Icon Autumn/Winter 2020-21 Collection
Architecture Interior design Build Project Management
For further information call Mark Howorth on 020 7336 8560 or visit callenderhoworth.com Follow us on: twitter.com/C_H_studio pinterest.com/CHstudio facebook.com/CallenderHoworth
FROM THE
S
EDITOR
harp, contemporary, and always evolving: since its very beginnings, the Emporio Armani line has offered a dynamic, urban aesthetic. The Icon collection was born from the idea of creating a hub within the hub that is Emporio Armani: a selection of iconic pieces for men and women, updated in both materials and shapes, that tell the story of the brand. World renowned Bond Street has unveiled a delightful, new 5-metre tall Christmas tree with a twist, located in the centre of the ‘Town Square’. The stunning tree promises a Christmas treat for the entire family with a digital surprise nestled amongst the traditional decorations. Mayfair and Belgravia have lit up London by the switch-on of their sparkling Christmas lights. The iconic streets are adorned with brand new lighting displays, show stopping Christmas trees and decadent window displays. In a year like no other, festive spirit is heightened as the destinations pull out all of the stops for Christmas 2020. Excellence in food and drink always sits at the heart of Fortnum & Mason. They have been Masters of Merry since the store was founded in 1707. From jam-packed luxury hampers and famous teas, to celebratory tipples and glorious gifts… Christmas simply isn’t Christmas without Fortnum & Mason..
Faye Manning Editor
EDITOR FAYE MANNING EDITORIAL ASSISTANT KATIE MILLER SUB EDITOR NICHOLAS PETER FASHION EDITOR LARA ACCISON DESIGN & PRODUCTION LISA WADE ACCOUNT MANAGERS VANESSA LANE, NICOLA DREW, LISA WESTERMAN, ACCOUNTS KATHY MANNING, ANDREE GEORGIOU DIRECTORS RORY SMITH, PATRICK SMITH
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CONTENTS OUT & ABOUT
We put fantastic local businesses and exciting events in the spotlight each month, plus enjoy food and drink in the local area
17
INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS GUIDE
129
YUMMY MUMMY MAGAZINE
153
FASHION & BEAUTY
187
HEALTH & FITNESS
219
HOUSE & GARDEN
251
The finest independent schools in the UK
The luxury parenting publication for discerning mothers living in London Fashion and beauty news to keep you looking your best Everything you need to keep fit, healthy and happy A collection of London’s finest interior companies
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www.thelifemagazines.com
OUT & ABOUT – We put fantastic local businesses and exciting events in the spotlight each month – I M A G E : S T R E E T S O F M AY F A I R A N D B E L G R A V I A L I G H T U P F O R C H R I S T M A S
OUT & ABOUT
THE BERKELEY UNVEILS
‘WINTER AT THE GARDEN’
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Cosy cabins and candlelight in Belgravia
he Berkeley has reopened its doors with a new festive addition: Winter at The Garden. The culinary terrace spot consists of five cosy wooden cabins, each seating up to six diners. The cabins, glittering with flickering candles, are decked with wreaths courtesy of McQueens, and surrounded by a forest of fir trees and fairy lights. Guests are armed with blankets and heaters to keep warm. A menu of alpine specialties, built around a show-stopping raclette grill, delight eager guests after weeks of eating at home. Winter at The Garden offers a menu of seasonal plates in convivial eating style – the antidote to lockdown living and perfect wintertime dining. Guests are welcomed with fondue and toasted sourdough. Starters include a trio of rostis flourished with different toppings, smoked beef hot dog ‘sliders’ topped with sauerkraut, jalepeno and smoked cheddar and oxtail soup with toasted Gruyère croute. Next comes the main event – each cabin is provided with its own authentic raclette grill for ‘build your own’ indulgent dishes. A feast of carefully-sourced cheeses, meats and vegetables are brought to the table for diners to pick and choose, customise and grill. Decadent desserts are designed to share, comfort and wow, from apple and raisin strudel and pear and blackberry crumble, to hot chocolate
18 DECEMBER 2020
THE DETAILS To book, please contact The Berkeley on 020 7107 8833 or thegarden@the-berkeley.co.uk For more details please visit: the-berkeley.co.uk/ restaurants-bars/ winter-at-the-garden
brownies complete with molten centre and bourbon vanilla ice cream. The flambéed baked Alaska is a standout dish, and features three different flavours of ice cream – chocolate, orange and macadamia. Finally, the Winter Garden team are on hand to present a special hot chocolate tableside – served short and punchy – as Valrhona chocolate is mixed with a generous glug of either rum or whisky. The drinks list showcases a range of craft beer, wines, champagnes, hot cider and classic cocktails.
“Winter at The Garden offers a menu of seasonal plates in convivial eating style” Dinner sittings are 6pm-8pm or 8.30-10.30pm 7 days a week, with two lunch sittings – noon-2pm and 2.30-4.30pm – on Friday – Sunday. Cabins are priced at £450 per sitting, for up to six guests - includes three abundant courses of alpine fare with choices available. In line with government guidelines, these six people can be from different households due to the outdoor location. Should diners wish to make a night of it, guests of The Garden are offered an exclusive 20% off rooms at The Berkeley.
OUT & ABOUT
BOND
STREET LIGHTS UP THE
WEST END With the unveiling of a spectacular new Christmas tree…with a magical twist
W
orld renowned Bond Street has unveiled a delightful, new 5-metre tall Christmas tree with a twist, located in the centre of the ‘Town Square’. The stunning tree promises a Christmas treat for the entire family with a digital surprise nestled amongst the traditional decorations. Lit up with the glow of some of London’s most celebrated storefronts including Cartier, Gucci and Dior, the towering Christmas tree offers shoppers a unique, virtual experience upon scanning a QR code, transporting visitors to a magical, fairy filled land. Offering a very special festive gift, shoppers can enjoy some seasonal sparkle, snow and fairy dust in the mesmerising, never-seen-before filter. Bond Street’s acclaimed peacock-inspired
20 DECEMBER 2020
Christmas lights have returned this year, illuminating the luxury destination as lockdown restrictions are eased in London. A breath-taking sight, the stunning peacock light installations feature almost 250,000 individual lights. The design takes inspiration from Bond Street’s vibrant past, when in the late 18th century, young men known as ‘Bond Street Loungers’, frequented the area in ostentatious attire, becoming the early fashionistas or ‘peacocks’ of their day. A known favourite for high-end shoppers and fashionistas, Bond Street is a must-visit for Christmas shopping, offering an unrivalled selection of luxury brands including Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Mulberry, Fenwick, Bulgari and Jimmy Choo. The famous shopping street has extra special sparkle this year with a host of enchanting window displays, including Cartier’s festive giant scarlet bow and peering Panther, Dior’s large scale illuminated stars and snowflakes scattered across the storefront and Tiffany & Co.’s ‘1837 Blue’ neon Christmas trees. All of Bond Street’s enticing hotspots listed above feature in the new West End Instagram Trail, showcasing the most picture-perfect locations for Instagrammers and influencers across the West End In addition to taking a selfie with the Bond Street Christmas lights, stop by the most striking window displays from the likes of Oxford Street’s Selfridges and Flannels. The West End Instagram Trail also takes visitors to Old Bond Street’s historic, Victorian-era Royal Arcade, London’s vibrant St. Christopher’s Place, Regent Street’s British toy emporium Hamleys and many more!
“Bond Street is a mustvisit for Christmas shopping, offering an unrivalled selection of luxury brands”
THE DETAILS To discover more, please visit bondstreet.co.uk. Scan the code as you visit the Bond Street Christmas Tree or link in the @bondstreet Instagram profile to reveal the Festive Magic filter
OUT & ABOUT
STREETS OF MAYFAIR AND BELGRAVIA LIGHT UP FOR CHRISTMAS “Christmas lights are aplenty across the neighbourhoods as visitors can discover beautiful and unique lighting displays around every corner”
THE DETAILS To find out more please visit mayfairandbelgravia.com @mayfair_ldn, @belgravia_ldn @ecclestonyards
M
ayfair and Belgravia have lit up London by the switch-on of their sparkling Christmas lights. The iconic streets are adorned with brand new lighting displays, show stopping Christmas trees and decadent window displays. In a year like no other, festive spirit is heightened as the destinations pull out all of the stops for Christmas 2020. Christmas lights are aplenty across the neighbourhoods as visitors can discover beautiful and unique lighting displays around every corner. This year, Belgravia’s Motcomb Street has unveiled brand new Christmas lights which feature 9 LED banners displaying beautiful rainbow lights which transform in front of your eyes into a white sparkle. These will illuminate the street alongside the charmingly lit Pantechnicon, a new arrival to Belgravia this year. Visitors will also be able to pass
22 DECEMBER 2020
through a light archway leading to the rainbow lit Christmas tree in Halkin Arcade, here, they will also be able to capture the perfect Christmas selfie stood in front of the rainbow lit angel wings. Just a stone’s throw away, Mayfair’s Mount Street sees the return of its iconic Christmas tree at The Connaught, located in Carlos Place, with an abundance of miniature replications of the iconic tree found up and down the famed street. Plus, see the return of the light up arches and magical colour changing trees on South Molton Street. New for this year, visitors can also discover a festive lodge in Brown Hart Gardens, the perfect spot to pick up an indulgent hot chocolate or mulled wine to takeaway. The picturesque streets of Mayfair and Belgravia are known for their festive window displays and this year, there is no exception to the rule. Visitors can take a stroll down London’s most instagrammable street, Elizabeth Street, where they will find beautiful exterior displays at Peggy Porschen and Jo Loves. There is something for everyone to explore in Mayfair and Belgravia this winter.
FEATURE
Timing is everything:
B
Luxury watch specialist opens flagship store in Mayfair
usiness is booming to such an extent for Diamond Watches London (DWL) that the prestigious timepiece expert has unveiled its flagship store in Mayfair’s exclusive Burlington Arcade. Offering unrivalled availability to modern sports watches from luxury brands including Rolex, Patek Philippe, Cartier, Audemars Piguet and Richard Mille, DWL is a forward-looking addition to the historic retail destination’s portfolio of premium vintage boutiques. DWL has its own GIA Graduate diamond specialist and there is also an in-house workshop of watchmakers who authenticate the timepieces, as well as polishers and a servicing team. Overseen by highly regarded watch expert Danny Shahid, known as @excellencebydanny to his 90,000 Instagram followers, DWL utilises its global network of thousands of contacts to source the most sought-after watches in record time, bypassing the bigger brands’ notoriously long waiting lists. DWL has more than 12 years’ experience in sourcing the big name watches that people want at that moment in time. Adept at anticipating trends,
the luxury watch experts have immediate access to more than one hundred exquisite models, most worth between £10,000 and £40,000 but some with a value of up to £200,000. DWL’s Head of Client Services, Danny commented: “Covid-19 has had a colossal effect on the high street and some may question our timing, but having a physical presence in such an exclusive location will be extremely beneficial to our clients because we offer a personal service at the highest level. When restrictions allow, we go more than the extra mile for our customers, flying across the globe to secure the most desirable and rare watches at the right price in a matter of days. We are always open to sharing our knowledge on which timepieces are the most likely to offer a significant return on investment.” You can view their exquisite collection of watches at diamondwatcheslondon.com. Or by visiting their discreet and comfortable showroom: Diamond Watches London, 23 Burlington Arcade, Mayfair,W1J 0PR 24 DECEMBER 2020
About Burlington Arcade Burlington Arcade has been showcasing the best in British luxury shopping for more than 200 years. Referred to as the ‘Jewel in Mayfair’, Burlington Arcade boutiques specialise in exclusive and rare goods, safeguarded by the oldest and smallest police force in the country, the Beadles. To find out more about Burlington Arcade, please visit burlingtonarcade.com
FEATURE
Fortnum & Mason The home of Christmas Pure indulgence with Fortnum’s Christmas Food & Drink
E
Contents may vary, example only.
xcellence in food and drink always sits at the heart of Fortnum & Mason. They have been Masters of Merry since the store was founded in 1707. From jam-packed luxury hampers and famous teas, to celebratory tipples and glorious gifts… Christmas simply isn’t Christmas without Fortnum & Mason. The extraordinary food, the joy-giving gifts, the exceptional moments – the spirit of the season has been a catalyst in all that they do. Don’t miss out on a Fortnum’s Christmas.
‘Tis the Season for Christmas Hampers & Gift Boxes There is nothing quite like receiving a Fortnum’s hamper. A gift that never disappoints - a treasure chest of deliciousness. Teas, biscuits, meats, cheese, wines, Champagnes and all their festive Food Halls have to offer. A beautiful gift basket or food hamper is the perfect treat to send to loved ones afar this Christmas. Browse their selection with something to suit everyone across all price ranges - created with different themes in mind, each hamper is a masterclass in excellence. Each hamper provides the ingredients for an unforgettable feast. Fortnum & Mason have a worldwide delivery service. Not every hamper is suitable for foreign travel, so check their website for those that can be flown to all four corners of the earth. 26 DECEMBER 2020
Cook up a festive feast with Fortnum’s Christmas Food & Wine. There’s a treat to tickle everyone’s taste buds from the finest Turkey, Goose, Welsh Lamb, Suckling Pig and Beef Wellington to moreish cheese selections, caviar and foie gras. Delight your festive sweet tooth with Fortnum’s truly magnificent puddings, moreish mince pies, scrumptious festive biscuits and sparkling preserves. There are delightful condiment flavours from the famous Piccadilly Piccalilli, to Mulled Wine Marmalade. You can indulge in their collection of chocolate & confectionery. From melt-in-the-mouth chocolate favourites to fun, novelty confectionery, find the perfect sweet treat for stockings and yourself too! Inspired by the beauty of the Highgrove estate and featuring local-grown, organic and delicious things, discover their collection of Highgrove treats. Give yourself the pleasure of their splendid Mince Pies, melt-in-the mouth Chocolate Truffles or even their rich, Dark Chocolate Florentines. After all, it is Christmas! Fortnum & Mason is still delivering worldwide, check the website for last dates on Christmas delivery in the UK and overseas. For more details visit fortnumandmason.com Fortnum & Mason, 181 Piccadilly, London, W1A 1ER
FEATURE
Virtual Ways To Discover The West End This Christmas
T
he West End brings a world of art and culture directly to the comfort of your home to keep you inspired and entertained during the festive season. Step inside the National Gallery and explore one of the world’s greatest collections of paintings for free. Offering various virtual tours, art lovers can take part in The Google Virtual Tour and immerse themselves in Renaissance masterpieces and on The 2011 Virtual Tour people can look over 300 paintings. If you are looking for something fun and challenging to complete with friends and family, take part in Crystal Maze LIVE London Experience, one of London’s most talked about virtual activities that allows you and friends to tackle 16 puzzles and challenges. From just £15 per person, teams of eight or more can partake in a 90-minute virtual Crystal Maze. Team up with friends from other households via video conference and enjoy! The prestigious Burlington Arcade is staying open for online business so you can book a
28 DECEMBER 2020
bespoke appointment at the world-famous arcade to ensure you have all your luxury gifts for Christmas. Appointments can be arranged via zoom for the likes of Baudoin & Lange: the finest made-to-measure loafers, Globe-Trotter: madeto-order luxury luggage or Annoushka: bespoke jewellery and custom-made charms. Many West End businesses are still open, welcoming you through their virtual doors. Bring art, culture, gift ideas and lots of delicious treats into your home this Christmas by experiencing the Art of London virtually.
Check out these sites for more information: National Gallery nationalgallery.org.uk The Royal Academy of Arts royalacademy.org.uk/article/ video-virtual-tour-summerexhibition-2020 Mall Galleries newenglishartclub.co.uk/ annual-exhibition Crystal Maze the-crystal-maze.com/virtualcrystal-maze Burlington Arcade burlingtonarcade.com/bespoke CIRCA circa.art
For more virtual business ideas and ways to discover The West End visit: TWG Tea twgtea.com/locations/middleeast-europe/united-kingdom Fortum & Mason fortnumandmason.com Waterstones waterstones.com Prestat prestat.co.uk Floris London florislondon.com/en_gbp/ find-a-stockist Paxton & Whitfield paxtonandwhitfield.co.uk 45 Jermyn Street 45jermynst.com Ham Yard Hotel firmdalehotels.com/hotels/ london/ham-yard-hotel RA gift shop shop.royalacademy.org.uk National Gallery gift shop nationalgallery.co.uk
Visit the following social channels, for more information: Instagram: @theartofldn Twitter: @theartofldn Facebook: @theartofldn Hashtag: #ArtOfLondonAtHome
OUT & ABOUT
A Christmas Carol
Coming to cinemas and theatres UK wide from 4th December 2020. Starring the voices of Martin Freeman, Carey Mulligan, Simon Russell Beale, Daniel Kaluuya and Andy Serkis
A
Christmas Carol follows a Victorian family as they prepare a toy-theatre for their annual performance of A Christmas Carol. The audience enters the imagination of one of the children and quickly the cardboard stage transforms to reveal a magical world containing real dancers and stylised sets. The tale unfolds on screen in a rich tapestry of highly absorbing, haunting and theatrical drama with characters portrayed by dancers and voiced by an eclectic cast of incredible actors. The mix of danced action and spoken narration brings a completely new and exciting dimension to Dickens’ characters whilst remaining true to the beauty of his original narrative. Frith Street Films will be releasing their star studded retelling of the Dickens classic, A Christmas Carol in theatre and cinema venues UK wide from 4th December. Simon Russell Beale, Martin Freeman, Carey Mulligan, Daniel Kaluuya and Andy Serkis lend their voices to the tale, whilst dance 30 DECEMBER 2020
performances are led by former Royal Ballet soloist and BalletBoyz founder Michael Nunn as Scrooge, Jakub Franasowicz, Russell Maliphant, Karl Fagerlund Brekke, Mikey Boats, Grace Jabbari and Dana Fouras. Behind A Christmas Carol are two of the most exciting and creative British filmmakers today. Sibling directors Jacqui Morris and David Morris first shot to prominence with their 2013 debut, the double BAFTA nominated McCullin. Their Grierson award winning film Attacking the Devil followed in 2016, highlighting the groundbreaking investigative work of the late Sir Harold Evans during the thalidomide scandal. Their third film, Nureyev, lifted the curtain on one of the world’s most iconic ballet dancers. With pantomime season all but cancelled, the dual approach to release is to support both cinema and theatre industries during a time of financial hardship. A Christmas Carol is best enjoyed on the big screen and both directors see the release and supporting local venues as an inherent part of the film’s 2020 debut.
For full listings and to purchase tickets please visit achristmascarol2020.film Instagram @achristmascarol2020 Twitter @bahhumbug2020 Facebook @achristmascarol2020
FEATURE
CHRISTOPHER WHARTON GOLDSMITH INTRODUCES A NEW DIAMOND CUT FOR THE UK
T
THE L’AMOUR CRISS CUT
he L’Amour Criss Cut diamonds come in four styles – Oval Classic Pear and Cushion. The L’Amour Crisscut Oval is designed to be up to 35% larger than a generic oval of the same size. This patented expertly designed cut provides a brighter whiter appearance. Its secret lies in the cutting style which is shallower than its generic counterpart directly translating into a larger visible surface area which when coupled with the exquisite cutting design produces unparalled scintillation and light refraction. The L’Amour Crisscut Classic design is another patented design that has been technically reengineered in proportion and faceting to maximise and effectively optimise light performance and by eliminating the iceberg factor – when costly weight is hidden under the girdle where no one will see it. Instead the weight is distributed to the top giving the look of a diamond that appears 30-60% larger (depending on shape) than traditionally cut diamonds. The L’Amour Crisscut Pear shape is again up to 50% larger than conventionally cut pear shape diamonds with its own detailed facet design and scintillating performance. The smaller pear shapes make beautiful shoulder diamonds in a single stone or three stone ring. All of the Crisscut Diamonds above 0.30cts come with their own GIA Certification. The new Crisscut Diamonds are really exciting to work with being so different and so bright! Having just received our new loose diamond collection from New York we are busy making up some exciting new designs to mount them in. Wharton Goldsmith, 1-2 George Street, St Albans AL3 4ER 01727 859489 whartongoldsmith.com
VS
1.00ct Generic Emerald Cut
VS
1.00ct L’Amour Crisscut® Classic
ENHANCED SCINTILLATION BRIGHTER, WHITER APPEARANCE UP TO 50% LARGER
1.00ct Generic Oval Cut
1.00ct L’Amour Crisscut® Oval
NO BOWTIE EFFECT EVEN DISTRIBUTION OF BRILLIANCE UP TO 30% LARGER
“The L’Amour Crisscut Classic design is another patented design that has been technically re-engineered in proportion and faceting to maximise and effectively optimise light performance and by eliminating the iceberg factor – when costly weight is hidden under the girdle where no one will see it” 32 DECEMBER 2020
DECEMBER 2020 33
FEATURE
18ct Yellow Gold Marrakech Onde handmade diamond set earrings Diamond weight 0.03ct £660.00
18ct Yellow Gold Africa Studs £1,848.00 18ct Yellow Gold Drop Earrings £1920.00 18ct Yellow Gold Africa Diamond Set Pendant Length 80cm. Diamond weight 0.033ct £1,730.00
18ct Yellow Gold Marrakech Onde handmade necklace Length 46cm £3,995.00
Marco Bicego
AT WHARTON GOLDSMITH 18ct Yellow Gold Lunaria Diamond Set Ring size 55 Diamond Weight 0.14ct £1,860.00
18ct Yellow Gold Lucia Hinged Bangle Diameter 6cm £6,620.00
18ct Yellow Gold Lunaria Necklace Length 46cm £5,000.00
18ct Yellow Gold Hoop Earrings £1,550.00 18ct Yellow Gold Paradise double row multicoloured stone necklace Length 42cm £2,016
18ct Yellow Gold Siviglia diamond set pendant Length 42cm. Diamond content 0.10ct £1,092.00
18ct Yellow Gold Paradise double row multicoloured stone drop earrings £648.00
18ct Yellow Gold Siviglia diamond set drop earrings Diamond weight 0.20ct £648.00
34 DECEMBER 2020
Sterling Silver Savannah 628A Blue Topaz Earrings £595.00
Sterling Silver & Rose Gold Offspring 433B Bracelet £210.00
Sterling Silver Savannah 628B Blue Topaz Ring £495.00
Sterling Silver & Rose Gold Offspring 433B Pendant £265.00
Sterling Silver Savannah 628A Pendant £495.00
Georg Jensen
AT WHARTON GOLDSMITH Sterling Silver Mercy 634C Pendant £250.00 Sterling Silver & Yellow Gold Mercy 501B Hoop Earrings £1,100.00
Sterling Silver & Yellow Gold Mercy 501 Ring £1,350.00 Sterling Silver Mercy 501C Neckring £995.00 Sterling Silver Diamond Set Offspring 433B Pendant 0.08ct £350.00
Sterling Silver Mercy 501B Bangle £595.00
Sterling Silver Diamond Set Offspring 432B Earrings 0.19ct £525.00
No. 1-2 George Street, St. Albans, Hertfordshire, AL3 4ER • Tel: 01727 859 489 Email: showroom@whartongoldsmith.com • whartongoldsmith.com DECEMBER 2020 35
FEATURE 18ct White Gold Sapphire & Diamond Flower Pendant £1,880.00
18ct White Gold Multi Sapphire & Diamond Rainbow Small Hoop Earring £2,680.00 18ct White Gold Sapphire & Diamond Flower Stud Earrings £1,690.00
18ct White Gold Sapphire & Diamond Flower Ring £1,850.00
18ct White Gold Multi Sapphire & Diamond Rainbow Ring £2,270.00
The Wharton Goldsmith Collection
AT WHARTON GOLDSMITH
9ct Yellow Gold Akoya 7mm Cultured Pearl Studs 7mm £179.00
18ct Yellow Gold Akoya Cultured Pearl & Diamond Pendant £860.00
18ct White & Rose Gold Diamond Set Eternity Pendant £1,855.00
18ct White Gold Diamond Studs in Martini Style Setting From £695.00
18ct Yellow Gold Akoya Cultured Pearl & Diamond Earrings £895.00
18ct Yellow Gold Akoya Cultured Pearl & Diamond Ring £1,170.00
18ct White Gold Diamond Line Bracelet From 1980.00
18ct White Gold & Diamond Circle Pendant. An original by Christopher Wharton 2.05ct Diamonds £7,895.00
No. 1-2 George Street, St. Albans, Hertfordshire, AL3 4ER • Tel: 01727 859 489 Email: showroom@whartongoldsmith.com • whartongoldsmith.com 36 DECEMBER 2020
Beautiful A+ rated replacement sash windows and doors made from 100% rot proof Accoya timber. 020 8191 9619 • www.goodwoodfitch.com
OUT & ABOUT
Festive fun at LONDON TRANSPORT MUSEUM From 3 December host an Early Explorer morning for children with special education needs. Families can meet Santa and enjoy the Museum outside of regular opening hours with many of the gallery sounds turned off.
Festive treats and gifts
E
xpect a warm welcome at London Transport Museum in Covent Garden this winter, with a line-up of family festivities inspired by the Museum’s collection of beautiful transport posters depicting London during wintertime. Posters illustrating winter walks, nostalgic scenes and festive fun at London’s historic landmarks will be on display to get everyone in the Christmas spirit. Visitors can also step into a life-sized version of an iconic 1980s poster ‘Cold Winds Do Blow’ by Brian Grimwood to get the perfect wintery Instagram snap surrounded by falling snowflake roundels (poster pictured).
Family fun Families can follow a winter trail to hunt for Underground KIDS GO roundels nestled among FREE historic vehicles, and answer transport trivia. Clever clogs who find all the roundels and trivia answers will have the chance to win a Mini London Underground Lightbox from the Museum’s shop in a weekly prize draw. Santa will be stopping his sleigh at the Museum every weekend from now until Christmas, as well as Monday 21 to Wednesday 23 December (inclusive). Little ones can also visit a winter forest filled with twinkling lights and cosy up to watch a short illustrated video story about Santa on an Underground journey with his Tf-Elves! On Saturday 12 December the Museum will also 38 DECEMBER 2020
“Santa will be stopping his sleigh at the Museum every weekend from now until Christmas”
Visitors can stop into the Museum’s café bar, Canteen, for seasonal sweet treats and views of Covent Garden Piazza. The Christmas offer includes a delicious festive vegan mince-pie slice, and choice of hot drink - warming mulled wine, indulgent hot chocolate with toppings, salted caramel latte or gingerbread latte. The Museum shop will be open for business too, offering a range of exclusive transportinspired stocking fillers, including festive jumpers, beautiful vintage posters, new editions of the Museum’s best-selling moquette design socks, and wonderfully crafted children’s toys. See the full range at ltmuseumshop.co.uk. Visit ltmuseum.co.uk to find out more and book. Timed entry tickets must be booked in advance online.
FEATURE
Christmas at Home with Iberica Delivery tapas at the tap of a button Virtual wine tastings, online Christmas parties and Hampers
R
estaurant group Iberica, won’t let the festivities be hampered this year with the launch of Nacho Manzano At Home, online activities and luxury hampers, celebrating traditional dishes, wine and the culture of Spain. Carefully curated by Michelin-starred Executive Chef, Nacho Manzano, taking inspiration from advent in Asturias where he grew up, Iberica will be the top of every foodie’s Christmas list to enjoy. Taking from their popular restaurant menu, Iberica have selected their most loved dishes for their home delivery boxes for the perfect treat to escape via Spain or feast in the run-up up to Christmas Day. Usually host to a wealth of Christmas parties, Iberica has launched them online for those who can’t get together this year. From £55 guests can pre-book a Zoom event with friends, family or colleagues to enjoy alongside seasonal wines by Iberica’s sommelier Graziano Cocco and head bartender Nacho Ordiz. Log in for light-hearted enjoyment and the chance to increase your knowledge in high quality Spanish produce too! With all fresh ingredients delivered to each guest’s door just in time for the virtual event, packages vary from ‘Discovering La Rioja’ with a selection of wines from D.O.C Rioja with paired snacks to their ‘Sherry and
40 DECEMBER 2020
Jamon Iberico tasting’ with 2 bottles of premium and very rare sherry paired with two different types of Jamon Ibericos or their Gin and Tonic experience with a selection of different gin samples, paired tonics & botanicals with paired snacks. Iberica is offering a variety of different hampers with 4 different collections: the Iconic Hamper filled with classic Spanish products, bottle of Rioja crianza, chorizo and extra virgin olive oil; the Deluxe Hamper with fourteen different premium Spanish products including sparkling wines, truffle infused Manchego, hand carved jamon, extra virgin olive oil and anchovies; The Charcuterie Hamper, featuring a selection of cured meats and jamon from Juan Pedro Domecq with a bottle of Alfonso, Oloroso sherry or the Sweet Treat Hamper, with a combination of a sweet sherry made with Pedro Ximenez and Turrón, a typical traditional Spanish sweet. Delivery of the restaurant menu is also available from their London restaurants within a 2.5 mile radius from Victoria, Farringdon, Marylebone and Canary Wharf branches. ibericarestaurants.com Instagram: @ibericarestaurants
“Usually host to a wealth of Christmas parties, Iberica has launched them online for those who can’t get together this year”
FEATURE
FESTIVE CHEER WITH REAL ALE
I
f you are looking for festive cheer this year look no further. Real Ale are your local London liquid delicatessen, specialising in craft beers, natural wines and spirits from small producers around the world. Real Ale opened their first shop on Richmond Road, East Twickenham in 2005 to champion locally brewed, high-quality beers. The team have tasted and selected the best beers available across every style and category, and now alongside hundreds of beers, also stock ciders, natural wines and interesting spirits from small producers all over the world.
Winning The Drinks Retailer Awards Retailer of the Year 2015, they have since opened two further shops on Formosa Street, Maida Vale and Golborne Road, Notting Hill This Christmas they have plenty of Christmas gift cases including the new Christmas six packs: The Natural Wines of Christmas and The Six wines of Christmas. The Natural Wines of Christmas case contains 42 DECEMBER 2020
a diverse selection of naturally made, delicious wines. These wines showcase the amazing flavours winemakers can achieve with perfectly ripe grapes and meticulous attention to detail. All the wines are hugely expressive in their own way and represent fantastic value when bought together as a mixed case. Or if it’s white burgundy, fizz or full bodied, spicy reds you’re after, the Six Wines of Christmas ticks the box! Both cases come with tasting notes and free UK delivery. For the beer lovers in your family, they also have the ever popular 12 beers of Christmas, the best all-rounder beer case taken from their selection of over 300 beers. From dark and delicious stouts to hoppy table beers and perfectly crisp lagers. Each case comes with a tasting note and food pairing in a stamped gift box. There’s something for everyone. Pre order online now at realale.com or pop into one of the shops in Notting Hill, Maida Vale or Twickenham.
THE DETAILS FB @RealAleLtd Twitter @RealAle_com Insta realale_Ltd
OUT & ABOUT
CHRISTMAS COMES TO WIMBLEDON
The Ivy Café, Wimbledon celebrates Christmas with installation and limitededition cocktail menu
T This Christmas, The Ivy Café Wimbledon will celebrate with a joyful, festive installation in the heart of the city for guests and passers-by to enjoy, as well as a limited-edition cocktail menu that features a Christmas cocktail in partnership with Maker’s Mark, available from Wednesday, 2 December.
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he showstopping Gingerbread Manhattan (£9.75) complete with Maker’s Mark Bourbon stirred with Lillet blanc and Lillet Rouge and a gingerbread spice syrup will be mixed up by the restaurant’s bar team. Other delicious creations include the Tokyo Snow (£9.95) featuring winter spices shaken with Haku Japanese Vodka and cranberry juice, the Winters Kiss £10.50) incorporating Haku Japanese Vodka, peach liqueur, Fino Sherry and cranberry syrup, finished with Fever-Tree Soda Water & Prosecco, the Truffled Flip (£10.50), a “tiramisu” cocktail with Courvoisier VSOP Cognac, Pedro Ximenez Sherry, egg white, Tiramisu syrup and cream shaken and finished with cocoa powder and a salted caramel chocolate truffle, the Nashi Bellini (£9.25) featuring Roku Japanese Gin, pear purée and cinnamon spice topped with Prosecco, and finally a Cognac Mulled Wine (£9.95) a hot blend of red wine, Courvoisier VSOP Cognac, winter spices, cinnamon and orange. On arrival, those diners wishing to try the festive stirs, will be met with a beautiful installation at the brasserie’s entrance, complete with traditional festive decorations and seasonal foliage, whilst inside, guests will be able to get in the Christmas spirit with the selection of delicious,
bespoke cocktails. For those looking to indulge in something a little sweeter, the brasserie will also be serving up a bespoke desert this December; Letter to Santa (£9.25), is a traditional offering to Santa and his helpers, and is perfect for guests who want to really enjoy the spirit of Christmas. Saimir Kalziqi, General Manager at The Ivy Café Wimbledon says: “This year more than ever, it’s so important that we help spread Christmas cheer and positivity to our guests and neighbours alike. We hope to put a smile on peoples’ faces as they pass by and look forward to welcoming diners over the coming weeks as we approach the most magical time of the year.” Nick Temperley, General Manager at EdringtonBeam Suntory UK commented: “We are very proud to be partnering with The Ivy this festive season. We look forward to guests enjoying the menu of delicious cocktails after what has been an incredibly tough year”. The Ivy Café Wimbledon looks forward to welcoming guests back. Reservations for December can be made now via theivywimbledon. com. Whilst service will still remain a priority, the restaurant will be continuing to implement the highest standards of health and safety, ensuring both guests and employees will be dining and working in confidence and in a safe environment. All details can be viewed via our website. theivywimbledon.com
OUT & ABOUT
The Outdoor Ice Rink Is Back At The Queen’s House, Greenwich until 24 January 2021
THE DETAILS The magical Queen’s House ice rink is open until 24 January 2021, from 11am - 8pm (last skate 7pm) on off-peak days or 10am - 9pm (last skate 8pm) on peak days. Closed Christmas Day. Sessions are running at limited capacity to follow government guidelines, so advanced booking is recommended. Prices for a skating session, including skate hire start from: Child: £7.25 Adult: £14.50 U25/student: £9.00 Skate aids are available to hire for children but must be pre-booked. Children aged 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult. The minimum age to skate is three years old. For more information, full T&Cs (including added COVID-19 precautions) and to book tickets, visit rmg.co.uk/skate The ice rink is located outside the Queen’s House on Romney Road, SE10 9NF in Greenwich.
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L
ondon’s most ‘instagrammable’ ice rink is back for an unmissable skating experience this festive season. And this year the rink is even
bigger! Set against the striking backdrop of the Queen’s House, visitors have the opportunity to skate in the beautiful surrounds of a UNESCO World Heritage site and the elegant grounds of Royal Museums Greenwich. Enjoy unbeatable views of the River Thames as you glide (or wobble) your way around the only outdoor ice rink in south London this Christmas. What better treat is there than to skate in front of the ‘House of delight’ built especially for James I’s Queen? New measures have been introduced this year to make sure that everybody can enjoy the ice rink safely. There are hygiene standards fit for royalty, with enhanced cleaning regimes and hand washing sanitation facilities available. Meanwhile
staggered skate sessions will ensure fewer people on the ice at any one time. All visitors must follow all government social distancing guidelines and the wearing of a mask whilst on the rink and in the skate exchange or any other indoor area. For those who prefer to chill out off the ice, you can soak up the beautiful surroundings of Greenwich Park, take in the spectacular views across London and enjoy a hot chocolate and a choice of snacks while watching the skaters. If you want to make a day of it, there is so much more to see and do - from visiting the award-winning Cutty Sark, seeing the iconic Armada portrait in the Queen’s House, learning about the origins of time at the Royal Observatory and exploring the collection at the National Maritime Museum. The beautiful Greenwich market is only two minutes away for Christmas shopping. With easy transport links, Greenwich is just eight minutes from London Bridge, or arrive by boat along the River Thames.
ABOUT THE QUEEN’S HOUSE The 17th century Queen’s House, designed by Inigo Jones, was the first Classical building in England – it is known for its perfectly proportioned Great Hall, original marble floor and beautiful Tulip staircase. Part of Royal Museums Greenwich, the Queen’s House has Scheduled Monument status as it is a building of unique architectural importance.
“Enjoy unbeatable views of the River Thames as you glide (or wobble) your way around the only outdoor ice rink in south London this Christmas”
The Queen’s House is part of Royal Museums Greenwich which also incorporates the National Maritime Museum, the Royal Observatory Greenwich and Cutty Sark. This unique collection of museums and heritage buildings, which form a key part of the Maritime Greenwich UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a major centre of education and research. The mission of Royal Museums Greenwich is to enrich people’s understanding of the sea, the exploration of space, and Britain’s role in world history. For more information visit rmg.co.uk
DECEMBER 2020 47
OUT & ABOUT
London
Shooting Club L
ondon Shooting Club provides members with access to the best shooting experiences in the UK and abroad and a schedule of great social activities and events which bring together like-minded sporting enthusiasts. Since its inception in 2013, London Shooting Club has introduced hundreds of Londoners to the world of shooting and helped many experienced shots to improve their shooting and get the best out of their sport “Until now it has been difficult for the experienced sportsman visiting London or the UK to find a satisfying and thrilling shooting experience. The London Shooting Club can meet this demand and provide its members with a great days shooting not just in London but, if required elsewhere in the UK and abroad” says Clive Hetherington, Director of London Shooting Club. London Shooting Club also offers a concierge service for private and corporate members and their
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guests providing high quality shooting throughout the UK and abroad. The Club’s uses its extensive network of contacts and experience to give its members peace of mind. Whether you are Londonbased or just visiting the UK, the Club can offer the best in shooting facilities throughout the year. Members can book events shown on the Club activities schedule directly or use the concierge service to organise bespoke shooting days or weekends. Shooting clinics and training sessions for all levels of competence take place regularly as other shooting-orientated activities in and around London ranging from specialist presentations by shotgun manufacturers to dinners with guest speakers from the world of shooting. The Club has access to some of the finest venues in London for members to socialise and meet new friends. The Club also offers members private visits to venues of special interest to shooters such as workshops, collections, proofing houses and exclusive shops accompanied by shooting professionals. The Club’s team of expert coaches and advisors include Olympic, National and World Champions. Their guides and instructors are some of the best in the field. What better way to treat your family and friends or get to know corporate clients than a driven day on a country estate or a private clay pigeon shoot followed by lunch. The London Shooting Club was started in 2013 offering its members a complete shooting and sporting service within the UK and abroad. The Club has a growing network of suppliers, facilities and venues around the world.
