyacht. The luxury industry in Monaco looks as buoyant as ever. We talk with interior designers in the port who are busier than ever and advise that when people are spending such huge sums on charter or indeed have splashed millions to enjoy for their private use the yacht must be in pristine condition at all times. Whether this is through refreshing the cushions on multiple decks or installing new wood paneling in the bedrooms – owners are advised to expect their maintenance and running costs will be circa 10% of the purchase price.

Most yachting companies both charter and purchase and are coy about the purchase price or even the charter costs for the yachts – this is a world where the superyacht is the next toy you lavish on after your fleet of luxury cars and portfolio of international property. Though it is advised that over 100 metres and you will be looking at over £100 million.

Whilst the superyachts are the focal point of the show there is also a superb array of marine toys from personal submarines to luxury tenders. Over 100 related goods and services providers also exhibit at the show.

The 2015 Monaco Yacht Show takes place from September 23rd to 26th. Passes from 150 euros per day. www.monacoyachtshow.com

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Rolls Royce Phantom Possibly one of the most lusted after cars of all time – The Rolls Royce Drophead Phantom Coupe.

Chartwell Journal

Eleventh Edition

The Phantoms mammoth size dwarfs even the largest of gentleman, it says “look at me” without needing to be lipstick red or sunshine yellow… The Phantom is the ultimate understated luxury accessory.

Exuding class, craftsmanship and over excessive luxury that one would expect from a Rolls-Royce, it is hard not to fall in love with the Phantom at first sight.

Upon our initial inspection of the car we check for the obligatory umbrella in the drivers door – yes its there. There is even a button to close both front doors to save you reaching out to close the cumbersome panels. The interior could only been likened to that of a private jet, oversized multi-functioning armchairs fill the car, with two spacious rear seats.

It’s not very often that we get excited over a boot, however this electronically controlled boot oozed opulence. Highly polished, yacht style lined decking flanked with thick pile carpet.

Down to figures and the Phantom is not the most economical of vehicles – this is of course to be expected for a 6.75litre v12 engine. On our road trip we averages circa 16mpg. The Drophead opening and closing mechanism is sleek and you can be ‘topless’ within 29 seconds of the press of a button.

The vehicle stretches to 5.6m long making it one of the largest saloons on the road.

The Phantom is a car to cruise in rather than race, the drive is comfortable and relaxed. Instead of your usual v12 engine roar, The Phantom exudes a gentle purr.

The air suspension assists with making the journey a smooth, refined ride.

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We took the Drophead out of Mayfair to the Cotswolds where we were able to test it out on country roads. You have to hope you don’t meet any stubborn drivers along the road as reversing the Phantom back down country lanes is slight chore – it was made for cities and the motorway.

Needless to say the handling and steering control were precise. Luckily when we arrived at Barnsley House Hotel we were able to park outside the front, regular sized parking bays don’t cut it for The Phantom, taking up almost 2 spaces in your average car park. Barnsley House was a stunning countryside setting for the Rolls-Royce and like the car it was beautiful and traditional on the outside yet contemporary and comfortable on the inside. From The Cotswolds we drove to Bovey Castle, the route was mainly ‘A’ roads. The car handled well and the slim, oversized steering wheel was very reactive when we met the country roads of Devon.

The Drophead is the Phantom to drive not be driven in and is met head turns and adoring glances as much in Prime London as it is in the countryside where £300k+ cars are a rarity.

We stayed at: Barnsley House Rooms from £290 per night Barnsley, Cirencester, Gloucestershire, GL7 5EE 01285 740 000 www.barnsleyhouse.com Dartmoor National Park, North Bovey, Devon TQ13 8RE 01647 445000 www.boveycastle.com Thanks to www.visitengland.com Prices from £332,400 Our local Rolls-Royce dealership is: 15 Berkeley Square, Mayfair, London W1J 6EG 020 3053 0767 www.rolls-royce.com

Chartwell Journal

Eleventh Edition

What Does 2015 Hold For Chartwell Monaco?

As Chartwell Monaco soon approach 2015, we still have no crystal ball that will allow us to see into the future...So what does 2015 hold for Chartwell Monaco?

If 2014 is to be used as the yardstick, then 2015 is bound to also be action packed with new and exciting clients and projects.

Our clients expect the best and in the coming year Chartwell Monaco will once again go above and beyond to ensure that our clients high expectations are met. As most of our clients are private individuals or families, we would like to take this opportunity to thank you for believing in us, trusting us with creating your dream property and allowing us the pleasure of turning your dreams into reality.

The Principality has also had an exciting 2014. Having once again held another phenomenal Grand Prix, HRH Prince Alberts celebrations on the 19th November were more poignant this year as HRH Princess Charlene will be welcoming twins by the end of 2014. A very special occasion for the Royal couple, MonĂŠgasque residences and the world.

So what can we, Chartwell Monaco offer to you in 2015. As with all prospective new clients we understand that it is a difficult decision when choosing a company to turn your dreams into a reality. Chartwell Monaco’s world of experience, knowledge and genuine care for our clients property, is an experience you will not regret, we look forward to helping you make all the right decisions.

A Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. www.chartwell.mc

EX CELLENC E

I N

AN D

London: +44 (0)207 409 0549

B E S P O KE

CO N S T RU CT ION

R E N OVAT I O N

office@chartwell-london.com

Monaco: +377 97 97 56 67

office@chartwell.mc

www.chartwell-london.com www.chartwell.mc

Chartwell Journal

Eleventh Edition

Les Pavilions The Group Société des Bains de Mer was pleased to launch five magnificent and much anticipated Pavilions in Monacos historic Casino Square, ushering in a new era of exclusive shopping in the very heart of Monte-Carlo. The unique tailor-made project was presented to architect Richard Martinet for the 4-year duration of construction of the newly named Boulingrins Gardens on Casino Square.

Whilst there has been much criticism in the Principality over the Sporting d’Hiver demolition and with the Prince’s government giving permission to redevelop the site, and heated discussions about the future of the Square, the works have now started. A big concern is the impact of the project in the casino square which also sees the Hotel de Paris close its doors for refurbishment.

It goes without saying that the new Pavilions have taken on a new futuristic concept for the casino gardens. This temporary development accommodates 20 luxury shops connected by a snake like pavement, and buildings that are unusual in shape, inspired by the pebbles found on Riviera beaches.

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The gardens housing the temporary boutiques are named the ‘Boulingrins’ Gardens, or known as the ‘bowling green’ taken from the typical British game. A lush botanical universe in harmony with the ecological and sustainable emphasis so important to the Societé des Bains de Mer. The group’s commitment towards ecology and sustainable development is mirrored in the preservation of the gardens and trees which is one of the key priorities of the development which preserves an important expanse of green spaces and flora, something that landscape architect Jean Mus was careful to preserve when successfully integrating the Pavilions.

The elegance of the new development is reminiscent of Monte-Carlo in the 1930’s.

Playing on ‘bowling green’ as a theme, the inaugural evening was full of surprises for the most prestigious of guests including HRH Prince Albert II. The event was an opportunity to discover and relive the atmosphere of a bowling green party in a quirky retro-chic setting.

When you’re next in Monaco it’s well worth exploring the wonders that are the Pavilions. www.visitmonaco.com Images: Madeleine Mai Rose

Chartwell Journal

Eleventh Edition

into French before promptly giving up and carrying on in English. Tyson opened up with his account about his troubled youth and landmark boxing career before reflecting on the key people in his life. He bore all, including touching upon some of the many controversies that surround him including his time in prison, and subsequent self-examination that has played such a key part in shaping the man today. No subject was off bounds as Tyson delved deep into the death of his daughter Exodus, who died in 2009 in a tragic accident. Tyson reflected on how when he finally made some money how he went back to his Mother’s burial plot and commissioned a grand headstone so that everyone would know that she had given birth to the greatest fighter of all time.

The reality is that Tyson was a very young world champion with a bank balance of 400 million dollars, sadly he lost it all. In 2000 he started the year with 3.3million dollars and earned more than 65 million.

However once again he managed to spend it all.

Despite what is in essence something of a modern day tragedy, Tysons character and storytelling prowess transformed the night into one of laughter from the minute he arrived on stage to the minute he bowed farewell.

Author: Vivien Rose

Mike Tyson: Undisputed Truth A One-man show on a national tour at the Sporting Monte-Carlo, former heavyweight champion and boxing legend Mike Tyson.

Mike Tyson once famously referred to himself as “the baddest man on the planet”. In his new autobiography, he explains why, going into detail about his addictions to drugs and alcohol and his violent past.

For 90 minutes I had the pleasure of an audience with Mike Tyson. Honest, powerful and full of humour throughout, “Iron Mike” lead a captivated audience through a journey documenting his life’s highs and lows in what has become his signature candid style. Often delving

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Ollie Millroy Chartwell Media are excited to introduce Ollie Millroy who will be writing a regular column to feature in the 2015 Journals. Ollie is an exciting and talented racing driver currently competing in the Asian Le Mans Series, driving the BMW Motorsport Z4 GT3.

Like most successful racing drivers Ollie started karting in 1997 at just 7 years old.

After tying up various championships and with lots of podiums under his belt, Ollie moved on to racing single seater cars in 2008 when he was awarded a Formula BMW scholarship, which became the start of a long association with this iconic motorsport brand. BMW backed Ollie to compete in Asia and Europe where he had a number of wins and podiums on some of the famous F1 tracks such as Shanghai in China. In 2010, Ollie stepped up to the Formula Renault category in the UK and once again, enjoyed a series of wins and podiums in the championship during the season.

With costs escalating and sponsorship extremely difficult to secure, he made the decision to move to GT cars and was selected to drive for the famous Le Mans winning team, Ecurie Ecosse in their BMW Z4 GT3. With more excellent results during the season he was asked to stay with the team for the 2013 season to lead their assault on the European Le Mans Series, securing 3rd place in the drivers and teams championships.

For 2014 Ollie felt he needed a new challenge and was offered a fantastic opportunity to join the very successful Taiwanese team, AAI Motorsports as the pro driver in one of their BMW Z4 GT3’. Ollie is currently leading the championship with one round to go which will take place in December at the Sepang Formula 1 circuit in Malaysia. Due to his

strong performances and professional approach to the Asian Le Mans Series the team has asked Ollie to represent them in the Malaysian Super Series and Taiwan Speed festival, where he finished 1st and 3rd respectively.

products and will require Ollie to represent them at various PR and social events.

Due to his success in motorsport and his experience at representing high profile brands, Ollie has recently been chosen as an ambassador for the famous Swiss watch manufacturer JEANRICHARD. Not only is Ollie a very successful racing driver, but he is also an accomplished golfer with a single-figure handicap at the Wentworth Club in Surrey. JEANRICHARD see this as a perfect environment to promote their

www.olliemillroy.com

Chartwell Media are looking forward to working with Ollie in 2015, stay tuned for exciting what is set to be an exciting read!

Chartwell Journal

Time Changer...

Chartwell get technical with the new Ressence Type 3.

Transporting the traditional timepiece dial onto the crystal face this model changes the way we see time...

When purchasing an item of jewellery we often don’t consider much of the work behind the complication or construction of the watch. Whilst pre-owned, vintage and traditional timepieces are still very much in demand designers and jewellery houses are upping their game and introducing innovative new designs and concepts fit for the 21st Century. The Ressence Type 3 transports time from the dial to the crystal. The orbiting indications are bathed in a fluid that refracts light like air, so that the indications appear to be displayed directly onto the sapphire crystal – closer to the eye of the beholder.

The high-contrast white indicators against the black dial appear to be projected onto the top crystal as if onto a screen, giving the bearer the illusion they can literally touch time.

This is where things start to get technical‌ The indications and their mechanisms are mounted inside a bubble crafted from extremely tough, anti-reflective sapphire crystal. The complication and indications follow the shape of the crystal.

The mechanism is enclosed in an upper compartment filled with a naphtha-type liquid that has a more similar index of refraction to the sapphire crystal than air does. Refraction bends light when it passes from one material to another, e.g. air-to-glass or glass-to-air. With the fluidfilled dial indications, refraction is greatly minimised, which tricks the brain into seeing the dial in two-dimensions rather than three. A thermal valve automatically adjusts for any expansion or contraction of the fluid.

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Discs displaying hours, minutes, seconds and days revolve under the domed sapphire crystal, while the date is read from the perimeter of the dial at 6 o’clock.

The indications discs continually revolve, as does the whole dial itself. The face of the watch is constantly changing in the same way that a human face is transformed by each passing emotion.

The dial and indications are curved and treated with DLC. All the components are titanium with the exception of the gears.

