Home House Issue 8 by Azzy Asghar

CELEBRATING 20 YEARS

WELCOME 2018 marks our 20th anniversary as Home House. A solid period of two decades that we are proud to have achieved, although I am reminded that those years represent just a thin sliver of time in the life of these beautiful, historic buildings that we call ‘Home’. No 20 Portman Square’s original owner, Elizabeth Home, Countess of Home (aka The Queen of Hell), was an outrageous lady who built this Palace of Pleasure to engage in hedonistic pursuits and entertain the aristocracy of her day. We continue a long-standing tradition within these four walls to celebrate life in all its diversity, exuberance and eccentricity. We were one of the first clubs to abandon dress codes (but duly noting that nudity is discouraged), the first to be dog friendly, and we avoided any stuffy rules such as only welcoming people from particular backgrounds. We have always embraced female members which was highly unusual in our early years when most clubs were for the privilege of men only. The innovation of a ‘Social’ membership opened the doors of Home House to a new and zestful crowd who enjoy the House after work. Plus, we have introduced new, monthly themed parties in House 21 to fill the gap for members impatient for the next Home House Halloween party, including the White Party on June 15th and Independence Day on July 6th. The past 20 years have seen many spectacular changes: the expansion, restructuring and design of House 21 for which we commissioned Dame Zaha Hadid to create the iconic House bar, a second dining venue, The Octagon Dining Room, specialising in Pan Asian dishes, Cigar Snug, The Vaults and a dramatic transformation of the ‘bijoux’ gym into one of London’s premier boutique health and

fitness destinations – quite unlike any other. Our pursuits for members may not all be hedonistic, but they are certainly eclectic! Our monthly calendar of events continues to refresh and grow, from Burlesque Master Classes to supper club specials; Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre and cultural walks; debating nights to intimate matters. This year we are arranging a talk at the Chelsea Flower Show with Nicki Chapman on May 24th, a private Home House marquee at Polo in the Park hosted by the players on June 10th, our special 20th anniversary party on August 3rd and the Home House summer of music festival alongside visits to Royal Ascot, The Boodles and Wimbledon. You have helped raise hundreds of thousands of pounds over the years when an annual charity has been proposed and generously supported by our members. Those causes have included Save the Children UK, The Pirate Castle, The Brain Tumour Research Campaign, COSMIC and The Westminster Society for People with Learning Difficulties to name a few. So, to the future. We are delighted to welcome one of the UK’s finest chefs to the team, Sophie Michell, who will be helping us to evolve the menus and some of the dining spaces to reflect London’s ever-changing dining scene. The world of business has encouraged us to believe that there is room for another ‘Home’, a place which helps entrepreneurs to grow their businesses. Meet ‘Home Grown’ members’ club – a one stop shop for all an entrepreneur’s needs. A completely unique concept that brings together the best features of a business accelerator, private members’ club and a community of leading entrepreneurs and investors under one roof. Located just around the corner on Great Cumberland Place, Home Grown will open in January 2019. For more information please visit: www.homegrownclub.co.uk Would the Countess recognise her home today? Join us at our 20th Anniversary big bash to find out!

Andrew Richardson

Managing Director

Azzy Asghar Publisher

Gavin Gooddy

Dear Fellow Members, Very fortunately, I am a member of some of London’s finest clubs – I’m not going to name-drop – as my great friend Mick Jagger told me it’s not polite! My point is that despite being very lucky, there is only one club I frequent four-five times a week, only one where I feel as comfortable in a suit or pair of jeans and only one where I’m always made to feel truly welcome and not just another anonymous member! From very late nights of ruining coveted anthems in The Vaults, signing important deals in the Drawing Rooms, enjoying casual drinks in the Bison Bar or one of many nights of just relaxing with friends – I have done it all here and even – sometimes reluctantly – upheld the time-honoured principle of the house: ‘nudity is discouraged!’ So thank you Home House and although I’ve only been with you for seven of your twenty years – they’ve all been very lucky and memorable thus far! So a very happy 20th to our Club and I hope you enjoy this very special issue reflecting on years gone by and we look forward to making many more new memories with you!

Sales and Marketing Director

Home House

CONTENTS HOME HOUSE 6

FASHION | BEAUTY

20 Years No Tears

Haute Horology

20 Years of Memories

Spring Jewels

20 Years of Events

Fashion Forward

Master Chef

Heaven Scent

Art House

Suite Dreams

Wedding Planning Tips

Alpine Home

Sweatworking

Home Gym

Golf Day

Home Grown

TRAVEL | CARS | LUXURY

INTERVIEWS 18

Club Founder Richard Farleigh

Design Guru Martin Kemp

Walpole CEO Helen Brocklebank

Mystical Elizabeth Martin

Sparkling Spirit Alison Taffs

Our Legal Eagle Simon Ross

Music Composer Guy Barker

World of Interiors

Reader’s Choice

Epic Travels

Destination Dubai

Beautiful Bahrain

DS 7 Crossback

Mercedes-AMG S65

PARTIES 83

Hotel Of Horrors

NYE Fashion House Ball

Après Ski

Cedric Golf Cup

Valentine’s Burlesque Night

HOME HOUSE MAGAZINE AZZY ASGHAR - Publisher

azzy@epicureanlife.co.uk

CHRISTINA RAPTIS - Chief Editor

christina@epicureanlife.co.uk

GAVIN GOODDY - Club Editor

gavin@homehouse.co.uk

ISMAIL VEDAT - Senior Designer ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES 020 7731 7747

Home House

Home House Limited does not endorse nor recommend any article, product, service or information found within the magazine. The views and opinions of the authors who have submitted the articles to Home House Magazine belong to them alone and do not necessarily reflect the views of Home House Club or its staff. A very grateful thanks to all those who contributed to the production of this magazine – they are too numerous to mention individually. All rights reserved. Nothing within this magazine may be reproduced in whole or in part without the prior written permission of the Publishers. Although the Publisher has endeavoured to ensure that all information within this issue is correct. Prices and details are subject to change. Copyright © 2018 www.thealexandergroup.co.uk

Nothing makes a house feel more like a home than an enticing display of art. Specialising in original works and signed limited editions, the UK’s leading group of high street galleries, Castle Fine Art, boasts an extensive collection sure to enchant and inspire. Visitors can find works from cultural icons such as Bob Dylan and Ronnie Wood on gallery walls, alongside pieces from critically acclaimed artists making their mark on today’s contemporary art scene.

Artwork: Paul Kenton - Tower Days

London Galleries Royal Exchange | South Molton Street | St Christopher’s Place | Covent Garden

20 YEARS NO TEARS!

Our resident dandy and life-long member, Robin Dutt reflects on 20 years of soirées and shenanigans...

he question is, just where to start? Julie Andrews advised the sensible answer as she warbled, ‘Let’s start at the very beginning.’ And she was right. It is a good place to start. However, she was talking about a musical scale – and not Home House. It seems impossible that I have been a member for nearly 20 years, and as certain conditions reorganise the logical pattern of events of when they happened or more importantly, perhaps, how they happened, you begin to wonder anew. So, ladies and gentlemen...here it comes, though not all of it of course, but you will, I hope, glean something from a very special institution and pleasure palace – the most exciting members’ club. Yours! Parties were and are so much the heart of what Home House is all about. Let me tell you about one of the first (I choose!) to recall. There we were, an invited, selected bunch to view the bedrooms. The invite clearly asked for sleepwear. I immediately telephoned my very posh interior design friend and I relayed the general plan. ‘Nightwear, darling.’ A soft chuckle I took for a ‘yes’. So we arrived – she in a fetching robe, embroidered Chinese gown and gold slippers and on her arm, myself in silk satin pyjamas, no slippers. Cocktails were served, I recall, with stately

aplomb but totally in keeping when at the time many of the staff wore bespoke tailcoats. Room to room we glided through, each room hazier and happier. Can’t think why when all of a sudden, vast quantities of champagne bottles were wheeled in and by and by, the crowd became a miasma of vague dishevelment. My friend lost her spectacles and slippers (I knew there’d be no point in wearing any) but not the thing you may have thought first. She was a gal of the 1960s, she couldn’t have lost that. Fellow member Philip Sallon wowed a very motley crew with his thronged-to parties. With themes such as ‘Bad Taste’, the rooms seasoned with Primark shopping bags and indeed the last day of smoking where the air was fair yellow with nicotine, and even those who had never had anything between their lips had a drag or two – and you may take that to mean whatever you like. Often Philip was to be seen in simple modes – two I vividly recall – a dress made of ironed together Tesco bags and a surely couture number fashioned out of sailors’ ropes. If you ask him how he is, the monosyllabic answer might roll off the tongue. ‘Vile!’ Quite. One of the early Halloween parties featured an enormous Tudoresque bed centre stage in the Front Parlour. I made sure I would not be recognised and even sported gloves to conceal the tell-tale Manuka honey tan, and walked through the front door (with all concealing mask) only to be immediately greeted with ‘Oh, good evening, Mr. Dutt!’ I removed my mask and asked aghast, ‘But how did you know?’ ‘The way you walk,’ came the reply. Now, make of that what you will. Later that night, I was clutched and thrown upon said bed by a fetching prankster in full armour with, I recall, some passion, watched by his none too appreciative girlfriend. I think they went on to marry. I actually co-styled an Indian Summer Party complete with exotic fruits as table decorations, peacock feathers, mirrors and swathes of deepest purple silk caressing pillars, and some perhaps used much later as protection against arrest for exposure. It was a Sari Safari, a Shalwar

Soirée, a Kurta Kaleidoscope, with throbbing Bhangra beats and exotic cocktails more than three of which and, as Dorothy Parker once quipped, you’d be ‘under the host.’ At this stage it is well to remember that Home House, built in the 1770s, was commissioned by Elizabeth, Countess of Home (Hume) and at that time was clipped ‘The Queen of Hell.’ She was 60 years old or so. Silk and lace unconventionality to the backdrop of Georgian chamber music. A house, and especially a house like this, cannot forget anything. She used to entertain young bucks in the room above the grand Etruscan Room. There is still much entertaining going on today. Happy habits don’t die. In more than one sense, Home House is carrying on an august tradition of mischief. Early on, one of the directors rushed up to me, panting (no, not for that reason) to say, ‘Robin...What do you think of the Club motto – ‘Nudity is Discouraged?’ It didn’t take me long to utter, ‘Mmm,’ adding I thought in parenthesis should be (But not disallowed). I think I was being justly prescient. England and especially London is a Mecca for clubs, and it has been for almost 300 years. We have here at Home House an incarnation of what has been called the most beautiful Robert Adam building in public use. It wasn’t a club in the Georgian era. It certainly is now! Fate herself was perhaps the first member. And ah, the characters, without which a club would not be eclectic. Some have passed, but they live on in fond memories. There was Mrs. Silk, a hugely successful dominatrix, usually head to toe in McQueen or Gucci, usually whose very first words to me were... ‘I’m going to have you.’ And she did in a manner of speaking, as a frequent guest at one of her many soirées. There the stories remain untold or else, shall we say, we might risk for some blushes – on all four cheeks? And no one can forget that fragrant flower of a wild child wifelet of a rock star who floated around the Club in diaphanous silks. She stayed here many times, and after a champagne evening, she’d take me to Scott’s for supper. She took me to other places too. She once gave me a hairy leopard print scarf. The reference remains unclear, even today. Of course Home House is used to staging unusual and lavish events in style. My friend, Joan Rolls once booked a number of rooms to stage a ‘mis-en-scene’ affair to celebrate 100 years of the internationally renowned jewellery company, Van Cleef & Arplels where she styled several suites with ballet dancers, opera singers and the like with jewels of stratospheric cost (for some, of course) playing leading roles. A glittering night indeed. And who can forget our own Philippa Jones and myself armed with megaphones conducting excited HH members around Marylebone

sightseeing spots – the surgery of the Elephant Man’s doctor, the site of the first NCP car park, once an ornate church, a chic home once domicile to a Beatle and the still running, esoteric Theosophical Society which holds talks and events. In fact, so jovial and convivial was the event I, much to the delight of long-term member, Denise Shepherd, came up with the following to be sung to the tune of ‘The Lambeth Walk.’ Any evening, any day Whether straight or slightly gay You’ll find us all Doing the Mayrlebone Walk - Ooooh! We used to sing it with a feisty ferocity, much to the bemusement of homegoing denizens! Sebastian Horsley – a great friend, a fantastic talent who turned the air blue in the Home House poetry salons with his acidic observations on bores (anyone but him) and who once practically feigned death at one soirée held in the Great Drawing Room, so bored was he with this wellknown character’s readings. Dressed, never for the occasion in ruby red velvet, he juxtaposed this by once posing nude on the pavement. The contrast was marked for it highlighted a guiding principal. Home House once hosted the launch of my book ‘Gilbert & George – Obsessions and Compulsions.’ The artists came to sign, and I attached my signature too. Guests were buying handfuls of the autographed tomes – so many turning up on eBay the next day at vastly inflated prices. I never thought my scrawl would have attracted such interest! Then how can we forget Sushi Lady? Of course it must have been staged as a cultural event, some way of cementing further our bonds with old Nippon. A model was lying in the Vestibule Bar, House 21, naked but for sushi bullets and crispy(ish) Lollo Rosso resplendent on the three sites of her modesty. The fourth of course was out of sight. Chopsticks at the ready, the etiquette was to delicately lift the fishy bites from her skin and pop them in. Your mouth. And no... the salad leaves were not on the menu. Annie Lennox’s ‘Walking on Broken Glass’ video was filmed here starring Hugh Laurie, the boys from Kasabian donated one of their guitars for a Club charity auction, and a mother duck and her brood were continuously walking the Home House roofs and had to be rescued. I called the subsequent article, ‘Duck Off’. A waiter here was also a talented menswear designer, a bartender an enigmatic tattoo artist and one of the serving girls simply got her man – in the higher echelons of society, shall we say? The regular rehearsed readings of member Antony Zaki’s plays have featured talents such as Frances Barber, Issy van Randwyck, Simon Callow and Kulvinder Ghir. Resident Siren, Corliss (how can the world produce that much red dye?) blasts her way through sets that surely can be heard by those no longer alive. And once, back to me, I gave a fencing demonstration in a rose perfumed Eating Room shimmering with candlelight, the different bouts set to music – everything from Mozart to Lady Gaga... You know why you’re a member of Home House. At least, if you don’t, you do now!

TO CELEBRATE THE CLUB’S TWENTIETH ANNIVERSARY WE ASKED A FEW OF OUR AMAZING MEMBERS TO SHARE THEIR MEMORIES... “Home House is a place in London where I feel most comfy doing interviews, or having meetings or simply having a delicious meal with friends. There’s something about the building that lends an informal importance to everything. In fact, most of my ‘green light’ moments have happened there, so actually, it is a lucky place for me.”

Dawn French

“I’m very happy to say I’ve always loved the club. It probably has the most beautiful interior of any club in London. And I love the outdoor dining possibilities the garden affords of a summer. I also admire the fact it has resisted the temptation to go global or put a pool on the roof!”

ANGUS DEAYTON

Home House is where I met my wife, where we had our engagement party. Home House has always been somewhere I could enjoy myself and find solitude if I wished. It is my Home from Home.

Ross Kemp

Home House

Harry Enfield

“Home House has been my second home for the best part of 20 years now. I have seen it grow from its early days when Brian Clivaz roamed the place like an avuncular Georgian Gentleman, complementing the architecture of the rooms he wafted through in his fine attire to the bustling hive of activity it is today. I am usuallythetattiestmemberof the club, coming in as I do most days in my scooter anorak to visit the gym and ride the Bicycle to Nowhere or be slave driven by Little Jon. I love the gym, I miss Big John preening himself in the mirror and Christo the gentle giant, on whom I based the voice of a character called Pik in my TV show, and I miss Guy Ritchie and his mates coming in and yelling the place to bits with their larks and laughter. All the weight I lose in the gym I regain in the eateries. I’ve had so many fun lunches outside in the summer or at the window in the restaurant overlooking Portman Square, or in the Bison Bar, where I like to take the more idiotic of my pals so they don’t bring the rest of the establishment down to their ghastly level… I love Home House.”

Jonathon Minoli Minoli – Italian Porcelain, based in Marylebone, have been hosting launch parties in Home House since 2010 as well as asking the Home House team to cater for outside events. Minoli typically hold three to four client functions each year, all either within Home House or catered externally by the events team, manged by Claudia Cledwyn (Home House Head Of Events). The culmination of the years’ work is very much the annual Minoli Home House Preview, which is held each December. This has now become very much a feature of the calendar for London’s Developers and Designers, with invitations much sought after. Minoli MD Jonathon, a Home House member for over 10 years says “we feel that Home House is simply the perfect venue to host our launch events and client parties, we even have the same team cater for our showroom based evenings. It is a pleasure to work with Claudia and her team and to be associated with the wonderful people at Home House.”

“Home House has a great atmosphere in a luxurious yet relaxed environment. If you want privacy, then you can get that. At the same time, the club has a real buzz to it! The members are really diverse, so it also provides a great forum for networking across industries from finance to fashion. Perfect!

townhouse, it has been lavishly decorated, the art pieces are just extraordinary and the collections on display have got better over time. The look and feel of Home House is really elegant. It works for all occasions – I can hold strategic business meetings here, enjoy a relaxing gin and tonic in the garden or host a fun night out with girlfriends.

When I first joined Home House, it hosted a couple of events. Now, many more events are held across a broad spectrum of topics and throughout the year; this makes for a really interesting events programme for the members to enjoy and adds real value to being a member. Over the years, the client service has gone from strength to strength and is now second to none. I love that. Putting the client at the heart of a business is very important to me so when I get that treatment elsewhere, it means a lot.

My favourite memory was the SS16 photo shoot I did for my collection in the Drawing Room. The room is a stunning period room full of grandeur. I was wearing a dusty pink dress and the whole setting felt like a fairy tale. It was perfect!

I would say the biggest change has been to the interior. Inside this wonderful Georgian

Lucy Choi

I would like to say a huge thank you for all of the wonderful memories I have from spending time at the club. Also, a big thank you for the bespoke and outstanding client service the entire Home House team consistently delivers. I look forward to the next 20 years of being a member and many more happy and fun times at the House! Happy celebrating!!”

Home House

NICKI CHAPMAN “Well happy 20th anniversary Home House! We can’t imagine London without you. Being one of your founder members, I’ve had so many wonderful experiences under your roof over the years. From witnessing a top music publisher signing a huge deal with a band at your bar (we all joined in with the champagne) to a dear friend looking for his future wife and spending many an entertaining weekend watching his progress – and happy to report they’ve now been married for over 12 years.

Photo Credit: Edward T. Cooke, WMA

From summer nights sitting in the Garden sipping Pimms to gossipy lunches in the Drawing Rooms to writing up TV ideas and treatments, or celebrating my 50th with my nearest and dearest – Home House truly does feel like my second home.”

concept behind Home House I was a little confused. We had all known traditional ‘clubs’ and what they did and didn’t do. I’d had a stand-up row in one old club in the late 90s, can you believe, about

whether or not a woman should be allowed to wear trousers. We had

also just been allowed to enter the old club through the front door. Yep, that was the state of affairs when Home House was proposed.

And what a joy it’s been. Somewhere ‘alive’, trendy, a place which

sees women and men as equals. It’s a beautiful place with a sense of excitement, stunning food and service.