“Until now it has been difficult for the experienced sportsman visiting London or the UK to find a satisfying and thrilling shooting experience”
londonshootingclub.com Telephone 07737 744950 or email clive@londonshootingclub.com
DECEMBER 2020 49
OUT & ABOUT
Skate back in time at the Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink
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ake a festive trip back in time this winter with an unforgettable visit to the Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink, situated in the grounds of King Henry VIII’s stunning Tudor palace. One of the highlights of the festive calendar, skaters can enjoy spectacular riverside views by day, before the historic façade is lit up at night, creating a dramatic backdrop to any session. This year will feature the biggest ice rink yet and reduced skater capacity, giving skaters the space to enjoy a memorable, fun skating experience on the ice. With spectacular views and delicious festive refreshments, the Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink is the perfect spot to unwind after work, take a romantic date or spend a day out with the family! With new measures having been introduced to ensure that every visit is covid-secure, skaters can relax and enjoy the festive atmosphere. There’ll be hygiene standards fit for a king or a queen, as well as staggered skate sessions, ensuring fewer people on the ice and a socially distanced entrance and exit. The attraction will be cashless and prebooking is essential, lots of measures have been taken to ensure the safety of customers. Little ones can also find their feet with the assistance of the penguin or dolphin skate aids available to hire for only £5 – just remember that pre-booking is required!
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Once you’ve worked up an appetite on the ice, it’s time to head inside and satisfy those cravings at the Ice Rink Café and Bar. Tuck into hearty winter warming dishes, sharing platters and indulgent treats plus a range of delicious hot and cold beverages, all created by Miss Polly’s. Pre booking a table in the Ice Rink café is essential, you can even pre book your family sharing platter! If you
“With new measures having been introduced to ensure that every visit is safe and secure, skaters can relax”
are after a light bite, why not head to the takeaway hatch for snacks and drinks on the go. The fun doesn’t stop on the rink! No trip would be complete without a visit inside Hampton Court Palace itself, walking in the footsteps of some of history’s most famous kings and queens. One of the most famous buildings in Britain, visitors can explore the grand State Apartments, where festive events have taken place for almost 500 years, and see the palace dressed for the season with traditional decorations from across the centuries. Marvel at King Henry VIII’s Great Hall with its grand hammer beam ceiling, which craftsmen created to evoke the nostalgia of its medieval predecessors and under which hundreds of years of feasting have taken place. Pay a visit to the Tudor Kitchens where Christmas dinners of times gone by would have been prepared, before stepping into King William III’s awe-inspiring Baroque apartments. Finish the day with a stroll through the beautiful formal gardens, the perfect activity for a crisp winter’s day.
OPENING TIMES: 5th December to 17th December 10:00 – 21:00 (20:00 last skate) 18th December to 17th January (excluding Christmas Day) 09:00 – 21:45 (20:45 last skate) Skating sessions last for up to 45 minutes. The ticket price includes skate hire. We recommend that you arrive 15 minutes before your session to get ready to take to the ice! Please note, pre-booking this year is essential. With family Ice skating tickets available for less than £50, Ice Skating at the Palace is a great value family day out.
Whether you’re looking for an exciting iceskating experience or a place to catch up with your loved ones, you are assured magical memories that you will cherish for years to come Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink is open daily from 5th December 2020 to 17th January 2021 (excluding Christmas Day).
To find out more visit hamptoncourtpalaceicerink.co.uk. Hampton Court Palace, Surrey, KT8 9AU
DECEMBER 2020 51
OUT & ABOUT
CHRISTMAS IN WIMBLEDON VILLAGE WHERE TOWN MEETS COUNTRY…
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hen you arrive in leafy Wimbledon Village it’s hard to believe you are just 30 minutes from central London. Nestled at the edge of picturesque Wimbledon Common, the Village wouldn’t look out of place in the English countryside. Walk down the attractive, historic High Street and side roads and you’ll see a diverse range of boutiques and independent shops interspersed with modern eateries and traditional pubs and hotels - all of which need your support this year. For the Christmas shopper, the extensive selection of retailers, many independent, offer a variety of unique, luxury gift ideas from Senti Home Fragrances, Caroline Randell Lingerie, fashion accessories from Boho Beachfest and many more. And a new store has arrived in the Village, Japanese Knife Company located on the High Street. Fine food and wines are available at the fabulous delis and wine merchant, while each Sunday the Farmers Market brings a wide range of fresh and local produce to the Village. Art and culture lovers can browse the several galleries in the area. Visitors seeking ‘me-time’ can choose from over twenty hair, beauty and well-being salons and clinics offering an extensive range of treatments for mind, body and soul - a well-deserved pampering Christmas gift idea! Wimbledon Common also provides a tranquil oasis and is the perfect place for a gentle walk, bike-ride or ramble with the dogs or kids. It’s a popular place for horse-riding too - as the Village is home to historic Wimbledon Village Stables and golf, as it has its very own course, one of three in the Village area. 52 DECEMBER 2020
While the Village is a great destination to shop, wine and dine, it’s also a thriving commercial centre. Architects, lawyers, engineers, financial advisors and business consultants are amongst the many professionals locally based who offer their services to residents and visitors alike. The area has excellent schools too, which helps make Wimbledon Village a popular choice for families. Wimbledon Village is a traditional English village offering an exceptional shopping and dining experience, along with excellent facilities, all on the doorstep of central London. It is this interesting juxtaposition of town and country that gives Wimbledon Village its enviable and enduring appeal. More information: wimbledon-village.com
“Wimbledon Common also provides a tranquil oasis and is the perfect place for a gentle walk, bike-ride or ramble with the dogs or kids”
Senti Home Fragrances
OUT & ABOUT
Mayfair & Belgravia celebrate the festive season £5,000 worth of gifts and experiences to be won from over 100 luxury brands and prestigious restaurants and hotels
T THE DETAILS To view the list of participating retailers and full terms and conditions please visit mayfairandbelgravia.com or follow @mayfair_ldn @belgravia_ldn grosvenor.com Twitter: @Grosvenor_GBI Linkedin: Grosvenor Group
Top right: Daylesford Christmas Hamper - size and contents may vary Above, left to right: Marie Chantal Children’s Boutique; Jo Loves gift set - size and contents may vary; An evening with Jools Holland
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his Christmas sees the launch of The Mayfair and Belgravia Christmas Giveaways every Thursday until Christmas Eve from the area’s most iconic and renowned retailers and restaurants including The Beaumont, The Pantechnicon, Oscar de la Renta and Matches Fashion. As national lockdown restrictions ease it is the perfect excuse for visitors to shop and win something amazing this winter. Funded by landlord Grosvenor Britain & Ireland, all visitors who spend over £25 in a single transaction in participating stores can enter a weekly prize draw to win one of ten exciting prizes worth over £5,000 in both Mayfair and Belgravia. The top prize is worth £2,500 with nine smaller prizes with a minimum value of £300. The Mayfair Christmas Giveaway includes a £2,500 luxury shopping spree at Matches Fashion on Mayfair’s famed Mount Street and luxury two-night stay at the newly refurbished Beaumont Hotel. Plus, an Oscar de la Renta scarf, earrings from Stephen Webster and a vintage bottle of wine from the new Brook Mews Wine House. Whilst the Belgravia Christmas Giveaway’s illustrious list of prizes include a visit to the neighbourhood’s newest arrival, the Pantechnicon worth £2,500 and the ultimate wellbeing package
at Eccleston Yards which includes a weekend stay at the Lime Tree Hotel. Plus a luxury hamper from Daylesford, Jo Loves gift set, £300 to spend in Marie Chantal and a Boisdale experience including an evening with Jools Holland and a private dining experience for 12. James Raynor, Chief Executive of Grosvenor Britain & Ireland commented: “We are absolutely delighted to be able to welcome back visitors to Mayfair and Belgravia this winter with these exciting new prize draws. After a year like no other, The Christmas Giveaways offer visitors an opportunity to experience the very best of the world class offering across both Mayfair and Belgravia.” Whether visitors are looking to get in the festive spirit, snap a sparkling selfie or discover the brand new outdoor gallery, Wander Art, there is something for everyone to explore and enjoy in both Mayfair and Belgravia.
FEATURE
Coach House Pianos
Coach House Pianos is delighted to announce the opening of a ‘one of a kind’ piano showroom in London
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he long established piano house has given outstanding service to Londoners for many years but is now offering the largest choice of the world’s most famous piano brands in the capital by creating the ultimate destination in South West London’s Chelsea Design Quarter. The new world class showroom, located at the iconic Talisman Building on New King’s Road, has an outstanding range of standard, and art cased grand and upright pianos on view to try before making the purchase of a lifetime. There is also a custom design studio which allows clients to have input to personalize their new piano, or work with designers and manufacturers to create a unique and very personal statement piece. In addition, the showroom interior has been designed by Ken Bolan and furnished with fine art, 20th century designer furniture, antiques and objets d’art, creating a truly unique atmosphere and ambience. Nick Rusling, Coach House Pianos’ founder, says: “We are very excited to be able to bring our expertise along with the most amazing choice of quality pianos that London has ever seen. The last few months have made everyone realise how important our homes and interests are, and we have seen a massive surge in desire to acquire better and more beautiful pianos for home environments. Our team pride themselves on
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being able to give unbiased advice within relaxed, homely surroundings in order to share our passion with you for pianos that are as unique as you are, both in tonal quality and aesthetic design. There is hardly anything in the world today that carries forward the inspiration and joy of music and such happy memories like a wonderful piano. The piano has become more than just a musical instrument. It is a focal point of art and design within the home – maybe also a symbol of wealth and sophistication - but truly an investment in memories and moments far beyond monetary value for generations to come.”
THE DETAILS 79-91 New Kings Road, London, SW6 4SQ T: 020 8088 5858 coachhousepianos.co.uk thepianistplatform.com
FEATURE
RumJava Artisan Crafted Rums
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umJava Artisan Crafted Rums are all natural and inspired by a passion for Caribbean culture, rum, and coffee. We sat down with RumJava’s Founder and CEO, Brian Cunningham, to discuss their unique approach to the craft of rum-making and how they are leading the trendsetting cocktail scene in the UK. RumJava is an all-natural, premium coffeeinfused craft rum, conceived in the U.S. Virgin Islands from our own coffee company, Java’Mon Coffee. Using high-quality Florida cane, RumJava is twice-distilled in a copper column, pot still in Clewiston, Florida. Artisan crafted in small batches, Brian and Mindy have personally nurtured every part of their proprietary production process from formulation, to mixing, testing, and tasting. After making base rum, they naturally infuse freshly roasted Java’Mon Coffee beans and other natural ingredients such as vanilla, coconut, hazelnut, chocolate or cinnamon to achieve amazing, well-balanced flavour profiles in RumJava Signature, Cacao’mon, Cinna’Mon Bay and Espresso Rum Cream. Each flavour can be enjoyed neat , in an artisan crafted cocktail, or as a twist to a classic cocktail and can be found across the country in trend setting cocktail bars, restaurants, pubs, and retailers. RumJava’s versatility leads to incredible adoption
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both on and off-trade. According to Bryan Rodriguez, Assistant Spirits Buyer at Harvey Nichols, ‘’RumJava offers a delicious range of Flavoured Rum with a fresh coffee flavour that makes them stand out from the crowd. The Espresso Rum Cream Liqueur with Vanilla, Chocolate and Hazelnut is one of my personal favourites and always has a place in my fridge.’’ One of the top new rums in the UK, RumJava has set sales records at UK RumFest the last three successive years. Having appeared on Sunday Brunch, seen in British Vogue, British GQ and here in The London Life Magazines, RumJava has also been named a Top 11 Rum in the UK and one the top spiced rums in the UK. World class mixologist Andrei Pantiru of Soho’s intimate and posh Disrepute Cocktail Den chose RumJava for his new cocktail menu “because RumJava represents a new level of craftsmanship in spirits. The all-natural ingredients and complexity of flavours lead to tremendous versatility when creating a cocktail.” We asked founders Brian and Mindy Cunningham why they thought RumJava was having so much success in the UK. “The rum is of high quality and truly amazing. People, not a corporation craft all-natural RumJava. The packaging is sophisticated yet playful. Coffee, rum, and craft (RumJava) are on trend and while we create unique, enjoyable flavour, we are focused on our customers’ experience and the quality of RumJava. rumjava.com
OUT & ABOUT FEATURE
Best of British:
MERRYTHOUGHT PARTNERS WITH MULBERRY FOR FESTIVE TEDDY BEAR CAMPAIGN
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he UK’s oldest remaining teddy bear manufacturer has teamed up with fellow British heritage brand Mulberry to bring two special limited-edition teddy bears to the new 2020 festive collection. Merrythought, which celebrates its 90th year in business this year, has hand-crafted the new characters from two shades of the finest mohair wool, with each sporting the famous Mulberry logo on their left leather paw. A pure wool tweed scarf, designed in Mulberry’s seasonal colours and also custom-woven in England, provides a truly unique finishing touch to each bear. Fourth-generation managing director of Merrythought, Sarah Holmes, expressed her delight to be working with the famous British fashion brand again. “We really enjoyed working with Mulberry for its 2019 festive campaign and were overwhelmed by the response our Merrythought bears received, with one colour selling out within just a few days. The team in Ironbridge is very proud to collaborate with Mulberry once again. We have created two beautiful teddy bears that are not only entirely British-made, right down the traditionallywoven scarf, but which we hope will bring joy to their customers for many years to come. “ Merrythought teddy bears are world-renowned and sold as far afield as Australia and Japan, but are proudly made in Britain in the same factory the company started 90 years ago. With a highly-skilled team making every bear by hand, it’s a meticulous 15-stage process which uses the finest natural
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THE DETAILS The Mulberry teddy bears are priced at £155 and are presented in a British-made luxury gift box. Bear height - 30cm Bear width - 22cm Box height - 26.5cm Box width - 18cm Material Mohair & Wool 70% Mohair, 20% Wool, 10% Lambskin Both collectable bears are being sold exclusively from mulberry.com.
materials. Charlotte O’Sullivan, Mulberry’s Brand and Marketing Director, said: “We are delighted to continue our collaboration with Merrythought this year, with the creation of another limited edition collection of Mulberry bears. Last year’s collaboration was a great success with our customers and we look forward to introducing them to this year’s arrivals.”
ART
Internationally acclaimed
‘THE ART OF BANKSY’ EXHIBITION is coming to Covent Garden. 25 March 2021 – 26 September 2021. The UK’s first chance to see the world’s largest touring collection of Banksy artworks
THE DETAILS Tickets to this long-awaited exhibition are the perfect gift for any culture-seeker this Christmas. Tickets on sale now at artofbanksy.co.uk or call 08440 412001 50 Earlham St, West End, London WC2H 9LJ @ArtBanksyLondon Covid 19 social distancing will be enforced throughout the exhibition as well as safety protocols throughout the space.
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nticipated to be one of the stand-out shows of the spring and not to be missed, the world’s largest touring exhibition of Banksy Artworks is coming to London. For the very first time, the UK will host an array of unique pieces from the mysterious political activist, satirist and artist, who has spent most of the last three decades anonymously tagging the streets of the world. This globally acclaimed showcase features original and authenticated works associated with, arguably, the most intriguing and talked-about artist in modern history. On display are prints, canvasses, screen prints, sculptures, unique works and limited-edition pieces mainly dated between the years 1997 to 2008, the period which resulted in Banksy’s most recognisable and well-known works. On loan from private collectors across the globe, the colossal collection includes authenticated and certified Banksy artworks rarely seen in public, alongside iconic favourites such as HMV Dog and Girl and Balloon. Infamous prints, sculptures and limited editions will be scattered across a vast 12,000 square foot space in the heart of Covent Garden. From Tel Aviv to Toronto, from Melbourne to Miami, the exhibition has welcomed over 750,000
visitors worldwide. Following Banksy’s Show me the Monet artwork collecting over £7.5m at auction, public intrigue around one of the most talked-about artists of the 21st century seems to only be increasing. Decades of rumours continue as to the identity of this world record-breaking artist. Although The Art of Banksy is not authorised or curated in collaboration with the artist himself, international specialist in the Street Art Genre, Chris Ford, successfully steps up as curator. Chris was instrumental in developing the commercial rise of Banksy’s artwork in the secondary market, successfully placing multi-million pound works into prestigious international collections. Below: Flower Thrower, part of The Art of Banksy private collection.
Phillipson Fine Art
Sourcing contemporary fine art for private and corporate clients +44 (0)7767 677 677 www.phillipsonfineart.co.uk
ART
Shop the Exquisite Discover incredible pieces – with equally intriguing stories to tell – at premium online antiques marketplace 2Covet
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one of a kind 15th Century sculpture, a 1950s Charles Eames for Vitra swivel armchair upholstered in on-trend forest green and a mid 18thcentury giltwood chinoiserie mirror…the stock at online marketplace 2Covet is as varied as it is beautiful. The website launched at the end of last year with the aim of connecting antiques lovers with world-renowned dealers. Today, over 50 specialist national and international dealers exhibit their pieces here and, with items organised clearly by category, it’s easy to seek out much longed-for furniture, art, lighting and decorative pieces – often with an amazing story to tell. Currently on 2Covet there’s a 19th century writing desk that featured in the 1962 James Bond film Dr No and an inscribed medicine chest that belonged to William Beatty – the Irish surgeon who attended to Admiral Lord Nelson during the Battle of Trafalgar. ‘For me, the most exciting part of working with antiques is finding out their provenance,’ says director Zara Rowe. ‘I love discovering pieces that have a history – it’s what makes antiques so special.’ Zara runs 2Covet with Charles Wallrock and Steve Sly – two seasoned antique dealers, who between them have spent 85 years working in the industry. ‘Charles launched his career by selling his wares to the antiques department of Harrods, while Steve’s teenage love of antiques developed into a lifelong career in high-end Japanese art and antiques,’ says Zara. The trio’s eyes are certainly honed towards quality and prestige – there’s a drawing by LS Lowry and a set of 16th-century apostle spoons, presented by Charles II to Martha Clayton (wife of the Lord Mayor of London) on the site. ‘We are selective with the dealers that we work with and our tough vetting process means we only choose 64 DECEMBER 2020
the best specialists in each field – be that silver from the London Silver Vaults or primitive furniture from Wakelin & Linfield,’ says Zara. As for whether 2Covet has a niche, Zara explains: ‘Yes, absolutely. We are showcasing the finest pieces from the world’s best dealers.’
ABOVE AND LEFT Manchester Street Scene, LS Lowry; Antique Ziegler carpet
2covet.com | 020 8092 7553 | info@2covet.com Or follow us on social media Facebook - @2covetmarketplace Instagram - @2covetmarketplace
ABOVE Surgeon Beatty’s medicine chest, 1803; Bureau Plat in the Louis XIV manner by Toms & Luscombe
Over 7,000 exquisite works of art, antiques and design from world renowned dealers.
WWW.2COVET.COM
OUT & ABOUT
AALONDON GALLERY Contemporary Aboriginal Art @aalondongallery
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ounded in January 2019, AALondon Gallery is the result of our passion for Contemporary Aboriginal Art. This year we are also collaborating and promoting British Artists, glass, wood, drawings, pottery, ceramics and paintings. Home to a wide range of artists and artistic styles, has become one of the most talked about galleries in the area. Contemporary aboriginal art is gaining popularity in the UK for its combination of vivid colours and storytelling. The paintings are great in both home and corporate, and always prove to be a talking point. All the paintings are simply superb; the detail and story behind each piece is truly unique. The history behind them, the ancestry and techniques that have been passed from generation to generation, makes them even more special. The ladies who paint clearly have a gift, and their ability to work with colour is sublime. Examples of the collection are on my website www.AALondongallery.com, and Instagram @AALondonGallery. Start your collection, with sizes and prices to suit everyone. Our paintings are available for purchase stretched and unstretched. We provide stretching service for gallery purchased paintings only. We also provide a free home delivery service for W4 and deliver to other London boroughs (delivery fee based on location).
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“Contemporary aboriginal art is gaining popularity in the UK for its combination of vivid colours and storytelling�
24 Devonshire Road, Chiswick, London W4 2HD D contact@AALondonGallery.com ECEMBER 2020
JANE VAUX
Jane Vaux is a prolific painter of many subjects, but her street scenes with reflection of light create a feeling of renewal from the rain. She is becoming highly collectable selling throughout the country and internationally with an increasing client list. Paintings • Paddington station • St Pauls Cathedral • London Skyline • Chiswick House • Chiswick House Gardens
JULIE SAJOUS
Originally trained as a Fashion Designer, my career has spanned many aspects of art and design; from commercial fashion to painting, ceramics, plaster casting, Caribbean carnival costume design and illustration. My paintings, mostly in acrylics, come from what I see around me in this gorgeous part of the world. The Isle of Wight is surrounded by constantly changing seas and stunning, wildly varied landscape. This
provides me with plenty of inspiration for my work; sometimes figurative, sometimes semi-abstract. I love colour and as a result of my design background, enjoy painting with combinations that are perfectly balanced, whether calming or vibrant.
LISA RIDGERS
Lisa Ridgers was born on the South Coast of England in September of 1968. She moved to America when she was 22 and has worked as a full-time, professional artist since 2000. She began her art career in Arizona, where she learned to paint before moving to the Midwest where she now lives and works in Dayton, Ohio. Since her early days studying with two prominent contemporary artists (R.Clearwater and S Jacobs), she has continued on as a, primarily, self- taught artist; developing her own unique methods and process for her
paintings. She still finds that the rich colours and drastic scenery of the desert influence her work along with the harmonious balance brought about by her love for the ocean and the palette of the countryside. She works predominantly with Golden professional grade acrylics accented with a range of mediums, use of unconventional tools; that in their contradiction create a complimentary, unique look. Always seeking growth, Lisa enjoys experimenting with new techniques, technology and mediums which in turn keeps her work fresh and constantly evolving. Lisa’s multi- media works have been described as a fusion of organic palette, natural elements and inner meditations. Her art can be found in both corporate and private collections throughout the world. The subject matter of her paintings range from her expressive non-subjective works, contemporary figurative representations and ethereal abstracted landscapes.
www.AALondongallery.com DECEMBER 2020
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OUT & ABOUT
AALONDON GALLERY Contemporary Aboriginal Art @aalondongallery
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OTHER GUEST ARTISTS: • Jon BD - Ceramics pigs • Humphrey Banhgam - Drawings • Graeme H - Glass • Lynn Young Paintings • Roz Wallis - Pottery • Phil Atrill - Glass • Necklaces - handmade in Australia
IMAGES: 1. The popular pigs that bring a smile to everyone’s face porcelain/pottery Pigs in Boots by Jon D 2. Painting by Lynn Young Autumn Sunbeam’s 3. Cherry shallow bowl with gloss lacquer by Andy Fortune (reclaimed wood) 4. Pig by Humphray Bangham 5. The necklace is made in Australia this one is a slice of recycled Didgeridoo 6. Horizon Vases by Phil Atrill 7. Chestnut bowl. All his pieces have a touch of retro 8: Raku Bowl by Roz Wallis
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24 Devonshire Road, Chiswick, London W4 2HD D contact@AALondonGallery.com ECEMBER 2020
www.AALondongallery.com
GEMMA LESSINGER After years of working in fashion I re-discovered painting during lockdown. My pieces are characterised by their myriad of colours and textured movements capturing aerial views of the Cornish shoreline. Texture is my signature, using sea salt and sand in acrylic paint to build depth and movement to iconic wave breaks and beach locations. The distruction and pollution of the waters that surround us is at the forefront of a lot of people’s minds of late. We must start to respect them – we cannot survive without them. I donate a percentage of my work from each sale to Surfers Against Sewage to help their important environmental work. By painting the beauty of the ocean I hope I can help raise awareness to protect them. Website: www.gemmalessinger.com Tel: 07762 307941 • Email: gemmalessingerart@gmail.com Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest: @gemmalessingerar
“Freshly Picked” 40” X 48” Original Oil on canvas
“A Dream Come True” 30” x 60” Original Oil on canvas
Prints on paper or canvas are available. www.kimberleycook.com email; kfcook@shaw.ca 1-40-3-700-7915
ART
AnaCo.Art Exploring frontiers between art and architecture
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na, UK based artist, has the wonderful gift of bringing a personal aesthetic stamp in everything she chooses to do. Her architecture degree led her to explore her artistic side and create artworks with significant meaning inspired by the surrounding natural world and the built environment.
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Her accomplishments, whether they are architecture projects, paintings, modelling or crafting, they are interconnected through the same fluid language, they tell the same story. Unseen details from nature are her main inspiration and lead her to create spectacular organic artworks, with an energetic and full of vitality chromatic. Whether it is about the deepness of the marine life or of unseen elements and phenomena, she explores fascinating worlds and she brings to the surface their astounding beauty. As an artist, she experiments with a lot of courage by using a wide range of multimedia tools and mixed media techniques, creating a unique stylistic synergy between them. Her aesthetic branches out from ordinary patterns because she follows, with authenticity, a spectacular sense of beauty which brings distinction and class to the most innovative artistic experiments. Find her at: anacoart.com Instragram at: @anaco.art
PAT R I C I A V O L K New Sculpture Now
Celebrating 50 Women Sculptors To Celebrate Patricia Volk being chosen for the publication 50 Women Sculptors Henry Saywell has a selection of her works on view by appointment in his London gallery. ’50 Women Sculptors’ is the first book to give an overview of Women Sculptors. Volk is in very illustrious company alongside Elizabeth Frink, Rachel Whiteread, Sophie Ryder and Barbara Hepworth, Lousie Bourgeois and many more’ 2 3 R D NOV 20 20 TO 2 3RD DEC 20 20 Henry Saywell | 291 Lillie Road | Fulham | London SW6 7LL www.henrysaywell.com By appointment
ART
Antique Maps & Prints
“Old World Prints ship their Maps around the world with full track and trace visibility”
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ld World Prints sell stunning reproductions of Antique Maps & Prints from the 16th Century to the early 20th Century. Their Studio uses state-of-the-art technology to capture and reproduce the vivid colours and incredible detail of these iconic Maps and Prints. Their collection includes Antique Maps of the World, The Continents, individual Countries and Cities as well as many “Birdseye View” Prints of Major U.S. Cities. They also stock a range of Wildlife Prints by the world-renowned naturalist, John James Audubon. Old World Prints use only the finest paper and inks to ensure that your chosen print will stand the test of time. Their paper is a Museum Matte Archival Paper with a weight of 310gsm, and they use the most technologically advanced inks and printers available to produce vivid colours and intricate detail that will not fade over time. They also have the ability to print extremely large prints (up to 44” x 100”) to really make an impact in an office or commercial setting. Old World Prints ship their Maps around the world with full track and trace visibility. The Prints are carefully packed in acid free paper, loosely rolled and then encased in a sturdy cardboard mailing tube for maximum protection. Many of
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the Maps come in standard frame sizes such as 24” x 36”, they can also help to tailor maps to certain frame sizes if required. In addition to the extensive catalogue available on their website, Old World Prints have hundreds of other maps in their collection being prepared for sale. So if you’re looking for a specific City or Country and can’t see it on their website they may well have it and if not they will do their very best to find it for you.
THE DETAILS A Map from Old World Prints would brighten up any wall and would also make a wonderful Christmas or Housewarming Gift. Please see oldworldprints.com or follow them on Instagram @oldworldprintsshop. Their contact email is info@oldworldprints.com.
A family business providing exclusive valet parking at Gatwick Airport since 1992.
Try our hotel… Have your car collected from the Terminal Forecourt and walk direct into check-in. On your return your car is delivered to the Forecourt and you can drive straight home. No Buses – No Waiting Our customised car park is only 3 minutes from The terminal enabling a prompt and reliable service. Car Park vetted annually by Surrey Police and holder of Trading Standards ‘Buy with Confidence’ award.
Book online at: www.tudorrose.co.uk or telephone 01293 822844
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Specialist Property Management Woodfold offers a new approach to private residence management in Central London. We specialise in looking after all aspects of your home, residence or property portfolio through a highly discreet service that is tailored to your detailed requirements. Our aim is to give our clients full reassurance that their properties are properly maintained, repaired and serviced at all times, taking the strain out of London property ownership and supporting our clients’ lifestyles. Your trusted Partner. Always by your side.
Woodfold Group Limited 141 King’s Road, London, SW3 4PW +44 (0)20 3642 5010 info@woodfoldgroup.com
LUXURY RESIDENCE MANAGEMENT
ART
Brighten up your home and office with Original Fine Art and Limited Edition Fine Art Prints from London based Abstract Expressionist Artist
Anna Kosa A
nna Kosa is a London-based abstract expressionist painter with a background in applied positive psychology and coaching psychology. Her work investigates the complexities of the human condition and captures the feelings, mood states and process of emotional healing in colourful canvas compositions. The act of creating her paintings is Anna’s way of processing the impacts of her past and everyday experiences in a form of externalised visual selfreflection, observing her thoughts through the lens of positive psychology and post traumatic growth. Anna works on large compositions of canvas mosaics that represent the everchanging perceptions of reality and practices a delicate balance of mindful decision making and letting go of control, helping her to stay present in the moment. She starts each collection with a specific feeling in mind and allows her intuition to guide her in mixing her paints from primary, fluorescent and metallic colours. She uses multiple pieces of non-attached canvases to create her artworks, resulting in an endless combination of orientations for the owner to hang the artworks by. 74 DECEMBER 2020
She exercises minimal control in her creative process and let her mood states, intuition and the media guide her, resulting in truly unique artwork mosaic pieces, the outcome of which cannot be predicted in advance nor replicated identically due to the highly experimental nature of her creative process. “ I believe that art is a powerful tool for selfreflection and the story we tell about ourselves is so important. When looking at my paintings, my aim is to stimulate the viewer to reflect on how their previous experiences made them stronger. By creating contemplative surface textures, my intention is to help people create an empowering selfnarrative. I want my art to be a silent companion on people’s journey and empower the viewer in moments when they might feel powerless. � annakosa.com Instagram: anna_kosa_fine_art
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Seasonal Living
Celebrating Nature in December with artist Hayley Potter MA (RCA)
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ayley Potter is an artist and writer working in mixed media and ceramics. She trained at the Royal College of Art and now lives and works in Dorset. Her work is inspired by the folklore of plants and animals, and the stories that give us a unique sense of ownership over the land and spaces we visit. If you follow Hayley on Instagram, then you’ll know that seasonal living is key in her creative process. Both in her artwork and her practice she inspires her audience to bring nature into their spaces. She notes that the Christmas tree in December has been a tradition of our ancestors
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since the 4th Century. She says “Our ancestors believed that bringing any plant or tree into the home was a symbol of life amidst the darker evenings and colder weather.” Hayley says that just some seasonal foliage in a vase can be a connection with the natural and seasonal world outside. Or something less perishable such as artworks that celebrate the season. In Hayley’s studio she always makes sure there is a collection of seasonal inspiration to work with. She has two holly trees amidst other evergreens in her garden so they provide lots of inspiration, especially in their form and shapes, but she also loves to collect from hedgerows and the coast land sustainably, bringing plants, branches and seedheads into her space to inspire paintings, drawings and ceramics. Hayley aims for her studio to reflect the natural world outside, and she also presses and dries plants from each season so she has them to work with out of season. (She was creating Christmas and Winter cards in June this year so that’s very useful!) But she also works from life every week, painting the plants and creatures we share our land with. In her studio and home there is a seasonal rotation of artwork, she loves her walls to reflect what is happening outside, it brings her a lot of happiness and peace and especially this year has helped her to connect to seasonal living, faith in nature and a reminder that we are also nature too. This season, Hayley’s new Wild Blue winter collection of prints and cards feature bouquets of winter plants, hares, birds and continues to be inspired by what she describes as ‘everyday magic.’
THE DETAILS To learn more about Hayley please visit: Instagram @hayley_potter_studio hayleypotter.co.uk
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“Alex Ross, whose multi-award winning illustrations have become highly sought after as standalone works of art” 2020 has been a year of heroes, so we are proud and delighted to present The DC Legends Collection, celebrating the most iconic superheroes of all time - alongside the inevitable villain or two. The impressive line up includes Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman and of course, the Joker, some of the most memorable characters in fiction, comic book or otherwise. Each dynamic image is available as a framed 78 DECEMBER 2020
paper edition of 195, a larger framed box canvas edition of 195 and an exclusive, deluxe box canvas edition of only 49 copies, all are hand signed by the artist and come with Certificate of Authenticity. Which Iconic Superhero or Evil mastermind will you choose…? Available to buy online and in-store at Gallery 1066 Fine Art and all in time for Christmas. For the perfect gifts under the tree and to learn about other exciting offers please do get in touch with a member of our team. Wishing you all a superhero’s Christmas. gallery1066fineart.com
The Legends Collection by Alex Ross (and then underneath) ‘Wonder Woman: Defender Of Truth
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his year at Gallery 1066, we have teamed up with The Justice League and the forces of evil… at DC Comics’. Producing an extremely rare and collectable limited edition legends Collection by the master of DC illustrations; Alex Ross. Since its launch in 1934, DC Comics has paved the way for the entire industry with its strategies and styles, storylines and superheroes, becoming a major and much-loved part of American and international popular culture. DC has worked with some of the greatest artists in comic book history, from the original creators of Batman and Superman to the brilliant contemporary master of interpretation, Alex Ross, whose multi-award winning illustrations have become highly sought after as standalone works of art.
The Legends Collection by Alex Ross (and then underneath) ‘Tango With Evil’
The Legends Collection by Alex Ross (and then underneath) Original Seven
A SUPERHEROES CHRISTMAS
OUT & ABOUT
Moschino, Marc Jacobs and Prada appear on the Cakewalk for
THE BERKELEY
PRÊT-À-PORTEA WINTER 2020
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s The Berkeley opens to all, Prêtà-Portea is served for the first time since February. It returns with a joyful Winter season showcasing couture cakes inspired by designers from Dolce & Gabbana to Burberry and Simone Rocha. A favourite with fashionistas, Prêt-à-Portea gives a contemporary twist to afternoon tea with a collection of bold catwalk cakes. This season’s Prêt-à-Portea cakewalk features Marc Jacobs’ fuzzy 60s-inspired coat and hat ensemble, appearing as a joconde sponge and lemon confit, topped with citrus fromage blanc and a soft meringue whip. Prada sits alongside as a chocolate biscuit intricately piped with royal icing, to portray the sporty heels and ribbed socks that stomped down the runway. Simone Rocha’s dreamy pearl evening bag is crafted with Ivoire Valrhona chocolate. Once cracked, a Madagascar vanilla ganache and passion fruit jelly are revealed. Dolce & Gabbana embellished monochrome pieces with scarlet roses is depicted as a toasted coconut whipped ganache sitting on tiers of Jivara chocolate supreme and coconut sponge. Sugar red roses are the final flourish. Riccardo Tisci’s emerald green Burberry trench is a cake showcasing both matcha and black sesame mousse, set on a pistachio sablé and finished with fruit tuile lace and gold button details. 80 DECEMBER 2020
Finally, Moschino’s Marie Antoinette inspired mini gown which was modelled by Bella Hadid. This showstopper appears as a cake designed to share – a pink lady apple bavarois and Bramley apple compote sit on a cinnamon financier forming the vast pannier skirt, whilst the spiced biscuit torso is complete with royal icing evening gloves and an oversized wig. The afternoon tea launches with Alice Naylor Leyland as its festive tastemaker for November and December. Alice chose her personalised Edie Parker glittering clutch – given to her by her best friend Poppy Delevingne. It has been created as a mi-cuit almond cake with orange segments, sandwiched with marbled Opalys chocolate. ‘Alice’ is handwritten with edible gold glitter and the bag is topped with a gold sugar clasp.
THE DETAILS Prêt-à-Portea Winter season runs until Spring 2021 and served daily from 1pm - 5.30pm, starting at £75 per person. From 3rd January, starting at £60 per person. To make a reservation call +44 (0)20 7107 8866 or visit the-berkeley.co.uk/ knightsbridge-restaurants-bars/ fashion-afternoon-tea
OUT & ABOUT
The Connaught Bar is named best in the world!
