Life Magazines (London editions) September 2017

THE HISTORY OF Rising from humble origins in a cobbler workshop to becoming one of Britain’s best known fashion brands.

The Scales Sir William Russell Flint RA, PRWS (Scottish 1880-1969) Oil on canvas, signed lower right, further signed and inscribed ‘The Scales’ and ‘RA 1944, no.7’ on the stretcher Canvas size: 22.25 x 27.5 inches, Framed size: 28.5 x 34 inches Exhibited: London, The Royal Academy, 1944, no.164

FROM THE

F

EDITOR

ollowing the recent announcement that Michael Kors has bought the luxury accessories brand for £896m, we take a look back at the history of Jimmy Choo, rising from humble origins in a cobbler workshop to becoming one of Britain’s best-known fashion brands.

The collection of one of the most famous and beloved stars in the history of film and fashion will be showcased in a flagship auction at Christie’s King Street headquarters on 27 September. The collection will be on view to the public from 23 September. Alongside, an online sale will be open for bidding from 19 September until 3 October.

Launching in September 2015, Richard Young Gallery features a studio where the public and invited celebrities are invited to walk in and have their portrait taken by the legendary celebrity photographer.

The National Wedding Show is the pinnacle event in the wedding planning calendar. Bringing together over 300 of the world’s best designers, stationers, chocolatiers and more. The National Wedding Show is every bride and grooms’ go to event for wedding inspiration and advice from artisans and experts in the field.

PAD LONDON, the internationally acclaimed fair for art and design, returns for its eleventh edition next month. It’s the only design-focused (both historic and contemporary) fair in London and cherished by the international collecting community, offering a very intimate and elegant setting which allows them to cross-collect across periods and genres.

Faye Manning Editor

THE TEAM PUBLISHED BY THE FISH MEDIA GROUP LTD

17, The Broadway, Old Hatfield, Herts, AL9 5HZ, UK www.thelifemagazines.com 0844 800 8439

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© All Rights Reserved. Life Magazines are copyrighted and may not be reproduced in any form either in part or whole without written permission from the publishers. Whilst Fish Media Group Ltd. takes every reasonable precaution, no responsibility can be accepted for any property, services or products offered in these publications and any loss arising therefrom. Whilst every care is taken with all materials submitted to Life Magazines, the publisher cannot accept any responsibility for the loss or damage to such material. Fish Media Group Ltd. reserves the right to reject or accept any advertisement, article or material prior to publication.

Opinions expressed are strictly those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views or policies of Fish Media Group Ltd. We accept no liability for any mistakes and no responsibility can be taken for the content of these pages.

Editor Faye Manning ••••• Editorial Assistant Katie Miller ••••• Sub Editor Alex Lux ••••• Fashion Editor Rachel Gold ••••• Design & Production Lisa Wade ••••• senior business development manager Vanessa Lane ••••• ACCOUNT MANAGERS Nicola Drew Lisa Westerman Anita Hill ••••• Directors Rory Smith Patrick Smith

CONTENTS OUT & ABOUT

09

LUXURY WEDDING GUIDE

65

HOLIDAYS & TRAVEL

95

We put fantastic local businesses and exciting events in the spotlight each month, plus enjoy food and drink in the local area and investigate beautiful homes and properties From gifts to venues, we’ve got the big day covered Heading out of London to explore the rest of the world

INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS GUIDE

107

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

165

HOUSE & GARDEN

197

LOFTS, BASEMENTS & CONVERSIONS GUIDE

247

The finest independent schools in the UK

Fashion, health and beauty news to keep you looking and feeling your best A collection of London’s finest interior companies

The ultimate guide to extending and converting your London home

0844 800 8439

www.thelifemagazines.com

out & about – We put fantastic local businesses and exciting events in the spotlight each month – i m age : D E SI G N J UNCTION 2 0 1 7 , 2 1 - 2 4 S E P T E M B E R

O UT & ABOUT

THE OLIVIER NOMINATED

‘Alice’s Adventures Underground’ Until 23 September

There is a place. Like no place on Earth.

A land full of Wonder, Mystery and Danger – Lewis Carroll, 1865

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es Enfants Terribles and ebp in association with Creature of London are delighted to have returned to The Vaults with the smash hit “Alice’s Adventures Underground”.

Following sell out performances of this unmissable show last summer which had over 100,000 visitors, culminating in a nomination for the 2016 Olivier Award for Best Entertainment and Family show; “Alice’s Adventures Underground” - are playing a limited season until 23 September 2017.

With even more twists and turns for 2017, “Alice’s Adventures Underground” invites you deep into The Vaults, hidden beneath Waterloo station, to lose yourself in a land far removed from our own. Tumble down the rabbit hole and experience immersion like never before in this interactive, puppetry-packed, fusion of storytelling, music, circus and spectacle…but this isn’t Alice’s adventure, it’s yours...

Make a series of choices; Eat or drink? Grow or shrink? And find yourself at the centre of the story as you wander through Wonderland, piecing together the puzzle as to what has happened to Alice who is lost in the looking glass. Be careful as your choice leads you down a completely different path into Wonderland; you might grow to enormous proportions and become one of Wonderland’s elite rubbing shoulders with the highest of playing card suits; or you might shrink to be so small that even boarder control can’t detect you; take tea at the biggest un-birthday party with the maddest of Hatters; let the Cheshire Cat take you hither or thither or you could even find yourself playing a key part in an underground resistance movement to rise against the fearsome Queen. “Alice’s Adventures Underground” is written by Oliver Lansley and Anthony Spargo and directed by Oliver Lansley and James Seager.

For the 2017 season, there will be a limited number of tickets for under 26s at £25 each. The tickets are for the first performance on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays throughout the run. Standard ticket prices range from £39.00 to £71.50 (£31.50 - £54.00 during previews).

For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit www.alice-underground.com Box office 0844 248 1125 @AliceUnderLDN UndergroundAlic 10 september 2017

OUT & ABOUT

Christie’s Lates: Audrey Hepburn Monday 25 September 2017 6.00 – 9.30pm Christie’s King Street, 8 King Street, St James’s, London SW1Y 6QT #AudreyAtChristies Join Christie’s for an evening celebrating Audrey Hepburn ahead of Christie’s auctions of her personal collection.

Christie’s will auction the personal collection of Audrey Hepburn, the globally renowned and celebrated film and stage actress, this month.

CHRISTIE’S LONDON

THE FILM & FASHION LEGEND, AUDREY HEPBURN Above: BREAKFAST AT TIFFANY’S, 1961, Set of three gelatin silver production stills, Estimate: £1,000-£1,500

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he collection of one of the most famous and beloved stars in the history of film and fashion will be showcased in a flagship auction at Christie’s King Street headquarters on 27 September. The collection will be on view to the public from 23 September.

Alongside, an online sale will be open for bidding from 19 September until 3 October.

The collection is an extraordinary archive chronicling the life and career of arguably the most famous screen actress of the 20th Century through the lens of the objects she collected, used and loved. This is the first time these remarkable, personal items, which have remained in the ownership of Audrey Hepburn’s family, have been offered for sale.

Audrey Hepburn is rightly regarded not only as one of the greatest screen actresses of all time, but as a style icon. A highlight of the sale is a blue satin Givenchy cocktail dress; worn by Hepburn, this model featured in a photo shoot photographed by William Klein for a fashion editorial promoting Two for the Road in 1966 (estimate: £10,000-15,000).

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The elegant gown is trimmed with blue satin fringes and epitomises the deceptively simple style for which Hubert de Givenchy and Audrey Hepburn are justly famous.

The auctions will feature Audrey Hepburn’s extensive personal wardrobe and her own annotated working copies of film scripts from her best loved films including Breakfast at Tiffany’s. The sales will also include portraits from her personal archive of original professional portraits by major photographers, the majority of which date from between 1953 and 1968 when she was at the height of her screen career, and her own collection of memorabilia and letters which offer an intimate snapshot of her extraordinary life and career.

24 years after her death she maintains a resonance and popularity as strong today as it was during her lifetime. With estimates starting at just £100 and ranging up to £90,000 the auction will offer collectors and devoted fans from around the world an unprecedented opportunity to acquire personal items treasured by one of the most famous and well-loved women of the 20th Century.

Come and see the full sale preview of the auctions, chronicling the life and career of arguably the most famous screen actress of the 20th Century. Gain further insights from talks by Christie’s specialists; stop by a hair and make-up stylist to get the ‘Audrey’ look; or sit back and enjoy a screening of Breakfast at Tiffany’s.

Arriving dressed in the style of Audrey is encouraged. Entrance will be first come first served.

Find out more at www.christies.com/lates Free entry and pay bar.

For more details visit www. christies.com/audreyhepburn. #HepburnAtChristies

BUD FRAKER (1916-2002) Audrey Hepburn, circa 1957, gelatin silver print, stamped Paramount Studio credit (verso), 13 ½ x 10 ¼ in. (34.2 x 26 cm.), Estimate: £500-£800

‘It is with great joy that we seek to share her spirit, through this sale, and its related previews’ — Luca Dotti and Sean Hepburn Ferrer, Audrey Hepburn’s sons

OUT & ABOUT

Richard Young Gallery

Photographic shoot with celebrity photographer Richard Young Richard Young has developed a new photographic concept based out of his gallery in Kensington – Richard Young Walk-Ins

BOOKINGS To book an appointment, please contact: Jack Glover Gunn at gallery@richardyoungonline.com Telephone 0207 937 8911 www.richardyounggallery.co.uk www.richardyoungonline.com Richard Young Gallery 4 Holland St, London W8 4LT

Top: Photography by Richard Young; Right: by Simon Brown; Left: by Lorenzo Agius

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aunched in September 2015, Richard Young Gallery features a studio where the public and invited celebrities are invited to walk in and have their portrait taken by the legendary celebrity photographer.

Get the chance to feel like a celebrity yourself, as Richard shoots an entire roll of black and white film in 10 minutes! Clients receive three silver gelatin prints and the contact sheet of the images which are hand selected by Richard from each shoot. Gift Vouchers are also available. The perfect gift for the person who has everything. Prices start at £1800.00 per shoot.

Richard comments “In 1979 I was commissioned

by French Vogue and David Bailey’s Ritz Magazine to shoot Sir Ralph Richardson being photographed

by Sir Cecil Beaton. I watched as his assistants set up the shoot. Finally the great man himself came out and took about 10 shots, and that was it. I was intrigued. I plucked up the courage. ‘Sir, I see you have only taken a few shots?’. He turned to me and retorted, ‘My dear boy, if you can’t get it in one roll of film it’s just not worth bothering!’

Richard Young is at the forefront of celebrity photography. With a career spanning 40 years, Richard’s exceptional eye and unique approach has cemented him as the most trusted and prolific contemporary photographer to the stars.

As both a portraitist and photojournalist, his unerring ability to capture the moment and present a candid, inside view into the world of celebrity has resulted in iconic images that are celebrated in publications throughout the world.

Richard has photographed a diverse and distinguished range of famous celebrities, capturing some genuinely unique moments over the course of his career. He took the last photograph of Keith Moon at a party with Paul and Linda McCartney, just hours before he died. Richard visited orphanages in Romania with Michael Jackson, photographed Sting’s wedding to Trudie Styler and toured the country with the Sex Pistols. He has covered parties for the Cannes film festival and the Oscars in Los Angeles. He accompanied and documented United States troops in Iraq and Fidel Castro in Cuba.

These examples are only a few of Richard’s diverse achievements, and are a mark of the trust and liking that he inspires in his subjects. With an archive of over 2 million images, Richard Young’s prolific body of work could easily serve as documentation of popular culture over the past 40 years.

OUT & ABOUT

NEWS FROM Plus One Gallery

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lus One Gallery is the UK’s leading specialist in Hyperrealist Art, dedicated to the development and promotion of British and international contemporary Hyperrealist Art. The gallery maintains a high standard of painters and sculptors, representing a number of Masters within the field, alongside an array of emerging artists. The international body of artists represented at Plus One Gallery also includes two winners of the prestigious BP Portrait Award; Andrew Tift and Craig Wylie and Jan Mikulka who won the BP Visitors choice in 2011.

Upcoming exhibitions include the Autumn Show which opens to the public on 20th September, this exhibition will feature new paintings from a selection of represented artists and will run until 4th November. From 8th November, we will hold a solo exhibition for Spanish artist Javier Banegas, this show will include many new paintings based around his specific subject matter. He is known for producing close-up still life depictions of items, that have been altered by the presence of humans.

He explores the interaction with these items and, whether it is the shavings from a pencil or paint pots left without lids, gives the impression that someone, somewhere is not quite finished. The monumentality Banegas creates by enlarging objects, stimulates the viewer to appreciate the inner beauty and meaning of the mundane.

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In December, we will exhibit the playful works of Volker Kuhn, be sure to visit this exhibition for an entertaining insight into the humorous artists mind!

Kuhn pays tribute to many of the Masters within his 3D boxes as well as creating inventive scenes depicting all kinds of situations. A great show to squeeze in before the festive period.

“The international body of artists represented at Plus One Gallery also includes two winners of the prestigious BP Portrait Award” The gallery is located south of the river (Battersea Reach), a very up-and-coming, vibrant and exciting area of London. Battersea Reach offers visitors easy access to the rest of London, whether you are travelling by tube, train or car. Local underground stations Putney Bridge, Parsons Green and Fulham Broadway provide links to the extensive underground network. Please see website for more details on how to find the gallery.

Plus One Gallery, B & C Trafalgar House, Juniper Dr, London SW18 1GY; 020 7730 7656; www.plusonegallery.com

Clockwise from top left: Francois Chartier, Iceberg XIII, 61 x 61 cm, Oil on canvas Christian Carlini, Primordial Flavour, 55 x 80 cm, Oil on canvas Nourine Hammad, Chaos III, Swirl, 112 x 81.5 cm, Mixed Media on paper Volker Kuhn, Homage to Klein, Yves, 56 x 51 x 9 cm, Mixed media Javier Banegas, Composition with Primary Colours, 55 x 198 cm, Oil on panel

^ƚĞǀĞ tŚŝƚĞŚĞĂĚ ‘Forth Bridges’ Acrylic on canvas, 61 x 137 cm

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^ƚĞǀĞ tŚŝƚĞŚĞĂĚ ‘Forth Bridges’ Acrylic on canvas, 61 x 137 cm

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Acrylic on canvas, 61 x 137 cm ^ƚĞǀĞ tŚŝƚĞŚĞĂĚ ‘Forth Bridges’

^ƚĞǀĞ tŚŝƚĞŚĞĂĚ ‘Forth Bridges’ Acrylic on canvas, 61 x 137 cm

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OUT & ABOUT

ART – BRING YOUR HOME TO LIFE! Affordable Art Fair Battersea

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ince 1999, the Affordable Art Fair has become known around the world as the ideal place to discover and buy original affordable art for your home. The fair’s ethos has always been that you don’t need to be a millionaire or an art expert to enjoy owning original art, and every year thousands of Londoners flock to the fair to find something special to put their stamp on their homes.

This October, the flagship fair returns to Battersea Park, hosting 113 galleries representing 1,100 artists – all under one roof. In addition to galleries from all over the country, you’ll find more than 25 from outside the UK. So whether you’re looking to find a traditional oil on canvas, a statement sculpture, or to discover a hotly tipped emerging artist at the Recent Graduates’ Exhibition (guest curated by Cassie Beadle), you’re sure to find the perfect piece to suit your style and budget.

In between hunting through artworks, you’ll have a chance to broaden your artistic horizons with one of the fair’s free talks and tours. Take part in a

“The whole day was amazing.

Such an easy relaxed atmosphere. The art was sooo varied.”

- Battersea Fair Visitor

THE DETAILS Readers can book half price entry at any time (excluding the Charity Private View) online using the code LIFE. Small booking fee applies.

Book tickets and preview art www.affordableartfair.com Affordable Art Fair Battersea 19 – 22 October 2017 Battersea Evolution, Battersea Park

Clockwise from above: Nam Tran, ‘Ego Man Raku’, ceramic, 17 x 9cm, edition of 25, £250, Mint Art Gallery.

Hen Coleman, ‘The Temple’, pastel on paper, 152 x 102cm, £5,500, Candida Stevens Gallery.

Michele Mikesell, ‘Arizona Tumbleweed’, oil on canvas, 75 x 75cm, £4,000, DECORAZONgallery.

Alison Tyldesley, ‘Cornfields and Mauve Hills’, acrylic on canvas, 79 x 79cm, £950, Linda Blackstone Gallery.

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workshop by Central Saint Martins Short Courses on Drawing, Collage, Idea Generation or Buying and Collecting Art, or join a tour led by London Art Salon for valuable insights into collecting prints and photography.

The fair is guaranteed to get the whole family’s creative juices flowing with Activity Packs filled with drawing materials for the kids, workshops for all ages, and, after having been inspired by the art on show, opportunities to create your own unique pieces to take home.

If you’re unable to make it to the fair, you can also browse and buy a huge array of art selected by an exciting and diverse selection of galleries from the Affordable Art Fair’s online shop.

OUT & ABOUT

ELVIS ON TOUR From Left: That’s The Way It Is Rehearsals; Long Fringe, 1970; American Dream 1973

A NEW EXHIBITION

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ue to phenomenal public demand, Elvis Presley™, the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll™, will be returning to The O2 for 90 days from 3rd November 2017.

Following the mammoth success of 2014/2015 Elvis at The O2 exhibition, which was visited by over 200,000 people, Elvis on Tour The Exhibition will showcase more than 200 artefacts from the Graceland archives many of which will be in the UK for the very first time.

This new exhibition covering the years 1969 – 1977 will provide an in-depth look at the world that was Elvis on Tour, offering a unique insight into exactly what drove the audiences wild in the ’70’s – the chance to see the King in concert as he toured America.

Bringing together many examples of Elvis’ costumes and stage wear along with the guitars, jewellery, posters and - for the first time - unique interviews with Elvis’ touring band, Elvis on Tour The Exhibition will take fans into a world where millions of people watched the greatest live rock and roll shows ever staged, which at one point was televised to over one billion people worldwide.

Providing an insight into what went on backstage, the planes, the clothes and of course the music, Elvis on Tour The Exhibition will bring fans as close as possible to the experience of seeing the King live for themselves.

Artefacts showcased in Elvis on Tour The

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Exhibition and leaving Graceland include: • Over 35 jumpsuits and costumes worn by Elvis between 1969-1977 • Guitars from tours that Elvis played during the period, including the Gretzch Country Gentlemen Guitar used by Elvis on stage in Las Vegas in 1969 • Original acetate of ‘An American Trilogy’ – a song brought to Elvis by Priscilla • Gold Belt given to Elvis in 1969 by the International Hotel in Las Vegas to mark his record breaking live performance attendance in the City Priscilla Presley comments: ‘’To have a second exhibition dedicated to Elvis opening in London is remarkable. We were overwhelmed by the huge numbers, who were not only fans but people who were curious to learn more about Elvis. Elvis was beloved by his fans and they also meant the world to him. We are delighted that this carefully curated selection of over 200 artefacts will give them the opportunity to gain an even greater insight into his life and how he impacted popular culture around the world through his music, movies and personal style.

Priscilla Presley will be making a very special appearance in London on 30 November 2017, joining the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra on stage at The O2 as part of the Elvis in Concert – Live on Stage UK tour.

Tickets costs: Adult £25 / Child £12 / Concessions £18. All ticket are subject to a booking fee.

For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit: www.elvisontourexhibition.co.uk Facebook: @elvisontourexhibition www.facebook.com/ elvisontourexhibition; Twitter: @elvisexhibition #elvisontourexhibition

OUT & ABOUT

BEST OF BRITISH & BEYOND 19 - 22 October, One Marylebone, NW1 4AQ

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ADE LONDON is one of the top selling events for contemporary designer craftsmen and women in Europe. The fair showcases the very best and most original handmade work from this country and beyond with makers themselves selling their highest quality contemporary craft and design direct to the public.

Visitors to MADE LONDON are always impressed by the variety and originality of the craft and design on show and love exploring the venue One Marylebone.

MADE LONDON is a relaxed and friendly event with a lovely laid-back atmosphere.

Each year a range of work from makers across all media - ceramics, glass, wood, precious metals, textiles, and more â&#x20AC;&#x201C; is selected; designers already established in their field, as well as new and emerging talent.

Mosaic artist Cleo Mussi will be taking over the Belfry Room at One Marylebone to create a Rest and Reset space. Cleo is working on two brand new

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figures, Rhea and Demeter which will form part of this special exhibit along with Mitochondrial Eve, a Mother Earth figure holding Homunculus Babe and a Green Man entitled Nature Recycles Everything.

The Belfry Room will become a haven. A place to unwind, surrounded by soothing sounds and incredible mosaic artworks. www.madelondon-marylebone.co.uk

OUT & ABOUT

designjunction 2017 21–24 September

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esignjunction returns to the spectacular King’s Cross site next month for this year’s annual London Design Festival. Designjunction presents more than 200 world-class international brands and smaller cutting-edge design labels to an audience of the world’s leading design professionals and consumers. In 2016, designjunction attracted more than 27,000 visitors in five days.

Taking place across five destinations - a mix of global furniture, lighting, accessory, material and technology brands will exhibit alongside pop-up shops, installations and interactive features.

A place to meet, do business and be inspired.

GRANARY SQUARE

Granary Square will feature headline projects including a new collaboration with Renault UK. Renault will showcase their design philosophy in a unique and playful way, creating an immersive experience around the concept ‘Beautiful Life’. Turkishceramics will create an installation in the central fountain space, celebrating the rich history of ceramics in Turkey, representing over 30 individual ceramic manufacturers.

competition. The Rado Star Prize UK will target the next generation of young British designers working across interior, industrial and technology design, culminating in a spectacular exhibition and awards ceremony at the show.

THE CANOPY

The Canopy will be a temporary pop-up venue for premium retail brands and emerging design labels, selling everything from fashion accessories to technology, ceramics, glassware and stationery. The line-up includes Moxon, One We Made Earlier, Tom Pigeon, Oggetto and Dashel.

“The Canopy will be a temporary pop-up venue for premium retail brands and emerging design labels”

TALKS PROGRAMME

This year, designjunction launches a brand new talks programme at The Office Group in King’s Cross. The space, designed by Wells Mackereth and Studio Downie Architects, will host presentations, discussions and demonstrations across two days set to challenge, provoke and engage with 21st century design.

CUBITT HOUSE AND CUBITT PARK Both venues will present a stellar line-up of international design brands including Design House Stockholm, Friends and Founders, Decode, Another Country and Very Good & Proper.

Lightjunction - the decorative lighting section returns with a curated mix of leading global lighting firms. Since its inception, lightjunction has attracted world-class brands including Artemide, Marset, Northern Lighting and Slamp.

THE CROSSING

The Crossing will house installations from Corian, Kirkby Design, Blackbody and partnership projects. This year designjunction has teamed up with design-led watch brand Rado, to launch the first-ever UK edition of the Rado Star Prize design 2 6 SEPTEMBER 2 0 1 7

Visit www.thedesignjunction.co.uk for more details Follow on @_designjunction #djKX #wheredesignmeets

OUT & ABOUT

PAD LONDON Clockwise from above: Christopher Duffy, Abyss coffee table, Courtesy of Sarah Myerscough Gallery.

Hervé van der Straeten, Armoire Fusion N° 435, 2016, and Lustre confusion N° 350, 2017, Photo copyright: Cecil Mathieu, Courtesy of Hervé van der Straeten

2-8 October 2017, Berkeley Square, Mayfair, W1

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AD LONDON, the internationally acclaimed fair for art and design, returns for its eleventh edition next month. It’s the only design-focused (both historic and contemporary) fair in London and cherished by the international collecting community, offering a very intimate and elegant setting which allows them to cross-collect across periods and genres.

This year’s edition brings together 67 leading galleries showcasing masterpieces across disciplines and periods encompassing contemporary, modern and historical design, jewellery, tribal art and antiquities. Eleven first-time exhibitors will further enrich the depth and scope of the exceptionally diverse offering: Anne Autegarden from Belgium; Avant-Scène, Alexandre Biaggi, Nicolas Bourriaud, Marcilhac, Ma Tei, Meubles et Lumières and Mouvements Modernes from France; DIMOREGALLERY and Rossana Orlandi from Italy; and Portuondo from the UK and Spain.

Contemporary design at PAD shines this year with the arrival of two prominent Milanese galleries championing a new wave of eclecticism: DIMOREGALLERY, mixing the sensual and colourful creations of celebrated design duo Brit Moran and Emiliano Salci with carefully selected vintage and contemporary pieces, and Rossana Orlandi with her inimitable blend of inspiring findings and quirky furniture by international design talents.

This edition reveals museum-quality works from experts in 20th century design. Alexandre Biaggi (Paris) brings outstanding works by French designer Marc du Plantier, British-born American designer and tastemaker T. H. Robsjohn-Gibbings, and an exceptional sculptural lamp produced

by Alberto Giacometti in collaboration with French interior designer Jean-Michel Frank.

Anne Autegarden (Brussels) exhibits rare pieces from mid-century Italian designers such as Gio

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THE DETAILS For more details and to purchase tickets visit www.pad-fairs.com Monday 2 October Collectors Preview, 11am - 8pm Tuesday 3 October VIP Opening, 11am - 8pm Wednesday 4 Saturday 7 October 11am - 8pm Sunday 8 October 11am - 6pm #PADLondon

Ponti and Carlo de Carli. Marcilhac, the oldest Parisian gallery devoted to 20th century decorative arts, presents an exquisite piece by prominent French interior designer Armand-Albert Rateau (1882-1938),alongside armchairs by French Art Deco master Eugène Printz (1889-1948). Rounding up the selection of first-time exhibitors in this category, Meubles et Lumières (Paris) displays midcentury floor lamps by notable French post-war designers Robert Mathieu and Pierre Guariche.

This year, the PAD London Restaurant and Ruinart Champagne Bar will be adorned with luxury fabrics, furniture and wallpapers by French house Pierre Frey. The family-owned design house is dedicated to preserving traditional French techniques while drawing inspiration from four corners of the world.

The PAD London Prize returns with a prestigious panel of judges presided over by Jasper Conran. Three awards will be presented in the following categories: Best Contemporary Design, Best 20th Century Design and Best Stand.

OUT & ABOUT

KATHY LETTE’S GIRLS’ NIGHT OUT “Women are each other’s human wonder bras – uplifting, supportive and making each other look bigger and better.”

– Kathy Lette

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ustralian born author, screenwriter, journalist, party girl and all-round bonne vivant, Kathy Lette hits the road this Autumn, with her debut live comedy show GIRLS NIGHT OUT. Best known for her many novels including: How To Kill Your Husband: And Other Handy Household Hints, Foetal Attraction and Nip‘n’Tuck, Kathy’s decided it’s time to take centre stage and share intimate details of her varied and multi coloured personal, social and professional lives.

GIRLS NIGHT OUT is a psychological strip tease taking us from Puberty Blues to Menopause Blues, with tales of love, lust, men, marriage, pregnancy, childbirth, mastitis, sexist bosses, teenage-daughter-wrangling, ageing, toy boys, making the Queen laugh, hiding Julian Assange in her attic, tongue kissing Prince William and Close Encounters of the George Clooney Kind, en route.

Kathy also talks poignantly about the trials, tribulations and hilarity of raising a child on the autistic spectrum, from the times Jules came home from school with a sign sticky-taped to his back saying “Kick me I’m a retard” to his success playing Jason on Holby City.

So, grab your girlfriends and come along to Greenwich Theatre on Thursday 26 October at 8pm. Wit, warmth and full frontal frankness are guaranteed. (Men, attend at your own risqué!)

Tickets £18.50 Concessions £16 (all prices include a £1 per ticket booking fee. www.greenwichtheatre.org.uk 3 0 SEPTEMBER 2 0 1 7

OUT & ABOUT

AUTUMN AT GREENWICH MARKET Dairy dates What’s On in Greenwich Market this Autumn: Wellbeing Wednesday 13th September 10am-5pm Wellbeing ideas and activities Friday Street Food Fest, Urban Food 22nd Sept 6-10pm SE London street food trends, craft beers and music Live Street Art in Market with The Fan Museum for London Design Festival 23 and 24 September Live Street Art and fan making workshops Park It in the Market 28th September 7.30-10.30pm Classic cars and motorbikes. Street food and live music Totally Thames 30 September 2017 10am to 12 noon Greenwich Market – coffee morning and kids free River Thames card making workshops Halloween Celebrations 27 October 12-6pm Children’s free costume making, face painting, spooky dog show and freaky fashion show Lights On and Lantern Parade, meet Father Christmas 22 November 3pm to 6pm Xmas late night Christmas Craft and Design Markets 6, 13 & 20 Dec 11 to 8pm

Opening times: Market open 7 days a week.

10am - 5.30pm

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reenwich Market is London’s only historic market set within a World Heritage site. Today it is one of London’s most popular designer maker craft markets with up to 150 stalls showcasing the work of the local talented designer makers. Set in the heart of the town centre and surrounded by independent shops, gastro pubs, restaurants, cafes and wine bars, the type of stalls does vary from day to day with arts and crafts Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and over the week end and with antiques and collectibles on Thursdays and Fridays.

The market is well known for its street food offer Eighteen months of restoration works have just been completed and light now floods into the covered market. The roof, which was installed in 1908, has been stripped back, cleaned (there were more than 12 layers of paint on the supporting steels), and new glass, new lighting and electrics have been installed. The historic cobblestone flooring has been levelled and re-laid and the

modern brick walkways have been replaced with granite paving. A new food court area, The Pavilion, has been created just off the main market and provides a relaxed seating area for visitors to the market.

The Market and much of the Greenwich town centre is owned by Greenwich Hospital, a unique Crown Charity established in 1694, and provides support including annuities, sheltered housing and education to serving and retired personnel of the Royal Navy and Royal Marines and their dependants. Last year the charity had 26,000 beneficiaries. The charity is funded by the rents from the stall holders in the market, the residential and commercial tenants and the historic buildings of the Greenwich Estate. Greenwich has long been home to a Royal Charter Market which was originally assigned to the Commissioners of Greenwich Hospital on the 19th December 1700 for 1,000 years. www.greenwichmarketlondon.com

OUT & ABOUT

THE INDULGENCE SHOW 2017 The Luxury Audio & Lifestyle Exhibition

Novotel Conference Centre, Hammersmith, 29 September - 1 October 2017

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he Indulgence Show, London’s newest lifestyle entertainment event, is returning to the capital with an array of incredible luxury audio systems on demonstration that will be sure to amaze you. Incorporating brands from all over the globe, Indulgence will exhibit the largest range of home audio solutions in London.

The event is designed to appeal to discerning consumers with a very high disposable income.

Systems will go from the modestly priced to a cool half a million pounds and beyond.

Indulging visitors’ curiosity for discovering and interacting with new lifestyle and home entertainment brands, the show will, once again, be divided into three zones….

AUDIO LONDON @ Indulgence will feature the world’s top hi-fi and home cinema brands under one roof. Visitors will be able to experience just how good your music can sound on a real hi-fi system or how immersive your favourite films can be, perfect for those looking to have a luxury home cinema.

PURE PLEASURE @ Indulgence is aimed at visitors who enjoy the finer things in life. It’s the zone to visit if you like to indulge your varied passions and treat yourself to high quality luxury products - from home entertainment and décor, cars, luxury holidays, watches and jewellery to wines, spirits and hand-made chocolate – all to make your life more enriching, fun and enjoyable.

HEADROOM™ will be host to a range of brands that are unable to be purchased anywhere in Europe and will be on demonstration for the first time in the UK. Nowhere else in the UK is it possible to try out so many headphones, earphones

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FREE TICKET READER OFFER

and portable audio players. headroom’s substantial number of exhibitors from some of the biggest brands in the world gives you the best chance to see Life Magazines have teamed up with The and hear products that are otherwise Indulgence Show to offer our readers the chance inaccessible. of free tickets to visit this prestigious event.

New and exciting exhibitors joining There are 100 free tickets available, based on a the line-up demonstrating brands such first come, first served basis. Please include as Porsche Design; Can-Am; SEAthe code ‘LIFEMAGS’ into the discount DOO; KEF; Devialet; Naim Audio; code tab on the checkout page of the Vinyl Resellers; Focal and Ross Halfin website: Photography. www.indulgenceshow.com.

Last year, the show attracted over 3,000 visitors and this year, the organisers anticipate that the event will be even bigger and better!

Vernon Hamblin, The Indulgence Show organiser, says, “The level of success for our first ever show last year was tremendous. The ‘Pure Pleasure’ area really brought a different energy to the venue as companies such as Tesla, Yamaha and Can-Am were there to show visitors their upto-the-minute products. It was also a pleasure to see the number of hi-fi enthusiasts that turned up to the event and enjoyed the ‘Audio London’ and ‘headroom™’ sections. This year we’re expecting an even more triumphant show with some big names already lined up to exhibit their goods. Visitors can look forward to all the delights from last year plus new and exciting displays and workshops that they can get involved in. If 2016 was something to go by, this show is not one that should be missed.”

To find out more about The Indulgence Show, the biggest lifestyle, audio and music show to come to London in a decade, visit www.indulgenceshow.com

OUT & ABOUT

The Autumn Decorative Antiques & Textiles Fair Goes Nautical 3-8 October 2017, Battersea Park

London’s chicest, and largest, antiques and period design event sails in with a nautical tack!

