Life Magazines (London editions) January 2023

Discover Unlimited Luxury at Sandals Resorts with Trailfinders

LIFE MAGAZINES

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The Mayfair Antiques & Fine Art Fair is returning to London’s West End and the five-star London Marriott Hotel Grosvenor Square. Over 40 fine art and antiques dealers are starting the year in style - with this fair organised by Ingrid Nilson of The Antiques Dealers Fair Limited, which returns after the pandemic. The Fair is a traditional, highquality event, that will be held in the glamorous Westminster Ballroom and foyer.

Richmond Park was originally a Deer hunting park, and still has 300 red deer and 350 fallow deer. When Charles I moved his court to Richmond Palace (no longer standing) to avoid the plague in London, in 1625, he turned his manor into a deer park with herds of fallow and red deer.

The Connaught on Carlos Place has unveiled a new hidden gem in the heart of the hotel – The Connaught Cigar Merchants. The intimate room is home to one of the finest cigar collections in London with exemplary spirits. Guests and customers can drop in and shop the collections or sit and sample the cigars with views of majestic Mount Street.

Faye Manning Editor

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THE CONNAUGHT IN MAYFAIR UNVEILS NEW CIGAR MERCHANTS

the space, each with a fold down shelf hidden in its arm to be used for resting drinks. An outstanding feature is the Swiss extraction system, which through the floor and ceiling, silently and constantly cleans the air to stop the space getting too smoky. Lalique ashtrays and glassware, French crafted lighters, a sharp, velvet-jacketed team and the sounds of JazzHop combine to complete the ambiance.

The Connaught on Carlos Place has unveiled a new hidden gem in the heart of the hotel – The Connaught Cigar Merchants. The intimate room is home to one of the finest cigar collections in London with exemplary spirits. Guests and customers can drop in and shop the collections or sit and sample the cigars with views of majestic Mount Street.

Guests enter The Connaught Cigar Merchants speakeasy-style via an unassuming door in the Red Room. An Italian crafted humidor spans the length of one wall, brimming with boxes of cigars. Lajca – one of only 33 ‘Masters of Havana Cigars’ in the world – has curated a collection of over 170 Cuban cigars spanning regular production to extremely rare and vintage varieties, showcasing Cuban tobacco craft at its very best. Highlights include the Cohiba Siglo VI Gran Reserva, one of the finest post-embargo cigars on the market, and Montecristo Sublimes – a highly sought-after, velvety-smooth smoke. Lajca and his team of Cigar Sommeliers will advise on helping to build personal collections and source bespoke requests.

A collection of extremely rare spirits has been handpicked – ranging from vintage Japanese whisky to unique rums, to complement the cigars. A 42 year old blend of single malts has been produced to mark the opening of the Cigar Merchants, in a limited release of 200 bottles.

Seven tan leather and walnut club chairs sit in

THE DETAILS

The Connaught Cigar Merchants opening times are 4pm – 1am Monday to Saturday and 2pm –10pm on Sunday. Guests must be 18 or over the-connaught.co.uk

“Guests enter The Connaught Cigar Merchants speakeasy-style via an unassuming door in the Red Room”

THE MAYFAIR ANTIQUES & FINE ART FAIR

London Marriott Hotel Grosvenor Square. Thursday 12 - Sunday 15 January 2023

The Mayfair Antiques & Fine Art Fair is returning to London’s West End and the five-star London Marriott Hotel Grosvenor Square. Over 40 fine art and antiques dealers are starting the year in style - with this fair organised by Ingrid Nilson of The Antiques Dealers Fair Limited, which returns after the pandemic. The Fair is a traditional, highquality event, that will be held in the glamorous Westminster Ballroom and foyer.

The fair will feature some thirty-five distinguished specialist exhibitors, drawn primarily from The British Antique Dealers’ Association and LAPADA The Association of Art & Antiques Dealers.

The aim is to present a varied selection of high-quality art and antiques, giving visitors the opportunity to browse and acquire the finest period furniture, enamels and boxes, traditional and contemporary sculpture, oil paintings and watercolours, antique and modernist jewellery, English and Oriental ceramics, glass, clocks, vintage watches, 20th century design pieces and many other decorative and rare objects spanning the centuries.

The fair has a magnificent international following including interior designers, collectors and, with its central location, lures foreigners visiting London,

as well as people seeking unique pieces for their interiors. January’s fair promises many different disciplines from specialist dealers, including clocks from Antiques Roadshow expert Richard Price.

The fair has its own light refreshments available and being in a five-star hotel in London’s West End, it comes with all the trappings expected of a hotel of this calibre, complete with Gordon Ramsay restaurants Lucky Cat and the Gordon Ramsay Bar & Grill, as well as the cosy 1920’s cocktail bar The Luggage Room.

Visitors enjoy the relaxed atmosphere, the eclectic choice on offer and the comfortable surroundings of the five-star hotel in the heart of Mayfair.

THE DETAILS

£10 at the door - free re-admission with programme.

Facebook: @AntiquesDealersFairLtd

Instagram: @adflfairs

Twitter: @ADFLfairs

mayfairfair.com

Fair Opening times: Thursday 12.00–20.00

Friday 11.00–18.00

Saturday 11.00–18.00

Sunday 11.00–17.00

The London Marriott Hotel Grosvenor Square, Duke Street, London W1K 6JP

Delphin Enjolras ‘ The Tea Party’ . Cambridge Fine Art

English Regency Bronze and Ormolu Mantel Timepiece, Richard Price

Two Buccellati rings from Anthea AG Antiques

Edgar Degas ‘Four Dancers Evolving ‘Haynes Fine Art

THE HORROR SHOW! A TWISTED TALE OF MODERN BRITAIN

Until 19 February 2023. Embankment Galleries, Somerset House

Somerset House presents a major exhibition exploring how ideas rooted in horror have informed the last 50 years of creative rebellion.

The show looks beyond horror as a genre, instead taking it as a reaction and provocation to our most troubling times. The last five decades of modern British history are recast as a story of cultural shapeshifting told through some of our country’s most provocative artists.

The Horror Show! offers a heady ride through the disruption of 1970s punk to the revolutionary potential of modern witchcraft, showing how the anarchic alchemy of horror – its subversion, transgression and the supernatural – can make sense of the world around us.

Featuring over 200 artworks and culturally significant objects, this landmark show tells a story of the turbulence, unease and creative revolution at the heart of the British cultural psyche in three acts – Monster, Ghost and Witch. Each act interprets a specific era through the lens of a classic horror archetype, in a series of thematically linked contemporaneous and new works:

MONSTER

Opening The Horror Show!, Monster delves into the economic and political turbulence of the 70s

and the high octane spectacle and social division of the 80s. Against a backdrop of unrest and loud uprising, it charts the origin story and ascent of the individuals who will go on to disrupt, define and destroy British culture, while exploring the monsters which plague society today.

GHOST

Ghost marks the collapse of hyperinflated 80s culture into an uncanny temperature change that presided over the 90s and early 00s. It traces an unsettling path through to the global financial crisis of 2008, a turning point in time between a century of old and new, at the dawn of a digital age of faceless audiences and invisible cyber wars.

WITCH

Witch focuses on a Britain spanning 2008’s financial crash until the present day and celebrates the emergence of a younger generation and their hyper-connected community – a global coven readily embracing a dynamic grounded in integration and equality.

The exhibition will have an accompanying programme of talks and events, for more information and to purchase tickets, visit somersethouse.org.uk

Above:

Below:

Top left: © Derek Ridgers. Courtesy Of Derek Ridgers Editions

Zadie Xa. Courtesy of the artist

© Juno Calypso. Courtesy of the artist

“REBEL WITH A CELLO”

Visionary. Spectacular. Rule-breaking. Sunday 12th November 2023, London, The O2

The bad boy of instrumentalists and founding member of 2CELLOS known simply as HAUSER announces his much anticipated, first-ever worldwide solo tour “Rebel with a Cello” which includes two UK dates at o2 Apollo Manchester and London’s The O2.

Armed with the momentum from his last and final sold-out 2CELLOS tour, the superstar cellist and visual artist is launching the ultimate musical, showcasing his signature performance pyrotechnics alongside his romantic and soulful, playing sound and style.

And while music’s mischievous romantic is including everything his fans have come to know and love through his visual media presentations, like the wildly popular “Beach Party” and musical dreamscapes like the “Alone Together,” visual concepts, HAUSER’s first “Rebel with a Cello” tour features a third act of rocking and rhythmic retro into modern globally-influenced dance tracks from his new solo album which is available Worldwide now, “The Player.” Dance with him and experience the captivating magic. HAUSER has a new video out now. HAUSER. He is a rockstar with a cello...and this is only the beginning.

THE DETAILS

HAUSER, LIVE. ‘REBEL WITH A CELLO’ The Worldwide tour.

UK DATES: Saturday 11th November 2023

O2 Apollo Manchester Sunday 12th November 2023 London, The O2

VIP meet and greet packages available. Tickets from Eventim.co.uk, ticketmaster.co.uk, axs.com hauserofficial.com

BENTLEY MULLINER ICONIC SPEED SIX TO BE BORN AGAIN

RECREATING AN ICON

To deliver 12 new Speed Sixes that are authentic to the design of the racers of 1929 and 1930, the Mulliner team has first created a complete 3D CAD model of the car, from both the original blueprints and detailed analysis of original cars. Two cars have been referenced for this process.

Bentley Mulliner is to bring the iconic Speed Six back to life with a new and highly exclusive Continuation Series of 12 cars, each mechanically and aesthetically authentic to the Bentley racers that won Le Mans in 1929 and 1930.

Created to honour the achievements of the original cars and while continuing to develop and preserve Mulliner’s heritage skills, the new Speed Sixes will become the second pre-war continuation project in the world after the Blower - both created by Bentley Mulliner.

The most successful Bentley racing car of its era, the Speed Six is regarded as one of the most important Bentleys in history, winning Le Mans in 1929 and 1930 at the hands of Woolf Barnato, Sir Henry ‘Tim’ Birkin and Glen Kidston.

Not only further demonstrating the marque’s world-beating performance credentials but also proving the concept of the Grand Tourer – a fast car that remained comfortable and luxurious, and capable of covering huge distances with ease. Every Bentley since has followed the same ethos.

The 12-car series has been designed, and will be developed and built, by the same team of Mulliner specialists that have created the Blower Continuation Series – the first pre-war continuation project in the world. This acclaimed run of 12 new 4½ litre ‘Blower’ Bentleys was based on the company’s own 1929 Team Car #2 – the most famous and valuable Bentley in the world, which raced alongside the Speed Six in 1930 – and sold out instantly. The same is true of

the new Speed Six continuations, with all 12 cars already reserved by lucky customers around the world.

The Mulliner team will once again be supported by an incredible array of artisans from a number of automotive heritage specialists across the UK, delivering recreation parts that are not only physically identical but in many cases are crafted using the same techniques used in the 1920s. This dedication to complete and total authenticity is integral to the success of such a complex project.

“Old Number 3” was the third of three Speed Sixes entered by Bentley into Le Mans in 1930. Despite a difficult race it survived the ordeal and has been immaculately preserved since. Still fully road legal and actively raced by its owner today, Old Number 3 has been a valuable source of design details and reference points for the creation of the new cars.

Alongside Old Number 3, Bentley’s own Speed Six (GU409) – part of Bentley’s expanding Heritage Collection – is a 1929 road car wearing an identical four-seat Vanden Plas body to the original racers and restored to the same specification. GU409 will provide benchmark performance and handling data for the continuation cars, including a full power and torque curve for the 12 new engines to match – or beat.

The first new Speed Six in 92 years will be assembled in the second half of this year and become the engineering test and development car for the project. Speed Six Car Zero will be retained by Bentley, joining Blower Car Zero as the forebears of the families they help to deliver. bentleymotors.com

The Deer

of Richmond Park

Richmond Park was originally a deerhunting park, and still has 300 red deer and 350 fallow deer. When Charles I moved his court to Richmond Palace (no longer standing) to avoid the plague in London, in 1625, he turned his manor into a deer park with herds of fallow and red deer. The park was enclosed with an 8 mile long brick wall in 1637. Most of the wall that still encloses Richmond park is the original. The Royal deer have been maintained in Richmond ever since.

The deer have played a major role in the Park’s history and have shaped the landscape too. Their special grassland habitat depends on grazing and the parkland trees have a distinctive ‘browse line’ as the deer eat all the leaves and twigs growing below about 1.5 metres. Deer grazing also prevents tree seedlings from growing, keeping the grassland open. For young trees to survive they need to be

protected against damage from deer antlers for some 50 years.

During the autumn the deer ‘rut’ (breeding season) takes place. The red stags and fallow bucks compete for females (known as hinds and does respectively). At this time, the large males roar, bark and clash antlers in a spectacular way in an attempt to fight off rivals and to attract as many females as possible. The young are born mainly in June, and are hidden by their mothers amongst the bracken and long grass. Females and their young are very vulnerable and sensitive to disturbance at this time Herds of red and fallow deer roam freely within much of the park. The herds are culled in November to keep numbers manageable and the park population healthy.

The British Deer Society and the Deer Initiative of England and Wales, who are regarded as the main welfare organizations dealing with the welfare and management of deer nationally, recognise that parkland deer numbers must be managed and that removal of some of the deer is necessary each year to keep populations at acceptable levels.

The keeping of deer in enclosed English parkland has a long heritage. Although many ancient parks were originally maintained for hunting purposes, in recent times it is recognised that the deer herds of the Royal Parks in London are an integral part

“The keeping of deer in enclosed English parkland has a long heritage

of the parks’ ecosystem, as well as being a valuable amenity and educational feature. These parkland deer are wild animals, which are not regularly shepherded or handled; they are left to breed normally and to establish normal social behaviour.

All deer parks have a maximum capacity of deer numbers, which must not be exceeded to avoid problems of disease and damage to the natural environment (the complex ecosystems for which Richmond Park is notified as a Site of Special Scientific Interest, National Nature Reserve and a

European Special Area of Conservation, being of particular importance). The deer are wild animals, so never try to touch or feed them.

Always keep a respectful distance, especially if you have a dog. As well as deer, a range of other mammals lives in the park, though they may not be as obvious. These include Fox, Rabbit, Shrew, Mice and Vole. Unfortunately the Brown Hare, which was once common in the Park, has vanished as a consequence of increased disturbance.

The Park’s diverse landscape, abundant insects and plentiful tree roost sites are good habitat for bats. There are recent records of at least nine species including all 3 species of Pipistrelle, Noctule, Serotine, Brown Long-eared and Daubenton’s bats. bAs well as deer, a range of other mammals lives in the park, though they may not be as obvious. These include Fox, Rabbit, Shrew, Mice and Vole.

Unfortunately the Brown Hare, which was once common in the Park, has vanished as a consequence of increased disturbance. The Park’s diverse landscape, abundant insects and plentiful tree roost sites are good habitat for bats. Th ere are recent records of at least nine species including all 3 species of Pipistrelle, Noctule, Serotine, Brown Long-eared and Daubenton’s bats. royalparks.org.uk

“During the autumn the deer ‘rut’ (breeding season) takes place. The red stags and fallow bucks compete for females (known as hinds and does respectively). At this time, the large males roar, bark and clash antlers in a spectacular way in an attempt to fight off rivals and to attract as many females as possible”

The American Bar at The Stafford London

Cocktails and Dreams with new food menu from Lisa Goodwin-Allen

The American Bar takes its place alongside the hotel’s 380-year-old wine cellars, secluded courtyard, stunning private dining rooms, and hugely popular restaurant, The Game Bird.

Food: American-Inspired Menu by Lisa Goodwin-Allen...

Lisa Goodwin-Allen oversees the menus in The Game Bird restaurant and The American Bar, offering an all-day menu inspired by the bar’s American history and connections. To start, snacks include BBQ pork ribs, sticky buffalo wings, Montgomery cheddar mac and cheese bites and loaded potato wedges. To follow, large dishes include chipotle chilli dog, pastrami-cured smoked salmon bagel, lobster thermidor sub, and cobb

THE DETAILS

thestaffordlondon.com Reservations: 020 8493 0111 dining@thestaffordlondon.com

The American Bar Instagram: @americanbarlon Twitter: @StaffordLondon Instagram: @thestaffordlondon Facebook: @TheStaffordLondon

salad. For dessert, warm homemade doughnuts, banana split and soft serve sundae will provide the perfect end to an indulgent dining experience.

Cocktails: Alchemy of Equilbiurm...

Created by Director of The American Bar Benoit Provost and Director of Mixology Salvatore Megna, the cocktail list is inspired by the equilibrium and balance between the four classic elements: water, earth, air and fire, and highlights how when working in harmony they create the fifth element: quintessence. Each of the four elements is represented in four different cocktails.

The American Bar at The Stafford London belongs to the great tradition of American cocktail bars that became renowned in London during the 1920s and 30s and remains one of the longest surviving American bars in the capital. With its lively atmosphere, secluded cobbled courtyard for al fresco drinking and dining, quality service and old-school glamour, it is no wonder the bar remains a popular meeting place for hotel guests and visitors alike.

St Valentine Collection 2023

CŒUR À CŒUR ‘Heart to Heart’

Available online and in boutiques from 13th January 2023

With St Valentine’s Day just around the corner, Pierre Marcolini offers you ‘Cœur à Cœur’ creations that are both audacious and sumptuous! When Pierre created his ‘Cœur à Cœur’ collection to celebrate this Lovers’ Day, he wanted to shake up the existing formula, by adding fervour to Love, and make opposing flavours confront each other. To unite and bring together the most vivacious and the more virtuous characters.

HEARTS UNITE

Chewy bites combining two halves of a heart to enjoy a single delicacy for two. On the red side, the crunchy Piedmont hazelnut and Japanese charred sesame are accompanied by a Quimper lace topped with a hazelnut Gianotti. On the pink side, a tender hazelnut praline is sprinkled with hazelnut chips. When ‘Cœur’ is unwrapped, people’s hearts will also be wrapped up in a single mouthful of pleasure and tenderness.

Hearts Unite Bite 60g - £11.90 each

THE HEART BOX

A beautiful metal box with delicately rounded contours, shimmering colours encompassing creations, which are surprising to reveal: vanillapepper, hazelnut or Yuzu mandarin hearts, nougats, caramel palettes, or milk twists. Enough to vary emotions and increase sensations tenfold. Box with 9 chocolates 64g - £16.90

PLUMIER PETITS BONHEURS

What a delight to find the famous ‘Petits Bonheurs à la noisette’, wrapped in a golden paper specially decorated with hearts for the occasion. Just waiting to melt in lovers’ mouths. Sixteen chocolate treats, beautifully nestled in a Plumier box. 144g - £23.00

GOURMET ADDICTION FOR THE FOODIES!

This assortment contains:

• The Heart Box

• Plumier Petits Bonheurs

• Milk Rochers treats

• Five O’clock Bar

• Duo Praliné Hazelnut Biscuit Box 503g - £71.00

DESSERTS CŒUR À CŒUR

Finally, to make hearts beat faster, a pastry to swoon over and share together. The dessert consists of a lemon Genoa bread topped with a toasted sesame nougatine. The strawberry heart is accompanied by a light Madagascan vanilla mousse with a hint of Timut pepper, all coated in a white chocolate shell. A small raspberry heart delicately crowns this dessert to sweep people off their feet. Desserts Cœur à Cœur 230g - For 2 people£15,00

Hearts to be won, pleasures to share!

THE DETAILS

Visit marcolini.com and their Marylebone boutique plus counters in Selfridges, Harrods, and worldwide.

Facebook.com/PierreMarcolini Twitter/ Instagram @pierremarcolin

Valentine’s Gift Ideas

DIAMONDS AND EMERALDS ARE FOREVER

Based in Hatton Garden, London DE Fine Jewellery are leading specialist in certified sustainable diamonds, ethically sourced emeralds and bespoke engagement rings. Unlike other jewellers, London DE can offer you outstanding responsibly sourced pieces at a price you won’t find lower in the market.

READER

BAGPAD

Bagpad is a custom-made handbag shaper for any designer bag. No more plastic or paper filling, but instead an elegant and sustainable solution. Available in different colours and materials for brands like Hermès, Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Mulberry. Can be made bespoke and personalised with monogramming, making it the perfect gift for any handbag owner. Shop all styles at bagpad.com or call/whatsapp +44(0) 777 507 7600. Use code “LIFE10” for 10% off.

1 2 3OFFER: SAVE 10%

RUTH HALDON JEWELLERY

Let them know they are loved! A piece of jewellery can say so much. Here you see Czech Lamp-work glass heart earrings with crystals and Sterling silver findings. Choose from the colourful selection of heart earrings: - from £25.00 to £45.00 – hand crafted by Co. Durham maker Ruth Haldon on her website. ruthhaldon.co.uk

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Neola Design is a British jewellery brand renown for original, sculptural designs. We offer jewellery without compromise: handmade, sustainable, and made only from precious metals and natural gemstones. Our beautifully crafted pieces are made by master craftsmen from 18ct Gold Vermeil and Sterling Silver. Escape the ordinary! Visit our store: 199 Portobello Road, London W11 1LU neoladesign.com

MUSEUM OF THE MOON AND BLOOD & BATTLE HEAD TO GREENWICH THIS WINTER

UK artist Luke Jerram’s astonishing installation Museum of the Moon is coming to the Old Royal Naval College in Greenwich this winter. As the nights draw in there’s no better time for Jerram’s illuminated installation to be displayed in the magnificent Painted Hall. In-situ from 13 December 2022 – 5 February 2023, the Old Royal Naval College and its majestic 18th century, baroque Painted Hall is the perfect setting for these two breathtaking artworks to come together.

Visitors to this magical setting can experience the seven metre, to-scale Moon, created using NASA imagery, as it hangs in the awe-inspiring Painted Hall. The imagery features minute detail of the lunar surface, taking the viewer right round to the dark side of the moon. The internally lit installation features a surround sound composition by BAFTA-winning composer Dan Jones for a stunning and profound art-meets-nature experience. Tickets include entry to the Painted Hall, use of a multimedia guide, guided tours of the historic grounds, access to the Victorian Skittle Alley and unlimited re-entry for a year.

A host of specially curated events will be taking

place to celebrate the moon including moonthemed lates, an exclusive Moonlight Dining Experience, and even a chance for children to meet Santa telling a moon-inspired story on selected dates. In the New Year look out for wellbeing, yoga and sound bath workshops in the Painted Hall under the Museum of the Moon.

Visitors can also indulge in a Festive Afternoon Tea in the historic Admiral’s House on selected Sundays in December and visit newly opened exhibition Blood & Battle: Dissecting the Life of William Beatty which explores the fascinating –and sometimes grisly – life and work of renowned 19th-century naval surgeon and physician, Sir William Beatty, complete with a replica of a makeshift medical bay. This exciting new exhibition is located in the Visitor Centre and runs until 25 March 2023.

Situated on the banks of the River Thames in Maritime Greenwich, ideally located opposite Greenwich Pier for arrival by boat, or 2 minutes’ walk from Cutty Sark DLR, the Old Royal Naval College is the perfect place to enjoy a fascinating day out this winter. ornc.org

“Visitors to this magical setting can experience the seven metre, toscale Moon, created using NASA imagery”

WHAT DOES YOUR FAVOURITE ROYAL PARK MEAN TO YOU?

GREENWICH PARK

The last 18 months has seen the parks become an even more essential backdrop to our lives, offering a sense of normality in a changing world and at times being literally the only places to go. This winter, Royal Parks are asking for your donations to support their work caring for the nature, landscapes and rich heritage that make the Royal Parks what they are for everyone who needs them.

From boating lakes to birdsong, grand gardens to kids’ playgrounds, visit the parks today and find your escape from city life.

KENSINGTON GARDENS

Covering an area of 265 acres, Kensington Gardens is planted with magnificent trees and ornamental flower beds. It is a perfect setting for Kensington Palace, the Albert Memorial, Peter Pan statue and the Serpentine Gallery. Did you know? you can pick up tips for growing fruit and vegetables from the park’s very own allotment which is also home to a number of chickens.

HYDE PARK

Once the hunting ground for Henry VIII, this large royal park is best known for its famous Speakers’ Corner and Serpentine Lake, home to waterfowl and oarsmen. The Lido only opens for the summer, but the Swimming Club is open all

year round so brave folk can swim in frigid waters, sometimes as cold as 4C.

The 74-hectare space is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as it overlooks the National Maritime Museum and the Old Royal Naval College. It is an amazing mix of 17th century landscape, stunning gardens and a rich history that dates back to Roman times and a small herd of Fallow and Red deer. There’s also a children’s playground where kids can run around and exhaust themselves.

BUSHY PARK

At over 1000 acres, Bushy Park lies just north of Hampton Court Palace and is famed for its mix of waterways, gardens, and roaming herds of red and fallow deer.

Visit the Upper Lodge Water Gardens, a historic gem hidden away in the north of the park. See if you can spot the arresting birdlife, from kingfishers to kestrels. And enjoy a walk in the peaceful Woodland Gardens.

RICHMOND PARK

One of London’s most breathtaking landscapes, the 1,012-hectare space is made up of woodland, grassland and ponds attracting hedgehogs and bats

Kensington Gardens

Hyde Park

Richmond Park

hibernating in winter. But the park is best known for its 630 wild red and fallow deer. Discover the Isabella Plantation woodland gardens, refuel at Pembroke Lodge tea rooms and enjoy distant views of St Paul’s Cathedral from King Henry’s Mound.

ST JAMES PARK

St James’s Park includes The Mall and Horse Guards Parade, and surrounded by landmarks such as Buckingham Palace, Clarence House and Whitehall. The park’s famous flower beds are a familiar backdrop to pageants including Trooping the Colour, as well as state visits and other ceremonial occasions. Enjoy impressive views of the lake and fountain, watch the resident pelicans at feeding time, or while away a sunny afternoon in a deckchair.

BROMPTON CEMETERY

The Grade I listed Brompton Cemetery is the wellloved resting place of over 200,000 people and a haven for wildlife. Nestled among the spectacular trees and undergrowth are over 35,000 gravestones and monuments with the amazing stories of all the people buried there since the 1830s, including some well-known names like Emmeline Pankhurst and John Snow.

VICTORIA TOWER GARDENS

YOUR GIFT TO THE ROYAL PARKS

When other locations were forced to close, Royal Parks worked even harder to make sure they were there for everyone who needed them, providing free access to nature, playgrounds and spaces to exercise, all while managing biodiversity and preserving the landscapes’ rich heritage.

That work never stops, with park teams out and about all year round tending to the special places that have become like a second home for many.

THE REGENT’S PARK

‘Regent’s Park’ covers 197 hectares, consisting of formal gardens, shrubberies, sports pitches, rough grassland, a large lake, small enclosed wood and a canal. Regents Park also houses various structures and organisations, including the iconic ZSL London Zoo. Walk through the elegant flowerbeds in the Avenue Gardens, see more than 12,000 roses in Queen Mary’s Gardens, or hire a rowing boat and join the ducks on the boating lake.