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he Connaught Bar was crowned No.1 in the world by the prestigious World’s 50 Best Bars Awards 2020 during a virtual ceremony on Thursday, 5th November to honour the very best of the best in the industry. The Connaught Bar at The Connaught, in Mayfair, renowned for exceptional craftsmanship, landmark cocktails and daring new mixes has had a place on the Best Bar’s list since 2010. This year is the first time this institution for cocktail lovers has been named the official winner. The distinction comes at a difficult time as the UK entered a second lockdown last month, due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Agostino Perrone, Director of Mixology accepted the bar’s award via Zoom, and said “This accolade rounds off a long journey of dedication for the entire Connaught Bar team who have never stopped believing in our work. Our commitment to the hospitality industry and to our beloved guests has been our core pillar and driver for the past 12 years and in particular for the last 18 months. We have been working hard and keeping up, as individuals, professionals but foremost as a team and a bar community. Unity has been an
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“This accolade rounds off a long journey of dedication for the entire Connaught Bar team who have never stopped believing in our work”
essential factor and it will always be, for our team and for our industry.” The Connaught Bar opened at the hotel in 2008, designed by David Collins Studio and has continued to maintain its position at the forefront of the London cocktail scene, offering a mix of traditional cocktails with innovative twists, and has spearheaded the art of table side theatre with its signature Martini trolley. The award winning Connaught Bar has also won additional accolades this year including ‘Best International Team’ by Tales of the Cocktails 2020 and ‘Best Bar’ at this year’s GQ Food and Drink Awards. Cocktail lovers can enjoy a little of the bar’s magic at home with The Connaught Bar’s Collection. This features the bar’s cocktail shaker in silver and engraved, a whole host of bespoke glassware and The Connaught Bar Gin distilled and bottled in Mayfair. Bottled cocktails including the Martini and Negroni are available via Supper or for collection at The Connaught. The Connaught, Carlos Place, W1K 2AL Claridge’s, The Connaught, The Berkeley Maybourne Hotel Group maybourne.com
OUT & ABOUT
THE BERKELEY’S ICONIC BLUE BAR CELEBRATES 20 YEAR ANNIVERSARY
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he legendary Blue Bar at The Berkeley first opened its doors in October 2000. Created by the late great designer David Collins it was one of the first to make hotel bars a place to be seen and a ‘scene’, As The Berkeley looks back on two dazzling decades of drinks and glamorous hospitality, the Blue Bar marks this milestone with a special anniversary cocktail, the BB20. From day one, The Blue Bar became a haunt for entertainment royalty including Madonna and for its glamorous parties thrown by luminaries such as John Galliano, Zac Posen and Chanel. Naomi Campbell, Jade Jagger and fashion legend Isabella Blow flocked to the bar, as the place to be. The vibe set the Blue Bar apart from others and in 2002 the Blue Bar Volume 1 was released. This was a three CD compilation of hypnotic, chilled beats, world music, jazz and deep house of the time – the sounds of the Blue Bar. By popular
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demand, Volume 2 followed in 2005. The popularity of the Blue Bar continues at the forefront of the capital’s drinks scene. When lockdown saw the Blue Bar close for the first time, the team took their signature cocktails to the road on Blue Bar bikes - complete with tools of the trade and ingredients, arriving on doorsteps ready to mix the lucky households favourite Blue Bar cocktail. When the Blue Bar celebrated its 10 year anniversary, a whisky cocktail with caramel notes was created and called the BB10. Following in this tradition, the Blue Bar now unveils the BB20 - a fruity and floral concoction featuring vodka, jasmine, peach and lime, bottled in limited edition batches to purchase directly from the hotel. Raffaele di Monaco, from the Blue Bar says ‘It’s been an honour and a privilege to be at the helm of the Blue Bar for this landmark in its history. It is our goal to continue to lead the way.’ For more details visit the-berkeley.co.uk
“From day one, The Blue Bar became a haunt for entertainment royalty including Madonna”
FEATURE
Experience the magic of Wasing’s Winter Wonderland Wedding Showcase 2021
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nspired by the season of sparkle, Winter Wonderland will run at Wasing Park, in Berkshire, from 9th until 26th January providing inspiration and ideas for couples interested in hosting their wedding, not only in the chilly months but the warmer ones too. While it may be cold outside, Wasing Park will be dressed to impress, warming hearts with twinkling fairy lights, candles and delightful floral displays. Couples can choose to marry in the onsite Parish Church, outdoors in the Victorian Summerhouse or in the elegant Garden Room. The wedding breakfast and reception is held in the majestic Castle Barn. They have 26 boutique bedrooms, including a Honeymoon Suite to die for, with the biggest bed in Berkshire, a Granary sat atop staddle stones and a fairy tale Dovecote. During this extended period Wasing has been without weddings, there have been many updates and improvements made at the stunning wedding venue. Landscaping has also been high on the agenda with a new raised garden and water fountain, creating another perfect backdrop for photos. A stunning mural in The Stables bar, depicting the beauty of the Estate and its resident wildlife, has been created by artist Frederick Wimsett which is also a wonderful addition. Another planned enhancement is a stretch
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tent floating over the terrace at the back of the Castle Barn. Adorned with comfortable seating, cosy blankets, twinkling lights and fire pits, this new area will give couples more outdoor space that can be used all year round. High risk guests not comfortable eating inside will now have an alternative space and it will be brilliant for the first dance, being surrounded by socially distanced friends and family! There is plenty of space for a band or DJ too. Just an hour from London and a short drive from Oxford, Winchester, Guildford and Reading, Wasing Park really is the ultimate exclusive use wedding venue perfect for couples looking for a contemporary or traditional wedding. To arrange your Covid-secure appointment please telephone 0118 907 0199 or email wasing@wedding-venues.co.uk
WEEKEND BREAKS AT WASING Start 2021 with a retreat in the Berkshire countryside. Relax and enjoy a Wellness Weekend Break at Wasing in January. Give your mind and body a new year reboot and enjoy numerous outdoor wellness activities including Forest Bathing, Gong Baths, Yoga and Meditation. Feeling romantic? Valentine’s Day Weekend Breaks are available to book now for 12th to 14th February 2021. Prices for weekend breaks start at £195 per room, per night, bed and breakfast and breaks are offered on a minimum two-night basis. For further information and to book email bookings@wasing.co.uk wasing.co.uk
FEATURE
HazeltonClive:
Elite families deserve elite staff
“I need to hire domestic staff and I am worried that I won’t find someone I can trust my children and my entire family with.”
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e’ve all been there. Welcoming a stranger in your house to take care of your children or to chauffeur them to school, to cook for your family or to perform housekeeping tasks could be quite a thrilling adventure. That’s why when you work with HazeltonClive to recruit domestic staff, the background checks go well beyond the British Standard 7858 requirements: we perform international background checks for non-British candidates, court judgments checks, credit reports and advanced reference checks. 88 DECEMBER 2020
Not to mention that all the staff that we recommend gets COVID tested before starting the work for your family. You deserve your “me-time”! Get your freedom back! Start hiring the nanny, housekeeper, chauffeur, PA & chef you need today. All our staff comes highly recommended. Elite families deserve elite staff! *T&Cs apply londonstaffagency.co.uk
FEATURE
Lord’s Cricket Ground and Tommy Banks announce perfect partnership
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ne of Britain’s finest chefs, Tommy Banks, will be serving up a fine dining experience at Lord’s Cricket Ground in 2021 when he becomes the opening chef of the new Edrich restaurant in a three-year partnership with Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC). The contemporary restaurant will open as part of the new Compton and Edrich stands, offering Debenture-Seat Holders dishes boasting the best of British flavours alongside the finest views on major international match days, especially curated by Tommy. Born and bred in a small North Yorkshire village, Tommy’s first passion was cricket, dreaming of becoming a professional cricketer. Life however took him in a different direction, with his natural culinary talents leading him to swap cricket whites for chef whites. From his family’s farming background and working in his parent’s pub kitchen at a young age, Tommy has become highly acclaimed, known for unique
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flavours and dedication to sustainably sourced food, from his own farm in Oldstead. In 2013, he was awarded a Michelin star aged 24, and he owns and runs two thriving restaurants, as well as a premium food box delivery service Made In Oldstead. He has also won BBC’s Great British Menu twice, and is due to compete in a Christmas special of the show this December. In 2019, he combined his two passions of cricket and food, heading up the kitchen for a sold out Lord’s Dining Club, an exclusive event in which Michelin-starred chefs host a culinary experience in the famous Long Room at Lord’s. Looking forward to the new collaboration with MCC, Tommy said: “I’m incredibly honoured to head up the new restaurant of such an exciting development at the iconic Ground. I absolutely love cricket, and Lord’s is the pinnacle ground for any fan - it is such a special place. Food is a huge part of a day at the cricket; after all, this is the only sport that still pauses for lunch and tea! That’s why it’s so important to create the highest quality dining experience. I can’t wait to get started on producing a cutting edge menu to match the contemporary new stands.” The Edrich restaurant will be available to Debenture Seat Holders of the new Compton and Edrich stands. Enquiries can be sent to debentures@mcc.org.uk or call 020 7616 8726.
“The contemporary restaurant will open as part of the new Compton and Edrich stands”
FEATURE
HOST YOUR EVENT AT THE LEGENDARY ABBEY ROAD STUDIOS The most famous recording studio in the world is also available as a truly unique events venue.
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he legendary Studios One, Two and Three at Abbey Road are suitable for an array of corporate and private events, from lavish dinners and receptions to conferences, award shows and live performances. Abbey Road Studios also offer once-in-a-lifetime experiences, including a bespoke Record A Song package, which offers the opportunity to record in the rooms famously used by artists including The Beatles, Pink Floyd, Adele, Amy Winehouse, U2 and Kanye West. Whatever your vision, the team are here to help create a unique experience for you and your guests. It will truly be an event to remember for years to come. “I was almost speechless…it was just brilliant. The venue is magical, and the evening was outstanding.” – Zosia Nurse, Ernst & Young Studio One is the largest purpose built recording
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“I was almost speechless…it was just brilliant. The venue is magical, and the evening was outstanding.” – Zosia Nurse, Ernst & Young
studio in the world. It’s an impressive space with an unparalleled history of orchestral film score recordings, including Star Wars, The Lord of the Rings Trilogy and the Harry Potter films, as well as by artists including Sam Smith, Kanye West, U2 and Harry Styles. Studio Two has an incredible heritage; it was The Beatles’ recording studio for most of their career, where they recorded 190 songs. Pink Floyd recorded Dark Side of the Moon in Studio Two, and it is still used every day by artists including Ed Sheeran, Adele and Noel Gallagher. It is an atmospheric space and looks almost exactly the same as it did when used by The Beatles. Studio Three is a modern space with a warm and contemporary aesthetic. It was Pink Floyd’s favoured studio in the late 1960s, and was also used by The Beatles for the recording of the Revolver album. It has since been used by artists such as Lady Gaga, Florence + The Machine, Nile Rodgers and Liam Gallagher, and was the location for Amy Winehouse’s last ever recording. To book your next event at Abbey Road Studios speak to the Events team by email: events@abbeyroad.com or phone: 0207 7266 7350; Abbey Road Studios, 3 Abbey Road, London, NW8 9AY abbeyroad.com
FEATURE
CHRISTMAS GIFT IDEAS
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A SPECIAL GIFT FOR YOUR FAVOURITE GIRLS
OFFER: BUY A PAIR & SAVE
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The best anti-aging product ever 100% mulberry silk pillowcases make for the ultimate beauty sleep. No wrinkles, no bed head, no sleep creases. Get 10% off when you buy a pair - limited time only. Shop online now annacraven.com
THE ALPACA CLOTHING CO Make Christmas extra special this year by giving the gift of alpaca, alpaca has many special advantages over other natural fibres and is the most sought after natural fibre due to it’s softness and warmth. Alpaca is hypoallergenic and eco-friendly. Discover our huge range of artisan products, with gifts for her, him and the whole family. thealpacaclothingco.co.uk
THE ENGLISH DRINKS COMPANY The English Drinks Company, based in the Shropshire countryside, is the producer of small batch, award winning gins with the emphasis on quality and exceptional flavour. Produced in one of England’s oldest distilleries, they are proud of the heritage that goes into making each of their six gins. All available at englishdrinkscompany.co.uk
FARINO Unique top-loading work, shop or travel bags which glide effortlessly alongside on 360º spinner rollerblade wheels. Made in stylish, weatherproof neoprene and available in four colours, with a secure laptop pocket too. The Farino Carrier takes the weight off your shoulders. Use the code GIFT30 for 30% off. Website: carriedbyfarino.com Instagram: carriedbyfarino Facebook: carriedbyfarino 020 7207 0858
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5 CLARE BROWNLOW Clare Brownlow has set herself apart by painting using pheasant tail feathers and ink to create paintings of wild life form around the world with vibrancy and movement. She has exhibited her work globally and has been a runner up twice in the wildlife artist of the year awards. clare@clarebrownlow.co.uk clarebrownlow.co.uk Instagram: pheasantfeatherart
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FOX AND CHAVE Select the perfect gift from Fox & Chave’s collection of nature and art inspired, hand finished silk accessories. Designs licensed from museums, art collections and artist estates raise vital royalty income to support those artists and institutions. Use LONDONLIFE15 to receive 15% off your online order. foxandchave.com 01494 725056
AUREE JEWELLERY
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ROCHEJEWELS I create luxe affordable handmade gemstone, gold and silver jewellery with a contemporary and antique flair. Gorgeous jewellery for anyone special in your life with a Rochejewels unique jewellery piece.
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Please use the code ILOVEXMAS at the checkout for a 15% discount across the range in my Etsy shop! Until 24 December. Etsy.com/rochejewels Instagram: Rochejewelsboutique Email: Rochelleshepherdjewels @gmail.com
Auree Jewellery is not for keeping hidden in a safe but to wear, enjoy and love. The collection is made up of classic pieces, which are loved by generations and made with the highest quality gold, silver and gemstones. With beautiful gift-wrapping in addition to free UK delivery and extended returns, it’s the perfect excuse to get Christmas sorted. Get 15% off with code LONDONLIFE until 31st December 2020 at aureejewellery.com
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FEATURE
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“A treat for the eyes and the taste buds!”
JING FLOWERING TEA GIFT SET This set includes four bulbs of single origin Flowering Jasmine & Lily, which, when infused, unfurl into a display of vibrantlycoloured flowers. The tea, TwoCup Tea-iere and two Glass Cups and Saucers come in a white gift box. A treat for the eyes and the taste buds! £60 jingtea.com
HAYTON POSEY Hayton Posey Flowers sparks the imagination and speaks louder than words. We transform an open space, creating conversation. They set the scene provoking the imagination. They proclaim attention and passion. Whimsical. Elegant. Romantic. Modern. Unexpected. Our Christmas Wreath collection are one of a kind. Hand crafted and available to order through haytonposey.com or follow @haytonposey
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FRIENDLY FACIAL SELECTION
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See the full range at friendlysoap.co.uk Use code LIFE15 for a sitewide 15% discount. 96 DECEMBER 2020
This fabulous Facial Selection is music to your ears, nose and cheeks, thanks to four handmade bars of natural soap that will leave you feeling perfectly pampered. All Friendly products ethically produced. They are vegan, cruelty-free and made by people paid a living wage, without using plastic, preservatives or sulphates. £9.95
EVIELAB Find Your Centre with Evielab’s sophisticated range of CBD products. These blends of CBD, CBG and natural terpenes are designed to enhance Intimacy, Focus, Immunity, Relief, Relaxation, Sleep and Sport. Each pocket-sized tube contains 70 micropearls, making it easy to monitor and take your daily dose whenever you feel the need. @nabinoofficial nabino.com
GIVE THE GIFT OF COMFORT THIS CHRISTMAS
13 “Let the eco-friendly elves at The Cheeky Panda take care of the hassle”
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THE CHEEKY PANDA BAMBOO ESSENTIALS This Christmas, don’t fill your trolley with essentials – there won’t be any room for fun stuff like festive food and presents! Let the eco-friendly elves at The Cheeky Panda take care of the hassle by delivering loo roll directly to your door instead. Their planet-loving bamboo range also includes biodegradable baby wipes, sustainable straws and forest-friendly facial tissues, guaranteeing you a greener Christmas. Available to buy at thecheekypanda.com
Luxurious faux fur slipper boots and hot water bottles by Helen Moore England. Perfect gifts to make the most of spending a cosy time at home. The entire collection is made in Helen’s own factory, which is located in a beautiful Devon village. helenmoore.com 01884 860900
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SARAH PYE FINE ART
HECTOR & QUEEN
This Christmas, fill your walls with original contemporary paintings, depicting life’s beautiful views, with a playful sense of fun, colour and light. Commissions, home consultancy and studio visits by appointment. 07810 833617 sarahsart.co.uk mail@sarahsart.co.uk
Hector & Queen design an inspirational range of unique gift ideas for little ones and those not so little whatever the occasion! From award winning animal slippers & rugs, Ladies’ stylish handprinted slouch tops, leather bags with gorgeous detachable straps, fun handprinted children’s hoodies & sweat tops, to a contemporary range of sumptuously soft throws, wool & cowhide beanbags/pouffes and much, much more! Use Code: LONDON to receive 15% off & free P&P (UK) hectorandqueen.co.uk
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JEWELLERY BY ELISE By Elise is the premier destination on all things jewellery and fashion. Elise designs her own range of gorgeous Gemstone and Freshwater Pearl jewellery. Her collection includes necklaces with her signature clasp so that pendants can be added to change their look, Pearl and Gemstone bangles and a glittering display of earrings. To complement her jewellery Elise sources affordable fashion pieces that reflect her signature style of casual elegance. Her aim is to provide both jewellery and fashion that has a sense of versatility so that you can add your own style. Elise is always on call for any help or guidance. byelise.com 01653-694932
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ANNA WRIGHT Anna Wright’s colourful and humorous illustrations make a fun and thoughtful gift. She is proud to champion UK manufacturing. With the exception of the trays, which are handmade in Sweden, her collection of prints, cards, mugs and fabrics are all made in the UK. annawright.co.uk
AUGUSTINE JEWELS
Augustine Jewels is a luxury British jewellery designer, shortlisted for Jewellery Designer of the Year. They specialise in sourcing extraordinary gemstones for bespoke pieces. These stunning ready to wear rings from the South of France Collection are available in sky blue topaz, green amethyst, citrine and rose quartz in Silver (£250), Gold Plate (£300), 9ct Gold (£600) or 18ct Gold (£850) – they make for a truly beautiful gift. You can now get 20% off your online purchases using the code XMAS20 at checkout. augustinejewels.com info@augustinejewels.com 020 3556 5780 75 Westbourne Park Road, Notting Hill, London, W2 5QH
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LESSER SPOTTED BRITAIN Lesser Spotted Britain’s funny UK road sign mugs, coaster sets, tea towels, prints, books & more make hilarious stocking fillers for the men in your life! Photos of signs to genuine villages that puts smiles on faces - from Ginge in Oxfordshire to Happy Bottom in Dorset via Bell End in Northants - also feature maps showing village location! Exclusive 10% discount code LIFE10 at lesserspotted.com
21 SILVER KEEPSAKES FROM MEMORIES LONDON Add your own personal message to the capsule or place a little gift in one of our beautiful keepsake boxes. Memories London’s sterling silver and 18k gold range of jewellery and intricate pieces make the perfect gift this Christmas. There are 2 collections featuring either a bee or dove charm and any combination of capsule and charm is available. memories.london 020 3151 8554
“Guaranteed to make you feel special whatever the occasion”
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SUSIE PRINGLE CASHMERE AND ACCESSORIES Something spoiling for everyone! Please go to susiepringle.com to look at our carefully chosen ideas for Christmas for every age group. Our superb quality Scottish Cashmere and our jewellery all designed by us using only the finest materials. Guaranteed to make you feel special whatever the occasion. Feel free to call us as well on 01491 571567. susiepringle.com E: susiepringle@aol.com
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IRVIN FLYING JACKET
The Irvin jacket is a legend. Bearing the authentic Irvin, woven label you can be assured this is a genuine article. Manufactured in the UK from first-rate, hard-wearing materials, this is an ideal Christmas gift for the aviation enthusiast who has everything. £850.00 Available now from rafmuseumshop.com Royal Air Force Museum Enterprises Limited, Grahame Park Way, Colindale, London, NW9 5LL
RAF OPERATIONS ROOM SECTOR CLOCK Ideal for the kitchen or study, the RAF Operations Room Sector Clock was originally introduced during the First World War to monitor the movements of German aircraft. Later, during the Second World War it played a significant role in the Battle of Britain. £110.00 Available now from rafmuseumshop.com Address: Royal Air Force Museum Enterprises Limited, Grahame Park Way, Colindale, London, NW9 5LL
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25 JAPAN HOUSE LONDON Japan House London, located in the heart of Kensington High Street, is home to a unique retail space which blurs the lines between gallery and shop. Visit us this festive season to experience the best in Japanese craft, design and hospitality while browsing our extensive range of Japanese products, hand-picked for their quality of craftsmanship and design. From homeware and kitchenware to stationery, books, fashion and accessories. japanhouselondon.uk
D. R. HARRIS & CO. LTD. For well over 100 years, D. R. Harris’s Original Pick-MeUp tonic was a well-known hangover cure. It has been revived in a reimagined form as a cocktail bitters and includes many efficacious and appetising ingredients to give one a boost when it’s most needed. Follow the original recipe by adding Pick-Me-Up to water with an effervescent vitamin or add to a range of cocktails for a complex and interesting flavour. D. R. Harris & Co. Ltd. 29 St. James’s Street, London, SW1A 1HD. drharris.co.uk and originalpickmeup.co.uk 020 7930 3915
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THE DARTMOOR SHEPHERD
Lewis and Flora are first generation shepherds, farming all three of Dartmoor’s native, rare breed sheep in harmony with nature. They create beautifully unique products using their sheepskins, which are a bi-product from their own native flocks. They sell an array of stunning handmade items perfect for winter, including homewares, gifts and accessories. All their sheepskins are expertly tanned in Britain’s oldest tannery a few short miles from where their flocks graze and all their products are handmade in South West England. thedartmoorshepherd.co.uk sales@thedartmoorshepherd.co.uk Instagram: @dartmoorshepherd
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GLADSTN LONDON Late Nights & Lie Ins anyone? Journeys in 2021 will seem more precious than ever so make yours special with this beautiful unisex weekender from Gladstn London. Previously voted amongst the top British luxury brands to watch, Gladstn London creates iconic luggage with understated elegance and uncompromising craftsmanship. The fabulous Late Nights & Lie Ins is no exception, crafted from the finest leather yet designed to be lightweight and finished with precious Palladium-coated hardware. Choice of colours available on gladstnlondon.com or Instagram @Gladstonian
THE SILVER STABLE
Make a statement with this beautiful T-Bar curb necklace. It has a beautiful woven rope effect T-bar fastening with the option to add additional stirrup or horseshoe charm to the clasp in silver or 9ct gold. 14� necklace with 9ct solid gold clasp and gold stirrup. RRP: £310 thesilverstable.co.uk
IVY BAY New and vintage pieces, carefully curated to encourage moments of calm, to spark creativity, and to accessorise your adventures. Visit our web site to see our current collection. ivybay.uk @ivybay.uk
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31 TRAILBACKS Inspired by the hardworking rigger boot, originally designed for the North Sea oil riggers, Trailbacks are very stylish, handcrafted and fully waterproof footwear that have been redeveloped into a brilliant lowland walking boot suitable for both men and women. Walk the dog, attend a music festival or find that trail. trailback.co.uk DECEMBER 2020 101
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THE IVY CAFÉ WIMBLEDON GIFT CARD
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Struggling for gift inspiration? The Ivy Café Wimbledon gift card is the perfect way to treat friends or family this Christmas. They’ll get to enjoy the impeccable menu and service to match at any of our beautiful brasseries, or simply soak up their surroundings with a carefully crafted cocktail in hand. Why buy a present when you can gift an experience? The Ivy Café Wimbledon is open 7 days a week and offers sophisticated dining in a relaxed and welcoming environment. The Ivy Café Wimbledon gift card is available from a minimum of £25 and is set to put a smile on anyone’s face this festive season. theivycafewimbledon.com
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NORTH POLE CHRISTMAS SHOP™ North Pole Christmas Shop™ has been founded by Andrea the Elf, who has a love and passion for Christmas Decorations. His high quality products are perfect for the festive season coming up and make the perfect gift for Christmas addicts. It provides the best brands in Europe and in the US, with excellent customer service. Visit northpolechristmasshop.com and follow @northpolechristmas on Facebook.
SHEPHEARD-WALWYN Covering Lennon’s life from Liverpool to New York, Francis Kenny writes with sympathetic understanding of the confusion, pain and corrosiveness that can, at times, accompany the demands and expectations of the creative process at its highest level. With new material revealing the real source of inspiration of ‘Strawberry Fields’, we are provided with a thoughtprovoking insight into a complex mind and a genius in the making. With the Foreword by Bill Harry, lifelong friend of John Lennon and founder of Mersey Beat magazine. Use code LONDON20 for 20% OFF Available from: shepheard-walwyn.co.uk
35 THE GOVERNOR OLIVE OILS The Governor premium early harvest Extra Virgin Olive Oils from Corfu, are considered to be one of the healthiest in the world. The first to be granted a EU health claim, it is supercharged with naturally occurring anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antiviral compounds. It is a robust EVOO with a gentle grass aroma and a peppery finish. Its velvety mouthfeel and incredible length and complexity adds a layer of taste and luxury to any meal. Only 8500 hand numbered bottles produced per annum. 10% of all sales are donated to the Pink Ribbon Foundation. thegovernorevoo.co.uk thepinkribbonfoundation.org.uk
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FLY A BOEING 747
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£25
You can’t fly in one anymore – But you can fly the simulator. Come and see what was like to fly the ‘Queen of the Sky’ – the original JUMBO Jet. At Flight Simulators Midlands, Coventry Airport, we also have a Boeing 737 and Airbus A320 for you to try. The best ever Christmas gift. For more details flyfsm.co.uk 0800 999 7370 £25 discount for all readers - enter code QUEEN at checkout.
37 GALERIE PRINTS Galerie Prints offers gorgeous photography, art and vintage posters from the world of music, film, sport, social documentary, nature and much more. Featured photographers include Slim Aarons, Terry O’neill, Kevin Westenberg, Jill Furmnanovsky and Norman Parkinson to name a few. Prints are offered in a wide range of sizes and frames in both open and signed limited editions. Buy Fine Art Easily. at Galerie Prints. Galerie Prints Gallery, 152 Arthur Road, London SW19 8AQ 0208 947 6898 galerieprints.com
EMMA JANE KNIGHT
OUTSIDE GANG
Inspired by my international background, I created a multi-functional cashmere brand dedicated to providing women with top quality, sustainably sourced, innovative yet timeless, cashmere designs. Recently launched and endorsed by Trinny Woodall, the Scarf-Sarong collection, made in Lake Como, Italy, comes in six stunning colour ways using finest cashmere and softest, biodegradable, modal yarn. Cashmere Collection available at 75 Elizabeth Street, London SW1W 9PJ, FESTIVE POP BOUTIQUE throughout December 2020. emmajaneknight.com Instagram @emmajaneknightlondon
Outside Gang create high quality insulated drinks coolers, that are made in the UK! The perfect unique gift for anyone who loves to entertain. Simply add ice and your bottles and enjoy chilled drinks all evening. Perfect by the BBQ or in the kitchen. Created by a husband and wife team, Outside Gang believe in high end design, quality materials and clever functionality. Prices start at £109. outsidegang.com Graham: 07868 347469 15% OFF USE CODE: THELIFE15
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MELLIE’S BATH BOMBS Mellie’s Bath Bombs is a woman led, Veteran owned, UK small business. The products are filled to the brim with unique, sumptuous ingredients that will pamper and soothe leading to a luxurious and nourishing bath time pleasure. Visit melliesbathbombs.co.uk follow her on Facebook and Instagram @melliesbathbombs to find out more.
PODDY & BLACK Fabulously stylish, wet weather shoes and boots, handcrafted in soft natural rubber; Poddy and Blacks are exceptionally comfortable and totally waterproof. Recycled cotton linings and recycled packaging also makes them a more sustainable choice. Perfect for walking the dog, mornings in the park or trips to the country. Loved by gardeners who cherish their outdoor space, whether it’s a garden, a courtyard or a balcony. See full collection at poddyandblack.com
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BOING JEWELLERY FREE guaranteed delivery for Christmas! BOING Jewellery makes unique and vibrant rope and leather bracelets and Key Fobs. Our rope bracelets and Key Fobs are made using genuine climbing and sailing ropes. They are beautifully designed, unfussy, tough and tactile. They appeal to both men and women who love the great outdoors. BOING make perfect gifts, as each one is handmade to order in the UK then despatched by us in its own round embossed tin or pouch. boingjewellery.com
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CHARLOTTE RHYS
“Perfume your world and those of your friends with our deliciously scented BATH, BODY, and HOME products”
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Perfume your world and those of your friends with our deliciously scented BATH, BODY, and HOME products. This is Christmas gifting with a conscience as all our products are cruelty-free and vegan accredited. Sign up and receive 10% off your first order at charlotterhys.uk.com
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LIME TREE DESIGN Lime Tree Design’s sterling silver locket with gold vermeil bee charm is a contemporary twist on a classic piece. Made in the UK, it holds 2 photos, and can be engraved with a personal message for that special present. We also gift wrap. Our full range of lockets and charm jewellery can be found at our website use code LTC10 for a 10% discount limetreedesign.com 01636 894043 hello@limetreedesign.com
THE PYJAMA HOUSE
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The Pyjama House sells a beautiful range of traditional pyjamas, nighties and lounge-pants for children, adults and teenagers made in gorgeous 100% cotton fabrics all designed in Yorkshire, UK. thepyjamahouse.co.uk Tel 01347 878673.
CASA AMBAR Casa Ambar is a Mexican familyowned company, developer of the gold-medal award winning Ambar Tequila. Always deeply committed with excellence, Casa Ambar has set to offer the international market superb quality tequilas that appeal all the way from tequila enthusiasts to serious connoisseurs. Its refinement and signature smoothness has been widely praised from spirits fans as well as industry experts. Find them online at IG @ambartequila ambartequila.com
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47 MEG & BEE The Meg & Bee beautiful leather Tote bag with interchangeable patterned straps, tassels and charms. The Maxi Kit Tote is part of the Meg & Bee Kit Bag range which comprises of the Maxi Kit Tote, the Major Kit and Classic Kit camerastyle crossbody bags and the Mini Kit, a belt bag. The bags are all designed by Meg and Bee in London and made in their workshop in Spain. megandbee.co.uk insta: meg_bee_london DECEMBER 2020 105
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48 GIN IN A TIN Gin In A Tin provides a wide range of gift options for the gin lover incorporating their miniature tins of gin. From a stand-alone tin as a stocking filler to a gift set of four, ten or twelve. The gift sets are beautifully presented in blue boxes showcasing a festive turkey illustration or a collection of brightly coloured tins which are eye-catching, super cute and letterbox friendly! Why not try our 12 days of Christmas? gininatin.co.uk 01865 600151
49 WIN OR LOSE
“12 Stunning Gins for 12 Days of Christmas”
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Win or Lose premium cotton socks, are not just any socks. Firstly they are £9 a pair, come in over 45 designs that align to the colours of multiple football and rugby clubs, schools and even the military. They make the perfect Christmas gift whether bought as a single pair, or 2 designs in a lovely gift box. We’ve sold thousands of pairs to many satisfied customers. Shop the collection and more at win-or-lose.com with last orders for Christmas by 22nd December. Get 15% discount using code LONDON15 at checkout.