The indications, engraved in the discs are filled with Super-LumiNova (white, grey and orange). The display system has been invented developed and patented

by Ressence and comprises 28 gears and 57 jewels, three offset bi-axial satellites and an exterior date ring. The upper module also includes a water-resistant seal, a shock absorption system and is totally filled with fluid. A thermostatic valve system allows for any expansion or contraction of the liquid due to the ambient temperature. By virtue of the convex curve of the dial, the angle of the satellite indications is approximately 3° for the hours and 4.75° for the seconds.

Ressence design is characterised by purity and minimalism. This quest for pareddown design includes the process of dematerialising the timepiece; a process illustrated by the elimination of traditional hands and by the invisible fluid technology used to project the indications. And by removing the crown, the Type 3 opens up a whole new chapter in this quest for simplicity. The sapphire case back fulfils the functions of the crown with quadrants on the case back replacing different crown positions. The Type 3 is wound up by turning the case back. To change the date, it is simply necessary to make a longer rotation through 200° in order to arrive at the date quadrant. The hour is set by starting from the neutral position and turning in the direction indicated. A gravitational gearing system allows time setting to be disconnected by simply inverting the watch. www.ressence.eu

Chartwell Journal

Eleventh Edition

Bruce Munro, Field of Light, Hermitage Museum and Gardens, Norfolk VA, 2014

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Bruce Munro British artist Bruce Munro is best known for his large scale immersive light based installations largely inspired by shared human experience. Through his work he has sought to capture responses to stimuli such as music, literature, science, and the world around him for reference, reflection, and subject matter.

This tendency has been combined with a liking for components and an inventive urge for reuse, coupled with career training in manufacture of light. As a result Munro produces both monumental temporary experiential artworks as well as intimate story-pieces. Chartwell sat down with Bruce to discuss Bruce’s past year, inspiration and plans for the future.

Congratulations on what has been a very busy year for you, what has been your highlight so far?

The highlight for me is always having an opportunity to create new work. I was recently introduced to the work of Kim Whanki during my research for a project and was transfixed by his mark making and use of colour. The dot dash system the artist employed reminded me of semaphore and Morse code. I am excited by a series of new pieces that I am developing which involve light, language and literature in which I have blended projection and Morse code animation.

You studied fine art and painting in the early years … are there elements from your training as a traditional artist that still inform your work today?

I believe that everything from the past informs the present. Life is a work in progress. At twenty one I consciously became interested at watching the subconscious mind in action; simply to keep my attention . I loved the concept of not knowing what was coming next.

In your bio you speak about the beginning of creating “Neon Neon” and learning about manufacturing and production techniques, in your own words ‘leaving fine art ambitions behind.” Was that a defining moment for you in terms of what you believed you could potentially create in your career?

It was a practical decision that I had to take. At the time I recognised that I had very little understanding of the self and little life experience. I knew that I needed to stay with something and by chance light caught my attention.I was not looking for a career, I just wanted to live my life and see what happened . That’s what one does at twenty four.

You have talked in the past about your time in the early 90’s when you lived in Australia, you say you felt a real connection to nature... and in fact conceived of an artwork that would bloom at night. Was this the beginning of being able to dream about art on a grand scale?

My fiancé Serena (now wife) and I left our jobs in Sydney and did a tour around Australia in an old banger and a tent . It was during this trip that I really began to have the urge to create. All these thoughts came pouring into my mind. The Field of Light was one idea. I knew it was going to be difficult to turn into a reality.

Chartwell Journal

Eleventh Edition

You’ve mentioned your interest in Synaesthesia, how does that inform your work – are you in fact, a synesthete yourself?

Bruce Munro, Moon Harvest, Waddesdon Manor, Buckinghamshire UK 2014

Synthesia I was something that caught my attention in a book I read when I was 21. ‘Gifts of Unknown Things’ by Lyall Watson, a radical thinker operating on the margins of accepted science. In the book Watson describes Tia, a young girl living on an island in the Indonesian archipelago, who possesses the magical gift of seeing sounds in color. Twenty nine years later Tia’s gift inspired the design for a colorful, watery, musical maze. This was the inspiration for Water Towers. I am not a synesthete but often try to imagine how it would change one’s perception to the world.

In your work you use both video and music to add a real extra dimension to the entire experience – are you part of this process as well or do you have collaborators who are in tune with what you do?

Your work evokes a very visceral reaction from those who visit your exhibitions – do you review your audience’s response to the work, to inform the next piece…or do you prefer to move on to the next work as though it were your first?

I am thrilled that people get my intentions and I am honoured that people visit the exhibitions. But it’s important to point out that there are many people that help create the pieces, I am just one of the piece of the jigsaw. New work is not influenced by the audience …I am always thinking about new ways of describing the things in life that make me tick. A tutor once told me I had a butterfly mind and I now suspect that he was right.

You have so many acclaimed projects and exhibitions. My favourite is the Long Knoll Field of Light project. Do you have a particular favourite and can you tell us why?

My favourite project will always be the next one…..the one that I have not thought of yet!

Film and Music play an important part of recording who I am. I have been fortunate to know a number of talented people who have always worked alongside me whom I trust to make these vital selection. I always explain what I am looking for at the beginning of a project. I don’t interfere but will occasionally tweak something. The people I work with are talented at what they do and this allows me to focus on what I do best.

Do you have to take a different approach when creating bespoke pieces for private individuals? If so do you prefer to work this way?

Yes the approach is different because one is generally reacting to a space, the clients inspiration and of course a budget. I am always excited by new space A client may have expressed an interest in something they have previously seen and it is always an interesting journey creating a piece that works for the client but that I feel relates to my artistic endeavours

I try to extract a positive from all experiences …there is always something new to learn.

However my preference is to make what I want to make 24/7. Time is precious and this is the direction I am going in.

By 2012 you were exhibiting in the US, Norway, Spain and France – how do other cultural influences impact your work?

The work is generally an iteration of an idea or experience from my past . It is changed by landscape and climate but less so by culture. However I have no doubt that in the future there will be inspirations that lead to new works that will be inspired by cultural idiosyncrasies.

You have an exhibition residency through 2015 at Waddesdon Manor, in Buckinghamshire. Firstly how do you keep up, and secondly can you tell us a little more about your future plans, as we are all excited to know what’s next!

Fortunately my imagination keeps me awake most nights so I have a continual stream of ideas that I would like to bring to fruition.

The future starts with tomorrow and I try not to look at what I may be doing in three years . For practical purposes the studio works ahead as far as possible.

I have so many dreams and ideas that I could bore the pants off most sane people in five minutes. I have recently opened an exhibition at the Hermitage Museum and Garden in Norfolk Virginia. A wonderful garden on the Lafayette Peninsula offering incredible views of the coast and the near yet far urbanization that is the port of Norfolk. I have just opened at Salisbury Cathedral with an animated projection over the iconic font. I suspect that all I need is a space and see what happens from there.

All images credited to Mark Pickthall

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One Canada Square: Where Architecture Meets Fine Wine And Food As we arrived at the entrance of the bar, vintage Art Deco vibes greeted us. One Canada Square is an award winning cocktail bar of exceptional quality. Located in Canary Wharf and situated on the ground floor of the iconic building from which it takes its name. This is a bar which places sophistication and glamour at the forefront of everything it does.

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Chartwell Journal

Eleventh Edition

One Canada Square was designed by Cesar Pelli and completed in 1991 as part of the first phase of development at Canary Wharf and remains the centrepiece of the estate with current office space taken by Moody’s, Coutts, and BNY Mellon to name but a few. Once we stepped inside, the New York vibe took over with drinks flowing and musicians hitting the high notes that capture the true essence of this lively brasserie.

An elegant venue requires a drinks list to match and we were not disappointed. With a new take on Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grape varieties, along with an extensive list from around the world, the crowd-pleasing and simply my go to drink, the G&T has been given a makeover with a list of signature serves from premium gin brands which can be recommended. The finest

premium spirits on offer also include over 50 whiskies and malts - both fine and rare, and what would a cocktail bar be without the experience and knowledge of real cocktail connoisseurs.

The restaurant services the most delicious British-sourced meats and seafood fresh from Billingsgate Market – just a few hundred metres from the kitchen door beautifully presented with our first course of steak tartare and a caramelised fig, port poached pear and chestnut salad - setting the tone for a meal bursting with flavour.

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to quality ingredients. Our main course was a mouth watering cep tortellini, pickled artichokes, roast chestnuts, sprout tops and from the grill, a succulent sirloin. And to finish, if one can be naughty, a creme br没l茅e with miniature spiced doughnuts - my favorite pairing, simply too good to share.

With a hidden gem above the restaurant and bar, a perfect private party mezzanine, really quite eye catching. One Canada Square is the perfect setting for business lunch and dinners, or simply if you want to take your partner and self out of the hussle and bussle of the West End to enjoy grand architecture and a grand food.

No.1 Canada Square, London, E14 5AB www.onecanadasquarerestaurant.com

Head chef Jamie Dobbin has merged brasserie-style food with traditions, techniques and flavours to bring the best out of the seasonal, and home grown produce. Meat is sourced from farmers of the Lake District and the game from a select number of gamekeepers and riflemen as well as the Yorkshire game company - all who share the commitment

Chartwell Journal

Eleventh Edition

Butternut Squash And Ginger Soup, Squash And Coriander Muffins Jamie Dobbin former ex-Ivy Club Head Chef; has shared two wonderful recipes for our readership following our trip to One Canada Square. Butternut Squash And Ginger Soup, Squash And Coriander Muffins and Herdwick Double Lamb Chop, Bubble And Squeak with Sautéed Sweetbreads.

If you decide to make one, if not both of the recipes, please feel free to show Chartwell your masterpieces by sharing a picture Via Twitter, @chartwellmag and #Chartwellrecipes.

Ingredients 2 leeks, roughly chopped and washed 2 onions, peeled and roughly chopped 4 carrots, peeled and roughly chopped 100 g root ginger, scraped and finely chopped 10 g thyme 1 small chilli, seeded and roughly chopped 2 kg butternut squash, peeled, seeded and roughly chopped 30 ml vegetable oil 5 litres vegetable stock 90 g pumpkin seeds to serve Salt and freshly ground black pepper Corn Muffins (For 8) 30g soft butter 100g strong flour 40g polenta 4g salt mixed with 5g sugar ½ chilli, seeded and finely chopped 15g baking powder 100g diced par boiled squash pieces 20g chopped coriander Milk - small amount Method Pre-heat the oven to 180ºc (full fan) and grease muffin tins.

Gently cook the leek, onion, carrots, ginger, thyme and chilli in the vegetable stock until soft, add the butternut squash and vegetable stock and bring to a boil, season with salt and pepper and simmer for 20 minutes.

Process the soup in a blender until smooth, then strain through a fine meshed sieve. Lightly brown the pumpkin seeds in a little vegetable oil in a frying pan, season with salt and pepper and drain on some kitchen paper.

Reheat the soup and adjust the consistency with a little vegetable

stock or water if necessary and reseason with salt and pepper.

To make the corn muffins, Rub the butter into all the dry ingredients, strong flour, polenta, baking powder and the salt and sugar mix, resemble fine crumbs.

Add the chilli, coriander, squash and enough milk to form a soft paste.

Pipe into muffin tins – rest for 5 minutes and bake for 10-12 minutes. Cool on a wire rack.

Serve with the pumpkin seeds scattered on top of the soup and a warm pumpkin muffin.

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Herdwick Double Lamb Chop, Bubble And Squeak, And Sautéed Sweetbreads Ingredients 4 x 375g double lamb chop from the saddle (ask your butcher for these) 250g lamb sweetbreads (ask your butcher for these) 4 bubble and squeak cakes (recipe below) 100g flour Salt and pepper Bubble and Squeak 1kg floury potatoes, quartered (King Edward potatoes if possible) 40g butter 500g Brussels sprouts, trimmed 200g peas, crushed 50g plain flour, seasoned with salt and pepper 50g mint chopped Olive oil, for frying

Method Boil the potatoes for 12-15 minutes or until tender, then drain and return to the pan over a low heat for 1-2 minutes to dry out.

Add the butter and mash well. Meanwhile, boil the sprouts for 3-5 minutes until just tender. Drain and cool quickly under cold running water. Shake dry, then shred as finely as you can.

Mix the sprouts, peas and mint with the potatoes and season to taste. Leave until cool enough to handle and shape into 8 round cakes. Tip the flour onto a plate then coat the cakes, tapping off the excess.

Having made the bubble and squeak, put them in the fridge until needed. These can be made the day before.

