Life Magazines (Kent Editions) September 2023

CR-V HAVE ARRIVED!

The new CR-V hybrid - our most premium family SUV yet, available as both full hybrid and plug-in hybrid models.

• Full hybrid fuel efficiency. 42.8mpg*

• Full hybrid driving range. 596 miles on a full tank*

• Plug-in hybrid EV range. 50 miles of pure electric zero emission drive**

• Plug-in ultra-low emissions. As low as 18g/km of CO2**

• Luxurious interior. Premium leather heated, cooling and power reclining seats^

• Our most cutting-edge safety system yet. Honda SENSING 360 on selected grades provides all round safety on the roads.

to arrange a test drive.

EDITOR

Faye Manning

•••••

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT

Katie Miller

•••••

SUB EDITOR

Ben Jones

•••••

FASHION EDITOR

Lewis Casserley

SALES

Tim Lees

•••••

ACCOUNTS

Kathy Manning

Andree Georgiou

••••• DIRECTORS

Rory Smith

Patrick Smith

••••• DESIGN & PRODUCTION

Bob Ambrose

LOVE LOCAL

– We put fantastic local businesses and exciting events in the spotlight each month –

IMAGE: WHISTABLE CASTLE & GARDENS

1 OCTOBER

Sweet sweet soul Tom Davis is best known for hit shows King Gary, The Curse, Murder In Successville, Live At The Apollo and his hugely popular podcast Wolf and Owl with Romesh Ranganathan.

Embarking on his biggest tour to date with his brand new show, ‘Underdog’, Tom will be exploring life as the longshot. From leaving school with no qualifications to years working on building sites, all the way to the difficult road to fatherhood, acting in blockbuster films and yet still being told he’s punching by a waiter.

Big Tom Davis’ return to stand up should not be missed.

The Orchard Theatre, Home Gardens, Dartford, DA1 1ED

21 SEPTEMBER

[EVENTS]

THE CALENDAR

LET’S TALK BETTER: THE LAST TABOO

The third ‘Let’s Talk Better’ event, with guests the Mayor of Bromley and Gareth Bacon MP, aims to inspire better conversations. This event explores taboos and stigmas and how to tackle them. Tickets: www.letstalkbetter.org

Community House, South Street, Bromley, BR1 1R

5 OCTOBER

AN EVENING WITH ADRIAN EDMONDSON

Discover the story behind Adrian Edmondson’s journey to comedy in this riotous evening of storytelling to celebrate the release of his upcoming memoir, Berserker!

Now a British comedy legend, Edmondson will look back on his life and answer your own burning questions. Expect star-studded anecdotes and healthy dose of nostalgia from an extraordinary, comedy-filled life effortlessly weaved together by Edmondson’s unique wit and gift for storytelling.

The Marlowe, The Friars, Canterbury, Kent CT1 2AS

TOM DAVIS: UNDERDOG

15-17 SEPTEMBER

EMMETTS GARDEN

Heritage Open Day: Charming Emmetts Garden is an Edwardian estate that was owned by Frederic Lubbock, becoming both a plantsman’s passion and a much-loved family home. This hillside garden was laid out in the late 19th century and was influenced by William Robinson. It contains many rare trees and shrubs from across the world. Standing on one of the highest spots in Kent, Emmetts Garden offers panoramic views over the unspoilt Weald as well as some great walking opportunities. Explore the Italianate rose garden, the rock garden, and the South Garden to see interesting specimens that come to life in early autumn.

Emmetts Garden, Ide Hill, Sevenoaks, Kent TN14 6BA

29 OCTOBER

BIGJALEBI DIWALI CHARITY BALL

Celebrate Diwali in the comfort of Oakley House in Bromley. Enjoy the cuisine of a Michelin-starred chef, while being entertained by Bollywood dancers and Britain’s Got Talent performers. Make the Festival of Light a night to remember!

Tickets £95 via www.tickettailor.com/events/ bigjalebiltd

24 SEPTEMBER

AN EVENING WITH HARRY REDKNAPP

After last couple of years sold out tour of 65 venues, Harry returns to regale us with stories from his football and TV career. One of the funniest, most entertaining talk shows on the circuit. A great raconteur and a fun night out. The Orchard Theatre, Home Gardens, Dartford, DA1 1ED

17 SEPTEMBER

SISSINGHURST CASTLEOPEN GARDEN FOR NGS

Historic, poetic, iconic; a refuge dedicated to beauty. Vita Sackville-West and Harold Nicolson fell in love with Sissinghurst Castle and created a world renowned garden. More than a garden, visitors can also find Elizabethan and Tudor buildings, find out about our history as a Prisoner of War Camp and see changing exhibitions.

Sissinghurst Castle Garden, Cranbrook, Kent TN17 2AB

ALL YEAR

CHARTWELL

Chartwell’s hillside gardens reflect his love of landscape and nature. They include the lakes he created, the kitchen garden and the Marycot, a playhouse designed for his youngest daughter Mary. Beyond the gardens there is expansive woodland with looped trails and natural play areas.

Mapleton Road, Westerham, Kent, TN16 1PS

21-23 SEPTEMBER

TOM ALLEN: COMPLETELY

Join Tom for his signature wit and riotous storytelling. Tom Allen has finally moved out of his parents’ house, which has been great news for him, better news for department stores and even better news for his latest stand-up tour as he’s eager to share his life updates, get your opinions on his vegetable patch and delve into the protocol of inviting friends with children for dinner. The Marlowe, The Friars, Canterbury, Kent CT1 2AS

22 SEPTEMBER

GODINTON HOUSEOPEN GARDEN FOR NGS

12 acres complement the magnificent Jacobean house. Terraced lawns lead through herbaceous borders, rose garden and formal lily pond to an intimate Italian garden and large walled garden with delphiniums, potager and cut flowers. March/April the 3 acre wild garden is a mass of daffodils, fritillaries, primroses and other spring flowers.

Godinton House & Gardens, Ashford, Kent TN23 3BP

19&20 SEPTEMBER

AILEY 2

For their return to the UK, Ailey 2 brings an exciting repertory featuring Francesca Harper’s futuristic Freedom Series (excerpt), Robert Battle’s thrilling The Hunt, the incredible energy of William Forsythe’s Enemy In The Figure (excerpt), and Alvin Ailey’s beloved masterpiece Revelations. The Marlowe, The Friars, Canterbury, Kent CT1 2AS

15 SEPTEMBER

LIVE FROM THE ORANGERY AT WHITSTABLE CASTLE

Rubber Biscuit is an 11 piece band including four singers support by a seven piece band with full horn section, which makes for the unmistakable sound and presence that is Rubber Biscuit. Live music as it should be. Covering R&B, Soul, Northern Soul, Motown, Ska and Pop. You can expect a fully interactive show along with audience participation, humour and professionalism at the heart of every performance.

Whitstable Castle & Gardens Kent CT5 2BW

ALL YEAR

PETTS WOOD AND HAWKWOOD

An oasis of peace and tranquillity only 13 miles southeast from the centre of London Full of natural history, the area is a haven for all kinds of bird, butterfly, amphibian and plant life. The Hawkwood Estate and the remainder of the woodland was donated in 1957, with the entire estate now covering 136 hectares or 338 acres.

Chislehurst, Kent, BR5 1NZ

Fungi Festival at Emmetts Garden

6th - 29th October 2023

The Fungi Festival is back 6-29 October 2023, inspired by the array of weird and wonderful fungi found at Emmetts Garden. The damp woodland provides ideal conditions for fungi including the distinctive red and white spotted fly agaric, stinkhorn, shaggy parasols and fairy’s bonnet.

Fungi Fair - Friday 6 – Sunday 8 October

The festival kicks off with a three-day market where makers and craftspeople will be selling unique products, all themed around fungi. An alternative craft fair not to be missed, the Fungi Fair offers everything from jewellery and prints to wooden sculpture and ceramics.

Workshops and exhibitions

Learn about the different fungi found at Emmetts in our More than a Mushroom exhibition, listen to Shroom Soundscapes in the South Garden and watch fungi films in our micro cinema. Join a basket weaving workshop with willow artist Nicola Claxton or get creative with a camera at our fungi photography workshops.

Fungi talks - Friday 13 – Sunday 15 October

Take a deeper dive into the fascinating world of fungi with our exciting programme of talks delivered by fungi experts from across the UK. Discover the history and purpose of the mushrooms that live in our gardens and woodland as well as the power of fungi and its role in our future.

Family fun(gi) - Saturday 21 – Sunday 29 October

Half term activities include drop-in mushroom crafts with the Nature Makers and artist-led woodland bunting workshops. Kent Wildlife Trust will be running outdoor activities such as pond dipping, den building and bush craft. There is also the chance to join a graffiti workshop.

Spectacularly Spooky Fungi Finale

Sunday 29 October

On the final day of the festival, register your pooch in our doggy costume competition and win prizes in the scariest, most original, most elaborate and Fungi-est categories. You can also have fun with apple bobbing, pumpkin carving and completing puzzles along a trail of spooky spores.

Food and drink

Wood-fired pizza is available on the meadow at weekends. The Old Stables Tea Room has a special mushroom menu and fungi art on display.

THE DETAILS

Emmetts Garden

Want to know more?

Keep up to date with all things fungi via our website: nationaltrust.org.uk/fungifest Emmetts Garden, Ide Hill, Sevenoaks, Kent, TN14 6BA

“Take a deeper dive into the fascinating world of fungi with our exciting programme of talks delivered by fungi experts from across the UK”

Local Heritage & Modern Living

Those searching for the very best of countryside living in Kent should look no further than Oakhill, a unique gated modern country estate by local developer, Berkeley.

Comprising 166 apartments and houses, homes are set within 30 acres of extensive and beautifully maintained grounds, complete with serene ponds and woodlands. Effortlessly blending local heritage and modern living, the architectural centrepiece and at the heart of the development is Oakhill House, an impressive Grade II listed building that has been lovingly refurbished and now sits alongside a collection of sensitively designed new homes.

Homes offer spacious living areas with luxury finishes including bespoke fittings and state- ofthe- art appliances – perfect for entertaining friends and family. With a variety of house types available, Oakhill has something on offer for everyone – from young professionals through to larger families and downsizers (prices from £461,000; www.oakhill-hildenborough.co.uk)

Residents at Oakhill also benefit from an exceptional suite of on-site leisure, fitness, and entertainment amenities. From a cinema, stateof-the-art gym, residents’ lounge and co-working space through to an outdoor BBQ area and Padel court – one of the first to be incorporated into a countryside development – Oakhill offers a lifestyle rarely found outside of the capital. Ideally positioned for all the local area has to offer, residents are well located for some of the best performing schools in the country, including the highly-regarded independent schools Tonbridge School and Sevenoaks School and grammar options including Tonbridge Grammer School for Girls and The Judd School.

In addition, Hildenborough itself has convenient amenities including a village shop and village pub, with its train station - which runs services to London Bridge in just 32 minutesjust over 1 mile away too.

THE DETAILS Berkeley

For more on Berkeley’s new homes across Kent, visit www.berkeleygroup.co.uk/ developments/kent

Located in the heart of Kent, Hildenborough is a charming village, with a strong community spirit, bustling high street and excellent connectivity.