THE GREEN PARK

‘Green Park’ is a peaceful refuge; a triangle of mature trees and grasslands, offering a quiet retreat from city life, right next to Buckingham Palace. Visit a range of memorials, fountains and statues and look out for Royal Gun Salutes when ceremonial guns are fired to mark special royal occasions.

A small pocket of green space in the heart of Westminster, between the Houses of Parliament, the River Thames, Millbank and Lambeth Bridge. Look out for memorials celebrating freedom, including the Buxton Memorial which marks the abolition of slavery. And for children the Horseferry Playground includes a sandpit, dance chimes and a water play feature. Whatever personal connection you have with your Royal Parks, your gift will go towards conserving and improving the 5,000 acres of parkland in our care, impacting the lives of millions of people each year.

If you value your Royal Parks please make a donation. Your gift will help care for precious green space in London that plays an essential role in the lives of millions of people each year.

Please give what you can by visiting royalparks.org.uk/ support-the-parks

Regent’s Park

Green Park

Victoria Tower Gardens

St James’s Park

Brompton Cemetary

GEORGE MICHAEL, FREEDOM UNCUT

His Final Work

NOW AVAILABLE VIA Apple TV, Sky Store, Amazon Prime Video, Google Play Virgin Media Store, Microsoft, Chili and Rakuten TV

Sony Music Entertainment and Trafalgar Releasing have announced the premiere of GEORGE MICHAEL FREEDOM UNCUT - a deeply autobiographical feature documentary, narrated by the late Grammy® Award winner himself, is now available to download and keep on digital.

Throughout the 108 minutes film, George Michael reveals openly and honestly the two distinct sides of his life: his very public music career and his private personal life that cameras never truly saw. Michael was heavily involved in and dedicated to the making of this documentary before his tragic passing in 2016, making GEORGE MICHAEL FREEDOM UNCUT an incredibly special posthumous release and a poignant and moving tribute to his legacy.

The film delves into the turbulent period after “Faith” leading up to, during and after the making of his “Listen Without Prejudice: Vol 1” album in 1990. At this pivotal period of his life, Michael is able to fight for his artistic freedom and lead the way for others. He meets his first real love, Anselmo Feleppa and navigates both the

heartbreak of Anselmo’s early tragic passing from an AIDS related illness and the devastating loss of his mother. GEORGE MICHAEL FREEDOM UNCUT is also a brilliant reminder of Michael’s outstanding musical genius during the Wham! years and throughout his solo career. The film features timeless duets with George’s favourite artists and explores how he influenced the cultural landscape of his generation as one of the world’s best-selling artists of all time.

The feature is interwoven with exclusive, personal archival content including never seen-before footage from one of the most iconic videos in music history, “Freedom! ’90,” directed by Oscar® nominated David Fincher. The music video has been recently remastered in 4K and will screen in full, ahead of the main feature in cinemas worldwide.

Contributors also include Stevie Wonder, Sir Elton John, Ricky Gervais, Nile Rogers, Mark Ronson, Liam Gallagher, Mary J. Blige, Jean Paul Gaultier, James Corden, Tony Bennett, Cindy Crawford, Naomi Campbell, Christy Turlington and Linda Evangelista.

Co-Producer and Director David Austin says, “The film is George’s final work. Narrated by George himself, it is the complete story. George Michael was an inspiring artist whose story deserves to be shared globally.”

Further details can be found on georgemichaelfreedomuncut.com and georgemichael.com

Sony Music & Trafalgar Releasing present

KEEPING IT SIMPLE

ACCORD – (of a concept or fact) be harmonious or consistent with

children.

Under our Accord scheme, the one lawyer’s role is to facilitate negotiations and advise both parties on whether the proposed agreement from their negotiations has fallen within the parameters of potential outcomes. It will, however, be inappropriate for that lawyer to be involved in substantive negotiations. Whilst it is not possible for us to act for both of you if there is a conflict of interest between you, it is open to you to waive any conflict of interest if you have provided your informed consent. Informed consent means that you need to be in possession of all relevant material facts, to enable you to make a decision. Part of this process will involve full financial disclosure.

The process itself is broken down into 8 steps:

1. Initial contact.

2. Individual one-to-ones.

3. First joint meeting. 4. Reviews.

5. Second joint meeting. 6. Third joint meeting. 7. Reflection.

8. Drafting agreement (and finalise divorce).

THE DETAILS

Accord – one couple, one lawyer, one aim - is a new scheme that Moore Barlow has recently launched for couples separating or divorcing, to enable them to resolve matters in relation to children and/or financial matters by using the same lawyer.

For many years now, clients have often wanted to instruct one lawyer together to deal with their affairs upon separation or divorce and could not understand why it was not possible for them to do so, particularly when they had reached an agreement. However, until very recently this was prohibited by solicitors’ professional regulations. With the launch of the “no fault” divorce process in April 2022, it became more apparent many clients would like to work collaboratively with each other to try to resolve matters in an amicable and conciliatory way. The Family Solutions Group also produced a report called “What about me?” to promote the removal of conflict upon family breakdown thereby reducing the potential harm to

At the point of initial contact, we will discuss the process with you in more detail and will thereafter constantly keep matters under review. The key aim is to enable you to reach a solution together and for that to then be put into a legal document known as a Separation Agreement (if not divorcing) or a Consent Order if you are. By working collaboratively together, matters can be progressed at your own pace and in a nonconfrontational way.

We are also able to instruct experts jointly, who may be required to provide a report, for example, pension experts, counsellors, etc. By having a common aim, any instructions can be streamlined and dealt with swiftly.

We offer the scheme on a fixed fee basis which enables you to budget and share the costs of the process, as opposed to you each having lawyer’s bills. We acknowledge that some couples may wish to have additional meetings and the process can be adapted to suit your individual needs and requirements.

If you would like to find out more about this new process, then please do not hesitate to get in touch.

Mandy

Spring Partner, Family Team mandy.spring@moorebarlow.com

01483 748566

Disclaimer

This information is for guidance and should not be regarded as a substitute for taking full legal advice.

NEW COLOUR: BLACKBERRY DRYING COAT FOR DOGS

The new colour Blackberry is bold without being brash, subtle, sophisticated, and feels more NOW!

As part of our Classic Collection with a fabric trim, it will replace Heather and keep our best selling and biggest range bang on trend.

The Classic Collection of Ruff and Tumble’s award winning Drying Coats has four colours and seventeen sizes. In new Blackberry, Brick Red, Bottle Green and Sandringham Blue, these double-layered, cotton towelling coats are practical and stylish. They wick wet from fur fast, drying quickly and warming dogs as they dry. After baths, hydrotherapy, wet swims and dewy walks the coats care for and protect dogs, cars and homes.

Suitable for all breeds and super adjustable with easy-to-use velcro fastenings, they fit dogs from 1-120+Kg. There are also six sizes especially adapted for short-legged dogs.

Every coat has leg straps at the back to ensure a snug fit, as well as a deep neck, which unfolds to make a hoody to dry the head and ears. Every coat comes in a reusable cotton gift bag which are useful for storage and make the coats even more special as gifts.

ruffandtumbledogcoats.com

Woof frills is a dog accessories brand that focuses on enjoyable moments with furry friends . We create high quality & modern dog harnesses , collars , leads, pet blankets all beautifully designed with love in UK.

Woof Frills have spent months to design the perfect dog harness for the best version it could be , because dogs are family. Over 10000+ dog parents swears by it already for their fast drying capabilities and easy adjustable.

Browse our full range at www.wooffrills.com and join the growing community on Instagram @wooffrills

Wuff

wuffco.shop instagram.com/wuff.co

was created with the urge to bring premium, practical and stylish dog wear to the market. Whether you’re out for a puppachino or a walk in the park or the city, our ultimate stand out pieces are the perfect accessories to elevate your dogs style. Our first collection is available in 3 standard sizes and two colourways, Midnight and rose gold and cool grey and rose gold.

75 years of Porsche

The first vehicle to bear the Porsche name was registered on June 8, 1948: It was the 356 “No.1” Roadster. This is the day on which the Porsche brand was born. And purchased by a woman called Jolanda Tschudi, of Switzerland .

The Type 356 turned Ferry Porsche’s dream of a sports car into a reality. “His vision at that time embodied all of the values that still define the brand to this day”, said Oliver Blume, Chairman of the Executive Board of Porsche AG. “Tradition is a commitment. Without our tradition and without our core values, we would not be where we are today”, explained Blume. “We have the solid technological expertise, creative employees and unique team spirit. We have what it takes to ensure that the Porsche brand continues to fascinate.”

The successor model to the 356, the Porsche 911 designed by Ferry Porsche’s son Ferdinand Alexander, finally gave the company its breakthrough as one of the leading manufacturers of sports cars in the world, both from a technical and a design perspective.

The Porsche 911, presented to the global public for the first time in 1963, has now been built over a million times. “Although the 911 has been consistently developed in the intervening decades and enhanced many times over with new,

Above, right: The First Porsche 911 in 1963

innovative technologies, no other vehicle has managed to retain its original essence in the same way as the 911”, says Blume. “As the centrepiece of the brand, the 911 has become the sports car of dreams, winning the collective heart of enthusiasts all over the world.”

In 1966 presented as the ‘Safety Cabriolet’, the Porsche 911 Targa was launched. And the following year the Porsche 911 R was built for use in motorsport. Weighing 800 kg, it had a 6-cylinder, naturally-aspirated and horizontallyopposed engine producing 154 kW (210 PS), making it incredibly fast.

“In the beginning I looked around and could not find quite the car I dreamed of. So I decided to build it myself.”

– Ferry Porsche

1948-2023

“His vision at that time embodied all of the values that still define the brand to this day”

Thamesbank serves anyone who lives or works in the London Boroughs of Ealing, Hounslow, Kingston Upon Thames, Richmond Upon Thames, Wandsworth and the Borough of Spelthorne. Thamesbank Credit Union is • Member-owned • Member-operated

the first road-approved car to complete a lap in under 7 minutes - 6 minutes and 57 seconds to be precise - shaving 14 seconds off the previous record.

2017 was definitely a year to celebrate: the onemillionth 911 rolled off the production line - a style icon and the unmistakeable face and heart of the Porsche brand.

Fast. Puristic. Emotive. For the past 75 years, the Porsche brand has been synonymous with sports car construction at the very highest level. porsche.com

In 1972 The Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 was launched as the sporty leading model of the 911 range. And in 1975 at the height of the oil crisis, Porsche presented the first 911 Turbo – the world’s first production sports car with exhaust turbocharger and pressure regulator. And in 1977 conceived as the successor to the 911, the Porsche 928 broke new ground in terms of technology and design. It was powered by a light-metal alloy V8 engine.

The one millionth Porsche rolled off the assembly line on 15th July 1996. And to leave the 20th century in style the 911 series was rounded off with an exceptional sporty version, the 911 GT3.

Celebrating the new millennium, Porsche displayed its high-performance Carrera GT sports car at the Louvre in Paris and in 2002, presented its third car line: the sporty, off-road Cayenne SUV. Series production of the Carrera GT commenced in 2003 and by 2006, 1,270 units of the fast (up to 330 km/h) high-performance sports car had been built.

At the Geneva Motor Show 2010, Porsche presented the 918 Spyder high-performance hybrid as a concept study for the 21st century sports car. The Boxster Spyder was a radical return to the origins of the roadster: two seats, enhanced performance, no room for incidentals. Marking 2013, the 918 Spyder set a Nürburgring lap record:

The

one millionth Porsche rolled off the assembly line on 15th July 1996.

Celebrating 70 years of Porsche, The 911 Speedster Concept

1972 Porsche Carrera RS

The one millionth 911 sold in 2017

Porsche Cayman R

THE FOUNDLING MUSEUM

The Foundling Museum has more than 275 years of history permeating its objects, stories, and spaces. It tells the story of the Foundling Hospital, which was established in 1739 by the philanthropist Thomas Coram, to care for babies at risk of abandonment.

Thomas Coram was appalled by the conditions children faced in London: though the city was a global powerhouse of industry and wealth, it was also polluted and disease-ridden. Child mortality rates soared. Each year, some one thousand babies were abandoned by parents experiencing extreme poverty or other terrible maladies. Coram campaigned for seventeen years before he received a Royal Charter from King George II to found the Foundling Hospital.

The Foundling Hospital was the UK’s first children’s charity and became its first public art gallery. It was transformed into one of London’s most fashionable venues by the artist William Hogarth, who encouraged leading artists to donate their work and by the composer George Frideric Handel, who held annual benefit concerts of Messiah in its chapel.

Today the collection includes paintings, drawings, sculptures, furniture, clocks and

ceramics. Highlights range from tiny, touching identifying tokens left by mothers with their babies to composer George Frideric Handel’s Will. Artworks on display include work by outstanding contemporary artists like Yinka Shonibare, Tracey Emin and Michael Craig-Martin, as well as those made and donated nearly three centuries earlier by William Hogarth, Thomas Gainsborough and Joshua Reynolds.

During its two centuries in operation, the Foundling Hospital looked after a remarkable 25,000 children. The Museum opened in 2004, fifty years after the Foundling Hospital placed its last pupil in foster care. The Museum building is situated in the grounds of the old hospital at 40 Brunswick Square in Bloomsbury (near to Russell Square tube station). It was constructed in the 1930s, and incorporates many architectural features from the original eighteenth-century hospital building.

Visit the Museum to discover the story of the Foundling Hospital, the children who lived there, and its vibrant community of artists, musicians and supporters through its galleries and historic rooms. foundlingmuseum.org.uk

“The Foundling Hospital was the UK’s first children’s charity and became its first public art gallery”

Inspired by awkward and uncomfortable social situations, Barbara Kuebel hand-crafts life-sized woodcuts that serve as a whole-body experience to the viewer. Although the monochromatic colours virtually pop from the canvas, her aim is never to draw attention away from the monumentality of the picture. She is represented by Jonathan Ferrara Gallery New Orleans. Her works are available online through Saatchi Art, Riseart, Artfinder and Singulart. She shows handprinted limited edition woodcuts on paper in a size of 64/ 57 inches.

www.barbarakuebelart.studio

Gruffpawtraits specialises in photographing dogs in a unique way to create truly beautiful prints. Established photographer Rhian gives your dog it’s very own photoshoot, and within a week would receive a beautiful 30x30 bespoke print.

The perfect Birthday, Wedding or surprise gift for a loved one.

LUISE ELLERBROCK ART

CONTACT: Instagram: ellerbrock_art Email: ellerbrock.luise@icloud.com

Explore more and to make booking enquiries go to gruffpawtraits.com or @gruffpawtraits.

Shanon King

Name: KINGFISHER Size : 76x102 cm

Shanon King is an abstract expressionist with the dosage of figura. Flora and fauna, with contemporary elements, are the main features in her paintings. Shanon’s paintings change depending on her emotions, which makes them unique.

Artist is based in Ashtead, Surrey where currently, Kingfisher is on view, in the gallery window on the high street.

www.shanonking.co.uk @abstractartbyshanon Instagram shanon@shanonking.co.uk

Barbara Kuebel

PORTRAIT OF SHAKESPEARE GOES ON DISPLAY

By Alex Green

Aportrait said to be the only signed and dated image of William Shakespeare created during his lifetime has gone on display in London.

Its owner, who wishes to remain anonymous, is offering the piece for sale by private treaty – without an auction – for a figure of more than £10 million.

It is the work of Robert Peake, Sergeant-Painter to King James I, and is signed and dated 1608.

Prior to 1975, the picture hung in the library of a stately home in the north of England, once home to the Danby family. Since then it has been in private ownership.

Those behind its sale claim that the connections between Shakespeare and Peake are “extensive”.

They say Peake was regularly commissioned to paint the portraits of high-ranking members of the Court and Jacobean society.

They also noted he was commissioned by the Office of the Revels, which oversaw the presentation of plays, and worked in the premises in Clerkenwell, London, where some of Shakespeare’s plays were rehearsed.

However, only two paintings of Shakespeare, both posthumous, are generally recognised as valid – the engraving that appears on the title page of the First Folio, published in 1623, and the sculpture at his funeral monument in Stratford-upon-Avon.

“Prior to 1975, the picture hung in the library of a stately home in the north of England, once home to the Danby family. Since then it has been in private ownership”

Shakespeare died in 1616, at the age of 52.

Art expert Duncan Phillips, who investigated the work ahead of the sale, said: “There is more evidence for this portrait of Shakespeare than any other known painting of the playwright.

“It is a monogrammed and dated work by a portrait painter of serious status with connections to the artist who produced the image for the First Folio.

“The picture has survived the past 400 years almost untouched by wear and tear thanks to its ownership by a family of Shakespeare enthusiasts who hung it in their library.”

However, Shakespeare expert Michael Dobson told the Daily Mail claims the painting is of the Bard are “wishful thinking”.

The painting went is on display at Grosvenor House Hotel, London.

Art by Shree

Shreena is an abstract artist specialising in metallics, sparkle and her Signature Lines. Check her portfolio below and get in touch for your bespoke statement artwork.

@artbyshree www.artbyshree.com

She

To view her work or for inquiries, visit www.faithcoceramics. com and follow @faithandcoceramics on

FAITH KU designs and creates unique one-of-a-kind nature-inspired ceramic artworks. Her work draws inspiration from the intricate structures of botanical and fungal life and the cycles of regeneration in nature.

makes wall installation and table top pieces.

Instagram.

Amy Magee (b. 1997) is a British artist best known for her visceral abstract work and sculptural relief paintings. Magee established a signature style that blends brushwork, spray paint and industrial mediums to create statement works that explore the power of nature, human form, and the immediacy of street art. Her curated collections use provocative colour and texture to elicit a range of emotions within viewers. To date, Magee was commissioned to produce a series of paintings for the judges’ houses in a BBC TV show, recognised in British Vogue and GQ, and named Contemporary Artist of the Year 2022 (SME Awards). She continues to produce sold-out collections, and her work now features in many private collections worldwide.

To discover her available work or commission a bespoke piece, visit amymageeart.com.

New portrait of Sir David Attenborough donated to wildlife conservation charity

Sir David Attenborough has helped unveil a new portrait of himself that has been donated to a wildlife conservation charity.

The 96-year-old broadcaster and environmentalist has been a member of Fauna & Flora International (FFI) – which is dedicated to protecting the planet’s threatened wildlife and habitats – since 1959 and its vice-president since 1979.

The portrait, by artist Rosalie Watkins, was unveiled at FFI’s London office on Wednesday during an intimate ceremony, with Sir David and his daughter Susan in attendance.

The painting has been donated to FFI by philanthropist and FFI trustee Kim Stewart, and her family, to mark Sir David’s contribution to conservation and to serve in memory of her son Duncan Stewart, a young naturalist inspired by Sir David’s example.

Duncan died in a car accident at the age of 18 while working as a marine biologist studying migratory fish in Scotland’s west coast rivers.

In the coming weeks the portrait will be installed in the David Attenborough Building in Cambridge, home to FFI’s UK head office and the Cambridge Conservation Initiative (CCI), of which Sir David is an honorary patron.

In a statement, Kim Stewart said: “The Stewart family is donating Rosalie Watkins’ wonderful portrait of Sir David to Fauna & Flora International in memory of Duncan.

“Sir David Attenborough was, simply, Duncan’s hero. As a 17-year-old, Duncan wrote to Sir David, inviting him to come and talk at Winchester College.

“He accepted and not only had the whole school spell-bound but agreed to become the patron of the school’s Natural History Society.

“When Duncan was killed, Sir David wrote a very kind letter saying that ‘we cannot afford to lose young people like Duncan’.

“Duncan chose his hero well.”

The painting was done in oil on canvas by

By Connie Evans

Watkins following three sittings at Sir David’s London home.

Speaking about the finished piece, Watkins said: “I wanted the portrait to be dignified to reflect the esteem in which we all hold Sir David Attenborough.

“But there also had to be an element of unease to reflect his concern for the current environmental situation, so it being split over two canvases, creating a subtle rupture in the surface, is the reference to that unease.”

Mark Rose, chief executive of FFI, said: “We are enormously grateful for the support Sir David has provided to FFI as a member and vice-president over the past 60 years, but beyond that we are thankful for the impact he has had on conservation more widely.

“It is a great honour to be gifted this remarkable new portrait, which not only celebrates Sir David’s extraordinary contribution to conservation but will serve in memory of Duncan Stewart, a young naturalist who was inspired by his incredible example.”

Cornwall

Art with Gravitas

Susan is a leading UK contemporary pressed flower and mixed media artist based in Cornwall. Her natural, uncontrived raw style is original and unique. Her work is inspired by Cornwall and it’s coastline.

Susan selects flora from her Cornish garden and local seaweed which she lays on luxurious silks and satins with lightcatching mixed media including precious stones and rare vintage threads. All stitching is done by hand. Gallery standard framing with high quality protective UV glass.

Her statement pieces are known to mesmerise the viewer with their impact, flow and sense of depth leaving a lasting impression, perfect for welcoming visitors to your home or venue.

Susan’s work is held in private collections in the UK and worldwide. Private consultations available by telephone or in person, in Cornwall or London by arrangement.

www.susanfowler.co.uk | Instagram: @susanfowlerart

Chiswick Nursing Centre

Offers high quality rehabilitation, convalescence & respite care

Restore your strength and health after an illness or operation by letting us take good care of you with individually tailored nursing care and our in-house physio, excellent chef and expert hairdresser. The Chiswick Nursing Centre’s physiotherapists work seamlessly with nursing staff to provide the highest levels of integrated care.

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. We support convalescence after surgery and to aid cancer recovery, including care of those with a range of other complex needs. We have particular expertise in rehabilitation following hip replacements and knee replacements.

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. New for 2022 is Massage Therapy including Acupressure, Advanced Deep Tissue Massage, Seated Hot Bamboo Massage, and Manual Lymphatic Drainage all helping to escape the day-to-day stresses of life whilst you enjoy an

THE DETAILS

Please email enquiries@ chiswicknursingcentre.co.uk or call 07568 106258. chiswicknursingcentre.co.uk

hour long session with our trained and qualified therapist. Massage Therapy is available to residents and to outpatients, so book an appointment today.

A sister of a resident at the Chiswick Nursing Centre has seen the impact of 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 feels that nothing is too much trouble for them. There are doctors, nurses and physiotherapists who help her daily.”

Chiswick Nursing Centre offers high quality rehabilitation, convalescence, respite & nursing care. We also offer holiday stays for carers who need a break – with maximum peace of mind –so they can take time for themselves. Respite care should be a proper break for you. Short term or long term, we can take care of your loved one so that you can rest, recuperate and re-energise, or simply catch up on your to do list.

With free parking on-site, the care home is a convenient location to be treated for a range of conditions including post-surgical rehabilitation and orthopaedic and musculosketal conditions.

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.

LUXURY LIVING AT THE VALE

Ahome is more than just bricks and mortar. At The Vale, their collection of 30 luxury apartments available to rent, have been designed, so you can enjoy your retirement in a welcoming and vibrant community, without the worry of maintaining a property. Their 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 and walk-in showers. Senior living can bring a change in pace and priority. They believe that The Vale enables you to live life to the fullest, safe in the knowledge that personalised care is available if required.

Their aim has always been to combine convenience, security contemporary retirement living in south London and affordability with access to a comprehensive range of hospitality. Knowing that support is available means you can embrace life with peace of mind.

With the Fleming one-bedroom elegant apartment, you can have the best of both worlds with a restful, stylish, open plan living room complete with hi spec, fully fitted kitchen. Add to this a chic double master bedroom with its fitted wardrobe and contemporary bathroom, all for a monthly cost that needn’t break the bank.

At The Vale you can have as much company and social life as you wish. The Bar & Bistro is perfect for catching up with friends. For a cosy place to read the papers or play cards, the library and lounge offer a comfortable, beautifully decorated environment. And If pampering is what

you’re after, the on-site hair salon offers treatments or if you want to learn a new craft, the hobbies room is the place to go.

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.

Are you unsure about making the move to a retirement village? At the Vale, they offer a trial stay experience so you can gain a feel for what it’s like to be a resident and whether retirement living is right for you. Meet the friendly team and residents which form the heart of their community.

Please contact them for a private appointment or they offer virtual appointments via FaceTime so you can experience The Vale virtually.

* Some services may not be available on your chosen trial dates

thevaleliving.co.uk Tel: 08081 696511

“At The Vale you can have as much company and social life as you wish”

LUXURY TRAVEL

– Heading out of London to explore the rest of the world –

Home to more than 330 islands, discover an exotic South Pacific getaway and experience Fiji’s culture and world-famous greeting Bula, through cultural heritage activities, as well as sustainable tours to connect with the locals.

This paradise with pristine beaches and lush vegetation is the perfect destination for couples and families. With extensive outdoor activities for all fitness levels, explore shallow lagoons, extraordinary underwater life, mysterious caves and canyons, and coral-covered walls in Fiji’s warm and clear year-round waters.

There’s so much more to the idyllic tropical archipelago than palm-treelined beaches and beautiful coral reefs. Wherever you choose to go on the islands, it’s easy to spend your days immersed in nature. Adventure to the Nausori Highlands and hike around some of the hills

FIJI, WHERE HAPPINESS COMES NATURALLY…

to enjoy the rural landscapes of the Nadi and Denarau areas. Witness dramatic waterfalls on the islands of Vanua Levu and Taveuni. Watch spectacular sunsets characterized by a blend of reds, pinks and golden colours that tend to linger in the sky.

Indulge yourself in the many tastes of a fullflavoured cuisine across the Islands of Fiji. Try the traditional Rourou, a dish made from Taro leaves, cooked in coconut milk, and served as a side dish to fish or chicken; coconut bread; Fijian asparagus; Taro; and more. Fiji’s also known for its variety of tropical fruits. Taste the sweet coconut water, fresh bananas, pawpaw, passionfruit, pineapple, cacao fruit, and more at the local markets in Nadi, Namaka and Suva.

THE DETAILS

Experience a tropical paradise in Fiji and find yourself, in every sense of the word. Contact award-winning First Class Holidays, industry leader in providing tailor-made holidays and start planning your next adventure on 0161 888 5632 or email enquiries@fcholidays.com today.

SOUTH AFRICAN ADVENTURE

Picture this: you’re sitting on your very own private veranda in the stillness of the African bush; the blazing sunset sky silhouetting a herd of elephants as they quietly stroll by, their ears billowing amidst clouds of dust as the sky melts into lantern-lit wonder. Reminiscent of the great safari era, Gorah Elephant Camp captures the romantic allure synonymous with centuries past.

Located on South Africa’s famed Garden Route, this exclusive safari lodge can be found on a private concession in the world-famous Addo Elephant National Park – home to the densest population of elephants on earth. Embark on a thrilling malaria-free, Big 5 safari, where time seems to stand still as animals come and go.

Gorah captivates its guests through the gentle rhythm of the African bush, while transporting them back to the golden era of exploration, with its centuries-old heritage. The exclusivity of this lodge offers you an enchanting escape into the African wilderness accompanied by an old world nostalgia where travellers from a bygone era once indulged in billowing white linen, polished silver and legendary wildlife encounters.

Keeping in line with a low-impact ethos, Gorah’s 11 luxurious tented suites remain entirely

off the grid, while each still being kitted with the finer comforts of home. From bespoke body products to bathrobes, slippers and all the modern necessities, guests will be want for nothing during their perfect bush escape.