My early memories were particularly walking into the Drawing

Rooms on the first floor to have coffee and do some interviews

for the national newspapers. Yoko Ono was on the next sofa, and people looked so casually glamorous. It was a pleasure to be there. It genuinely was as though the new millennium with new thoughts had

arrived. Since then I’ve enjoyed probably one or two drinks too many

in the garden. When a friend now says ‘where shall I meet you?’ and one of us says ‘Home House?’, a warm but tingly feeling comes over me knowing that it’s going to have a touch of glamour and the service will be second to none.

Happy Birthday Home House, long may you continue to shine.”

Home House

Carol Vorderman

“Brian Clivaz was an old friend and when he tried to explain the

Lenny Henry

Photo Credit: Jack Lawson

I REMEMBER HAVING A BIRTHDAY PARTY IN ONE OF THE FUNCTION ROOMS, ABOUT 30 PEOPLE AT A TABLE AND THEY’D ORGANISED AN AWARDWINNING CHOIR TO SAUNTER IN AND SING FOUR SONGS. IT WAS BRILLIANT. LIKE BEING IN CHURCH BUT HAVING LOVELY HOME HOUSE FOOD AND DRINK ACCOMPANY THE EXPERIENCE.

Daniel Galvin

What are your favourite memories of being in the House? I’ve been a member of Home House for many years now and often pop-in since it is only round the corner from my salon on George Street. Some of my favourite memories about Home House are thanks to the countless number of Sunday Roasts I have had in the restaurant with my family. A particular memory I have is of the most delicious Rib of Beef carved by a man I like to refer to as Mr T! Why do you enjoy coming to Home House? Apart from the great location, I love the atmosphere of Home House. We often have team ‘power meetings’ over breakfast in the restaurant as it’s the perfect place for us to catch-up and brainstorm without being disturbed. Who is the most surprising person you have met in the House? It would have to be Madonna. She was having her house renovated at the time so she was staying at the club, and I bumped into her having breakfast one morning! How do you see the relationship between Home House and Daniel Galvin? I see the relationship between the two continuing to prosper – we both offer luxury services in the heart of London, and I think demand for quality will remain. I will certainly continue to visit the club, as will my family – it’s part of our tradition now. Congratulations to Home House and here is to another 20 years!

“Home House is such a wonderful place to catch up with old friends. They are always so charmed by the place and impressed that I can get them in. In some ways, this story starts in 1967 when I recorded some voice for a TV series called The Prisoner starring Patrick McGoohan. The show went on to be a huge cult success. So much so that in 2005 I was invited to where it had been filmed, Portmeirion in North Wales, to unveil a blue plaque to honour The Prisoner, but also it had my name on it. So that was lovely. There were lots of fans of the show for the whole event – whatever that was, I don’t quite remember, but what I do remember very clearly was meeting a couple called

Bruce and Cathy. They were Americans who had come all the way from New York for the occasion. We got chatting and then ‘bonded’ over coffee ice cream. We met up in subsequent years in London – meetings that often revolved around ice cream. One venue was Fortnum & Mason’s, but the most recent was Home House and, of course, Bruce and Cathy were enchanted by the Music Room and found it as delightful as I always do. But would the ice cream served there meet with the approval of my overseas guests? If you’ve ever had the ice cream in Home House you’ll know there was no question of it not. They were stunned. We’ve never met in the same place twice for ice cream, but that could change next year.”

Photo Credit: Etienne Gilfillan

Home House

Denise Shepherd “Home House will always be the party House that is warm and welcoming, however to me the heart of Home House has always been the people, and the people are the heart of Home House. My first visit was as a guest of The Twenty Club who hold five dinners a year in the magnificent Front Parlour. I will never forget walking into House 20 and feeling that wow moment looking up at the stunning staircase and being told the history of this unique place and feeling the special spirit of warmth that Home House exudes.

As a woman from a different city, it became another home where as soon as I walked through the entrance it made me feel safe and secure. Caroline King (MD at the time), Joel Williams and the Home House family always made me feel so welcome whether with clients, friends, family or having a drink just by myself. One particular member, Robin Dutt, continues to embody the personality of the house and is a unique individual who never fails to delight with stories and intrigue. Over the years the House has given me so many incredible, special and wonderful moments and memories which will be cherished forever. However, more importantly to me, she has given back the gift of lifetime friendships and happiness. This is the legacy of the Countess of Home. Thank you always Home House, Andrew and the team who continue to be part of creating the magical and unique atmosphere that is Home House and for the hospitality and family welcome you give to us. I look forward to the next twenty years.”

One of my fondest memories of Home House was when it was being renovated prior to being turned into a club, and we shot Annie Lennox’s video Walking On Broken Glass there. It was an amazing video and, of course, Home House turned into an amazing club. Since then I have enjoyed so many wonderful evenings there celebrating and spending time with good friends. I remember attending lots of parties there back in the day and it was always a great time.

Simon Fuller

David Heslop

Home House

“I joined Home House as a founding member, having seen early themes and ideas from Brian Clivaz. The early indications were that Home House would be, literally, ‘your home from home in London’ but with the panache and atmosphere of a first-class luxury club: meticulous attention to decor, helpful and friendly service and great food, all in the wonderful and historic buildings of 20 Portman Square.

The club has always provided a wide range of activities and events with careful balance. There will always be something for everyone’s taste at Home House which, again, is a differentiator from the less diverse offerings of other London clubs. The club excels at celebrating the various seasons and extending the UK’s diverse sports and cultural events be it Wimbledon tennis, rugby, theatre, poetry, business, art festivals, or music.

The early days following the club’s opening were to a degree, experimental, with wine lists, menus, and club rules all under trial. Dress code for members was totally relaxed, but the staff wore elegant club uniforms. The members were and remain a wonderfully eclectic mix of individuals from diverse backgrounds. This is one of the defining pleasures of Home House. One can meet the great and good from all walks of life, reflecting the very nature of cosmopolitan London. One early and perhaps tongue in cheek guideline was that ‘nudity was to be discouraged but not forbidden!’ A good thing for the occasional overzealous party goer, perhaps attending one of the infamous Home House members’ party nights?

Home House is never totally predictable, another observation that endears one to the club. One quiet morning I was in the Bison Bar (coffee only), until the coaching session for making cocktails and bar logistics began. Well, someone had to taste the product of the young bar staff seeking to make that perfect Bloody Mary or Dry Martini... Home House is celebrating 20 years of bringing pleasure to its members and guests. It’s ever transforming to reflect changing tastes and expectations, yet always true to its original purpose. I wish Home House well and look forward to sharing many more cultured, crazy and enjoyable days together.”

What was Home House like when you first joined? I became a member of Home House shortly after it opened. Home House very quickly became the place to go for .com deals. Such deals and meetings were taking place in every nook and cranny of the building. Visitors seemed to be queuing up to meet their .com heroes pitching deal after deal. Each deal better than the one before. Then the bubble burst. The original owners sold and life settled down in the House. What are your favourite memories of being in the House? My favourite time at Home House is in the restaurant for breakfast. If you want to have a quiet, non-visible meeting, the breakfast room is the best in London. The service is brilliant and very smooth with great food. The team seem to know what regulars want to eat which makes it special. Who is the most surprising person you have met in the House? I had breakfast with Lord Coe just after the Olympics and everyone in the room stared! I also hosted a group from New Orleans who were here for the NFL games. They enjoyed it so much that they wanted to join there and then (they were very raucous and funny though). Do you have anything you would like to say about Home House celebrating our 20th anniversary? It’s great that Home House has now reached its twentieth anniversary and still looks as fresh and dynamic as it was when it opened. There is still demand for membership and all the rooms are well used. I held a Sunday lunch for my wife’s birthday last November in the private rooms on the ground floor. All the guests commented on what a great time they had (of course that’s down to my wife). That is great testament to the Chef and the whole events team.

Ffion Hague What special memories do you associate with Home House? The parties! We have hosted many parties for special occasions there, including events to mark my husband’s and my own first book launches. My book was published in summer, and the guests spilled out into the garden after dinner where the partying carried on into the small hours. It was magical. Who is the most surprising person you have met in the House? The most surprising by a long way was a childhood friend of mine I had not seen for 20 years! It’s a small world when you’re a member of Home House.

HARVEY GOLDSMITH

Why did you join Home House and what keeps you coming back? I joined because one of the founding directors explained that the board was trying to set a look and a culture that worked equally well for men and women in business. I thought that was a laudable aim, and filled a real gap in the market at the time. Home House was stunningly successful in fulfilling the goal and has always worked brilliantly for me and my female friends, both as a place of work and as a social venue. Sadly, 20 years on it is still one of the few places that strikes the right tone… It has been a privilege and a pleasure to see Home House evolve over the years into such a vital part of London’s social and business life. Congratulations to the team on reaching this milestone, and here’s to the next 20 years!

Home House

Why did you decide to join Home House? In one word: Fun. I joined Home House nine years ago. I remember my first time going to Home House and thinking “This is how adults should socialise”. Everything was so beautiful and sophisticated without being pretentious. I called the next day and asked about becoming a member. At that time I was only living in London for one year, and I was unsure if I wanted to stay. However, when I joined Home House I truly felt as if I had found my tribe...a home. There has not been a time at the club where I have not been laughing and meeting new people.

Cecilia Harvey

Has Home House changed you and your life in any way? Home House has changed my life in 3 significant ways: (1) Home House was a key reason why London began to feel like home. I would probably have moved back to New York if I did not find a circle of friends and the social network I found at Home House. (2) I decided to start my own business, WalkingRed, after having a few conversations with members in the Drawing Rooms. (3) Another major change was that I would not have my dog, Norman. In the Bison Bar, after quite a few drinks, another member convinced me to get a miniature dachshund and recommended the breeder. I cannot imagine

life without Norman and everyone at the club loves seeing him. What are your favourite memories of being in the House? My best memory is probably my first Spring Party. I only planned to go for an hour then all of a sudden it was 3am. Every room was transformed into this glamorous 1920s theme. Everyone looked amazing in fancy dress and my personal highlight was walking in a room and having a group of people greet me by singing, “Cecilia, you’re breaking my heart”. That made my night! Only at Home House could that happen.

Do you have anything you would like to say about Home House celebrating our 20th anniversary? 20 years of Home House is like opening a photo album of memories. At Home House there is always something new, something happening and something memorable. I am glad that I have been a Home House member during the most recent years in which there continues to be so many positive changes. The club has evolved into an amazing brand that has the ability to bring so many incredible people together to create something special. Thank you for creating a haven of fun and a truly one-of-a-kind experience.

“My husband joined Home House many years ago before I did and in fact took me on our first date here. Of course, I not only fell in love with him, but I also fell in love with Home House upon entering. The grandeur architecture and immense facilities blew my mind. I loved how I could have meetings in the day and then party in a safe and classy environment at night. Oh, and perhaps the fact we literally lived in the hotel suites every weekend for the last few years too – this was a huge yes when we joined. Some of my favourite memories would have to be at the Home House parties. Every time I go I meet new and diverse people, many of whom are now close friends of mine. I just love the glamorous themes and dressing up! I mean who doesn’t enjoy dressing up, right?! I’m so happy for Home House on this extra special anniversary and to have the opportunity to be a part of it. I love seeing Home House in the press as one of the top members clubs, because it is truly an exclusive private members’ club in Marylebone, which combines 18th century magnificence with 21st century style.”

Home House

CHRISTOPHER BIGGINS

Natasha Grano

“Home House is an exquisite building, full of exquisite people, having an exquisite time. I love the garden when the good weather arrives.

There is no better place to meet people after a drink and a bite to eat. It is simply gorgeous.”

S E J

N Raymond Blanc OBE

Home House has always been the pinnacle of style, and our members represent us well. Thus, it is only fitting that Dylan Jones, editor of GQ Magazine and the fashion biannual GQ Style, is one of our longstanding members. A man of impeccable style, class and fitness, Jones can often be found in the gym – he says that personal trainer Kieran Hassett is the best thing about our club. He’s there at least three times a week. Aside from the gym, Jones really enjoys the restaurant. “I used to go shooting a lot. I remember I kept some birds once, and I brought them up to the restaurant. We had Sunday lunch and they did a fantastic job with them.” Home House is celebrating its 20th anniversary, and Jones was one of the lucky few invited to the launch party. “God, it does feel like 20 years ago!” says Jones. “I’d never seen so much champagne in my life. It was a phenomenal party. It has taken me 20 years to get over it!” When asked to comment on the style of the men of Home House, he says that he’s only ever seen them with their clothes off (referencing, of course, his many hours spent in the gym and not the debauchery of our members!). “The house is an equal distance from my home and office – it’s perfect for me and I drop in most days. I love all the facilities and I’ve even celebrated a couple of book launches here and often come for lunch. Actually, we had an event here for ‘Men’s Week’ a couple of years ago which was very, very successful. So yes, we use the club a lot for both business and pleasure. It has great event spaces and it’s very grand. Long may it last!”

“I have been a member at Home House for almost 10 years. For me, Home House is the perfect escape, where grandeur meets with warmth and elegance. It is my second home, and most convenient as my own flat is just a short walk away. I have many fond memories from my time spent at Home House, and I have also entertained many friends and business partners there over the years. What I love the most are the spacious, relaxing areas throughout the House. It is also one of the best places in London for breakfast and, usually, I am lucky enough to be given one of the best tables overlooking the beautiful Portman Square gardens. As Chef Patron of Belmond Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, I am always working at the highest level of excellence, and I must say that I may not always be the most popular member with the team as I am obsessed with details and perfection! So I must thank the team for putting up with me! From a very happy member and friend of the House.”

Geri Halliwell

Photography: Darren Paul

My favourite memory at Home House is when I had an amazing party when Lift Me Up went to Number One in 1999! It was a great night.

Home House

Our Founder

Photography: Darren Paul

The Home House we know and love today didn’t come together overnight. It took years of planning and hefty financial support. Luckily, the then endangered and dilapidated building fell into the sights of possibly the best man for the job - Richard Farleigh.

“W

hen Prince Charles attended the opening of Home House, I said to him ‘Well, it took an Aussie to fix up this building!’” reminisces Farleigh. But what a undertaking it was. Farleigh and business partner Brian Clivaz were definitely worried pre-launch about their investment. They knew failure was at least a 50/50 risk. “We spent so much to do up this place,” said Farleigh. “Brian managed to break an unlimited budget. He was so in love with this place, he would buy something just to go in the corner for thousands.” Many people warned them about how much money they could lose; a club across Oxford Street would never work. “It was pretty dead around here, Portman Square wasn’t very lively,” explains Farleigh. “Back in the mid-90s it was all about Mayfair.” And the club indeed had a pretty rocky start. Home House opened six months late. They had problems getting warm food from down in the kitchen up to the restaurant. “Suddenly, one day you have 100 people who have never worked together ever, trying to work in a beehive – it was all over the place,” says Farleigh. “Home House actually started to get a bad reputation for service. You would go in there, order a cup of tea and get a glass of wine, or nothing at all!” But something unusual happened. The reputation of bad service actually attracted some of the early patrons. “People started to say,

Home House

From Down Under ‘You have to go and try this place, it’s just like Fawlty Towers’. People couldn’t believe you could come here, it was chaos all over the place,” says Farleigh. He’s not sure if it was a major factor in the success of the club, but it certainly got people talking. Farleigh takes credit for a few things: putting up most of the money, which he feels is the hardest part, insisting there was no dress code, and including lots of women. “I was living in Bermuda and going to New York a lot, and when I came to London I couldn’t believe how stuffy it was,” says Farleigh. “So a big thing for me was no dress code. Our motto was, and still is, ‘nudity discouraged!’.” We also wanted to encourage women to join and to make the club a comfortable place for women to come without fear of harassment. “I got plenty of things wrong, but those are the things I view were right,” says Farleigh. However, Home House took more than just one man with a dream, and Farleigh acknowledges what he calls a sort of ‘dream team’ as a main reason for the success of the club. “I was a major investor, but the second investor was a lovely guy named Jamil who knew a lot about construction. And we had two guys from Chez Gerard who knew about the food side, Brian who knew about the restaurant side, and Stephen Winston and David Norwood on finance,” says Farleigh. Together, they revived the storied past of Home House. “After two years, this beautiful building we inhabit today started to emerge. The whole restoration, inch by inch, was like watching a butterfly come out of a cocoon,” says Farleigh. After the initial opening, they thought they had made a mistake. Then things started to fall into place. Madonna had a stay in the private bedrooms. Then they hosted the Brit Music Awards party. There is even a story about Bill Clinton; “he arrived after closing hours and the licensing was very strict,” says Farleigh, and so they had to turn him away. Having done 90 startups, Farleigh felt “this was the one that was the most satisfying, that even if it failed, I would walk away feeling accomplished”. Farleigh reluctantly sold the club in 2004, but felt that there is often a natural progression when running a business, and he knew it was the right time to sell. “Sometimes it is better to let someone else take it to the next level,” he explains. But a little bit of Farleigh will live on in the club forever. When designing the logo, he explained to partner Brian Clivaz that he didn’t want anything too effeminate or too English. “I wanted something modern, not a stodgy thing,” says Farleigh. In his original idea, Clivaz didn’t quite receive the message. “The logo, and I laugh about this with Brian, was an ornate teapot! I told him I hated it, he came back with the crocodile.” They knew it was meant to be. “Home House is the project I’ve been most proud of. Cedric will always be a lasting nod to my Aussie heritage,” says Farleigh. It will also be a lasting nod to the force that brought this historic home back from the brink and gave us the last 20 years of absolute fun.

JON TREANOR REFLECTS ON 20 YEARS OF HOME HOUSE... BACK IN THE DAY 1998 was quite an extraordinary year in one way or another: technology was being taken seriously and rapidly becoming a hot investment proposition, e-commerce was showing signs of maturing and beginning to scale, and the Nasdaq index of leading technology shares was heading north, creating what was to become known as the Dotcom bubble. Google was founded and Apple unveiled the iMac! It was a time when the talk became bigger than the walk. T-shirted entrepreneurs were courted by greedy venture capitalists (VCs), their nearly obsolete ties rapidly stuffed into bulging suit pockets. Viagra was approved by the FDA and many VCs could be unconsciously seduced and lured by the promise of a land full of milk and honey. These seemingly unconnected events provided the perfect backdrop for the opening of what was to become one of London’s most talked about and successful private members’ clubs. It was a fortunate time for me, simply by being in the right place at the right time back then. The CEO of a hot new technology start up, I had just secured investment from a particularly shrewd private investor whose investment nous and vision was to become part of Home House folklore. A somewhat casual reference was made to the opening of a different venture of his. Richard Farleigh and David Norwood’s invitation came verbally: “I’m opening a new private club in London, come and check it out”. Not being one to look a gift horse in the mouth, I rocked up all those 20 years ago to 20 Portman Square, having a different interpretation in my imagination of what a private members’ club might be. The club it turned out to be was, of course, Home House. It was love at first sight. The opening of the club set the stage for a unique blend of professions, cultures and egos that normally would not be seen dead together. The rich, the famous (I recall dining in the restaurant with Pierce Brosnan at the table to my right and Boy George at the table to my left!). The smart and the greedy rubbed shoulders, mingled and

broke bread together, all seeking to be seen, heard or valued. It was quite simply ‘the’ place to be. Under the gaze of the ebullient overseer Brian ‘Mein Host’ Clivaz, it could not have been received more favourably. The staff seemingly knew that something exciting was unfolding, and we all became part of what would become the place to be in London. Back then, Home House was simply 20 Portman Square: a private members’ club where money met opportunity and where celebrity met, well, celebrity. Home House for me 20 years ago became home from home, my London base, much as it remains today. For the first 3 to 4 years, I stayed overnight at the house 3 to 4 times per week, often taking a suite to hold meetings and present my business to potential investors. However, ‘back in the day’ things at Home House were not always rosy. The experience often resembled a visit to Fawlty Towers rather than a slick new private members’ club. Service was so poor back then it became a standing joke. Order lunch after breakfast and it might just arrive on time! In the early days, the rooms were slow to take off; after all it was a club not a hotel. David Norwood often joked that among the hundreds of deals conducted at the House in the early years, the deal I struck on a fixed room rate over two years was one of the best deals ever made for me rather than them! As most members come to experience, Home House is a special place. It’s multifaceted, chameleon-like ability still appeals to so many cross sections of society who still mingle, gossip, do business, party and have fun. Under refreshed management ten years ago, the House has retained much of its unique culture and continues to build improvements and grow into an even more appealing club of which to be a member. For me though, as a long-standing member, Home House remains home from home and that takes some doing, let alone sustaining!