“Those searching for the very best of countryside living in Kent should look no further than Oakhill, a unique gated modern country estate by local developer, Berkeley”

TRINITY THEATRE

Trinity is recognised as a vibrant cultural hub situated in the heart of Tunbridge Wells, offering a varied seasonal programme, inspiring all age groups with our vision leading on enriching lives and promoting cultural togetherness.

Ultimate Dinosaurs With Ben Garrod

Sat · 23 Sep · 2pm · £17 (£15 Concs)

If you love Dinosaurs – those huge, awesome animals that once roamed the earth – then come to the most up-to-date dinosaur show in 66 million years: Ultimate Dinosaurs with Professor Ben Garrod and Dinomania.

During this interactive, educational and highly entertaining show you’ll learn loads of fascinating facts about the best prehistoric predators and most humoungous herbivores. You may even get to touch the skin of a baby Triceratops and come face-to-face with a thundering T-Rex with these life-size, museum-quality, animatronic dinosaurs.

Candlelit Romeo & Juliet

Weds · 27 Sep · 7:30pm · £18 (£16 Concs)

The friar proposes a plan: Juliet must consent to marry Paris; then, on the night before the wedding, she must drink a sleeping potion that will make her appear to be dead. Juliet will be laid to rest in the Capulet tomb, and the friar will send word to Romeo in Mantua to help him retrieve her when she wakes up. Only It doesn’t work.

A Little Life

Thurs · 28 Sep · 7pm + Sun · 1 Oct · 2pm · £22 (£21 Concs)

James Norton (Happy Valley, Grantchester) stars in the ‘utterly compelling’ (5 Stars - Daily Express) theatrical event of 2023 as visionary director Ivo van Hove (A View from the Bridge) stages the English language premiere of A Little Life. Filmed live at the Savoy Theatre, London, during its West End run, this record-breaking and ‘beautifully acted’ (4 Stars - The I) production of the million-copy bestseller by Hanya Yanagihara comes to the big screen for a limited time only.

““He’s the man! The genius is his He’s the man! The genius is his knowledge; the genius is the man knowledge; the genius is the man himself! himself!” – Chris Evans ” – Chris Evans

WITH BEN WITH BEN GARROD GARROD

‘Utterly compelling theatre’ Daily Express

Sat · 23rd Sep · Sat · 23rd Sep · 2pm 2pm £17 (£15 Concs) £17 (£15 Concs)

Weds · 27th Sep · 7:30pm Weds · 27th Sep · 7:30pm £18 (£16 Concs) £18 (£16 Concs)

““Adapted by Bart Lee, who also directs, the production is an Adapted by Bart Lee, who also directs, the production is an inspiration for modern playwrights in preserving the sensitivity inspiration for modern playwrights in preserving the sensitivity and subject matter of such a classical piece and subject matter of such a classical piece ” - The Stage ” - The Stage ★★★★★

★★★★

‘James Norton gives a career-defining performance’ Daily Mail

Thurs · 28th Sep · 7pm Sun · 1st Oct · 2pm

£22 (£21 Concs)

★★★★

‘Towering performances in a visceral production. Unforgettable’ Sunday Express

★★★★

‘There is no doubting the production’s power’ WhatsonStage

Filmed live at the Savoy Theatre, London

*Certificate 18: This production is intended for mature audiences and viewer discretion is advised.*

Revive Your Ride

In the motoring world, a hidden gem is redefining what it means to truly care for your vehicle. Meet E.C. Car Detailing, based in Beckenham, a bespoke car Detailing specialist and restoration company offering mobile and studio-based treatments that are bringing the automotive artistry to life.

Founded in 2014 by the visionary Erik Cizmar, E.C. Car Detailing is not your ordinary Detailing service, it’s a testament to the fusion of passion, quality and skill. Erik’s lifelong love for cars and his meticulous nature propelled him on a journey that ultimately birthed a brand that has become synonymous with automotive perfection.

Erik’s skills were recognised by the legendary elite vehicle manufacturer McLaren in 2018, when he joined the company as their in-house Detailer. There, he further honed his pioneering approach to the automotive craft. Driven by his commitment to excellence, Erik embarked on a mission to elevate the performance of E.C. Car Detailing to unparalleled levels.

So, what sets E.C. Car Detailing apart?

Their team is composed of skilled artisans in advanced car care, driven by a genuine devotion to their work. Car Detailing is the process of protecting, restoring and enhancing your vehicle’s

THE DETAILS

E.C. Car Detailing

1A Copers Cope Road, Beckenham, Kent BR3 1NB

T: 07588 677 277

E: info@eccsrdetailing.co.uk www.eccardetailing.co.uk

appearance. At E.C. Car Detailing, the process involves innovative precision and attention.

“Every project is completely unique because every vehicle has it’s own DNA” says Erik Cizmar, Founder of E.C. Car Detailing. Whether it’s a Paint Correction to eliminate defects, Ceramic Coating for long-lasting protection, dent and scratch repair, mobile maintenance treatment, or customisation for added style, each service is performed to perfection. Premium products, cutting-edge equipment and techniques form part of the premium approach.

Step into the E.C. Car Detailing studio and you’ll experience the ultimate blend of expertise and luxury. Your vehicle will be transformed into a masterpiece and you’ll understand why E.C. Car Detailing isn’t just a Detailing service, it exemplifies the enduring love affair between man and machine.

E.C. Car Detailing’s vision extends beyond their studio, it’s about building a community of car enthusiasts sharing a passion for quality and craftsmanship. Whether you’re an automotive connoisseur or simply someone who loves their ride, you’re invited to join their journey. Your car deserves nothing less than the best and E.C. Car Detailing delivers precisely that.

The Art and Mastery of Car Detailing with E.C. Car Detailing

Judge & Priestley Honoured for Pledging to Beat Cancer

Judge & Priestley Solicitors have been recogised by Cancer Research UK after facilitating £5,181,775 worth of gifts from people choosing to leave a legacy to the charity in their Will.

Judge & Priestley Solicitors has been offering Cancer Research UK’s Free Will Service to people aged 18 and over for the past 9 years, giving guidance and support to those wishing to write a Will or update an existing one.

Tim Goodwin and David Chandra from Judge & Priestley’s Private Client team, were presented with a Certificate of Excellence to acknowledge the firm’s ongoing support and helping the charity to raise over £5 million.

L-R Tim Goodwin J&P, Susan Robertson Cancer Research UK and David Chandra J&P

David Chandra said: “We’re honoured to have been recognised by Cancer Research UK in this way. Many of us at the firm have friends or family who have been affected by cancer. Together with clients’ pledges and ours, we are beating cancer for future generations”.

Gifts in Wills fund over a third of the charity’s life-saving research. Without them, Cancer Research UK would not be able to undertake the vital research that will one day beat cancer.

Clare Moore, Director of Legacies at Cancer Research UK, said: “We all reach a stage at some point in our lives where we start to look ahead and consider what will happen to our financial affairs in the future, when we may no longer be around.

“Our Free Will Service is provided without obligation and we are grateful to Judge & Priestley Solicitors, for the expertise and sensitivity they show in providing clear information and guidance to help people make the best choices for them.

“By combining dedication with the highest professional standards, Judge & Priestley Solicitors has facilitated over £5,181,775 worth of legacy gifts, which will help our scientists, doctors and nurses to beat cancer sooner.”

Judge & Priestley has the largest and most experienced Private Client team with offices in Blackheath, Bromley, Beckenham and Sidcup and can assist with all related matters including:

• Probate administration

• Will drafting

• Estate and inheritance planning

• Contested wills and probate

• Lasting Powers of Attorney

• Planning for nursing home and care fees

• Deputyships

• Mental capacity and Court of Protection issues

For further information on our Private Client services including Wills, Trusts and Probate please contact Nita nnewsome@judge-priestley.co.uk 0208 290 7425

“We’re honoured to have been recognised by Cancer Research UK in this way.

Together with clients’ pledges and ours, we are beating cancer for future generation”

Newinton Accountancy Business made easy

“Get your numbers right, and the rest follows”, says Nnewima Nwafor-Orizu (FFA, FIMC, FCCA), Director of Kentbased company, Newinton Accountancy. “As accountants, we are called on to get the financial numbers right for a lot of small and medium-sized (SME) businesses. People worry whether their tax, whether it is self-assessment, income tax, corporation tax, or VAT, will be paid correctly to HMRC at the right time. The rules around tax do change frequently. It is our job to steer our clients through that. I regularly take calls from worried people who have overlooked something that they need to be compliant with what the HMRC expects. We can help them to get onto a sound footing and talk with HMRC for them to help resolve any issues. Resolving issues like this gives my colleagues and I a lot of pleasure.”

Alongside that caring approach, Newinton Accountancy has startup and SME accounting packages that are ready to be built around the individual needs of their clients. They use simple,

specialist accounting software and combine it with support from a dedicated accounting team. As it says on their website, “freeing up your time and energy to focus on what you do best – winning contracts and making money!”

Support when you need it

Nnewima continues, “Providing assurance is our most valued service, but as we talk with business owners, we have realised that their worries also include a lot of the steps needed to start or scale up their businesses. So, we help there, too. We offer a one stop shop that puts some of the most essential elements of creating a successful business at people’s fingertips.”

Those services include handling income tax, corporation tax, capital gains tax, payroll, VAT or IHT, self-assessment, company formation, registering company addresses, business development and support.

From side-hustle to startling success?

The term ‘business’ goes so much wider than manufacturers, high street businesses, and service providers. Newinton Accountancy enjoys working with clients as diverse as influencers, freelancers and creatives. “Business is changing fast”, says Nnewima, “These days people are starting side hustles as local, micro-businesses, or trading on the internet, but sometimes they grow beyond what they first dreamed, and a full-time business is born! We’re there for those people too.”

Call Newinton’s friendly team on 0203 924 5170 to discuss your business and accountancy needs with no obligation. Website - newintonacc.com

“Alongside that caring approach, Newinton Accountancy has startup and SME accounting packages that are ready to be built around the individual needs of their clients”

The All-New Honda ZR-V

The ZR-V, a premium, sporty, midsize SUV design with a sleek silhouette and bold road presence, this brand new model is powerful, efficient and fully hybrid with a range of up to 621 mile range. This spacious and versatile vehicle comfortably seats 5 and offers up to 1,322 litre of boot capacity, 9” infotainment system complete with android auto and apple CarPlay and a comprehensive safety system with Honda SENSING as standard.

The entry level ZR-V also boost a wide range of desired features as standard. Front and rear parking sensors, rear-view camera, heated front seats, Keyless entry and start, and 18” alloy wheels to name a few.

Honda’s unique e:HEV hybrid technology is the reason behind the ZRV’s power and performance. In electric drive it can glide, almost noiselessly, and produces no emissions yet it can accelerate instantly, with a sporty flourish, upon command. In hybrid drive, the self-charging technology comes to the fore giving you a comfortable drive and impressive long range.

Now available from £39,495 with 7.9% APR and £1,500 deposit contribution, the all-new ZR-V comes in 3 grades for you to choose from, Elegance, Sport and Advance along with a choice of 5 stylish colours.

The new CR-V Hondas most premium family SUV yet. Bold, imposing, with new levels of

performance, safety and comfort. Available as a full hybrid and a plug-in hybrid, covering up to 596 miles on a full tank. Offering a generous 1710 litres of boot capacity, front and rear parking sensors, rear-view camera, panoramic glass roof and power tailgate along with many other features as standard, this is not a vehicle to ignore.

