Fine Sussex – Budding Romances by Fine Magazine

Presenting the very best of whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s available in this county and beyond

budding romances 2014 VOLUME I

CHOOSING THE RIGHT WINDOWS & DOORS FOR YOUR HOME

alk down any street in England and you can tell, almost instinctively, whether the doors and windows of a home really suit the structure of the building. When the windows are wrong it is blindingly obvious â&#x20AC;&#x201C; but when they have been chosen well, or the original windows and doors preserved, the effect is often simply beautiful. So what should you consider when investing in new Timber Windows? For many homeowners, restoring the integrity of the original structure is paramount. When choosing windows and doors to faithfully replicate the appearance of the building in its heyday it is essential to study the size of the window sections, ensuring that they match the proportions of the original frames as closely as possible. Deep bottom rails, slim meeting styles and fine glazing bars are important details. In casement windows non-opening elements should be glazed with dummy sashes to ensure balanced sightlines. The amount of glass area is important and overly bulky sections should be avoided.The Timber WIndows range provides great dimensional flexibility and a wide range of choices to ensure traditional aesthetics are preserved, whilst providing 21st century levels of comfort, security and performance. Fungal & Insect

30 YEARS

Sealed Unit

10 YEARS

Hardware

10 YEARS

Workmanship

10 YEARS

Paint

8 YEARS

Stain

5 YEARS

Many options also exist to really break down the boundaries between the house and outdoor space, letting light flood in, such as the addition of a folding sliding door or a smooth running patio door. Time was when every window frame in sight was white. Today the choice of factory applied colours and finishes available adds a level of choice our predecessors would envy. With natural timber finishes, subtle shades of cream, green, blue and grey, as well as elegant black, the Timber Windows colour palette can help to highlight or to blend in. Multiple colours are also possible, with the option to finish the insides of your windows and doors differently from the outsides. We can also colour match to leading, quality paint brands to complement your interior colour scheme. Balancing the style, colour and choice of windows and doors appropriately all adds up to what our trans-Atlantic cousins call 'curb appeal' - a pleasing visual aspect for neighbours, passers-by and even future purchasers. This is the art and hallmark of a job well done. Timber Windows would very much welcome the opportunity to work with you, enabling you to enhance the value and beauty of your home through the addition of well-chosen timber windows and doors. To take the first steps simply visit our website, call us direct or pop into our showroom.

GUARANTEE GUARANTEE GUARANTEE GUARANTEE GUARANTEE GUARANTEE

TEL: 01403 732822

Whilst some customers follow the conservation route, for others the opportunity to blend traditional and contemporary styles is a serious temptation. Pairing a stunning contemporary front door with beautiful box sash windows may give the individuality that your home has been longing for.

email: enquiries@timberwindowshorsham.com

www.timberwindowshorsham.com Timber Windows of Horsham, Unit 1, Blunts Yard, Newbuildings Place, Dragons Green Road, Dragons Green Horsham RH13 8GQ

Unit 63, Churchill Square, Brighton, BN1 2RG 49 West Street, Horsham, West Sussex, RH12 1PP

Twenty years ago, Hurst first opened its doors to girls ...

The College has never looked back ...

Hurst Hurstpierpoint College

Pre-Prep | Prep | Senior School | Sixth Form

Hurstpierpoint College

Hurstpierpoint

Spring Open Morning 15th March 2014 We invite you to see what Hurst can offer your child To find out more, visit our website www.hppc.co.uk

West Sussex BN6 9JS

Admissions 01273 836936

IN A NUTSHELL this issue

40 the legend continues Want to go from zero to 100 in 3 seconds? Meet the Huracan, the latest release from the iconic Italian car manufacturer

the romance issue

lingerie love

Starting with our Favourite Things and throughout the issue, we include romantic venues and features dedicated to helping you plan for a wedding

The latest in luxury lace and silk underwear for ladies courtesy of British brand Lucile

Regulars

Features

10 The making of the issue

21 Property investor?

A welcome from the editor and the inspiration behind the features in ‘Budding Romances’

Guy Leonard and Co launches the Investors Club, passing on its insight and expertise to customers

32 Do Tell

35 Past and present of the FTSE 100

Top tips from Juno’s Tracey Evans on saving in 2014

Greg Mahon from Rathbones explains the origins of the trading and financial index and discusses its role

98 In the diary The details of a very special charity golf day in aid of the Dame Vera Lynn Trust – and you can take part |9

56 get away from it all A selection of romantic Sussex destinations where you can spend quality time with the one you love

let’s go outside

candlelit dinner for two

It might be cold and wet, but there’s nothing like a good walk followed by a roast. See our selection of outerwear by British brand Barbour

Head chef at The Three Crowns in Wisborough Green, Mellissa Scanlan, gives us the recipe for a cosy night in

Features 64 Planning a wedding? Rachael Burgess, wedding planner and organiser extraordinaire, with her step by step guide to help you plan the big day of your dreams

70 Chichester’s new fine dining establishment The Ship Hotel gets a top-to-toe refurbishment. We look at its sauve new interior and classic-meetscontemporary menu.

110 Science at school In our education section we discuss the importance of one of the classroom’s three core subjects 10 | FINE SUSSEX

IN A NUTSHELL this issue

50 what to tell your kids about exams Hurstpierpoint School help us take a look at ways you can support your young ones through what can be their most stressful time

pretty green

new york interiors

Oak framing might seem an extravagant use of wood for a property. But itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not only stunning but surprisingly sustainable

Edward Hayama talks to two NYC interior designers who explain why the city has a distinctive look, and how you can replicate it in your own home

Features 60 Wiston House We take a look at the exclusive wedding venue to discover why it could make the most wonderful setting for your big day

90 Beautiful boudoir Katrina Smith speaks to her industry peers to find out what makes a more romantic bedroom, with a selection of designs from Park Grove Design

95 On your feet Billy Jowett a consultant at the Chichester Nuffield discusses his work with feet and ankles, explaining a healthy lifestyle is the best medicine | 11

the making of BUDDING ROMANCES

We love love here at Fine Sussex. It’s a good job too because so far this year we’ve been immersed in all things weddings and romance related in preparation for this issue. If he ‘put a ring on it’ and you are planning your big day at the moment, you’ll find some comfort in the advice Rachael Burgess (events extraordinaire) has to pass on. But you don’t have to be walking down the aisle any time soon to enjoy ‘Budding Romances’. Romantic getaways, advice on creating a more inviting bedroom and recipes for a candlelit dinner join features on the FTSE 100, savings tips

for 2014 and the new Lamborghini to create a publication that is as enlightening as it is entertaining. If you have children, you’ll probably enjoy our Education section. This issue we pass on expert knowledge on what to tell your young ones about exams – helping make that dreaded period a little easier. Plus we put science under the microscope, looking at whether it’s still as important as ever and in particular whether girls can excel at what has been a male-dominated subject (both in school and out of it).

BLACK TIE MEDIA LTD finesussex.co.uk

EDITOR James Hood jhood@finesussex.co.uk

LAYOUT & DESIGN Lewis Forsaith lforsaith@finesussex.co.uk

EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS Katrina Smith Edward Hayama

PHOTOGRAPHY Danni Beach

As you can tell, we might be all lovey dovey right now, but airy fairy we are not. Enjoy the issue.

distribution@finesussex.co.uk

JAMES HOOD EDITOR

ACCOUNTS MANAGER

CIRCULATION

Dave Smith dsmith@finesussex.co.uk

Inside the issue

SUBSCRIPTIONS subscriptions@finesussex.co.uk 01403 251000

ADVERTISING finance

ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER

“The future looks bright for the FTSE 100. In spite of the financial crisis, London remains a key hub for global equity trading” GREG MAHON on the past and present of the FTSE

interiors “There’s a level of sophistication in New York based on the exposure to art and the importance of design” BETTY WASSERMAN on NY interior design

Linda Still lstill@finesussex.co.uk

MANAGING DIRECTOR Matthew Wheeler mwheeler@finesussex.co.uk The views and opinions expressed in the articles herein are those of the authors concerned and are not endorsed by the publisher. Whilst every care has been taken during the production process, the publisher does not accept any liability for errors that may have occurred or for the views expressed. Fine Sussex Budding Romances 2014 This publication is protected by copyright. ©2014 Printed by Foundry Press.

Image supplied by Barbour.

weddings “I create a tasks timeline - a chart of activities to be started or completed by a certain date. If you take nothing else from my article please take this tip” RACHAEL BURGESS on planning your big day

12 | FINE SUSSEX

Go to page 50 for more. Presenting the very best of what’s available in this county and beyond

BUDDING ROMANCES 2014 VOLUME I

WWW.AQUASCUTUM.CO.UK

16 | FINE SUSSEX

the

RESIDENCE Chalet Husky Val d’Isere, France

Chalet Husky is one of the finest properties available in the Alps. The chalet includes seven bedrooms, a 32 sqm private pool, indoor garden (with a glass bridge connecting the first floor levels), pistol and archery range and a climbing room, as well as spacious living and dining areas. There is a separate sauna, Jacuzzi and wellness area for massages and treatments. Residents and guests will also benefit from private lift access from underground parking and iPad connectivity in all rooms, which controls the lighting and heating. The property is just 300 metres from the centre of Val d’Isere and also accessed via slopes to rear. The largest chalet of the ‘Le Petit Alaska’ collection, Chalet Husky was recently completed (mid-December 2013) and is the largest newly built chalet available in the resort. For more information on this property or a wide selection of French lifestyle and investment properties, contact Athena Advisors 020 7471 4500 or go to athenaadvisors.co.uk

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Voted â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Best

Large Agencyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; for the second year in a row.

To discuss your moving plans please contact Hamptons International on Horsham 64 West Street, Horsham, West Sussex RH12 1PL Lettings. 01403 342206 horshamlettings@hamptons-int.com Sales. 01403 342101 horsham@hamptons-int.com www.hamptons.co.uk

Beyond your expectations

Stonehouse Lane, Cowfold The property offers a wealth of accommodation including Kitchen/Breakfast Room, 3 Reception Rooms, Office, Master Suite, 5 Further Bedrooms, Family Bathroom and original features including an inglenook open fireplace. The annexe is situated next to the outdoor swimming pool providing ancillary accommodation, which comprises a self contained kitchen, shower room and mezzanine sleeping area. EPC rating E

ÂŁ3,100 pcm Kitchen/Breakfast Room Master Suite Guest Suite Annexe Outdoor Pool Tennis Court

Horsham Lettings 01403 254877 horshamlettings@hamptons-int.com Sales . Lettings . Land . New Homes . International . Property Finance . Auctions . Sales . Lettings . New Homes . Property Finance . Auctions . Sales . Lettings . Land . New Homes . Property Finance . Auctions . Conveyancing . Sales . Lettings Land . New Homes . International . Property Finance . Conveyancing . Sales . Lettings . Land . New Homes . International

West Chiltington | ÂŁ695,000 A handsome period family house of approx 2,777 sqft / 258sqm with elegant features and in particular offering considerable ground floor living space (including 3 living rooms plus a study with adjoining bedroom & shower room). Set back from the lane with a rear driveway, double garage and surrounding gardens. Good location for access to village amenities. 4/5 Reception Rooms | Kitchen / Breakfast Room | Cellar | 4/5 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms Double Garage and Store | Garden | Convenient for walks and shop | Energy Rating E

Simon, Michael and Lucinda are looking forward to helping you make a successful move in 2014.