For me though, as a long-standing member, Home House remains home from home and that takes some doing, let alone sustaining!

Home House

PARTY LIKE IT’S

1998 W

hat does it take to throw a memorable party? In the last 20 years, Home House has hosted some of the most riotous parties in London. We’ve sold over 300,000 bottles of champagne and we’ve hosted over 23,000 magnificent private events, over 7,000 fabulous members events and 40 of our all-encompassing, outrageous members parties. The history of the House features some pretty impressive characters, and we have been welcoming them in ever increasing numbers since Home House itself was launched back in 1998. The House was built, as many of you might know, for the Countess of Home. She was the biggest character of all, having been nicknamed ‘The Queen of Hell’, as well as being married twice already (we’re talking Brad/Jen/Angelina levels of scandal here – it was the 1770s after all). After her second marriage, she was as wealthy as she was childless (i.e. totally), so she made the best decision a single woman can do – she partied. She partied so much that she decided she needed another house to party in. And so Home House was built. After commissioning James Wyatt to build the House, she lived up to her nickname and replaced him with his competitors Robert and James Adam. Since then, we have housed spies, sailors and suitors. Artists, academics and even Annie Lennox have partied in these rooms (take a look at the Walking on Broken Glass video to recognise our immeasurable staircase). Until 1996, we were on World Monuments Watch List of 100 most endangered sites. That’s right – the Home House that you know and love today was as endangered as a sober guest in House 21. Then we were taken over by a different type of Queen – The Queen of Clubs, Mr Brian Clivaz. Brian opened his little black book for the launch party and so restarted the party house that had been dormant for so many years.

Home House

Champagne filled every glass, men suited and booted themselves silly, and women dripped themselves with diamonds. The event was a resounding success, and it’s fair to say we have been on the up ever since. We are constantly asked of our celebrity status, but of course we couldn’t kiss and tell (well, not in print, at least…). We can only say that over the years we have welcomed a certain footballer and his marvellous right foot (his left foot was pretty impressive too, actually).

Then there was the pop princess who married her Rockstar boyfriend in 2002. There is no doubt she wowed everyone in her pink ombre dress designed by John Galliano for Dior. A certain punk Dame has shown her new collection here and a British fashion brand with the perfect brown check hosted their celebratory reception with us. And who could forget a certain mother of dragons paying us a visit, or the time a comedian hosted his Big Fat Party of the Year… yes, we sure do have a lot to shout about. There are, of course, the guests we have worked with who aren’t famous. Their parties may not have made the cover of OK! but are still just as magical – from corporate, sunny parties in Portman Square to stunning weddings in the Front Parlour and Eating Room. One of our firm favourites was the engagement that simply had to feature

a snow machine (which now comes out every year at Christmas), and we’re also pretty partial to the secret screenings of our favourite films and after parties where the glitterati celebrated their awards in private. Over the years we have welcomed hundreds of Christmas parties where we’re sure there was plenty to discuss at the watercooler the following day. Let’s face it – if you want to host a party, we’re here to pour the champagne... …And don’t tell anyone, but this is never truer than at our own infamous members parties. We love our weekly members events, but these big parties are where we really shine. It’s our thank you to you, our wonderful members, and a chance for you to see a glimmer of what The Queen of Hell created all those years ago. We’ve had a naughty Marie Antoinette on a bed in the Drawing Rooms, The Queen in the Front Parlour, Gorillas appearing from the mist in the Eating Room and even Whitney in the bathroom. Which other members club would you find Neon pixies, Kurt Cobain with a shotgun and more Drag Queens than you can shake a stilettoed heel at? So, make sure you book your place at our humongous 20th Anniversary Party taking place on Friday 3rd August 2018. Which leaves us with the one thing we’ve learned (and proven) over 245 years of entertaining – we’re one Hell of a venue.

MASTER

Chef Introducing our new Executive Chef, Sophie Michell

ontinuing our mission to be the leading members club in the UK, we are thrilled to welcome one of the UK’s finest chefs to the team. Sophie Michell shares our vision to offer members and their guests only the highest quality food, freshest produce and widest variety of menus that appeal to everyone in the club, with the aim to raise the bar on restaurant standards in the industry as a whole. It is a rarity to have a female executive chef, especially in a leading members club, and is another example of how Home House is defying the trends by recruiting the best talent and more senior women in the workforce. Top chef and food writer Sophie Michell has over 20 years of cheffing experience behind her, having trained at the respected Butler’s Wharf Chef School in London while working and training at reputable and glamorous restaurants Le Gavroche, Michelin-starred Greenhouse, The Lanesborough and The Embassy. From 2013 to 2016, Sophie headed up the restaurant at the Belgraves Hotel, becoming the UK’s youngest female Executive Chef. To date, Sophie has released seven cookbooks, including the bestselling Irresistible, Cook Yourself Thin, Fabulous Food and Love Good Food. Sophie has also starred in a long list of TV cooking shows including Cook Yourself Thin, Saturday Kitchen, Sunday Brunch, Market Kitchen, Comic Relief, Iron Chef USA and MasterChef to name a few. Alongside a long list of prestigious restaurants, Sophie has also

Home House

worked privately for the likes of Claudia Schiffer and Leonardo DiCaprio, catered for high profile events such as The Royal Polo and cooked for Prince William and Prince Harry at Lord Lloyd Webber’s estate. In recent years, Sophie has run demonstrations and cooked at some of the country’s most prestigious food festivals including Padstow Food Festival, Jamie Oliver’s Big Feastival and The Dorset Seafood Festival, to name a few, and plans to take Home House on the road this year cooking at Smoked and Uncut at The Pig. Sophie will also be overseeing all of the private parties and events at Home House including our Supper Clubs and a new series of members events that welcomes renown guest chefs to the House. We caught up with the delightful Sophie to ask her about her vision at Home House: “The menus at Home House are so important. It is a home away from home, a place of business and party venue for our members, so the food has to cover all the bases from hedonistic to healthy. I love creating menus and I find looking at the guest’s experiences from breakfast to late night bar food really exciting. I am planning to slowly start rolling out new dishes in all of the dining areas and evolve the existing menus over the next 6 months, so I hope members keep coming back to experience my new twists on Home House classics. It is really important to me to use the finest artisan and preferably locally sourced ingredients in my menus to produce dishes that are full of flavour.”

JOIN US FOR A MAGICAL, MINDFUL RETREAT Enjoy sun, champagne and cocktails with 20% off the booking fee when you join us as a guest on a Santipurna sailing retreat

AN EXCLUSIVE INVITE FOR HOME HOUSE MEMBERS In an age where stress is a daily part of our routines, it’s difficult to remember a time of true relaxation. Our minds are always rushing ahead to the next task, the next meeting, the next bill, and the constant stress wreaks havoc on our overall wellbeing. We have forgotten how to switch our brains off and to simply enjoy the world around us, as we’re so focused on the ‘what ifs’ and ‘what’s next’.

ESCAPE

DISCOVER

ENJOY

Take time out for yourself with Santipurna Sailing Retreats. We invite you to escape the worries of work and routine by stepping out for a week or two to reflect, review and improve your overall way of life.

How you spend your days as you explore the Mediterranean with Santipurna Sailing Retreats is up to you. We believe in putting the choice of discovery in your hands to ensure that you’re taking the retreat your mind and body needs most.

As Home House members, we offer an exclusive special. Join us on a 2018 retreat and enjoy Moet and Chandon champagne on arrival, complimentary evening cocktails and a fabulous 20% discount on your retreat. For further information, please contact: hello@santipurna.com

WE ALSO OFFER PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT RETREATS BASED ON DEVELOPING INDIVIDUAL EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE IN EXECUTIVE LEADERSHIP

Italian porcelain tiles For the designer, for the developer, for you

71-73 George Street | Marylebone | W1U 8AQ www.minoli.co.uk

THE SURFACE WITHINTM

HOME

Eclect Design House Doctor Game Brass Wall Lamp Add a touch of Scandinavian design with this brass coated wall lamp from the Danish interior brand House Doctor, £110. www.eclectdesign.com

DÉCOR Charlotta Billström’s selection of interior décor to brighten up any space

The Rug Company Festival Rug by Paul Smith The Rug Company has partnered up with Paul Smith and created a vibrant collection, drawing on the legendary British designer’s trademark colourful stripes, from £1,987. www.therugcompany.com

Chaplins Moooi Dandelion Floor Lamp Inspired by the dandelion plant this lamp transmits an explosive feeling of energy in motion, reaching towards us from its centre, and is sure to brighten up any space, £2,385. www.chaplins.co.uk

Home House

Modern Rugs Villa Nova Haldon Ochre Rug This geographically patterned wool rug adds warmth to any room with its ochre yellow colour, from £725. www.modern-rugs.co.uk

Cloudberry Living &Tradition Flowerpot VP1 Brass Pendant

Persora House Doctor Lamp

The Flowerpot pendant has become a modern classic, inspired by the flower power movement of the 60s and 70s meeting the modernist creative movement, £219.

This unique design combines coffee table, floor and table lamp in one stylish and minimalist piece of furniture, £325. www.persora.com

www.cloudberryliving.co.uk

Staffan Tollgård Design Store Kymo Dune Rug The German rug maker Kymo is dedicated to leaving a positive mark on the world – “the mark of something that is innovative, genuine, and simply great” – and this low pile pearl rug in a fiery orange is a perfect example of that, from £1,550. www.tollgard.co.uk

Grace and Glory Brass Swing Wall Lamp This wall lamp has both an adjustable arm and bulb, making it possible for you to aim the light exactly where you need it, £188. www.graceandgloryhome.co.uk

Där Lighting Group Aurelia 15 Light Bar Pendant A stunning 15-piece cluster of pendants in high shine electro plated glass shades in copper, dark copper and bronze, £359. www.darlighting.co.uk

INTRODUCING: THE BREATHTAKING AQUASYMPHONY BY GROHE AquaSymphony is not a shower - it’s a wellness zone, a place where water takes on a life of it’s own. AquaSymphony plays with water, creating ever-changing liquid harmonies. Just imagine the pleasure that awaits you.

GROHE.CO.UK

Betak: Fashion Show Revolution Alexandre de Betak & Sally Singer Hardcover: 292 Pages Enter the world of high fashion with Betak, the creative legend who produced many of the fashion world’s most memorable shows and events, £70. www.phaidon.com

Porsche Milestones Hardcover: 224 Pages Take a look through this title to explore the history of Porsche from the legendary 1948 Porsche 356 to the latest 911, making this a spellbinding read for all Porsche enthusiasts, £45. Annie Leibovitz: Portraits 2005-2016 Annie Leibovitz Hardcover: 316 Pages In this new collection from Annie Leibovitz, one of the most influential photographers of our time, her iconic portraits and photographs are showcased within this stunning title, £85. www.phaidon.com

www.teneues-books.com

BOOK SMARTS From fast cars to enchanting cities, Christina Raptis compiles a collection of the latest coffee-table showstoppers

Jamie Hewlett Julius Wiedemann Hardcover: 424 pages Ultimate Toys for Men Michael Brunnbauer Hardcover: 256 Pages From the Italian luxury sports car to the Swiss chronograph, this title showcases the ultimate collection of the best, most exclusive and most luxurious toys for men, £65. www.teneues-books.com

One of the most energetic figures of contemporary pop culture, Jamie Hewlett’s creative journey from the legendary Tank Girl to an exhibition at the Saatchi Gallery, is illustrated within his first major monograph, £40. www.taschen.com

Hollywood Royale Matthew Rolston Hardcover: 278 Pages Well-established icon of Hollywood photography, Matthew Rolston’s innovative photographic techniques and iconic portraits are beautifully captured in this title, £80. www.teneues-books.com

Love That Burns A Chronicle of Fleetwood Mac Volume One: 1967–1974 Mick Fleetwood Hardcover: 304 Pages This official limited edition chronicle, documented by founding member Mick Fleetwood, contains over 400 rare images and an original manuscript with exclusive contributions from early Fleetwood Mac band members, £325.

The Ferrari Book Passion for Design Michel Zumbrunn, Charles Blunier, Jürgen Lewandowsk & Michael Köckritz Hardcover: 416 pages

www.genesis-publications.com

Ferrari is synonymous with aesthetics, elegance, and trend-setting design; this luxurious title traces the evolution of Ferrari and lets readers experience the passion of the brand, £80. www.teneues-books.com

New York. Portrait of a City Reuel Golden & Robert Nippoldt Hardcover: 428 pages This incredible collection pays tribute to the architectural, civic, social, and photographic heritage of the Big Apple from the building of the Brooklyn Bridge to the magnificent Art Deco skyscrapers, £30. www.taschen.com

Venice Serge Ramelli Hardcover: 176 Pages An ode to Venice and all its charm – French photographer Serge Ramelli beautifully captures the city’s well-known sites and areas off the beaten path in breathtaking colour photography, £50. www.teneues-books.com

Home House

A man of

STYLE &

SUBSTANCE Christina Raptis speaks with design expert and founder of Martin Kemp Design, Martin Kemp about the world of design from interiors, architecture, yachts and private jets...

Hi Martin, you were the creative brains behind the design of our superb Bison Bar. What was your inspiration? This was a long time ago now, Home House wanted more open space and better seating, a slightly more cohesive feel without losing any of the existing mood.

Do you ever struggle with coming up with new ideas? No never. I am regularly stimulated by many things and see ideas in pretty much everything; it’s a matter of shuffling things about or reimagining them. I have the type of mind that is continually challenging itself unfortunately…

What is the difference when designing commercial property versus private property? Budgets are significantly different per sq/ft; private homes are always a lot higher. The brief is usually more open and relaxed on our private homes whereas commercial projects need to be practical, durable, cost effective, and long lasting.

How long have you been a member at Home House? Which is your favourite room and why? I am not sure how long I’ve been using Home House, probably at least eight years now. It is hard to beat the first floor Drawing Rooms of number 20; what’s not to like about the spectacular plasterwork and glorious detailing?

The team you have at your own firm is a lot smaller than the one you worked with at Candy & Candy – do you prefer working in smaller or bigger teams? Currently I prefer a smaller studio as it allows a more hands-on approach and delivery from me, however I could happily take over the world too…

I AM REGULARLY STIMULATED BY MANY THINGS AND SEE IDEAS IN PRETTY MUCH EVERYTHING

How has your time in LA affected you on a creative level? With my former life in Los Angeles, I developed a sense of detail as well as a modern and young dynamic which was rare here in London at the time.

Do you think the American approach to design and aesthetic differs from British and European design? To my eye, the US has a greater affection for detail, providing one looks in the right places of course. Also, here we are weighed down a lot by our heritage and classicism where across the water we are free from many restrictions.

Do you have any memorable stories/ experiences about the club you can share? Probably not that I could put into print here… What do you do when you have time off work/how do you unwind? I usually take one of my classic cars out into the wilderness, head into the country at weekends and unwind, empty my head, walk/hike, cook good food and light a fire. Bliss.

What excites you about the future? Any big projects coming up? We have Clarges Mayfair completing soon, a large development in Monaco under way, a vast private home in Beijing and a spectacular apartment in New York amongst many projects in the studio at the moment. Also, we have three new superyachts coming into our sights as ‘new projects’. Developing a collection of exceptional home accessories remains a priority for the company; as a personal passion this is something I am putting a considerable amount of time into.