Now available from £45,895 with 8.9% APR and £1,500 deposit contribution, the CR-V comes in 3 grades for you to choose from, Elegance, Advance and Advance tech along with a choice of 6 colours.

We are really excited about these new models here at Brayley Honda Orpington and look forward to showing you what all the fuss is about. Call us today on 01689 660448 to book a test drive or find out more.

The all-new Honda ZR-V and the 2024 CR-V have arrived in our showrooms and have certainly not disappointed.

“We are really excited about these new models here at Brayley Honda Orpington and look forward to showing you what all the fuss is about”

Beautiful pet portraits in watercolour

Celebrate the animals in your life by having a painted pet portrait. Your watercolour will be hand painted with love, care and attention from your photos by professional artist June Lloyd.

Gift Vouchers: Purchase for someone you know who would like a personalised watercolour. A unique one-off gift.

TESTIMONIAL

To tell you then, that when I saw June’s work, I “HAD TO” commission her, gives you an insight to the brilliance of her talent. Greg Davies, Head of BNI South East London.

JUNE LLOYD

Artist | Creative Designer | Photographer

www.junelloyd.co.uk

june@junelloyd.co.uk

allcre8tive

WESTMINSTER SECURITY Protection. Prevention. Safety.

Close protection is a specialist security service often thought to be the reserve of the ‘rich and famous’. However, in the modern world of police cuts and an increase in crime close protection services have become ever more popular with families and business owners.

So, what is close protection and what does it entail? Close protection more widely referred to as bodyguard services, or personal protection is the provision of physical personal security to protect a person or group of people from harm or attack be it targeted or a general local threat.

Essentially, it is hiring bodyguards. Not your stereotypical burly bodyguard romanticised and depicted in TV and film, but a discrete nonimposing, non-threatening, professional close protection operative (CPO) embedded with a family or company that does not draw unwanted or unwarranted attention by undesirables. They are typically from a military or police background using their vast training and experience to keep clients safe from danger.

Despite how bodyguards are perceived, close

protection operatives do not spend each day toe-to-toe fighting off enemies. Research and planning are key, identifying threats and risks, and avoiding any verbal or physical altercations at all costs. Real-world bodyguards can blend in as family members, work colleagues, PAs, or nannies. Female bodyguards are increasingly popular with high-net-worth families for their stealth ability and emotional intelligence.

With close protection being such a vital service for high-profile and high-risk individuals and families it is important to hire bodyguards through a highly credible, experienced, and established security company that is licensed and insured to provide such services. It is worth noting that household staffing agencies cannot legally satisfy these prerequisites.

Westminster Security is a leading close protection company in the UK providing an array of personal security services in London, throughout the home counties, and beyond.

Professionals in protection. Always on Guard. For more information visit westminstersecurity.co.uk or call 0207 123 4544

Site Not Stacking

With the increase of build costs, escalating costs of borrowing plus the faltering residential market, it has proven to be very challenging for property buyers and developers.

Soaring land costs can lead to higher property prices, making it extremely difficult for buyers to secure affordable land and development opportunities, therefore prolonging the project’s timeline, which can result in delays and additional costs. Some projects may become financially unviable, forcing developers to rethink or abandon potential ventures.

With this comes the dilemma as to whether buyers push ahead and build, mothball the site and incur more borrowing costs or to completely walk away from the deal. With years of extensive knowledge, experience and rigorous market research, SJD’s expert planning team have been working with a number of clients to review their current proposals and help with re-purposing the site. SJD has been at the forefront of site brokering for over 15 years, we specialise in connecting property owners with developers and help to match the right piece of land with the ideal project.

Our professional team has an in-depth understanding of market trends, property values and development opportunities. We have weathered previous difficult markets by looking at the positive aspects of each opportunity. Our planning team have the ability to replan a site to enhance the profit or to go for a totally different scheme. In addition, certain sites may prove to be

more viable when sold on to an alternative buyer, such as the retirement or care sector.

We are the experts of negotiation and are able to draw on our extension connections in order to secure buyers, who may see a better value. SJD will navigate the process of negotiations, ensuring fair deals for both sellers and buyers, whilst taking care of the transaction process. Our main priority is our clients and we would be thrilled to help anyone, trying to navigate their way through this tricky situation..

THE DETAILS

SJD Projects Ltd

78 St Johns Road, Tunbridge Wells Kent TN4 9PH

M: 07739 514350 T: 01892 579937 steve@sjd-projects.com www.sjd-projects.com

“Our professional team has an indepth understanding of market trends, property values and development opportunities”

THE LIFE MAGAZINES

INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS GUIDE

SEPTEMBER 2023

THE FINEST SCHOOLS IN YOUR AREA

Learning without limits

For 140 years Bromley High School has been providing an exceptional education for talented girls, where they can learn without limits. Set amongst 25 acres of green open space, your daughter will have room to breathe and grow.

Our mission is to provide an exceptional education for girls; empowering and inspiring bright minds to carve out bright futures. To become the next generation of responsible female leaders, equipped with the skills, knowledge and compassion to make our planet a better place.

The school’s motto Fides et Opera (By Faith and by Works), reflects the school’s intention to imbue pupils with self-belief and to nurture the conviction that much can be achieved by hard work and consistent effort.

Our unrivalled expertise in educating girls ensures that they progress onto celebrated pathways, from Russell Group universities, prestigious Art institutions through to international offers. We will help your daughter to carve out her unique pathway, and she will leave us ready to make her mark on the world.

Being an undivided community means that we share the values of compassion, curiosity and courage. Our valued girls excel as they lift others. We care for every girl; they are the motivation for everything that we do, and we will always put your daughter first. We will never accept a female stereotype and believe that there has never been a better time to open doors for girls so that they can

achieve more than they thought possible and take their rightful place in the world. Your daughter can expect excellence to be delivered every day from our welcoming and committed staff.

We grow your daughter’s mind, body, and spirit as she actively participates in pursuits beyond the classroom. She will reveal her passion and strength, be it on the playing fields, in a philosophical debate, on stage or within the art studio; she gets to decide how she wants to be defined. Our vast and incredible facilities enable her to try new things and find joy and fun in her co-curricular activities.

We will help her to define her own true north and compass for life and support her with the vast alumnae network of the GDST.

The girls are our inspiration, our network is our strength. Through our collective endeavour, we share a sense of belonging in our warm community. The wellbeing of every girl is central to all that we do, and we commit to hearing their voices through a variety of forums.

We look forward to welcoming you to Bromley High School.

Mrs Emily Codling, Headmistress

THE DETAILS

To meet Mrs Emily Codling in person and find out more about Bromley High School, register for our September Open Morning at www.bromleyhigh.gdst.net

“We will help your daughter to carve out her unique pathway, and she will leave us ready to make her mark on the world”

Dare to do your best

6 reasons why you should consider Bishop Challoner School

1Holistic Growth and Personal Formation

Bishop Challoner fosters a strong sense of unity amongst the staff and pupilsthis enables the achievements of all to be celebrated. We aim to create an educational foundation whereby pupils will strive for selfimprovement and ‘dare to do their best’.

2. Exceptional Pastoral Care

Bishop Challoner School is committed to building a caring community based on Catholic values and offers the highest standards of pastoral support to its pupils, including a greater awareness of issues of mental well-being and developing personal resilience. BCS prioritises ensuring all pupils feel happy, nurtured, and comfortable in their environment which, in turn, allows them the confidence to build positive relationships with fellow pupils and staff alike.

3. Distinctive Catholic Identity

Catholic Christian values underpin everything at Bishop Challoner. We encourage staff and pupils to live out our mission statement, ‘To live, love, and learn like Christ,’ reflecting those values in their conduct and learning environment. We ensure that the teaching of Religious Studies is given equal weight in the curriculum to other subjects whilst still recognising its unique place in the curriculum of a Catholic Independent School.

4. Creative and Innovative Learning

Academic excellence is paramount at Bishop Challoner. Our dedicated teaching staff provide an inspiring and challenging education that prioritises engagement and enrichment, leading to consistently impressive A Level and GCSE results.

5. Strong Community Engagement

Bishop Challoner currently holds strong partnerships and links between our school, parents, parishes, and the local community. Through these connections, we are able to develop our career advice and further opportunities for pupils by drawing on the expertise of parents, alumni, and local organisations.

6. Commitment to Continuous Improvement

The school constantly seeks to improve itself and to secure its future with positive change. Development of the Bishop Challoner site will only ever be a consequence of the need to deliver on our mission to transform the school and make it the best that it can be for all pupils.

For admissions enquiries, please contact admissions@bcsweb.co.uk

228 Bromley Rd, Bromley BR2 0BS 0208 460 3546 Bishopchallonerschool.com

Choosing The Right School For Your Child

All parents want a great school for their child; one that will motivate them, with outstanding teaching and facilities to match.

Fraser Halliwell, Head of Radnor House Sevenoaks, shares 5 tips to help you choose the right school for your child:

1. Shared aspirations

Meet the Headteacher – do they have an inspiring vision for the school and do their values match yours? The long-term partnership and bond between home and school must be as strong as possible and feel authentic.

2. Whole child

Academic excellence is key, and provision should be personalised to the child. Communicate your child’s interests, for example performing arts, STEM, or outdoor education, to understand the quality in those areas. A school should nurture all aspects of a child’s development, so be sure all experiences are aligned to allow your child to thrive.

3. Seeing is believing

Get a true sense of the school on a tour; look for the interactions between pupils and teachers. Engage with current pupils. Are they happy and confident?  Sense the atmosphere – it should be tangible and excite you.

4. Practical factors

Think about distance, bus routes, family engagement, fees, wraparound care, holidays, and the working week – do they fit in with your family’s life?

5. Holistic judgement

Does the school “feel” right to you now and into the future? Your child’s needs will vary over time, so you must feel confident that the school is sufficiently flexible and innovative to meet the needs of a changing child and world.

Finally, don’t be afraid to ask questions. Your child only has one go at their schooling, so don’t leave it to chance!

schooling,

don’t leave it to chance!”

Radnor House Sevenoaks is an independent day school for boys and girls from 2-18. Their Senior School Open Day is on Saturday 7th October: www.radnor-sevenoaks.org

“Your child only has one go at their

so

Outstanding Education

Finding a school for your child is one of the most important decisions that you will make and choosing an environment in which they can not only learn, but really thrive is crucial.

At Breaside Preparatory School we are incredibly proud of the ethos that we have created over time which enables all our children to be the very best that they can be, both in and out of the classroom.

As we embark on a new and exciting school year, it is with great pride that we celebrate the amazing achievements of our pupils entering Year 7 at their Secondary School of choice this term. Our bright and talented Year 6 alumni are celebrating an extremely successful year once again. They’ve achieved phenomenal results and received school offers that will see them begin the next step of their educational journey at some of the most prestigious schools, both close to home and a little further afield.

Our Breaside pupils have demonstrated remarkable commitment, determination, resilience and have embraced every opportunity presented to them during their time with us. They have been wonderful role models for our younger students and, as a school community, we could not be prouder of everything they have accomplished. Their results are a testament to their talents and efforts, and we know their Breaside spirit will shine through as they transition to secondary school. We wish them all the very best!