In between thrilling game drives and opulent high teas, watch over the busy Gorah waterhole from the grand veranda of the impeccably restored 1856 Gorah Manor House, soaking up the sun and splendour of the African plains.

Gorah Elephant Camp forms part of the Hunters Hotel Portfolio, a family-run operation that has been delighting countless guests since its inception in 1989. Alongside this otherworldly escape are two more world-famous properties, intimately tucked along the iconic Garden Route. Both Tsala Treetop Lodge and Hunter’s Country House offer guests unique experiences, while giving them the best that South Africa has to offer.

trailfinders.com

“This exclusive safari lodge can be found on a private concession in the world-famous Addo Elephant National Park”

“Embark on a Big 5 safari, where time seems to stand still as animals come and go”

Villa Ponta Melagrana

The vision for the property was to ensure that the design elements were reflective of the surrounding nature, whilst also showcasing the rich history and tradition of the destination. Central to its design is the 300-year-old stone staircase - located in the heart of the property - which sits alongside a collection of stone antiquities all taken from the very cliffside it calls home, creating a deep-rooted sense of place for guests.

For those looking for an ultra-exclusive destination to jet off to for their next holiday, there is nowhere better than the luxurious Villa Ponta Melagrana in Montenegro.

Catering for up to 22 guests across eleven spacious bedrooms, this is the largest and only luxury villa of its kind with direct access to the sea in the area and is available for exclusive hire only. Providing a once-in-a-lifetime holiday experience, Villa Ponta Melagrana is one of Montenegro’s most luxurious villas, sure to captivate you from the moment you set eyes on it.

Villa Ponta Melagrana will provide you with everything that you would expect from a fivestar hotel, and more. The villa has a full-service spa, with therapists on demand, to offer bespoke massage and other wellness treatments. Complete with facilities including a sauna, gym, beauty and massage room as well as an indoor swimming pool, and outdoor infinity pool, prepare to enjoy the holiday of your dreams in the privacy of your very own luxury villa.

The villa is perched atop the Pomegranate cliff in the charming fishing village of Pržno, offering picturesque views of the turquoise Adriatic Sea, the Sveti Stefan Peninsula and Sveti Nikola Island.

No request is too extravagant at Villa Ponta Melagrana, and personalisation is at the heart of all they do. Chefs will work with you ahead of your stay to create bespoke menus that are tailored to yours and your guests’ tastes, ensuring that you are totally satisfied with every detail. The villa’s concierge team work to ensure that every request can be fulfilled, whether you want a top chef flown in to cook your dinner or you would like to discover Montenegrin traditions with a unique cultural experience. The sky really is the limit!

For those looking to plan a special event or destination wedding, Villa Ponta Melagrana is an unrivalled location. The villa works with leading UK and destination wedding and event designers ‘Love Lydia Weddings & Events to take care of the planning process, making your special day a stressfree experience. Focus on creating unforgettable memories with your loved ones as you sit back and relax, letting the experienced team do the hard work for you. With views like this, how could your guests not be impressed?

Relax into your dream holiday with a trip to Villa Ponta Melagrana, the place sculpted by the sea, the stones and the scent of pomegranates. There really is nowhere else like it!

Prices for exclusive hire of up to six bedrooms start at £5,980 per night. pontamelagrana.com

“No request is too extravagant at Villa Ponta Melagrana, and personalisation is at the heart of all they do.”

Get healthy on holiday in 2023 with these fab fitness breaks

Add up all the Christmas parties, winter puddings and sneaky mid-afternoon mince pies, and the average person’s calorie intake over the festive period runs much higher than usual.

And if your exercise routine has been replaced by hours sitting in front of the TV too, you aren’t the only one.

There are plenty of fitness breaks running next year though if you’re planning a health kick come January. Whether it’s a weekend bootcamp or wellness getaway further afield, here’s how to make healthy eating and working out the focus of your holiday…

ST MICHAEL’S RESORT, FALMOUTH, CORNWALL

Get set for the year ahead by booking into a New Year Reboot weekend in the West Country. After conducting a body analysis, instructors at St Michael’s Resort will advise on studio classes and cardio sessions at the Health Club, along with beach runs. Unwind afterwards in a hydrothermal area with 21 stations designed to target different muscle groups. Take advantage of an outdoor hot

tub with views of Falmouth Bay.

How: Doubles from £70 per night with breakfast. A three-night package costs from £415pp in addition. Various dates. Visit stmichaelsresort.com; 01326312707.

BXR RETREAT DAIOS COVE, CRETE, GREECE

Sharpening skills of mental agility while burning

From getaways with A-list gurus to outdoor adventures in the Welsh wilds, holidays can be good for your health, says

Sarah Marshall.

“Get set for the year ahead by booking into a New Year Reboot weekend in the West Country”

stacks of calories, boxing is an excellent sport for getting fit fast. Elite London studio BXR have an outdoor functional training centre at the Daios Cove resort in Crete, with a team of expert trainers leading intense sessions designed to deliver results. Yoga and Pilates sessions are also thrown into the mix to keep bodies supple.

How: A six-day retreat from 11-17 and 18-24 May full board costs from £3,000pp, excluding flights. Visit daioscovecrete.com.

PRESELI VENTURE, PEMBROKESHIRE, WALES

Take advantage of nature’s playground by working out in the wilds. Eco lodge Preseli Venture offer fitness breaks combining coasteering, surfing and wild swimming with runs through woodland. Ideal for people who hate the idea of sweaty gyms, the motivational getaways also provide an opportunity to learn new skills. Afterwards, relax in a front of a wood fire back at the lodge.

How: The next Fitness Weekend takes place June 2-4 and costs £325pp full board (two sharing). Visit preseliventure.co.uk or call 01348837709.

HECKFIELD PLACE, HAMPSHIRE

Getting into shape doesn’t have to be a drag –especially if you turn it into an adventure. Based within 400 acres of land, restored Georgian hotel Heckfield Farm has come up with a novel way to lose weight, by creating a circuit from disused farm equipment. Leap over bales of hay and lift milk churns, then swim across a lake for a little cold water immersion therapy.

How: Rooms start from £450 per night with breakfast; a 90-minute Farm Fit session costs £150. Visit heckfieldplace.com or call 0118 932 6868.

KANDIMA, MALDIVES

Fitness guru Ramona Braganza has worked with Hollywood stars – Jessica Alba, Anne Hathaway and Sandra Bullock all apparently owe their toned physiques to her 321 fitness regime. Enjoy a rare opportunity to hear her tips and advice during a retreat at Kandima resort, where the focus is on playing sports and having fun. Group training

sessions will be based on a mixture of cardio, strength and core exercises to boost metabolisms. There will also be mediation and breathwork sessions.

How: A seven-day retreat from March 14-21 costs from £4,578pp (two sharing), excluding flights. Visit kandima.com.

LEBLANQ, NORWAY

Learn tips and tricks from some of the best in the business on a cycle holiday that promises to be educational and challenging but above all enjoyable. High-end operators LeBlanq specialise in bike holidays led by legends such as Sir Chris Hoy and Geraint Thomas, staying in comfortable lodgings with food provided by gourmet chefs. Their trips sell out fast, but a new calendar of dates has been released for 2023. In partnership with 62 Nord Hotels, their Norway tour led by Thor Hushovd travels through the scenic SunnmøreAlps. All levels are welcome and cyclists are allocated to groups based on their experience.

How: A three-night break from September 9-12 costs costs from £3,695pp full board.. Visit leblanq.com.

The other SOUTH OF FRANCE

If you are planning your summer holidays and you are looking to go to the South of France, just remember it isn’t all about St Tropez, Nice and Cannes.

BASQUE COAST

There are some absolutely stunning regions with fantastic beaches, beautiful scenery and everything else to cater for families, the golf enthusiast or the wine lover. You can discover a rich variety of places to visit, from chic resorts, sleepy old villages and astonishing historical monuments dating back to Roman times. It really is the perfect French holiday destination.

In terms of the best time to visit the South of France, from May through to September you can usually guarantee good weather. June is usually very pleasant up in the late 70F’s/mid 20C’s. In July and August you can expect to get many days around 30C/90F.

HERE ARE SOME IDEAS FOR YOU TO DISCOVER THE ALTERNATIVE SOUTH OF FRANCE...

The Basque coast of south west France is a wellkept secret and a more authentic option than the Med coast. Chic Biarritz, charming St Jean de Luz and lovely seaside villages in between such as Bidart. It's where France meets Spain with large sandy bays, cuisine with a Spanish touch, and all overlooked by the dramatic Pyrenees. Whether you are surfing, exploring or eating out, it's distinctive & memorable.

HOSSEGOR

The surfing capital of Europe but with so much more – a beautiful lagoon, excellent shopping & restaurants, cycle trails through the pine forests and stunning golf courses. Hossegor is hard to beat for active families and is the most popular resort on the Aquitaine coast. Outside the summer, it's a haven for surfers and golfers.

ARCACHON

On the shores of the stunning Bay of Arcachon, a beautiful tidal lagoon and summer 'playground'. Chic boutiques, sailing clubs and restaurants sit alongside traditional oyster-fishermen's shacks. Child-friendly sandy beaches ideal for families and a 'must' visit is Dune du Pilat - Europe's biggest sand dune! A Parisien favourite, still a relatively undiscovered holiday destination by 'Brits'.

PYRENEES

For a peaceful summer holiday alternative why not try the Pyrenees? A natural and dramatic

wilderness where mountains, lakes and forests combine to create a landscape which nature and wildlife enthusiasts will admire. There are plenty of outdoor activities to choose from including walking, mountain biking, rafting & canoeing, horse-riding. Pau is a genteel, gem of a city, and there are many market towns and villages to explore too.

BORDEAUX

On the banks of the Garonne, Bordeaux boasts wide boulevards, majestic squares and elegant architecture and surrounded by ancient chateaux and vineyards that house some of the most valuable chateaux and vineyards in the world. Beyond Bordeaux is the Atlantic coast where you can sample some of the best seafood in France and explore the dunes of this beautiful coastline. With the Medoc to the north and famous St Emilion within an easy drive, this is a perfect destination for a gourmet break, a visit to carefully selected vineyards, or the perfect starting point to explore the magic of Dordogne.

Lu Leccio is an ancient Palace built in 1500 that was entirely remodeled in the early 21st century and turned into a resort holiday homes. Historical spaces have been entirely preserved, maintaining its majesty while combining it with contemporary art, modernity and local culture.

Lu Leccio’s interiors are a blend of modern and antique. The traditional “pietra leccese” and local artisans’ crafts, from mosaics to lampshades, pottery and paintings, is combined with contemporary artworks and minimalist designed furnitures.

Nine spacious Suites apartment welcome the hotel’s guests with its exquisite elegance, charmed by vaulted ceilings and the distinctive honeycolour of Lecce’s limestone, featuring a refined ambience with modern furniture and stylish details. The Suites have air conditioning, kitchenette, Wi-Fi, Hi-Fi and satellite TV.

info@luleccio.com www.luleccio.com

How to make the most of your annual leave in 2023

Looking

maximise

away from work? Imy Brighty-Potts explains the best days to book off now.

We all want as much time as possible to chill out, travel or spend time with those we love, but it often feels like annual leave just isn’t long enough.

However, with some advanced planning and a sturdy knowledge of when bank holidays fall, you can really maximise time off to do as you please.

If your job doesn’t require you to work weekends or bank holidays then the trick is to schedule your longer breaks and holidays around Easter, Christmas and the bank holidays in May and August.

So, here’s how you can make the most out of holiday days for every season of 2023.

SPRING

Making the most of the spring bank holidays is key. With Easter Sunday falling April 9, all you need to do to get a 10-day break is take off April 3, 4, 5, and 6. With the weekend before and bank holidays on Friday April 7 and Monday April 10, there’s an excellent opportunity to have extended time off.

Similarly, the Coronation of King Charles will benefit people looking for a springtime getaway. The early May 1 bank holiday, plus the next one on May 8 (for the Coronation), means that if you book just four days of annual leave, from May 2 – 5, you get another 10-day break including weekends.

However, if you’re in the market for a longer trip in 2023 outside of school holiday times, May might be the perfect time. Add an extra four days of annual leave, from May 9 – 12, and altogether you could have 16 days off work, using just eight days of your annual leave allowance.

Is there a better way to toast the new chapter of the monarchy?

Then the spring bank holiday rolls around on May 29. You could maximise the long weekend with a day or two of annual leave tagged on either side. Just be mindful that school half term falls May 29 –June 2 (if you want to avoid lots of children and sky rocketing travel prices).

Cyprus, Malta and Morocco are all hot in April and May.

SUMMER

To maximise time off during summer, simply take four days off after the bank holiday on August 28.

That gives you a whole week for exploring with only four days of annual leave used up.

This could be used for a big summer trip, time off with the kids during school holidays, or just as an opportunity to enjoy some late summer sun.

And you may not need to travel far for balmy weather this year. Book Cornwall, Devon, Norfolk, Pembrokeshire or Whitby, Yorkshire, for some of the best beaches in the UK.

WINTER

Dark nights and cold, long days could be made easier next year with some extra time off to look forward to – whether it’s to chill out, see family or do a bit of last minute shopping.

Christmas Day falls on a Monday in 2023, so with the Boxing Day bank holiday on a Tuesday, there’s a perfectly timed three days of potential annual leave on December 27, 28 and 29 – allowing you to see through Christmas and New Year and really switch off from work.

If you want to get away, you’ll have to go further afield for warm weather. Think Mexico, Barbados or Cape Verde for winter sun.

to

your time

ON POINT

Looking for that Cornish break you’ll reminisce over and over again? Browse The Point Holidays beautiful collection of coastal self-catering accommodation spanning, Polzeath, Rock and Daymer Bay in North Cornwall. Whether you’re looking for that unforgettable family friendly getaway, a long weekend by the beach, an indulgent foodie escape or an action filled activity holiday, this stunning corner of Cornwall has something for everyone.

From stylish apartments and coastal cliff top retreats to dog-friendly family homes and properties with pools, hot tubs and sea views. Sleeping from two or up to sixteen guests - The Point Holidays ever-expanding collection of contemporary coastal retreats are sure to have your 2023 home from home.

Built around a reputation for local, personal service, The Point Holidays team are on hand to ensure every aspect of your holiday is taken care of so you can make the most of your precious time. Guests can also enjoy access to their great golf, gym and pool facilities in the hills above Polzeath, and finish with a sundowner in the Bear Bar or Restaurant overlooking the sea.

HOT PROPERTIES FOR A FAMILY ESCAPE TO THE COAST

TREROKKEN – ROCK

Sleeps 10

Featuring an outdoor swimming pool and large outdoor spaces in the heart of Rock - Perfect for keeping the kids entertained. This property is also dog-friendly.

CORDUROY – POLZEATH

Sleeps 11

This large dog-friendly contemporary home sits perched on the hillside above the North Cornish surf capital of Polzeath. Featuring a hot tub and sea views this property oozes luxury as well as being at the heart of the action.

HOB HOUSE – DAYMER BAY

Sleeps 14

An impressive large family home beautifully furnished throughout with stunning sea views, large gardens and within an easy walk of Daymer Bay. Perfect for multigenerational families and pets.

Tel: 01208 869430 Web: thepointholidays.co.uk Email: stay@thepointholidays.co.uk

“Built around a reputation for local, personal service, The Point Holidays team are on hand to ensure every aspect of your holiday is taken care of so you can make the most of your precious time”

Your North Cornwall adventure awaits

Hebridean Island Cruises

Where Small Means Personal

Hebridean Island Cruises is perhaps one of the world’s most unusual cruise companies – their recipe for holidays afloat is simple – they create unique experiences for a few people and never something ordinary for a crowd.

Hebridean’s small fleet comprises of just two ships – each dedicated to providing the finest holidays afloat around the Western Isles of Scotland, the Great Glen and the Caledonian Canal – all providing an extraordinary level of service that is the hallmark of Hebridean Island Cruises.

Whatever your choice from their range of cruises, they all include fascinating shore excursions, always organised with precision and often only accessible to private yachts. And when back on board, Hebridean’s chefs create imaginative menus using the freshest ingredients available.

There is nothing quite like the sense of freedom

you will feel, knowing that everything from tours ashore, to meals and drinks, port taxes and even gratuities are included in the fare you pay.

HEBRIDEAN PRINCESS

The multi-award winning Hebridean Princess combines the atmosphere of a country house with a renowned level of service and attention to detail which Hebridean’s guests have come to expect for over 30 years. This, along with knowledgeable guides, makes for a memorable experience.

Twenty eight beautiful cabins are unusually spacious, eight dedicated to single travellers. Offering Hebridean bathrobes, slippers and a large selection of Molton Brown toiletries, they are individually designed, tastefully furnished with the finest of fabrics and romantically named after Scottish castles, isles, lochs and sounds.

LORD OF THE HIGHLANDS

Purpose built to transit the historic locks of the Caledonian Canal following a multi-million pound rebuild, Lord of the Highlands is the latest addition to Hebridean Island Cruises’ fleet of beautiful and intimate ships.

There are nineteen outward facing pictured windowed cabins, spread over two decks, including a suite and four with small private balconies.

If you are bewitched by wildlife, inspired by history, invigorated by bracing walks, tempted by the finest Scottish malt whiskies or stimulated by stunning gardens, their specially themed itineraries may appeal to you.

hebridean.co.uk Tel: 01756 704704

La Manga Club Resort

A dream place to be!

DISCOVER ULTIMATE LUXURY WITH SANDALS RESORTS

The pioneers of Caribbean all inclusive, Sandals and Beaches Resorts offer unparalleled luxury, quality inclusions and beautiful locations all included in the price of your holiday.

From tropical vistas and soft sandy beaches to unlimited fine dining, soak up the romantic atmosphere in one of 19 luxury holiday destinations that Trailfinders offers. Tee off from elite golf courses at selected resorts, unwind in indulgent spas, discover an underwater world with PADI® certified diving trips, or try some of the thrilling watersports and fun land activities on offer.

All inclusive Global GourmetTM Dining is one of the main features of any Sandals Resort,

serving a range of dishes from multiple themed restaurants. Sandals Grande Antigua Resort & Spa for instance has 11 exceptional restaurants at the resort to scintillate your taste buds with cuisine ranging from sophisticated Italian fare at Mario’s to sumptuous seafood at Barefoot by the Sea.

Whether it’s been a day of watersports or a restful afternoon sunbathing on a powder white Caribbean beach, unwind at one of Sandals Resorts signature Red Lane® Spas where treatments can be purchased locally. Inspired by beautiful traditions and majestic natural backdrops, from tropically-infused skincare and body care treatments to aromatherapy massages that embrace each unique location.

Come the evening, rest assured you’ll be staying in one of the Caribbean’s most luxurious and opulent suites. Ranging from dramatic cliffside villas with spectacular 180-degree ocean views to lavish Skypool Butler Suites with infinity-edge plunge pools that blur the line between ocean and sky.

Whatever it is that makes that getaway so special to you, you’ll have everything you need for an unforgettable holiday. With various resorts across the Caribbean including romantic getaways to Barbados and family friendly beach breaks in Turks & Caicos - there is a Sandals Resort to suit everyone!

Trailfinders offers a range of all inclusive Sandals & Beaches Resorts and their expert travel consultants are a mine of information about where to go, often with first-hand travel experience. Whether you want alone time with a loved one or to make lasting family memories – they are the perfect people to ask.

Visit trailfinders.com or call 0207 795 4551

D ESTINATIONS: The Holiday & Travel Show 2023

Discover a world of adventure as the UK’s leading travel event returns Olympia London, 2nd - 5th February 2023

Now in its 28th year, the UK’s longest running travel show, Destinations: The Holiday & Travel Show, in association with The Times & The Sunday Times is returning to Olympia London, this February.

Travel is back and Destinations is the place to be for much-needed travel inspiration! It plays host to more than 300 leading travel companies, including the top travel operators as well as specialist, independent travel brands. Plus, over 70 tourist boards from around the world will be represented.

The Essential Event for Travel Inspiration

With a diverse range of tour operators, tourist boards, hoteliers and airlines, visitors can explore and research unlimited travel ideas for their next holiday. There will be old favourites as well as new brands to discover.

These include: Flight Centre, Explore, Cosmos, Viking Cruises, APT, G Adventure, Audley Travel, Intrepid Travel, Trailfinders, Aurora Expeditions and Authentic India Tours, Classic Collection Holidays, Explora Cruises, Wellness & Safari, Ponant and Polar Routes to name a few.

Expert Advice

From activity to adventure holidays, safaris to sight-seeing, family holidays to solo expeditions, honeymoons to babymoons and cultured city

breaks to cruises, visitors can expect one-to-ones with travel experts who can help tailor-make their next dream holiday to anywhere in the world. Local tour guides from around the world touch down at Olympia specially to talk to visitors and provide inspiring in-depth knowledge of destinations

Visitors can take advantage of exclusive showonly offers, discounts and upgrades. They’ll have their tastebuds tantalised with global flavours in the daily cookery demonstrations and learn how to take perfect holiday photos at the Travel Photography Masterclasses. Visitors can also hear from the leading voices in the industry, as they take to the stage to tell their tales of travel, and impart valuable travel advice, in a line-up of expert talks, interviews and panel discussions.

THE DETAILS

Booking your next escape has never been easier.

For more on Destinations: The Holiday & Travel Show and ticket information, visit: Olympia London: destinationsshow.com/ london/welcome

ESCAPE TO THE HEART OF NORFOLK

Barnham Broom is a luxury resort near Norwich, overlooking 300 acres of beautiful Norfolk countryside with 46 contemporary bedrooms offering luxurious accommodation.

Home to two uniquely different golf courses, The Valley and the Hill. Barnham Broom is considered one of the finest golf clubs in Norfolk. Providing golfers of all abilities with an exciting challenge on the courses and with extensive practise facilities and first-class tuition available.

If you’re looking for one of the most impressive golf clubs Norfolk has to offer, it will not disappoint. The courses are complemented by superb practice facilities including three full length academy holes, a dedicated short game area and a five-acre open air grass range. The courses are marshalled to ensure there’s no unnecessary slow

play and there’s even a refreshment buggy on hand with drinks and snacks to make your round as enjoyable as possible.

Barnham Broom offers an exceptional experience and first-class facilities, including a golf shop that offers a fantastic range of golf wear, shoes, golf clubs and a variety of accessories from the leading brands. The golf shop team are on hand to offer one-to-one customer care and have the expert knowledge and experience to help you

THE DETAILS

Book direct with Barnham Broom and receive an exclusive £20 voucher for each group member to spend in our Golf Shop during your stay in 2023.

with any queries or purchases during your stay.

When you’ve finished your game or want to refuel, enjoy superb meals at the award-winning Brasserie restaurant, the Sports Bar or one of the function rooms. With stylish accommodation, The Edge Health & Fitness Club and luxury spa, it’s no wonder that Barnham Broom is one of East Anglia’s most popular destinations for golf breaks.

Whether you are looking for a one or two night golf break with a loved one, or a golf holiday with a larger group, Barnham Broom has a wide range of facilities for the perfect golf break.

To book please call 01603 759393 and quote ‘Life Magazines’ Terms and Conditions apply. Available for 2023 only.

BARNHAM BROOM barnham-broom.co.uk

Follow @barnham_broom on Instagram for the latest updates

“If you’re looking for one of the most impressive golf clubs Norfolk has to offer, it will not disappoint”

BUCKET LIST EXPERIENCES FOR THE NEW YEAR

The beginning of a new year is always charged with great expectations - we all want to try new things and tick more boxes on our bucket lists. At My Private Villas, our goal is to help create memorable experiences for you and your family, ensuring that 2023 will be a year to remember.

WHALE WATCHING IN SOUTH AFRICA

South Africa is a paradise for nature lovers. The nature reserve of Walker Bay has a coastline stretching for miles, offering the best land-based whale watching in the world. For adrenaline junkies, the nearby town of Gansbaai is the destination for the spine-tingling experience of cage diving with sharks! If that’s too extreme, Dyer Island in the same bay is home to a colony of African penguins. Villa Sea Lion in Cape Town is a convenient and luxurious base for enjoying this abundance of sea life. It offers four bedrooms, magnificent views, and a cellar stocked with local wines - another South African treasure not to be missed!

property with all the benefits of a resort, including direct beach access, a sophisticated spa, and a staff of 70+.

SWIMMING IN THE CROATIAN WATERFALLS

The waters of Croatia are not only beautiful on the coast but also inland. Several parks in the country are home to spectacular waterfalls, some with huge natural pools where visitors can cool down with a dip in the summer months. Croatia is a great destination for adventure seekers, offering everything from kayaking to cave exploration, and excursions to the wild archipelago of Kornat, an unspoiled cluster of inhabited islands. The sixbedroom Villa Mila near Split is the perfect place to recharge after all the day’s adventures.

FIREFLY DINNER IN RAYONG

Imagine yourself in a traditional Thai houseboat making its way through the mangrove forest in the soft evening light, enjoying a delicious dinner on board, and suddenly being surrounded by thousands of glowing fireflies! An experience unique to the area, the firefly dinner is just one of the many attractions of Thailand. To experience this country at its best, we suggest The Resort Villa in Rayong, an uber-luxurious eight-bedroom

Family Retreat Oasis

Finally, a wellness retreat where You can bring your child along.

Family Retreat Oasis is a unique restorative wellness retreat offering mothers and their children a peaceful sanctuary to unwind. Immersed in nature, the retreat is a sacred and safe space for mothers and children to spend quality time together and apart – to deeply connect through various wellbeing activities.

Motherhood is both rewarding and challenging. It is common for women with young children to long for some time off for rest and recreation . A visit to a retreat has been proven to do wonders for their well-being.

Bringing

together like-minded women and inspiring profound transformation

Set in vibrant countries like Spain, France, and Latvia - it is an opportunity of a lifetime to travel on a journey of inspiration and relaxation while revitalising their body and soul.

Family Retreat Oasis introduces a fresh and holistic approach to mother-child bonding and self-discovery; This retreat is unlike any other. It goes one step further by allowing women to share their experiences with their children.

EACH TIME WOMEN GATHER IN CIRCLES WITH ONE ANOTHER, THE WORLD HEALS A LITTLE MORE

You can treat yourself to 6 nights of body movement and inner work, joy, and relaxation with the addition of inhouse gourmet chefs producing healthy and nourishing meals that are both tasty and nutritious shared amongst friends.

An experience such as this encourages deep appreciation and a bond between mother and child. With luxury accommodations, daily yoga, meditations, massages and reiki treatments, Family Retreat Oasis is the perfect getaway for women in need of respite.

About the Company: Family Retreat Oasis was established to create a space where mothers could enjoy a week’s holiday away from home…a holiday free of judgement, where women could feel free to be themselves and have their children well-taken care of. Family Retreat Oasis aims to create a retreat that would positively change how women feel about themselves mentally and physically in 7 days.