Place the sweetbreads in milk for about an hour this will draw out any blood and impurities. Next place a pan of salted water on a high heat and bring to the boil. Add the sweetbreads and bring back to the boil, turn down the heat and simmer for two minutes, drain and leave to cool a little. Once cool enough to handle peel off the skin trying to keep them as one. Once all are peeled carefully thread them evenly onto the 4 rosemary skewers so you have 4 individual sweet bread ‘kebabs’.

To Serve Heat oven to 220C/fan 200C/gas 7.

Place a large frying pan on the a high heat, when its smoking season the double lamb chops with salt and pepper and place into the pan (you might have to do this in a couple of batches if your pan is not big enough) cook the lamb until its golden all over, this should take about 5 minutes. Remove the lamb from the pan and place into an oven tray, place in the oven and cook for 10-12 minutes for medium rare. Rest for 10 minutes.

While the lamb is cooking put the bubble and squeak and the sweet bread ‘kebabs’ into the same pan you used for the lamb and Sauté until evenly colored. Remove from the pan and keep warm. Once the lamb has rested arrange the bubble and squeak and the lamb chops on four plates top with the sweetbreads ‘kebab; and pour over and juices from the pan.

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In the Bahamas: Why Local Pigs Get Their Blankets Down First Feral pigs are snout and about much earlier than their British counterparts, taking the opportunity for an early morning plunge in the crystal clear waters that surround Big Major Cay Island on the Bahamian archipelago of Exuma otherwise known as ‘Pig Beach’.

Much like Johnny Depp, Nicholas Cage and many other celebrities that have claimed their own little paradise in the Exuma Cays - a little band of pigs and their piglets can also be seen living the life of luxury.

Nobody is quite sure how they got to the island, they certainly didn’t fly but they are very keen swimmers. It is thought that sailors left a few pigs with the intention of returning and using them for food. Other legends include a mystery shipwreck from which the pigs saved themselves by swimming ashore, while another claims that the pigs swam from a nearby islet.

A more plausible answer to the seemingly mystery hog habitation of the island can be found on nearby Staniel Cay. During the 90’s, pungent piggy smells wafted from their sty. This lead neighbours to complain and the pigs were sent to live on Big Major Cay. Visitors fed the pigs, which encouraged them to swim out and beg from boats.

Turning adversity into a success story.

No matter how the pigs got to the island, they have made it their own paradise with a thriving group of around twenty pigs and piglets. Tourists are flocking to see the paddling porkers living the dream sea, sand and plenty of scraps. The pigs survive on the generosity of the locals and scavenging from passing ships. In the hope of a free meal, they have been known to swim out to oncoming boats over a hundred feet away.

Being caught on camera is a regular occurrence since the pigs were stumbled upon by photographer and ocean guide, Jim Abernethy from Florida, in 2007. He subsequently took a collection of photos that showed how well the pigs have adapted to their environment - not so much pigs in muck as pigs in paradise.

Whilst scraps are scavenged, the island provides freshwater for drinking and shade for chilling. From an early age, the piglets adapt to their beach existence, living in harmony with nature and tourists alike.

They quickly become strong swimmers and are happy to swim alongside people as well as boats. Apart from the pigs, a few goats and a couple of stray cats, the island remains uninhabited.

We do hope that you enjoyed Percy and Peggy gracing the front of Edition 10 of the Journal. We have really appreciated all the great responses from our readers and have loved hearing about all your own personal experiences with the pigs whilst on holiday.

Chartwell Journal

Eleventh Edition

Bruichladdich: Real Place, Real People, Real Spirits Since its creation on the Island of Islay in 1881, Bruichladdich distillery has led a chequered, almost fated life. Family feuds, recessions, industry cartels, deception, world wars and sheer bad luck have all taken their toll. And in many ways it’s a miracle that the distillery is still here.

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Islay, in the Hebrides, is a remote island surrounded by fast currents, dangerous skerries, powerful overfalls, wild winds and Atlantic swell. The unforgiving combination of nature, has been a barrier protecting those within and keeping away those from outside for millennia. Around these shores are countless shipwrecks and thousands of lost souls.

No-one who take on anything big and tough can afford to be modest.

Orson Welles

In 2001, new owners Mark Reynier and Simon Coughlin took on Bruickladdich, the place and the people. Bruickladdich is one of the few distilleries, designed by the engineer Robert Harvey, to be custombuilt with the aim of distilling the purest spirits possible.

In 2012, Bruickladdich was acquired

by Remy-Cointreau, who are just as determined to maintain the independent, innovative ethos. Non-aligned with the rest of the mainstream whisky industry they maintain a freedom of expression.

Intrigued by the vision of making whisky the way it used to be, the provenance or the source of something may be a simple concept, but one that, in an age of globalisation, market forces and process efficiencies, is becoming increasingly vague and complex. The source of and the process is the difference between an industrial and an artisan, organic whisky. Bruichladdich looks to express individuality, to explore the complex nuances and possibilities afforded by hands-on, patient, slow, artisan distilling, coopering and maturation.

The same is true for their support for organic farming. A modern idea? Hardly - this is how all farming was once carried out. Bruichladdich know their farmers by name and by face. And unlike many “Scotch” whiskies the barley is 100% Scottish grown, and where possible, the barley is also grown on the island.

Bruichladdich’s unpeated Islay Barley is a must to try if you want to really experience the heart and soul of Islay.

This is provenance - the ultimate traceability of the natural ingredients.

Bruichladdich creates a high quality, fullflavoured spirit without modern machinery before allowing it to enter the barrel.

The resulting spirit when sampled has a complexity of flavour that is remarkable.

Bruichladdich’s master-blender Jim McEwen creates innovative flavours in the distillery’s non-aged statement whiskies, including Port Charlotte, Black Art and Octomore, the latter holding the prize for the world’s most heavily peated whisky. McEwen is continuously exploring ways to create new expressions with Bruichladdich’s slowly distilled spirit, with many small-run batches only available exclusively from the distillery itself.

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It started out as a late night “what if?” Idea after a few drams.What if we distilled the most heavily-peated barley humanly possible, in the tall, narrow-necked bruichladdich stills?

The legendary octomore, named for James brown’s farm above port Charlotte, this is a dram that has taken the world by storm.

The team at Bruichladdich distillery are reinstating the vital link with place showing the intimate connection between place and time, man, history and land.

There is great pride in being progressive, Hebridean distillers.

Chartwell Journal

Eleventh Edition

Projects After a busy year for Chartwell Bespoke, we are now settled into our New Bond Street office.

Knightsbridge - With stunning views across Hyde Park.

The first commission is set to commence with works due to start on-site in early 2015. Chartwell Bespoke are set to facilitate and conclude the design and approvals process by end of 2014 before managing the complete renovation of this 3 bedroom property.

The proposed works for the project comprise of minor internal structural modifications and the complete strip out and re-fit enhancement works.

Once the design and value engineering process is complete, Bespoke are to select the most suitable team of specialist contractors to complete the works.

Chartwell Bespoke are delighted to announce that we have completed yet another project at London’s landmark high-end residential development, One Hyde Park.

This latest project handover is another success story for Chartwell at One Hyde Park, the building that is known for quality, perfection and luxury, a mirror of both our projects and clients alike.

Phase two of Chartwell’s most recent One Hyde Park project lasted four months. Largely consisting of additional planning approvals and procurement works, phase two finished at the end of July and all snagging was completed by September 2014.

Not only have we at Chartwell Bespoke been busy completing projects this year we have also been appointed two further prestigious projects in Prime Central London.

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Belgravia - Chester Street, the heart of Belgravia.

The second commission comprises of the complete design and renovation of a Grade 2 listed private dwelling, located in Chester Street, London.

Bespoke will assemble the team and undertake the design and construction works, necessary to transform this six storey property into something breathtaking to meet the requirements of the Client’s expectations. Chartwell are in the process of instructing the finest designers and specialists suitable for this project.

Both the Belgravia and Knightsbridge projects are expected to run until late summer 2015.

Keep an eye out for editon 12 of the Chartwell Journal where our loyal readers will be given an insight into Chartwell Africa’s progress in Lagos.

Paul Johnston Chartwell Bespoke +44 (0)207 952 6366 www.chartwell-bespoke.com

Chartwell Journal

Eleventh Edition

Welcome Chartwell Bespoke are pleased to announce the fantastic appointment of new Senior Project Manager Toby Hollowell. Recently joining us from the world-renowned Candy and Candy, Toby has been involved in the property industry for 20 years.

Initially cutting his teeth as a fully qualified electrician, Toby gained an essential knowledge of the fundamental levels of grassroots construction and renovation, right up to the bleeding edge luxury of the Candy and Candy high-end residential projects.

Toby initially worked on Royal Palaces in London, including Buckingham palace, St James palace, Kensington palace and numerous other high profile governmental buildings. Here Toby gained enormous experience of the mechanical and electrical side of the business and gained promotion to technical services manager.

Toby then took his skills to Sotheby’s Auction house in Bond Street, London. At Sotheby’s, the access to lighting design opportunities and the high-pressure deadlines of the auction business further enhanced his skills and experience.

After 3 great years Toby was offered the opportunity to project manage a number of high-end residential refurbishments in the Kensington and Chelsea area. Working with clients, designers, and contractors, while delivering on time and on budget made for an experience that ignited a new passion for the challenges that this business has to offer.

Several successful projects later, Toby was offered the fantastic opportunity to join Candy and Candy as a Design and closeout manager. The main responsibility

was to bridge the gap between the designers and contractors to deliver buildable solutions whilst maintaining the highest levels required for bespoke design.

Roles included snagging, test stays and client handovers. Toby’s position soon evolved to incorporate more of his previous technical services skills while also gaining more skillsets from the audiovisual and lighting design side.

Within his six years of working with Candy and Candy, Toby helped to deliver over 40 of the most luxurious and high value properties in London.This list includes, the world famous no1 Hyde Park and many other wonderful penthouses and townhouses in prime locations such as Knightsbridge and Mayfair. The pursuit

of perfection and the extreme attention to detail required have left a long lasting impression on Toby.

These core values have now been assimilated into Toby’s ethos. This mixture of experience and passion is now a major asset within the Chartwell family. The shared values, ambitions and commitment were a key driver for Toby’s appointment at Chartwell and we look forward to the future and many successful projects together.

Chartwell Bespoke toby.h@chartwell-london.com

EX C ELLENC E

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London: +44 (0)207 952 6366

BE S P O K E

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office@chartwell-london.com

www.chartwell-bespoke.com

Chartwell Journal

Eleventh Edition

Feeding Your Mind You eat with your eyes. So my mother used to say as she fussed, fiddled and fine-tuned the look of her dinner party creations. That said, she also used to insist that you eat your bread crusts because it’ll put hair on your chest. Despite this however, her crust-eating policy was not lifted with regard to my sister, so I don’t know how much faith to put in her culinary advice. She does however have a very salient point with regard to the way we experience food.

experience restaurant popularised into the cultural mainstream by Mr.Bloomenthal, and “blind” restaurants like Dans le Noir that deprive the diner of their visual stimulus are examples of how our perceptory combination response to food can be manipulated. Whilst it might seem logical that our perception of a dish is moderated by the mouth, a behemoth of taste receptors, it is considerably more complicated and involves a subtle interplay of several inputs and processes.

The enjoyment of food is more than merely how a dish tastes. The multi-sensory

Let us first look at the relationship between taste and smell. Humans have

over 10,000 taste buds that differentiate and respond to sweet, salty, sour and bitter stimuli. Combine this with 10 million olfactory receptors in the nose and you can begin to see the scale of our sensory input. These two senses only separated when mammals emerged out of the sea, where no differentiation need exist. Smell is the oldest and most basic sense in an evolutionary context, with our loin-clothed ancestors possessing a hugely-enhanced sense of smell compared to our own. This explains the lack of prehistoric sightdeprivation restaurants discovered by Michelin-guide archeologists.

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Our sense of smell also has a direct route to its processing areas including the orbitofrontal cortex – allowing a simultaneous perception of smell with our sense of taste. If smell is a distant sense, operating to detect chemical compositions from afar, taste is the last checkpoint before such chemicals are ingested to the body. Both play important roles in a survival sense, our sense of smell is directly linked to the emotion center of the amygdala, and certain odours can elicit a powerful emotional reaction from feelings of delight to those of nausea. Our prehistoric ancestors must have spent all the time saved not frequenting multisensory restaurants fashioning crude atomizers from triceratops horns.

Our two chemical senses work in tandem to identify patterns of stimulus activation that enable us to differentiate flavor. To see their interaction just consider how your sense of taste is affected when you have cold impairing your olfactory input. In this way, eating with a cold is a kind of poor man’s sensory deprivation restaurant. Albeit one involving considerably less fun. Also consider how commerce manipulates our sense of smell to stimulate its sister sense of taste, coffee shops waft aromas of coffee beans onto cold streets, supermarkets increase sales by using pleasant trigger aromas.