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THE BAUBLE COLLECTION THE BAUBLE COLLECTION offers a stunning array of luxury baubles in a wide choice of colours and sizes. Unique texture and form define these beautiful baubles which make the perfect addition to your home this festive season. Shop the collection at thebaublecollection.com and follow on Instagram @thebaublecollection 106 DECEMBER 2020
BAGPAD Bagpad provides a unique and sustainable solution for keeping luxury handbags in shape when stored. Especially designed for HERMÈS BIRKIN and KELLY bags and all other luxury brands including Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Dior. All Bagpads are locally handmade in the UK and can be personalised with monogramming making it a perfect gift for any handbag owner. They also protect from excessive moisture. Shop all styles at bagpad.co.uk or call +44 (0)7775077600
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BERNIE & THE BEANPOLE
YUYU BOTTLE
Bernie & the Beanpole is a British kidswear brand with a focus on great design, quality and fun! Our range includes bold and bright knitwear, sleepwear and loungewear for stylish kids. Our pyjamas are perfect for duvet days, lazy weekends and catching zzzz’s. And with prices starting at £20 they make a perfect gift or stocking filler. Use code LONDON for 10% off all orders. Shop online at bernie-kids.com Find us on instagram @berniebeanpole
Meet the hottie that is on every woman’s Christmas wish-list! Discover the original, multi-award-winning 81cm LONG hot (& cold) water bottle, by YuYu. Lightweight and eco-friendly, the wearable YuYu Bottle stays warm or cool (depending on your preference) for several hours and is so flexible that it will hug the contours of your body like nothing you’ve ever experienced. For 10% off on our website, use code “LONDONLIFE10”. Valid until 21st December. Prices start from just £25. yuyubottle.com Instagram: @yuyubottle info@yuyubottle.com
54 ‘GIVE THE GIFT OF POSITIVE ENERGY’ The Universal Soul Company’s award winning ‘Positive Energy Collection’ is designed to ‘Awaken the senses and Uplift your soul’. Our 3-in-1 Soul Mist will relieve tension as it actively creates positive energy. Can be used as a room fragrance, pillow mist & meditation spray. Positive Energy Cracker Small £25, large £45. See all our beautiful products at theuniversalsoulcompany.com 07956 377272
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SOUTH WEST TEN CHRISTMAS CHEER A fabulous Christmas Present - Our Classic Khaki Parka with natural fox fur trimmed hood and faux fur lining. Showerproof. Detachable Lining, Long length. Available now in our sample sale. Online price £650, Sample sale price £280 sizes S,M,L,XL. Perfect for wrapping up warm! Email: Info@southwestten.com to purchase. Hurry to order for guaranteed Christmas Delivery. DECEMBER 2020 107
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OLIVER JANE LONDON
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Oliver Jane London is spreading a little love this Christmas offering 25% off all shorts when bought with our super soft organic linen shirts, just add to the basket and 25% discount will be applied automatically at checkout. Don’t forget to checkout the Christmas sale including the sports-luxe women’s collection. The look is athletic without compromising on comfort. Get ready for that beach again, 2021 is the year of the overdue holiday! Follow us @oliverjanelondon Shop at oliverjane.co.uk
57 SLYK SLYK applies innovation and design experience to create a beautiful collection of iPad and iPhone stands for your home. Simultaneously stylish, sleek and practical, all products are skilfully engineered, easy-to-use, and crafted to complement your lifestyle, while enabling hands-free use of your smartphone and tablet in every room. The Pillow Stand secures tablets and smartphones to any pillow or cushion and becomes The Ultimate Stand for holding your device while you unwind. The Table & Wall Stand is designed to be used on any flat surface or wall, devices are held in place using a revolutionary Nano Suction material. Its base forms the perfect place to store, pens, coins and watches. The Bathroom Stand is an elegant, smooth, nonscratch stand, allowing you to use your smart device in the bathroom. Shop the collection at slyk.co.uk
SEGA TOYS HOMESTAR FLUX
100 ACRES - LUXURIOUS, BRITISH-MADE BATH, BODY & GIFTS
Flux is the powerful star projector. Imagine enjoying the sky full of stars while sitting on your sofa. This dream can become reality with the Sega Toys series of home planetariums. Flux is the most powerful and most advanced model available to date. Flux takes an incredibly popular planetarium design and refines it even further. Crafted in a satin black finish, brilliant glass lenses and our brightest LED to date make everything look vibrant and sharp. Buy online segatoys.space £179
Bring 100 acres of heavenly British countryside into their home with our luxurious, fragranced bath and body products. Made in the British countryside using the finest natural ingredients, our products are brimming with luscious, aromatic botanicals. From our luxurious hand wash, to our indulgent bubble bath and sublime scented candles - just close your eyes, relax, and let us immerse you in 100 acres of heavenly British countryside. £6 - £67: from stocking fillers to perfectly formed gift sets that you can simply hand straight over. 25% off with code LIFE25. Free express shipping on all orders over £30. Order online at 100acres.co.uk. Last orders midnight 21st December. Phone: 01453 490030 Email: ellea@100acres.co.uk Instagram: @100_acres
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Don’t Save it for the slopes! SNOW FINEL SKI WEAR Merino activewear for all your sporting needs. Chemmy Alcott and Graham Bell Brand Ambassadors. 10% discount with code LIFEMAG snowfinel.co.uk
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“EasyRead Time Teacher’s colourful alarm clocks are designed to help children learn some important life skills”
EASYREAD TIME TEACHER ALARM CLOCK The perfect educational gift for any child age 4+, EasyRead Time Teacher’s colourful alarm clocks are designed to help children learn some important life skills – how to tell the time and when to get up! Available in a choice of bright colours, and with a simple way of learning to read the clock, this clock will delight both parent and child. Matching watches are also available. Priced from £25. easyreadtimeteacher.com
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RUTH EMMA FOX
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London based illustrator Ruth Emma Fox has launched a new range of ceramics and print, adorned with illustrations that combine traditional with contemporary. Each item is considerately manufactured in Britain and celebrates the tools, plants and items we use to make, craft and grow through contemporary decorative illustration. Distinctive and practical gifts for gardeners, growers, makers and art appreciators. 10% Off your first order when buying directly from ruthemmafox.co.uk Follow @ruthemmafox on Instagram
THE PERFECT DARK SPIRIT & MIXER GIFT PACKS Long Tail, a London based Award-Winning premium mixer brand, has teamed up with some amazing dark spirits to offer The Perfect Dark Spirit & Mixer experience. Christmas is sorted for rum, whisky and tequila lovers who get two perfectly paired spirit and mixer combinations to enjoy in a branded glass for the ultimate taste sensation. Full range at longtailmixers.com – enter code LONDON10 at checkout for 10% off
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PROUD LONDON LTD LUXURY CARDS, PRINTS AND PHONE CASES Proud London produces luxury cards, framed prints and phone cases of fashion illustrations with humorous captions that are almost too close to home. With over 120 unique designs available across our entire product range, we have something for everyone, whether you are a jet setter, a shopaholic, a party goer or all three… Use the code “PROUD10” to receive 10% off your first order. proudlondon.co.uk hello@proudlondon.co.uk @proudlondonltd
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FRAMED WILDLIFE ART PRINTS FROM NORTH STREET STUDIO
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Beautiful quality framed giclee art prints featuring watercolour paintings of British wildlife. Limited edition and signed by the artist, these are all painted, printed and framed in Oxfordshire, England. Perfect Christmas gifts for animal lovers. 10% discount for Life Magazine readers with code LIFEX10 northstreetstudio.co.uk
OLIVER PRESTON See your family and friends in Oliver Preston’s drawings! There is something for everyone, from limited edition prints, books on skiing, sports, and town and country life to a wide range of his popular greetings cards. Stocking fillers include new mugs and tea towels, placemats and coasters, and notelets and Christmas cards. Oliver Preston’s cartoons are perfectly observed with visual jokes in every corner, or as one customer says, “Like Michael McIntyre on paper”. oliverpreston.com
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67 CAROBOO: ULTIMATE VEGAN CHOC
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When searching for the perfect vegan and plant based indulgent treat this Christmas season, look no further than Caroboo. Made in the UK, our range of super smooth and creamy choc bars in classic flavours; Creamy Orange, Mint and Coconut will satisfy even the sweetest tooth and make the perfect stocking filler. Visit eatcaroboo.co.uk. Take advantage of free postage using this code at checkout: CHRISTMASLTC
For all walks of life we welcome you to welligogs.com
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Chiswick Nursing Centre T
offers high quality in-house and outpatient physiotherapy
he Chiswick Nursing Centre’s physiotherapists work seamlessly with nursing staff to provide the highest levels of integrated care. Patients receive an initial assessment which the Centre’s qualified physiotherapist which is used to develop a personalised plan. As a part of the rehabilitation programme, the Centre’s qualified physiotherapists work closely with nursing staff to help patients achieve their goals. Highly experienced in the treatment and management of numerous conditions, the Centre’s physio team are experts in the field of rehabilitation. The physiotherapy sessions are tailored to help recover mobility and the physio team aims to provide early detection of any movement-related problems. Through their treatment the Centre’s physios help patients and residents to regain their confidence and independence to promote an excellent quality of life through improved health and wellbeing. Sessions take place in the Centre’s physiotherapy gym which has state of the art equipment including an interactive video ‘exer-cycle’ suite – which lets you ‘cycle’ through ‘country lanes’ and ‘town areas.’ A sister of a resident at the Chiswick Nursing Centre has seen the impact of physio teams care first-hand, she said, “ My sister (86) was admitted to this home during the virus crisis. The staff have been so caring and compassionate! She told us the carers were so kind and that the food was wonderful. The staff meet her every need and she
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feels that nothing is too much trouble for them. There are doctors, nurses and physiotherapists who help her daily.” The Chiswick Nursing Centre’s popular physiotherapy services are also available to outpatients. The Centre’s expert and qualified physiotherapy team assess and treats conditions in their specialised physio gym and treatment room. With free parking on-site, the Centre is a convenient location to be treated for a range of conditions including post-surgical rehabilitation and orthopaedic and musculoskeletal conditions. The Centre also offers deep tissue and sports massages. So, whether its physiotherapy, rehabilitation or convalescence, respite care, dementia care, longterm complex nursing care or general residential care, rest assured your loved one will be in safe hands at the Chiswick Nursing Centre. Please email enquiries@chiswicknursingcentre.co.uk or call 07568 106258. chiswicknursingcentre.co.uk
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THINK FUTURE Contemporary retirement living in south London
The Vale: designed with you in mind We believe that a home is more than just bricks and mortar. At The Vale, our collection of 30 luxury apartments available to purchase or rent, have been designed with you in mind, meaning you can enjoy your retirement, in a welcoming and vibrant community, without the worry of maintaining a property. All of our contemporary apartments are beautifully crafted to the highest standards. Lightfilled open-plan living spaces, luxury kitchens and beautiful bathrooms combine style and accessibility. Expect Porcelanosa kitchens with integrated Bosch appliances, built-in storage, underfloor heating, walk-in showers and Smart heating and lighting. Every detail to make life comfortable and convenient has been carefully considered. Senior living can bring a change in pace and priority. We welcome people who want maximum independence but also offer support to those who need help, whether with day-to-day chores or medical care. We believe that The Vale enables you to live life to the fullest, safe in the knowledge that personalised care fis available if required. Our aim has always been to combine convenience, security
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and affordability with access to a comprehensive range of hospitality and care services. Knowing that support is available means you can embrace life with peace of mind. Our community of apartments means as much company and social life as you wish. With a view over the beautiful landscaped gardens, the Garden Bistro & Bar opens onto the terrace and is the perfect place to catch up with friends over a cappuccino. For a cosy place to read the papers or play cards, the library and lounge offer a comfortable, beautifully decorated environment. If pampering is what you’re after, our onsite hair and beauty salon and therapy suite offer treatments, manicures and massages. For film buffs our cinema room will be a popular option and if you want to learn a new craft, the hobbies room is the place to come. Nestled in a peaceful location a short distance from Streatham, The Vale is more than just a new home - it’s a future filled with opportunities. thevaleliving.co.uk Tel: 08081 696511
“Our community of apartments means as much company and social life as you wish”
PROPERTY
Reflections on the property
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here was no prior experience for anyone to draw upon in order to prepare the property industry, for the unfolding events of 2020. When it comes to prime property, Polly Ogden Duffy, Managing Director at John D Wood & Co., explains their approach; “Just simple, honest, hard work and dedication to our clients has seen our estate agency thrive. Our teams have gone above and beyond to keep clients moving, prevent transactions from stalling, and have been there to represent clients in person when needed most.” In a typically fast and often furiously paced property market, throughout lockdown, it was found that many buyers and sellers had time on their hands, and were happy to speak to their estate agents more than ever. Polly adds, “We took this time to build new relationships and continued developing existing ones, advising clients on the best approach to their assets – whether to hold, sell, or rent their property, or even simply tackle their lease extension.” Perhaps ironically, John D Wood & Co. sold more homes this year than in 2019, and report Egerton Crescent, SW3
volumes of domestic buyers registering with the agency has also surpassed the previous year. You would be forgiven for thinking that 2020 might not have been the whirlwind in the property market that it has been for the firm. John D Wood & Co. now proudly reflect on the positives it has brought to their business. They opened a new office on 59 Cadogan Street, Chelsea, which complements the Cale Street, King’s Road and Gloucester Road offices. The move was initiated by the desire to expand their network and move into the Knightsbridge market. The office also provides additional space for the 20+ person strong Chelsea team in line with socially distanced working following Covid-19 protocols. Polly Ogden Duffy commented, “We remain proud to say that no other agent has more offices in the Royal Borough, which lies at the heart of our operation.” Their Country House department was also established, which came as a result of responding to client needs, catering for the selling of country homes or weekend retreats. Vince Dennington who heads up the new team said, “Having worked with our clients for many years and with a deep understanding of the market, I am delighted to be building our network outside of our current prime locations. This expansion allows us, to showcase our agility as a trusted agent, whilst more importantly satisfying the desires and requirements Weybridge, Surrey, KT13
Shawfield Street, SW3
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“In a typically fast and often furiously paced property market, throughout lockdown, it was found that many buyers and sellers had time on their hands, and were happy to speak to their estate agents more than ever”
market in 2020 of our clients. We have an extensive database of buyers looking for their next home, particularly from London, wanting second homes or a complete move away from the city.” And finally, they’re making waves in both their Land & New Homes and Corporate & Relocation Services teams – who have been busy responding to demand for UK moves scheduled for early in the new year. As we near the end of the year, the welcome news of a vaccine is providing some hope that 2021 may allow us to see a slow return to a more normal lifestyle, and with this, a greater ability to travel. Overseas buyers have long been an important part of the prime central London property market; and London is an exciting and dynamic city, with attraction that goes beyond the well-covered attributes of convenient time zone, established legal system, language, education and the arts. It is perhaps too early to suggest when international travel will become widespread, however, better testing may facilitate this early in the New Year. John D Wood & Co. have more than 145 years’ experience specialising in selling and letting properties in London and the country. If you are considering a move, or would simply like to discuss the current market with an expert, please contact us today. Latchmere House, Richmond TW10
59 Cadogan Street, Chelsea
Polly Ogden Duffy, Managing Director at John D Wood and Co.
POgdenDuffy@johndwood.co.uk
THE DETAILS johndwood.co.uk @johndwoodco @johndwoodandco facebook.com/jdwandco
Carlyle Square, Chelsea SW3
Latchmere House, Richmond TW10
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TRAVEL
Finding Freedom Reimagined Where luxury treads lightly
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oday the decision to travel is not one to be taken lightly, it presents a myriad of choices, not least in today’s climate with the unseen foe of freedom and safe travel, that virus. It is refreshing when the search for the ideal getaway offering the reassurance of staying responsibly, experiences of a lifetime and the promise of a deeply relaxing atmosphere are all to be found in an intimate private hideaway in the Maldives. Influenced by Japanese design, the award-winning designer, Yuji Yamazaki, delivered on the belief that luxury can be found in ample space, open to the influence of nature where breeze, shade and the serene view over the ocean go on and on. The ‘Retreat’, the central complex, is at the sustainability heart of the property, the roof design is truly magnificent, at an angle of 3˚, it is perfectly calculated to maximise the solar absorption from the 984 Solar panels that enables the island to operate off-grid. Sustainability does not stop there, with not a solitary item of singleuse plastic to be found on the property, the team at Kudadoo are not only mindful hosts but earn their sustainable hotelier accolades. With just 15 private residences, each with their own infinity pools, built using sustainably sourced timber suspended over the Indian Ocean. Each one designed with floor to ceiling sliding doors to advocate natural ventilation. The detail in the muted design extends to thoughtful comforts of ample shade, the design of the roof allows for 50% of the deck to be in shade for up to 5 hours a day. Every comfort has been thought of, and considerate design is everywhere you look. The experience of Kudadoo is defined by the philosophy of ‘Anything. Anytime. Anywhere’, where you can truly appreciate ethereal ‘unscripted’ culinary journeys, cheese bar and wine cellar where every label on the list has scored 88 points
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or more with Wine Spectator magazine. Included are unlimited water sports, spa, excursions, scuba diving, and snorkelling. If this is not enough, you have full access to their sister property Hurawalhi, where you can dine in awe at the world renounced 5.8, the world’s largest all-glass undersea restaurant. There is no better place to be diverted than at Sulha Spa featuring the Maldives first Himalayan salt chamber. The Lonu Immersion Cave is lined with mineral-rich Himalayan salt formed in nature over the millennia. Distinguished for its healing qualities, enriched with potassium, calcium, and magnesium, breathing in the world’s most healing salt air restores the body’s natural equilibrium. If Maldives immersion is what you seek, you will find no better guide than the team at Kudadoo, where over half are natives of the archipelago. They will be able to guide your exploration of the turquoise oceans teeming with life, island ecosystem, culture and heritage of an island nation with a rich with a history of being hospitable to travellers and on this island, defined with charm and finesse. The search for a safe destination to revive your joy of being alive is over, be assured, look no further than Kudadoo Maldives Private Island. kudadoo.com
“If Maldives immersion is what you seek you will find no better guide than the team at Kudadoo”
TRAVEL
Luxury Lodge Holidays in the Derbyshire Peak District
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here is no better place than the Derbyshire Peak District to enjoy a short break or a family holiday. The Peak District is ideally located in the Heart of England and is bursting with majestic landscapes, stunning views, stately homes and unique family attractions. Award winning Landal Darwin Forest is situated between Matlock and Bakewell and combines luxury self-catering lodges with fantastic onsite facilities. Whether you want peace and tranquillity on a romantic break, action packed adventures or fantastic local attractions for entertaining friends and family, our lodges provide the perfect base from which to explore. The luxury lodges at Landal Darwin Forest are nestled within a 47 acre woodland paradise. The parks 135 lodges are sympathetically interwoven into the forest, which enables you to get back to nature and enjoy the picturesque environment. We have created a holiday park where children can explore, and young and old will feel carefree and relaxed. There are several types of accommodation options to choose from which will keep the whole family happy. Most popular are our spa lodges that include a private hot tub on the veranda and really enable you to appreciate the serenity of our forest setting. We also have a number of pet friendly lodges. At Landal Darwin Forest we have created the perfect setting for you to relax, enjoy your holiday and leave the hustle and bustle of everyday life far behind. Landal Darwin Forest is the perfect destination to enjoy a family holiday. Our fantastic onsite facilities include Evolution Health & Fitness,
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“There are several types of accommodation options to choose from which will keep the whole family happy� which has a swimming pool, spa, gym and beauty rooms. For the younger members of your family, Little Monkeys indoor play centre will provide hours of fun and entertainment. The Activity Den is perfect for older children with pool tables and a games room to keep them entertained. We also offer a range of fun activities onsite that are suitable for children and adults. Let our qualified instructors train you in the art of archery or the skills of fencing. The more adventurous could experience the thrills of bodyzorbing, waterwalkerz or snorkelling! For all the family to enjoy, we have a tennis court, mini golf and an abundance of footpaths and cycling trails. If you want to give yourself a break from cooking you can enjoy a coffee and lite bite at the Explorers cafe or you can visit the Foresters bar and restaurant which has an extensive menu serving fresh, locally sourced produce. Many families enjoy celebrating Christmas or New Year at the park, or gathering the family together for a birthday or anniversary. No matter what the time of year, we are confident your friends and family will have a fantastic break. darwinforest.co.uk
TRAVEL
WHEN THINGS ARE GOING SOUTH, ESCAPE TO THE FAR NORTH.
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n February 2020 the world of travel looked awfully good. There were endless choices to almost any corner of the globe. “Off the beaten track” adventures to far flung locations where more accessible, and more affordable than ever before. A month later, the world looked a different place. Even with the advent of a new vaccine, travel habits in particular will be fundamentally changed. That being said, there is undeniably, still a huge thirst for adventure and “get away from it all” holidays.
Pent up lockdown frustration and cancelled flights, mean there is a very significant number of adventurous folk, more than ready to answer the call of the wild should the opportunity arise. However, jumping on a crowded flight, even if it’s still operating, still has its issues. The answer? Celtic Routes have immaculate Land Rover Discovery 4 vehicles now prepped to take clients on a 6 night winter adventure, loosely following the better sections of the North Coast 500 route. Luxurious lodges, castles, and lighthouses allow for winter comforts along the way, not to mention the wild and rugged scenery of winter in the Highlands, all enjoyed from a spacious 4x4. 124 DECEMBER 2020
Think breath-taking classic highland routes through Skyfall and Outlander country, with a day rounded off by a single malt, a roaring log fire, and a sumptuous lodge by a loch. It’s the ideal escape from the winter blues. They provide an in-car tablet with their own virtual guide APP, covering every aspect of your trip with special routing, eateries, directions, hotel details, and even weather, all at your fingertips. They also do small group self -drive guided tours, with next departure on January 22. Start the adventure by pitting your wits against the challenging terrain thrown up by the Land Rover Experience Scotland, where you can try out the new Defender with an expert Land Rover instructor. Celtic Routes use the tag line “One Day Away, A Million Miles from Home”
THE DETAILS If you fancy a long range adventure in 2021, a little closer to home, give the guys a call, or visit their website celticroute.com The cost for a 6 night luxury winter adventure is £1465 per person and availability is strictly limited. Includes: Specially prepared Land Rover Discovery 4x4 and equipment, 6 Nights luxury B&B Accommodations (+ some evening meals)and Route Guide Tablet App.
TRAVEL
Gara Rock Perched on a secluded clifftop in South Devon, across from Salcombe, Gara Rock is a boutique hotel like no other.
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ucked away at the end of winding rural lanes and with a far away quality, you will feel as if you’ve stepped into another world as soon as you arrive. Especially when you are greeted by panoramic views of the spectacular coastline. Step out of the car and breathe in the fresh sea air. Listen to the waves crashing below. Sitting on the South West Coast Path, Gara is not only popular with those looking for a short break by the coast, but also with hearty walkers. From the hotel entrance it’s just a 10-minute walk to the sandy
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“Step out of the car and breathe in the fresh sea air. Listen to the waves crashing below. Sitting on the South West Coast Path, Gara is not only popular with those looking for a short break by the coast, but also with hearty walkers”
beach below, perfect for blowing the cobwebs away in winter or taking a picnic for a day at the beach when the sun shines. The hotel itself provides an easy-going and down to earth atmosphere and welcomes families, couples, good friends and dogs too. Fully refurbed for 2019, you’ll find soft, earthy, natural colours and textures, which are inspired by the outside and Gara Rock’s rugged surroundings. Every area of the hotel has been created to feel soft, comfortable, informal and inviting, day or night whatever the season. It’s an obtainable luxury that’s made up of sumptuous comfort and warmth, which can be seen in all the hotel accommodation. From sunset view rooms with balconies right through to the luxury suites. And the out of the ordinary accommodation, comprising the Signal House with hot tub, Penthouse with a wow-factor master suite and the secluded Secret Suite, nestled on its own part of the cliff top. All accommodation benefits from sea views and for families there are self-catering apartments. When you are not taking in your surroundings or catching the ferry over to Salcombe for a mooch around, the hotel has an indoor pool with jacuzzi overlooking the sea. The spa uses local, organic products, and offers a range of treatments, and there’s a cinema room for rainy days. When it’s sunny, the outdoor pool has an amazing view to be enjoyed from your sun lounger. And the awardwinning restaurant, with floor to ceiling windows with panoramic view, provides a real taste of Devon. In warmer weather, the terrace is a lovely place to have a bite to eat, drink and contemplate. If you are looking to press pause and forget it all for a few nights by the coast, Gara Rock is the place for you. gararock.com 03303 333805
INDEPENDENT
SCHOOLS GUIDE – The finest independent schools in the UK – I M A G E : Q U E E N ’ S G AT E J U N I O R S C H O O L
EDUC ATION
WHAT’S IN A NAME? James Denchfield, Director of Queen’s Gate Junior School, explores the cultural and educational relevance of the school’s iconic location in London.
Albertopolis.
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f you live in Kensington, the word might be familiar to you; you might know that it was coined in the 1850s to describe the area of South Kensington which was Queen Victoria and Prince Albert’s great project and which gave us the Great Exhibition, the three Museums, Imperial College, the Royal Albert Hall and many other internationally-renowned institutions — and it is also the area in which you will find Queen’s Gate School, founded in 1891. Last year, at Queen’s Gate Junior School, we decided to launch a programme which would foster creativity and ignite curiosity in our most intellectually-ambitious pupils. When it came to a name, there seemed to be none more relevant for our own project. And so the Albertopolis Programme was born. Albertopolis Club is offered to our pupils who enjoy encountering new ideas perhaps not covered at length within the curriculum. From
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Post-War architecture to commedia dell’arte; from Impressionism to astronomy, our pupils make great discoveries. Since establishing the Club, the Albertopolis Programme has evolved to become a rich and exciting celebration of learning, which not only extends our own pupils but which now includes pupils from other local schools who would like to take part in our journeys of discovery. In November, the Albertopolis Talks series was launched, led by industry professionals from around South Kensington. Queen’s Gate School was founded in the reign of Queen Victoria and our pupils would have witnessed the development of Albertopolis firsthand. Today, the same forward-looking values which gave London its finest educational and cultural institutions are core to the Queen’s Gate philosophy. Queen’s Gate School is an independent day school for girls aged 4 to 18 in South Kensington. Contact us to discover more and see what advantages a Queen’s Gate education could offer your daughter. queensgate.org.uk 020 7594 4982 registrar@queensgate.org.uk
Photo by DFPhotography.co.uk
James Denchfield: Photo by Fergus Burnett Photography
“Today, the same forward-looking values which gave London its finest educational and cultural institutions are core to the Queen’s Gate philosophy”
EDUC ATION
How personal pathways are leading Haileybury pupils to exciting places
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aileybury pupils are encouraged to be academically curious every day and a key part of the school’s philosophy is empowering each child to do so. Pupils select personal pathways to customise their learning experience and complement the core curriculum. A pupil in Year 9 may pick the Advanced Science and Astrophysics pathway to discover how science works under conditions which are impossible to recreate on Earth. A Sixth Form pupil may be fascinated by criminology and through selecting this pathway, they can attend challenging lectures that will allow them to consider whether crime really is a consequence of someone’s environment. Year 10 pupils can complete Global Awareness Projects, Geopolitics, Modern Languages and more. Pathway options are diverse and forwardthinking and pupils are encouraged to make ambitious and aspirational choices to challenge themselves. Haileybury’s 500-acre campus also has a high-tech Music School and performance venues including the purpose-built Ayckbourn Theatre, which is named after notable director and former pupil, Sir Alan Ayckbourn. Proud of their history, but also at the forefront with technology, Haileybury uses artificial intelligence (AI) to help understand a pupil’s learning profile. Classrooms are fitted with Apple TVs and Google Suite. Meanwhile, plans are progressing for a new Scitech Centre. Pupils attend lectures from experts in their field, take cultural trips and participate in nationally
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recognised competitions such as Academic Olympiads, university essay competitions and the Haileybury Model United Nations conference, which sees pupils from across the world debate global issues, is the largest event of its kind in the UK. Looking ahead, it’s an exciting time for Haileybury’s most curious young scientists whose research could help find a cure for pancreatic cancer and diabetes. Haileybury is the first school in Europe currently offering Stan-X – an openended science programme based on experimental biology, comparable to an undergraduate genetics course, working in collaboration with Stanford University and University of Oxford.
THE DETAILS Register for upcoming Virtual Open Days Haileybury.com Saturday 5 December 9.30 am Friday 15 January 9 am UK enquiries: uk.admissions@haileybury.com International enquiries: Int.admissions@haileybury.com 01992 706353 Haileybury, Hertford, SG13 7NU
EDUC ATION
ArtsEd Sixth Former, Isabella Pappas stars in new ITV drama, Finding Alice
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rtsEd are delighted to announce that their Sixth Form alumna, Isabella Pappas will be appearing in ITV drama, Finding Alice, set for release in early 2021. Isabella will be playing the role of Alice and Harry’s 16-year-old daughter Charlotte in the series, which has been described as a wife’s “honest, raw, blackly comic journey of grief ” after her husband’s death. Gritty stuff! Finding Alice also stars: Keeley Hawes, Joanna Lumley, ArtsEd alumnus and Patron, Nigel Havers, Jason Merrells, Gemma Jones, Kenneth Cranham and Sharon Rooney. Production began in January this year, with Keeley Hawes starring as Alice, a widow coping with the tragic loss of her husband, who fell down the stairs of their new dream house. She soon realises that Harry left behind a storm of secrets, debt and criminality for her to clean up. Nicola Shindler, RED Production Company CEO and executive producer said: “To have such a strong calibre of actors join the cast alongside Keeley to breathe life into these complex characters is incredibly exciting, and I look forward to audiences meeting them.” Excited to see all their hard work come together, Isabella said: “Finding Alice was an incredible experience. Working with acting legends felt like a dream, and I left set each day having learned something new. The support from ArtsEd during that time made everything possible. My A Level Drama group met outside of my filming hours for our final project, allowing me to complete the course. I am so excited for everyone to see what we have created.”
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ArtsEd Day School & Sixth Form: Preparing for your future ArtsEd Day School and Sixth Form provides young people aged 11 to 18 with immersive, highcalibre academic study whilst developing their talent and passion for performance. Their combination of talented teachers meeting young talented minds creates a truly dynamic environment for teaching and learning. Dedicated staff build warm and constructive learning relationships with pupils, creating a strong ethos of nurture and individualism that enables each pupil to flourish as a person, as a learner, and as a performer. You can find out more about ArtsEd’s Day School & Sixth Form at: artsed.co.uk You can also visit their Virtual Open Evening websites featuring videos and recordings of live Q&As from October and December events: artsed-dayschool.onlineopendays.com artsed-sixthform.onlineopendays.com
“Finding Alice was an incredible experience. Working with acting legends felt like a dream”
EDUC ATION
Carfax Consultants
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hoosing a child’s education is an emotional business - it is a choice that will change your child’s life. Dazzled by glossy prospectuses and online open days and daunted by making such a significant decision, many parents seek professional guidance and advice from independent experts, such as Carfax Education. So what advice do we give parents as they are seeking to find the best school or university for their child? The first thing we acknowledge is that every child is different and there is no ‘one size fits all’ education. We take time to get to know the family and the child, to understand their aspirations and the child’s personality. We may recommend some objective academic assessments to have a clear picture of the child’s aptitudes, to help us gauge the right learning environment for that individual. Part of the conversation will be about the criteria that are most important to the family and the student. What are the non negotiables? Day or boarding school? Single sex or co-ed? Academically selective or all round approach? Is the child particularly arty/sporty or musical? Will location and travel time be important? For Universities, we want to understand where their future interests lie. Are they potential Medics, Oxbridge students, Engineers or English literature graduates. Are they looking for the buzz of city or a campus experience? A research based approach
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or a more hands on style of learning? Armed with all of this information, we can draw up an education “road map” outlining the journey ahead, with a carefully chosen list of schools or universities to visit and an outline of the key milestones and steps to take to make the dream a reality. We encourage families to visit in person, to feel the buzz and atmosphere when the grounds and facilities are alive with action. We create a list of must ask questions about the pastoral care, how they deal with different situations and, crucially, how are they preparing students for an unknown future and developing individuals who are adaptable, enquiring and resilient? The absolute key is to start planning early and be aware of the journey ahead. Too often our advisers meet with parents who are delighted they have identified the perfect school for their child, only for us to have to gently break the news that they have missed all the registration and assessment deadlines and that places in that school have already been allocated. Or for a student to approach us with a combination of subjects that limit their degree choices. All in all, it can be a daunting and confusing time for families, who want to do the best by their child. Having some impartial guidance from experts in the education field can ensure parents make confident choices that will set children on a secure path to their future.
About Fiona Fiona Mckenzie MA Head of Education, Carfax Consultants Fiona was educated at Rugby School and St. Andrew’s University, and for the past 30 years has worked in independent education in locations as varied as South Africa, Australia, the U.K., and the U.A.E. Fiona’s comprehensive understanding of how schools run was built up as the wife of a Headmaster, a Governor of several U.K. schools, and as the parent of four children who have all been educated in British boarding schools and UK and US universities. Over the years Fiona has worked with hundreds of families guiding them to make the best educational choices for their children whether at school or university level. Fiona regularly contributes to education journals, radio shows and panel discussions in the UK and the UAE.
About Carfax Education Carfax Education is a leading global education group. We provide expert consultancy, bespoke training and operational support across all areas of education. We work with families, schools, investors and governments to secure exceptional opportunities. Carfax Education group offers specialist support through Carfax Consultants, Carfax Tutors, and Carfax College. For more information visit carfax-education.com
EDUC ATION
THE BENEFITS OF BOARDING SCHOOLS IN THE COTSWOLDS
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olling hills, famous market towns, manor houses that are steeped in history, it is easy to see why people across the globe are attracted to a life in the Cotswolds. Just a stone’s throw away from desirable locations such as Stow on the Wold, Burford and Stroud, Rendcomb College is a fine choice of boarding school when looking for not just a fantastic education but a premier location too. World-renowned authors such as Laurie Lee, JK Rowling, Jane Austen, Lewis Carroll and J.R.R.Tolkien are all said to have been inspired by the beauty of the Cotswolds in their literature. As an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty which encompasses nearly 800 square miles of open space, fresh air and freedom to explore, the stunning scenery draws in Cotswold holiday makers time and time again. One of the most well regarded private schools in Gloucestershire, Rendcomb College is an independent boarding and day school in the heart of the Cotswolds for girls and boys. From Nursery, to Junior School to Senior School and Sixth Form, pupils ages range from 3 to 18 who embrace everything their local environment offers. Whether that is highly acclaimed events and activities or discovering hidden gems on their doorstep, they pride themselves on being a school that offers memories that will last a lifetime. The location itself on the outskirts of Cirencester is favoured amongst royalty with Prince Charles and Princess Anne both residing nearby and often spotted at polo events and
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country fayres in the summer months. All the while London is within easy reach by car or train which allows plenty of opportunities for families and loved ones to commute. Based in an enclosed 230 acre estate surrounded by Cotswold stone, Rendcomb is the perfect option for those who are looking for serene surroundings in an area well known for its culture and history. Options within the school are just as vast with something for every student - from language courses, The Arts, Sports, The Duke of Edinburgh Award and the national curriculum taught by esteemed teachers. The reputation of the school combined with the sought after Cotswolds location makes Rendcomb College a primary boarding school for those looking to escape the city life. Their mission of developing thoughtful, adventurous and academically ambitious young people is achieved, whilst being surrounded by beautiful Cotswold countryside. rendcombcollege.org.uk
“The reputation of the school combined with the sought after Cotswolds location makes Rendcomb College a primary boarding school for those looking to escape the city life”
EDUC ATION
Lloyd Williamson Upper School T he Lloyd Williamson School Upper School is based close to the vibrant Portobello Road area of West London. The school delivers a unique secondary education in West London, with fees that are competitive and realistic. Small classes mean they are able to deliver a tailored and individual education leading to strong academic standards. While a selective school, entry is by ‘try out’ day, not examination. They use a blend of traditional and forward thinking teaching styles that prepares all students for their future education and for life. The expert teachers build positive relationships, encouraging each pupil to be curious, intellectual and creative. Happy, confident students are motivated to learn – they develop a rich and positive sense of who they are and can be. Secondary students are entered for Cambridge IGCSEs from year 8 upwards. This international qualification gives students more options than any other British or international qualification. There are more subjects to choose from and a variety of methods of assessment including written and oral exams, coursework and practical assessment to suit all learning styles. In addition to the core subjects, LWS
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“Secondary students are entered for Cambridge IGCSEs from year 8 upwards”
is also able to offer Art, Latin, Film Studies, Drama, Business Studies, Enterprise and Russian and German from 2021.In 2020, all students achieved grade 7 and above (equivalent to A, A* and A**). Planning for the future starts in years 7 and 8 and from year 9, all students are individually mentored - coaching and goal setting is used to help them achieve their potential and plan for sixth form, further education and beyond. Partnership and dialogue with parents and children is encouraged, ensuring that children fully enjoy their secondary school years and thrive. Many of the students have come from the LWS prep school but the school takes new students at any stage. Equality and diversity permeate the fabric of the school – this is a family where everyone belongs. The school has been a Stonewall School Champion for 8 years. In the current time of coronavirus, the small classes and ‘bubbles’ establish a safe environment for students to feel supported and encouraged in their achievements. Contact the school on 020 8962 0345 or email admissions@lws.org.uk to meet the Co-principal, Lucy Meyer and visit the school. Lloyd Williamson School, 12 Telford Road, London W10 5SH lloydwilliamson.co.uk
EDUC ATION
SCHOOL HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY
A festive baking competition Baking has become such a popular pastime over the course of the pandemic, mainly thanks to it being accessible to all ages. As a family why not try baking your own biscuits, cakes, mince pies, gingerbread houses, and even Christmas puddings.
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he festive season is set to look very different this year due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The school holidays, however, will still be the same length and without the usual activities like museums and visits to friends available to families this festive period, keeping morale high and children entertained might be a daunting task for some, especially after the long and mentally draining Autumn term. Here we unpack a few ideas to help children recover from learning fatigue and keep the whole family stimulated over the festive period.
Write a festive quiz Why not organise a festive virtual quiz for the whole family to enjoy? For example, children could host a round on famous festive movie scenes that they act out themselves.
Design season’s greetings cards Let your children create their own card designs this year, perfect to send to family and friends. 142 DECEMBER 2020
Make gifts for neighbours Not everyone is fortunate enough to have family or someone to visit during the five-day break, especially the elderly or those with family overseas. Find things around the house or order in some craft supplies to create fun and unique gifts with your children.
London lights Despite many of the typical attractions in London having to be closed or restricted this season, for some fresh air and exercise take a walk around London to see all of the festive lights. Popular displays tend to be found at Regent Street, Covent Garden, and Kew Gardens, but no doubt there will be plenty local to you. Of course, these are just a few examples of activities that are fun, revitalising but also encourage your child’s creativity and passion for learning and putting into practice new skills. Whatever you choose to do, we hope you have a very happy festive season and winter break with your children. gabbitas.com
“Let your children create their own card designs this year, perfect to send to family and friends”
EDUC ATION
CARFAX TUTORS Carl Morris MChem (Oxon) As the Principal of Carfax College Oxford, & Head of Carfax Private Tutors globally, Carl oversees student academic programmes, client relationships, training, marketing, promotion, and business development. Carl graduated from the University of Oxford with a Master’s degree in Chemistry; and went on to become an ACA qualified Chartered Accountant. Having worked in education for the majority of his professional life, Carl has a wealth of academic experience and is an enthusiastic Science/ Maths tutor, with a broad range of professional and personal experience. He has supported pupils across all the major curricula, and has worked with organisations that provide tuition to underprivileged children, helping them with university applications.
About Carfax Tutors Carfax Private Tutors support 1,000s of pupils across the globe to reach their academic potential and spark a love for learning. We deliver the highest quality lessons with our team of energetic, enthusiastic and passionate tutors from our offices in London, Moscow, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Hong Kong, and Monaco. In partnership with our independent school, Carfax College, we develop personalised programmes for each and every student - whether they are taking supplementary tuition at their home, or a full-time course onsite at Carfax College, all of our students benefit from adaptive, flexible and targeted support. For more information visit carfax-tutors.com & carfax-oxford.com 144 DECEMBER 2020
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arents and pupils turn to one-to-one tuition for a multitude of reasons, but for some, until recently, it has been an unfamiliar concept. With so many options available what should parents be looking for when choosing a tutor, and what are the benefits of a one-to-one programme? Every child loves to learn, but not every child loves education. The major advantage of one-toone courses is that they can be adapted to suit each pupil’s learning style, interests, and academic goals. Tutors can dedicate time and effort to planning lessons which truly engage the pupil ensuring that each child unlocks their academic potential. Pupils often enjoy the independence of one-to-one tutoring; they can take ownership of their work and direct their learning, in partnership with their tutor, to work on the topics they choose - from exploring the universe to writing a movie script. The skills necessary to succeed academically can be taught through topics that are of interest to the pupil, allowing them to learn to prioritise what is important and take pride in their work. Asking questions in front of a class can be intimidating for many pupils. One-to-one tuition provides a safe and encouraging environment for pupils to ask the questions that will help them understand concepts they did not grasp during the lesson, or even develop a curiosity about subjects beyond the curriculum. Developing curiosity encourages independent research and lateral thinking and is a key goal of tuition with Carfax.
For many, the benefit of one-to-one tuition is the ability to work at the pupil’s pace. If a pupil is progressing beyond their curriculum, one-to-one tuition gives them a space to extend their learning and explore new subjects. For those who are struggling with moving at the pace of the class, one-to-one tuition provides the time and support needed to ensure understanding is achieved. Many pupils and their parents are now turning to one-to-one tuition due to the increased personalisation these programmes provide. This could be because the pace of the classroom does not suit your child, the content of the course is leaving pupils unengaged and bored, the learning style of the pupil does not fit the teaching style of the educator, or for those considering fulltime education perhaps the rigidity of term dates does not fit you or your family’s schedules. A personalised learning programme can overcome all of these hurdles and rekindle that natural love of learning.