If you would like to take a part in our upcoming retreats all the information is here: www.familyretreatoasis.com IG: @family_retreat_oasis info@familyretreatoasis.com

THE

GUIDE

WEDDINGS

AROUND THE WORLD

This wedding guest book alternative is sure to put a smile on your guests faces, have them sign a message as you set off on this new adventure. The globe can be placed on a table for guests to sign then used as a fab keepsake decoration for years to come. gingerray.co.uk

THE WOW FACTOR

Our wedding smoke bombs allow you to create amazing wedding photography. Add a pop of smoke to make your special day just that little bit more magical. Use this white smoke bomb in combination with our other smoke bombs to create truly majestic memories. Easy to use - simply hold away from face and firmly pull the ring pull! gingerray.co.uk

PUT A RING ON IT

We love this porcelain Indian silk douppion cushion decorated with a 1920’s white Jacquard with embroidery and trapunto in gold French ribbon. The lining is in white silk with matching zip at the back. nataliawillmott.co.uk

PEACEFUL SLEEP

A beautiful wedding gift. Using all-natural fibres of 100% British wool or cashmere guard hair, encased in organic cotton and made in Yorkshire. The Soft and Slim pillow comes with a discrete zip giving flexibility to add or remove wool as needed. avainnes.com

FANCY FLORALS

Celebrate and thank your Elevate your wedding hairstyle with this stunning dried flower hair accessory, comprised of gorgeous pink flowers and grasses. Expertly arranged by our talented team at The Norfolk Flower Room, these florals are carefully selected to create gorgeous individual pieces for your big day. lisaangel.co.uk

Elegant, modern, luxury wedding dresses by Aeternum Bridal. Offering both made to measure and standard sizing, this sustainable company makes every dress to order in as little as 12 weeks. Think timeless, stunning wedding dresses with incredibly intricate detailing. See their collections at www.aeternumbridal.com and check out their Instagram @aeternumbridal.

PLANNING YOUR PERFECT DAY

When it comes to your special day, Stratfield Fairlane makes the magic happen

Stratfield Fairlane can provide a full wedding planning service and will be there to support you every step of the way. Whatever you can imagine, no matter how unimaginable, they can make it happen.

Their dedicated team of lifestyle managers listen carefully to your thoughts and ideas and then set about designing and planning the wedding day of your dreams. Stratfield Fairlane offers a highly personal touch, with vast amounts of knowledge and experience without the stress or fuss.

The first question is where to host your perfect day. Sourcing a beautiful location is the priority, and whether you want to get married in the UK or somewhere more exotic, they have an extensive portfolio of beautiful and private locations. They do all the negotiating, take care of the location contracts, and guarantee that every attention to detail is thought about and applied.

There is no limit to expectations, they take great pride in the meticulous design and styling of every single element - any unusual additions or personal specifics they take in their stride – if you can dream it and you would like it, Stratfield Fairlane will make it happen.

They have access to the most wonderful couture designers to dress the bride and her assistants, tailored suits that are cut to perfection for the gentlemen, Milner’s, and shoe designers, beautifully designed save the dates and wedding invitations, breath-taking floral displays - it’s all covered. They work with an incredibly talented team of trusted professionals to provide you with a unique and personal service.

Of course, they take care of your guest management - sending save the dates, invites, sharing information with guests, wedding websites, travel arrangements and accommodation, dietaries and pre wedding information.

Their team of discreet and dedicated lifestyle managers have many years of experience planning special occasions, it’s something they love doing, and there’s nothing they love more than seeing a happy couple enjoy their special, perfect day. For a free personal consultation visit stratfieldfairlane.co.uk

@stratfieldfairlane

Tel: 01183 216146 Email: mywedding@stratfieldfairlane.co.uk

Platinum

ARRIVE IN STYLE AND COMFORT AT YOUR WEDDING

Platinum Cars are a Luxury Chauffeur Service based in Mayfair, London who specialise in Luxury Wedding Car Hire within the London area. They have a large luxury fleet of Luxury Wedding Cars including Luxury S Class Mercedes AMG Executive Car , Range Rover Autobiography Long Wheelbase and their flagship wedding car – a stunning Rolls Royce Phantom Series 1 and 2 Extended Wheelbase models.

They cater for all weddings including Asian weddings, church weddings, registry office weddings and civil weddings, offering cars and car hire in every corner of London including: Middlesex, Hertfordshire, Berkshire, Surrey, Oxford, Kent, Essex and East Sussex.

Every wedding car gets valeted and polished on the morning of the wedding day then dressed in wedding ribbons and bows in the colour of your choice with a complimentary bottle of champagne for the bride and groom to enjoy en-route to the wedding reception.

A floral display of flowers at the rear of the wedding car and a personalised number plate for photographic purposes are just two of the optional extras available with every wedding car reservation. Their chauffeurs are very smart, professional and prompt with a great knowledge of the London area ensuring the bride and groom’s day is a memorable occasion from start

to finish.

Your chosen chauffeur for the day will arrive at least fifteen minutes before the scheduled pick-up time and the opening and closing of all car doors, ensuring the climate control is at the correct temperature is all part of their VIP service that you can expect to receive from Platinum Cars.

They are very well-established as a premium supplier of Luxury Wedding Cars in London and their 5-star reviews on Google and Facebook prove their worth as a very highly rated company within the wedding car industry.

There are three packages to choose from to suit all tastes and budgets.

Please call their London office on 0207 458 4995 or email info@platinumcarservice.co.uk Or visit their website platinumcarservice.co.uk

Drapers’ Hall

A Magnificent Wedding Venue in the Heart of the City

Every wedding is unique, and Drapers’ Hall offers complete flexibility for wedding couples, with bespoke catering options and inclusive wedding packages that can be tailored to your taste. Whether Drapers’ Hall is chosen to host a small intimate wedding breakfast or the grandest of celebrations, the venue is available for your exclusive use, including our two outdoor spaces.

Couples that choose Drapers’ Hall for their wedding reception will benefit from an incredibly simple planning process, with all the essentials included, plus elegant candelabra table centres, dance floor and a Steinway classic grand piano.

An experienced in-house team and gold medal-winning chef will be at your service.

We take great pride in owning an important historic building and delight in sharing it with others. In fact, we’ve been entertaining people on our present site for 500 years.

Truly one of the most stunning venues in London.

We will help you at every stage to plan your day and ensure that every detail is perfect for you in every way.

Call the Events team now on 0207 448 1324 or email us at www.events@thedrapers.co.uk for more information. www.thedrapers.co.uk

Drapers’ Hall

Throgmorton Avenue London EC2N 2DQ

Mrs T Weddings is the relaxed luxury wedding planning consultancy run by Constance Taylor and her team.

Planning and executing high-quality, low-stress weddings that are big on character and personality, Mrs T Weddings has rapidly become one of the most sought-after wedding planners across London and the home counties.

From historic London venues, palaces and hotels to country marquees, manor houses, and estates, Mrs T Weddings specialises in putting every client’s personality into the heart of their chosen style of wedding.

With a team dedicated to creating authentic, immersive experiences that are a true reflection of each couple, every wedding is meticulously curated and completely individual. From venue searches and sourcing the perfect suppliers to managing the celebrations from start to finish, Mrs T Weddings is a part of every stage of your wedding planning journey.

Top tips when planning your relaxed luxury wedding What do you want your guests to find most memorable about your wedding? Are you massive foodies? Do you love live music? We help couples prioritise their shared passions in order to curate days that centre around the things they love the most. Whether that’s booking the band you’ve seen live at countless gigs, to building a bespoke Michelin styled menu served with theatrical flair.

Don’t be afraid to break with tradition or be controversial. Want to include your pets? Don’t want to wear traditional wedding attire? Not keen on a three-course sit down meal? You do you! We’ve helped countless couples, from a totally dog-centric wedding to Grooms in green velvet, a festival of food stations and a drag queen bursting

MRS T WEDDINGS

through the doors during speeches. Make it into a weekend. Starting festivities on the eve of your wedding gives the opportunity to welcome out of town and international guests and begin to build the excitement. Post-wedding celebrations such as pool parties, brunch and BBQs allow for a proper farewell send-off. Use social media as inspiration not as a bible. We ensure your wedding is authentic to you, and not the carbon copy trends that dominate social media feeds.

THE DETAILS

For more information visit MrsTWeddings.com @mrs_t_weddings Email: contact@mrstweddings.com Telephone: 07950 370588

Above: Kirsty & Nathan, photo: Michael Maurer

Top left: Photo by Camera Hannah

Circle: Constance Taylor, photo: Stephanie Green

Destination wedding planners in Sicily

This is who we are and what we love to do. We don’t have to explain that 2020 and 2021 have been difficult, for our company but especially for our brides and grooms, who were so looking forward to the year of their marriage. For instance, Janine and Raj, after postponing three times, the time had finally come! She Irish, he Sri Lankan. We got ready and started the day with a delicious espresso. We went through the timeline together one last time. Although we have been wedding planners in Sicily for almost 9 years now, we are still a bit tense before every wedding. We get in the car and drive to Taormina, the village the bridal couple fell in love with. The flowery balconies, the narrow streets and the delicious local food. The day goes smoothly. It is warm and Sicily shows its very best side, not a cloud in the sky and all the valleys of the volcano Etna are visible. The sea is calm and the fishing boats almost seem to float on that beautiful, clear blue water. We both gasp as the bride walks down the aisle with her endearingly nervous dad. When we guide the bridal couple and guests back to the venue after the ceremony, a true dining spectacle awaits them. The guests don’t know where to look, the whole garden is full of the most delicious appetizers and a chef prepares fresh seafood, while homemade granitas are being scooped from an authentic ice cream cart. A little later everyone is seated at the table and we also take a seat. What a magical day! While our phones indicate that we have already taken about 25,000 steps, we feel energized and fulfilled.

2022 finally celebrating love again with the most beautiful weddings. And we are looking forward to the weddings to come in 2023.

Will you be saying ‘yes’ this year and are no doubt dreaming about the most beautiful wedding day? Sicily with its endless variations of beauty allows you to choose between beautiful beaches and mountain settings, exclusive castles and amazing wineries, luxury villa’s and the list goes on.

We feel privileged to promote love and celebrate it on our beautiful island: Sicily. It is for a reason that Johann Wolfgang von Goethe once said: “To have seen Italy without having seen Sicily means not to have seen Italy at all, for Sicily is the clue to everything.”

We are Sicily Love Weddings & Events

The owners Thea Huigen and Ysis Leotta, together with a team of professional assistants are known for pulling off the seemingly impossible. Because every wedding is by definition unique and personal, we create luxury wedding events suited to the couple’s unique style - a true expression of their relationship and individuality as a couple.

While we learn something new about culture and traditions at every wedding, we give our brides and grooms the ultimate Sicilian experience.

Photographers: Gianmarco Amico; Fabrizio and Romina

Celebrations are back on

READY, SET, WED!

A guide to finding the perfect luxury wedding destination

Asuccessful life is not measured by the milestones achieved, but by the memories created. An important milestone in everyone’s life is their wedding day. This day marks not just the spiritual union of two souls, but also the coming together of family and friends. It is a celebration of happy endings and new beginnings.

The uncertainty of the past couple of years has led to deep introspection, and to the realisation of how important family and close friendships are. For these are the bonds that stand by you unwaveringly in times of strife. Weddings, of late, have become intimate and more personal. A small group of guests, who mean the world to the couple, at a beautiful holiday destination is fast becoming the norm. From star-lit royal venues to tropical beach settings, couples are venturing out of their comfort zone to make their special day one for the books. If you’re in the midst of planning for your special day or wish to one day plan your own bespoke wedding, here are some popular social-media-worthy destinations that are sure to be a hit with your loved ones.

Give your wedding the royal touch in Udaipur, Rajasthan

This city is the perfect setting for a luxurious fairytale wedding. Manifest a special day like the kings and queens of yore in a candle-lit lakeside property like the Leela Palace and The Oberoi Udaivilas or the majestic Taj Lake Palace, which is surrounded by water. What’s more, your guests can

also enjoy and learn about Udaipur’s rich history and culture and shop from many of its vibrant markets.

Get married like a movie star in Lake Como, Italy

This glamorous destination, made popular by Hollywood superstar George Clooney—who also owns a home there—is increasingly becoming a favourite venue for the rich and famous. There are several luxury properties to choose from that overlook the lake such as 500-year-old Villa Balbiano or Villa Erba, which was built in the 19th century. You can host all your functions and provide accommodation for all your guests at these magnificent properties.

Dive into married life in sunny Mauritius

There is nothing more romantic than a sunset wedding by the beach in Mauritius. The crystal clear waters and white sandy beaches provide the perfect backdrop for your dream wedding. Adventurous couples can also consider exchanging vows on a catamaran cruise or even underwater in a submarine! For those who want to keep their special day very intimate, consider booking one

THE DETAILS

For further information or to speak to one of our wedding consultants please contact us.

Tel: +44 7956 492226 E-mail: enquiries@ bespokeweddingsabroad.com

of the many private islands just off the coast of Mauritius.

Exchange vows amidst Kenya’s exotic wilderness

Get hitched amidst grazing wildlife and dancing Maasai warriors. Kenya’s safari weddings marry luxury with the raw, untamed experience of living in the wild. You will have more than 40 national parks and game reserves to choose from for your destination wedding. If a safari wedding is not on your bucket list, Kenya also boasts of pristine white beaches in Mombasa that offer world-class luxury hotels and cuisine—all the elements needed to plan the perfect beach wedding.

If you are considering any of these dream destinations for your special day, wedding planners Bespoke Weddings Abroad will do all the work for you. From venue selection, coordination with suppliers, local transportation, catering and decoration, to gifts, guest assistance, sightseeing packages, legalities and paperwork, Bespoke Weddings Abroad takes care of it all thanks to its team of professional wedding planners. This means you can just sit back and relax, and enjoy an occasion that is guaranteed to be memorable for all those who grace it with their presence.

Romantic Florals

TOP TIPS FOR BRIDES

Let your florist know your budget from the very start. It’s much easier to advise on designs and flowers to achieve the look you are after if we have this information. If you love expensive flowers such as peonies, ask your florist to use them in your bouquet and find a more economical substitute for the table flowers if your budget will not stretch.

Ask your florist to choose flowers that are in season, it doesn’t mean they are necessarily cheaper but means they are better quality and at their best. It will also help to encompass the time year you have chosen to get married in.

• Tell me a bit about yourself and your company.

I’ve always been creative and loved the outdoors. As a child I’d spend hours outside in the garden helping my parents prune the roses and plant tulip bulbs. I trained at Italia Conti Academy of theatrical arts and performed in West End shows as a singer/dancer for a number of years. I was frequently sent the most beautiful bouquets during the run from a florist stand outside the theatre on Seven Dials. Once I left the theatre world I struggled to find something that gave me the same passion. By chance a leaflet was popped through my door advertising a floristry course at my local university which caught my attention. I enrolled and am delighted to say it reignited my creative fire and reminded me how much I love working with natural materials. It was totally fate looking out for me and I’ve never looked back.

I created Petal and Wild flowers to appeal to the bride who wants something completely unique and elegant on their wedding day. My style is romantic and natural, like flowers just picked from a country garden. I enjoy working with a loose brief so I can

really be creative and design something stunning and enchanting for the big day.

• Where do you get inspiration from?

I get inspiration from so many sources, including the natural beauty of the English countryside. Pinterest and Instagram are great online tools too as they give you access to amazing floral designs from around the world.

• What is your favourite part of being a wedding florist?

I love the early morning trips to Covent Garden Flower market shopping for my blooms and the excitement to see what’s new in and what is in season. I also love seeing the bride’s reaction to her flowers on the wedding morning. It’s such a wonderful feeling after months of planning to know you’ve been a part of making someone’s special day look beautiful.

• What plans do you have in the future? More weddings and more beautiful flowers! I’ve got some gorgeous weddings booked for next year at amazing venues, it’s a privilege and I’m very grateful to work with such lovely brides. petalandwild.co.uk; 07976 881505

Choose a few larger arrangements, rather than lots of smaller vases or jars if you really want to make an impact on your wedding day. Pedestal arrangements and pew ends can be re-used from the ceremony and repositioned in the reception area afterwards to help make the most of your flowers.

JOSEPHINE STEVENS speaks to Alana Watts, Owner and Floral Designer of Petal and Wild. The company specialises in wild, pretty and romantic wedding floral design covering, London, Essex and surrounding areas

Minimal details, maximum effect, Les Voeux Studios by Büşra Turna-Seyrek is born out of passion for luxury wedding stationery. We believe that wedding stationery is an important detail that adds even more value to your wedding day. Therefore we only provide high quality stationery.

From mini invitations to vow booklets, from wedding folios to wedding planners. With much love, effort and good communication we believe that we will create the stationery of your dreams.

www.lesvoeuxstudios.com

KIERON COX: SINGER AND ACOUSTIC GUITARIST

Kieron Cox has over 13 years experience as a full-time singer and acoustic guitarist. Spending the majority of his career as a leading lounge entertainer with Royal Carribean International, he has a vast repertoire and desire to ensure you and your wedding guests have the most memorable experience. He provides options of live aisle songs, first dances, personalised written songs, as well as radio microphones for your speeches and even a DJ service for the end of the night. He will help to maticulously plan the music for your day and display this all on a professionally presented schedule so all you have to do is relax and enjoy your special day.

“Kieron is excellent. Not only is he an incredible singer and guitarist, he is also a really friendly guy who went above and beyond to make the event great. He was flexible and accommodating and a pleasure to work with. The guests all really enjoyed his performances. I’d highly recommend him. Thanks Kieron!”

“We hired Kieron for our wedding through

Hitched and the whole process couldn’t have been easier. Kieron replied immediately and offered services I hadn’t even thought of. Kieron arrived pre ceremony and set up the music for guests arrival, ceremony music, live music drinks reception, background music for dinner, first dance sang for us with a recording and more live music followed by a DJ set. Kieron really did take the stress out of the day by arranging everything music wise and all of our guests complimented his singing and music. Kieron had the guests up dancing until the end. I would highly recommend Kieron for your wedding and we already plan to hire him for more events.”

THE DETAILS

Find more information at his website kieroncox.com or his social media channels @KieronJamesCox.

YUMMY MUMMY

MAGAZINE

Mums and Dads-to-be pampered at The Dorchester Spa, Mayfair

BABIES & KIDS

A SEAT IN NATURE

Our Wooden Toad Stool set is a unique twist on traditional children’s seating with red and white spots which will add an enchanted feel to your room.

Made from solid European beechwood these are quality stools that are built to last – and will certainly stand out in any bedroom, nursery, or playroom.

COSY CHIC

Adorable and incredibly cosy, 100% handmade sheepskin moccasins, traditionally crafted in the Polish Mountains. Each pair is lovingly handmade using traditional techniques passed down the generations of a Polish family. The suede soles are hand-moulded, then hand-stitched to soft sheepskin uppers. The uppers are hand-embroidered using luxury yarns. Each beautifully crafted pair is unique. thesmallhome.co.uk

ON SAFARI

Our safari animal wall stickers will quickly transform your little one’s space into a magical scene! The full set contains a giraffe and her little one, a baby zebra with a little bird on its back, a baby jaguar sitting on a branch and two squirrel monkeys on a vine. onetrickpony.design

Toadstools are immediately recognisable as a symbol for fairyland – they are magical and will bring a sense of fun to the bedroom or playroom as fairies and pixies join in the fun. wayfair.co.uk

FANTASTIC MR FOX

Decorate your little explorer’s space with our wooden fox wall light. Illuminated by 10 warm white LEDs, our colourful night light is a must-have accessory to brighten up your little one’s bedroom. lights4fun.co.uk

IN THE BOX

Perfect for storing toys, books, blankets and games. The large box makes it simple to keep everything neatly organised inside and is complete with a hinged lid and soft close. Featuring a grooved design and cut-out handles. houseandhomestyle.co.uk

SLEEP CONSULTANT & SPECIALIST NURSE VICKY SCOTT

Everyone benefits from a good night’s sleep, it helps with learning and managing emotions.

Research highlights the importance of giving children the opportunity to sleep at least 10 to 11 hours per night throughout early childhood, so the bedtime routine is important and begins at teatime!

All you need is one to two weeks of gentle behavioural training to help your children’s’ long-term intellectual development.

Amazing growth hormones are secreted in young children during certain sleep stages, so children need to sleep soundly and transition through these stages, which also helps to prevent obesity.

Please do contact me to discuss your family’s unique, individual sleep plan

www.moresleepmoresmiles.com vicky@moresleepmoresmiles.com Tel: 07391 501589

INSPIRING EXTRAORDINARY ADVENTURES THE BENTLEY BALANCE BIKE

The pedal-less bike teaches children 3+ how to balance on two wheels while building their confidence on a bicycle. Created in a range of colours to match paint options available to Bentley customers, the Balance Bike has been conceived with the same meticulous attention to detail and style as Bentley Motors’ designs.

Diamond-quilted handlebars echo the luxury detailing found in Bentley cars, with the iconic wings emblem prominently positioned below them. The ‘Bentley’ name is painted across the frame of each Balance Bike for a distinctive reference to the brand. Four smart and striking colourways are available, matching the exclusive paints used on Bentley’s cars. Children and parents can select their favourite colour from a choice of Onyx, Glacier White, Sequin Blue and Dragon Red.

Safety is always paramount to Bentley of course. An exclusive feature of the Bentley Balance Bike is the unique safety locking brake system, giving children greater stopping power, so they can ride with confidence – a feature not available on many other balance bikes on the market.

The magnesium alloy frame is inspired by the sleek lines of Bentley cars and can support up to 35 kg of weight, despite the frame itself only weighing 650 g – made to be portable yet robust. Aluminium wheel rims can withstand high degrees of curb weight but do not add bulk to the bike, allowing children to effortlessly push themselves forward, while the air-filled 12-inch rubber tyres ensure absolute comfort.

For further comfort, the ergonomically designed adjustable seat is made from eco-leather and features the Bentley wordmark and a carbon

The Balance Bike joins a range of exciting Bentley products for children, including the Bentley Trike, teddy bears, blankets, ride-on cars, wooden garages and puzzles. Bentley Balance Bike, RRP £450.

For more information and to purchase The Bentley Balance Bike visit miniobjectsofdesire.com Tel: 0330 330 0126 Email: Info@mood-kids.com

fibre-inspired pattern for added style. Distinctive knurling beneath the seat gives extra grip for added reassurance.

“An exclusive feature of the Bentley Balance Bike is the unique safety locking brake system, giving children greater stopping power”

DISCOVER THE BENTLEY BALANCE BIKE FOR CHILDREN AT MOOD KIDS

The Bentley Balance Bike inspires adventures big and small.

Children from 3-years+ can travel and explore on the pedal-less bike, teaching balance and building confidence for future adventures.

Features include diamond-quilted handlebars, Bentley emblems and colours to match the Bentley paint palette, bring a touch of the brand to its youngest fans

Available in a choice of colours: Onyx, Glacier White, Sequin Blue and Dragon Red. Bentley Balance Bike, RRP £450. Can be delivered boxed or built, for the same price. For more information visit

WWW.MINIOBJECTSOFDESIRE.COM

David Bowie, George Ezra and Mabel inspire baby name choices

By Alex Green

There has been an increase in the number of David Bowie-inspired baby names following the musician’s death in 2016, data shows.

According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), the number of boys registered with the name Ziggy, a reference to his acclaimed 1972 album Ziggy Stardust, at birth in England and Wales rose from 49 to 136 between 2016 and 2021.

The number of boys registered with the name Bowie rose from 35 to 78 in the same period.

Bowie, one of the most influential and revered musicians of recent times, died of liver cancer on January 10 2016, two days after his 69th birthday.

Recent years have seen his legacy continue, with his estate launching an NFT series and Bowie received a stone on the Music Walk of Fame in London.

The success of singers George Ezra and Mabel may have also driven a change in the popularity of baby names.

There were 14 times the number of baby boys named Ezra in 2021 compared with a decade before.

The name was just outside the top 50 most popular names given to boys in 2021, with 1,226 registered that year.

It rose in prominence at around the same time the singer-songwriter found fame, with an 89% increase in 2015 after his debut album Wanted On Voyage topped the charts.

The number of baby girls named Mabel also peaked in 2021 at 885 following large increases in 2018 and 2020.

The ONS said this may have been influenced by the success of pop singer Mabel, whose breakthrough single Finders Keepers was released in May 2017.

The success of recent Star Wars films may have also had an impact.

The number of newborn boys named Kylo rose more than fivefold to 54 in 2016 after Episode VII: The Force Awakens was released, introducing audiences to villain Kylo Ren, played by Adam Driver.

The count peaked at 189 in 2020, after the Jedi hunter turned his back on the dark side.

The number of Landos has also risen since the appearance of Lando Calrissian, played by Donald Glover in the later Star Wars films, rising more than fivefold from 13 in 2019 to 74 last year.

The name Finn (John Boyega), one of the trilogy’s main characters, also rose in popularity from 512 registrations for boys in 2015 to 788 in 2021.

The ONS suggests this could also reflect the popularity of Peaky Blinders, in which Harry Kirton played the youngest son of Arthur Shelby named Finn.

Other names that have seen a rise in recent years include Saint, the name of Kim Kardashian and Kanye West’s son, and Otis and Maeve, from the Netflix show Sex Education.

The popularity of the Pixar films Luca and Raya and the Last Dragon may have also caused a boost in the popularity of those names.

“The number of baby girls named Mabel also peaked in 2021 at 885 following large increases in 2018 and 2020”

Mums and Dads-to-be pampered

There’s nothing like having a little bit of ‘me time’ when you’re pregnant - so a spa day is a great way to revitalise and get prepared for your new little arrival!

While mums-to-be may be the most deserving of some TLC, finding the right beauty treatments when pregnant can be difficult. It’s not always clear which beauty, spa or cosmetic treatments are safe to have during pregnancy.

As a rule, you should avoid any heat treatments while pregnant – such as the sauna, hot tubs, steam rooms and body wraps – as your body temperature should not be increased. But you can still indulge in some R&R and enjoy treatments such as manicures, pedicures, most facials and pregnancy massages.

The Dorchester Spa offer treatments designed for pregnant ladies – aimed to cleanse the mind and soul in a private, soothing space in which to find some therapeutic calm. They have crafted their space around every desire so you are free to find your own way to take time for yourself, whatever that may be.

The treatment begins with a gentle olive grain exfoliation, followed by layers of warming rose gel, oil and cream. While cocooned in your rose wrap, a wonderful scalp massage will calm and soothe the mind.

Duration: 60 minutes

Aromatherapy Associates Pregnancy Massage Relieve stresses and strains, heavy legs and an aching back with this all over body massage. Includes a relaxing and rejuvenating scalp and facial massage.

Duration: 60 minutes.

Mum’s the word Spa Day

PREGNANCY TREATMENTS

The following treatments are suitable from the 14th week of pregnancy and for nursing mothers.

The Dorchester Signature Pedicure

Their signature pedicure is infused with anti-ageing ingredients formulated to cleanse, exfoliate, treat and hydrate, leaving your feet smooth and radiant. Specially designed to energise and invigorate, this treatment is completed with a flawless application of your preferred polish.

