London Life December 2014

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FROM THE

EDITOR Begin your own journey of discovery at the 2015 London Boat Show. This world renowned event is where adventure starts, pioneers meet and innovation shines. Immerse yourself in the elements and explore a world of boating, brand new craft being unveiledglobally, the very latest in technology and showstopping experiences that will really capture your imagination. For the third year in a row, The Mayfair Antiques & Fine Art Fair takes place at the London Marriott Hotel Grosvenor Square. Organised by The Antiques Dealers Fair Limited and held in association with Mayfair property specialist Wetherell, this London event is the first of several fairs held around England in 2015. Housed in the original headquarters of the Pearl Assurance Company, Rosewood London opened in October 2013 marking the ultra-luxury hotel group, Rosewood Hotel & Resorts presence in Europe. Within only a year, Rosewood London has made its name known by achieving six accolades, including ‘Best New Hotel in the World 2014’ by Telegraph’s Ultratravel and ‘Hotel of the Year London 2014/2015’ at the AA Hospitality Awards. Visitors to the annual Telegraph Cruise Show can explore the world of cruise holiday options under one roof plus meet celebrity chefs, get personal cooking tips from the experts and be in with the chance of winning one of several holidays worth up to £10,000 each. This gives you just a small taste of exciting events & articles featured in this month’s issue...

Faye Manning Editor

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EDITOR Faye Manning EDITOR’S ASSISTANT Katie Miller SUB EDITOR Alex Lux FASHION EDITOR Rachel Gold DESIGN & PRODUCTION Toni Perry

SENIOR BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Vanessa Lane ACCOUNT MANAGERS Anita Hill, Nicola Drew SALES James Marshall DIRECTORS Rory Smith Patrick Smith




King’s Road, Windsor SL4 Long Walk Villas is an elegant terrace of classical townhouses in an enviable position, overlooking The Long Walk and Windsor Great Park. These traditional style properties are built to the highest specifications with 4/5 bedrooms, numerous reception and entertaining areas, and private landscaped gardens. With picturesque views towards the iconic Castle and ideally placed for the town centre, each property also benefits from its own rooftop terrace and secure private parking. Central London is easily accessible whilst Heathrow Airport is less than 10 miles. Windsor and Eton train station provides a 29 minute train service to London Paddington and London Waterloo can be accessed in less than 1 hour. Price £2.75 million Show house in Kings Road, SL4 2AH Open daily 10am – 4pm, 020 3137 8226 longwalkvillas@octagon.co.uk www.octagon.co.uk


Little Chalfont, Buckinghamshire HP8 An impressive family home set behind electric gates in mature southwest backing grounds of approximately 0.7 acres. Kingswood House is situated on a prestigious road within walking distance to Little Chalfont village centre and train station, which is served by the Metropolitan line (service to Baker Street) and the Chiltern line (service to Marylebone). Open weekends 10am – 4pm Price £3.95 million

Wentworth Estate, Surrey GU25 A substantial 6 bedroom gated residence, situated on the internationally acclaimed Wentworth Estate. Set within 0.7 acres of beautifully landscaped south backing grounds, Long Furrow offers spacious accommodation arranged over 3 floors including 5/6 bedrooms, 5/6 reception rooms and separate staff quarters. Open weekends 10am – 4pm Price £5.5 million

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CONTENTS EDITORS LETTER 3 CONTENTS 11 LOCAL LIFE, ARTS & EVENTS 12 The World Of Valentino At Harrods 12 Harrods Unveils “The Decadence” Hamper For Christmas At £20,000 14 Le Chalet At Selfridges, Until Late February 2015 16 Christmas On Carnaby 18 The World’s Most Luxurious Christmas Crackers 20 Bugatti Opens Boutique In Knightsbridge 22 Gentlemen: Start Your Engine 24 Most Luxurious Suv Ever 26 The Adventure Travel Show 28 The Deer Of Richmond Park 30 The Ultimate Gadget Gift Guide 32 Christmas Made Easy 34 The Telegraph Cruise Show 2015 36 CWM FX London Boat Show 2015 38 A Playhouse Fit For Even The Most Adventurous Explorer! 40 YUMMY MUMMY MAGAZINE 43 Editors letter 45 ‘From London With Love’ 46 Little Liberty 48 A Merry Little Christmas! 50 Healthy Mums-To-Be 52 Bumps And The Boardroom 54 Aston Martin Surfs Into Harrods 56 We Welcome Chamomile Baby 58 Hamleys This Christmas 60 London Mother’s Club 62 Child Modelling: A Parent’s Guide 64 Christmas Shopping With Toddlers 66 Create A Christmas Winter Wonderland For Your Little Ones 68 Mummy In The City 70 It’s About Dad’s Too! 72 How Can I Keep My Children Safe On The Ski Slopes? 74 One in five children want to be rich when they grow up 76 Play ‘boosts children’s development and happiness’ 78 Revealed! Britain’s Most Popular Baby Names 2014 80 EDUCATION 83 Bromley High School A Formula for Success 83 Discover South London’s best kept secret... 84 Girls step it up for annual dance show spectacular 87 All Aboard 92 Tell It How It Is 94 Chalet Chic 96 The Swarez Experience 98 The Mayfair Antiques & Fine Art Fair 100 PROPERTY 102 Sting & Battersea Power Station Development 102 London Property Boom 104 Sam Bains 106 FOOD & DRINK 108 Primrose’s Kitchen Presents A Christmas Hamper Full Of Goodies! 108 Rosewood London 110 Christmas At Lancashire Court 112 Wine Expert Sees Double With Launch Of Second Wine School 114 The Penfolds Collection Continues 170 Years Of Winemaking 116 La Vie En Rose From Dawn To Dusk 118 Quinta Do Lago Five-Star Golfing Feast 120 FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY 123 Salon De Parfums A Sanctuary Of Scent 124 Gift Perfection With Every Choice 126 Michael Platt Specialist In Bespoke Jewellery 128 Dermatologist, Dr Ariel Haus Introduces Triniti 130 Gentlemen’s Grooming At The Bulgari Spa, London 132 Martyn Maxey Hair & Beauty Has Arrived In Marylebone! 133 The Laboratory 134 Back Pain: New Tools To Help In The Diagnosis And Treatment 136 Get Ski Fit 138 HOUSE & GARDEN 141 Hampstead Antique & Craft Emporium 142 7 Of The Best Interior Design Trends 144 Shades Of Grey 146 Gaining A Qualification The Smart Way 148 The Perfect Solution To Your Space Needs 150 John Bly Aniques ‘Tallboy’ 152 Light-Up Your Outdoor Space 154 Discover Cutting Edge Technology And Design Expertise 156 There’s Always Time... At Gütlin Clocks & Antiques 158 A Reputation Carved In Stone 160 WINDOWS & DOORS GUIDE 165 Energy-Efficient Windows 166 Enhance The Value And Beauty Of Your Home 168 Why Install Sash Windows? 170 Blinds, Shutters And Shades 172 Come In From The Cold 174 A Burning Issue A Guide To Fire Doors 176 Naturally Beautiful 178

Battersea Arts Centre presents

By Little Bulb Theatre, co-produced by Bristol Old Vic & Farnham Maltings

Ages 2-6

‘Deliciously comic... A magical show’ The Guardian

2 Dec - 4 Jan Battersea Arts Centre Lavender Hill London SW11 5TN

Book Online bac.org.uk Box Office 020 7223 2223 Children’s Tickets £9 | Adults £14


FEATURE

THE WORLD OF

Follow Valentino @maison

VALENTINO AT HARRODS

V

alentino presents a special capsule collection exclusively created for Harrods. The collection will be showcased in a dedicated pop-up store on the ground floor of the world’s most renowned department store. Harrods have dedicated three Brompton Road windows showing the colourful new collection, and a special Valentino holiday window called ‘Peace’, featuring a modern interpretation of the 1991 white Haute Couture gown of the same name. The collection inside the pop-up includes women’s accessories and ready-to-wear designed by Creative Directors, Maria Grazia Chiuri and Pierpaolo Piccioli, exclusively for this special project at Harrods. They will be displayed in store until January 2015. The collection is characterised by two recurring colour pattern themes: a multicoloured and a single solid colour version. The multicolour pattern combines vivid brights and is further embellished by lacquered studs, matching the colour palette on which they are applied. In contrast, the single colour pattern is characterized by a single solid shade with classic studs, lacquered in a hue that is tone-on-tone. The ready-to-wear is composed of four embroidered

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dresses, three gowns and one short dress and will come in two styles: in chequered and in chevron. Accessories are embellished with iconic Valentino studs. This special collection also encompasses multi-coloured Christmas ornaments made with blown glass and created exclusively for Harrods. Renowned architect David Chipperfield, along with Creative Directors Maria Grazia Chiuri and Pierpaolo Piccioli designed the pop up store. Maria Grazia Chiuri and Pierpaolo Piccioli have worked with David Chipperfield for all Valentino’s flagship stores worldwide. The concept blends classic and contemporary elements in a space envisioned as a Maison or palazzo, made up of magnificent and timeless materials such as Venetian terrazzo, marble, oak wood and brass. THE DETAILS

87-135 Brompton Road, Knightsbridge, London, SW1X 7XL www.harrods.com

valentino


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362-364 KING’S ROAD, CHELSEA, LONDON, SW3 5UZ T: 0 2 0 7 8 5 4 2 0 0 1 SHERIDANAUSTRALIA.CO.UK


FEATURE

HARRODS UNVEILS

“THE DECADENCE” HAMPER FOR CHRISTMAS AT £20,000

Harrods ignites the festive spirit with their world-famous gift hampers this Christmas

H

arrods ignites the festive spirit with their worldfamous gift hampers this Christmas – the most exclusive of which is ‘The Decadence’ bringing together a hand-picked selection of the highestquality produce from Harrods Food Halls and Wine Rooms, and presented in two leather trunks…. nothing is lacking in this exclusive spread. Some of the finest wines and champagnes from the world’s top names spanning Bordeaux, Burgundy, the Rhône, Australia, and the US, include Château La Mission Haut-Brion 2007 Pessac-Léognan, Vega-Sicilia “Unico” Gran Reserva 1998 Colgin Cellars, IX Estate 2009 Napa Valley, Perrier-Jouët; Belle époque Blanc de Blancs Brut Millesime 2002 Champagne and Courvoisier Initiale Extra Cognac France provide a celebration of the most exclusive. Accompanied by an unparalleled culinary line-up, ranging from foie gras with truffle, 100-year-old balsamic vinegar, beluga caviar and a 8kg leg of 5J Ibérico ham, Mortadella with Black Truffle and Smoked Duck Breast.

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Then of course, there are the prestigious mouthwatering confectioneries such as Petit Fours Assortments, Bonieri Chocolate and Kahve Dünyasi Milk Chocolate Coated Pistachio Turkish Delight. Adding further luxury are a decorative Christmas cake, savoury crackers, Christmas pudding and a variety of jams and biscuits. Luxury Harrods table decorations and Christmas crackers are included, making this a package that brings festive magic anywhere it goes. THE DETAILS

87-135 Brompton Road, Knightsbridge, London, SW1X 7XL www.harrods.com



FEATURE

Open daily from 11am - 11pm

LE CHALET

AT SELFRIDGES, UNTIL LATE FEBRUARY 2015 Le Chalet is a winter Alpine-style restaurant on the roof of Selfridges - the second of the store’s new ‘On The Roof With...’ residencies.

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e Chalet transports customers high above the streets of London to a wintry retreat poised on top of the world’s best department store. The restaurant serves a delicious Alpine inspired barbeque menu alongside a crab and shellfish bar. Situated on the terrace is a log cabin, alongside a hot chocolate cocktail bar to ensure guests escape the wintry chill. Designed by Alexander Waterworth Interiors, the main inspiration for the restaurant is taken from a traditional ski chalet and is combined with accents of wintry ferns, timber branches, and soft low lighting entwined with branches throughout. Tables and relaxed seating are tucked away behind winter ferns to provide an intimate and laidback atmosphere. The menu is inspired by Le Chalet’s sister restaurant, Q Grill and includes hearty dishes to reflect the season. The kitchen uses quality seasonal produce, locally sourced and simply cooked. Starters include; Cornish crab served with pickled celeriac and Colman’s mustard, Peppered tuna with wasabi avocado and Endive & pear salad with shaved pecorino and hazelnuts. Diners can then choose from Spit roast suckling pig with apple & black pudding fritters, Buttermilk crispy chicken with blue cheese fondue, Lobster macaroni and a selection of the finest seafood. The sides provide the perfect accompaniment to the main courses, they include; Roasted roots with honey and thyme and Broccoli with chilli and garlic. The dessert menu includes; Eggnog snow egg, Apple streusel with lashings of custard, Black forest cheesecake and Brandy and vanilla rice pudding. Le Chalet’s drinks menu presents an assortment of carefully selected wines, beer, cocktails and soft drinks, along

16 DECEMBER2014

with a generous offering of the finest grand reserve drinks. The list also features a hot chocolate cocktail bar, ‘choctails’ include; ‘El Dorado’; a delicious concoction of El Dorado, cinnamon and hot chocolate, ‘Pumpkin Pie’; Stolichnaya with pumpkin and hot chocolate and ‘Kailua’; a blend of bourbon, coconut and hot chocolate. These drinks can be enjoyed on the winter chalet porch, accompanied with a Cigar from a specially crafted selection by James J. Fox. Le Chalet also features a ‘Juciery Apres-Ski Menu’, by the successful New York health brand The Juicery. Founded by Cindy Palusamy, she has brought together some of the top names in the health and wellness sector to create a unique menu that includes; Superfood hot chocolate, Espresso maca, SuperPower espresso shot and Superfood teas. Nathan Herrmann, Selfridges Food and Restaurants Director comments: “We wanted to create an enchanted winter wonderland on the roof of Selfridges this Christmas. Customers to the roof will be greeted with a restaurant inspired by traditional ski lodges serving seasonal wintry dishes and an exceptional Hot Chocolate Bar. We are sure this winter wonderland will be a huge success with our customers looking for a truly magical dining experience” THE DETAILS Selfridges Roof Top, 400 Oxford Street, with entrance via an express lift on G in the Fragrance Hall on G To make a reservation please call: 0207 318 3287 or email: LeChalet@q-grill.co.uk


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Battersea I Clerkenwell I Knightsbridge I Mayfair I Notting Hill I Wandsworth I Kent I Surrey @westonebathroom 0333 011 3333


FEATURE

CHRISTMAS

ON CARNABY G

et in the festive mood as the Carnaby Christmas lights brighten up this fashionable shopping district with a musical theme in recognition of the street’s musical heritage. Featuring some of the most unusual Christmas decorations and lights in London, the Carnaby Christmas lights have a distinctive theme for 2014 to celebrate Carnaby Street’s reputation as a unique shopping destination. Step under the iconic arch of the world famous Carnaby Street for fashion and lifestyle from concept stores to world firsts. Carnaby is known for British brands, Ben Sherman, Pretty Green, Paul Smith Soho, Barbour Heritage and Lyle & Scott. New additions to Carnaby are Scotch & Soda, SuperTrash, adidas Originals, ELEVENPARIS and Brandy Melville.

18 DECEMBER2014

Just a step away from Carnaby Street is the creative hub of the Newburgh Quarter where you can discover boutiques, restaurants and iconic brands. More than 50 independent restaurants, cafes, bars and quintessentially English pubs can be found across the area serving more than 15 different cuisines from around the world. Keep warm by visiting Kingly Court, a three-storey food and dining destination which unites 18 of the best British and international restaurants, cafés, bars and food operators around a courtyard. Carnaby brings you the ultimate one-stop Christmas shopping destination with its independent designers, favourite brands and inspiring bespoke gifts. Sign up for the newsletter at carnaby.co.uk to find out more. Follow on Twitter @CarnabyLondon


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FEATURE

THE WORLD’S MOST LUXURIOUS CHRISTMAS CRACKERS

Include Diamond Necklace and A Yacht at £4,018,600

T

Sanssouci, which was built according to plans by Frederick II. he disappointment when you get the wrong end One lucky guest will get the key to a top of the range of the Christmas cracker this year could hurt just a little bit more as instead of missing out on a plastic Aston Martin Vanquish Coupe. The Vanquish is the height of design, engineering, technology and toy or silver thimble, you could craftsmanship offered by Aston be missing out on the most luxurious Martin. treat ever including the trip of a Another prize is the ‘1 Like No lifetime, or a yacht! Other’ trip of a lifetime travelling to The luxury launches website destinations that are truly unique VeryFirstTo.com is offering the world’s with no likeness anywhere else in most expensive Christmas crackers. the world. The 10 locations include The crackers contain the absolute Aston Martin Vanquish Coupe £190,000 the Wisteria Tunnel in Japan and ultimate in Christmas presents. Breguet Tradition Watch £19,000 the only Ice Igloo hotel. In each Marcel Knobil, founder of Cartier Diamond Necklace £18,600 location they will be given an VeryFirstTo, Superbrands and Cool Graf Von Faber-Castell £6,500 exquisite limited edition shirt from BrandLeaders says, “These crackers 1 Like No Other Trip £77,500 luxury shirt maker, 1 Like No Other. are truly explosive when it comes Sunseeker Yacht £3,700,000 The most expensive item to lighting the fuse of guests’ As the crackers are bespoke any item can be that your guests will be gunning excitement and anticipation. Whilst replaced with another and the price adjusted for is the Predator 84 yacht from the joke inside might be cheap the accordingly (minimum £10,000). Sunseeker, the key fob is hidden gift certainly won’t be!” Cracker prizes are subject to availability and delivery times may vary. in one of these incredible crackers. Those around your Christmas Price excludes delivery. In order to have the Don’t worry though, if you think table will be in for a real treat as crackers delivered in time for Christmas Day orders a yacht is too extravagant you can when they pull these magnificent must be placed by 15th December 2014 for UK swap it out for a more modest crackers they could be going home customers.The current image is representative.The crackers will be custom designed to fit the buyers speed boat. As the crackers are with a sparkling “Diamants Légers” requirements. bespoke any item can be replaced Cartier necklace. The 18K white with another and the price adjusted gold long necklace is set with 20 accordingly. diamonds. Also on offer is a stunning The crackers themselves are created by Simply Crackers Breguet Tradition wristwatch in 18-carat rose gold. They also could pull out the beautiful pen from Graf Von and are available in a range of colours to suit your table décor. A donation of £1,000 will be made to The Prince’s Trust Faber-Castell. The new limited edition “Pen of the Year” is charity should the crackers be purchased. inspired by the fascinating architecture of the New Palace of

CRACKER CONTENTS AND PRICE

20 DECEMBER2014



FEATURE

OPENING TIMES Monday

-Saturday 10am -6pm Sunday 12noon -5pm and by appointme nt outside the open ing times

BUGATTI

OPENS BOUTIQUE IN KNIGHTSBRIDGE

F

ollowing the successful launch of its lifestyle collection in Milan last year, this is the next major step in the French super sports car manufacturer’s brand extension strategy. “Bugatti is not only synonymous with state-of-the-art technology and stunning performance in the automotive sector, but also with a unique lifestyle in keeping with the artistic roots of the Bugatti family,” said Wolfgang Dürheimer, President of Bugatti Automobiles S.A.S., at the launch in London. “Of course, luxurious and exclusive super sports cars will remain our core business, but we intend to transfer the brand’s huge appeal into areas of life beyond the automotive sector. Our lifestyle collection was a successful first step, which paved the way for our first boutique. London was our first choice when deciding on a location for the boutique,” continued Dürheimer. “The city is a key market for the Veyron, and is also one of the most important international

along with limited-edition capsule collections, such as the recent Bugatti Legends collection. The lifestyle collection has so far focussed on clothing and accessories, with designer items to follow at a later date. The boutique and its collection reflect the identity of Bugatti. In keeping with the brand’s motto of “Art, Forme, Technique”, the store conveys Bugatti’s exceptional technical performance and the exclusive luxury of the brand. The interior is divided into two areas. The EB – Ettore Bugatti Collection is displayed in the luxury/lifestyle area, which is fitted with an elegant dark wooden floor and brown leather wall panelling, both of which exude warmth and elegance. The Bugatti – Performance Luxury Collection is presented in the sports/performance area, which is in sharp contrast as it features distinctive white marble flooring and light grey leather wall

Themed around the concept of “The Blue of London”, Bugatti is set to open its very first lifestyle boutique on Brompton Road in the exclusive Knightsbridge district. centres of fashion, design and art, which makes it an ideal location in which to showcase our luxury lifestyle brand. We go where our customers are.” “Our London boutique will enable us to present the luxurious lifestyle of the brand authentically in an appropriate setting,” explains Massimiliano Ferrari, CEO of Bugatti International, who is in charge of the Brand Lifestyle division. “The lifestyle collection will be the centrepiece as it is based on the brand’s deep-rooted heritage and the unique vision of its founder Ettore Bugatti.” The current autumn/winter collection from Bugatti includes two main lines centred on men’s fashion: the elegant and luxurious EB – Ettore Bugatti Collection and the sports luxury Bugatti – Performance Luxury Collection featuring high-tech materials. In addition to these two lines, Bugatti also offers a Tailor Made / Bespoke range exclusively for Bugatti customers,

22 DECEMBER2014

panelling. Alongside leather and marble, the boutique design also uses aluminium, wood, glass and carbon, all of which can also be found in the Veyron. The designers have taken and interpreted typical elements of Bugatti’s design DNA in the furnishings. “Using and machining the finest materials in line with the highest quality standards was a key element in the development of the store concept,” explains Max Ferrari. “We have been able to create a modern visualisation of the soul and DNA of the brand by deliberately choosing a certain combination of materials and colours. And of course, the colour blue in all its shades plays a key role, as is characteristic of Bugatti.”

Bugatti Lifestyle Boutique London 24/26 Brompton Road, SW1 www.hrowen.co.uk


S ON U T I S I V ND A22 STA n classic

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EVENTS

ExCeL Centre

8th - th January112015

EAGLE LOW DRAG GT

GENTLEMEN:

START YOUR ENGINE London Classic Car Show roars into town. Organised by the team behind CarFest and Top Gear Live

L

ondon will resonate to the sounds of powerful V8 and V12 engines next month as the capital plays host to a new vibrant and exciting classic car show. The first ever London Classic Car Show will highlight examples of the most evocative classic and collectors’ cars ever made. But these are no mere static exhibits. A unique centrepiece will be a special ‘street’ feature – called the Grand Avenue – up and down which the show’s 100 top cars will be driven. It will give visitors the chance not just to gaze at some of the most desirable and valuable classic cars in the world while at rest, but also to see and, importantly, to hear them in action. “The Grand Avenue will add an extra dimension to the new London Classic Car Show,” says Bas Bungish, Event Director, Brand Events. “Part of the appeal of a classic Ferrari is the snarl of its V12 engine while the V8 rumble from an American muscle car is music to the ears of every enthusiast. In bringing some of the world’s greatest cars to life, the London Classic Car Show will ensure that ExCeL will echo to these aural treats.” The London Classic Car is expected to attract not just existing classic car enthusiasts as well as serious collectors but will also infuse newcomers with a passion for the pastime. Among the myriad of other attractions at the show will be displays from premium marque owners clubs and heritage showcases from leading manufacturers. Historic racing and competition cars will be featured while leading collectors will be invited to present a special car from their collection. Classic dealers will be on hand with desirable cars

for sale, while other stands will highlight the skills of restorers and specialist suppliers. There will also be a large autojumble offering quality memorabilia for sale. The investment side of the thriving classic car movement will come under scrutiny in the Investors Forum at the show, and experts will put their necks on the line by identifying ‘ones to watch’, those future classics that are considered bargains today. The aim is for the London Classic Car Show to become an annual ‘must do’ fixture on the international classic car calendar.