EDUC ATION
ESCAPE THE FRENETICISM OF LONDON AND THRIVE IN THE COUNTRYSIDE
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ith average class sizes of 10 to 12 boys in large classrooms with lots of open space and over 85 acres in which to learn and explore outdoors, Horris Hill Prep School for boys offers an outstanding and safe place to learn and develop, especially in Covid-19 times. Despite Coronavirus disruption, teaching at HH continued with teachers Zooming every lesson every day from 0830 to 1730 during lockdown. A full range of academic subjects, as well as an extensive cocurricular list of Art, Music, DT, Fitness, Chess, Cooking, Photography, debating, Lego, origami, Lateral thinking, brain teasers, circus skills. Horris Hill welcomes boys from 4 to 13 years of age with day boys populating the younger years and the option to board (part/weekly/full) from Year 4 and upwards if desired. We believe that the period from 4 -13 years of age are the most critical in any boy’s life. Horris Hill is a very special place to be. Nestled in its own 85-acre estate with outstanding facilities; boys can exercise their intellectual inquisitiveness, free to explore all avenues, building self-confidence and awareness in a safe and encouraging environment. Horris Hill School has a unique ethos which develops every boy as an individual and provides a rigorous and extensive academic, sporting, 146 DECEMBER 2020
“Horris Hill School has a unique ethos which develops every boy as an individual and provides a rigorous and extensive academic, sporting, musical and artistic foundation”
musical and artistic foundation. In recent years all senior boys gained entry into their chosen senior school with remarkable success including awards to Westminster, Winchester, Eton, Marlborough, Harrow, Millfield, Charterhouse, Cheltenham and Sherborne. From age 4 every boy enjoys a rich tapestry of extra-curricular activity. They have access to specialist music, drama, art and sport teaching and benefit from first-class facilities and extensive countryside grounds in which they also enjoy outdoor learning (including our very own “Wild Child Charter”), kitchen gardening and bushcraft. We also have our own golf course, train and modelling room, swimming pool, squash court and cross country course. We also offer Lamda for budding performers in our outstanding new Theatre, Judo, Sailing, Climbing, Fencing, Clay Pigeon Shooting, Mandarin and a hugely successful Chess Club. It is easy to see why boys thrive at Horris Hill. horrishill.com. We also offer a weekly London Bus Service with collection from Kensington on Monday mornings. To see for yourself what a difference a Horris Hill education could make for your son, please come and visit us. For further details, please contact registrar@horrishill.com
YUMMMY MUMMY YUM MAGAZINE
DEC 20/JAN 21 ISSUE 37
EMPORIO ARMANI JUNIOR COLLECTION Autumn/Winter 2020-21
YUMMY MUMMY
[NEWS]
BABIES & KIDS BACK TO NATURE
PLAYING HOUSE With this high-quality house bed, you can customise your child’s room to suit both of your preferences. The house design means that it’s a focal point the whole family can enjoy. The airy, but stable MDF structure is an attractive solution, especially in smaller rooms, and you’re kids are sure to love it. With its high-quality finish, this bed is an item that will last for years to come. wayfair.co.uk
Fill your children’s room with fun and wonder and help them appreciate the woodlands and nature with this wonderful novelty Mushroom Storage Basket with lid. This quirky piece with red-topped woven basket would make a striking, memorable statement. The gorgeous Giraffe Bookcase in natural grass would also make a feature of the playroom or nursery. beaumonde.co.uk
SQUEAKY CLEAN Get your kids looking and smelling their best, even when they’re up to no good. Our Absolutely WILD-Berry Hair & Everywhere Bar gets its naturally colourful swirls from mica, with a cherryberry scent that’s good enough to eat — though it’s better for cleaning hair and stinky feet! rowdykind.com
SWEET DREAMS LOVELY LETTERS FROM A-Z A marvellous addition to your home, suitable anywhere from a gallery wall to a child’s nursery, these original botanical prints make an ideal gift. lucyhughescreations.com 154 DECEMBER 2020
Bring a gentle glow to a bedroom or nursery with this calming night light in a soft swan shape. Its the perfect addition to a little ones bedtime routine. ellajames.co.uk
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Christmas Gift ideas Image: James Fennell
ELFIE CHILDRENSWEAR Elfie is an independent British childrenswear brand offering equal doses of tradition and whimsy. Exploring the work of classic children’s illustrators for inspiration, Elfie designs embolden young imaginations. Smocking with playful embroidery, florals, tartans and hand knits in rich colours abound in our Winter collection, which is complimented by fancifully-conceived sleepwear and basics. As a homegrown British children’s brand we aim to be original, charming and affordable. And our wish is to see families enjoying them from one generation to the next. elfielondon.com
EXCEPTIONAL ACADEMICS Exceptional Academics provides bespoke, ongoing academic support from 7+ through to University, and has a proven track record of helping pupils prepare for exam success across all key stages. Lauded by The Good Schools Guide as “totally different to every other agency in respect of the quality of tutors and of the service,” each tutor is personally interviewed, vetted and appointed by the founders, both Ofsted-rated “outstanding” teachers with 30 years of teaching experience collectively. exceptionalacademics.com
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PICKLE
3 BUBBLE AND POP Our multi-award winning changing bags are designed to help you stay super-organised when you’re out and about with baby. Featuring our unique pocket labelling system which allows you to set your bag up just the way you like it, a zip down front for easy access (no more rummaging around for wipes in a poop emergency!) and exclusive designs in vibrant, funky colours. The perfect gift for the mum-to-be this Christmas. bubbleandpop.co.uk
Pickle is a British clothing brand for children. We make pyjamas, sweatshirts and baby rompers using our unique prints, we also offer sweatshirts and pyjamas for mums and dads as well as mugs. Our clothes are made of the softest fabrics and make the perfect gift for your little pickle! pickle.co.uk @picklegoodsuk
“Our clothes are made of the softest fabrics and make the perfect gift for your little pickle!”
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Taking the kids Christmas shopping can boost their development and social skills
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e know Christmas 2020 is going to be very different this year. With restrictions in place due to Covid 19, some of the usual festive days out and events are in short supply. Trying to keep the kids occupied and enjoy quality family time together in the run-up to Christmas won’t be an easy task when following government guidelines. With retailers open in the run-up to Christmas, taking the kids shopping can conjure up nightmare thoughts of boredom, temper tantrums, and ‘can I have this Mum?’ over and over again. But have no fear, you can turn this around to benefit you and your little ones at the same time. A study by academics from Oxford and The Open University has found that shopping actually boosts infants’ happiness levels and the development of everyday skills. Researchers said there was evidence of a “positive” link between shopping and the physical skills that children need to master in the early years. A large scale analysis of parental activities and the impact they have on children, found that more passive activities such as watching television and looking through picture books had “no discernible benefits”. By taking them shopping they are getting visual stimulation, getting out of the house and a change of scenery, they’re bumping into other families where social (albeit 2 metres away!) skills
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come into play and getting much-needed exercise. There does seem to be a connection between the kinds of activities that are taking place and the skills that are being developed.
“Include visits to stores that will capture their imagination and excite them”
But this doesn’t happen by magic, even at Christmas… The key is to engage them when you are shopping, not dragging them behind you. Include visits to stores that will capture their imagination and excite them, with all upmarket stores offering exciting window displays, kids workshops and activities there are plenty to choose from. Consult individual stores as to whether they have a Santa’s Grotto this year. Stores will be following government guidelines so everyone is safe, ensure your family are protected with face masks. Taking them to enchanting Toy Departments at stores like Harrods, Selfridges and Hamley’s gives your children some time to enjoy themselves. Besides, taking the kids Christmas shopping gives you a great chance to listen and observe them, compiling their ‘Christmas Wish List’ without them realising!
YUMMY MUMMY
The British Pantomime Academy launch
Kids Masterclass Workshops with a Q&A with movie legend Warwick Davis
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f you need something fun and interactive to keep the kids smiling during lockdown or over the holidays then look no further! The British Pantomime Academy has launched their new ‘Kids Masterclass Workshop’ for kids aged 8-14 or 14-18 wanting to learn about Pantomime and Live Theatre. The workshop features numerous classes and techniques where they can learn about the traditions of Panto from one of the UK’s best loved Panto Dames Eric Potts and Panto star and comedian Kev Orkian. 12 additional workshops provide an in-depth focus on script reading, character development, comedy, vocals and acting. Your kids can get advice from the professionals via a Q&A with film legend and panto star Warwick Davis who famously played the lead characters in Willow and the Leprechaun film series, several characters in the Star Wars movies and of course, Professor Filius Flitwick and Griphook in the Harry Potter film series. TV and panto star Graham Cole, John Barr & Robert Hyman are also on hand to offer their advice and tips on how to make it in the magical world of pantomime. The British Pantomime Academy was founded
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in 2019 bringing workshops and courses for all ages, In 2020 classes have been taken online as the UK’s first Online Pantomime Workshops with a focus this year on providing youngsters with fun and interactive sessions, Kev Orkian Founder of the British Pantomime Academy says “We are passionate about pantomime and know that many kids won’t have the opportunity to visit one his year and that families are looking for fun, rewarding experiences for their children during lockdown and holidays; we hope the BPA can offer both of these things and keep the magic of panto a much loved tradition for many families, alive in 2020.” The British Pantomime Academy also offers courses for professional and amateur adults looking to expand their skill set and pursue a career in Pantomime or just have fun. If your kids love performing then British Pantomime Academy is for them! Learn all the secrets from the Masters of Panto and what it takes to be a Pantomime Star.
THE DETAILS The ‘Kids Masterclass Workshop’ is just £9.00 per person with discounts available when booking the full 12 workshop course. For more details and to book visit britishpantomimeacademy.com
YUMMY MUMMY
CASUALTY FIRST:
The safe and faster alternative to urgent care Offering treatment for all minor accidents, injuries and illnesses Safety Assured Casualty First’s reputation is now underpinned by Bupa designating the hospital a COVID-19 Green Zone for complying with the UK guidance on COVID-19 infection control standards and other patient safety standards. The urgent care unit’s major priority during the COVID–19 pandemic is to protect patients and the staff who are caring for them. “A large amount of the patients we see are children and our child friendly waiting area and consulting rooms disperse any anxiety the kids might have from seeing a doctor,” says Andre Van Nierop, Clinical Lead at Casualty First. “I see worried and concerned parents come in to see us who within minutes are able to see a doctor and the children, and their parents, are smiling and laughing again.”
Visit Casualty First
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asualty First’s urgent care centre at The Hospital of St John & St Elizabeth is continuing to provide its first class care for families during the pandemic with safe and efficient consultations, treating adults and children from one year and upwards for all minor accidents, injuries and illnesses. The unit is open Monday to Friday 8am to 6pm with no waiting time, so parents can be assured that any member of the family will be seen quickly and receive tailored care promptly. The highly valued service, which is staffed by A+E doctors, is operating on an appointment only basis, but booking is easy, allowing families to fit consultations into their busy days. Children from the age of one can be seen by the skilled medical team with diagnosis and treatment delivered on the same day. A range of 500 specialist consultants, covering a full range of expertise, are available for referral appointments. The skills and dedication of its clinical staff are backed up by state-of-the-art facilities and diagnostic tools with appointments conducted in a clean, friendly and comfortable environment.
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“Our child friendly waiting area and consulting rooms disperse any anxiety the kids might have”
Located at the entrance of Hospital of St John & St Elizabeth, in St John’s Wood, Casualty First is a self-pay service with treatment available for all the family. Book your appointment by phone on 0207 432 8300 casualtyfirst.co.uk St John & St Elizabeth Hospital; 60 Grove End Road, London, NW8 9NH
YUMMY MUMMY
A SPACE FOR LITTLE ONES AND THEIR GROWN-UPS
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THE CLUBS Maggie & Rose Kensington Club 58 Pembroke Road W8 6NX 020 7371 2200 kensington@maggieandrose.com Maggie & Rose Chiswick Club 1 Essex Place Square W4 5UJ 020 8994 7211 chiswick@maggieandrose.com Maggie & Rose Islington Club 7 Esther Anne Place N1 1UL 0207 078 9000 islington@maggieandrose.com
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hen children come along, it can feel as though the world shrinks a little – suddenly those trendy delis and cafés that we used to frequent don’t feel quite so comfortable a hangout with a curious toddler in tow, and the bright colours and loud sounds of the new spaces which welcome us can feel overwhelming after a broken night’s sleep. That’s where Maggie & Rose comes in. Founded in 2006 by mums eager to find a space where everyone in the family can feel at home, and now with three clubs across London (not to mention Hong Kong and Hangzhou!), they understand the needs of little ones and grown-ups, providing families the time and space to just be themselves. Maggie & Rose clubhouses are an extension of the family home, each one lovingly designed by an in-house team to combine beautiful, inviting interiors with play spaces that inspire curiosity and engage the imagination. An inclusive space where families, including grandparents, nannies and carers, can spend quality time together: eating
at the members’ Brasserie, taking part in a creative class, enjoying a thoughtfully selected array of children’s toys, books, and activities, or burning off some energy in the bespoke play areas. Membership starts from £180 per month and gives you access to the clubhouse 7 days a week all-year-round (they only close for Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day). With guest passes included you can bring along friends for playdates or to catch-up while the little ones are entertained. An exciting calendar of family events, from pancake-making workshops and Mother’s Day brunches to all-out Halloween and Christmas bashes, await members. And it’s not just about the little ones – grown-ups can also enjoy parenting workshops, guest speakers and networking events. If membership isn’t for you as yet, nonmembers can also host birthday parties or book into school holiday camps at Maggie & Rose – not to mention a tasty brunch or lunch while little ones play at their new public café in Islington Square. Find out more, or book a tour, at maggieandrose.com
YUMMY MUMMY
HOGWARTS IN THE SNOW RETURNS
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To Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – With even more snow! 14 November 2020 – 17 January 2021
ans of the Harry Potter films are invited to get into the festive spirit as Warner Bros. Studio Tour London’s annual Hogwarts in the Snow feature returns! For the very first time, from Saturday 14th November – Sunday 17th January 2021, visitors will be able to explore another of their favourite sets in the snow as Diagon Alley undergoes a wintery transformation. New for 2020, the cobbled stones and magical shop fronts of Diagon Alley will be given a festive makeover, draped in layers of filmmaking snow. During filming, many different types of ‘snow’ were used, each selected for its ability to crunch under foot, float like falling flakes or glisten in the
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light like ice, but never melt. The same techniques will be used by filmmakers to cover the magical shopping street this year. Though Diagon Alley was not seen in the snow, the same set was used for parts of Hogsmeade during the wintery scenes that see Harry make use of his invisibility cloak to join the school trip without permission. A popular fan favourite, the Hogwarts castle model will also be transformed with a dusting of snow again this year. During filming, a member of the crew climbed aboard an elevated work platform and sprinkled the mixture of granulated paper and grains of salt onto the model by hand with a sieve – like dusting sugar onto a cake. The same process takes place at the Studio Tour
YUMMY MUMMY
THE DETAILS Hogwarts in the Snow will run from Saturday 14th November – Sunday 17th January 2021. Tickets must be pre-booked, and all extra features are included in the ticket price. To help keep everyone safe, a number of additional measures and changes have been made to the Studio Tour experience. The updates are designed to prioritise social distancing and enhanced cleaning. Visitors are advised to familiarise themselves with the Studio Tour’s safety measures before visiting: wbstudiotour.co.uk/ updates/safety-measures
every festive season. As visitors step foot onto the original stone floor of the Great Hall, they will be welcomed with wreaths, garlands and trees topped with witches on miniature broomsticks. The long dining tables will be dressed as they were for the seasonal feast in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, complete with SFX flaming Christmas puddings and prop versions of the mouth-watering roast turkeys and hams studded with cherries. In addition, many more of the iconic sets
housed at the Studio Tour will receive a festive makeover. The Gryffindor Common Room and Boys’ Dormitory will be decorated with the original props including handmade Christmas cards, some of which were created by the cast members during production. Fireplaces throughout the Studio Tour (including those in the Leaky Cauldron and Great Hall) will be ‘lit’ with special effects fire, created by John Richardson and the SFX team using a combination of water vapour and lighting effects.
Tickets must be pre-booked at wbstudiotour.co.uk and cannot be bought at the attraction. Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter opened its doors on 31st March 2012. The unique attraction offers visitors the ultimate chance to get up close to authentic sets, discover the magic behind spellbinding special effects and explore the behind-thescenes secrets of the Harry Potter film series. Visitors can explore the original Great Hall, step into the Forbidden Forest and discover the newly opened Gringotts Wizarding Bank all before marvelling at the breath-taking miniature scale model of Hogwarts castle. The Studio Tour has been well received with 96% of the 40,000+ reviews on TripAdvisor rating it as ‘Excellent’ or ‘Very Good’. WBTourLondon #HogwartsInTheSnow; WBTourLondon WBTourLondon; MAAbout Warner Bros. Studio Tour London
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YUMMY MUMMY
Eco-friendly kidswear
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roject Panda, an eco-friendly kidswear label focused on raising awareness of endangered species, with education and sustainability at our heart. Our unisex ranges are lovingly designed and handmade in the UK, offering comfy organic cotton styles with unique wildlife prints. Each product is accompanied by a fun ‘Cub’ card so all little cubs can learn about their favourite animals and get excited about saving and protecting them for future generations. Inspired by the bright colours of the natural world and driven by a passion for conservation we became hooked on creating a brand that did more than just the usual. We now offer a core collection of key clothing and homeware pieces which include designs in our much-loved Panda and Sloth prints. Alongside this, there are four new seasonal collections available each year. Our prints are designed in-house, and are all exclusive. We believe that parents, now more conscious than ever, look for so much more than the fast fashion, ‘clothes straight to your door’ trend. As such, we design Project Panda with sustainability in mind, every step of the way. Handmade to-order in the UK, we work diligently to ensure ethicallyproduced premium quality pieces. Our inks are baby-safe and our fabrics are organic and OekoTex certified. Conservation isn’t just for grown-ups. Teaching kids about our planet’s other inhabitants and
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how to care for them sustainably is important for their understanding of the world. It is our goal to influence how they treat the world as adults. Habits start young, through learning about conservation children can make an immediate impact. That impact, though, could have a ripple effect. Our vision is that through clothing the message of conservation will spread: they may end up teaching their friends or even get their schools more interested in taking steps to operate more sustainably. Learning the basics may spark an interest that could lead to a hobby or even a possible career. Your child could be inspired to go on to help save endangered species. Shop Project Panda today and support the conservation movement! Visit projectpanda.co.uk and follow @projectpandakids on Instagram.
“Inspired by the bright colours of the natural world and driven by a passion for conservation we became hooked on creating a brand that did more than just the usual”
www.projectpanda.co.uk @projectpandakids - Instagram and Facebook
YUMMY MUMMY
Bump, Babies & Beyond
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ump, Babies & Beyond is a bespoke nanny agency that brings the personal touch to your search for outstanding
childcare. The right care for your children is an enormous decision and therefore finding the best person is our priority. We work closely with you in order to really understand your needs and get to know you and your family in order to match a nanny that works in
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harmony with your lifestyle. Interviewing is a time-consuming process, therefore we only send you candidates that we truly believe match your specific needs. We have an extensive and diverse book of wonderful candidates; nannies, au pairs, holiday help as well as a trusted selection of maternity nurses and sleep consultants. We feel confident we can help you find the right person, whatever your requirements. @bumpbabiesandbeyond
“We work closely with you in order to really understand your needs and get to know you and your family�
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Kids Reveal THIS Santa to be MOST Believable!
rom Home Alone to Jack Frost, cosying up with a Christmas flick has become a festive ritual for many families across the world. With Saint Nick soon to be making his rounds, experts at OnBuy.com wanted to see which movie Claus is the most believable – according to kids! After surveying 5,700 children from around the world, (with a pool of 100 respondents in 57 countries) OnBuy can reveal an official childapproved Santa list!
No 1 Santa - Lord Richard Attenborough As Kris Kringle In Miracle On 34th Street
Ed Asner as Santa in Elf (2003)
Tim Allen, The Santa Clause Movie
“American actor Edward Asner comes in second with his role as Santa in the 2003 movie Elf” Top 3 Movie Santas In first place is the nation’s beloved Lord Richard Attenborough with his performance as Kris Kringle in the rejuvenated Christmas flick Miracle on 34th Street. With his white snow beard, ruby red coat, and shining gold buttons, it’s no wonder that 76% of children voted him as the most believable movie Santa! American actor Edward Asner comes in second with his role as Santa in the 2003 movie Elf 64% of children worldwide voted Ed as the most convincing movie Santa. In third place is The Santa Clause star Tim Allen! After being magically recruited to take Santa’s place and with many mishaps along the way, 58% of children across the world think that Tim Allen is the most convincing Santa.
The Least Believable Movie Santa Unfortunately, this title is given to Mr. David Huddleston, in Santa Claus: The Movie. Despite taking on the famous role, he only convinced 18% of children worldwide! 174 DECEMBER 2020
*Data experts at OnBuy.com surveyed 5,700 children from around the world (a pool of 100 respondents in 57 countries). Question asked: ‘which of these do you think is the best Santa?’ accompanied with 10 images of each Santa listed. onbuy.com/gb
Ranking 1 2 3
Film Miracle On 34th Street (1994) Elf The Santa Clause
Actor Richard Attenborough Ed Asner Tim Allen
% of Votes 76 64 58
4
The Christmas Chronicles
Kurt Russell
51
James Cosmo
47
Jim Broadbent Edmund Gwenn Paul Giamatti Leslie Nielsen David Huddleston
36 32 29 24 18
5 6 7 8 9 10
The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe Get Santa Miracle on 34th Street (1947) Fred Clause All I Want for Christmas Santa Claus: The Movie
LITTLE BOXERS
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he home of Little Boxers is in the heart of Dorset staying true to its British DNA. Lucinda Radford took on the ownership of the brand a year ago in 2019 and has continually strived to push the brand and expand the product ranges whilst retaining its authenticity and timeless traditional style. The selling point of the brand focuses on a playful approach to Luxury traditional cotton boxer shorts and bloomers, created for both boys and girls, as well catering for the adult market, with quality and customer service at its forefront. Our product is niche and not widely seen in the modern day high street, with a unique approach to versatility and comfort we are ‘the go to’ for stylish pants. Our fabric is carefully
“Our product is niche and not widely seen in the modern day high street”
sourced within the UK, ensuring that we always achieve a bespoke personal customer experience. With a variety of classic fabric to choose from and complimentary accessories, you will be on trend all year round. We cater from 0-100 years, providing endless gifting opportunities and always ensuring we offer an inclusive approach to our collections. littleboxers.com
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‘WHY DO BABYGROWS HAVE ALL THESE POPPERS?’
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y lovely hubby would ask me this all the time when we had our first baby boy. This got me thinking about the many times I was struggling to match poppers in the dark whilst trying to dress our newborn. I now have two very wriggly little boys who won’t keep still for a second, it’s like wrestling a lion getting them dressed after bath time. So with two busy little guys to deal with I need ZIPPYUP’s more than ever to make nappy and outfit changes quicker and easier. Just over a year ago I got to work on making ZIPPYUP a brand for all those parents like us, slightly tired, run ragged and doing the best we can... we’ll take any help that is offered...if it makes our life easier. Before I promoted myself to the position of Mummy, I learnt my trade working for a company that designed and made many of the clothes you’re probably wearing right now. So I have taken those many years of experience and knowledge and put them to good use by designing and making a babygrow that works well for both the wearer and the dresser. ZIPPYUP babygrows aren’t just well designed, they’re amazing value and made from good quality soft fabric, that’s because I personally source and work with the factories that are making ZIPPYUP
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designs to get the best possible prices and materials. The classic ZIPPYUP original babygrow is made from 100% super soft cotton fabric. The zips are concealed so they do not have contact with your baby’s skin and the tab at the neck ensures the zip puller doesn’t catch on any little chins. The long sleeves have turn back cuffs so you don’t need separate (often lost or odd) mittens and they are long enough for your baby to have lots of hand room. Colour combinations include unisex colours such as aqua with pale grey and traditional white with pale grey. For baby girls we have designed a pink and white stripe. New colour combinations of the classic one-piece ZIPPYUP babygrow are in the pipeline as well as new designs, I’ve taken inspiration from baseball style tees by pairing up interesting colours which look extra cute as babygrows, I look forward to sharing these with you very soon. zippyup.com
“ZIPPYUP babygrows aren’t just well designed, they’re amazing value and made from good quality soft fabric”
MORE WAYS TO PLAY! Our Regular 18-inch dolls come with their own outfit, which can easily be mixed and matched with other colourful clothes to create unique fashion looks. And our Deluxe 18-inch dolls feature 2 coordinated outfits, with a storybook that beautifully illustrates their playful adventures! There are also plenty of accessories to choose from, such as vehicles with electronic features, adorable pets, and themed playsets with realistic details that will lead to new journeys every day!
READER OFFER
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Discover new ways to play at ourgeneration.co.uk and enter code YUMMYMUMMY15 at checkout to receive 15% off retail prices! *Excludes sale items and cannot be used with any other offer or discount.
ur Generation® is unlike any that has come before. Filled with discovery, adventure, and unlimited possibilities, children are invited into a world of empowerment and play — where they can laugh, learn, grow together, and share in the joys and dreams found in everyday life. Our Generation® dolls and accessories come to life in the minds of children while encouraging them to reach for the stars and create the narrative of their generation.
BABY CLOTHES WITH ZIPS
A brand inspired by a love for beautiful soft luxury yarns like cashmere, angora and silk, motivated by a passion for creating unique products. www.bo-peephandmade.co.uk
www.zippyup.com
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Mariposa Children’s Boutique M ariposa Children’s Boutique was Follow us online @mariposachildrensboutique created back in July 2011 by or Facebook at Mariposa Children’s Angela Brown and has turned Boutique. Shop online at into a successful online boutique mariposachildrensboutique.com use code specializing in bringing the best Spanish designers YUMMY for 10% off your first order of Children’s Wear to the UK. Having spent 7 years living in Spain, Angela fell in love with the traditional, classic Spanish children’s clothing READER ranges. On her return to the UK and seeing OFFER: SAVE a gap in the market for timeless pieces and stunning puffball dresses Mariposa Children’s Boutique was born. We have grown year on year and are pleased to work with the best designers of Children’s Wear from Spain including our own Exclusive range of beautiful girl’s dresses for any special occasion, hand created by our very talented dressmakers Ana & Alex. We stock well known brands such as Miranda, Dolce Petit, Belcoquet, Meriche Alta Costura, Mac Ilusion, Artesania Sonata, Condor, Angelitos Spanish Footwear and many more. From newborn to 10 years you will find everything from classic baby knitwear to stunning puffball dresses and boys 2 piece sets.
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“We have grown year on year and are pleased to work with the best designers of Children’s Wear from Spain including our own Exclusive range of beautiful girl’s dresses for any special occasion, hand created by our very talented dressmakers Ana & Alex”
Spanish & Traditional Children’s Clothing & Footwear Here at Mariposa Children’s Boutique we specialise in importing and selling high quality, traditional Spanish baby and children’s clothing & accessories. www.mariposachildrensboutique.com
YUMMY MUMMY
BAMBOO B-CORP M
ama Bamboo, who sell bamboo eco-nappies and baby wipes, join the elite B-Corp club, a strictly audited environmental and ethical body. It takes months of paperwork, checks and double checks to be certified as a B-Corp and Mama Bamboo are immensely proud to be the only European nappy company to have ever been approved. Mama Bamboo’s nappies and wipes represent one of the most environmentally sustainable product ranges available today. Their awardwinning wipes are made from 100% bamboo fibre and contain 99.4% purified water. Also made from 100% bamboo fibre and 100% compostable liners and packaging, their nappies are significantly more ‘eco’ than most other disposable brands. Many ‘eco’ brands are only partially better than the standard plastic nappies available on discount supermarket shelves. They may have removed the chlorine, but some brands feature less than 15% plant-based resources in their top and bottom layers and use 100% plastic liners. They are cleverly marketed and ingredients are often found in very small print. Don’t be fooled. Mama Bamboo is different. Honesty and transparency are at the core of this small UK based firm. Run by three part time working mothers, the team are driven to offer parents the most sustainable products whilst never compromising on quality. Mother&Baby awarded their nappies a Gold award for “Best Performance Nappy Range” 2020;
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rating the nappies more absorbent and softer than all 3 Pampers ranges and all supermarket entrants. Made for Mums awarded Mama Bamboo nappies a Gold award for “Best Eco Nappy” and a Silver award for “Best Baby Wipes” 2020. Bamboo is the secret ingredient in these supereco nappies and wipes. Bamboo is one of the most sustainable resources on earth; organically grown and sustainably harvested, it surpasses human demand naturally. It also has amazing properties which make it ideal for babies’ products; it is incredibly soft to touch, softer-than-cotton, breathable and temperature regulating like silk. It is also naturally antibacterial. All in all it is much more comfortable for your baby to wear and can help control nappy rash. In addition to the product excellence and sustainability, Mama Bamboo are green in every aspect of their business; achieving carbon neutrality with their ‘Platinum’ friendship of the Ugandan Bamboo Village, selecting only biofuel freighting and electric vehicle couriers, and tirelessly campaigning with DEFRA to improve compostable waste management across the UK. This is a company deserving of its B-Corp status.
Mama Bamboo nappies and wipes are available at mamabamboo.com
YUMMY MUMMY
The Magic of Christmas at
ZSL London Zoo A festive wonderland until Sunday 3 January 2021
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prinkle some much-needed magic over Christmas this year, by journeying through the animal kingdom to celebrate the season in the open air of ZSL London Zoo. After spending the second national lockdown preparing a colourful outdoor Christmas
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celebration, the zoo is lifting everyone’s spirits by offering a safe and festive day out - no matter which tier London is in. Children of all ages can journey through the animal kingdom and surround themselves with The Magic of Christmas at London Zoo during a trip to the outdoor attraction – helping write the animals’ wish lists, spotting Santa as he visits the animals and enjoying the Zoo’s brightly-decorated Christmas trees and twinkly animal light sculptures. Look forward to dashing through the Zoo’s very own fairy-lit festive wonderland, where little ones can become elves-in-training, following a brand new self-guided trail to find out what their favourite animals want for Christmas. Prepare to feast on festive food and wrap up warm to climb aboard the Zoo’s famous carousel, before sending letters to Santa at the Zoo’s express postbox – checked by the man himself every day
“Preparing a colourful outdoor Christmas celebration, the zoo is lifting everyone’s spirits”
as he visits the animals. Bring your letters and watch out for Santa popping up throughout the day to say hi! With 36 acres of nature and wildlife to explore, plus stringent Covid-safety measures in place, ZSL London Zoo is the perfect place for a guaranteed family day out this Christmas. ZSL London Zoo’s chief operating officer, Kathryn England, said: “We know that Christmas is an important time for many of our visitors, and once we reopened our gates it is an outdoor wonderland of nature and wildlife. Families can now book a fun day out at the zoo safe in the knowledge that it will be a festive - and Covidsecure - celebration of the season.”
Festive Activities ZSL London Zoo is operating at a reduced capacity, with safety measures on site including: • All visitors must book tickets in advance at zsl.org/magicofchristmas • Contactless entry and payments • Limited visitors per day • 2m distancing markers in place around the zoo • Three one-way trails to keep visitors flowing in the same direction • Handwashing facilities and sanitiser available throughout the zoo • Benches and tables meticulously cleaned throughout the day • Timed animal talks and Meet Santa events have been suspended to avoid gathering crowds: Santa will instead make pop up appearances from a distance Get ready to book tickets online at zsl.org/magicofchristmas.
put the charity zoos under huge financial pressure. Vets and zookeepers continue to provide the highest level of care for their animals, working throughout both lockdowns. ZSL, the international conservation charity behind the Zoos, is calling on the public to help ensure they remain open by donating to ZSL at zsl.org/donate
ZSL London Zoo An iconic London landmark, ZSL London Zoo reopened to the public on Monday 15th June after an unprecedented three months closed to the public. Nestled in the heart of Regent’s Park, the Zoo opened to scientists in 1828 and to the public in 1847. Pre-dating the invention of the telephone, it’s had six reigning monarchs as its Royal Patron, and survived two world wars – closing only briefly during WWII upon instruction from the government, before being re-opened to boost the morale of Londoners.
Funds raised from Christmas visits will help international conservation charity ZSL (Zoological Society of London), which runs London Zoo and Whipsnade Zoo, continue to care for the 20,000 residents at its two Zoos and protect threatened species around the world.
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EMPORIO ARMANI JUNIOR COLLECTION Autumn/Winter 2020-21
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or Autumn/Winter 2020-21, the Emporio Armani Junior collection offers a series of pieces inspired by the silhouettes and materials of the Emporio Armani men’s and women’s collections, creating a complete wardrobe that looks towards the world of adults with casual, sporty and chic flair. For girls, the eclectic range includes dresses with all-over prints and dainty outfits in denim or velvet with macro houndstooth or damier motifs in shades of pink, blue and black; for boys, blue, red and black dominate the colour palette for comfortable and versatile bomber jackets, trousers, tracksuits and sweatshirts, with tape-style or allover logos for a fun and modern look. Additionally, more formal outfits, including jackets and suits, make use of soft velvet, the distinctive, elegant, versatile fabric that is a signature of the Armani aesthetic. The adorable Manga Bear, with its unmistakeable and iconic silhouette, features on space-themed T-shirts and sweatshirts, accompanied by planets, stars and astronauts, as well as on baby sets and accessories for children between 0 and 36 months old. Completing the looks are colourful shoes, combat boots, backpacks and belt bags featuring the Emporio Armani eagle pattern. The collection is available now in select Emporio Armani Junior retailers including Harrods, Selfridges, Childrensalon, Child’s Play and at armani.com
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Knit hat £40, Jacket £210, Black and white dress with logo £150, Leather bag £100
Girl 1 – Knit hat £ 40, Sweatshirt dress £ 240, Belt bag £ 85, Knee high socks £ 10, Leather sneakers £ 150 Girl 2 – Fleece cap with logo £ 50, Padded jacket £ 250, Tracksuit £ 250
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FASHION & BEAUTY – Fashion and beauty news to keep you looking your best – I M AG E : E M P O R I O A R M A N I
FASHION & BEAUTY
[NEWS]
FASHION & BEAUTY ROYAL BLUE A WELSH WINTER The Heavyweight multi yarn acrylic 2 tone cable knit melange bobble hat with a Suprafleece™ has a thermal band for extra snugness and cosy hand-knitted feel. The sweatshirt uses a combination of coloured yarn to produce a striking marl effect with solid contrast details at cuffs and collar & using a blend of regenerated pre-consumer cotton waste, its great for the environment. Each piece is finished by hand in North Wales using carefully curated materials. andsotoshop.com
WORLD OF COLOUR We love the vibe of these socks. The prints are fab, as is the quality. Dress up your ankles with these socks, they look great poking out the bottom of jeans or more formalwear. Could these be the perfect Christmas stocking filler? thecornrow.com
STOWAWAY This Stash+Stow Plus+ backpack is a multifunctional statement bag that can be used as a gym, yoga, laptop, travel or stylish work bag. The bag is designed to make your day and life a little easier. There are easily accessible compartments, pockets and mobile phone charging port for all your daily needs. stashandstow.com 188 DECEMBER 2020
Inspired by the engagement ring given to Catherine Middleton by Prince William, Duke of Cambridge, this necklace is sure to delight. The original ring was made by the jewellers Garrard, and consisted of 14 diamonds surrounding a 12-carat oval blue Ceylon sapphire set in 18-carat white gold. The ring had originally belonged to William’s mother Princess Diana. shop.westminster-abbey.org
WE LOVE These lovely contemporary elegant pearl & CZ hook earring & matching pendant set. lido-collection.co.uk
FASHION & BEAUTY
Namoh London Individually Handpainted, Personalised Hats
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emperatures cool this season, and fashion is at its comfiest! This year’s collection includes a chic and trendy take on the classic fedora. Our hats are the perfect statement pieces with hand painted floral brims, animal prints, paint splashes, Parisian reds, silver accents and more.
THE SAHARA
All of our designs take inspiration from exotic locations which are filled with life, adventure, exquisite detail and vibrant colours. Each hat is beautifully designed and hand painted by the internationally renowned artist, Roopa Basu. Our hand painted hats are individually unique, lightweight, soft and can be personalised with your initials, making them the chicest addition to your Winter wardrobe.
THE NEW YORK New York City, the city that never sleeps. A city that’s full of life, art, passion, music and architecture. This hat is one of a kind, just like the beautiful Art Deco–style skyscraper, The Chrysler Building. When wearing this hat, you can’t help but feel connected to the magic, glitz and glamour of the city of dreams.
THE ASPEN
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leaves, Aspen during the Autumn is like no other. Taking its inspiration from the golden, maroon and rust coloured leaves that line the mountain base, this hat is a modern take on the cowgirl classic.
THE KENYA Kenya is known for its beautifully diverse landscapes and array of exotic, big game wildlife. Perfect for winter, this eye catching hat is influenced by the ‘dazzle of zebras’ pattern most commonly found along the East African coastline.
THE PARIS Long regarded as the fashion capital of the world, Paris is also home to many of the world’s most famous museums and galleries. This hat is inspired by the rich art and culture of the French capital that has influenced everything from food to music, architecture and photography found in the city of love.