The new year also brings new beginnings, September 2023 marks a momentous time for Breaside, with our second site Breaside@Widmore Road opening its doors to warmly welcome new families to our amazing school. Under the leadership of our Executive Principal, Mrs Karen Nicholson, and supported by the same talented and dedicated Breaside staff, our new site mirrors the vibrant and engaging learning environment, inclusive family ethos and outstanding educational opportunities we are renowned for.  We are incredibly excited to grow our community of enthusiastic and independent learners and offer a 3rd form of entry within the fully refurbished and substantially enhanced Widmore Road building to create a ‘one school approach’ across both sites.

Breaside is synonymous with exceptional holistic education and equips our children with the confidence and resourcefulness that enables them to grow, thrive and succeed in a fast-changing world. That is because we place great importance on learning that extends far beyond our classroom walls. Fostering independence and resilience is key to our ethos. We actively encourage risk taking and prepare the children for the future through a broad spectrum of experiences, each designed to help build those key skills needed to play an active role in the global world we live in today.

Our dynamic curriculum develops core skills from the very start of our children’s journey in Kindergarten, and promotes creativity and problemsolving through a broad and varied range of learning experiences. We enhance our enriching academic programme with specialist teaching, including outdoor learning, sports, music, and the arts all are integral parts of our holistic approach.

Breaside nurtures every child’s passions, talents, and interests with a varied timetable of extra-curricular activities. The wealth of opportunities on offer at Breaside gives every child the very best start for their educational journey for the future, allowing them to develop essential life skills in areas such as innovation, creativity, collaboration, and technology. We are proud of our programme of character development, which alongside our outstanding academic provision, is something really special.

Phase 1 of our exciting second site expansion, which includes redeveloped classrooms, play areas and extended outdoor spaces, is complete and we are ready to welcome children in Pre-Prep, Reception, Year 1 and Year 2. Work is now underway on Phase 2, which will welcome children from Years 3 to 6 in early 2024. Spaces @Widmore Road will be limited, and thus, we will assess potential pupils in accordance with our existing Early Years, Key Stage 1, and Key Stage 2 criteria.

The opening of Breaside@Widmore Road marks a significant milestone. One that opens doors to an exceptional education filled with boundless opportunities. If you have extended family members or friends who are seeking a place at Breaside, this is the perfect time to join us!

To see our wonderful school in action and learn more about what makes Breaside such a special place for your children, we invite all interested families to contact our Registrar, Mrs Lucy Greaves, to secure a place at our next Open Morning in October. This is an excellent opportunity to tour our facilities, meet our talented teachers and brilliant children, and experience firsthand our nurturing learning environment.

Next Open Morning Thursday 5th October at Breaside @Orchard Road. We have two sessions, one at 9:00am and the second at 10.30am. Please call our Registrar Mrs Lucy Greaves on 020 8460 0916 or email lucy. greaves@breaside.co.uk to book onto a session.

“Our dynamic curriculum develops core skills from the very start of our children’s journey in Kindergarten”

The Bickley Park Way

Bickley Park’s vision is to deliver a worldclass education from 2 ½ to 13+. With over one hundred years of experience, the school thoroughly understands how to develop boys’ natural curiosity and enthusiasm, ensuring that they are fully engaged by a curriculum designed to be challenging, motivating and fun.

When considering the role of a Prep School, something that I continually return to is ‘What exactly should we be preparing our children for in society today?’ Thankfully, the rather old fashioned and cliché view of a traditional Prep School is largely outdated. Stuffy classrooms, flip-top desks and rote learning are very much a thing of the past, as is the justification for a curriculum focused purely on preparation for exams. The modern-day Prep School must consider how best to prepare children for a rapidly changing and ever-developing world whilst, at the same time, retaining established yet relevant core values.

Here at Bickley Park, this has been a core focus for some time. In fact, it has long been our aim to ensure our leavers are confident and articulate, ready to take their place in increasingly complex and interconnected world.

Like many top schools, we have a long history of excellent exam results at both 11+ and 13+,

but we are determined that our ‘preparation’ goes well beyond that. By providing a truly broad and balanced curriculum that embraces innovation, we seek to prepare our boys for whatever future challenges they are faced with. We prepare them for life!

‘Excellent’ in all areas says the Independent Schools Inspectorate

In March 2023 Bickley Park welcomed a team from the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) to the school for a fully integrated inspection. We were delighted to be awarded ‘excellent’ in all areas - the highest possible grading for an Independent School. Our result is a testament to our dedicated staff that go above and beyond to create a learning environment where every pupil is able to realise their potential and thrive. Equally, it is down to our

A broad and balanced education preparing boys for life by Tom Quilter, Headmaster.

boys, who thoroughly impressed with their ability to articulate their thoughts and feelings not only about our School but about the world in which they live.

The Bickley Park Journey

From the moment children start their journey with us, we are determined to nurture and inspire a lifelong love of learning. Whether they are busy in the mud kitchen, all-aboard the pirate ship or happily exploring any of the other educational areas around the school, the Nursery children embrace every element of our Four Quadrants of Learning. Both of our school sites boast excellent facilities which allow the children from Nursery through to the Senior Years to develop and excel. From the purpose-built science labs, art rooms and theatre through to the onsite swimming pool, climbing wall and astro-turf pitches, the school provides a breadth of opportunity both in and out of the classroom. Our Senior boys are the greatest ambassadors of the school. They are bright, curious and confident young men who have developed their leadership skills through undertaking significant positions of responsibility.

Four Quadrants of Learning

A great Prep School ensures that it explores, identifies and celebrates the strengths of every child, no matter where they lie. It offers a truly broad and balanced curriculum giving everyone the

opportunity to shine. At Bickley Park, we call this is the Four Quadrants of Learning - the pillars of our curriculum in Academics, Arts, Sport and Outdoors and Community.

It was this very approach that was commended as ‘coherent and holistic’ when we won the Independent Prep School of the Year award in 2021.

Outstanding Results at 11+ and 13+

Our pupils work towards gold-standard exams when they are either 11 or 13. They perform extremely well in entrance examinations gaining places at a wide variety of top schools often with scholarships. Those who leave Bickley Park at 11 years old usually do so to go to Grammar School. In 2023, 95% of our Year 6 boys that sat Grammar School tests gained a place.

We take our responsibility as a Prep School very seriously. We don’t just prepare the boys for exams, though our 11+ and 13+ results are excellent, but beyond that, each boys’ Bickley Park journey prepares them as respectful and independent global citizens, well prepared for whatever their future may hold.

The best way to understand our school is to visit. Our next Open Morning is Friday 6th October. I would love to meet you and show you around. You can book a tour on our website or by contacting our admissions registrar on 0208 467 2195 (option 3) or admissions@bickleyparkschool.co.uk

“The modern-day Prep School must consider how best to prepare children for a rapidly changing and ever-developing world whilst, at the same time, retaining established yet relevant core values”

Confounding Stereotypes

Mayfield, the leading Catholic independent day and boarding school for girls aged 11 to 18, has been shortlisted for the Independent Schools of the Year Awards for the second year running in the Girls’ School of the Year category. This follows a year in which the girls have continued to confound stereotypes. A group of budding sixth form engineers won a national accolade for their plan to reduce carbon emissions and make Mayfield village more sustainable, placing second out of 140 Schools from across the UK in this year’s Institute of Civil Engineers CityZen Competition. Three Lower Sixth pupils then went on to win a coveted gold award at the British Physics Olympiad, placing them in the top four nationally.

Girls excel in A levels

The school is celebrating another year of impressive A level results, with a 100% pass rate and over half the grades awarded being A* or A. Mayfield’s Upper Sixth girls have secured places at prestigious universities throughout the UK and abroad, including Oxford, Cambridge, Bristol, Durham, Exeter, Imperial, UCL and King’s College, with three girls heading to North America to study. The girls are going to study a wide range

of courses including Animation, Architecture, Engineering, Fine Art, Law and Politics, and Psychology, in addition to traditional subjects such as English, Modern Languages and the Sciences.

Extensive Curriculum

Mayfield offers an extensive curriculum, spanning the range of traditional academic subjects and a wide selection of creative and performing arts disciplines. Class sizes are small and inspirational teaching, from highly-qualified and dedicated staff, enables girls to flourish and excel. Personalised higher education and careers advice and guidance is provided by specialist advisors to support girls in making excellent informed choices and a strong alumnae network offers a range of opportunities for mentoring and work experience. Sixth Form students also benefit from a complementary specialist Enrichment Programme, which promotes critical and independent thought, and intellectual enquiry beyond the curriculum.

Mayfield will be hosting Open Mornings on Friday 22nd September and Friday 1st December. Individual tours are also available. Please contact Mrs Shirley Coppard, Director of Admissions, at registrar@mayfieldgirls.org or visit mayfieldgirls.org

Mayfield shortlisted for Independent Girls’ School of the Year Award

“Class sizes are small and inspirational teaching, from highly-qualified and dedicated staff, enables girls to flourish and excel”

Sydenham High School, where girls forge their own path

A Sydenham High education is about so much more than an excellent set of results.

Alifelong love of learning is fostered through tailor-made enrichment opportunities such as our Socrates Programme, Curioso Week and the vast array of Trust-wide ventures across the Girls’ Day School Trust schools. Our original Anglo Saxon motto, ‘Nyle ye drede’, means ‘fear nothing’ and underpins all that we do, encouraging our pupils to have the courage to seize every opportunity that presents itself.

There is no mould for a Sydenham High pupil. Each child is an individual, encouraged to “forge her own path”, be that in the fields of STEM, sports or the Creative Arts. This ethos begins right from Reception. Our “Giraffe Girls” at Sydenham High Prep School are encouraged to stand tall; stick their necks out; and have a big heart. Sydenham High is selective and diverse, welcoming girls with wide-ranging talents and backgrounds into a close community that is large enough to offer choice and flexibility but compact enough to ensure that no girl is overlooked. We are rightly proud of our reputation as being a caring and nurturing school, giving parents reassurance that their daughter will not only be challenged to achieve her best academically, but that she will be cared for in an environment where individuality is embraced and no girl is overlooked.

There were many happy faces and delighted students on A Level and GCSE Results Days this summer. Almost the entire cohort, 92% of our Year 13 students got accepted at their first or second choice of destination. Notable success stories include one former Head of School going to the Royal Veterinary College to study Veterinary Medicine, and a fellow Head of School going to study Medicine. Other destinations of choice included UCL, Birmingham, Leeds, Loughborough, Edinburgh, Manchester and the Royal Welsh Conservatoire.

The best way to experience Sydenham High School is by coming to visit us in person. Just a ten-minute walk from Sydenham station, we are easily accessible from Chislehurst, Beckenham and Bromley. We also operate a school minibus service.

THE DETAILS

Whole School Open DaySaturday 16 September (9am - 1pm)

For details of Senior and Prep School Open Morning dates, coffee mornings and Taster Days please visit www.sydenhamhighschool.gdst.net

Is ‘OK’ Good Enough?

When we ask parents how their child is doing at school, we are often told – “They are doing ok”. My question is – is ‘OK’ good enough for you as a parent?

Is your child aware of the level expected of them this year? Are they working to their best ability? If they are at high school, are they planning their homework and study time to fit in with their assessments? Assessments are held throughout the year and success is not solely based on the exams at the end.