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he Fair’s much-anticipated Foyer presentation, which sets a trend for each event with a styled and themed selling display with furniture, art and accessories drawn from exhibitors, is The Admiral’s Eyrie, a gentleman’s study-come-sitting room with a twist of sea-farer’s folly. Formal antique furniture will be mixed with modern accents such as lighting, and given a distinct design focus by decorating with marine instruments, pictures and works of art. Among the more quirky elements will be a set of WWII Zeiss naval binoculars, a large lamp from the Mumbles lighthouse in Swansea, a mid-1960s model of a Chris-Craft/Riva type motorboat, and a selection of sea charts and world maps.

All participants are carefully selected, specialists in antique and 20th century design from Britain and Europe with an unrivalled selection of stock.

Private customers mingle with leading members of the international design trade, retail buyers and film stylists who come to search out original and unusual furniture, art and accessories to give their projects an individual touch.

There will be a strong showing of art at the Autumn Fair, with leading galleries such as Anthony Hepworth, Jenna Burlingham Fine Art, Black Ink Masterprints, Julian Simon Fine Art Ltd, Darnley Fine Art and The Parker Gallery in attendance. Expect to find dealers in traditional

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country house antiques, fine furniture, 20th century design, decorative and vernacular antiques making a strong show, plus a fascinating selection of quirky accessories and unusual objects for the decorator and collector.

New exhibitors at the Autumn 2017 Fair include McWhirter Antiques Ltd (Langton Street, London SW10), Bleu Anglais (London, by appointment), Inglis Hall Antiques (Heathfield, E. Sussex) and Joseph Berry Interiors (Blanchard Collective & by appointment London) with unique pieces from lighting to taxidermy and furniture.

New this Autumn is an early-opening for the eponymous brasserie, Megan’s Kitchen, allowing visitors the chance to come an hour before the Fair (from 11am Tuesday 3rd, and from 10am from Wednesday 4th through Sunday 8th October) for brunch or leisurely coffee before shopping.

From top: Duncan Grant, 1885-1978, Still Life, 1957 signed and dated, gouache on paper 29 1/8 x 22 1/8 in (74 x 56 cm) Price indication, between £25,000 - £30,000 (Jenna Burlingham); A late 17th century green glazed Safavid tile, Persian, circa 1670 Height: 9 3/4 in; 25cm £3,250 (McWhirter Antiques Ltd); Left: Large French art deco vase by Sainte Radegonde, c1930’s, £795 (Tim Smith-Vincent)

THE DETAILS For more details visit www.decorativefair.com or contact the organisers on 020 7616 9327.

Decorative Antiques & Textiles Fair, 3-8 October 2017 Battersea Evolution, Battersea Park, SW11 4NJ

AdAm CAlvert Bentley European Furniture, Art & Antique Objects

Set of Four 18th Century Italian Open-Armchairs or Fauteuils

18th Century Louis XVI Provincial Painted Commode

18th Century Louis XVI Painted Side-Cabinet

19th Century Louis-Philippe Painted Centre Table

Set of Four of Famille Verte Porcelain and Gilt-Bronze Wall Lights or Sconces

Rare 18th Century George II Irish Giltwood Mirror

Fine Pair of Large “Mallett” Low Tables or Coffee Tables

A Fine Pair of 18th Century Watercolours in Original Gilt-wood Frames.

Rare Set of Six 18th Century Silk Applique and Gouache Pictures

Rare Set of Six 18th Century Silk Applique and Gouache Pictures

Rare Set of Six 18th Century Silk Applique and Gouache Pictures

Rare Set of Six 18th Century Silk Applique and Gouache Pictures

Along with exhibiting a fine collection of European furniture and decorative antiques at The Battersea Decorative Fair, Adam Calvert Bentley, opened a new London gallery this summer in the the heart of Battersea, where visitors are welcome to view, by appointment, a much larger inventory of pieces in the collection Rare Set of Six 18th Century Silk Applique and Gouache Pictures

Rare Set of Six 18th Century Silk Applique and Gouache Pictures

Adam Calvert Bentley, Studio 45 Safestore Business Centre, Ingate Place, Battersea, SW8 3NS. Email: adambentley@hlbentley.co.uk • Mobile: 07545 22 00 52 Website: hlbentley.co.uk • Instagram: @adamcbentley

OUT & ABOUT

Ali Smith to open Wimbledon BookFest 2017 5th - 15th October 2017

Entrepreneur Liz Earle

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ugely anticipated by the local community, BookFest, now in its eleventh year, features a carefully curated mix of literary names, local talent, politics, current affairs, sport, film, music, theatre and children’s events in the Baillie Gifford Big Tent on Wimbledon Common.

Wimbledon BookFest is delighted to announce the opening event for 2017 - multi-award winning novelist Ali Smith in conversation with BBC broadcaster Samira Ahmed at The Space in Wimbledon Library on Thursday 5th October. Ali Smith’s novel ‘Autumn’ is the ‘Festival Reads’ title for 2017 with copies available in Merton Libraries throughout the summer.

Speakers include bestselling novelists Salman Rushdie, A.L. Kennedy, Anthony Horowitz, Tracy Chevalier, Tessa Hadley¸ Elif Sahfak and Kamila Shamsie; entrepreneur Liz Earle; Vogue editor Alexandra Shulman; philosopher A.C. Grayling and Nick Hytner, the former artistic director of the National Theatre.

As ever BookFest showcases a lively politics and

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Ewan Davis.

current affairs strand with speakers including Alan Johnson, Chris Patten, Jon Sopel and Fergal Keane; whilst Chris Boardman, Judy Murray and Brian Moore and friends will provide a unique insight in to the world of sport.

Children’s events include Children’s Laureate, Chris Riddell and writer and illustrator Clare Vuillamy, with further speakers to be announced soon. Joe Lycett headlines BookFest’s legendary comedy night and the Wimbledon International Short Film Festival returns with a stunning new collection of films.

Wimbledon BookFest is also launching the Jane Gardam Short Story Prize in partnership with the University of Roehampton. Full details on how to enter will be announced shortly.

Set on Wimbledon Common, close to Wimbledon Village, a specially commissioned Baillie Gifford Big Tent seating up to 500, and an intimate William Morris themed marquee, provide the focal point for the Festival.

For more details visit www.wimbledonbookfest.org

F o s t e r

&

G a n e

A fine and rare 13th century Cosmati mosaic marble and porphyry panel (+44) 07714 269 719

www.fosterandgane.com

info@fosterandgane.com

OUT & ABOUT

Dog Day Afternoon Saturday 14th October 2017, 11am-5pm

Pitter patter down to the Cabbages and Frocks market in Marylebone village for another special Dog Day Afternoon.

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ne of the highlights of the day will be the Good Boy Dog School headed by Dima and his doggy dance partners George and Teddy, who will be presenting new and exciting routines at 12 noon and 2pm. Previously Dima and George have been seen on Britain’s Got talent. George, who is a wow with the ladies, upstaged Lady Gaga on Comic relief. A winning duo, not to be missed!

There are FREE competitions from 2.30pm, with each taking approximately 10 minutes Competition judges are Chamois Rose-Wood of the Independent and Rob Alleyne of Dog Owners Club and seen on BBC3 “Dog Borstal” Look out for the latest in canine couture and doggy accessories, including pet portrait artist Claire Thorogood. Bag a cool reversible bandana by Montydog bandanas for dog owner with discerning taste. Make sure to check out the stylish dog coats and luxury accessories by Dogsnug including the limited edition personalised dog coats with special warm linings, designed to look fantastic, steal smiles and set tails r wagging! You will Running orde never lose sight of ds ee br for mixed your pooch if you A bit of ruff ” choose the gold Best dog trick Wag gy tail waterproof coat and toy breeds he will shine out of Miniatures and the pack.

Matching pairs e Block While watching New kid on th Best Puppy the competitions ies munch on a Oldies but good Best in show chocolate brownie from Crumb De La Crème and don’t forget to take home an authentic piece of Pecorino by Italian True.

Fashion stalls will also be there in abundance, including the vintage stall with used Hermes finds, Gucci handbags and accessories. Vintage clothing may include Valentino, Dior, Dolce & Gabbana.

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The details Free Admission For more information about Cabbages & Frocks visit www.cabbagesandfrocks.co.uk Facebook: Cabbages and frocks market Twitter: @cabbagesfrocks Instagram: cabbagesandfrocks Cabbages & Frocks is open every Saturday 11-5pm St Marylebone Parish Church grounds Marylebone High Street W1U 5BA, (opp. Conran Shop) Tube: Baker Street

“Look out for the latest in canine couture and doggy accessories, including pet portrait artist Claire Thorogood” Don’t miss Gabriela Rose’s tweed tailored jackets in autumnal hues. Meet distinguished dog trainer Rob Alleyne, author of the book “The troubled-free dog” who has been the behavioural trainer on the BBC3 series Dog Borstal.

The event supports All Dogs Matter, a London rehoming charity with a passionate team.

Don’t miss out, you may go home with a rosette and purchases for you and your pet. Either way you are guaranteed a fun filled day out!

OUT & ABOUT

At Angel Swim London

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They believe swimming is an ESSENTIAL skill that can not only save your child’s life, but can bring an abundance of benefits.

hey teach babies, toddlers and children to swim and believe that creating a positive connection with the water from the very beginning is fundamental in your little Angel’s journey. They believe in quality over quantity – with a maximum of 4 per class in their baby & toddler lessons (4 weeks - 3 years) and a maximum of 2 per class in their Angel Stage lessons (3yrs+).

Their incredible instructors, small class sizes and fantastic venues means they can offer you and your child Premium swimming tuition from birth and beyond...

Baby & Child swimming lessons in Chelsea From 4 weeks - 6 years.

If you would like your little one to attend lessons at Angel Swim London located on the King’s Road, Chelsea, they can offer lessons on a Tuesdays 3.15pm - 6.15pm and Wednesdays 1pm - 6.30pm all year round. Lessons last for 30 minutes, have a maximum of 4 per class and are delivered in their warm, welcoming hydrotherapy pool heated from 30 - 32 degrees celsius.

Home Visit Swim Service From 4 weeks to 10 years If you would like a highly experienced aquatic professional to deliver lessons for your little one in the comfort and convenience of your own home please get in touch. Angel Swim London provide 30 minute lessons once or twice a week at a time that is most convenient for you. In order to get the most out your lessons we strongly recommend booking a 12 week course so that your child makes consistent, significant progress.

Holiday Swim Service From 2.5 years - 10 years If you would like your little one to learn a lifesaving skill, develop physically, cognitively, socially and emotionally while you relax on holiday get in touch today. This summer, Adam spent two weeks at a client’s private villa in Mallorca where every 4 2 SEPTEMBER 2 0 1 7

morning he delivered a premium 1-2-1 lesson in the ocean, every afternoon a 1-2-1 lesson in the pool and every evening an hour of football training.

This bespoke holiday programme yielded incredible results, Mum said “He is so unbelievably confident.

I can’t thank you enough and am so grateful for everything you have done for him!”

To reserve your place please fill out a booking form on the website: www.angelswim.london or alternatively you can call Adam direct on 07435 278 910

“They can offer you and your child Premium swimming tuition from birth and beyond”

OUT & ABOUT

GAZELLI ART HOUSE WORDS: Spirit de la Mare

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ontemporary gallery Gazelli Art House supports a wide range of international artists, presenting a broad and critically acclaimed programme of exhibitions to a diverse audience through global public projects and exhibition spaces in London and Baku. Gazelli Art House was founded in 2003 in Baku, Azerbaijan where it held exhibitions with Azeri artists.

From 2010, having hosted conceptually interlinked off-site exhibitions across London, Founder and Director Mila Askarova opened a permanent space on Dover Street, London in March 2012. The same year, the Window Project was launched utilising the frontage of the gallery as additional display platform. In 2015, the initiative was remodeled to solely accommodate art school graduates through open call competitions three times a year.

As part of the gallery’s on-going commitment to art education, a series of events and talks are organised to run alongside each exhibition. In 2015, the gallery launched its Digital Art House www.gazell.io, an online residency for artists working in the digital realm.

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DEREK BOSHIER ON THE ROAD Exhibition dates: 6th October – 18th November 2017 Private View: 5th October 6pm-8m Location: Gazelli art House, 39 Dover street, London W1S 4NN Derek Boshier’s On the Road is the inaugural solo exhibition at Gazelli Art House in London, showcasing his latest acrylic on canvas works and premiering two short films.

Boshier’s clear references to pop culture are ever present in this show with depictions of his long standing friend and biggest collector, David Bowie appearing in three paintings: ‘David Bowie and Teresa Cornelys’, ‘David Bowie Twice’ and ‘David Bowie, Jack Kerouac, and David Bowie’. The pair first met in the late seventies and shortly after their introduction Boshier was to design the album artwork for Bowie’s Lodger. Within these paintings Boshier approaches the subject of how a single performer explores many identities through creative self-management, a performing art Bowie excelled at.

Shortly before David Bowie died, he is

Boshier’s clear references to pop culture are ever present in this show known to have written messages to his nearest, longstanding friends and collaborators. Included in these heartfelt goodbyes Boshier received praise and acknowledgement for his body of work and contribution to the pop art movement throughout the decades.

“I just had to write and tell you how much I love the book that has just been published. Your work really cascades over the decades and is utterly real and convincing. You really are a master. Cush!!” David Bowie Boshier attended the Royal College of Art where he was a contemporary amongst notable artists involved in the pop art movement such as

Kitaj, Allen Jones, R.B and David Hockney. His Image in Revolt exhibition at London’s Grabowski Gallery with Frank Bowling that Boshier introduced icons of American consumer culture with the incorporation of big brand logos. Taking a nonhierarchical approach to the use of popular images has been a long running theme within Boshier’s work, making use of the Pepsi logo in place of the rising sun and other iconic images such as Kellogg’s cornflakes logo and iconic striped toothpaste image.

Other works in the exhibition include his Otherwise Engaged series (Pyramids and Guadeloupe Mountains), which provide a witty social commentary on the digitalization of everyday life and the appreciation, or lack of, of one’s surroundings. Two paintings; Cheetah Mathmaticus and In Anticipation are a continuation of Boshier’s long term interest in aspects of duality, which also appears in the series Otherwise Engaged.

Although this exhibition focuses primarily on his paintings Boshier is known to explore other mediums as a sculptor, filmmaker, designer and artists.

For further information about On the Road

by Derek Boshier please contact: Gazelli Art House press@gazelliarthouse.com +44 (0)20 7491 8816 www.gazelliarthouse.com

OUT & ABOUT

Only for The Brave.

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t first glance one would be forgiven for thinking this exhibition is all about Belinda. For each portrait, is indeed a self-portrait.

However, the significance of the title is that ‘Theatre of One’ is exactly that.

No film crew, no lighting expert, no make up artist, prop nor wardrobe stylist and, more significantly, no model.

Where other subjects are involved they are real people Belinda has stumbled across in coffee shops or on the street. People who fit with the vision.

Normal people whom she then takes on, guides and directs. This is her passion, raw talent in raw landscapes.

Belinda is unassisted in the gritty world of urban settings and the wild landscapes of reality.

All is and was, as you see it. An authentic shot of a very real moment from a very real vision, recreated entirely by herself. Look carefully at her hands and you can see the evidence of this in the form of a remote air control, clicking the shutter as she finally steps in.

Make of it what you will. Belinda works entirely alone in private introspection. Any hour of the day and night that suits her cause. Easy as it may be to take a separate model, dressed, made up and waiting to jump into shot, this goes against her rational.

The significance of this is in the message that is perpetuated between self and image: loneliness; independence but most importantly strength and self-sufficiency.

Far from being “all about me’ it is symbolic and necessary for the method and backdrop to complement and reflect this ethos. To feel utterly alone in every which way. Either in the context of the theme and sympathetic illustration of this theme, or emotionally as a woman, wife, mother or mere human being.

Hence this theme of independence and isolation shows strength and vulnerability. A strength that is not diluted by having assistants, models or crew. A vulnerability that is strength and not a weakness.

Every prop, every location, every innovative idea, style even shutter speed has been carefully honed to collectively express this. And to evoke in us, an emotive response that too is entirely individual and that makes us think.

And there is plenty to think about. Tacit historical and Biblical references may or may not exist as you wander through this subjective private viewing. On the other hand if it is form that you are thinking about then dimension and proportion will be key.

As we are drawn into each image we are being asked palpable and possibly uncomfortable questions too about whom we are. We do have a choice though; we need not go there.

As you look you can walk by and enjoy, or you might go out of your comfort zone, scratch the

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surface a little deeper and address what it stirs in you?

Only the brave will truly look into and evaluate the image. For those who don’t think, and those who think but don’t want to, what will they see?

Uncomfortable viewing maybe for anyone shy of seeing it as mirror or a question about where they might or might not fit in.

Perhaps by doing this, Belinda has worked through a personal inner journey in her search for meaning and intrinsic peace, looking for answers.

Creativity is, after all, the solution to a restless soul.

For others who perhaps do not understand it then let’s presume they are driven by knowledge in their lives. Knowledge is, after all the enemy of creativity. Creativity requires us to work something out and find a solution.

Which one are you? Hazel Englander The Artist - John Springs and Belinda Wislon

Belinda Wilson Theatre Of One Photographic Exhibition

La Galleria Pall Mall 30 Royal Opera Arcade London SW1 4UY 16th - 21st October 2017 10 am - 6pm www.theatreofone.com

OUT & ABOUT

Host a fundraising candlelit dinner

Help ShelterBox deliver emergency aid to families devastated by conflict or natural disaster by hosting a Shine for ShelterBox supper this November.

far reaching ways, including helping to reduce the threat of gender violence in camps that are very dark at night with no other sources of light - not to mention making it easier to cook and share a meal together.

By hosting a Shine for ShelterBox feast you’ll his autumn, disaster relief charity, be raising money to provide light and emergency ShelterBox is inviting you to host a shelter for other families around the world who fundraising candlelit dinner to need it most. £10 will pay for a solar light to help raise vital funds for chase away the dark this winter.

This vulnerable families. And it’s so simple.

Register at ShelterBox.org/shine November, No marathon training or mountain for your Shine for ShelterBox trekking required! Just great food kit - it’s got everything you need host a candlelit with the people you love in the to set up your dinner including supper and comfort of your own home. recipes from Rick Stein and other Shine for Around 85 million people renowned chefs, decorating tips, around the world have been made and quizzes to keep your guests ShelterBox homeless by natural disaster and busy. conflict. That’s millions of families Sign up to become a host at with no roof over their heads, no warmth ShelterBox.org/Shine or comfort, and no light when the sun goes down. ShelterBox provides emergency shelter and other essential items to families who have lost everything. Their ShelterBox and ShelterKits include items like tents for families, tarpaulins, water filters, and cooking equipment. They also include solar lights that dispel the dark and help families in desperate circumstances feel a little bit safer in their darkest hour.

When disasters strike and power lines go down, a simple solar lamp can make a huge difference in

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“Shine for ShelterBox! Get your loved ones together to cook up a feast and help bring light and warmth to families this winter.

It’s such an excellent way to make a difference.”

- Rick Stein

OUT & ABOUT

BBC GOOD FOOD ANNOUNCE FIRST-EVER FOOD & DRINK FESTIVAL AT THE ICONIC TOWER OF LONDON, 22 - 24 September 2017

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repare to have your taste-buds tangled, tickled and well and truly trampled at the brand new BBC Good Food’s Feast next month. Set to be London’s – and the UK’s - most recognisable new food and drink festivals, Feast has brought together tastes from far and wide, to showcase their talents. The three day feasting goldmine, brought to you by River Street Events and BBC Good Food, will take place in the moat that surrounds the iconic Tower of London.

Hosting up to 200 cutting-edge food and drink companies sourced from all over the world the festival has something for families, urban food lovers and cocktail connoisseurs alike.

Live cookery demonstrations, masterclasses, tutored tastings, street food and live music are just some of the activities taking place over the three day foodie showcase.

The daily line-up will feature: • The ‘Feast’ Kitchen – live cooking demos with rising stars and well-established chefs • Cutting edge ‘Pop-up’ restaurants scoured from all corners of the London food scene • On-trend street food • Up to 200 food and drink brands and artisan producers • Le Cordon Bleu Skills School – cuisine and patisserie masterclasses • BBC Good Food Stage – live interviews and demos hosted by the BBC Good Food cookery team • Feast Workshops – a steak workshop with Ginger Pig and The Jones Family Project and cocktail masterclasses with The Rolling Drinks Trolley • Book signings 5 0 SEPTEMBER 2 0 1 7

Ticket prices: £18 for full day entry on Friday & Sunday £20 Saturday full day entry £10 evening only tickets available on Friday from 4pm until 8pm Visit www.bbcgoodfoodshow.com for the latest updates Tickets do not include access to the Tower of London For more information visit www.hrp.org.uk

Tom Kerridge comments, “I’m so looking forward to BBC Good Food’s Feast at the Tower of London. Firstly because it’s at the Tower of London, secondly because it’s in the moat, and thirdly, because there will be loads of street food, artisan producers and great chefs!”

James Malarkey, Head of Visitor and Commercial Services at Historic Royal Palaces at the Tower of London commented, “The BBC Good Food Festivals at Hampton Court Palace have been a great success. Historic Royal Palaces is pleased that the Tower of London will host the next food festival. The moat is a stunning space for the launch of Feast”.

OUT & ABOUT

A TRULY UNIQUE VIP EXPERIENCE DELIVERED TO YOUR DOOR

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new luxury bar is delivering a VIP service via a stylishly refurbished London double decker bus. The transportable bar can travel anywhere and create an instant upmarket venue for up to 40 people on two levels with the option of an outside terrace accommodating more guests.

VIP Bus Bars has already proven to be a hit with music and sports stars with celebrities hiring it for private parties from £2,495 upwards. VIP Bus Bars, which was launched in June, was founded by Dan Atkins and Sean van Kerckhoven who run the successful luxurious bus party service Champagne Tours London.

“This is a London bus like you have never seen before,” says Dan Atkins. “We have taken the bus and completed re-fitted it like a high end bar and cocktail lounge. It is the ultimate in luxury and the beauty is that we can bring the venue to where ever you want it.”

“We really do bring the party to you and that is unique,” adds Sean van Kerckhoven. “It creates an event that people remember and is perfect for corporate events, product and brand launches, expos, concerts and festivals as well as private parties. We have already been chosen by FTSE and premium brand companies as well as celebrities from Made in Chelsea, Towie and the world of sport. But it is also popular with individuals who just want to have a great party and give their friends an amazing and luxurious experience.”

The VIP Bus Bar has a state of the art lighting system that can be programmed to match a brand’s 5 2 SEPTEMBER 2 0 1 7

colours across all levels and televisions can be added to enhance branding with promotional videos. The bus, which can be wrapped in sponsor’s logos and banners for corporate events and brand activations, comes with bar and event staff, a music system and full set up so the party can get started the moment guests arrive. The bus, which cost £100,000 to refurbish has already been used by a top digital commerce agency for a charity golf day, luxury boating festival and many more.

“Our benchmark is to give clients and guests a luxurious experience,” adds Dan. “You can dress the bar however you like, making it a cocktail lounge, a VIP area or whatever suits your brand so that you can get the maximum impact and the guests have a fantastic time in a unique, personalised venue delivered to your door. It certainly stands out from the crowd.”

For more information please visit: www.vipbusbars.co.uk

OUT & ABOUT

READY, STEADY, THE CAKE & BAKE SHOW IS BACK UK’s biggest consumer baking event returns to London • 6 – 8 October, Excel London

T

he award-winning Cake & Bake Show is returning to ExCel with all the ingredients to celebrate the very ‘Best of British’.

The Cake & Bake Show is the UK’s only live consumer event dedicated to the world of cakes, bakes and the art of baking. The nation’s best loved bakers, chefs, TV personalities, experts and enthusiasts will come together with a feast of culinary activities, inspiration and entertainment.

Four of the most formidable celebrity names in the baking world will headline this year’s show and visitors will witness them live in action: • Candice Brown – Current title holder of the 2016 Great British Bake Off • Rosemary Shrager – TV personality, chef, author and cookery school owner • Eric Lanlard – Master Patissier, author cake boutique owner and cake maker to the stars • John Whaite – TV Chef, author, cookery school

owner and winner of the 2012 Great British Bake Off Alongside the celebrities cooking up a storm in the Cake & Bake Super Theatre and Baking Academy, there will be an impressive array of live demonstrations – including Le Cordon Bleu, skills classes, free-from specialists, book signings, competitions, baking markets and all the latest trends and tools to whet any baker and cake maker’s appetite.

TICKETS Advanced tickets are now on sale and available at www.thecakeandbakeshow.co.uk or call 0844 854 1364* * A £1.75 transaction fee is applicable per order. Calls cost 7p per minute plus your company’s access charge London Advanced Ticket Prices: Adult £13, Over 60s £12, Students (with valid NUS card) £10.50 Children aged 6-16 £9.50, Children under 6 FREE.

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PROPERTY

The Listed Property Owners’ Club

Six simple steps to protect your listed home “Chimney stacks and parapets are particularly exposed and vulnerable so look out for open joints where mortar joints may be letting water in”

L

isted buildings rely on regular inspection and maintenance to keep them in good repair and to prevent more serious problems developing. Spotting potential problems is not difficult, here The Listed Property Owners’ Club share six simple steps to ensure you protect your home’s unique history and character.

STEP 1: CHECK THE ROOF Check ridge tiles which sometimes come loose and need to be re-bedded. Use binoculars to look for any damage to lead flashings or mortar fillets at the junction of the roof with walls, parapets or chimney stacks. Check in the loft to see if there is any evidence of leaks or gaps in the roof covering.

STEP 2: CHECK THE CHIMNEY STACKS Chimney stacks and parapets are particularly exposed and vulnerable so look out for open joints where mortar joints may be letting water in.

STEP 3: CHECK THE GUTTERS AND DOWNPIPES Check that gutters are not blocked by leaves, that they fall effectively towards the downpipes, and that the joints are not leaking. Look for cracks or rust on cast iron rainwater goods.

STEP 4: CHECK THE DRAINS Check that drains are not blocked by leaves and debris and that the traps are free flowing. Flush through rainwater gullies with a bucket of water or a high pressure hose to remove any sludgy deposits.

STEP 5: CHECK THE WALLS Check for cracks or areas where damp is presenting a problem and that any airbricks are not blocked.

5 6 SEPTEMBER 2 0 1 7

Cracked, flaking or blistering paintwork is a sure sign that decoration is required.

If you are concerned about any more serious defects consult a competent conservation builder, a conservation engineer or a conservation surveyor.

The Listed Property Owners’ Club can help you find someone local to you.

STEP 6: CHECK YOUR HOME INSURANCE POLICY Despite your best efforts to maintain and conserve your listed home, there are some eventualities that can’t be prepared for. Should the worst happen, would your insurance policy provide adequate cover? A quick chat with the LPOC Insurance team will help reveal any hidden nasties in your current policy, and make sure that you and your listed home are fully protected.

For further information visit www.lpoc.co.uk or telephone 01795 844939

OUT & ABOUT PROPERTY

27-28 October, London Olympia

O

nce an investment niche, luxury property is now a rapidly growing market with recent data from Christies International Real Estate revealing the world’s top ten reported property sales were all priced above $100 million for the first time in the year to May 2017. Riding the wave of excitement surrounding this emerging market, the Luxury Property Show returns to London Olympia this Autumn – headed by ever-knowledgeable Director Eddie Sikora.

The show, now in its 11th year, will play host to more than 50 exhibitors from around the world presenting investors with opportunities ranging from Mediterranean villas to beachside apartments in Thailand via alpine retreats in Northern Europe to luxury lofts in New York.

The exhibitors and sponsors list is long and distinguished as usual, and includes St James Place Wealth Management, Remax, Almanzora, Baker Woods, Mansion Global, Yamaha Music, Corcoran Group, Prime Properties, the International Property Awards and many more.

Alongside a wide range of exhibitors and stands the show also includes an in-depth schedule of seminars offering real world investment advice for investors ranging from those exploring the market for the first time, to seasoned professionals with global portfolios. The seminars will tackle key questions around the market including where to find the next global property hotspot to how to mitigate political risk and uncertainty. Among those delivering seminars are key industry figures and property funds.

Commenting ahead of the show, Eddie Sikora, Director of the show said: “Investing in property

5 8 SEPTEMBER 2 0 1 7

has always been a good option and, over the longterm, property investments continue to outperform other asset classes. With many domestic markets saturated however, and housing becoming an increasingly political concern, investors now are looking globally and focusing attention on the more exclusive end of the market – which carries less risk and where returns can be greater. Our show at the Olympia has gone from strength to strength on the back of this trend and we expect this year to be our biggest yet, bring investors and opportunities together to explore the potential of this market.”

For further information about the show, visit http://www.theluxurypropertyshow.com

Sky High Luxury

PROPERTY

Top: Battersea Roof Gardens This image: Manhattan Loft Gardens, Stratford City Right: Embassy Gardens, SW8

6 0 SEPTEMBER 2 0 1 7

I

n the capital we want the best of both worlds - a smart city apartment and a great outside space. With such a high demand, developers are realising that proper outdoor space sells homes. Some are even hiring celebrity gardeners and landscape architects to curate eye-catching communal spaces. The tough property market has encouraged developers to invest in better outdoor space because, like gyms and leisure rooms, it is what buyers want, especially big spenders.

HERE ARE JUST SOME WITH NO DOUBT, SKY-HIGH PRICES.

Embassy Gardens, SW8 Embassy Gardens, a Thames-side development in Battersea, will include three-bedroom suites and penthouses starting at £602,000. Masterplanned

by Sir Terry Farrell, the luxury apartments stand amongst landscaped public squares, parks and spectacular gardens. But the real jewel in the crown is the stunning Sky Pool and sky deck where lucky residents will be able to experience floating between two buildings 115ft in the air. The transparent glass bottomed pool will be 25 metres long, five metres wide and three metres deep and will be constructed using 20cm thick glass. The pool will allow residents to swim between the development’s roof-top bar, spa, and orangery – but don’t worry a walkway will be available as well!

Battersea Roof Gardens A neighbour to Embassy Gardens, the crowning

jewel of the Foster + Partners building is the roof garden. This will be one of the largest roof gardens in London, with views of Battersea Power Station and an amazing river and cityscape panorama. The garden is almost 1,200ft long, so residents will be able to wander from viewing point to private seating area, stopping off at the “fitness deck” for an exercise class, or pausing to enjoy the “forest in the sky” — a copse of young maple, birch and aspen trees, some with hammocks strung into their branches. There is also a lawn for sunbathing, and a rooftop pool. Battersea Roof Gardens prices start at £1.33 million for a two-bedroom flat. www.batterseapowerstation.co.uk

Manhattan Loft Gardens, Stratford City Harry Handelsman, the property developer behind the iconic St Pancras Renaissance Hotel and celebrity hotspot Chiltern Firehouse - has now set his sights on Stratford. With architect-engineer SOM — builder of the world’s tallest tower, the Burj Khalifa in Dubai, he is building Manhattan Loft Gardens, a 42-storey residential tower with three gardens cut into its sides, the whole thing held up with cantilevers. It will be clad in glass and vertical terracotta sun baffles that make striking, changing patterns. There will be a hotel and a tripleheight 15,000sq ft lobby with a brasserie and bar open to all, while 248 flats will range from studios to double-height lofts, to a £10 million penthouse that’s already sold to a British buyer. Building finishes in 2018.

PROPERTY PROPERTY PROPERTY PROPERTY PROPERTY PROPERTY

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LUXURY WEDDING GUIDE – From gifts to venues, we’ve got the big day covered – i m a ge : P E TAL & W ILD

WEDDINGS

[ SHO P P IN G ]

weddings Oh Hey Ombré Wedding Pouches Brand new Ombré Wedding Pouches from Alphabet Bags!

These little pouches are perfect for carrying your wedding day essentials and make a lovely keepsake for when the big day is over. Make the perfect little bag for a hen do. Ideal as a purse or makeup bag. Each design has been printed in metallic gold on a white canvas and hot pink ombré zip pouch. The interior is lined with hot pink cotton. Available styles: Bride, Bridesmaid, Maid of honour, Mother of the Bride and Mother of the Groom. www.alphabetbags.com

“Bespoke design, show-stopping wedding display or delicate hand-tied bouquet – Interflora expert florists go to great length”

FLORAL INSPIRATIONS The Interflora Wedding Collection is a great place to start searching for inspiration, with a vast collection of wedding flowers already online, find ideas for hand-crafted arrangements along with the expert Interflora florists who are ready to make the entire day yours, from romantic bouquets and buttonholes to arrangements and displays. Bespoke design, showstopping wedding display or delicate hand-tied bouquet – Interflora expert florists go to great lengths to transform cut flowers into exquisite arrangements. With so many shades, textures, styles and designs, fine wedding flowers add natural beauty to any wedding.

WE LOVE Talking Tables Nordic Christmas Wooden Heart Scatter by Talking Tables www.talkingtables.co.uk

keeping it personal We love this unique wooden timbergram – the perfect way to tell your wedding guests to save the date! It can be personalised with the happy couple’s names and all the information wedding guests need, such as the date, time and the location.

The postcard size means you can create a quirky keepsake card your wedding guests will love. www.gettingpersonal.co.uk 6 6 SEPTEMBER 2 0 1 7

WEDDINGS

THE NATIONAL WEDDING SHOW RETURNS TO OLYMPIA 22nd – 24th September 2017

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he National Wedding Show is the pinnacle event in the wedding planning calendar. Bringing together over 300 of the world’s best designers, stationers, chocolatiers and more. The National Wedding Show is every bride and grooms’ go to event for wedding inspiration and advice from artisans and experts in the field.