MERCEDES GULLWING

THE DETAILS For more information about the show, please visit www.thelondonclassiccarshow.co.uk

With CarFest and Top Gear Live, we have shown that we bring new ideas to motoring events. The plans we have for The London Classic Car Show means it will be a long way removed from a traditional static classic car show.

says Bas Bungish, Event Director, Brand Events

24 DECEMBER2014



FEATURE The ded men the m o c re ice for r p retail d & Hollande Hollan Rover will b Range

00 ÂŁ1A8va0ila,b0leovaet LandR rs deale

Land Rover joins forces with Holland & Holland to create their

MOST LUXURIOUS SUV EVER T he Holland & Holland Range Rover builds upon the strengths of the two iconic British brands to provide the perfect vehicle for the sporting gun manufacturer’s customers. Thanks to the skill and craftsmanship of the team, the new car is able to combine the unrivalled off-road capability of the Range Rover with an extensive range of bespoke features. Both Land Rover and Holland & Holland hold Royal Warrants and the collaboration between them has resulted in the most luxurious, and most expensive, Range Rover ever. Both SVO and Holland & Holland represent the very pinnacle of craftsmanship

Based on the Range Rover Autobiography Black, the summit of the Land Rover model portfolio, the Holland & Holland Range Rover is available with a choice of powertrains: the diesel-powered 4.4-litre SDV8, which delivers 339PS and the 510PS petrol-powered 5.0-litre V8 Supercharged. It is instantly discernable from a distance, even among other Range Rovers, thanks to the unique Holland & Holland Green of the full bodywork, mirrors and bonnet vent. The grille is painted in the same deep green and has chrome highlights. Holland & Holland badging can be found on

This project represents two great British brands working together to produce a car that perfectly represents our shared brand values. Stunning form and perfect functionality unite in a car that is supremely fit for purpose. Daryl Greatrex, managing director of Holland & Holland

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the lower accent door badges of both long and standard wheelbase versions, as well as on the tailgate. On the inside, the Range Rover Autobiography Black has been tailored to accommodate the lifestyle pursuits of Holland & Holland’s customers. The Executive Class seating package in the long wheelbase car makes the most of the additional 7.3 inches of legroom and 17 degrees recline available to the rear seat passengers. Two individual fully adjustable seats are complemented by an extended and re-designed centre console with electrically deployable walnut tables, integrated USB charging sockets, enhanced stowage and bespoke lighting. In the Holland & Holland car, the interior is upholstered with the softest tan and espresso leather hides, with precision leather detailing including Holland & Holland embroidery on the front seats. This is perfectly complemented by the sustainablysourced French walnut veneer, subtly polished to resemble the oil-finished gunstocks for which Holland & Holland’s craftsmen have been famous since the company’s foundation in 1835. To mark this, their logo is inlaid into the front centre console. The engraver’s art is well represented too, with Holland & Holland’s branddefining acanthus scroll turning the

internal door handles into works of art. The fascia letterbox panels are decorated with gunstock checkering and the exquisite engraving of the centre console panel has been inspired by Holland & Holland’s distinctive forend diamonds. What really sets the new Holland & Holland Range Rover apart is located in the boot. A stunning leathertrimmed aluminium loadspace cabinet - debossed with the Holland & Holland logo – especially designed for this car. Its espresso Alcantara-trimmed interior can be precisely fitted to safely transport the owner of the car’s pair of Holland & Hollands - although it is also removable when maximum luggage capacity is required. It sits on a deployable loadspace floor and finished with leather and wood veneer. The sliding floor is also designed so that it can still be sat upon when owners wish to change their footwear or stop for a brief picnic. When floor and box are in their travel position, they sit low and well back in the boot to ensure that there is still plenty of room for luggage or sports equipment. THE DETAILS www.jaguarlandrover.com www.hollandandholland.com

DECEMBER2014 27


EVENTS

17th-18th January 20 15, Olympia, London

THE ADVENTURE TRAVEL SHOW UNCOVER YOUR JOURNEY OF A LIFETIME

A

New Year inevitably brings the expected resolutions, challenges and promises – so why not change things up a little for 2015 and throw an awesome travel experience into the mix? More and more we’re looking for a break with a difference, an experience that gets us off the beaten track and onto one that’s far more exciting.

exclusive expeditions or epic journeys. The Adventure Travel Show is packed with inspirational and essential travel advice, specialist seminars and the best adventure speaker line up of 2015, including explorers, adventurers, tour leaders and guidebook writers who will help you uncover your perfect adventure. Plus, the biggest collection of specialist travel operators all under one roof will

The Adventure Travel Show – it’s where your adventure begins… The Adventure Travel Show, taking place in London’s Olympia in January, will give you the chance to immerse yourself into a whole weekend of adventure – and kick start that far more fun resolution of yours. This is the ideal opportunity to uncover the hottest travel trips in the world... Now in its 19th year, The Adventure Travel Show is a world of extraordinary discoveries all under one roof. It is the UK’s leading event for people who like to travel outside the mainstream – whether it be on small-group adventures,

be on hand to offer guidance on everything, from walking and trekking to exploratory journeys, safaris, overland trips, life-changing volunteering projects and much, much more. So, whether you’re a keen traveller that thrives on finding something new before everyone else, or interested in embarking on your first adventurous travel experience to an extraordinary part of the world, make sure you head to The Adventure Travel Show in January and discover your journey of a life time.

Life Magazines reader ticket offer We are offering reduced price advance tickets to the show! Get your tickets for only £6 (£4 off the door price) by quoting ‘LIFE MAGAZINE’ when booking tickets online at www.adventureshow.com or when calling 0871 230 7159. (Calls cost 10p per minute plus network extras).

28 DECEMBER2014



FEATURE

THE DEER OF

RICHMOND PARK R

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

30 DECEMBER2014

and have shaped the landscape too. Their special grassland habitat depends on grazing and the parkland trees have a distinctive ‘browse line’ as the deer eat all the leaves and twigs growing below about 1.5 metres. Deer grazing also prevents tree seedlings from growing, keeping the grassland open. For young trees to survive they need to be protected against damage from deer antlers for some 50 years. During the autumn the deer ‘rut’ (breeding season) takes place. The red stags and fallow


bucks compete for females (known as hinds and does respectively). At this time, the large males roar, bark and clash antlers in a spectacular way in an attempt to fight off rivals and to attract as many females as possible. The young are born mainly in June, and are hidden by their mothers amongst the bracken and long grass. Females and their young are very vulnerable and sensitive to disturbance at this time Herds of red and fallow deer roam freely within much of the park. The herds are culled in November to keep numbers manageable and the park population healthy. The British Deer Society and the Deer Initiative of England and Wales, who are regarded as the main welfare organizations dealing with the welfare and management of deer nationally, recognise that parkland deer numbers must be managed and that removal of some of the deer is necessary each year to keep populations at acceptable levels. The keeping of deer in enclosed English parkland has a long heritage. Although many ancient parks were originally maintained for hunting purposes, in recent times it is recognised that the deer herds of the Royal Parks in London are an integral part of the parks’ ecosystem, as well as being a valuable amenity and educational feature. These parkland deer are wild animals, which are not regularly shepherded or handled; they are left to breed normally and to establish normal social behaviour. All deer parks have a maximum capacity of deer numbers, which must not be exceeded to avoid problems of disease and damage to the natural environment (the complex ecosystems for which Richmond Park is notified as a Site of Special Scientific Interest, National Nature Reserve and a European Special Area of Conservation, being of particular importance). The deer are wild animals, so never try to touch or feed them. Always keep a respectful distance, especially if you have a dog. As well as deer, a range of other mammals lives in the park, though they may not be as obvious. These include Fox, Rabbit, Shrew, Mice and Vole. Unfortunately the Brown Hare, which was once common in the Park, has vanished as a consequence of increased disturbance. The Park’s diverse landscape, abundant insects and plentiful tree roost sites are good habitat for bats. Th ere are recent records of at least nine species including all 3 species of Pipistrelle, Noctule, Serotine, Brown Long-eared and Daubenton’s bats. YOU CAN ADOPT A DEER IN RICHMOND PARK When you become an adopter, you’ll receive a certificate of thanks, postcard, factsheet and a badge pin. An adoption makes an unusual gift and is a great way to mark a special occasion! www.royalparksfoundation.org/support/ foundation/foundation_adopt_new.cfm As well as deer, a range of other mammals lives in the park, though they may not be as obvious. These include Fox, Rabbit, Shrew, Mice and Vole. Unfortunately the Brown Hare, which was once common in the Park, has vanished as a consequence of increased disturbance. Th e Park’s diverse landscape, abundant insects and plentiful tree roost sites are good habitat for bats. Th ere are recent records of at least nine species including all 3 species of Pipistrelle, Noctule, Serotine, Brown Long-eared and Daubenton’s bats. www.royalparks.org.uk

DECEMBER2014 31


FEATURE

THE ULTIMATE GADGET GIFT GUIDE With everything from the latest iPad and fitness bands to retro instant cameras and quirky portable speakers, get techni-cool this Christmas with these great gadget gift ideas. vívosmart £139.99 Gamin’s new vívosmart fitness band displays notifications of incoming texts, emails and calls on your wrist as you exercise, when it’s in range of your smartphone – allowing you to move more and miss less! vívosmart will also ensure you know about incoming messages with a gentle vibration alert and preview. www.garmin.co.uk

iPhone 6 Plus Free on Vodafone Red 4G price plans from £53.50 per month The new iPhone 6 Plus introduces an innovative, seamless and dramatically thinner design. Made from beautiful anodized aluminium, stainless steel and glass, with Intuitively placed buttons, the new iPhone 6 Plus is a new generation of iPhone that’s better by any measure

Fujifilm Instax Mini 8 Instant Camera Gift Bundle with 40 Shots Currently priced at £77.50 Attractive and accurate images are printed instantly using the integrated film and developing technology. Ideal for professional applications that require unalterable visual evidence or identification. www.Amazon.co.uk

www.vodafone.co.uk

nuvi 2599 LMT-D £179.99 The nuvi 2599 LMT-D is the new 5” Advanced sat nav from Garmin. It offers innovative features such as Foursquare and Direct Access as well as a real glass pinch-to-zoom display for a more intuitive experience and the clearest possible picture www.garmin.co.uk

digiSCAN A choice of VHS, Slides, APS Films, Photos or Photo Negatives Scanned to DVD, from £19 (Regular price £45)

At an impossibly thin 6.1 mm it’s Apple’s thinnest iPad ever yet also has a strong durable aluminium unibody. Colours appear richer and images sharper. There’s also improved screen sensitivity and a custom-designed antireflective coating that reduces glare by 56 percent.

Get your favourite home videos, slides and photos restored, captured and transferred to DVD by the image experts at digiSCAN. Their specialists will convert those precious moments past into an easy to share, high quality DVD which you can enjoy anew. A great way to clear some space, organise your keepsakes and also a fantastic gift idea for someone you made those great memories with.

www.vodafone.co.uk

www.local.amazon.co.uk

iPad Air 2 On selected Vodafone 4G price plans

Pennybridge iPad Air Case (Cobalt Blue) £35 A grained leather-look zipped case to hold your iPad Air securely. Designed for simultaneous paper and tablet use, the 360 degree rotatable tablet holder can be used for multiple viewing positions. Featuring internal pockets, a pen holder and an A5 notepad for keeping organised. www.filofax.co.uk

Nescafé Dolce Gusto Oblo by Krups Coffee Capsule Machine, Currently priced at £89.99 The stylish and compact NESCAFÉ Dolce Gusto Oblo is designed to not only look good, but with up to a maximum 15 bar pump pressure, creates coffee-shop style quality drinks in an instant. www.amazon.co.uk

Gear4 Espresso Portable Wireless Universal Bluetooth Speaker Currently priced at £24.99 The Gear4 Espresso is a small but powerful Bluetooth speaker. The acoustic quality is further enhanced by a passive radiator to deliver a surprisingly big hit of sound from such a compact speaker. www.Amazon.co.uk

Amazon prices are correct at time of going to print and apply to purchases from Amazon.co.uk. For latest prices, please visit Amazon.co.uk.

32 DECEMBER2014


116 Fulham Road Chelsea London SW3 6HU Tel 0207 373 3668 26 England’s Lane London NW3 4TG Tel 0207 4499 594 2 Lichfield Terrace Sheen Road Richmond TW9 1AT Tel 0203 166 4008


FEATURE

CHRISTMAS MADE EASY

With everything from a De’Longhi coffee maker for him and luxurious chocolates for her to theatre tickets for the children - make this Christmas one to remember and spoil your loved ones with these special gifts.

gifts for her

gifts for him

Shunga Garden of Edo Organic Collection Currently priced at £83.75 www.amazon.co.uk

Maddi Alexander Beauty Box Moments with Rose Currently priced at £150

De’Longhi ECC220 Pump Espresso Machine Currently priced at £129.99 www.amazon.co.uk

www.amazon.co.uk

Olympus Compact System Camera With M.Zuiko Digital EZ Lens, Currently priced at £679.99 www.amazon.co.uk

Johnnie Walker Blue Label/King George V £390.44

iPad Air 2, Gold £49 on a Vodafone Red 4G price plan for £33 per month

www.amazon.co.uk

www.amazon.co.uk

Jewel Box £90 www.prestat.co.uk

WOW mask £99.99 www.wowmask.co.uk

Haig Club Currently priced at £45 www.amazon.co.uk

SUPERCAR DRIVING EXPERIENCE From £49 (Regular price £295) If you’ve ever wanted an all-thrills no-frills driving experience, then Supercar Sessions is for you. This is an undiluted supercar driving experience that allows you to get behind the wheel of some of the most powerful cars on the planet, including the Ferrari F430, Lamborghini Gallardo, and Porsche 911 Turbo. Don’t worry if you’re not an experienced driver because their expert driving instructors will be with you round every bend and hairpin to help ensure the ultimate sense of control. Offer ends: 23rd January 2015

www.amazonlocal.co.uk

34 DECEMBER2014



EVENTS

Fun for all the family at the

9 th-11th January 2015 London’s ExCeL

CRUISE SHOW 2015

V

isitors to the annual Telegraph Cruise Show can explore the world of cruise holiday options under one roof plus meet celebrity chefs, get personal cooking tips from the experts and be in with the chance of winning one of several holidays worth up to £10,000 each. Ideal for those who have never cruised before or families looking for alternative affordable package holiday options, The Telegraph Cruise Show offers a range of insider’s guide talks and interactive Q&A sessions with Telegraph Travel experts at the show’s Destinations Theatre and Cruise Lines Theatre. In addition, families can receive impartial one-to-one cruise advice from CLIA (Cruise Lines International Association). P&O Cruises Food Heroes, including Saturday Kitchen presenter James Martin, award winning master patissier and international baking star Eric Lanlard and twice Michelin starred chef Atul Kochhar will headline the show, hosting a series of free cooking demonstrations, tastings and Q&A ‘Cookery Clinic’ sessions. Visitors will be able to tantalise their taste buds with sample dishes from the chef’s cruise restaurants plus have the chance to get first hand culinary advice. Rounding off the line-up, British TV presenter and wine expert Olly Smith will be hosting free wine tasting sessions

Fun for the whole family, the younger visitors will be kept well occupied in the ‘Kids Zone’. Hosted by the Family Holiday Association, families can enjoy a fun-filled day and try their hands at Giant Jenga, Giant draughts and Deck Quoits plus have their faces painted to become their favourite character. The show will host around 60 exhibitors, offering a broad range of expert advice, fun experiences such as rum tasting on the Cuba Tourist Office stand, and great ‘show only’ booking offers including: Up to $500 free onboard spending money with Princess Cruises £100 off any Saga Cruise booked at the show Up to £325 off per person booking a Fred Olsen Cruise Lines holiday at the show $500 onboard spending money per stateroom booked with Crystal Cruises Free bottle of champagne with any Cunard deposit made On Sat 10th & Sun 11th January tickets include complimentary entry to the London Boat Show taking place at the venue at the same time. Several holidays worth up to £10,000 each are on offer every day. Prizes include a seven night Star Clippers Caribbean or Mediterranean Cruise with Best At Travel; a three night holiday to Dubai including return flights with Emirates Airline and hotel stay at the 5* Hotel Atlantis The Palm with Dubai Tourism; or a 12 night Norwegian Coastal Odyssey cruise taking in the Norwegian fjords with Noble Caledonia, worth £9,990. THE DETAILS For more information or to book tickets, visit the website www.telegraph.co.uk/cruiselondon or call 0800 542 5859.

36 DECEMBER2014


MARQUE OF INTELLIGENCE

OCEANS OF INTELLIGENT FEATURES INCLUDED AS STANDARD

INTRODUCING THE NEW PEARL 65 The second model in a new range of Bill Dixon designed, Kelly Hoppen styled flybridge motor yachts from Pearl.

INTERIOR DESIGN BY KELLY HOPPEN MBE Pearl 75

Pearl 65

UK, South Coast Inwards Marine

South of France Ocean Drive

Greece/Cyprus Greekwaters

Spain & Balearics Baxter Marine

Turkey Pearl T端rkiye

tel: 023 8045 8866 sales@inwardsmarine.com www.inwardsmarine.com

tel: 00334 9363 1671 info@oceandrive.fr www.oceandrive.fr

tel: 0030 693 2733444 info@greekwaters.com www.greekwaters.com

tel: 0034 971 676 786 info@baxtermarine.com www.baxtermarine.com

tel: 0090 312 2359951 info@pearlmotoryatcilik.com www.pearlmotoryatcilik.com

www.pearlmotoryachts.com


EVENTS

CWM FX LONDON BOAT SHOW 2015 A world of adventure, pioneers and innovation

B

egin your own journey of discovery at the 2015 London Boat Show. This worldrenowned event is where adventure starts, pioneers meet and innovation shines. Immerse yourself in the elements and explore a world of boating, brand new craft being unveiled globally, the very latest in technology and show-stopping experiences that will really capture your imagination.

Prepare to be overwhelmed with choice, with hundreds of boats and brands will be interspersed with everything you could possibly need to get afloat from holiday suggestions to the latest marine electronics; it’s the perfect place to satisfy your intrigue, interest and passion in the depths of winter. World leading sailing yachts and motor boats will be wowing the crowds, with ‘the stars on show’ from leading British builders Sunseeker International, Princess Yachts, Fairline Boats, Cornish Crabbers, Williams Performance Tenders and Ribeye as well as boats from international builders such as Beneteau, Jeanneau, Bavaria and Hanse to name a few. WHERE ADVENTURE STARTS The London Boat Show entrance will be nothing short of awe-inspiring. Enter the Show through a dramatic wall of rain, then plan your day with the technologically groundbreaking digital information wall, highlighting the must see talks, seminars, new products and boating personalities at the Show on your chosen day. Navigating the Show has never been easier.

Sunseeker Predator 57

38 DECEMBER2014


Sunseeker 86 Yacht

9th - 18th January 2015

ExCel London

AN EXHILARATING 4D JOURNEY No matter what your boating experience or choice of craft, weather is the one thing that connects us all. Experiences at sea or inland are made all the more memorable, be it a glorious day on the water or the most challenging of environments. Head to the London Boat Show’s 4D Experience and find yourself immersed in six epic environments out at sea where you can take in the atmosphere, temperature, scent, wind and soundscape of the globe from the Arctic to the Tropics and everything in-between. INNOVATION WILL SHINE The London Boat Show will be a place to inspire. Plans to enable you to get started on your next adventure at the Show are underway with details of yet another exciting attraction to be revealed in the coming weeks. Stop off for an indulgent lunch at the Show’s very own restaurant located in amongst the powerboats or complete your journey through the Show with a well-

earned drink at the infamous Guinness Bar. And for the first weekend, extend your visit with a trip to the brand-new London Classic Car Show and also the Telegraph Cruise Show. The Show takes place at ExCeL London, just 25 minutes from the very heart of London’s city centre. One of the top cities in the world, London is renowned for its creativity, arts and culture and is the perfect host for this world-class boat show. THE DETAILS Adult tickets start at just £15 in advance, with two children aged 15 and under going free with every adult ticket. Open 10am – 6pm; late night Thursday (15 January) open until 8pm. From Friday 9 to Sunday 11 January 2014 a London Boat Show ticket will also allow the ticket holder access to the Telegraph Cruise Show for free; there is an additional charge for the London Classic Car Show.

For more information please visit www.londonboatshow.com

Sunseeker Manhattan 65

DECEMBER2014 39


FEATURE

A PLAYHOUSE FIT FOR EVEN THE

MOST ADVENTUROUS EXPLORER!

I

n 2013 Mr and Mrs Guest’s three grandchildren were aged two and a half, nearly one, and three months. To keep the troublesome trio occupied they decided to build a playhouse in their garden. “Encouraging children to play outside and be creative, as well as having fun, is extremely important to us and we wanted to give our grandchildren somewhere they could do this. We thought a playhouse was the perfect solution!” explains Olwen Guest. Keeping the kids entertained was Mr and Mrs Guest’s priority and as such they required a playhouse that was more interesting than the standard “Wendy House”. They also wanted a house that complimented their garden. It also had to fit around their beloved 200 year oak tree! “We knew that we would struggle to buy an “off the shelf” playhouse that fitted all of our requirements, so we started to look for companies that could help us bring our, and our grandchildren’s, dreams to life.” It was at this point that the Guest’s approached The Playhouse Company. The Playhouse Company specialises in creating hand-built wooden playhouses. It produces a range of beautiful classic treehouses, cottages and castles, as well as building bespoke designs for those who want something extra special. “After researching various companies and reading many reviews, we knew The Playhouse Company would be able to deliver in terms of quality and providing us with that “wow” factor. We had an initial chat with them about what we wanted in terms of size and design, which was followed by a site visit and a more detailed conversation,” continues Olwen. Richard Frost, CEO of The Playhouse Company, took two days to design a playhouse that fitted perfectly with the Guest’s wishes: “Mr and Mrs Guest wanted something unique and inspirational so the final design featured a playhouse which sat on top of a raised platform, giving the house a “veranda” and three sets of stairs providing access to the playhouse. We also incorporated a separate platform that included a slide and a swing seat. The whole design fit

40 DECEMBER2014

perfectly with their vision and also around their beautiful oak tree!” The playhouse took just under three weeks to hand-build in The Playhouse Company’s factory in Herefordshire and one day to install on site. It was finished with sadolin classic timber protection in Woodruff and Smokey Blue, and completed with a cedar shingle roof. Olwen Guest continues, “The house was an instant hit with the grandchildren, encouraging them to get out into the garden in any weather, play together and use their imaginations. It was this that inspired us to extend the playhouse.” In 2014 Richard revisited the Guests and, working together, they designed a bespoke platform that ran along the existing border of the garden. The platform incorporated a tunnelled walkway, a rope bridge and various covered stages, everything an adventurous explorer could want! The extension also took three weeks to hand build and one day to install. Olwen concludes, “From our initial enquiry to the final result, The Playhouse Company really understood what we were trying to achieve. They worked alongside us in the design stage to ensure everything was how we envisaged it, and the finished product is definitely beyond our expectations. We wanted that “wow” factor for both us and the children, and we have definitely got that! “The final result is amazing and the grandchildren absolutely love it, which is the most important thing.” Richard adds, “Bespoke playhouses are becoming more and more popular, as parents and grandparents look for something a little bit different. It is also about enticing children away from their television and computer consoles and getting them into the great outdoors, using their imaginations and creativity.” The Playhouse Company builds a range of playhouses as well as creating bespoke designs.