Much evidence exists, however, that perhaps my mother was correct and that the most important sense involved in dining is that of the visual. It is widely regarded that generally speaking our perception is dominated by what our eyes see. And it can be argued that the eyes have a tendency to tell the brain what a food will taste like before our sense of taste or smell gets a look in. Perhaps I should say before it gets a complex combination of olfactory and taste receptors in. No, that expression will never take off.

Give the majority of us a glass of orange colored liquid, and given the basic requirements of it being sweet and slightly acidic, we will report it as orange juice.

Even if it is actually colored apple juice.

Many modern restaurants play with our expectations and the discord between what we see and anticipate and what we then experience. In the more extreme examples, Bloomenthal delights in toying with his clients, feeding them bull’s testicles lovingly disguised as fruit. The all too obvious “plums” joke here does not need to be made. The mind seems to have a failing for subtle disguises in the appearance of food. In studies Gates found that when served canned peas, people rated the same peas that had been dyed green as tasting fresher and tastier than those that had not. In a similar feat of trickery, wine experts were found to tend to be unable to spot white wine that had been dyed red. This raises an interesting point - wine experts, despite being in the field of taste, are taught to first consider the look of a wine. They were, after this, presumably dyed red with the embarrassment.

Without our eyes, our mental processes seem to become a little confused. It appears the context of the senses is crucial, and their co-dependency very important to our perception. If we turn off the lights at our own dinner parties would we be able to detect such seemingly broad differences in taste as pork and lamb?

I urge you to try this out for yourselves.

Although please make sure you provide plastic knives or put corks on your forks. I take no responsibility for any mishaps that might happen at your improvised blind tastings. Or if someone might use the dark to steal all the after-dinner mints. You know who you are.

There are some other processes at play too, our internal state is a factor, food tends to taste better when we are in a good mood or happy. Past experience too, familiar food tends to taste better to us than the unfamiliar. A large part of the multi-sensory restaurant experience is inducing feelings of nostalgia in the diner, simulating or adapting childhood favorites and related memories that raise our stimulation from a meal. Social cues are also to be considered, research shows that people eat more when dining with others. Clendensen, Herman and Pollvig

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demonstrated that people are less likely to order dessert when dining with strangers than with friends presumably due to a preoccupation with feelings of judgment.

Furthermore, Exline showed that “peoplepleasers” tend to eat more socially when encouraged by others. Even simple subtle suggestions or pressures have an effect – “Would you like to share a dessert? I couldn’t eat one by myself..” A state of diminished self-responsibility seems to occur that many of us can understand. Not me though. I don’t share desserts. Sorry.

It would seem that the delicate experiences of flavor that we are capable of involve complex interplay between our nose, our mouth and eyes, and a range of social and cognitive processes. So my mother was, at least in part, correct. We do eat with our eyes. But also with our noses.

And even our social awareness. Still if we did eat with only our eyes it would explain why my short-sighted father always complained about her cooking..

Author: Ben Fowler ben_niamh@yahoo.co.uk

Chartwell Journal

Eleventh Edition

The Perfect Parisian Dining...

It all started with a desire for a dining experience with “Parisian elegance”, culture and discernment - it lead us to Le Cuisine Restaurant at Le Royal Monceau – Raffles Paris.

Here, creativity is offered up quite openly, as an invitation to travellers to experience something memorable.

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On our arrival, as the streets of Paris had begun to melt into the haze, Le Cuisine immersed us into its friendly artistic decor and elegance.

The moment it was opened in 1928, the Royal Monceau hotel became a rendezvous of choice for artists and intellectuals. Its worldwide clientele appreciated its gardens, its spacious bar, its gaming rooms, table tennis, or billiards and barbershop. Le Royal Monceau is all about uncompromising art and culture, beauty and creation. It is the project of Pierre Bermond and Andre Jugnot, and their dream of creating something different. Late 2010 saw Philippe Starck recreate, redesign and reimagine Le Royal Monceau. In the words of Philippe Starck, “a hotel is intrinsically pointless, it is just a shelter for people, who deserve our attention, generosity and consideration”.

A magnificent fresco, A Garden in Paris,

by French artist Stéphane Calais, graces the ceiling of Le Cuisine Restaurant.

Guest tables face the open kitchen of chef Gabriel Grapin under the direction of Executive Chef Laurent André, who incorporates light and flavourful notes in his sophisticated, generous and spontaneous cuisine. And in the warmth of summer evenings, a terrace naturally opens up - a leafy haven for a romantic evening for two. With our table situated in the rare parisian courtyard over looking a pond in the middle of the garden; deep within it, you can see the water moving in the spa swimming pool below, truly eye catching.

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We revelled in the sumptuous seasonal mushroom salad, ricotta ravioli, freerange pork from south-west France, marinated black cod, braised black rice and red label salmon - gravlax style from their eclectic tapas menu,the flavours were then beautifully complemented by the concluding touches and their exquisite desserts by French pastry superstar Pierre Hermé, the man who Vogue called “The Picasso of Pastry.” A dream dining experience. With too many desserts to choose from the staff highly recommended the ice-cream creations, and my we were not disappointed.

and luminous bar serving chic tapas and original cocktails - a clear reminder that the wonderful Philippe Starck made his mark on the hotel. Over the years, Le Royal Monceau, it’s bars and restaurants, have remained a favourite spot for Parisians and a select address for explorers from all over the world.

Whilst we indulged in the beauty of the hotel we were stunned to find that the hotel has its own art gallery that includes the city’s only art concierge, available to help guests buy their next masterpiece or arrange private visits to some of the world’s most treasured art galleries…

The Michelin-star French restaurant ‘La Cuisine’ is just one of Le Royal Monceau’s restaurants. There is also Le Bar Long - a place to meet and talk, this bar is an unusual spot located at the heart of the hotel with its high, long, narrow

One evening at Le Cuisine set the tone for the rest of the trip.

It was perfection, a memory made forever. www.leroyalmonceau.com

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Chartwell Journal

Eleventh Edition

The House of Remy Martin: The Heart of Cognac Rémy Martin was established in 1724, a brand built on a unique heritage of traditional expertise passed down by generation upon generation of craftsman. Since its foundation, the House has been driven by its quest to ‘capture the Heart of Cognac’ and actively seeks out to do so, by producing Cognac of the highest quality.

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Originally a winegrower, Rémy Martin founded the House nearly 300 years ago. Since then the brand has become synonymous for producing superior ‘Fine Champagne Cognac’ and of the one thousand Cognac producers in the region, Rémy Martin is the last of the large privately owned Cognac Houses.

As I left the grey skies of London behind me, I was eager to understand more about Rémy Martin’s on-going pursuit to produce their excellent Cognac and unlock the secrets behind the Centaur.

Once I arrived in Bordeaux, I was immediately whisked through the countryside made up of vineyards and sunflowers, to the HQ of Rémy Martin in Cognac. Cognac is located in the southwestern part of France and made up of six districts of production called ‘crus’. Since 1909 Cognac has been legally recognised under French law as a ‘Controlled Appellation of Origin, a French A.O.C.’ This means that only the eaux–de-vie (or water of life) which is produced and aged in the region, can be called Cognac. The white grapes used for producing eaux-devie under the Appellation Cognac provide the perfect wines for distillation: fruity, with good acidity and low alcohol content.

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The secret to why the land in Cognac is so special (and expensive) lies within the soil. These regions contain a unique chalk-flecked soil that reflects light and ripens the grapes to absolute perfection.

In fact the word champagne comes from the Latin word campania, meaning chalk.

What makes Rémy Martin so unique, is that it’s the only major Cognac House to use grapes produced exclusively from the most respected growing regions; the Grande Champagne and Petite Champagne crus (located at the heart of the Cognac Terroir). The grapes from these two crus have a wider ageing potential and offer the palette unique flavours and tastes.

It’s these much sought after grapes that Rémy Martin use to create their ‘Fine Champagne Cognac’, which was first produced in 1830. To qualify, the Cognac must be obtained by blending Grand Champagne and Petite Champagne eaux-de- vie, with a minimum of 50% Grand Champagne. It’s these subtleties in taste that are not only recognized by the growers but also protected by French law.

Once at the HQ of Rémy Martin (on the outskirts of the town of Cognac) I was treated to a sumptuous three course lunch, paired with wines produced by the House. I was then driven a short distance to Le Domaine Rémy Martin in Merphins, for a tour of the House distilleries and aging cellars.

The distillation process used by Rémy Martin has remained the same since 1724 and follows a specific traditional ‘Charentaise Method’ - in order to capture the aromatic heart of the grapes. The Charentaise distillation is performed in two steps, in Charentaise copper stills, which extract the finest aromas and create the smoothest textures in the eaux-de-vie.

The wines are distilled the first time to obtain ‘brouillis’; with an alcohol content of around 30%. Then the ‘brouillis’ returns to the boiler for a second distillation.

Just a portion of the result of this second distillation (called the heart) is selected by the Master Distiller. The very clear spirit can now truly be called the ‘eaux-de-vie’.

Chartwell Journal

Eleventh Edition

This eaux-de-vie can only becomes Cognac after a slow ageing in oak casks.

The oaks used to make the casks used by the house, all come from the Limousin forest and are at least a century old before being turned into casks. The unique grain in the wood enables an optimum exchange between wood, air of cellar and the eaux-de-vie. This indirect contact with air, allows the extraction of substances from the wood, which gives the eaux-de-vie its unique colour and imbues the spirit with exquisite flavours and aromas.

The ageing process can last from four to more than one hundred years in the oak casks; a process perfected through three centuries, by generations of expert Cellar Masters. It’s during the ageing period that the blending becomes an art. Combining experience and intuition, the Cellar Master or ‘Maitre de Chai’, constantly selects and blends together the eaux –de-vie. This is done blind (not knowing where the eaux-de-vie is from) with as many as 2 or 3 tasting sessions a day, with 25 or 30 samples. As they reach their full expression, eaux-de-vie are blended one very last time before being bottled and labelled Cognac.

It’s the Cellar Master’s expertise and alchemy that’s the key to maintaining a consistent quality. The Cellar Masters always come from inside the company, no-one is ever appointed from outside, which ensures the quality of the Cognac is maintained and the unique flavour of Remy Martin does not change. This level of consistency and quality is what marks Rémy Martin apart.

During my tour I had the unique opportunity to interview Vincent Géré, Director of Rémy Martin Estates & Oenology. Vincent reinforced everything I had seen so far stating that he “ joined the company because with Rémy Martin there is no compromise. Everything is done in the best possible way, for the good of the Cognac.”

By evening I was certainly ready for some local specialities and indulged in a wonderful meal at L’Atelier des Quais. Situated at the foot of the bridge of Saint-Jacques, opposite the castle towers of Cognac, the restaurant offers a menu of superb local produce. Having had a day partaking in more gastronomy than usual, I decided to take a short stroll around the medieval quarter of Cognac where I was thrown back into a time capsule from the 15th and 16th centuries.

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The next morning I arose for a tour of the Grande Champagne Terroir, the first Cru of the Cognac region. The Grande Champagne enjoys a balance of four climatic influences, and therefore enjoys the mildest climate of the Charente, on the chalkiest soil. The Cognacs it produces have been recognized as the most precious product in the entire region. The local producers know their land inside out and carry generation after generation of knowledge and expertise.

They work closely with the Cellar Masters to produce the end product – the most excellent Cognac possible.

I was then whisked off to the Grollet estate at St Même les Carrières - this is the estate of the Hériard Dubreuil family (owners of Rémy Cointreau). At one time, Rémy Martin distilled Cognac here, but it’s now used for VIP visitors and for maturing Louis XIII Cognac. It was Andre Heriard Dubreuil, named president of Rémy Martin in 1965, who created the first contracts with winegrower and distillers of the Grande and Petite Champagne, and finally the Alliance Fine Champagne.

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Surrounding the imposing mansion are the vast vineyards of the Grollet estate, which grow not only Ugni-Blanc grapes for Cognac-making, but also many hectares of merlot and cabernet sauvignon grapes for winemaking. Inside, the Louis XIII cellar is filled with 100150 year old Tiercon barrels, of which Rémy Martin owns the largest collection.

This great age means the Cognac is no longer influenced by the wood, unlike the younger barrels which still have an impact and influence over the taste.

The trip climaxed when I was escorted into the private cellars of the Estate.

Normally a restricted area reserved for the families private stock and for storing and maturing of Louis XIII Cognac. The Tiercon barrels were covered in cobwebs, laid out as far as the eye can see as if sleeping. The atmosphere was one of quiet reverence for what is a special place and lit only by natural light I was guided towards an open Tiercon barrell.