There will be a series of must-sees taking place over the three days, with the flagship feature being The Wedding Catwalk. This will showcase a huge selection of wedding dresses, bridesmaid dresses, groomswear, mother of the bride and guest outfits.

Featuring wedding attire from top designers to high street names including Allure Bridals, David’s

There will be a series of must-sees taking place over the three days

Bridal, Riki Dalal and Moss Bros, the catwalk is an unmissable experience for the entire wedding party.

New for Autumn 2017 is the Inspiration Lab. The lab will give brides, grooms, family and friends the opportunity to explore their artistic side and learn how to create something unique and beautiful with The National Wedding Show’s selection of crafty experts. From modern calligraphy workshops to cocktail masterclasses, there’s something for everyone to try, adding their own personal touch to their special day.

Another new addition to The National Wedding Show is The Style Stage. Leading experts will be on hand to give advice on everything from finding the right dress to learning to de-stress before your big day. In addition, the luxury French cosmetics house, Lancôme, will run a daily make-up masterclass featuring the latest bridal looks.

Plus The Cosmetics Hub, also brand new for 2017, will host top range international beauty experts showcasing their latest products as well as giving demonstrations. There will be talks on skincare, facials and much more from VIVA Skin 6 8 SEPTEMBER 2 0 1 7

Clinics and Dr. Leah Cosmetic Skin Clinics amongst others.

But The National Wedding Show is not just for brides - The Grooms’ Room with Cad & The Dandy will provide a laid-back shopping experience for the men at the show, with classic British tailoring, English fabrics and unparalleled choice from a carefully curated range of independent labels.

VIP ticket holders are catered for with their very own Secret Garden VIP Experience. Not only will they be able to nab exclusive reserved seats at The Wedding Catwalk but they’ll also have access to the Secret Garden VIP lounge full of hidden treats and surprises. As well as queue jump, VIP guests will receive a goodie bag worth £100 plus a complimentary glass of sparkling coconut water, ginger and vodka from Twisted Halo.

To purchase tickets, visit www.nationalweddingshow. co.uk or call 0844 874 0486 Standard tickets start from £14, with limited VIP tickets at £35.

WEDDINGS

Bath’s Historic Venues Roman Baths & Pump Room • Assembly Rooms • Victoria Art Gallery • Guildhall

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Image: Marianne Taylor photography

ecognised as one of the most beautiful cities in the world, Bath is the only city in Britain to enjoy UNESCO World Heritage status. It is the perfect location for a wedding, with its stylish combination of beautiful architecture, breath-taking scenery and luxurious accommodation. Only 90 minutes from London, Bath is both an exceptional and accessible city.

Bath’s Historic Venues are integral to the city’s history and include some of the country’s most iconic buildings:

Roman Baths & Pump Room Situated at the heart of the World Heritage site, the Roman Baths and Pump Room was recently voted Best Historic Wedding Venue in the UK Wedding Awards 2017, and is without doubt one of the most distinctive and unique buildings in the country.

Not only is there nothing like it in the world, it also provides a fantastic opportunity to be married in the open air but remain under cover, safe from the unpredictable British weather. What could be more romantic than exchanging your vows next to the torchlit, steaming waters of the Great Bath in one of our Sunrise or Sunset ceremonies?

The Great Bath is continuously filled with hot flowing water which rises up bubbling from deep underground, warmed by the heart of the earth’s core. Surrounding this bath is 2000 year old Roman paving where couples can tie the knot and guests can gather to enjoy a stunning and atmospheric wedding.

The grand Pump Room, built in the 1790s was the focal point of Georgian society and Jane Austen observed people and fashions from within the building. This elegant room is a perfect location to continue celebrations, with a seated wedding breakfast and dancing. There is a choice of rooms, 7 0 SEPTEMBER 2 0 1 7

Image: Lee Niel photography

and the venue can cater for intimate groups as well as much larger wedding parties for up to 200 guests.

Assembly Rooms The Assembly Rooms is one of Bath’s most prestigious venues and has been at the heart of the city’s social life since the 18th century. Recently voted Best City Wedding Venue in the UK Wedding awards 2017, the venue houses stunning crystal chandeliers, impressive architecture and everything necessary for a stylish city wedding. There are four inter connecting rooms of varying size providing versatile space for weddings with 50-300 guests.

Searcys, our esteemed in-house caterer at the Pump Room and Assembly Rooms, have an enviable reputation. Since 1847, they have been one of the UK’s most prestigious catering companies.

With a passion for quality and an ability to execute an event to the very highest standards, they have developed a world-famous reputation for catering and hospitality at their iconic, exclusive venues which include Blenheim Palace, the Gherkin and St Pancras Grand.

Bath’s Historic Venues Pump Room Stall Street Bath BA1 1LZ bath_venues@bathnes.gov.uk 01225 477786 bathvenues.co.uk/life BathsHistoricVenues @bathvenues

“I know everyone says it’s the best day of their lives, but it was and this is down to the beautiful venue, amazing staff and perfect food. You don’t deliver a wedding; you deliver an experience of a lifetime!”

– Gemma Davidson Wedding ceremonies and receptions can also take place in the Guildhall and Victoria Art Gallery, both in the heart of Bath.

For further information about all of our venues, visit our website: bathvenues.co.uk

Image: Amy Sanders Photography

WEDDINGS

The Speech and the Suit

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ere comes the groom! Even the most modern of weddings can often feel like it’s all about the bride, but now Debrett’s, the authority on modern wedding etiquette, is offering bespoke services for the bridegroom and his best man. They will ensure that you fulfil your two primary responsibilities – looking good and giving a brilliant speech – with confidence and style.

The two courses can be taken together over a full day or separately as half-day courses. An additional guest (usher, father or father-in-law-to-be) can be included.

The Speech Rupert Wesson, academy director and public speaking expert at Debrett’s, will deliver an intensive two-hour session on speech-giving for the bridegroom and up to two others. The workshop will focus on the content of the speech, mastering nerves, timing, humour, and using aids such as a microphone and notes. It will also cover traditional toasts, thank-yous and the order of speeches.

2 hour session: £500 for up to two participants, £650 for three.

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The Suit Men’s style expert Tim Lord will work with the bridegroom and up to two others to style and source the perfect outfit for his wedding day.

Whether you’re choosing traditional morning dress, a lounge suit or an alternative, Tim will accompany you to a selection of his favourite men’s outfitters on Savile Row and advise on the best cut, cloth, pattern and style to suit you and your budget. He will encourage you to try on a range of options to incorporate elements that are most meaningful and personal to the individual and to the couple. The session will help you to find a wedding outfit that best complements your personality and style, while covering the finer points of tailoring and men’s style 4 hour session: £950 for up to two participants, £1,200 for three.

Tim Lord is a highly experienced stylist and personal style consultant whose clients have included Jude Law, Keith Richards, Michael Fassbender, Alex James, James Bay, Mumford & Sons and Jack Guinness. His work has been featured in a range of publications including GQ, Esquire and Men’s Health.

Price for both courses: £1,350 for up to two participants, £1,500 for three.

THE DETAILS Please enquire for pricing and more information: email OllyWalker@debretts.co.uk or telephone Debrett’s on 0203 705 2210. www.debretts.com

WEDDINGS

floral notes 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

Josephine Stevens

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.

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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. www.petalandwild.co.uk; 07976 881505 Photography: Camilla J Hards Photography & Sabine Darrall

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.

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.

WEDDINGS

TRINITY HOUSE

HISTORIC WEDDING VENUE WEDDING TIPS AND IDEAS...

Edgar King, Events Manager at Trinity House for over 20 years, offers some tips and ideas to planning a wedding at an historic wedding...

Inherent interest A venue with an illustrious historic pedigree (and a reputation for service) will invariably have an interesting story to tell which is a great conversation starter, especially if guests are unfamiliar with each other...

Edgar’s tip: find out if an authorised expert can be organised (for free?) to educate guests on the venue’s unique history Location Guests will be impressed with a prestigious address and a location that is appropriate to the wedding theme and/or the bridal couple’s personalities Edgar’s tip: a clear view of a landmark, such as the Tower of London from Trinity House, will charm guests on arrival Inherent theme Increasingly popular themed weddings require additional expenditure on the décor so it is often cheaper if this is inherent in the venue itself Edgar’s Tip: a strong maritime theme is pervasive throughout Trinity House with over-sized ships models and the Brass Bell of the Royal Yacht Britannia Inherent extras Some heritage venues offer guests use of, or charge access to, museum-quality treasures and artefacts such as crested crockery, cutlery, glassware, presentation table silver, menus, napkins, chairs etc Edgar’s tip: ask for free use Trinity House’s impressive ceremonial sword to cut the wedding cake What’s Included Many venues offer the shell of a building and little else – always ask what else is included in venue hire Edgar’s tip: Trinity House’s venue hire charges includes tables and chairs, often not the case elsewhere Transportation Nothing sets the mood and creates an impression like the arrival of thebride/bridal party/guests at the venue...and there are so many creative ways to do this Edgar’s tip: horse-drawn carriage and arrival by boat on the Thames are popular means to arrive at Trinity House 7 6 SEPTEMBER 2 0 1 7

Preferred Suppliers Many historic buildings provide a list of mandatory preferred caterers and event support services... always select one. These companies know the venue well and paying a little extra, if needed, for familiarity with the venue frequently ends up being cheaper than costly last-minute amendments.

Edgar’s tip: inspect the view and setting at the same time as the proposed event so optimum lighting requirements are sorted.

Please visit www.trinityhouse.co.uk/events for more information and to view a brief film of the House and its facilities.

The Unique History of Trinity House The history of the House is omnipresent and throughout the building, valuable paintings and antiques bear out the nation’s remarkable nautical heritage. In its 200 year history, the building has welcomed royalty, prime ministers and Lords of the Admiralty and is today managed

by Deputy Master, Captain Ian McNaught. Reflecting the on-going patronage of the Crown, the current Master of the Corporation is HRH The Princess Royal, filling a role held in former centuries by, amongst others, the diarist Samuel Pepys, the Duke of Wellington, William Pitt the Younger and, more recently, The Duke of Edinburgh.

WEDDINGS

Say I Do In Style Wedding gifts and personalised ideas for giving the happy couple the most amazing gift yet. Planning a wedding can be a hugely stressful job, as can buying memorable and amazing Wedding Gifts. So, the team here at Prezzybox have huddled together to create a wedding page dedicated entirely to Engagement parties, Hen and Stag do’s and of most importantly, the big day. www.prezzybox.com

Top row, from left: Personalised Prosecco Bottle Stopper, £9.99; Personalised Couples Oak Photo Keepsake Box, £34.99; Wedding Planner Book, £17.99 Middle Row, from left: Personalised Heart Map, £49.99; Personalised Wooden Heart Dish, £19.99 Bottom row, from left: Personalised LSA Storm Lantern, £55; Wedding Money Pot, £9.99; Personalised Couples Wreath Peg Hooks, £34.99

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Hezz Art is a bespoke company offering handmade items such as party favours and special occasion décor! If you want your guests to treasure the memory of your event for a long time, Hezz Art has created a selection of one-of-a-kind of cupcake gift boxes, which your guests can reuse as jewelry boxes or as keepsakes of life’s magical moments!

If you are looking for decoration ideas, then why not try our made to order flowers, which range from the tiniest bud to the largest bloom! Live flowers are beautiful but they do not last long, while these exquisite paper flowers will last and bloom all yearround.

Hezz Art Paper Flowers are the perfect finishing touch for any event, gift or for home décor. Choose your blossoms in any colour you can imagine to make your special day uniquely personal.

For more information please visit our website www.hezz-art.co.uk and follow us on Instagram hezz_art

Make your honeymoon an experience like no other, ‘Glamping’ in beachfront luxury tents set atop dunes above the powder sand beaches of the secluded north shore of Anegada,the most remote of the British Virgin Islands. Cooled by consistent trade wind breezes drifting through your beautifully appointed tent, enjoy amazing views without leaving the bed. Spend your morning snorkeling or lounging on your deck with a book.

Afternoon refreshments at the beach bar will prepare you for a nap in hammock, a breathtaking sunset, and fine dining on cracked conch, freshly caught grilled lobster and homemade mango rum cheesecake. After dinner, enjoy stargazing on moonless nights or walk the moonlit beach that stretches for miles. Anegada Beach Club is the perfect honeymoon getaway.

BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS

BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS

www.anegadabeachclub.com Call: 1-284-340-4455

WEDDINGS

reasons why having a gift list is a no-brainer Not sure if you should have a gift list? Ali Beaven, founder of the UK’s favourite wedding gift list, Prezola, explains why it’s a must!

1. It makes life easier for your guests If we’re being honest, guests are going to buy you presents whether you ask for them or not. You might as well guide them in the right direction with items you’ve dreamed about than end up with five toasters (oh, it happens!). An online gift list like Prezola makes it super easy for guests to view and buy gifts.

2. Get the gifts you really want Even if you’re already living together, this is the perfect chance to update your home decor with things you’ve always wanted. Move over flatpack furniture, it’s time for an upgrade! There’s thousands of gifts from over 300 top brands to choose from, so you’ll find all your favourite items (and more!).

3. Creating a gift list is free!

With so many costs involved with wedding planning, it’s nice to know that creating a gift list with Prezola is free. You can mix gifts with experiences and charity donations all on one list,

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or upgrade for a one-off fee of £59 to add a honeymoon fund and cash contributions too.

4. Have the experience of a lifetime Looking for a honeymoon fund but unsure how to ask? With Prezola, you can discreetly ask for money with cash ‘gifts’ such as cocktails on the beach or flight upgrades and you receive 100% of the money in your bank account – no commission fees and no third parties. Guests will be happy buying you a gift and you’ll be happy knowing all of their contribution will go towards an unforgettable holiday.

5. It helps cure the wedding blues We hate to mention this while you’re on a high planning for your wedding, but post-wedding blues are a thing. You’ll be centre of attention and whisked off your feet for the wedding, and then it’s back to reality. Luckily your wedding gifts are delivered to you free of charge after the wedding, giving you and your partner something to look forward to!

Create your gift list for free at www.prezola.com

“With Prezola, you can discreetly ask for money with cash ‘gifts’ such as cocktails on the beach or flight upgrades and you receive 100% of the money in your bank account”

Wedding Planner, Designed For You Bringing beautiful weddings to England and Wales, Mary Cushen Wedding Planner focuses on traditional weddings with a modern twist. Working with you, Mary Cushen takes the time to understand your needs then builds a service, just for you. No matter what your requirements are; design sessions, partial planning, full planning, anything is possible.

Contact me today to see how I can help you.

Call or Text: 07894 018893 Email: info@marycushenweddingplanner.co.uk Website: www.marycushenweddingplanner.co.uk

Distinctive, unique and bespoke wedding rings from Philippe Pfeiffer Jewellery Designed and exquisitely hand crafted in his charming atelier at 52 Artillery Lane, E1 7LS

WEDDINGS

WEDDING SEASON Interview with Melissa Wooler, Gift Guru at The Wedding Shop

“Our service allows you to create a list that has a mix of both gifts and cash contributions”

herb pots by The White Company, £25

How early before the wedding should we start choosing our gift list items?

We recommend that your list is ready to go before your wedding invitations are sent out, so typically around four months prior to your wedding date. You will notice that quite a lot of your guests will be very quick off the mark and look for your list as soon as they receive their invitations, so it’s good to have it ready. Compiling your list and picking the things you love should be a fun experience and something you should enjoy doing together – this is the stress free part of wedding planning! However, don’t underestimate how long it will take to create your dream list, give yourselves enough time to really think about what you want and need for the future.

Is it ok to ask for cash or honeymoon contributions?

Yes, of course! Our service allows you to create a list that has a mix of both gifts and cash contributions so that you can have the best of both worlds. You can create customised cash funds on our site which is a fun and personal way of asking your guests to contribute towards the things you really want, whether that’s your dream honeymoon or garden landscaping. However, many guests prefer to buy a tangible gift that they want you to cherish and have in your home hopefully forever, so your list is a great opportunity to upgrade your essentials and invest in quality items.

How do I get the right mix of lower price point/higher price point gifts?

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We suggest creating a list that is slightly bigger than you would expect to receive. Guests like to be inspired and have a wide choice of gifts to pick from. You will also be very surprised at how generous your guests will be. Choose a mix of less expensive items in addition to a few more luxurious pieces that you really want, allowing for every guest’s budget. Our advisors are always on hand to help you make the right decisions and give you some tips on this. Plus, if there is a really special item that you want but feel it may be that little bit too expensive, you can always use our fab group gifting option which allows your guests to contribute as much as they wish towards the item.

Should I include gift vouchers?

It’s completely up to you. We have a Wedding Shop gift voucher that you can use on all our amazing brands – all 350+ of them. So if you are struggling to think of the things to add to your list, the voucher is a good way of letting your guests contribute as much as they wish, and you can then decide what you do with the money at a later date.

The great thing about a list with the Wedding Shop is that you have complete flexibility to chop and change items between our brand partners, so even if you guest buys a product off your list, you still have the option to change your mind before you order it.

What are your most popular gift list items?

The Le Creuset casserole dish and the Kitchenaid mixer have been bestselling products for years. They are absolute classics that many couples want to have in their home, knowing they will last a lifetime.

Plus, guests love to buy them! Colour trends have changed throughout the years, pastels have replaced the traditional orange and red, although for 2017 we are seeing a rise in the black kitchenaid again.

Mix and Match dinner sets are also very popular.

We have noticed that less couples are choosing a full traditional dinner service, and instead preferring to go for mix and match patterns and designs to suit their lifestyle. It also means that their dinner set can grow and evolve as their family does.

What item from The Wedding Shop would you personally love to have?

I personally love the beautiful designs from the homeware brand Elizabeth Scarlett – her coral palm tree cushion is fab! I’ve got into the very healthy habit of making smoothies for breakfast so the nutribullet is my most loved kitchen gadget right now. When I can find the time I absolutely love baking, these mixing bowls from Fenella Smith are practical and look great in my kitchen too. I live in the city and don’t have a garden but it feels so satisfying to be able to grow herbs in my kitchen window, and think The White Company herb pots are great for this.

Artisan Food Mixer by KitchenAid, £795

PINEAPPLE CUSHION by Elizabeth Scarlett, £50

teal round cocotte by Le Creuset, £159

Superfood nutrition extractor by Nutribullet, £99.95

About The Wedding Shop The multi award-winning Wedding Shop is the UK’s original gift list registry. With a product portfolio of more than 350 leading luxury and boutique brands, this highly personalised and bespoke service is the only registry to provide fee-free monetary, charity, experience and honeymoon contribution options.

With showrooms in Chelsea, Selfridges Oxford Street, Dublin and Edinburgh, The Wedding Shop offers expert advice, flexibility and unlimited choice to help build a list that is entirely personal to you.

Winner of the 2017 British Wedding Awards Best Gift List Provider and UK Wedding Awards 2017 Best Gift List Retailer. www.weddingshop.com

WEDDINGS

“Brides The Show is THE place to come and get inspired and to see the best of every aspect of a wedding day from the planning, to the flowers and of course the dresses.”

BRIDES THE SHOW 29 September – 1 October Business Design Centre, Islington, N1

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eturning for the sixth time, and with over 150 luxury suppliers showcasing the very best of bridal, Brides the Show, The UK’s leading luxury bridal show, will once again bring to life the stylish pages of Brides magazine for three days of inspirational and unrivalled wedding planning. The event’s stunning feature areas and exhibitor line-up will showcase everything from wedding gown designers to florists, venues, photographers, stationery, cakes, travel, jewellery and food & drink.

Expect the freshest ideas, the highest quality craftsmanship and the very latest trends. With Goldsmiths as the headline sponsor and Bobbi Brown Cosmetics as the make-up partner, confirmed exhibitors include Amanda Wakeley, Firmdale Hotels, Jo Malone London, Suzanne Neville Ltd, The Wedding Music Company and TY Couture Cakes.

Confirmed highlights of the show so far include: • An exclusive exhibition of couture gowns by award-winning British fashion designer-of-the8 4 SEPTEMBER 2 0 1 7

– Giles Deacon

moment, Giles Deacon. Celebrating a wonderfully bohemian English wedding day, the exhibition will showcase accessible eccentricity for the bride, her mother, her bridesmaids and wedding guests A Q&A will take place on Friday 29th September with Brides Editor Jade Beer.

• A chance to network with Matt Porteous, official photographer at Pippa Middleton & James Matthews’ wedding, PLUS enter a competition to win Matt as your own wedding photographer.

• The ‘Paris In Love’-themed catwalk show featuring the latest gowns from the best international designers will take ticket-holders on an evocative journey through a Parisian jardin through the changing four seasons.

• Almost £50,000 of luxury bridal goodies to win over the weekend.

• Wine-tasting workshops at The Sommeliers’ Table in association with wine experts Corney & Barrow • Access to the top wedding planners in the business as well as the entire Brides magazine team who can help guide ticket-holders through every aspect of wedding organisation.

THE DETAILS Tickets to Brides The Show can be purchased at: www.bridestheshow.co.uk/ tickets VIP tickets are also available to purchase, which include a goodie bag worth over £250, a runway-side seat and access to exclusive content in a dedicated VIP lounge and bar, plus the opportunity to win a trip for one couple to Paris.

Say ‘I do’ to Vogue’s ‘Dream Wedding Venue’. Set in 100 acres of private parkland yet a short drive from London, we invite you to make our exquisite Georgian home yours for the most important day of your life. +44 (0)1628 819050 | INFO@HEDSOR.COM | HEDSOR.COM

WEDDINGS

ANN GUISE SAYS:

VEILS BY ANN GUISE A

nn Guise designs and creates exclusive, ethereal, silk tulle wedding veils for brides from all over the world, using only the best quality silk fabric, lace and decoration. She is the only designer specialising solely in bespoke silk wedding veils. A silk wedding veil can make a dramatic difference, transforming the simplest dress into a stunning bridal outfit. Each veil is professionally designed and hand made to order. It can be hand beaded with Swarovski pearls or crystals, scattered with Swarovski diamante, edged with silk ribbon, French lace or stunning bespoke hand embroidery. Her silk creations are carefully designed in consultation with the bride throughout creating a unique family heirloom.

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Ann graduated in Fashion and Textile Design from the highly regarded Harrow School of Art London, now University of Westminster, alongside well known names as David and Elizabeth Emanuel.

On graduating Ann was offered employment in the Costume Department at BBC TV London. After 4 years she moved to the Costume department at BBC Cardiff where she was nominated for a prestigious BAFTA Cymru award for best Costume Design.

After 14 years with the BBC Ann decided to offer her talent to the general public. She ran a successful couture Bridal Design Studio using sumptuous silk fabrics. Her standards are the highest, in fact she was awarded Fellowship of the Chartered Society of designers, extremely rare in the Fashion sector.

All of Annâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s creations are in pure silk fabric sourced direct from the manufacturer. Her silk tulle is woven using the same techniques as used in the early 1800s. She creates a limited quantity of exclusive silk wedding veils, each year, all professionally designed and meticulously hand made to your individual requirements using only the very best quality silk fabric, French lace and custom embroidery. She is the only bridal veil designer specialising solely in designing and hand crafting beautiful top quality, bespoke silk bridal veils. www.silkveil.com

â&#x20AC;&#x153;I design and hand make exclusive, luxurious, silk wedding veils from 100% silk tulle fabric and French lace, for brides all over the world. Each of my luxurious bespoke silk wedding veils is professionally designed and hand made to order so that each Bride can have a special veil to compliment their beautiful wedding gown. I pay meticulous attention to detail using only the best quality silk fabric, lace and custom embroidery.

I am fully trained, qualified and an expert in my field. My silk veils are individually hand crafted and not mass produced. I use only the best quality materials, and being a perfectionist I pay attention to getting the smallest details just right.If you would like a free sample of my crisp and soft silk tulle please contact me. I am always happy to give free advice regardless of whether you order a Bridal veil from me or not. My silk wedding veils can be shipped worldwide including the USA and Australia, so regardless of where you live you can have a silk wedding veil made especially for you. Due to the bespoke nature of my work, I create a limited amount of silk tulle wedding veils each year.

OUT & ABOUT WEDDINGS

DESIGNS ON DIAMONDS We had the pleasure of being part of the Wedding Fair at the Excel Centre in London 8/9th April where we had the opportunity to display our beautiful collection of diamond wedding bands and jewellery for the Bride, Mother of the Bride and Bridesmaids.

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t was a great experience to be part of the planning of the Wedding Day, the unique ideas on offer to make the Special Day even more special were incredible.

We at DesignsOnDiamonds like to think that we can be part of your Wedding Day with our diamond set Wedding rings, but also part of the ‘special’ day that happens months before, the Engagement. The engagement ring is possibly the most important ring you will ever buy and a diamond is still the stone of romance which is traditionally given in this ring.

Diamonds come in all shapes and sizes AND a huge range of prices. You can take 5 diamonds, all of the same shape and size and have 5 different prices – ranging from hundreds of pounds to tens of thousands of pounds. Why is this?

It comes down to the quality of the stone. A diamond with a very good cut, colour and clarity will cost a lot more than a diamond with poor cut, colour and clarity. Unless a diamond is graded Flawless or Internally Flawless, there will be some type of inclusion within the stone. These inclusions are natural and make a diamond unique, as no other diamond will be exactly the same. Inclusions do not necessarily affect how bright and scintillating a diamond looks as an experienced cutter will cut the diamond so that the inclusion does not affect the stone’s beauty.

DesignsOnDiamonds is an Online Jewellery Store that aim to bring to you high quality certified diamond jewellery. We want you to shop with us, confident that the pieces you are buying are genuine and of exceptional quality. It is quite daunting to purchase high price items online and we appreciate that. Top jewellery houses (Cartier, Tiffany) and designers (Vuitton, Gucci etc) all offer online purchase of their products. To give

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“It is so very important to work out what is important to you, beside budget of course, when looking to buy”

Colour Grades start from D and go through through to Z. D is the absolute best being colourless.

Z would be a strong yellow to brown colour.

Cut The better the cut, the better the diamond will look overall

Clarity From Flawless to I3. I3 being heavily included and dull to look at.

Carat Weight/size of diamond

you, the customer, piece of mind and a guarantee that you are buying exactly what is described to you, we believe it is important to sell diamonds with certification or some form of certificate of authenticity wherever possible.

Before you start the process of buying that special piece of diamond jewellery, we would like to give you some information that will help you make an informed decision as to the right diamond for you.

Back in the 1940’s an institution called the Gemmological Institute of America (GIA) devised a grading system to bring some regularity to diamond grading. The GIA grading system is recognised worldwide today and is known as the Four C’s, which stand for Cut, Colour, Clarity and Carat.

As GIA Diamond Graduates, we have studied, in depth, the technical make up and qualities of diamonds and believe that colour is the more important “C” to start with. A beautiful colourless diamond that has a couple of noticeable inclusions will definitely outshine a poor colour diamond that is without inclusions.

It is so very important to work out what is important to you, beside budget of course, when looking to buy. Size of the diamond or the beautiful dazzling white of a near colourless one. It is very satisfying to be able to give a sizeable ‘rock’ as a token of love, but if the diamond doesn’t come alive with rainbow colours, it could be a huge disappointment to all.

We offer a bespoke service where we will source that special diamond, gemstone or piece of jewellery for you, whatever your budget, just let us know. We have contacts with Diamond Traders in Hatton Garden, so we are confident that we will be able to offer the best possible price.

Jacqui@DesignsOnDiamonds.co.uk Website: DesignsOnDiamonds.co.uk

DesignsOnDiamonds

Our Silver Collection

We have a stunning collection of beautiful high quality diamond jewellery set with exceptional diamonds

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Certified diamond Engagement Rings

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Diamond Wedding and Eternity Rings

Diamond set Earrings and Pendants for Bride, Mother of the Bride and Bridesmaids F

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A stunning collection of high quality Silver jewellery

Full Bespoke Jewellery Design Service using CAD

Visit us @ www.DesignsOnDiamonds.co.uk Contact: Jacqui@DesignsOnDiamonds.co.uk or 07747 824898 Instagram | Facebook

WEDDINGS

Planning your dream wedding?

Where to start…

Congratulations on your engagement! Once you have named the date and are ready to start planning for your big day, here are some helpful tips to guide you through the initial steps

TALK TO YOUR PARTNER

SELECT A THEME

Have a conversation about what you and your partner want. Do you wish to have a huge, grand affair or something small and intimate? Do you want to be married in a church, registry office or on the beach in an exotic destination? This conversation will be the foundation for everything else. It will be one of your first conquests as an engaged couple.

A theme could be a colour, a style or an era. Once you have that theme it will make it easier to decide between different options going forward.

START A SCRAPBOOK OR MOOD BOARD Whenever you see something you like, add it to the collection. It could be a hair style, a dream dress or simply a colour swatch. It will help you to visualise what you would like your day to look like and can also be an easy way to eliminate ideas along the way.

START SCOUTING LOCATIONS Do you want the ceremony and reception to be at the same venue? A beachy wedding, somewhere in the forest or a modern and chic venue? The options are limitless, so choose what works for the both of you. Once you have found the perfect location, you can pay the initial deposit to secure the date. You also need to decide whether you want a sit-down meal or a buffet.

SET A BUDGET You might want the lavish, extravagant event you dreamed of since you were a child, but it is always sensible to set a budget however high.

THINK ABOUT YOUR BRIDAL PARTY Bridesmaids, maid of honour, the best man, flower girls and page boys. How many? And who? Think carefully as to who you would like in your party, without upsetting anyone.

START THINKING ABOUT YOUR DRESS Go into wedding dress shopping with an open mind. You might love a photo of a dress in a magazine only to try it on and not feel comfortable in it. Give every style a try, you could be surprised which cut flatters and gives you that wow factor! It can be an exhausting process, so only shop for as long as you are enjoying it or break it up over a few trips to make sure it doesn’t become a chore.

CAPTURING THE DAY Look around for professional photographers with a portfolio that suits the style you like. It’s a good idea to meet them, often photographers will be there long before the first guest arrives and won’t leave your side until the last guest leaves, so it’s essential that you get on well.

THE CAKE AND THE CARS Recommendations for your wedding cake would be ideal, but most wedding cake makers should be able to provide a small sample to help you decide. As for the cars, would you prefer a limo or a horse drawn carriage?

Travel in style with what suits you.

START A GUEST LIST This will be an organic document that will change many times during your planning process, so don’t be too quick to lock it in. Factors like venue capacity, access and ability to travel and cost will all come into play . Write everyone down at first and then you can work with your partner to refine it closer to the time to send out invitations.

ENTERTAINMENT Would you prefer a live band, or a DJ? or both? If you can get recommendations it would be valuable.

If not, you need to see them in action before you book them! You might also want to add some entertainment to keep children amused, while you and your guests can enjoy the celebrations without having to worry too much about bored or misbehaving little ones. Remember, this is you and your partner’s day to celebrate your love for one another, so don’t worry too much about pleasing everybody else.

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WEDDINGS

WORLD-RENOWNED SPARKLING WINE BRAND LAUNCHES SHOW-STOPPING PROSECCO

A superior fizz, to bring a touch of sparkle to all celebrations

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reixenet, globally renowned Spanish sparkling wine brand, is launching a premium Prosecco in the UK this summer – set to be the most ‘Instagrammable’ bubbly of the season. Presented in a striking cut-glass bottle, Freixenet Prosecco blends superior quality with stunning beauty. Using its 150 years of sparkling winemaking expertise, combined with extensive research into the ‘ultimate’ Prosecco flavour profile, Freixenet has created a stand-out, high quality and stylish wine that is the perfect match for the British palate. Whether for sipping with friends in a sunny garden, or to toast the first BBQ of the summer, the bubbly can be enjoyed to celebrate all of life’s special moments.

Owning a number of sparkling wineries around the world including California, Australia, Argentina, Mexico and the third oldest champagne house in Reims, Freixenet understands the importance of sourcing quality grapes to produce exceptional sparkling wines. By working with Italy’s famed Veneto region, and selecting only the finest Glera

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grapes, Freixenet has produced an exceptional Prosecco that’s light and lively, with fresh aromas of citrus, apple and floral notes.

With a clean and crisp palate and subtle flavours of lemon, green apple and grapefruit, the Prosecco partners beautifully with seafood dishes and small sharing plates. What’s more, it makes for a great centrepiece at any celebration, or to impress family and friends over an evening meal.

Have the first sip: Freixenet Prosecco was showcased for the first time at London Wine Week in Devonshire Square 5th-11thJune 2017 and is now available from Ocado! It will also be available in Tesco and other select retailers this summer, RRP £12.00 – joining the brand’s award-winning range of Cavas; Cordon Negro, Cordon The global renowned sparkling wine brand Freixenet, launches the ultimate Prosecco Terrace in the historic city of Cambridge.

Located in the respective Hilton Hotels, the Prosecco Terrace is inspired by the Mediterranean, bringing a touch of wanderlust to the hotel guests and visitors during the longer summer nights.

“With a clean and crisp palate and subtle flavours of lemon, green apple and grapefruit, the Prosecco partners beautifully with seafood dishes and small sharing plates”

HOLIDAYS & travel – Heading out of London to explore the rest of the world – i m age : AUST R ALIA ’ S G OLD COAST

H OLIDAYS & TRAVEL

[NEWS]

TRAVEL

Chocolate Heaven in Milan

Give them the world Maps International, has already released its Christmas Gift selections, including best-loved classics, top-selling scratch prints, and some brand new additions.