All children have the right to be able to succeed to the best of their individual ability. Their BEST is ALWAYS good enough and the effort they put in to their work needs to be celebrated, not just the results. But, they need to know how to do it.

A child who achieves without effort does not learn to persevere and develops a false sense of their ability. This shows up later in their schooling when effort is required and they do not know how to organise themselves and cannot understand why things are no longer easy for them.

Sometimes these early high flyers (who have never been stretched in their thinking) can develop a poor attitude and struggle with being challenged. This can be a surprise to parents who wonder what has happened.

A child who is celebrated for the effort they put into their work,

rather than just the end result, is more likely to continue to work hard and will succeed later. They realise that things worth achieving need work and their feeling of accomplishment when they put in the effort is priceless. They develop perseverance and selfesteem which is vital for a successful study and work life.

If your child is not doing their best at school –let us help. Our academic programs are thorough and align with the national curriculum, but the best thing we do is build your child’s confidence and belief in themselves so they can achieve at their very best and feel great about it. Isn’t that what we all want for our children?

So, is OK good enough?...

“All children have the right to be able to succeed to the best of their individual ability”

Rock Role

There’s more to a Hurst education than academic excellence. Here, self-expression is positively encouraged. Children are inspired to explore. Invaluable years in our nurturing, enriching environment in which all children thrive, blossom and grow. Prepared. For life.

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

Eyecare Excellence

At Wilkinson Eyewear Studio our spectacles combine stunning eyewear with premium Nikon Lenswear, unparalleled in quality and visual performance. One element of the dispensing process often overlooked is the coating.

The common options are anti reflection and scratch resistance, other finishes include wavelength filters (UV and blue light) and photochromic technology.

Scratch resistance may seem like a “does what is says on the tin” product, but some coatings are indeed superior. Premium lens manufacturers often offer a guarantee on their top coatings, meaning if the lenses do get scratched, replacement lenses are issued free of charge within a set time frame (up to 18 months). Nikon recently released Seecoat Next which has a thicker, more durable scratch resistant layer, as well as an 18 month no quibble guarantee.

Anti reflection coatings work by a phenomenon called destructive interference, essentially light that reflects from the coating surface is “cancelled out” by light reflecting from the lens surface. This results in relatively more light passing through the lens and reduces perceived glare while improving the lens appearance.

There are many anti reflection products in the Nikon Seecoat range; all work effectively for reducing glare and improving lens cosmesis, but they all have a specific benefit for a specific visual task.

Seecoat Drive is predictably designed for driving. It combats glare from LED headlights. Clients have reported it has improved confidence and enabled them to drive at night when they had previously given up due to glare.

Seecoat Blue is designed for screen users. The blue light anti reflection coating proportionally reflects more blue light away from the eyes. Nikon have recently released another product, Pure Blue UV which blocks UVA, B and C as well as light up to 410μm in wavelength.

Seecoat Bright is designed for patients suffering from reduced contrast due to cataracts. The coating includes a “brightening layer” to increase contrast and perceived brightness.

In summary, your requirements for coatings may be as individual as your frame or lens requirements! It is important to discuss different coatings with your dispensing optician to ensure your spectacles offer the best performance for your needs. If you you would like to know more, email, call or pop into your local practice in Bromley, Sevenoaks or Tonbridge.

THE DETAILS

Wilkinson Eyewear Studio

Bromley

42 High Street, Bromley, Kent BR1 1EA

Telephone: 020 8464 5347

Email: bromley@eyewear.studio

Sevenoaks

143b High Street, Sevenoaks, Kent TN13 1UX

Telephone: 01732 453137

Email: sevenoaks@eyewear.studio

Tonbridge

90 High Street, Tonbridge, Kent TN9 1AP

Telephone: 01732 353803

Email: tonbridge@eyewear.studio

www.eyewear.studios

A day in the life of House of Balance

We wanted to provide an insight into the running of our new studio and what you can expect if you come to one of our Reformer Pilates’ classes!

Our studio opens first thing in the morning and classes typically start between 6am – 9am, depending on the day of the week. Mornings are busy in the studio and we try to cater to all of our clients by having a mix of our Basic, Build and Beyond classes in our timetable. It is important that we are able to meet our clients’ Reformer Pilates needs, whether they are new to Reformer and are looking to learn the principles and moves by attending our Basic class, or to take it to the next level by joining our Build class, or for those wanting to challenge their bodies and technique by coming to one of our Beyond classes. Our mornings also involve

showcasing our latest grip sock collection, which includes a wide variety of designs and colours, as we know that this is something that our clients’ love.

Once the morning busyness is over, we have our mid-morning and lunchtime classes, which vary

THE DETAILS

You can find out more information about House of Balance via the House of Balance app on Apple Store or Google Play, our website www.HouseofBalance.co.uk or you can contact us directly at info@houseofbalance.co.uk. We also provide live-time updates via our socials, so please do check us out on our Instagram Page @HouseofBalanceOfficial or Facebook House of Balance.

from day-to-day. We are incredibly lucky at House of Balance to have a such a talented and dynamic team of teachers, which we are continuing to grow. Throughout the day we have a mix of teachers in our studio, so there is variety in the classes that we hold, as each teacher has their own technique and skillset. This means that if a client does a Build class in the morning on a Monday with Chelsea, and then a Build class at lunchtime on Wednesday with Charlotte, these will be based on the same fundamental principles of Reformer Pilates, but will very much feel different!

We then hold our 1:1 to classes during the afternoon and have group classes running through the evening all the way to 9pm! We have 8 Reformer Pilates beds at House of Balance, so even our class sessions feel intimate and bespoke. Ending the day with Reformer Pilates is the perfect way to switch off and unwind. The benefits of Reformer Pilates really are endless, both physically and mentally. We hope to welcome you soon at House of Balance!

“We are incredibly lucky at House of Balance to have a such a talented and dynamic team of teachers, which we are continuing to grow”

A Holistic Approach to Skincare

In the ever-evolving landscape of luxury skincare, Nu-Yu Advanced Skin Solutions stands as a beacon of innovation and transformation.

With a commitment to merging cutting-edge science and indulgent luxury, Nu-Yu offers a holistic approach to skincare that goes beyond conventional beauty routines. Elevating self-care to an art form, Nu-Yu redefines what it means to experience youthful radiance and empowered confidence.

At the heart of Nu-Yu’s offerings lies a fusion of revolutionary technologies, meticulously developed to address a spectrum of skincare concerns. Advanced dermal scanners create a personalised roadmap for each client, allowing Nu-Yu to expertly tailor treatments that align with individual needs that are designed to deliver exceptional results; from noninvasive treatments that target fine lines, wrinkles, acne, rosacea, pigmentation and reactive skins, to state-of-the-art rejuvenation procedures that encourage collagen production, Nu-Yu redefines the possibilities of age-defying skincare.

Nu-Yu recognises that every individual’s skin is unique. Their dedication to customisation is evident in their bespoke formulations, where science meets luxury. Collaborating with renowned dermatologists and chemists, Nu-Yu crafts exquisite skincare that fuse powerful actives with sumptuous textures; from silky serums that harness the potency of rare antioxidants to velvety moisturisers that cocoon the skin in comfort, each product is a testament to Nu-Yu’s unwavering commitment to personalised beauty.

Beyond its undeniable luxury, Nu-Yu Advanced Skin Solutions is an advocate for empowerment and self-assurance. Through its holistic approach, Nu-Yu aims to foster a deeper connection between individuals and their inherent beauty. By combining advanced science with opulent experiences, Nu-Yu invites its clients to embrace the journey of self-discovery, celebrating the radiant, confident individuals they are meant to be. Nu-Yu Advanced Skin Solutions embodies the pinnacle of luxury skincare, where science, opulence, and empowerment converge. Through revolutionary technologies and bespoke formulations, Nu-Yu offers an experience that transcends traditional beauty routines. In the world of Nu-Yu, beauty is not just skin deep—it’s a harmonious symphony of innovation and indulgence that enriches the soul as much as it rejuvenates the skin.

THE DETAILS

Nu-Yu Advanced Skin Solutions 379 Old Farm Avenue, Sidcup, Kent DA158AA T: 07968777150 www.nu-yu.co.uk

“Nu-Yu Advanced Skin Solutions embodies the pinnacle of luxury skincare, where science, opulence, and empowerment converge”

FASHION & BEAUTY

OCEAN INSPIRED

From Australian label Eb & Ive comes these beautiful bohemian drop earrings. Inspired by the ocean these gold plated brass earrings feature pearl studs and gold fan base. These earrings are the perfect boho statement for any outfit. bonbonfistral.com

READY FOR AUTUMN

Luella Grey London are proud to introduce their style Anoushka (pictured right), a new multicompartment crossbody for the season! Featuring our new molten resin twist lock, Anoushka is the easy desk to dinner accompaniment for you and all your every day essentials. For a weekend away, there is Lucinda (pictured left). Space, practicality and beauty describe Lucinda best. This lightweight nylon travel bag features a signature molten turnlock and a branded luggage tag. luellagrey.com

A HARMONIOUS BLEND

A captivating fragrance composed of cedar, saffron, and amber. The woody warmth of cedar intertwines with the aromatic allure of saffron, creating an inviting and exotic harmonious blend.

thomsoncarter.com

PRETTY IN VELVET

Luxury Shimmer velvet zip bag, an opulent bag made from soft, sumptuous Velvet. This bag can be used as a Cosmetic Bag or as an Evening Purse. francescawild.com

WE LOVE

This Folies Bergère Scarf, £85 from the V&A Museum. vam.ac.uk/shop

LOUNGING IN LUXURY

Slip into softness. These fleecy numbers are made from New Zealand shearling no less. So cosy! loaf.com

HOUSE & GARDEN

– Keep it local for everything house and home –

IMAGE: CHAPLINS

Delivering your DREAM PROPERTY

Picture your ideal home in your minds’ eye. Use all your senses. Walk around it, inside and out. How would it look?

How would it smell? How would its surfaces feel? What sounds you would like to hear, and, as importantly, not to hear?

Are you already living in your dream home? If not, what needs to change to make it better? Or would you consider having a new home built to your own specifications?

While you are dreaming, think about what your lifestyle tells you about what you need.

Are you active and aspirational, needing exercise space and room to entertain guests?

Do you work long hours and want a chilled retreat to return to and relax in?

Do you have a growing family and want hubs in the home to bring all of you together?

Are you retiring, with your family having flown the nest, and now you need the property to be

about you and your needs?

The answers to these questions inform design choices when a home is built or changed. Whatever you want, it can be achieved, and all these questions and more can be answered, with the guidance of project mangers IQ Property Services, founded by Tony Cheeseman, and based near Sevenoaks in Kent.

Their expertise is in overseeing and arranging the building of a new home from scratch or transforming a property you already have. Their joy is in having clients who are happy to go on using them to help maintain their homes for years into the future.

The company, based between Bromley and Sevenoaks, has over 40 years of experience in managing property projects from idea to completion, working with professional services, trades and suppliers to deliver a new or enhanced home for delighted owners.

Testimonials describe IQ Property Services as “Professional, proactive, efficient and extremely knowledgeable” (Mr and Mrs W, Bromley) and, “The clarity they bring to complicated projects is extremely helpful and they simply help things run more smoothly” (Scott Nicholson, Chamber Furniture, Kent).