THE WINDSOR The Windsor is a hat fit for royalty! It is inspired by forts and palaces with its gold and copper colours and design that could very well be your own personal coat of arms. As your name is unique, so is each hat – with the artist designing around your name making it not only personalised, but one-of-a-kind. All £59. namoh.co.uk
“Perfect for winter, this eye catching hat is influenced by the ‘dazzle of zebras’ pattern most commonly found along the East African coastline”
FASHION & BEAUTY
Botanical Beach Babes LOS ANGELES
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otanical Beach Babes Los Angeles® features an elegant assortment of luxury sustainable swimwear and resort wear styles exclusively created by their global network of fashion designers from California, Australia, Bali, Italy, Switzerland, & Spain. In July 2018 at Miami Swim Week, the company debuted their first international swimwear campaign with Designer & Entrepreneur Allanah Rosenwald of VDM The Label. Botanical Beach Babes Los Angeles® has been a global industry leader in launching and promoting independent luxury sustainable swimwear collections at both the 2019 Oceana Seachange Gala in Laguna Beach, California and the 3rd Annual 2019 Monte-Carlo Global Oceans Gala Presided by Sir HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco. The South of France also serves as the primary location destination where Botanical Beach Babes Brand Ambassador Maja Malnar, an awardwinning high fashion blogger from Slovenia who lives in London, was discovered after winning the title for “Best Lifestyle Account” in 2019. During the Spring of March 2019, Botanical Beach Babes Los Angeles® launched Sqorpios Swimwear by Chiara Bransi, a luxury sustainable swimwear brand based in Spain as seen on Fashion Influencer Tatjana Mariposa. Sqorpios Swimwear
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is an exotic luxury sustainable swimwear collection that evokes the seductive and magical mystery of Ibiza, Spain. “Chiara Bransi was the perfect athletic Swimwear Model & Designer to represent our company when we initially debuted her Sqorpios campaign in Los Angeles, California”. says Laura Preston, Public Relations Manager for Botanical Beach Babes, LLC. Botanical Beach Babes Los Angeles® specializes in marketing and promoting limited-edition custom collections with a hand selected team of female designers who know exactly how to dress a woman for a glamorous vacation or a special celebration. Cultivating sustainable fashion design collaborations with an exclusive network of international creatives is what sets this beautiful online luxury retail brand apart from all other competitors. Every collection at Botanical Beach Babes Los Angeles® The Lifestyle Collective is designed to capture the authenticity of each designer’s lifestyle and personality. Explore Botanical Beach Babes all new Amoure Swimwear Resort Wear collaboration with Istituto Marangoni Fashion Stylist & Designer Maria Ludovica Campana as seen on Australian Top Model Jelena Markovic. Follow: @BotanicalBeachBabes Instagram Shop: BotanicalBeachBabes.com
“Every collection at Botanical Beach Babes Los Angeles® The Lifestyle Collective is designed to capture the authenticity of each designer’s lifestyle and personality”
FASHION & BEAUTY
Icon Autumn/Winter 2020-21 Collection S harp, contemporary, and always evolving: since its very beginnings, the Emporio Armani line has offered a dynamic, urban aesthetic. The Icon collection was born from the idea of creating a hub within the hub that is Emporio Armani: a selection of iconic pieces for men and women, updated in both materials and shapes, that tell the story of the brand. For women, research into materials and shapes finds expression in an array of pieces that naturally capture the moment but are also timeless classics. Comfortable trouser suits, long overcoats, nappa leather blazers and jackets, blouses, petite shorts and a feminine tailcoat (worn with a short top hat) create a characterful wardrobe with bold, modern flair, while the reinvented logo features on T-shirts and jumpers. For men, there are quintessential Emporio Armani styles, like overcoats, sweatshirts and T-shirts featuring the unmistakable brand eagle. Navy blue is the dominating colour. The collection is available now in select Emporio Armani Stores retailers including Harrods & Selfridges and at armani.com
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Micro check jacquard jacket £590 Micro check jacquard trousers £390 Oversized shirt with guru collar in cotton piqué £175 Black virgin wool coat £1200
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As previous page
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Glove-quality, lambskin nappa leather jacket with lapels ÂŁ900 Jacquard oversized-plaid, cuffed, palazzo trousers ÂŁ450
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Prickly Pear Cosmetics is a woman owned brand that offers unique vegan and cruelty free products. Products are made in small batches so they are always fresh for each customer. Currently offering lipstick, lipgloss, eyeshadow, skin care, eyeliner, lip care, and mineral star dusts. They will be expanding their line soon! First time customers receive a special discount, this can be claimed by sending them an email or DM on any of their social media platforms! Visit www.pricklypearcos.com and follow @pricklypearcos on Instagram! This image: Model: Clare Elaine Left: Model: Lacey Hutchinson Photographer and editor: KD Gonzalez Photography MUA: Let’s Slay MUA
The Perfumist Over 300 years of making perfumes and colognes strictly and privately for kings and royalties, we decided to offer our work to the public. Everything we offer is 100% limited, natural, and extremely rare. We have been working, designing and making perfumes, from father to son, for over a century. www.theperfumist.com
Leather jacket as previous Leather buckle bag £350
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Sleeveless sweater with Op-Art triangle motif £360 Sweater with Op-Art triangle motif £360 Mini shoulder bag with checkedhoundstooth print £150
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FASHION & BEAUTY
High-neck blouse in crepe satin silk with a micro geometric pattern £450 Greige virgin wool coat £1200
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Ego-SÉ presents Wefts Games Red Collection
An ancient loom weaving precious threads. Patient hands weaving a warp to make objects coming out once upon a time in a faraway land where clock hands slow down their rhythmic cadence out of blue. This is the story Ego-SÉ tells from a little village in the middle of Tuscany where hand-made products send back to handicrafts made with heart and love.
Choose To Be Unique H a n d m a d e i n Tu s c a n y
Pre-Sale emailing at customer.care@ego-se.it, www.ego-se.it @ego_se @GioielliEgoSE
Wefts Games Red collection has been inspired by Battista Sforza sleeve as is in Piero della Francesca piece “Double Portrait of Urbino’s Dukes” dated around 1465 – 1472. The jewels are hand made by loom with sterling silver soaked in gold and weaved with twisted Florentine cotton.
Cat eye sunglasses £120 Guru collar blouse in micro check jacquard £340 Herringbone wool trouser £410
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FASHION & BEAUTY
6 of the best beauty baubles Deck your tree out with these chic product-filled ornaments. By Katie Wright
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hy settle for regular old Christmas tree decoration when you can adorn your Norwegian spruce with beauty baubles? Filled with mini make-up, skincare and bathtime treats, these swinging sensations will delight your guests on Christmas Day – if you can bear to part with them.
Here are six of the most desirable beauty baubles… 1. Burt’s Bees A Bit of Burt’s Bees 2 Piece Moisturising Gift Set, £6.99, Amazon Who doesn’t love a Burt’s Bees lip balm? In this festive red bauble there’s a pomegranate scented balm and a little pot of lemon cuticle cream, ideal for keeping lips and hands hydrated in winter. 2. Hora Skincare Beauty Bauble Gift Set, £32.50, The Chillery From cult CBD brand Hora, this luxury bundle brings together the skin-boosting Overnight Exfoliating Mask and soothing CBD Super Serum. 3. L’Occitane Verbena My Fresh Essentials Star Gift Set, £10.80, Escentual Housed in a sweet star-shaped tin are a trio of soap, hand cream and body lotion, all fragranced with L’Occitane’s zesty verbena scent. 4. Marks and Spencer Apothecary Calm Bauble Hanging Gift Set, £6 Inside the minimalist metal baubles you’ll find a travel-sized body wash and hand cream from Apothecary’s Calm range, scented with lavender, orange, sage and cedarwood. 5. Tan-Luxe The Glow Bauble, £15, Space NK One for the tan-aholics, this pretty pink bauble contains a mini version of Tan-Luxe’s Super Glow serum, which moisturises while delivering a subtle hint of bronze. 6. The White Company Seychelles Shower Gel Bauble, £10 Twist open the top of this silver-capped bauble to release the delightful aroma of a tropical holiday. The Seychelles shower gel is scented with bergamot, jasmine, coconut and vanilla. 206 DECEMBER 2020
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FASHION & BEAUTY
British Grown Skincare Scoops Prizes at National Gift Awards
Londe Botanics UK Grown skincare has won a Gold and four Silver awards at the inaugural Free From Gift Awards.
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he Awards were launched this year by the same team behind the annual Free From Skincare Awards, in order to celebrate the best beauty gift sets, skincare trial packs and cosmetic stocking fillers from brands who manufacture products that are ‘free from’ some of the allergens, chemicals, additives and fragrances associated with skin sensitivities, allergies, and ethical, environmental and health concerns. Londe’s range of botanical oils are made from 100% UK grown crops, hand blended and bottled in England, with a focus on traditional skincare and self-care rituals. Founder Amy Wright said, ‘We launched our gift sets last month to help brighten up lockdown and bring some Christmas cheer...to be recognised like this is just wonderful, we’re so happy!’ The announcements were made on 24thNovember, following a testing and assessment process which concluded with expert panel judging sessions, conducted via video-conferencing due to pandemic restrictions. The judges commented on Londe Botanics quality and attention to detail, “I was absolutely thrilled…pared-down elegance. The evening oil is utterly glorious, my skin has a subtle glow and looks plump and fresh. I appreciate the thought that has gone into this…I am totally delighted.” Londe Botanics winning Night Duo and New Rituals gift sets are ideal for Christmas, Valentine’s Day or Mother’s Day gifting available exclusively at londebotanics.co.uk
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FASHION & BEAUTY
Tried and tested: MASCARAS Our testers get to grips with some of the year’s biggest make-up launches.
URBAN DECAY
HOURGLASS Claire Spreadbury tried: Hourglass Unlocked Instant Extensions Mascara, £29 Hourglass’ latest release comes with lots of big promises – intense length, lift, definition, the look of extensions, while also being filmforming and smudge-proof, yet easy to wash off. To be honest, I don’t listen to a lot of the hype when it comes to mascara. We all have personal preferences, but my biggest bugbear is the black bits that sit underneath my lashes and ultimately result in panda eye. I struggle with it so much that I’ve resorted to wearing waterproof mascara on a daily basis. On first application, I did have a few speckles of black beneath my eye, but after that, I didn’t. I’ve worn it all day and night and not needed to wipe away dark smudges at all. The wand itself is easy to use and the mascara goes on nicely and stays put – but most importantly, the film-forming technology really does work – I’m impressed! 210 DECEMBER 2020
HUDA BEAUTY Sarah Marshall tried: Huda Beauty Legit Lashes, £24, Boots This isn’t the easiest mascara to apply, but with a bit of effort, it does deliver dramatic results. There are two brushes: one thick wand designed to build layers of volume and another finer, curved applicator to finish the look. I’m generally slap dash when it comes to make-up, so it took me a few attempts to master a tidy, clump-free finish. I found the volume brush slightly too chunky and unwieldy, but it does thicken lashes after only a few flicks, allowing you to work quickly before unsightly spider legs form. For me, the curling wand was a revelation. Along with coating tips for that doe-eyed Bambi effect, it’s excellent for catching tricky corner bits and thinner lower lashes. I used it alone on these areas to get the best fluttery finish. Capable of creating multiple looks, this has to be one of the most versatile mascaras out there.
Liz Connor tried: Urban Decay Lash Freak, £21 As someone with blonde and fairly unremarkable lashes, I’ll take any extra help I can get in the eye department, and Urban Decay’s latest launch promises to do the trick; the cult beauty brand claims it can behold the wearer with 23.6 times more volume and up to 40% more visible lash length. The beauty of this mascara lies in its asymmetrical brush – rather than having bristles all over, the wand is smooth on one side to help hit every nook and cranny of your lash line. The bristled tip is designed to define and separate lashes (even those fiddly annoying ones in the inner corners), while the curved side adds lift at the lash root. I was genuinely impressed at how quickly I could build a false lash effect with just a few swipes of the wand – although I did find that one too many gave me a bit of a clumpy Sixties look, so my advice would be to go gently, as a little of this product goes a long way. That being said, I’m pleased to say that this mascara lived up to its 20-hour guarantee – I wore it all day and managed to avoid looking in the mirror to find either flaking or raccoon eyes. This is a great purchase for anyone looking to amp up their eye look this season.
BLUE VELVET SHOES Blue Velvet, the home of contemporary and Luxury footwear direct from the heart of Europe.
Always one step ahead, they have established themselves on their quality and first-rate service. Visit Blue Velvet Shoes at 174 Kings Road, SW3 4UP or call 020 7376 7442 buy online www.bluevelvetshoes.com
FASHION & BEAUTY
Introducing Mameha:
The Skincare Disruptor With Heart
“M
ameha means ‘I am here’ in Japanese. Our skincare products are about being present, they’re about saying ‘I am here I am conscious and I am not trying to jump through a hoop to avoid cosmetic surgery ten years from now’” says Ila Colombo, founder and CEO of Mameha a skincare line that is deliberately upending many of the tried and tested methodologies and philosophies of the beauty industry. Speaking over Zoom, Ila resembles an animated version of a beauty shoot. Preternaturally beautiful, her skin is dewy with not a breakout in sight, her eyes bright, her hair glossy, thick and long. But this wasn’t always the case “I suffered
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with skin dermatitis and since I was a baby I had to use medical grade cortisone creams” A serious episode five years ago was the impetus for her to start seeking alternative solutions, she elaborates: “What I discovered is the cortisone is counterproductive on many levels [because] it fixes the symptoms but not the root cause.” Indefatigable by nature she took a series of online university courses to gain a deeper understanding of skin and dermatitis in particular. “I basically found out that dermatitis is nothing more than a lack of [being able to] synthesise Vitamin A….By not being able to synthesise vitamin A I am more susceptible to things. So I sought to cure myself [with a combination of] a bigger intake of Vitamin A on a
“I am here I am conscious and I am not trying to jump through a hoop to avoid cosmetic surgery ten years from now”
topical level and a nutritional level” Ila’s Eureka moment, of considering the skin’s nutritional needs and not just its aesthetic appearance was further augmented when she drew upon her heritage as both scope for analysis and product development, she adds “This is very much a personal story to me. I am Italian and Brazilian but with a Japanese step father. I have been exposed to these cultures throughout my life…Italy [embraces] diverse nutrition [as part of the Mediterranean diet]…Japan is very interested in skincare as a health issue..and there is no distinction between men and women as they are totally educated in looking after themselves for the long run…Obviously the Amazon which is part of my journey relates to the basic ingredients as a lot of the ingredients in skincare especially relating to ageing and nutrition come from or were discovered initially in the Amazon rainforest.” Fusing these different knowledge systems resulted in the development of a skincare line which was responsive to the skin’s particular needs rather than merely seeking to mask imperfections. Adopting the Mameha system requires users to view their skincare regimen, rather like their dietary one, where different nutrients are consumed daily to solicit overall wellbeing, boost the skin’s innate ability to repair itself and result in improved complexion. A kit will last a month with only three or four drops needed per application in the morning and evening. Mameha’s futuristic packaging, conceived by award winning designer Ross Lovegrove is
intentionally gender neutral and speaks straight to the heart of the brand’s values. Ila elaborates; “Our product is not only gender neutral but ethnic neutral …the skin is an organ that we all have… We have a few parameters that are different like melanin or a man and woman might have different hormones at particular times of the life but apart from those fluctuating times, the skin anatomically is exactly the same. That is why our product is universal in that sense“. A further design masterstroke is the size of the kits, the seven 10 millilitres ampoules are air-travel size compliant but last thrice as long as the average travel kit and are a response to our modern busy schedules as well as the fact that many people live in smaller spaces so storage is an important consideration. Granted the kit is expensive, but pitted against the injectable and cosmo-ceutical offerings on the market, it is a canny investment. When I ask her about how else she chooses to differentiate in the crowded marketplace Ila adds: “We are not trying to bleach or brighten the skin, we are not trying to tan the skin, we are just trying to give the most comprehensive nutrition for health. Health is not beauty enhancement it is just health which consequently is beauty.” In an age of seeking photoshop perfection, launching in early 2021 Mameha is a refreshing response to an industry that often preys on customer’s insecurities. Instead it aims to equip and empower. - Written by Mazzi Odu To order visit mamehaskin.com
“This is very much a personal story to me. I am Italian and Brazilian but with a Japanese step father”
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FASHION & BEAUTY
RAINBOW NAILS:
This season’s hottest mani trend Why settle for one nail polish shade when you can have five? Katie Wright finds out more.
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ot that long ago, the idea of wearing more than one nail polish colour at any one time was deeply unfashionable. While nail lengths and shapes may have evolved, one uniform shade across your fingertips was the norm, and anything else was seen as, well, a bit tacky. But now, the rule book has been well and truly thrown out the window and ‘rainbow nails’, featuring five shades (or more) are everywhere. When you think about it, it’s not surprising that multicoloured manicures have become the biggest nail trend of 2020. If ever there was a year that needed brightening up – in whatever way possible – it’s this one, and painting your nails with a range of pretty polishes is a quick way to lift your mood on dreary days. It’s also the sort of trend you want to show off on Instagram, and the influx of #rainbownails posts happened to coincide with the reopening of many nail salons, resulting in lots of requests for multi-hued manis. So, how do you get the rainbow nails look at home? First of all, it’s important to note that in spite of the name, this trend actually veers away from the traditional seven colours of the rainbow. Instead, it’s about choosing a spectrum of five shades that go beautifully together, whether that’s pastels, neons or rich jewel tones. Alternatively, you might want to create a kind of ombre effect, by choosing one colour – say pink – and painting each ORLY PASSION FRUIT NAIL nail a different shade, from pastel to POLISH, £8.95, AVAILABLE fuchsia. FROM NAILPOLISHDIRECT If you’re feeling really creative, you could take a white nail polish and mix NAILS INC WALKER’S up your own shades, from light to COURT, £11, AVAILABLE dark, by varying the amount of white FROM SUPERDRUG you add. Another way to try the trend – as seen on Kylie Jenner – is to do a colourful twist on the French manicure, by painting just the tips of your nails with bright shades, and leaving the rest nude.
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MAVALA SANTA MONICA NAIL POLISH, £5.20, AVAILABLE FROM NAILPOLISHDIRECT CHANEL LE VERNIS 755 HARMONY, £23, AVAILABLE FROM DEBENHAMS
COLLECTION SPOTLIGHT SHINE NAIL POLISH GRAPE SODA, £3.19, AVAILABLE FROM SUPERDRUG
FASHION & BEAUTY
How to wear the metallic catwalk trend Miss Selfridge Gold Metallic Drape Detail Mini Dress, £29.99; Aaliyah Shoulder Bag, £18; Black Spirit Heels, £20.30 (were £29), available from Miss Selfridge
It’s time to embrace glittering gold festive fashion, says Katie Wright.
bit more subdued. Colour-wise, designers favoured darker antique hues or cool champagne tones, rather than warm gold, and there was a mixture of flowing frocks and sexy cocktail dresses. Not keen on a dazzling dress? Try metallic colour blocking, pairing a gold going-out top with a midi skirt, or a sequined skirt with a fine knit. As for accessories, don’t be afraid to double up, teaming a glittery dress with sparkly shoes, for instance. This festive season, it’s all about feel-good fashion. Here’s our pick of some of the most gorgeous gold pieces… JOE BROWNS EXCHANGING GLANCES NECKLACE, £20, FROM JOE BROWNS.
WALLIS CHAMPAGNE SEQUIN SHIFT DRESS, £24 FROM WALLIS
NEXT OCHRE PAISLEY MESH SEQUIN DRESS, £90, FROM NEXT
DUNE BRILLIANTE GOLD CRYSTAL EMBELLISHED COURT SHOES, £114, FROM DUNE
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hen models took to the runway at the autumn/winter shows many months ago, no one could have predicted how different the festive season would look this year. At the time, the shimmering golden gowns sashaying down the catwalk looked perfect for the kind of celebrations we’d usually have lined up for December. Now, it looks like party season won’t be going off with quite such a bang, but that’s no reason not to embrace the sparkling trend for the festive period. Whatever you’re doing on Christmas Day, a molten metallic dress is a real mood-booster, and there’s now a glut of golden frocks and accessories to choose from on the high street. NEXT HIGH NECK TOP, £32; BLACK JEWEL WAIST The key to this trend? Make it your BELT, £30; BLACK PLEATED SEQUIN MIDI SKIRT, £58, own. On the catwalks, we saw brilliant AVAILABLE FROM NEXT brocade at Celine and Emilia Wickstead, while there was a sea of sequins at Ashish and Paco Rabanne, so it’s up to you whether you want to go for a shimmery showstopper or something a 216 DECEMBER 2020
DEICHMANN GOLD GLITTER BOX CLUTCH BAG, £14.99, FROM NEXT
MISS SELFRIDGE GOLD SALSA HEELED SANDALS, £14.50 FROM MISS SELFRIDGE Models on the catwalk for the Ashish show at London Fashion Week February 2020 show
Los Angeles • New York WWW.TRBROWNFASHION.COM
HEALTH & FITNESS
– Everything you need to keep fit, healthy, and happy – I M A G E : K I N G E D WA R D V I I H O S P I TA L
H EALTH & FITNESS
Returning to exercise: how to avoid injury in ‘the new normal’
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or many people, exercise has become a source of stress relief in tough times, helping them to stay fit and take a break from the tedium of lockdown life. However, with a marked increase in the number of people suffering common sports and exerciserelated injuries, it’s important to consider ways to exercise safely. Dr James Thing, Sports and Exercise Medicine Consultant at Highgate Private Hospital, explains. Preparation is key While it can be tempting to throw yourself into a new exercise regime at full pelt, it’s important to sustain your exercise safely and successfully. This starts with proper preparation. Choose the right equipment, wear appropriate footwear for running and avoid HIIT (high-intensity interval training) barefoot on hard floors as this can result in foot and ankle injuries. Start slow and progress cautiously It’s crucial to start slow and progress in stages to allow your body a chance to adapt to the new exercise regime. Build up your fitness over the course of days or weeks and incorporate regular rest days to prevent overload. Mix it up to prevent muscle pulls and strains Consider combining different exercise modalities, for example, running, pilates and HIIT training. Cross-training is an important concept that allows us to condition different muscle types and body systems that can complement each other. It also prevents repetitive overload, reducing overall injury risk. Instead of going for a daily run every day of the week, consider incorporating a weights session and add a rest day of two into the programme. Know when your body is under strain If you feel a twinge of pain during activity, take this as a warning sign and consider reducing intensity immediately. If you feel significant pain during an activity or the following day then consider further rest and if pain persists then seek the opinion of a healthcare professional, such as a physiotherapist or a Sports Doctor.
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Create the right home environment If you’re working from home, you can help to avoid injury by optimising your home office: ensure you have an appropriate computer screen height, get a chair with lumbar support and a comfortable, ergonomic desk setup. Consider a standing or variable-height desk, which are best for your back and neck. It’s also imperative to take regular breaks and move, stretch and ‘loosen off ’ the back. Remember: ‘motion is lotion’! About Dr Thing Dr James Thing is a Sports and Exercise Medicine Consultant, based at Highgate Private Hospital. He specialises in musculoskeletal ultrasound and ultrasound-guided injections. He works as a pitch-side doctor for Harlequins in the Rugby Premiership and is the British Athletics Event Lead Doctor. To book an appointment email enquiries@highgatehospital.co.uk or call 020 8108 7031.
“If you feel significant pain during an activity or the following day then consider further rest and if pain persists then seek the opinion of a healthcare professional”
H EALTH & FITNESS
FIVE THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT RADIOTHERAPY
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ith one in two people likely to develop some form of cancer in their lifetimes, it’s likely you’ve heard of treatments such as radiotherapy. But what is radiotherapy and how does it work? Keisha Robinson, Head of Radiotherapy and Quality at Cancer Centre London explains. ‘High-energy particles’ do the work Radiotherapy is the use of high-energy particles, such as x-rays, gamma rays or protons to destroy or damage cancer cells. While chemotherapy delivers drugs to the entire body, radiation aims to only target the specific area of the body where there are cancerous cells, and aims to reduce the number of healthy cells that are affected during treatment. How radiotherapy works Radiotherapy can be given in three ways: external, internal or systemic radiation. External radiation directs high-energy X-rays from outside the body into the tumour. Internal radiation involves putting a radioactive source inside the body or near the tumour, and systemic radiation refers to radioactive drugs given by mouth or put into a vein. The type of radiotherapy you get will depend on the type and location of the cancer. A safe treatment method Treatment is safe and effective, though patients may develop some side effects related to the region of the body treated. External radiation treatment is delivered over a number of days or weeks as an outpatient. The latest technology makes radiotherapy even safer Recent advances in radiotherapy using cuttingedge imaging and computing technology have helped target radiation doses at cancer cells more precisely. As a result, they enable better outcomes with improved quality of life for patients, through patients experiencing fewer side effects. Cancer Centre London’s ‘Elekta Versa HD’ machine is one example of this technology. The 222 DECEMBER 2020
machine enables oncologists to target and deliver a specific dose of radiation directly to cancerous cells, with less damage to the healthy cells surrounding them. Radiotherapy and tattoo markings Historically, tattoo markings had been the only way to accurately position patients for treatment. Before starting treatment, patients would have a scan and be tattooed with small dots, which would allow accurate positioning for treatment to begin. CCL uses high-tech 3D camera technology that tracks patients ‘real-time’, improving the accuracy of treatment and eliminating the need for permanent markings before radiotherapy.
“CCL uses high-tech 3D camera technology that tracks patients ‘realtime’, improving the accuracy of treatment and eliminating the need for permanent markings before radiotherapy.”
About Cancer Centre London CCL is an award-winning oncology centre in Wimbledon. To book an appointment call 020 3432 6542 or 020 3883 6112 or email opd@cancercentrelondon.co.uk
H EALTH & FITNESS
Parkside Hospital celebrates 100th operation using pioneering robot-assisted surgery
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arkside Private Hospital in Wimbledon conducted its 100th operation in November using a ground-breaking robotic arm. The award-winning hospital is renowned for its expertise in orthopaedics and sports exercise medicine and has been utilising the Stryker Mako robotic-arm assisted system to deliver precise hip and knee joint replacement surgery. The Mako robotic-arm assisted system allows doctors to undertake hip and knee operations using a state-of-the-art method which allows patients to get back to an active lifestyle quicker than more traditional surgery. It is just one aspect of the high-quality healthcare offered at Parkside, where patients can receive convenient, personalised treatments for a range of conditions, all delivered on-site by Parkside’s expert team of world-renowned consultants. Safer and more effective joint surgery The Mako robotic-arm assisted surgery works by using CT scans to generate an exact model of the patient’s knee or hip. That information is then fed back through the robot allowing the surgeon to determine how much bone to remove in order to improve the accuracy and precision of the procedure. The robotic cutting tool will then precisely cut over only areas earmarked for removal. This reduces the risk of errors and improves patient safety. A game-changer in surgery that ‘exceeds expectations’ Mr Giles Heilpern, a specialist Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon, conducted the 100th operation at Parkside using the Mako robotic-arm assisted system. Speaking after the landmark procedure, Mr Heilpern described the system as “fantastic” and a “gamechanger”, and said that results had “exceeded expectations with patients reporting less pain, better early function after surgery and excellent long-term outcomes”.
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State-of-the-art technology Phil Bates, Hospital Director at Parkside, said he was delighted that the hospital reached the milestone of 100 operations, describing the Mako robotic-arm assisted system as “proven and trusted technology” that helps Parkside Hospital “to raise the bar in terms of the services we can offer”. Feel safe at Parkside Parkside Hospital is committed to protecting patients and staff from Covid-19. The hospital has introduced additional risk assessments, new health and safety and infection control measures, and additional staff training in line with official guidelines.
THE DETAILS Treatments are available to medically insured patients and self-paying patients. With minimal waiting times and high-quality care, there’s no reason to delay treatment. To find out more and book an appointment visit parkside-hospital.co.uk, call 020 3925 1080 or email selfpay@parkside-hospital.co.uk
H EALTH & FITNESS
Winter and Joint Pain
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s winter arrives many people with Osteoarthritis will tell you that they can ‘feel it in their bones and joints’. Osteoarthritis is the degenerative type of arthritis affecting the articular cartilage and underlying bones in our joints. The most common symptoms include pain, stiffness, swelling, lack of stability, and limited range of movement. Managing these symptoms is vital to maintaining and improving your well-being all year round, and especially during the winter months when for reasons unknown they seem to worsen. “KEEP IT MOVING!” When you stop moving your joints become stiff with decreased range of motion, and your muscles start to lose strength and muscle mass. This combination may result in decreased stability, support, increased stiffness, and pain around the joint. That is why it is crucial to stay active. The seemingly “vicious cycle” with arthritis makes us want to move less due to the pain we are experiencing, yet this lack of motion further increases our pain and decreases our mobility. To break this cycle, a regular exercise program, which can simply be walking regularly, may help decrease pain and medication use. Strength training the muscles around your sore joint will also help to improve joint pain and stability. Pilates is an effective exercise practice for loosening up stiff joints while decreasing pain and increasing range of motion. Weight loss also aids the process to pain free movement by lessening 226 DECEMBER 2020
the pressure of the weight on your joints and while moving your limb. If you find that the ‘KEEP IT MOVING’ practices have not eased your symptoms, physiotherapy ,non surgical and minimally invasive procedures may prove to be highly beneficial in managing these pain and discomfort all year around, not only during the winter months. Dr. Ralph Rogers, founder of RRMG, is a Consultant in Sports and Musculoskeltal Medicine who uses his wealth of experience to effectively tackle chronic pain and acute discomfort. rrmg.com
H EALTH & FITNESS
CHOOSE SELF-PAY FOR YOUR HEALTHCARE
The fastest way to get the treatment you need
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hoosing to self-pay for treatment is safe, easy and an efficient way to cope with injuries and illnesses so you can return to work and family life as soon as possible. The Hospital of St John & St Elizabeth offers best in class healthcare with access to experienced and skilled consultants in every medical field to give you peace of mind. With waiting times lengthening across the National Health Services because of the pandemic, it can be frustrating to put your life and work on hold – a recent NHS Referral to Treatment report highlighted that 46.8% of patients face an 18-week delay before starting treatment. St John & St Elizabeth offers next day - and sometimes same day – appointments so you do not have to put off dealing with any medical issues because of daunting waiting times. The hospital, in St John’s Wood, north London, is recognised as a COVID Green Zone for its safe environment, and does not treat COVID-19 patients. The fees are competitive and transparent with
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a variety of packages on offer. A recent patient commented: “I was given quotes for a broad spectrum of scenarios and this was before they’d even had a chance to review my scans. I knew exactly how much I’d have to pay from bestcase to worst-case scenario; it was incredibly reassuring.” Many treatments are covered by personal or work insurance and our experienced teams are always happy to guide you on how best to pay for any therapies. You can ask your GP for a referral to St John & Elizabeth Hospital and you can also mix and match between the NHS and the Hospital, choosing either for such elements as diagnostics, surgery and physiotherapy. If you’re worried about a health issue, don’t put it off, the best thing to do is call their dedicated Contact Centre, which has friendly staff all trained in different areas of health who can guide you to the right consultation and treatment option. All profits from Hospital of St John & St Elizabeth help fund the on-site Hospice St John’s, which treats over 4,000 terminally ill patients and their families for free every year.
THE DETAILS St John & St Elizabeth Hospital is located at 60 Grove End Road, London, NW8 9NH To discuss opting to self-pay, call their team on 020 7806 4000 or email on info@hje.org.uk
H EALTH & FITNESS
Casualty First:
The safe and faster alternative to urgent care Offering treatment for all minor accidents, injuries and illnesses
VISIT CASUALTY FIRST: Located at the entrance of St John & St Elizabeth Hospital in St John’s Wood, North London, Casualty First is a self pay service with treatment available for all the family, including children from the age of one year. Book your appointment by phone on 0207 432 8300 casualtyfirst.co.uk;
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asualty First’s urgent care centre at St John & St Elizabeth Hospital is continuing to provide its first class care treating all minor accidents, injuries and illnesses through the pandemic with safe and efficient consultations. The unit is open Monday to Friday 8 am to 6 pm and has no waiting time so patients are seen quickly and are guaranteed to receive tailored care promptly. The highly valued service, which is staffed by A+E doctors, is operating on an appointment only basis but booking is easy and made over the telephone, allowing patients to choose convenient times for their consultations. Instant referrals are available to 500 specialist consultants who cover a full range of expertise including: sports injuries; eye conditions; stomach, bowel and bladder problems; gyaenacology; cuts and soft tissue injury; respiratory and chest problems, and flu vaccinations.
SAFETY ASSURED The Hospital has been recognised by Bupa as a COVID-19 Green Zone for complying with the UK guidance on COVID-19 infection control 230 DECEMBER 2020
standards and other patient safety standards to ensure patient safety. Casualty First operates at consistently high levels of care, safety and service and has established a reputation for providing fast diagnosis and treatment on the same day. The skills and dedication of its clinical staff are backed up by state-of-the-art facilities and diagnostic tools with consultations conducted in a clean, friendly and comfortable environment. “The urgent care centre is a fantastic facility for people to access our first class care, with no waiting time and the option to receive treatment on the same day or at a convenient time,” says Andre Van Nierop, Clinical Lead at Casualty First. “We have seen patients come in with minor complaints, where after our investigation we have diagnosed serious conditions and been able to refer next or same day treatment, which in some cases has potentially been life-saving due to early diagnosis. It is so rewarding to see the difference that it makes.” All profits from St John & St Elizabeth Hospital help fund the on-site Hospice St John’s, which treats over 4,000 terminally ill patients and their families for free every year.
Open 8am – 6pm Monday to Friday St John & St Elizabeth Hospital; 60 Grove End Road, London, NW8 9NH
H EALTH & FITNESS
PROSTATE CANCER:
What are the symptoms and where is the best place to get checked out? THE DETAILS To book an appointment or a consultation for any urological condition call 0207 806 4060 or visit hje.org.uk St John & St Elizabeth Hospital 60 Grove End Road, St. John’s Wood, NW8 9NH
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rostate cancer is the most common form of cancer in men in the UK and about one in eight men will be diagnosed with it in their lifetime. It mainly affects men over the age of 55. The prostate is an organ at the base of the bladder that is important in the production of sperm. It gets larger as men get older but the vast majority of patients show no symptoms until it has grown large enough to put pressure on the uretha. Symptoms of prostate cancer can include needing to go to the toilet more frequently or urgently, having difficulty urinating, or having a poor urine stream. Blood and urine tests can help determine if a patient is likely to have prostate cancer and biopsies are used to identify the exact status of the cancer and to inform treatment decisions. Tests are also done to check if there are other cancers in the body which can involve a bone scan. The good news is that prostate cancer curable if caught early enough. Some patients will only need active surveillance with check-ups and scans every two years or they
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may be offered HIFU – high intensity focused ultrasound – which uses ultrasound to eradicate the cancer. Other patients may need to have the prostate removed, an operation performed using the precision-guided Da Vinci robotic assisted surgery system. The Urology Unit that is based out of St John and Elizabeth Hospital in St John’s Wood North London, is staffed by urologists who are all leading specialists in their field and offers the highest standards of care to their patients. They use hightech diagnostic equipment and are committed to using the latest non-invasive techniques to reduce side effects for patients. Appointments are offered within 24 hours, with a 24-hour on call emergency service and clinics every week day at St John and St Elizabeth Hospital. The Hospital has luxurious surroundings, a unique community feel and is focused on providing the best in patient care, with 100% of patients visiting the Hospital saying they were satisfied with the care they received in a recent survey.
H EALTH & FITNESS
A oasis of calm amidst the stress & uncertainty of a pandemic,
THE LABORATORY SPA & HEALTH CLUB, M US W E L L
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ith Winter upon us and the inevitably wetter weather, you may be feeling more reluctant about the prospect of your outdoor workout and contemplating a move inside! In these worrying and uncertain times choosing a place to workout is not easy, so it is vital to choose somewhere established and with a reputation built on trust and responsibility. The Laboratory is celebrating its 25th Year this December and since its inception, has always been more than just a health club. It is a luxurious, discreet private members club offering unparalleled luxury alongside state-of-the-art facilities. Having built a reputation on impeccable cleanliness and five-star customer service they offer activities that not only improve your fitness but which also allow you to relax & unwind mentally and physically. Whether you are working out in their fully equipped gym, swimming in the 25m UV treated swimming pool, soothing your muscles in the 236 DECEMBER 2020
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sauna or steam room, attending a class in one of two dedicated studios or having a wonderful ESPA or Guinot treatment in the Day Spa, there really is something for everyone. There is even a Juice Bar serving delicious, home-made food and…really great coffee! At this time when it is more important than ever to be fit and healthy, the Laboratory are taking their responsibility to their members very seriously and following the latest Government guidelines to the letter. On arrival, all members undergo a temperature check before entering, there are hand sanitiser stations at regular intervals, antiviral/antibacterial cleansing products placed near all equipment so members can sanitise equipment before and after use, class sizes have been reduced so to allow for carefully marked out individual allocated workout spaces and use of the swimming pool is bookable in advance, so numbers can be kept to a safe minimum. The Laboratory has also hired three dedicated Covid-19 cleaners so there is someone continuously walking around the club cleaning touch points, communal areas and studios. Every possible precaution is being taken to ensure that members feel confident and secure when they are at the club. So if you are considering joining a health club that goes above and beyond for their members whilst offering a luxurious sanctuary, the Laboratory should be at the top of your list. The Laboratory Spa & Health Club, The Avenue Muswell Hill N10 2QE labspa.co.uk; 020 8482 3000
“At this time when it is more important than ever to be fit and healthy, the Laboratory are taking their responsibility to their members very seriously and following the latest Government guidelines to the letter”
H EALTH & FITNESS
IBS – what it is and what you can do about it
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ymptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome or IBS, can be debilitating, impacting on physical and mental wellbeing. However, it is often viewed as an invisible condition with no real, definitive diagnosis and tests sometimes coming back as normal. King Edward VII’s Hospital Consultant Gastroenterologist Dr Ed Seward, clears up any misconceptions about the condition and the treatments available. What is Irritable Bowel Syndrome? Affecting around 1 in 5 people, IBS is a very common condition that affects the digestive system, often beginning in your teenage years, or
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20s, but it can on come at any age. Symptoms include stomach pain, cramping, diarrhoea, constipation, mucus in stools and windy symptoms like bloating. They vary in severity, and stay dormant for a while and then flare up seemingly at any time, lasting from a day or two, to several weeks or months at a time. Because the symptoms vary and can be triggered at different times, it’s often difficult to manage. IBS can mimic other conditions, including Coeliac disease (an allergy to wheat), Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, or even cancer. It affects each person differently, and at different times. You may experience one of these symptoms during one flare up and another symptom during a different flare up.