Duration: 60 minutes

Aromatherapy Associates Rose Cocoon

Precious essential oil of damask rose works on capillary circulation, renewing the skin whilst soothing the emotions and lifting the spirits.

Let The Dorchester Spa’s expert therapists relax your mind, body and soul during your aromatherapy massage and facial. Enjoy a foot massage treatment and a file and polish for your toes or fingernails to finish.

Duration: Allow up to 4 hours.

THE DETAILS

To make an appointment or to discuss your pregnancy spa treatment preferences, please call the spa reception team on +44 (0)20 7319 7109

at The Dorchester Spa, Mayfair

For the father-to-be The Dorchester Spa

offer a range of bespoke treatments created specifically for men’s skin and a gentlemen’s grooming parlour providing the finest traditional grooming services for over 30 years.

More than just a lovely indulgence, professional facials can improve both his physical and emotional wellbeing.

Aromatherapy Associates Men’s Facial

Extensive research and development has resulted in a new and improved skincare collection specifically formulated for men. Combining cutting-edge technology with the finest quality ingredients, the Refinery collection is rich in essential oils and plant extracts. This deep cleansing and brightening facial leaves his skin looking clean and luminous.

Price: From £110 Duration: 60 minutes

Valmont Men’s Facial

An exclusive fatigue-fighting, moisturising treatment for men, using powerful products and massage techniques to decongest the eye contour area and rejuvenate the skin. Available for a choice of durations: Express, complete and intensive.

Price: From £165 Duration: 60 or 90 minutes

La Prairie Cellular Energizing Back Ritual

Many men will benefit from this intensive

treatment for the back. A cleansing, exfoliating and mask application hydrates and pampers this often overlooked area, while a heavenly back, foot and hand massage lets him drift away.

Price: From £120 Duration: 60 minutes

It’s a Man’s World

The opportunity for him to take some time out and enjoy this package, which includes a deep tissue massage followed by a moisturising 90-minute Valmont Facial. Just the ticket to help him unwind and refocus.

Price: From £362 Duration: Allow at least 3 hours

Committed to delivering smooth skin.

Chest Wax Duration: 60 minutes

Back Wax Duration: 60 minutes

THE DETAILS

To make an appointment please call the spa reception team on +44 (0)20 7319 7109 or email

spa.tdl@dorchester collection.com. dorchestercollection.com/en/ london/the-dorchester/spa

The Dorchester Spa at The Dorchester Park Lane, London W1K 1QA

A unique school model

FOR SUCCESS

Set in more than 220 acres of beautiful North Yorkshire countryside in a secure rural location, and under 2.5 hours from the capital by train, Queen Ethelburga’s Collegiate welcomes girls and boys aged from 3 months and support them through four schools - Chapter House (3 months to Year 5), King’s Magna (Year 6 to 9), The College and The Faculty (both Year 10 to 13). This unique model made up of four smaller schools is designed to maintain a nurturing family atmosphere and sense of individuality, with each school having their own Heads and staff teams.

King’s Magna is Queen Ethelburga’s middle school, supporting the transition between the Collegiate’s primary education at Chapter House and the demands of GCSEs. This supportive, vibrant and caring school environment ensures students can grow and mature into their teenage years with confidence. Visitors often comment that there is a ‘palpable sense of respect’ between students and staff, and amongst students themselves.

Daniel Machin, Principal of Queen Ethelburga’s, comments “Our King’s Magna students set the example for the rest of the Collegiate to follow with their capacity to excel in times of change, and their determination to make the best of their interests, skills and talents. We expect a great deal and they rise to the challenge, whether that be developing their independence, their motivation, their personal and social skills, or their achievements.

“No longer the Chapter House age class-based children, not yet the public exam, career and skills developing senior school students; our King’s Magna students develop the foundations for future

success with their academic studies, their broad range of activities and interests, and above all else their infectious enthusiasm in all that they take on.

We have developed our own curriculum which is relevant, challenging and engaging for our learners. Our innovative, modern programmes of study foster curiosity and equip students with the skills and knowledge they need to move seamlessly to our College or Faculty at the end of Year 9.”

The Queen Ethelburga’s Admissions Team can provide further information and help arrange a visit to see for yourself what makes them so special.

Visit qe.org or email admissions@qe.org

“We have developed our own curriculum which is relevant, challenging and engaging for our learners”

Focus on… VITAMIN D

Dr Angela Rai from The London General Practice, discusses the benefits and importance of vitamin D.

“V

itamin D is essential for healthy teeth and bones and helps regulate calcium levels in the body. The consequences of Vitamin D deficiency are cardiomyopathy (a condition which affects the heart muscle) and seizures in infants; poor growth and rickets in children and osteomalacia in adults which may present as bone pain. There is some evidence to suggest that Vitamin D may protect against heart disease, cancer and diabetes but this is currently inconclusive.”

Are you at risk of Vitamin D deficiency?

• Pregnant and breast feeding women

• Infants and adolescents

• Those with reduced sun exposure - countries in the northern latitude including the UK winter season

• Those with darker skin as they need more sunshine to make Vitamin D.

• If you wear clothing that covers most of your skin.

• People with limited diets including vegetarians and vegans

“Sunshine is the main source of Vitamin D, as our body creates Vitamin D from direct sunlight on our skin. It is important to follow safe sun exposure and not allow your skin to redden or burn and use sun protection if you plan to be out longer in the sun. It has been recommended to have between five and 30 minutes of sun exposure to your unprotected face, arms, legs or back between the hours of 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. two to three times every week to produce enough Vitamin D for your body. Your body can’t make Vitamin D if you are indoors by a sunny window as UVB light can’t get through the glass, so it’s important to be outdoors.

In the UK winter months, sunlight doesn’t contain enough UVB to make adequate Vitamin D, so we rely on food source or supplements like oily fish, eggs, fortified yoghurts, cereals and infant formula milk.

Those considered to be at risk can take Vitamin D supplements. A daily dose of 400 units is considered to be safe for most age groups. It is recommended that pregnant and breastfeeding women take 400 units daily.

If there are medical concerns, further testing can be performed by a simple blood test. Those that are deficient can be prescribed higher treatment doses of Vitamin D, although medical advice must be followed as too much Vitamin D can cause toxicity. Enjoying the sun safely, while taking care not to burn, can help to provide the benefits of Vitamin D, without unduly increasing risks of skin cancer. Your GP can provide you with further personalised guidance should you have concerns.”

THE DETAILS

The London General Practice 114a Harley Street, London W1G 7JL (Entrance on Devonshire Street; between Harley Street and Portland Place)

Tel: 0207 935 1000

OPEN 24 HOURS A DAY, 7 DAYS A WEEK

Private GP services

thelondongeneralpractice.com Occupational Health and Corporate Health Services londonocchealth.com

“In the UK winter months, sunlight doesn’t contain enough UVB to make adequate Vitamin D”

YOUR LOCAL URGENT CARE CLINIC

Easy access to expert and efficient healthcare without the wait.

GET IN TOUCH

St John & St Elizabeth Hospital 60 Grove End Road NW8 9NH

Call the team: 0207 432 8300

Find out more: hje.org.uk/ services/urgent-care-clinic

ACCESS DOCTORS WHEN YOU NEED THEM MOST

Designed for life’s slips, trips and falls, as well as those unexpected minor illnesses, the clinic is ready to give you the care you need, no appointment necessary. Open seven a days a week, and trusted by the St John’s Wood community for over ten years, this new facility offers almost instant access to doctors when you need them most.

A FAMILY-FRIENDLY SERVICE

The improved clinic has a designated children’s waiting area and treatment rooms, and is for all the family, including children aged one and up.

A WIDE RANGE OF TREATMENTS

The clinic can treat minor injuries and illnesses; including sprains, strains and fractures; cuts, burns and grazes; eye and ear infections; stomach bugs, and colds. If you’re not sure whether you should come in, give the friendly team a call and they can help.

If needed, instant referrals can be arranged for tests and scans (including x-ray, ultrasound and MRI), physiotherapy, and specialist consultations –all under one roof in John & Lizzie’s comfortable

VISIT THE URGENT CARE CLINIC

The clinic is part of St John & St Elizabeth Hospital, which is a short walk from St John’s Wood station. Initial consultations with a doctor cost £120. If you need any scans, tests, or further treatment, these will be charged extra.

OPENING TIMES

Monday to Friday

8am - 8pm (last appointment 7pm) Weekends

8am - 6pm (last appointment 5pm)

The Kensington Wing

The Kensington Wing is the dedicated private maternity unit at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, providing women and birthing people with around-the-clock clinical care, comfortable en-suite private rooms and hospitality services.

Located in the heart of Chelsea and Westminster Hospital – part of one of the UK’s top rated hospital Trusts – your baby’s and your safety and wellbeing 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 our patients.

To ensure the safety of women, birthing people and birth partners, The Kensington Wing has 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, 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 DETAILS

If you would like to talk to one of the team, call 020 3315 8616, email chelwest.kensington@nhs.net or visit thekensingtonwing.co.uk

The Kensington Wing’s highly experienced team of midwives welcome enquiries and the opportunity to discuss midwife-led 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 and birthing people 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 their 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 continue 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.

INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS GUIDE

Find your personal performing arts pathway at QUEEN ETHELBURGA’S

training for students wanting to perform and also supports those wanting to develop skills in Backstage Crew.

It has been proven that an accessible arts education and training can boost a student’s self-confidence, language and communications skills. Justine Langford, Creative Director of the King’s Theatre at Queen Ethelburga’s Collegiate (QE), located near York in North Yorkshire, explains the enhanced opportunities for performing arts students at this excellent rated school (ISI 2019).

They are incredibly lucky at QE, in that central to their Performing Arts provision is their 310 seat on-site professional theatre – The King’s Theatre. Not only does this amazing facility enable them to produce numerous large-scale productions each year in line with industry standards, it allows them to host professional touring theatre, comedy or lectures for our QE Community and the local public.

As part of the Performing Arts options at QE offers, students can join the Academy of Dramatic Arts (ADA) programme. ADA is a recognised Performing Arts pathway for students wanting to develop their performance skills further, offers

THE DETAILS

To find out more about studying at QE and how they can support your child to achieve their performing aspirations, visit qe.org or contact their friendly admissions team to book a private tour on admissions@qe.org

Students from QE’s middle school King’s Magna, and all the way through to key stage 5, can access the Academy. The ADA programme is structured with different levels of training as students’ progress through QE, with specific pathways options in key stage 5 including acting, musical theatre, actor musician and dance.

ADA students also have the opportunity to take additional exams – some of which are recognised by by UCAS. They also gain access to an ADA only weekend workshop with an external provider and have the opportunity to go on an ADA theatre trip each year.

Staff in the Performing Arts team at QE are all trained in industry and offer solid industry links to recognised schools and practitioners. Many past Performing Arts students have gone on to study at acclaimed drama schools such as the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama, the New York Film Academy, the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art (LAMDA) and the American Academy of Dramatic Art (AADA), and in doing so have become incredible role models for their younger students.

RICHER EDUCATION

About Richer Education

Richer Education is an educational enrichment company founded in 2014. Richer Education aims to inspire children in real-life challenges and encourages children to put theory into practice, in a fun and engaging manner, with a particular emphasis on Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM) subjects.

Richer Education is a leading company in STEAM education. They have solid expertise in education. Therefore, they have the knowledge, understanding and experience to ensure children enjoy, learn and are inspired during their weekend classes and holiday camps.

What is STEAM Education?

STEAM is the Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics acronym. Richer Education advocates the integration of STEAM subjects and the development of skills such as problemsolving, teamwork and resilience. Richer Education goes beyond the traditional school approach and constantly encourages children to discover and understand the links between subjects and their application in the real world.

Richer Education aims to deliver a comprehensive approach to STEAM education by going beyond the school curriculum, providing activities that children would not usually experience at schools while at the same time instilling in children new skills for life.

Richer Education promotes the enjoyment

THE DETAILS

Visit richereducation.co.uk for full details of their classes and upcoming holiday camps. Alternatively, please contact their team on + 4420 7871 0481 or WhatsApp: +44 7535 225 432.

of learning to expand children’s worldviews and enhance children’s knowledge.

About Richer Education’s

tutors

Richer Education’s tutors and mentors are specialists in the subjects they teach. They employ a range of tutors and mentors from primary and secondary school teachers, PhD and EdD students, academic doctors and post-doctoral researchers. Richer Education’s tutors and mentors are trained to communicate and explain concepts in a child-friendly manner according to children’s age and knowledge level. Their teaching staff are committed to providing the best possible learning experience for children of all ages.

Richer Education’s classes and camps

Richer Education offers a variety of face-to-face and virtual holiday camps and weekend classes throughout the year.

CLC named Top IB Boarding School in the UK

Cheltenham Ladies’ College has been named Top Boarding School in the UK for the International Baccalaureate (IB).

The school’s 2022 exam results, which saw pupils achieve an average of 41.6 points (out of a possible 45 points), which is equivalent to four A* grades at A Level, places the school 9th in the world. This year’s UK national average was 36.35 points.

Pupils taking the IB Diploma at CLC certainly seem to excel, with 11 students achieving the highest points of 44 or 45 points this year. The school reported that their IB class of 2022 went on to study at world-leading universities, including Cambridge, Imperial, and LSE in the UK, and UCLA, UBC and McGill in North America.

This comes alongside other awards that have recognised the school’s academic excellence recently, including Top Independent School in the South West for the third year, according to the recent Parent Power Guide produced by The Sunday Times.

Principal Eve Jardine-Young said: “This is testament to our talented and dedicated teachers and pupils, as well as the hard work

and perseverance they displayed throughout the pandemic.

“The students’ exceptional results are just one of many reasons that we feel extremely proud of them. Our heartfelt thanks also go out to our pastoral staff and our Professional Guidance Centre, for helping all our pupils to navigate the challenging circumstances they have faced over the last few years.”

At A Level, more than three quarters of results were A* and A grades, and top university destinations included Bristol, Durham, Edinburgh, London College of Fashion, Manchester, Oxford and Warwick in the UK, and Brown, Boston University and Vanderbilt in the US.

The Sunday Times also had high praise for girlsonly schools this year, claiming that their “findings show that girls in our top single-sex schools appear to have coped better with the pandemic than boys in boys-only or coeducational schools”. Of the 50 top performing independent schools in the UK, single-sex girls’ schools make up 20, while boys’ schools account for 12 and co-educational schools make up the other 18 schools.

cheltladiescollege.org

“Pupils taking the IB Diploma at CLC certainly seem to excel, with 11 students achieving the highest points of 44 or 45 points this year”

IT’S A FAMILY AFFAIR...

When you walk through the vast and impressive door at Clayesmore, there could not be a warmer welcome. This Dorset-based independent boarding and day school is well known for its outstanding pastoral care and community spirit. Whether in the prep school or the senior school, the focus is on cultivating a warm, friendly and kind culture in all its pupils. Senior students take an active role

THE DETAILS

Clayesmore has a forthcoming Open Morning on 25 February 2023, and you are warmly invited to visit, hear from the Head and to be toured by pupils to get a real feel for school life. Register today clayesmore.com/ admissions/open-mornings. Learn more about this happy school: clayesmore.com

as mentors and guides to the younger students; particularly in the boarding environment. Being a relatively small school, everyone is known as an individual. The nurturing environment in the prep boarding house, and the supportive environment in the five senior boarding houses creates a real family feel. Houseparents, their assistants and matrons are dedicated to the pupils’ wellbeing and keeping balance and focus to the pupils’ days. House staff understand that children can go through ups and downs with friends, schoolwork, home life and just the trials and tribulations of growing up. Their extensive experience allows them to support pupils in every challenge they may face

Whilst the ethos of the school is rooted in kindness, warmth and friendliness, it is no less rigorous in its academic or competitive ambitions. Almost all those applying to university last year were awarded their first choice destination and the breadth of courses and universities students have accepted is impressive - showing real evidence of a school which supports the individual and helps them achieve their goals.

‘A superb school with a big heart’ – Current parent

FASHION & BEAUTY

WRAP UP WARM

Pretty and practical, these stunning knitted hats have several options. One is covered in buzzing bees on a tan ground with mustard bee silhouettes. Perfect for wrapping up warm in the colder months, it features a lovely faux fur pompom and is sure to make a stylish statement. There is also a version with a lovely faux fur pompom where coral pink stars sit against the grey melange colour ground. sophieallport.com

KEEPING IT PERSONAL

The Zodiac Crystal Personalised Bracelet is a delicate chain bridged by a zodiac charm of your choice. The zodiac charms feature crystals set in a pattern to represent unique constellations. Each constellation is inset with tiny sparkling crystals representing your zodiac star sign. bloom-boutique.co.uk

FABULOUS FLAMINGO

Take a look at our Teal Serendipity Cosmetic Bag. Whether you are jetting off to an exotic location, on a business trip, or looking for something stylish to place on your bathroom vanity unit our designer wash bags and make-up bags are a stylish and organised way to carry all your essential toiletries and cosmetics. claire-louise.co.uk

FEELING FRESH

Our iconic Ginger & Lime fragrance is a clean, masculine scent, with a blend of citrus lime and warming ginger to gently cleanse and recharge the senses. baylisandharding.com

THE WEEKENDER

Our new weekend bag is the perfect gift for couples to take on a romantic weekend away together. Personalised with their first initials and surname, its a practical gift for newlyweds heading off on their honeymoon or for couples spending a night away for their anniversary. sundaysdaughter.com

SHIVANI PATIAR

Personal Stylist

I established my Personal Styling business in 2019 after 20 years in Fashion and Beauty with brands like Harvey Nichols, John Lewis and Fashion Magazines, also studied at London School of Fashion and qualified in 2019 at London College of Style in Personal Styling with a Distinction.

I offer a range of Styling services which include:-

- COLOUR & BODY SHAPE ANALYSIS

- WARDROBE EDITS

- PERSONAL SHOPPING

- BEAUTY CONCIERGE SERVICE

- COLOUR PARTIES

CONTACT ME to find out more about my services and pricing. I look forward to hearing from you.

shivani_kanish@yahoo.co.uk 07967 078636

Shivstylesuk | www.shivstyles.com

SEASTAR COLLECTION that Shines Bright

Beautiful handmade 14k rose gold jewellery featuring GIA graded diamonds and white cultured pearls.

Jewels by Daniela – Based in Greenwich CT. All handmade pieces of jewellery are inspired by the beauty of the surrounding nature. One of a kind, unique fine jewellery.

Instagram : jewelsbydaniela_ | Website: www.jewelsbydaniela.com

NEW YEAR, NEW SKIN, NEW YOU

Welcome, 2023! Welcome to the freshly written list of goals!

Creating a list of new year’s resolutions forces you to consider the means to achieve them. And utterly, all come easier when you feel well, physically and mentally.

The big achievers we constantly see on social media, magazines or TV do not seem to face our day-to-day struggles, such as stress, skin problems, tired eyes or cellulite. On the contrary, they seem to have it all under control and spend their energy elsewhere - achieving their goals (with a smile, glowing skin and a perfect manicure)!

Do not be jealous - Mala Saker, the Chelsea Spa’s managing director, and her team guarantee they are no different from anyone else - they just choose to address bad skin, wrinkles or stress with professionals and suitable treatments before these get visible or worsen. They advise their clients to “invest in the right treatments and products rather than makeups to cover the problems”.

The Chelsea Spa has been growing in popularity

among high-profile celebrities, sportspeople and decision-makers. They visit this centre at 53 Hollywood Road, seeking advice and non-surgical treatment for wrinkles, cellulite and skin conditions such as acne or rashes, along with some “me time” and self-treats as relaxing massages.

It has some London-exclusive technology and highly-trained beauty experts that ensure you look your very best version for 2023.

In fact, you would need to visit the centre to experience the SKINSTORM machine treatment, which harnesses the power of nature’s elements to deliver dramatic and drastic results.

In addition to the non-surgical beauty treatments for men and women, The Chelsea Spa also provides a variety of massages and quick fixes (such as nails and brows).

Putting the time for self-care can be hard these days, and might sometimes be seen as a waste of time and money. It is rather an investment, that pays off with big dividends for all those who do it.

According to Mala, the demand is especially high in January. Their clients seek her team’s consultation and services to feel more selfconfident and more focused to face the challenges of 2023 with ease while checking all their resolution boxes.

thechelseaspa.co.uk 020 7351 4555

“The Chelsea Spa has been growing in popularity among high-profile celebrities, sportspeople and decision-makers”

Queen of punk Dame Vivienne Westwood’s fashion legacy

By Prudence Wade.

Few individuals disrupted fashion quite like Dame Vivienne Westwood, who has died aged 81.

Known for her counterculture aesthetic and commitment to the environment, fashion wouldn’t be where it is today without Westwood carving her unique path.

She continued working until the end of her life, with the announcement on her Instagram page reading: “Vivienne continued to do the things she loved, up until the last moment, designing, working on her art, writing her book, and changing the world for the better. She led an amazing life. Her innovation and impact over the last 60 years has been immense and will continue into the future.”

Tributes have already started pouring in from the world of fashion, music and beyond, with Chrissie Hynde – lead singer of the Pretenders – tweeting: “Vivienne is gone and the world is already a less interesting place.”

Westwood certainly made the world a more interesting place throughout her career – these are some of the major ways she broke boundaries…

She brought a punk aesthetic to high fashion

With her provocative and boundary-pushing designs, Westwood helped set the fashion tone for the punk movement in the 1970s.

She opened a shop with her then-partner Malcolm McLaren on the King’s Road in 1971 –later called SEX – which was frequented by some of the biggest names in punk – including the Sex Pistols, who McLaren managed.

During this time, Westwood’s designs set the tone for punk fashion – think ripped T-shirts, lots of safety pin embellishments and tartan accents. Westwood often used anti-establishment iconography in her clothes – particularly subverting traditional images of the monarchy.

In 1998 she told The Independent: “I was a punk before it got its name. I had that hairstyle and purple lipstick. Girls stopped me in the street and said, ‘Look at the state of that’.”

She made the environment a central focus

The climate crisis might be top of the agenda now, with brands like Stella McCartney using eco-friendly materials and emphasising the need for sustainability in fashion.

But when Westwood started talking about sustainability way back in Eighties, she was seen as something of an outlier. She used traditional tailoring from Savile Row and put great importance on how garments were made –

The late great designer championed punk fashion and was committed to environmental sustainability.

considering the supply chain long before many other major players did.

Her work was always political, and she made her explicit focus the environment in the Noughties. In 2012, Westwood appeared on the catwalk during London Fashion Week in a T-shirt saying ‘climate revolution’, and in 2015 she drove a tank near former prime minister David Cameron’s home to protest fracking.

Some have struggled with Westwood’s message to ‘buy less’, while she still produced multiple new collections a year. However, this was something she was conscious of, with the Vivienne Westwood website reading: “We know there is a contradiction between our activism and the industry we are part of. Fashion creates products which are too often disposable, and which – through their creation, distribution and eventual disposal – can have a disproportionately negative impact on our planet, its wildlife and people.

“We know this and we know we must do better. We have been adapting the way we make our clothes and accessories over the last few years to reflect the growing urgency to change how the industry operates but, in this time of climate crisis, we must go further.”

Westwood continued to post on her blog (climaterevolution.co.uk) up until her death – in November she praised the young activists who threw soup on Vincent van Gogh’s Sunflowers painting, writing: “Young people are desperate. They’re wearing a T-shirt that says: Just Stop Oil. They’re doing something.”

She championed androgyny in fashion

Over the past few years, androgyny has become big business in fashion – championed by the likes of Brad Pitt, who wore a skirt on the red carpet in August.

This arguably wouldn’t have happened without Westwood. From the beginning of her career, she’s pushed the boundaries of gender in fashion, putting men in skirts and women in sharp tailoring.

One clip that’s been going viral on social media since Westwood’s death shows an extremely awkward TV interview when she was introducing her autumn/winter 1988-89 collection, called Time Machine. Westwood had male models wearing pearls, and the interviewer asked – to the giggles of the audience – “Tell me about the twinset and pearls for men, has it caught on? I have not seen a

lot of men wearing twinsets and pearls.”

Westwood replied: “You might see your bank manager in five years wearing that” – proving she was far ahead of her time. The audience may have been laughing at Westwood’s designs at the time, but her prediction eventually came true – a string of pearls is current fashion icon Harry Styles’ signature look.

She constantly subverted expectations Westwood’s fashion was meant to challenge and subvert expectations. She first introduced corsetry into her designs in the 1970s, and it remained her signature style in the decades that followed.

With corsets, Westwood was one of the first designers to experiment with the ‘underwear as outerwear’ trend (one that is still in fashion today), and she used them to make a strong statement for female empowerment and liberation – challenging their original meaning of restriction.

As American designer Marc Jacobs said in his tribute to Westwood: “You did it first. Always. Incredible style with brilliant and meaningful substance.”

“We have been adapting the way we make our clothes and accessories over the last few years to reflect the growing urgency to change how the industry operates”

“Glamorous, Timeless, True visual memory of the twenty-first century”

Minhua GUO is an international fashion designer based in Paris. She was born in Guangdong, China. Her father was a captain who founded a shipping company in 1984 which allowed a comfortable upbringing for Minhua and her brother. Minhua learned how to sew and embroider with her mother. She learned the art of oil painting, dance and musical instruments at the age of just five. Her uncle works in Chinese medicine in Hong Kong and is an accomplished master - His studies focused on the ancient Chinese philosophy. The young Minhua often studied the “The Art of War”, “Tao te Ching” and “I Chin” with her uncle.

The cultural background of her family members served to ignite the imaginative faculties of Minhua’s impressionable childhood years. These sources inspired her to crave for adventure and exploration of the wider world. Minhua moved to Paris alone in 2010 and become a fashion designer to gain international recognition. She holds a bachelor’s degree fashion design and an MBA luxury brand marketing and international management from Sup de Luxe Paris.

In 2016, Minhua launch her own label LYSANDRE PARIS and created the FANTASY CLUTCH with hand-embroidery. She is enraptured with the lore of ancient cultures and crafts. All series she creates is a dream story, the inspirations include painters, dramas and integrate into dual culture. Every piece stands out and has a chic, iconic and timeless feel. Visit lysandreparis.com and follow on Instagram @lysandre.paris

“In 2016, Minhua launch her own label LYSANDRE PARIS and created the FANTASY CLUTCH with hand-embroidery”

THE BEST & SAFEST HANDS

(Sir Bruce Keogh Department of Health 2013. Review of the Regulations of Cosmetic Interventions).

At present, in the UK any facial injections and fillers can be administered with very little training or expertise by non-medics and in a non-medical setting which is putting everybody at risk and can leave the NHS picking up the pieces of the improper use of treatments. Many reputable medical clinics and medics including Dr Sina Salimi (Founder and Medical Director of estetica clinics for Berkshire, Surrey and Greater London) have been pushing for stricter regulations in order to protect patients and the industry as a whole.