Personalised Classic World Map, £49, and Scratch the World Print - Travel Edition, £12.99 www.mapsinternational.co.uk

A tropical forest entirely made of chocolate created by Pastry Chef Daniele Bonzi, in partnership with Valrhona

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s the summer ends, an exciting event awaits little ones and grown ups in Milan, the highly anticipated new chocolate room at Four Seasons Hotel Milano.

Since its creation in 2007, this chocolate attraction has become a must-see for Hotel guests and locals alike during the weekly Sunday Brunch. This room, entirely made of chocolate, has successively taken the form of a cinema set, a Ratatouille-themed lounge, and more recently, a chocolate factory. This year, thanks to a partnership with the French chocolate master Valrhona, the Hotel’s Pastry Chef Daniele Bonzi has created a tropical forest, to be unveiled on September 17, 2017 for the reopening of the seasonal Sunday Brunch.

The new theme features jungle-inspired vegetation and décor with exotic animals, all entirely made of chocolate - including the walls. As they step in, guided by the appetising smell of chocolate, guests are greeted by colourful butterflies, toucans and ladybirds who have comfortably settled into their home among the bamboo, tropical plants and water lotus flowers.

No less than 300 hours of work and 300 kilograms (660 pounds) of chocolate were needed 9 6 SEPTEMBER 2 0 1 7

to bring this chocolate masterpiece to life. The result is breathtaking and seems so real, temptation is high to touch and taste to believe it is all 100 percent chocolate.

The new chocolate room can be visited upon request or on the occasion of the Hotel Brunch, a landmark rendez-vous for all gourmets. Resident Chef Marco Veneruso and his culinary team welcome guests to their open kitchen every Sunday, where they can taste traditional Italian dishes served buffet-style and interact with the chefs. Featuring handpicked local ingredients, a gourmet selection of cold cuts, cheeses, salads, fish and roasted meats, the Sunday Brunch offers a full immersion into Italy’s rich soil and best products.

A children’s play area and a babysitter service make this moment a delectable and relaxed occasion for the entire family. www.fourseasons.com

We love…

Alphabet Bags’ travel collection!

Eight brand new bright and fun accessories, including handy travel pouches, large beach bags and summery totes.

Oh Hey Vacay!, £20 www.alphabetbags.com

TITANIC FOR TOURISTS

Pack light and pack smart

Tolly McRae’s oversized travel wraps have you covered from plane to post-dinner cocktails. A light and airy cover up made from pure Irish Linen, Tolly McRae’s Extra Large Pure Linen Wrap will become your best friend through the summer months and winter sun holidays. Toss it into your handbag and you have a cover up for breezy evenings and a wrap to keep the sun off your neck and shoulders on scorching days. Pop it into your hand luggage and you have the perfect travel companion, an ideal in-flight cover and when you reach your destination, wrap it around your waist for a beach sarong. Available in neutral Oatmeal a nautical Navy Blue colourway, the multi-purpose throws measure an enormous at 75cm x 200cm.

Linen Wraps - Oatmeal and Navy Blue, £59; www.tollymcrae.co.uk

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TRAVEL ESSENTIALS

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Luggage Tag London Bus by Tatty Devine, £17 www.wildandwolf.com

OPI Nail Lacquer in Altar Ego, www.opi.com

Walking Dogs PursE, £6.95, WWW.HARRODS.COM

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It was recently announced that those still intrigued by Titanic will be able to see it for themselves by joining diving trips to the shipwreck next year. London-based tour operator Blue Marble Private are now accepting applicants for the eight-day journeys in May 2018, organised by OceanGate Expeditions. This lifetime opportunity will be open to just nine clients at a time who will be taught about the ship’s workings.

Those who wish to engage more directly with the workings of the ship have the chance to take part in orientation sessions and can “assist” the crew in planning a dive, operating the sonar and using the undersea navigation system. Up to three passengers at a time will climb aboard a specially designed titanium and carbon fibre submersible to see the remains of the Titanic itself. Dives will take place throughout the day or night, dependent on when weather conditions are most favourable, and Blue Marble Private’s clients will be expected to contribute to the mission by assisting with sub-sea communications and undertaking basic tasks. Cost is £86,500 per person. Taking into account inflation, the price is equivalent to the $4,350 a first-class passenger would have paid to sail on the Titanic’s maiden voyage in 1912. And all going well, the package could be made available to a limited number in summer 2019.

H OLIDAYS & TRAVEL

Iconic Landmarks.

Modern Vibe.

Arlington’s ‘Urban villages’ Blend U.S. History and Politics with a Friendly Virginia Vibe

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ocated just 25 minutes away from Washington Dulles International Airport, Northern Virginia’s Arlington, known for iconic landmarks such as the Pentagon and Arlington National Cemetery, is an eclectic urban hub of culture and history. Since being part of the original ’10-mile square’ surveyed in 1791 to be the U.S. capital, Arlington has been at the centre of many pivotal moments in history including the Civil War, Watergate, 9/11 and more.

Perfectly placed along the Potomac River with spectacular views of Washington, DC, Arlington is home to dynamic, lively ‘Urban villages’ that mix soaring high-rises and turn-of-the-century homes with high-end shopping and funky boutiques.

Arlington is a shopper’s mecca, mixing major neighbourhood shopping venues with charming local speciality stores. The county is also home to Fashion Centre at Pentagon City, Pentagon Row, Market Common Clarendon, and the exciting new Ballston Quarter (coming in spring 2018), all offering world-class shopping.

Award-winning cuisine is found in abundance in Arlington. The culinary scene is reflective of the friendly, laid-back vibe and includes the most diverse selections of cuisines and outdoor dining options, from American to Asian, Indian to Italian and Mediterranean to microbrews. Favourite dining spots include Hula Girl that brings an Aloha flavour to the Shirlington neighbourhood, Jaleo in Crystal City, inspired by internationally recognised culinary innovator José Andrés, which vibrantly showcases the rich regional diversity of Spanish cuisine, and Cheesetique, an award-wining cheese and wine boutique.

Those looking for something different, maybe a little edgy, should uncover Arlington’s colourful art scene, described by the Washington

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Post as “one of the hippest local jurisdictions at attracting adventurous arts and artists.” With 55 arts organisations and more than 1,500 arts events annually, visitors can enjoy original works, world renowned artists and critically acclaimed performances at any time of year.

Washington, DC is easily accessible via the region’s Metrorail system, taxi, foot, bus, and Capital BikeShare, so visitors can experience the best of both worlds, the power city of DC and the friendly, laid-back vibe of Arlington. There are 44 hotels in Arlington offering a variety of accommodation options which, on average, are 20% cheaper than downtown DC. Just over an hour’s drive from Shenandoah National Park and close to Virginia’s award-winning wine country, Arlington is the ideal base to explore all the Capital Region has to offer.

Take me to Arlington: America As You Like It offer a seven-night holiday to Arlington from £914pp including flights and accommodation. To book, call 020 8742 8299 or visit www.americaasyoulikeit.com

To plan your trip to Arlington and the nation’s capital visit www.stayarlington.com

H OLIDAYS & TRAVEL

Going for Gold words: Karen Bowerman

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n the searing heat of Australia’s Gold Coast, I’m attending the unveiling of the 2018 Commonwealth Games baton.

Taking place in a hotel auditorium in Broadbeach, a small district just south of Surfers Paradise, up on stage, local kids in fluorescent hot pants perform high kicks and back flips, as a giant, bright blue koala - the mascot of the Games dances among them.

The baton began its journey from Buckingham Palace in November, through the nations and territories of the Commonwealth. It carries a message from the Queen, inscribed on paper made from Australian spinifex grass.

288 days and 230,000km later, it’ll be back on the Gold Coast for the start of the 2018 Games.

The baton is a sleek, narrow loop, made from the region’s native macadamia wood found on its mountains, and reclaimed plastic gathered from its shores.

There’s a strip of reflective stainless steel, said to evoke the coast’s iconic skyscrapers, and flashing LED lights, to symbolise the energy (certainly evident in all those high kicks) of the people who call the region home.

The Gold Coast is made up of 57km of honeycoloured, surf-soaked beaches, 66km south of Brisbane in Queensland, eastern Australia.

It stretches from Main Beach in the north (close

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to numerous theme parks including Dreamworld and Movie World) to the laidback sands of Coolangatta in the south.

The undisputed “capital” is Surfers Paradise, where shops sell sexy bikinis and branded board shorts, suntanned locals merge with sunburnt tourists, and bars offer countless cocktails and dancing ‘til dawn.

I stay directly south, in the quieter, chic suburb of Broadbeach, where the sand is so clean, I can’t help wondering if the baton’s architects had found it a struggle sourcing enough plastic for their ecofriendly design. Each morning, I sit on my balcony and watch the Pacific Ocean pound the shore. But while the coast is known for surfing, there are plenty of other ways to enjoy the water, too.

10 kilometres north of Broadbeach (just off Marine Parade, Labrador) is The Broadwater, an area of ocean protected by islands, where Steve from Australian Kayak Adventures runs paddling tours.

We set off from a slip of beach next to a small lagoon. Within minutes, a bottlenose dolphin arches out of the sea in front of us.

As the sun glints off distant skyscrapers, we haul our kayaks onto South Stradbroke Island, the other side of the water, and pad through dunes covered with creeping spinifex grass to the beach on the far side.

South Stradbroke, or Straddie, as it’s called by locals, is a favourite haunt of surfers. It’s also

home to the swamp wallaby, which has black face markings that resemble a mask. The animal has lived in isolation here for so long that it’s developed a unique ginger-colored belly and white-tipped tail.

We find some tracks: two-pronged prints and a sandy swish made by a tail, but fail to spot any.

Back at the lagoon, pelicans are swooping in from the sea as if they’d received some avian text alert. As it nears one o’clock, around 60 of them gather on the shore.

They’ve come for their weekend pop-up restaurant, provided by staff at the local fish market.

The birds put on quite a show, snapping up titbits with their enormously long bills.

The Gold Coast, however, isn’t just coastline.

Beyond the shore is what locals call “the green behind the gold” – the region’s hinterland, defined by the Scenic Rim, an area surrounded by volcanic mountains.

From just outside Canungra, a rural township 25km inland from Surfers Paradise, I take in the forests and farmland from the sky.

It’s just after dawn, and Ben from Hot Air Balloon Gold Coast, is gradually turning our balloon eastwards, so we can see sunrise.

He points out Tamborine Mountain, a 500m-high plateau formed by eruptions 22 million years ago.

The rich soil is ideal for growing avocado, kiwi and macadamia nuts.

We float gracefully over the countryside and land so smoothly, I’m not even aware we’ve hit the ground.

A barefoot local farmer in his seventies, bumps across the field on his quad bike to greet us.

“Thought you were going to crash into the hedge!” he shouts, as two yelping sheepdogs run round him.

“He says that every time,” Ben says, as I help him fold the mighty balloon away.

I stay at O’Reilly’s, a guest house in the heart of Lamington National Park. Owned by the family since the 1920s, it was built before the rainforest was declared a national treasure.

My rustic room, overlooking the mountains, has black and white pictures of the O’Reilly boys on

“The Gold Coast, however, isn’t just coastline. Beyond the shore is what locals call “the green behind the gold”” horseback. Scatter cushions depict the Bowerbird which Sir David Attenborough came to film here.

I venture on bushwalks, wobble along the Treetop Boardwalk (a rope and plank suspension bridge) and climb a 30m fig tree-cum-observation deck for views of the canopy.

One of the guides, Luke, invites me to look for glow worms. I join him and a Chinese tour group and stumble into the night.

The glow worms we’re looking for are actually the larvae of the fungus gnat. They give off light to trap insects in sticky threads which they trail from rocks beside the creek.

My companions and I have no common language, but when we reach the riverbank, we share a sense of awe. It’s as if we’ve stumbled across a huge display of twinkling, fairy lights.

It reminds me of the Gold Coast’s flashing baton. Although the tiny grubs can’t match its colors, they are easily the region’s spectacular, and completely natural, alternative.

Karen Bowerman (Press Association) was a guest of the tourist board. For information on the Gold Coast, visit www.visitgoldcoast.com and for Queensland, www.queensland.com. For more information on the 2018 Commonwealth Games, visit www.gc2018.com

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H OLIDAYS & TRAVEL

“The Fair boasts 100 exhibitors including leading and specialist tour operators and experts from all corners of the globe”

THE LUXURY TRAVEL FAIR T 2-5 November 2017, Olympia London

he Luxury Travel Fair is returning to Olympia London from 2- 5 November, the only luxury travel event that offers tailor-made awe-inspiring escapes. The Fair brings together the finest travel experiences, created bespoke for those seeking luxury experiences by the best in the industry.

Booking a holiday of a lifetime comes with high expectations for your experience and service.

The Fair boasts 100 exhibitors including leading and specialist tour operators and experts from all corners of the globe to create your own bespoke travel itinerary. Honeymooners, families, single travellers, those who are retired and looking for a once in a lifetime experience, can all plan their dream getaways, whatever they desire.

There’s something on offer for every holidaymaker, whether you want to trek the Himalayas, enjoy the opera in Vienna, explore the

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ancient Pyramids of Giza, witness the last frontiers on earth, soak up the culture and views of Latin America, all can be made a reality with the Fair’s leading luxury brands.

Visitors can also enjoy specialist travel talks from leading personalities in the Meet the Experts Theatre for inspiration, and exclusive show offers and competitions from the unique collection of boutique brands.

You can relax with a glass or two of bubbly in the Louis Roederer Champagne Bar, or try the delicious foods at Mosimann’s exclusive ‘pop-up’ Winter Restaurant.

The Luxury Travel Fair is co-located next to the Spirit of Christmas Fair offering you the chance to get ahead with your Christmas shopping. Whether you’re looking for a beautiful interior decoration, a sumptuous gift or a fashion accessory to complete your festive ensemble, you’ll be spoilt for choice.

Opening times: Thursday 2 November: 10.00am - 5.00pm Friday 3 November: 10.00am - 5.00pm Saturday 4 November: 10.00am - 5.00pm Sunday 5 November: 10.00am - 4.30pm For ticket options and information visit www.luxurytravelfair.com

H OLIDAYS & TRAVEL

Antica Trattoria: Whether you relish the opportunity to dine al fresco under the stars or take a table inside this charmingly Italian eatery, you certainly won’t regret your decision. With generous portions, fresh pasta, gnocchi, and homemade pizzas, Antica Trattoria is a foodie’s paradise!

Best Beaches In Sardinia

Costa Smeralda: Boasting powder white

Discover the Best Things to Do In Olbia The Only Olbia Travel Guide You’ll Need This Summer!

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ne of the Mediterranean’s best kept secrets, the Sardinian city of Olbia beholds a seductive allure for travellers wishing to avoid the hustle and bustle of prime summer destinations in Europe. While this island retreat remains a little-known haven, those who do frequent its shores are a well-heeled crowd, indeed. And with an abundance of pristine beaches, world class restaurants, water sports and activities, you certainly won’t be short on things to do in Olbia this summer!

Duration: 2h 25m Price: £237 on average

By Private Jet: For those looking for a truly indulgent experience, we recommend JetClass, a new service that is offering private jet seats for similar prices to business class tickets. JetClass currently operates flights to Olbia from Nice and Ibiza.

Duration: 1h from Nice, 1h 30m from Ibiza Price: Nice-Olbia €750, Ibiza-Olbia €1490

How To Get There

Hotel Abi d’Oru: The beautiful Hotel Abi

Partly responsible for the city’s seclusion is the limited transport links. However, there are tricks you can employ to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey.

By Ferry: There are various ferry companies who travel to and from Olbia, mostly leaving from Civitavecchia in Italy. The catch? Depending on the time of year, the ferry only runs up to 7 times a week and the journey may take over 8 hours in some cases - so be sure to check in advance and pack the Scrabble board!

Duration: Up to 8hr 15mins Price: Around £250 on average

By Plane: While flying by plane significantly decreases your journey time (it takes about two and a half hours to get from London to Olbia), they’re still relatively hard to come by. Because of the reduced frequency of commercial airlines that fly to this destination, airfares in August average at around £237.

d’Oru offers beachside glamour, seclusion and sunshine. With its very own private stretch of sand, guests at the Hotel Abi d’Oru can take full advantage of the Emerald Coast’s beauty. Activities include golf, tennis and watersports, but if you’re after indulgence, we suggest cocktails and a dining experience in one of the hotel’s four restaurants.

Cala di Volpe: A little way north of Olbia, the Cala di Volpe offers everything from single rooms to penthouse suites. Guests can enjoy cocktails and live piano performances at the hotel restaurant, or venture outside to the laid-back luxe of the Il Pontile Bar.

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Where to Stay

Best Food In Sardinia

Dolceacqua: With a deliciously Mediterranean menu, this traditional Sardinian restaurant serves up fresh seafood, hearty mains of beef fillet, rabbit and lamb, and sumptuous desserts that will tempt even those who don’t have a sweet tooth.

sands, rocky coves and gloriously warm waters, this beautiful stretch of coast has many beaches to explore or sunbathe on. So pull up a lounger, get yourself a drink and bask in the Mediterranean sunshine.

Cala Greca: Go east along the coast and reach the stunning Cala Greca. More rocks than sand, the water here is crystal clear, making it ideal for snorkelers and explorers.

Nightlife While Olbia remains to be void of tourists and crowds for the most part, its nightlife is a whole different story!

Billionaire’s Club: Just a little north of Olbia town, the Billionaire’s Club in Porto Cervo sure lives up to its name. This fun and vibrant club provides panoramic sea views, fine dining, music and shisha, guaranteeing a wild night.

Phi Beach: Carved in the granite rocks, there are few sights as spectacular as The Rock Club in north Sardinia. Imagine comfy sofa areas, intimate nooks and stunning views of the coastline. This chic bar and restaurant is an absolute must!

Activities & Things to Do

Museo Archeologico: High on the agenda for culture vultures is the Museo Archeologico.

Exposing Olbia’s Greek past and exploring its position as a commercial and maritime hub, the museum perfectly summarises this idyllic Sardinian town throughout the ages.

Water Sports: Whether you’re partial to windsurfing, kayaking or surfing, Olbia is the ideal location to brush up on your water sports or try your hand at something new. With so many beaches that offer perfect conditions for water sports, you’re bound to find an activity that fits the bill.

Pevero Golf Club: Practice your golf swing and bunker shots at the Pevero Golf Club and enjoy spectacular views of the far-reaching coast.

However you wish to spend your time on holiday, there’s no denying the wide offering of things to do in Olbia. Discover its beauty and rustic charm this summer, and enjoy the island’s seclusion before it becomes overrun with tourists!

INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS GUIDE SEPTEMBER 2017

THE FINEST INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS IN THE UK

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Back to School Chase and Wonder have a fine array of stationery to ensure every stylish student is well prepared when they return to their studies.

From hand screen printed pencil cases to gold foiled note books, all designed and made in Britain, there’s no better way to help the sophisticated scholar get ready for school.

The full collection can be purchased from online emporium www.chaseandwonder.com

Top row, from left: Gold Foiled Note Book £8; Gold Foiled Note Book £8; Wooden Boxed Writing Set £30 Middle row, from left: Gold Foiled Note Book £8; Screen Printed Pencil Case £12; Bottom row, from left: Sample stationery set by Chase & Wonder; Screen Printed Pencil Cases, £12 each; Gold Foiled Note Book £8

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Learning Your Our definitive guide to help you make all the right choices for your children

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here are 2,500+ independent schools in the UK which are independent of local or central government control.

Independent schools offer a wealth of facilities and high teaching standards that enable students to achieve great results year after year. Independent schools are in the unique position to provide a truly bespoke education for your child.

Choosing the right school for your child is an important decision that takes plenty of time and research. There are a wide range of independent schools specialising in different age groups and needs.

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A,B,Cs

PRE-PREPARATORY SCHOOLS (AGES 2 YEARS - 7 YEARS)

Pre-preparatory schools - also called nursery schools or kindergartens - correspond to nursery and infants stages in local authority schools. In pre-preparatory schools children are taught to read, write, develop numeracy and learn to play. Pre-prep schools are often attached to specific junior schools.Pre-prep school is the first time most children will experience education, as opposed to the daycare provided by kindergartons. Children will have to learn the basics of mathematics, science and English, and a host of other subjects. Outside the classroom, many of the children will be having their first proper experience with team sports, music and/or choral tuition, and the arts.

PREPARATORY SCHOOLS (AGES 7 YEARS -11+ OR 13 YEARS) Preparatory or prep schools, have a full range of subjects leading to admission to senior schools at 11+ or through the 13+ Common Entrance Examination.As their name implies, the preparatory schools are focused primarily on preparing boys and girls for their senior education, and the important public exams that come with it.

Free of the National Curriculum, prep schools can differentiate their curricula according to what they think best prepares children for their later education. Most prep school children will be learning a foreign language from the very first year, and don’t be surprised to see subjects like Latin, Philosophy and Physics in the classroom, with

cricket, rugby and tennis all on offer during games.

As children reach the end of their time at prep school, most will look to the Common Entrance Exam as their gateway into the senior schools. It is during this transition process that senior schools are also looking for talented pupils for scholarships and other awards, so the very able students may be asked to attend further examinations/recitals/ matches &c, depending on where their particular strengths lie.

In the state system, children are tested by the Government SATs, however many schools in the independent sector will have their own internal methods of measuring the performance of the children. There are around 499 prep schools in the Independent Association of Prep Schools, one of our constituent Head’s Associations, collectively educating over 134,000 children.

SENIOR SCHOOLS (AGES 11 YEARS -18 YEARS) Most of the pupils in independent education are in senior school, educating over 350,000 senior school students in almost eight hundred schools.

Independent Senior Schools offer approaches to education, subjects, facilities and sports unparalleled in the state sector – students can study History of Art, Government, Russian and Japanese, and try their hands at Astronomy, Ceramics or Equestrianism. They could be on their school judo or sailing team, and take trips all over the world.

Whatever your child’s particular strengths, passions and interests, there is almost certainly a school which can offer the chance to try all of them.

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James Allen’s Girls’ School

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ames Allen’s Girls’ School (JAGS) provides first class education to girls aged 4-18 in South London with a strong focus on developing personal and professional skills to prepare them for adulthood.

Key to its success is the ability attract a diverse mix of intellectually curious and dynamic pupils, with generous financial assistance packages making the school accessible to girls from all economic backgrounds.

Academic performance is consistently high, half of this year’s A Level students achieved at least 3 A* or A grades and GCSE students averaged 7 A* grades each. Pupils thrive in the STEM subjects (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) and deliver impressive grades in languages ranging from French to Japanese.

But the opportunities at JAGS go much further than academic achievements. The girls have many opportunities to excel at sports courtesy of extensive playing fields and a sports complex that includes a swimming pool, climbing wall and astro-pitches. A professionally designed theatre gives those who want to develop their artistic talents the chance to study Drama and perform on stage. The girls can also

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“Academic performance is consistently high, half of this year’s A Level students achieved at least 3 A* or A grades and GCSE students averaged 7 A* grades each”

unleash their energy in a vibrant Music department that holds performances throughout the year whilst the Art department lets the girls express their creativity in a range of traditional and modern techniques.

School trips in the UK and around the world provide further opportunities to enhance academic learning and broaden life skills. Recent trips include volunteering at a school in a Ugandan slum, performing concerts during a tour of Italy and closer to home, Prep school pupils learnt bushcraft skills during a field trip to the English countryside.

Giving back to the community is an important part of JAGS’s ethos. It has built learning partnerships with neighbouring state schools and the girls regularly volunteer for local community groups. At the end of the school day, JAGS opens up its facilities to the wider community which from next year will include a new state of the art music centre and concert hall.

Proud of its success but with its feet on the ground, JAGS is here for the benefit of its pupils and neighbours.

For more information: www.jags.org.uk; 020 8693 1181; 144 East Dulwich Grove London SE22 8TE

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Q&A S

ince 2004, Holland Park Tuition & Education Consultants has been a leading source of private tutors and educational guidance. Over the years, they have cultivated strong relationships with, and secured places at, the top nurseries, schools and universities in London and around the world. Their tutors and consultants are committed to bringing the best out of students as well as helping families to understand and navigate the range of educational options available to them. Holland Park’s Director of Consulting, Camilla Smiley, answers some of the key questions that parents ask about their children’s education.

SESSION WITH HOLLAND PARK EDUCATION

Camilla Smiley, Director of Consulting

Question: Should my child be doing fewer ‘extra-curriculars’ in the

run-up to 11+?

Answer: The balance between extra-curricular activities and preparing for

exams in English and Maths can be hard to find.

On the one hand, you’re probably looking to raise a happy and rounded child – and that’s what schools look for too. Back in the day extra-curriculars were just hobbies!

Sports, music and drama allow children to let off steam and discover new passions.

Playing football or starring in ‘Bugsy Malone’ will develop confidence and teamwork.

Most importantly, they show that there is life beyond fractions and decimals.

That said, your son has important exams approaching. How academically competitive are the schools you are looking at? Some schools place emphasis on exam scores whilst others interview every child to find the right ‘fit’. Whatever you decide, do not allow him to make the ultimate 11+ interview faux pas: ‘I used to play the drums but Mum cancelled my lessons so I could practise my Reasoning!’

Question:

Our daughter is in Year 12 and has decided to apply for PPE at Oxford. How can we best support her?

Answer: Oxbridge applications are demanding; your daughter will need to

show genuine interest in Politics, Philosophy and Economics beyond what she’s done in the classroom. Preparing for the Admissions Tests in November and the interviews in December requires time and commitment, so you should think carefully about how to approach both stages.

The Admissions Test is designed to stretch her beyond the curriculum. She will need to apply logic to answer a series of Multiple-Choice Questions before writing a short essay. If she does well enough she will be invited to interview, where admissions tutors will look for aptitude and ‘teachability’.

We recommend completing two mock TSA papers to familiarise herself with the format. Your daughter will probably be offered a Mock Interview at school, but having a further session with an Oxbridge admissions expert who she does not know is excellent training for the real thing. Holland Park work with current and former Oxbridge admissions staff and teachers from London’s top schools, who know exactly how to replicate the interview itself; working with these professionals will build her confidence and help her feel on top of this daunting process.

“Some schools place emphasis on exam scores whilst others interview every child to find the right ‘fit’”

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If you would like to speak to the Holland Park team about your educational requirements, please contact the London office on 020 7034 0800 or enquiries@ hollandparkeducation.com.

The GOLD Standard

Fairley House School, described by the Sunday Times as the ‘Gold Standard’, is London’s leading day school for children with Specific Learning Difficulties

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ddressing the needs of children from the age of five, who require assistance due to dyslexia and dyspraxia, the school has a staff/ pupil ratio of 1:3.5 and the average stay at the school is between two to three years.

Children then return to mainstream schooling with a new ‘can do’ attitude. Fairley House now offers Key Stage 4. This enables pupils to carry on their education in an environment that ensures that their

needs are fully met. While our intention is to enable your child to re-join mainstream education as quickly as possible, our provision now offers the possibility of remaining in our school to undertake the first major examinations that a pupil will face.

Many of our alumni have enjoyed great success at GCSE and A-Level and they have progressed to top universities and have successful careers in a range of professions.

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PREPARING BOYS FOR THE NEXT STEP “Outside of the classroom Year 3 boys can play one of a number of musical instruments, experience competitive sports fixtures and take part in performances in our 160 seat theatre”

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t The Mall we prepare our boys for entry into a wide range of independent senior schools. Our 2017 leavers were awarded places, including scholarships, at St Paul’s, Hampton and Reed’s. Other destinations were King’s College School Wimbledon, Westminster, Kingston Grammar, St George’s College and St James School.

Most of our boys join us in Reception where entry is non-selective but we do offer an additional, assessed entry point into Year 3 where we expand from two to three forms. Due to this recent expansion we will also, for 2018 entry only, be assessing for limited entry into Year 4 at age 8+.

Boys joining in Year 3 soon benefit from the small classes and increasingly specialist teaching they receive. Indeed, by Year 4, they are being taught by subject specialists in every subject, ensuring they

meet the high academic standards demanded by senior schools.

Outside of the classroom Year 3 boys can play one of a number of musical instruments, experience competitive sports fixtures and take part in performances in our 160 seat theatre. They will also get to go on their first residential trip.

We run a minibus service into school each morning and from September 2017 our Kew route will extend over the river to pick up boys from Chiswick. We also run a comprehensive wraparound care programme for all boys from breakfast club at 7.30am through to clubs and after-school care ending at 6.00pm.

We recently announced that The Mall is to move from being a 13+ school to an 11+ school from 2019. Headmaster David Price explains, “We want to play to our educational and pastoral strengths and secure the best future for all our boys. It is our strong belief that in making this structural change now, the ethos of the school will remain intact and our strong record of success and ability to bring out the best in every boy will be maintained.”

If you are considering prep schools for your son do come to one of our regular Open Mornings.

For more information please visit www.themallschool.org.uk

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A unique education at Whitgift School W

hitgift is situated in a beautiful and historic park. A Whitgift education is unique and exceptionally tailor-made, offering a variety of pathways to qualifications, including A Level, Pre U, the IB and BTEC, with a bilingual section for native French or Spanish speakers. Exceptional pastoral care is at the foundation of our provision, and each pupil, and his parents, are guaranteed a friendly face to turn to for advice and guidance.

Whitgift’s sport is at the forefront of achievement, with over 120 national titles won in the past five years. 40 sports are available, including modern pentathlon, golf, judo and cycling. Many boys represent their country in a wide variety of sports, or go on to pursue a career at the highest level.

An exciting Performing Arts programme is offered by the School, with first-class musicals and plays performed regularly. Orchestras and choirs tour internationally, and play at major venues, including the Royal Albert Hall, Royal Festival Hall, Cadogan Hall, Goodwood House, and the Royal Pavilion, Brighton. The School enjoys close links with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, enabling pupils to learn side-by-side with professional musicians.

Co-curricular activities feature more than 80 clubs, an Outdoor Education programme that travels worldwide, and a well-established Combined Cadet Force.

The School’s Boarding House, opened in 2013, is superbly-equipped and offers full, weekly and flexi-boarding to boys aged 13-18. Boarders have cutting-edge IT equipment, private study areas, en-suite bathrooms, and spacious, communal social areas with kitchen facilities.

Whitgift offers generous scholarships and bursaries.

There are many opportunities throughout the year to visit Whitgift. Details of Open Days are available at www.whitgift.co.uk/opendays.

Whitgift School, Haling Park, South Croydon CR2 6YT; www.whitgift.co.uk; +44 (0)20 8633 9935; admissions@whitgift.co.uk 1 2 0 SEPTEMBER 2 0 1 7

“Co-curricular activities feature more than 80 clubs”

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Lady Eleanor Holles Hanworth R oad Hampton Middlesex TW12 3HF www.lehs.org .uk Tel: 020 8979 1601 Admissions: registrar@le hs.org.uk

“L

ady Eleanor Holles (LEH ) is a remarka successfully ble school. It combine im is a school w pressive inte engagement here girls llectual ende well beyond avour with en academia. T their sportin thusiastic he girls’ public musical and g achievemen exam results dramatic activ ts are among and ities place th the best in th importantly em among th e country. T of all, their st e heir be im st ulating and ha of young pe me to lead. rfor mers. And ppy approach most to all they do There is so m makes LEH uch more to a joy for LEH life than here with ex cellent exam academic ac results alone, hievement: if become expe we would be young women rt learners, un disappointed left af raid to tackle and able to le . Our goal is new and chal arn from failu that LEH gi lenging idea re. rls Our school s, prepared to motto “Hop take risks, e Favours th to be courag e Bol eous and ever hopeful, optim d” sums it up beautifully We foster ex – at LEH, gi istic and dete cellence in ac rls learn rmined in al ad community. emics, the ar l that they do Our facilitie ts an d sp . or s are set in a t within a vibr including pu 23 acre plot ant and carin rpose built th and are outs g eatre and mus outdoor cour tanding for a ic blocks, art ts; a modern girls’ day scho st udios, three sports hall; an building open ol, lacrosse pitc d an indoor s in Septembe hes ; six swimming po r 2017, offerin STEM and co ol .

O ur new Gatew g enhanced mputing clas sports facilit ay srooms.

There are m ies and stateany trips to of-the art museums an - language ex d th changes, ski eatres, and re trips and batt sidential trip Greece and lefields, amon s from year Italy (classic 7 g them. Oth s) , B er lin (history), Throughout er recent exam upwards Iceland (geo its 300 year ples include graphy) and history LEH think your da Geneva (UN has produced ughter would ). many remar enjoy joining the school in kable women their ranks, pl action will yo . If you ea u get a tr ue se co m I look forwar e an d visit us. O flavour of al d to meeting nly by seeing l that an LE you in person H education . offers.

Heather H anbury Head Mistr ess

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“It is a school where girls successfully combine impressive intellectual endeavour with enthusiastic engagement well beyond academia”

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St Benedict’s School S

t Benedict’s is London’s leading independent Catholic co-educational school, situated in leafy Ealing. The School is a successful blend of the traditional and the progressive; proud of its heritage but also forward thinking and innovative. Within a caring, happy community, our pupils thrive, benefiting from a seamless education which can begin at the age of 3 and continue through to the Sixth Form.

St Benedict’s has strong academic standards, with considerable ambition for future academic success.

The School is committed to supporting all children to develop their full potential, by treating them as individuals, and catering for their particular needs and talents at every stage. Inspirational teaching, tutorial guidance and exceptional pastoral care are at the heart of the education we offer.