SOLD IN 2013

With 50 years of combined experience in the property market in West Sussex, London and further afield we offer a proactive service designed to present each property to its most suitable market â&#x20AC;&#x201C; be it local, national or international.

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www.comynandjames.co.uk 01798 888111 â&#x20AC;˘ property@comynandjames.co.uk

West SussexLondonWest SussexLondonWest SussexLondon | 21

• An exquisite collection of new and beautifully crafted homes set in a backdrop of a 33-acre ancient woodland

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Details correct at time of going to press. Photograph shows the Show Home at Swallowhurst. This kitchen includes an upgraded Aga and accessories to the value of £15,000.

the key to getting good at

property At Guy Leonard & Co, we are often asked if now is a good time to invest in a buy-to-let property and become an â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Investment Landlordâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. With house prices slowly starting to rise, mortgage deals becoming more attractive and rent levels continuing to increase, buying your first rental property or increasing your portfolio is definitely worth serious consideration. With this in mind, we have created the Investors Club to provide advice and highlight We are investment opportunities to property professionals people with all levels of property and by sharing our investment knowledge we give experience.

you the confidence to make informed judgements on how to succeed as a property investor

With long term savings rates low and pension savings being affected by market volatility, property is becoming a popular alternative to other investments. Many Landlords are using their property investments to supplement pension schemes or to find another way to earn some income from their savings. There are always pitfalls with any investment and property is no different. However, with help and advice from the Investors Club, becoming an investment landlord can be very rewarding. When we have sat with investors just starting on this exciting adventure or reviewing and expanding their portfolio, we have had discussions about the best type of property to suit their investment needs, the best areas to invest in and even what other agents are selling at the moment. With the Investors Club, we can help with all of these, including accompanying viewings to properties being sold through other agents to ensure that you are constantly receiving the best advice to maximise your investment. The Investors Club provides you with the professional service you would expect from Guy Leonard & Co. We know that service really does matter and take pride in exceeding

membersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; expectations. This means that we often receive new business on personal recommendations. We are investment property professionals and by sharing our knowledge we give you the confidence to make informed judgements on how to succeed as a property investor. You benefit from general advice through our regular blogs and property investment articles. For members wanting more we also offer a mentoring service for one-to-one advice and assistance. Regular workshops and seminars are hosted for you to provide more information and expertise in the many areas of property investment issues. You are kept up to date with news and changes in legislation, which could affect your current portfolio and future investments. You can take advantage of our excellent local knowledge and expert advice to identify the best property investment opportunities available. All of the properties we recommend to you have been thoroughly reviewed for their rental potential. This will include properties marketed by all estate agents in the area and we are happy to personally accompany you to view properties to give further recommendations on maximising your investments. We assist you in building a successful property portfolio to achieve the highest returns. Information is key to the understanding of your investments and as a member of the Investors Club you will receive a proactive portfolio management service to regularly review the progress of your property investment. You will also benefit from the services of our Lettings team and their broad range of skills and experience in managing tenancies for investment landlords. As a member of the Investors Club you receive preferential rates on managing your tenancies. You are also able to make the most of our professional connections with legal and financial services to assist in every aspect of your property investment. If you are considering investing in property or have an existing portfolio you would like us to review, contact Philip Reynolds on 01403 248222.

| 23

Storrington Ä

Guide price Ä395,000

Storrington Ä

Guide price Ä425,000

new home

Storrington High Street

Historic Steyning Ä

Guide Ä385,000

12 Church Street, Storrington, West Sussex RH20 4LA

01903 74 12 12 e: property@clarkeandcharlesworth .com

www.clarkeandcharlesworth.com

A fine 2,043 sq ft 5 bedroom home in a leafy lane, a mile from the village

Storrington Village Ä

Ä269,500

Fittleworth Ä

Guide price Ä425,000

Village & Country Property, Lettings, Land & New Homes

01903 74 12 12 e: property@clarkeandcharlesworth .com

www.clarkeandcharlesworth.com

www.peterhughes.co.uk @propertyhughes

Period Family Home WISBOROUGH GREEN - £1,400,000

Immaculate Mews House BURTON PARK - £550,000

www.peterhughes.co.uk

New Street Petworth West Sussex GU28 0AS

• • • • •

5 beds • 2 baths (1 ensuite) • 6 receps • Cloakroom • Utility room Kitchen/breakfast room • Rear lobby • Large cellar Annexe comprising: sitting room, bedroom & ensuite shower room Extensive gardens with pool • Paddock, stables & store • Garaging for 4 cars Swedish timber shed used as office • About 2.47 acres

• • • •

Stunning parkland setting at the foot of the South Downs 3 beds • 2 baths (1 ensuite) • Double reception room • Cloakroom Kitchen/breakfast room • Attic • South facing terrace • 2 parking spaces Direct access to acres of formal gardens, grounds, parkland & use of tennis courts

PeterHughes Hughes Peter countryproperty property country

Secluded Rural Setting NR PULBOROUGH - £2,175,000

• • • •

6 beds • 3 baths (1 ensuite) • 4 receps • Cloakroom • Utility room Kitchen/breakfast room • Double garage with office & annexe Swimming pool & pool house • Formal gardens, vegetable garden etc Meadow, paddocks & stables • Boating & trout fishing lake • About 7.65 acres

01798 344554

www.guyleonard.co.uk

Watersfield, near Pulborough – £1,285,000 Freehold – ID 41149 A six bedroom spacious detached property situated in a peaceful and idyllic location at the end of a country lane, with stunning views across fields. Outside the formal gardens are attractively laid out, in addition, there is a stable block with a tack room and three loose boxes and a paddock. The grounds extend to approximately 1.5 acres. • Entrance porch • Reception hall • Cloakroom • Sitting room • Kitchen/breakfast room • Dining room • Utility room • First floor • Landing • Principal bedroom with ensuite bathroom • Three further double bedrooms • Family bathroom • Lower ground floor • Reception room • Study • Bedroom 5 and ensuite shower room • Bedroom 6 • Outside • Drive-through double garage • Extensive driveway • Stable block • Formal gardens • Paddocks • 1.5 acres • EPC rating C

pulborough@guyleonard.co.uk

Pulborough Office

Sales – Lettings – Commercial – Land & New Homes

01798 874033

www.guyleonard.co.uk

Amberley – £995,000 Freehold – ID 37230 A four bedroom detached period home full of character and dating back to around the 1820’s, with a separate annexe and cellar. The house has been extended and modernised by the present owners to provide superb flexible accommodation. There are outstanding views across Amberley Wildbrooks and the South Downs National Park. It is set in a quiet lane and benefits from a double garage with parking in the sought after village of Amberley. • Entrance hall • Reception hall • Cloakroom • Drawing room • Dining/family room • Kitchen/breakfast room • Study/bedroom four • Utility room • Cellar • Three double bedrooms • Ensuite bathroom • Family bathroom • Guest suite comprising bedroom, open plan kitchen and living room • Shower room • Detached double garage • Beautifully landscaped plantsman’s garden • Immediate access to the Wey & Arun path and the Wildbrooks • Stunning views of the South Downs • EPC rating D

enquiries@guyleonard.co.uk

Storrington Office

01903 742354

Open 7 days a week

24 sackville street, london, W1s 3ds 178 Westbourne grove, london, W11 2rH 45 brusHfield street, london, e1 6aa

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Steven has done incredibly well throughout this competition, he’s expressed himself to the full. His food is lovely” Michel Roux Jr

CONGRATULATIONS ARE IN ORDER South Lodge Hotel’s Steven Edwards has been named master of the kitchen after taking the top spot on the BBC’s flagship cooking show

Steven Edwards

South Lodge’s Steven Edwards has been crowned the winner of BBC’s Masterchef: The Professionals. Steven is the seventh champion from the show and, after six weeks of cooking challenges and a close final cook-off, he was awarded the title by judges Michel Roux Jr, Monica Galetti, and Gregg Wallace. Edwards told Fine Sussex: “It still hasn’t sunk in yet, it feels surreal and I’m enjoying the ride. I had to double check to see if I really did win. I was so happy with the food I did, it was an unbelievable moment for me.” For the final cook-off Steven made a starter of anjou pigeon breast with roasted baby beetroot, caramelised feta dice, apple compote, watercress and a beetroot vinaigrette, a main of pan fried stone bass on a bed of tomato and parmesan orzo. He added pureed, poached and blackened Kohlrabi and a lime foam, and a dessert of

honey cake topped with honeycomb, with poached peaches, peaches compote, roast peach puree, yoghurt Espuma, a pistachio crumb and thyme syrup. Michel Roux Jr said: “Steven has done incredibly well throughout this competition, he’s expressed himself to the full. His food is lovely. He makes food that is great to eat, expertly cooked, presented with certain elegance, clean lines and it works. Fault free.” Edwards added: “I definitely progressed as a chef throughout the competition. I think it’s going to raise my profile and it’s given me the confidence to achieve my dreams. It will help me make decisions in the future and I’m more confident. It was nice to have that glass of champagne with the judges and we celebrated that night. It was great.” Read the full interview with Steven in the next issue of Fine Sussex. To book a table at The Camellia restaurant at South Lodge call 01403 891 711 or go to southlodgehotel.co.uk

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doTELL What are your best savings tips for 2014? Tracey Evans from financial planning firm Juno advises on how best to make your money work harder in the coming year and beyond

Everyone has a Capital Gains Tax annual exemption (ÂŁ10,900 for the current tax year) but accountants will tell you that it is not used to shelter gains as often as it should be

34 | FINE SUSSEX

When 2013 started there were real fears that the UK could slip back into recession. As the year ends the outlook is much more optimistic, with the Chancellor confirming increased expectations for growth in his recent Autumn Statement. In America the Federal Reserve has just released an encouraging assessment of the US economy, and there seems to be reasonable grounds for believing the world economy will continue to recover as we enter 2014. That said, most people remain cautious – and it seems likely that 2014 will be a year when we look to make savings and look to save on a regular basis, just in case the problems of the last few years re-surface. With that in mind, we’ve come up with 10 Savings Tips for 2014, which we hope will help you achieve your savings goals. 1. MAKE A COMMITMENT TO SAVE Far too many people spend first and then save what’s left: which all too often is very little. Decide how much you want to save on a regular basis and set that aside before you start spending: once you’ve mastered the psychology of this saving becomes much easier – and much more successful. 2. MAKE USE OF YOUR TAX FREE ALLOWANCES Everyone over the age of 16 has an allowance for an ISA (Individual Savings Account). For the tax year 2013/2014 this is £11,520 of which £5,760 can be saved in a cash ISA (with those aged 16-17 only being eligible for a cash ISA). If you have money in the building society it makes sense to use your ISA allowance every year as there’ll be no tax deducted from your interest. Remember though, that the limit for this tax year only runs until 5 April 2014. After that a new tax year starts and the allowance for 2013/2014 is lost if it hasn’t been used.