Home House

HOUSE

We learn about the unique art collection displayed around the house, curated in partnership with Lawrence Alkin Gallery, one of London’s finest contemporary art galleries in the heart of Soho

HOUSE 19

BISON BAR An array of the living-day titans of British Art: Damien Hirst, Peter Blake and Gavin Turk hardly need any introduction. Each artist has been championed in the international art world, and their work commands acclaim from gallerists, collectors and art critics alike. This uniquely British collection creates a dialogue between these great artists most evident in Blake’s Homage to Damien Hirst. While they each have their own distinctive style, they also compliment and build on each other, creating a rich selection as a whole. Price Range: £3,500 - £12,000

THE RESTAURANT This selection of highly regarded contemporary artists features the large introspective portraits of Dean Fox in the front room and a mixed salon hang of expressively stylistic portraits by Florian Eymann and Tom French in the garden room. Each artist, in their own style, seamlessly merges the use of academic, traditional portraiture with a decidedly contemporary style and technique. The Dean Fox works are on consignment from MethaBell Projects who have over twenty years of specialist industry experience ranging from blue-chip institutions to emerging global art scenes. Price Range: £1,000 - £25,000

STAIRCASE The Dazzle Alphabet is both nostalgic and contemporary, referencing Blake’s early Pop style within a progressive style framework. Exploring his recent experiments in ‘the dazzle effect’, a WWII aid for vessels in avoiding enemy detection, he transforms a functional combat practice into a unique aesthetic. In this limited edition portfolio, Blake depicts each letter of the alphabet composed against bold blocks of colour, which converge and intersect in layers of dazzling Pop perfection. Price: £14,500 for the set

HOUSE 21 THE VESTIBULE BAR Teresa Duck’s work combines formal realist painting with abstract elements, as well as working with sculpture and assemblage through which she explores ideas of identity, culture and philosophical concepts. Teresa’s work is inspired by Pop Art, in particular the work of British pop artists such as Peter Blake, as well as familiar objects from her North East upbringing: like the ice cream vans in her ‘Emperor of Ice Cream Van’ series. She wishes to create links through her work to elements of human experience, particularly by engaging with emotional experience and familiar physical objects which are related to themes of nostalgia, hope, pleasure, despair and mortality. Price Range: £1,400 - £4,000

HOUSE LOUNGE Gavin Turk is a significant British artist part of the Young British Artists group most known for his contemporary works addressing identity and authorship by often reworking past works from other artists. The neon door prints are a reference to Magritte’s painting ‘La Victoire’ except rendered in neon. The door can be a surreal gateway; an invitation to go somewhere – the other side, the imagination and to the great art alchemists of the past – a salute to Duchamp whose ‘11 Rue Larrey’ was a door that was never open or shut… Price: £1,310 each

GLOUCESTER LOUNGE Zheni Maslarova Warner experiments with an abstract narrative, accreting aspects of almost every style available to create a style that is uniquely her own. She surrounds herself with light and colour in the studio, and several years ago this resulted in a gallery owner noticing a customer looking behind her paintings trying to see where the hidden lighting came from. This idea triggered her to introduce a range of artificial lights onto the surface of her artwork to enhance the aesthetic. So far, she has used illuminated wire, light boxes with plexiglass, neon and other lights. Switch the lights on and you have a completely different painting. Price Range: POA

To inquire about any of the artworks in the House please email Philippa Jones philippa@homehouse.co.uk

or Charlie Smedley charlie.smedley@aspaceforart.com

SUITE DREAMS Ana Binz explores some of Home House’s former tenants and their bedrooms

very Home has a story – and if the walls of our rooms could talk, they’d have a lot to say. The Lady Islington Suite, for instance, would speak with a sensitive but powerful whisper. Lord and Lady Islington lived in the House between 1919 and 1926. London looked very different then – Fred and Adele Astaire were performing at Shaftesbury Avenue, the Empire Stadium (only called Wembley) was still being built, and the real Christopher Robin (from Winnie the Pooh) had just been born. Women over the age of 30 had just been given the right to vote and Coco Chanel was leading the way in fashion. It was a magical time when change was in the air. Lady Islington was one of a handful of pioneering female interior decorators in the inter-war years, and she redecorated much of Home House, removing the heavy accretions of the 19th Century with great flair. Her namesake bedroom is a beautiful pale green and white colour palette, but the bathroom is the pièce de résistance and shows that this Lady was not to be messed with. Fitted in 1922, its floor-to-ceiling red marble comes from the same source as St. Paul’s Cathedral. When light floods through the canopy above and hits the marble, you can almost imagine Lady Islington herself walking through draped in a delicate gown and dripping with diamonds. Lord and Lady Islington left the House in 1926, and over the next 70 years it was inhabited by various other residents. But in World War II,

Lady Islington

Home House

Lady Islington

there was one particularly unwelcome guest: a bomb which fell through the ceiling of the Lady Islington Suite bathroom but, thankfully, didn’t explode. Home House is one of the very few buildings on Portman Square which survived the Blitz – and the large crack in the marble floor of Lady Islington’s bathroom is a poignant reminder of this terrible period. Rumour has it, the House was originally made for the Countess of Home, both as a place to hold her parties and to house two full-length portraits of the Duke and Duchess of Cumberland painted by Gainsborough. Ever since then, the House has been well-known for its incredible architecture and stunning artwork. Between 1927 and 1932, the House was occupied by Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Courtauld. During this time Courtauld, an art dealer, stored French Impressionists and Cézannes in his stunning home, which eventually became a display space. The voice of the Courtauld bedroom would be elegant and unique – it’s definitely a decadent Art Deco den. The room is artistic and masculine, yet wonderfully stylish – much like the man himself. Courtauld gave himself freereign to redecorate the House and bedrooms. Throughout his stay, along with friends Peter Malacrida, Oliver Messel (Lord Snowdon’s uncle) and John Armstrong, he experimented throughout the House, designing various marble bathrooms and painting murals.

Over 10 years later, Home House became infamous for scandalous reasons. Anthony Blunt was a leading art historian and Director at the Courtauld Institute of Art – but he’s much more well-known for his confession to being a Soviet spy, one of the so-called ‘Cambridge Five’ with Kim Philby, Donald Duart Maclean, Guy Burgess and John Cairncross. Blunt was a fascinating man and it’s still not clear how the Cambridge scholar became a recruit of the Soviet Union. It was in his rooms, high above the gardens, that Philby, Burgess and Maclean mingled with academics, politicians and members of the Establishment, while a secret listening device was concealed by MI5 in the connecting wall between Home House and No. 21 Portman Square. The Anthony Blunt bedroom is located in House 20 and has striking mahogany furniture and an understated charm. It’s not as ornately decorated as some of our bedrooms, and we feel this reflects the previous occupants of the room. If Blunt’s bedroom could talk, perhaps it would keep quiet. Earl Grey is probably our most famous resident. The Earl had 16 children in total, including one illegitimately. So, if his walls could talk, I think we know exactly what they’d be saying… His legacy is the famous blend of tea that takes his name. Reputedly, he received a gift of tea flavoured with bergamot oil, probably as a diplomatic present. It became so popular, he asked British tea merchants to recreate it. He then named it after himself. Safe to say, he held himself in pretty high regard. These are just a handful of our famous residents. Our House is full of history, and we’re incredibly proud that their voices are all still here – in the chandeliers in the Drawing Rooms, in the murals in the Eating Room, and in every inch of marble in the bathrooms. Listen closely and you’ll hear them.

Anthony Blunt

Earl Grey

Courtauld

Earl Grey

Home House

URWERK UR-105 CT watch in titanium and mirror-polished steel with an openwork carousel, and self-winding system governed by twin turbines, £55,000.

PATEK PHILIPPE

www.urwerk.com

Men’s Grand Complication watch with manually wound split-seconds chronograph perpetual calendar in platinum with blue sunburst dial, POA. www.patek.com www.boodles.com

IT’S COMPLICATED... Azzy Asghar chooses a selection of exquisite timepieces for every occasion

GREUBEL FORSEY

CHOPARD

CHRISTOPHER WARD

Double Balancier watch in 5N red gold with hand-wound movement, transparent back and synthetic sapphire crystal, £280,000.

L.U.C Full Strike 18-carat watch in Fairmined rose gold, with an open worked dial, POA.

www.greubelforsey.com

www.chopard.com

C60 Trident Chronograph Pro 600 watch with marine-grade stainless steel case, waterresistant up to 600m, £1,530.

Home House

www.christopherward.co.uk

BREITLING

PIAGET

BULGARI

Hurricane 45 watch in Breitlight, with black and yellow dial on a military rubber strap, £6,680.

Altiplano watch in 18-carat white gold set with 88 brilliant-cut diamonds, POA.

Octo Tourbillon Sapphire – with flying tourbillon and 11 black DLC treated bridges, POA.

www.breitling.com

en.piaget.com

www.bulgari.com

HERMES

BAMFORD WATCH DEPARTMENT

AUDEMARS PIGUET

Heure-H PM watch in yellow gold on an orange double tour, £2,150.

Limited edition Bamford Mayfair watch in bright yellow with a leather strap, £425.

Royal Oak Double Balance Wheel Openworked watch with an 18-carat pink gold case, and openworked rhodium-toned dial, POA.

www.hermes.com

www.bamfordlondon.com

www.audemarspiguet.com

BOODLES

ROLEX

TAG HEUER

Raindance Pave Diamond White Gold watch featuring approximately 1.91-carat of round brilliant cut diamonds, £20,000.

Lady-Datejust 28 with 904L stainless steel case, pink dial and oyster bracelet, £4,650.

Link Quartz watch with blue mother of pearl dial, 32mm steel case, steel bezel set with 48 diamonds and steel s-shape bracelet, £2,900.

www.boodles.com

www.rolex.com

www.tagheuer.co.uk

Home House

D R E A M

W E D D I N G

A N D

P A R T Y

P L A N N I N G

Anna DĂŠ Dreams Bringing weddings and parties to life, creating original, bespoke and seamless events

www.annadedreams.com

anna@anna-de.com +44 (0)77 177 63 199

FLOWER POWER

Harry Winston Harry Winston Forget-MeNot Diamond Necklace in platinum, set with 177 pear-shaped, marquise, and round brilliant diamonds, POA.

Our selection of dazzling jewels inspired by the warmer seasons ahead

www.harrywinston.com

Dior Joaillerie Rose Dior Pré Catelan Earrings in pink gold, set with diamonds and pink quartz, £6,300. www.dior.com

Bulgari Flora Stud Earrings in yellow gold, set with sapphires and diamonds, £6,600. www.bulgari.com

Boodles

Chaumet

Blossom Ring featuring diamonds set in 18-carat gold, £2,200

Hortensia ‘Aube Rosée’ Earrings in pink gold, set with brilliant cut diamonds, cabochon-cut angel-skin opals, cabochon-cut pink opals and marquise-cut pink tourmalines, £21,060.

www.boodles.com

www.chaumet.com

House of Garrard Tudor Rose Drop Earrings in rose gold, set with round white diamonds, £5,300. www.garrard.com

Graff Diamonds Pink Diamond Triple Pavé Butterfly Earrings, POA

Piaget Piaget Rose Bracelet in rose gold, set with a brilliant-cut diamond and a pink sapphire, £1,160. www.piaget.com

www.graffdiamonds.com

Home House

Lady of Luxury

Christina Raptis sits down in the Front Parlour with the charming Helen Brocklebank, CEO of Walpole Photography: Darren Paul

Hair: Ivana Juric (HairArt Lounge)

Luxury is very hard to define, what is your definition? You can talk about tangible things like craftsmanship, heritage, creativity, spirit and sensibility, but to me luxury is about the way something makes you feel, I think that’s why everybody talks about luxury being about experience. When you buy a beautiful watch for example, it’s suddenly not about the product; it is about the reason you bought it, the experience of buying it and what it represents about you. What has the last year been like in your new position at Walpole? The last year has been tremendous. Walpole was 25 years old when I joined and I was very keen to set the scene for the next 25 years. I joined in the context of Brexit, and we have given ourselves something of a knock as a nation and business community, but I think the luxury brands we produce in Britain have a role to play in helping to define who we are as a country. I see my mission as unlocking the power of those brands to build the reputation of the whole country. How do we get the British luxury brands, which are so important to the wider world’s sense of what we create and produce, the recognition they deserve. Can you elaborate on the importance of the British luxury sector? The British luxury sector is worth £32.2 billion to the UK economy and it employs about 115,000 people the length and breadth of the country. It is the only sector in the UK economy for which manufacturing in Britain is really important for the customer, particularly international customers who come to Britain to buy British. As Brits, we are often modest and we think the product speaks for itself. It does, but only up to a point. We need to have revolutionary patriotism about these brands that are desired and valued the world over. Finding ways of helping brands understand the extraordinary value of what they have and encourage them to really shout about it is my top priority. To paraphrase George Orwell, patriotism has nothing to do with conservatism, it builds the bridge between the past and the future and that I think is where my head is at. We have to feel proud, be bold and be audacious. What does it mean to be a woman CEO today? Having spent most of my career in luxury, I thought the sector was very female and it was actually only when I became a CEO and emerged into a different peer group I realised that wasn’t the case – it’s very, very male, and that surprised me.

Walpole has just launched a workplace survey to see whether there is a diversity gap in the sector, but I think it’s more about taking young women and amplifying their voices. I think you have to play it down the line; you have to encourage other women, and be conscious about being a role model. There are some incredible female CEOs in luxury, and I’m using those very senior women to mentor women who are in the early stages of their careers. But the crucial thing, of course, is getting men on board, and there are very clear business reasons why a more diverse C-Suite creates better profit for the company. I am very lucky with my chairman Michael Ward who is a great supporter of diverse talent and bringing in the right skill-set rather than just the right kind of people. A final observation, I see a lot of female entrepreneurs and I get a sense – and this is not confined to luxury – that women are looking at the corporate ladder and questioning whether they want to be part of it. The female founder is a phenomenon that I’m very interested in exploring. What are some of the challenges of dealing with so many luxury brands? I think in any organisation your work has to be driven by your customers. If you are not serving your customers, your organisation has no purpose. This universal challenge of how do you listen to your customers and make sure you are delivering a product and a service that answers their needs is perennial. We overcome this by being close to the members, listening to what they need and want and structuring a programme that reflects that. Around 60% of the British luxury sector are small to medium enterprises and they have very different needs from Burberry for example, but it’s about bringing them together around common goals. What does Home House mean to you? I remember coming here when it first opened and enjoying being somewhere that is so in touch with its DNA. The story of Elizabeth Countess of Home – she was the wildest party girl in this incredible space – really permeates the fabric of the building, and I love the way it lives up to its reputation. The parties here are just extraordinary; the summer party is just the most fun. We also host our Women in Luxury salon here, and it just feels like a really great space to host this important event and to see that together women can create great things.

Home House

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IVE ... L T T ’ U N O TH I I CA W HLY S I L STY Vitamin-kick! Do like Stella McCartney, Tibi and Marni and let yourself be inspired by fruity sorbets and crayon boxes, says Charlotta Billström. Dress in bold and bright colours from head to toe to maximise the effect...

Elizabeth and James Oval-frame Acetate Sunglasses £170 Etro Silk Blouse £355 www.mytheresa.com

www.net-a-porter.com

Marni Cashmere Jumper £670 www.marni.com

Nadya Shah Dolce Vita Jacket £1,150 www.nadyashah.com

Caroline Costas Off-the-shoulder Blouse £425 www.net-a-porter.com

Tibi Steward Blazer £600 Sculpter Pants £455 www.tibi.com

Stella McCartney Cropped Flared Jeans £385

Aspinal of London Small Lottie Bag in Deep Shine Lilac Croc £425 www.aspinaloflondon.com

www.mytheresa.com

Altuzarra Peplum Midi Skirt £605 www.net-a-porter.com

Scarlet London Grisha Bag Charm £127 www.scarlet.london

Zatchels Barrel Bag £60 www.zatchels.com

Miu Miu Satin Mules £610 www.net-a-porter.com

Home House

FACE THE FUTURE PRO-COLLAGEN OVERNIGHT MATRIX Experience the 1st ever formulation with ELEMIS Smart Drone Peptide Technology, at The House of ELEMIS

Enjoy 20% off a Pro-Collagen Age Defy Facial with code HOMEHOUSE 0207 499 4995 ELEMIS.COM/HOUSEOFELEMIS

2 Lancashire Court, London, W1S 1EX

MAP OF THE HEART

Gold Heart V.4 £150 (90ml)

JO LOVES

Orange Butterflies £115 (100ml)

www.harrods.com

HEAVEN SCENT

www.joloves.com

Brighten up your scent wardrobe with our selection of fresh fragrances LALIQUE

L’Insoumis Ma Force £72 (100ml) www.lalique.com

PAUL SCHUTZE

Villa M £135 (50ml)

BENTLEY

Momentum Unlimited £59 (100ml)

www.roullierwhite.com

www.harrods.com

CARTIER

Déclaration Parfum £105 (100ml) www.harrods.com

FLORIS LONDON

Islay £180 (100ml) www.florislondon.com

TED BAKER

Ted’s Grooming Room Cologne £40 (200ml) www.tedbaker.com

Scent to your door... Sniph Sniph is the new way to discover and buy premium perfumes. Created as a monthly subscription service that allows members to discover 12 new premium scents annually for £15 (8ml) per month, Sniph is improving the perfume shopping experience. Founders, Lisa Kjellqvist and Tara Derakshan, travel the world in the name of scent to search and curate a personalised perfume selection to deliver to your door. Sniph aims to challenge consumer perfume habits of a ‘signature scent’ as an outdated marketing concept to keep consumers purchasing the same one. The perfume industry is dominated by a few global brands and Sniph aims to change this and give a voice to artisan perfume houses that value creativity and uniqueness. Change your scent as much as you change your outfit. Life is too short not to smell your very best… www.sniph.co.uk

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Could you describe in your own words what it is that you do? I introduce people to the magik of meditation. I hold space for them to connect to their higher consciousness and higher heart. To learn ways to be an alchemist of their own energy. I don’t like the word teacher, mentor or coach. I’m a channel and I connect people into a deep experience of a magik they have forgotten. It’s a very ancient, arcane magik. It’s what the ancient Egyptians and the Mystics understood, and it brings people into a space of transcendence. Into the grace of presence. What is the Magik of Meditation? Meditation allows us to connect with our inner life force, vitality and higher selves. The Unseen. As well as an external universal life force. Into the magik of our being. It’s shifting the spirit of your inner realms, and allowing that to manifest and transform your everyday reality. Energy follows thought. It starts with being consciously aware. Awake. We don’t realise our unconscious ways of thinking become our unconscious ways of being. I work with a lot of creatives, coming from a creative industry myself. I understand that we need new ways of connecting with our magik, that perfect moment of inspiration when you feel everything is flowing. We can heighten that feeling and use it in our everyday life for very real transformation. You have had a very profound experience with the Magik of Meditation. Could you speak about that? I know that meditation is Magik because I self-healed myself after a brain tumour. I had invasive neurosurgery, and it ruined all the nerves in one eye and my face so I looked like I had suffered a mild stroke. Neurosurgeons said that’s what I would look like for the rest of my life. So, I sat in deep meditation for two hours every day and I downloaded what’s called healing. When you connect with your vital life force, you can allow healing on a cellular level. When I returned to see neurosurgeons, they believed it was a miracle. How did you first get involved in Meditation? My journey began 15 years ago. Like many of the members here, I was in the creative world. Being a creative director in the international arts scene was very stressful. I needed to find a new way of being better equipped for my career. I began an exploration into conscious

Meditation

Photography: Darren Paul

Magik

Haley Abram speaks with the captivating Elizabeth Martin about mystical realms

awareness, my internal world and alternative realms, training with one of the best keepers of the wisdoms in the world, Dr Angela Watkins. She taught me mediumship and psychic development, and I began applying the things I was learning about energy alchemy to my business life. You could not mention psychic, medium, or meditation in those days, I was going into the ladies before a board meeting and secretly doing a five minute power up. Using meditation to transform my energy to enter a room and shine. It’s a powerful practice to win a pitch, business deal or subtly alter group dynamics. Meditation is no longer confined to the Ashram. So you have a series of meditation events coming up here at Home House? What should attendees expect? What you should expect is an immersive, experiential session. I will guide you into the science of how it works, and introduce you to short practices to weave into your every day – some only five minutes long. You experience an immersive, uplifting sound healing session through my crystal and tibetan singing bowls. I use sound because it heals on a cellular level. You can be brand new or returning. There is no starting point or end point. Do you feel that there are any misconceptions about Magik, meditation and intuition? Everyone’s heard of mindfulness meditation and I think that sounds like the mind is full. My work is about heartfulness. It’s actually getting out of your intellect, into the most creative dynamic you can be, which is in your intuition. Living heart centrically. It’s believing in the unseen realms and opening the doors of perception to unlock your highest potential. Do you have a favourite room here at Home House? Absolutely. You’ll only ever find me in the Etruscan Room. I’m called Elizabeth like the woman who created it, and I believe her presence is still in that room; I can sense it. What’s very strange is however busy the house is, whenever I come in, whatever time, the red sofa with the buttons is always free and that’s where I sit. There’s a term in energy alchemy called your home frequency. When you really are your sovereign self. That’s where I am – Home.

Home House

Say, I Do! Our wedding guru Nicola Lyons gives her top tips for planning your special day

Nicola Lyons

he scene in Love Actually where the musicians stand up spontaneously in the middle of a wedding ceremony and everything just seems to work without a hitch has a lot to answer for. It makes weddings appear seamless, trouble-free and without any sort of angst. Right? Well... the reality is that this is often not quite the case, as many a bride or groom will testify! But we are here to get you as close to a seamless, trouble-free and angst-less wedding as possible, and so much of that can be achieved by you right now. So fear not – just follow these steps from our wedding guru Nicola, and you’ll have that effortless church flash mob in no time...