The Junior School and Nursery provide a supportive and vibrant environment in which to learn. Sharing excellent facilities with the Senior School and a programme of cross-curricular activities help ease the transition at 11+ to the Senior School, which is on the same site.

“At St Benedict’s, there is a vital focus on personal development” At St Benedict’s, there is a vital focus on personal development, and our outstanding co-curricular programme helps pupils to thrive by enabling them to find and develop their unique gifts and talents.

St Benedict’s has a distinguished sporting tradition: while many boys and girls train and compete at county and national level, everyone is encouraged to enjoy sport, teamwork and fitness. Music and Drama are both excellent; there is a strong choral tradition, renowned Abbey Choir and many instrumental ensembles. Termly drama productions have recently included Amadeus, West Side Story and A Midsummer Night’s Dream.

We encourage principled leadership, resilience and character in our pupils, and promote the Christian values of integrity, fairness and generosity

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to others. This is a hallmark of the School, informed by the 1500 year-old Rule of St Benedict, and there could be no better way of equipping young people for the future.

Recent developments include a fine new Sixth Form Centre and Art Department, opened in 2015.

A new Nursery and Pre-Prep Department opened recently, providing our youngest pupils with a firstrate learning environment.

St Benedict’s School is unique. Come and visit, and see what we have to offer. You can be sure of a warm Benedictine welcome.

For more information about St Benedict’s School: Telephone 020 8862 2254 or visit the website at www.stbenedicts.org.uk

EDUC EDUCATION ATION

UCS Hampstead is a School of Firsts

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CS is a school of firsts: the first nondenominational school in the country, the first to abolish corporal punishment and teach modern languages, and the first to be bizarrely named after three separate institutions of education. It is a wholly unique school. It is unique in its style of teaching, it is unique in its nurturing of the individual, and, perhaps most importantly, it is unique in its ethos.

But this is a bipartite ethos: on the one hand, it is defined by the liberal values which have been enshrined through statute - the liberal values which Bentham and their other intellectual founding fathers preached. On the other hand, their ethos could be defined as the guiding values which shape a UCS Student; not the UCS model, but the UCS student. And it is the combination of these two ethos definitions which I think makes UCS special.

Their idiosyncrasies, their ethical code, their intellectual curiosity: these are what make up the UCS student. This school is not a factory; the students are not all the same. UCS instils certain qualities, not regimented attitudes. Instead, when students leave, they are questioning, but not arrogant. Tolerant and open minded, but not complacent. Each club, each society, the majority run by students, exist for the sole purpose of coupling enjoyment and the exploration of the world beyond the constraints of the syllabus. The teachers succeed in teaching the subject, not the exam, as well as a set of values, in an education system relatively corrupted by a valueless exam structure.

The UCS Foundation strives to instil a sense

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â&#x20AC;&#x153;This school is not a factory; the students are not all the same. UCS instils certain qualities, not regimented attitudesâ&#x20AC;?

of extended community and ensures that there is continuity from the age of seven to the age of eighteen. This does not, however, promote exclusivity, and the 16+ entry girl is made to feel as welcome as the boy who has been at the school for almost a decade. The extensive bursary scheme broadens the UCS view that no attribute -- religious, racial, social, and now economic -should prevent one who deserves to study here from studying here.

Daniel Fried, Pupil UCS Hampstead UCS Senior School, Frognal, Hampstead, NW3 6XH; Tel:020 7435 2215; www.ucs.org.uk

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A GATEWAY TO THE TOP open day

The school’s Open Day is on 7th October 2017, 11.00am – 2.00pm

contact details For more information, to register for the open day or to visit the school: Tel: 020 7535 3530 Email: registrar@wetherbysenior.co.uk Wetherby Senior School 100 Marylebone Lane, London, W1U 2QU

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etherby Senior School is an academically selective 11-18 allboys’ independent school located in the heart of Marylebone.

Established in 2014, it carries on the traditions established at Wetherby School and Wetherby Preparatory School. Boys enter at Year 7 or Year 9 and are expected to join our Sixth Form, before they transition to top universities in the UK and abroad.

Wetherby has a reputation for excellence, challenge and community. At Wetherby Senior, boys learn that excellence stems from effort and perseverance and that learning how to learn is the best preparation for the future. To this end, learning skills and philosophy are part of the the school’s core curriculum and supervised study sessions are integral part of the school day. Supported by a pastoral care system that nurtures intellectual curiosity and perseverance, Wetherby boys develop into confident and independent learners who will be well-equipped to face the challenges of university education and the world of work.

Wetherby boys are happy and successful because of the skills they develop as part of the broad co-curricular programme available to them. The

boys are able to participate in a range of sports with competitive fixtures, take part in the Duke of Edinburgh’s award, join music ensembles and perform on the stage along with a number of artistic and cultural activities designed to challenge and stimulate their creativity. In the School’s short history, the programme of expeditions is impressive with departments combining to produce exciting opportunities. Already, the Classics and Geography departments have visited the Bay of Naples, the PE and Spanish department have taken a group of students on a football tour to Spain and in the coming year, the French and Science departments are taking a group to Paris. New Headmaster Seth Bolderow (previously Deputy Head of Harrow International School Hong Kong), joins the school in September at a time of great growth for the school, which, owing to demand, is opening additional forms of entry and will, from September 2018, enjoy new, state of the art facilities in nearby Manchester Street along with a purpose built Sixth Form facility.

If you wish to find out more about the new Sixth Form at Wetherby Senior School, please email registrar@wetherbysenior.co.uk

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House Schools Group

Bassett House, Orchard House and Prospect House are the family of schools known as House Schools Group, all members of IAPS.

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ll three schools share a similar ethos, celebrating each individual child, and helping him or her to achieve his or her full potential. Each class usually has no more than 20 children, the Early Years have at least three teaching adults per class; small groups and 1:1 teaching is commonplace throughout all year groups.

The schools do not test children as young as 3-4 years old, as this can be both misleading and stressful for parents and child alike; instead they adopt a ‘first come, first served’ policy, so early registration is advised to avoid disappointment. They are firm believers in boys and girls learning together and learning from each other: after all, life is co-ed.

“House Schools believe that children blossom when they are in a happy environment and each feels secure and valued”

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THE DETAILS

BASSETT HOUSE SCHOOL Headmistress: Mrs Philippa Cawthorne Registrar: Mrs Thalia Demetriades Bassett House School 60 Bassett Road London W10 6JP Telephone: 020 8969 0313 Email: info@bassetths.org.uk

ORCHARD HOUSE SCHOOL Headmistress: Mrs Maria Edwards Registrar: Mrs Diana GoodeveDocker Orchard House School 16 Newton Grove Chiswick London W4 1LB Telephone: 020 8742 8544 Email: info@orchardhs.org.uk

PROSPECT HOUSE SCHOOL Headmaster: Mr Michael Hodge School secretaries: Mrs Tracy Lowe and Mrs Sue McCarthy.

Prospect House School, 75 Putney Hill, London SW15 3NT. Registrar: Mrs Emily Porter 020 8246 4897 The Lower School is at 76-78 Putney Hill, London SW15 6RB. School office: 020 8780 0456 Email: info@prospecths.org.uk

House Schools believe that children blossom when they are in a happy environment and each feels secure and valued. Accordingly the children are taught that mistakes are not failures, but a positive sign they are trying; their efforts are always encouraged. The schools set great store by their pastoral policy and Orchard House’s innovative tool to monitor children’s emotional wellbeing was recently shortlisted for a national award. A very happy atmosphere and high-calibre teaching staff ensure that all the schools produce excellent academic results, geared towards 11+ entry to the top London senior schools and boarding schools.

A belief in an all-round education prevails, building character, developing social skills and learning the value of endeavour and resilience. To this end, the schools have extensive extra-curricular clubs and offer a wide range of sport, music and drama within the school day. The children also go on a number of residential adventures, such as a bushcraft activity trip where the children build their own shelter and then sleep in it under the stars, sleepovers in the Science Museum and a week’s trip to a château in France where only French is spoken.

Each of the schools has a strong parents’ association and also runs a bursary scheme (through the independent charity, House Schools Trust). These are happy high achieving schools where children thrive and realise the limit of their abilities.

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Girls taking centre stage For over 130 years, Channing School in Highgate has been leading the way in girls’ education, offering opportunities to lead, inspire and take on challenges with confidence and character. We caught up with Headmistress Mrs Barbara Elliott to discover Channing’s winning formula…

‘I

’m often asked what makes Channing such a unique school,’ says Mrs Elliott, who has been at the helm of Channing for 12 years. In that time, she has overseen a transformational, multi-million pound development programme.

“I think our vision statement ‘Girls Enjoying Success’ sums up our ethos. It puts our pupils at the heart of everything we do. We are an academic school - just look at our results! - but we firmly believe that girls must discover their own talents and passions. Channing School helps them realise their ambitions.’

The £13m development programme wrapped up this summer, with the completion of a state-of-theart Performing Arts Building, which is clearly visible from Highgate Hill. ‘It is no coincidence that our recent investments have focussed on Drama, Music (a bespoke Music School with over 300 individual lessons every week), Sport (a double-height hall with fitness suite) and healthy food - we have an extended dining room where our in-house caterers serve the most delicious meals). We have always been committed to offering a broad and exciting curriculum and our pupils will now benefit hugely from the new facilities.’

Channing also prides itself on spotting potential in girls who apply for a place. “It is, sadly true, that we are over-subscribed, but my team and I look for intellectual curiosity and ambition in candidates as we know that these girls will benefit most from a Channing education. In essence, these are girls who are keen to learn and who will make a positive contribution to our caring school community.’ says Mrs Elliott. ‘We prioritise creativity, resilience and collaboration here - all things that we know will best prepare girls for success in the future’.

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And what can parents do to help? ‘Parents are vital partners at Channing. They can support by making sure that their daughters are well-fed, well-rested and ‘ready to learn’. It also helps if their daughters have observed the value they place on a good education by seeing their parents’ intellectual curiosity in action: learning, reading, thinking deeply and enjoying the experience. We should all model the behaviours we want to nurture in our young people. If you’d rather spend all evening looking at a screen, why would your children want to read a book, play an instrument, engage in discussion and think deeply?’

Girls Enjoying Success - come and see for yourself at one of Channing’s Open Day events.

For more information about Channing School, please visit www.channing.co.uk. Or contact the Registrar, Maureen McHarg, on 020 8340 2328 for all enquiries. Channing School The Bank, Highgate, London N6 5HF

Above: ‘A Head for Heights’ - Headmistress Barbara Elliott inspired girls in July by skydiving, raising money for the new Performing Arts Building’

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Top prep school gives girls a head start K

ensington Prep School in Fulham now has some of the best facilities of any prep school in London. A transforming building project has created new innovative facilities including a hightech Explore Floor, multi-media recording studio, spacious classroom break-out spaces and an EcoGreenhouse. The new spaces complement the excellent classroom-based teaching, providing lots of opportunities for independent exploration and collaborative work.

Kensington Prep School head Mrs Lynch says: “We found the traditional design of classrooms was constraining the way teachers could teach and children could learn. Our building project ‘Creating Spaces for Growing Minds’ has created powerful new learning environments which are incredibly freeing for teachers and pupils. We don’t believe in pupils just ‘sitting still and listening’. Children feel more confident to use their initiative and become curious, critical thinkers who can find their own solutions.

We are convinced a future proofed education needs spaces which increase children’s

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independence, creativity and ability to work as part of a team. Developing these attitudes is as essential as learning the 3 Rs.” Two new lifts have also been installed which makes the school fully wheelchair accessible – which few schools can offer. Indeed wheelchair user, Baroness Grey-Thompson, the celebrated Paralympian athlete visited the school to open the new facilities. She told the girls to always ‘aim high’.

Kensington Prep School has 295 pupils aged 4-11. It gained the highest possible grades in its recent inspection and was rated ‘exceptional’ by inspectors for the quality of pupils’ achievements and learning. The school wins praise for its nurturing approach, rich curriculum and outstanding academic results.

Registration for 4+ entry in September 2018, closes 30th September 2017. Entry is selective by assessment. To enquire about the possibility of occasional places please contact the Registrar: registrar@kenprep.gdst.net. www.kensingtonprep.gdst.net

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International Mindedness Should you be part of the new trend?

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here once the concept of international mindedness seemed intellectual or aloof, it now seems like basic common sense to be taught how to enjoy, thrive and respect different cultures; to come out of school equipped with the skills to live and work successfully with people from other countries or cultures, or to be able to thrive anywhere in the world you choose to live.

And if there is one form of education that truly embeds international mindedness, more so than perhaps any other, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s an international education in an international school.

Developing global citizens Learning to appreciate and absorb cultural differences is just part of everyday life in an international school like ACS Hillingdon. From a young age, students integrate with many different cultures, equipping them with the life skills to be global citizens and instilling them with a broad outlook. In a classroom with peers and teachers representing up to 40 different cultural backgrounds, students cannot help but develop a deeper and broader understanding across complex subjects.

Students also establish lasting friendships with peers from around the world and for them, nationalities are not a label or a defining characteristic. They readily share their experiences from their home culture or places they have lived and celebrate their diversity. This naturally develops a global outlook which extends way beyond the classroom too.

Qualifications with a global outlook Qualifications and learning programmes that extend beyond national boundaries have to be central to an international education. Such programmes 1 3 6 SEPTEMBER 2 0 1 7

have International Mindedness international recognition not for their name alone, but for their academic rigour and as a positive indicator of the personal development of an individual.

One of the leading education programmes in this respect is the International Baccalaureate (IB), which is consistently cited by university admissions officers as the best preparation for higher education over other traditional UK curriculums. Admissions officers believe that IB students cultivate vital aptitudes needed to thrive at university including an ability for independent enquiry, self-management skills and open mindedness.

To find out more about ACS International Schools, or to register for an open morning visit www.acs-schools.com/opendays.

ACS Hillingdon: Telephone: 01895 818402; Email: hillingdonadmissions@acs-schools.com; Website: www.acs-schools.com/acs-hillingdon

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The Value of Language Exchanges

by Malcolm Pacey, Head of German, Merchant Taylors’ School

The All Party Parliamentary Group on Modern Languages declared a languages skills crisis late in 2016. Time abroad on exchange can help boost language skills and motivation for learning ...

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henever I reveal to strangers that I teach languages to secondary students, the response I’m usually offered is one of regret that my conversation partner didn’t pursue his or her language studies past the compulsory level. Being able to speak a foreign language is one of those impressive qualities which sets one apart from the crowd, especially in the highly competitive world of university entry and beyond. Put quite simply, being able to speak a foreign language is something the majority of Brits never master to a high standard, meaning those who do are worthy of being celebrated. Language students show determination, resilience, academic grit and intercultural understanding.

A language exchange can, and should, be a life-changing event. Going abroad, living with a family you’ve never met, attending a school with a significantly different routine and finding new pastimes in a new culture would be a big ask in an English-speaking environment, such as Australia or the US. Throw into this mix the fact that your every interaction needs to be in a language one is still coming to terms with and you have the makings of the kind of experience that enables your son or daughter to grow and mature in a way no other offering from your school’s list of activities and trips can.

Language learning is a slow process, much like learning a musical instrument. Just like an instrument, you need short bursts of daily practice.

With this in mind, both parents and students need to be realistic about what can be achieved in the time made available. Many school exchanges these days are only a week long which, whilst they might help give context to the language and country of focus, will only do so much for fluency. The extended summer break presents an excellent opportunity for young people to go abroad for near on two months. Many schools in Germany, for example, are in session during parts of the British summer break, meaning time can be spent in school (where the bulk of language learning is most likely to occur) as well as experiencing the summer with their host-family.

There’s more to gain than simply practical language skills. Exchange students soon learn to be self-reliant and independent. They need to make informed choices about whom they choose as friends, for example, and how they save or spend their money.

Many parents fret over their son or daughter’s choice of language at school. My advice would simply be to do whatever you can to ensure that, whichever language they’re learning, that they have a positive experience, and come to terms with how to learn languages per se. Once you’ve started to master one, it’s easier to take on a second, or even a third. Whilst many schools offer the chance for your child to take part in a city visit (say, Berlin, Madrid or Paris), opting for either a school-based or a private language exchange programme will, by far, provide the opportunity to make real academic strides in a foreign language. You’re most definitely going to say something embarrassing and destroy an intricate ballroom dance routine for ten German couples because you have no idea what you’re doing (not that this ever happened to me!), but the language skills, self-confidence and independence that an exchange equips young people with make such small shortcomings worthwhile.

I don’t have a gift. I also don’t have any German background. I simply did a three-month exchange to Hanover after Year 11. I managed it, and so will your child. www.mtsn.org.uk

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Game, Set & Match

A spotlight on sport at Alleyn’s School

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ulwich-based independent school Alleyn’s has a reputation as one of the premier co-educational schools in the country, a claim clearly underlined by recent exam successes in which boys and girls performed equally well with nearly 40% of A Level grades at A*.

Respected by commentators such as The Good Schools Guide and Tatler Schools Guide for its academic prowess, the School takes pride in its ethos and caring community in which boys and girls learn together, as well as in its extensive enrichment and co-curricular programmes.

Success for all Sport is a high-profile facet of life at Alleyn’s. The School has a history of success, winning titles across a range of sporting disciplines every year, with water polo, cricket and fives particularly coming into their own recently.

Director of Sport Gavin English says: “Our sports programme aims to match exceptional specialist coaching and provision with a developmental philosophy. We have a proud history of producing elite performers whose journey began here. More importantly, we aim to enthuse all our boys and girls, regardless of their starting point.

We believe that sport should be challenging but enjoyable for everyone.”

Alleyn’s strives to help all pupils to achieve their full sporting potential. It also has a unique approach to supporting, stretching and challenging elite athletes, taking a long-term view of their development and helping them to apply their skills to opportunities both inside and outside of the sporting arena.

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Sporting resources The School certainly has the facilities to bring out the sporting best in its boys and girls. Based in nearly 30 acres of green space, the Alleyn’s campus enjoys tennis, basketball and netball courts, an athletics track, astroturf pitch, cricket pitch and pavilion, and a recently renovated swimming pool with special adaptations for water polo and an Olympic timing system.

Alleyn’s sporting personnel line-up is impressive.

Deputy Head Sue Chandler is a former Great Britain Hockey captain, still coaching at school and national level. Assistant Head Neil Green is a former Great Britain Youth Women’s water polo coach and the current Secretary for England Schools Water Polo.

On the football front, Mr English is vice-chair of the ISFA Football Development Committee, whilst his colleague Kevin Molloy sits on the ISFA Executive Committee and oversees ISFA junior player development.

“The School has a history of success, winning titles across a range of sporting disciplines every year”

Co-educational excellence It is no surprise then, that Alleyn’s is the most successful co-educational school in the country for water polo, that its mixed U12 cricket team recently won the London Cup, or that current male and female pupils participate in a variety of sports at regional and national level.

“The philosophy we are moving towards is if a girl or boy wants to be involved with a sport we offer and can demonstrate the right attributes and attitudes, they play,” says Mr English. “The world is multi-gendered and we want to reflect that in everything we do.”

For more information on sport at Alleyn’s, visit www.alleyns.org.uk or call 020 8557 1500.

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Developing the Characteristics of a Life-Long Learner.

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instein was never far from controversy and was famously downbeat about his school years. He rose above various challenges at school and became responsible for some of the greatest theoretical scientific advances of all time. Einstein’s rhetoric points to a school curriculum that was limited by learning specific facts and an ethos that encouraged a narrow approach to learning. His fierce curiosity and dogged determination contributed to his ground breaking work. Einstein demonstrated the characteristics of an effective learner and made a commitment to being a life-long learner. Einstein’s attitude to learning was clearly not inspired by his school, however it was the driving force behind his success.

Dulwich Prep London inspires learners from their very first day at school and is committed to developing the skills required to become an effective, life-long learner and not just to learn facts required by examinations.

Many adults will have forgotten how to simplify quadratic fractions (GCSE requirement) or are unable to identify a fronted adverbial in a sentence (Key Stage 2 expectation), however a greater number will know how to research a solution, work with a colleague to find an answer, persist with their endeavours and effectively communicate their outcomes.

All of these skills are embedded within the curriculum at Dulwich Prep London and form an integral part of the development of every child at the school. Such curriculum development has been inspired by global perspectives such as Art Costa’s Habits of Mind. The teaching and learning at Dulwich Prep London is geared to enable children to move into senior school, and life beyond, with a passion for learning alongside the behaviours and

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attitudes to successfully tackle any challenge.

Appropriate curriculum, outstanding teaching and understanding of contemporary educational discourse all ensure a child’s individual learning journey is rich and fruitful. A school’s pursuit of excellence in said areas centres on its commitment to professional learning. Dulwich Prep London prides itself on strong investment in teacher development, actively organising events such as the Challenge Learning Conference - a conference led

by James Nottingham, author of the ‘Learning Pit’ (a way in which children look at the challenge of learning and the steps they must take to meet and overcome such challenge). Opportunities to engage with world renowned education experts such as Nottingham ensure staff reinvigorate and broaden their skill-set, however more importantly model lifelong learning for the students.

A school that is truly committed to life-long learning must provide and encourage opportunities for all at the school to continue to develop and must constantly seek ways to ensure every individual can access their provision.

Should the next Einstein be sitting in a classroom at Dulwich Prep London, we hope he will reflect more positively about his time at school and recognise the benefits of the foundations laid with the help of his teachers.

“Education is what remains after one has forgotten what one has learned in school” – Albert Einstein

Find out more at www.dulwichpreplondon.org; 42 Alleyn Park, London SE21 7AA; Telephone 020 8766 5500

OPEN MORNING SATURDAY 16th SEPTEMBER | 9.00AM

www.dulwichpreplondon.org

OPEN MORNING SATURDAY 16th SEPTEMBER | 9.00AM

www.dulwichpreplondon.org

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HAPPY LEARNERS AT PARSONS GREEN PREP At Parsons Green Prep School in Fulham, how a child learns is as important as what a child learns.

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eachers have primary responsibility for the children in their class, both as individuals and as a group, and the structure of the school allows children to make good friends across the classes. The school’s Creative Curriculum is themed learning with crosscurricular links, which enables children to have a deeper understanding of the topic. At the start of the topic the children are asked two key questions: what do you already know about the topic and what would you like to find out?

Parsons Green Prep is a huge advocate of science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) and won the ISA award for STEM for 2016/2017. These are key subjects for securing positive opportunities and career paths for future generations and primary school age is the perfect opportunity to encourage children to explore and begin to understand and realise the links between these subjects and why they are studied.

In terms of facilities, the double-height hall is used by the whole school for anything from sport to (most importantly) lunch. Children from Year 3 upwards have access to their own tablet. As well as spacious classrooms, science and art rooms and a Mac suite, there is an unusual amount of outdoor space with an Astroturf pitch and separate play areas.

Every child can play sport competitively and school sports teams play against other local schools in tournaments and matches. Music and performing arts is important and, in addition to whole class lessons, children have the opportunity to perform in a choir, orchestra and theatrical group.

When it comes to moving on, the ethos is the right school for the right child. Year 6 leavers get into some of the best secondary schools in the country, including St Paul’s Girls, Godolphin & Latymer, City of London Boys’, Dulwich College, King’s College Wimbledon, Francis Holland, Putney High and Ibstock Place.

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PARSONS GREEN PREP SCHOOL COLOURS

COATED MATERIAL

Pantone 654 C

the details Pantone 7682 C

Parsons Green Prep School 1 Fulham Park Road, SW6 4LJ Admissions – tel: 020 7610 8085 or email admissions@ parsonsgreenprep.co.uk. www.parsonsgreenprep.co.uk

UNCOATED MATERIAL

Pantone 289 U

Pantone 7683 U

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How to Create a Child Genius

London parents are upping their game in pursuit of the perfect report card.

From philosophy programmes to bilingual nurseries, we offer a guide for modern tiger parents.

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s every London parent knows, your child is an extension of your personality: your little ambassador in the world. It’s not enough to hope that your children will be happy and well-adjusted.

You need them to be happy, well-adjusted and much cleverer than the other children you know.

That magical phrase ‘gifted and talented’ on the report card is so much classier than turning up at the school gates in Armani jeans and an Audi Q6.

All this may look like middle-class one-upmanship masquerading as parental love, but let’s be honest: there is no greater love. We’re alchemising our own insecurities into the parenting rocket fuel that means our children will never have to suffer such insecurities themselves. Want to build a child genius? Then swot up on this...

SCHMOOZE OR LOSE

Katie Hopkins left the nation aghast after declaring she wouldn’t let her children associate with kids named Charmaine, Chardonnay or Tyler.

Nevertheless, ambitious parents do vet their kids’ pals. Perfect manners and a reading age of 15?

Good playmate. Chews exercise books and likes setting things on fire? Discouraged. Hence Maggie & Rose, the UK’s first private members’ clubs for kids, with two branches in West London. Members can enjoy endless soft play, cookery classes, dance classes — and excellent social opportunities.

OK COMPUTER The modern parent hip to Steven Johnson’s Everything Bad is Good for You, knows that not all video games don’t rot the brain: they give it an IQraising cognitive workout. Look at the brilliant way digital publishers such as Nosy Crow incorporate problem-solving into storytelling, while apps such as Reading Raven are engaging ways to get children into the world of words.

TUNE IN Studies consistently prove that children who learn music show greater increases in IQ than those who don’t; research has shown that listening to Mozart

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produces a measurable increase in spatial reasoning.

So seek out an instrument that will nourish your darling son or daughter’s mind and soul, and make your home intolerable during practice time.

DOUBLE UP Most London schools are attended by children who speak many languages. Naïve parents might think this is a good way for their child to pick up a few foreign words. Wrong. Instead, you want to aim for a nursery where they speak two languages deliberately, rather than lots by accident. French never hurts, and there’s a good number of French bilingual nurseries in London. To be extra chic, brave the waiting list for a place at the Azbuka Foundation’s Russian nursery in Richmond.

THINK OR SINK What could be more important than a five-year-old getting special help dealing with the things that are most fundamental to the history of Western thought. Most tots are struggling with whether ‘i’ comes before ‘e’. Get yours worrying instead about whether existence comes before essence. The P4C Co-operative (philosophy for children) – a worldwide educational movement launched in 1972 by the American professor Matthew Lipman — offers, for a modest subscription (£35), a range of philosophy-teaching online resources for kids.

ACT UP Drama lessons are very important for building confidence, imaginative play, empathy and those healthy feelings of hating six-year-old Amelia because she beat you to Cordelia in the school production of King Lear, so you ended up having to play Goneril. It’s tough out there: best get them used to it early. The media yummy mummies of Crouch End swear by Perform and its high-energy productions: each term builds to a full ensemble 1 4 8 SEPTEMBER 2 0 1 7

performance, backed by bespoke apps and a swishy online costume shop.

“Drama lessons are very important for building confidence, imaginative play, empathy and those healthy feelings of hating six-year-old Amelia because she beat you to Cordelia in the school production of King Lear”

LEARN THROUGH PLAY There’s oodles of research supporting it. Chess, of course, teaches basic game theory and pattern recognition. And Scrabble offers vocabulary and simple maths. But bridge, as well as being an opportunity for parents and children to bond, encourages complicated strategic thought, memory and communication skills. Andrew Robson’s bridge club in Fulham does children’s lessons.

TEST TASTES As they say in computer science: garbage in, garbage out. It’s all very well making sure that your children eat well at home, but what about when they’re with other children? Unless your child is properly trained, they could easily be tempted to accept Haribo Tangfastics, Dairylea Triangles or worse. So educate your progeny early to question the provenance of food — a friend’s child, for instance, politely declines supermarket sausages and expresses a preference for Parmesan over cheddar.

HOMEWORK IT Everyone knows that the key to learning is partnership. It’s no use leaving your little darling to struggle through writing a poem or drawing a dinosaur without guidance — especially when he/she thinks Triceratops and Trilobites lived at the same time and were both pink, or that one sentence in two merits an exclamation mark. Here’s the chance for your child to watch — little brain soaking it all in like a sponge — as you build a diorama of a Pre-Cambrian habitat or correct that dear little sonnet from Shakespearean to Petrarchan.

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Portland Place School Welcomes New Head and Celebrates Excellent Results Portland Place School is jubilant after a double results day success, and consolidates its senior leadership team with the appointment of a highly regarded and experienced headmaster.

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taff and pupils at the leading independent school celebrated not only a high record of five plus A*-C grades with 85% achieving this, but also being placed in the top 10% of schools nationally for progress based on Value Added Scores for A-Levels – the difference between what a pupil achieves, in comparison to what they were expected to receive.

David Bradbury, who joined Portland Place School from South Hampstead High School where he held the position of deputy head for over six years, will continue to further develop the leading school as a facility where pupils and students strive for excellence in a warm and caring environment.

David has a B.Sc. (Hons) in Physics, an MSc. and a Post-Graduate Certificate in Education from the University of Keele as well as an MA in Education from the Open University. He is a member of the Institute of Physics (MInstP), a Chartered Physicist (CPhys) and a member of the Association for Science Education.

A man with many interests, outside of work David enjoys archery, cookery, cryptic crosswords, film, literature and music as well as hill-walking and board games.

David Bradbury commented: “I am very proud to be Portland Place School’s new headmaster. It has an almost unique place in London day schools and a very particular purpose. As The Good School’ Guide describes us, “small, nurturing and refreshingly relaxed. A haven of creativity in the pushy, academically competitive world of London

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day schools. A place for engaged, lively, normal kids.” I share that vision and purpose and look forward to leading Portland Place’s development in the coming years as new educational challenges have to be met.”

He added: “The double celebration of exceptional GCSE results and value added scores for A-levels illustrates the hard work and determination shown by both staff and pupils. To be placed in the top 10% of schools nationally for progress based on value added is a fantastic accomplishment. It gives us confidence that our method of teaching, which is based around bespoke, individual attention in a nurturing environment, enables them to fulfil their potential” Portland Place School is a leading independent co-educational school for children aged 9-18, located directly in the heart of the City of Westminster.

For more information on the school visit: www.portland-place.co.uk or call 020 7307 8700.

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St Anthony’s Girls use Singapore Maths to master problem solving St. Anthony’s School for Girls has introduced a new Mathematics curriculum which has seen the pupils master problem solving.

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he Golders Hill based school initially trialled the Singapore Mathematics technique to the Year 3 pupils. Following a successful pilot of the Oxford University Press scheme, Inspire Maths, - which has been written to deliver the Singapore maths approach - it will now be rolled out to Years 1 to 4.

Inspire Maths is a highly scaffolded learning framework with problem solving at its heart.

Inspire Maths helps children to learn to use heuristics to solve problems. Heuristics refers to the different strategies that children can adopt to solve unfamiliar or non-routine problems. These strategies include drawing the bar model, pattern spotting, using diagrams and estimating. The CPA approach (concrete, pictorial and abstract) helps children achieve secure number sense which is an understanding of what numbers really represent and how to use them mathematically.

By ‘seeing’ the maths through the use of concrete apparatus or visual representations, the pupils can gain a greater insight into the problem, which is the biggest issue for girls taking the 11+. This new technique is important in helping them to master their problem solving objectives for their own year group on a deeper level, benefiting them ahead of the 11+ exams in the future. The programme is highly structured and ensures every topic is covered in depth rather than more shallow ‘surface level’ learning.

Head teacher Laura Martin commented: “This new approach has given the girls the skills to feel confident when tackling challenging maths problems. They are able to select and apply the techniques taught through the programme to various problem solving scenarios, guaranteeing successful preparation for 11+ exams. The feedback from parents has been very positive as the pupils find the programme challenging but are coping very well thanks to the ‘practice makes permanent’ concept underpinning the initiative.”

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St. Anthony’s School for Girls teaches pupils in a Catholic environment, and is inclusive and open to other faiths. The school educates girls from age 4 – 11. Classes in Reception and Year 3 opened in September 2016 and Year 1, 2 and Year 4 are to open in September 2017 due to organic growth.

The maximum roll is 280.

Alpha Plus Group owns and operates eighteen first-class independent schools, nurseries and sixth form colleges. The Group stands for excellence in education provision, known as the Gold Standard.

By providing first-class learning, children and young people are able to achieve their full potential in a challenging yet secure and caring environment.

Teaching throughout the Group combines the best of traditional and modern methods and provides access to the latest classroom technology.

THE DETAILS For more information of St Anthony’s School for Girls please contact Jessica Green, the school administrator, on: 020 38693070 or info@stanthonysgirls.co.uk

Achieve academic excellence through stimulating learning in a nurturing environment.

School Tour Dates: 23 September, 10am 14 October, 10am 11 November, 10am Ivy House, 94-96 North End Road, London NW11 7SX Tel: 020 3869 3070

CUR IOSIT Y

info@stanthonysgirls.co.uk @StAnthonysGirls

www.stanthonysgirls.co.uk 10057-APG SAG St Ants School for Girls Half Page Ad - 190X133mm V2.indd 3

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Excellence in the Heart of London:

Introducing Kensington Park School

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ensington Park School is a new academically rigorous independent school for boys and girls aged 11-18.

It boasts some of the country’s most experienced teachers and offers excellent cultural and sporting opportunities, all in the heart of London.

While the school is new, its leadership and core teaching team have long successful track-records at some of the best independent schools in the country. A large contingent come from St Paul’s School, including Dick Jaine, the former acting High Master, and senior teachers for subjects such as Mathematics, Chemistry and Economics. Between them, these superb teachers have decades of experience delivering outstanding grades at GCSE and A Level as well as guiding entry into the world’s top universities.