policies can be an excellent way to make some short term savings in your monthly expenditure. 6. CHECK THE INTEREST RATE ON YOUR SAVINGS As well as making sure that you’re using your ISA allowances, you should also check on the rates you are receiving on your savings. Even though interest rates are generally low there is a still a big difference between the best and worst accounts. This is an area where a little shopping around or research online can pay big dividends. 7. PLAN FOR FURTHER EDUCATION Many children will be going on to further education and, with the new student loans scheme coming into operation for those students who started further education in 2012, it makes sense to start planning as early as possible for the cost of university or college. With fees of up to £9,000 plus the cost of accommodation, many students are going to finish a three-year course with debts approaching £50,000. With interest payable on this debt many parents will feel that they don’t want their son or daughter to start working life with such a burden of debt, and will want to try and offset it in some way. The earlier you start saving the better. 8. GET RID OF HIGH COST DEBT 2013 has been the year when the high cost of debt has really come to prominence, with attention particularly focusing on ‘pay day lenders.’ If you have debt – whether it is on credit cards or loans – then it makes sense to try and pay off the debt with the highest interest rate first. There are some attractive deals available on switching your credit card and taking action in this area can lead to significant monthly savings.

3. DON’T NEGLECT YOUR OTHER ALLOWANCES AS WELL

9. DON’T SPEND TOO MUCH ON UTILITIES

Everyone has a Capital Gains Tax annual exemption (£10,900 for the current tax year) but accountants will tell you that it is not used to shelter gains as often as it should be. It’s also important to remember that a husband and wife both have an allowance – making a total of £21,800 for the current tax year.

Although this isn’t an area we advise on, many of our clients have made considerable savings by checking how much they’re paying for utilities such as gas, electricity and the cost of home broadband. In some cases switching to a new provider can mean sizeable monthly savings, especially with costs of light, heat and power continuing to increase.

4. DON’T FORGET YOUR PENSION Although pensions have slightly fallen out of favour in recent years they remain a very tax efficient way of saving for your retirement, as you receive tax relief on the contributions you make. Many people are unsure of their pension benefits and/or the current value of their pension savings. Talking to an independent financial adviser and having a through review of your pension planning should be a New Year priority for many people. There’s no doubt at all that if you want a prosperous retirement then it will be up to you to provide it as the Government have made it very clear that the responsibility will rest with the individual, not with the state. 5. CHECK WHAT YOU’RE PAYING FOR YOUR MORTGAGE AND LIFE COVER 2014 could well be the year in which interest rates finally start to rise. Making sure that you have the most competitive rate on your mortgage and that you’re not paying too much for your life cover and other protection

10. CLEAN UP YOUR CREDIT FILE It costs very little to obtain a copy of your credit file from Experian, and making sure that it’s an accurate reflection of your credit history is something well worth doing. Improving your credit rating could well mean that your future cost of credit is reduced, leading to long-term savings. Despite the improving economic outlook it is likely that employers will see little scope for significant wage rises in the immediate future. For most of us, making savings and saving money will continue to be crucial in ‘balancing the books.’ Juno Wealth Management is an Independent Financial Advisers empowering families, individuals and business owners in protecting, maintaining and increasing their wealth. Widely regarded as being one of the leading ethical and independent financial advisers based in Sussex, they provide services to both individual and business clients. For more information go to junowealth.co.uk

| 35

Need a new investment manager?

For more details please contact

the Chichester team on

01243 775 373 www.rathbones.com/fine

The value of investments and income arising from them may fall as well as rise and you might get back less than you originally invested. Rathbone Investment Management Limited is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority.

years of the FTSE 100 Greg Mahon from wealth management firm Rathbones reviews the past three decades of the financial index and says its future looks promising as it celebrates its big birthday

January 2014 marked the 30th anniversary of the introduction of the FTSE 100 as the stock market index of Britain’s biggest companies. The FTSE 100 is a more sophisticated index than the FT 30 index that was used previously and its introduction heralded a new way of doing business in the City. The FTSE 100 is maintained by the FTSE Group, which started as a joint venture between the Financial Times and the Stock Exchange, hence the acronym and the colloquial ‘Footsie’ name. It was launched on 3 January 1984 at a level of 1000 and this has been recalculated every 15 seconds since, during opening hours (8am to 4.30pm). On the 30th anniversary it stood at 6730, although it has since fallen back. The FT 30 dated back to 1935, but is largely obsolete these days. Like the Dow Jones Industrial Average in the US, only companies from the industrial and commercial sectors are listed – banks, for example, are excluded, which means the index is not representative of the broader economy. The FTSE 100 is a far more reliable bellwether of the wider UK economy. It takes its constituents from all sectors based on size: the largest companies listed on the UK stock market are weighted according to their market capitalisation, so the top companies have a far bigger impact on its performance than the smaller ones. FTSE 100 companies represent about 81% of the entire capitalisation of the London Stock Exchange.

The FTSE 100 is maintained by the FTSE Group, which started as a joint venture between the Financial Times and the Stock Exchange, hence the acronym and the colloquial ‘Footsie’ name

Membership is reviewed on a quarterly basis and there is significant turnover – only 30 of the original 100 are still in the index today and only 19 have been ever present, including BP and Marks & Spencer. More starkly, only four of the FT 30’s original constituents are in the current FTSE 100: GKN, Tate & Lyle, Imperial Tobacco and RollsRoyce. The index’s previous constituents have gone bust, been taken over or been replaced by other companies that have grown or come to the market. This was particularly true in the FTSE 100’s early years, as privatisation brought many new companies to market (British Telecom in 1984, British

Gas in 1986, British Airways in 1987, the water companies in 1989, and the electricity companies in 1990-1). This was an unprecedented period of change in Britain as Mrs Thatcher pursued her dream of a share-owning democracy. The new index was therefore an integral part of the social landscape in the mid-1980s, particularly for those who were able to participate in the new phenomenon of direct share ownership. The City itself was changed by the Thatcherite policy of opening up areas of clubby self-interest. Under pressure from American investment banks, Cecil Parkinson as Secretary of State for Trade and Industry forced the City to accept ‘Big Bang’ in October 1986. This enabled banks to own stockbrokers and jobbers, and did away with trading on the floor of the Stock Exchange in favour of screen-based trading. A wave of takeovers followed as the partnerships that had dominated the City for generations were swept away. Another major landmark in the FTSE 100’s development was Black Monday in October 1987 when world stock markets collapsed. Although the London Stock Exchange was closed in the aftermath of the 1987 ‘hurricane’ and couldn’t respond when Wall Street started to fall on Friday, it made up for it the following week: on Monday 19 October, it fell 10.84 per cent, followed by 12.22 per cent on Tuesday and 5.69 per cent on Thursday 22 October. These remain respectively the second biggest, biggest and sixth biggest one-day falls in the FTSE 100’s history, outdoing the 7.85 per cent fall in 2008 when doubts emerged about the bank bailout plan in the financial crisis and the 5.72 per cent fall on 11 September 2001 when al-Qaeda attacked New York and Washington. In spite of these falls, the FTSE 100 still ended 1987 higher than it had started it. The future looks bright for the FTSE 100. In spite of the financial crisis, London remains a key hub for global equity trading. As the British economy continues to recover, it is likely that the FTSE 100’s all-time high of 6950.6, reached on 30 December 1999 (at the peak of the ‘dot com’ boom) will be surpassed in the next year or so. If you would like to know more about Rathbones’ Chichester office, please contact Greg Mahon on (01243) 775 373.

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favouritethings these are a few of our

Copper cool London design studio, Brooksbank & Collins present the Altus set of solid sterling silver bowls, now on show at Gallery FUMI. Brooksbank & Collins has worked with Goldsmiths in London to produce the limited edition piece, which comprises of three individual hand crafted geometric bowls, which can nest together or be arranged as a group. Altus is a new addition to the studioâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s MeFar series of nesting vessels united by a common geometrical concept. The individual form and character of each piece is dictated by a twodimensional pattern, which is then handcrafted from sheet metal by artisans in central London. Brooksbank & Collins launched Copper in September 2012, made from wax-finished copper, followed by Tria in April this year, which is formed from bronze with a unique patinated finish. brooksbankcollins.co.uk

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E at, D r i n k , N a p The quintessential cooking, style and decoration book from Soho House, the world’s leading members club. From how to make people feel at home, how to cook food guests love, how to make a room stylish but welcoming, how to throw a party, get the lighting right, mix a cocktail, design a bedroom, build an art collection, even how to grow your own, Eat, Drink, Nap will share with readers the secrets of the Soho House way of doing things. Contemporary, global yet with something quintessentially English and homely at its heart, this is Soho House style explained by its experts: the grit and the glamour, the style and the cosiness. Packed with recipes and design tips, Eat Drink Nap shows how to transport a slice of Soho House living home. Whether you want to recreate your favourite house regular macaroni cheese or choose the right sofa for your sitting room, the clubs’ experts will share their blueprint for stylish, contemporary living the Soho House way. A 300-page highly illustrated book, with a foreword from founder Nick Jones, and newly commissioned photography from leading food and interiors photographers Mark Seelen and Jean Cazals.

Just add soldiers Specialists in one-of-a-kind luxury gifts, Wrightson and Platt presents the Egg and spoon. From £1,850 020 7581 8030 | www.wrightsonandplatt.com

For him Silver Polo Cufflinks. £125 at Emmett London. emmettlondon.co.uk

Cocktail hour

Lingerie love It’s the time of year for romance. Valentine’s Day, proposals, wedding preparations and romantic escapes for two. You’ll want to see our selection of sublime undergarments by Lucile from page 44.

This Drinks Cabinet made in English Harewood has inlays of bone and hand cut bronze straw. The piece sits on a raised plinth with an inset strip of chrome. Inside the glasses are held in a series of handmade curved Harewood shelves all internally wrapped in leather. There are numerous pullout sections for trays and Spirits within the cabinet . The top and internal section is lit with small LEDs sunk into the top element of the cabinet, thus lighting the three tiered glass section top, and the main body of the cabinet at the same time. Available from Gosling for between £27,000 and £35,000.