THE DETAILS For further information, visit www.theplayhousecompany.co.uk or call 01544 387100.




Yummy Mummy yummymummymagazine.co.uk

CLUB LONDON

DEC/JAN | ISSUE 2

LITTLE LIBERTY IT’S ABOUT DADS TOO LONDON MOTHER’S CLUB SILVER CROSS ASTON MARTIN EDITION

ROMEO BECKHAM THE STAR OF BURBERRY’S CHRISTMAS CHILDRENSWEAR CAMPAIGN

The luxury parenting publication for discerning mothers living in London


k c a B y b a Nurse B to Good Health

The perfect duo to treat babies’ coughs and colds this winter - Earth’s Best Baby Cold Soothing Baby Wash and Cold Relief Vapour Ointment. Cold Soothing Baby Wash is designed to be mixed in a warm bath, and is an incredibly soothing wash, perfect for when babies are stuffy, cranky and congested. With eucalyptus, tea tree and menthol.

www.jasonnaturalcare.co.uk

Cold Relief Vapour Ointment is made with natural camphor to help soothe discomfort and help relieve coughing due to the common cold so sleep becomes easier. Can also be used to relieve minor muscle aches and pains. Available from ocado.com, WholeFoods, As Nature Intended, John Bell & Croyden, Nutri Centre at Tesco, Lloyds Pharmacy at Selfridges, jasonnaturalcare.co.uk and leading health stores and pharmacies nationwide.

+44 (0)8450 725 825 • enquiry@jasonnaturalcare.co.uk

HYPO-ALLERGENIC, MINIMUM 70% ORGANIC CONTENT, 100% NATURAL, VEGETARIAN AND NO ANIMAL TESTING


Welcome to Yummy Mummy Club, Issue 2 When you’re pregnant, eating healthily is doubly important. That’s because every day your baby’s brain and organs are growing and it needs lots of the right nutrients to do this. Eating healthily during pregnancy can also help your baby after it’s born, reducing its risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes. And for you, being healthier overall can also help lessen the risk of depression after your baby is born. Unveiled in September 2012, and issued in strictly limited numbers, the stunning Silver Cross Surf – Aston Martin Edition became a modern classic and one of the most instantly sought after prams in the world. The fact is, Silver Cross and Aston Martin have always represented more than a badge. Design, engineering, craftsmanship and luxury are all crucial components of the experience. Established in 1760, Hamleys is London’s oldest and most loved toy shop. A total play experience, Hamleys has been delighting adults and children for years from their famous Regent Street store, one of the largest toyshops in the world. This legendary store has seven floors brimming with the latest crazes, computer games, traditional teddies and specialist collector areas. London Mother’s Club is a luxury destination for savvy mamas to connect and embrace motherhood through fun and informative events.

Alex Lux Alex Lux Editor

PUBLISHED BY THE FISH MEDIA GROUP LTD, THE RIDINGS, WOODFIELD LANE, ESSENDON, HERTS , AL9 6JJ.

0844 800 8439

www.thelifemagazines.com EDITOR Alex Lux EDITOR’S ASSISTANT Katie Miller DESIGN & PRODUCTION Toni Perry

SENIOR BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Vanessa Lane ACCOUNT MANAGERS Anita Hill & Nicola Drew

SALES James Marshall DIRECTORS Rory Smith, Patrick Smith


YUMMY MUMMY CLUB

ROMEO BECKHAM, 12, UNVEILED AS THE STAR OF BURBERRY’S CHRISTMAS CAMPAIGN

‘FROM LONDON WITH LOVE’ The child of Victoria and David Beckham led the star-studded crowd at the launch of his new Christmas campaign ad for Burberry.

46 DECEMBER2014


It continues to be an utter joy working with Romeo - he has charm, style and energy. I’m delighted that he’s the lead role in our festive campaign.

T

he cute 12-year-old star, stole the limelight at the British brand’s festive launch at their global flagship store, 121 Regent Street, in the heart of London, looking dapper on the red carpet in a black suit, white shirt and bow tie with a traditional checked Burberry scarf draped over him. Romeo clearly didn’t mind the crowds of paparazzi and was escorted into the store on Regent Street by his dad who held on tight to his hand before giving him the chance to shine on his own. The promo features 50 dancers who perform to Ed Harcourt’s The Way That I Live in the traditional coats and Romeo looks cheeky as he skips about and throws a glittering Christmas present for a young couple in love. Romeo made his modelling debut for Burberry last year. Following his mother into the fashion world, the youngster was hand-picked by the British label’s Chief Creative Officer, Christopher Bailey, for the second time. Burberry chief creative officer Christopher Bailey said: “It continues to be an utter joy working with Romeo - he has charm, style and energy. I’m delighted that he’s the lead role in our festive campaign.” Set against a theatrical London backdrop, the film comes to life with 50 dancers who give a performance

inspired by the golden age of cinematic musicals. The story is of a boy delivering the gift of love to a young couple, played by new British models and dancers Hannah Dodds and Anders Hayward, who take him on a journey of romance and festive enchantment through the streets of London. The film celebrates gifting as a powerful way of connecting people. Directed by Burberry Chief Creative and Chief Executive Officer Christopher Bailey, the short film takes audiences on a magical gifting journey through the Burberry worlds of Britishness, heritage, music and weather. It is the brand’s first ever big festive ad campaign. Over 500 guests attended the launch including cast members Romeo Beckham, Hannah Dodds, and Anders Hayward. Victoria and David Beckham, British musicians Benjamin Clementine, George Ezra, James Page, Gary Powell, Daydream Club, Sophie Ellis Bextor and Richard Jones; British Burberry models Charlotte Wiggins and Sam Rollinson; Amanda Berry, Daisy Lewis, Alice NaylorLeyland. The full range of Burberry festive gifts are also available from in store and on www.burberry.com offering the brand’s most personalised collection and customer service to date.

DECEMBER2014 47


YUMMY MUMMY CLUB

little

LIBERTY L iberty is one of the last great emporiums for innovative and eclectic design. Situated in the heart of London since 1875, it remains to this day the destination of choice for the savvy and sophisticated shopper. At Liberty, a rich heritage combines with the cutting edge and avant-garde, making each visit a voyage of discovery and excitement. You will be inspired and delighted by the carefully selected offering of beautiful and luxurious products, welcoming you into their eccentric, indulgent and utterly charming world, for you to get truly lost in Liberty. Their whimsical and exciting Children’s department on the 3rd floor, spans over 2,000 square feet. Step inside Little Liberty for a world class edit of designer kids clothes, toys, gifts, accessories and books. Little Liberty has a very crafty, organic and quirky feel: the entire space is decorated with a story book style hand-drawn motif of a giant tree which will spread out over draws, tables and chairs. The wooden floor is dotted with candy stripe rugs and crocheted pouffes, colourful stools and handmade felt oversized toys. An interactive area also offers a chance to try out the various toys on offer. Clothing ranges from newborn baby to 12 years for both boys and girls. Brands include the likes of Liberty London Childrenswear, Acne Miniature, Barbour Children, Kenzo Kids, Paul Smith Junior, Stella McCartney Kids, Roksanda Ilincic Blossom, Karen Brost and Petit Bateau. THE DETAILS Liberty Regent Street, London W1B 5AH www.liberty.co.uk

48 DECEMBER2014

HOUSE OF HOLLAND X MR MEN BOMBER JACKET £170

WILLOW ROSE PRINT DRESS LIBERTY.CO.UK £80


Have a Christmas!

Scooting

Scooters for all the family from the iconic, award winning, original and best scooter brand.

Shop online www.micro-scooters.co.uk

Swiss designed and engineered


YUMMY MUMMY CLUB

A MERRY LITTLE CHRISTMAS! SHARE THE MAGIC THIS CHRISTMAS WITH MAMAS & PAPAS

C

hristmas is all about children and families, so Mamas & Papas has pulled out all the stops to create gifts, decorations and toys that will fill the day with seasonal magic. Whether you are looking for adorable outfits for babies and children, or creative ways to add a bit of Christmas colour and sparkle to your little one’s bedroom, Mamas & Papas have got it covered. The Lotty Light & Sound Playmat & Gym is a great way to keep a baby entertained – while also helping him or her to develop their motion skills and sense of touch at the same time. Suitable from birth, the tunes it plays aren’t too loud and it has all sorts of fun textures and other features for a baby to explore. Traditional toys still make some of the best presents for young children – and Mamas & Papas have the cutest range of dolls, teddies and other soft toys which toddlers will insist on snuggling up to at bedtime. One of the most traditional toys of all - the rocking horse – is proving hugely popular this year and Mamas & Papas have several different designs to choose from. The most popular is probably ‘Blossom’ – a beautiful Rocking Horse which combines a traditional solid wooden frame with a contemporary floral print. Blossom has a comfy padded seat, grips which are easy to hold on to and a crinkly mane and plaited tail. There is also a Cowboy Rocking Horse for boys as well as some more traditional designs for children aged one and above, including ‘Snowflake’ a rocking horse designed especially for Christmas. To add that all-important finishing touch, Mamas & Papas have also got some fabulous personalised presents and decorations – so you can give your children a beautiful traditional Christmas Sack (stockings are far too small!) or a Silver Hanging Star with their name on it. Being a family-run business, Mamas & Papas knows how much work goes into creating the perfect Christmas and have tried to make sure that even practical presents look the part. For example, red and white Jute Storage Bags provide an easy way to keep everything from shape sorters to toy railways in one place, while still adding to the spirit of Christmas. THE DETAILS

To avoid disappointment check www.mamasandpapas.com for last order dates.

50 DECEMBER2014

RED TOY SACK £24.95 MAMAS & PAPAS

LOTTY LIGHT & SOUND PLAYMAT & GYM £89.95 MAMAS & PAPAS

DUKE ROCKING HORSE £299.95 MAMAS & PAPAS



YUMMY MUMMY CLUB

HEALTHY MUMS-TO-BE Being pregnant is really exciting, and having a baby is the most amazing thing that can happen in our lives. Here is an essential guide to having a healthy, happy baby.

W

hen you’re pregnant, eating healthily is doubly important. That’s because every day your baby’s brain and organs are growing and it needs lots of the right nutrients to do this. Eating healthily during pregnancy can also help your baby after it’s born, reducing its risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes. And for you, being healthier overall can also help lessen the risk of depression after your baby is born. EAT FOR YOU, NOT FOR TWO In the past, it was thought that you need to eat for you and your baby during pregnancy. But we now know that you only need to eat for you. Being pregnant doesn’t mean that you’ll automatically put on weight. Maintaining a healthy weight during pregnancy means it’s easier for you to carry your baby, and to have fewer complications at birth. It also means that your baby is more likely to be a healthy weight – both at birth and as they grow up. FOODS TO INCLUDE Eating a variety of foods will help your baby to get the range of nutrients that it needs to develop and be healthy. Fruit and vegetables try to eat at least 5 portions of fruit and veg a day, to provide the vitamins, minerals and fibre your baby needs. Starchy foods (carbohydrates) Bread, potatoes, breakfast cereals, rice, pasta and noodles. Try to eat wholemeal versions if you can. Protein Meat, fish, poultry, eggs, beans, pulses and nuts. Protein provides the building blocks for your baby to grow. Dairy products Milk, cheese and yoghurt. These contain calcium, essential for healthy bones. A HEALTHIER BABY Being active during pregnancy means you’re likely

52 DECEMBER2014

maintain a healthier weight and be able to cope better with the physical demands of pregnancy and labour. It also reduces the risk of miscarriage, stillbirth, birth defects and diabetes. Being active can also prevent you from getting high blood pressure, which can result in a stillbirth. AND A HEALTHIER YOU 150 minutes of walking a week makes it easier to get back to your normal weight after your baby is born. It can also: Give you more energy, help you sleep better, and reduce stress, anxiety and depression. Make you stronger, so you can carry the weight of your growing baby. Prepare your body for the physical challenge of labour. This can help to make labour quicker and reduce the risk of complications. Help to lessen the risk of depression after your baby is born. BABY ON THE WAY, QUIT TODAY! If you smoke while you’re pregnant, your baby smokes too. If there ever was a moment for you and your partner to quit, it’s now. It’s the most important decision you can make for your baby. KNOW THE RISKS It’s difficult to imagine when you can’t see your baby, but smoking when you’re pregnant is like blowing smoke in your baby’s face. Even other people’s cigarette smoke will pass into your bloodstream and from there into your baby. Smoking when pregnant increases the chances of miscarriage, stillbirth and cot death. A baby whose mum smoked is at least 25% more likely to die from cot death than a baby whose mum didn’t smoke. It may be that you know people who have smoked when pregnant and their baby has been fine – but it’s a gamble with your baby’s health.


Trust Pregnacare® for the most important time of your life? The postnatal and breast-feeding period is a time when you are adjusting to the demands of becoming a new mum and providing the very best care for your newborn baby. With a new member of the family, and the inevitable tiredness and fatigue1, it’s also a time when you must not forget to look after yourself. Trust Pregnacare’s specially formulated range to help safeguard your diet at this especially important time.

Most recommended by midwives2

& most trusted by mums3

UK Health Departments recommend mothers take a supplement containing 10mcg of vitamin D during breast-feeding, and a healthy diet rich in calcium.

CONCEPTION

SPECIALLY FOR YOUR NEW ARRIVAL WellKid® Baby Drops and Wellkid® Baby & Infant Liquid provides careful nutritional support for babies or young children.

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The first ever breast-feeding specific supplement with the recommended 10mcg vitamin D4, plus 700mg calcium. With a separate capsule providing 300mg DHA which contributes to normal brain and eye development in breast-fed infants.5

Carefully balanced to help support the nutritional requirements of new mothers. With iron which contributes to a reduction of tiredness and fatigue and biotin which contributes to the maintenance of normal skin and hair.

From , Superdrug, Holland & Barrett, supermarkets, chemists, health stores & www.pregnacare.com Pregnacare® contains iron which contributes to a reduction of tiredness and fatigue. 2Based on a survey of 1000 midwives. For more information on this research, please visit www.pregnacare.com/mostrecommended. Source: Based on a survey of 2088 mums to be (Bountymedia 2013). 4UK Health Departments recommend mothers take supplement containing 10mcg vitamin D during breast-feeding, and a healthy diet rich in calcium. 5A beneficial effect is obtained with a daily intake of 200mg of DHA in addition to the recommended daily intake of 250mg of DHA/EPA for adults. Do not exceed a supplemental daily intake of 5g DHA/EPA combined. 1 3


YUMMY MUMMY CLUB

BUMPS BOARDROOM AND THE

Pre and post natal holistic therapist Lisa Barnwell shares the positive effects that pregnancy can have on the brain.

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id June saw the start of an online conversation on the real value of the pregnant mind and its commercial advantage. Bumps and the Boardroom - A Global Conversation on the pregnancy Advantage for Business showcased 12 different perspectives from corporate H.R’s to female entrepreneurs and current senior women in business who are on the pregnancy, maternity leave, recent return-ship pathway. It offered businesses and individuals the opportunity to really understand the changes that take place in the brain during pregnancy and the early postnatal period and harness their positive effects. Pregnancy hormones slow down left brain cognitive function to allow for an expansion of right brain, more intuitive and creative insights - which can not only help with bonding with your newborn and picking up more subtle clues to their wellbeing, but can be used in the workplace before your maternity leave starts to support conflict resolution, blue sky or out-of-the box thinking and far stronger emotional insights and understanding into co-workers or potential new business partners than your non-pregnant counterparts. New scientific research confirms the changes in the brain peak at around 6 months into the pregnancy, and start to return to a more normal level at round 3 months post birth, giving thought to the option of delegating more creative projects to the pregnant member of the team and scheduling handovers, strategy meetings and detailed work deadlines far sooner than is currently the norm. More research is being conducted to expand these parameters but put a far more positive

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understanding on the generally negative perception of “baby brain” and how it can be managed to maximum advantage. Trusting and working with mother nature and recognising and accepting these changes are definitely happening can benefit both mum-to-be in transitioning to care for her baby more naturally and with confidence and Corporations in building greater trust, loyalty and potential from their women during this period. Many women confide that they “check out” mentally far earlier than they start their maternity leave and struggle with the sharp change from independent career women to mother which a later maternity leave start creates. I have spoken to hundreds of women who confirm that when they are valued and feel supported in their pregnancy by their employer, their loyalty, commitment, desire and speed to return to their workplace increases. In the same way we prepare our bodies for childbirth with antenatal classes, exercise or yoga, allowing a real space for the pregnancy and new mother mind to evolve can reap huge rewards for Mum, Baby and Business. Lisa Barnwell is the Go-To Feel Good Maternity Expert for the high level, ambitious, mindful new mother and motherto-be, and sole founder of London’s first destination clinic for pre and postnatal therapies and previous exclusive partner to Chelsea and Westminster Hospital’s Private Maternity Wing. THE DETAILS For more information about the extraordinary art available visit the website at www.swarez.co.uk



YUMMY MUMMY CLUB

Retailin g at £3,00 0 Exclusiv . ely at

ASTON MARTIN SURFS INTO HARRODS The ultimate luxury baby carriage

When two British icons combine, the result is the new Silver Cross Surf - Aston Martin Edition - the ultimate luxury baby carriage.

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nveiled in September 2012, and issued in strictly limited numbers, the stunning Silver Cross Surf – Aston Martin Edition became a modern classic and one of the most instantly sought after prams in the world. The fact is, Silver Cross and Aston Martin have always represented more than a badge. Design, engineering, craftsmanship and luxury are all crucial components of the experience. Now two years after its global debut, the collaboration continues with the exclusive new Silver Cross Surf - Aston Martin Edition – the most beautiful pram we have ever produced. The new Silver Cross Surf - Aston Martin Edition brings together everything we know in one exceptional pram system. It has been created by world-leading designers, handmade by expert craftsmen and styled with beautiful new accessories. Ideals of luxury and authentic craftsmanship extend to every detail. So the magnesium alloy exterior is matched by a choice of sumptuous interior materials to create the most luxurious environment ever produced. ENGINEERED FOR PERFECTION The new Silver Cross Surf - Aston Martin Edition is designed to fit the most fast-paced lifestyles. It is a complete pram system with fully reclining seat, forward- and rear-facing pushchair settings, plus a carrycot for use from birth for the ultimate lie-flat environment. DESIGNED FOR PERFORMANCE Air-ride suspension, touch perfect handling and an ultra-

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lightweight magnesium alloy structure combine to offer you complete balance, unbeatable safety and an unmistakeable design. Even though the new Silver Cross Surf - Aston Martin Edition is instantly recognisable, it takes weeks of time and effort to hand-build each one, ensuring perfect execution every time. SUMPTUOUS STYLE Travelling in the new Silver Cross Surf - Aston Martin Edition means travelling in total comfort. Every one of the accessories represents a commitment to the very finest materials and craftsmanship. The sheepskin liner is made by the world’s finest tannery craftsmen – the softest, most premium, white sheepskin from Buckfastleigh in Devon, England. It’s a combination of traditional processing and highly skilled craftsmanship handed down for generations to produce the most sumptuous environment imaginable. ELEGANCE IN EVERY DETAIL With the new Silver Cross Surf - Aston Martin Edition, every detail across the full range of accessories has been specifically designed with luxury in mind. The exclusive baby blanket is woven with traditional Jacquard looms to produce the softest, lightest and most luxurious cashmere available.

Now the ultimate journey begins... THE DETAILS

HARRODS 87-135 Brompton Road, Knightsbridge, London, SW1X 7XL www.harrods.com



YUMMY MUMMY CLUB

WE WELCOME CHAMOMILE BABY a fine British Brand to enter the baby world.

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t’s that time of year - the leaves have fallen, the days are shortening and it’s time to get your warmer clothes on. This Christmas, why not treat a special one to one of our gorgeous personalised items? All come beautifully gift wrapped in luxurious tissue paper and ribbon at no extra charge. The perfect gift this Christmas. Baby online store offers a range of personalised and embroidered baby wear and handmade shoes for newborns and toddlers, all truly adorable.

You’ll find gorgeous designs, lovingly created in the UK using only the finest materials, which have all been ethically sourced. All products will arrive beautifully gift wrapped in luxurious tissue paper and ribbon making the perfect gift for Christmas, baby shower, a new baby or just because! It truly is a great online shopping destination www.personalisedbabywear.co.uk


FineBack Furniture 7-9 Haseldine Road London Colney Herts AL2 1RR Tel: 01727 827744

www.fineback.co.uk

Winner Children grow, moll grows too and everything is ergonomic...

Pencil shelf

Giant drawer

Vario Box

www.moll-funktion.de


YUMMY MUMMY CLUB

HAMLEYS

THIS CHRISTMAS

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stablished in 1760, Hamleys is London’s oldest and most loved toy shop. A total play experience, Hamleys has been delighting adults and children for years from their famous Regent Street store, one of the largest toyshops in the world. This legendary store has seven floors brimming with the latest crazes, computer games, traditional teddies and specialist collector areas. And with entertainment and theatre in abundance, every visit to Hamleys is a unique treat this Christmas, and all year round.

During this group session each little guest will hear magical stories of Christmas, sing festive songs, enjoy Christmas games and activities, write their own Christmas wish list and have a special chat with Father Christmas himself all surrounded by the finest toys in the world Join Father Christmas and his lovable elves at The Finest Toy Shop in the World! for fun, magic and theatre at this very special time of year. I Met Father Christmas at Hamleys! is an extra special experience where children will enjoy up to 1 hour with Father Christmas, take part in seasonal activities,

Join Father Christmas and his lovable elves at The Finest Toy Shop in the World! for fun, magic and theatre at this very special time of year. I Met Father Christmas at Hamleys! is an extra special experience where children will enjoy up to 1 hour with Father Christmas, take part in seasonal activities, enjoy delicious snacks and receive a special gift bag from Father Christmas to take home.

enjoy delicious snacks and receive a special gift bag from Father Christmas to take home. During this group session each little guest will hear magical stories of Christmas, enjoy Christmas games and activities, write their own Christmas wish list and have a special chat with Father Christmas himself all surrounded by the finest toys in the world!

Available Dates Times

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Monday - Sunday: Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch, High Tea, Tea and Dinner From Saturday 22nd November and selected days through to Wednesday 24th December 2014 Each Session is 1 hour.