KPS operates from two buildings either side of Kensington Gardens: • KPS Sixth Form, in Queen’s Gate, which opened in September 2017 for pupils aged 16-18 • KPS Seniors, in Bark Place, opening in September 2018 for pupils aged 11-16 The school also has exceptional boarding facilities in South Kensington providing a comfortable and secure home-from-home environment.

Excellent sporting and cultural opportunities KPS is about much more than academics. The school has partnered with providers of world-class sports facilities in and around its West London home. These include Imperial College’s Ethos Sports Centre with its state-of-the-art gym, pool and climbing wall; expert coaches, including former 1 5 4 SEPTEMBER 2 0 1 7

Key Application Dates KPS 11+ Exam Saturday 2nd December 2017 KPS 16+ Open Evening Tuesday 3rd October 2017 If you would like to register for either of these events, please contact Jane Lovell, Registrar at j.lovell@kps.co.uk.

Contact details: Kensington Park School Sixth Form 59 Queen’s Gate London SW7 5JP Kensington Park School Seniors 40-44 Bark Place London W2 4AT T: +44 (0)20 7225 0577 E: j.lovell@kps.co.uk www.kps.co.uk

Olympians, in fencing and riding; and Fulham Reach Boat Club, a superbly equipped new rowing facility on the Thames. There will be an exciting outdoor education programme, including the Duke of Edinburgh award scheme. Similar partnerships are in place for music and drama.

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TOP OF THE CLASS

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eat those back to school blues with Becky & Lolo as we enter the summer season with our colourful and diverse range of back to school essentials. From personalised backpacks to our must have stationary sets, we have something for every child!

Here at Becky & Lolo, we understand how little one’s dread going back to school after enjoying the summer holidays. So, lets throw out the old pencil shavings, worn out rubbers and broken pen lids and start fresh with our diverse range of children’s stationery. Store your children’s school treasures in our colourful and fun collection of pencil cases and desk organisers. Walk the plank with our pirate themed stationery or tell a tale with our Roald Dahl themed stationery kits, we have something for every little learner.

Give your child something extra special for the start of term with our funky range of personalised backpacks. Choose from our wonderful collection of animal, fairy, nautical and transportation themed designs. With an embroidered named stitched onto the bag flap, our gorgeous collection of personalised backpacks are perfect for those little ones who love to set the trend! Don’t forget to check out our wide collection of children’s

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backpacks and satchels, perfect gifts for back to school!

Encourage your children to eat healthy packed lunches with our fun range of lunch bags and lunch boxes. We have a number of different styles for both boys and girls! From lunch boxes with zipped compartments, to mesh bottle holders, we offer a unique range of lunch bags and lunch boxes which will keep your children’s lunch and snacks cool and fresh for longer.

Let your little one set the trend with our fashionable style of PE bags. Personalised for that special touch, our drawstring PE bags are perfect for storing PE kits and swimming gear. We offer a wide range of personalised and non personalisable PE bags with a number of colourful and eye catching designs- perfect for standing out from the crowd.

Join us as we prepare for back to school with our fantastic money saving offers and latest products by following us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

We have hundreds of different gifts and back to school essentials to get your little one’s ready for the start of term.

Stay unique, stay colourful. www.beckyandlolo.co.uk

“Personalised for that special touch, our drawstring PE bags are perfect for storing PE kits and swimming gear”

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THE BENEFITS OF THE INDEPENDENT SCHOOL W

ith options ranging from boarding schools to modern alternative curricula, there is almost certainly a school to suit each and every child. Here are some of the reasons why parents are choosing to give their children the unique experience of private school and why itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s worth the financial investment.

Enriched academic opportunities One of the accepted benefits of private schools is that they provide exceptional and challenging educational experiences through extracurricular activities, Advanced Placement courses, and the International Baccalaureate programme, just to

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name a few. The IB programme focuses on school work and on developing you as a whole person.

Private school students constantly score top marks on standardized tests and college entrance exams, and many schools have a 100 per cent rate of students attending their university of choice.

Controlled class sizes A comprehensive study on class size made by educational researchers Bruce Biddler and David Berliner in 2002 showed that the smaller the class size, the better the average student performs on academic achievement tests. The gains from smaller class sizes are stronger the longer a child is exposed to them. Private schools vary greatly in size, but depending on their teaching style,

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almost all focus on the importance of small class sizes to individually help students’ weak areas and advance their strengths.

Dedicated teachers In a study completed by the Fraser Institute in 2007, 91 per cent of parents surveyed said the dedication of the teachers was their main reason for choosing private school. Instructors are both qualified and passionate about their subjects, often holding advanced degrees in their field. Within the tight-knit school community, students have close relationships with their teachers who commonly act as role models.

In addition, small class sizes make staff members more readily available for extra help or to further challenge individual students.

Parental involvement Private schools are built around open communication between parents and administration, and they make it a priority to involve parents in the community. From frequent parent-teacher meetings, social events such as parent breakfasts and family camping weekends, and the participation of parent committees in fundraising initiatives, families become an integral part of the child’s education.

This common ground also helps strengthen parent-child relationships.

A safe environment Private schools have reputations for maintaining high standards for discipline and respect. Lower staff-to-student ratios allow for more effective observation and control of school grounds. The strong sense of community found in private schools also discourages dangerous behaviour. In the Fraser Institute study, around 72 per cent of parents surveyed with children in the private school system strongly agreed that their school was safe, which greatly improves the quality of the child’s educational experience and achievement.

The discipline they learn also improves their rates for success in post-secondary education when they are in control of their class attendance and achievement.

Ample resources At private schools, you’ll find incredible resources to support student learning in the classroom, sports field, art studio, and beyond. Quality resources provide students with the opportunity to fully explore their interests and talents.

Extracurricular activities While academics remain the priority for most private schools, many also place a strong focus on a well-rounded education and encourage participation in extracurricular activities such as sports, music, 1 6 2 SEPTEMBER 2 0 1 7

arts or clubs. This involvement helps stimulate students in their studies, as noted in a study at Stanford University that found that students involved in the arts are more motivated to learn and are three times more likely to win a school attendance award. Extracurricular activities can provide a much-needed break from the stresses of academics while developing skills and engaging in valuable social situations.

Development for today’s and tomorrow’s world Private schools go beyond offering the mandatory subjects required by provincial curriculum; they can offer students a wide range of specializations including arts programs, athletics, maths and science. Private schools are responsible for producing many leaders in politics, business and society, with a history of adapting quickly to changes in technology and culture. And today, they are also sought by parents of children with special needs such as behaviour problems or learning disabilities.

fashion, HEALTH

& beauty – Fashion, health and beauty news to keep you looking and feeling your best – i m a ge : TOA CLINIC

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

[NEWS]

BEAUTY & FASHION WILD & WOLF TOP BUYS THIS MONTH “Samantha has created a cool casual mood by blending metallic thread with sultry blue and grey boucle marls”

Gentlemen’s Hardware Hand Care Kit

Gentlemen’s Hardware collar stiffeners

Gentlemen’s Hardware LIP BALM

AUTUMN WARDROBE CLASSICS Alpaca Accessories Designer Samantha Holmes has given a sparkling edge to her collection for Autumn Winter 2017 which will be available to purchase online in selected retailers this month. Finding inspiration in the contrasting textures and resonant hues of Scotland’s west coast, Samantha has created a cool casual mood by blending metallic thread with sultry blue and grey boucle marls and a fun vibrant accent by adding a splash of neon. The collection includes ‘Boucle Frost’, a boho-style range of textured berets with smoky alpaca fur pompoms, matching tiered scarves and long gloves and ‘Preppy’, a crisp classic range of garter stitch scarves and matching beanie hats with on trend neon orange and hot pink stripes. www.samanthaholmes.com

bold blooms with Collier Campbell Florals don’t have to be just for spring, so why not add bold blooms to your wardrobe this autumn with the Columbia Road collection from Collier Campbell. Showcasing a gorgeous mix of flowers in deep russet and blue tones, with highlights of cream and pink to brighten the print, the Columbia Road range features a fine wool scarf, cross body bag and a shoulder bag.

Columbia Road Cross Body Bag; £38; www.colliercampbell.com 1 6 6 SEPTEMBER 2 0 1 7

All from www.wildandwolf.com

we love… … this gorgeous gold plated Tropical Triple Flower Pendant by Bill Skinner. £45; www.persora.com

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

THE HISTORY OF Following the recent announcement that Michael Kors has bought the luxury accessories brand for £896m - we take a look back at the history of Jimmy Choo, rising from humble origins in a cobbler workshop to becoming one of Britain’s best-known fashion brands.

2017 Bridal Collection’ Below: Mens Autumn Winter 2017 Collection; Right: Jimmy Choo

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ou can trace its roots back to a bespoke shoemaker, Jimmy Choo, based in the East End of London in the early 1990s. The fashion designer was born Jimmy Choo Yeang Keat in Penang, Malaysia in 1961, and using the craftsmanship he learned from his father, also a cobbler, Choo made his first pair of shoes at the age of just 11. His father wanted him to follow in his footsteps. Mr Choo recalls “When I first started, my father wouldn’t let me make a shoe. Instead, he said: “Sit and watch, sit and watch.” For months and months, I did that.”

After learning from his father about the craft of shoemaking, Choo made his way to England in the early 1980s to study at the Cordwainers Technical College in Hackney, where he graduated with honours in 1983. Choosing to remain in England, Choo opened his first shop in Hackney in 1986 in an old hospital building.

It didn’t take long for Choo’s reputation to build. The sexy cut, fashionable design, and exceptional Italian craftsmanship struck a chord with a sophisticated clientele, and the first collection enjoyed 1 6 8 SEPTEMBER 2 0 1 7

immediate success. Jimmy Choo was among the first to bring shoes and handbags to Hollywood where the red carpet proved to be the ideal runway for the brand.

Soon, Choo became the darling of the celebrity world, in particular Princess Diana, who donned Choo’s footwear seemingly everywhere she went.

High-profile devotees also include the Duchess of Cambridge, Jennifer Lopez, Beyonce and Kendal Jenner. The fictional Carrie Bradshaw in television series “Sex and the City.” famously sported Jimmy Choo shoes, boosting the brand’s status.

Within two years of opening his shop, Choo’s shoes were featured in an eight-page spread in Vogue magazine. And it was his relationship with Vogue that would prove to be instrumental in the rise of the Jimmy Choo brand. Despite the rise of his popularity, Choo was still a small operation, making just 20 hand-made pairs shoes a week.

But Tamara Mellon, an accessories editor at Vogue, who often hired Choo to make shoes for fashion shoots, sensed a larger market for Choo’s creations. She approached the shoemaker about partnering to create a line of ready-to-wear footwear -

“It’s a beautiful, distinctive art, and shoes are like the foundations. If the foundations aren’t right, the building won’t stand upright, and if a woman’s balance isn’t right, nothing else is.”

- Jimmy Choo

This image and Top Right: The Cinderella Collection

JIMMY CHOO with a goal of creating a global luxury business.

In 1996, both Choo and Mellon quickly grew the business, keeping the focus on creating high-end footwear, but no longer relying on the idea that every single pair had to be made by Choo himself.

They contracted with Italian factories and opened their first boutique shop in Motcomb Street, London. Two years later, the company expanded to the US, securing locations in the premiere luxury shopping destinations of the world’s most prestigious cities including Madison Avenue in New York City and Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills, also creating a line-up of adoring Hollywood celebrities including Julia Roberts and Renee Zellweger.

International expansion continued with Jimmy Choo stores opening in Avenue Montaigne in Paris, Via Condotti in Rome, Ginza in Tokyo, and prestigious shopping districts Sloane Street and Bond Street here in London. And by the turn of the century, the Choo name was a global brand, with high-end retail clients that included Harrods and Saks Fifth Avenue carrying Choo footwear. The Choo brand had also expanded to handbags and other accessories.

But in the background, all was not well. Choo and Mellon were at odds about the direction of the company. In what would become one of the more fascinating rifts in the fashion industry, Choo didn’t think bigger was better. He questioned the quality of the shoes the company was making, and seemed to long for the days when he was back at his shop in Hackney making a small number of pieces of footwear for specific clients.

In 2001, Choo sold his half of the company to Robert Bensoussan of Equinox Luxury Holdings for $30 million. Jimmy Choo was then put up for sale in April after struggling to retain the status it held in the early 2000’s. Both Choo and Mellon departed in 2011 when JAB Luxury bought the firm for more than £500m.

Today, Jimmy Choo encompasses a complete luxury accessories brand. Women’s shoes remain the core of the product offer, alongside handbags, small leather goods, scarves, sunglasses, eyewear, belts, fragrance and men’s shoes. Jimmy Choo has a global store network encompassing more than 150 stores and is present in the most prestigious department stores worldwide.

This is what makes Jimmy Choo an interesting pairing with Michael Kors, as the former is known for its sky-high stilettos and glam, crystal-embellished designs, while the latter gravitates towards down-toearth leather goods and ready-to-wear.

Jimmy himself now concentrates on a very personal business, where he designs directly for clients in high-end couture. Jimmy Choo was awarded an OBE in 2002, and girls and women around the world continue to covet owning a pair of Jimmy Choo shoes! www.jimmychoo.com

2017 Ad Campaign

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FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

Warm up your make-up with these gorgeous catwalk-inspired looks A model backstage at Stella Jean SS17, photo courtesy of MAC. Left: a model backstage at Roksanda SS17, photo courtesy of MAC

Take your cue from the SS17 catwalks with soft, earthy shades on eyes, lips and cheeks. words: Katie Wright, Press Association

Dr Hauschka Lipstick in Bromelia, available from dr.hauschka.com

Gosh Forever Matt Eyeshadow Stick in Nougat, available from Superdrug

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GOSH To Party in London Eyeshadow Palette, available from Superdrug

Hourglass Illume Sheer Colour Trio in Sunset, available from Space NK

3. Tea-stained eyes

T

Brown eyeshadow may not sound ground-breaking, but the eye looks at Roksanda and Stella Jean felt really fresh. That’s because a soft peachy-brown cream shadow was applied in a monochromatic wash from lid to crease, while at the latter, clear lip gloss was added to enhance the shine.

MAC Cream Colour Base in Root, £18 (www. maccosmetics.co.uk); Gosh Forever Matt Eyeshadow Stick in Nougat, £6.29, Superdrug (www.superdrug.com); Nars The Multiple Puerto Vallarta, £29 (narscosmetics.co.uk)

MAC Cream Colour Base in Root, available from maccosmetics.co.uk

he international fashion weeks give us their fair share of out-there beauty looks, and while a face covered in real flower petals a la Preen looks ever-so pretty on a load of impossibly beautiful teen models, it’s not exactly going work for Thursday night after-work drinks, is it?

Three cheers, then, for the SS17 catwalks, which delivered a host of beautiful make-up ideas in soft, organic tones that you’ll definitely want to try.

“These colours are designed to enhance and mimic really great skin condition,” explains MAC make-up artist Terry Barber. “The modern way to wear them is in textures that have an affinity with the complexion.

“Peach, pink and tan look alive and fresh when applied with transparency,” agrees Mark Carrasquillo. “They are what I call very heightening colours.”

Ready to heighten your look? Here are four ways to wear the sun-kissed make-up trend...

1. Golden eyes “Fresh but sophisticated, with a little touch of gold on the lip and the eye,” is how Lloyd Simmons described the look he created at Alexis Mabille, where MAC Powersurge soft gold eyeliner was applied beneath the lower lashline, creating a subtle, brightening effect. A very light coat of brown mascara was used, while at Shrimps, the lashes were left bare and a wash of metallic cream and powder shadows was buffed all the way up to the brows, to create an ‘other-wordly’ glow.

GOSH To Party in London Eyeshadow Palette, £11.99, Superdrug (www.superdrug. com; available July 26); MAC Eye Kohl in Powersurge, £14.50 (www.maccosmetics.co.uk)

“Give you bronzer a break and embrace the peachy, youthful glow of the girls at Missoni and Blumarine” MAC Eye Kohl in Powersurge, available from maccosmetics.co.uk

Hourglass Confession Ultra Slim Refillable Lipstick, available from Space NK

4. Peachy skin Give you bronzer a break and embrace the peachy, youthful glow of the girls at Missoni and Blumarine, where Petros Petrohilos’ brief was: “Rosy cheeks, a sun-kissed girl.... like she is living on the beach.”

That means opting for liquid blushers and shimmery powders and applying liberally - matte is not an option.

Nars Liquid Blush in Torrid, £23 (narscosmetics.co.uk), ASOS (www.asos.com); Hourglass Illume Sheer Trio, £54, Space NK (www.spacenk.com) All images courtesy of PA Photo/Handout

Below: A model backstage at Stella Jean SS17, photo courtesy of MAC.

Nars Liquid Blush in Torrid, available from ASOS

2. Tan lips The Nineties brown lip isn’t going anywhere this season. In fact, at the SS17 shows, we got three new takes on the trend. The most literal homage came at Moschino, where precisely-lined lips were filled in with matte pale tan. At Blumarine, creamy mahogany complemented the peachy eyes, while at Roksanda, a russet lipstick was blurred at the edges.

Axiology Lip Crayon in Serene, £22 (Alyaka. com); Dr Hauschka Lipstick in Bromelia, £20.50 (www.dr.hauschka.com); Hourglass Confession Ultra Slim High Intensity Refillable Lipstick, £28, Space NK (www.spacenk.com)

Nars The Multiple Puerto Vallarta, available from narscosmetics.co.uk

Axiology Lip Crayon in Serene, available from Alyaka.com

SEPTEMBER 2 0 1 7 1 7 3

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

eye-catching

style

I

uri Shubladze creates handmade, one-of-akind accessories for an upscale international clientele. His clutches, bags, scarves and wallets are designed with women in mind, but many are created to be unisex. His pieces combine materials in daring and playful ways – such as rich suede is paired with antique equestrian hardware, iconographic images with leather. Each piece is an individual expression of his vision, designed to celebrate a woman’s sexiness and independence. His work has found a following among people from all over the world whose sense of style is matched by their sense of fun and who seek out accessories as unique as they are.

Iuri is an American fashion designer, mixed media artist and painter who was born and raised in Tbilisi, Georgia and now lives and works in New York City. He graduated magna cum laude from New York’s elite Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT), with a major in fashion design. While at FIT, Iuri was selected to study international fashion design in a special year-long program at the Politecnico de Milano in Milan, Italy. He also holds a masters degree in science from Georgian Technical University.

Upon graduation from FIT, Iuri worked as a fashion designer under haute couture designer Ralph Rucci, at Chado Ralph Rucci in New York.

Iuri left to launch his own company, Iuri Shubladze, Inc., in 2013.

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Iuri’s work is regularly featured in shows and galleries. A collection of his bags was the centerpiece of a well-received show during New York fashion week for Spring 2015 at the RePopRoom Gallery. One critic, drawn to Iuri’s “large tote bags in black with a stripe of color on each,” wrote of one piece that “really caught my eye because it looked so badass. The texture of the bag itself with the square really made the whole thing work.” (“Natalya Egorova and Iuri Shubladze Fashion 2015 Show,” Manhattan With a Twist, Sept.

11, 2014 (available on internet).)

Iuri’s installation at the Agora Gallery in the White Space Chelsea during New York fashion week in September 2015 also received an enthusiastic reception. In this show he presented a mixed selection of his accessories, fashion and artwork. A reviewer wrote that “I fell in love with Iuri’s accessories,” and “I am very attracted to the edgy theme” that animates all of Iuri’s work. (“Iuri Shubladze Fashion Installation,” News Cult, Sept. 3, 2015 (available on internet).)

Iuri’s luxury accessories have been sold at Henri Bendel’s in New York, and featured at the Tranoi trade shows during New York fashion week and Paris fashion week in 2016, as well as at the VOID trade show during Paris fashion week in 2016. His designs have appeared in promotional spreads in Life Magazine, London, British Vogue, GQ, and Collezione. Stunning images of Iuri’s bags and clothing can also be seen in the 2016 book, An Embarrassment of Riches – Photographs, by leading American photographer, Adrian Buckmaster.

For more information about Iuri, see www.iurishnyc.com. and www.iurishubladze.com

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FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

Moroccan style icon Interviewing Leila Hadioui: A Moroccan Fashion & Style Queen Who Brings The ‘L.H’ Touch to Everything

I

n Morocco, Leila Hadioui is a fashion and style icon, loved and adored by almost three million followers in the online social media world.

For all these Instagram, Facebook and Twitter fans, she is a popular celebrity who combines beauty with wit and charm, as well as being an inspiring success story in her work as a model, actress, designer, national TV presenter and entrepreneur.

This month the tireless Hadioui will be in London to take part in the ‘Stories from Morocco’ (SFM) fashion and gastronomy festival.

Taking place at the iconic De Vere Connaught Rooms during London Fashion Week, she will be participating as a designer alongside nine others who are considered in the top international ranks when it comes to haute couture Caftan creations.

The team from SFM caught up with her in Fez, where she was taking part in a photo and video shoot to help promote the event in anticipation. In the final short video clip, she stands with a panoramic view of Fez, after which she walks in the old medina before opening a door onto a London street scene.

Photography: Othmane Benhaddouch

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You are a well-known celebrity designer, model and actress in Morocco, tell us more about your passions and what keeps you going?

My career started out by me being a model, it was a childhood dream that I worked hard to realise and make happen. However, the fact that I am a model, an actress and a designer is very important for me because between these three roles there is an important link which is art and that was absolutely my passion from when I was young.

Many Moroccan designers focus on the classic Caftan whereas we know you are more fascinated by the Moroccan Cape. Can you tell us why?

Two years ago I lost my father, and to pay tribute to him I decided to make capes inspired by our Moroccan selham, the name for the traditional men’s cape. My father used to wear them and always looked very chic and stunning. I think capes worldwide can be very elegant and my aim is to recreate and redesign the cape with the L.H touch.

You are coming to London to take part in the SFM Moroccan event during London Fashion Week, tell us how you feel about this?

Milan, New York, Paris and London are the cities of fashion and I am so excited that I will be in London this time as a designer and not as a model as before.

Taking part in this festival is really important for me and my designing career and especially to represent my country Morocco.

What is the inspiration for your S/S 18 collection? We know the details of are still secret, but can you give us a hint as to what to look forward to?

My inspiration for the S/S 18 collection is GOLD and BLACK, I can’t tell you more and let’s keep it a secret to create some suspense. You will discover it next month and I am sure that you will love it.

The photo and video shoot took place in Fez, how did you find the team?

Fez is a beautiful city and it has so many different stories to tell. It is also culturally rich with a long history of great artisans and craftsmen who preserve the old skills and traditions. The SFM team were very professional and made me feel confortable during the shoot. It was a pleasure to work with them in my grandfather’s hometown.

When you are in London, are there any places you would like to see?

When I have been to London in the past, it was always for work and I didn’t have time to visit many places. Maybe on this trip I can see Big Ben or Tower Bridge and Hyde Park. I am certainly always surprised by the beauty of this city.

For details about the SFM event and to book tickets: www.stroriesfrommorocco.com

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FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

When the Cleavers Met the Diamonds How Pinner & Co. came to represent A-typical jewelry design.

WORDS: Odette Schofield

I

n 2015, David Hart began searching for a pair of cufflinks to wear every day. Though interesting antique cufflinks were readily available, he wanted something contemporary that had character. Cufflinks are one of the only ways he could show his unique personal style. So he decided to make a pair of 18K gold cleavers. After all, he is a chef.

And so Pinner & Co. was born, with the cleaver becoming its signature piece of jewellery, whether in the form of men’s cufflinks or the diamond pendant or micro-pendant worn by men and women with a penchant for personality, from Kensington to the Hamptons. The striking cleaver was an instant success; its lifelike character and tactile appearance make it a delicate and bold statement piece.

Pinner & Co. is a collaboration between Chef David Hart, his girlfriend Sara Adams, who had always designed her own jewellery, and Hart’s childhood friend Danny Lawless. Hart and Lawless had grown up together in a north London village

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called Pinner. The creative and diverse backgrounds of the three founders give Pinner & Co. its edge.

Lawless is one of the top free-hand tattoo artists in North America and Creative Director of Pinner & Co. Hart began as a chef ’s apprentice at the Savoy and went on to work with many of Europe’s finest restaurants. Adams, a graduate of Le Cordon Bleu in London shares Hart’s interest in fine wine, food, and jewellery and collects jewellery all over the globe. She also has a degree from the Gemologist Institute of America. Adams sources the exquisite diamonds and gemstones for Pinner & Co. From Hong Kong to London and Thailand to East Hampton, the trio sources, designs and creates the cleavers as well as other signature motifs including a geometric honeycomb bangle and a micro-pavé saddle ring encrusted with rubies or diamonds. Each piece seems to have a personality of its own, and in fact they are conversation-starters wherever and by whomever they’re worn. www.pinnerandco.com

“Pinner & Co. was born, with the cleaver becoming its signature piece of jewellery”

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

Stories from

Morocco ‘Stories from Morocco’: An ultimate exotic experience offering the latest from the haute couture Caftan fashion scene and the best of Moroccan fine cuisine, to be held at the iconic De Vere Connaught Rooms in London’s Covent Garden

W

hen it comes to fashion, it is rare for a UK audience to have the opportunity to attend a professionally staged catwalk that showcases and celebrates the works of the top international designers of the classic Caftan garment. It is rarer still to have the combined chance for a fine dining experience that truly brings out the tastes, colours and flavours of one of the most mysterious countries in the world, Morocco.

But Morocco is certainly coming to the UK this September during London Fashion Week, due to the efforts of two passionate British-Moroccan individuals – Jalila Elmastouki and Khalid Dahbi - who are co-founders of the planned event. As a team, their desire is to offer a special festival dedicated to appreciating the long history, beauty and revival of the Moroccan Caftan as well as the feast to be prepared by Dahbi, who is a Londonbased chef with over twenty years of excellent culinary experience.

Featuring the works of ten contemporary designers hailing from Morocco, the Gulf and elsewhere, the catwalk will portray how each one has reimagined and recreated the traditional garment, bringing truly stunning visions drenched in opulence, exquisite embroidery and artistic flair.

One of the designers is Romeo Haute Couture, for example, who studied under renowned designer Elie Saab in New York and whose pieces have attracted the attention of Lady Gaga’s team.

Another will be the prominent Moroccan Meriem Belkhayat, whose glamorous, crystal 1 8 0 SEPTEMBER 2 0 1 7

adorned outfits once caught the eye of Susan Sarandon, when she dressed her for the Marrakech Film Festival. With ten collections to be unveiled, guests are promised a visual celebration of the decadent silk and delicate fabrics used to envelop and hug the female form. The other eight designers are: Leila Hadioui, Meryem Bousikkouk, Samira Mhaidi, Bouchra Ksikess, Nadia Boutaleb, Houda Lheloui, Caftan Fatma and Rhizlan Elfeddi.

Elmastouki has been promoting Caftan fashion internationally for many years and teaching others how it has evolved within the mix of Berber, Jewish, African, Arabic and Moorish peoples of her homeland.

Elmastouki: “It is my mission to share with the world the old embroideries from the ancient medinas of Fez, Marrakech and other cities in Morocco and how they keep transforming and inspiring designers everywhere, including in Europe, the United States and the rest of the world. I wish to relay the full glory of the most amazing and versatile garment, the Moroccan caftan.”

Once the captivating catwalk is over, the enjoyment continues as guests are led to an adjoining banquet room at the De Vere Connaught Rooms that will be decorated for the occasion in the style a Moorish riad. There Dahbi will be serving an exciting four-course dinner appealing to the refined palette and offering up the richness and diversity of Moroccan cuisine in his innovative, imaginative and signature way.

Dahbi’s career spans two decades of working at top international restaurants and Michelin-starred establishments. He has been with the likes of Gordon Ramsay at Claridges, the Bibendum, the Rhubarb Food Design at Saatchi Gallery; Jamie Oliver’s and the Old Vic Brasserie, where he gained a positive reputation amongst Hollywood stars such as Kevin Spacey, Sir Ian McClellan, prominent politicians and many more.

The press industry day, attracting the London fashion press, will take place on Saturday the 16th of September, whilst the Sunday 17th of September is a ticketed event and open to the general public to enjoy all that the ‘Stories from Morocco’ has to offer..

For more details, please visit: www.storiesfrommorocco.com.

For tickets, please visit: www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/ stories-from-morocco-tickets37030411959?ref=ebtnebtckt

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

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

Botox Myths ! d e t s u b The patient furrowed her brows, clearly uneasy.

“Botox? Really? I’m not sure…”

T

he irony was that the more concerned she got, the more clearly I could see how treatment with botulinum toxin (aka Botox) would benefit her. The frown lines between her eyebrows were deep, and so when she frowned, she looked unnecessarily severe.

Botox, which relaxes the muscles that cause facial creases and wrinkles, would soften her look considerably.

It is easily one of the top 5 cosmetic procedures in the world, used both by men and women to get rid of wrinkles and lines. It also has over 20 medical applications from preventing migraines to stopping excessive teeth grinding.

Yet it is also one of the most misunderstood, with several myths persisting despite being completely untrue.

Let me set the record straight on three of the most common ones I hear.

1. MYTH: Botox makes you look frozen and unnatural. You end up looking like a plastic mannequin…

This usually happens when patients are given very large doses meant to last six months or longer.

It’s not the approach we generally take here at Riverbanks. The aim with Botox is to soften lines, making you look younger, smoother and more relaxed – not to stop your face from moving.The key is to use small amounts of Botox relatively often. When you give subtle doses which last three or four months, the result will be completely natural. You will still be able to express surprise and smile (…in fact, you’ll do so often, because you’ll look so great!), and no one will be able to guess that you have had any work done.

2. MYTH: It hurts to get Botox. Hardly: You will experience far more pain plucking your eyebrows.

That’s even truer for patients here at Riverbanks.

The smaller the needle, the better it is tolerated.

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Over the past year, we’ve started using a new type of needle which is just 1/10 the size of a blood test needle. To the best of my knowledge we are the only clinic in the UK to use them. They are so effective that often, patients ask me when I’m going to treat a certain area, and are shocked to hear I’ve already finished it. They never even noticed!

3. MYTH: When you stop using Botox, your wrinkles look worse than before.

If you’ve only had one or two Botox treatments, your skin will revert to its previous condition a few weeks after the Botox has worn out. If you have been using Botox long-term, your wrinkles will start reappearing over three-to-six months. More importantly, you will look healthier and smoother than before your started the Botox. There is no evidence whatsoever that they will look worse than before you started. More likely, people who have become used to having smooth, wrinkle-free faces have simply forgotten what they looked like beforehand…. : -) Any Botox questions of your own? Just email me on ravi.jain@riverbanksclinic.co.uk and I’ll get back to you!

Dr Rav i Jain

THE DETAILS For more information visit my informative website www.riverbanksclinic.co.uk and subscribe to my email list. Or if you would like to schedule a consultation with one of my aesthetic doctors call 01582762877 to book in.

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

Private GP Surgery

at Parkside Hospital P

arkside Hospital’s long-standing aim has always been to be your friendly local hospital on Wimbledon Common. An aim which is supported by over 300 specialist consultants, available to see you with little or no waiting. Recently they have further expanded their services and have introduced a new Private GP Surgery to meet the needs and requirements of the local community.

As healthcare specialists with over 30 years of experience, they understand that when you are not quite feeling yourself or you have a healthcare worry, you want to be seen as quickly as possible and at a time convenient to you. This is even truer when it’s your little one that you’re worried about.

To accommodate this demand they have launched a GP Surgery with a team of highly experienced GPs are available 6 days a week, with the ease of access to any tests, x-rays, diagnostic scans and onward referrals when required.

And to make it that bit easier for you, they have a designated children’s waiting area complete with soft furnishings, books and a special Parkside Penguins colouring book for your child to take home.

Parkside’s Private GP surgery is available to anyone, whether you’ve previously attended the hospital or not. The beauty of their Private GP consultation is that they offer you the choice and flexibility to access the service as a one-off or regularly, and offer more time to discuss your concerns.

The Private GPs can provide all the medical care you would expect to receive from your NHS

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“The team of highly experienced GPs are available 6 days a week”

GP, with the additional reassurance that you will be seeing a highly experienced doctor for an appointment that will be confidential, convenient and not rushed. In addition any investigations, prescriptions or onward referrals to their specialist consultants can be conveniently completed under one roof.

For more information or to book an appointment call 020 8971 8026 today.

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

Taking a holistic approach to breast cancer care If you or a loved one is dealing with breast cancer, not only do you want the best possible treatment, you also want the best support system around you and your family.

K

ensington’s Bupa Cromwell Hospital offers a rapid access clinic for the diagnosis of suspected breast cancer, and the very best treatment from leading consultants. Alongside the latest treatment technologies and surgical techniques, complementary therapies are offered to patients to help to tackle both the symptoms of disease and the side effects of treatment, as well as aiding relaxation by reducing tension and anxiety.

Complementary therapies and support services available to women with breast cancer: Physiotherapy and occupational therapy Specialist oncology physiotherapists aim to improve quality of life through rehabilitation programmes that are tailored to your individual needs throughout your treatment and recovery.

Occupational therapists can assess your home environment to ensure a smooth transition when you leave hospital. They can also assist in organising care in the community should this be required.

Massage service As part of your treatment plan, massage sessions can be helpful for those undergoing chemotherapy and radiotherapy to aid relaxation, alleviate tension and stress, and improve body comfort.

Prosthesis and bra fitting service Finding the right bra after breast cancer surgery can be tricky, so it is reassuring to have someone 1 8 6 SEPTEMBER 2 0 1 7

to advise on the correct fitting and also on partial prostheses (to even out breast shapes postbreast conserving surgery), or for full prostheses (following mastectomy).