IQ Property Services can take your wishes and turn them into reality, smoothly and efficiently. Give Tony a call for a free no-obligation chat on 01959 533788. Their website is here:

iqpropertyservices.com

Dream. Go on. Take a few moments to dream.

“IQ Property Services can take your wishes and turn them into reality, smoothly and efficiently”

Interior Trend Alert UNMUTED MINIMALISM

Colour – it’s here, and we’re rejoicing! Pigment has taken over the contemporary home, covering surfaces and dancing through rooms with its glorious joy de vivre and power to elevate atmospheres and moods. Be it a chromatic chair, a bright light or a vivid vase, chunks of colour in every size and shade are now permanent fixtures in our spaces, bringing smiles and moments of pure pleasure to life indoors.

COLOUR COLLISION

But how to work this new kaleidoscopic disposition into our existing aesthetic? We’ve long been building calm, cool, collected minimal interiors, often with a distinctly Scandinavian edge – do our beloved pale woods, worn leathers and calm, forest-inspired hues work with these new flashes of fuchsia, smatterings of scarlet and pops of periwinkle? The answer is yes, yes, a resounding yes – and heritage Danish design brand Fritz Hansen is showing us how to bring the two together while maintaining that characteristic Scandi cool.

IN VOGUE

Fritz Hansen’s soul-enriching spectrum of shades has been crafted by an expert editorial eye, that

of Italian magazine editor, gallerist, entrepreneur and all-round creative virtuoso Carla Sozzani. The curated 16-piece colour collection features vibrant hues as well as the more tonal, from bold True Yellow and Paradise Orange to soothing Dusk Blue and Pale Rose and rich Venetian Red and Burnt Yellow. Formulated especially for the beloved silhouettes of the Ant, Series 7 and Grand Prix chairs by Danish icon Arne Jacobsen, Fritz Hansen’s hues lead the way in introducing timeless colour to modern, Scandinavia-inspired home tones.

ORGANIC INFLUENCES

As well as the bold, the Fritz Hansen palette is infused with classic Nordic neutrals that seem touched by nature, such as Deep Clay, Light Beige, Olive Green and Nine Grey. The muted nature-tinted tones slide easily into modern spaces already filled with subdued stony, sandy, snowy and stormy shades, allowing the more pigmented side of the collection to smoothly integrate into the room to build a colourful yet distinctly Scandi interior landscape.

COLOUR MEETS THE CLASSICS

A tip to bringing brightness into the muted Denmark/Stockholm/Oslo/Helsinki-infused homes we’ve so lovingly nurtured? Look to

“As well as the bold, the Fritz Hansen palette is infused with classic Nordic neutrals that seem touched by nature”

the region’s existing accomplishments to move forward. Legendary Scandi design objects have the power to merge classic Nordic style with unexpected colours, effortlessly mixing into contemporary collections with their recognisable, time-honoured forms and creating new technicoloured timelines.

THE EVOLVING ANT

An enduring symbol of mid-century Danish furniture design, the Ant chair was conceived in 1952, its curved seat made from a revolutionary innovation – a single piece of moulded veneer. Now released with an upholstered front shell,

the historic contours have metamorphosed, emerging butterfly-like in radiant shades of textile that add new life to the world-renowned form and pave the way for a pared-back collaboration with the rainbow.

LEADING LIGHT

Similarly, the Fritz Hansen Kaiser Idell lighting collection also harnesses a fresh finish to carry it into the world of colourful contemporary interiors. Created by Christian Dell in 1936, the lights are a symbol of iconic Bauhaus design, their geometric forms, precise engineering and uncluttered style pointing directly to progressive Modernism. Originally available in dark, moody tones, when coated in a cheerful new finish Ruby Red, the lamps become more friendly and accessible – a 2020s spin on 20th century avant-garde. The gravitas and historic significance of the Fritz Hansen Kaiser Idell easily grant it the authority to invite colour into the home, the enduring icon reflecting ultramodern Nordic sensibilities via a sophisticated splash of scarlet.

Colour in the home, daunting? Impossible when it’s bedecked onto a revered piece of design history. chaplins.co.uk

“The Fritz Hansen Kaiser Idell lighting collection also harnesses a fresh finish to carry it into the world of colourful contemporary interiors”

The Star of the Show

It’s been 93 years since Albert Einstein opened IFA (or the ‘Great German Radio and Phonographic Exhibition’, as it was then known) for what was the European trade show’s sixth outing. Quick maths will tell you that the event is now in its 99th year, and it’s come a long way since 242 attendees marvelled at technology for twelve whole days during the inaugural show.

This year’s IFA is no different, with many big names in consumer electronics descending on the Messe Berlin exhibition centre to show off their latest and greatest products to inspire.

The outstanding manufacturer of the show however was Loewe electronics who were celebrating a very special Centennial anniversary: Founded in 1923, Loewe has developed into a traditional global company in the luxury segment

and has played a key role in shaping the consumer electronics industry for decades with milestones in design, technology and innovation. Today, Loewe stands for inventiveness and a unique combination of German engineering, excellence, exclusive design and quality. Timeless, highly functional, minimalist: Like no other company, Loewe stands for aesthetically sophisticated design across its entire product portfolio.

The star of the show.

In an ever-changing landscape of technology and home entertainment, the new Loewe Iconic stands out as an ultra-high-end television (in a design sense) that combines both design innovation and cutting-edge technology.

Produced by Loewe, an all-German brand synonymous with luxury and quality, this model offers a great viewing experience and unparalleled material customization options.

Keeping in line with the demand for personalized products, Loewe has expanded the range of customization options for the Iconic model. Initially available in colour graphite grey, pure white or bronze. New finishes have been announced at IFA 2023: midnight marble (grey), diamond dust (dark grey), and ivory sands (ivory). This brings an exceptional level of customization, allowing consumers to match the TV to various interior designs.

Warm up Autumn with cosy, dramatic interiors

Rebecca Snowden, Interior Style Advisor at Furniture And Choice shares 3 ways to create a sophisticated yet cosy autumn look at home.

their bold style,” Rebecca says. “Soften the look by zoning the area with an elegant rug.” Enhance the ambience with retro-inspired bubble-shaped lighting fixtures which stand out against the clean, modern lines of the room. Double up this luxe feeling with candles and elegant glassware for a lovely night in.

Relax with opulent, deep autumn hues

Make your bedroom the perfect setting for winding down on a cold autumn evening. Opt for refined wall panelling or textured wallpaper for a soft yet swanky touch. Choose a grey velvet bed for an understated designer feel. “Amp up the glamour with soothing, dramatic layers reminiscent of a luxury hotel,” Rebecca says. “Go for rust or burnt orange accessories in wool or velvet, which bring to mind falling autumn leaves.” Bask in the autumn glow with ambient lighting for that hygge feeling. furniturechoice.co.uk

a luxury hotel”

Layer neutrals with a warm tan palette

As the temperature drops, layer neutrals with a rich tan and rust palette. Match dark wooden flooring with a wood slat feature wall and a chic walnut coffee table. “Ground the room with a light grey sofa and stylish autumnal accents,” Rebecca says. “Introduce peach caramel, coffee or deep blue hues inspired by the Pantone Autumn/Winter palette through cushions, throws and a textured rug.”

Style a relaxing reading nook for autumn with a cosy grey armchair. Layer with luxe velvet textures which set the scene for enjoying a hot drink after a long day. Match these cosy comforts with sleek amber lighting and smoked glass or brass accents.

Add drama with luxe, glamorous textures

Create contrast with dark, dramatic and sophisticated textures in the dining room. Warm up the walls with dark grey paint and wooden slats to start. “Let a glamorous marble dining table and velvet dining chairs take centre stage with

“Amp up the glamour with soothing, dramatic layers reminiscent of

London Road Furniture

Formerly the Polhill Arms in Halstead the building was painstakingly restored by the family who own Farningham Oak - long established Kent quality furniture retailers who started their original cottage industry working from an old farm on the edge of the North Yorkshire moors.

“We used to let the customers wander all over our house - except for a couple of rooms and buy anything they wanted and take it away” said Peter one of the Directors - it gave us a great insight into how good furniture is constructed and taught us all about the correct proportions and style which are really important skills and cannot be learned overnight. This helps us tremendously when customers ask our advice as mistakes can be time consuming and expensive for them. We strive to pass on all our accumulated knowledge to any new members of staff we employ to enhance your shopping experience. It’s always a real pleasure meeting new customers and old who continue to support us.

Situated on the A225 London Road - access is easy and parking is plentiful in the large car park adjacent to the shop.

The furniture and accessories are carefully selected with both modern and classic tastes catered for.  You will be pleased with the varied and carefully selected stock and assured of great quality. Very competitive pricing has always very important to us and good service comes naturally after over 40 years in the business.

We supply tables, chairs, cabinetry, sofas, bedroom furniture, interesting occasional pieces, custom built pieces and anything else we like the look of. We offer a professional delivery service and over the years have covered the whole of the UK including much shipping overseas.

Visit us! - You will you be very welcome (and not hassled!)

The London Road Furniture Company, London Road, Halstead, Sevenoaks TN14 7AA 01959 533433 www.londonroadfurniture.co.uk

“The furniture and accessories are carefully selected with both modern and classic tastes catered for”

Experts in Home Cinema Installation & Technology

Indoor and Outdoor AV, Smart Control Systems and Lighting

A Moroccan Courtyard Garden in Tunbridge Wells?

by Tim Sykes of Gardenproud

Idefy anybody not to be inspired by the warm hues and dappled sun of Marrakech. You’ve only got to spend a short break in one of the delightful riads to sample the effects of this oasis.

Just

the inspiration for designing a new garden.

“My father’s photos from a trip to the Medina were amazing and captured the essence of the light, the mottled shades of the buildings and the vibrance of the tropical plants that defied all odds in the unrelenting heat.”  explains George Sykes

This wasn’t the only factor. A very significant influence was the time George, the young designer of this latest Gardenproud masterpiece had spent in Sydney, Australia.

The town gardens of Sydney are compact and have to work hard to capture clients imagination, combining form, features and planting to create sanctuaries Australians retreat to and cherish throughout the long hot summers.

This was the starting point for George’s concept. The brief was to stimulate our imagination and demonstrate Gardenproud’s skill at creating gardens and buildings and their ability to research and deliver themes that transcend geographic boundaries.

George spent nearly 3 years working with one of Sydney’s greatest garden designers, Anthony Wyer, learning and mastering all the skills and attributes that combine to make these visions realities.

He’s brought this insight home to the UK and together with yours truly we try to inject a lot of energy, passion and creativity into our work. His new Moroccan showpiece at Corker Outdoor Living in Paddock Wood is open to the public where you can sample all the glories of this garden. Walk past the giant Trachycarpus fortunei, step over the cool mosaic pool and climb the limestone steps to the Breedon gravel courtyard before finally lounging on the cushioned bench and reflecting on the day in the Marrakech style, balau floored garden building.

Come and visit the garden at Corker, see it on our website at www.gardenproud.co.uk , or contact Tim Sykes on 07725 173820 for further information on how we can create your own little paradise.