DON’T SWEAT THE SMALL STUFF I have said this to so many brides and grooms in different ways. When you feel stressed or anxious that you have so much to do, remind yourself: ‘if you had to get married tomorrow, it would all still work’. If you can get to a place where you can say that, everything else should just be seen as something fun to do, rather than a necessity. True – you DO need a registrar or a vicar to marry you, you maybe DON’T need a bespoke buttonhole or corsage for every guest made out of their favourite flower, but lovely if you have the time and the passion to make it happen. You almost certainly DO need a venue, and ideally some guests (although technically only two), but you probably DON’T need that 10-piece orchestra to play you into the ceremony with a piece of music designed for you based on your favourite poetry – but it can be FUN if that’s what you and your partner want. You get the picture! Keeping perspective helps to keep you on track and actually enjoying the more creative parts. HELP YOUR SUPPLIERS HELP YOU It’s always good to get an idea of what you are looking for from a supplier before you meet them. For example, with a florist, obviously it’s good to think about the types of flowers you like (or equally hate - just as important), but if you don’t know your Peonies from your Persian Buttercups, just giving them some preferred colour palettes will help them do their job as best they can. It will make the whole procedure a lot easier for everyone if you are all on the same page from the beginning. Pinterest can sometimes be a help and often a hindrance for creatives, with so many people feeling overwhelmed by what they find online. So do have a look at images for inspiration, but remember to go with an open mind on what they can suggest for you. Whilst we’re talking about suppliers...

ASK YOUR VENUE FOR HELP I’m biased, of course I am, but the suppliers we work with at Home House are great. They know the venue, what works and what doesn’t, they know all the boring ins and outs of the venue that you don’t need to know, and they are also people that we genuinely like. They are people that we think would have a positive impact on your wedding and that is the biggest help we can give you. So even if your sister’s best friend’s brother did have the ‘BEST DJ IN THE WORLD!’ it’s always worth asking your venue if they have any preferred/recommended suppliers. Whatever venue you end up at, be honest and open with them, and you’ll find they are even more determined to make your wedding as close to perfect as possible, and they’ll enjoy doing it too. BE HELPFUL TO YOUR GUESTS BUT NOT TOO HELPFUL This could seem like an odd one but is particularly important if you are getting married in a place you are not from. I find lots of brides and grooms putting additional pressure on themselves by trying to plan how their guests got to the wedding, where they stayed and where they had breakfast. But the truth is, you wouldn’t plan someone else’s holiday for them, just because you knew where they were going, right? The best thing you can do is give your guests the information they need with enough time and then let them plan the rest. For example, at Home House we offer reduced rates on our bedrooms for wedding guests, they can just say the name of the Bridal party and they will get the same rate. They don’t feel micro-managed and you don’t take on all that extra work – it’s a win-win situation for everyone. ENJOY IT It goes without saying, your wedding should be, above anything, FUN. It’s all the people you love in one place celebrating you and the person you love more than anything else in the world. What could be better? If any couple I have met have said that they are nervous about their speeches, I have simply pointed out that it’s very rare to have a room full of people who are 100% rooting for you. No one who is present in that space wants you to fail or embarrass yourself. Every rubbish dad-joke you make will go down like a Michael McIntyre joke at Live at the Apollo, and every sweet notion you make towards a loved one will be like the script in a Richard Curtis film. By the end you’ll all be agreeing that Love, Actually is all around – and you should feel proud that you made it happen.

Home House

ivity is t a re

e c n e g i l in tel having

f un

Who wants to be average? Exceptional marketing can be the difference between a good business and a truly outstanding business. Want to be outstanding? Get in touch â&#x20AC;&#x201C; weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d love to have a chat over a glass of something.

Sparkling Spirit Haley Abram speaks with our bubbly resident food and drink educator and enthusiast, Alison Taffs

You host all sorts of events here at Home House, including tastings. What do you feel it takes to host a successful tasting? There are two kinds of tastings that I do. We have a wine club once a month that focuses specifically on wines from different regions, styles and themes. I also run a drinks club with my business partner, Tom, that is more broad in terms of subjects. For those events it’s about explaining things in a way that is simple to understand, interesting, and a bit entertaining. I worked as an actor for about five years, so one of the things I really enjoy is reading the room and responding to people. I try to make it entertaining; you learn something and it’s fun. Photography: Darren Paul

What are the Blind Bubbles events? If you want to have an event where you break the ice, create a lot of interest and get people talking to each other, this is a terrific thing to do. We put people into groups and give them a champagne flute. Then we have various sparkling wines disguised; we wrap them up. Together we’ll taste four or five different “blind bubbles”. We have fun discussing people’s preferences and have them guess what things are. We’ve had a great response to English sparkling wines lately, I’m delighted to say. With those events it’s much more about getting everyone to talk. The audience really dictates by their questions and interactions how much teaching and how much fun or humour there is. It works really well; this location is so fantastic for that kind of event.

We are celebrating 20 years of Home House. What do you think makes our events so special? I think the amazing house, the atmosphere and the history. In some places it’s very formal. There are a lot of rules. It’s not like that here. As far as I can tell, the only rule is to enjoy yourself. Particularly with what I’m doing, there is a bit of structure, and fun to be had in that structure. So it’s almost more fun to be in a formal, historical environment, having incredible drinks and a huge laugh at the same time. I feel like you should be sitting in some kind of regency gown sipping tea, but actually everyone is smashing beautiful cocktails and champagne.

Is it important to know your own way around different wines and liquors? What is the benefit? It’s a huge benefit because I find people tend to order what they know. Often you’re drinking things you like, but there might be other things you like even more. Unless you try them, you’re never going to know. For example, a lot of people say, ‘Oh whiskey, I don’t know anything about that’, so they’ll never try it. When you come to a tasting, you understand why it tastes like it does. You put a vocabulary together to describe what you like. The fantastic thing about coming to one of our tastings is that you can try lots of things alongside one another. You’re not paying for them individually, and you don’t need to buy a bottle. If you don’t like it, that’s fine – never have it again. However, often what you’ll do is try something you wouldn’t normally order, and it turns out to be delicious.

Are there particular moments or special memories for you here at Home House? I think probably the first time we were doing the Blind Bubbles event. I had spent quite some time wrapping up all these bottles because we had a large group. We’ll have 10 of each champagne, so if I’m showing 5 different types, that’s 50 bottles. With bubbly wine, you don’t want to open it too soon. So I decided when it gets to a certain point, I’ll open up all the wine. But, I’ve got 50 bottles to open, and there are speeches going on next door. I’m desperately trying to open the bottles really quietly. By the last few, my hands were getting tired and I thought what have I done! But I just managed to get it all done. There are all sorts of memories from the wine clubs and such, but this one sort of sticks out. Opening massive amounts of champagne – I think that’s fitting for Home House.

Home House

ALPINE HOME

2018: Home House hits the Slopes... 4 Valleys, Switzerland

Jessica Barwell

we-inspiring panoramic views, fresh powder, a profusion of all your life to ski (or board – we don’t discriminate), the domain is vast champagne and gastronomic delights at altitude, plus the and extremely varied, living up to the expectations of those at all levels. unique aura created by Home House members brought together: For the regular skiers amongst us, it’s very much appreciated that the January 2018 saw the launch of Alpine Home on some of Switzerland’s après is just as important as the skiing. Members experienced Moët & finest slopes. Chandon flowing in the comfort of the Jacuzzis overlooking panoramic In partnership with The Hideaways Club, the chalets, situated in close views of Sion’s valley, snowshoe touring by sunset conveying a whole proximity to the slopes in the picturesque hamlet of Les Cleves above new perspective of the mountain, and, in line with après etiquette, a few the traditional Swiss village of Haute Nendaz, exuded elegance, style vin chauds enjoyed in skiing boots en route back to the chalets following the last run of the day. Each evening the hospitality was second to and comfort. Claimed as being one of the best kept secrets in the Alps, none. Champagne and canapé receptions were Nendaz sits within the ski mecca of the 4 Valleys, followed by a daily three-course meal from the the largest ski area in Switzerland, boasting unique menu tailored to Home House members’ over 412km of pistes from pristinely groomed “Powder snow skiing is not refined palettes, all accompanied by a selection blues for beginners to terrains that challenge fun. It’s life, fully lived.” of local and international wines. Stories old and professional freeriders. Neighbouring Verbier, new, reflections of the days’ activities, wipe-outs the world-class winter playground for the elite Dolores LaChapelle and achievements, and Savoyard specialities and famous, members were able to refuel savoured en piste were shared over dinner. and dine at a profusion of sumptuous venues The chalets, manifested in alpine charisma and charm, are nestled in including Lawrence Dallagio, James Blunt, Carl Fogarty’s, La Vache, quietude some distance from the nearest road and accessible by Polaris. Chez Dany, nestled in the forest clearing in the hamlet of Clambin and Igloo du Mort-Fort, renowned for serving fondue at the highest altitude A haven of tranquillity and genuine mountain ambience, but also, in the in Europe. true spirit of Home House, provided the perfect location to continue Those that ventured up Mont Fort’s 3,330m summit, marking the scandalous fun into the early hours... highest point of the 4 Valleys, will vouch that the breathtaking views The sheer versatility of the 4 Valleys presented an array of opportunities certainly did not disappoint. Powder hounds revel in the fact that 4 for all, from the adrenaline junkies to the glamorous travellers amongst Valleys offers some of the best back country in Europe – not for the the group. To name but a few, this included opportunities for paragliding faint-hearted, the Vallon d’Arby and the backside of Mont Fort are over the stunning alpine landscape, local wine tasting, sampling beers in prime examples of why heli-skiing is a staple for thrill-seeking enthusiasts the micro-breweries, ice skating, boutique shops, a local spa for those here. For those testing the waters at the off-piste, the marked itinerary seeking a break from attempting to catch the first lift of the day to runs, a phenomenon found in the Swiss Alps, provide an introduction Tortin’s winter golf course (admittedly only three holes). Needless to say, to ungroomed slopes and a chance to develop skills in a patrolled we will certainly be returning to experience more of what the mountain environment. Whether you have been skiing all your life or have waited has to offer… Jessica Barwell - Alpine Home Host

Home House

WHAT OUR MEMBERS HAD TO SAY… As with any trip, it’s the people whom you are with and the friendships that are formed that make the holiday a rich, vibrant experience. The eclectic group of members joined by Home House’s Managing Director, Andrew Richardson, certainly made this one to remember: “It is always a pleasure spending time in The House. It is a sanctuary. A perfect island offering companionship, warmth, solitude when required, friendship and ultimate luxury. Champagne or carrot juice, gym or “gymnastics”, Home House embraces it all. How wonderful to find that Home House can mirror these qualities wherever it places its crocodile. From Royal Ascot and Regents Park to the 4 Valleys in Switzerland. Life is too short not to drink champagne, and Home House ensures it never runs out. Whilst snow or sunshine cannot be guaranteed, champagne and companionship are constant!” Tessa Fryer “Thank you and how much I enjoyed my stay, The train journey up with lots of fizz, Oh how quickly the time did whiz, Then to meet you all and share a drink, And understand from you your Home House link, Hot tubs and champers was the call of the day, With members chatting all the way.” Denise Shepherd “We certainly had a memorable time in Nendaz. It was our first time skiing in Switzerland, and we loved the variety of the 4 Valleys. The chalets, together with the delicious food and the Jacuzzi-volume of Moët on tap, reflected the quality and atmosphere you expect from a Home House backed event. We spent time with old friends and met new, and now look forward to next years’ dates!” Robert Patterson

Home House will continue to reach new heights until we are at the peak of perfection for your ski adventure. We will be returning to the slopes for the last week of January in 2019. Spaces are limited – register your interest by contacting Jessica Barwell: jessica@homehouse.co.uk

Home House

BEACH BREAK Azzy Asghar indulges at the Boca Raton Resort and Beach Club in Palm Beach, Florida

e eagerly anticipate the bright sunshine and blue skies on arrival in Palm Beach, Florida. Coming from a very harsh winter in London, the dramatic change in weather will be hugely welcomed. Of all the plans of mice and men…. Reality hits. It is absolutely pouring! In Florida – The Sunshine State! I’m devastated! I consider calling my ‘shrink’ to help me deal with my angst and disappointment – I guess that would be very American of me and I am always one to assimilate – but instead decide to man-up, keep a stiff upper lip and take out my very British brolly. Our minor depression and feelings of frustration soon depart as we arrive at the ‘Meet and Greet’ where our ‘ride’ for the week ahead awaits – a 2018 Mercedes AMG S65! The flagship of the brand – in Ruby Black – looks even more ominous with rain sheeting down on it. The depression of a button roars it alive and we head out North onto the freeway. The sat-nav system has earmarked the Boca Raton Resort so we sit back and relax. The Palm Beaches are roughly 50 miles north of Miami – they’re home to the super-wealthy community of Palm Beach and, of course, the ‘Winter White House’ at Mar-a-Lago. Florida’s wealthiest county is also a thriving community of arts, history and so much food. A 2003 survey by Robb Report magazine voted Palm Beach as America’s “Best Place to Live” – a good enough recommendation for us! The Boca Resort, which is a WaldorfAstoria hotel, is approached via a long driveway leading to the flamingo pink façade – a truly impressive sight. The valet whisks away our car. We’re greeted by the friendly staff - as only the Americans can do service – instantly making us feel like VIPs in this gorgeous environment. The busy lobby is pristine in marble and there are beautiful plants everywhere. The Boca Raton Resort is the perfect place to spend a vacation. Even though it covers 365 acres of land, has five different accommodation complexes, and 10+ restaurants, it still doesn’t feel impersonal or anonymous as some large hotels do. We’re escorted to our room which is very spacious and tastefully decorated with soft and neutral colours, a king-sized bed and marble features in the bathrooms and stunning views of the resort. Whether you are a couple seeking a romantic getaway or a family with children of all ages – The Boca Raton Resort has it all. There are plenty of activities to keep you entertained and on your toes or flat on your back if you really need a break. For the more active who want to practice their surfing skills, you can take instructor-led surf sessions at the FlowHouse, the resort’s dual-sided wave simulator before hitting the real waves in the sea. The sports enthusiast will not be disappointed with the world-class golf and tennis courts available at the resort. If you prefer to spend your holiday in a horizontal position, the

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resort has private beach access and a number of pools to choose from. The award-winning Waldorf-Astoria Spa is literally an oasis within the oasis of Boca Raton Resort. They offer a range of varied treatments: shock facials, detoxifying body wraps, hot stone massages and jet lag pedicures just to mention a few. We tried an indulgent full-body massage that remedied all manner of hidden aches and tension. Feeling rejuvenated, it was time to further indulge. The epicurean is offered an amazing selection of dining options at the Boca Raton: Sushi, Classic American burgers and barbecue, fresh sea food, and everything imaginable in between. We opt for Lucca – the resort’s Italian restaurant, which offers a Tuscan-inspired menu – divine! We savour a sumptuous offering of beef carpaccio, lobster scampi linguine, and scallops Lucchese. The service and food are impeccable. The dinner is beautifully complimented by wines from the restaurant’s award-winning wine list. Massaged and fed – it was time to explore! Palm Beach is a fantastic vacation destination as it combines so many of the factors that are prerequisites for a classic ‘holiday’: amazingly sunny and warm all-yearround weather, miles-long stretches of white sandy beaches, theme parks, great restaurants, arts and crafts, museums and of course a buzzing nightlife. A short drive from Palm Beach is the city of Delray Beach. We enjoy lunch at City Oyster Delray Beach. A very smart yet casual restaurant that has a growing reputation for amazing food – the service in the USA is a given! We indulge in everything from fresh oysters and clams, oysters Rockerfeller to Cajun fish tacos – each dish is as mouthwatering as the last and devoured. Be sure to ask for one of the tables on the terrace and enjoy the sun, people watching, and amazing cocktail creations! After lunch, walk the beautiful tree-lined streets which are the perfect place for a stroll or book yourself in for a Craft Food Tour that highlights local gourmands showing-off their passion. As epicureans we only ever think about food. Even at lunch we discuss where to eat dinner! Thus we ventured to Louie Bossi, the eponymous chef whose restaurant is causing a huge stir (pardon the pun!) in South Florida. He has the Miami Sun Sentinel raving, “I am in awe of Louie Bossi, both the chef and the restaurant.” Flavours combine his Italian heritage with his NY upbringing to create dishes that are both authentic and memorable. Meatballs full of herbs and spices adorn pasta, and pizza from the fire-pit covered in perfectly aged-meats and cheeses are devoured to the last crust. After a restful night, we started the next day with a tour of Delray Beach. The unassuming town is full of cultural experiences like the Pineapple Grove Arts District which incorporates galleries as well as public artworks. This is still Florida, however, so if you’re keen to see some of the local wildlife, (continued overleaf)

you can make a stop at the Wakodahatchee Wetlands – it features a raised boardwalk that is ideal for observing all sort of critters, including alligators! Another fantastic destination is the spectacular mansion of Henry Flagler, now a National Historic Landmark and set up as the Flagler Museum. Visitors can take guided tours of the Gilded Age interiors and expertly manicured grounds. After our tour at the museum, we head to dinner at SeaGrille. Surrounded by a lovely seaside atmosphere, we enjoy a variety of fresh seafood. Each dish is simply prepared with minimal fuss so as to maintain natural flavours. When the time has come to check out, I must admit, I don’t do it voluntarily. My suitcase feels heavier and the sun seems to be shining extra brightly, seemingly mocking me for having to leave and return to grey and cold England. So when the English weather seems too unbearable to stand, I will close my eyes, lean back, and think of those sunny days in Palm Beach.

Discover The Palm Beaches Discover The Palm Beaches promotes the collection of 39 cities and towns and 15 tourism districts spanning more than 2,200 square miles and 47 miles of pristine beaches from Boca Raton to Jupiter and Tequesta. www.thepalmbeaches.com Accommodation Boca Raton Resort & Spa a Waldorf Astoria Resort www.bocaresort.com Dining • City Oyster www.cityoysterdelray.com • Yaxche Tearoom & Emporium www.yaxchetearoom.com • Louie Bossi Boca Raton www.louiebossi.com/boca-raton • Lucca www.bocaresort.com/dine/lucca.html • Palm Court www.bocaresort.com/dine/palm-court.html • Café des Beaux-Arts www.flaglermuseum.us/visiting/cafe-des-beaux-arts • SeaGrille www.bocabeachclub.com/dine/seagrille.html • 501 www.bocaresort.com/dine/501-east-kitchen-bar.html Activities • Delray Beach www.visitdelraybeach.org • West Palm Beach Food Tour - From £51 www.WestPalmBeachFoodTour.com T: +1 (866) 736-6343 • The Palm Beach Zoo & Conservation Society –£14, children £10.50. www.palmbeachzoo.org • The Flagler Museum – £14, children £2.50. www.flaglermuseum.us T: +1 (561) 655-2833

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TRAVEL ADVENTURES Bulgari Hotel Shanghai - China

Azzy Asghar travels far and wide in search of the hottest destinations for the discerning traveller...