Breakfast 9am- 10am Lunch 1pm-2pm Tea 4pm-5pm

Brunch 10.30am-11.30am High Tea 2.30pm-3.30pm Dinner 5.30pm -6.30pm

To check availability visit www.hamleys.com 188-196 Regent Street, London, London, W1B 5BT



YUMMY MUMMY CLUB

London Mother’s Club L

ondon Mothers Club (LoMoC) is the creation of Kerrie Anne, Sophie and Lisa: an eclectic trio who bring music production and promotion, events, HR and economics to the mix, with the common denominator of insisting on enjoying some of what they enjoyed before having children! And that is what London Mother’s Club is: a luxury destination for savvy mamas to connect and embrace motherhood through fun and informative events. It started in May 2012 when Kerrie-Anne decided that she wanted to get out and meet mums who had similar interests to her. Being quite creative, and with the intention of starting a craft club, she invited 10 mums to join her for an afternoon of crafts. Things soon took off and before she knew it, she was running 3-4 events per month and hosting her first fashion show with over 150 mums in attendance! They collaborate with amazing brands in London to bring bespoke events such as high-end brunches at Aubaine, lunches, secret suppers at Michelin

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starred restaurants, pamper afternoons with the likes of Whole Foods Fulham, QMS Medicosmetics and celebrity salon Smiths, ask the expert sessions, craft clubs, fashion shows and family days. For the last two years they have supported the Jeans for Genes charity through their mum-models fashion show and their amazing family event: London Mother’s Club does a family affair. Their website and blog keep members up-to-date with what they are doing, things they love, latest trends and people that inspire us. Not only do they connect mamas through their events but are also very active on social media with 7000 twitter followers. London Mother’s Club is a perfect platform for mums and the wider family network to have fun whilst forging new lasting friendships. THE DETAILS For more information visit the website at www.londonmothersclub.com


let them shine...

GYMAWARDS 2014 WINNEROF

BESTFORFAMILIES

Call 020 8740 4599 www.theparkclub.co.uk East Acton Lane West London W3 7HB


YUMMY MUMMY CLUB

CHILD MODELLING:

A PARENT’S GUIDE Do you think your child has what it takes to be a child model? Modelling can be a fantastic, social and fun experience for children of any age.

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very parent thinks that their child is the most beautiful, but what if everyone else seems to thinks so too? Does that mean he or she is a potential child model? The world of child modelling isn’t all glamour. You need to be quite realistic about what a shoot involves. There is a lot of waiting around so parents should be well prepared with plenty of books and games. And even if your child gets a job, there is still no guarantee the pictures will be used. For commercials, they tend to book a variety of ‘types’ of children, not deciding until the day who they will use. HERE ARE SOME MORE TIPS: Choose your agency carefully.A good model agency will save you time and stress, and help your child’s modelling career, helping you find the best jobs for your child, making sure their needs are put first and the law is complied with. Don’t waste money on professional photos when applying to agencies.A good model agency will need only to see snapshots to decide whether your child has potential. Avoid agencies advertising for children; a genuine agency will have enough children applying to them not to advertise. Don’t rush into signing a contract. Genuine agencies will always want to meet your child in person and will let you read any paperwork in your own time. Visit the website of the National Network for Children in Employment & Entertainment (NCEE) for more information on the employment of school-age children. Be realistic. If you don’t want your child to work during school time, she’s unlikely to get work as most shoots will occur during the working day.

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nd above all, make sure everyone is enjoying A it. If your child stops having fun - don’t continue just because you want them to. To find a reputable agency, it pays to do a little homework. Contact advertising agencies, magazines, catalogues and clothing companies to see which agencies they use regularly. If poss¬ible, visit the agency. Your agency will send the model book out to clients; set up auditions, or ‘castings’; organise payment (and take around 25% commission) and secure you a licence. The licence is a Government requirement for all children aged from six months to 16 years. It is applied for through your Local Education Authority regardless of whether your child has started school. LEA requirements can vary from area to area, but generally a licence will enable your child to work between 20 to 30 times over a six-month period. The money can vary – from £40 a job to thousands.The average rate is £40 an hour, but you will also get paid for castings (around £25).Advertising pays considerably more than editorial work but it is also much harder to get. Here are some of the best modelling agencies locally, for kids.All that’s left is to get practicing that pose... Bonnie & Betty Agency Bruce and Brown Kids London Norrie Carr Agency Urban Angels

020 8676 6294 020 7624 7333 020 7924 9595 020 7253 1771 0870 871 0045


Childsplay Clothing is the official stockist of the world’s premier designer brands for children, newborn to 16 years. The go-to name for luxury fashion. Established in 1990, we have been sourcing only the finest clothing, footwear, accessories and gifts for babies, boys and girls.

WWW.CHILDSPLAYCLOTHING.CO.UK


YUMMY MUMMY CLUB

CHRISTMAS

SHOPPING WITH TODDLERS

With a little bit of planning and some common sense there are many practical ways to take the stress, frustration and tension out of your Christmas shopping day with the children.

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emember that small children have limits. If you are shopping with toddlers, be alert to their needs: are they tired, hungry, overexcited by the noise and confusion, or simply in need of some fresh air or a reassuring hug? It’s not fair to expect toddlers to go from sitting in the car seat to sitting in their buggy for hours on end, so take breaks in your shopping to let them get rid of some of their energy and have some physical fun. Lots of shopping centres have places for them to let off steam - or while you have a coffee let them move about while you supervise them. Bring a small container with their favourite snack or a sandwich as a stand by as a hungry toddler is a grumpy toddler! Babies and small children can also become dehydrated in the dry air of shopping centres, so be sure to take frequent nursing or juice or water breaks. Make shopping fun - play games in the shops and look for things and get your toddler engaged in counting the reindeer or looking for snowmen. Make the trip a learning time and sing Christmas songs or Nursery Rhymes. With colourful, enticing sweets and treats on display be ready as these can throw your little one into a temper tantrum as you are both probably tired out and fed up waiting and they will become demanding and fractious. Be prepared and bring a favourite healthful snack from home which is an easy alternative to keeping them content. If you reach the limit of your patience and energy, try to remain calm, centred and grounded and press your internal “pause button” and dig deep to find your positive ways of handling anger and fatigue. You might try saying, “I’m starting to lose my patience. I think I need a break from shopping for a bit. Let’s go outside for a few minutes so we can both get some fresh air” Even a few moments of fresh air away from the crowds can make a big difference for both of you. If your toddler has simply reached the end of their tether - respect that. Shopping can wait; an exhausted, hungry, or overly-excited child can’t! And remember to praise your toddler for their good behaviour all day.

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TM

& let us make it happen

playhouses castles treehouses T: 01544 387100 www.theplayhousecompany.co.uk


YUMMY MUMMY CLUB

CREATE A CHRISTMAS WINTER WONDERLAND FOR YOUR LITTLE ONES

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any homes this Christmas will be full of discarded toys played with only once, and children sat in front of televisions or computer screen for hours on end. If this sounds familiar, this festive season do not give your little ones a toy that will only last

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one day, give them an adventure that will last for many years to come. A beautiful wooden playhouse is the perfect present that will keep on giving long after Christmas has finished. With just a little bit of imagination, even the smallest of playhouses can be transformed into anything, from a fairy tale castle or a dragon’s dungeon,


A beautiful wooden playhouse is the perfect present that will keep on giving long after Christmas has finished to a cowboy saloon or a village school. So whether you have a little princess locked in the highest room in the tallest tower, or an explorer living in a jungle tree house, a playhouse will help them bring their adventures to life. This Christmas, The Playhouse Company can help you start your child’s fantastical journey. The Herefordshire-based company produces an assortment of imaginatively designed handbuilt wooden playhouses in a range of sizes and styles. From Cottage Playhouses to Treehouses and Castles, The Playhouse Company has the perfect house for even the most daring of adventurers. The company can also build one-off bespoke creations. Working very closely with you and your children The Playhouse Company can design a truly unique and original house. Beginning with detailed discussions and a site visit, The Playhouse Company will then build a playhouse specifically designed just for your children or grandchildren, as well as making sure it compliments your garden and blends beautifully into the current layout.

Encouraging children to get out in to the great outdoors can be difficult, especially at this time of year when all of those Christmas films are calling or that new computer game they finally received from Santa just won’t wait. And yet playing outside can ignite a child’s imagination in a way that no computer game can. This makes a playhouse the perfect Christmas gift. A playhouse can provide years rather than days of enjoyment. It will grow with your child or grandchild, who can create new adventures every year, reinventing their playhouse into an entirely new world each time they walk through the front door. Encouraging our children to explore the outdoors, use their imaginations, and enhance their education through play is what all parents and grandparents want. A playhouse will allow them to do this all year round regardless of the weather. THE DETAILS For further information The Playhouse Company and its range of houses visit its new website www.theplayhousecompany.co.uk or call 01544 387100.

DECEMBER2014 69


YUMMY MUMMY CLUB

MUMMY IN THE CITY

Photograph by Julia Boggio, Boggio Studios

A blog about life with baby and toddler in South West London

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ummy in the City is written by Tine Farstad, a London mum mostly running around in Chelsea, Fulham, South Kensington and Battersea with her toddler in tow. The blog, launched in August 2012, is focused on life with under 5’s in South West London, and covers topics such as pregnancy and preparing for a new arrival, different stages of child development, travel with baby and toddler, fashion for baby and toddler, activities for young children in and around London and child-friendly London restaurants. Prior to becoming a mum, Tine worked as a financial journalist and editor for more than eight years. She now works as a freelance journalist and blogger, and helps lifestyle companies improve their social media strategy and reach and establish targeted marketing partnerships. She’s a regular blogger for online fashion designer sale site BrandAlley, children’s clothing company Sue Hill, and private antenatal course company New Baby Company. She has also worked with children’s gift company Gifts for Urchins and jewellery brand Olly M Jewellery, and she’s done a project for London cake company Kicca Cakes. Tine and her husband own Hamilton Nor A/S, which has exclusive distribution rights for SkyBaby in Norway, Denmark and Sweden. The company was established more than a year after Tine tested SkyBaby to review on Mummy in the City. THE DETAILS Contact Tine Farstad via e-mail on info@mummyinthecity.com or visit www.mummyinthecity.com Mummy in the City would love to hear from you.

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RECENT BLOG Creating personalised Christmas presents from children’s drawings ‘It’s my daddy!’ Baby Girl looked really pleased with herself. She had done a beautiful drawing of her daddy.The drawing had a round face, something that could resemble hair and two eyes. It had to be the perfect Christmas present for Daddy T. At least when printed on a t-shirt with the help of Luke Drew This, a company printing children’s drawings on clothes and accessories. I was really fascinated with the offering from Luke Drew This when I read about their services, and I was thrilled when I was offered a sample t-shirt to review. I took out my phone to take a picture of the drawing Baby Girl had done, and emailed the image (see above) over to Julie at Luke Drew This. I wasn’t sure it would turn out too well, as the light hadn’t been ideal in the photo, but I was so impressed when we received the sample men’s t-shirt with the drawing. It looks super cool, and it would be fun to give this together with some pyjama pants, for example.The ideal present for a proud dad! There are also lots of other options from Luke Drew This for turning children’s drawings into fantastic presents, and I could see Grandma N liking the tote, for example. Luke Drew This offers a selection of unique and personalised presents, which are bound to delight grandparents and parents alike. Baby Girl has now helped wrap her t-shirt, and I can’t wait for Daddy T to open it on Christmas Day! www.lukedrewthis.co.uk


YUMMY MUMMY CLUB

HIGH EXPECTATIONS “Screw your courage to the sticking place - and we’ll not fail!” Lady Macbeth was no fool. She had high expectations of her husband. The best way that I have discovered to engage young minds in what are traditionally considered difficult, complex or inaccessible subjects is to approach them through narrative and visualisation. Children are addicted to stories and pictures – these are the most natural, hard-wired paradigms for learning that have been in our evolutionary psyche for tens of thousands of years. Children also respond best when learning through their hands, another unsurprising fact when one considers that modern human brains evolved through the tool-making antics of our stone age ancestors over more then 3 million years.

representing many of the most famous characters and props from Shakespeare’s 38 plays from ghosts, fairies and witches to sword fights, shipwrecks and swooning lovers. Now see what happens as the young child takes off a sticker on the Comedies page – probably the one of Bottom, his head in the shape of a donkey, and – using nothing more than their hands, eyes and the power of curiosity see them discover which of Shakespeare’s plays this character belongs to as they stick the image on the timeline. Or take the story of life on Earth in 100 species! A pages of stickers for life that begins in the seas, another for pioneering landlife, then the dinosaurs, then mammals and finally strange ape-like creatures that walk on two feet. Simply by sticking these images in

World history author and schools lecturer Christopher Lloyd says that having high expectations of young children is the best way to boost their both their career prospects and enjoyment of life So my latest experiment, in partnership with Wallbook illustrator Andy Forshaw, is to create a series of timeline stickerbooks designed to tell giant, complex stories such as the history of the world, the story of life on earth and the complete plays of William Shakespeare to children as young as four. The 2m-long timelines, which foldout of the back of each book, provide a framework for the story with dates and a visual context such as the structure of the Globe Theatre. More than 100 white shapes are depicted on the timeline,

chronological order on the 4 billion years of nature timeline a young mind can with ease begin to engage with the most extraordinary story of all – life on Earth. The What on Earth? Stcikerbook Giftpack contains five amazing stickerbooks with 2m fold out timelines covering History, Nature, Science, Sport and Shakespeare. It is available in a boxed gift-set at the special price of just £25 from www.whatonearthbooks.com/shop and makes a brilliant Christmas present for any young curious child aged between 3 and 9.

“Screw your courage to the sticking place – and we’ll not fail!” Lady Macbeth was no fool! She had high expectations of her husband! If you have high expectations of your children then why not give them a What on Earth? Stickerbook Gift-Pack this Christmas. Contains all FIVE What on Earth? titles – Big History, Nature, Science, Sport and Shakespeare – each one with more than 100 stickers that fix onto a 2m-long fold-out timeline that hangs on a wall. Perfect activity books for parents, which children of all ages will enjoy, too!

Buy all five titlets for jus £25! Please visit us at:

www.whatonearthbooks.com/shop or call us anytime on 01732 464621


YUMMY MUMMY CLUB

IT’S ABOUT

DAD’S TOO!

When a new baby arrives, Dads can feel quite “left out”! There is absolutely no need for this to happen, Dads can be just as involved and bond with the baby as the new mum is. How?

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ad can always be around in the evening, so why not take over bath time with your baby? Bath time is so much fun and can be a very enjoyable experience for Dad and your baby together. It also gives dad some time to have skin to skin contact with his baby, which is a great bonder. If you are breast feeding then it might seem impossible for Dad to help in any way…wrong! You can express some of your supply and keep it in the fridge and dad can take over one of the night feeds (preferably the dream feed usually between 10pm and 12 midnight) so that you can have some extra sleep time. It is such a pleasurable thing for a dad to do. Having that time in the quiet and still of the night. Holding his baby close and feeding. Then winding and resettling the baby. Nappy changing is also not exclusively for mums, dads can do that too. And while your baby is on the changing mat they can have a chat and a sing and just

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enjoy some fun time together. Remember that even from an early age babies enjoy contact and hearing sounds and voices. Very soon they will recognise their Dads voice and react on hearing it. When your baby has been fed, dad can take over the winding, leaving you some time to wind down and enjoy a cuppa and put your feet up and may be watch some TV. Read a book or have some precious time to take a soak in the bath and relax. When your baby wakes in the night for a feed, Dad can be the one to bring the baby from the cot to you and when feed time is done, he can be the chief winder and baby settler, allowing you to go back to sleep and catch up on some well-earned rest. Something that will be greatly appreciated! These are just a few suggestions for enabling Dad to bond with his new little one. So you see it is not all about Mum, but it can be all about Dad too.


Olé Kids

Spanish classes for children and parents

Bilingual and beginners. Children learn languages through immersion and play. ★Group classes across London ★Spanish in Nurseries ★After School Clubs ★Private classes at home ★Birthday parties Free weekend workshops at Iberica Canary Wharf while you eat www.ibericalondon.co.uk

West London School of Dance From Baby to Ballerina Classes for Boys and Girls age 2 1/2 to 16 years old Ballet, Pointe Work Jazz, Singing, Tap Annual Performances

★Adult Spanish Classes

Facebook: olekidslondon Twitter: ole_kids

Telephone : 020 7386 0376 Mobile: 07734900221 Email : info@olekids.com www.olekids.com

Classes held in Bayswater, Notting Hill Gate, Oxford Street, Shepherds Bush South Kensington

T: 020 8743 3856 E: westlondondance@aol.com W: www.westlondonschoolofdance.co.uk


YUMMY MUMMY CLUB

HOW CAN I KEEP MY CHILDREN SAFE

ON THE SKI SLOPES?

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arents main concern is the safety of their children on the piste. All ski schools have a minimum of one instructor per group of only eight children, on average. Families who would like to experience skiing off piste should learn with an experienced instructor. You should never ski on your own off piste and if you did want to take your children off piste you should ensure they are of a high standard, and have an understanding of the snow conditions and an awareness of avalanche danger, and are carrying the correct safety equipment.” WHAT TO TAKE ON THE PISTE WITH YOU? Skiing burns a lot of energy so ensure you take snacks for all the family out with you for the day. Take a back pack when skiing with the family. If there is one time you can feel guilt free about giving children sugar and chocolate it’s when you are skiing, because you know they are going to burn it straight off. Always ski with water as well, its thirsty work skiing all day. Ski schools in France are offered to children from five years old, and ski schools in Austria are from four years old. Encourage children to get on the slopes at a young age. This depends on the child though when leaving them in a ski school, if the child doesn’t mind being left alone and they tend to get on with other children. SKIING AS A FAMILY FOR THE FIRST TIME Skiing as a family and taking the little ones for the first time can be a daunting experience as there are so many things to consider... 1. Choose a family-friendly resort that has a good selection of nursery slopes available – some resorts don’t have these, and you don’t really want to be teaching your kids to ski for the first time on a busy run with other skiers whizzing by. 2. Consider your kids ability and what size of resort is suitable for their level.You don’t want them heading across the mountain and ending up in another country – which is possible in a number of resorts! 3. Ensure that the hotel/resort you are staying in is easily accessible to the slopes. If not, you’ll have to carry all the family’s equipment to and from the hotel and the pistes. Lugging your own skis and poles, as well as the children’s kit is not fun. 4. It’s very difficult to teach your own children to ski – even if you are a very capable skier. Kids tend to be more receptive to someone else teaching them so put them in a reputable ski school which means your children can keep progressing to even greater thrills in complete safety. 5. Don’t give young kids ski poles. They don’t need them, they’ll probably lose them and when learning, the poles will just be a distraction to learning technique with the skis.

74 DECEMBER2014


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YUMMY MUMMY CLUB

ONE IN FIVE CHILDREN WANT TO BE RICH WHEN THEY GROW UP The desire for fame and fortune came ahead of professions involving helping the public, being a fire fighter or a doctor...

O

ne in five children aged up to 10 years old say they ‘’just want to be rich’’ when asked what they would like to be when they grow up, according to a survey. Other popular answers included ‘’famous’’, a ‘’police officer’’, or a ‘’zoo keeper’’, with one in 16 children also saying they would rather not work at all. Perhaps showing the influence of celebrity lifestyles and reality television, being ‘’rich’’ was the most frequently mentioned answer by the children, with 22% expressing this desire, followed by being ‘’famous’’ at 19%. The desire for fame and fortune came ahead of professions involving helping the public, including being a fire fighter or a doctor. More than 1,300 parents of children aged between five and 10 years old were told to ask their offspring the question: ‘’What would you like to be when you grow up?’’ They were not asked to show their children a list of answers, but rather to wait and see what the children said. They then matched their child’s answer with a list provided or were told to select the option ‘’other’’ and then specify what they were told. Parents could enter more than one answer. Parents were also told to ask their children whether they thought money could buy happiness. 75% of the youngsters said ‘’yes’’. When their children were asked how much money

76 DECEMBER2014

they thought would be a comfortable amount to earn per year when they had grown up, the most common answer was ‘’£1 million’’ per year.

THE TOP 10 The top 10 responses of children aged 5 -10, when asked what they wanted to be when they grew up, were as follows...

1. Just want to be rich 2. Famous 3. Police officer 4. Zoo keeper 5. Fire fighter 6. Doctor 7. Vet 8. Bus driver 9. Shop keeper 10. Don’t want to work

22% 19% 16% 14% 13% 10% 8% 7% 7% 6%



YUMMY MUMMY CLUB

PLAY ‘BOOSTS CHILDREN’S DEVELOPMENT AND HAPPINESS’

P

lay helps boost children’s language development, problem solving, risk management and independent learning skills, a study reaffirms. The report, for the Children’s Play Policy Forum, found play improved children’s physical and mental health, as well as their emotional well-being. It also found playtime in the school playground could enhance academic skills and attitudes and behaviour. Health professionals recommend that children aged five to 18 get at least one hour of aerobic activity a day. This should include a mix of moderateintensity activities (working hard enough to raise the heart rate and break a sweat and vigorous-intensity activities (breathing hard and fast, the heart rate going up quite a bit). As part of this 60 or more minutes, children should also do activities that strengthen their muscles and bones. Children under five, who can walk unaided, should be physically active every day for at least three hours, spread throughout the day, indoors or out. Source: NHS Choices Parents associated playing in playgrounds with

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family well-being and those who lived near playgrounds and visited them often reported higher levels of family happiness. The study found school playgrounds were one of the best ways of increasing children’s levels of physical activity. They were also linked to a range of improvements in academic skills, attitudes and behaviour, and to improved social skills, improved social relations between different ethnic groups, and better adjustment to school life. “There is good evidence that making changes to school playgrounds leads to an increase in children’s levels of physical activity,” the report said. “Various forms of intervention have been shown to give this outcome, including changes to marking, the addition of play equipment, making available games equipment (such as balls and bats) and the introduction of loose materials such as scrap and recycled office equipment.” “From the perspective of politicians and policy makers, the report highlights that investing in play can and does lead to multiple benefits including improved educational attainment, a healthier society and increased levels of tolerance within and between communities.”



YUMMY MUMMY CLUB

REVEALED!

BRITAIN’S MOST POPULAR BABY NAMES 2014

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ew research has revealed Britain’s most popular baby boy and girl names this year. The survey, conducted by BabyCentre, revealed that Muhammad is this year’s top baby boy’s name and Sophia is the most popular choice for girls. Muhammad, from the Arabic ‘Hamid’, meaning ‘praised’ and ‘praiser of God’, is a popular boy’s name all over the world and is often given to firstborn sons in Muslim families. Sarah Redshaw, managing editor of BabyCentre, said, ‘With the increase of other Arabic names plus Aarav, an Indian boys’ name, the top 100 shows the ever-increasing diversity of the UK today.’ 
Sophia, from the Greek meaning ‘wisdom’ tops the girls’ chart, rising two places to knock Olivia off the number one spot. The research also reveals the popular baby’s name trends

this year, including the influence of celebrity baby names, such as Harper – the Beckhams’ baby girl (a new entry in the top 100 this year) – and Eric, Simon Cowell’s baby son, which has increased by 314% this year. By comparison, Miley has dropped in popularity this year. Sarah Redshaw comments: ‘Parents are wary of names associated with celebrities who exhibit bad behaviour, the controversial pop singer Miley Cyrus being a prime example.’ For the girls, this year’s biggest riser within the top 100 is Maryam, and the highest new entries are Nur, Emilia and Gracie. For baby boys, the name that has climbed the most places within the top 100 is Teddy, and the highest new entries are Kian and Jonathan. This year’s biggest fallers are Amy and Connor.