“IBS can mimic other conditions, including Coeliac disease (an allergy to wheat), Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, or even cancer”
What can cause an IBS flare up? The exact cause of IBS is still unknown but doctors think it could be related to the way the gut interacts with the immune system, gut sensitivities and problems digesting certain foods. Triggers vary between individuals, and include eating certain foods or drinking certain drinks such as spicy, fatty, processed or carbohydrate foods, dairy products, caffeine, alcohol, onions or garlic. Feeling stressed or anxious can lead to a flare up of IBS symptoms, as can having an infection, such as gastroenteritis. IBS can also be worse for women around the time of their period. How to relieve the symptoms of IBS? There is no definitive cure for IBS but eating a healthy diet can be one of the most impactful things to help relieve symptoms. However, although increasing fibre intake may help symptoms, sometimes it makes them worse. “I usually recommend trying a food exclusion diet. This means for two weeks at a time, cutting out a particular food” suggests Mr Seward. “If no improvement in symptoms, reintroduce the food cut out and try cutting the next one out. This will hopefully identify the one that is upsetting the system.” If the food exclusion diet doesn’t help, the alternative is the ‘low FODMAP diet’. FODMAPs are a group of naturally occurring chemicals found in every food, to greater or lesser amounts. It’s thought that foods high in FODMAPs cause problems in people with IBS. A dietician specialising in delivering a low FODMAP diet, can teach you how to follow it for a period of time — usually 4-6 weeks. They then get you to reintroduce your high FODMAP foods one by one every few days – in this way you get to see what your triggers are. Taking steps to reduce your stress levels can also help you manage IBS including gentle exercise such as yoga and Pilates. Practicing mindfulness and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) can also help.
frequently or anti-diarrhoeal medications to stop passing frequent, loose stools. Probiotic supplements can be beneficial for the health of the gut, especially if you’ve had a bout of diarrhoea or taken antibiotics for an infection either in the stomach or elsewhere in the body. What tests are available for IBS? There is no test for IBS but your GP may do some other tests that will help them to rule out other conditions based on your symptoms. These may be blood or stool tests or you may be referred to a specialist gastroenterology doctor who may decide to perform a colonoscopy to see if there is any signs of inflammation indicating IBS rather than Irritable Bowel Syndrome and to exclude growths on the bowel.
THE DETAILS If you’re concerned about IBS, call a member of our dedicated patient services team at King Edward VII’s Hospital to discuss your options: 020 7467 4344 Mon – Fri, 9am – 5pm kingedwardvii.co.uk
What are the medications for IBS? Medications can be helpful in some cases of IBS including antispasmodic medications to relax the muscles in the bowels, and peppermint tea to help with bloating. Bulk-forming laxatives help pass stools more DECEMBER 2020 239
H EALTH & FITNESS
Is knee pain holding you back?
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nee pain, or an inability to trust your knee, can severely restrict your mobility and prevent you from enjoying your day to day life. Whether caused by general wear and tear, work that exerts extreme pressure on the knees, or a sporting injury, pain and stiffness of the knee that lasts more than a week is a sign of an underlying problem, which if addressed could be remedied.
Do I need to get my knee assessed? Knee problems can manifest in many different ways, but some of the common symptoms to look out for that suggest you may benefit from specialist assessment are pain, stiffness, restricted movement, progressive change in leg shape, giving way, Inability to trust the knee, new onset clicking, and locking (where the knee gets intermittently stuck).
Knee expertise at King Edward VII’s Hospital King Edward VII’s Hospital is a world-renowned centre of excellence for orthopaedics, with over 120 years’ experience in diagnosing and treating knee problems. Their consultant knee specialists are hand-picked as the leaders in their field, who also work at London teaching hospitals and are 240 DECEMBER 2020
involved in the very latest clinical research, looking after top athletes and sports people.
Knee assessment packages The hospital offers a one-stop knee assessment package that will establish the cause of your knee problem and provide you with a bespoke treatment plan. The package includes a thorough examination and assessment by one of the UK’s leading consultant knee specialists, an X-Ray of the knee, immediate follow up with your consultant and a specialist orthopaedic physiotherapy session. Should further treatment be required, the hospital offers a range of all-inclusive treatment options to get you back on your feet. And with no waiting lists to worry about, you can be seen at a time that suits you, starting the next phase of your recovery right away.
THE DETAILS To book your knee assessment today, contact the dedicated patient services team at King Edward VII’s Hospital, 5-10 Beaumont Street, Marylebone, London W1G 6AA. kingedwardvii.co.uk; 020 7467 4344.
H EALTH & FITNESS
WHY THERE IS NO NEED TO PUT OFF YOUR MEDICAL TREATMENT
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n uncertain times, delaying the medical treatment you need can feel like the safest option. Our world has changed, but hospitals have changed too, adapting to keep you as safe as possible in the most challenging times. King Edward VII’s Hospital has always had an outstanding infection control record, and they have taken extraordinary steps to ensure your care and safety is at the centre of everything they do. All patients are tested for COVID-19 in advance of their hospital admission, and screened for symptoms upon their arrival. The hospital has reduced footfall, increased cleaning regimes, created safe patient pathways, and supports all its staff with the right training and PPE. They are doing everything they can to remain a COVID-free hospital so that you can receive the treatment you need without unnecessary delays.
Self-paying or using Private Medical Insurance Life may have felt like it has been on hold this year, but by self-paying or using private medical insurance for your treatment at King Edward VII’s Hospital, you can get back to health as safely and quickly as possible. With no waiting lists to worry about, you can be seen at a time that suits you, starting the next phase of your recovery right away. The hospital offers a range of all-inclusive self-pay treatment packages, and works with all the major health insurers. 242 DECEMBER 2020
Why so many choose King Edward VII’s Hospital Established in 1899, King Edward VII’s Hospital is an independent charitable hospital with a long history of providing the highest quality surgical and clinical care. Located within London’s Harley Street medical district, the hospital delivers a truly personalised service, prioritising outstanding care over profit. This not-for-profit ethos ensures investment back into the hospital and its charitable work. The hospital champions collaboration among its specialist teams, combining world-leading medical expertise with the latest in cutting-edge technology to make patients’ lives measurably better. The hospital provides healthcare that is collaborative, personalised and holistic, with specialist areas including women’s health, urology, digestive health and musculoskeletal services. To make an enquiry, contact the dedicated patient services team at King Edward VII’s Hospital, 5-10 Beaumont Street, Marylebone, London W1G 6AA. kingedwardvii.co.uk; 020 7467 4344.
“Established in 1899, King Edward VII’s Hospital is an independent charitable hospital with a long history of providing the highest quality surgical and clinical care”
H EALTH & FITNESS
A CHARITY SUPPORTING OUR ARMED FORCES
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ing Edward VII’s Hospital was founded in 1899 as a Hospital for Officers, with the express purpose of treating injured soldiers returning from the Second Boer War. Some years ago, the Hospital opened its doors to all patients requiring care. Today it is a qualitydriven, innovative, forward-thinking private hospital at the leading-edge of modern medicine, but its charitable dedication to treating veterans of the Armed Forces remains as strong today as ever. Located within London’s Harley Street medical district, the hospital delivers a truly personalised service, prioritising outstanding care over profit. This not-for-profit ethos ensures investment back into the hospital and its charitable work. Any surplus generated through donations and the care of patients is allocated to caring for veterans, either through military discounts, grants for medical treatment or the award-winning multidisciplinary team Pain Management Programme.
Military discounts, grants and subsidies All Service and ex-Service Personnel without medical insurance are entitled to a 20% discount on their hospital bill at King Edward VII’s 244 DECEMBER 2020
Hospital, regardless of rank or length of service, which also extends to their present or ex-spouses. Means-tested grants for up to 100% of the cost of treatment are also considered.
Veterans’ Pain Management Programme The Pain Management Programme is a ten day virtual programme run by the hospital’s Centre for Veterans’ Health. The Programme is specifically designed to help Veterans who have been suffering with chronic pain to get the correct assessment, diagnosis, and treatment as quickly as possible. It is offered free of charge to Veterans from all Services. The Programme benefits from the expertise of an inter-disciplinary team of consultants in pain medicine, psychology and psychiatry, with the complimentary expertise of a specialist pain nurse and pain physiotherapist. The team are leaders in their field with extensive experience helping people with persistent pain to improve their lives. To enquire about how the charity can support you, contact the dedicated patient services team at King Edward VII’s Hospital, 5-10 Beaumont Street, Marylebone, London W1G 6AA. kingedwardvii.co.uk; 020 7467 3923.
All Service and exService Personnel without medical insurance are entitled to a 20% discount on their hospital bill, regardless of rank or length of service”
H EALTH & FITNESS
Addressing form to restore or perfect outlook B ody shape is governed by the underlying muscular structure, overlying fat and breast tissue as well as the skin itself. These four areas change with age, levels of physical activity and life changing events such as child birth or weight loss. Sometimes a person is simply born with a body imbalance and this affects self confidence and in some cases hinders day to day activities. For some people, body contouring surgery is about fine tuning appearance and is more cosmetic than functional. Surgery aims to reduce excess skin, reshape areas of the body or enhance their appearance. Body contouring surgery has its roots in reconstructive surgery, but applying cosmetic principles allows the achievement of powerful results. Chris Abela is a Consultant Plastic Surgeon, experienced in reconstructive and cosmetic surgery. With clinics in Chelsea, Wimbledon and Marylebone, the overarching philosophies of himself and his team encompass: • a safe and evidence based approach to the medicine and surgery provided • holistic and honest consultations to enable
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patients with a better quality of life, long after they have been discharged • providing the right infrastructure and personnel to take care of a patient and fully support them for the duration of their journey All this is done with discretion in mind. COVID-19 has changed the way we live. Patient care is the first and foremost priority of Chris and his team and they fully understand patients may feel anxious about accessing healthcare, with concerns around hygiene and exposure to the virus. As private care restarts, safety is as always, Chris’ absolute highest priority. His clinic has adapted to the challenges COVID-19 brings and he is confident that all the right measures are in place to continue to provide the highest quality care in the safest way possible. Policies and practices are also being constantly reviewed and updated as the official advice changes and we understand more about the disease. Rest assured that the welfare and protection of patients and staff is of paramount importance and that Chris and his team are proceeding with extreme caution and care. Visit chrisabela.co.uk for more information.
Chris Abela, Consultant Plastic Surgeon
CONTACT DETAILS Chris has clinics in Chelsea, Wimbledon and Marylebone. Appointments can be booked at chrisabela.co.uk. Alternatively, Chris can be contacted at chris@chrisabela.co.uk or via his secretary at info@chrisabela.co.uk 020 3651 0547.
The Harley Street ENT Clinic Our experienced ENT specialists diagnose and treat a variety of ear, nose and throat problems as well as balance and sleep disorders. The Harley Street ENT Clinic is the most prominent specialists in London with five of the UK’s top ear, nose and throat surgeons providing a touch of a family run business. • State of the art equipment and testing facilities • Highly qualified audiologists and scientists • Same day appointments for emergencies * Latest CQC inspection overall rating was GOOD • Includes The Harley Hearing Centre led by exceptional audio-vestibular scientists performing a range of comprehensive hearing tests • In-house Pharmacy Whether you need an ear specialist to help with your child’s recurring infections or a nose specialist who can tackle your snoring, our clinic can help. From your initial consultation to your final treatment, our ENT surgeons will be there to provide advice, answer your questions, and help you to feel better.
For more details and to arrange an appointment visit www.harleystreetent.com Tel: 020 7224 2350 | Email info@harleystreetent.com 109 Harley St, Marylebone, London W1G 6AN
H EALTH & FITNESS
THE KENSINGTON WING T
“To ensure the safety of women and their birth partners, The Kensington Wing have important infection control procedures for staff and visitors to adhere to, but remain welcoming to your chosen birth partner for all stages of your pregnancy, birth and postnatal stay”
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he Kensington Wing is the dedicated private maternity unit at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, providing women with around-the-clock clinical care, comfortable en-suite private rooms and hospitality services. Being located in the heart of Chelsea and Westminster Hospital - one of the UK’s safest hospitals - the safety and wellbeing of mother and baby are reassuringly supported at all times. The Kensington Wing is immediately located next to the hospital’s outstanding and newly expanded Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and a consultant anaesthetist remains on site at all times, 24/7, dedicated to the needs of women on the Kensington Wing. In these uncertain times, expectant parents can have additional anxieties or concerns about childbirth or going into a hospital. To ensure the safety of women and their birth partners, The Kensington Wing have important infection control procedures for staff and visitors to adhere to, but remain welcoming to your chosen birth partner for all stages of your pregnancy, birth and postnatal stay. Your individual room and en-suite facilities are a haven in these times and the catering and hospitality team ensures your stay is relaxing as well as safe. On the Kensington Wing the consultant obstetricians, midwives, nurses and maternity support workers provide care as a team. And are delighted to offer both consultant-led and midwife-led maternity packages. The Kensington Wing’s highly experienced team of midwives welcome enquiries from prospective women and the opportunity to discuss midwifeled care in more detail. These ‘meet the midwife’
sessions are always a relaxed and special time to talk and discover more without any obligation. For those women who are appropriate for midwife-led care, the team provide full support throughout your pregnancy and the midwifery team are available 24 hours seven days a week for advice or concerns throughout your pregnancy, birth and postnatal stay. The consultant-led care package allows you the choice of one of our experienced consultant obstetricians to personally guide you through your pregnancy and birth. Your consultant provides continuity and individualised expertise throughout your journey. They build a relationship with you and your partner through the antenatal period to give you confidence to birth safely with them in line with your birth preferences. They remain to support you through the postnatal period including your 6 week postnatal check. All consultants are available to meet you and your birth partner without any obligation. The Kensington Wing enquiry team are always happy to support with these arrangements and answer any questions. If you would like to talk to one of the team email kensington@chelwest.nhs.uk or visit our website thekensingtonwing.co.uk
The Kensington Wing offers you and your birth partner a safe, warm and welcoming private maternity experience in the heart of Chelsea and Westminster Hospital. Around the clock clinical care and hospitality services complement the expertise and peace-of-mind afforded by one of London’s leading teaching hospitals. The Kensington Wing provides: • Midwife and consultant led packages of care • Private consultation rooms for antenatal appointments • 24/7 onsite consultant anaesthetist support • Immediate proximity to the hospital’s neonatal intensive care facilities • Postnatal en-suite private rooms for you and your partner • Luxury postnatal suite, The Kensington Suite • Bespoke antenatal classes • Lactation consultant • Water birth workshops • Complimentary therapy • Postnatal support in your home by our dedicated team of midwives • Full range of catering services including afternoon tea, fine wine and champagne For more information about the packages and services that are available please contact the team on 02039 938 683 or email kensington@chelwest.nhs.uk. All private care income is reinvested into our NHS services. The Kensington Wing is part of Chelsea and Westminster Hospital NHS Foundation Trust. © 2020 Chelsea and Westminster Hospital NHS Foundation Trust. thekensingtonwing.co.uk
SAFETY COMFORT PRIVACY
Alexia Peck Home: exquisite candles and diffusers Each of the six fragrances is inspired by a place that means something to Alexia, and has its own distinct personality. From blustery coastal walks to sophisticated cities, the range draws on the beauty of our surroundings to evoke memories that last a lifetime. Combining natural, high quality ingredients, the range of UK-made candles contains a special gift: the lid, a crystal glass paperweight that can be cherished once the candle is gone. London: Amber & Rose : The heady scent of English roses, violets and lilies complements the more masculine leathery tones of amber and sandalwood.
OTHER FRAGRANCES: NEW YORK: SMOKY FIG THE HAMPTONS: HONEYSUCKLE & PEAR PARIS: TUBEROSE & BLACK JASMINE PROVENCE: WHITE GERANIUM & LAVENDER NORFOLK: SAMPHIRE & SEAWEED
www.alexiapeck.com
HOUSE &
GARDEN SPONSORED BY
Expert property solicitors for all aspects of residential conveyancing. www.slatergordon.co.uk/property
– Keep it local for everything house and home – I M AG E : O L I V E A N D B A R R
H OUSE & GARDEN
[NEWS]
INTERIORS KEEPING IT SIMPLE These lights will fit perfectly with simplified art with minimal detail. Pair with neutral colours from Victorian homes to modern apartments, this Purist trend is very versatile and timeless – its minimal design brings a sense of calmness. besselink.com
NEW IN TOWN
FESTIVE FRAMES Get in the holiday spirit with our new art prints for the festivities ahead! For the first time ever we’re launching a collection of art prints designed especially for the holiday season. It has been really fun creating a new kind of holiday decoration for this cosy time of year, says Executive Creative Director Annica Wallin. The collection consists of 20 art prints in different styles ranging from photo art to festive quotes and illustrations. desenio.com
HYGGE MEETS WABI SABI Achieve simplicity and functionality without compromising on comfort and cosiness with this fusion of Japanese and Scandinavian aesthetic. Following the minimalist design principle where simplicity is the centre, create a warm, cosy and more natural room by playing with textures, natural elements and designs. coffeeandcloth.co.uk
SERVING UP STYLE Del Mar porcelain tableware sets the tone for renewed energy in 2021 in ranges of gorgeous cool grey hues and blue ocean tones with hints of green. This stunning coupe range has elegant lines and features a reactive glaze, so each piece is beautifully individual with variances in shade from piece to piece, reflecting the changing colours of nature. procook.co.uk
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The Cornrow, a new home and lifestyle online store, has launched! Providing a unique and wide-ranging selection of products which all offer a new aesthetic focused on diversity, for everyone to enjoy! Set up by two Black British sisters, whose dream was to create a store which celebrates their heritage and lifestyle, the company mantra is “Would Wakanda Westfield stock it?!”. thecornrow.com
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Colour is back
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s we come to the end of the rather unusual 2020, we need to celebrate one of the positive sides to this pandemic as people question how they can improve their homes, colour being the main change. Grey is gone as people choose brighter, warmer colours to convey a relaxed cosy home. Homeowners are also becoming brave and experimental by not only choosing bold colours but by using them on ceilings and woodwork to give a room a sense of drama. Green is extremely popular as it reminds us of our connection to nature and our desire to bring the feeling of the ‘outside in’. Our current favourite is Farrow and Ball Card Room Green, seen here in this kitchen extension we designed. Pink is also a popular colour which can be used in most rooms including bathrooms as shown here 254 DECEMBER 2020
in one our recent refurbishments where we used Farrow and Ball Calamine. Pinks are also great on kitchen cabinets and in bedrooms to create a sense of calm. However, if you don’t want to paint you could simply add wallpaper to bring a focal point to any room, like this downstairs toilet we designed. Or if that is still too much for you, think about adding simple accessories such as cushions, artwork, or rugs to add the drama. Be brave and mix different textures and patterns, everything doesn’t have to match. There are lots of interior stores offering a wide variety of accessories at different price points. Simply browse the web and save the items you like and create a ‘mood board’ to see how they sit together in one space and once you are confident get shopping! Lastly, before you purchase your items try and consider the impact on the planet. Check whether the furniture you are buying was made from a certified wood supplier, ensure your paints have low or no VOC’s (volatile organic compounds), this will be indicated on the tin. Try to upcycle any old furniture or cushions by reupholstering with new bright, patterned fabrics to add interest to a corner of your room. Wherever possible only purchase from local suppliers as this reduces the need for shipping and therefore reduces your carbon footprint and boosts the local economy. Most importantly have fun creating a unique colourful space. For any advice on your upcoming project contact us now for your free hour consultation studio@mariekalsi.co.uk or call 020 7117 2969
“Wherever possible only purchase from local suppliers as this reduces the need for shipping and therefore reduces your carbon footprint and boosts the local economy”
LUXURY INTERIOR DESIGN www.stuartcarlisle.com
ec@stuartcarlisle.com
stuart_carlisle_interiors
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TIME TO SHINE: NEW SPARKLING ADDITIONS FROM MODISH LIVING Blackbone Industrial Oak Spider Leg Dining Table The phrase ‘go big or go home’ springs to mind when one thinks of this dining table. With its unique spider leg design in a choice of shiny gold or highly polished silver and dark stained industrial oak in the signature herringbone design, this table brings an instant wow factor to any space. Available in two sizes, the table is the perfect scene stealer for a dining space or boardroom that means business.
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ursting with high octane glamour, the Blackbone Industrial Oak furniture collection from Modish Living has unveiled some gorgeous new handpicked pieces that are guaranteed to bring some old Hollywood pizzazz to a home or office. Full of industrial brilliance and high shine, this glitzy collection is the perfect antidote to a year that brought plenty of austerity and uncertainty. Crafted in the highest quality solid oak, each piece of furniture features the distinctive signature style of the collection - brooding dark stained wood set in a herringbone pattern with a contrasting polished metal frame and leg in a choice of polished silver or gold. Brand NEW to the collection is a dining table with a show-stopping spider leg and a new office desk, both of which ooze industrial glamour.
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“The Blackbone Industrial Oak furniture collection from Modish Living has unveiled some gorgeous new handpicked pieces that are guaranteed to bring some old Hollywood pizzazz to a home or office”
Blackbone Industrial Oak Desk Whether you’re looking to upgrade your home office desk or treat your office space to some unapologetic glamour, the new Blackbone desk strikes the perfect balance between elegance and functionality. The obvious craftsmanship of this solid oak desk is evident throughout. The dark stained wood, set in a signature herringbone pattern, contrasted with the polished gold or silver U-shaped leg, frame and handle adds interest and style, whilst a practical cupboard provides essential storage. The full Blackbone Industrial Oak collection comprises everything a home needs to add a touch of drama and intrigue, including Round Dining Table, Extendable Dining Table, Spider Leg Dining Table, Drinks Cabinet, Slim Drinks Cabinet, Console Table, Square Coffee Table, Rectangular Coffee Table, TV Unit, Side Table and Desk. Each piece is available in a choice of polished gold or silver. modishliving.co.uk
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HOUSE OF ELLA INTERIORS H space. It was in such a state when I bought it, but ello, I’m Shanna Rogan, the founder I could really see the potential and fell in love with of House of Ella Interiors. A new, its period charm. The apartment has incredibly London-based residential interior high ceilings, intricate original coving and generous design studio. bay windows that flood the space with light. I Growing up in Sydney, the contemporary spent that year redesigning my home and relished architecture of my hometown sparked my in bringing my signature “contemporary luxe” style obsession with interior design from a young age. into the space. I felt like one of those lucky people who had I love a soft, understated palette and found my passion that was to later forge my dream embellishing this with statement pieces, career. including oversized, abstract artwork, Moving to London at 19, I studied interior statement brass lighting and design at Chelsea College of Art & Design contemporary sculpture. Good and followed my studies by working READER design is all in the detailing, with some of London’s most reputable OFFER: SAVE and the space is adorned with Interior Designers. The following years unusual touches, including saw my career flick between interior velvet door panelling, brass door design and many years working in senior inlays and metallic leather shelving. project management within the advertising Although a wonderful part of the industry, which I later came to realise were process, interior design is so much more than paramount skills for running a business. creating a beautiful-looking space. Creating a home Last year I took the courageous step into that is practical, functional and works in harmony making that happen and House of Ella Interiors with the owner’s lifestyle is paramount. was launched. It is perhaps this that I embrace most about Faced with the challenge of needing a portfolio, working with my clients today – really getting to I bought my own apartment in East London know them and being able to design a home that is and transformed it from a run-down, decrepit personalised to them in every way. Victorian property into a contemporary, elegant
50%
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READER OFFER I’m offering LIFE Magazine readers an exclusive offer for December only, with half price consultations. Get in touch and let’s work together on transforming your home into a space you love. House of Ella Interiors Ph: +44 7480 359 275 info@houseofellainteriors.com houseofellainteriors.com
Luxury Residential Interior Designer
www.houseofellainteriors.com +44 (0) 7480 359 275 | info@houseofellainteriors.com
H OUSE & GARDEN
Hodkin & Jones The Finest Quality
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ounded in 1868, Hodkin & Jones have been the specialists in the design, manufacture and installation of high quality, fibrous plaster mouldings for over 150 years. The Hodkin & Jones range of mouldings offers one of the most comprehensive selections of fibrous plaster covings available. With traditional elegant cornices from Georgian, Victorian, Gothic, Regency and Art Deco periods right through to popular modern day contemporary stepped cornices. Popular in many of their residential, retail and commercial projects, Hodkin and Jones are able to produce cornices that can incorporate modern LED uplighting, creating a discreet glow and enhancing a room’s ambience. Other plaster products in the range include decorative ceiling and wall panels, centre pieces, door surrounds, fire surrounds, arches and columns, all of which are delicately handmade by their dedicated and highly skilled craftsmen. The Hodkin & Jones contemporary cornices range reflects current market trends with their minimalist, geometric, flat design and they are suitable for any size modern renovation. Although
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modern in design, the contemporary covings are still designed and manufactured in house with the same high quality finish as the traditional range. Often Architects and Interior Designers create designs not available from standard ranges, which is where Hodkin & Jones can offer a bespoke service. From drawings they are able to manufacture mouldings to exact dimensions specified, whether it is a bespoke ceiling design to create a grand space or a cornice specific to the particular project they are working on. Restoration of Listed buildings and historical properties is also a speciality of Hodkin & Jones with many buildings requiring surveys and needing
“Hodkin and Jones are able to produce cornices that can incorporate modern LED uplighting, creating a discreet glow and enhancing a room’s ambience”
Get in touch For more information, visit the company’s website on hodkinandjones.co.uk For a free hard copy of the brochure or to discuss your project requirements, call the technical sales team on 01246 641214 or email info@hodkin-jones.co.uk.
“Involving a specialist supplier like Hodkin & Jones, from the very beginning of a project helps to ensure the smooth running of an operation” existing mouldings to be exactly matched where they can’t be repaired. Hodkin & Jones can match any plaster moulding no matter how complicated the design is, mouldings are then reproduced and installed by their team of fixers, all of which is overseen by a dedicated contracts manager. Hodkin & Jones have a broad project portfolio that includes 10 Downing Street, Harrods Knightsbridge, the Royal Armoury, the Victoria and Albert Museum and the o2 arena to name but a few. Involving a specialist supplier like Hodkin & Jones, from the very beginning of a project helps to ensure the smooth running of an operation while providing cost and time benefits. Hodkin & Jones undertake projects both nationwide and overseas with installers working on a daily basis in London and the surrounding counties. By using their installation service you can be assured that products will be fitted correctly with an exquisite finish, maximising the plaster mouldings longevity. The company also have their own transport department to ensure all products are delivered safely and on time. For clients looking for a fast turnaround Hodkin & Jones also have a large quantity of cornice and mouldings in stock, ready for delivery or collection. Their standard range of mouldings are available to view and purchase on their website. DECEMBER 2020 261
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ART NOUVEAU INSPIRED WALLPAPERS
by Austrian artist, Nici Gabriel
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reators of made-to-measure wallpaper murals, Wallsauce.com is proud to announce its latest collection of Art Nouveau designs by Nici Gabriel. Discovered in its competition to find the next ‘designer wallpaper collection’, Austrian-born Nici is a self-taught surface pattern designer who rediscovered her love for creativeness after having her children. Having endured a career as an IT project manager, Nici founded her art label after realising creativity was her passion. Inspired by her childhood in Austria, Nici’s collection for Wallsauce.com captures some of the finer details of the Austrian countryside translated into her love of the Art Nouveau period. She says: “Having lived in Austria for many years, it was a natural choice for me to focus on Art Nouveau. One of my wallpaper designs is a geometric, floral pattern with bows and loops on some marigolds and a reflected magic flower. The other is inspired by some clovers and mallows in my natural garden. Scrolls and bows give it the necessary elegant feeling of Art Nouveau.”
“Scrolls and bows give it the necessary elegant feeling of Art Nouveau” Beautifully decorated in mellow blues, ochre and neutral tones, Wallsauce.com saw a huge gap in their market for Nici’s Art Nouveau designs. With all things vintage also being predicted as a huge interior trend in 2021, these modern 20th century-inspired designs can also offer a unique and somewhat colourful fulfilment for the trend. Head to wallsauce.com to view Nici Gabriel’s 7-piece wallpaper collection. 262 DECEMBER 2020
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‘Chinese Feng Shui’ for the New Year
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otterell & Co. have gone back to their roots to over 65 years ago in lampshade manufacture. We are now reinventing bespoke lighting by utilizing innovative techniques, new materials, in-house design and long-standing relationships. The result is exclusivity combined with endless variety, successfully tapping into the zeitgeist for all things bespoke. If you are looking to add some Chinese Inspired Lighting and Home Decor in time to celebrate the Chinese New Year, here at Cotterell & Co we have some bespoke hand made products that will add those warm inviting touches to your home just in time. One of our Interior Designers picked out a collection of products featuring Rustic Oranges, Reds, Florals and much more. The meaning on ‘Feng Shui’ actually comes from ancient Chinese beliefs, that the way your home or house is built or the way that you arrange objects affects your success, health and happiness. This term was the inspiration for our small collection. Here we have added our Giraffe Lamp with an Orange Shade. This inspired us from history going as far back as 1414. A Giraffe - a unknown creature at the time in china- was presented to an Emperor who immediately associated it with the qilin, an auspicious mythical creature. Next, we have our Moooi Menagerie of Extinct Animals Bespoke Shade. The print celebrates extinct animals. The creatures are nestled amongst the outsize foliage picked out in stunningly vibrant colours. Our inspiration for the next lamp was the Traditional Asian Rice Hat. Our bespoke tapered shade is shaped in a similar way.
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Far more at your fingertips… Design your own bespoke lighting with Cotterell & Co. We use innovative materials and use of scale to create the perfect pieces. Bring your style and room to life with a shade what’s lined in a wallpaper of your choice and covered in an array of luxurious materials – even your own if you’ve got some to spare. Play with colours, textures, finishes and metallics. Lights transform when lit and you can change the complete look & feel of your room. Scale, choice and a huge range of fittings and fixtures is always a challenge for a small, family run business. What do you do? Play to your strengths, go the extra mile and innovate – use what you have. We create and design with our customers and interior design clients alike, lighting schemes can be daunting, especially when starting from scratch. We offer a bespoke lighting specification service – answering all your lighting queries and we can also work off plan too. Change doesn’t have to break the bank, a new shade can make all the difference - a little like throwing a new cushion on a sofa. Introducing new colours and textures – perhaps a little pattern can make a real change! We offer a recovering service and using our many years in shade making we’re able to recover existing fittings in an array of materials to really switch things up and create something completely unique for the customer. Designing our own light fittings means we can problem solve & innovate as we go. Life doesn’t have to be grey, Rocke – our in house design brand was born out of our customers’ desire for something very different from the ubiquitous cream lampshade. cotterellandco.com
“Play with colours, textures, finishes and metallics”
Luxury architectural interior design studio
“We believe that we have created a flawless, luxury interior when we have reached the right balance between all the elements, creating a truly bespoke, comfortable environment where our clients can relax and feel totally at home� Lucy Clark, Director www.studioclarkandco.com
studio_clark_and_co
+44 (0) 20 3021 0201
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The Ultimate Lockdown Chelsea Penthouse by Studio Clark + Co
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tudio Clark + Co eagerly accepted the challenge posed by this demanding brief, to transform the client’s river view penthouse in the heart of Chelsea into the ultimate living and working environment. Today, the owner is able to put in a full day’s work then relax with sunset yoga and spa looking over the Thames and London skyline. A quick steam followed by a glass of something at the bar and a BBQ among the ancient olive trees and then to the cinema. All possible without leaving the penthouse. This is the ultimate Lockdown Chelsea Penthouse. Studio Clark + Co delivered a stylish, eclectic yet masculine aesthetic over the two levels of the penthouse. Upstairs, the feel is urban chic; exposed structural beams and columns celebrating the architecture of the apartment with warm wood and textured stone to offset the steelwork. The beams are further softened using specialist lighting and paint finishes. The walnut parquet floors inside blend with the sustainably harvested tropical hardwoods outside. Outdoor terrace highlights include a firepit, minimalist spa and a yoga platform designed to catch the last rays of sunset. The cocktail bar features bespoke bar stools and a suspended glass and bottle rack. It is equipped with cocktail making facilities and temperature-controlled wine storge. Molecular gastronomy gadgets are present in the kitchen. Lights and blinds are controlled using industry leading AV along with an award winning cinema system which retracts into discrete custom
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housings. Injections of pattern, texture and pops of orange add a playful twist to this sophisticated space. Downstairs, ceilings are gently lit, highlighting the textured coffers. The home office includes electronic standing desks. Bathrooms feature stunning book matched granites and a steam room. Sleek, hotel vibe bedrooms with carefully chosen original art make the 1,000 thread-count Egyptian cottons an afterthought. Adding to the appeal, there is bespoke joinery throughout as well as ultra-high-speed internet and discreetly hidden, yet crystal-clear, sound. We have created a flawless, luxury interior, accommodating all our client’s requirements successfully balancing these has resulted in a beautiful environment where our client can work, relax and feel totally at home. Lucy Clark, Founder & Creative Director Studio Clark + Co, member of the BIID studioclarkandco.com @studio_clark_and_co +44 (0)20 3021 0201
Portrait by Sophie Duckworth
“We believe we have created a flawless, luxury interior when we have reached the right balance between all the elements, creating a truly bespoke environment, where our clients can relax and feel totally at home.” – Lucy Clark
Photography: Andrew Beasley Photography
020 3179 9700
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JESSICA COX DESIGN
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o matter what the project type, Jessica Cox Design always seems to bring a unique aesthetic to the design and is becoming a well-known name in the industry, designing for clients including Selfridges, Pegasi and The Crown Estate. The main objective for each project by Jessica Cox Design is to create the best possible use of space for the people who will be using it, whilst bringing out the personality of the client and property. “Making spaces beautiful is amazing, but they need to be functional first and foremost!” Doing detailed research with each client at the start of every project is an essential part of the process, to fully understand the needs of the interior space. “Details can be the defining line between a good and a great design. I am often called into spaces where the homeowner feels that ‘something’ is missing. Typically, the basics of the room are good, but the design overall is lacking lustre. Bringing in the right accessories and colour often is the key. My relationships with artisans and craftsmen provide me with extensive resources, enabling me to find just the right elements for each design”. Specialising in property refurbishments, Jessica loves nothing more than transforming a space, exceeding the expectations, and pushing a design
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to its full potential. With an understanding of the importance of sustainability and passion for sourcing vintage furniture, artwork, lighting and accessories, Jessica Cox Design has created a signature style of mixing old and new together giving each project a unique identity. “Repurposing and refurbishing existing furniture and accessories is a great way to be sustainable and cost effective – and making clients fall back in love with pieces that may have previously been overlooked”. From single rooms to project managing an entire build, Jessica puts equal energy and enthusiasm into each design. “I live and breathe interior design. It is my absolute passion, and my mission is to make it accessible to all. I welcome all interior design projects of varying sizes and budgets – I love a challenge, it keeps me constantly researching, discovering, and learning – which I think is key to creating successful designs”.
For more information, contact Jessica: Email - info@jessicacoxdesign.com Telephone – 07747538281 Website – jessicacoxdesign.com Instagram – jessica_cox_design
Jessica Cox Design Ltd email: info@jessicacoxdesign.com Website: www.jessicacoxdesign.com Instagram: jessica_cox_design Phone: 07747 538281
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Violet & George
in the traditional crafts and fastidious in their attention to detail, but at the same time aware of contemporary trends, taste and technology. Combine that wealth of knowledge and insight with an uncanny ability to listen, understand and interpret what her clients want, and you have an irresistible recipe for success. ‘We don’t have a signature look, because all our interiors are designed to reflect the personality, likes and passions of our clients’, said Nicky. ‘So, because they are all unique, our designs are too.’
Two recent projects are cases in point:
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chieving a great look starts with a good listen. Violet & George has been creating exceptional interiors for more than ten years from its West London studio and Hampshire workshop. Call in and you won’t find Violet or indeed George, but you will find Nicky Mudie and her team of interior consultants and time-served crafts people. (Violet and George were Nicky’s grandparents and her design agency is named in their honour.) Nicky has a very distinctive approach to designing luxury interiors, creating elegant soft furnishings and planning interior decoration. It starts with the company’s unique blend of skills, something that Nicky calls ‘new fashioned’ - skilled 270 DECEMBER 2020
The first, an Arts & Crafts house in Hampstead had to be remodelled by new owners to accommodate a young, expanding family. Their previous home was designed in tones of grey and white and didn’t accurately reflect their personality, but it was only after a deep conversation with Nicky that their true colours were revealed. She listened intently enough to then confidently push the boundaries of their taste. At first they didn’t warm to it, but now they can see how it reflects who they are. In fact, their friends say the house feels as though they have lived there for years, not months. The second is a Holland Park townhouse that required some very specific design solutions to enhance the owners’ lives. Helping to hang the family’s art collection provided invaluable inspiration for the rest of the home’s décor. Bold, vibrant wallpaper contrasts with angular art deco ornamentation; hard and soft surfaces coexist side by side, and there’s a quirky eclectic look that pairs the old with the new; bold vibrancy, counterbalanced by cosy, intimate spaces. violetandgeorge.com
“Nicky has a very distinctive approach to designing luxury interiors, creating elegant soft furnishings and planning interior decoration”
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FIND YOUR DREAM BED
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ome to over 40 different models of luxury beds from leading brands including the UK’s exclusive display of beds from Treca Paris, Westend Bed Company is the place to visit when it comes to achieving a restorative night’s sleep. Conveniently located between Putney and Richmond, with free parking, this Southwest London showroom is the ideal place to find your dream bed. Treca Paris is the newest addition to the range of luxury brands offered at Westend Bed. This luxurious, Parisian brand have been manufacturing beds since 1935 and have developed a global reputation for quality. Each of their mattresses is expertly crafted using only the finest of materials, some of which include camel wool, natural silk and mohair. Using traditional techniques, the mattresses are finished by hand, offering you the ability to choose personal specifications and
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dimensions; a large part of what makes Treca Paris unique in the bed industry. By consistently improving the quality and comfort of their beds, Treca has pioneered articulated relaxation beds with its CAD bases. These adjustable bases combine the comfort of a traditional high-quality bed base with an outstanding movement mechanism. The discreet technology runs smoothly and silently, allowing you to effortlessly find the ideal sleeping position. This collection of high quality, luxury beds is available exclusively at Westend Bed Company and can be sampled in the showroom’s sleep room. The knowledgeable team are on hand to offer professional advice and complimentary sleep consultations, going above and beyond to help you select the perfect sleep solution for your home. Along with the Treca beds, Westend Bed Company is home to another exclusive collection
“Treca Paris is the newest addition to the range of luxury brands offered at Westend Bed”
by English brand, Marshall & Stewart. Six hand crafted, sumptuous beds make up their Diamond Collection, each crafted to create a sanctuary for restorative sleep. These unique beds are designed to the specific requirements of each client, taking into consideration size, weight and lifestyle to ensure the bed is perfect for its owner. Hypnos Beds can also be found inside the London showroom, another British family-run bed specialist that has been perfecting the art of crafting luxury spring beds for over 100 years. Using traditional techniques that have been passed down from five generations, Hypnos’ craftsmen create truly authentic pieces for the home. The bespoke nature of Westend Bed’s services sets the company apart from other competitors in the industry. It is important to the team that your bed not only offers you the correct tension and support, but that it also compliments your own preference in style. With each bed at Westend Bed Company, there is a range of legs, fabrics and headboards to choose from, so that your new bed can be unmistakably yours. Your perfect bed wouldn’t be complete without a new set of luxurious linens to accompany it. Westend Bed have launched their own range of Italian bed linens, a collection that has been
expertly created using age-old traditions combined with precise finishing touches. The collection consists of high thread count 100% pure Egyptian Cottons in Percale and Cotton Satins. Libeco Belgian Linens are made with precision by Libeco’s artisans who have been producing the finest quality bed linen for the past 150 years. A selection of their piece-dyed and yarn-dyed fabrics are available at Westend Bed. Purchasing a new bed is an investment and just like any investment, research and knowledge are important when it comes to making the right decision for you. Westend Bed Company are passionate about being able to educate and support you when choosing your dream bed. Call them today on 020 7723 2925 to book your one-to-one appointment.