Presented with a glass I sipped some of the Louis XIII that the whole tour had been climatically building towards.

The time it takes to produce Louis XIII is a testimony to the dedication of generations before and if you ever get to try some I implore you to do so.

Whilst tasting I was instantly reminded of the history and craftsmanship that had gone into creating this remarkable Cognac. I was drawn back to the something that Vincent Géré had mentioned during our discussion.

Vincent talked of the honour to “defend Louis tre, to leave it in the condition and uphold the traditions associated with it, like guardians, we are here because a lot of good people did the right thing before us.’ When tasting Louis XIII it becomes easy to understand why all the staff I met are so passionate to persevere what is a very special product produced by a very special company.

All images are credited to Rémy Martin www.remymartin.com

Chartwell Journal

Eleventh Edition

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Exclusive Review of Le Bristol Paris Renowned worldwide as a capital of haute couture, gourmet cuisine and culture. Paris, as Audrey Hepburn once said “is always a good idea.�

And who am I to disagree, with endless opportunities for culture and shopping - the Louvre, Notre Dame, the Tuillieries Gardens, the Place de la Concorde, and the Champs Elysees. The galleries, the bridges and love locks, the bookstalls, the high-end boutiques and of course the French chic.

Chartwell Journal

Eleventh Edition

Since 1925, at the very heart of Paris’ fashion and arts district on the prestigious rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré, stands Le Bristol. Immediately on entering this palatial hotel, the Parisian charm is captivating. A luxurious mix of space and light, where grey marble floors glisten, and the classic eighteenth-century decor is de rigueur, instantly captivating.

Each one of the 188 bedrooms and suites are spacious and bathed in light. Our light pink summer themed room overlooked the picture perfect courtyard. In every area of the hotel, the prints, paintings and mirrors are authentic. The hotel is owned by a family of art collectors, and reproductions are not allowed.

With well-being at the heart of the hotel Le Bristol makes it possible to swim among the clouds as it boasts a swimming pool with breathtaking views over the Paris rooftops, and the Spa Le Bristol by La

Prairie including treatment rooms and a fitness centre. As we sat in the tranquil courtyard of the hotel, we were delight to make two new friends, the hotel’s cats, Fa-raon & Kléopatre. They say cats have nine lives, but Fa-raon & Kléopatre must be hoping it’s one long life at Le Bristol.

In 2008 the gastronomic meal of the French was added to the list of intangible cultural heritage. Chef Eric Frechon, triple Michelin-starred chef, is responsible for the restaurants and bars at Le Bristol.

The jewels in the crown are the triple Michelin-starred gastronomic Epicure, 114 Faubourg - a luxury brasserie; Le Jardin Francais - a chic, cosmopolitan meeting place and the perfect way to start the day with a fabulous breakfast menu, my other half dove in to a freshly prepared omelet and a fresh french pastry basket and I opted for the freshly made warm pancakes with gold leaf berries, perfect for a persian princess.

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After an evening on the old cobbled streets of Paris we opted for Le Bar du Le Bristol - the hottest place in Paris for a night out. The atmosphere in the bar itself is mesmerising, thick silk curtains, exotic animal print & wood panelling, with a slight feel of a traditional English club.

As we sat back into two large arm chairs at the face of the 19th-century marble fireplace, the rooms drawing point, we indulged in fine champagne cocktails made by the award winning head bar man, Maxime Hoerth, and truly the best selection of tapas we have ever tasted. Le Bar du Le Bristol is simply exquisite.

Paris is a city that has captured the world’s imagination, and Le Bristol is part of that rare and exceptional heritage.

When planning a Parisian itinerary we found the hotel’s concierge service Clefs d’Or (Golden Keys) - indispensable.

They can and do, “achieve the seemingly impossible”, nothing is too much trouble…. even when they helped us arrange a taxi so that we could race through the heart of Paris at midnight to reach the Eiffel Tower in time catch the last lift to the top.

The distinction of ‘Palace’ was created in 2011 and bestowed on Le Bristol by the French Ministry of Tourism’s rating system for exceptional luxury hotels. Whether travelling alone or with your family - make this authentic ‘Palace’ your home away from home. Le Bristol and Hippolyte, the cuddly gardening rabbit who is the hotel’s mascot, have designed a special welcome package for children staying at the hotel to ensure that they never forget their stay.

Our stay at Le Bristol was truly memorable, the effortless elegance with a true family feel.

Ms Hepburn was right, “ Paris is always a good idea” especially when you’re staying at Le Bristol.

Le Bristol Paris 112 rue du Faubourg Saint Honoré 75008 Paris Tel: +33 (0) 1 53 43 43 00 www.lebristolparis.com

Chartwell Journal

Eleventh Edition

Travelling Route 1 The problem with private flying, since the realities of the global recession took hold, has been the ever increasing cost, and the increasing call for travellers and aviation to ‘green up’ and reduce their carbon footprint.

Route 1 Aviation (part of Fractional Jet Europe Ltd) have sought to address both of these problems, by combining an innovative pricing model with the best in class, fuel-efficient Piaggio Avanti aircraft.

Chartwell sat down with ex professional golfer turned founder of Fractional Jet Europe, Chris Moody to discuss the benefits of this new offering.

Chris created Route 1 Aviation as an answer to the relentless escalation of prices on current fractional programmes, and with the aim of putting some style back into flying at a more economical price.

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Originally Senior Vice President of NetJets, Moody left the company in 2008 to set up Fractional Jet Europe Ltd, the only independent fractional aviation specialist in Europe.

With a Fractional jet programme each customer buys a “share” of a plane, rather than an entire plane. Owners then have guaranteed access to a number of flight hours per year, depending on the size of the share. They have access to the full fleet of aircraft, and if their aircraft is unavailable they simply use another from the operator’s fleet.However Moody felt that the current fixed hourly rate for all flights was simply not giving the fairest price to the customer.

It was here that Chris saw his opportunity for the introduction of a more flexible programme on his own fleet and launched Route 1 in a joint venture with AirGo Flugservice GmbH, Europe’s largest operator of the Piaggio Avanti.

The Route 1 Jetcard gives up to 25 hours of flight time on their luxurious fleet - a sort of pre-paid phone card for private jets. It differs from similar cards on the market with its flexible pricing model.

The base hourly rate applies to the first hour and thereafter decreases the further you fly, with up to 30% reduction for a round-trip.

In real terms this means that the pricing fits your flying pattern and customers are always charged the correct price whether it’s a quick business trip or a family holiday.

If you want to get technical the Piaggio is a transport aircraft with twin turboprop engines, but mounted rearward on the wings, just like a jet. Both sleek and beautifully designed it is a hybrid that has taken the best characteristics of both turboprops and jets, and combined them to create a unique aircraft in a niche of its own.

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The superb aerodynamics mean that the Avanti is supremely quiet inside the spacious cabin, and with sea-level cabin pressure maintained for up to 24000 ft, passengers will disembark feeling revived rather than tired. That’s not all, the Avanti is the world’s fastest turboprop with both speed and performance on par with a jet and can claim the best-in-class fuel efficiency making it the greenest aircraft for your carbon footprint, with 40% lower emissions than even a small jet.

With a luxurious cabin the Avanti offers far more in terms of space and comfort than any of its competitor jets within its price range. Style is something that the Piaggio Aero is certainly not lacking; it is undeniably luxurious and suitable for the most discerning of travellers. According to Moody it has that ‘Made in Italy’ style. This may be something to do with the fact that that Piaggio Aerospace is part owned by the Ferrari family.

In 2015 Moody will be expanding the programme to include shared ownership in the newly upgraded Avanti EVO, the third generation of this unique aircraft. The EVO incorporates significant improvements to the design and performance, including improved range, faster climb, reduced fuel costs and a lower noise footprint.

The Jetcard allows you to experience this exceptional aircraft immediately, but Moody is confident that anyone who tries the aircraft will be smitten, and can then upgrade to a Fractional share in the next generation Piaggio Avanti EVO. Route 1 Aviation is surely the answer to luxury, eco friendly travel at affordable prices. www.route1aviation.com

Chartwell Journal

Eleventh Edition

Stefano Ricci Fur Collar Blouson Jacket £8,400

Halstock £4000 halstock.com

stefanoricci.com

For Him Cashmere Tweed Bow Tie £115 purdey.com Rémy Martin Centaure de Diamant £800 harrods.com

mu-so by Naim £895 naimaudio.com

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Pavoni, 18K yellow gold Chandelier Earrings £15,200

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Ode V Neck Pullover River Blue £245

livyora.com

eric-bompard.com

Harrods Of London Fox Fur Strip Coat £3,500 harrods.com

Nude Diamond: Reverie £550 nude-diamond.com

For Her The Botanist Gin £35 thewhiskyexchange.com.com

MYLA Isabella £170 Memo Escales Extraordinaires £495 memofragrances.com

myla.com

Chartwell Journal

Eleventh Edition

Aston Martin Pram £3000 Army Grey Shark Attach £650

harrods.com

gigibrooks.com

The Kids

Iphone Instant photo printer £228 gigibrooks.com

Moncler - Reginald Fur Puffer Jacket £499 - £720 moncler.com Charlotte Olympia Incy Kitty Flats £195 charlotteolympia.com

Create the Ultimate Christmas Jumper with Cashmirino £55 cashmirino.com

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Kelly Hoppen Branch Bowl £65 kellyhoppen.com

Monaco Dining Chair by Christopher Guy £2,527 christopherguy.com

At Home Skultuna - Collage candleholder £360 skultuna.com

Krug by Krug Lovers £40 assouline.com

Ellipse Lamp By Stephanie Coutas £1,400 stephaniecoutas.com

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Chartwell Journal

Eleventh Edition

It’s The Thought That Counts Santa Claus has it easy. Sure there’s the logistics of delivering to the nearly two billion children of the world, and a significant percentage of the world either not believing in you or considering you a blasphemy, the international airspace issues that you would run into careening around the globe at the time-bending speeds required to make your deliveries in a single night, not to mention the difficulty of cramming billions of toy trains and teddy bears into a sack whose vast density and associated weight would be like slinging a black hole over your shoulder. Whilst these are challenges that might require the ability to manipulate the fabric of space-time, at least Santa never has to traverse the rolling sea of inter-relational politics involved in conventional Christmas giftgiving. Will they like it? Is it too little? Too much? Wouldn’t Christmas shopping be easier with Santa’s list separating the year’s naughty and nice? Most of us would probably have a smaller January credit card bill if our Christmas shopping was based around a meritocracy. He even gets sent letters of present demands to help him out. Children being children, they are usually very specific.

The youth of today probably provide Amazon reference codes and purchasing options - the toy factory must have seen some major changes in recent years.

Not being armed with Santa’s inside information, the gift-giver attempts to find and package Christmas cheer with varying degrees of effort and success. Questing among crowds of his brethren through neon lit streets and glittered stores. With the festive season approaching let us consider why.

The act of giving seems innate to human kind, and is exhibited in the rituals of cultures across the globe. Three fields of research have offered some explanations for these patterns of behavior. Anthropology provides ideas based around the pro-social behavior of altruism; sociology has provided insight into the social responsibility and reciprocity of social norms; and social psychology has examined the role of symbolic interactionism – that is giving as an expression of the perception of both giver and recipient. Psychology once again wins the title of wordiest theory.

So let us start by travelling back to the very origins of the modern Christmas gift and the idea of altruism - behaviors in organisms that can be described as selfless rather than selfish. It should be considered that studies have shown that the gratitude to a gift is directly linked to the perception that its giver expected little in return. The big question raised here is if gift giving is truly altruistic?

It could be argued that many altruistic human behaviors are merely reciprocity – a hugely important factor in human relations. If you wish to test this try a little scientific experiment of your own by not giving anyone any presents this year and see what happens to your stocking in subsequent years. I wouldn’t recommend it. The scientific community will probably not recompense your missing Christmas socks either. Cynicism aside, it could be argued that humans possess a duality of altruism and reciprocating behaviors that form the basis of gift-giving.

Returning to anthropology, imagine a primate mother with two infants – one

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neglected and one nurtured. Which of the two has the better survival chance?

The answer is simple. Darwin might have called this instinct survival of the kindest.

On a species level this could be considered the selfish ensuring of genetic survival but at an organism level it is an altruistic display of sacrifice. Perhaps Christmas is an interesting microcosm of this concept, an enormous network of reciprocity at a large scale, which, as we focus our magnifying lens on the individual can reveal our altruistic natures. So maybe we should be singing that on the first day of Christmas evolution gave to me – innate altruistic reciprocity.