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Get comfy The Jive chair, one of the possibilities from Whitehead Designs - beautiful, handmade and crafted furniture all bespoke and made to order. whiteheaddesigns.com

Beam me up We didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t appreciate the stunning beauty or the sustainability of this construction method until speaking to Edward Hamilton at Oakmasters. Read the interview on page 82

Daisy delightful The Opera scarf by Daisy Darche From ÂŁ175 daisydarche.com

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Not your typical tents With a focus on weddings this issue, we spoke to Becky Wilson of Tentario, based in East Sussex. Her company leases luxury tents for a range of occasions. “Tipis offer a truly unique and original venue, not many of your guests will have seen them before and they’re a quirky, fun alternative to a marquee or hotel. One popular choice is to have the tipis in your garden. It doesn’t get more intimate than this and with their natural colours, the tipis fit in perfectly with a backdrop of flowers and trees. For those couples who might not have quite enough space, or for those wanting a bit more room to really admire the tipis from a distance whilst giving your guests plenty of room to mill round outside the tipis, they can be set up at a venue of your choice. If you’d prefer a country estate, a farm or somewhere where you and your guests can camp it really is up to you. The tipis also give you the freedom to have exactly what you want. Be it a tea party menu to a formal dinner - you don’t have to conform to anything! They’re also the perfect venue for both summer and winter weddings. In the warmer months couples get the best of both worlds by having the security of being indoors in case of any showers, but still get the ambiance and beauty of being outside. The sides of the tipis can be lifted up to admire panoramic views, which means you don’t lose the outdoor element at all. Equally, the tipis create the perfect setting for a winter wedding, by having the sides down and a fire place your guests won’t want to leave. One other advantage of a tipi wedding is the party doesn’t have to stop at midnight. With no curfew you can keep going until your dancing feet have had enough. Tentario was established in July 2013 and specialises in creating original, atmospheric venues for weddings within their utterly stunning tipis. It is a family-run business based in East Sussex with a combined 10 years experience in the luxury tent hire industry. Go to tentario.co.uk or come along to meet them and the tipis at the Outdoor Weddings and Events Open Day on Saturday 29 March 2014 at Maplehurst Farm, Maplehurst Road, Maplehurst, Nr Horsham, West Sussex RH13 6RB between 11am - 4pm.

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legend THE

ith the arrival of the brand new Huracán, Lamborghini is not only presenting the successor to the iconic Gallardo, but is also redefining the benchmark for luxury super sports cars in its segment. With a pure and unique design, an innovative technology package, outstanding dynamics and excellent quality, the Huracán offers a super sports car experience on a whole new level. The Huracán combines absolute performance with easy-to-drive road behavior and both luxurious and sport-oriented finish. With the Huracán, Lamborghini is taking a big step into the future, and enhancing the brand’s illustrious history with the next automotive legend. From January 2014 the Huracán will be the protagonist of over 130 private preview events in more than 60 cities throughout the world. The Lamborghini Huracán will make its world public debut at the Geneva Motorshow 2014. The car has been developed from scratch down to the very last detail and, like the Gallardo and most other Lamborghini models, derives its name from the world of bullfighting. The fighting bull Huracán of the Spanish Conte de la Patilla breed was known for his outstanding courage and strong sense of attack. He fought in Alicante in August 1879, showing his unrelenting character and remaining defiant and invincible, thus entering into the legend of fighting bulls’ history. A good starting point is the silhouette of the Huracán, born out of the desire of creating an automobile, whose profile is defined by only one line that merges the front with the cockpit and the rear of the car. The lateral windows come together to create a hexagonal form inserted like a glass jewel in the car’s profile. Also by night the Huracán is unmistakably a Lamborghini. Not only are the main headlamps equipped with full LED illumination, but all other light functions also feature state-of-the-art LED technology as a standard feature for the first time in the segment. The interior is dominated by an innovative cockpit. A 12.3 inch full-color TFT instrument panel

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delivers all car information to the driver, from rev counter to navigation maps and infotainment functions, and can be configured by the driver in different setups. Fine Nappa leather and Alcantara distinguish the interior, with several color combinations offered to ensure broad individualization options. The design of dashboard and central tunnel underline a new lightness in the interior. Superb craftsmanship guarantees the highest quality and sense of luxury throughout. The power of the V10 engine is brought to the road via the new 7-speed dualclutch transmission and fully electronically controlled four-wheel drive system. The new 5.2 litre V10 engine delivers a maximum power of 448 kW/610 HP at 8,250 rpm and a maximum torque of 560 Nm at 6.500 rpm. Drivers can experience acceleration from 0 to100 km/h in 3.2 seconds. Delivery to the first customers is planned for spring 2014. lamborghini.com

continues

The fighting bull Huracรกn of the Spanish Conte de la Patilla breed was known for his outstanding courage and strong sense of attack. He fought in Alicante in August 1879, showing his unrelenting character

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LINGERIE LOVE

The latest in luxury lace and silk underwear for ladies courtesy of British brand Lucile, just in time for Valentineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day LOOKING GOOD | 45

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With three new ranges, Lucile, the British luxury lingerie company, endeavours to capture the spirit and essence that made the brand a success as far back as the 1940s. The ranges; ‘11 Rue de Penthievre’, ‘Odalisque’ and ‘Love While You May’ were the founder Lady Duff Gordon’s boldest, most romantic and sensual and epitomise her romantic ideals and passion for femininity. Every piece of lingerie is hand made in England, trimmed with signature Lucile bows and the most luxurious laces and silks. Lucile today, takes inspiration for every collection from original brand sketchbooks dating back over 100 years. Go to lucileandco.com for more information and to shop

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All lingerie by Lucile at lucileandco.com

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Looking good | 49

All lingerie by Lucile at lucileandco.com

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Brrrrave

the weather

It might be cold and wet, but there’s nothing like a good walk followed by a roast. Here’s a selection of outerwear by British brand Barbour, perfect for stretching your legs. Let’s go outside…

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romantic getaways MOST

The venues ideal for two or three nights away with someone special

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Goodwood Hotel 01243 775537 Goodwood.co.uk The Goodwood Estate is a dream destination for couples. The choice of ways to spend quality time together is unsurpassed in Sussex and includes the beautiful health club, outdoor activities such as golf, and ambling the beautiful landscapes that surround its stunning hotel. Of course, if you’re staying here it would have to be something quite special that tempts you outside. The hotel is the definition of chic and welcomes guests with a sumptuous combination of classic, contemporary, and beautifully furnished bedrooms and suites. Its adjoining restaurant, The Richmond Arms, an 18th coaching inn, uses seasonal and local ingredients to create a sublime menu for romantic dinners.

The Grand Brighton 01273 224355 devere-hotels.co.uk/thegrand Overlooking the iconic Brighton seafront and just a stone’s throw from the winding Lanes area is The Grand. A British institution in its own right, this is a place to bring someone you want to impress. The recently opened new hotel bar is reason alone to stay here. With original features it gives the wow factor as soon as you check in. Then of course there is the exquisite GB1 restaurant, specialising in seafood and (rather apt for a romantic evening) oysters. For pampering, there is the newly opened and completely secluded Spa. With intimate lighting, soothing music and relaxation areas you will feel as far away from the city’s hustle and bustle as possible. Choose from treatments by ESPA and Carita, a detoxifying steam room and an aromatherapy sauna. Plus Nails by Jessica and makeup by MII are also available. The hotel boasts four luxurious bedroom suites to choose from, each with its own character and all offering stunning sea views. Expect beautiful furnishings, individual character and some offer a private balcony in which to share moments of bliss with your loved one.

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South Lodge, an Exclusive Hotel 01403 891 711 southlodgehotel.co.uk Can there be a more beautiful setting for a romantic getaway than South Lodge Hotel? Nestling in 93 acres of stunning grounds, the hotel was built in 1883, originally as a family home and still exudes that feel and ambiance today. As you enter the large, welcoming entrance hall, you will be greeted by a friendly member of staff who will show you to your luxurious room. There are 85 rooms and suites to choose from and the hotel don’t make it easy. Every single room has been individually styled so no two are the same – some have four poster beds, others have two baths in the vast bathrooms, one even has a private open-air hot tub but what we really recommend is a room with a view across the gardens and beyond to the Sussex Downs and on a clear day, to the coast. Arrive in time for afternoon tea -indulge in mouth-watering cakes, pastries and sandwiches all served on a beautiful silver tiered cake stand... heavenly! If you can tear yourselves away from the grandeur of the hotel, take a stroll around the gardens together. On the front lawn, you will find a Rhododendron ‘Cornish’ Arboretum, the largest single Rhododendron in England – it is over 150 years old and standing at 25 feet tall, it is truly a sight to behold. And on the other side of the driveway, you will discover an historic rockery which has recently been re-discovered. Continue around the way-marked paths and you will come across two beautiful lakes – why not order a picnic to share – the hotel staff will bring a blanket for you. And in the evening, enjoy a pre-dinner drink in the stunning Billiard Bar. Then will you choose to dine in The Pass, the hotel’s Michelin starred restaurant or The Camellia headed up by head chef Steven Edwards who recently won ‘MasterChef: The Professionals 2013’.

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The Savoy www.fairmont.com/savoy-london If you’ll be heading to London for your romantic break, The Savoy is about as impressive as it gets. Old school glamour meets 21st century style – a theme that runs throughout, whether in its suites, the restaurants or its two bars. In 2013, The Savoy was named ‘Five-Star Hotel’ by Forbes Travel Guide in the first annual rating of London hotels and the hotel has maintained the title for 2014. Spend your time here enjoying the venue’s renowned (and utterly delicious) Afternoon Tea, have dinner at what is the latest string to its bow - Kaspar’s Seafood Bar and Grill, which offers an informal yet luxury all-day dining experience, or a pre-dinner or theatre cocktail in The American Bar. It is quite simply iconic. Past guests include Sir Winston Churchill, Frank Sinatra and Christian Dior. No doubt all of which were wowed by the hotel’s warm welcome, exquisite attention to detail and polished-to-perfection marble floor in the lobby. A stay here and you’ll be sure to melt the heart of whomever you are trying to woo.

The Ship Hotel, Bar and Restaurant 01243 778000 theshiphotel.net The Ship is an independent boutique hotel, bar and restaurant located with an unrivalled position in the very heart of Chichester. A stunning Grade 2 listed building blending a wealth of original Georgian features with modern day opulence. Recommended by the AA, Conde Nast Johansen’s and the Good Hotel and Michelin Guides the 36 en suite bedrooms have been newly refurbished to a very high standard and reflect the themes of a selection of Chichester Festival Theatre productions. The Number One Chichester cottage that is adjacent to The Ship offers total privacy and exclusivity whilst providing all the services of the hotel. As well as the AA rosetted restaurant and bar, two beautifully elegant private rooms ideal for weddings, occasions and meetings. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout and a private car park is to the rear of the hotel. Its location means couples can enjoy all that exciting Chichester has to offer, right on their doorstep. The harbour, the shops and the views are just some of the ways you and that special someone can wile away the day. And for the evening, there is Murrays – the newly refurbished and launched restaurant at The Ship. The menu boasts British classics with a modern twist and the venue has two private dining rooms.