“His new Moroccan showpiece at Corker Outdoor Living in Paddock Wood is open to the public where you can sample all the glories of this garden”

Meet Amaya Reynolds founder of The Shutter Tree and W.O.B.N

Amaya is not your ordinary shutter and blind specialist, in her 18 years’ experience in the industry she has a proven track record coupled with a wealth of knowledge and expertise which really sets her apart from the rest. The experience she gained working directly for all the main UK suppliers supplying and mentoring UK shutter businesses really sets her apart now she is at the

THE DETAILS

For information on Woman’s Owned Business Networking give and give her a follow on their socials @womanownedbusinessnetworking & www.wobn.co.uk

For information on The Shutter Tree, please see their website for details www.theshuttertree.co.uk & their social media pages @theshuttertree

helm of The Shutter Tree. The Shutter Tree can now boast to being the only UK women owned shutter business. It’s by having that depth of experience and knowledge, that Amaya gained the nickname “The Shutter Queen”.

The Shutter Tree supplies quality made to measure wood, MDF and waterproof plantation shutters with an extensive warranty from trusted and reliable manufacturers whom Amaya has not only worked for but also built good solid relationships with throughout her career.

Amaya doesn’t feel like she is doing a job and states, “it’s more like a hobby, because I love what I do!”

Part of Amaya’s role within the industry before setting up The Shutter Tree was to ensure that other shutter & blind companies were selling products in the right way and offering any business advice, then once leaving, and going out on her own, Amaya felt she missed it, and still wanted to give back…

This is where W.O.B.N comes in, Woman Owned Business Networking was set up early this year by Amaya and her friend & fellow networker Rachael Gallagher from Point of View Glazing Ltd.

W.O.B.N is quite a unique woman’s networking group the fees that the business owners pay, get split into 2 categories, a percentage goes to their sponsors Cray Wanderers Woman’s FC and the rest into advertising for the networking group to recruit more members. No other networking group gives back like this…

If you are a woman owned business and are looking for a networking group, get in touch.

Face to face regular meetings held at Cray Wanderers Fc at Flamingo Park, A20

The Shutter Queen – passionate & honest, with her own Woman Owned Networking Group

WELCOME TO THE ENGLISH CHIMNEYPIECE

Are you looking for wood burning stove or bespoke fireplaces in Kent?

If you are then let The English Chimneypiece be your number one choice today.

We can offer you both modern and classical style fireplaces, wood burning and multi fuel stoves that meet your every specification so you can be sure that, whatever it is you want, we are the perfect company for you

Wood Burning, Multi Fuel Stoves and Fire

Surrounds in Sevenoaks

Our team are hugely experienced, with our business having been trading for over 20 years now, and so you can rest assured that you will receive workmanship of only the highest quality.

We pride ourselves on our close attention to detail which means every job receives our 100% dedication, along with our first rate customer care, where we put you and your requirements ahead of everything else.

Such is our vast level of experience, we are able to provide you with a huge range of services such as:

• Wood Burning and Multi Fuel Stoves

• Bespoke Fireplaces and Surrounds

• Restoration and Reproduction of Fireplaces

• Gas and Electric Fires

THE DETAILS

The English Chimneypiece 3 St. Botolph’s Road, Sevenoaks, Kent TN13 3AJ 01732 740 811 english-chimneypiece.co.uk

Which are available in a wide range of top quality materials like stone, marble, granite, slate, wood and cast iron.

Fireplaces in Sevenoaks

We are HETAS registered and we employ experienced, GAS SAFE registered engineers to prove our quality and increase you peace of mind. Our staff give a professional yet friendly service and we are approachable for our clients which means we are able to work together to provide the perfect fireplace for them.

Our company is based in Sevenoaks, Kent. We serve both retail and trade clients, contractors, designers and insurance companies. With free quotations available, site surveys, as well as our popular image creation service, you can be sure that you will be 100% satisfied with the finish we provide you with. Our surrounds are made in Britain, hand crafted and, if required, made to measure. Our workshop is based in Kent.

Finally Framed

Having been located in Sidcup high street for almost 25 years, Finally Framed has years of experience of framing, incorporating small corporate work (retail stores, schools, colleges and framers for Charlton Athletic), to the framing of personal items such as Sports Memorabilia (Cricket, Football, Rugby, Tennis Shirts), Rare Coins, Cross Stitch, Rare Comics, Film Memorabilia, Militaria, Limited Edition prints, Movie Posters, Personal Family Memories, Photographs/photography, Old Records, Album Covers and Tapestries. The list is almost endless. The types of items being framed really hasn’t changed too much over the years but what Finally Framed have done in store, is add instant photo printing, a large format printer for canvas or large photographs and a passport service, meaning they are a one stop shop for art and photography services.

A service that Finally Framed offer that if often not considered, is the re-framing of existing art homes. Decorating often leaves artwork in a frame which doesn’t quite suit the new colour scheme but take the artwork to Finally Framed and they will reframe to suit the new design and style, giving new life and retaining pride of place to much loved art.

Finally Framed carry hundreds of frames in stock but can also order in specific frames to better suit your work and have a large wall of frame samples to choose from, from contemporary to traditional styles of frame mouldings, in wood, plastics and aluminium.

Glass is an important factor often least considered when framing or, with most art purchases, not even an option to change however Finally Framed can offer standard glass, non-reflective or glass which offers ultimate clarity and UV protection to ensure the longevity for your art. This can be added to already framed art that you’d like to protect.

“We want to help you every step of the way though, come in to see us, we’ll put your art out on our consultation bench and will talk you through the whole process”. Finally Framed are pleased to have many long-term relationships with their customers who trust not only their service but their advice too. 99% of work completed is made on-site too, Finally Framed do not outsource business, (unless artwork sizes dictate it).

Feel free to pop in and discuss your requirements and let us help you find your perfect framing solution.

THE DETAILS

Finally Framed 9-11 Sidcup High Street, Sidcup, Kent DA14 6EN T:0203 976 8639

E:info@finallyframed.co.uk

www.finallyframed.co.uk

“We want to help you every step of the way though, come in to see us, we’ll put your art out on our consultation bench and will talk you through the whole process”

Quality electrics INDOORS AND OUT

It takes experience and dedication to provide the best options to homeowners to choose from.

Calvin Hale and his colleagues at Hale Electrics, a Bromley-based business that has been trading for over 20 years, have that dedication, as well as a lot of experience.

When Calvin started out, hardly anyone had heard of smart homes, LED illumination wasn’t lighting homes and streets, and electric cars and charging points were for the future. Now, all of them are a reality, and Hale Electrics has moved with the times. What hasn’t changed is Calvin’s pride in providing a high-quality service and in employing welltrained professional electricians. As part of that high-quality service, if you call a Hale Electrics electrician, there is no call-out fee, something that was common in the trade for a long time, meaning that homeowners found themselves with fees to pay whether any work was done or not.

In recent years, more people have been working from home

and from garden offices. Hale Electrics can install and upgrade garden electrics, power home and garden offices, and work with landscape gardeners.  So, if you want your home and garden to be ‘smarter’, to integrate the latest technology, to have outstanding, innovative lighting and sound, and to choose the most efficient electrics and minimise energy usage, talk to Hale Electrics.

Calvin says, “The neatness, utility, and sleekness of the electrical installations we are responsible for is a high priority. We also, naturally, prioritise safety, and simply being a team that homeowners trust. We’re efficient and tidy, and we listen to our clients…. Home electrics have come on so much. There are fabulous options for lighting styles that can be literally breath-taking! The latest technologies offer a level of timed and remote control that earlier generations couldn’t have imagined.

“Electricians can help people dream! From the moment an architect draws up the plans for a new residential property, a refurbishment, or an extension, we can offer our expert advice. Or when a homeowner wants to make changes, we can deal with an unplanned issue.”

Hale Electrics offer free site surveys and estimates. Why not give them a call?

THE DETAILS

Hale Electrics Ltd Office: 020 3086 7631

Mobile: 07904 893252

Email: info@hale-electrics.co.uk hale-electrics.co.uk

“From the moment an architect draws up the plans for a new residential property, refurbishment or extension, we can offer our expert advice”

Quality electrical installations make a home more beautiful, easier to live in, and cost less to run.

INTERIORS

GREEN WITH ENVY

A stylish and comfortable armchair designed in a midcentury style. The Button has a definite Scandinavian feel, with its hand finished Ash frame. afternoah.com

VERY VINTAGE

TIMELESS STYLE

Shaker-style units are incredibly versatile and suit any setting. Our in-frame design is not cluttered, its simple features embody sophistication and quality. They have a timeless quality and amazing plasticity that allows them to adapt to reflect modern hues and stylings thanks to their straightforward, functional design and simple, clean lines. Kitchens in the Shaker style are always in style. thewhitekitchencompany.com

MEDIA IN MANGO

We love this unit from Chilipepper Furnisture. Rue is from their captivating Boho Collection. It is a rattan media unit that seamlessly blends style and functionality. Crafted with care, this exquisite cabinet boasts artfully rattan front doors that beautifully contrast with its sleek, natural-finish body and legs.

chilipepperfurniture.com

COFFEE BREAK

This is a stunning and generously proportioned statement coffee table. With a distinctive walnut veneer pattern and solid walnut base. Includes a brushed brass ring detail and satin lacquer finish. my-furniture.com

Such a beautiful jug in gorgeous muted grey & white tones with an antique finish. Perfect for styling on its own or add some pretty flowers to create a stunning display. thewisteriatree.co.uk

SPACE SAVER

With the Tex floating bedside table, you can store your precious objects and everyday essentials in a functional and serene way. sazy.com

Will your flat roof keep you warm and dry this winter?

Are you concerned about potential leaks or costly water damage?

More than 70% of UK homeowners still have a traditional mineral felt flat roof. Over time extremes of temperature can result in this cracking and leaking. Once the felt starts to fail, water damage often goes unnoticed resulting in severe damage and inconvenience.

What

to look out for:

If you see blisters on the roof surface or cracking around the roof edge, pipes, upstands and roof lights you need to act fast.

Insurance companies will no longer accept liability for external or internal damage caused by leaking flat roofs that are more than ten years old.

High-Tech offer professional roof replacement services using only the highest quality materials along with some of the most advanced flat roof technology available.

All flat roofs installed by us adhere to building regulations, are dimensionally stable and incorporate an anti-slip membrane strong enough to walk on.

✔ Maintenance free

✔ Will not blister or crack

✔ Fully resistant to moss and algae

✔ Solar reflective

✔ Aesthetically pleasing

We recommend Protan, an architect-specified, award-winning single ply PVC flat roofing system which has a proven track record of excellence. Contact

“High-Tech offer professional roof replacement services using only the highest quality materials along with some of the most advanced flat roof technology available”

“Once the felt starts to fail, water damage often goes unnoticed resulting in severe damage and inconvenience”

Kitchens blending practicality, functionality and style

Stunning designs and the latest technology combine with German engineering to create today’s modern kitchen.

Kutchenhaus bespoke kitchens can be contemporary, traditional or rustic to represent a person’s unique style and personality.

Bespoke and yet affordable kitchens

The Kutchenhaus brand represents quality, design and value with over 70 years of continuous investment in technology, research and product development. Our innovative design solutions match lifestyles and include all the features that transform kitchens.