The top 10 girls’ and boys’ baby names of 2014

1. 2. 3. 4.

80 DECEMBER2014

Girls

SOPHIA EMILY LILY OLIVIA

5. AMELIA 6. ISLA 7. ISABELLA 8. AVA

9. SOPHIE 10. CHLOE

1. 2. 3. 4.

Boys

MUHAMMAD OLIVER JACK NOAH

5. 6. 7. 8.

JACOB CHARLIE HARRY JOSHUA

9. JAMES 10. ETHAN



THERE’S

A SECRET IN THE FOREST

this christmas

advanced booking essential

0207 434 3111

fatherchristmas@therainforestcafe.co.uk 20 shaftesbury avenue, london w1d 7eu www.therainforestcafe.co.uk www.facebook.com/rainforestcaf e london @rainforestcafe


270mm x 95mm wide:Layout 1 09/12/2014 11:18 Page 1

BROMLEY HIGH SCHOOL Creating Opportunities For Girls Since 1883

BROMLEY HIGH SCHOOL A FORMULA FOR SUCCESS

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ovember was another month of exceptional academic, artistic, musical and sporting achievement at Bromley High School. Proving that talented girls and outstanding teaching create great Chemistry, Bromley High Upper Sixth Leaver, Emma Norton, now studying Medicine at St George’s, has been honoured with the Salters Award for the second highest mark in A level Chemistry in the UK. In Art, Lower Sixth Former Beatrice Forward, was presented with the John Downton Gold Award. Beatrice’s work was selected from 330 entries from 36 Kent schools and her stunning work will be exhibited at the Turner Contemporary Gallery. In Music, Year 10 Emily Pugh has been selected for the National Harp Orchestra and in Sport, Premier League hockey player, Grace Baylis won scholarships to three American universities, including Princeton, and U17 Long and Middle Distance UK Athlete of the Year, Sabrina Sinha, won her fourth consecutive London Youth Games Cross Country title.

Angela Drew,

Headmistress, Bromley High School Final Taster Day: Year 6 for Year 7 Tuesday 13th January 2015, 10.55 am - 2.45 pm Including Lunch (with buddy) Assessments (for 2015 Entry): 4+ Years: Activities Session: Saturday, 10th January 2015; Group sessions: w/c 12th January 2015 11+ Years Saturday 17th January 2015: Scholarships and Bursaries available (Senior School) Please contact the school via our website: www.bromleyhigh.gdst.net or our admissions office on admissions@bro.gdst.net or Tel 020 8781 7000 to arrange a visit. We look forward to meeting you and your daughter.

LAST AVAILABLE

TASTER SESSIONS (for 2015 Entry)

YEAR 6 FOR YEAR 7

Tuesday 13th January 2015, 10.55 am ‐ 2.45 pm Including Lunch (with buddy)

ASSESSMENTS (for 2015 Entry)

4+ YEARS Activities Session: Saturday, 10th January 2015 Group sessions: w/c 12th January 2015 11+ YEARS Saturday 17th January 2015

Bromley High School Blackbrook Lane Bickley, Bromley, Kent BR1 2TW

Scholarships and Bursaries available (Senior School)

www.bromleyhigh.gdst.net Follow us on twitter @bromleyhs email admissions@bro.gdst.net

admissions@bro.gdst.net Tel: 020 8781 7000 www.bromleyhigh.gdst. net


EDUCATION

DISCOVER SOUTH LONDON’S

BEST KEPT SECRET... Virgo Prep School, an independent school for boys and girls aged 3-11

V

irgo Prep School has a rich history of educating young minds. Founded in 1848, it is part of a Catholic order where teaching is based on Christian principles with an emphasis on caring and kindness to others. This independent school is open to children of all faiths from 3-11 years. The main objective of Virgo Prep School is to encourage every child to be the best they can be. By maintaining small class sizes, each child receives a personalised education from experienced staff while they develop their talents. Specialist teachers are provided for French, Art, Sports and Music. This approach has proven effective, with all Year 6 pupils achieving 100% in Maths, Science and English before progressing to a wide range of independent, grammar and state schools. Virgo Prep School has been described as “South London’s best kept secret” due to the warm and safe feeling of this small school set in large grounds, with a woodland area providing a superb location for outdoor learning. Each key stage has a separate playground, allowing children to flourish with their peers. The vast playing fields regularly host major ISA sporting events including cricket, rugby, football, golf and cross-country.

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The Virgo Prep Nursery provides a nurturing environment where children settle in quickly and enjoy the benefits of being located within the Prep school. Ofsted said “The quality of teaching and learning is outstanding. Children’s attitudes to learning, their behaviour and general level of engagement are excellent, aiding them to make superb progress. The leadership and management are outstanding and extremely effective in promoting an inclusive environment in which every child matters.” In a parent’s words, “I just wanted to thank you and your wonderful school for everything you have done. He has loved every moment of his time at Virgo Prep School and he is truly sad to leave, just as we all are.” Extensive co-curricular opportunities range from additional foreign languages to gardening clubs, from ballet to Tae Kwon Do, allowing the children to gain confidence in a wide range of activities before progressing to the next stage of their educational journey. Virgo Prep School takes pride in being a warm and welcoming school and considers pupils to be its best advertisement. Call 020 8653 2169 to make an appointment to visit and discover South London’s best kept secret... 147 Central Hill, London SE19 1RS reception@vfps.org www.vfps.org


ST. JOHN’S WOOD

PRE - PREPARATORY SCHOOL

Over 30 Years of Happiness & Success in Education Congratulations to the Year 2 class of 2013/2014 for receiving offers from schools including: City Of London School For Girls, Colet Court, Haberdashers’ Aske’s Boys’, Highgate School, Latymer Prep School, Lyndhurst House School North Bridge House, Southbank International, South Hampstead High School and University College School Visit our brand new website and book for a tour of this small happy and successful school 020 7722 7149 info@sjwpre-prep.org.uk www.sjwpre-prep.org.uk


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EDUCATION

GIRLS STEP IT UP FOR ANNUAL

F

DANCE SHOW SPECTACULAR

rom ballet to Bollywood and street style to jumping Jazz, Sydenham High girls certainly put their best foot forward for their 9th annual dance show, Unity Through Diversity. Not even a first night power cut and the loss of their professional sound just before curtain up put them off their stride. Over 100 girls took part in 28 separate acts, representing dance curriculum groups, soloists and a range of popular clubs, including a Jazz dance club from Years 5 and 6 at Junior School which is led by Year 13 student Eleanor Smith. Last year, the high standard of the girls’ performances drew high praise from West End theatre director Marianne Elliott, the creative power behind the award winning production of Warhorse, who was in the audience. The school has recently gained a place on the Royal Academy of Dance’s ‘Step into Dance’ programme, with the potential for students to audition for ‘Step Live’ which takes place at Sadlers Wells later in the year. Students in the programme are also in a position to be scouted for the Royal

What makes us different is the difference we make... Our strong academic record is just the starting point: from scientific exploration to personal discovery, our outstanding education goes way beyond exams Contact us to find out more Sixth Form Entrance Exam for Sept 2015 30 January 2015

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Academy of Dance Youth Company, one of the world’s largest and most recognised dance organisations. Mrs Georgina Calvert, acting Head of PE, who directs the show each year said: “Here at Sydenham High we encourage girls of all levels and abilities to get involved in dance both inside and outside our PE curriculum. We use the show as an occasion to celebrate the diversity of and enthusiasm for dance here. The girls have worked extremely hard to perfect their pieces and this year’s performances are stunning.” 2015 will be the show’s 10th anniversary and there are already plans to invite alumnae back to take part in an even bigger show.

THE DETAILS Sydenham High School 15 & 19 Westwood Hill, London SE26 6BL Telephone 020 8557 7000 Email admissions@syd.gdst.net www.sydenhamhighschool.gdst.net


AMDG

DONHEAD

33 Edge Hill Wimbledon London SW19 4NP T: 020 8946 7000 www.donhead.org.uk

PREPARATORY SCHOOL

A Jesuit School Preparatory Day School for Boys 4 to 11 years Outstanding Inspection Report available to view at www.donhead.org.uk       

Our 10 year £6.5m development scheduled for completion in December 2015 Catholic Ethos Children of all denominations welcome Entry and scholarships achieved to top state and independent schools Outstanding Sporting and Musical tradition Extensive extra-curricular provision Wrap-Around Care from 8.00am to 6.00pm

Full admissions details available via the website. To arrange a personal tour please contact: Mrs June Smith, PA to the Headmaster, at headmasterpa@donhead.org.uk or telephone 020 8946 7000 (extension 1)

London’s leading day school for specific learning difficulties t: 020 7976 5456 www.fairleyhouse.org.uk

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EARLY YEARS ‘‘This is a big, bold, very brilliant school.’’ Tatler School Guide 2015

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DEVONSHIRE HOUSE SCHOOL 2 Arkwright Road, Hampstead, NW3 6AE

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Windlesham INDEPENDENT BOARDING & DAY SCHOOL FOR BOYS AND GIRLS AGED 4-13 YEARS

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FEATURE

PAPERTHINKS LADIES PINK LEATHER HANDBAG £65.00

OMNIBUS - A SOCIAL HISTORY OF THE LONDON BUS £25.00

KNITTED LINE COLOUR SAUSAGE DOG £14.99

ALL ABOARD For Christmas at London Transport Museum

L

ondon Transport Museum has a range of colourful gifts this Christmas, including jewellery and homeware collaborations with London designers Tatty Devine, Wallace Sewell and Mini Moderns. Exclusive books and bright kids toys means the whole gift list can be ticked off in one shop! Highlights include the brand new book Omnibus - a Social History of the London Bus. Beautifully illustrated with over 440 photographs and images, it looks at the social

history of the bus and the impact it has had on our lives over the last two centuries. Topics include service at the Western Front during the First World War, technological innovation and the representation of the bus in popular culture. Other highlights are the hand crocheted dog soft toy for children, and leather handbags by Paperthinks, both in the unmistakable, bright colours of the London Underground. WALLACE SEWELL DESIGNER CUSHION £65.00

For these ideas and more visit www.ltmuseumshop.co.uk

Festive

family fun

Storytelling sessions involving parachute games. Suitable for families with children aged 3-7.

Make and Take craft workshops - get hands on with junk modelling and create a mini snowmobile. Suitable for families with children aged 4 -12.

Further information can be found at www.ltmuseum.co.uk

92 DECEMBER2014

Monday 29th December 2014 to Friday nd 2 Janua ry 2015


Creature comforts Get cosy with our animal slippers – Barking, Bushey and other station friends

Gifts for everyone

at London Transport Museum’s shop, Covent Garden Piazza, WC2E 7BB and online at

ltmuseumshop.co.uk


EVENTS

BROKE

Opens at G en wich Theatre on 22re nd January Box Office 020 8858 7755

TELL IT HOW IT IS T James Haddrell, Artistic Director of Greenwich Theatre, on the appeal of verbatim theatre

heatre, I’ve always thought, can do two things. It can help us understand the world we live in, or it can transport us away from that world to somewhere else. Usually, shows fall somewhere in the middle. Pantomime is closer to the second model, taking us to a fantasy world, but even Jack’s magical adventure has a lot to say about courage and standing up to adversity. More traditional drama can relate more directly to our own lives but will usually have some element of fiction driving the story. There is one form of theatre, however, that comes closer than any other in its bid to show us the world around us. Verbatim Theatre is a form that is based on interviews with real people, with their own words used to create the final play. While some practitioners of verbatim theatre will add words, and some will edit interviews, fundamentally they will present to an audience a play formed of the very words that their interview subjects have used. Verbatim Theatre has surged in popularity in recent years, particularly after Alecky Blythe’s LONDON ROAD in 2011, a musical built from interview transcripts which told the true story of a serial murderer at work in Ipswich, and which played at the National Theatre.

In Hamlet, Shakespeare’s tragic prince explains the role of theatre – it is, he says, “to hold as ‘twere the mirror up to nature”. There can’t be a more accurate mirror than that offered by verbatim theatre, and I have been excited by this form of theatre for a long time, excited by the idea of finding a way to take research interview transcripts and fashion them into a play which is both informative and entertaining, not just a documentary on stage but a rounded piece of theatre. One of our most recently appointed young supported companies, The Paper Birds, is a company already causing quite a stir with their verbatim work, so this year we teamed up with West Yorkshire Playhouse to commission a new play from them. The company created a show – BROKE – took it to the Edinburgh Festival where it sold out and secured a string of rave reviews, and now we are preparing to bring it back to Greenwich in January. The finished play explores just what it means to live in debt, in a society that sees mortgages and credit cards at the heart of every day life, while the country itself exists in a state of enormous national debt. The Paper Birds have worked their magic, and rather than a dry piece of reportage BROKE is all the more challenging,

With panto season upon us, Greenwich Theatre has once again been transformed into a glittering fairy-tale world where anything can happen. This year, that means a young boy will climb a magic beanstalk to defeat a giant, with a lot of singing and dancing along the way. The Macpherson Enquiry into the murder of Stephen Lawrence also gave rise to its own verbatim play, THE COLOUR OF JUSTICE, which was first performed at the Tricycle Theatre in North London and is still performed in schools and universities and found its way onto the reading lists of police training colleges.

94 DECEMBER2014

funny and moving because of its origin in interviews with members of the public. It may also be the perfect play for that post-Christmas financial black-spot where we’re all recovering from spending just a bit more than we planned. www.greenwichtheatre.org.uk


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EVENTS

CHALET

CHIC AT THE WINTER DECORATIVE ANTIQUES & TEXTILES FAIR 2015

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isitors will be welcomed with an Alpineinspired retreat in the Foyer to celebrate all that’s best about interiors for winter hideaways. Many designers use the Decorative Fair to source unusual pieces for their client’s ski chalets and hunting lodges. Discover antler and Black Forest furniture, beautifully upholstered seating, French and Swedish painted antiques, decorative period rugs and hunting trophies. Combined with snow scene paintings from our art dealers, ski posters and quirkier pieces such as antique skis revitalised as floor lamps, we’ll create a truly cosy and typically Decorative Fair approach to winter style. All items will be drawn from exhibitors at the Fair and will be for sale. Currently popular at the Decorative Fair is folk art and country accessories – Oprah th Winfrey made time in her busy schedule to visit the recent Autumn Fair (held from 30 Sept-5 Oct 2014) with her US decorator Rose Tarlow and included such pieces in her acquisitions. Whilst collectors may come to buy fine furniture, objects and art such as paintings by leading Modern British artists like Keith Vaughan at prices up to (and in excess of) £50,000, new younger customers are also delighted to find affordable ‘entry level’ purchases such as £15 vintage French wine glasses. 145 dealers (many of whom participate at every Fair) come from across the UK and Europe to exhibit a wealth of wonderful period design. Antiques and works of art dating from the 1600s to 1914 abound. Art Deco and later C20th design makes up around one quarter of objects, art and furniture for sale. Unlike any other antiques event, their dealers style their stands as roomsets so visitors can imagine how items might work in their own homes. The Decorative Antiques & Textiles Fair is the most stylish and beautiful antiques and period design event in the UK. It is the only antiques Fair to cater specifically to the interior decorating trade and in 2015 it will celebrate 30 years of business.

20th-25 January

Battersea Park SW11

THE DETAILS Fairs taking place in 2015 are the Winter Fair, 20th-25th January, the Spring Fair, 21st - 26th April and the Autumn Fair, 29th September 4th October which will be the focal point for the fair’s 30th birthday Admission £10.00 including catalogue, which gives re-admission throughout the week Transport Free shuttle service from Sloane Square Hotel every 10-15 minutes during opening hours.Vehicle access via Chelsea Bridge Gate only. LIMITED free parking on-site. Enquiries +44 (0)20 7616 9327 Email: fairs@decorativefair.com Organisers: Harvey (Management Services) Ltd www.decorativefair.com

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&

Architectural Interior Design Refurbishment work

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FEATURE

THE

S

SWAREZ EXPERIENCE

warez paintings are as unconventional as his route into art. A former karate instructor, he discovered a passion for paint in the Cotswolds where his class were using art as a relaxation technique. Since that day his focus has been solely on creating some of the most extraordinary art you will find. His unique paints, whose recipe is known only to 3 people worldwide, has allowed him to blend alchemy, chemistry, colour and passion to create work that has astonished the art world. It’s not just the art that is so strikingly different, but his whole methodology too. “When you decide to buy a painting myself and my team deliver it, hang it in and we don’t leave until you are completely delighted. Until that point, you don’t pay a penny. The art comes first, everything else comes second.” It is this approach which is the nub of what makes the Swarez experience so different but it doesn’t stop there. “Whether you’re used to buying art or are about to make a first purchase I demystify the process, I work with clients to give them something unique. Commissioning a painting is as easy as selecting one already created “When you buy a Swarez original, (and I only sell originals) you are involved in the choice of colours, the overall theme and the dimensions, and if you don’t like it I do it again!” says Swarez. “Honestly, I will paint as many variations as it takes to get it right, I have to make every painting the best it can be”. “I’ve always been concerned about the barriers that exist between artist and client. With me you are welcome to come and have a look round my gallery and

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spend as much time with me as you need. We can share your passion for giving your home a beautiful statement piece of art and, if the last 18 months is anything to go by, watch it rise in value. You can see my entire operation, every single painting and understand the why I’m on the verge of something remarkable.” Of course the commissions side of things is not the only part of what he does. As a busy working artist he is painting almost constantly; the results of these labours hang in his spacious and airy gallery nestled in the heart of the Cotswolds, just a short drive off the M4. Buying a piece that has already been created offers many benefits; his insistence on delivering and hanging each one personally is refreshing and if diversity is what you seek then the sheer range of his creative ability is sure to win over anyone who walks through the door. “I am a total control freak, my paints have taken 5 years to perfect, I hand stretch my own canvases and I even select the wood for the frames. Nothing is less than perfect – it has to be else I don’t sleep at night. I am devoted to giving clients exactly what they want which is why many of them are building up collections in their homes worldwide.” Swarez Gallery is in the Cotswolds and is open by appointment 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, as Swarez says “My clients are busy successful people, I work around their schedules and meet them wherever and whenever they need, after all concession isn’t part of the deal.”

Swarez blends alchemy, chemistry, colour and passion to create work that has astonished the art world.

THE DETAILS For more information about the extraordinary art available visit the website at www.swarez.co.uk



EVENTS

A pair of French silver gilt Art Nouveau vases by Lucien Falize, 1900, POA from JH Bourdon-Smith Ltd

‘The Valley of Llugwy River at Pont-y-Cyfyng, North Wales’ Alfred de Breanski Snr priced at £27,500 from Cambridge Fine Art

THE MAYFAIR

ANTIQUES & FINE ART FAIR THURSDAY 8TH - SUNDAY 11TH JANUARY 2015 LONDON MARRIOTT HOTEL GROSVENOR SQUARE

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glass, clocks, oriental carpets, textiles, Islamic works of or the third year in a row,The Mayfair Antiques & art, boxes, art pottery, books, watches, carvings and many Fine Art Fair takes place at the London Marriott other decorative and rare objects Hotel Grosvenor Square. Organised by spanning the centuries.The fair The Antiques Dealers Fair Limited attracts an international audience and held in association with Mayfair and has boasted an exhibitor property specialist Wetherell, this waiting list since before the first London event is the first of several event even took place. fairs held around England in 2015. One of London’s most stylish The fair will feature some hotels, the 5-star London Marriott forty specialist exhibitors, drawn Hotel Grosvenor Square is situated primarily from The British in the heart of Mayfair, just minutes Antique Dealers’Association and from the West End’s shopping streets LAPADA The Association of Art & and Park Lane. Light refreshments can Antiques Dealers. The aim is to present a varied be found in the fair’s foyer, cocktails in the award winning twenties’ style Luggage selection of high quality art and antiques, Room, whilst Gordon Ramsay’s two restaurants giving visitors the opportunity to browse and 18ct gold Cartier gentleman’s acquire the finest furniture, sculpture, silver, oil maze and maze Grill offer fine dining and New slim dress watch, c1925, £9,850 from Anthony Green Antiques York grill inspired food upstairs from the fair. paintings and watercolours, jewellery, ceramics,

17th century William & Mary ‘Arabesque’ seaweed marquetry walnut chest of drawers, c1680-90, £15,500 from Walton House Antiques

THE DETAILS Opening times: Thursday 12noon-9pm Friday 11am-6pm Saturday 11am-6pm Sunday 11am-5pm Tickets & enquiries: £10, including catalogue (and re-admission) The Antiques Dealers Fair Ltd Tel 01797 252030 or info@adfl.co.uk Transport: Nearest underground station: Bond Street (Central and Jubilee Lines) Nearest off-street parking: NCP, 39-44 Adams Row, London W1K 2HP (Congestion charge zone) Social Media: Twitter: @ADFLfairs & Facebook, Website: www.mayfairfair.com

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BOB DYLAN

Bob Dylan © Mark Seliger

THE DRAWN BLANK SERIES 2014

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PROPERTY

Sting and Trudie Styler Purchase an Apartment in the Battersea Power Station Development

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attersea Power Station Development Company (BPSDC), on behalf of the shareholders of Battersea Power Station, confirms that Sting and Trudie Styler have purchased an apartment in the Battersea Power Station development as their new home in London. The news was confirmed at a launch party held by Battersea Power Station at Canoe Studios in Manhattan, New York where Sting performed for 300 guests. The party showcased the development, ahead of a global tour to exhibit the current commercial leasing and residential sales opportunities. Trudie Styler commented, “The exciting development plans for the whole site are a great solution for the regeneration of an iconic London landmark which has been in decay for the last 30 years. “We are both very pleased to be part of this new community and really look forward to making our London home at the Battersea Power Station.” Rob Tincknell, CEO of BPSDC, who was hosting the party, commented, “I am thrilled that Trudie and Sting have chosen Battersea Power Station as their London home and really hope they enjoy being part of this exciting development. “The entire 42-acre Battersea Power Station site is now being transformed into a world-class destination, which will gather the best in class operators across the globe to create a unique place of which we can all be proud. We are now launching Phase 3 of the development, being stunning apartments designed by Gehry Partners and Foster + Partners.” No further information regarding this purchase is available. Sting performed songs from his new musical, The Last Ship, which recently opened on Broadway at the Neil Simon Theatre, and he also played classic hits such as Englishman in New York, Every Little Thing She Does is Magic, Fields of Gold, Message in a Bottle and Every Breath You Take. Battersea Power Station is at the heart of one of London’s largest, most visionary and eagerly anticipated new developments, which will see this vast 42 acre former industrial brownfield site become home to a community of homes, shops, cafes, offices and 18 acres of public space. The £8bn project will see the creation of a vibrant, mixed-use development, a new town centre for London serviced by an extension to the Northern Line and the restoration of the Grade II* listed Power Station. Battersea Power Station is contributing up to £211m to the NLE, which was guaranteed by the Chancellor of the Exchequer George Osborne in the Autumn Statement of November 2012. According to Prime Minister David Cameron, it is the ‘jewel in the crown’ of central London’s significant regeneration area, Nine Elms on London’s South Bank. The overall project is divided into seven phases, with each designed by a range of specialist architects. Construction work officially began with Phase 1 on July 4th, 2013 - the 80th anniversary of this historic building. The overall development is anticipated to be completed in 2025, with The Power Station itself expected to be open to the public for the first time in over 30 years in 2019.