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Inspirational Weddings at Goodwood Sunday 16 February, 10am â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 3pm For your oppor tunity to view three inspiring venues set in the extraordinary beauty of the Goodwood Estate join us for our unique showcase event. For your personal tour please RSVP to events@goodwood.com or call our Sales Team on 01243 775537 or visit on the day. Goodwood, Chichester, West Sussex PO18 0QB

www.goodwood.com/weddings

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Wedding perfection and exclusivity At Wiston House you can host your big day in the most wonderful way, in a stunning, historic venue thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s just for you and your guests

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Set at the foot of the South Downs National Park, Wiston House provides a magical backdrop for you and your guests to enjoy on your special day. Today, rolling green fields with grazing sheep give way to far reaching views across the South Downs, complete with an undulating mile-long drive set against a rural backdrop of 5,000 acres of parkland. Since the Norman Conquest, only six families have owned and lived at Wiston House. Now it could all be yours, exclusively for a day – a place where family and friends can celebrate together. A perfect place for your wedding. Weddings are tailored as complete packages, allowing the team to deliver your dream wedding at an affordable price and with no hidden costs. All packages include your own personal wedding coordinator, exclusive use of the reception rooms on the ground floor, together with the conservatory and formal gardens during the day. In addition, Wiston House

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offers four historic and individually decorated rooms in which to hold a civil ceremony. The 16th century Great Hall is 40 feet high with a Minstrels Gallery, ornate plasterwork and an elaborate fireplace – a truly spectacular place for your wedding breakfast and reception. The dramatic oaked panelled Library is a gathering place, with comfy armchairs – a wonderful setting for cutting the cake. Wiston House offers a wide range of menus, all prepared from quality, locally sourced produce, including seasonal fruit and vegetables from the estate gardens, when available. They are confident you will be able to relax knowing that your guests will be served the very best by our highly experienced, professional chefs. There are 48 bedrooms, all tastefully styled to blend the Elizabethan décor with today’s more contemporary comforts. Many guests stay overnight – and many never want to leave. The team looking after you during your time at Wiston House are all trained to the highest level, attending to the finest detail of your preparations so that your wedding will be a truly memorable occasion for everyone. They understand that every wedding is different and an experienced wedding coordinator will discuss your plans and help you to arrange the perfect wedding day. With warmth, courtesy and genuine care, Wiston House aims to provide guests with a memorable experience, that befits the elegance of a big country house. For more information or to arrange a tour, go to wistonhouse.co.uk

The 16th century Great Hall is 40 feet high with a Minstrels Gallery, ornate plasterwork and an elaborate fireplace

Wedding Showcase Day Sunday 27th April 2014 11.00am to 3.30pm Complimentary Admission

on the A283 between Steyning and Washington

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WEDDING PLANNING Rachael Burgess, wedding planner and organiser extraordinaire, with her step by step guide to help you avoid a meltdown come the big day

ince 1989 when I established my wedding dress shops in Horsham and Tunbridge Wells and began planning weddings, few things have changed when it comes to the etiquette and planning of your big day. Of course, technology simplifies the communications process, fashions are very different and admittedly things were perhaps a little more formal then. Choice of service and locations were restricted to your church or registry office and weddings abroad were in their infancy. However, it is without doubt still regarded as one of the most important and significant days in the life of a bride and groom and an exciting family occasion – so planning it should be fun, thrilling and filled with fond memories whether it be the first time or not.

relax. It is his day too. Talk about it together. Guys, this is your fiancé’s special day, a day since she was a little girl that she dreamed about. Her wedding dress and the planning of the day will impact on her life (and subsequently yours) in a way that you could not possibly imagine. You might think that the colour shades of the bridesmaids shoes are irrelevant but she won’t.

Unless you are a professional wedding organiser, and therefore can stay emotionally detached from proceedings, then planning a wedding is no small feat. It can be stressful and heated discussions are not uncommon as everyone usually wants some input. The key to a Weddings often turn out to be huge family reunions. That successful day is can be nice but it often means pressure to invite long-lost to be relaxed cousins and aunts you’ve not seen since you were a toddler. and to enjoy A good rule of thumb is to invite those you couldn’t imagine it and the celebrating without – plus anyone significant and who has played most effective a part in your life. For one client’s wedding, the bride was in turmoil way of about the guest list. She had several girlfriends she wanted to invite, achieving this some single some not, but inviting their partners/ boyfriends made is to be well the costs prohibitive. So we decided to make a special table that all organised, her girlfriends could sit at together. She wrote them each a personal stay within letter to this effect. The ‘all girls’ table had a great time catching budget up with each other (their other halves really didn’t mind staying and ensure home to watch the rugby) and the unattached girls didn’t everyone taking feel single and isolated on a couple’s table. Whatever part is sufficiently your worries, there is usually a solution – just talk it briefed. through with people to get some more advice.

• Celebrate your engagement. Take time out to breathe and really enjoy the fact that you have made this commitment. And let your friends enjoy it too. A big bash to tell the world is perfectly acceptable these days. And remember – it’s pretty bad form to expect anyone to come to your engagement party who isn’t going to be at the wedding. • Prepare a rough list of guests to determine numbers so that you are well prepared to start looking at venue sizes. • Think about the type of ceremony you want. This doesn’t have to be in any great detail and you don’t have to pick colours and shoes yet – this is about the type of wedding you want. Do you want casual yet contemporary or traditional with plenty of pomp? Consider the overall tone of your big day. • Spreadsheet time! Keep a record of ideas you have for various categories such as photographers, bands and florists. This will also help you keep track of costs. • Use your spreadsheet to prepare a ‘tasks’ timeline. Update it and share it with any one who is helping you. • Book a date and venue • Send save the date cards – a really lovely way to make sure everyone you want to attend can make it. You can also use this as a way of finding out who won’t be able to attend. • Choose your bridesmaids, best man and ushers and speakers. • Finally, pledge to enjoy the planning and if it all looks a bit daunting already then consider hiring an organiser to take the strain.

Guest list dilemmas?

When I am planning any event, regardless of size, I create a tasks timeline - a chart of activities to be started or completed by a certain date. This is crucial and if you take nothing else from my article please do take this tip. The chances are that you will be the bride (or her mother, sister or bridesmaid) that has spotted this article and is reading it curled up on your sofa surrounded by a pile of brides’ magazines accumulated since the morning after ‘the’ proposal. The likelihood is that if you are the groom reading this then you have probably been asked to! Right? So this could be the first hurdle to overcome. Ladies, if he doesn’t want to wear a morning suit, isn’t organised, into planning or enjoys public speaking then

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So now have the bride and groom on the same side. I know I make it sound like a potential nightmare before it got started but believe me I am not kidding about how important this is. Talk to each other and make a plan! What do you BOTH want? My top 10 hot tips to kick start the planning process are:

About Rachael Rachael opened her bridal shop in Horsham in 1989 and soon became one of the area’s best known wedding planners. Following a career break Lifestyle Sussex re established some years ago and Rachael, a hands on organiser and consummate hostess with an unerring eye for detail, believes that delivering an flawless service within budget is the secret of her success. Find out more at lifestylesussex.com

Lili Boutique offers contemporary collections, catering specifically for each valued customerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s style with a dedication to creativity, personality and attention to detail. Labels range from high glamour & cutting edge clothes to casual easy wear. They include: Versace, Fabiana Filippi, Patrizia Pepe, Pinko, D Exterior, Dubarry. Citizens of Humanity heads its jeans selections and thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a range of lovely knitwear. Lili can arrange evening appointments for busy ladies or for the lady who wishes to shop privately at her own pace. 3A Little London By Little London Car Park Town Centre Chichester PO19 1PH 01243 539006 www.liliboutique.co.uk

SOMETHING BORROWED, SOMETHING BLUE | 67

CLASSICAL mUSIC CHARITY DINNER IN AID OF CHESTNUT TREE HOUSE | FRIDAY 25 TH APRIL

To mark the official launch of the Shipley Arts Festival 2014 and help raise valuable funds for local children’s hospice Chestnut Tree House, join us for an evening of exquisite classical music and fine food. After a sparkling canapé reception, Vivaldi’s Four Seasons Concerto will be expertly performed by violinist Andrew Bernardi and his internationally renowned Strings Academy as you enjoy a stunning four-course dinner. Tickets: £100 per person

BUY TICKETS 01403 891711

EmAIL US enquiries@southlodgehotel.co.uk

southlodgehotel.co.uk |

FIND OUT mORE southlodgehotel.co.uk/chestnuttree

South Lodge, an Exclusive Hotel, Brighton Road, Lower Beeding, Nr. Horsham, West Sussex, RH13 6PS

modern, ethical, seafood restaurant & bar contemporary menu, seasonal ingredients We’re open all day for coffee, satisfying breakfasts, elevenses, afternoon tea, even a late drink besides lunch and dinner as substantial or modest as appetite dictates.The menu is seafood based, but not seafood exclusive, featuring simply prepared ‘honest food’

Seven Fish, North Street, Midhurst, West Sussex GU29 9DJ t: 01730 716280 e: midhurst@sevenfish.co.uk www.sevenfish.co.uk

Head chef at The Three Crowns in Wisborough Green Mellissa Scanlan and her suggestions for a candlelit dinner for two

Wining and dining | 69

Salmon gravadlax with remoulade What you will need • 500g sea salt • 250g sugar • 2 tsp fennel seeds • 2 raw beetroot • Inch of fresh horseradish root • 1 side of Salmon

What you need to do Blend all your ingredients together (apart from the salmon). Lay the salmon in a deep tray and pack your mixture over the salmon fillet. Leave for 48 hours then wash off and pat dry. Slice into thin slices and serve.

What you will need (for the remoulade) • 1 small celeriac • Juice and zest of 1 Lime • 3 tsp wholegrain mustard • 250 good quality mayonaisse • Salt and pepper to taste • 1/2 bunch fresh chives, chopped

What you need to do Grate the celeriac and mix all ingredients in mixing bowl. Serve with a chunk of granary bread and your beetroot salmon.

S Faggots What you will need • 500g pork belly • 250g pigs liver • 250g pigs Heart • 2 large onions, finely diced • 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped • Half pack fresh sage, finely chopped • Salt and pepper to taste • 3 slices of white bread, blended to breadcrumbs butchers Caul Fat to wrap each faggot.

What you need to do Sweat down the onions and garlic in a pan and cool. Mince the belly, liver and heart and mix together with the cooled softened onions, breadcrumbs and Sage. Mould into 4 oz balls, wrap in Caul Fat and cook on a lightly greased tray at 170c for 20-25 minutes until cooked. Serve on Bubble and Squeak with Onion Gravy.