“Purchasing a new bed is an investment and just like any investment, research and knowledge are important when it comes to making the right decision for you”
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THE
HEART OF THE HOME
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he kitchen has always been at the centre of daily life, and yet the modern kitchen has found a way to become even more: the main family living space, the kid’s favourite play area, a laidback dining room, that place every party guest gravitates to and, these days, even a home office, all in a single day. That explains why the Shakerstyle kitchen has grown into a perennial favourite. They mix elegant designs with considerate functionality and creative practicality -- and now there is a British-made company shaking things up even more. Welcome to the brave new vision
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“The modern kitchen has found a way to become even more: the main family living space, the kid’s favourite play area, a laid-back dining room, that place every party guest gravitates to and, these days, even a home office”
of Olive & Barr. At first glance, you’d be forgiven for thinking they are just another shaker kitchen company. But look a little closer and you’ll discover a plethora of details that sets them apart. Olive & Barr don’t just do shaker kitchens. They celebrate the glory of British craftsmanship by hand-making their kitchens in the UK, championing sustainability throughout their process and have collaborated with some of the most exciting brands in the world of kitchen design as they embrace all things electric. This is partly what makes Olive & Barr such an important arrival. Where others have only managed nuanced differences, this team of artisans have found ways to standout in every area. From using any and all offcuts to heat their West Country workshops to avoiding the impact of Brexit with their British-made principles, they do things differently. They have even collaborated with some of the most sustainable gamechangers (like Everhot, Bora and Quooker) to inject their timelessly muted tones with a series of showstopping details, colours and state-of-the-art features. Olive & Barr really are an industry disrupter, but with impossibly competitive prices. Of course, kitchens of this calibre need to be seen to be believed, which is why you should head over to Clapham and visit their new Lavender Hill showroom. With designer-led tours in the day, chef-led cooking classes in the evening and a wide range of bespoke kitchens to fullyappreciate in person, this showroom experience is as unforgettable as their passion for quality. oliveandbarr.com
THE BEST ANTI AGEING PRODUCT EVER... 10% off when you buy a pair
Shanghai Silk Pillowcase No wrinkles, no bedhead, no sleep creases. Available in a range of colours and sizes. www.annacraven.com
ANNA CRAVEN SAIGON
Gediminas Zujus Painter and decorator All decorating jobs from prep to top quality finishes
gedpainter@gmail.com 07977814010 Instagram: gedpainter
Three Sisters Farm is a family-run boutique selling sustainable dried flowers and country-inspired homewares, with a dash of Scandi minimalism. To inject a rustic touch to your home this autumn, try a clutch of pampas grass, this year’s hottest trend. Natural materials such as Rattan are a great sustainable choice, beautifully crafted and big in 2020. Our extensive Rattan homewares collection is now available, bringing you closer to nature. For more information visit www.threesistersfarm.co.uk Instagram @threesistersfarmshop
H OUSE & GARDEN
Introducing House of Flora
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nterior designer and founder of House of Flora, Sonal, runs the company with a dedicated team and when they aren’t trawling for new products and designs, they are supplying the market with a wide range of interior products. Our products are sourced from all over the globe to bring an eclectic mix of high quality items suitable for any residential or commercial property. This stems from having roots all over the world especially India,
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Africa and Europe so keeping our items diverse is very important to us. Our products range from exclusive home accessories, to kitchenware, bathroom accessories, furniture and lighting which includes Nura Lighting, our bespoke lighting service. Each item is handpicked to ensure we bring you unique, inspiring and authentic products. We are constantly updating our items to make sure you always receive exclusive design pieces. Due to this our items are limited but we are happy to assist you if you can’t find what you are looking for. house-of-flora.com
H OUSE & GARDEN
Almost Essential At last! An online one-stop-shop for all those home services and great gifts has arrived ...
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aking connections and finding services have perhaps, never been easier. But searching the Internet and the emergence of Apps for just about everything does not guarantee a confidence inspiring and seamless experience, and quite often the outcomes can be extremely disappointing. But what if you could gain access to a fully vetted and amazing range of services and professionals to help with your busy daily life? Michelle de Biolley is one of London’s most connected and fashionable hostesses, and has a little Black Book that is bursting with the numbers of the capital’s most talented decorators and very best florists, chefs, party designers, fine artists, landscape designers and much, much more... It all began as an exchange of great contacts and home services between Michelle’s close circle of friends and has now grown into a fully-fledged website and one-stop-shop for all manner of solutions: almostessential.com. This is where you will find more than two hundred services, gifts and products across a wide range of categories including Home Maintenance, Garden and Landscape Design, Home Decoration, Home Management, Entertaining and Health & Beauty. Additional services include access to educational advisors, cultural and travel specialists, personal trainers and one-of-a-kind gifts. Michelle has a background in Executive Search
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in the corporate world but had always planned to become involved in something more creative and artistically dynamic, and where her passion for interior design and style could be fully utilised. Thus the Almost Essential website was launched quietly in 2013 and Michelle hasn’t looked back. Organic growth is at the heart of the business where time to evaluate and develop its services and product offer is important. Michelle comments: “I have come to realise over the years that the only recommendations that count are those from friends and I have combined this with my own in-depth research to create what I believe to be a robust, reliable platform.” “The Internet is a great source for ideas but when something goes wrong, you’re on your own.” “We not only find and vet people, but we are there to put things right when they go wrong too” she says. “We answer the phone!” Whether you are seeking to find a housekeeper, are looking to give your home a new interior design finish, need help putting together a dinner party or something simpler like finding a reliable window cleaner or repairing that much-loved crystal glass. You can be sure that you will find these solutions and more with a service provider and gift selection recommended by Almost Essential. This clever online resource ensures an unparalleled level of service and is overseen by Michelle, which is quite rare in the digital age. almostessential.com
“I have come to realise over the years that the only recommendations that count are those from friends and I have combined this with my own in-depth research to create what I believe to be a robust, reliable platform”
Surrey Interior Design British Handcrafted Inframed kitchen Images Š Sarah London Photography
We Template Fabricate and Install top quality stone worktops at a very competitive prices. Approved fabricator of top leading stone manufacturers in UK Marble Granite Quarts Worktops fully Installed within 3-4 days. Best Reputation in Surrey. Miele Appliances Cheaper than online Prices. Miele Dealer Centre 6 The Parade, Kingston Road, Leatherhead KT22 7SR www.surrey-interior-design.co.uk 01372877280 | info@surrey-interior-design.co.uk
H OUSE & GARDEN
LET THE LIGHT IN
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ym memberships, organic foods and cycling to work. These are some of the more obvious tools to improve our health and well-being. A less wellknown but equally beneficial contributor is light. You’ve seen it at the gym where you workout and at the restaurants where you eat. The lighting is designed with purpose to complement the activity, to make you feel good, to relax or motivate you. Using a specialist lighting designer in commercial spaces like these is a given. So why don’t we give lighting a second thought at home? We should. There is no better time to reconsider your home lighting. Lighting, good lighting, can be transformative in all sorts of positive ways and you don’t need to win the lottery to afford it. A few hundred pounds can get you started. “Good morning light helps us to wake up and reboot,” says Lighting Designer Kate Wilkins at HomeLightingIdeas.com, a new virtual, accessible service recently established to help homeowners with their lighting. “Feed the retina with good quality light to help train your circadian rhythms. Bright light helps to counteract grey winter days.” Your home lighting should create different moods for different spaces. The kitchen is multifunctional so you need lights for both work and food
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preparation with the ability to transform the space for a warm ambience or romantic dinner. By day the living room is a busy communal space used for work and play, by night the focus turns to entertaining so allowing for different settings is essential. Investing in artworks is only worthwhile if you’ve invested in suitable lighting to exhibit it. Subtle, focused lighting can draw attention to initiate conversation, revealing detail and colour. Ironically, one of the most important contributions that lighting can make is the gradual negation of light to promote sleep. Dimmed, warm lighting and switching off blue screens that trigger our melatonin, contributing to a smooth transition to full darkness and a deep, contented sleep. Sleep boosts our immune system, performance and tissue repair, proving another reason to invest in good lighting. Of all the well-being trends clamouring at your door, let the light in next. Talk to us at homelightingideas.com. Award-winning lighting designers Kate Wilkins and Sam Neuman have been supplying lighting design for 5* hotels, restaurants and homes for over 25 years. Follow on Instagram @homelightingideas T - 02079932339 homelightingideas.com
“Lighting, good lighting, can be transformative in all sorts of positive ways and you don’t need to win the lottery to afford it”
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Introducing Laura Thomas Scotland’s Leading Independent Lifestyle Brand Made from all-natural ingredients, Laura Thomas home scents, body + hair care are handmade and poured in the LT studio on the east coast of Scotland. The colours and scents of nature are celebrated throughout the range.
Scents for Christmas Laura Thomas Christmas Candle, Diffuser + Room Spray Natural soy wax blended with pure essential oils of cinnamon, cedarwood, orange and clove creating an infinitely superior scent throw when lit to instantly transform any space into a warm and cosy winter haven. 8.5oz (35hr burn time) Christmas Candle RRP £25 250ml Christmas Diffuser RRP £25.50 100ml Christmas Room Spritz Mist £17.00
For peaceful Sleep
For the Mind + Body Laura Thomas Body + Hair Care Range Pink Grapefruit Cleanse Shampoo 500ml RRP £28.00; Pink Grapefruit Restore Conditioner 500ml RRP £28.00 The finest naturally sourced ingredients enveloped in the purest pink grapefruit essential oil. Gentle to the body and the environment. Flowers + Wood Hand Wash 500ml RRP £20.00 Light floral notes of rose, geranium and patchouli married perfectly with warm and comforting cedarwood from the Atlas Mountains of Morocco. Citrus + Herb Shower Wash 500ml RRP £20.00 Citrus + Herb Hand & Body Lotion 500ml RRP £28.00 Ultimate nourishment for the mind and body with the uplifting scents of Lemongrass, soothing Lavender and elegant notes of Bergamot. 282 DECEMBER 2020
Laura Thomas Lavender Pillow Mist Our bestselling lavender pure essential oil mist gently encourages a good night’s sleep. Free from Alcohol, Sulfates, SLS, SLES and Parabens. RRP 30ml £9.00. RRP 100ml £17.00
Scents for the Home Laura Thomas Natural Scent Diffuser Powerful pops of scents. Pure essential oil blends: Lime + Basil, Lavender, Sandalwood + Mandarin, Flowers, Lemon + Peppermint 250ml RRP £25.50
READER OFFER: SAVE
15%
We Care As a company that cares deeply about the natural environment, much of the Laura Thomas range is offered in refill pouches to encourage reuse and the reduction of packaging. Our products are boxed in paper made from recycled single use coffee cups. Laura Thomas also has an extensive range of bed linen and textiles intensely soft to the touch and ethically sourced from around the world to create deep comfort and joy in your home. To immerse yourself in the full Laura Thomas experience, visit laura-thomas.com London Life readers will receive a 15% discount with code LL15 Follow our journey on Facebook + Instagram @laurathomasco
Hingstons Of Wilton Purveyors of Antiques and decorative items (est. 1976)
T: 01722 742263
E: nick@hingstons-antiques.co.uk
The Old Bell House, 2 Shaftesbury Road, Wilton, Salisbury, SP2 0DR
www.hingstons-antiques.co.uk
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Leading suppliers of fitted carpets, rugs, runners and Luxury vinyl flooring
ased in Putney and serving London, Surrey and the surrounding areas, Putney Carpets has a wealth of experience in the supply and installation of all carpets and natural products such as Sisal and Seagrass. They also have a fantastic selection of vinyl flooring including luxury vinyl tiles from all of the market-leading manufacturers.
Putney Carpets are renowned for the quality of their bespoke stair runners and custom design floors, with a real eye for detail the level of quality is compelling. Every project is carried out by their own in-house fitting teams who are all experienced in high quality installations ensuring your new flooring is every inch the quality you are looking for. Putney Carpets is a family owned and run flooring company with over 20 years of experience in the flooring industry. They provide you with 284 DECEMBER 2020
all the necessary expert advice and knowledge to assist you every step of the way. Built on family traditions and a strong desire to deliver the highest quality every time, they have kept faith in traditional installation methods whilst adapting to the modern era. Boasting a stunning portfolio of high end residential projects their passion for flooring is reflected in the finished project they handover to their ever growing client base. Whatever the project, you will always receive the very best service from Putney Carpets, from your initial project consultation right through to the installation and aftercare. With unrivalled quality in everything they do you can relax and watch your ideas come to life. Give Putney Carpets a call today or head down to their stunning Putney showroom and talk to them about your ideas for your space. With free consultations and sampling services you will find everything you need to get you started on your next project.
THE DETAILS Putney Carpets & Design Suppliers of Carpets, Rugs and Luxury Vinyl Flooring. putneycarpets.com 0208 874 9376 info@putneycarpets.com 28 Upper Richmond Road Putney, London SW15 2RX
Putney Carpets & Design
Suppliers of Carpets, Rugs and Luxury Vinyl Flooring
Putney Carpets & Design Luxury Products, Tailored Services, Unrivalled Quality. SHOWROOM 28 Upper Richmond Road, Putney, SW15 2RX 0208 874 9376 www.putneycarpets.com
H OUSE & GARDEN
TRENDING NOW: Festive Fairy Tales
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ach year, a new decorative trend emerges for the festive season, from midnight blue walls to blush pink accessories, we’ve seen many fabulous styles over the years. This year, a new trend surfaces: Festive Fairy Tales. Inspired by the magic and pure elegance of snow covered castles, glistening silver crowns, and frosted windows, this style takes a deep dive into the land of kings & queens. Mixed metallics are the perfect element to translate this trend into your home, which can be introduced in many different forms. Think silver snowflake fairy lights strung across chimney breasts and distressed metallic LED candles dotted around the room. To give your Christmas tree
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the royal treatment, swap out the traditional tree topper for an illuminated crown. Foliage is an essential part of any Christmas décor, which’ll effortlessly carry your theme through the home, choose blue spruce wreaths and garlands adorned with an abundance of white berries to dress doors and wrap around bannisters, creating a truly regal feeling to your interior. Whilst cool tones are synonymous with this trend, it is important to maintain an inviting warm glow, welcoming you home as you step in from brisk winter evenings. By pairing warm white micro lights with your frosted and metallic finishes, you’ll take the meaning of festive fairy tales to a new level. Lights4fun is Europe’s leading internet retailer of decorative lighting for home and garden. This family business began from the kitchen table, when Tim Naughton and his wife, Jo, couldn’t find a decent set of fairy lights for their garden. The now 40 strong team, based at head office in Harrogate is proud to offer high-quality, beautifully designed lights that we all love, with an industry leading 2 year guarantee. They’re a hard working bunch who commit to offer the best possible customer experience and aim to shine through everything they do. lights4fun.co.uk
“Whilst cool tones are synonymous with this trend, it is important to maintain an inviting warm glow”
H OUSE & GARDEN HOUSE
The Ultimate Work from Home Solution W
orking from home was not so long ago considered a perk of the job, however, the muchlonged-for 30-second commute, for many of us, has finally become a realisation. Prior to the global pandemic, we would have spent 492 days of our lives commuting to and from work and inevitably, Covid-19 has brought about a catalyst of change. Businesses are now seeing the benefits of reducing costs by giving up office spaces, and with commuting now significantly reduced, one of the biggest winners out of this situation is the environment. With this in mind, there’s no doubt that the “new normal” of home working is, quite clearly, here to stay. The general consensus is that working from home is wholly positive and can provide a better work-life balance. Whilst this is true, there is evidence to suggest that this can be quite the opposite, with staff working later than usual as they battle to “switch-off ” when their working day is over. So, what’s the solution? Garden Offices Green Retreats have long been advocates for working from home, creating stunning garden offices for customers who needed extra space to work in, at home, away from the house. They provide the ultimate work from home space that 288 DECEMBER 2020
gives clients the best of both worlds, an office to work in without the distractions of home life and when it’s time to finish, you can walk away and lock up and resist the urge to open the laptop. Garden offices from Green Retreats provide space to work in all year round, and are available in hundreds of style and size configurations to suit almost any garden space and budget. Sizes start at just 4m² and go up in half-metre increments all the way to 30m² with width and depth choices to suit the client’s use.
“There’s no doubt that the “new normal” of home working is, quite clearly, here to stay”
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customers to look at, Green Retreats have become the go-to provider for the turn-key solution to garden offices. With modern showrooms in Buckinghamshire and Twickenham, unparalleled customer service, a 5* Trustpilot rating and an enviable environmental policy, Green Retreats are the clear choice when choosing a garden office provider in 2021. Key Facts and Prices Prices start at £14,745, which includes all of the essentials; a choice of doors, a window, internal wiring, flooring choices, plus much more. Prices also include the concrete pile base, full installation and VAT. • Designed and built in the UK • 10-year guarantee • Eco-friendly • Insulated, weatherproofed and heated for yearround-use • Planning permission rarely required greenretreats.co.uk The Undeniable Data There is no doubt that garden rooms, offices and studios, that were once in an emerging market, have now become the solution to working from home for those who need dedicated space from which to do so. No matter how 2021 pans out, it seems as though garden offices are set to be an ever-popular addition to people’s homes for years to come. What are the Rules? Garden rooms generally do not require planning permission because they fall within permitted development rights. Garden rooms are classed as ‘outbuildings’ and as such can be built without permission as long as customers comply with permitted development guidelines. Choosing a Garden Office Company Whilst there are plenty of options out there for 290 DECEMBER 2020
Bespoke design & build treehouses, playhouses and elevated platforms. Commercial & International commissions welcomed
TEL: +44 (0)1403 732452 www.cheekymonkeytreehouses.com
H OUSE & GARDEN
A LITTLE
LUXURY
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ilk Pillowcases have fast become popular as luxury gifts. You might have come across 100% silk pillowcases and even bought one or know someone that has and hasn’t stopped raving about it since. So, we have decided to explore the reasoning behind it with the fast-growing British brand, MayfairSilk®. Did you know that silk goes back 4700 years? Silk and the art of sericulture has been perfected for millennia. Silk was originally discovered back in 2696 BC by an Empress from the East when she was enjoying a cup of tea, beneath the Mulberry tree and a cocoon fell into her cup. As the cocoon began to unravel itself, the Empress admired the beauty of the shimmering threads glistening into the light. She was fascinated to see the cocoon was made of a single long translucent thread and her curiosity led to the invention of the first silk loom and sericulture. During the intervening years, silk was highly prized in royal households for making bed linen and clothing. The London based brand, MayfairSilk, has made it their mission to spread the knowledge of these benefits of silk. According to MayfairSilk the benefits of silk pillowcases and bed linen exceed cotton bedding and here are few reasons why: • Cotton absorbs 27 times its weight in water. An excellent choice for bath towels, but in your bed linen it’s drawing the moisture out of your face, skin and hair while you sleep, including those expensive serums and lotions you might be applying before bed. This leaves your skin and hair looking dull and dehydrated. Silk on the other hand, absorbs 0.3 times its weight in moisture, whilst offering excellent
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“During the intervening years, silk was highly prized in royal households for making bed linen and clothing”
wicking properties should you overheat and sweat. Silk retains your skin and hair’s natural moisture levels, enhancing its glow and lustre. This is one of the reasons MayfairSilk is recommend by leading dermatologists and skin care specialists in Harley Street. • Pure silk is hypoallergenic, anti-microbial and anti-bacterial, which is fabulous for allergy sufferers. Dust mites are the leading cause of household allergies and silk as a fabril unlike cotton is unhospitable to them. • Dreamily soft to touch. Pure silk is much softer and smoother than cotton, as a single strand of silk fibre can be over a mile long before weaving. The ultimate luxury. But not all silks are created equal. Quality is key whilst selecting your silk. The grade of the thread, momme, weave and finishing matter for each product. MayfairSilk are the leaders in the UK with 25 momme grade 6A Mulberry Silk pillowcases. All hand-cut and finished, we must say, they’re beautifully packaged in a gift box too. The benefits of silk makes it highly seductive, would you agree? mayfairsilk.com
H OUSE & GARDEN
Get In Bed With Great British Design With more time at home becoming the norm, interiors across the UK are getting more than their fair share of attention and none more so than the bedroom.
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n recent years, the bedroom has gained popularity as the place to retreat, relax and escape from the rat race. And, these days, we need that more than ever. If a change would help you to rest better, then a luxurious, new upholstered bed has to be this years’ remedy for a boring bedroom … The feature bed is back! What’s more, the current economic situation has been challenging manufacturers and creative minds to work together and breathe new life into our interiors, promoting a spirit of teamwork and great British pluck. Exciting collaborations between innovative designers and makers are, currently serving up the best of British design in the face of uncertainty. One notable recent creative partnership is that of The Headboard Workshop with fabric designer, Charlotte Gaisford. The power pair set about designing the new Puffin Bed over the summer, exchanging ideas, sketches and designs. The outcome? A gloriously cheerful upholstered bed in a beautiful colour palette with feminine curves and modern lines. “The bed really has become the place in the
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bedroom to stamp your style” says Laura KelwayBamber, creative director at The Headboard Workshop. “There are so many amazing materials on the market now that the sky is the limit. We make more than 18 styles of bed in over 150 plain fabrics or people can send us their own … which is how our relationship with Charlotte Gaisford first came to our attention”. Laura adds that with the trend for upholstered beds and headboards on the climb in recent years, they have received so many beautiful fabrics from Charlotte Gaisford’s stunning collections for upholstery, that it was high time the two of them got together to do something spectacular. The result of which is the new Puffin Bed in Sharanshar Green. Piped in a lively co-ordinating coral colour, the Sharanshar Green pattern is eye catching and pretty, making an exceptionally beautiful bed, its beauty, only outshined by its elevated level of comfort when paired with the Sark Mattress. We can’t wait to see what else this design duo come up with, but for now, were off to discover the Puffin Bed at theheadboardworkshop.co.uk
“One notable recent creative partnership is that of The Headboard Workshop with fabric designer, Charlotte Gaisford”
H OUSE & GARDEN
Black & White Botanicals with Susannah Weiland Collection
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usannah Weiland Collections produces handcrafted designs for luxury interiors. Susannah is a hand embroidery artist and a keen wild life photographer. She studied Graphic Design at university and has spent 20 years working in the fashion industry as a freelance textile print designer. Keen to learn new skills and try different creative mediums she had taken many evening and weekend courses in everything from oil painting and life drawing to perspex jewellery making and tapestry. Her grandmother first introduced her to hand embroidery as a child, and after taking a short course years later she was hooked! After a lot of experimenting she developed her signature style combining her favourite mediums: tonal pencil drawing with delicate hand embroidery and beading. Susannah’s work is always influenced
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by the wildlife in different locations, her first range “The Botanical Collection” was inspired by Kew Gardens. Susannah pencil draws onto paper. These designs are printed onto fabric, and she hand embroiders and beads bright highlights of colour into them to create unique pieces of art and decorative cushions. Her designs are also printed onto wallpaper, furnishing fabric and plates. Susannah draws and embroiders all her work in her studio in Richmond upon Thames. Her cushions and chairs are made to order in London and all printing is carried out in the UK. Available at charltonisland.com with Free UK Delivery.
THE NEW 1M X 1M PORCELAIN RANGE TAKE THE INSIDE OUTSIDE
1A Brickwall Lane, Ruislip, Middlesex, HA4 8JR - 01895 621 651 18 King Street, Maidenhead, Berkshire SL6 1EF - 01628 624 546
info@spacers-uk.com | maidenhead@spacers-uk.com
H OUSE & GARDEN
WONDERFULLY WOODEN
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hen we are thinking of the most important factor in choosing furniture, storage has got importance. Wardrobes have an upper hand when it comes to storage options. Wooden wardrobes have always been the favourites of people for decades. We can’t see a household without wooden furniture as most people like the comfort it provides. Solid wood wardrobes are the most popular among home-owners around the world because of their classic style, functionality and longevity. They are versatile in style and functions. Here we are discussing how to choose the best wooden wardrobe for your home.
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What are the advantages of wooden wardrobes? Wood is one of the sturdiest materials one can have for their wardrobes. Despite its strength, the wooden wardrobes are sold at an affordable price. Along with wooden wardrobes are strong enough as they can be used for many years. If you care for your furniture then you will be able to enjoy your wooden wardrobes for a long time. Look and feel: Wooden furniture can also go a long way to creating a sense of the natural world indoors. If you live in a high-density apartment block in a city, you may wish to foster a sense of nature in your living space. Wood is the perfect way to achieve this, through both its wide-ranging colour spectrum and the fascinating patterns of grains and fibres. Wood can also immediately bring warmth to otherwise sterile surroundings. Easy Maintenance: Although completely weather-resistant, wooden wardrobes are quite easy to maintain. They can be gently wiped with
a soft wet cloth to remove dust and dirt from the surfaces and abyss of the wardrobe. Also, to want the long-life of these beautiful furniture units, keep it away from the direct sunlight in the bedroom because they might degrade the finish of these pieces. Versatility: When compared to other materials wood is certainly versatile. No matter whether the design is modern or contemporary wood could certainly create an impact on that. They could be easily customised and derived just according to your bespoke needs Eco Friendly: Wood is the best example of an eco-friendly wardrobe. They are 100% safe and do not have any harmful effects at all. Strength and Durability: Wood is, of course, abiding and robust material and is the perfect choice for anyone looking for longevity from their wardrobe. Whether you opt for hardwood (oak, teak) or softwood (pine, maple, walnut), there is inherent stability and reliability to a wellmade wooden wardrobe for clothes. Inspired Elements have a premium range of wooden fitted wardrobes that can be customised according to the space you have whether you have a big bedroom or a bedroom which only has space around a corner or space around the windows or a loft-style bedroom. Their wooden fitted wardrobes come with a superior finish, soft to the touch smooth finish, which is also hard-wearing. Every individual has their own interests while thinking of a wardrobe, we have no limitations in creating unique and aesthetic wardrobes. The ease of maintenance makes them popular among customers and that’s why Inspired Elements is known as the best bespoke wooden Fitted wardrobe manufacturers in London. inspiredelements.co.uk
LANTERN CANDLES
www.imaggo.shop www.imaggoproduction.com @imaggoproduction @imaggo.imago
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CURATING · CREATING · PRODUCING SOURCING · ART & ACCESSORIES
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BESPOKE INTERIOR DESIGN FROM AMBERTH
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mberth is a bespoke Interior Design Specialist based in Islington. With over 10 years of experience in designing and crafting unique Kitchens, Bathrooms and Fitted Interiors, their attention to detail allows them to create beautiful spaces, perfectly suited to their clients’ lifestyles. Amberth will take on projects of any size, from taking a compact kitchen and maximising 300 DECEMBER 2020
the space available, to project-managing a full home renovation. Their design department and team of in-house fitters allow them to manage a project from the initial vision, right through to completion, creating a stress-free experience for their clients. The process begins with a free consultation, either at their Studio in Islington or online, where the experienced designers work with the client to establish what they want from their ideal kitchen. The designers then create 3D visuals to bring the client’s dream space to life. Two to three design options are presented during a second consultation, and a quote is given. Once the client and the designer are happy that the design is perfect, a site survey is carried out to take photographs and measurements and a schedule of work is put together. This gives the designer and project manager a visual sense of the space they are working with. Amberth’s priority is the safety and well-being of their clients and team, so you can be assured that all meetings and visits will be carried out in a safe and socially distanced way! With the possibility of virtual consultations and online meetings, Amberth can keep your project going even during these trying times. With their dedicated design process and by using only the highest quality materials from around the world, Amberth is able to achieve extraordinary results with the space you have. If you have a project in mind, big or small, why not get in touch and see what Amberth can do to help your vision come to life! Amberth - 311 Essex Road, London N1 2BD. T. 020 7354 8958 amberth.co.uk
“With their dedicated design process and by using only the highest quality materials from around the world, Amberth is able to achieve extraordinary results with the space you have”
020 7354 8958 www.amberth.co.uk
bathrooms kitchens interiors
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A BEAUTIFUL WOODEN FLOOR FOR LIFE Oak Parquet Silver White Oiled
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he surface you walk on provides the backbone of an interior scheme. Get it right and it will make a dramatic difference to the overall feel of a room. Wood flooring is a wonderful option as it introduces colour, texture, pattern and character. It’s easy to live with being practical, hardwearing and a cinch to maintain. There are endless design options too. “Wood flooring is brilliant for bringing a scheme together,” says Peter Keane, Director of The Natural Wood Floor Company. “Dark floors create a luxurious look, while rustic floors with lots of knots enhance a casual, country scheme. Rich colours will add warmth, while pale colours will go with just about anything and introduce plenty of light into a room.” The grade of wood will also create a different look. Prime grades have minimal knots and colour variation, so create a contemporary feel. Natural grades have more feature marks so lend themselves to more traditional looks. “Don’t be constrained by this though,” Peter advises. “A rustic board with plenty of knots, shakes and detailing can soften modern schemes.” When it comes to the latest trends, darker hues are gaining in popularity. “Although there will always be a demand for light wooden floors, darker shades are about to step into the limelight and have their moment. The dark rich shades found in our Smoky Mountain and Baked Oak flooring
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introduce a glamorous, dramatic look and can’t fail to get noticed.” Parquet blocks have been back in fashion for a while, but couldn’t be hotter right now. The combination of colour, wood detailing and pattern makes for a real statement floor. For an up-todate look go large with 600 mm sized blocks. Alternatively, aged blocks are great for adding extra character as they look like reclaimed blocks but can be used with underfloor heating. It always pays to buy a good quality floor from a reputable supplier, as the right wooden floor will improve your property, add to its value and last for years. The Natural Wood Floor Company manufacture most of the floors they sell and are also valued for their expertise. The full flooring collection can be viewed on large display boards at their Wandsworth showroom or on their new-look website.
Oak White Mist Oiled
“When it comes to the latest trends, darker hues are gaining in popularity”
THE DETAILS The Natural Wood Floor Company, 20 Smugglers Way, Wandsworth, London, SW18 1EG. 020 8871 9771. naturalwoodfloor.co.uk
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The Tale of Kindness Its all about well-being at Broughton Hall
n recent times people have learned more about their own space than ever before. It is through this year that a person’s real space has become something of a mecca that is more harmonious, and calm. Callender Howorth has been commissioned to redesgin Broughton Hall’s holiday let cottages with the caring spirit of kindness that is the cornerstone of the Broughton Hall Sanctuary ideals. In a year where people have been delivered a sense of uncertainty, it is refreshing to take note and to be kinder to the home. Ten cottages surround the large stately home, and it is there that Mark Howorth, Director of Callender Howorth has been appointed to redesign the interiors. Broughton Hall is an enchanting country estate that has wellbeing at the core of its philosophy, which has been handed down with the generations owning the manor for over 1,000 years. Trees surround the area with plans of planting one million more to add to the pleasant ambience of this Yorkshire sanctuary, famed for being a retreat. Every fixture and fitting for this substantial project will be locally sourced, employing local craftsmen, working with local decorators, upholsterers, joiners, metal workers and artists. Key suppliers include Seagulls in Leeds who recycle paint. Each supplier and found piece will be from a 60sq mile radius of Broughton Hall and they will help in the restoration of over 100 pieces of found furniture from the surrounding countryside. Its all about recycling and being kind to the environment for this special project. Mark says “We want each found piece to be made really special. We will repaint, add paper and stone and make sure that each piece is reborn and becomes a thing of beauty in its own right. “ Callender Howorth will use a barn on the estate to house a furniture restoration project and each piece of furniture will be nurtured to the kind hand of local craftsmen who will work alongside Callender Howorth. The important thing about the estate is that it must remain caring to reflect
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“Every fixture and fitting for this substantial project will be locally sourced, employing local craftsmen, working with local decorators” its reputation as a haven for those concerned with preserving a kind reflection, sustainability and ethics. Mark adds “We have found some great local sources and very interesting companies doing some wonderful and kind business that are truly in line with the ethics at Broughton Hall.” This is not the first time that Callender Howorth has worked with kindness and wellbeing in a project. Mark recently completed work on an arts and crafts period property in Hampstead, where the project focused on the space having calming scents and organic paints included in the final touches. The owners had bought a house on a quiet leafy street in this area of London and wanted to create a temple of purity with Indian influences to reflect their heritage. The brief was to create a calm, spiritual home for the clients. Atomisers on each level puff scents of geranium and lavender, while soft lighting, mosaics, and murals became focal pieces for the three-storey home. Suppliers were sought for their ethical standing. For Heath Drive, every piece was to tell a tale of tranquillity and now is the time when all homes become a shelter for peacefulness and pleasantness at the dusk of a difficult year. It is with great pleasure that Callender Howorth will start the Broughton project in the New Year. After a year of drama throughout the Pandemic it will be a wonderful start to 2021 to focus on a kinder approach to interior design! For further details, please visit Callenderhoworth.com or call 0207 336 8560
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Timeless elegance of sash windows
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sash window or hung sash window is made of one or more movable panels or “sashes” that form a frame to hold panes of glass, which are often separated from other panes (or “lights”) by narrow muntins. Although any window with this style of glazing is technically “a sash”, the term is used almost exclusively to refer to windows where the glazed panels are opened by sliding vertically, or horizontally in a style known as a “Yorkshire light”, sliding sash, or sash and case (so called because the weights are concealed in a box case). The oldest surviving examples of sash windows were installed in England in the 1670s, for example at Ham House. The invention of the sash window is sometimes credited, without conclusive evidence, to Robert Hooke. The sash window is often found in Georgian and Victorian houses, and the classic arrangement has three panes across by two up on each of two sashes, giving a “six over six” panel window, although this is by no means a fixed rule. Innumerable late Victorian and Edwardian suburban houses were built in England using standard sash window units approximately 4 feet (1.2 m) in width, but older, hand-made units could be of any size. To facilitate operation, the weight of the glazed panel is usually balanced by a heavy steel, lead, or cast iron sash weight or counter-weight concealed within the window frame. The sash weight is connected to the window by a sash cord or chain that runs over a pulley at the top of the frame, although spring balances are sometimes used. Sash windows may be fitted with simplex hinges, which allow the window to be locked into hinges on one side while the counterbalance on the other side is detached, allowing the window to be opened for escape or cleaning. 306 DECEMBER 2020
The name “hung sash window” is more usual in the United States, and typically refers to a doublehung window with two sashes that can move up and down in the window frame. A single hung window has two sashes but normally the top sash is fixed and only the bottom sash slides. Triple and quadruple hung windows are used for tall openings, common in New England churches. Construction is usually of softwood, and these sashes were traditionally only single-glazed. Modern double-glazed sash windows are now available, which increase energy efficiency and reduce sound ingress whilst keeping the traditional look of a period property. Traditionally styled double-glazed sash windows will often attempt to mimic the original appearance through the use of non-functional muntins or ‘glazing bars’, which are applied to the surface of the glazing, and give the appearance that the sash is made up of several smaller panes, whereas in reality, each sash consists of only one, large, double glazed unit. Sash windows are relatively low maintenance and offer huge advantages in return (style, aesthetics, abides by laws (relating to older houses and buildings), natural resources etc.), however well-maintained sash windows should last generations without needing parts replaced. It is also possible to clean all the glass from within the building by sliding the two panes to different positions. A significant advantage of sash windows is that they provide efficient cooling of interiors during warm weather. Opening both the top and bottom of a sash window by equal amounts allows warm air at the top of the room to escape, thus drawing relatively cool air from outside into the room through the bottom opening.
“The invention of the sash window is sometimes credited, without conclusive evidence, to Robert Hooke”
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