THE DETAILS For more detail on residential and commercial opportunities, please visit www.batterseapowerstation.co.uk

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Elegant living in restored splendour. With the Elmbridge Wing at an advanced stage in the restoration process and 30% of homes sold off-plan, now is the time to book your personal appointment to view our Information Centre and Showhome. Set within seven acres on a glorious tree-lined hill overlooking London, St Joseph's Gate comprises a selection of fabulously spacious 2, 3 and 4 bedroom refurbished and new build apartments. Concierge services, CCTV and gated access ensure privacy and security, while the lovingly restored historic features lend an air of opulence and individuality. St Joseph's Gate is located just 10 miles from central London, with Mill Hill East and Mill Hill Broadway tube stations providing services to Oxford Circus and the City with travel times of 28 and 35 minutes respectively†. With a number of apartments in the Elmbridge Wing ready to move into in Spring 2015, do not miss the opportunity to reserve one of these beautiful homes.

RECOMMEND A FRIEND If you successfully recommend a friend to us and they purchase a home at St Joseph's Gate, you will receive a cheque for £5000.* Please ask for further details. To fully appreciate this exceptional collection of homes a visit to our Information Centre and Showhome is recommended, open daily from 10am to 5pm. Telephone 01753 257125 or email sales.oxford@berkeleyhomes.co.uk to book your personal appointment. Prices from £899,995 – £2,500,000 Information Centre and Showhome, Lawrence Street, Mill Hill, London NW7 4JX

www.stjosephsgate.co.uk Proud to be a member of the Berkeley Group of companies

†Source: www.tfl.gov.uk *Subject to terms and conditions. Computer generated illustrations of St Joseph’s Gate are indicative only. Prices correct at time of going to press.


PROPERTY KINGS ROAD ON SALE FOR £3.5 MILLION THROUGH CHESTERTONS

THE BOLTONS, CHELSEA ON SALE FOR £39.5 MILLION

LONDON PROPERTY BOOM Chelsea becomes the most popular spot for the super-rich M ore than 34 houses worth in excess of £1 million are sold every day according to new figures released by the Land Registry. The House Price Index showed that in April 2014, 1,028 houses sold for seven figures, with 214 reaching in excess of £2 million. Chelsea has become the most desirable spot to live in London among the super-rich, as Russian oligarchs drive a billionaire property boom in west London. In April 2014, 735 homes sold in the capital for more than £1 million. Of the mansions reaching seven figures, almost 200 of them cost more than £2 million. Over the past 12 months, there were 478 properties sold in Chelsea costing more than seven figures with 57 in excess of £5 million. According to these new figures, Chelsea is now far more desirable among oligarchs and billionaires than the traditional wealthy spots of Kensington, Mayfair and Knightsbridge. Kensington was the second most popular destination for wealthy home buyers, with 340 sales in the area - 44 of which cost more than £5 million. In third place was St John’s Wood, where there were 259 sales with 20 costing more than £5 million. Making up the top six were Knightsbridge, with 145 sales (45 were £5m+), Belgravia with 140 (29 at £5m+) and Mayfair, where there were 105 sales (19 at £5m+).

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The most expensive home sold in Chelsea was 11 Upper Phillimore Gardens, a seven bed mansion which fetched £28.5 million. A seven bedroom home on Cottesmore Gardens, which sold for £19.75 million, was followed by 50 Chelsea Square, a six bed pad that cost its new owner £13.5 million. Between them, the buyers of these three houses ended up paying more than £4.3 million in stamp duty. The Boltons in Chelsea, pictured, is currently on sale for £39.5 million which would cost a further £2.75 million in stamp duty for any prospective owner. Chelsea, which is made up of six ‘hamlets’ spread across almost 3,000 acres, is home to the likes of oligarch Roman Abramovich, socialite Amanda Eliyash and rock star Mick Jagger. The borough has the largest population of American citizens outside of the USA, making up 6.53 per cent of the current population of Chelsea.This is according to research by London estate agency Russell Simpson, which analysed statistics from LonRes. Alan Russell, from the agency, said: ”Chelsea is an area that is talked about globally. It is iconic, people from Britain and abroad aspire to live here, it has always been one of the most sought after areas in London. This has been highlighted in recent months, as Chelsea has outsold its prime Central London neighbours.” In the capital, house prices are increasing at 15 per cent, faster than they did at the height of the last boom in late 2009, while nationwide growth is nearer five per cent.


nicolas tye architects As award winning architects and designers we aspire to create extraordinary buildings and spaces for our clients, sometimes from the most difficult of design briefs. Central to our philosophy is that good design should reflect the needs of our clients and respond to the surrounding environment. Pushing the boundaries of design we are able to achieve timeless, highly innovative and sustainable projects. We offer a complete design service from initial advice through to the completion of your project. We complete works all over the UK and internationally. Please email us or call with your new project enquiry.

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nicolas tye architects t: 01525 406677 e: info@nicolastyearchitects.co.uk w: www.nicolastyearchitects.co.uk

conversions


PROPERTY

THE ART OF PERFECTLY MATCHING PROPERTIES TO YOUR WISH LIST WITH

SAM BAINS Finding a bargain home in the capital seems the definition of Mission Impossible. With ever-rising prices, over-inflated offers, sealed bids and dwindling availability, it’s no wonder many home-seekers feel like self-destructing.

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ut one property guru claims to have spotted a way to unlock potential from the toughest trading London has even seen. Expert Sam Bains, a veteran of 20 years of the changing fortunes of property, has identified opportunities to purchase local authority houses and flats as well former housing association stock that is coming onto the market at auctions around the capital Chasing homes under the hammer can provide savings of up to 10% on current values with organisations looking to make quick sales. “The huge rises in property prices has made it tough for buyers to get on the London ladder but it is still possible to find somewhere if you are prepared to take time finding the right place and put some effort into refurbishing,” said Sam Bains, who specializes in hunting down hidden property gems for clients all over the world via her company ultimateconnexions in Mayfair. Sam is focused on rooting out bargains and perfectly matching properties to her global clients’ wish list and her antennae have been on high alert after shifts in government policy encouraging council to selloff stock in high value areas. “I specialise in finding the right place for the right person at the right price. Many of my customers are wealthy but they still want a bargain so I’m used to hunting around,” she says. “Some of these bargains may be in areas

you have not considered before but it is worth getting in early as previously unsought-after pockets are rapidly rising in appeal and prestige.“It may seem counterintuitive but there are still bargains to be found in central London. It could be as much as 10% less than the going rate which is vital for first time buyers or present a good investment opportunity.” Former housing association flats in sought-after Shepherd’s Bush and Hampstead were recently listed at auction for £350,000 each. A flat in Kensington owned by Hammersmith & Fulham Council was sold at auction for £490,000 in March this year, some £35,000 below expected. The average London house price has boomed to £592,763, reported Rightmove, while the UK average is at £184,464, according to Halifax figures in May. Savills reported that London house price rises were expected to average out at around 15% for 2014 with the market slowing down significantly in 2015. “It is still an upward surge but you can find bargains if you are prepared to stretch your search and research what is on offer,” adds Sam. “If you go direct through traditional estate agents you can get sucked into the bubble where you are only looking at properties with price tags that seem to keep rising even while you are looking around them. It is so satisfying finding a property for a first time buyer and knowing that sleuthing down something they can afford has helped them get on the ladder and build a future. A lot of people – property investors, high wealth individuals and bargain hunters – have succumbed to the feeling that there is little hope of value in London and that they will have to pay over the odds and hope the market continues to rise. I’ve proved that, providing you are prepared to look hard and see potential, you can find a property that will work for you and be a good investment.” For more information www.ultimateconnexionsmayfair.co.uk

I specialise in finding the right place for the right person at the right price.

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Wishing you seasonal greetings and all the best in 2015


FOOD & DRINK

PRIMROSE’S KITCHEN PRESENTS

A CHRISTMAS HAMPER FULL OF GOODIES!

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or the first time this Christmas Primrose’s Kitchen is now offering a luxury Christmas Hamper, full of delicious goodies, fit for the most health-conscious among us. The hamper includes a trio of Raw Nut Butters: Organic Raw Almond and Hemp butter, Organic Raw Almond and Chia butter and Organic Raw 5 Seed Butter. Also included are the award-winning Raw Vegetable Muesli’s, Raw Carrot, Apple and Cinnamon Muesli and Raw Beetroot and Ginger Muesli, perfect for a healthy Christmas morning. The hamper is made from recycled cardboard and the stuffing is recycled shredded paper – an eco friendly hamper. Primrose Kitchen creates natural food products following the naturopathic principles: be natural, eat natural, live natural. With increased awareness of the chemicals and preservatives added to many foods in this day and age Primrose’s Kitchen offers a natural alternative that doesn’t compromise on taste! Naturopathic Nutrition stresses the use of whole and organic foods as medicine - an integral concept of healing in many indigenous societies. Today, we see that a return to chemical-free foods, along with other dietary measures, is an effective answer to many health complaints and common conditions. Primrose Matheson, founder of Primrose’s Kitchen, has a background in Naturopathic and Complementary health studies and uses her knowledge of a balanced body to design natural and wholesome food.

We’ve had lots of requests for Christmas hampers and we’re now really happy to be able to offer one which includes our award-winning muesli and our newly launched range of Raw Nut Butters. This Christmas we really wanted to stand out and offer not only delicious, healthy products but really think about the ethics behind the packaging. We decided to use all recycled materials for the hamper itself and also ensure that it could be reused too. So have yourself an ethical Christmas this year!” comments Primrose, Founder of Primrose’s Kitchen

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HAMPER GOODIES Organic Raw 5 Seed Butter The Primrose’s Kitchen Raw 5 Seed Butter is a delicious, organic, raw seed butter with pumpkin, sunflower, linseed, chia and hemp. It is super green and super delicious as well as being Gluten free, Sesame free and Dairy free.

Organic Raw Almond and Hemp butter + Organic Raw Almond and Chia butter The raw nut butters have been created for using in baking, adding to dressings or to be spread on toast. Almonds are the nut of choice as they are alkalising in your body and combined with hemp or chia seeds make the perfect high protein snack rich in minerals such as magnesium and calcium.

Raw Carrot, Apple and Cinnamon Muesli 400g

Gold Star winner at Great Taste Awards 2013 Delicious gluten free oats with fresh carrot and balancing cinnamon together with a balanced combination of nuts and seeds as well as extra love in the form of chia seeds and psyllium husks. Products are gluten and wheat free. Allergy information: Contains nuts.

Raw Beetroot and Ginger Muesli 400g

Gold winner at Taste of the West Awards 2012, Gold Star winner at Great Taste 2013 Delicious gluten free oats with fresh beetroot and zingy ginger together with a balanced combination of nuts and seeds as well as extra love in the form of milk thistle seeds, and hemp. Products are gluten and wheat free. Allergy information: Contains nuts.

The muesli consists of delicious gluten free oats with fresh vegetables together with a balanced combination of nuts and seeds as well as extra love in the form of milk thistle seeds, and chia seeds. The muesli is slowly dehydrated at low temperatures to maintain every bit of goodness. The muesli’s embody the traditional flavours of Christmas with Ginger and Cinnamon, perfect for a healthy Christmas breakfast that will set you up for the day’s festivities.


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FEATURE

ROSEWOOD H

LONDON

oused in the original headquarters of the Pearl Assurance Company, Rosewood London opened in October 2013 marking the ultra-luxury hotel group, Rosewood Hotel & Resorts presence in Europe. Within only a year, Rosewood London has made its name known by achieving six accolades, including ‘Best New Hotel in the World 2014’ by Telegraph’s Ultratravel and ‘Hotel of the Year London 2014/2015’ at the AA Hospitality Awards. Following a £85 million refurbishment which sensitively transformed the Edwardian Belle Époque building, the magnificent Grade II-listed features, including the grand Pavonazzo marble staircase which rises up through all seven storeys of the hotel beneath a 166-foot cupola, have been painstakingly restored. Tony Chi & Associates and Martin Brudinziki have exquisitely designed the stylish interior to resemble the grand traditions of a British manor house, making the hotel feel more akin to a private residence than a hotel. On arrival, guests are taken through impressive wrought-iron gates into the original Edwardian carriageway, which lead to the grand courtyard. Providing a unique arrival experience and making it the perfect start to a memorable stay. The hotel’s central location on High Holborn makes it the perfect choice for those coming to the capital for pleasure or business. The City is close by, while attractions such as Covent Garden, the British Museum, the Royal Opera House, West End theatres as well as world-class galleries are all just a short walk away. Lamb’s Conduit Street is also nearby and offers a colourful array of independent boutiques for shoppers. Rosewood London presents some of the capital’s most conversational cuisine. An ideal destination for romantic dinners or afternoon tea, there’s an assortment of culinary experiences to suit everyone. Whether you fancy a classic British dish with a twist in the bustling brasserie Holborn Dining Room. Moments from the West End, Holborn Dining Room offers a pre and post theatre menu, making it the perfect dinner destination to top off a special theatre outing. Another dining option is Scarfes Bar. Named after the renowned British artist and caricaturist Gerald Scarfe, Gerald’s

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artwork adorns the marble walls and the collection of cosy velvet armchairs, 1,000 antique books and roaring fire create the atmosphere of a drawing room with the sophistication of a gentleman’s club. The lunch menu is served between noon and 3:30pm. Culinary delights include the Scarfes Club Sandwich and Lobster Macaroni and Cheese to name a few. In the evening a range of bar snacks and light dishes are served. The creative menu of cocktails, complimentary live jazz and the recently launched, bi-weekly cabaret evenings on Sundays offering a heady cocktail of dance, acrobatics, singing and close-up magic, bringing a touch of mayhem to ‘Midtown’ makes Scarfes Bar a must-visit. The stunning Mirror Room, tucked away in the heart of Rosewood London is the social hub of the hotel, offering innovative, elegant dining and afternoon tea. The tradition of British tea is taken to new heights with the opulent jewel box design and floor to ceiling mirrors. The Mirror Room has recently launched a new series of afternoon tea events, in collaboration with the West End’s brightest stars, where you can indulge in a spot of afternoon tea whilst learning more about life on stage. For those looking for a pampering, Rosewood London’s Sense Spa is available to hotel and non-hotel guests. Featuring bamboo walls, soft lighting and wooden walkways over rippling water and pebble stones, Sense Spa is the epitome of style and tranquillity. Facials, massages and many other indulgent treatments using chemical free skincare range Sodashi products are on offer. Exclusive to Rosewood London, Sense Spa is the only spa in London to use the luxurious Sodashi products. The 262 rooms and 44 suites including 8 signature suites, referred to as ‘houses’, have been crafted from the finest materials and appointed to the highest standard. The Grand Manor House Wing, one of London’s most exclusive residences, welcomes guests with its own private entrance and lift and is the only suite in the world to possess its very own postcode!

THE DETAILS For booking enquiries contact rosewoodhotels.com/london or 020 7781 8888.


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FOOD & DRINK

THE MOST WONDERFUL TIME OF THE YEAR

Christmas at Lancashire Court

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hristmas is just around the corner and three fabulous venues off the cobbles of Lancashire Court – Mews of Mayfair, Mayfair Pizza Co. and Cartizze – are pulling out all the stops for a fabulous festive season. CHRISTMAS PIZZAS AT MAYFAIR PIZZA CO. Mayfair Pizza Co. famously served Sweet Pizzas (chocolate calzone, anyone?). Then they did Bloody Pizzas inspired by the famous hangover healer. Now they’ve turned their attention to Christmas Pizzas for the silly season: try the Christmas Pudding Pizza served flaming at the table and made with Christmas pudding, custard brandy and redcurrant compote; or the Christmas Dinner Pizza laden with pulled turkey, pigs-in-blankets, chestnut stuffing, roast potatoes, root vegetables, redcurrant compote and bread sauce. Seasonal slices indeed! www.mayfairpizzaco.com JOLLY HOLLY CHRISTMAS AT CARTIZZE The mixology maestros behind the bar at beautiful bellini bar Cartizze have worked their magic to create the Jolly Holly Christmas cocktail for seasonal sipping. Sure to have connoisseurs teetering vicariously on their way out, the cocktail is made with holly- and vanilla-infused vodka, King’s Ginger Liqueur, Somerset Cider Brandy and Agave Nectar dusted with torched cinnamon. The glass, meanwhile, is

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garnished with a single sprig of holly for extra pizzazz. It’s Christmas in a glass. www.cartizzebar.com SEASONAL SUPPERS AT MEWS OF MAYFAIR Welcome winter with open arms by indulging in the new menu from the first-floor brasserie at Mews: autumnal dishes like Crown Prince pumpkin soup, Highlands red deer and grey mullet with potato dumpling are as hearty as they are homely. Or try the venison burger – dubbed the ‘Bambi Bambi’ burger by the press – served with gin and redcurrant chutney in a glossy brioche bun. Cosy and comforting. www.mewsofmayfair.com GOURMET GIFTS Give the gift of gourmet this Christmas with a voucher redeemable at any of the above. Available from £50 to £150, you’re sure to give foodie friends a fabulous time! Alternatively, opt for £25 voucher for a pizza-making masterclass at Mayfair Pizza Co., a £30 voucher for a cocktail-making masterclass at Cartizze, or a £550 voucher for the chance of being chef for a day in the Mews of Mayfair kitchen, inclusive of a threecourse lunch. Mews of Mayfair 10 Lancashire Court, New Bond Street, London W1S 1EY @mewsofmayfair www.mewsofmayfair.com



FOOD & DRINK

WINE EXPERT SEES DOUBLE WITH LAUNCH OF SECOND WINE SCHOOL An award-winning wine educator is ripening plans for success north of the Thames, after opening a sister company to London’s leading wine school.

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immy Smith, the founder of West London Wine School - an independent wine company offering fun, informal, educational events – has launched North London Wine School to cater for growing demand for introductory wine courses, specialist wine tastings, and private and corporate occasions for local wine lovers. Tastings are set to take place within the spacious rooms of the refurbished Kilburn Library on Cotleigh Road, West Hampstead, NW6 2NP. Built in 1901, the ‘old’ library is a beautiful building with lots of light and space, making it a perfect venue for wine tasting evenings, and just a 10 minute walk from West Hampstead Jubilee Line Tube Station. Tickets for all upcoming events are now on sale at www. northlondonwineschool.com and the first introductory wine tasting will be held on Friday, 23rd January at 7pm. Tastings are also available to buy as gift vouchers for Christmas and birthdays. Jimmy, from Chiswick, launched West London Wine School five years ago, and it has since been listed by Time Out Magazine, Decanter magazine and wine critic Jancis Robinson as one of the best places to learn about wine in London. The school has developed a strong client base, with companies such as Marks & Spencer, The Connaught Hotel, Wine Rack, Camino Restaurants and pub chain Mitchells & Butlers frequently booking tastings and in-house wine courses. Jimmy said: “The past five years have been excellent, with growth every year from day one. It’s been a challenge, as demand has been so high – but we have grown to meet it. West London Wine School is now so full that we believed

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it was time for a new adventure. Life is too short to drink bad wine, so come on down and discover what you really should be drinking. It’s going to be as fun and informative as West London Wine School, eventually growing into the big shoes of London’s leading wine school.” North London Wine School has also been approved by the Wine and Spirit Education Trust (WSET) to deliver its Level 1 – 3 awards. The courses are hugely popular and Jimmy was nominated as WSET Riedel Wine Educator of the Year in 2012. Jimmy added: “We’re continuing to see growing amounts of people enrol on our WSET courses, and we’re looking forward to delivering the same high standards in our North London school. Outside of WSET, our most impressive growth has been with our Fine Wine Tastings for which we are quickly becoming wellknown for, hosting tastings such as 8 Decades of Huet (1934-2007), Mouton-Rothschild vertical (1985-2006), 6 Decades of Vina Real Rioja (1959-2005).” The North and West London schools are both part of the successful and rapidly expanding www. localwineschool.com family - a UK-wide network of more than 20 independent wine schools. THE DETAILS For further information about North London Wine School, visit www.northlondonwineschool.com, email info@northlondonwineschool.com or call Jimmy on 020 8123 3352. Follow @NorthLondonWine on Twitter and like North London Wine School on Facebook.



FOOD & DRINK

THE PENFOLDS COLLECTION CONTINUES 170 YEARS OF WINEMAKING Penfolds is delighted to announce the first release of The Penfolds Collection, which includes twelve wines spanning five vintages (2010-2014).

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he wines from this collection are instantly recognisable amongst wine collectors, with a strong, distinctive, individual style and a superb track record of cellaring performance. Leading this release is the 2010 Grange, the 60th consecutive release of Australia’s most celebrated wine from one of the most notable vintages in recent decades. Formerly released as the Bin Series and the Icon and Luxury Collection, the new release means the wines of The Penfolds Collection are more readily available to be shipped in the cooler weather and available to consumers in the runup to key festive periods including Christmas, Chinese New Year and Easter. This collection displays the distinctive and consistently recognisable Penfolds ‘House Style’ – the ultimate expression of the time-honoured Penfolds tradition of sourcing the best fruit from the best regions. The wines ably demonstrate Penfolds expertise with single and multiregional blending, making wines to style and pursuing the highest of quality benchmarks. The 2010 Grange marks the 60th consecutive vintage of this once experimental wine that delivers a powerful expression of the Penfolds multi-vineyard, multi-district, blending philosophy. Outstanding vintage conditions produced fruit with excellent colour, concentrated flavour development and integrated tannins resulting in a fitting release for this significant anniversary. “A kaleidoscopic sensorial unfolding!” says Gago of the wine. “Worth the wait – after a one decade deliberation this wine strenuously asserts Grange’s positioning in the new millennium!” Other highlights include the 30th consecutive release of the sleek and elegant 2012 Magill Estate Shiraz. “Sadly, this monopole’s 5.2 ha of Shiraz vines delivers only a finite offering – if only we could make more!” said Gago. Twenty years after its launch, the Reserve Bin A Adelaide Hills Chardonnay from the 2013 vintage continues to push the boundaries of contemporary winemaking providing an intriguing counterpoint to the multi-regional, yet classically proportioned Yattarna. The quality of this collection is testament to the full winemaking team’s expertise and experience. Senior White

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Winemaker Kym Schroeter, instrumental in ensuring the quality of the white wines, has again shown his proficiency with this release. Under the leadership of Peter Gago and Steve Lienert, the winemaking team in conjunction with a highly experienced and dedicated team of viticulturalists and grape growers, continue to honour the traditional winemaking values while maintaining Penfolds spirit of experimentation and innovation. The Penfolds Collection is available at fine wine stores nationwide, including Berry Bros. & Rudd, Bibendum, Corney & Barrow, Cru World Wine, Farr Vintners, Harrods, Hedonism, Justerini & Brooks, Lay & Wheeler, Majestic, Nicolas, Spirited Wines, The Wine Society and Vindemia.