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Ben’s green olive and sun-blushed tomato foccacia bread What you will need • 500g strong flour • 7g dried yeast • 1 tsp salt • 1 tsp caster sugar • 200ml virgin olive oil • 2 tbsp olive oil • 25g sundried tomatoes • 8 olives chopped • 225ml warm water

What you need to do Mix together the flour, sugar, salt and dried yeast. Add all of the oil. Then add water a bit at a time until it forms a wet dough. Knead on lightly floured work top for 5 mins. Leave to rise in a warm place for 15 mins or until the dough doubles in size. Knock back and stretch the dough into a large rectangle. Spread olives and Sundried tomato into the dough and fold over. Place into a lined 20cm-30cm roasting tray. Let the dough rise for 5 mins, then prod with fingers into the dough and let rise for a further 10mins. Bake for 30 mins on 180 -190.c before turning out onto cooling rack until completely cool.

English cream What you will need • 1 pint whole milk • 6 egg yolk • Few drops Vanilla extract • 125g Sugar

What need to do Combine the sugar and egg yolks. Slowly bring milk to the boil, remove from here and allow to cool slightly. Mix in your egg mixture and vanilla essence. Return to a low heat and stir until the cream coats the back of a spoon. Serve with the warm crumble and enjoy.

S Caramelised pear and apple crumble What you will need • 4 Bramley apples • 4 pears • 250g sugar • 125g butter • For crumble topping • 500g flour 250g butter 80g dark brown sugar 120g chopped hazelnuts 1/2 tsp mixed spice

What you need to do Core and peel apples and pears, dice into 2cm cubes. Caramelise the sugar until light brown, add the butter, pears and apples and cook until slightly softened. Ploy your mixture into an oven proof dish. Blend the topping ingredients to a crumb. Sprinkle over the apple mixture and bake at 180°C until golden brown.

For more information, to view the menu or to book a table go to thethreecrownsinn.com

Wining and dining | 71

Brilliantly British The Ship Hotel in Chichester has revived its restaurant with a top-to-toe refurbishment. James Hood discovered its suave new interior has a side of sublime classic dishes with a modern twist

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All-time favourites such as traditional steak and kidney pudding sit beside sea bass and a citrus salad and a wide selection of grills

A new independent British restaurant has opened at The Ship Hotel right in the heart of Chichester. The restaurant, called Murrays, is named after Admiral Sir George Murray who was Captain of Horatio Nelson’s British Fleet in 1805 and a former mayor of Chichester, whose house is the site of The Ship Hotel. Admiral Murray travelled extensively on the high seas in particular to the colonies and the Caribbean and the design of the new restaurant reflects this with the clever use of palm trees and pineapples. The elegant restaurant and newly christened Captain’s Bar has a real feel of colonial opulence and quality. As well as the smart refit, the menu devised by head chef Jon Lander reflects the very best of British classic dishes served in contemporary way with whimsical touches. All-time favourites such as traditional steak and kidney pudding sit beside sea bass and a citrus salad and a wide selection of grills and highly original salads. Some signature dishes like Murrays lobster curry have been specially created for the new restaurant. Murrays also has two private dining rooms for special occasions, events, civil partnerships and weddings.

The same brigade that was awarded an AA Rosette last year for culinary excellence is proud to create the menu using the finest local fresh ingredients with everything made and cooked in house. Patrick Burfield, general manager of The Ship Hotel told Fine Sussex: “We hope our guests will be delighted with the look and feel of our new restaurant. Our building is steeped in history and we think we have sympathetically restored our ground floor in a unique and eclectic way. This makes Murrays a truly enjoyable and original location in Chichester to dine or to enjoy a glass of The Captain’s Claret, which has been bottled exclusively for the restaurant.” The Ship Hotel is the only independently owned hotel within the city walls of Chichester. It has 36 en suite bedrooms and its own exclusive cottage. The whole hotel has been refurbished within the last 12 months and now offers a modern boutique feel in a beautiful Georgian Grade II listed building. For more information go to theshiphotel.net

WINING AND DINING | 73

What to tell your children about exams Heather Beeby, director of communication at Hurstpierpoint College, on how to support your young ones through the most trying times of their education

Last summer, major GCSE reforms were announced that aim to make exams for 16 year olds more challenging and ambitious. This has caused much debate and concern within the teaching profession; there is no doubt that pupils face ever more rigorous challenges in the future. As parents, what should we be saying to our children about exams and how can we help them to achieve their potential and lessen anxiety levels at exam time? There is no getting away from it – exams are important and children need to understand that good results open the door to higher education and entry into the world of work. They are no guarantee of employment, far from it, but without them access to the best opportunities may be restricted. However, continual pressure on children from parents is generally unhelpful; far better to encourage them to do well whilst recognising what is genuinely attainable for them. Of course, high expectations from home and school are important; children feel valued and this raises confidence. However unrealistically high expectations make children feel vulnerable, fearing that they are letting their parents (or themselves) down. Too much pressure may bring dire consequences. A 2011 Childline exam stress survey reported a worrying number coping with anxiety by smoking, taking drugs or selfharming. Conversely, when expectations are too low, children feel demotivated and that nobody believes they can do well. Thoughtful, supportive and encouraging conversations with our children are therefore essential and practical support can make all the difference too.

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distractions. It is hard to concentrate with the television on or a mobile phone nearby. • Encourage your child to plan a revision timetable in order to revisit the syllabus topics in good time for the exams. • Start the revision programme in plenty of time. A panic on the night before the exam day is not helpful! • Regular breaks are essential; it is impossible for most children to focus for hours at a time and a drink, a short rest and fresh air can be hugely beneficial. • Encourage your child to ask a teacher for help if there is a topic they don’t understand or need clarity on. • Check that your child understands the exam structure; using past papers for practice is invaluable. Remember that children learn in different ways. For some, mind-mapping is the perfect tool, others prefer to make notes on revision cards, some like to read out loud or act out topics. Provided it works, almost anything goes! Don’t assume that what worked for us will work for our children; this is not always the case. Watch out for signs of stress: constant tiredness, poor appetite, headaches, loss of interest in things around them, forgetfulness, and difficulty sleeping. Levels of stress clearly affect performance and your child may need additional support, whether at home or by speaking to a trusted teacher or a school counsellor (or both).

Try these strategies to support your children and enable them to achieve the results they deserve.

Finally, never compare your child to a friend or a sibling and do remember that there is life after exams. Results day in August should be something to look forward to, not to dread!

• Ensure that your child has a calm place to work with enough space, light, fresh air and without

For more information about Hurstpierpoint College, go to hppc.co.uk

Never compare your child to a friend or a sibling and do remember that there is life after exams. Results day in August should be something to look forward to, not to dread

THE YOUNG ONES | 75

academic potential at Seaford College

Pupil progress is indicated through a colour coded visual dashboard, which in turn relates to a pupil’s challenge grade in each subject. If a pupil is working at a level that puts them on the right path to achieving their challenge grade by the end of the course, they will be awarded a green. Platinum and Gold indicate impressive attainment and progress. Amber and red indicate that intervention and positive support are required, coordinated through

the pupil’s tutor and head of year. Headmaster, John Green, said: “We are proud to offer an inclusive environment where each individual is known and valued; is given attention and respect. Challenge Grades are, essentially, a measure of potential. It’s what we think a child can achieve if they work hard. Challenge Grades are ambitious but realistic.” The aim at Seaford College is to educate the whole person: to nurture individuality and an acceptance of others’ strengths and weaknesses, to develop initiative and an enquiring mind: a hunger for life. A typical Seafordian is articulate, confident and a well-rounded young person. Seaford College provides an inspirational environment, which nurtures academic excellence, sporting success and creative talent. For more information go to seaford.org

Seaford College is a small, friendly co-educational College, situated in an unrivalled position near Petworth, West Sussex.

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With its own Prep School, Senior School and Sixth Form, the College is located away from the distractions of city life, yet is still within easy reach of cultural and commercial centres.

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Tracking the progress your child is making at school can often be difficult. Seaford College has introduced Challenge Grades, a reporting system that is updated monthly, to track progress. At any time a parent, pupil or teacher can log on and instantly review progress.

The College accepts day pupils but also offers both full and flexi-boarding for pupils aged 7-18. With its purpose-built music school and state-of-the-art classrooms for maths and science, plus all-new boys' boarding houses and a 9-hole golf course, Seaford College is a hidden gem, tucked away at the foot of the picturesque South Downs.

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SCIENCE at SCHOOL Sandra Marsh, head of Physics at Burgess Hill School for Girls, answers questions parents have raised about how science is taught in a modern classroom and says it’s not just for the boys

Why is science important to a child’s education? Science is a fundamental part of everyday life and is all around us – science answers those classic questions children will often ask from a very young age; “why is the sky blue? Why does water expand when it is frozen? Where do we come from?” Science is all about making predictions, testing them through observations and measurements and devising theories and laws to make more predictions. Science often calls for imagination and inventiveness and encourages children to ask those awkward questions.

Tell us a bit about the syllabus and what is covered.

rightly reported, the more pupils do science themselves, the more they learn, the more interested they become and the more likely they are to continue to study science in the future.

Are there any field trips involved in Science class at Burgess Hill School for Girls? We regularly attend the ‘Big Bang’ science fair and there are opportunities throughout the year to get involved in subject based activities such as the Chemistry ‘Top of the bench’ competition, Chemistry Olympiad, the Cambridge Chemistry challenge and the Young Analysts’ competition, The Physics Olympiad and Biology dissection club. In Year 7 there is Science Club introducing pupils to unusual and exciting experiments. This year there will also be a Summer Term project for pupils of all ages to do some ecological work in the school grounds.

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Here at Burgess Hill School for Girls, the students study a wellbalanced general science course in Year 7, before splitting into specialist areas with specialist teachers from Year 8 upwards. In Years 10 and 11, students study either the co-ordinated Cambridge IGCSE course, which gives them the The Sixth Form students are able to take part in the opportunity to study Biology, Chemistry and STEM project where they work in partnership Physics. Others opt for the Triple Cambridge with a local company on real life engineering IGCSE course, where they are able to go problems gaining invaluable insight into into more detail with their studies in science in the workplace. the three subject areas and develop a much deeper understanding. Both Do you think it is a subject courses have been developed to at which girls can excel? give the students a wide knowledge base and teach from first principles; Without doubt! Science is never both routes can lead onto further seen as a boys subject here at study at A Level. The Biology Burgess Hill School for Girls and course includes topics such as: the uptake of all three sciences at Characteristics of Living Organisms; A Level is evidence that science is Cells; Nutrition; Transportation; alive and kicking in our school. The Respiration; Inheritance and girls work hard, achieve excellent Ecosystems. Chemistry teaches about grades at both GCSE and A Level and the Particulate nature of matter, Atoms, many go on to follow a scientific route Elements and compounds, Electricity through university and on into the work and Chemistry, Chemical Reactions, place. p Acids, Bases and Salts, The Periodic Table To y‘ and Organic Chemistry. In Physics topics such Pu str i pil em s fr Ch as Mechanics, Thermal Physics, Electricity and om Is Science still considered to be one the Burg d n e ss H te Magnetism and Atomic Physics are all covered and ill School for Girls at of the three most important subjects to at A Level Biology and Chemistry both study the OCR do well in? advanced courses whilst Physics follows the AQA specification.