The Bulgari Hotel Shanghai is located just a few minutes from the iconic Bund and the famous museums of People’s Square, yet enjoys a tranquil and exclusive setting among private gardens, historic buildings and art galleries. Occupying the top eight floors of a 48-storey tower inside the area of Suhe creek, the hotel offers stunning views of Shanghai’s dramatic skyline. www.bulgarihotels.com

Six Senses Kaplankaya - Turkey Capturing all the very best that the laidback Mediterranean lifestyle has to offer, Six Senses Kaplankaya is located on a naturally beautiful stretch of ancient Aegean coast. The extensive and advanced spa and wellness centre offers 40 treatment rooms, hydrotherapy pools, traditional Turkish Hamman, crystal room, and a private watsu pool. The resort also comprises of a 250-berth marina and yacht club, plentiful dining, sport and leisure facilities, and three secluded beaches. It is the ideal getaway for thrilling water sports, visits to traditional artisans and archaeological sites, yacht tours, and sightseeing by helicopter. www.sixsenses.com

Anantara Maraú Bahia Resort - Brazil Poised to be a flagship hideaway, Anantara Maraú Bahia Resort will boast a beach setting next to the Bay of Camamu on the Maraú Peninsula in Bahia along a stunning stretch of Atlantic coastline. Proudly showcasing the country’s rich cultural and ethnic diversity, Bahia in northeast Brazil is renowned for its remarkable blend of African, indigenous and European influences. www.anantara.com

La Réserve St-Jean-de-Luz - France Located 20 minutes from Biarritz on a clifftop in St-Jean-de-Luz and offering the best of what the French Basque region has to offer, La Réserve features a newly redesigned private ‘Résidence’, with 44 apartments and duplexes for up to seven guests. Each apartment was designed in a cosy and intimate atmosphere and features ocean-facing terraces, and the new infinity pool will offer breathtaking views over the Atlantic Ocean. www.hotel-lareserve.com 60

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Ritz Carlton Paradise Valley - USA The Ritz-Carlton is making its entrance in 2018 into Arizona’s most affluent and desirable area, the town of Paradise Valley, Scottsdale. This long-awaited marriage will bring together a masterfully-crafted community of luxury villas within the gates of what will soon become the pinnacle of sophisticated, full-service resort living. Just a few steps away, this collection of residences is intimately connected with an emerging icon of luxury, The Palmeraie – the soon-to-be number one shopping destination in America. www.experiencescottsdale.com

Como Uma Canggu - Bali Located on 2.2 acres of land in Canggu, a coastal village and six-mile long beach lapped by the Indian Ocean with some of Bali’s best surf breaks, is the new COMO Uma Canggu. A unique aspect of the hotel is the spectacular surf opportunities which appeal to beginners and also those who are experienced. Away from the waves, COMO Uma Canggu will organise walking tours, golf excursions, and adventures into the heart of Bali. www.comohotels.com/umacanggu

The Retreat at Blue Lagoon - Iceland Built into an 800-year-old lava flow, the hotel will encompass a subterranean spa, a geothermal lagoon, a restaurant that reimagines Iceland’s culinary traditions and 62 elegant suites encircled by the Blue Lagoon’s mineral-rich waters. www.retreat.bluelagoon.com

Baglioni Resort - Maldives Baglioni Resort Maldives, opening this summer, will be the first luxury Italian resort in the Maldives on the private island of Magaau in the Dhaalu atoll. The resort will offer 96 villas with a selection of garden, beach or over-water options, as well as three family beach villas and a 1,230 sqm super-luxe Presidential Water Villa, two restaurants, spa and a dive centre. www.baglionihotels.com

Chablé Maroma - Mexico Opening this summer, Chablé Maroma is located on the pristine beach of Maroma, 35 minutes from Cancun Airport in the Riviera Maya, Mexico. Featuring 70 villas with private swimming pools and moon showers, Chablé Maroma will offer guests 650 feet of beach front as well as a beach yoga pavilion, a 17,000 sq. foot spa, and three restaurants. www.chableresort.com

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Makanyi Lodge - South Africa If a safari has always been on your bucket list, look no further than the luxurious Makanyi Lodge. Located in the southern area of the Timbavati, an area of prime game viewing and home to the “Big Five”, Makanyi Lodge offers 5 luxury suites and now their new standalone, private villa. Off the beaten track, the lodge is one of very few in the area which allows direct access to the Timbavati area, offering its guests a truly wild, authentic and private experience. www.makanyilodge.com

Happy Stubai - Austria Nestled within the heart of Neustift, this chic hotel offers lovely glacier views, a pool with a large terrace area for sunbathing, badminton courts, and a buzzy bar at the centre of apres-ski action. Think fresh mountain air, friendly staff, and plenty to do from a morning bungee jump from the Europa Bridge to fabulous woodland hikes. www.happystubai.com

Fairmont Maldives Sirru Fen Fushi Maldives Sirru Fen Fushi, which means ‘secret water island’, is set on an exceptionally spacious and pristine stretch of white-sanded beach, peppered with opulent water villas overlooking an endless turquoise sea. Located in the Shaviyani Atoll and offering 120 luxury villas on one of the largest resort lagoons in the Maldives, this stunning new property will feature the Maldives’ first underwater sculpture museum, created by British artist, Jason deCaires Taylor. www.sirrufenfushi.com

The Datai Langkawi - Malaysia The Residence Bintan - Indonesia Inspired by the island’s pristine beaches and lush tropical surroundings, the Cenizaro Hotels & Resorts group makes its first foray into Indonesia with a brand-new property on the south-eastern shore of Bintan Island. Located on the largest island of the Riau Archipelago and surrounded by pristine beaches and lush tropical landscapes, The Residence Bintan will introduce a new definition of barefoot luxury, offering guests an exclusive respite amongst panoramic views of the South China Sea. Only a 55-minute ferry ride away from Singapore, the 127-key resort will encompass simplicity and sophistication at its best. www.cenizaro.com/theresidence/bintan

Situated on the northwest tip of the island Langkawi within a 10-millionyear-old rainforest and overlooking the tranquil Datai Bay, this iconic property enchants with mesmerising nature, visionary architecture, and luxury service. The property has just undergone a major enhancement since the resort’s inception nearly 25 years ago. Led by Didier Lefort of award-winning Paris-based design studio DL2A, along with Australian architect Kerry Hill, the works include a remodelling of the interiors of the guestrooms, suites, villas and public areas and a new visual identity. www.thedatai.com

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DUBAI DREAMS Nina Khan visits the ever-evolving and luxurious city of Dubai

ubai might not seem like the obvious travel destination, but during the last decade the city has grown to be one of the most culturally diverse and attractive cities for individuals from across the world. The city offers plenty of entertainment for a western audience including bars, trendy restaurants and, of course, the Dubai Mall, in addition to classically eastern cultural landmarks and traditional markets. And Dubai is definitely a growing city. Within the last 10 years, the population has grown to over one million people. According to Knight Frank Global Cities Report 2018, more than 136 nationalities purchased property there in 2016, making it the most culturally diverse buyers’ market in the world. We were kindly brought over from London to Dubai courtesy of Emirates and by property developers Xtreme Vision to see their latest building in the buzzing area by the Dubai Water Canal. But to start, we had a first-class stay at Hotel Address Montgomerie, just outside of the city centre. It’s a lovely resort with pools, extraordinary golf courses set against the Dubai skyline and a luxurious spa in which we pampered away our airplane-dry skin and jet lag. The Hotel Address Montgomerie boasts 21 beautifully designed rooms decorated in soft, earthy colours, luxurious materials and handcrafted leather details. They inhabit the perfect combination of a luxurious, homey and cosy atmosphere. With that said, I did not hesitate before kicking off my shoes and jumping on the divinely comfortable bed. In addition to the stylish rooms, the hotel offers guests superb dining experiences with several different restaurants to choose from. The main restaurant,

Monty’s, and the bistro-styled Links both serve international cuisine, sure to satisfy any craving with their varied and comprehensive menus (lobster and crab ravioli, anyone?). There is also restaurant Nineteen, focusing on fresh and healthy food with a Mediterranean flair – the moussaka appetizer and grilled sea bass entrée are excellent. The Dubai-based property developers Xtreme Vision have recently opened Volante, a new property overlooking the Burj Khalifa – now the tallest building in the world – and the Dubai Water Canal. This is a thriving new area of Dubai full of five-star hotels, restaurants and buzzing nightlife. The building is spread over 35 floors and offers either full or half-floor apartments, making that 45 apartments in total, all furnished in the most extravagant materials by the most exclusive interior designers. The brain behind the stunning design is awardwinning Italian interior designer Mauro Lipparini and his team at Studio Lipparini. The interior style is timelessly Italian minimalist, using the most delicate and exclusive materials such as Zebrano wood from East Africa and Italian travertine marble. This is Xtreme Vision’s third venture, the two previous being La Rêve, located in the heart of New Dubai, and the Private Villa in Emirates’ Hill. All the apartments are fitted with the latest technology, and floor-to-ceiling windows allow for a natural flood of light to enter the apartment, erasing the border between indoor and outdoor. However, Volante is not only a first-class living complex, but also features an exclusive members’ club. Here, residents have access to a luxurious and fully fitted spa and gym with all the amenities one could ask for, a lounge with a coffee bar, a conference room, a cinema, and garden to unwind and relax in – all whilst enjoying a breath-taking view of Dubai’s skyline. Dubai is the ultimate destination for the modern epicurean traveller. The city offers everything and more, and it is difficult to not be swept away by the luxurious and modern atmosphere. So, if you are looking for your next travel destination, look no further; Dubai has it all.

www.addresshotels.com www.xtremevision.com www.volantedubai.com www.emirates.com

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GANDYS

TRAVEL

Ocean Mandala Round Towel Lay down, stretch out and feel inspired by the blue hues and crisp white woven printed design of this gorgeous round towel, £35.

ESSENTIALS

www.gandyslondon.com

Christina Raptis’ selection of must-have’s for the discerning traveller

SONY

RX100 V Cyber-shot RX Camera This convenient pocket-sized camera is equipped with a Fast Hybrid AF system that enables the camera to lock focus in as little as 0.05 seconds and is perfect for taking snaps on the go, £1,000. www.sony.co.uk

B&O PLAY

H8i Wireless Headphones Perfect for long-haul journeys, these wireless Bluetooth headphones with active noise cancellation, and the latest Bang & Olufsen signature sound are a true travel essential, £349. MONCLER

www.beoplay.com

Lunettes Eyewear These chic shades are a must-have for any stylish globetrotter. The feminine round eye, metal design and unique front construction make these a perfect travel staple, £300. www.moncler.com

ORLEBAR BROWN

Bulldog Sport Lawn Swim Shorts

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JANESSA LEONE

Stand out from the crowd in these racing green swim shorts made from a sports-style, ultralightweight nylon – perfect to take you from sport to swim, £95.

This stylish hat is easily packable and its classic, minimalist style will be a staple in your travel wardrobe, £175.

www.orlebarbrown.com

www.janessaleone.com

Michaela Hat

ETHAN K

SWISSCODE

Croc Travel Suitcase

Pure Hyaluron

Part of the Voyager Collection, this smart suitcase will accommodate all your travel necessities, £21,600.

Keep your skin moisturised whilst travelling with this tonic. Containing the highest concentration of hyaluronic acid it will help improve your skin buoyancy and radiance, £90.

www.ethan-k.com

www.pureswissboutique.com

OLLOCLIP

4-in-1 Lens With four advanced-optic lenses for your iPhone – fisheye, wide-angle, macro 10x and 15x, this pocketsized lens will capture unique photos with ease, £69.95. www.apple.com/uk

JET CANDY

Plane Remedy Long-haul flights dragging you down? This all-natural remedy helps with dehydration, fatigue, disorientation, mental sharpness and other symptoms associated with jetlag, £12.99. www.jet-candy.com

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yacht or private jet, every featured property or asset on The Gilt Club’s ultra-prestigious list has been visited, profiled and approved by the brand’s team of highly-experienced luxury travel specialists. Ultimately, this is about experiencing a property that would never come onto the rental market – exclusive, privately owned, off-the-radar homes and villas, unlikely to ever be found in conventional agency listings or on home-rental sites. Most people will never have the opportunity to set foot inside these homes, which affords highly privileged access to The Gilt Club’s members, who comprise a sophisticated and highly discerning group of successful individuals. www.thegiltclub.com

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BREATHTAKING Eliza Burnett explores the cultural pearl whilst staying at the beautiful ART Rotana Hotel and Resort

BAHRAIN

he heat hits like a brick wall as soon as we step out of the Bahrain International Airport. And it’s a brick wall I gladly welcome, coming from a rainy and cold October-London. Our destination is the ART Rotana Hotel, situated on the man-made Amwaj Islands. The location is breathtakingly beautiful, surrounded by turquoise water and white beaches – a perfect winter-escape. However, let us not get ahead of ourselves. This luxury get-away started off even earlier in the Gulf Air Falcon Lounge at Heathrow Airport. By travelling with Gulf Air Business Class, this little oasis within the turmoil of Heathrow Airport is the perfect place to relax pre-flight. The pampering – with complimentary drinks, food, WIFI and showers – had begun before we even reached Bahrain. Bahrain is an Arab constitutional monarchy in the Persian Gulf, consisting of a small archipelago centered around Bahrain Island, situated between the Qatar peninsula and the north eastern coast of Saudi Arabia to which it is connected by the 16 mile King Fahd Causeway. The ART Rotana hotel dominates the skyline with its contemporary look and majestic fountain. The hotel is a luxurious base and also offers several dining options. The first night we dined at Choices – one of the main restaurants with a varied menu inspired by cuisines from all corners of the world. Our dinner was followed by drinks at their Cellar 59, the hotel’s tapas and wine bar. The extensive drinks menu – boasting over 50 different cocktails – is sure to satisfy the most demanding of drink connoisseurs. Other restaurants at the ART Rotana include WU, offering Asian inspired cuisine, Rosso for Italian dining options, and Steak & Seafood, serving exactly what the name suggests.

After a long day of travelling and socialising, I cannot wait to retire to my room. Each room features a gorgeous view of the harbour and the ocean beyond stretches all the way to the horizon. The rooms are decorated in soft neutral tones which allow the views to be the main focus. The bathrooms feature marble bathtubs and waterfall showers that contribute to an extra luxurious feel. Even though Bahrain is compact, there are still plenty of things to see and do. Of course Bahrain is world famous for the Art Bahrain festival that takes place each year and showcases leading artists from around the globe, but there are also beautiful little arts and crafts centres where you can see artisans perfecting their craft and thus a visit to the Al Jasrah Handicrafts Centre is a must. There are several souqs that are worth a visit and immerse you in the local culture and bygone era. There are two souqs – the Manama Souq and the slightly smaller Muharraq Souq. Here you can find everything you need, and even more things you did not know you needed or even wanted. From jewellery, spices and rugs – the souks are jam-packed with shopping – you’ll also find some beautiful handcrafted local goods as well as foods from the region, which make excellent gifts for those not lucky enough to be with us. One of Bahrain’s main attractions is the BIC, Bahrain International Circuit, an enormous racing track located in the Sakhir desert. It features five certified FIA tracks, which is more than any other racing track in the world. It is designed by German engineer Hermann Tilke and really is an impressive sight. And even if you are not a professional race car driver, you can still pretend you are for a day as the BIC offers karting – something we tried and truly enjoyed. If all of this is too much excitement for you, the hotel has a 150 metre long private beach and lagoon for guests to enjoy where you can simply forget all of life’s troubles and bask in the glorious sunshine. Guests can also relax in the hotel’s award-winning Bodylines Fitness

and Wellness spa, which boasts seven treatment rooms, two of them being couple’s suites – a perfect way to unwind together on a romantic holiday. I enjoyed a relaxing full-body massage and left feeling completely rejuvenated. As we depart Bahrain it would be rude not to visit the Gulf Air Falcon Gold Lounge just to further pamper ourselves and prepare for the journey ahead. I’m glad to report the lounge is as spectacular and relaxing as their offering at Heathrow. The ART Rotana truly has it all – excitement, relaxation and a great variation of delicious food. Sadly as the time comes to leave, as always I’m a little upset, but I’m sure it won’t be too long before I return and I’m just pleased that I discovered this little gem in the Middle East that was never on my radar but certainly will be for future travels.

ART Rotana Hotel & Resort Al Fanar Avenue Road 5722, Building 2780 Amwaj Islands 000, Bahrain www.rotana.com

Stay at the five star ART Rotana in Bahrain from BD94 (approx. £189) per room, per night, inclusive of breakfast based on two adults sharing a Classic Room. Bahrain International Circuit www.bahraingp.com Gulf Air flies twice a day direct from London to Bahrain. Return economy class flights from London to Bahrain start from £438 including taxes and return business class flights from London to Bahrain start from £2,308 including taxes. To book, call 0844 493 1717 or visit www.gulfair.com

APRIL - MOROCCO Be a Gazelle and celebrate the finale to the all-women Rallye Aïcha des Gazelles du Maroc in its 28th year. A unique concept with thoughtful and impeccable execution, the Rallye Aïcha des Gazelles du Maroc is the first international off-road rally race of its kind exclusively for women. Stay at Sir Richard Branson’s Kasbah Tamadot, a 28 room (including 10 Berber luxury tents) property situated in the stunning Atlas Mountains. www.rallyeaichadesgazelles.com www.virginlimitededition.com

MARCH - DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES The Dubai World Cup is the richest horse-racing prize in the world. Stay in luxury at two beautiful Jumeirah resorts: Jumeirah Al Naseem with lush gardens edging the sandy beach, and Jumeirah Mina A’Salam offering authentic Arabian experiences. www.dubaiworldcup.com

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YOUR 2018 TRAVEL BUCKET LIST Norah Bradford compiles a list of the hottest and most dream-worthy destinations to visit throughout 2018. Happy jetset travels!

MAY - CANNES, FRANCE The 2018 Cannes Film Festival brings the stars of film from around the world to the South of France from May 9th – 20th, 2018. The hotel to stay at is the Hotel Du Cap Eden Roc in Cap D’Antibes. The beauty of this property is without question and a perfect peoplewatching headquarters from which to watch the movie industry movers and shakers with a late night bar scene. www.festival-cannes.com

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JUNE - MIAMI, FLORIDA While it may be the premier destination for Art Basel Miami, it is also an amazing destination all year round. The Hotel Croydon is the optimal choice for those who want to be close to all the action of neighbouring chic Miami Beach, but far enough away to catch one’s breath after a day browsing the galleries, boutiques, murals, and restaurants. www.hotelcroydonmiami.com

JULY - NANTUCKET, MA Jetties beach is the best place in Nantucket to view fireworks and celebrate Independence Day. Each year, families and friends set up on the beach and marvel at the spectacular fireworks show over the harbour. While there, stay at the newly restored Nantucket Hotel & Resort – located downtown, just a short walk to beaches, ferries, restaurants and shopping. www.nantucketchamber.org/events www.thenantuckethotel.com www.thesummerhouse.com

AUGUST - AT SEA WITH SILVERSEA Once a year is probably a good time to try something different. Why not experience five-star luxury at sea with Silversea on a cruise. The only afloat Relais & Chateau restaurant offers top quality service and facilities – all while travelling to new destinations. Summertime is particularly exciting for cruise experiences to Alaska and the Mediterranean, the latter on board the latest addition to the Fleet, the Silver Muse. www.silversea.com

SEPTEMBER - TUSCANY, ITALY Autumn is regarded as an ideal time to experience Tuscany at its finest and explore the wine harvest, hunt for truffles and mushrooms whilst all the time the wine and Tuscan olive oils are gathered. To complete the experience, stay at the Villa Mangiacane Winery & Spa. Situated amongst 600 acres of award-winning wine and olive groves, the 10 room villa was constructed by the Machiavelli family and each room is uniquely appointed and offers views of nearby Florence.