THE PENFOLDS COLLECTION INCLUDES

RRP 2010 Grange

£460.00

2012 Yattarna

£110.00

2012 Bin 707 Cabernet Sauvignon

£250.00

2012 RWT Barossa Valley Shiraz

£110.00

2012 Magill Estate Shiraz

£105.00

2011 St Henri Shiraz

£70.00

2013 Reserve Bin A Adelaide Hills Chardonnay

£70.00

2012 Bin 389 Cabernet-Shiraz

£50.00

2012 Bin 407 Cabernet Sauvignon

£50.00

2012 Bin 150 Marananga Shiraz

£50.00

2012 Bin 28 Kalimna® Shiraz

£23.00

2014 Bin 51 Eden Valley Riesling

£22.00

*RRPs reflect 750ml bottles.

THE DETAILS For more information visit the website at www.penfolds.com



FOOD & DRINK

THE GEORGIAN TOWNHOUSE IN SOHO CELEBRATING

LA VIE EN ROSE FROM DAWN TO DUSK Recent visitors exploring L’Escargot include Marianne Faithfull, Sam Smith, Jonathan Saunders, Matthew Williamson, Robert Eglund, Sandi Toksvig, Nigel Havers, Peter Blake, David Jason, Christopher Biggins and David Schwimmer.

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f walls could talk, L’Escargot which dates back to 1927, would fill Soho with stories of the many visitors who have descended on London’s oldest French restaurant. Regarded by many as a place to celebrate life whilst enjoying typical French cuisine, Coco Chanel was an early visitor; L’Escargot today has a new look revitalising the old spirit of the place. Oliver Lesnick’s menu draws on a bourgeois style and dishes in the restaurant include Pissaladière, Le spatchcock, Côte de veau, Lobster bisque, steak tartare, steak frites, Confit de canard and of course les escargots! The restaurant’s Carte des Vins features wines from various French regions including Burgundy, Loire, Bordeaux, Beaujolais and Rhône amongst others. The restaurant located on the ground floor is open for lunch and dinner served from midday until midnight. A theatre menu is also available and Sunday lunch is served until 4pm each weekend. The pooch friendly restaurant welcomes well behaved dogs and even offers them complimentary meals at lunchtime and weekends. With such an enviable Georgian townhouse and extensive members club experience, Laurence Isaacson and Brian Clivaz unveiled ‘Upstairs at L’Escargot’ in the autumn of 2014. The new members club across two floors includes a private dining room on the first floor with wonderful views of Soho - The Salon Vert. The top floor is a creative kaleidoscope of

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rooms each with its own identity, all different in size and ideal spots to meet with friends and family and entertain from 8am until 1am. Le Salon Noir with its London’s skylight offers members the opportunity oldest French resta to watch the sun and later the stars urant was completely re over Soho. Le Salon Rouge, Le Salon furbished in 2014 under new owners Laurence Violet and Le Salon Bleu complete Isaacson and Br the collection of spaces reserved ian Clivaz for members. An all day menu Head Chef Oliv * * * er Lesnick has de is available and Wi-Fi access vised a menu based on typica l French cuisine included throughout. Membership , bourgeois in style including Lo bster bisque, steak is priced from £365 per year and tartare, steak frites, duck defined by friendliness with the confit & snails * * * owners who walk the restaurant ‘Upstairs at L’Esca rgot’, London’s daily meeting diners, members are newest Club Privé encouraged to have a liberal attitude was launched in September 20 to the arts and sciences. 14 Celebrate La Vie en Rose at L’Escargot in the heart of Soho or celebrate en Rouge, Violet, Vert, Bleu, Noir... THE DETAILS For more information about L’Escargot, 48 Greek Street, Soho, London W1D 4EF call 020 7439 7474 or visit the website www.lescargotrestaurant.co.uk


THE FESTIVE SEASON IN MAYFAIR

Located in the heart of Mayfair, the London Marriott Hotel Grosvenor Square has sparkling festive packages suitable for any corporate and social Christmas celebration for 20 – 550 guests in the Westminster Ballroom or Mayfair Suite. Choose from our Silver, Gold or Platinum package, with optional extras to create the truly bespoke and unique experience you’re looking for from £60 per person. Contact our dedicated Christmas Event Manager for further details on 020 7514 1512.

London Marriott Hotel Grosvenor Square, London W1K 6JP MarriottGrosvenorSquare.com For hotel bookings T: 020 7493 1232 Freephone: 0800 221222

For Luggage Room reservations T: 020 7514 1507 E: info@LuggageRoom.co.uk

2014 Festive Brochure can be downloaded from the hotel website. All rates quoted include VAT.


FEATURE

QUINTA DO LAGO FIVE-STAR GOLFING FEAST

Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the Ria Formosa Natural Park, the prestigious Quinta do Lago resort has long held a reputation for delivering the best that the Algarve has to offer.

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ocated just 15 minutes from Faro airport, the awardwinning venue – which sits within a 2,000 acre estate – offers the ideal setting for a relaxing getaway, whether it be a golf break with your friends, a long weekend with a loved one or a family holiday. With an abundance of first-class golf and leisure facilities to suit all ages, Quinta do Lago has it all and, when the region’s famous fine climate and healthy lifestyle are thrown into the mix – the Algarve enjoys more than 3,000 hours of sunshine each year - it’s easy to see why the resort continues to be regarded as Europe’s number one family destination. Quinta do Lago has been at the forefront of golf on the continent since its inception in 1972 and boasts three worldclass championship golf courses: Laranjal – named Portugal’s Best Golf Course in 2011 – the South Course and its eagerlyawaited, redeveloped North Course.

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Taking pride of place at Quinta do Lago this autumn, the North Course was officially unveiled by victorious European Ryder Cup captain Paul McGinley alongside renowned American golf architect Beau Welling in October. One of the most talked-about design projects in Europe in 2014 – it was named as ‘Europe’s Best New Golf Course’ at last month’s 1st World Golf Awards – the new-look layout has been redeveloped at a considerable cost and is a perfect illustration of Quinta do Lago’s philosophy and desire to adapt and change to meet the needs of the modern-day golfer. In line to become the new number one course at the resort and part of a significant investment programme that has been undertaken since 2009, the North Course has been revamped with the emphasis firmly on precision and strategy. While many modern-day developments tend to focus on length, Welling and McGinley have been keen to create a


golfing experience where accuracy and course management are the key factors, and a course that is playable and fun for golfers of all abilities. A favourite among European Tour professionals, Quinta do Lago’s South Course calls for accurate drives and precise shots, something, I’m afraid, I only managed with varying degrees of success. Regularly included in Golf World magazine’s ‘Top 100 Golf Courses in Europe’ and named as ‘Portugal’s Best Golf Course’ award at the World Golf Awards, the par-72 layout has received widespread praise for its strategically-placed hazards and varying difficulty across the 18 holes. Having hosted the Portuguese Open on no fewer than eight occasions, it is little surprise that it’s renowned as one of Portugal’s premier golfing venues. Built on an old orangery and opened six years ago, Laranjal provides a pure golfing experience in a picture-perfect setting. The personal favourite of McGinley, who has been a regular visitor to the resort for more than 20 years, don’t be fooled by Laranjal’s gentle opening holes as it is a serious test for players of all levels, with lightning-fast giant-sized greens and a plethora of Augusta-style bunkers among the many highlights. Complementing Quinta do Lago’s three championship courses are an extensive range of golf practice facilities

including a Paul McGinley Golf Academy – the only one its kind in the world – a state-of-the-art TaylorMade Performance Center and new short game area. For the young, there’s also as a new mini-golf course which features replicas of nine of the world’s most iconic golf holes and, away from the fairways, there is plenty to keep everyone occupied, with events, tennis, cycling and watersports just some of the extensive leisure activities available. Quinta do Lago’s great location by the beach provides the perfect place to relax and unwind. Guests can take advantage of the fresh Mediterranean produce that the resort has become famous for at its wide array of restaurants including Casa do Lago, Casa Velha and the newest addition to the gastronomic portfolio, The Shack, a unique lakeside location which is ideal for a lazy lunch, an early evening drink or light evening meal. There’s no shortage of quality accommodation options either for your stay, with Quinta do Lago offering a selection of luxury private villas and four and five-star hotels to choose from, including the impressive Monte da Quinta complex, the base for our stay, making the resort a must on your list of places to visit and a destination not to be missed. www.quintadolago.com

Winner of ‘Europe’s Best New Golf Course’ at 1st World Golf Awards

BEAU WELLING (LEFT) AND PAUL MCGINLEY AT THE NORTH COURSE OPENING

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

Salon de Parfums at Harrods

www.harrods.com

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FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

SALON DE PARFUMS A SANCTUARY OF SCENT at The world’s most famous department store has opened a new haven for fragrance connoisseurs: Salon de Parfums, showcasing the world’s finest and rarest scents alongside bespoke perfume and personalisation services. An Elegant Composition

“An Immersive Fragrance Experience”

As the debut department on the store’s Sixth Floor, the Salon de Parfums has been designed to create a more intimate retail experience. Eleven luxurious brand boutiques are home to some of the world’s leading fragrance houses: Kilian, Chanel, Clive Christian, Creed, Dior, Ex Nihilo, Guerlain, Henry Jacques, Roja Dove Haute Parfumerie, Tom Ford and Xerjoff. A fragrance gallery stocks a selection of scents chosen for their ability to excite the senses of the most discerning perfume buyers. This includes brands such as Thomas Kosmala, a world exclusive, and Liquides Imaginaires and Dead of Night – both UK exclusives, as well as fragrances from brands including Dolce & Gabbana, Elie Saab and Bond No.9, which you will only find at Harrods.

Mia Collins, Head of Beauty at Harrods, says: “The launch of the Salon de Parfums on the Sixth Floor is a landmark addition to Harrods’ perfumery portfolio. Visitors can enjoy a curated selection of the world’s finest fragrance brands. “A growing appreciation for fine fragrance and a greater interest in individuality inspired us to develop a unique perfumery concept. The Salon de Parfums is a fragrance experience without parallel.”

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THE DETAILS Harrods 87-135 Brompton Road, Knightsbridge, London, SW1X 7XL Twitter: @Harrods #HarrodsParfums #SalondeParfums Instagram: @Harrods #HarrodsParfums #SalondeParfums www.harrods.com


SHORT COURSES CENTRAL SAINT MARTINS Online Weekends Daytime Evenings Bespoke training Courses for under 19s Dual city and Study abroad Art, Design, Fashion and Performance www.arts.ac.uk

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FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

GIFT PERFECTION WITH EVERY CHOICE Last week, I found myself on a family shopping day in St. John’s Wood and it turned out to be a wonderful experience, full of hidden delights.

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lways being the sort of “I need some exciting pieces to add to my wardrobe” kind of girl, I found tailored inspiration at Apostrophe....for the part of me that always aspired to look as chic as my French counterparts... and in Viva there were elegant coats by Max Mara and Burberry...while across the street in Joseph I bought my favourite stretch trousers and found Cruise collections with pieces by Alexander Wang and Puccini in lovely pastels that made me instantly feel the warmth of summer so I wandered into Intimates and found bikinis, costumes and kaftans by Missoni and Melissa Odabash. With my children in happy tow we lingered into @ Ben’s where they have an amazing collection of children’s wear from babies up to the fashion savvy teenager. I found the cosiest and warmest Moncler jackets and coats. The men have not been left out and over the road in Bruno my husband was thrilled to find the luxurious Italian collections by Brioni, Canali and amongst other ranges Gallotti. For gifts for the home, St. John’s Wood Interiors have a stunning collection of photo frames, leather trays, silver bowls, dishes and vases while at Cecelia Coleman Galleries you can find individually crafted glass wear and ceramics. So many gift ideas and even more at Snappy Snaps where

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they will personalise your gift and instantly transform your favourite image of your family, dog or even a car into a cushion or a mug - almost anything you could think of. At Natures Healing Garden, the staff offered me some of the best advice in adopting a healthy lifestyle and their stock of magic potions will ensure that Christmas will not leave me feeling exhausted. Just to be on the safe side I stocked up with Veil Mineral Primer by Hourglass at Space NK. Happily help was at hand in Panzers with their wonderful deli, and an array of Christmas Hampers, delicious smoked salmon and a large selection of international food all offered with home delivery. Then there was Kent The Butchers with their array of Turkeys, Goose, Duck and all the usual meats of an exceedingly high quality, needless to say delivered to your door! One look in the mirror and I ran over the road to Josh Altback just in time for a new up do after which my stomach called for nourishment... The Duke of York with their cosy warming pub food, Sahara for delicious Lebanese food or Harry Morgan for a Salt Beef sandwich, decisions decisions. That’s it Christmas dealt with ... Job done!



FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

Michael Platt G O L D S M I T H

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SPECIALIST IN BESPOKE JEWELLERY

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ichael Platt, Goldsmith & Jeweller opened at 1 Church Road, Wimbledon Village SW19 in 1991 - it’s a welcoming friendly boutique Jewellers, full of fabulous dazzling treasures. Much of the jewellery is made on site in their own workshop visible from the shop. The jewellery is creative, individual, unique and extremely wearable. Well known and established for providing a very caring and personal bespoke service, they work closely with customers to create hand-crafted jewellery suited to individual taste and budget. Detailed restoration and repair work, as well as jewellery valuations are also undertaken on site. Bespoke or not? Yes very definitely, its far easier than you can imagine and so rewarding. Michael Platt delight in working directly with their customers, guiding them through the bespoke process from start to finish, bringing their ideas to life. Commissioning a bespoke item gives the customer a rare opportunity to take part in creating a truly original piece of jewellery that reflects the personality of the individual. A very unique piece of jewellery to celebrate a special time, a memorable event or capture a moment, once given is never forgotten and will always mean so much. An in-house designer and working Goldsmith will be hands on designing and making the jewellery. Customers often bring in their own amazing sketched ideas and doodles, formed from flashes of inspiration which, once the essence of the idea and dream have been captured, lead the talented team to create perfect designs. Whether working on a new piece or the redesign of dated, worn out or inherited jewellery, it is a truly exciting journey that does not need to be complex or necessarily expensive.

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The process begins with an informal exchange of ideas, preferences, stones and, of course, budget. On the return visit, customers are presented with a selection of hand drawn or 3D computer modelled designs, to discuss and choose from and, if needed, a variety of gorgeous gemstones or diamonds to select from. Customers are encouraged to be involved at every stage, much like a dress design and fitting, and can return to view the progression of their item during its ‘making’ journey. Traditional hand-crafted methods are used in the on site workshop to create a bespoke piece of jewellery. This can start with freely hand carving the item in wax to be cast in the chosen precious metal. Once the item is formed, it will be quite ‘rough’. It is then cleaned, refined and polished and goes to the London Assay Hall for Hallmarking. The final workshop process is the setting of stones - a fine, delicate and precise process. The end pleasure for the team is when the customer collects the finished item with a loud ‘WOW’! If you think a bespoke piece of jewellery is right for you or for someone special in your life, do pop into Michael Platt; there is no charge for an initial consultation or drawings. With just a little extra thought and effort, along with expert professional input from Michael Platt, an outstanding exceptional piece of jewellery for that special person can be created - a future family heirloom! THE DETAILS Michael Platt Goldsmith & Jewellers No 1 Church Road, Wimbledon, London SW19 5DW Telephone: 020 8947 4772 Email: info@michaelplatt.co.uk www.michaelplatt.co.uk


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FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

DERMATOLOGIST, DR ARIEL HAUS INTRODUCES

TRINITI 3 HIGH-TECH FACIAL SKIN TREATMENTS IN 1 SESSION Triniti improves tone, texture, lines and skin firmness in one transforming treatment, minus the down time! Non-invasive, effective and providing continuous results...

before treatment

after treatment

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razilian Dermatologist, Dr Ariel Haus explains the features of Triniti, which is a technologically advanced laser skin treatment which combines three of today’s most effective technologies for colour correction, fine lines and deep wrinkles to achieve flawless skin. The 3 treatment technologies of the Triniti feature combined bi-polar radio frequency and light energies, which heat tissue within the targeted treatment area to stimulate improvement within the skin. Dr Haus will create a personalised treatment plan designed for each patient’s skin needs but significant visible improvement can be seen over a course of 3-5 treatments. Dr Haus says, “Being able to offer my patients the ultimate skin technology of Triniti allows them the opportunity to walk away with skin that they only remembered from their youth. It gives me great pleasure to see the difference in not just their outer appearance but their inner confidence too; they step out of my clinic with a bounce in their step.” EACH TRINITI TREATMENT SESSION INCLUDES Colour Correction treats spider veins, age spots, uneven skin tone and sun damaged skin. Firmness - ReFirme Targets the telltale signs of aging, including jowl & neck sagginess, under eye droopiness,

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before treatment

after treatment

sagging brow lines and nasolabial folds (the lines that run from nose to outer corners of the mouth). Wrinkles - Matrix IR Fractional Wrinkle Treatment treats lines and wrinkles and improves the skin texture – skin becomes smoother with increased elasticity. WHAT’S THE ‘OUCH FACTOR’? Topical anesthetic cream is applied prior to treatment to ensure no discomfort and most patients undergo the procedure and return to normal activities post treatment. WHO CAN HAVE THE TREATMENT? Triniti is safe and effective for most skin types and colours. HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE? The treatment is 40-60 minutes per session for the face plus 15-30 minutes extra if the neck area is treated. HOW MANY SESSIONS WOULD I NEED? Each patient has differing needs, but typically three to five sessions spaced three to four weeks apart are required for optimum results. THE DETAILS Dr Ariel Haus - 10 Harley Street, London W1G 9PF 020 7323 6559 www.drhausdermatology.com


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STEP FORWARD with confidence...

Do your legs let you down because of varicose veins or thread veins? Now is the perfect time to do something about them so that you can look forward to 2015 with confidence.

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Book a mini-consultation today If you would like to find out more about your treatment options for varicose veins or thread veins please call 01223 305858 or visit www.michaelgaunt.com for more information

Mr Michael Gaunt Consultant Vascular Surgeon Varicose and Thread Veins

Consultant vascular surgeon Michael Gaunt speacialises in varicose veins and thread veins in Harley Street. He is a leading venous expert, experienced in treating varicose veins with both the Endovenous Laser and ClariVein techniques. Varicose veins are often considered a cosmetic condition but if neglected can result in complications. Minimally invasive local anesthetic procedures can be used to treat varicose veins on a walk in, walk out basis.

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FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

GENTLEMEN’S GROOMING at t h e B u l g a r i S pa , L o n d o n

An unrivalled collection of treatments for the discerning gentlemen

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he Spa at Bulgari Hotel & Residences, London is delighted to introduce Gentlemen’s Grooming, providing a collection of treatments, products and experiences for discerning gentlemen to enjoy a grooming experience in discreet and comfortable surroundings. A specially curated menu of treatments dedicated to the modern man has been compiled to include shaving and barbering alongside treatments for the face and body. The private room dedicated to Gentlemen’s Grooming allows guests to feel comfortable and relaxed whilst experts are on hand to advise regarding male grooming routines, ensuring guests look and feel their best. The Gentlemen’s Signature experience combines men’s grooming with relaxation and pure pleasure. This signature luxury journey begins with a hair trim and styling, and finishes with a wet shave and the Barber’s expert advice to maintain hair and scalp. From the spa, guests will then be taken to the internationally renowned and multi awardwinning Edward Sahakian Cigar Shop and Sampling Lounge to experience a truly exceptional cigar along with a drink, expertly paired by the cigar sommelier. The Gentlemen’s Signature lasts 2.5 hours and is priced at £220. The dedicated menu incorporates Shaving & Barbering, Hair & Scalp, Face, Body along with Hand & Feet and Maintenance. Highlights include the Ultimate Barber Experience, which combines a haircut, wash, style, luxury wet shave, mini facial and scalp massage, lasting 90 minutes and priced at £150. The 20-minute Gentlemen’s Hair and Scalp Treatment is a unique and truly relaxing conditioning treatment using mineral Red Clay, suitable for all hair types and priced at £55. All male facials are specifically tailored to each guest and

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begin with a detailed consultation and in-depth skin analysis, using cutting edge technology to identify skin conditions not visible to the naked eye. The deep cleansing and purifying Swiss Perfection Men’s Skin Cleanse treatment is specific to men’s skin and is designed to soothe, purify and eliminate fatigue and promote a calm, fresh and youthful appearance. Tailored to ensure optimum skin rejuvenation for all ages, the treatment lasts 80-minutes and is priced at £550. The full body Renew & Revive experience starts with an all over body cleanse and exfoliation to eliminate dead skin cells, followed by a body envelopment and finishing with a relaxing massage with melting scalp treatment - 120 minutes and priced at £260. The 50-minute Gentleman’s Manicure includes a forearm muscle release and is priced at £50. A full range of maintenance treatments is also available, including waxing. Tel: 020 7151 1055 or email: london-pa@bulgarihotels.com THE BULGARI SPA Arranged over two levels of the Bulgari Hotel & Residences, London and measuring an impressive 2,000m², the Bulgari Spa is one of the largest and most exclusive urban retreats in the city centre. Complete with 11 individual treatment rooms, private spa suite for two, 25m swimming pool lined with shimmering green and gold mosaic tiles and gold leaf tiled vitality pool; the spa inspires complete relaxation and escapism from the busy world of Knightsbridge. As well as boasting state of the art facilities, the spa offers guests unique and effective treatments designed exclusively for Bulgari. www.bulgarihotels.com/london


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Martyn Maxey Hair & Beauty has arrived in Marylebone!