Dr Salimi and his highly trained team stress strongly that any injectables or rejuvenate facial treatments are medical interventions of the ageing process and are not to be classified as beauty treatments. These medical procedures and treatments always require proper, medically lead assessments in order to ensure the best

judgements and should only ever be administered and undertaken by medical professionals. Weighing in on this fact, every cosmetic procedure carries some degree of risk and there is a vast difference in a practitioner’s ability to handle a situation where complications may occur, compared to a non-medic. And then there’s aftercare. Doctors have a duty of care that extends beyond just the treatment.

In a world where image is everything and the demand for facial enhancements, restoration and rejuvenation have exploded the market, Dr Salimi and his estetica clinics offer a huge and varied scope of non-invasive and cutting-edge treatments fully catering for their wide ranging, loyal, long list of patients within a luxurious, medical environment.

“A person having a non-surgical cosmetic intervention has no more protection and redress than someone buying a ballpoint pen or a toothbrush”

“In a world where image is everything and the demand for facial enhancements, restoration and rejuvenation have exploded the market, Dr Salimi and his estetica clinics offer a huge and varied scope of non-invasive and cutting-edge treatments”

With 37 years combined experience within the facial aesthetics industry and a lengthy list of credentials under their belts, Dr Salimi (DDS/ Sweden), MSC Aesthetic Med QML) and Parisa Bahramian (Mpharm, Member of Royal Pharmaceutical Society) at estetica utilise both science and creativity in order to perfect their patient-bespoke treatments and approach each case as a ‘stand-alone’ by creating a tailored face map using 3D imagery, and VISIA machine (treatment dependant) centred on the patients desires, realistic outcomes and recommended plan plus the discussion and elimination of nonbeneficial procedures.

What should I expect during my consultation at estetica?

The consultation for restoration versus enhancement is a science itself and is never taken lightly by Parisa and Dr Salimi who fully invest in each case from start to finish and beyond. They are fully aware of the bombardment felt by the public over treatments available on the market and sympathise with those whose visions and outcomes are often muddied by wanting it all without knowing the full extent of each treatment. Their professional approach is very much to debunk the myths surrounding the incorrect belief that one solution will fix everything or that all treatments do the same. Some treatments work

better combined with other treatments, some treatments you can’t have with others.

Did you know, for instance, that there are 15 types of chemical peel?…..all with slightly varied outcomes and results?

Did you know that there are various fillers of differing consistencies for administering in different skin depths and conditions?

Did you know there are many energy devices using ultrasound, micro-needling, radio frequency and laser technology for collagen stimulation and skin tightening?………..How do you know which one is best for you and your skin?

This is where Practitioner knowledge, qualifications and credentials come in to play. Not only this, but also proper risk assessment, product knowledge, selectivity, and solid reputation.

You can rest assured that you are in the best and safest hands from start to finish and beyond at estetica

To book for:

• Fillers

• Anti-wrinkle injections

• Laser treatments

• VISIA skin analysis

• 3D imaging

• Collagen boosting treatments

• Skin Bespoke packages

• Profhilo

• Revolutionary skin tightening Endolift

• and much, much more for all your facial aesthetic, skin and cosmetic dentistry needs, call 01932 570 099 or book online at esteticaa.co.uk and visit one of the estetica clinics in Chertsey or Windsor

SOFIAH JEWELLERY

Sofiah is a Swiss high jewellery brand dedicated to beauty and women. Discover the delicate and creative creations designed to enhance the beauty of the modern woman.

OUR HISTORY

Luxurious Jewellery

With Sofiah, we’ve built a smart, customisable line of jewellery that grows with you. Our jewellery is the result of unique Swiss know-how. Crafted from the finest materials and gemstones, Sofiah jewellery is refined. contemporary and can be changed to match your mood, wherever you are. Simplicity is a source of beauty.

PRECIOUS METALS

Our values

The world is our home and we are called to leave it better than we found it. Everything we do, from creating sustainable products to building communities, is based on this principle. When you buy Sofiah jewellery, you support our artisans and promote the expression of jewellery in its purest form.

Our Philosophy

Sofiah is a Swiss brand of modular fine jewellery which, in its modularity, allows you to live exactly as you are in a world of unlimited possibilities. We believe in beauty, in simplicity, in the strength and importance of a detail. Our jewels are created to sublimate what is beautiful, that is to say you.

Sofiah Creator of beauty

Our dream is to sublimate you Jewellery is above all a clothing of memory and emotion. Sofiah was built with an idea, simplicity is the new form of luxury, that’s why we offer quality jewellery at the service of your beauty. Our jewels are vectors of memories. Print your memories, your emotions.

OUR COMMITMENT

Create modern jewellery pure and simple Whether you’re looking for minimalist earrings, statement-making pendants, or eye-catching necklaces, you’ll find something you’ll love. sofiah-jewelry.ch

BLUE VELVET SHOES

Visit Blue Velvet Shoes at 174 Kings Road, SW3 4UP or call 020 7376 7442 buy online www.bluevelvetshoes.com

SHAPING UP FOR 2023:

New Year’s resolutions you can keep!

January brings a fresh start and resolutions for the new year. Self care is no longer seen as self-indulgent but a necessity for health and happiness. That said, people often still need to make a concerted effort to put themselves first. Whether this is through eating well, exercising or getting a whole body review.

For some, addressing an area of their body they are unhappy with, such as fine lines and wrinkles with micro-injections can boost confidence immeasurably - often making them wonder why they haven’t done it before.

Being proactive and getting health check-ups and screening can also provide reassurance and enables early intervention if there is a problem. Typically skin health is something that should be checked out regularly as the skin changes with sun as well as age. Moles, lumps and bumps can all be looked at, at the same time.

Chris Abela is an experienced reconstructive and cosmetic surgeon and offers top to toe body checks. He comments:

“I have seen an uptake of patients coming in to have skin and body check-ups particularly those who are worried about previous sun damage or have family history of skin problems. Through

THE DETAILS

If you have any questions, please contact Chris at info@chrisabela.co.uk or on 0203 545 2990.

More information is available at chrisabela.co.uk.

speaking to patients, I have found these checks are something they tend to put off for a long time but once they’ve had the appointment, they feel a sense of relief”

Chris runs a private practice with clinics at 84 Harley Street, 102 Sydney Street, Chelsea and at Wimbledon Parkside.

Chris’ ethos and the team’s overarching philosophies encompass:

• a safe and evidence based approach to the medicine and surgery provided

• holistic and honest consultations to enable 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.

HEALTH & FITNESS

– Everything you need to keep fit, healthy, and happy –

3 signs you’re drinking too much water

We’re often told to drink eight glasses of water a day –but this might not actually be the magic number.

Research from the University of Aberdeen published this week suggests the recommended intake of two litres of water a day doesn’t actually match our actual needs – and in many situations is too high.

Given around half of our daily intake of water comes from food, scientists estimate we only really need around 1.5 to 1.8 litres per day.

That doesn’t mean you should stop hydrating entirely. “Our bodies need water for a whole host of essential functions,” says Dr Bryony Henderson, lead GP from online health service, Livi (livi.co.uk).

“Water carries nutrients to the cells and transports the waste away, and it cushions and lubricates the brain and the joints. Through perspiration, it also helps to regulate the body’s temperature.”

Being dehydrated – when the body loses more water than it takes in – “Can have an impact on almost every part of our body”, suggests Henderson. “Even mild dehydration can affect our ability to concentrate. It can lead to headaches, extreme tiredness and constipation.”

So how can you know when you need water? “Thirst is the best rule of thumb symptom in day-to-day life,” says Henderson. “However, by the time you feel thirsty, you might already be dehydrated.”

She recommends eating fruit and veg rich with water, and having easy access to a water bottle – especially if you are someone “who frequently exercises, particularly in hot weather, or who commonly worries about not drinking enough water”. See your GP if you have any concerns or queries.

It’s clear we need water to function – but how can you tell if you’re drinking too much?

1. Urinating more, but not actually getting rid of all the water

“Increased water intake means you’re drinking too much water for your kidneys to process through urinating, which can cause water buildup in your bloodstream,” explains Henderson. This might mean

you’re not flushing out unwanted waste products, causing you to feel unwell.

2. Water retention

If you feel puffy – as though your skin is highly reactive – or feel as though you are gaining weight rapidly, you may be retaining water. “Retaining water occurs when your body physically can’t get rid of the water, which can be a result of major health conditions. Both are equally as dangerous, as it disturbs the balance between the sodium and water in your blood,” Henderson says.

3. Low salt levels

Drinking too much H20 “can cause water intoxication, which is when your salt levels and your electrolyte levels become too diluted”, explains Henderson. Not having enough salt in the body can lead to nausea, vomiting, muscle weakness and irritability. “If untreated, [water intoxication] can lead to a condition called ‘hyponatremia’, which means your salt or sodium levels have become dangerously low. If these levels drop too low at a rapid pace, it can be dangerous, and in rare cases cause death.”

Imy Brighty-Potts asks an expert how to know if we are too hydrated – and why the right balance matters.

FITNESS TRENDS SET TO BE HUGE IN 2023

From diving into the metaverse to twerkouts, experts predict how we’ll be getting fit this year.

By Prudence Wade.

Fellow Les Mills programme director Rachael Newsham agrees. “It’s a little bit new to people right now,” she admits, “but I really can see it being familiar” – particularly as we search for new ways to stay fit.

“There are a lot of people who aren’t currently moving – I myself was one of those who in lockdown was experiencing the sedentary lifestyle, [thinking] how do I get my activity levels up? Not working out, but working out, is one of the ways to do it,” Newsham adds. “So [VR] is a really effective way of using your time, as you don’t put it on to think, ‘Oh, I’m definitely doing a workout’. You put it on with curiosity, and then you realise this workout is happening and you are not avoiding it.”

WORKOUTS TAILORED TO WOMEN’S HEALTH

Is getting fitter one of your resolutions this year?

It’s undoubtedly an admirable pursuit, but it can be a tricky one. Even if you’ve promised yourself you’ll go to the gym more regularly, it’s altogether too easy to find your willpower fade away as January wears on.

The key to success is finding something that truly excites you – so it might be worth trying one of the fitness trends experts predict will be huge in 2023…

FITNESS IN THE METAVERSE

Virtual reality fitness isn’t entirely new, but it’s not yet hit the mainstream and that could be about to change. Dan Cohen, programme director at Les Mills (lesmills.com/uk), has already dipped his toes into the world of VR fitness by bringing a boxing workout to Oculus Quest headsets – and he’s sold.

“There’s this thing that hasn’t yet been done – and that is really understanding the balance of where does fitness start and gamification begin?” Cohen muses. “Where does gaming stop and fitness start with that technology?” He suggests this balance is finally being met and says he’s seen “there really is a need and the desire for this”.

As conversations around women’s health –particularly menopause – continue to open up, we might start seeing more workouts designed to support female issues.

“Exercise has been shown to reduce all menopause symptoms, as well as improving symptoms of endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome, painful periods and premenstrual syndrome,” says Leanne O’Brien, physiotherapist

“Exercise has been shown to reduce all menopause symptoms, as well as improving symptoms of endometriosis, and polycystic ovary syndrome”

and women’s health service lead at Ten Health & Fitness (ten.co.uk). “Workouts tailored to women’s health and menopause should include resistance training, cardiovascular exercise, mobility and stability training.”

That’s why O’Brien suggests workouts such as dynamic reformer Pilates will become increasingly popular in 2023, as it “covers three out of four of these key elements”. She adds: “When used in conjunction with running, aerobics or brisk walking, it forms the perfect exercise combination for the menopause and perimenopause.”

TWERKOUTS

Working out in 2023 is going to be a whole lot of fun, particularly if GP and PT Dr Folusha Oluwajana’s big prediction comes true (fitdocfolu. com).

“Dancing has always been a good way of getting physical activity and burning calories, and if you haven’t heard of twerking, where have you been!” she says.

“Twerkouts can definitely help you burn calories whilst having some fun, and they could possibly also improve your moves on the dance floor. Whether you want to twerkout at home or join a group class, this is a fitness trend we’re likely to see grow in the next year.”

THE 12-3-30 WORKOUT

You might have seen the 12-3-30 workout on TikTok, and it’s only growing in popularity. This is “a treadmill workout that involves walking 3mph on incline 12 for 30 minutes”, explains Carlo Corbin, PT at PureGym Manchester (puregym. com/city/manchester). “It’s easy to do in that you only need a treadmill, but the workout itself is more challenging than it sounds.”

So what are the benefits? Corbin says it’s “achievable for most abilities and can help to improve your cardiovascular system”.

Didn’t think cardio was trendy any more? “Cardio often gets a bad rep, but it’s important for our physical and mental wellbeing, and having a strong heart and lungs will actually help with other forms of training, including strength training,” Corbin points out.

HYROX

If you like your workouts with a more competitive edge, you might want to sign up for Hyrox.

“Hyrox is a global competition which combines functional and endurance training – if Tough Mudder, Warrior Run and CrossFit had a baby, this would be it,” says Corbin. “Each competition combines a 1km run with one functional exercise, repeated eight times. Participants are timed, and this is measured against every other Hyrox athlete across the world.”

With over 40 races across 11 countries, there might be a Hyrox near you – and there are plenty of benefits to training for a competition.

“Hyrox workouts help to build strength, stamina and aerobic endurance,” says Corbin. “Functional training builds full body strength, power and mobility, and can help you move more efficiently in day-to-day life. Strength gains will also translate well to any additional training or sport you do.

“Aside from the health benefits, Hyrox workouts can be great for people who get bored training in one style. The competitive element is also a great motivator, and there is no minimum level of fitness to compete. If you’re unable to get to a Hyrox event, you can easily replicate this workout in any gym with a treadmill and functional equipment.”

“Twerkouts can definitely help you burn calories whilst having some fun, and they could possibly also improve your moves on the dance floor”

HOW YOU FEEL TOMORROW, STARTS TODAY…

Welcome To Nuffield Health Hospitals

are on hand to guide you through your journey. No two people are the same, and they pride themselves on their personalised approach. By getting to know every individual, they can provide the best possible care and support.

• Consultant-led treatment

From consultation to recovery, Nuffield Health Hospitals deliver the highest standards of clinical care.

• Access to diagnostics

They offer blood tests, X-ray, ultrasound, MRI, mammogram and more.

• Fast and flexible GP and physiotherapy access

Driven by their purpose to build a healthier nation, Nuffield Health experts have been working together for more than 60 years to make the nation fitter, healthier, happier and stronger.

By connecting your health and wellbeing, they make it easier than ever for you to receive quick and effective treatment when you need it. Whether it’s a prompt diagnosis or treatment from one of their best-in-class professionals, or an appointment with one of their friendly private GPs, they will put your health first so you can put your mind at rest.

Nuffield Health Hospitals- including those located in Highgate and Wimbledon, offer face-toface, telephone and online consultations, so from home or in person, you’ll be in safe hands with high-quality care and access to experts you can trust.

All their rated hospitals have scored Good or Outstanding by national regulators. Their high standards and commitment to research and accreditation, means you can rest assured your health and wellbeing is in excellent hands.

PERSONALISED TREATMENT AND CARE

Nuffield Health understand it may be a concerning time should you need to see them. That’s why they

NUFFIELD

nose

Accessing hospital treatment is easier than you may think - Nuffield Health Hospitals offer a wide range of payment options to suit your needs. Their approachable and supportive team are here to help guide you through the process.

Shred it this ski season

If you’re planning a holiday in the mountains this winter, preparing your body is key to enjoying it, improving your overall fitness, and minimising your risk of getting injured.

A lot of muscle groups that aren’t usually developed during our everyday lives are involved in activities such as skiing and snowboarding. An average ski day may involve around six or seven hours of sustained physical activity, and whilst it’s possible to rest on the lifts, the high altitude slows your rate of recovery. For those of us that ski once a year, it’s no surprise that a mountain holiday can be physically draining!

BE IN PEAK PHYSICAL FITNESS

Make sure you’re in good physical shape. Depending on your baseline, a 6 to 12 week programme aimed at improving your endurance, strength and flexibility, is a good idea.

To improve your fitness level, you should be doing an aerobic session that lasts between 20 minutes to an hour, two to three times a week. Aerobic exercise raises your heart rate, and to get the most benefit you should work at 50-60% of your max heart rate. If you don’t have a fancy watch, work at a level where you feel you can just about talk.

Most skiers take on cycling as an effective way to train their fitness. Cycling works your thigh muscles a lot, so that doubles the benefit! Another option is to take up swimming, which can hugely improve your stamina without the impact stress on your body.

HERE’S HOW TO GET THE MOST OUT OF A WINTER SPORTS HOLIDAY:

“To get the most benefit you should work at 50-60% of your max heart rate”

USE THE RIGHT KIT

Did you know you’re eight times more likely to injure yourself if you borrow your equipment?

This is related to common mistakes, such as the equipment not matching your level of ability, not working properly, or not being correctly set up.

Your equipment and clothing are one of the most important things to get right. Make sure your gear fits properly and is right for your skill level and where you intend to ski.

To reduce the risk of injury, ski bindings are designed to release your boot in the event of a crash. The DIN setting is the indication of how easily the boot will release from the binding. The higher the DIN setting, the greater the amount of force needed for the skis to release from the feet.

If you catch an edge with your skis and your bindings don’t release, the force can cause your knees to twist.

It’s incredibly important to make sure the DIN settings are set low enough on the bindings that the skis come off when you crash. If they’re set too high and don’t pop off, the risk of severe knee injuries is very high.

Did you know that most injuries happen after 3pm?

Skiing injuries are more likely if you’re tired or dehydrated. So make sure to get enough rest and drink plenty of fluids — avoid alcohol, which dehydrates you and impairs your judgement.

Situations in the mountain environment can change in a heartbeat — from deteriorating weather, to changing snow conditions or even drunk skiers. These factors are outside

your control, but if you stay aware of your surroundings, you can prevent most accidents.

PREVIOUS INJURIES

If you have a niggling pain, this is the time to get it looked at. Don’t wait until the last minute! Most of the time, some simple advice from a physiotherapist and a tailored exercise plan can make a world of difference.

If you’d like some pre-ski advice, or if you’ve been injured on holiday, St John & St Elizabeth’s Physiotherapy Clinic can help. Most skiing injuries affect the knees and hips, and many can be treated conservatively with physiotherapy and pain management. However, the first step is to get a confirmed diagnosis.

THE DETAILS

Call the clinic on 020 7806 4010 Email the team physiotherapy@hje.org.uk Or book online hje.org.uk/ physiotherapy-clinic

Founded in 1865, St John & St Elizabeth Hospital is one of the UK’s largest independent charitable hospitals. All treatments in the hospital help fund the onsite St John’s Hospice, which provides free care to over 4,500 people and their families each year, across seven boroughs.

GET IN TOUCH

St John & St Elizabeth Hospital 60 Grove End Road London NW8 9NH

THE FERTILITY CENTRE

Formerly the Assisted Conception Unit, The Fertility Centre is a longstanding centre of excellence for fertility treatment and care at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital. In 2021 they enlarged the Centre with a new satellite service at West Middlesex University Hospital, extending patient care and convenient access across West London.

The Centre provides a broad and comprehensive range of fertility services to their patients –including IVF, ICSI and IUI – but their areas of particular expertise, include the management of women and couples over the age of 40, premature ovarian ageing or low ovarian reserve, and male or sperm-related infertility issues.

Notwithstanding their expertise in these complex fields, The Fertility Centre continues to perform very well in its success rates. They hold one of the highest clinical pregnancy rates amongst NHS hospitals in the UK (please visit hfea.gov.uk for further information) and welcome NHS-funded patients and those seeking to selffund their care and treatment.

As well as treatment for those trying to conceive now, The Fertility Centre offer services for those who are considering their ability to conceive in the future. Fertility preservation through egg or embryo freezing is becoming increasingly popular and they can provide these services through their dedicated Fertility Preservation programme.

There are a number of reasons why you may wish to preserve your fertility:

• For social reasons

• Preparing to transition

• Ahead of treatment for cancer such as chemoor radiotherapy

• If you have been diagnosed with gynaecological conditions, such as endometriosis or ovarian cysts

If you are thinking about your fertility health for future years, they also provide a range of fertility assessments - with packages for individuals as well as couples. Alongside tests and assessments, expert clinicians can explain your results and advise you accordingly.

In addition to their clinical expertise and range of treatment options, The Fertility Centre understands the inevitable stress and anxiety of fertility treatment. They are committed to supporting you every step of the way throughout your treatment. This includes sessions with their British Infertility Counselling Association and UK Council for Psychotherapy accredited counsellors.

THE DETAILS

The Fertility Centre team is always happy to support you and answer any questions. If you want to learn more or are ready to start your fertility journey, please contact them on 020 3315 8585 or email chelwest.acu@nhs.net. chelwestprivatecare.co.uk/ fertility-centre

The Kensington Wing

The Kensington Wing is the dedicated private maternity unit at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, providing women and birthing people with around-the-clock clinical care, comfortable en-suite private rooms and hospitality services.

Located in the heart of Chelsea and Westminster Hospital – part of one of the UK’s top rated hospital Trusts – your baby’s and your safety and wellbeing 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 our patients.

To ensure the safety of women, birthing people and birth partners, The Kensington Wing has 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, 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 DETAILS

If you would like to talk to one of the team, call 020 3315 8616, email chelwest.kensington@nhs.net or visit thekensingtonwing.co.uk

The Kensington Wing’s highly experienced team of midwives welcome enquiries and the opportunity to discuss midwife-led 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 and birthing people 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 their 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 continue 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.

Exercise to improve sleep

With colder temperatures, shorter daylight hours and potentially seasonal blues upon us, it can sometimes feel harder to stay motivated and maintain an exercise routine. However, if you’re looking to keep rested and improve sleep, you should be focusing on your physical activity routine.

King Edward VII’s Hospital GP, Dr Hagar El-Habti to discuss how and when you should be exercising for a better night’s sleep.

How

can exercise impact sleep?

As well as increasing deep sleep and calming your mental activity, exercise can prevent conditions that can cause insomnia. Various illnesses and diseases like obesity, depression and pain, to name

a few, can cause people to suffer with poor sleep, but regular exercise and remaining fit can alleviate symptoms in some cases.

You might think that exercise would make you more tired during the day, but having a regime and working out can also battle sleepiness and fatigue during the day, and actually boost your energy levels, which means you’ll be more tired by bedtime, and drift off more quickly – subsequently promoting higher quality sleep.

What kind of exercise can help improve sleep? Whilst each person should adopt the routine and exercise that works best for them, there are a few things to note.

If anxiety is keeping you up at night, you could focus your exercise regime on tackling that.

“You might think that exercise would make you more tired during the day, but having a regime and working out can also battle sleepiness and fatigue during the day”

Aerobic exercises that increase heart and breathing rates, like brisk walking, running or cycling can make getting off to sleep easier by lowering blood pressure and reducing anxiety.

And if you really want to get a good night’s sleep, you should try exercising outdoors. This can boost your body’s circadian rhythm and exposure to daylight on a bracing walk or playing sport can help to keep you alert during the day, and as the sun goes down can trigger the body’s production of melatonin, which is what makes us feel sleepy.

What time of day is best to exercise?

Everyone is different, and what works for you might depend on whether you’re a night owl or an early bird, as well as any underlying health conditions. It’s recommended to stop exercising at least 90 minutes before you plan to go to bed, as this allows endorphin levels and core body temperature to return to levels that are favourable to sleep.

If evenings work better for you, try to avoid more vigorous forms of exercise such as HIIT as they can raise your core bode temperature too much, and in turn impact on the quality of your sleep. Alternatively, you could try stretching, resistance or light aerobic exercise to get the benefits of a workout without raising your body temperature too much.

Thinking of starting running?

Senior Physiotherapist at King Edward VII’s Hospital, Ella Moffat, suggests these top tips to

MORE INFORMATION

If you are concerned by your sleep issues or exercise problems, you can discuss your concerns and options at a same day appointment with a King Edward VII’s Hospital GP or physiotherapist.

Tel: 0203 930 1392 Mon – Fri 9am – 5pm kingedwardvii.co.uk

Marylebone, London

help prevent the risk of injury when you start running:

• Always warm up properly, with 10 minutes of stretching exercises before you run

• When first starting, run for short intervals, interspersed with walking – the ‘Couch to 5k’ app will encourage this

• Don’t run too fast - keep to a slow and sustained pace

• Try not to run every day. It is important to give your muscles time to rest and recover before running again. As you become more experienced, you can begin to run on consecutive days, but always remember to listen to your body

• Try to relax when you run, with your shoulders down

• Aim to mix up your running surfaces too – run on a mix of roads and grassy surfaces where possible to help cushion the joints

• Don’t run on a full stomach – leave at least two hours between finishing a meal and going for a run to avoid getting a stitch

Dr Hagar El-Habti

THE RISK ASSOCIATED WITH ALCOHOL

By Dr Angela Rai of The London General Practice

risk of a heart attack and stroke.

• Most alcohol that goes into the body is processed by your liver. Long term drinking can lead to a fatty liver, hepatitis and cirrhosis, making it harder for the liver to work. Fatty liver disease is preventable and can get better when you stop drinking. However, it can lead to an enlarged liver and alcoholic cirrhosis.

• Excess alcohol may lead to gastritis and stomach ulcers. Also there is a risk of cancer including breast and oral cancers. It can also affect social wellbeing including hangovers, lack of sleep and poor performance at work.

THE DETAILS

New Year’s resolutions start to wane and we return to our usual drinking habits. But are we aware of the risks of alcohol? Alcohol is a powerful chemical with effects on almost every part of the body including the brain, bones and heart.

UK guidelines suggest there is no safe level of drinking, but to keep health risks low, it suggests no more than 14 units per week and spread consumption evenly over three days or more rather than binge drinking.

Alcoholic drinks come in different strength and sizes. For example, one pint of 4% ABV beer and/or a medium glass (175 ml) of 12% ABV wine contains around two units of alcohol each. A strong 5.2% pint of beer contains three units and a strong wine, (14%), in a large glass at 250 ml, contains around three and a half units.

There are short and long-term health effects of alcohol that can affect your body, lifestyle and mental health.

• Small amounts can affect important functions like speech and movement. The medium-term effects can include slow reactions and impaired memory. Alcohol is a depressant so can affect feelings and actions, and sometimes long-term mental health.

• Drinking large all at once can slow the heart rate and breathing to dangerously low levels. There is a link between drinking too much and high blood pressure, putting strain on the heart which can lead to cardiovascular disease and increase your

The London General Practice 114a Harley Street, London W1G 7JL (Entrance on Devonshire Street; between Harley Street and Portland Place) Tel: 0207 935 1000 Or email info@thelondongeneral practice.com

OPEN 24 HOURS A DAY, 7 DAYS A WEEK

Private GP Services thelondongeneralpractice.com Occupational Health and Corporate Health Services

GUIDELINES ON CERVICAL SCREENING

Asmear test (cervical screening) is when the health of the cervix (the opening to the womb from the vagina) is checked.

A sample of cells is taken form the cervix to look for abnormal cell changes. Abnormal cell changes if left untreated can lead to cancerous cells, which can potentially lead to cervical cancer.

Human Papilloma Virus or HPV is a group of viruses that infect the skin and cells lining the inside of the body. Some types of HPV can lead to cell changes in the cervix which can then lead to cancerous changes.