How many hours a week do you teach science? In Year 7 there are five lessons a week of science (just under three hours) and in Years 8 and 9 the girls have one hour and 10 minutes a week for each subject. In Years 10 and 11 the co-ordinated scientists have 1 hour and 45 minutes a week in each of the three subject areas (split into a double and a single lesson), whereas the triple scientists have just over 7 hours divided between the three subject areas. For A level, each subject has 4 hours and 40 minutes a week.

How much time is spent on practical tasks and lessons? We try to make lessons practical wherever possible. As Ofsted have

Here at Burgess Hill School for Girls, every subject is important and we do not promote one above another. English, Mathematics and Science are compulsory subjects at GCSE just like any other school, but we also strongly recommend that the girls take a foreign language, humanities and an arts subject to give them a broad and balanced curriculum. A good science qualification says something about the person; it shows that they can think for themselves, analyse a situation and make valid, well informed decisions, all skills that we need as we go through life. Burgess Hill School for Girls is proud of its Science department; we have excellent facilities and dedicated, specialist teachers who are always striving to bring out the best in the girls. Thanks to Sue Lympany, head of Chemistry and Melissa Bramley, head of Biology. For more information go to burgesshill-school.com

The young ones | 77

Happy, successful individuals from Nursery to Sixth Form

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Tuesday 11th February at 9.15am Thursday 20th March at 2.00pm

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Farlington School | Horsham | West Sussex | RH12 3PN

Teaching girls To love physics Alan Maude, Farlington School’s head of faculty for Mathematics and Natural Sciences, explains how the school encourages pupils to focus on subjects that they enjoy and excel at – even if they are traditionally considered to be for boys

ccording to a report published by the Institute of Physics (IoP) in December, almost half (49 per cent) of state-funded mixed schools in England are ‘reinforcing gender stereotypes’ in terms of the subjects students study at A Level. The report revealed that in many mixed state schools, the proportion of girls taking Physics is even lower than the national average, which is already very skewed at just one girl to every four boys. At Farlington, a girls’ school with an excellent record for encouraging pupils to study science subjects, Physics isn’t regarded as a ‘gendered’ subject. The lack of female role models has a profound effect on girls choosing A Levels, says sociologist Louise Archer at King’s College London: “For girls in particular, Physics is seen as being a very masculine subject,” she says. “So the girls who like Physics have to work a lot harder to balance it with that notion of normal femininity.” Lucy Rutherford, Farlington’s subject leader, Physics, added: “At Farlington we have no gender stereotyping by subject or by peers; we have positive, female role models and teachers with degrees in their specialisms. These are not typical conditions on a national basis and are hugely important in encouraging the girls to continue with science subjects. In the current Lower Sixth, 31 per cent of students study three or more Science and Maths A Levels (out of a usual total of four AS Levels) and 38 per cent study at least one physical science (Physics or Chemistry), and the majority (80 per cent) of these actually do both Physics and Chemistry. In the Upper Sixth, 45 per cent of students study two or more A Levels in Science and Maths with 40 per cent studying at least one Physical Science.” Lucy Rutherford told Fine Sussex: “At Farlington, all members of the faculty strive to ensure that all our students, at whatever level, become familiar with the ‘wow’ factor that science has in so many ways. We want them to enjoy science and understand the vital part it plays in all aspects of everyday

life, whilst retaining the natural curiosity and fascination that most children possess about science. Everyone uses the subject in their life, whether they realise it consciously or not, and we aspire to ensure all our students understand the key scientific concepts whilst endeavouring to stimulate and challenge those who wish to continue scientific studies beyond A Levels. Every year we have students that take their scientific studies further. Currently, we have students applying to read Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Civil Engineering, Aeronautical Engineering, Mathematics, Biomedical Science and, of course, Medicine at university. Beyond undergraduate level, we have students who are continuing with postgraduate studies; there are currently ex-Farlington students completing PhDs in biological, chemical and physical areas.” While the number of girls taking A Level Physics has steadily increased nationally, the proportion who are female has hovered around 20 to 22 per cent for several years. Professor Knight, IoP’s president said: “There is still a huge amount of work to be done to ensure that girls are not denied their entitlement to a good Physics education. Not least, we know that anachronistic gender stereotypes persist in many classrooms and these contribute to an outrageous unfairness that we continue to fight against.” Alan Maude, Farlington’s head of faculty for Mathematics and Natural Sciences, outlines why the school is winning the battle against these prejudices: “The girls have time to become more confident; they are not made to feel that science is just for boys; they can make mistakes in a non-threatening environment. The teachers at Farlington understand the way in which girls learn science and can help them to develop a love for the subject that lasts way beyond their school years.” For more information go to farlingtonschool.net

The young ones | 79

Open Mornings 7th & 8th February starting at 10am To book your visit at Great Walstead School call 01444 483528 or email registrar@greatwalstead.co.uk www.greatwalstead.co.uk

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pretty GREEN Oak framing might seem an extravagant use of wood for a property. But as James Hood finds out from Oakmastersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Edward Hamilton, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not only stunning, but surprisingly sustainable

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THESE DAYS PEOPLE WHO ARE BUILDING A MODERN HOME OFTEN LIKE THE COMBINATION OF CONTEMPORARY WITH AN INFUSION OF CLASSIC, AND NATURAL MATERIALS SUCH AS OAK

We’re all being told to be more conscious of the environment. We’re expected to recycle everything from our shirts to the Sunday Times and made to feel a pang of guilt when our flight to Barbados boosts our annual, ever-growing carbon footprint. Everything needs to be reduced – our water usage, our paper printing and our driving or we’ll run out of trees, the sun will frazzle us, the bees will die. So it’s refreshing to know there is a building material that not only looks lovely, but is used with one of the most planetfriendly construction methods. Oak beams have been used in constructing buildings for almost 600 years. Those visible, wooden beams and timber structures such as Tudor homes and similar styles can still be seen everywhere today. Originally, oak and other woods were one of a few options when it came to constructing buildings; an accessible material that also offered the benefit of strength and durability. Today, oak beams are being chosen for new-build properties and structures for the same reasons. But there are added benefits you might not know about. It turns out, what seems like a terrible waste of wood (and thus trees) in this day and age of technology, plastics, metals and brick, is actually relatively kind to the environment. Edward Hamilton is managing director of Oakmasters, a family business that specialises in the manufacture and construction of oak-framed buildings such as homes, pool houses, conversions, extensions, garages and more. He told Fine Sussex: “Sustainability is something that many of our customers find really important when undertaking a building project. Many people are surprised by how little our work actually effects the environment. But the truth is using wood is a sustainable method. We buy it from carefully managed forests, which are constantly replenishing trees. In fact, trees capture carbon as they grow, making it not only kind on the environment but beneficial. In addition, we source it from France, which means it’s

not travelling across the world to reach us. The equipment used is not damaging either. The material isn’t fired like bricks for example. It just so happens that it also looks great and people love the aesthetics of wood used in their homes or buildings.” Safe to say it’s not a cheap building material. Oak framing does however provide great value because it will last a lifetime – and then some. In addition, it’s part of our heritage, which is possibly a reason we have such a love of exposed beams here in the UK. Hamilton added: “It’s an honest form of architecture. You can see what you’re getting, you can touch and feel it and it’s largely handmade. It’s one of only a few materials used where the structure is on show. In addition, it is not something limited to old buildings or a traditional style of buildings. We work on properties old and new. These days people who are building a modern home often like the combination of contemporary with an infusion of classic, and natural materials such as oak.” The timescales involved in using oak timber beams in your building might also surprise you. The lead-time for ordering and installation will depend on the project and size of the property, but it can prove to be quicker than other methods of construction. Hamilton told us: “Most of our work on the frames is done in our factory here in the UK, assembling it in parts. We’ll then move it to where it’s needed by lorry. Oak frames will often go up quicker than a typical property built from brick or cement – there’s no waiting for it to dry!” Oakmasters prides itself on producing work of exceptional quality. The company has been operating for over 30 years both here in the UK and internationally. It boasts a wide range of esteemed clients including Hampton Court Palace, celebrities and those from blue chip businesses. For more information go to oakmasters.co.uk

Home sweet Home | 85

new york

state of mind Edward Hayama talks to two respected NYC interior designers who explain why the US city has a distinctive look, and how you can replicate it in your own home

Interior design by Betty Wasserman

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Home sweet Home | 87

efore I started writing this article, I will be honest, I had limited knowledge of the world of interior design; what makes a good interior designer; what can be considered as chic, quality fashionable design - let alone what New York style interior design is. I did, however, understand that it is an art, an expression of cultures and people with almost infinite influences. It was after I’d interviewed two prominent New York designers that the realisation dawned on me that the composition of this article was to be no mean feat - they could not have contradicted each other more; their styles and methods differed dramatically; their results resided on opposing poles but - and here’s the rub - whilst they seemed to be in complete antithesis, there did underlie their distinct renderings an undeniable, though subtle, conformity to what can be considered the vogue of New York style. So, what can they tell us about New York style and what tips do they have for us when looking to design or update our beloved houses and apartments? Betty Wasserman was working as an art dealer in Soho, NY, for five years when asked by a client if she could assist him in gutting his apartment. She tried to say no - she had never done it before - but he insisted: “He wasn’t the type of guy you said no to”, Wasserman told Fine Sussex. Enlisting a few artist friends, she set out to renovate the apartment - and loved the process, the relationship with the client, the detail and the control. Part of the frustration of being an art dealer was twofold: “You’re only as good as your last month and you have no control of the spaces your art is going into”. She began going to Parsons The New School for Design and started her business, Betty Wasserman Art & Interiors, running both projects simultaneously - art dealing and interior design - until the business began to grow. Her style is “minimal but warm”, although she is not a classical minimalist and likes fabrics, textiles, drapery and wood. Wasserman loves Shaker modern furniture and loves wood, but with a modern twist. In the homes she designs, you won’t find everything made from white plastic. She likes things to be comfortable but at the top of the list, it has to function. Clients are assigned homework. Firstly bring 100 images they like and 20 images of

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things they really don’t like. Simple. Second assignment: present a programme - everything the client wants from the space; their hopes and dreams for the space, how they’ll entertain, children, pets, nannies, dinner parties, hobbies, everything. Not so simple. So how does she define NY style? Her answer reflects her style and her rendition of NY interiors: “There’s a level of sophistication and understanding in New York based on the exposure to art, the importance and the influence of art and the importance and influence of design. For a long time there’s been so much renovation and new construction in NY - there’s barely any space to build new. However, recent projects like the Highline (the first and only elevated exterior park that spans about 40 blocks) show New York’s creativity and capacity to adapt. It was an old abandoned railway station, which the city was going to demolish and get rid of. A group of people got together to raise money and they funded what is now the Highline - one of the most incredible experiences. It’s modern, clean, beautifully landscaped, it’s an experience and they regularly rotate art round. It’s moves like that, in architecture, in design, in art that reflect the city in a very current, modern, clean way.” Betty’s South Chelsea Loft (pictured) epitomises the current style of New York. “Wood floors are very current. It’s very NY to do grey floors. Everybody wants grey wood floors - it’s a nice way to create something neutral, to give the house a clean fresh palette.” Window treatments are big business, too. 90 per cent of the time Betty will do flat panel systems. The other thing everyone appreciates and wants is a good stone top on their island in the kitchen. Curved walls, finished with a plaster - there’s a textural feel and it’s grey and darker than the floor, not too dark; a little reflective quality creating an interesting surface. “The good thing about plaster is that you don’t have to worry about it for the next 25 years. You can’t hurt it. You can’t fingerprint it. You can’t get it dirty. You can do any colour, any kind of finish.” Ethanol fireplaces are very popular in Manhattan apartments. They give off a little heat, and are visually magnificent at night. Pour liquid in and leave it alone. It lasts about four hours. It’s portable and it’s beautiful. 10 years ago everyone wanted neutrals and everything was beige, cream, off-white. Now the new neutral is grey.