OCTOBER - SOUTHAMPTON, NY One of the highlights of the Hamptons autumn season is the Hamptons International Film Festival (HIFF). Held each year in October, HIFF previews the most talked about award season films, and this year is no different. The ideal gateway to the Hamptons is the perfectly manicured and situated Southampton Inn, offering some 90 charming guest rooms. For dining, experience authentic Mexican cuisine at nearby Union Cantina, classic American fare at 75 Main, or great times and cocktails at the Southampton Social Club. www.hamptonsfilmfest.org www.southamptoninn.com www.unioncantina.net www.75main.com www.southamptonsocialclub.com

www.mangiacane.com

NOVEMBER - NEW YORK, NY One of the premier events every November is the New York Comedy Festival. The Festival – which is produced by Carolines on Broadway – is presented in association with the television station TBS. After you recover from all the laughter, unwind at Henry at Life Hotel, the new restaurant at the southern end of Midtown with a menu of crowd-pleasing shareable plates from BR Guest alum chef Michael Vignola. www.nycomedyfestival.com www.lifehotel.com

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hen I met with Amir for the very first time over lunch at Harry’s Bar in Mayfair last summer, I was rather intrigued to find out the reason why our common friend Tom wanted me to meet someone from the coffee industry. After all, I was as passionate about coffee as I was about Peruvian music (which I personally consider to be as dull as paint), and talking about wine, food or experiential travel would have been much more conducive for a successful lunch meeting. After three hours spent over a delicious meal and listening to Amir, I must admit that his deep knowledge and passion for the mysterious small brown bean was captivating, and I came out of our lunch very excited to learn more about it, and also with the impression that Amir is for the international coffee society what Chanel was to the fashion industry. Competitive, demanding, with very high standards, but also innovative, fast moving and fun can describe the very close international high-end world of coffee, and Amir Gehl is at present one of its most sought after ‘gurus’, giving private talks in New York and London as well as Dubai and in Asia, while being the preferred distributor to the most glamorous bars, Michelin star restaurants, private clubs and palace hotels worldwide. His private client list is as impressive and includes UHNW individuals, celebrities and Royals who have become friends over the years, which he insists on keeping completely private despite my insistence to get a few crunchy names out of him.

VIVE LA DIFFERENCE Thierry Macquet speaks with Amir Gehl, founder of Difference Coffee

After having listened to such a passionate chat, I was curious to know the truth about why someone who came from a prominent Russo German family with no connection at all to the coffee industry rose to become one of its top-rated ambassadors. After all, 2017 was the year where he was crowned the king of the high-end luxury coffee world in prestigious publications like How to Spend It (FT), Robb Report, and Newsweek. Amir

Why settle for second best when one can get the winner confessed to me that since a very young age, coffee was not … his cup of tea as he found it bitter, but his dislike for a drink which everyone seems to have had in their daily routine since generations pushed him to make the coffee world a better place. Rather romantic one would argue, but his determination paid off and Difference Coffee is now a world leader with international clients, which Amir considers more as

private ‘club members’ sharing the same love and passion as he does. He has managed to position himself at the very top of the pyramid among the bidders of the ‘sacred bean’ in the most prestigious competitions such as The Cup of Excellence, Best of Panama, and the Kona cupping competition where he secures all the No 1 winning harvests. ‘Why settle for second best when one can get the winner’ has and will always be his vision. Next time you are enjoying some premium coffee at Annabelle’s, 67 Pall Mall, The Lanesborough or The Palace in Gstaad, think that this smooth and aromatic drink has been vetted in six rounds and cupped 280 times at the most vigorous competitions, and that you are among the happy few sharing some quality time with a winner. Since we met, Amir has been kind enough to surprise me by sending to my South West London address his classy, black boxes full of Nespresso capsules with different scents, which I always open with excitement, and my new leitmotiv for coffee is just the same as the one Krug champagne has adopted over the years: No Difference Coffee, No Thank you. www.differencecoffee.com

Our pick:

Esmeralda Geisha A very floral aroma with a full bodied bergamot flavour

Jamaica Blue Mountain Chocolaty, where one feels like James Bond under the Caribbean sun in Golden Eye

Wild Kop Luwak A specialty grade from the hills of Indonesia, with a tasty delicate texture

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A BRAND NEW CAR The DS 7 CROSSBACK Azzy Asghar discovers the new addition to the new brand

hen you’re invited to see the latest model release from a new car brand, it is as super exciting as it gets for us petrol heads – throw in the fact that the launch event will be held at the Dorchester Collection’s uber-luxury country house hotel, Coworth Park, we’re packed and ready! The launch event was for us to see the incredible DS7 Crossback – the first of a new generation of models being introduced by DS Automobiles. The DS brand, as you may know, is a spin-off from the Citroen brand and now identifying as a standalone brand with a full range of automobiles planned for the year ahead. Designed for customers who are in tune with the latest trends and appreciate the world of luxury, this new era for DS combines the latest technological innovations, bringing in new levels of driving comfort and performance. The DS7 Crossback features a wide range of innovations. Going down the path toward autonomous driving, technologies such as DS Active Led Vision, DS Connected Pilot

and DS Driver Attention Assist increase the overall safety of the vehicle for drivers and passengers alike. The dynamic body lines and new diamond-effect grille are fantastic design elements that would impress even the most design-savvy consumer. The interior ergonomics are comfortable and stylish, featuring multiple options for ambiences that reflect the DS personalisation concept. In the DS7 Crossback, there is a particular emphasis on the light signature. The jewellike LED modules of the DS Active LED Vision headlights are recognisable by day or night. I was offered the opportunity to take the car out for an evening drive – something I don’t typically do. What I soon realised was that this was to show off the even more impressive DS Night Vision. This technology dramatically increases night-time visibility through the use of an infrared camera installed in the front grille. The camera recognises objects, people and animals at a distance of up to 100m and displays the enhanced view of the read ahead in the dashboard. As the vehicle approaches an object, a red box appears around it,

further identifying the potential danger. The DS 7 Crossback is the first C-segment vehicle to incorporate this type of night vision technology, and as a driver you’ll be quite grateful for it. Citroen is known for its safety standards, but this camera goes above and beyond. In addition to all these safety features, the car is just wonderful to drive. The higher seating position is comfortable, not cumbersome, and the handling is superb for an SUV model. The interior design is futuristic and contemporary, but not so over the top that you can’t relax while you drive. It remains practical for those in search of more seating room from an industry innovator without the astronomical price tag. For the quality of the design, extensiveness of the technology and luxurious feel, the DS7 is well within reach. If you’re in the market for an attractive, contemporary crossover SUV that has top-ofthe-line technological and safety features, the DS7 Crossback is sure to satisfy your needs. From: £28,050 www.DSautomobiles.co.uk

Home House

TOP OF THE CLASS! Azzy Asghar cruises around Southern Florida in the Mercedes-AMG S65 Sedan

t’s nice to have friends in high places. It’s even nicer when those friends have access to the world’s most beautiful things – and are happy to share. It was thus I ended up borrowing a 2018 MercedesAMG S65 Sedan for my weeklong visit to Palm Beach, Florida. When you’re in Florida’s wealthiest county and in the home of the ‘Winter White House’, you need a ride that befits the environment. Even here, in the land of Ferraris, Bentleys and G-Class Wagons, the S65 gets noticed – and boy does it get noticed! It is – as I like to say – a ‘discreet beast’ – although all the tell-tale signs are there that let the unaware realise this is no ordinary uberluxury car – the massive tyres, the huge exhausts, the massive airintakes at the front and, of course, the V12 Bi-turbo and AMG badges. The car is limited to 155mph – but seriously – who’s kidding who and who is really fooled? This is the most lethal car you could imagine – the only thing that belies its true ability might be its sheer scale and size. It is powered by the AMG 6,0-litre V12 bi-turbo engine that’s coupled to an AMG Speedshift 7 plus 7G-Tronic automatic transmission. It’s stance is beautifully perched on the 10-Spoke design, titanium grey, 20 inch wheels. Inside the car is equally as impressive. The S-Class is, of course, the flagship executive car of the Mercedes Benz range, but the S65 AMG hits a stratospheric level in every sense. Think private jet think S65! The cabin in both the front and rear are equally impressive. A composition of exquisite quality and typical AMG look, the key features include the AMG sports seats with upholstery in AMG exclusive nappa leather with AMG-specific diamond design and the extremely futuristic AMG Widescreen Cockpit. This high-grade and exclusive material is also used on the upper section of the instrument panel and in the doors, the roof liner and sun

visors are also covered in nappa leather. Pesky Vegans look away now! At the front you’re the pilot with world-leading technology at your fingertips. The command center, from the AMG-specific lower control panel, the driver uses a rocker switch to control the AMG Dynamic Select drive programs (Comfort, Sport, Sport+, CURVE and Individual). This is also where, with the press of a button, the driver can select the manual transmission mode as well as the set-up of AMG sports suspension, which is based on Magic Body Control, with curve inclination function which stops you rocking in your seat around corners at speed. A rather impressive feature of the car – and something very futuristic – was the night-vision option. A heads-up display in the centre of the dash that reads body-heat of pedestrians and animals and warns you much faster than the naked eye could at night – it’s pure sci-fi and so much fun – not to mention super safe! In the rear you have your own cocoon of ultimate luxury as you fall into bucket sports seat and all the technology you’d ever need for your modernday office on wheels, large TV monitors, in-car WIFI and much more. Despite all this, the two most impressive things about the car are its magnificent engine note that roars even at standstill and, of course, the way it drives – smooth, silky and ready to erupt on demand. The nice and extra-wide American highway system is tailor-made for this car where you can glide along or depress the accelerator for an extra thrill – and the thrill never diminshes. If there is a better luxury-combined-with-performance car out there than the S65 then I‘m yet to drive it – and believe me I’ve driven everything – even those produced in Chichester and Crewe! www.mbusa.com/mercedes

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GETTING SWEATY WITH KIRA We talk to member Kira Mahal to learn about our monthly fitness networking event ‘Sweatworking’ and why she loves our House

Can you tell us a bit about yourself and the reasons why you got into fitness? After many years spent in fast-paced careers in both advertising and banking, I finally took the leap to ‘Entrepreneur’ and set up MotivatePT three years ago. Fitness was the only tool that managed to both de-stress and energise me during my years in The City and I was totally hooked. I decided to combine my two passions: fitness and business. My company now has a team of around 40 personal trainers who offer 1-1 sessions and group fitness classes all over London. The concept is ‘Train Anywhere, Anytime’. So, what is ‘Sweatworking’ all about? Sweatworking is a fresh approach to the traditional idea of ‘networking’, which is often awkward and centred around drinking. I have always found that an exercise class is a great way to meet new people and in previous careers, I didn’t always like the idea of having to drink every time I was asked to ‘network’. I always say that once you’ve squatted with someone or had to pair with them for a circuit, the barriers naturally come down and you can have such an easy conversation that doesn’t feel forced. So, my workouts are always designed with group and partner work in mind. Subtly throughout the class I am introducing participants to one another so that by the time the class ends and we head up to breakfast, the group bonding is well underway.

What are the benefits of participating? If you want to spend some time doing something positive for your body and mind, meet new people and workout in absolutely beautiful surroundings, then this event is for you. What do Home House members think about the activity? We have our regulars who always come back, so that is a really positive sign, and we always have new faces as well. Hopefully this all means that people love this event to kickstart their month. What are your favourite memories of Home House? Having breakfast on the balcony (post workout) overlooking the garden in Summer was one of my favourite moments – bring on Summer! Where can you normally be found in the House? If it’s daytime, you will find me drinking coffee in the Drawing Rooms! But if it’s a Friday evening, I’ll be in House 21, with my drink of choice – an Espresso Martini!

Sweatworking takes place on the morning of the first Saturday each month. For more information, please contact Philippa Jones - philippa@homehouse.co.uk

Home House

TRAINING FOR

SUCCESS!

Jon Drever, Home House’s Gym & Health Spa Manager, has compiled his top training tips to help you achieve the results that you desire...

Are You Just Going Through The Motions? When was the last time you performed a new exercise, workout or tried a new class? We often find ourselves on autopilot when it comes to our workouts. We have limited time in the day to exercise, and often we go through the same routine, at the same intensity and at the same time during the week. Whilst this is convenient, you are probably not getting the best from your time spent in the gym. Below are some useful tips to help you achieve your health and fitness goals (hopefully you have set some!): Train, Don’t Exercise! Exercising has numerous health benefits, such as lowering blood pressure, improving mental wellbeing and improving your immune system function. However, there is a difference between exercising and training. For example, if like many of us, your goal is to reduce body fat, then spending 30 mins on the X-trainer at a low intensity whilst watching TV three times a week will help improve your wellbeing and may increase your cardiovascular fitness. However, it will take a very long time to reduce body fat percentage. Are we simply selecting exercises that are comfortable and convenient or are we selecting ones that get the best results? One of the easiest changes to make when training is to mix up the intensity that you workout at. Below are some of the benefits of increasing your training intensity: • You will burn more fat and maintain more muscle compared with low intensity sessions of the same length • Your heart will become stronger and lung function will improve • It is challenging, you will become mentally stronger • It is an efficient way to train for people who are time poor (perfect for Londoners!) The Science Behind Low & High-Intensity Training Low-Intensity Training Training at a low intensity such as jogging, walking or using a medium to light resistance on the X-trainer does have benefits. These type of exercises are great for a recovery session, if you need to do a large

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volume of exercise such as marathon training, have a certain previous medical condition or you live a relatively sedentary lifestyle and are new to training. Low intensity cardio is performed at a heart rate range of 50% 65% of your maximum heart rate (220-age x 0.5 or 0.65). This kind of training will use the aerobic energy system, meaning your body predominantly likes to use fat and carbohydrates as its fuel. With this type of training, once the need for energy reduces, so will your heart rate, and once the training has finished you quickly return to your pre-exercise state meaning your energy expenditure will decrease. You only increase your metabolism whilst exercising. High-Intensity Training Safely increasing the intensity when you perform exercises will allow the majority of people to achieve the most common goals such as fat loss and increase fitness much faster. When we exercise at a high intensity, we use our anaerobic energy systems (does not require oxygen) to produce energy. The benefit of using our anaerobic energy system is the so called after burn (excess post-exercise oxygen consumption or EPOC for short). After high intensity training sessions the body requires an increased amount of oxygen to replenish our energy resources and return our body to its pre-exercise state. This can lead to 6-15% greater total energy cost (kcal burned) than required when doing a lower intensity training session. What’s not to like, shorter workouts and more energy (kcal) burned!

Applying This To A Workout Try this for a high intensity training workout: • Warm up – 5 mins, watt bike • Tabata protocol (8 sets x 20 seconds work: 10 seconds rest = 4 mins) • Set the watt bike to level 6, magnet 4 – sprint (pedal) as fast as possible for 20 seconds – rest for 10 seconds – repeat x 8 sets You can also perform a relatively simple weight training session at a high intensity level.

Final Thoughts There is no single correct way to train. In my training I like to use both methods; train hard (high intensity sessions) three times a week and use the low intensity sessions as my recovery days. So next time you’re in the gym, think about what you are doing, why you are doing it and which type of training is best to help you achieve your goal. Or why not come to one of our fitness classes or work with a PT to help you achieve the results you want. Remember: “There is no substitute for hard work”.

Perform the following in order (A1 then A2) using a 2:1 work to rest ratio. Work for 40 seconds, rest for 20 seconds. Our in-house personal training team are here to motivate you and create bespoke programmes to help you achieve your fitness goals.

• A1 Bench Press - A2 Body Weight Squats - Rest 3 mins • B1 Lat Pull Down - B2 Dumbell Deadlift - Rest 3 mins • C1 Bicep Curl - C2 Barbell Shoulder Press

Please call Jon on 020 7670 2037 or email gym@homehouse.co.uk

Note: High intensity training is very taxing on the body. Make sure you get clearance from a GP and consult a fitness professional before commencing.

Insanity: Doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results. Albert Einstein

KEEPING OUR EYE ON THE BALL… HOME HOUSE DRIVES TO KEEP THE 2018 GOLFING CALENDAR IN FULL SWING… As Home House celebrates its twentieth birthday, we tee up for another summer of lush fairways, strong competition and golfing highs with events scheduled at the Buckinghamshire 300-acre private estate, Stoke Park and, crowned as the world’s ‘Home of Golf ’, St Andrews, Scotland.

Stoke Park

STOKE PARK, BUCKINGHAMSHIRE THE HOME HOUSE OPEN: TUESDAY 19TH JUNE 2018 The Home House Open continues; now in its sixth year, on the 19th June 2018 we return to Stoke Park, home to one of the finest parkland golf courses worldwide. Hosted by Home House’s Managing Director, Andrew Richardson, in conjunction with the specialist sports consultancy, Sportinclass, members will put their skills (and mental fortitude) to the test in our annual competition. The premise is quite simple, a PGA Championship venue, premium hospitality from start to finish, we keep the champagne flowing, golf buggies stocked with Moët and champagne tents at the first and ninth holes and over seventy golfing enthusiasts driven by both competitive spirit and a few jokes in the bag to share at the halfway house.

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The competition is played on the Colt-Alison Course, routed on the 1908 design by the prolific golf architect, Harry Colt, the signature 7th hole being the inspiration behind the infamous 16th hole at Augusta National, home to the US Masters. In previous years, winning teams have enjoyed all-inclusive trips to highly sought-after luxury resorts, securing places in the Srixon Industry Invitational Final at both Sarasota and Naples in Florida and the Sportingclass Industry Invitational Final in Kuala Lumpur and Half Moon Bay San Francisco. This year, the winning four-ball will join the final in November hosted at The Ritz-Carlton New Orleans with golf played across TPC Louisiana and English Turn. Players of all handicaps are welcomed. There are no strict rules other than to play fair, avoid the bunkers and as Andrew will emphasise, driving home is strongly discouraged!