What to expect from a Kutchenhaus kitchen

• Perfect combination of design and function

• Aesthetically pleasing with eye-catching designs

• Clear lines combined with practical elements

• Timeless modern ambience

• Exclusive, bespoke and quality designs

• Your one stop kitchen service from design, survey and installation

Technology to make life easier

The latest technologies include soft close drawers, clever corner units, progressive door hinges, handleless options and more. And we don’t forget integrated technology to include those little extras such as flip sockets and integrated sound systems that make all the difference in creating a personalised kitchen.

Everything in its place for uncluttered worktops

Our storage solutions generate space easily and intuitively to include larder space saving units,

revolving carousels and the SpaceFlexx® flexible organisation system. Top this off with stunning worktops in a range of materials to include our eye-catching Xtra worktops with antibacterial microPLUS® surface.

Designing a kitchen beyond imagination

Here at Kutchenhaus Sevenoaks and Tunbridge Wells, we design kitchens that are as individual as you are. Every unique kitchen is planned meticulously and made with the utmost precision. We know it’s a big step investing in a new kitchen and that’s why Kutchenhaus presents kitchens that have all the functionality, practicality, flexibility and style for modern living.

Holding your hand from start to finish

Our experts are with customers every step of the way from the design process including technical drawings and plans to the site survey and installation of the finished product. This includes cabinetry, functionality, layout, appliances, countertops, flooring, lighting, colour choices and fitting with a clear plan of action and timescale. Get in touch today so we can start creating your bespoke and affordable kitchen together.

THE DETAILS

Kutchenhaus Sevenoaks

118a London Road, Sevenoaks TN13 1BA

Tel: 01732 649052

Showroom@sevenoaks. Kutchenhaus.co.uk

Kutchenhaus Tunbridge Wells

1st Floor, 319 St John’s Road

Tunbridge Wells TN4 9XE Tel: 01892 289070

Showroom@tunbridgewells. Kutchenhaus.co.uk

Discover your IDEAL KITCHEN

Have you been dreaming of a fully equipped fitted kitchen tailored to your every need? Discover Schmidt’s kitchen range.

To create a practical and aesthetically pleasing kitchen design, there are several possible layouts, such as U-shaped kitchens, corner kitchens, galley kitchens along a single wall, kitchens with an island, kitchens opening onto the lounge, and more besides. Not to mention the wide range of colours and styles!

We do our best to optimize its storage space and create a kitchen that suits you and is practical and enjoyable on a daily basis.

Here, Mr Buck tells us about his experience with the team at Schmidt Sevenoaks.

How did you hear about Schmidt?

My wife and I had walked past the showroom in Sevenoaks a number of times and had always been impressed by the quality and design of the show kitchens.

What did you love about the Schmidt product?

The high level of quality and the abundance of choice regarding colours and configurations.

How did you find the whole process from start to finish?

The process of working with Ben and his team was enjoyable from the initial design meetings to the final sign off of the fully installed kitchen.

What was the difference between Schmidt and other showrooms you have visited?

The attentive level of service received when entering the showroom and the ultra modern designs of the show kitchen’s really stood out for us.

What was the impression of customer service, designer you worked with and the team in Schmidt Sevenoaks?

We thoroughly enjoyed working with Ben and his team and all of our requests were throughly explored and accommodated where possible. The customer service we received was second to none.

Anything else you would like to add in your own words?

We were extremely happy with each and every stage of the process and Ben has always been very quick to solve any minor challenges during the installation journey. Where certain design tweaks needed to be made, Ben always prioritised and solved everything to our complete satisfaction. It’s just a shame we can’t afford to build another house and do it all again!! Although we are now working with Schmidt again to design and supply dressing room furniture.

Hats off to Ben and all of the team at Schmidt Sevenoaks.

Schmidt Kitchens and Interior Solutions

14-18 London Road, Sevenoaks, TN13 1AJ

Tel: 01732 755555

www.home-design.schmidt

“The attentive level of service received when entering the showroom and the ultra modern designs of the show kitchen’s really stood out for us”

FOOD & DRINK

– Bringing you updates on the local food & drinks scene –

IMAGE: SHAMPAN

Jewel of South-East

As someone who was born and brought up in Kent, I couldn’t be prouder of the sheer abundance and variety of foods that are such a prized possession of the “Garden of England”.

Hawley’s Corner, at the junction of Grays Road and Buckhurst Road, is the beautiful period thatched cottage that catches the eye first before discovering the impressively spacious restaurant beyond it.

The site occupies the flagship restaurant of the renowned Shampan Group, which is often spoken of affectionately as the restaurant group, the brand name is the “Jewel of South-East England” and rightly so! Other sites in the group include the longstanding Shampan Bromley and Shampan Welling.

As one enters, there’s a feeling of a very cool and calming interior with its muted shades, long and very appealing corridor which leads from the entrance of which to the left offers a very relaxed and snug lounge replete with brown hues and cosy areas peppered with art deco lamps, along with leather and velvet furnishings. It makes for a very tranquil affair. To the right of the corridor is the glamorous looking main bar of the restaurant with its array of glittering spirit bottles and more from which Shampan’s experienced bar personnel serve exotic and colourful looking cocktails that truly satisfy before the muchanticipated dinner begins.

One can choose from the Caraway Room, which is the main dining for Shampan, with its Italian designed furniture providing both style and comfort while the latticed screens provide separation without isolation. The much larger Tamarind Room provides

Whether it’s the fresh produce of our lovely county so revered for its marsh lamb to cobnuts, samphire, berries and more or the traditions of beer brewing, lovely country pubs serving delicious pub grub to more elevated fare and a myriad of restaurants of all kinds and cuisines that accentuate our towns and villages, we are very lucky to be living amidst such a rich food culture.

To bring matters closer to home, a fabulous, upmarket Indian restaurant local to me just outside of the picturesque town of Westerham, this establishment typifies for me the sheer brilliance and diversity of eateries that exist in Kent and how wonderful they truly are. Shampan at the Spinning Wheel as it’s known, offers ample parking space, but the key thing about the corner spot which sits at

“Amongst the absolute delight on the restaurant’s a la carte menu are such starters as Cauliflower & Broccoli Florets Pakora, Hariyali Garden Green Kebab with Cumin”

England

a more buzzing atmosphere teamed with great food, it also offers a coffee bar with a beautiful aroma of freshly ground coffee and the scent of spices.

Amongst the absolute delight on the restaurant’s a la carte menu are such starters as Cauliflower & Broccoli Florets Pakora, Hariyali Garden Green Kebab with Cumin and Kolkata Spice Garlic & Chilli Chicken. From the grills, worth trying are the Grilled Freshwater King Prawns with Smoked Garlic & Dill leaves along with the Lahori Chicken Chapli Kebab with Beetroot & Pomegranate.

For mains, it’s very difficult to say “no” to the likes of Seared Sea Bass with Bengali ‘Do Piyaza’ Sauce, Grilled Duck Breast with Goan Curry Sauce & Cumin Mashed Potatoes, as well as the Double Cooked Leg of Kentish Lamb ‘Salli’, Straw Potatoes. Desserts include such modern Indian temptations as Mango & Cardamon Brûlée and Double Chocolate & Cumin Fudge Brick.

the Saffron Room leads on to outside open air India’s Garden, which can be hired to host intimate as well as large parties ranging from birthday parties and anniversaries to conferences, wedding receptions, corporate training and for some couples, their wedding day celebrations.

Private celebrations aside, Shampan has also had its smattering of celebs too and don’t be too surprised in seeing a well-known football players and many other well known celebrities in there dining on the restaurant’s lush cooking!

The standard of cooking exemplified by first-rate ingredients sourced by local suppliers wherever possible and the warm and friendly service by gregarious staff is faultless making the dining experience several notches above.

It’s noteworthy that Shampan Westerham also has space for private events in its striking function room – the Saffron Room with it’s own private bar and lounge known as the Mumbai’s Quarter. From

For a restaurant group that began life in Chatterton Village, in Bromley, Kent, in 1989, Shampan has come a long way. What’s more is that recognition of the Shampan name goes well beyond public adulation and even meets high critical approval as well as several awards. Shampan at the Spinning Wheel for instance has scooped the British Curry Awards no less than seven times between 2012 and 2022 – not to mention the Bromley Business Award Winner 2018 – along with its sister restaurants winning the British Curry Awards several times.

It’s hardly any wonder that the restaurant group is a bright shining star for Kent country and all in all, a winning pedigree for sure!

THE DETAILS

Shampan at the Spinning Wheel

The Spinning Wheel, Grays Road, Westerham TN16 2HX

T: 01959 572622

E: westerham@shampangroup.co.uk shampangroup.co.uk

Vault & Vine

Vault & Vine is situated in Station Square which is just a stone’s throw from the train station.

We have now been established just over 3 1/2 years. The name originated from the fact that the premises was previously Lloyds Bank hence the Vault, which we have retained and is now our private room which houses some of our prestigious wines, champagnes and cognacs.

Our cocktails are amongst the best in the South East region made from scratch using fresh ingredients.

As you will all be aware, in the last three years since we have been open, we have all been witness to some of the hardest and most unheard of times during the dreaded Covid period, something we hope will never be experienced again. Yet with the support and loyalty of our valued customers we have survived and indeed are now thriving with some excellent events coming up.

Midweek we will be hosting events such as Quiz Nights with a Twist which will be held the first

Wednesday of the Month from 7:30 pm, De Vine Comedy nights which will showcase some new up and coming comedians as well as one off events such as a Wine Tasting Call my Bluff Evening which will take place on Wednesday 24th May at 7:00 pm. We would advise booking tables for these events.

Every Thursday we have our resident DJ playing soulful classics, Fridays and Saturdays we have a mixture of DJs all of which will ensure that our customers let their hair down, dance and have a good time. Every Sunday we have an array of talented singers who take our customers on a trip down memory lane with well-known songs that they can sing and even dance to.

Another aspect that Vault & Vine are becoming renowned for are our fresh homemade Afternoon Teas. These really are perfect for those special occasions or even just a nice way to catch up with family and friends.

As you can see we are a unique bar who really can cater for most of our valued customers’ needs and which keeps them coming back for more.

“Vault & Vine can provide the perfect ambience with a selection of freshly made sandwiches, wraps, cheese platters, charcuterie boards and/ or Mediterranean dips”

THE DETAILS

Vault & Vine

18 Station Square, Petts Wood Kent BR5 1LU

For any further information please visit our website www.vaultandvine.co.uk or you can email us on info@vaultandvine.co.uk or call us on 01689 666 036

Vault & Vine is a family run wine and cocktail bar in the heart of Petts Wood.

Designed for living

At Stoneham, the values we’ve been building into our bespoke kitchens for the last 150 years haven’t changed. Every hand-built Stoneham kitchen fulfils its own streamlined elegance both effortlessly and exquisitely. It’s about making the very best of the best – the finest woods and natural materials, the most innovative features and latest technology, supremely crafted by the most knowing and capable hands. Appointed kitchen centres available locally and nationwide. For a colour brochure and details of the Centre most convenient to you call 020 8300 8181 or visit: www.stoneham-kitchens.co.uk

Stoneham plc, Powerscroft Road, Sidcup, Kent DA14 5DZ. Factory Showroom Opening: Monday - Friday 8am - 5pm, Saturday 9am - 12 midday.