Interior design by Betty Wasserman

BETTY’s tips for British readers:

There’s a level of sophistication and understanding in New York based on the exposure to art, the influence of art and the importance of design

• Before you do anything, take a look at the shell - floors, walls, mouldings, doors, ceiling, lighting, cabinet fronts • Clean it up as much as possible. • Get rid of the crown mouldings or clean and simplify them. • Get rid of the base boards or clean and simplify them. • Minimalise the floors. • Paint the walls and the doors the same colour (Paint the doors out. Make them disappear). • If the floors are inexpensive rip them up. Or, give a good sanding and rather than a stain you may want to just paint them. • On your walls, use matte paint - its warmer and absorbs and reflects light better than a gloss paint. • Update the lighting. Very often old townhouses have gigantic big round down lights or chandeliers. That’s very dated. These are the most important things to really getting a space to feel a certain way and modernising, cleaning it and being able to own it. Then, whatever you put in will look good because the shell is good.

BETTY WASSERMAN

HOME SWEET HOME | 89

Interior design by Evelyn Benatar

Another interiors expert, Evelyn Benatar, started her working life in the fashion industry. Since she was a little girl Benatar had been an artist. She attended special art school as a child, went to high school for art and then The New York School of Interior Design and The Fashion Institute of Technology. She started her own business, New York Interior Design, in 1998 and has 20 years’ of experience in the industry. For Benatar, fashion and interior design overlap. She told Fine Sussex: “It’s about colour, it’s about creating things, it’s about making things beautiful. It’s also about creating different things all the time. I wouldn’t say I have a certain look. I’m like a chameleon. I go with what my clients are looking to achieve. I take their vision and I make it the most beautiful possible thing that I can create with what they’re looking for.” The NY resident describes her style as sleek - a modern aesthetic or classically modern; a traditionalist who “loves the old references in the architectural elements of the home, the old mouldings and the columns; the old work and workmanship the way it used to be.”

90 | FINE SUSSEX

When she goes travelling to Italy or France she delights in the history, the art, the culture. She takes these influences and updates them with a new, modern and edgy touch - the old classical look with a more contemporary feeling. Generally, Benatar designs for a younger crowd. She added: “To me it’s all about young and fun and lively and not so serious. It’s never, never stuffy. It’s with a twist or a surprise or something unexpected. Even if a room is all white, for me it would need a dash of phenomenal colour somewhere - in a painting, in a piece of artwork. I’m all about colour and I always have been.” For Benatar, New York style is high rise Manhattan - it is beautiful apartments with huge windows overlooking a stunning view with contemporary modern-styled interiors. She admits she has a Manhattan vibe. It is her favourite place to decorate. She loves the style and the aesthetic - “it’s streamlined, it’s clean, it’s young, it says to me: powerful. NY is kind of the centre of the world to me.” She’s recently finished an apartment in the Flat Iron district. “I would say it’s the hottest area in Manhattan.” She tells me she has also finished an apartment in Chelsea (NY) that she is “busting” to get photographed.

Evelyn’s tips for British readers: • Go through some magazines and rip out what you love and keep a journal of looks that you love • Start with a rug because there are 50 million fabrics and 50 million paint colours but there aren’t 50 million rugs that you’re going to fall in love with • If you can ﬁnd that one rug with the fabulous print that you’re in love with, then you can take the colours and bring them into different places in the room • Then select fabrics for your sofas, for your chairs • If it’s not a rug, concentrate on a beautiful painting, fabulous fabric, one focal point that you love, with beautiful colours, that you’re drawn to and do the room around it • Pick that one thing in the room you cannot live without For more tips and ideas, go to For more tips and ideas, go to bettywasserman.com or nyinteriordesign.com

If you can find that one rug with a fabulous print, with certain colors that you’re drawn to, then you can take those colours and bring them into different places in the room

EVELYN BENATAR

HOME SWEET HOME | 91

set themood Katrina Smith speaks to industry peers to find out what makes a more romantic bedroom, with inspirational images from Park Grove Design

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If you are feeling adventurous go for mirrored panelling on your headboard. Team this with luxurious fabrics, such as faux fur, suede, silk or satin for the bed linen and throws and you will create an instant wow factor

I have written many articles on what makes for a romantic bedroom. This time, I’ve asked some other interiors experts to ‘take the floor’ and asked them what springs to mind when designing a romantic bedroom that’s perfect for Valentines.

to create the perfect mood. It should be gender neutral, not too frilly and not too masculine - soft muted colours. And Debbie Mabbutt said she believes atmosphere is number one on her list of “must haves” for a romantic bedroom, whether it be scented candles, muted lighting, music or the linens in the bedroom, it is the atmosphere that makes for a romantic evening.

Sarah Myall from Design 29 Interiors said she has found that “romantic” means many different things to different people. “It is hard to get away from that Mills & Boon image of satin sheets and a roaring log fire. There are people that love a four poster bed, a roaring fire and beautiful drapes at the window, but I have also found clients whose ideal is a Caribbean themed bedroom – soft voile drapes, bright colours, opening onto a secluded terrace where they can sit and sip champagne on ice next to a hot tub. Many people are going all out for the OTT romantic and naughty bedroom, with bathtubs in the bedroom, mirrors on ceilings etc – they want 50 Shades of Grey rather than Mills and Boon.”

Whatever your style the main feature of the bedroom is typically the bed. The design of the bed-frame and headboard you choose will almost certainly determine the design and style of the room. Headboards are a great way to bring colour to a themed room, and from this focal point you can build up your entire scheme. If you want a striking effect why not have a headboard that is textured? Or if you are being truly adventurous go for mirrored panelling. Team this with luxurious fabrics, such as faux fur, suede, silk or satin for the bed linen and throws and you will create an instant “wow” factor in the bedroom.

Simon Partridge from Costa Este said he believes the most important aspect is a gorgeous space – tidy, with the right lighting

For more information about Katrina Smith’s services, go to truecoloursinteriors.co.uk For more information on Park Grove Design, go to parkgrove.co.uk

HOME SWEET HOME | 93

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Get back to doing what you love Joint Injury Information Evening, with Mr Billy Jowett and Mr Andy Cossey, Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeons. Come along to Chichester Rugby Club for a free talk and have all your questions answered. When: Tuesday 25th February 2014 Time:

19:00

Where: Chichester Rugby Club, Oaklands Park, Wellington Road, Chichester, West Sussex PO19 6BB To book call 01243 887578 or email chichester.enquires@nuffieldhealth.com

on your feet Billy Jowett is an orthopaedic consultant at the Chichester Nuffield Hospital. He talks about his work, common complaints and why a life of sport might do more good than harm when it comes to your feet and ankles What does your role as an orthopaedic consultant involve? I specialise in foot and ankle orthopaedics. So my days at the Chichester Nuffield are spent partly in clinics assessing people’s injuries, pain or feetrelated issues. I also spend time in theatre performing surgery and I do rounds on the ward, speaking to patients both before and after an operation. It’s a mixture of treating longstanding problems as well as acute injuries.

Is there a typical patient for you? No. I see patients with a variety of long-term conditions and those who have suffered accidents, old and young. Some have recurring conditions, while others may have injured themselves on a rugby pitch. I do treat more women, because they tend to suffer with bunions on their feet more than men. And at the Chichester Nuffield I do tend to see people who have an ongoing complaint or problem as private health care allows for a more rapid access to assessment of such cases – accidents and emergencies tend to go straight to an NHS hospital. But generally speaking I could see any type of patient on a daily basis.

What are the most common problems or injuries associated with the foot and ankle? For women, the most common problem is pain around the big toe, caused by bunions. Arthritis of the big toe and ankle are also common complaints. People often come to see me with ankle sprains that have not got better for which there can be numerous reasons (most should recover within three months).

Is there a correlation between the amount of sport your patients do and the injuries they get? I see a fair number of relatively young people who get injured during sport or who have recurring problems due to playing a lot of sport. But equally, I see many people who have problems that are due to wear and tear of every day life and in some cases due to conditions they were born with.

Does a healthy lifestyle have an impact on the patients you see? Absolutely. Although sporting injuries are one of the causes of people coming to see me – in fact living a healthy lifestyle, which includes playing sport, and maintaining a healthy weight, can really help prevent problems with the feet and ankles in later life. Your weight has a significant bearing on what we call the ‘load’ on your feet. If you stay lighter, there is less pressure on your feet and ankles. If nothing else it can make a difference to recovery times after a surgery and avoid complications.

How do you spend your free time? I love sport. Football, cricket, golf, skiing… and many more. I also love to spend time with my wife and three children.

So, you believe people should continue to enjoy sports, even doing the work you do? Absolutely. Exercise and movement and getting outside is so important to maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Billy Jowett has been a consultant at the Chichester Nuffield Hospital for two years. He trained at Guy’s and St.Thomas Hospitals Medical School and then undertook his general surgical and orthopaedic training in Wessex. Following this he spent 18 months in Australia and New Zealand specialising in foot and ankle surgery (for which he was awarded an HCA international travelling fellowship). He was also awarded an American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society travelling fellowship in 2010. He specialises in the foot and ankle and has an interest in sports injuries. For more information go to nuffieldhealth.com/ Chichester 01243 753001 or sdfac.co.uk

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IN THE DIARY Golf for a good cause

Friday 16 May 2014 9.30am start for an 11am tee off At Mannings Heath Golf Club Fine Sussex is proud to support this year’s Charity Golf Day at Mannings Heath Golf Club, a fundraiser for the Dame Vera Lynne Trust. If you love golf don’t miss out on this opportunity to play the exclusive Waterfall course at Mannings Heath Golf club. This normally members-only course is ranked within the Top 100 Golf Courses in England. There will be bacon rolls, tea and coffee on arrival followed by the round of golf and then a three course presentation dinner will complete the day. Enter a team of four for £500 or register as an individual player for £125. To take part contact Catherine Bristow at catherine.bristow@dvltrust.org.uk or by calling: 01403 780444

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