The UK National Screening Committee has changed its guidance and now recommends that patients should receive a high risk HPV (HR-HPV) screening before smear testing. The sample is taken in the same way as a smear test.

The changes have come about because a randomised controlled trial has shown that HRHPV is more sensitive than cytology (examination of cells under a microscope) at picking up potentially precancerous changes. So this is now

thought to be better protection against cervical cancer.

Once you’ve have had your screening test, if HPV is shown as negative, no further testing is needed at the time and your doctor will recommend when to have repeat screen.

However, if HPV results come back positive (HPV is found), then cytology is performed on the sample to determine why the results are abnormal. If cytology is abnormal, the recommendation is that those patients will be referred for colposcopy. Colposcopy is when the cervix can be looked at in more detail and samples can be taken from any abnormal areas and treatment can then be given if necessary.

These changes have come into effect in most private practices and in some areas of the NHS.

HPV vaccine is currently offered to girls aged between 12 and 13 years on the NHS, and in now some areas the vaccine is also being offered to boys. If the vaccine is missed you can still speak to your doctor about getting a vaccine.

THE DETAILS

The London General Practice 114a Harley Street, London W1G 7JL (Entrance on Devonshire Street; between Harley Street and Portland Place) Tel: 0207 935 1000 Or email info@thelondongeneral practice.com

OPEN 24 HOURS A DAY, 7 DAYS A WEEK

Private GP Services thelondongeneralpractice.com Occupational Health and Corporate Health Services

FEEL THE WARMTH

INTERIORS

Made for those who want to experience the delights of being totally wrapped in linen, our Warm Clay bedtime bundle, in a vintage-inspired dusky pink, is made from super soft 100% stonewashed European flax. Our Bedtime Bundles consist of a duvet cover, a sheet and a pair of pillowcases. Opt for a consistent Warm Clay colour-scheme or contrast with our classically crisp White linen sheets, with the option to add on extras if desired. Linen keeps you cosy and warm in the winter, cool in the summer and is highly breathable. pigletinbed.com

TIMELESS STYLE

Timeless and effortlessly stylish, Olive & Barr truly celebrates the glory of British craftsmanship with shaker kitchen cabinetry handcrafted by skilled artisans right here in the UK. oliveandbarr.com

STYLISH STORAGE

This compact multi drawer unit provides the perfect perch for your TV. Our wood and metal drawer unit features two different vintage style cast iron handles on rich coloured solid mango wood drawers and paired with a modern grey body. vincentandbarn.co.uk

GREEN GIANT

We simply love this striking, giant ceramic vase vital grasswith a grass green glaze. 40cm height x 26cm diameter. curatedliving.co.uk

MADE WITH LOVE

These hand stitched silk embroideries show simple designs of flowers, with a pair of pink butterflies fluttering above, or an intricately stitched design with pink and mauve peony flowers They are finely worked and are typical of the delicate needlework used to decorate traditional Chinese costumes. They come mounted and framed as shown. shimu.co.uk

AN ODE TO CURVES

Tstraight lines and angles gradually edged out in favour of the round. In the home, curves are calming, they imply comfort, softness and safety – no objects threatening to bash shins or cause dents here.

PLAY TIME

Now roundness has really kicked off, the newest designer pieces showcasing exaggerated, extravagant, expressive curves that go over-thetop with size, scale or configuration. While in more traditional shapes this may be too imposing or impactful for indoors, without angles the new forms are childlike and friendly – often with a dash of the cheeky or whimsical.

AU NATUREL

These designs also hint at the organic, many of the shapes appearing gently smoothed over time, or obviously sculpted by human hands. While perfect circles, discs and spheres still play a part in the contemporary interior, they’re supported by forms that are imperfect, tying in with our ongoing love affair with nature and bringing the outdoor in to create an inherently relaxing mood.

PRODUCT PICKS

Round and round

Is it a piece of art, or something practical? The Stami daybed by Milanese designers Studiopepe for Gallotti & Radice is all about curves, its straight lines almost invisible. A tale of two halves, its lower frame – if it can really be called that – is composed of impossibly delicate slices of black stained ash, which seem to loop and grow around the cushions above, flawlessly providing levelled support while making its own visual impression. The upholstered upper section is so sleek it looks naturally formed, the oval and cylindrical leather cushions impossibly smooth like something made in the digital world rather than reality. Stami daybed by Gallotti & Radice, £7,880

“Is it a piece of art, or something practical? The Stami daybed by Milanese designers Studiopepe for Gallotti & Radice is all about curves”

Stami daybed by Gallotti & Radice, £7,880

Supersized

Made up of just two substantial segments, the seat of Lema’s Claire armchair by Norm Architects nods strongly to nature, combining epic upholstered forms with a slick, minimal frame. The two cushion sections are rounded like a pair of pebbles eroded by time and slowly drawn together, their exaggerated size and quiet-yet-monumental curves at once indulgent and humble, emanating warmth and serenity.

Claire armchair by Lema, £3,100

Charismatic contours

Making an impression with its wing-like double backrest, finding strict linearity on the Aldora Sofa by Cristina Celestino for Moooi is like playing a long game of hide and seek. Its impressive backrest inspired by the arcing lines of Calla Lilies and prompting visions of pretty flying insects, the flowing flamboyant form is both somewhere to get comfortable on as well as an upholstered sculpture, bestowing joy and character on the room with its presence alone.

Aldora Sofa by Moooi, £3650 chaplins.co.uk

Perfect imperfection

Combining the organic with geometric precision, the Maxim Argile dining table by Pio and Tito Toso for Cattelan Italia melds a perfectly rounded, touch-me-smooth table top with a trio of alluring concave legs. Expertly crafted from liquid cement which is poured into a mould in the same way a sculpture is produced, when solidified the material has a gentle, tactile finish. The simple, oversized shapes imbue the design with a natural feel, its base akin to mysteriously enlarged petals or leaves creating a subtle yet striking statement.

Maxim Argile dining table by Cattelan Italia, £5980

“Lema’s Claire armchair by Norm Architects nods strongly to nature, combining epic upholstered forms with a slick, minimal frame”

This image and middle right: Maxim Argile dining table by Cattelan Italia, £5980

Above and below: Aldora Sofa by Moooi, £3650

This image and top right: Claire armchair by Lema, £3,100

How to embrace technology in the bathroom

In today’s busy world, many more of us are looking for ways to embrace technology within our homes to make the day-to-day a little quicker, easier or better for our wellbeing. Here, we ask Jo, Senior Designer at Ripples London to give her advice on the key areas tech can be incorporated within bathroom design.

TV

Televisions can be a great addition to your bathroom, especially if you’re a fan of catching up on your favourite programmes whilst having a long soak in the bath, but they needn’t intrude on the sleek finish of your bathroom design. Many specialised TVs are available in a mirror finish so they blend into your bathroom design when not in use. They can also be linked to your home music system via Bluetooth so you can play your favourite tunes through the TVs speakers.

DIGITAL SHOWER

Digital showers are great for having ultimate control over your shower experience. They often come with a setting to warm the water first so it is up to temperature before you get in. Top of the range options may also have a touchscreen display

which allows you to control the temperature and flow rate of many different outlets, each programmable for different users within the house.

UNDERFLOOR HEATING

Underfloor heating is a must in the bathroom as it works wonders taking the chill off a tiled floor. If you opt for at least 80% coverage across the floorspace, underfloor heating can act as your primary heat source for the room allowing you to choose a more design led or practical towel radiator. Thermostats vary from programmable touch screen options to apps which can be controlled through your mobile phone so you can choose your preferred temperature remotely.

SHOWER TOILET

Shower toilets are becoming more and more common within British homes – we promise once you try one, you won’t look back! Some shower toilet options include odour extraction technology, heated seats and even ‘paperless dry’ which dries you with warm air after the shower experience. You can also opt for a rimless pan with in-built automatic opening mechanism which lifts when you approach the seat and even automatically flushes the toilet for you once you’ve finished.

THE DETAILS

Visit Ripples London at 26 England’s Lane, Belsize Park, London NW3 4TG, ripplesbathrooms.com or call 020 7449 9594

A BEAUTIFUL WOODEN FLOOR FOR LIFE

The 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 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.

THE DETAILS

The Natural Wood Floor Company, 20 Smugglers Way, Wandsworth, London, SW18 1EG. 020 8871 9771. naturalwoodfloor.co.uk

OTTA DESIGN

This dynamic interior design studio creates original interiors that are individually tailored to balance the demands of daily life, whilst capturing the personalities of their clients.

We spoke to Ali Johnson and Alex Keith, directors of Otta Design, to find out how using a professional interior designer can save both time and money.

BUDGETING – “Keeping track of costs is essential no matter the project scale” says Ali. Otta Design always start by taking a thorough brief of requirements, timings and budget. They create a detailed estimate for each project, working within the given budget. Ali and Alex will always advise where savings can be made whilst still achieving the desired look and feel.

TRADE DISCOUNTS - Designers receive significant discounts on everything from fabrics and furniture to fixtures and fittings. These can go a long way to covering the design fee, and many of Otta Design’s clients find that they end up paying much less for the service than they initially thought.

AVOIDING

COSTLY MISTAKES

– “It is wise to enlist the help of an interior designer at the very beginning of any renovation” notes Alex. When details are thought of in advance and in collaboration with all parties involved, the margin of error is reduced, thus avoiding expensive mistakes and inconveniences down the line.

RECOMMENDED TRADESPEOPLE -

Since setting up in 2014, Otta Design has built a trusted network of tradespeople and suppliers. Having the right team working on a project is essential to achieving the best finished result, on time and within budget.

TIME SAVING – “Managing a renovation is all consuming and often frustrating. Coupled with the hundreds of details to think about and an overwhelming amount of choice, this aspect of a project is not to be underestimated.” The experienced team at Otta Design take on all the coordination required, liaising with architects, builders and suppliers to ensure the project runs smoothly from beginning to end. Their intention is to make the entire design experience as enjoyable, rewarding and hassle free as possible for their clients

THE DETAILS

For more information please visit: otta-design.com

To get in touch with Otta Design email: studio@otta-design.com

Pushing the boundaries of luxury home fragrance, Senti’s Orchid Diffusers are an innovative way to scent and compliment any interior. Our beautiful scents are developed in collaboration with some of the UK’s finest perfumers and presented in striking gift boxes. Our award-winning Little Orchid makes a special, long lasting, and unique gift.

Call 020 8947 5179, we would be delighted to help you choose or buy online at senti.co.uk. Also at Harrods or Fortnum & Mason.

LIGHTS AND LAMPS

Entering their third year since launch, design duo Niki Wright and Scarlett Hampton have continued to impress with their constant release of innovative and trend leading lighting designs.

Building on their successes, the pair look towards a more natural and grounding design ethos for this Autumn Winter season.

“Hand woven rattan remains an integral part of our range this year” explains Hampton, “the natural finish, warm light and diffused shadows are just things we can’t resist”.

Following their ‘Lagom’: just enough approach, lights&lamps offer a diverse range of elegantly simple products using striking forms in an array of different materials.

“There is already so much natural intricacy in the materials we choose” describes Wright “that we believe the shapes and overall compositions should be kept minimal to let each substrate speak for itself”.

Alongside hand woven rattan and raffia, lights&lamps have created a collection of beautiful pieces using ceramics, polished marbles, ribbed concrete and soft slubbed linens.

Wright and Hampton know their audience and pride themselves on listening to customer feedback and requests. Their ability to create new products and answer demand is market leading and has meant they have already built a loyal following within the UK.

“Our aim is and has always been to offer more

for less” continues Wright, “the design details, the product scale and the materials we use all ensure our customer’s expectations are exceeded every time”.

“We often hear back from our customers to say they thought it might have been too good to be true!” adds Hampton “but we can assure you, our lights and lamps look every bit as good in your home as they do on our website”.

For the full range of designs please visit lightsandlamps.com

HOUSE & GARDEN PICKS

RUN PROJECTS

1We are an independent, fixed fee company, managing residential building and refurbishment projects, from conception to successful completion. We offer a bespoke interiors service to guide clients through the tricky decisions that ultimately define the functionality, style and look of their home. Our tailor-made service is geared towards each client’s specific wants, needs and budget, enabling us to deliver interiors which are as individual as each of our clients. We RUN Projects. runprojects.co.uk

WOOLROOM

Get 25% deeper, more regenerative sleep with the ‘Chatsworth Collection by Woolroom’. UK’s leading wool bedding retailer Woolroom has partnered with Chatsworth exclusively sourcing the estates wool for a stunning range of bedding. Machine washable and naturally hypoallergenic, the collection proven to deliver the very best, natural night’s clean sleep.

Wool Bedding Sets | Bedding Sets | Woolroom thewoolroom.com

MARIE KALSI INTERIOR DESIGN

THE POWER OF SIX

A six drop grouping of our Flume 50 Pendant Light. Each Flume drop features an elegant reeded brass body in an antique, satin brass, bronze or satin nickel finish, and a choice of either clear or frosted reeded glass shades. The LED light source is cleverly concealed, recessed within the body of the lamp, with the reeded glass refracting its light to provide warm illumination with no glare. A beautifully luxurious statement in any space, the height of each drop can be easily adjusted prior to installation to create the effect you desire.

jadamsandco.com

Our London based studio will take your project from the design stage right through to completion, so you only have to deal with us and with our team of builders it makes the whole process as hassle free as possible. Resulting in stunning interiors and relaxed, happy clients. Whether you want to increase your living space through building a kitchen extension, knock down internal walls, or refresh a bathroom the design team are on hand to bring your project to life.

Simply call 0207 117 2969 or email studio@mariekalsi.co.uk to book your free one hour ‘no obligation’ consultation.

ECOZONE

With every New Year, many of us take the time to reset and think about life goals and new priorities. However, we may forget our resolutions and begin to set additional goals or take on a more significant workload. Then, finally, come the festive period; we’re burnt out and need a long break, sometimes feeling lost in what we achieved.

Ecozone believes the small actions matter most to keep from overwhelm. Starting healthy routines and goal setting at home allows us to begin our day in an environment & space we should enjoy more and feel anything is achievable.

Most of us rarely consider keeping a clean and tidy home as part of a year-long aspiration and often enjoy the first clean-up in January but dread the regular deep clean. Ecozone is on a mission this year to tap into what makes it so tricky to get motivated by sharing great tips and tricks to keeping a home clean as part of everyone’s routine, no matter how busy or unmotivated.

Ecozone swears by these simple actions: Small & often. Minor tasks such as putting away and wiping down daily are essential. Whether it’s keeping a clear work-from-home space or bathroom. Putting away cables, stationary and laptops from desks, and personal care products into vanity cupboards will help with the routine of wiping down. A simple task that takes seconds helps maintain a clean and manageable surface free from dust, crumbs & residues or bacteria.

Ecozone’s plant-based Multi-Surface Wipes are an excellent option for this daily action.

Keep it simple. We’re often overwhelmed when we get to a deep clean because we have to buy various specialist solutions to get the job done.

Ecozone is a firm believer in using only products you need regularly. For example, if limescale is the issue, get a daily descaler. If grease is, use a degreaser. Such products will also cover the general cleaning aspect, so you don’t need to go all in and have multiple products for the same surface. Maintenance. This is a big part of ensuring that appliances and problem areas are kept on top. A simple maintenance product regularly used as part of your everyday or weekly routine will reduce more significant issues further down the line. For example, Ecozone’s Magnoball is an excellent long-term option for keeping limescale at bay in your washing machine & dishwasher, providing better results.

Assess time spent & invest. A few tasks feel like they take all day; for example, the laundry in colder weather takes exceptionally long to dry unless you put on the heating. If you use a drier, you could invest in energy & time-saving essentials like Ecozone’s Dyercubes, and if you don’t, get

a good drying rack and dedicate a specific area or corner of the home to it. It will help you feel more organised and hopefully reduce the anxiety of staring at hanging clothes in the middle of the sitting room when trying to wind down at the end of the day.

Ecozone’s impressive range of over 80 products is curated for almost every cleaning need around the home. With such a large selection of innovative and unconventional eco-alternatives, Ecozone sets itself apart from other sustainable brands. As a result, it’s your one-stop shop for all your home cleaning essentials, in turn helping you feel more refreshed & cleaning more manageable.

Discover more at ecozone.com.

POLE POSITION

The intersection where the celebrated craft of the expert blacksmith meets stunning, contemporary design for the home, that’s where you’ll find Made by the Forge by Artisan Blacksmith and Founder Richard Fishenden

At Made by the Forge, our expertise lies in the art and craft of the humble curtain pole. Over the years we have honed our business to be as efficient as possible and we are also conscious of our responsibilities towards the planet, so for every order we plant a tree to offset our carbon emissions. We’ve made the online shopping experience as rewarding and effortless as it can be. Buying with us you get a lifetime guarantee, free returns and we also engage in and encourage joining in with the circular economy where older products not only get recycled but repurposed and reused. We like to think we’ve not left any question unanswered on the website but there’s always our phone number to call if there is anything you’re unsure about regarding any of our world class pieces.

AHEAD IN THE POLES…

We offer five sizes of curtain pole, all but one fashioned from a solid iron rod; the 12mm ‘Slimline’ range is designed as a refined recess pole including what’s known as a Café Rod, a pole that allows a curtain or net to hang down covering half the window. This gives light a chance to enter the room but also allows some degree of privacy while enjoying your coffee. Then there’s the 16mm ‘Contemporary’ range, with a collection of finials quite unlike the traditional ones, named after

locations where we have planted trees. The 20mm ‘Classic’ range features the tried and tested finial designs inspired by this country’s rustic and equine past. We use time honoured blacksmithing skills to forge them and the results are timeless finials, comfortable and elegant in a 21st century home. The 25mm ‘Heritage’ range features a similar choice of finials to the ‘Classic’ but the larger pole is hollow to keep down the weight. It can take the heavy load with ease but is lighter on the wall that has to support it.

POLES APART

Our shining star is our bespoke bay window pole. We have spent a great deal of time, learning from experience, taking advice from customers, getting the ordering page as comprehensive and as simple as it can be for every kind of bay window from a 1 bend to a 6 bend and including the curved bay. Our online calculator makes light of the maths required to make the perfect bay window curtain pole. If your windows need some attention, Made by the Forge is here to help showcase them at their very best. Don’t take our word for it. Click on ‘Happy Customers’ on our homepage for testimonials from the people who really matter –our customers. I invite you to become one too. madebytheforge.co.uk

Top images: Design by @runforthehillslondon; Photography by @philipdurrant

“We use time honoured blacksmithing skills to forge them and the results are timeless finials”

HODKIN & JONES The Finest Quality

Founded 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.

“Involving a specialist supplier like Hodkin & Jones, from the very beginning of a project helps to ensure the smooth running of an operation”

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 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 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.

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 290890 or email info@hodkin-jones.co.uk.

“Hodkin and Jones are able to produce cornices that can incorporate modern LED uplighting, creating a discreet glow and enhancing a room’s ambience”

Top Tile Trends 2023

The Interior Design world is a bustling, regularly changing, landscape of newly emerging dynamics. Understanding these dynamics, features and trends is a key step to creating an exciting design within a home. The Baked Tile Co. has curated this essential press release to highlight the Tile Trends that are set to take 2023 by storm, helping to guide, educate and inspire home owners when designing their dream home.

TERRACOTTA

We saw this organic style tile emerge a little while ago and demand continues to grow - the trend ‘Terracotta Bathroom’ has risen 98% in the last 12 months on Pinterest, and nearly 50% for ‘Terracotta Kitchens’!

Suitable for a number of interior styles, terracotta has a rustic natural appeal, but traditional style terracotta also comes with a lot of maintenance. Baked Tiles have sourced a wonderful collection of terracotta-effect porcelain that boasts all the aesthetic beauty of natural terracotta, but with none of the laborious sealing or treatment. Furthermore, natural terracotta isn’t suitable for use in UK gardens, but all Baked Tiles terracotta ranges are also frost proof, so perfect for creating beautiful garden schemes.

TOP TIP: Use wide joints for a rustic traditional aesthetic, or tighter joints for a more ‘Moroccan vibe’

MURAL DESIGNS

As pattern is becoming more coveted within general interiors, mural designs are now taking centre stage in beautiful bathrooms and kitchens. Thanks to

advances in tile production, you can now use large scale flowing pattern in wet areas, and some are even suitable for external use due to their frost proof qualities. This increase in production has led to a noticeable increase in demand - the ‘mural wall tile’ trend has flown up a staggering 135% over the last 12 months on Pinterest!

TOP TIP: To really make a mural POP, pair with a tile that contrasts with the background for prominence

BORDERS, CORNERS AND MOULDINGS

Next year, interior schemes will be all about the detail. A fresh idea for those home designers under a certain age and a memory provoking flashback for those of us who remember the trend in the 90s. The same applies to tile design, we are seeing a glorious selection of tiles with coordinating or matching borders, corners and mouldings, all designed to add additional detailing.

Unmistakably nostalgic, this is a great way to add traditional or period style into a home. Following swiftly behind the popularity of timber panelled

SMALL FORMATS

For far too long we were limited to 40x40cm, 30x60cm and 60x60cm sized tiles - but now design trends have moved on and embraced more traditional small format tiles. 15x15cm floor tiles are all the rage, they can be used to great effect on their won, or when combined with other small formats like 5x15cm brick shaped designs. Many designers are delighted to be introducing more intricate tiling schemes with the use of smaller sized, porcelain, terracotta effect and glazed product.

TOP TIP: ‘Use small format plain tiles to add detail and texture to a space, without having to rely on pattern.’

walls, we are about to see a return of wallpaper borders, elements that can be used to layer pattern within a design scheme.

TOP TIP: Use borders to define feature areas, such as a tiled panel behind a range cooker, or to produce a rug effect within an open plan space

LIGHT, BUT NOT WHITE!

If you love light filled, bright interior schemes, maybe this is the one for you. As an antidote to maximalist style, more designers are moving towards softer lighter schemes, but the secret to this trend is to use ivories and very pale peachy tones - stay well away from bright white! Think soft warm matt whites, bleached pale terracotta tones, or pale ivories.

Layer texture, and contrast gloss and matt finishes to creating interesting bathroom or cloakroom schemes. The demand of homerenovators seeking a minimalistic aesthetic has rocketed in recent times, with Pinterest highlighting a whopping 180% rise in searches

for ‘minimal living room’ and ‘minimalist home’ together. Proof that less really is more…

TOP TIP: ‘When creating paler colour schemes, ensure you have layers of light colour and texture. If you match everything in the room perfectly, the results will be a flat uninteresting scheme’

COLOURED GROUT

Heck, why not go for it? Who wants white or grey grouts, when there is the huge collection of 50 colours available to the home designer from Baked Tiles?! Use contrasting grouts to add colour, highlighting tiling layouts or interesting shaped tiles. Use the gap between your tiles to bring in extra detail and punchy colour to a room. Take the opportunity use it as a design detail, rather than just an understated and inevitable space between your tiles.

TOP TIP: ‘When using coloured grout remember the smaller the tile, the more impact the grout will have on the look of the overall space. Coloured grout used on really tiny tiles can sometimes change the perceived colour of the tile...so be aware!’

STRIPES

Have you noticed the return of small-scale prints, striped and checks within traditional homes? Pretty, detailed interior schemes require a dainty approach to tile specification and combining coloured tiles to create pretty stripes in one perfect option. Don’t just take our word for itLiving Etc magazine confirmed that ‘adding stripes and depth leads to further texture’ elevates your dynamic home design...

TOP TIP: Striped layouts also give you the opportunity to add height to low ceiling, by running stripes vertically or width to a narrow wall by running them horizontally, pretty and design savvy!

Architectural Bronze Casements

The Luxury of real bronze. Stylish bespoke hand-made bronze windows, doors, screens and secondary glazing.

For those looking for a luxury product which will transform the look of a home, Architectural Bronze is an extremely versatile and beautiful metal and our products have a unique richness and depth of colour that is striking for both traditional and contemporary architecture, and for use either internally or externally.

Real Bronze is a prized material and offers an exciting alternative to aluminium and steel products readily available. Its patina is available in two finishes - Classic Mid Bronze showing off a rich lustre, and Dark Bronze lending it’s depth of colour to a clean contemporary look.

Architectural bronze will define the quality of a

renovation or new build by virtue of its fine detail and stunning appearance. It has to be seen and compared to appreciate the difference.

Architectural Bronze Casements design and hand make a unique and stylish range of bronze products including windows, doors, screens and secondary glazing; and we are the preferred choice for many leading architects and specialists within the design and build sector and have been involved in many award-winning prestigious projects around the world.

Our Bronze windows and doors are used widely in refurbishment and are also specified for some incredible new builds. Most widely used are our internal and external screens that can be cleverly designed to fit in the most unusual of rooms, creating a striking feature as well as letting light into internal spaces.

Bronze has been used for shower screens, decorative display cabinets and fine wine display cases. Architectural Bronze are also the only company to provide secondary double glazing, which has massive benefits in improving thermal efficiency, soundproofing and security for city dwellings.

To explore the beauty of bronze, visit The Building Centre in London or call 01476 249 494 for a brochure or samples or a visit to our factory and offices to discuss your project. bronzecasements.com illustrates the diversity of projects undertaken.

“Our Bronze windows and doors are used widely in refurbishment and are also specified for some incredible new builds”

Getting to know Interior Designer Elliot Barratt

Elliot is the co-founder and CEO of multi-award winning ‘Elliot James Interiors’ alongside his business partner Tom Ryan. Established in 2012, Elliot James Interiors specialises in residential and commercial projects and uses decades of expertise to deliver projects globally with opulent and multipurpose interiors that enhance their clients’ lives.

Having designed landed properties, penthouses, apartments, villas, nightclubs, offices, bars and much more over the past decade, Elliot explains “we pride ourselves on being able to tackle any project, anywhere in the world, and deliver a highend, bespoke and tailored design solution that will stand the test of time.”

Whilst growing up, Elliot always dreamt of becoming a designer, “I was born and raised with a father who is an engineer, and a mother who is a fanatic interior design enthusiast. This fostered an inherent love for understanding how things work, whilst also a need to make them look beautiful,” reflects Elliot. “As I grew up, I always found myself fascinated by the psychology of how people interact with and are influenced by physical spaces. It’s incredible how a surrounding really

impacts people’s moods, mindset, and behaviours.”

After pursuing a furniture design degree, a freshfaced 21-year-old Elliot established ‘Elliot James’ originally as a furniture design company alongside his corporate day job. After climbing the corporate ladder for 8-years whilst running The Telegraph newspapers commercial design team, he decided to take the leap into working for himself full time. Elliot explained “I never felt fully satisfied working in a corporate environment, I wanted to nurture something that I had built and establish a working culture that took the best of what I’d experienced and put people, trust, and inspiration at its core.”

Whilst establishing the company, Elliot realised “I wanted to curate the space around the furniture, so I transitioned into the world of interiors, and Elliot James Interiors was born in 2012.”

With offices in both London and Singapore, Elliot James Interiors has clinched awards for several of its projects. With a business ethos driven by individuality, flexibility, and transparency, the firms’ internationally trained architects and designers have completed a beautiful array of luxury residences, commercial offices, and hospitality design.