At this point I am advised to point out that no primate infants were neglected during the creation of this article. I don’t want to end up on the naughty list.

Whilst our evolution may begin to examine why we help each other, how do we explain rituals like Christmas? After all, pure altruism and reciprocity would lead to a national exchange of unwrapped gifts of equal value. Crackers would break evenly down the middle. Even the turkey’s wishbone would have to be genetically modified to allow two wishes. Here we have to look at norms and symbolism.

Christmas gift-giving is a social norm.

To highlight the strength of such norms, again imagine the impact of not giving a loved one a Christmas present, here it becomes clear the role that they play in marking relationships within a family or social relationship. Norms are often the potential tripwires of present buying.

Have you ever forgotten a friend or given a present of significantly lesser value than the one received and dealt with the ensuing awkwardness? Norms govern the appropriateness of the gift, marking the intimacy and nature of the relationship between giver and recipient. You can imagine the pitfalls here. Break with the norms and you might find yourself buying your mother the lingerie and your girlfriend a crochet starter kit. Looking back on it now that was a bad Christmas…

Chartwell Journal

Eleventh Edition

While we consider the norms present under the Christmas tree, it is worth looking at the self-interests of the giver.

See if you recognize any of these selfmotivated gift-givers – the showboat, who gives to express their own status and wealth, the puppy-dog, who gives to try and secure fragile (but valuable) relationships, the disingenuouslygenerous, who gives to build and maintain a reputation of generosity, and of course every-man-ever, who gives to apologise for his various crimes. Am I right ladies? (cue whooping Oprah-style audience).

board might symbolize your eternal desire for a black eye.

We begin to paint a picture of a gift as more than merely what is being presented and we start to look at the rich symbolism and subtext involved in the exchange of Christmas presents and the creation of it’s norms. The maintenance of a gift as a symbol is a crucial part of Christmas, from wrapping the gift to the removal of the price tag (despite the value of the gift often being easily established). Using symbols such as the uniqueness of or personal connection to a gift, and literary devices such as the ring as a symbol of togetherness, givers become the creative directors in the management of meaning, seeking to shift such meaning from the culturally constituted world around them to the chosen gift. How well they perform their job can be dependent on their self and other perception and the influences these have on their gift selection. You could find yourself given the sack. And not Santa’s sack either.

The best judge of a person’s gift-related needs is usually that person themselves, so gift-giving represents an opportunity to express several perceptions, of oneself and of the recipient, encoded in wrapping paper and bows. Often without us knowing that we are doing so. Presents can be looked at as another extension of the way we use symbols to communicate implicitly.

In the same way that a ring might symbolize togetherness or the intention of union, a gift like lingerie implies the intimate nature of a relationship and the dynamic within. It’s worth remembering that to present your spouse with an ironing

Each gift provides a communication from our friends and family that confirms and often extends the views of self and other developed through previous interactions. It is worth bearing in mind that a gift reveals not only things about yourself, your generosity or taste, but also crucial details of your views on the recipient, their taste, their desires and their value to yourself – in terms of both your financial and temporal sacrifice.

Studies by the psychologist Beck have shown that the largest influence on a gift is the givers ideal self-concept, followed by their present self-concept and then the perceived characteristics of the recipient.

It seems regarding presents we tend to put ourselves and who we want to project to others first. Often this manifests itself in buying-presents-we-wish-to-receive syndrome or relying solely on the social norm gifts of a given relationship.

Yet Beck also found that gift-receivers were quite sensitive to symbolism and rated their presents as more valuable to them if they displayed the opposite ranking of importance by the giver.

Presents from say a shop the giver would never go to, would never buy for themselves or that reveal an unexpected insight into the receivers self-concept were highly rated as successful gifts. How can this make us better gift-buyers? It would seem from these interview studies that the successful giver is trying to make a good fit between the perceived and actual recipient, a good fit between the perceived and actual importance of the relationship. A good fit between the perception and the real seems to be the successful approach. It should be considered that we should also be striving for a good fit between perceived and actual dress sizes when buying clothing for our significant other. That was another bad Christmas.

So try to match the present to the person but also try to remember that there could be a revealing mismatch between the way

you see the recipient and how they see themselves, and in how you see yourself and your dynamic together. Perhaps if Santa had to contend with all these adult concerns with every child he wouldn’t be quite so fat and jolly, but rather thin and stressed, quietly rocking back and forwards in the corner of the grotto.

He’d probably be a chain-smoker – his traditional green coat changed to red from commercial association with Marlboro rather than Coca-Cola.

Here we find an interesting parallel, Santa is at once both a corporate logo and a symbol for the better aspects of human nature. Like gift-giving he himself can be seen in terms of symbolism, for cynical commercialism and for the spirit of human generosity and kindness. It is intellectually tempting to see this duality connection as a one-way door, and see only the negative that comes from an ideal. Sometimes amid cynicism we miss the positive that still comes from the supposedly corrupted ideal. On those neon lit streets and in those glittered stores, wrapped up in tinsel we can still see the twinkling of humanity’s hardwired kindness, and the good feeling that comes from giving a gift that truly makes someone happy. To quote Lincoln on his famed generosity, especially relevant when considering the commercial modern Christmas’ increasing distance from its religious beginnings, “When I do good, I feel good, when I do bad, I feel bad-----that’s my religion” Good advice. And given by a man who knew a thing or two about the reciprocity of presents. One year one of his generals gave him 150 heavy guns, 25,000 bales of cotton and the city of Savannah.

The other generals must have felt truly foolish while he unwrapped their boxes of shell-shaped truffles and novelty bath soaps.

Merry Christmas.

Author: Ben Fowler ben_niamh@yahoo.co.uk

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Movers And Shakers: An Interview With Cocktail Consultant Julian de Féral The Gorgeous Group are an international consultancy delivering theatrical guests experiences with reassuringly operational expertise since 1999. Working with brands, hotels, restaurants and bars as well as retail outlets, the Gorgeous Group have reputably raised the bar for cocktail culture, involved in opening many of the world’s best bars. Heading up the drinks department is Julian de Féral, award winning bar specialist and occasional raconteur. I sat down with Julian to discuss himself, the cocktail industry and his creative process.

Julian, thank you for spending time with us today and giving Chartwell some insight into your fabulous world of mixology. May we first of all start with you?

We’d love to hear how you came to specialise in creating these amazing cocktails and what drew you to the industry in particular?

Why not?

Like most people in the drinks industry, You don’t choose it; it chooses you.

I am lucky enough to have a creative and inquisitive streak, a good eye and decent palette. Having done a fair bit of travelling from a young age I have always been very open and interested in adventurous tastes and flavours as well as the arts and culture.

Additionally in my late teens and early twenties I studied art, and although perhaps my conventional techniques often left something to be desired the conceptual bit really got me going. At such an age it didn’t prove to be easy to earn a living from such an approach, so naturally I relied on the one thing I had learnt to do since I was old enough to do so: tend bar.

After a few years I began to garner praise and a small following in what was a fairly non-descript high volume restaurant bar, doing what I felt was standard procedure, only occasionally giving our list of classic cocktails my own personal twist.

Chartwell Journal

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Within a short space of time I was humbled to find myself working in some of the best bars in the world, alongside various industry luminaries and heroes. A ‘second golden age’ of bartending had just begun, and things got very progressive very quickly, with plenty of healthy competition from my colleagues. Soon I found myself entering and winning a string of cocktail competitions on an international level, and applying my lateral thinking to create original drinks and serves. It is hard not to fall in love with an industry with such a dynamic and diverse range of passionate characters, it was pretty clear at that point I was in it for life.

Through my reputation I began to be approached by brands, media, events companies and consultancies, resulting in my current position heading up the drinks department for the Gorgeous Group. Although I somewhat miss being behind the stick and the whirlwind that is a bartender’s life, I still get to do it on occasion and am now challenged and tested creatively even more, applying myself to dozens of diverse projects at a time on an international level.

What’s your process for spotting trends around the world and where do you find the inspiration to create your own signature cocktails and menus?

Although we are a relatively small team at the Gorgeous Group we have all worked as operators and key players in a wide range of food and beverage companies, and so have an impressive mix of knowledge, approach and experience. As so many of our clients are international, we clock up quite a few air miles, meaning that we are typically present when new trends, ideas or attitudes are just starting to form. We keep each other informed, but are careful not to simply follow trends, rather building on them or applying them in different ways.

Inspiration has and always will come from anywhere, whether it be a good meal, a painting, a sonata or a scent... We of course need to keep in mind not only our client’s expectations but also the expectations of their guests. Once we have understood this we can begin to get creative, push boundaries and raise the bar. To this end a surprising amount of time is spent on research, and so a lot of inspiration can come from this.

The Gorgeous Group have an enviable client list of 5 star hotels including the Dorchester Collection, The Waldorf Astoria Hotels, Oberoi Hotels and the Ritz Carlton Hotels, as well as some iconic brands like Harvey Nichols. Can you tell us a little about your favourite client, the sort of requests they have and how you go about building a cocktail menu and experience for them?

Our favourite client? All of our clients have made the great decision to enhance their food and beverage and for this we are grateful to all of

them. Some want more involvement in the creative process than others, which we have to respect and gage. Some clients might have a very different and distinct idea as to which direction they want their venue to go in, that we might not necessarily agree with. We can challenge this but ultimately it should be a conversation, and some of the most creative work can come from this: when we are challenged with making an unusual or initially impractical idea work in a particular environment that not only enhances the guest’s experience but also makes the client money.

I’m really interested in the storytelling aspect of designing a creative cocktail menu – How do you begin this process?

Although I’m not exactly the best draftsman, my creative process is still pretty visual, and once we have collected a substantial amount of research on the environment (from target guests, competitor analysis and the client themselves), I usually ‘lock’ myself in my ‘cocktail lair’, put some thematic music on and start scrawling words and pictures onto a couple of whiteboards: our client’s key values, flavour combinations or perhaps seasonal produce that appeal to their guests, titbits of regional history, myth or personalities, the interior design of the bar and the operational practicality and so forth.

From this ideas for drinks will grow, whether a name or concept first or just an original and interesting set of ingredients, and I’ll start to sketch what these drinks look or sound like together.

When I start actually making and tasting the drinks, usually I will have more ideas for the names and stories behind them which are evoked from the different senses, and after that it is just a matter of refining the direction: adding layers and detail that can strengthen an emotional connection.

We’re dying to know – where is your favourite ‘Bar’ and why? And what would you order if you were there right now?

What is it with you guys and favourites? Not to gloat but I visit over a hundred bars around the world each year, there is no chance I’m picking just one! …Especially with so many fantastic new bars out there, all extremely individual... all these different bars are suitable for different occasions, and if it is right now, well, I’m currently sat in our office wolfing down some left-over Indian food. So I might be tempted into ordering something simple, crisp and refreshing… perhaps an East Indian Gimlet from Dishoom. We have a history consulting for Dishoom, and are happy to see the restaurant successfully expand as well as inspiring a wave of imitators, from London to Delhi. It is a brand that has become synonymous with amazing quality authentic Indian food made cool and quirky, and when I visit I will usually precede the meal with the gimlet.

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How important do you think ritual is, in both the preparation and serving (and of course enjoyment) of a cocktail?

Naturally ritual is an important part of cocktails and bars. An interactive serve involving the guest can work to enhance an emotional connection, or become a talking point. Indeed the very act of walking into a bar to order a certain drink could be interpreted as a ritual itself, and almost everybody has go-to drinks for specific times or emotions whether they are aware of it or not.

The ritual of the bartender preparing a cocktail is especially pertinent for certain bartenders. Even if the drinks offering of a bar might be fairly simple, the theatre a bartender’s ritual can bring to an experience an invaluable sense of occasion that keeps guests returning.

This could be Alessendro bringing out his little ‘Martini stool’ at Duke’s bar which consistently sees his Martinis rated the best in the world, Ago’s fully specced Martini trolley signifying Martini o’clock at the Connaught, bartenders in Boadas throwing their cocktails as they have done for nearly a century, feeding into the history of the bar.

When I was the head bartender of a member’s club in the City a number of years ago, I’d be serving many top clients from the surrounding businesses. One evening regular client who would never deviate from expensive Scotch or the occasional beer decided to challenge me to make him a Sazerac that had been introduced to him a few days before in an esteemed New York bar. As I wasn’t particularly busy I decided to pull out all the stops, selecting a heavy vintage tray and ice bucket from the bar’s paraphernalia, as well as selecting an exceptionally fine and unusual bottle of brandy and whiskey, bringing the lot to the table and preparing the cocktail in front of him and his guests.

There was a sudden hush as I set the tray down: they all stopped fiddling with their Blackberries and just watched me.