Macmillan counselling service Cancer brings about many changes in a person’s life - emotional as well as physical. Counselling provides an important means of support for you and your family.

If you have recently been diagnosed with breast cancer, are worried about symptoms, or are recovering after treatment, support is available to help you every step of the way.

From its rapid access diagnostic service, to the latest treatments and extensive support services, Bupa Cromwell Hospital offers exceptional care for breast cancer patients, in the most supportive environment. www.bupacromwellhospital.com/breast Bupa Cromwell Hospital, 164-178 Cromwell Road, London SW5 0TU

“Complementary therapies are offered to patients to help to tackle both the symptoms of disease and the side effects of treatment”

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

London’s first Aquatic Healing Retreat

at Akasha Holistic Wellbeing Centre, Hotel Café Royal

L

ondon’s first Aquatic Healing Retreat is a pioneering creative approach towards movement and wellbeing for couples.

To accompany the existing hydrotherapy treatments available in the Spa, the new Aquatic Healing Retreat offers the ultimate in holistic therapy, indulgence and relaxation, equipping couples with the essentials to connect with each other and embrace personal wellness for the mind, body and soul.

“Couples will be taken on a transformational path to overall wellbeing” Leading the retreat is Steve Karle, a pioneer in aquatic bodywork therapies. At his workshop, taking place in the Spa’s private Watsu pool, couples will be taken on a transformational path to overall wellbeing through Karle’s own method which is based on listening to the natural movement of the body as it floats passively in water and following it through a dance-like journey which may include massage, yogalike stretching and elements of Craniosacral Therapy.

Exploring new and creative techniques of connecting with each other through the power of touch, the Aquatic Healing Retreat is an immersive journey that goes beyond the physical performance of hydrotherapy to emphasise the importance of listening and communication in a relationship, leading 1 8 8 SEPTEMBER 2 0 1 7

to health, happiness and enlightenment for couples.

The techniques taught in the Aquatic Healing Retreat are as unique as they are effective and can also be applied out of the water. All Aquatic Healing Retreats are carried out within the Spa’s private Watsu pool, ensuring guests absolute privacy and undivided attention.

Akasha Holistic Wellbeing Centre at the heart of Hotel Café Royal is the underground retreat off Regent Street and promises complete rejuvenation in the centre of London. Built on four key pillars fusing fitness, nutrition, mindfulness and nourishing spa treatments, Akasha Holistic Wellbeing Centre is the leading Spa in the capital to include pioneering hydrotherapy treatments such as Watsu, Vichy Shower and Hammam on its progressive Spa menu.

Follow @hotelcaferoyal on Instagram and Twitter and Hotel Café Royal on Facebook

THE DETAILS A unique and connective treatment offering couples a chance to re-connect Light lunch by in-house nutritionist Zoe Stirling Interactive assessment with Steve Karle Couples Aquatic Bodywork experience in Spa’s private Watsu pool (4 hours workshop) Couples meditation/ mindfulness session 1hr exclusive use of the Watsu pool after the workshop to practise the new skills learnt, with a fruit platter and glass of champagne Full use of the spa facilities, including access to the 18m swimming pool, gym, sauna, steam rooms, showers Couples Watsu Retreat £660 for two

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

Focus on…

VITAMIN D

In the seventh of our regular features from The London General Practice, Dr Angela Rai 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

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

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

Bollywood Actress Opens Private Non Surgical Clinic in London

B

attersea is on the rise, and even more so now, there is a state of the art Aesthetic Clinic, boasting treatments that can make you look and feel younger without a scalpel in sight!

Bollywood Actress, Sofia Hayat, has opened a non surgical aesthetics clinic, which specialises in Face lifts, body and skin tightening, fat loss and complete face and body rejuvenation.

“As an actress I have been treated by some of the worlds best Aestheticians, and have learnt what they do, to get me and other actresses camera ready in a short period. I have had all the treatments that are on offer at my clinic. We are getting incredible results. We have the latest in Cryolipolysis. Our platinum system, uses heat, Cryo and Photo Dynamic Technology, to kill and remove fat permanently. We have the same technology that Kim Kardashian uses to get rid of pockets of fat, and Radio Frequency technology to tighten up loose skin on the face and body.”

Sofia is a highly skilled Aesthetician. Her artistic hands have bought high society flocking to her clinic. She sees to the faces and bodies of the

London Elite, who love her calm manner, and discreet nature. From heads of Fashion Houses to TV stars, all come to the TOA Clinic to look and feel their best.

The current trend is to have a thread face lift. There is little down time, and it can take years off your face as well as improving the structure of the skin. These can be used for sagging jowels, brow lifting, and to lift the skin on all parts of the face and body. You can even have a Brazillian Butt Lift with threads.

The TOA Clinic has Londons best Cryosauna.

A futuristic machine that drops up to minus 190 degrees! It has incredible health benefits. Tom Cruises stunt director has been in after shooting with the Hollywood Star, as the Cryosauna helps with sports injuries. Another client with sinus problems, was able to come off her steroids after 3 sessions! It is great for weight loss and total internal and external rejuvenation of the body. A single 3 minute session burns 600 to 850 calories!

Sofia says, “the results speak for themselves, and I love what I do. We are constantly researching the latest techniques to make people look and feel like a star.” www.toaclinic.co.uk

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

BE YOURSELF AGAIN

D

r. Thomas Whitfield DPhil (Biochemistry), and the Oxford Biolabs® team of scientists developed TRX2® Molecular Food Supplement for Hair for people experiencing hair thinning and loss. TRX2® is one of Europe’s leading hair support regimens and is now sold in over 100 countries.

TRX2® is the first of its kind to combine potassium, branched-chain amino acids, L-carnitineL-tartrate, and nicotinic acid. These powerful nutrients stimulate the hair follicles and help facilitate the regular flow of nutrients. Other ingredients (zinc, selenium and biotin) contribute to the maintenance of normal hair. Compared to drug-based alternatives, TRX2® has no side effects, and does what it claims to do.

As a person experiences hair loss the function of potassium ion channels in hair follicles diminishes,

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resulting in shrinking follicles and thinning hair.

Potassium ion channels are small protein structures that control the transport of potassium ions across the hair follicle’s cell membrane and are essential for retaining the follicle’s full biological activity and function.

By restoring the normal function of these potassium ion channels and through its ingredients, TRX2® helps to maintain normal hair on a molecular level.

The TRX2® hair support regimen comes in capsule form, with two complementary topical options (both foam and lotion), as well at a brandnew thickening & styling cream. For those with greying hair, Oxford Biolabs® has also developed Melaniq®, scientifically formulated to support normal pigment production. www.oxfordbiolabs.com contact@trx2.com; 0800 808 5251

“By restoring the normal function of these potassium ion channels and through its ingredients, TRX2® helps to maintain normal hair on a molecular level”

HOuse & garden – A collection of London’s finest interior companies – I M A G E : CA M E R ON D E SI G N HOUS E

H OUSE & GARDEN

ROOMS TO BE LIVED IN

“A refresh doesn’t necessarily require such drastic action.

Paint is one of our homes’ most versatile layers.

Top left: Walls painted in Teal emulsion Olivia grand sofa in Isla Kingfisher Keswick small console table Orme stripe throw in Teal, Duck featherfilled cushions

T

here’s a reason that our living rooms are called so. They’re a room to be lived in, to laugh in, to relax in, perhaps more than any other room in the home. At Neptune, while we believe in treating every aspect of our interiors as living spaces, we know that the living room will always be the place where we all flock to when we’re in need of true down time. So it’s important to update it every once in a while to keep it fresh, to keep it alive.

Changes to a living room’s aesthetic can be as radical or as simple as you please. You might wish to go down the path of total overhaul, where every aspect is reconsidered and potentially replaced. But a refresh doesn’t necessarily require such drastic action. Paint is one of our homes’ most versatile layers. It’s a way to introduce new colour in a large expanse at relatively little cost, or it can be used on a smaller scale, to repaint furniture or to colour in elements like window and door frames. Teal may be the colour for autumn / winter 2017 at Neptune, but our paint collection houses a further 28 core colours to explore, as well as seasonal shades in our paint archive that we’ve stored for safe keeping.

From here, consider replacing a key piece of living room furniture, such as a sofa to inject a large

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Top right: Carter 84x194cm rectangular mirror Keswick square coffee table Fitzroy Painted Lamp & Oliver Flint shade Matilda armchair in Isla Otter Below: Duck feather-filled scatter cushions

dose of change, or bringing in a new armchair if your sofa has many years of enjoyment left. You could even think about purchasing fabric by the metre to have an existing sofa, armchair or footstool reupholstered or to create new curtains, cushions or other soft textile to accent your scheme.

And never ever forget the power of accessories.

Used in isolation, they’ll certainly provide an update, but they work best when they’re brought into a room with a good amount of thought, so that they complement your current interior while offering a point of difference, or so that they correspond to your other updates, so the entire look comes together beautifully, purposefully and with just the right amount of impact for the new season and beyond… www.neptune.com/adifferentperspective

H OUSE & GARDEN

Sleep in the ultimate comfort with an adjustable bed from Westend Bed Company

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F

inding the right bed can do wonders for your physical and mental health. Sleeping on the correct style of bed allows your body to be fully supported, which means your muscles and joints can relax, enabling you to enter the Deep Sleep Stage of the Sleep Cycle.

During Deep Sleep, your brain can ‘de-frag’ and store useful information from the day in the long term memory part of the brain. Being able to go through the entire Sleep Cycle also allows your body and mind to fully relax and recuperate meaning you wake up refreshed and ready for the day which is why finding the right bed for your individual requirements is vital.

Sleeping on an adjustable bed allows you to alter your sleeping position to your exact requirements – even if these change over time. The team at Westend Bed Company are delighted to offer a collection of adjustable beds exclusively available in their London showroom.

The market-leading Nottinblú PBS Fluid is the world’s most advanced bed system and Westend Bed Company is the only showroom in the UK to offer this bed and the first showroom in the world to showcase it to customers. Its breakthrough design employs a friction-free, hydraulic circuit to automatically self-adjust to the weight, shape and movements of the body. Its motions are fluid and the comfort perfect. The Nottinblú is the only PBS system which has been designed and conceived in Italy, and combines physics with exceptional engineering skills. Westend Bed Company also offers a simulator in their showroom where customers can experience the difference between the support a regular base gives in comparison to how the PBS system works. This revolutionary simulator helps to give customers a better idea of what they should be thinking about when making decisions on the most important topic of sleep.

Over the past 80 years, Treca Interiors Paris has been dedicated to meeting the exacting requirements of international clients who appreciate French-made quality, personal service and customised products.

What makes Treca Interiors Paris stand out is their use of the finest and rarest raw materials,

“Being able to go through the entire Sleep Cycle also allows your body and mind to fully relax and recuperate meaning you wake up refreshed and ready for the day”

THE DETAILS To find out more about our collection of adjustable beds and to arrange your complimentary Sleep Consultation, call us on 020 7723 2925 or visit our store at 215 Upper Richmond Road West, East Sheen, London, SW14 8QT. For more information, visit www.westendbedcompany.com

hand-finishing techniques and the ability to choose personal specifications and dimensions.

Ensuring they are consistently improving the quality and comfort of their beds, Treca Interiors Paris has pioneered articulated relaxation beds with the CAD bed base. They now offer two lines of articulated bases which combine the comfort of a traditional high quality bed base with an outstanding movement mechanism. The Supercad adjustable bed from Treca Interiors Paris is now available to experience in Westend Bed Company’s purpose-built Sleep Room.

Adjustable beds are a saving grace for those suffering with back pain. Adjustable mechanisms allow the bed to be specifically altered to match the contours of the body. This helps prevent the chances of getting sciatica – a condition where the sciatic nerve gets trapped near the base of the spine.

Supporting the spine’s base keeps the spine aligned and helps prevent the chances of trapping a nerve.

Do you snore in your sleep or suffer from sleep apnoea? An adjustable bed could be the answer to your sleep woes. Snoring occurs when your windpipe closes due to the weight of your neck. During your sleep, the air moving through a constricted windpipe creates a snoring sound.

Altering your sleep position on an adjustable bed enables your windpipe to remain unobstructed reducing the chances of snoring and improving the quality of your sleep – and those around you!

Adjusting your sleeping position can also help ease sleep apnoea which occurs when you wake up throughout the night due to interrupted breathing.

As well as this being bad for your sleep quality, it could also be dangerous if it causes you to stop breathing for too long. Although an adjustable bed may not necessarily cure sleep apnoea it will help to relieve the pressure on your windpipe. For all cases of sleep apnoea, we would always recommend a consultation with your doctor.

At Westend Bed Company, we offer every customer a complimentary Sleep Consultation.

These Consultations involve a lifestyle evaluation and sleep analysis to help you find the ideal style, model and support system for your personal requirements.

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WEDDINGS

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H OUSE & GARDEN

[NEWS]

INTERIORS Bespoke country charm

The Perfect Blend Injecting style into an interior space has never been easier thanks to Walls and Floors’ brand new Isoline Tiles range. A collection of brick shaped tiles, there are 9 different colours, and 7 of them are available in both matt and gloss finishes, which can be combined for an eye-catching luxury blend. Made from ceramic, these tiles are ideal for creating a feature wall in a bathroom, wet room or kitchen. Due to their small size, these tiles can be applied in a variety of different layouts such as brick-bond, vertical and popular herringbone.

From £16.95 per square metre; www.wallsandfloors.co.uk

“Sisters Guild have added these gorgeous ceramic vases to their lines”

Say ‘Hi’ in style There’s nothing more uplifting than receiving a sweet bunch of flowers … and then realising you don’t have anything as beautiful to house them!

Online retailer Sisters Guild have added these gorgeous ceramic vases to their lines to save us in those moments. The vases come in two colours the hot shade of the moment, millennial pink and shiny metallic gold.

HI Ceramic Vase in Pink or Shiny Gold, £31; www.sistersguild.co.uk 2 0 6 SEPTEMBER 2 0 1 7

Cosy up for autumn with bespoke soft furnishings from Cottage in the Hills. Launching in September, the embroidered Organic Cushion Covers will add a personal touch to any corner of your home. Choose from any of Cottage in the Hills’ classic country prints, such as Ledbury, Garden Grey or Roost, and have a message of your choice embroidered in a serif or sans serif font. As well as acting as a point of interest for the room, the cushions will give old armchairs a renewed county-vintage appeal, and offer easy update in both style and comfort. Each cushion is made from 100% organic cotton, with beautiful embroidery upon a signature Cottage in the Hills’ print.

The fabric features a hardwearing half panama weave for the outers and luxury feather pad filling, making the cushion both highly comfortable and durable. You’ll find Cottage in the Hills’ organic personalised cushion covers suit most interior schemes, from the country classic soft pastel polka dot, to digitally inspired geometric florals for the more contemporary abode.

Personalised Organic Cushion Cover with Feather Inner: £55; www.cottageinthehills.com

H OUSE & GARDEN

keep summer alive with a

sunny sanctuary

As the temperature cools, keep summer alive by creating a desertinspired setting, perhaps even an outdoor cinema, beautiful balcony, and children’s play area. words: By Gabrielle Fagan, Press Association

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HOTHOUSE STYLE Even if the weather’s changeable, you can turn up the heat at home with decor inspired by the dessert and tropical zones.

“I am obsessed with cacti, so I jumped at the chance of creating my own collection,” says designer, Abigail Ahern (abigailahern.com). “My new botanicals range at Debenhams is desert-inspired and I’ve been playing with scale, which is one of my trademarks, and the result is these fabulous jumbosized faux cacti. I have them everywhere in my London home, because they really add instant ‘wow’ factor and are a great way to add colour, intrigue and texture to rooms.”

Wildfire Tepee, £135, available from The Modern Nursery

H OUSE & GARDEN

“I am obsessed with cacti, so I jumped at the chance of creating my own collection” St Austell Battery Outdoor Lantern, 29.99, available from Lights4Fun

Indoor/Outdoor Swing with Oak Seat and Grey Ropes, £139, available from Bobby Rabbit

GET THE LOOK Cactus Pillow, £17.50, available from Cotswold Outdoor

Kingfisher Cushion, £36.95, available from Pignut

Tip: An Exotic Leaves Mural, from £26 per square metre, Wallsauce (www.wallsauce.com), could be the perfect sultry backdrop for a room.

MOVIE ZONE

Driffield All-weather Rattan Chair, £170, available from Garden Trading

Bring Hollywood into the back garden with your own outdoor movie theatre...

“The simple pleasures of entertaining family and friends on a summer evening doesn’t need to be complicated or expensive to be truly epic,” says Marianne Shillingford, creative director at Cuprinol (www.cuprinol.co.uk). By day, a fence is just a fence, but by night, with the addition of a plain white sheet, it can transform into a cinema screen. Add a string of lights, a wooden pallet or two, some old cane furniture, throw a few rugs down, and you can view in style.”

Tip: Ramp up the ‘big screen’ effect with an American Originals Popcorn Maker, £19.99, Argos (www.argos.co.uk), and pin up a couple of movie posters.

BALCONY BOOST Just a few stylish additions can transform

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H OUSE & GARDEN

“There’s a knack to al fresco living when space is limited and you’re confined to a balcony - all it takes is a little creativity”

PLAY AND DISPLAY Create a special corner for children to capture and encourage little imaginations...

“A family garden should be fun, versatile, and practical and kids love a corner in it that they can make their own,” says Marianne Shillingford. “This can also be a brilliant way to brighten up a neglected area. Transform a fence into a sunny-skies outlook by using Cuprinol’s Misty Lake and then, when dry, create the clouds. With chalk, draw a cloud 2 1 2 SEPTEMBER 2 0 1 7

outline onto a piece of card then cut out to create a template. Position your template on the fence and draw around it with chalk. Fill in the cloud shapes with a small paint brush and White Daisy paint. You will need two coats. Get a carpenter to fit a bench seat or use an old toy chest or wooden boxes.”

Tip: Fill a couple of small crates with sand and tiny plants, which can be a mini-landscape for model figures or animals.

Smartphone Projector, £15.99, available from Prezzybox

All images courtesy of PA Photo/Handout

evan a tiny patio or balcony into an outdoor haven...

“There’s a knack to al fresco living when space is limited and you’re confined to a balcony - all it takes is a little creativity,” says Claudia Roberts, co-owner of new furnishings and fashion brand Pignut (pignut. co.uk). “Comfort is key. A fleece-back floor blanket will provide extra padding, as will floor cushions think ‘hygge’ for the great outdoors. Choose box cushions with handles, oil-coated tablecloths, and fake it with fabrics - introduce colour and even wildlife with animal or bird prints, and gaily patterned bunting.”

Tip: Green up a balcony wall or railings with hanging pots and window boxes. Crocus (www.crocus.co.uk) has a brilliant selection.

ibbi

Have you discovered ibbi? ibbidirect.co.uk

01830 530433

H OUSE & GARDEN

The Natural Wood Floor Company

See it, touch it, feel it...

A

wood floor will transform your house into a home by adding texture, warmth and colour, but as it is likely to cover more square footage than anything else, make sure you know exactly what you’re getting with a visit to the Natural Wood Floor Company’s showroom in Wandsworth where the expertise is second to none.

The internet has revolutionised the way we shop, but there are some things you simply have to see for yourself before you buy. A natural wood floor is one of them.

If you choose to floor your home with wood, it will cover an expanse and underpin all your décor decisions, so it cannot be less than perfect. Wood is also an incredibly tactile material and the feel of it is just as important as the way it looks.

At The Natural Wood Floor Company, you can discover everything there is to know about wood flooring with the help of one of their resident experts – it is a family business that was founded 25-years-ago and has gone on to become one of the leading wood flooring manufacturers and suppliers in Europe. All their products are eco friendly too.

At their showroom on Smuggler’s Way, Wandsworth you’ll find 140 different styles of wood flooring to choose from. You can handle it, walk on it and examine it right down to the tiniest detail.

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You can also discover which varieties best suit your needs and tastes.

And you needn’t stop at flooring. The Natural Wood Floor Company’s products have been used by some of London’s most exclusive shops and restaurants, on walls and to add texture and interest to furniture.

You’ll find the Natural Wood Floor Company’s Walnut on the counter, wall and ceiling of the fitting rooms at Selfridges and Aged Oak Parquet Blocks used in inspiring ways at Tom’s Kitchen restaurants.

‘There is a real trend for using wood floor boards in new and exciting ways,’ says Peter Keane, director of The Natural Wood Floor Company. ‘Wood is such a beautiful, versatile and cost effective product that can be used to add interest, texture and warmth to any room, not just on the floor. All you need is a little bit of imagination.’

Wood is very much a feature of Hygge, a Scandinavian term that has become a worldwide trend. Pronounced ‘hooga’ it roughly translates to coziness. It’s about spaces to share with friends and family, where there is a warm glow and textures that aid relaxation and soothe the soul.

The Danes have been embracing Hygge for centuries, it is in their DNA and is summed up by translator ToveMaren Stakkestad who says: ‘Hygge was never meant to be translated – it was meant to be felt.’

And that’s what makes wood such a perfect fit for Hygge. Find out for yourself with a trip to The Natural Wood Floor Company.

For more information visit: The Natural Wood Floor Company, 20 Smugglers Way, Wandsworth, London. SW18 1EG; Telephone: 020 8871 9771; www.naturalwoodfloor.co.uk

“You’ll find the Natural Wood Floor Company’s Walnut on the counter, wall and ceiling of the fitting rooms at Selfridges and Aged Oak Parquet Blocks used in inspiring ways at Tom’s Kitchen restaurants”

Clockwise from to left: Silver White Parquet; Smoky Mountain; Dusk

H OUSE & GARDEN

Essex Interior Design Arrives in Mayfair S

heree Davenport’s passion was ignited and her eponymous interior design was born out of her time spent living in Italy, inspired by a wonderful palette of colour, Renaissance architecture, Tuscan scenery and Italian fabric factories.

It is a true privilege that this renowned Essex designer is extending her services into London bringing a unique Essex air, nothing like we have yet experienced. Boasting an impressive list of celebrity clients such as the Al-Fayad family, not to mention visitors to her Mayfair store of the likes of Liz

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Hurly and Sharon Osbourne.

Her natural gift and ability to display a versatility enable her to capture a ‘look’ entirely suited to each project.

Sheree provides a service, rich in expertise, and possesses a wealth of knowledge regarding the Interior world of design.

Sheree herself has a talent for merging an unusual mix of exquisite furnishings and accessories; necessary to grace the most luxurious homes. She has a personal love of the subtlety of earthy natural shades, yet enjoys the exciting variety

of colour now so readily available.

Her inbuilt affiliation and natural appreciation of the materials with which she associates with are of unparralled style and quality. Sheree’s attention to detail and commitment to completion toward fulfilling the individual desires suited to her clients, create a truly bespoke service.

Sheree’s design services are unmistakably a kind of creative magic that draws together memories, culture and vision. She transforms previously uninspired spaces into desirable mood zones. She can create an understated modern atmosphere or the more traditional look.

The highly trained team of contractors works under Sheree’s meticulous instructions which she see’s through to the very end, providing her clients the ‘ultimate’ Interior design service and exquisite

The highly trained team of contractors works under Sheree’s meticulous instructions” style. She then creates the perfect match for their design, carefully considering how each room should appear in order to create a wow and ambiance that runs throughout the house.

She works tirelessly to ensure that her clients design needs are made reality in order to guarantee complete customer satisfaction. She associates with nostalgic and luxury chic and a definite awareness of modern city life interiors.

Sheree also works with selective designers all over the world to create completely unique pieces of furniture that you will never find replicated anywhere else, and from these locations she sources materials of the best quality including silks, leathers and velvets.

No project is too big or too small, your vision for your home will become reality and surpass all your expectations.

Contact Passion for Luxury for an appointment to discuss how they can make your interior design dreams come true!

T: 01992 788377 info@passionforluxury.co.uk www.passionforluxury.co.uk

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H OUSE & GARDEN

[NEWS]

OUTDOOR LIVING

A boozy picnic rug for lazy days Summer may be fading away but there is still time to squeeze in a late picnic or two! Perfect for a day in the country, by the lake or in the park, the G & T picnic rug is a fun, and slightly naughty, answer to classic country throws. A must for gin lovers, it t is a clean fresh green herringbone weave with an off-white fringe and comes rolled in a handcrafted leather blanket strap. Made from soft lambswool the zingy green throw makes an ideal posh picnic rug and is also soft enough to cover your knees or wrap around your shoulders when the sun goes down on your outside party. www.tollymcrae.co.uk

Prolong the summer

“Maximising outdoor time has long been a trend in the US”

Enjoy your outside space for longer, with warming outdoor fire features from award-winning concrete design experts, Solus Decor. The leaves on the trees may be turning, but put your faith in Solus Decor’s powerful propane and natural gas fire bowls to keep autumn chills at bay! Maximising outdoor time has long been a trend in the US and Solus’ native Canada, so they’re delighted to play a part and helping Brits ‘extend their summer’ too, with the launch of Solus Decor UK. Fire is the perfect addition to a garden designed for living; a practical statement feature; a romantic centre point. The Hemi 36 is Solus Decor’s flagship model and is the perfect size to create an instant gathering place. As the first fire bowl developed, it holds a special place in brand’s hearts. Boasting a round, generous form, it shows off the natural beauty of the smooth concrete and provides an inviting, modern focus for residential and commercial environments. Sitting at low table height, its generous flame provides warmth and sculptural interest. Designed, cast, assembled and finished in Solus’ Vancouver facility, the Hemi fire bowls are available with a ‘cross-jet’ (which burns natural gas or bottled propane) or ethanol burner, and three clean fuel options. The Hemi 36 also come with a manual or electronic start. All Solus fire bowls are designed and made with care to be functional and beautiful and to last a life time. www.solusdecor.co.uk

BEST FOR BIRDS Here at Life Magazines, we love this is stunning piece to hang in the garden, on a terrace or balcony, in town or country. It is made with unglazed terracotta with an antique style and finish, and comes complete with chain and hook, so no assembly is required – just hang it and add bird food! The perfect gift for gardeners, bird lovers or anyone with an outside space, in the town or country. www.thegardenhouse.net 2 1 8 SEPTEMBER 2 0 1 7

HELPING HEDGEHOGS Help our beloved prickly pal get ready for hibernation this autumn with the Hedgehog gift box from Boxwild. It’s estimated that 30% of the hedgehog population has been lost since 2002. So, creating a garden habitat and leaving food out for hedgehogs, particularly over the summer, can be a great help. The Hedgehog gift box is perfect providing them with all the nutrients and fat stores they need to survive hibernation. The box comes with two packs of Hedgehog Mix, which has been carefully designed for optimum nutrition for Hedgehogs and features mealworms, raisins and high energy seeds. The Hedgehog gift box also contains a mealworm food pack, feeding bowl and a scoop to make serving food for our garden friend easy. As slugs, beetles and caterpillars are all firm hedgehog favourites, they have earnt themselves a reputation as the gardener’s friend, making this box a great gift for gardeners or wildlife lovers. Boxwild’s ethos is strongly eco-conscious and revolves around helping wildlife and nature thrive. Therefore, each food pack has been hand-blended at their kitchen in Surrey and 50p from every box sold is donated to wildlife charities in the UK to support the wonderful work they do.

Hedgehog Box £21; www.boxwild.com

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ONE OF A KIND

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tirling & Co create award-winning one-ofa-kind projects on land and sea, each one as individual as the client. Design trends can very transient so we have no house style but develop each project with an open mind in close partnership with, and inspired by, each client, their needs and aspirations.

Oliver Stirling qualified and practiced as an architect for 10 years before embracing the world of yacht design. With over 30 years experience in both disciplines he has built up a diverse portfolio of projects in the UK and all over the world.

Although being very different, the disciplines of architecture and yacht design are surprisingly complementary. Site-specific land based projects offer great diversity in scale, context and orientation while the constraints of weight, length, height and width of motor and sailing yacht projects offer different design challenges.

Stirling & Co are able to cross fertilise design ideas in residential and marine projects, applying what we have learnt from one specialism to the other. The operational and functional efficiency of a yacht with its ever changing views and destinations drives many design decisions that affect the interior design and inside / outside lifestyle on board.

The pragmatic â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;hotel cultureâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; of land projects determines spatial relationships that, combined with physical and cultural contexts, create solutions unique to person and place.

This approach gives us a creative freedom in our approach to design and construction, with the seamless integration of services and technology, providing a unique insight into how to make the best use out of space, light and views to create spaces designed to enrich the lives of the users.

We have a collaborative approach inviting the input of all the team to combine, without preconceived ideas, the best knowledge of structures, materials, processes and technology. The result is creative, innovative and original solutions that push the boundaries of design and challenge the expectations of our clients.

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The details: For more information about Stirling & Co Telephone: 020 8746 7367 email: oliver@stirlingcompany.com www:stirlingcompany.com

We welcome projects of all shapes and sizes, new build, extension or refit. Working with drawings, visualisations, models, samples, full scale mock ups, conversations and debates, we lead our clients through the process to ensure we understand their aspirations so we can deliver a result that is more than what they had dreamed of.

The scope of our work varies hugely. Some clients want homes afloat, others want yachts in the sky, but whatever the project, be it a 200m motor yacht, a 5 storey penthouse, a beach house, a houseboat or an altar table for a 15th century chapel, we apply the same rigour in design and attention to detail with sensitivity to lifestyle, performance, materials, proportion and beauty.

Ideal for small London gardens, Beautiful design blending into the landscape Transform your outside space for all year enjoyment Built-in heating and Jacuzzi Versatile and safe with small children around Secure “walk on” covers, key lock and optional alarm.

020 7228 7276 E: INFO@URBANPOOL.CO.UK

Visit us today WWW.URBANPOOL.CO.UK urbanpool @urbanpool.london

H OUSE & GARDEN

Ivory or Not to Be D ecoration of any object for the purpose of beautification rather than camouflage has been used for thousands of years. As time went by the degree of sophistication of such enhancement and the range of media used advanced almost beyond belief.

To take one example I have chosen the craft of inlay; where the surface of an object is excavated in a pattern to receive alternative and contrasting coloured materials to accentuate that pattern. On furniture of say walnut structure the inlay may be of ebony, pale boxwood or sycamore dyed green with oxide of iron. Or it might be ivory.

Throughout the 16th to the late 19th century this decoration was highly prized but the raw material was hard to come by. In such a situation cheaper alternative materials are always found. Here the produce of molluscs came to the rescue in the form of the armour of the Pinctada, the Haliotis and the Caenogastropoda to be supplemented by Ivorine (celluloid) in the 1850’s.

Importantly for the craftsmen the difference between mollusc and ivory is indistinguishable to the naked eye and therefore it is obvious that not all that was described as ivory was in fact from a noble tusk.

By the late 18th century, when collecting fine furniture from an earlier period became fashionable, those handling the sales, later to be known as ‘antique’ dealers, were keen always to declare the use of ivory to further its appeal and increase the value. This practice continued until 1st July 1975, on which day there came into force legislation called CITES, the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora, an international agreement between governments.

Its aim is to ensure that international trade in specimens of wild animals and plants does not threaten their survival.

So now the export of ivory across the globe is strictly controlled if not forbidden, but trade in the humble periwinkle is not.

Get your abalone here ….but you’ll need a scientifically verified certificate to prove it, one way or the other.

How things have changed.

For more information about John Bly Antiques 533 King’s Road, Chelsea, email john@johnbly.com; www.johnbly.com

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“Throughout the 16th to the late 19th century this decoration was highly prized but the raw material was hard to come by”

H OUSE & GARDEN

Captivating floral theme for

FARROW & Ball new wallpaper collection

Hegemone BP 5705

Atacama BP5804

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ritish craftsmen in paint and paper Farrow & Ball, has unveiled its latest collection of new wallpapers. Taking inspiration from the current trends of texture, maximalism and returning to nature, the experts in colour have introduced three contemporary floral wallpapers that are richly textured and uplifting twists on traditional patterns.

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Taking its name from the Greek goddess of fruit and flowers, Hegemone is wonderfully optimistic and looks almost as if it has been cut from paper.

Less rigid and defined than a classic floral pattern, each colourful petal blooms freely in all directions.

Inspired by a brightly coloured fabric found nestled in an old mill, Atacama has a playful tropical print.

Named after the flowering South American desert, the intricate botanical design combines rich textures and delicate patterns.

For its new collection, Farrow & Ball has experimented with a range of scales exploring the expressive trend of maximalism, creating its largest motif design yet, Helleborus. First drawn with a pipette for a sense of unrestrained fluidity, each petal feels as though it is unfurling on the wall. Latin for the hellebore flower, the organic pattern creates a sense of growth and rejuvenation, transforming the home into a warm and wonderful retreat.

Handcrafted using Farrow & Ball paint and traditional block printing methods, the new collection creates a seamless connection between paint and paper. Each design is available in seven colourways from soft neutrals and muted pastels, to striking colour combinations with metallic accents.

Colourways range from bold Stiffkey Blue and Vardo, to earthy tones Cromarty and Mahogany, as well as neutrals Ammonite and Purbeck Stone.

The new wallpapers are available to purchase from showrooms, stockists and farrow-ball.com from 7 September 2017.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Taking its name from the Greek goddess of fruit and flowers, Hegemone is wonderfully optimistic and looks almost as if it has been cut from paperâ&#x20AC;?

Helleborus BP5602

H OUSE & GARDEN

WAVE GOODBYE TO BATHING DIFFICULTIES FOR GOOD!