To find out more, visit elliotjames.com.

“As I grew up, I always found myself fascinated by the psychology of how people interact with and are influenced by physical spaces. It’s incredible how a surrounding really impacts people’s moods, mindset, and behaviours.”

MY LIFE MY ART

It’s not an easy task when you try to control it as a lighting designer, but given the tools of experience and understanding, expression starts to become fluid and flowing. It’s a matter of conveying that message so that it’s observed from that same viewpoint, without too much verbal convincing. My hope is that you understand my approach encompassed with what intrigues me and how my train of thought develops. Suffice is to say, I love my work as I’m getting to know myself.

My art is my way of expressing myself. To find enlightenment with a creative piece of art that whispers soft and pleasing surrealism is something that I hold close to my life’s passion. Art has no shape, no real static movement. It’s flexible and molten which embodies the essence of creativity. You might think that it’s a strange way to describe my life’s work but it’s that my very true conscience talking. It’s my best shot at describing the way I approach my projects as a lighting designer.

My personal take on art is expressing why we are here. I’m driven by my passion to create objects that can reflect an obvious pleasurable presence.

My pieces are specifically designed to work with your exact requirements – a work of art that will not lose its beauty. To preserve the uniqueness and artistic value of the chandeliers and luxury lighting, I do not use ready-made or off-the- shelf components, all parts are designed specifically for you. As a high end lighting designer I place great importance on the visual appeal of everything I design and create. I take care not to show the inner armature of the chandelier. All inner lighting is designed to light up as a 360-degree spread, unlike the offerings of many of my competitors. I take exceptional care to ensure the correct flow of light, without hot-spots by employing up to five times as many lamps than many of my competitors. In short, Rocco Borghese signature of distinction and name is synonymous with quality and elegance. We are the only glass lighting feature specialist with the ability to create a lifetime investment as individual as you.

Rocco Borghese

SHELLSHOCK DESIGNS

ShellShock Designs is a rather unique company. They started off life manufacturing extremely high-quality mother of pearl for use in high end photograph frames and jewellery boxes. This then spurred the idea to try mother of pearl mosaics for interior design in the UK. With Jonathan Kern at the helm the business used family links (his Chinese wife) to establish the ability to source not only mother of pearl but a wide variety of opulent materials from the absolute best China has to offer. Buying their machinery from Italy ensures the very best standards and quality.

ShellShock work with interior designers, architects, construction companies, hotel chains, restaurants, cruise liners, super yacht shipyards and similar to source not only materials such as mother of pearl, precious & semi-precious stones, translucent faux onyx and glass mosaics but also completely bespoke products including chandeliers, shell & stone basins and even a complete range of very realistic artificial plants and trees and silky soft bamboo viscose floor and wall carpets.

Where ShellShock comes into its own is the ability to use their wide network of suppliers to source the materials or products specified to them that are not from their own collections. The customer can rest assured that the production, packaging, and shipping will all be taken care of with no hassle. Additionally, ShellShock ensure that all the relevant safety standards are met and safety compliance certificates supplied.

One of the more interesting lines they produce is the Recycled Old Ship Wood. This sees wood reclaimed from old fishing boats that have been abandoned or outlived their usage. The wood is recovered, cut and treated to create some simply stunning items ranging from wall coverings to tables and chairs. It is quite a remarkable process and you can see it in action at shellshockdesigns. com/project/recycled-old-ship-wood-process.

Other recent lines include the development of super thin flexible natural stone to 0.8mm thickness and natural alabaster ceiling, wall and floor lighting with both CE and UL quality and safety certifications.

A really exiting feature of some of the materials in the collection is that they are translucent and so they can be backlit. ShellShock also produce Mitsubishi LED light panels to the exact measurements of the translucent panels they backlight with a totally equal distribution of light and no shadowing. This really brings out the natural beauty in the stone or shell and make an incredibly attractive feature. ShellShock’s website features example projects including a luxury yacht with a backlit onyx bar and black agate feature wall.

THE DETAILS

ShellShock’s website is shellshockdesigns.com they can also be reached by phone on 020 3005 9661 or by email info@shellshockdesigns.com.

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(iTree consultancy) (eTree planting) (iPlant landscape) (eTree surgery)

The Tree Agency darryl parkin

The Tree Agency darryl

parkin

The Treehouse

The Treehouse

The Treehouse 25 King Edwards Grove Teddington, Middlesex TW119LY Telephone 020 8274 0107 Mobile 07960123580 Fax 020 8274 0119 info@ thetreeagency.co.uk www.thetreeagency.co.uk

The Treehouse 25 King Edwards Grove Teddington, Middlesex TW119LY Telephone 020 8274 0107 Mobile 07960123580 Fax 020 8274 0119 info@ thetreeagency.co.uk www.thetreeagency.co.uk

25 King Edwards Grove, Teddington, Middlesex TW11 9LY Telephone 020 8274 0107

Mobile 07960 123580 info@thetreeagency.co.uk www.thetreeagency.co.uk

25 King Edwards Grove Teddington, Middlesex TW119LY Telephone 020 8274 0107 Mobile 07960123580 Fax 020 8274 0119

@ thetreeagency.co.uk www.thetreeagency.co.uk

The Treehouse 25 King Edwards Grove Teddington, Middlesex TW119LY Telephone 020 8274 0107 Mobile 07960123580 Fax 020 8274 0119 @ thetreeagency.co.uk www.thetreeagency.co.uk

LUXURY KITCHEN GUIDE

– A guide to creating the perfect London kitchen –IMAGE: SMILE KITCHENS

DISTINCTIVE KITCHEN LIGHTING

In addition to spotlights and under cabinet LED lights in the kitchen - don’t forget to include decorative lighting to bring personality and style into your kitchen.

We all spend lots of time visiting kitchen showrooms, thumbing through lifestyle magazines and browsing websites to decide on our new kitchen style or gadgets we can have. But how much time do we consider lighting products and the impact they may create?

Most kitchen designers will encourage you to have practical spotlights in your ceiling and practical under cabinet LED lights, but these are only part of the lighting solution. If you have the option to bring in more personality and sparkle –consider decorative lighting as part of the lighting mix to create mood and drama.

What’s your Style?

Whether it is a traditional country kitchen with hand crafted cabinets, a modern minimalistic or industrial influenced style, there are many decorative lights available to suit. Choose a light that has a metal finish that blends in or perhaps contrasts with the architectural elements in the room such as cabinet handles or taps.

Choose lighting to suit your space

If you have the luxury of space and have an island or breakfast bar – consider hanging multiple pendants above to provide additional task lighting or a lower level of light output when the spotlights are not required. You may have a low ceiling so choose from a large collection of flush or semiflush fixtures for this situation.

Blend in or stand out?

With the continuing trend of open plan kitchen/ dining spaces you may wish to include a range of lights that have matching pendants and chandeliers to bring the space together. Alternatively you may want to choose a sculptural or sparkly chandelier over a nice dining table that becomes a statement of your personality.

For more inspirational ideas to brighten up your Kitchen, visit the Distinctive Lighting showroom in Mill Lane, Alton, Hampshire where you will find more than 2,500 lighting models on display. The variety of choice is unrivalled, and our staff are on hand Monday to Friday 9-5pm and Saturday 9-1pm, to provide a friendly advisory service.

T: 01420 590510 distinctivelightinguk.com

“With the continuing trend of open plan kitchen/dining spaces you may wish to include a range of lights that have matching pendants and chandeliers to bring the space together”

Poggenpohl case study

kitchen.

Not content with just a new kitchen, Poggenpohl also designed and installed a boot room and utility to go alongside this fabulous open plan space in this high end home. The furniture surrounding the television and media unit was also supplied, ensuring a seamless aesthetic throughout the space.

Nicole Walsh, who project managed this design said of the project, “the client had already chosen a beautiful porcelain floor and wanted the worktops to match. We then made sure that the colour scheme and tone of the fitted furniture complemented this much admired focal point”.

Having chosen an alternative high end kitchen manufacturer, with plans and designs already created, the owners of this new build property stumbled across the Poggenpohl Studio and changed their minds! Won over by the beautiful showroom as well as the understated luxury of the German manufacturer, the clients quickly settled on the brand famous for designing the original fitted

THE DETAILS

To find out more about Poggenpohl or to see first-hand the products on offer, find your nearest studio at poggenpohl.com or call 01727 738 100.

Gaggenau appliances were to feature throughout. Knowing the industrial look of the ovens, Nicole suggested a palette for the cabinetry to create warmth and marry all aspects of the design together. Golden White Satin Porcelain was therefore paired with a combination of Bronze Anthracite and Diamond Grey furniture. To create a central symmetry (as is such a widely recognised design addition in many Poggenpohl kitchens) a pair of stunning Black Satin Glass wall cabinets finished the look.

Nicole adds, “Our customer is delighted with the finished article, and I am too. I believe we have created an unpretentious, timeless and elegant design that complements the open plan living area in the heart of this beautiful family home”.

CONTEMPORARY KITCHEN DESIGN

Halcyon creates luxury, minimalist kitchens with a distinctive edge and specialises in designing spaces with timeless style and the durability to last.

Established in 1981, Halcyon is family run

and fully independent, with a reputation for excellent design and unrivalled industry knowledge. Their designs and premium materials reflect the longevity and quality expected from such a considered purchase, and they believe that a kitchen from Halcyon is an investment in your home.

Using an expertly curated range of kitchen furniture brands and appliances, your designer at Halcyon will guide you through your kitchen design process, providing bespoke recommendations based on your specific requirements and style. The same designer will continue to work with you, project managing your space through to completion.

Halcyon frequently works in collaboration with architects and interior designers to create beautiful, contemporary spaces for their clients, with many of these spaces being featured in design awards.

Halcyon has two showrooms; a large two-floor flagship showroom on London’s Wigmore Street, and their founding showroom in Hatch End, north-west London. They are both excellent spaces to discuss ideas, find inspiration and learn about the range of products and their design expertise that will make your kitchen a space that will enrich your home.

THE DETAILS

You can view their work at halcyoninteriors.com or follow them on social media at @halcyoninteriors

To make an appointment with a designer, call 020 7486 3080 or email hello@halcyon-interiors.co.uk.

Showroom Locations: Marylebone, London 120 Wigmore Street London W1U 3RU

Hatch End, Pinner 509 Uxbridge Road Hatch End, Pinner HA5 4JS

“Halcyon frequently works in collaboration with architects and interior designers to create beautiful, contemporary spaces for their clients”

ESPRESSO DESIGN: THE WORLD’S COOLEST KITCHENS

To be the best in our industry, a company needs more than great products and design skills. At Espresso Design we’re not just experts at creating beautiful spaces. We specialise in dealing with the practicalities and logistics of delivering complicated projects whilst offering excellent value for money and brilliant customer service.

• The award-winning Intarsio range takes its inspiration from traditional marquetry to create doors with distinctive cross directional veneers. These units pair beautifully with marble and other luxury materials to create truly unique kitchens.

• The 50’s is a modern interpretation of iconic 1950’s bookcase design re-imagined for dining and living areas. The unit is based around aluminium vertical supports with built-in dimmable lighting. The versatile structure can accommodate everything from ovens to glass and bottle cabinets, alongside open units.

• The Williamsburg range is based around a cast iron and marble island inspired by the modern bridge construction. Side supporting structures are

bridged by a suspended horizontal element. The island conveys solidity and strength with a light, slender aesthetic. The result is a stunning, perfectly functional and eminently social space.

The UNIT range is a striking freestanding island solution that is elegant, timeless and versatile.

Fifteen years after we started Espresso, we are still driven by the same objective: to deliver a truly customer focused approach to award-winning design. We are an organised, stable and wellfunded business with an exemplary track record of delivering beautifully designed interiors and excellent customer service.

THE DETAILS

Visit us for coffee and a chat at: 149 St John’s Hill, London SW11 1TQ Tel 0207 078 9912.

Unit 203/4, Design Centre East, Design Centre Chelsea Harbour SW10 0XE Tel 0207 078 9912

Stunning new Kitchens for 2023

Founded over 10 years ago, West London Kitchens supply high quality German, Italian and traditional handmade English bespoke kitchens at family friendly prices. Real kitchens for real families. All their kitchens are designed bespoke for each client, offering great flexibility in style, finish and colour and delivered ready built which cuts down dramatically on the time and mess of installation.

West London Kitchens have a studio showroom with easy local parking, where you can view all the door ranges together with worktop, splashback and lighting samples.

The 2023 range offers dozens of colours and styles together with all the modern developments in kitchen design, including reduced plinth heights and the TIP-ON touch opening system. They can now also offer specialised utility room furniture providing a myriad of clever storage solutions.

Much of their business comes via word-ofmouth recommendations from happy clients, and their builders, architects and interior designers. West London Kitchens are proud of our reputation and their customer service is second to none.

Whether you are planning major building work or just looking to upgrade your old kitchen, get in touch for a free consultation.

New for 2023 - Schuller and Next Line Kitchens

• 845 and 875 high base units – more storage and less plinth

• The Colour Concept 14 different doors available in 27 different colours in a Matt or Satin finish

• Black interior carcase colours

• Walk in larder units

• Bespoke utility rooms

• Bedroom and living room furniture

• Anti-fingerprint finishes

Need Bedroom furniture visit West London Bedrooms, for all your bedroom storage requirements. They provide sumptuous Italian bespoke furniture in a variety of different styles with all the space saving and easy access extras you might require.

BESPOKE KITCHENS PERSONIFIED

The Modern British Collection

The Modern British kitchen collection is designed and manufactured in England. Their entire range is handmade from premium quality hardwoods, grown in Britain, and their designs include previously unseen (and unique to them) storage solutions.

Not surprising then that this company has achieved a Patent Award for its designs!

Designed by award-winning Architects, their range of kitchen styles are ’different by concept’ and offer truly unique details. Working closely with their clients and their advisors, ‘bespoke design’ can be taken to a new level creating furniture of distinction and individuality.

The collection includes the highly individual O’45 Kitchen that provides unique storage solutions by creating unique geometric solutions. The frame is available in a choice of hardwoods including an English Woodlands series. Their signature door and drawer frontals are available in either natural hardwood or a painted finish to a colour of your choice. Through clever design drawers are elevated to the status of ‘work centre’, making food preparation less of a stress and more pleasurable.

The Classic collection is the Modern British take on an in-frame ‘Modern Shaker’ style kitchen. It has the same uncompromising attention to detail and commitment to premium grade natural materials. They provide the same wide range of choices on wood types, colours and materials. At only 52mm, the cabinetry has the smallest plinth on the market, leaving more space inside for storage.

The Horizon collection combines contemporary

handle less design and sleek lines with handcrafted construction, again in sustainably sourced hardwoods of the highest quality. The modernity of the design is softened by the inclusion of hardwood details that introduce a beautiful touch of nature to the design.

Modern British has recognised the desire to extend the kitchen’s influence across the home. They have designed a collection of loose furniture pieces to complement the kitchen including dining tables and chairs, media centres, display cabinets, console tables, credenzas and a host of other accessories to complement your interior design. This extends to bedroom furniture with the same uncompromising commitment to quality design and construction.

New London Showroom now open at Design Centre Chelsea Harbour. modern-british.com

“The collection includes the highly individual O’45 Kitchen that provides unique storage solutions by creating unique geometric solutions”

Perfect Storage Larders and Breakfast Cupboards

Every kitchen has to provide practical storage space for everyday groceries, small electrical appliances and all the bits and bobs required for a smoothly functioning cooking hub.

Anew kitchen is an exciting investment and every single aspect of the design requires intense scrutiny. Most kitchens are expected to be not just a practical cooking and preparation space, they are also considered to be the ‘heart of the home’, casual dining and entertaining spaces, and of course, family-friendly too. Two types of focal point cabinetry are hugely popular at the moment, namely the larder cupboard and the breakfast cupboard. Sometimes the lines between the two are blurred, but both ideas revolve around practical, easy-access storage spaces that are in constant use, whilst hiding too much clutter from general view.

The Larder Cupboard

A larder generally has full-height double doors, opening to provide a counter top which can be used for small appliances such as the blender, coffee grinder, toaster or mixer. Open shelves above can be used for crockery or glassware, or general provisions – and are often a great opportunity to display matching storage jars containing dried goods, home-made jams or pickles, or simply everyday groceries. Many larders are designed with a set of pull-out drawers or trays beneath the counter top, which can be used for bread, fruit and vegetables. Kitchen companies such as Higham Furniture, offer the option of bespoke hand-made wicker baskets instead of fully enclosed drawers. The larder cupboard is also exactly the right spot for a couple of vertical

tray slots, which can accommodate trays, platters and larger chopping boards. Don’t forget that the insides of the larder doors are perfect for bespoke storage racks. How incredibly usefulthose smaller jars, bottles and packets of herbs and spices can be elegantly stored, seen at a glance and easily reached. Always go for bespoke when choosing a larder as that way the width, depth and height can be precisely specified - whether it’s to fit a certain space or to accommodate a particular set of small appliances, tall jars or the regular organic veg box!

The Breakfast Cupboard

A breakfast cupboard is the next step on from a dresser. It generally has bi-fold doors which fold back on themselves so that the countertop can be used without a wide-open door getting in the way of the kitchen user. The breakfast cupboard usually houses the toaster, coffee machine, blender and any other small electrical appliances, so will have power sockets set into the back panel. The idea is that the family and guests can make breakfast, with all the essentials neatly to hand in one place. The rest of the kitchen doesn’t get disrupted, and joyfully, the breakfast cupboard doors can be closed and all the everyday clutter is out of sight for the rest of the day. Higham Furniture has designed a lot of breakfast cupboards for all the coffee, tea and breakfastmaking equipment. As with any bespoke kitchen, the cabinetry will be designed to make use of every millimetre of space.

THE DETAILS

Higham Furniture Design Studio: 21E Heathman’s Road, Parsons Green, London SW6 4TJ

020 7381 0488 higham.co.uk e: info@higham.co.uk Instagram: @highamfurniture

Design consultations are available by appointment

Feature: Tim Higham, Design Director, Higham Furniture Feature: Linda Parker, Interiors & Design Expert

GOING FOR GREEN

KITCHENS

Tellus was the goddess of the Earth in Roman Mythology, the ancestral mother of all life. Embodying the fierceness and power of this deity, the TELLUS Counter Stool came to life, upholstered in green velvet, with black lacquered matte legs and bronze renaissance nails. This moss green velvet counter stool is perfect for the modern kitchen or home bar, with its sleek and contemporary design possible of fitting any style. brabbu.com

PRETTY IN PINK

This stunningly feminine kitchen utilises tranquil soft pinks to create a peaceful yet invigorating kitchen space. Contrasting colours have been used in certain areas such as the dining table to add depth and variation.

smilekitchens.com

BEAUTIFUL BATTERSEA

A wonderfully light and bright penthouse apartment in Battersea chose one of our classic Shaker kitchens with amazing walnut features such as a curved end to their peninsula and a drinks dresser. higham.co.uk

TIME FOR TEA

This Sara Miller London Portmeirion Frosted Pines tea for one features festive deer prancing over the frosted tree tops. Decorated with 22 carat gold, it makes an elegant tea for one gift set.

portmeirion.co.uk

TAKE A SEAT

Looking for a pretty yet comfortable stool for your home or commercial space? Meet the Victoria Stool by Cult Living! Featuring a carefully crafted wooden seat, combined with legs made of steel – a strong stool made to last.

cultfurniture.com

Kitchens by Amberth

Amberth is a bespoke Interior Design Specialist based in Islington. With over 15 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 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 kitchen is the heart of the home and Amberth put their heart and soul into designing classic and contemporary spaces that are both functional and beautiful. From custom-made cabinetry to feature walls, Amberth’s bespoke kitchen interior designs combine beautiful natural materials with functional appliances and handpicked worktops to create the perfect space.

The process begins with a free consultation at their Studio in Islington, where the experienced designers work with the client to establish what they want from their ideal kitchen.

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 have recently introduced an exciting element to this process, an interactive virtual reality experience to enable clients to visualize, design and shop with confidence, to style their dream space, and to ensure that both the designer and project manager execute their desired vision successfully.

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 are ever in their neighbourhood, why not stop by for a quick chat? There is always someone on hand to help.

Amberth are a reputable business which is family-run and so they pride themselves on building long lasting relationships with their clients.

Amberth, 311 Essex Road, London N1 2BD

Tel: 020 7354 8958 amberth.co.uk

“Designing a kitchen was a lot more complicated than a bathroom, and we are not going to lie, it was a tough process for us. To be fair, this was particularly the case because we had a concrete, clear vision and we knew what we wanted, with all specifications in mind. We suggest future clients with clear visions communicate well with the design team to get exactly what you want. Having said that, our new kitchen is exactly like how we wanted it to be, and in many ways, a lot better. I can’t stress enough how the building works and quality of the kitchen are amazing - we are impressed how their cupboards are sturdy and beautiful inside out, and the installation is top notch. We are so happy, it’s worth every penny. We will go back to them if we have any project in our flat in the future. Mariko, London

A

This year’s kitchen trends

Ruth Lavender, design expert at Benchmarx Kitchens & Joinery, outlines the top kitchen trends to look out for in 2023:

ver recent years, the way we use our living spaces has changed, and the kitchen is no exception. Many of us are now enjoying more time in our homes, whether it’s remotely, entertaining, or relaxing. This shift in behaviour has not only influenced the role of the home and certain features that have become the new nonnegotiables, but it has also had a more nuanced effect on emerging interiors trends.

“Homeowners are becoming more selective over the trends and styles they incorporate – they’re looking for a kitchen design that will not only add flair, but also work for them and their families for years to come.

“Here are some of the trends that are set to dominate kitchen design in 2023.

“OSANCTUARY

“As we’re spending more time at home, there’s a greater focus on creating a space that makes us feel relaxed and at ease. This trend has trickled down from the bathroom, into the living room and is now making its way into kitchen design.

“Sanctuary-style kitchens are perfect for those who prefer a slower pace of life. It’s a ‘less is more’ approach which draws on influence from nature, bringing a sense of calm into the home amidst so much external uncertainty. This trend highlights the importance of self-reflection through serenity, muted tones and raw materials.

“Here, think of a colour palette that takes inspiration from the outdoors. Greens work particularly well due to their association with nature and wellness – helping to bring the outdoors in. Olive green pairs well with leathers, deeper forest greens and natural greenery, such as leafy house plants. Nourishing and balancing, this shade is incredibly versatile, possesses a transseasonal quality and is just so easy to live with.

“Forest green, which has grown in popularity in the kitchen, will continue its reign in 2023, whether it’s incorporated through cabinetry, splashbacks, paint or accessories. Its popularity is down to

its timeless, calming and cosy qualities. Pairing perfectly with light neutrals, other green hues and even dark greys and black for a bolder scheme, it’s a colour that’s here to stay.

“Midnight and navy blue can also play perfectly into this trend. Rich, mature and effortless, dark blue shades match beautifully with gold, silver and copper hardware and complement neutral tones effortlessly.

“For those wanting a softer aesthetic, driftwood blue is a great option – a hue for all seasons, it embodies the colour of sea water while carefully integrating grey and green undertones to evoke feelings of calm and comfort. As the kitchen is often the busiest room of the house, a gentle tone like this can provide a tranquil setting.

FLEXIBLE SPACES

“Kitchen designs that serve a multitude of functions will continue to dominate in 2023. For many, it’s a no brainer to maximise a space’s capabilities to meet a flexible lifestyle, as this is key to creating an environment that works for our individual needs and requirements.

“Now more than ever, our kitchens are being used as spaces that not only serve as a place to prepare meals, but as daytime offices, dining rooms and entertaining spaces too. This means maximising space and finding new solutions has never been more important.

“I always encourage our customers to consider their lifestyle to help inform their kitchen design. Storage needs, seating options, smart technology, lighting and integrated appliances are a few of a long list of features that should be considered when designing a multi-functional space.

“Even the smallest of details can make real impact. For example, the layout of internal storage can be a gamechanger when it comes to the functionality of your space. Integrated carousels are excellent for convenience as they allow you to locate different utensils quickly without you having to scramble around at the back of the cupboard. Helpful details like accessible plug sockets by work spaces, wireless chargers and integrated bins can really facilitate a fluid lifestyle, ensuring that a kitchen design works in harmony with you. Not only do these details help a kitchen space to be

used to its full potential, but make it easy to enjoy too.

FREEDOM

“The freedom trend is all about expression and individuality, and its colour palette epitomises this. Packed full of warm, bold colours, such as soft-toned pinks, yellows and oranges that fire up the imagination, as well as pastel blues, and warmtone neutrals, these hues are perfect for making a statement that showcases personality.

“Showcasing a luminous, fantastical feel, we’re likely to see more and more consumers opt for these colours to channel their creativity. They promote joy, optimism and provide the perfect antidote to the seriousness of modern life.

“This palette can be embraced in multiple ways, depending on your style. Muted sunflower tones pair well with deep blues, offering a calm, serene feel to a space. If you want to be bolder, opt for burnt oranges or deep reds on upholstery, statements sofas and other accessories. The trend can also be beautifully integrated into the kitchen through statement walls, graphic prints and wall art to create pops of colour.

“Incorporating freedom-inspired hues through kitchen cabinetry is a bold yet brilliant way of showcasing personality. Alternatively, opting for grey or white cabinetry can help balance colour used elsewhere in a space to ensure it doesn’t overpower the senses. It all depends on personal preference, but the overall trend offers a vibrant feel and is perfect for modern creative spaces like the kitchen.

“If incorporated cleverly and tastefully, this trend can stand the test of time and provide you with a space that makes you smile every time you enter the room.

ECO

“Similar to sanctuary, the Eco colour palette takes inspiration from the natural world, with blues, greens and earth tones dominating the trend. It’s the perfect scheme for nature-loving homeowners who want to create a tranquil setting.

“Natural upholstery such as rattan, hessian and linen work well here, particularly when paired with rustic, oak furniture and an abundance of greenery – think ferns, palms and monstera.

“Key to this trend is not only aesthetic, but the functionality and efficiency of the kitchen

too, making it a more sustainable and eco-friendly space. Those looking to be more mindful of their energy consumption should consider this in the early design stages.

“Choosing energy-efficient appliances is a great place to start – from dishwashers and fridge freezers to hot water taps and smart thermostats, there’s plenty of ways to be more eco-friendly in the kitchen.

“When designing your kitchen, it’s also important to consider the small things that can help you be more sustainable. For example, if you compost food waste and split out your recycling, you should think about incorporating a cupboard to house your bins and keep them tucked away.

“An island herb planter is another way to bring this trend into the kitchen, as not only does it offer an eco-friendly way to grow your own produce, but it adds a nice touch of greenery too.

“Flooding the space in natural light is a great way of bringing the outdoors in and helping your space feel more connecting with nature. Consider skylights and bifold doors to open up your kitchen space and make it feel airier. For the winter months, you’ll want to ensure you have multiple light sources, as you’re likely to miss the natural light as the evenings draw in. LEDs and strip lighting are energy-efficient options to keep your kitchen feeling cosy in the evening.”

benchmarxkitchens.co.uk