Encouraged by the silence, and much

to the delight of the recipient, I took them through each element of the drink, explaining the history and rationales as I went along. Anyone who has had a Sazerac will tell you it is a very simple drink - no more than spirit, sugar and bitters, but the process can be somewhat elaborate and can certainly involve showmanship.

Needless to say as soon as I had finished the whole table ordered one, and each time any of them came in with new guests they’d insist upon it, whether or not their guests expressed any interest in cocktails or not. Despite being a pretty full on cocktail not to everybody’s tastes, the Sazerac soon became one of our best sellers, and each time I would be asked to give the whole spiel: “I imagine they all came for the ritual more than the drink itself.”

What would you say to someone who is just starting out in creating cocktails and trying new ways of mixing and designing drinks?

Not everybody would agree with me, but I think it is important to taste the drinks.

By this I don’t mean only going to the best bars and ordering the most Tweeted cocktails: to get a better perspective of the industry as a whole: where there is a gap in the market and how things can be improved, I believe it to be equally important to occasionally try a cheap spirit or something you wouldn’t normally order; occasionally risk ordering a cocktail at a bar of dubious merits. Taking a risk will probably result in taking more risks when creating one’s own concoctions, and learning to make mistakes and why things don’t work is as important as understanding why they do…

If one just follows the pack it is unlikely that one will innovate, inspire or develop one’s own signature.

This is a very glamorous industry to be working in – what do you do to relax and bolster those creative juices?

Typically unglamorous things. Going on bar crawls and the like sometimes does feel a little like a busman’s holiday. On my

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days off I tend to stay at home or at least in my area code, perhaps see a friend, catch up on reading or just tidying up. I enjoy cooking so sometimes spend the best part of the day doing that.

I think it is important to keep perspective, and one needs to put some time aside just to live life. I am guilty as the next bartender for incessantly talking shop, but I do try to remind myself to sometimes change the subject, just shoot the shit and stop to smell the roses.

Julian de Féral

Chartwell Journal

Eleventh Edition

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Make That One Night Outstanding British people are often a little shy about what goes on behind closed doors…

Chartwell met with the Box of Grey (BXG) founder, who wished to remain masked, and spoke to us about the art of Great British naughtiness and how she is making the sex toy market a more artistic and creative place.

“Come out to my car and I’ll show you my crystal dildos” – well that’s not an offer we get everyday but it certainly sounds more promising than the fluorescent bunnies that are synonymous with the sex toy industry. The Box of Grey team have worked hard to source craftsman rather than your average manufacturers to create beautiful, luxurious products.

Glassmaker Stuart Wiltshire, who honed his skills with crystal producers Dartington Stuart has designed a range of Olisb’s which are a modern take on a sex toy that was originally designed over 3,000 years ago. It can be warmed or cooled under a tap offering a variety of playful sensations…

According to BXG “No other material can quite compare to the feeling of glass, cool and sleek. Each piece is an object d’art in its own right - bespoke, handmade and one of a kind”. Other products which we are rather fond of include glass ice cubes.

It seems as though BXG are covering all current luxury trends…Foodies can also immerse themselves into BXG’s sexy world with a specially formulated chocolate body paint in collaboration with Cocomaya. Alex Mariz of Cocomaya says “We have chosen this premium French praline because of its quality and high hazelnut content.

That carefully combined with Valrhona cocoa powder creates the perfect harmony between the cocoa flavour and nutty tones that we feel is where the strength of this product lies. The production process is fairly straightforward as we used as little methods as possible not to distract from the original ingredient flavourings”

BXG have recently made the leap from being purely internet based to being sold in London’s exclusive department store, Selfridges. The ‘boxes of grey’ being sold in Selfridges retail for up to £5,000, meaning exclusivity and luxury products are assured. BXG tell us that in their last two years of trading they are yet to receive a return meaning they have a very ‘satisfied’ client base.

Box of Grey are looking into further expansion of the brand with the introduction of BXG themed events. Though BXG are adamant that these events won’t be tasteless, they will be sexually invigorating events for couples to enjoy together, perhaps including burlesque and role play.

If Box of Grey has intrigued you take a look at what else they have to offer... www.boxofgrey.com

Chartwell Journal

Eleventh Edition

Who Can You Trust When You Are Super Rich?

J.K. Rowling admitted she was terrified when she first became super rich.

According to the Sunday Times Rich List 2014, she is now ranked as the UK’s 180th wealthiest person. Rowling has a net worth of £570 million, 50% more than the Queen, whose net wealth is estimated at £330 million. The difference, between the Queen and J.K. Rowling, however, is that the Queen was born into wealth whereas J.K. Rowling had it thrust upon her.

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Caroline Garnham says in her book ‘Who can you trust when you are Super Rich?; many self-made millionaires have few friends and trust no-one with their money, generally feel isolated and unloved.

Her valuable insights came from having worked with some of the wealthiest people in the world as a leading lawyer and head of the private client department of Simmons & Simmons for fifteen years.

‘Problems usually start when someone acquires liquid wealth. These fortunate few often feel pangs of guilt after making a fortune - not least because relatives and old friends start fingering them for money’ she says...

So why should we care? Because, as Caroline Garnham a fellow of the Chartered Institute of Taxation points out – they contribute more than anyone else to our economy. The UK has 104 resident billionaires; they spend an estimated £16 billion a year contributing a staggering £3 billion in VAT. The top 1% contributes 30% of income tax, and Westminster and Chelsea contribute more in Stamp Duty than the whole of Wales, Northern Ireland, Northern England and Scotland put together. And yet this revenue is spread across the country, to build schools in Leeds, hospitals in Birmingham and roads in York. As a result our economy is growing whereas in countries such as France it is stagnant.

The debate raging at the moment about whether to impose a mansion tax or not – misses the point. If by introducing a mansion tax people are motivated to sell their homes or have less income to spend, how many plumbers, electricians, builders, architects, restaurateurs, cleaners, florists and drivers would suffer.

‘From my experience, it is not wise to impose an annual tax on a capital asset, not all people who are capital rich have surplus income’ Caroline says there are ‘Too few people who recognise the value of this community to which ever country they spend their time and money’.

We need to know what motivates the rich, and what does it feel like to be rich?

To become rich is like ‘Alison falling into Wonderland. Before they sell they know everything about their world and thereafter, everything is different. Most have no idea how to manage their liquid wealth at first and this makes them very vulnerable. One third loses one quarter of their wealth within five years of becoming cash rich’ explains Caroline.

“Self made Ultra High Net Worth individuals are not taught the intricacies of wealth management from childhood nor inherit their advisors along with the family’s riches. They do not know who to trust.”

Caroline left the law industry in December 2011. She wanted to give UHNW individuals what they need, which she believes is three things -to learn how to manage their assets and advisors whilst retaining their privacy, understand case studies, receive news and views direct from the experts.

Caroline’s Virtual Family Office Club already has 800 members with a total

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wealth of £100 billion. At a recent evening party held at her home, 30 people attended with a total net worth estimated at £12.8 billion, 71% expressed a keen interest to co-invest, and find advisors they can trust. From her experience most advisors focus attention on their area of expertise to the detriment of client care and are not taught how to build trust. Her Trusted Advisor Academy is for advisors who want to learn how to network, build trust and win business.

Mrs Garnham believes “The super rich get a lousy deal. Because they have money - people don’t think of them as people. It is therefore ok to mis-sell, defraud or mis lead them. With so many wanting them for their money they get suspicious, and the one thing that money cannot buy is trust which is the one thing they want most of all.” www.familybhive.com

Chartwell Journal

Eleventh Edition

Chartwell Assist

What about the big buys and must-haves?

So, if a member would like a box at the O2 or Royal Albert Hall, they will pay exactly what our vendor sells them for we just connect the dots. If a luxury car purchase is arranged, we won’t be taking any referral fee or charging a commission.

Why should we?! It’s a matter of a few phone calls for us. We don’t waste time arranging side-deals and it also means our advice is impartial. We can recommend the right place, item, person, etc., because we haven’t been bought. It goes back to the good old-fashioned way of making money by earning it.

In our last Journal we announced the launch of our private assistance service ‘Chartwell Assist’. An overwhelming response has followed and we thought it time to speak with the Head of Operations to find out exactly what has captured people’s attention…

So, this is Chartwell’s concierge service?

Not exactly. I consider us to be vastly different from the typical lifestyle management or concierge service. Our background is purely private office and that comes with a particular style and attitude.

In which ways do you differ?

The concierge / lifestyle services are becoming infamous for commission chasing, biased recommendations, lengthy reaction times, etc.. We approached it from a private office point of view. We have worked in private offices for high net worth individuals and families for 15 years and when a request was made, we didn’t speak with our contacts and arrange some kind of referral fee or back-hander. We procured the best in the quickest possible time. We were paid a salary to take care of our employers. This is translated into a monthly or annual fee in the case of Chartwell Assist members.

No commission, no hidden fees, no service tiers.

Then how does it all work? And where does the profit come from?

We limit our membership to 25 - 35 clients. Each member pays a monthly fee of £1,750 or an annual subscription of £19,250. That provides them with access to our team, 24/7. That’s it. Nothing more, nothing less. We are happy with those figures.

So you can make sure your members have a good time while in London?

Those are a few minor aspects of the service but the members we have at the moment are looking upon us more as an advisory service. Whether social, residential, or logistical. The calibre of people we accept as clients don’t need us for accessing restaurants, they most likely know the owner!

What about the day-to-day chores?

We are there for all the small things, sure, that’s part of it. However, we are currently being approached to co-ordinate the stay of visiting guests or VIPs by way of an extension to an established private office. We are helping newcomers to London find the right household staff, the preferred venues, the better vehicles, and the best contractors / suppliers. We also have luxury brands speaking to us about aiding their existing team during busy times. That kind of flexibility comes from a history of working for employers in varying industries.

Household staff? So can we expect ‘Chartwell Recruitment’ any time soon?

Not quite. We have taken care of the recruitment process for previous employers over the years and know where to find the right people. It can be time consuming and quite costly when

you consider the 20% fee from most recruitment agencies. When sourcing a top level PA, that 20% can be as much as our annual subscription. As part of our service we can advertise, screen, and present suitable candidates, with no commission charged.

Once you reach membership capacity, will you consider expansion?

If I could find carbon copies of me and my colleague then who knows. But if it dilutes our profile then it isn’t worth it.

I would much rather have the same 25 members for the next 5 years than 100 members for the short time it takes for them to realise that they are not a real priority. It’s a delicate balance between managing demand and delivering on peoples expectations.

What has been your most challenging / outrageous request?

I won’t say, sorry. Part of our ethos is discretion. You won’t find us on social media, conducting marketing events, or participating in any interviews....other than for the Chartwell Journal, of course, ha!

No interviews?

Each and every interview you read or testimonial you see is compromised in one way or another. Someone is benefiting and it usually isn’t the client. We are truly a private service. If you know our name then either you have been recommended or you have contact with Chartwell in some way. We don’t even have business cards!

Chartwell Assist’s favourite restaurant?

No one in particular. Depends on what the taste buds are asking for.

Really? No tips or tricks for our readers?

Maybe for our members we do.

Please describe Chartwell Assist in three words.

Discrete, Valuable, Flexible assist@chartwell-london.com +44 (0)207 952 6322 +44 (0)7736 271 651

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Cocktails With Chartwell The Blonde Bombshell: A Tribute to Marilyn Monroe

The British Bulldog: A Tribute to Winston Churchill

Method Shaken

Method Stirred

Ingredients 50ml Champagne 35ml Beefeater Gin 15ml Koko Kanu Rum 5ml lemon juice 1ml gomme syrup 1ml egg white 30ml green veloutĂŠ (cucumber, horseradish, mint, jalapeĂąo chili) 5 dashes celery bitters

Ingredients 60ml Johnny Walker Black 15ml Kamm & Sons 10ml Honey gastrique 5ml lemon juice 1 Dash Fernet Branca 2 Dashes Whiskey Barrels

Can also be made with vodka

Can also be made with Bourbon or Cognac Garnish Lime twist and barley spring

Garnish Apple lecithin and rose petals

The Balcon London - 8 Pall Mall London SW1Y 5NG www.thebalconlondon.com

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Chartwell Journal

Eleventh Edition

Chartwell Journal’s ‘In The Know’ Christmas & New Year

Monaco

London

Christmas Village 5th December - 4th January

Constable: The Making of a Master 20th September - 11th January Victoria & Albert Museum

Monte Carlo Rally 19th -25th January Monaco International Circus Festival January Imagina - ‘Digital Content Festival’ February Grimaldi Forum Open des Artistes de Monaco January - February Galerie L’Entrepôt

Winter Wonderland & Ice Rink 21st November - 4th January Hyde Park Conflict, Time, Photography 26th November - 15th March Tate Modern, Bankside Tristan und Isolde 5th December - 21st December Royal Opera House, Convent Garden

Love Christmas Celebrity Christmas Concert 18th December St. Pauls Cathedral Treasure Island at the National Theatre 22nd December - 21st January South Bank New Year’s Eve Fireworks 31st December London Eye New Year’s Day Parade 1st January Piccadilly

The Royal Ballet: Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland 6th December - 16th January Royal Opera House, Convent Garden

London International Boat Show 9th - 18th January Excel

London International Horse Show 16th December - 22nd December Olympia

LAPADA Fine Arts & Antiques Fair 30th January - 1st February Mayfair

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Members Only…

Next Generation…

Gone are the days when members clubs were strict, stuffy institutions for gentlemen of a certain age. To social groups outside of prime London postcodes members clubs can be perceived as elitist or pretentious. However, within influential social circles the privacy and prestige that comes with being a member of the ‘right’ members club is seen as a badge of honour. There is a new breed of club making its mark on the ‘club’ scene – that members club being Maggie & Rose – aimed at discerning families with young children.

classes an extra cost. The Maggie and Rose style clubs seems like an excellent choice for parents wanting to raise their children amongst like-minded families and can afford to do so.