Photos of The Old Course Hotel, Golf Resort & Spa and Dukes Course courtesy of Kohler Co

The Old Course

ST ANDREWS, SCOTLAND: FRIDAY 28TH TO SUNDAY 30TH SEPTEMBER 2018

The Old Course Hotel, Golf Resort & Spa

The Duke’s

Scotland has always been commended for its first-class courses, but St Andrews is hallowed as the international home of golf, encompassing the oldest and most iconic golf course in the world, The Old Course, hosting 29 Open Championships to date. This September, Home House heads north for a weekend of undulating greens, majestic ocean views, friendly competition and a two-night stay at the prestigious AA Five Red Star-awarded Old Course Hotel, Golf Resort & Spa well situated alongside the fairway of the 17th ‘Road Hole’ of the Old Course. Golfers will have the opportunity to play some of Scotland’s finest courses including the heathland championship course at The Duke’s and Kingsbarns, a worldwide Top 100 ranked course and a must-play course for any golfer. Dating back to 1793, Kingsbarns now co-hosts the annual Alfred Dunhill Links Championship, hailed as being one of the richest tournaments on the European Tour and in 2017 hosted the Ricoh Women’s British Open. Both The Duke’s and Kingsbarns promise some memorable holes and dramatic views from the North Sea coastline. Non-golfing friends and partners are welcomed to join the long weekend, enjoying some of the attractions St Andrews boasts. Be it a morning’s shopping in St Andrews with its cobbled streets and selection of boutique shops, a visit to the ruins of a nearby castle, whiskey tasting at a local distillery or simply chance to relax and unwind at the recently renovated Kohler Waters Spa in the grounds of the Old Course Hotel, St Andrews has a magnitude on offer other than the terrain’s natural aptness for golf. Golfing enthusiast or not, each day will be completed with hospitality and a touch of hedonism in the usual Home House manner…

Kingsbarns

Spaces are limited for both the Home House Open and the St Andrews Golf long weekend, both of which will be hosted by Andrew Richardson. To register your interest or to further enquire about our golfing calendar or Stoke Park contact Jessica Barwell: jessica@homehouse.co.uk ON THE GREENS ALL YEAR ROUND… As part of our Love from Cedric exclusive benefits scheme, members enjoy exceptional rates at Stoke Park all year round. Tee off for: £60 on weekdays (discounted from £150 per person) £85 at weekends and public holidays (discounted from £230 per person)

Fancy making a weekend of it? Home House members receive 10% off room rates, complimentary breakfast and a room upgrade (subject to availability) on accommodation at Stoke Park booked via Home House.

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Fail Fast LEARN FASTER! Our executive coach and mentor Jon Treanor discusses the power of Emotional Intelligence

ollaborations, relationships, and partnerships are all based on a level trust, the idea being that in working or living together we build something that is of mutual benefit; effectively we share the risks and the rewards. But how self-aware are we in knowing how trusting we are, let alone someone else? How authentic are we? How well do we regard other people? These are key attributes that form the fundamentals of any successful alliance; the way we behave is based on our personal beliefs and attitudes that we each should be aware of. They are essential indicators to how well any relationship will succeed or indeed why it might well fail. Unlike our personality, we can develop and change our Emotional Intelligence (EI or EQ). A core principle of an EI mind-set is an open and flexible willingness to fail fast in order to learn faster. In todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s innovative and rapidly changing world we have to develop an attitude that accepts mistakes as learning opportunities, and in effect, makes people unafraid to experiment, to be open-minded and non-judgmental. We will all need to develop and adjust our personal attitudes that in turn lead us to behaviours that are more Emotionally Intelligent, lest we get left behind or left alone. Despite the technological advances that continually inform our life, it really comes down to real life being all about people. Trustbased interactions will only come from people like us actively engaged in improving our people and social skills, that in turn will foster true collaborations, partnerships and successful relationships. Life then is all about interaction and effective relationships. Technology, on the other hand, like money, is simply an enabler. It is how

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we use technology that is important. All the technology in our hands today and that is becoming available to us wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t amount to anything unless it supports true interaction between people. How then can we be sure that we are engaged in developing our own personal attitudes, behaviours and feelings that allow us to interact successfully in life? Emotional Intelligence is a combination of attitudes and behaviours that distinguish us, how we manage ourselves to be personally and interpersonally effective. Personal Emotional Intelligence (EI) means being effective at picking up what is going on inside of you (self-awareness) and taking appropriate steps to manage yourself (selfmanagement). Interpersonal Emotional Intelligence is becoming more effective at picking up what is going on for other people (Awareness of Others) and taking the appropriate actions to manage your reactions to them (Relationship Management). Our EI is influenced by our attitudes, specifically our attitude to ourselves (self-regard) and our attitude towards others (regard for others). It is going to become increasingly important in our technological future to develop the right attitudes, along with the way in which we behave if we are going to have successful and meaningful relationships in the digital future we are embracing.

Jon Treanor has been a member of Home House since 1999. He specialises in Emotional Intelligence, Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction and the Human Condition. He is a psychotherapist and runs Emotional Intelligence Executive Leadership sailing retreats in the Greek Islands during the summer months.

HOTEL OF HORRORS Halloween Party 2017

It was late on Hallows’ Eve and there were no rooms left in London, with the exception of the Home House ‘Hotel of Horrors’ on the ill-fated Portman Square. Legend says that no one has ever checked out. Did you dare to enter the doors and be greeted by the creatures that would glide you to your Room 101 in the residence of evil, venture through the halls where gruesome bloody murders have taken place or dance with the freaks at the Grand Goblin Ball?

The Fashion House Ball Diamonds Edition

NEW YEAR’S EVE 2017/18 Make it shimmer, make it sparkle, and most of all make it to the NYE cover of Home House Vogue Magazine. We opened our doors to stage the finest, dazzling 2017/2018 show-stopper catwalk creations. Testino and Bailey inspired fashion photo shoots, Haute Couture runways, Fashion Bloggers, and front row Vloggers were all running amok. There were immersive designer shop windows direct from Paris and Milan together with avant-garde accessory markets from the mystical East. It was London’s hottest New Year’s Eve party and rumoured to top New York’s Met Ball thanks to you, our highly renowned guests and members of the fashion Glitterati.

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Après Ski Party Whether you’re heading to the slopes this year or not, House 21 was your chance to revel in the lively and heady atmosphere of the mountains… Our guests grabbed their goggles and salopettes and entered the snowy world of House 21 magically transformed for one-night-only into a wonderworld of all things ‘après ski’ including a giant snowglobe and two British ‘skiers’!

Cedric Golf Cup Our seriously â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;above parâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; course promised 9 holes of the most fun imaginable, challenged our members on different levels (and floors!), all within the decadent surroundings of our 18th century house.

A Valentineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Burlesque Night Members and their guests joined us for a glittery evening of burlesque, music and just a little Moulin Rouge...! The guests entered a colourful and romantic night of burlesque and fun in House 21! Spectacular, opulent, lavish and just that little bit naughty, you could have watched our titillating, feathery and fire show before posing with our snake charmer or receiving news of your love life from our fortune teller!

Our Legal Eagle TWO

DECADES

... and the rest

A long-standing Home House member, Simon Ross is the Managing Partner of ‘Leading West End law firm’ Seddons, based just across the road at 5 Portman Square. Ambitious and driven, Simon joined the firm over 30 years ago and has since been instrumental in its growth; becoming a wellknown and established practice, Seddons are considered trusted advisors to many families and businesses, both locally and internationally.

What are your most memorable moments at Home House? What have been your highlights over the past 20 years? There have been many! The beauty of Home House is that it spans A lot can change in 20 years, and I’ve been lucky enough to have seen both my professional and personal life. The firm has had numerous those changes and help those in the firm navigate all that life has to offer. events in Home House, from Christmas parties, seminars, Partners’ Having joined Seddons in 1990, I have had the pleasure of watching the meetings, client dinners and lunches – all of which have always been practice grow from the small firm that it was, to the leading West End incredibly easy to manage thanks to the brilliant team at Home House. firm that it is today. We have had many talented lawyers join over the In terms of my personal life, Home House have hosted a dinner to years, and I have done everything in my power to ensure their success, celebrate my silver wedding anniversary, my watching them grow, and develop their careers; mother’s 80th birthday, and family staying at at times saying goodbye, only to see them return Home House for my youngest son’s wedding, at a later date. which also included a pre-wedding dinner. The firm has grown substantially over the Another memorable I’ve also tried to maintain (up and down) over years, for the most part organically, and whilst moment I’ve twenty years, a fitness regime which began in culture and technology has moved on, our ethos 1998 to get fit for charity bike rides in America has remained the same – to provide the best experienced in Home and India. Having benefited from the personal service to our clients, as and when they need it. House was standing training advice of Jonathan Goodair and his in the Bison Bar colleagues, I have lived through various refurbs Where do you see the firm going in the watching Tom Jones of the gym and spa areas and am still delighted next 20 years? every time the fingerprint reader on the door Really more of the same, if we can achieve on the television, with actually works and I do not have to call the the same success that we have had over the Tom Jones standing lovely Anna! last twenty years, then we will have had a great next to me. Another memorable moment I’ve experienced achievement. We were a West End firm 20 in Home House was standing in the Bison Bar years ago, and we still see that the West End has watching Tom Jones on the television, with Tom advantages for us, so the probability is that we Jones standing next to me. That was ‘unusual’. will continue to be a West End firm for the next 20 years and beyond. We’ve grown and adapted with our clients, whilst Did you always set out to be Managing Partner? retaining the personality that is so important to us, and will continue to I was always extremely interested in the firm as a whole, rather than do so. me as an individual and right from the very start I’ve always been We see ourselves very much involved with the community. We’ve involved in the day to day running of it, so yes, I’ve always felt that one taken a leading role, from inception, with the Baker Street Quarter of my roles was to try and secure the firm’s culture and take a part in its and have been involved in the running of the Portman Square Garden direction. Where we are now, is exactly where I’d hoped we’d be. Party, at least for the last 10 years. We value the community that we are in, and see the need to continue to do everything we can to progress its development.

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Favourite things about being Managing Partner? Being Managing Partner isn’t always easy, but it’s rewarding. My favourite things about managing is the ability to get involved in mentoring and helping develop lawyers’ careers, building a firm and steering the ship. Steering the ship gives a sense of elation when all goes right, and the challenge of having to adjust the sails when the economic climate changes and/or the needs of the lawyers and the clients change. You quickly learn that one cannot stand still… one can never stand still. The legal landscape is forever changing; firms that refuse to change are unlikely to be around for very long. I take great pride in ensuring that our firm stays ahead of the curve. What sets Seddons apart from other firms? Although we have grown considerably in size, we are now a firm of approximately 120 people; we still hold the same values around looking after clients’ needs, both personal and commercial, and dealing with all aspects of life. Recruiting and maintaining lawyers who are not just looking at billing targets but are looking at providing excellent advice and service to clients is key to our success. We are proud of how we are highly regarded by clients, other professionals and publications that

review the ranking of lawyers, in which we are highly commended. We work collaboratively with our clients, in many areas including Residential and Commercial Real Estate, Litigation, Family, Immigration, Private Client, Employment and Corporate… We are delighted to work with Home House members who generally share similar values… we’re the right sort of firm to be working with them because it’s all very personal. What should clients bear in mind when seeking legal advice? Most people at some point in their life, be it professional or personal, will need a lawyer. That lawyer should certainly have your best interests at heart, and while there is so much to say in this respect, it probably boils down to excellence, empathy, expertise and effectiveness. These points provide for professionalism, shared values, pragmatism and clarity of advice and solutions. Acting for clients is not just about billable hours, it’s about advising and guiding them through any issues in their personal, and professional lives. A good lawyer can stay with you a lifetime, and beyond, which is why you should feel comfortable with whomever you decide to go with.

Seddons are a top 200 law practice based in London’s West End, with a strong reputation for both commercial and private client work. We advise our UK and international clients on personal and commercial disputes, real estate, family law, estate planning, corporate law, employment law and more. Seddons achieve the best possible outcome, with the professional and interpersonal skills needed for sensitive matters, complex technical work and cross-practice issues. Working alongside other professionals we protect clients’ legal, financial and emotional interests. Our clients are from varied backgrounds, with an emphasis on business owners and professionals, and we regularly act for high-profile clients, understanding the importance of preserving confidentiality and reputation with utmost discretion. Seddons offer a discreet and integrated service, which combines all relevant practice areas of law within a single strategic approach. Drawing on the in-house expertise and judgement of our leading legal practitioners, we provide a fully comprehensive service, finely tuned to clients’ concerns and aspirations. We would be delighted to offer all Home House members an initial free 30 minute consultation, should you ever need legal advice.

5 Portman Square London W1H 4NT www.seddons.co.uk @Seddons

Home House

ALL THAT

JAZZ The very talented Guy Barker

azz musician, trumpet player, composer, conductor and arranger – Guy Barker is a man of many talents. Charlotta Billström sits down with him to talk about his work, his involvement with Brass for Africa, and, of course, his love for music...

Hi Guy, what are you working on right now, and any future projects planned? I’m working on a few different things. I’ve been commissioned to write a cello concerto, which is quite a challenge. But right at this moment, I’m writing a few arrangements for Paloma Faith to sing with the Sydney Symphony Orchestra. Then there are a number of projects that I do every year, one at Cheltenham, one at The Royal Albert Hall at Christmas, and there’s one at the Festival Hall which opens the London Jazz Festival. I also have a project that I’m working on with a fantastic vocalist from the States called Kurt Elling, and it’s going to be performed at the Lincoln Centre in New York in a year’s time. Do you find that working as an arranger and composer takes you across to other genres than jazz? Yes, for example in the concert we do every year that opens the London Jazz Festival I have a 42-piece orchestra, and I create all the arrangements. But every year we have eight different singers, and they’re all from different genres. I started playing in

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a school brass band, as well as the National Youth Jazz Orchestra, where I developed this huge love and passion for jazz. When I left college I was in sessions with pop groups and rock bands, doing film soundtracks and playing in so many different genres, that in the end you don’t have any blinkers, you’re just wide open. Was it Duke Ellington who said “there are simply two kinds of music, good music and the other kind”. You’ve worked with many talented individuals. Is there anyone in particular who stands out from the crowd? I couldn’t pick out one person, saying “they were the best”. Everyone I’ve worked with has had some amazing qualities and something that you could learn from. It’s been an interesting ride. There are always new people coming up, that’s the thing that’s really exciting with this business. Just when you thought everything was fine, suddenly somebody new will turn up just around the corner – and they will blow you away. Would you like to tell us a little bit about your charity work? I was introduced to [Jim Trott] who runs this charity, Brass for Africa, so he asked if we could get together. He, along with some colleagues, created an orphanage and they had friends of theirs in the UK send over brass band instruments. All these kids started

to learn how to play, and the music gave them hope and a new reason to live. Then I introduced this gentleman to the great classical trumpet player Alison Balsom, who I’d been working with. The two of us went to Africa and spent some time with these kids. It was an incredible experience. I got the children to play jazz with me, and then I sat down with them and played brass band marches and Alison gave some wonderful trumpet lessons. It’s an amazing organisation, and I’m very proud to be associated with it. As a long-time member of Home House, do you have a special memory from the club? When we finish doing the opening night concerts at the London Jazz Festival, the two people who I work closest with always have an annual Christmas dinner at the club to celebrate the concert that we just did, and look forward to the next year. I’ve also done three or four performances for the club, where I have worked alongside Georgie Fame and Chris Difford. Those were very special and intimate concerts. One of the things I love is bringing people there. It’s great to take them on a guided tour, and you take them through the garden and then you open the doors and suddenly they’re confronted with that bar that looks like a spaceship. It’s always great fun to look at their faces – one extreme to the next. It’s a special place.

THE FUTURE of Members’ Clubs

fter 20 successful years of being one of London’s leading clubs, Home House is preparing to reinvent modern clubs yet again with the impending arrival of our new private members club: Home Grown. Home Grown is a truly unique space bringing together a community of entrepreneurs, investors and leading businesses under one roof. Home Grown is uniquely positioned to be the catalyst for business growth through access to our diverse membership, spanning a wide range of sectors, industries and countries, whose interest is building successful international businesses. The club’s ethos is based on the three pillars of collaborating, cultivating and enabling with the sole focus of helping companies to find investment opportunities. We are enrolling only the most determined, talented and dynamic entrepreneurs, investors, service providers and business leaders who are ambitious to grow their companies. Our purpose is to match top quality investors to pre-qualified investment opportunities supported by the best advisory network of professional specialists, coaches and mentors. At the core of the offer will be an extensive members’ events programme that has been designed in partnership with leading educators, investment vehicles and industry bodies. Located in the heart of Marylebone, the stylish interiors designed by Russell Sage include a choice of beautiful dining and entertaining spaces which all exude quality and the utmost attention to detail. The culture of the club is about connecting like-minded people from a diverse membership spanning different sectors and industries. The Grade II Georgian townhouses feature a plethora of stunning spaces designed for the modern business person including pitching rooms, meeting spaces, executive lounges, 35 boutique bedrooms, stunning dining rooms, bars and event spaces. It will be the perfect place to arrange intimate business meetings, pitch big ideas to investors, learn about the latest innovations, network with

Several relaxing lounges designed for hosting business meetings

like-minded professionals, nurture ideas and entertain corporate clients. In summary, it is a one stop shop for all of an entrepreneur’s needs. However, it is important to point out that Home Grown is not a coworking space as we don’t believe that successful business relationships are built from behind a computer screen.

Benefits of membership at Home Grown: • Exclusive access to the club • Competitive corporate bedroom rates for members • Extensive calendar of members’ events • Access to business accelerator seminars • Investor opportunities • Invites to executive networking events • A complementary use of a pitching or meeting room • Facilitation of psychometric testing and team dynamic insights • Access to online members community • Excellent transport links located next to Marble Arch tube station, and discounted parking rates at NCP car park

Executive dining

Home House

Members’ Events

35 ensuite bedrooms

Home Grown is dedicated to helping businesses flourish by providing the platforms and tools for success. We have developed an extensive events programme that is designed to help business leaders to develop along every step of their journey from starting-up to investing. A successful environment means successful performance, so in the right setting, exceptional results and high standards become the norm. We have curated a series of events that support a results-orientated approach for members’ professional and business development. The events programme is designed to be engaging, approachable, open and knowledgeable to accelerate businesses performance. They cover the following three pillars: Collaborating • Networking with a dynamic community of entrepreneurs, investors and advisors • Talks by renowned business and economic leaders • Thought leadership forums • Personal business to business introductions • Social events designed to make connections including wellbeing and sweat-working activities • Invaluable wealth of knowledge from top advisors and mentors Enabling • Enabling growth at every opportunity throughout a business’s path to success through our introductory accelerator courses • High quality training developed by leading experts in a vast array of subjects from technology platforms to management • Learn how to perfect your pitching skills • Lunch and learn educational events

THE FUTURE of Members’ Clubs

Cultivating • Crocodile Lair event pitching to investors • Monthly ‘open mike’ pitching event • Capital ventures meet and greet activities • A variety of invite only food and drink events such as supper clubs and wine tastings aimed to support networking with sector specific groups, investors and associations • Facilitation of mentoring schedule • Meet the investor mornings Home Grown café and study

Home House Dual Membership Not for the faint start-up, Home Grown is a dynamic and inclusive community which enables established entrepreneurs and investors to collaborate by actively encouraging and cultivating business relationships. We have created a special membership category for a limited number of Home House members who would like dual membership at both clubs. There will be a reduced fee and additional benefits for dual members. To register your interest please visit our website at www.homegrownclub.co.uk

Timings We are now accepting applications for founder members and will be arranging personal presentations to individuals and businesses who register their interest. Home Grown is due for completion in January 2019 with a limited number of memberships available. The membership committee will be reviewing all applications throughout the summer with the view to enrol the founder members in autumn 2018. Places are strictly limited and subject to approval. For more information and to register interest please visit www.homegrownclub.co.uk

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On your side

Dependable advice to businesses and individuals

London’s first-choice law firm for businesses and individuals. From Portman Square in the West End, we advise our UK and international clients on real estate, family law, wealth management, disputes, corporate law, employment and more. As a member of Home House we’re here for you whenever you need us. If you’d like to have a no obligation chat over a coffee, please contact Simon Ross on 020 7725 8070. Whatever the matter, Seddons is on your side. www.seddons.co.uk

Constructive advice 5 Portman Square London, W1H 6NT

Telephone: +44 (0) 20 7725 8000