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hilst we may be getting wiser as time goes by, our advancing years might also mean that some simple tasks are becoming more difficult.

Bathing is a prime example of how a previously relaxing and pleasurable past-time can turn into an arduous and even dangerous activity in later life. But it needn’t be so! A walk-in shower from Aquability can transform your bathroom, and your life, in just one day* to make bathing a simple - and safe pleasure once again.

Professional solutions for your bathing needs Aquability is the leading bathing solutions specialist in the UK and has been improving the lives of thousands of customers for over 23 years. Their extensive range includes top-selling walk-in showers that are fitted seamlessly into the space occupied by an existing bath, with no fuss and no mess. A walk-in shower can help you achieve a stunning new way to bathe in a safe, easy-to-use environment because they are designed with safety in mind, yet without compromising on style.

Stylish looks combined with practical solutions Aquability’s luxurious and roomy showers can be colour matched to your existing suite and boast a plethora of features such as full-width glass doors, built-in seats, tile-effect panels, sleek chrome grab handles and slip resistant floors.

You can discuss your precise requirements with 2 2 6 SEPTEMBER 2 0 1 7

a team of experienced, helpful advisers trained to help you find the perfect products for you and your needs. The professional installation team take every care to respect your home and seamlessly replace your existing bath with a wonderful new shower solution to help you maintain your independence in style . The old bath is taken away for you so you could be waving good bye to your old bath in the morning and stepping into your brand new shower in the evening!

Aquability prides itself on its top-quality customer service and many thousands of satisfied customers and we’ve included two examples here for you to read: “I thought I must write to say how pleased my wife and I are with the completed result and excellent finish, we are so glad we chose this module. Thank you once again for an excellent job well done.” – Mr Parker, East Sussex “ I wish to say how thrilled and delighted I am with my new walk in shower. The men who came were excellent and did a grand job. Thank you” – J Jones You can read more great reviews from satisfied customers, and view the full Aquability range at their website: www.aquability.com.

Or why not give them a call today on 0800 316 0110 where currently they are offering 20% off when you quote code 56934 You’ll find a friendly adviser on hand to listen to your own needs and help you to enjoy bathing in comfort, and safety, once more. * based on straight forward fitting.

H OUSE & GARDEN

Parquet Flooring

Parquet floors have a sense of class to their consistency and create elegant interest in the home.

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arquet flooring was born and perfected in the grandest of settings, and has been associated with prestige ever since. Not only does it evoke a traditional feel, but by bringing wood of various shades and details together in beautiful patterns, it’s truly inspired by nature.

With contemporary or time-honoured interior design, parquet is charming and sophisticated. Its elegance is matched by the endurance of natural timber which is strong enough to last a lifetime.

There are lots of ways to bring beautiful parquet flooring into your home. Be inspired by these style ideas…

Doubling-up Double herringbone is a great way to create a more contemporary look with parquet. Still with a refined, ordered pattern, the style is simply more unusual. Calm whitened shades bring an even more on-trend feel to the flooring. Style with a light colour palette and clean-lined furniture for minimal magic.

Statement Chevron Parquet takes a twist with the chevron style. These blocks are angled and meet at points in a statement pattern. If you love Scandinavian interior design then a white-washed chevron is just the floor. Stick to white walls and a neutral colour palette, adding shades of grey for contrast.

Lots of cushions and pops of green will bring the relaxed look together.

Classic Herringbone There’s a timeless feel to the classic herringbone pattern. It’s perfect for adding an interesting twist to minimal rooms and makes a striking base in traditional spaces. Natural oak and warmer auburn shades can help a room feel cosy and homely. Pair with dark paint shades for a bold look.

Goodrich Coffee Oak Goodrich Whitened Oak

Goodrich Haze Oak

Chunky Blocks Capture original flair with wider, chunky blocks.

These are ideal for smaller rooms as the pattern is less defined and can make the space feel bigger. Dark shades will create a beautiful base for maximalist decor. Team with vibrant colours, glamorous metallics and eclectic accessories for a touch of the unique.

Goodrich Milton

Rustic Texture Sawn parquet is different and exciting. The finish celebrates wood in its rawest, roughest form with saw marks left on the surface of the boards to see and feel.

Complementing pared-back spaces with simple materials and modest décor, the style brings a wonderful sense of the nature right into the home.

Goodrich Salted Oak

Discover naturally inspired parquet flooring at www.woodpeckerflooring.co.uk 2 2 8 SEPTEMBER 2 0 1 7

N o I N ry w l a ve I o e l N c e or De er l a P e mB e e S l r al F r P T e e D S m F m oF aN 15 u S S % eS D N 0 2 Ng e a r

slab Italian Porcelain Natural Stone Bespoke Fabrication

01494 670 866

sales@slabtiles.co.uk www.slabtiles.co.uk 2 The Broadway, Beaconsfield Buckinghamshire HP9 2PD

H OUSE & GARDEN

Clear vision

Meet Dio Davies, the Notting Hill designer who’s creativity knows no bounds

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aving grown up surrounded by all things design, with an architect as a father and an artist as a mother, thinking beyond what has already been done has always been second nature to Dio Davies.

Walking in to her studio, a cottage of sorts among an array of colourful quintessentially Notting Hill town houses, you’ll be instantly struck by how much attention has been paid to detail.

There are huge swaths of chalky white everywhere, set against exposed brick walls and urban tones of navy and broody black, with a plethora of striking art cladding the walls, including a large black and white print of Mohammed Ali, covered in glittering diamond dust. Once you’ve assessed the sight before your eyes, you’ll know for certain that good taste runs through her veins, like the life blood of her world, the thing that gets her up in the morning.

‘My father had always been a keen astronomer, so I was always looking through telescopes up at the stars as a girl.’ She says. ‘I’ve always loved everything to do with art, colour and texture, but astronomy has been the inspiration behind many of my projects, including the 24 carat gold leaf Solar table and the platinum leaf Luna table which is about to be released.’

Owning a property company with her husband, Dio’s design brand was birthed when clients started enquiringly about the furniture inside the homes they had built and designed. For her, the next step was obvious and she has never looked back. On the top floor of her studio, her popular Happy Pill table sits in the middle of the room, quietly commanding

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the space around it. It’s a clear rectangle filled with thousands of coloured pills with white tips each with a happy face drawn on them, extraordinarily playful yet oozing sophistication simultaneously.

Downstairs, her striking self playing piano is on display, with its bright coral interior organs clearly visible through its transparent glassy coating.

Having always had a soft spot for neon acrylic because of the way it absorbs light and glows with such luminescence, something that is reflected in its entirety through the Dio Davies brand’s Neon Equinox range, a collection of clear acrylic tables paired with blocks of multicoloured neon acrylic.

They are even available in all neon green for those that can’t get enough of that invigorating acid green shade, like Dio herself.

No matter what colour you choose, each table will sit in the space around it tantalising, playing with light flow and creating delicate patterns around the room.

Dio explains: ‘I am a big fan of Sci-Fi; I grew up watching films like Blade Runner, Tron and Star Wars. These films were so futuristic and minimalist, in the most elegant way. They all painted design in the future in such a striking and engaging way and I’ve always felt very much that the future is now, especially in terms of design.

‘Part of the beauty of life is trying to do what has never been done, that’s how you leave your mark.

Designers and buyers everywhere are now really embracing new technologies and materials. Just look at what we can do with acrylic! The lightness of acrylic means it doesn’t interrupt what is going on around it yet it still holds its own as a point of fabulous design.’

The Dio Davies team will go above and beyond to give you something that is both, fascinating, beautifully crafted and completely personal to you.

They’ve created a bespoke coffee table filled with dried lavender from the grounds of a house in the south of France where it takes pride of place.

Another project suspended a slice of ancient tree trunk from the family estate inside a clear structure so it appeared to float. The whole family’s names were engraved on individual plaques and pointed to the each ring marking the year of their birth. For Dio, nothing is impossible when you think outside of boundaries and limitations, because that’s where the magic is made, outside the realms of restraint where timeless pieces are born.

Her Goldfinger meets neon chameleon meets the midnight sky approach to furniture creation is one-of-a-kind, resulting in pieces that will bring a modern or traditional interior into its own, serving as the precious last missing piece to the design puzzle that is your home.

For more information visit diodavies.com

H OUSE & GARDEN

The Wow Factor

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f you love sexy sophisticated lighting that exudes that really special wow factor… read on. For those of us who have experienced the very best in international hotel and spa design such as the classy lighting at The New York Edition, the fantastic spa at the Corinthia in London or the cool elegant design of the Armani Hotel in Dubai, to name just a few, let me tell you a secret. It is possible to up the ante and recreate some of this 6* glamour in your own home.

Suzy Dallas with their 360 interior design service including lighting design and the very best in AV technology can help create aspirational 6* living whether in your townhouse, villa, chalet or on your super yacht. Think about how many times you have tried to turn on or off the lights in your hotel room and the frustration when you can’t find the right controls! Wouldn’t it be nice to be able to press a button and achieve the mood you want when you want? Dream on. Literally! Pay a visit to Scarfe’s Bar at the Rosewood Hotel in London to see how it’s done. The lighting design is exquisitely in tune with the surroundings and the Suites offer the latest technology and intelligent design at a simple touch of a button.

As Glyn Hutchinson of Icon Connect London explains “The convergence of interconnected systems is having an ever increasing impact on our daily lives and the ‘Internet of Things’ now provides us with powerful tools to shape and improve how we interact with our homes and intelligent lighting control is arguably the most impactful.” Enter the smart keypad with prescribed scenes that have been pre-programmed to create your specified ambience.

‘Morning’ which at the touch of one button opens the window treatments and sets the pre-designed level of light while you are digesting the news and sipping your espresso, ’Task’ which ensures you can see properly when cooking up your favourite Teppanyaki dish on that super Sub Zero and Wolf griddle and then ‘Cocktail hour’ where the curtains close, the lights lower to create that intimate aperitif hour.

It is now possible to take this once step further by introducing lighting into the mix. So with your morning coffee you can enjoy your favourite radio show playing in the background and at your super cool Ibiza villa you can really set the scene by selecting ‘Party vibe’ where the lights dim, the auto blinds come down, the terrace lights come on low and the Spotify party mix begins.

In today’s super hectic world we need to be able to retreat into our own bespoke sanctuary. What is possible? All of the above and more! Integrated systems open up a whole new world of possibilities on how we interact with our homes on both practical, comfort and emotional levels, maximizing the value of your professionally designed property.

So let us help you create your bespoke 6* experience so you can start enjoying the very latest in design and technology in your own home. suzydallas.com; thestudioeditions.com; iconconnect.com

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H OUSE & GARDEN

BEAUTIFUL, ELEGANT, MODERN Every now and then you stumble upon a company you just want to know more about, and this is exactly what happened to us with Cameron Design House.

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e first heard about CDH through an interior designer friend who had recently used their designs to create a beautifully elegant, modern chandelier for their Belgravia client. She was stunned at their attention to detail and after being told that all the chandeliers are hand-made and designed in St. John’s Wood, thought they must be worth visit.

We found CDH nestled away behind the Clifton pub in St. John’s Wood, a surprisingly residential area. We ventured down the path and through the black steel doors and into a world of bespoke hand manufacturing.

CDH was formed by London born furniture designer, Ian Cameron in 2014, in a small garage in west Hampstead, before gradually building momentum to open their first “working showroom” in Primrose Hill. After outgrowing their Primrose Hill facility, the company moved to St. John’s Wood in 2016 and have fallen in love with the area.

We were shown around CDH by Ian and his Business Partner Simeon Chilvers, who runs the Production in this busy and charming studio. We were amazed to find that all of the products are designed and built in-house, a far cry from your average London company, and this one is far from average.

After meeting the workforce, Simeon and Ian hesitantly decided to show us their new unrealised product. Hanging in the prototyping area above Ian’s desk, a brass, organic form unlike any of their other beautiful pendant lights, “a Branch I thought”.

Ian and Simeon went on to tell me that it’s called the Haara Luminaire, named after the Finnish word for 2 3 8 SEPTEMBER 2 0 1 7

Branch, an insight into Ian’s Scandinavian heritage.

The main frame has an elegant, yet engineered organic structure, striking in design and fabrication.

The frames appear to float when held by the subtle cables powering the fixture, Ian and Simeon tell me, you can see the pride in the gaze.

The cylindrical lanterns are assembled from hand drawn glass and polished brass creating a stunning and almost magical lighting diffuser whether illuminated or not.

The boys wrap our meeting as a new delivery of raw brass metal gets delivered to this tight NW8 street, thank you Chaps and we can’t wait for our next invite to your magical lighting emporium.

Cameron Design House, 96A Clifton Hill, London NW8 0JT; 0207 3727748; sales@camerondesignhouse.com

“The cylindrical lanterns are assembled from hand drawn glass and polished brass creating a stunning and almost magical lighting diffuser whether illuminated or not”

H OUSE & GARDEN

West London Apartment A Symphony of light, Texture and Colour

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hen you enter this 15th floor apartment you understand immediately that you have arrived in a very special place; texture, light and colour assail you with wild abandon no matter where you look. This project is not like the ubiquitous ‘high end’ schemes we see in all the glossy magazines and doesn’t make use of the ‘developers’ palette but instead explores exciting alternatives that are just as universally appealing.

Everywhere you look, René Dekker has managed to include eye candy for the visual sense; multi coloured polished marble floors, pearlised textured plaster, cracked Gesso panels, embossed leather, distressed copper wall covering…you name it, it’s here! Yet even with this cornucopia of finishes, the schemes are well composed and calm, the true mark of a well-balanced project and to top it all, someone

“When René Dekker was approached by the clients, their brief was simple; they wanted an ‘award winning apartment”

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actually lives here.

When René Dekker was approached by the clients, their brief was simple; they wanted an ‘award winning apartment’. To achieve this, he made use of his 30 years’ experience to put together a scheme that would delight and impress this international family, but would also make use of a mixture of trusted formulas, modern technology, exotic finishes and trusted artisans. “To accomplish something really special you need to work with suppliers and sub-contractors who are experts in their field, otherwise you will not achieve the level and detail of sophistication” René notes.

This 4 500 square foot apartment was earmarked by the developer to be 3 units but was re-imagined by the designer to become a 5 bedroomed family dwelling. There is a large open plan family space consisting of Living, Dining and Study areas, a separate TV lounge, a Media room, a Spa including a 12 seat Jacuzzi, 5 en-suite bedrooms a guest WC and a laundry room. Modern conveniences include Lutron operated lighting and window treatment, underfloor heating, Crestron operated AV services and TVs in the two master bathrooms to name but a few. Some of the more outstanding features include a Media room that has been hung with cobalt blue suede panels, cupboard doors that were upholstered with petrol blue horsehair panels and a feature wall that is hung in real copper sheeting that was left out-doors to rust and distress before being treated to be used as a wall finish. Everywhere you look there is some magical element that Dekker has incorporated to surprise and delight and he did not disappoint! www.renedekker.co.uk

H OUSE & GARDEN

“The Chair People Bum Test” A unique and exclusive service

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ntrigued? We were too…firstly let’s tell you a little bit about this unique Chair company.

The Chair People are specialist manufacturers and suppliers of bespoke designer seating for the home!

Their ranges include Dining Chairs, Armchairs, Bar stools, and Occasional Chairs Each chair, is made to order, and once you have selected your preferred model you then choose your fabric, leg colour, and any extra specification options that are available, these include, buttons beading, fabric combinations, and piping options.

You can even adjust the height of your bar stool!

Their 2500 sq ft Showroom in Shropshire, holds an extensive range of models. They have trained and experienced design advisors on standby to help you with your choice, and there are countless fabrics and models to choose from! It certainly is the best way to start your chair design journey. However!

They understand that due to people’s busy life and work schedules, a visit to their Showroom isn’t always possible!

So this is where their “BUM TEST” comes into action!

Once you have browsed through their website at the extensive range of chairs, requested your free fabric swatches, and looked at any extra specification options available, you can then request up to 3 chair models that you’d like to try out in your home.

YES THEY BRING THE CHAIRS TO YOU! Their delivery driver will contact you to advise when he’s next scheduled in your area and a convenient appointment is then made! They even call you 1 hour prior to arrival to limit any inconvenience!

The chairs are then brought in to your home, so that you can see them in the surroundings they are meant for, their driver will stay with you for around

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20 minutes to ensure you have ample time to try them for comfort and size.

The Chair People understand that choosing furniture for your home is so important and they want to make sure you are completely comfortable with all aspects before you commit to a purchase, which is why they are more than willing to go above and beyond to ensure their customers are completely happy!

We have not heard of such a service ourselves, and they are certainly ranking high with their customers, for service!

With the highest rating possible on Feefo, and quotes such as …

“Amazing bar stools, top class service ..... Could not recommend more highly! Stunning .....Just perfect!”

We have no doubt you will only have an exceptional experience when choosing The Chair People.

“If you can’t make it to their showroom, they will bring the samples to you, so that you can view them in your home, before you commit to a purchase” For more information, contact their sales department on 0330 900 3300, email at sales@thechairpeople.co.uk or browse their website at www.thechairpeople.co.uk.

H OUSE & GARDEN

The heart of the forest in your home

In the modern, urbanized world of “ready” solutions, we need calmness more than ever, to be able to escape from the hubbub of the city, the omnipresent wi-fi and upcoming deadlines.

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n searching for a universal remedy for stress and feeling unwell, doctors have discovered the saving power of forest baths - calming walks in the surroundings of trees that are a mood booster and strengthen our body’s immune system. The Japanese Shinrin-yoku is a beautiful way to health for everyone and it is winning over hearts in the West. Being aware of this, Pixers designers would like to propose Forest Bathing motifs as a supplement to the time spent in nature’s surroundings.​ The internet is full of ideas on how to best spend time with nature. Offers of trips to the forest and group contemplation are popping up on AirBnB and Pinterest users are outdoing themselves inspiring with moss and needle-coverings. Not everyone, however, has the luxury of taking a walk through the woods every day, and with a bit of luck, they can visit a nearby park as the second best alternative.

The Forest Bathing wallpaper series with the forest motif is a response to the growing popularity of “bathing” without water and soap bubbles which can be done on a daily basis, before and after work, and even during a gloomy or busy weekend.

The rich green colour is not afraid of dominance or a secondary role. It’s so natural that it can appear on its own, intertwining various shades

“The rich green colour is not afraid of dominance or a secondary role” or in combination with other colours and motifs.

Decorating walls or furniture with showy leaves or bark can be an introduction to developing and looking after nature in your interiors. Scented candles, mood music or artifacts brought in straight from the forest, arranged with taste, allow you to create something that has real ambiance. An interior that will not only be trendy and stylish, but also functional and friendly. And the saying “East or West, home is best” will take on a new meaning. www.pixersize.com 2 4 4 SEPTEMBER 2 0 1 7

LOFTS, BASEMENTS

& CONVERSIONS GUIDE

– The ultimate guide to extending and converting your London home – i m age : E X T E NDIN G YOU R HO M E …

Can you

dig it?

Across London, home owners are digging down like never before in their quest for more space and added value to their properties. Indeed, research shows a threefold increase in basement conversions in the capital in 2016 - with gyms, playrooms, wine cellars, cinema rooms, nanny flats and swimming pools aplenty.

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ell-designed and well-built basements can transform your home, whether digging beneath your house or under your garden. But beware, taking short cuts or employing the wrong people – you could end up with months of remedial work and a depleted bank account.” Says Mike Lander, Programme Director of architectural and interior design company Ensoul, who has built a strong reputation for basement design and build www.ensoul.co.uk

HERE ARE ENSOUL’S TOP TIPS FOR A SMOOTH BASEMENT BUILD: Research: You can either dig under your house, under your garden or both. But what’s feasible will depend upon local planning guidelines and thorough investigation work e.g. geological, boundaries, water table, drains and trees.

Ensure value for money: Calculate the financial value that the additional square metres of your basement will add to your property.

Then compare this to at least three estimates of what it will cost to build it and make sure the numbers work.

Design before build: Bringing in an experienced design partner will ensure a beautiful basement with the right feel in terms of volume, ceiling height and natural light. Expert space planning ensures a good flow and a beautiful fit out will ensure that your basement feels just as high quality as your accommodation above ground.

Beware of cheap: Basements are highly complex structures that require expert architectural and structural design, construction methodology, waterproofing design and an experienced contractor. A lot of firms are jumping on the trend for basements and not all of them have the skills and experience to deliver them safely and reliably.

Be neighbourly: Talk to your neighbours early on and throughout the process. Liaising before your application can iron out any concerns and avoid unnecessary objections. Keep them up to date with the schedule and offer free window cleaning or dusting – it’s a nice gesture.

THE DETAILS If you’d like to know how to price a basement, Ensoul has an online guide: www.ensoul.co.uk/londonbasement or you can telephone them on 020 3637 0700.

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ALL PHOTOS COURTESY OF ENSOUL WWW.ENSOUL.CO.UK

LOFTS, B ASEMENTS & CONVERSIONS LOFTS, BASEMENTS & CONVERSIONS

LOFTS, B ASEMENTS & CONVERSIONS

Image: Darren Chung; Bottom: Simon Maxwell

Image: Simon Maxwell; Circle below: Jeremy Philips

Turn your property dreams into reality

AT The London Homebuilding & Renovating Show, ExCeL, London, 22-24 September 2017

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or those interested in taking matters into their own hands, The London Homebuilding & Renovating Show will provide you with inspiration, practical help and resources to turn visitors’ property ambitions into reality.

The event, sponsored for the first time by Everest Ltd, will offer serious self-builders and renovators the opportunity to discover over 360 specialist exhibitors and access more than 750+ advice sessions, 45+ free seminars and masterclasses.

Real case studies will be present to share their experiences, together with companies from a variety of sectors including architecture; kitchens; bathrooms; ventilation; lighting; doors and windows etc.

New to the show this year is Estimators Online, a company which offers affordable estimating services for domestic building projects such as extensions, conversions, refurbishments and new build dwellings. By using its in-house software and quantification techniques, the team will quickly convert visitors’ drawings into an accurate labour and materials estimate.

On Saturday, visitors will be able to hold 15-minute consultations with celebrity experts, Charlie Luxton, sustainable architectural designer and presenter of More 4’s ‘Building the Dream’, and Julia Kendell, interior design expert for BBC’s ‘DIY SOS The Build’ and ITV’s ’60 Minute Makeover’ For attendees in need of fresh ideas or solutions, the Ask the Expert area will be the place to ask questions and explore the most efficient solutions to meet their challenges.

Bring your plans along and discuss them with specialists including David Snell (self-build and plot finding expert); Bob Branscombe (chartered surveyor and builder); Chris Reeves (legal expert and a chartered builder and lawyer); Tim Pullen (expert in sustainable building and energy efficiency in the home) and Mariana Pedroso (interior design

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expert and architect), Visitors can also head to the Ask the Builder area and meet experts for advice on their renovation project. In addition, over 15 experienced architects from the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) will be at the Ask the Architect area to help consumers achieve their aspirations and vision, add value to their projects, guide them through the design and the bespoke construction process. Live presentations hosted by qualified tradespeople in the Tricks of the Trade section will showcase up-to-date information on everything property-related.

The show will also provide visitors with access to a mobile app, helping them to plan and guide their day through exclusive content. With multiple features throughout the exhibition, it will ensure that consumers make the most of their visit. The app will also notify users of exclusive offers during the exhibition and provide them with an interactive timetable for the relevant seminar and masterclass sessions.

Standard tickets are £12 in advance or £18 on the door (children under 16 go free). For more details, visit www.homebuildingshow.co.uk/ london or call the ticket hotline on 0871 231 0824 (calls cost 13p per minute plus network extras).

FREE TICKETS FOR LIFE MAGAZINE READERS We have teamed up with The London Homebuilding & Renovating Show to offer our readers unlimited FREE tickets worth £36 a pair.

Visit www.homebuildingshow. co.uk/lifemags Please note that tickets must be redeemed before the link expires at 3pm on 21 September 2017.

T&Cs apply: www.homebuildingshow.co.uk/ terms

LOFTS, B ASEMENTS & CONVERSIONS

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Cinematic Heaven Beneath Your Home

he best way to enjoy a feature film is in a cinema, but that doesn’t mean you have to leave the house. Having a dedicated cinema room is the ideal scenario for many movie fans, whilst increasing the value and demand of your property, and of course major status and assets for you, the homeowner. How you go about achieving this depends on the space you have available, and how much you are willing to invest. If you are really serious about getting a home cinema, it can be a good idea to seek out a specialist company.

Acoustics, surround sound systems, matching the screen’s size to the size of the room, home cinema seating and lighting are all areas that need specific attention. Here is our guide to creating your own home cinema.

ROOM CHOICE Ideally you want your home cinema installation to be in a room that is isolated from the rest of the activity in the house. Soundproofing is important of course, and it can also help to choose a room that does not need to be used for any other purpose, and is not a throughway to somewhere else. For these reasons a house extension, loft or basement conversion can be the perfect home cinema choice.

TYPE OF SCREEN Your screen size needs to be in proportion with the size of the room. This is very important, as many people make the mistake of simply going for the largest screen available on the assumption that this alone will provide the perfect cinema look and feel. Most people choose not to sit on the front row at the cinema; because it can be uncomfortable looking at too large a screen for a long time. There is also an optimum distance between a projected image and the human eye for those grainy pixels to not be visible. For the real cinema experience, a flat screen with a projector is unbeatable. Most dedicated film fans agree that plasma TVs provide a more cinematic viewing experience than LCD, which is backlit and so performs better in rooms that have plenty of natural light.

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HOME CINEMA SYSTEMS

The potential and sophistication of home entertainment systems is almost limitless. Whether you are looking for a HD projector or a wireless home cinema that also includes a centralised hi-fi system, this is an area that is worth investigating in detail, particularly if you have the funds to really go to town. The Custom Electronic Design and Installation Association is an ideal first port of call for information and advice. Their membership includes thousands of installers and designers of home entertainment systems, who can advise you on the best options for your requirements.

SURROUND SOUND SPEAKERS When it comes to home entertainment, the image isn’t everything; sound plays just as much an important role. Subwoofers, sound bars and speakers arranged perfectly so as to get the very best from the room’s acoustics are all part of the audio element. Again, when it comes to acoustics, a professional’s advice can make all the difference.

CINEMA ROOM SEATING If you really want the authentic cinema experience, then some rows of tiered movie seats is certainly one way to go. Add popcorn holders in the armrests and the look is complete. If you want something even more relaxing, however, there are plenty of options available. Luxury furniture that is both comfortable and stylish, with built-in storage, drinks holders and iPod speakers is perfectly tailored to suit the movie-watching experience.

LIGHTING If your room is really going to have that authentic cinema ambience, it is essential that the lighting is right. Make sure the room you use has either no windows, or windows that can be completely blacked out, and think carefully about how much light the room will need. Dimmer switches, floor lights and sidelights are all part of the mix in creating that night at the movies. If you really want to make it as realistic as possible, you might also consider curtains that can be drawn back from the screen. Ideally, these and the lighting will be adjustable via remote control.

“Ideally you want your home cinema installation to be in a room that is isolated from the rest of the activity in the house”

LOFTS, B ASEMENTS & CONVERSIONS

Creating beautiful attic bathrooms “Make the most of your space by working with the original features: exposed beams, a sloping ceiling and extra skylights can all create a beautiful attic bathroom to relax in”

Looking for an inventive way to make effective use of a loft conversion? An attic bathroom can transform your new room into a showstopping area.

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ucked away in the roof, an attic bathroom can be a quiet retreat from everyday life and, with the right finishing touches, will become a warm and welcoming place to escape to after a busy day.

Make the most of your space by working with the original features: exposed beams, a sloping ceiling and extra skylights can all create a beautiful attic bathroom to relax in. Or, you can create something special from scratch, adding in your own accessories and features.

Working with the natural architecture of your attic, you can choose a shower and clever storage solutions for smaller areas. Well-placed mirrors will also create the illusion of a much larger bathroom, lending a light and airy feeling, even to cramped attic spaces. Add extra features to larger rooms, such as a freestanding bath or a heated towel rack to add a luxurious touch to your new attic bathroom.

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HOW TO DESIGN A LOFT CONVERSION BATHROOM Before starting to build a loft conversion you will need to check if you need planning permission from your local planning department. However, regardless of whether or not you need planning permission a loft conversion will require Building Regulations approval.

When building a loft conversion bathroom, or indeed any additional bathroom in the house, consult a specialist in bathroom loft conversations – they can give you all the expert advice - initially whether or not your boiler is capable of supplying hot water to the extra bathroom. One solution to this could be an electric shower that produces its own hot water on demand. Also, consider if you wish to have a window in your loft bathroom, and if so where. Have a clear idea of what you want for your bathroom, but be aware that you may have limitations or need to make some changes based on the layout of the room. For example, where the staircase will need to be and if there are any restrictions with plumbing. Again the experts can advise you and suggest ideas on how to achieve your loft bathroom retreat. Whether a full or part en-suite, it will provide the privacy to unwind - and of course add value to your property.

LOFTS, B ASEMENTS & CONVERSIONS

Going up in the world The most obvious benefit of having a loft conversion is adding space to your home. In fact there are many reasons why people choose to have their loft converted.

IDEAS FOR YOUR CONVERTED LOFT Loft conversions are created for many different purposes…

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oft conversions have been shown to add around 20% on top of your property’s value, according to the Housing Market Research. This can add up to somewhere in the range of £15,000 - £35,000.

The value of your property will increase no matter what you use the converted space for. This can be useful as the loft is often out of the way of the rest of the house. In order to get the most benefit from your loft conversion, carefully work out the costs to make sure that these do not add up to more than the conversion will be adding to the value of your property.

STAGES OF YOUR LOFT CONVERSION An architect or surveyor will be required in order to determine the loads that will be placed in the building to make sure that your property is still structurally sound. This is extremely important in all building and planning regulations, so will be required on top of your builder.

Not all loft conversions will need planning permission, but you will always need to check this for sure before going ahead. Even if you do not need it, you still need to comply with building regulations which include inspections. It is much 2 5 6 SEPTEMBER 2 0 1 7

Home Office... Perfect for creating an office at home – it can provide a quiet and uninterrupted space when working.

Bedroom... Perhaps the most common use of a loft conversion, and creating a unique master bedroom away from the rest of the house. Loft bedrooms are one of the easiest conversions, and will require electricity though not much else.

Bathroom... When creating a master bedroom you may choose to add in an luxury en-suite bathroom. This is also popular, though requires more work due to the plumbing involved and installation.

Play Room... If you have children, this is an excellent use of the space. Just make sure the access to the loft is safe for your children to use. This shouldn’t be too difficult, as there are many great stairway options now available for converted lofts.

“Perfect for creating an office at home – it can provide a quiet and uninterrupted space when working”

easier to check regulations before starting work – which will also save you money by avoiding problems down the line.

You will need to be able to reach your loft easily once it has been converted, and your loft conversion company will help you determine your options when it comes to stairs. They should comply with fire regulations, and may need to be altered if used by small children.

Most loft conversions take a few months to complete, and the planning stages can be even longer if you need planning permission. Inspections may need to be carried out, and you may need to get an agreement if the work disrupts your neighbours.

The building work itself should take around 1 or 2 months to complete, but get an agreement on certain building stages from your loft conversion company.

LOFTS, B ASEMENTS & CONVERSIONS

Extending your home…

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or a lot of households, there comes a time when your home becomes a bit of a squeeze. Maybe you have had more children, or have embarked on working from home. So should you move somewhere bigger, or extend your house to make it large enough for you and your family’s needs?

An extension can radically improve a property.

Bigger, better space and extra rooms can add value, and make a house more attractive to buyers.

Your location, and the level of demand for your type of home, could make a big difference to the financial implications of extending versus moving. In highvalue areas in London it can be more worthwhile digging under the house to add a basement conversion. The reality is that if you are able to extend, it is often sensible to do so from a financial point of view. The cost of buying a new house would far outweigh the cost of building.

If you want to make structural changes with the purpose of adding value, you should first find out the current market price of your property, as well as its potential value once the changes have been made.

Otherwise, your hard work and cash may not reap rewards. Also be area aware - before you plan that extravagant extension or costly conversion, it’s crucial to talk to a local estate agent to find out what renovations are popular in your area. Every street has a ceiling value so don’t over develop if you want to see a good return on your investment.

Rising property prices with a premium being put on space can make extensions a wise investment.

However, this is a major project and shouldn’t be undertaken lightly: Call in professionals to get the job done properly, as there are important planning restrictions and regulations which need to be followed.

Ask friends if they can recommend an architect

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“Your location, and the level of demand for your type of home, could make a big difference to the financial implications of extending versus moving”

and builders. It is really important that you locate the best people, as a botched extension can devalue a property.

The National Federation of Builders (NFB) can provide you with a list of registered builders in your area. A builder that belongs to a respected trade organisation will have to comply with membership standards.

The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) provides a list of registered architects.

Although a modern extension can look good on an old house, when it comes to selling on it is important to appeal to the average buyer’s taste.

Therefore it is more advisable for an extension to match the architectural style of the existing house.

Be strategic: Extra bathrooms and large kitchens are usually good investments in family-sized homes, and a garage in a busy, urban area will also add value. The room that usually benefits the most from enlarging is the kitchen. Adding a kitchen/ diner creates the farmhouse kitchen most people want and provides extra space. The old dining room can become an office, playroom, or an extra sitting room. Kitchen extensions also provide the opportunity to extend upwards - an additional bedroom can be built on top at the same time.