Maggie & Rose 58-60 Pembroke Rd, London W8 6NX 020 7371 2200 www.maggieandrose.com With their founding base in leafy Chiswick, Maggie & Rose recently expanded to well-heeled Kensington. Both founders (Maggie Bolger and Rose Astor, of ‘the’ Astor family) are mothers. The business concept was formed after Maggie found it difficult to find ‘nice’ places to take her children when they were toddlers. Maggie & Rose clubs are as far from locally run church groups or sweaty indoor play areas as you can get. For a start the décor isn’t a splash garish primary colours, its white

with gentle pastel colours, the café serves home cooked organic food and good coffee and there are educative activities for children. Classes start from age 1.5 up to age 10 and vary from cooking and dancing to art and imaginative play.

Mumpreneurs Maggie and Rose seem to have hit the nail on the head here and others are starting to follow suit.

Membership at Maggie and Rose is from circa £600 for annual membership with

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Chartwell Journal

Eleventh Edition

Lady Chartwell The Beauty Room Lady about town lifts the lid of where’s hot to trot this season... www.chartwell-media.com/ladychartwell pressoffice@chartwell-london.com

Make-Up Masterclass with Tori Harris at The Bingham Back in September one was invited to the tranquil Bingham Hotel in Richmond for a beauty make up masterclass with fabulous Tori Harris.

Tori is fast establishing herself as a renowned beauty makeup artist. The masterclass was full of wonderful tips and tricks for a natural day look and after a beautiful tapas lunch on the terrace overlooking the River Thames we were shown how to take our day look effortlessly into evening makeup, with Tori’s expertise this was an easy transformation.

Tori’s top tip for the perfect wedding day make up - Waterproof mascara all the way darlings! www.toriharrismakeup.co.uk & www.thebingham.co.uk

Make-Up Masterclass with Tori Harris at The Bingham

Whistle and Bango Whistle and Bango

Darlings, incase you get lost in SW3 after a few too many cocktails the stunning Whistle and Bango bangle helps ensure one gets back to the safety and comfort of ones Mayfair neighbourhood. The bangles have not only become a great conversation starter but they also look fabulous too.

www.whistleandbango.com

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Carom: Indian Restaurant

Carom: Indian Restaurant

Refreshed and reinvigorated, Carom keeps its characteristics as a cosy, casual and welcoming dining destination offering authentic pan-Indian cuisine in the heart of Soho. The fabulous rustic bar boasts an exciting and innovative cocktail list which is available in both the restaurant and the stunning atrium bar. Both are perfect for intimate drinks and dinners and ideal for parties! Super friendly executive head chef Vishnu Natarajan has updated the Carom menu by adding a selection of new plates focused on sharing while socialising.

The “small bites” make for truly fantastic mouthwater pan-Indian experience. www.caromsoho.com

A Lady-like Meat Feast There has been much noise about Bobo Social on the London foodie scene in recent months…

Not being one to miss out on a hearty portion of meat one took a trip to Charlotte Street to see what all of the fuss was about. When you hear about ‘London’s Best Burgers’ images of retro themed american diners spring to mind, however Bobo Social was nothing of the sort.

One was truly surprised about what a lady-like establishment Bobo turned out to be…. White wash walls, delicate lighting, country-style tables and chairs… One enjoyed a ‘Bobo set’ burger topped with maple syrup bacon, cheddar and a generous helping of truffle shavings…

All washed down with a glass of champagne!

Other offerings included tapas style dishes and a peanut butter burger. Delicious! One will certainly be back soon. www.bobosocial.com

A Lady-like Meat Feast

Chartwell Journal

Eleventh Edition

Mr. Chartwell Whether it’s grabbing a cocktail atop Europe’s tallest building or enjoying top-flight Provençal cooking in a beautiful basement, London’s newest openings will cater to the most jaded epicure.

www.chartwell-media.com pressoffice@chartwell-london.com

Old Faithful: The Punch Bowl Mr Chartwell is rather delighted that his old faithful “The Punchbowl” has reopened in the heart of Mayfair. Following an extensive refurbishment The Punchbowl has three fantastic and unique offerings over each floor.

The ground floor is still the Mayfair pub we love and remember, though now featuring cozy booths, the first level is an intimate fine dining restaurant with an open kitchen and the top

Old Faithful - The Punch Bowl

floor is the ultimate Gents club room available for private hire and events. Mr Chartwell was lucky enough to enjoy a nibble in the restaurant.

The menu was varied and the Punch Bowl have worked hard to source reputable quality suppliers across the UK. The wine list is equally as impressive, with front of house offering many ‘off list’ choices for wine connoisseurs.

Look out for the upcoming Mayfair Monday events where the Punch Bowl invites some of Mayfair’s most famous local businesses into their private room for collaborative events.

41 Farm St, Mayfair, London W1J 5RP www.punchbowllondon.com

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Cigar Butler Cigar Butler Whilst many of us have our butlers on call for a warm hand towel on arrival home from work in the evening, I am most pleased about this innovative butler concept I hear of from my Mayfair neighbours Sautter. Traditional cigar shop Sautter are introducing the cigar butler to assist in assuring your cigar collection is well looked after when you’re out of town.

Services include replenishing and taking care of your humidor to ensure maximum enjoyment of your cigars.

106 Mount St, London, Mayfair W1K 2TW www.sauttercigars.com

Apres Ski in London When Mr Chartwell feels like a little Alpine indulgence in the winter (without 5 hours of travelling) I head no further than Archer Street in Soho. During the ski season, Archer Street’s basement is transformed into an après ski destination and is aptly renamed ‘Piste’.

Cocktails and décor are all ski themed (think festive champagne cocktails and lots of alpine cladding). Whatever the basement theme here I particularly enjoy the impromptu live singers throughout the night.

3-4 Archer Street, Soho , W1 www.archerstreet.co.uk

Apres Ski in London

Chartwell Journal

Eleventh Edition

Ferrari Anniversary This autumn Ferrari celebrated their 60th anniversary at the Beverley Hills City Hall.

Mary J.Blige and Megan Fox joined Ferrari executives to help them celebrate this special occasion.

A 458 Speciale A was auctioned for $900,000 with proceeds going to good causes. www.ferrari.com

Gordon Ramsay Charity Gordon Ramsay & Ferrari give Rays of Sunshine charity children a day to Remember.

TV Celebrity Chef, Gordon Ramsay, joined Ferrari North Europe at the Silverstone circuit in Northamptonshire to bring a Ray of Sunshine to 50 children who had a once-in-a-lifetime thrill ride in a Ferrari 458 Spider as part of the Ferrari Racing Days event. Long-time Ferrari fanatic, Ramsay is also a passionate ambassador for Rays of Sunshine, which grants wishes to children living with serious or life-limiting illnesses who travelled from all over the UK to attend the Ferrari 458 Spider Experience. www.raysofsunshine.org.uk

Twilight Polo Gala Chartwell joined VIP Guests at the prestigious HAM Polo Club in Surrey for the Twilight Polo Gala. Over 400 international guests from the worlds of fashion, art and music were there to raise money for War Child and The Naked Heart Foundation. www.nakedheart.org

EXQUISITE

ME D I A

AN D

E VE N T S

Chartwell Media is dedicated to showcasing some of the worlds most premium brands through online & print media alongside exclusive events. Chartwell Media specialise in working with companies, whose luxury products and services appeal to the companies UHNW clientele. Chartwell Journal is a quarterly luxury-lifestyle and property publication. The Journal features the very best in aspirational living, investment news and the world’s most spectacular properties. The Journal is distributed in some of the finest international locations from 5 Star hotels to private members clubs worldwide.

London: +44 (0)207 409 0545

pressoffice@chartwell-london.com

www.chartwell-media.com

Workspaces

Kelly Hoppen

Kelly Hoppen MBE is a world renowned interior designer and businesswoman. Her ever-evolving, trademark style is underpinned by a subtly coordinated fusion of East meets West; clean lines and neutral tones. Her interiors portfolio includes private residences, yachts, hotels and restaurants the world over.

Recent projects include the complete renovation of the Lux* Belle Mare in Mauritius, a Kelly Hoppen for yoo project in Mumbai called Lodha Estrella, the Pearl 65 which was Kelly’s second collaboration with Pearl Motor Yachts and was launched at the Cannes Yacht Show this year and of course she is a key player in the hit BB2 show, Dragon’s Den. Perhaps most exciting of all is the launch of her very own online store, kellyhoppen.com. Chartwell sat down with Kelly to discuss her workspace, inspiration and plans for the future.

Albert Einstein famously said that ‘if a cluttered desk is a sign of a cluttered mind, then, of what is an empty desk a sign of?’

Your workspace seems busy, but extremely well organised. Is it always like that?

My workspace is definitely busy but it has a certain peacefulness to it. It is the most un-designed place I have ever been in. People usually expect a slick, polished studio but that’s certainly not the case! It’s a proper working studio.

Do you often find inspiration at your desk or do you find you work better somewhere else?

I love my studio and it is where I do most of my work. I relocated my office to Notting Hill as I love it so much there and it is such an eclectic area with Portobello market being one of my favourite spots and we are actually about to relocate again soon.

I do get a lot of inspiration from my travels though. I love soaking up different cultures and it always gives me ideas for my upcoming collections and projects. I also get a lot of ideas from markets, especially antique and vintage markets.

Your studio and workspace is wonderfully light and well organised… did you design the space to be fit for purpose or has it grown organically over the years?

My workspace actually changes all the time. I have a shamanic energy consultant who comes and moves pieces around. It’s all about the energy of the room and getting rid of negative energy. I have a red wall in my office since it was the year of the dragon when it was being decorated. It is a calm red rather than a fiery, angry red. It is supposed to subdue your mood and make you feel warm rather than get your pulse racing.

When I walk in to my office in the morning, I am overwhelmed at how amazing the room feels.

Everything has changed with a simple splash of colour.

Is there anyone in particular that you would like to collaborate with?

I would love to work with a film director like Tom Ford. I love how he created the spaces in his film ‘A Single Man’. It completely opened my eyes to doing something new like designing the interiors of a film

set. I would also like to collaborate with Bacarrat as they have the most incredible archive of products and I would love to do something ground breaking with them.

I know you support young entrepreneurs through the work you do with the Princes Trust and that some of them have visited you here. What’s their reaction been to your studio?

It is, as you say, something that is extremely close to my heart. Faye Martin, who I mentored to help her set up her own business, came to my offices and worked on a cushion design together. I loved having her here and I hope it inspired her and gave her confidence as much as she inspired me.

Who inspires you in the world of interiors and have you visited their studios/seen their process first hand?

I have visited many workshops over the years and they have all been very inspirational to me in their own way, it is very hard to single any one out. However, I am crazy for glass and I absolutely love Anthony Stern’s work in particular.

Visiting his studio was the most

incredible experience. He is a genius. The very scale of his pieces is impressive and I found the way in which he layers different colours, patterns and shapes sensational. I also love how he adds metal to his glass. I had never seen anything like this when I went all those years ago and it has really stuck with me and inspired me in many ways in my work.

What have you got in store for 2015, anything exciting that we need to know about?

I have just finished two beautiful interior projects in the heart of London and will be launching a stunning bathware collection with apaiser in the UK in February.

Internationally, I am working on projects in Taiwan and Beijing and constantly designing new products for my own homeware collection.

www.kellyhoppen.com

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