After 16 years of being based in Mayfair, the salon has relocated to the more central location of Wigmore Street within the shadow of Selfridges. Within a few months Picking up the award for Best Salon UK, at the Luxury and Lifestyle awards 2014/15, stolen from the grip of some of the best names in British Hairdressing. Building on Martyn’s impeccable reputation in British Hairdressing and many awards this is his best move so far; the clients love it! and are getting new Marylebone fans daily. Martyn has incorporated the Marylebone nail bar into the salon, where Katie and her fantastic manicure team can attend to all of the clients manicure and pedicure needs along with Shellac and Gel nails. The brand new salon has been designed with

all new LED low energy lighting, following a full salon 10 week design and fit by German company Olymp.The salon is cool and comfortable, on 2 floors, with a great location and high visibility the salon is already a great success.The full service Hair Salon offers Cutting, Blow drying, Colour, HiLighting, Micro-lites, Brazilian blow dry, Men’s hair, we have fixed rates for children up to 18. Or just drop in for our blow dry bar £25 or Try our special reader offer of Highlights and Cut & Blow dry for only £199 you’ll be glad you did! Salon is located opposite Selfridges at:Martyn Maxey Hair & Beauty 104 Wigmore Street Marylebone, London W1U3RN 020 7629 6161 www.martynmaxey.co.uk DECEMBER2014 133


FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

THE LABORATORY Winner of the UK Health Club of the Year Award

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uxury, style, space and elegance create the perfect environment to escape the many pressures of a hectic London life. Relaxation is essential to both the body and mind and the Laboratory Spa and Health Club provides a gateway to undisputed tranquillity. The Laboratory boasts an effortless and peaceful ambience in drawing you in and leaving you wanting more. Winner of the UK Health Club of the Year award 2012/13 (National Fitness Awards) and Voted Best Private Health Club and Spa in London by Time Out; ‘the Club exudes an air of sophistication that strikes you the minute you walk through the feng-shui lobby. The Lab offers a unique atmosphere rarely enjoyed in other clubs’. Innovative, motivational and led by some of the UK’s finest and most-respected fitness professionals, the Lab offers an unrivalled and envied timetable of group exercise classes to cater for every age, interest, and schedule. Schwinn cycling, BodyPump, salsa, aquatics, yoga, pilates, qi gong and so much more! Regular courses are also held, from meditation to Zumba and hula hooping workouts, pole-dancing and motivational talks. The Juice Bar is the ideal place to enjoy fresh and healthy snacks, and catch up with other members of the Club. Freshly made juices, home-made light meals and refreshments made from the highest quality ingredients make for a scrumptious menu. In each Club there is a spectacular 25 metre swimming pool. These beautiful award winning pools are cleansed with the latest UV light technology, ensuring the highest possible standards of hygiene with minimal levels of chlorine. This enables members to bathe in comfort in the finest water possible. Whether it’s a few gentle lengths

before a steam or serious lane swimming as part of your cardio-vascular workout, it’s heaven for anyone who enjoys a swim.Each pool area incorporates twin spa baths, a wonderful relaxation area, marble steam rooms and Scandinavian saunas to help completely unwind. The newly-refurbished treatment rooms are the perfect backdrop for the exceptional team of highly-qualified spa therapists and holistic therapists to deliver a broad range of exceptional treatments including facials, massage, body care therapies , hot stone and reflexology, to name but a few. The Laboratory Spa & Health Clubs are one of the few remaining independent, privately owned Clubs in London. The original flag-ship site opened in 1995 with the impressive backdrop of Alexandra Palace in Muswell Hill. The Club is surrounded by its own luscious and secluded gardens where you can sun-bathe or chill out in private. At The Laboratory, unlike most other clubs, there is no annual contract. Vas Hava, Director says “Our members stay with us because they value what we offer and love what we do. We provide an oasis of calm in a busy life. We aim to help you achieve your goals and increase your individual wellbeing. At the Lab you will be transported to a world of serenity, where muscle tension and the mind›s concerns simply melt away allowing you to emerge refreshed, balanced and energised.” Lab members have full use of all facilities. Non members are welcome to use our Day Spa. THE DETAILS For further information contact us on: 020 8457 3300 (Mill Hill) or 020 8482 3000 (Muswell Hill) Mill Hill: 1a Hall Lane, NW4 4TJ Muswell Hill: The Avenue N10 2QE www.labspa.co.uk

The Lab’s philosophy is to not just treat the body on its own, but the mind and soul as well. The Day Spa at The Lab is a haven of peace and calm that provides a chance to escape the stresses of daily life. 134 DECEMBER2014



FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

BACK PAIN

NEW TOOLS TO HELP IN THE DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT Many people suffer from back pain which impacts upon their daily life and activities

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ven though incidents of lumbago and sciatica are recorded as far back as Hippocrates, for the majority of patients the true cause of lower back pain remains a mystery. Such ambiguity is a direct reflection of the complex anatomy of the spine, where there are many pain-producing soft tissues, including the articular joints, corresponding nerves, ligaments and muscles.

SYMPTOMS Depending on the cause and structure involved, there can be many different symptoms for lower back pain: Pain and stiffness in the back. Referred pain in the buttocks and the legs. Pain that worsens when bending, stretching, coughing, or sneezing. Tingling, weakness or numbness that radiates from the lower back and into the buttocks and legs – especially with activity. Activities such as walking, twisting and bending may increase the pain. Other symptoms include a ‘pins and needles’ sensation, or tingling and difficulty moving or controlling the leg. Typically, symptoms only manifest on one side of the body. DIAGNOSIS There are many different conditions that can cause back pain, so a thorough medical history is performed as part of the examination. Important questions are asked to ascertain

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the source of the pain, and then a physical examination will be performed. Additional diagnostic tests for lower back pain include: X-ray – Provides information on the bones in the spine; used to test for spinal instability, tumors and fractures. MRI scan – Displays a detailed cross-section of the components of the spine.

A new diagnostic tool that has been added at The London Sports Injury Clinic is the Dorsavi ViMove software which through the use of sensors placed on the back allows the clinician to see and assess in real time. This information is also printed as a report with recommendations for exercises for rehabilitation and to strengthen weakened areas. A video of the ViMove assessment can be seen on our website at the page below www.thelondonsportsinjuryclinic.co.uk/ lower-back-pain.php

THE DETAILS For more information contact The London Sports Injury Clinic 0207 563 1234 | info@108harleystreet.co.uk www.108harleystreet.co.uk


108 Medical Chambers at 108 Harley Street is a consultant-led and delivered independent clinic offering the highest standards of professional care with a minimum of delay in relaxing and friendly surroundings.

MEDICAL CHAMBERS 108 HARLEY STREET LONDON WIG 7ET

The specialist clinics located at 108 Harley Street are:

The London Breast Clinic – Fully integrated breast care service for all benign and malignant disease with on site digital mammography, ultrasound, cytology and core biopsy allowing rapid diagnosis. Breast screening, genetic and family review also available on site. The London Skin Clinic – Experts offer same day consultation and surgery under local anaesthetic for conditions including melanoma, skin cancer, cysts and other benign lesions, together with diagnosis and treatment of general dermatological conditions. The Gilmore Groin and Hernia Clinic – Over 30 years’ experience of the diagnosis and treatment for sportsmen and sportswomen with Groin Disruption / Sportsman’s Groin (Gilmore’s Groin) and adductor injuries, together with herniae of all types both primary and recurrent. Both open and laparoscopic repair are available as appropriate. The London Rectal Clinic – Expert opinion and treatment of inflammatory bowel disease including ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease, malignant and benign disease of the colon and rectum including rectal bleeding, haemorrhoids, pilonidal sinus, fissure and fistula. Bowel cancer screening is also available. The London Sports Injury Clinic – A cutting edge, multidisciplinary service that specialises in non surgical solutions for sports and orthopaedic injuries. In addition the clinic focuses on human performance and wellness. “You don’t have to be a professional athlete to be treated like one”. 108 X-ray and Imaging – Rapid access to full field digital mammography, ultrasound and where appropriate needle aspiration cytology or core biopsy. A full range of plain film investigations, general ultrasound including abdominal, gynaecological and small part imaging. A full breast screening service is also available.

For more information visit: www.108harleystreet.co.uk Telephone

Facsimile

Email

Web

020 7563 1234

020 7563 1212

info@108harleystreet.co.uk

www.108harleystreet.co.uk


FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

GET SKI FIT HOW TO GET FIT FOR YOUR SKIING TRIP

I

f you want to seriously get into the sport, you need to make sure your skiing fitness is up to scratch. So, to make sure that you’re not left nursing aching muscles – or worse – after your first day careering down the slopes, check out our guide to getting ski-fit. Flying down the slopes all day on two narrow strips of fibreglass with only a pair of thin poles for support will place unique demands on your body. To cope with these demands, you’ll need to focus on the following three key areas for your training to boost your skiing fitness: SKIING STRENGTH Skiing demands specific training for improving your strength. The primary areas to focus on for skiing fitness strength are: Legs... Focusing on the quadriceps muscles at the fronts of the thighs is particularly important, because maintaining the correct skiing position means that the quadriceps will be loaded the whole time. Triceps... To maintain your balance when skiing, you will have to continually drive your ski poles back into the snow – and the specific muscles that facilitate this are the triceps at the back of the upper arms. Core muscles... Your core muscles will keep you upright and help you to balance. Without good core strength, you will have no control on the slopes.

CARDIOVASCULAR SKI FITNESS You won’t be running or moving forward under your own steam for most of the time when you’re skiing, but that doesn’t mean you won’t need good cardiovascular (CV) fitness. Skiing requires total body control in order to stay upright – and this will place a continual demand on your CV system as you employ every muscle group in order to remain balanced.

138 DECEMBER2014

FLEXIBILITY TRAINING If you’re flexible, you will have a good range of movement, which is extremely important when it comes to skiing fitness. Additionally, being flexible in the calves and Achilles tendons (at the backs of the lower legs) is vital, because your ski boots will force you to ‘hinge’ at the heel, thereby stretching both the calf and the Achilles in each leg. If you’re tight in either of these areas, your risk of injury will be much higher. HOW TO AVOID SKIING INJURIES The last thing that you want to do on your skiing holiday is get an injury – so the best thing to do is prepare your body correctly by building up your skiing fitness. For injury prevention, your main focus should be on flexibility training, particularly in the legs. As we have mentioned, the calves and Achilles tendons are important to your flexibility – but you should also ensure that you are loose and supple in the following two areas: Quadriceps (front of the thigh). Hamstrings (back of the thigh). However good your preparation is, though, one thing is certain when you go skiing: at some point or other, you’re going to fall over. So, to avoid common injuries such as broken collarbones, work on your all-round mobility as much as possible. This way you will be in control of your body, and so when you do fall over you will be able to position yourself quickly and easily – rather than be awkward and stiff in your movements – which will make you less liable to suffer an injury. Additionally, try to have a couple of sports massages as part of your après-ski routine, as these will flush out the waste products in your muscles from your day’s skiing and help to keep your muscles in tip-top condition throughout your holiday. Skiing is all about fun, and you certainly don’t have to be an elite athlete to enjoy the sport!


DECEMBER2014 139


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Seven of the best interior design trends DECEMBER2014 141


HOUSE & GARDEN

HAMPSTEAD

ANTIQUE & CRAFT F

EMPORIUM

or over 40 years the Emporium has been a popular destination for those in search of antique and vintage treasures from the 18th Century to the present. But how many locals realise that Hampstead is home to one of London’s last remaining indoor antique markets? Tucked behind one of Hampstead’s most picturesque turnings, just off Heath Street and Perrin’s Court, the Emporium is an intriguing labyrinth of over 20 specialists offering Georgian, Victorian, Art Nouveau, Art Deco, Mid-Century and Contemporary finds. Serious collectors and those searching for gifts or home accessories will be spoilt for choice. Where else could you find such a mind boggling range of antique and handcrafted artefacts from pearls to porcelain, dolls to door handles, paintings to pepper pots or tea sets to tiaras? Long-established shops include silver gift specialist Hammond Leigh – great for weddings, christenings and anniversaries; The Button Lady for unusual buttons and scarves plus Treasure which offers beautiful and original bespoke jewellery, a repair service and gifts. Capricorn is known for its fine small furniture, tea sets and crystal while The Antique Textiles Company is a must for exquisite antique quilts and textiles dating from as early as 1780 up to the 1930s. In recent times new dealers have increased the variety of quality items on offer. Jewellery lovers will be enthralled

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by the selection of fine period and vintage pieces at Minoo (M & A Kaae Jewellery) and Maryam. With Mid-Century style currently all the rage, head to The Modernist (1930 – 1970) for vintage George Jensen and other Scandinavian and American silver jewellery designers. Browse through a fabulous mix of period and vintage collectables, including antique silver, china, mirrors, porcelain, ceramics, glass and brass plus costume jewellery and accessories at Jean and Natasha Johnson. For a more contemporary look, visit Camilla Del Maestro’s sparkling array of handmade jewellery featuring semiprecious gems for inspiring avant- garde designs. For quality, cotton nightwear seek out Andrea Dreamtime. Not just a feast for the eyes, the Emporium is also home to Tania’s waffles and coffee! The dealers here are knowledgeable and friendly which makes a visit to the Emporium an interesting and welcoming experience.

Happy hunting! THE DETAILS Hampstead Antique & Craft Emporium, 12 Heath Street, London NW3 6TE (may also be accessed from Perrin’s Court) Tues to Fri 10.30am-5.30pm, Sat 10.00am-6.00pm, Sunday 10.30am-5.30pm Telephone 020 7794 3297 www.hampsteadantiqueemporium.co.uk


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HOUSE & GARDEN

7 BEST OF THE

A

ny proud homeowner knows that keeping your home looking its best is just as important as keeping yourself well-groomed. Redecorating your entire property can be costly in both time and funds, but subtle nods to the latest trends in interior design keep things looking and feeling fresh. TREND 1 TURQUOISE The pastels and beiges of previous seasons are being firmly placed to one side as we embracing richer jewel tones. Turquoise is undoubtedly the must-have colour of the year; if you don’t want to commit to a full feature wall in the colour, then consider adding some accessories such as cushions, throws or rugs to bring in the trend. Be sure to choose shades that are rich as opposed to more subtle tones - this look is all about opulence. TREND 2 MIXING TEXTURES The fashion world saw an explosion of texture, as

INTERIOR DESIGN TRENDS

over your curtain pole for a casual, bohemian look. TREND 4 OPULENT KITCHENS Minimalist kitchens were the height of interior fashion a few years ago, but simplicity takes a back seat in 2014 as glamour arrives on the menu. Don’t get glamour confused with gaudiness, however; this look is all about decorative, Easterninspired lighting, sparkling metals such as brass, and richly painted wood. Some quirky accessories such as ornate kettles and teapots add the perfect finishing touches for this trend. TREND 5 VINTAGE PIECES Tying in with the luxury that the other trends encompass, this season your home accessories should all have flair and originality. The best way to do this is by picking up vintage, oneoff pieces that nobody else is likely to have A vintage armoire or chaise longue are the ultimate statement pieces, but you can also achieve the look with smaller items such as a vintage clock on the mantelpiece or some vintage movie posters.

Here are the key interior trends that you may want to think about incorporating quilted fabrics and leather became big news. This trend seeps into the world of interior design. Leather cushions can be mixed with corduroy throws to add interest to your sofa, or add some excitement to the bedroom with blends of fur and satin. The key is to mix your textures to create an eclectic feel. TREND 3 SHEER DRAPES If you have read our blog post on how to make apartments look bigger, then you will know that light is an essential to making the most of your space. Luckily one of the most fashionable things you can do for your dwelling is to open up the space around your window by replacing heavy curtains with light, sheer fabrics. Choose sheer curtains or simply pick up some fabric from a local market to drape

144 DECEMBER2014

TREND 6 TRANSPARENT FURNITURE Certainly not a trend for the faint-hearted acrylic furniture is going to become big news in interiors. Fans of minimalism will adore the added space and light that transparent chairs and tables allows for in a room, while fashionistas will love the retro feel that it creates. If you’re not quite brave enough to go for full acrylic, then transparent legs on sofas or tables will create the same effect, though more subtly. TREND 7 HEXAGONS Things get very edgy. In fact, the more edges the better. Things that were traditionally square in shape – think tiles, tabletops and mirrors – are given a modern twist by appearing in hexagonal form.


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HOUSE & GARDEN

SHADES OF GREY

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ifty Shades Of Grey is a best-seller with its tale of seduction, and just as irresistible is the trend for shades of grey in interiors. Gabrielle Fagan explores the sophisticated power of grey and how it transforms rooms. Grey is so sexy and sophisticated - not the masterful hero of the best-selling novel, but the decor colour. Once an overlooked ‘wallflower’ section on the colour chart, grey has shed it’s cold, institutional image, and is proving it’s power to transform any setting. Flirting with its subtle, versatile tones, from crisp charcoal and French grey to shimmering silver and mysterious smoke-grey could be just the way to turn up the heat at home. “Grey is a surprisingly calming and harmonious colour to live with, but you must choose the right tone,” advises Mark Upstone, head of global visual display at The Conran Shop. “Greys with more brown in the mix will feel warm - white based greys will feel colder. “Be bold. Don’t restrict yourself to a feature wall, grey looks better en masse, and use different finishes of the same tone to create intriguing interest and depth. “Give grey a starring role by using it on walls and paintwork, he suggests, and a matching gloss paint finish for woodwork. If that feels too overpowering, tone it down with pastels, white or a zingy kick of sharp citrus, which will ensure it has less of a masculine edge. FACE THE WALL If you’re committing to a new relationship with this colour, the best place to start is with the walls. To find the one grey you love - experiment! Try colours in different tones by using sample pots, but ensure you see how they

change with the light in your home throughout the day. It also works well to simply paint one wall in your chosen grey and use it as a backdrop to a focus piece of furniture such as a striking sofa or piece of furniture. FURNISHING AFFAIR Texture, shape and symmetry are vital ingredients for successful grey sanctuaries. This season, splashes of colour are an antidote to our winter gloom and almost anything goes with greys. Pinks always sit well, or you could be a little adventurous and choose a vibrant raspberry, deep purple or burnt orange and soft yellows for a lovely contrast. Grey works in modern and older properties, and will look as beautiful in a minimalist setting matched with sleek white shelving as it will with period wood panelling and mahogany furniture.”

SEDUCTIVE SETTING Transform a bedroom palette with greys in decor or silky fabrics to bring an air of relaxation to an uptight setting. Hang drapery panels which puddle on the floor to frame your windows with a layer of textured sheers behind them for the ultimate in privacy. Grey tones in fabrics and wallpapers create a glamorous and striking effect, especially paired with pattern and texture. It’s a chic, streamlined look which also taps into the five-star ‘hotel’ trend which will be very evident in interiors this autumn. If passion for the look is running high, dress a bed appropriately in shades of grey bedlinen. Simple luxury touches are essential such as rugs and lighting.

Grey is full of surprises and won’t fail to seduce any setting, so follow the guide to taking advantage of its charms. 146 DECEMBER2014


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HOUSE & GARDEN

GAINING A QUALIFICATION

THE SMART WAY

The world has seen a huge rise in Online learning over the last few years with many students choosing to move away from the traditional four walls of the classroom environment. In fact Online learning has become so successful that a recent research study predicted that over half of US students will be studying an Online Course by 2018.

I

Written by Bella Riley

n the UK many are still sceptical, assuming that Online learning will somehow lead to a lesser qualification. However, in the current fast paced world where people are increasingly time poor, many students, particularly mature students with a family and a job, would simply be unable to achieve their qualification through traditional College and University education routes. One such institution that is helping to change the attitude towards studying Online and breaking down the barriers to learning is the National Design Academy (NDA). The NDA delivers a range of fully accredited* Interior Design and Garden Design Courses Online including Diplomas, BA (Hons) and a Master’s Degree. So how do the NDA ensure that their students achieve and not feel that they are ‘missing out’ by studying Online? Firstly they ensure that every student has their own personal tutor. Their tutor really gets to know them, their background, their situation and works with them to fit their study around existing family and work commitments; Many NDA students have full time jobs or a hectic home life. Studying Online is a much more affordable option for many as they do not have to incur travel costs, accommodation fees and other smaller expenses such as printing their work (all work is uploaded Online). Also all NDA Professional Diploma courses in Interior Design, Curtain

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Making & Soft Furnishings and Garden Design have access to up to 80% UK Government funding. This means that students living in England will only have to pay 20% of their fees. All courses are studied through the NDA bespoke Virtual Learning Studio (VLS) this ensures that students can access their course and personal tutor from anywhere in the world, at any time. The VLS also houses a private forum where students can talk to current and past learners to discuss projects, ideas, get advice and access thousands of tailored resources to help them to complete their assignments. All NDA tutors have firsthand experience working in the Design Industry. This means that course content is dynamic, up to date and relevant for the learner. The courses are designed to help people break into the world of design by giving them all the practical tools needed to start their own business or work in the design industry. Currently the NDA has students in over 75 countries and alumni of over 30,000 qualified designers. THE DETAILS For more information about NDA courses and studying Online visit www.nda.ac.uk *All NDA courses are fully validated and accredited by their Partners Staffordshire University & AIM awards.


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HOUSE & GARDEN

THE PERFECT SOLUTION TO YOUR SPACE NEEDS

E

stablished in 2008, Estbury Basements have become one of the leading basement companies operating in and around the London area. Our growth and success has largely been down to our specialist knowledge and experience coupled with our personal client approach. As owners of the Company, Danny & I maintain very hands on role within the business and deal with all customers personally and take great pride in our work. The company has, and continues to be, built largely on referrals and recommendations from past and present clients. The idea behind Estbury Basements was to create a company that could compete with the largest out there but strip it back, no sales staff and big offices enabling us to offer the clients a direct and personable approach without compromising on the workmanship and final finish. This meant that we could offer an excellent service for a very competitive price, which very soon propelled us into the company we are today. Still applying those rules as our foundation we have built up a great team around us including a full design department, consisting of a highly experienced Architect, Engineer and Interior designer, all with proven backgrounds in basement designs. In addition to this we also have a very specialist and knowledgeable site management and personnel team but managing all the while to keep a close-knit team, we have resisted the urge to grow further and risk losing touch with our clients. We are proud of our highly experienced construction team and have a designated fit-out arm for the perfect finish. We can either offer a full bespoke turnkey service taking you through the planning stage, design, construction and fitout through to hand over or manage each section separately. Either way we are confident we have the expertise to help you transform your home. We have seen a tremendous growth over the past few years in basement requirements due to the increasing cost

150 DECEMBER2014

of properties limiting the options to relocate so the demand for basements has never been greater. This in turn has created the need for more basement companies, which has increased choice, levels of options and service. We advise everyone the same when we quote for new work, always go with a specialist basement contractor (even if they are our competitors!!). Basement construction is a very niche market and as of yet is unregulated so you need to make sure the contractor has the necessary experience, qualifications, insurances and financial stability. WHY CHOSE US Personal approach and direct contact with directors from start through to finish Specialist basement experience in every phase of project Both directors hold over 30 years combined experience within basement construction All staff are highly experienced basement specialists We do not ‘sub out’ any of our work Best guarantees and insurances in the market available Insurance covers the performance of everything we do, continuously, so effectively, insurance backed guarantee for everything we do. Proven track record Company stability

THE DETAILS Please feel free to call us for a free no obligation consultation. One or both of us will be at the initial meeting and you will have constant contact with us throughout the whole process. Tel: 0844 357 9420 info@estbury.com www.estburybasements.com



HOUSE & GARDEN

‘TALLBOY’ a piece by Christopher Hughes

T

here are three City of London Livery Companies concerned with the furniture industry; the Worshipful Company of Carpenters, the Worshipful Company of Joiners & Ceilers (the difference between them is that traditionally carpenters use nails and joiners use glue) and the Furniture Makers’ Company. The first two have been operative since 1477 and 1571 respectively whereas the third is of 20th century origin being granted Livery status in 1963. This company has become renowned and much praised for the introduction of its Guild Mark Scheme, wherein awards are given to contemporary furniture designers and makers to mark innovative design and the highest possible quality of manufacture. The value of such an award is inestimable as it gives the piece itself a pedigree and reassurance to anyone commissioning from that maker. We cannot discuss the present day furniture industry without including John Makepeace OBE, whose contribution in both his own work and his establishing his ‘School for Craftsmen in Wood’ at Parnham in Dorset have proved more influential and beneficial in encouraging innovation and top quality production than anyone else. While there are now many

152 DECEMBER2014

who have passed under John’s tutelage my attention was drawn to a piece by Christopher Hughes, illustrated here. Entitled ‘Tallboy’, which suggests a set of drawers, this has 12 doors and just the 3 drawers across the middle. The materials are English walnut and ebony with quarter-sawn sycamore drawer sides, an oiled finish bringing out the careful positioning of the beautifully figured veneers. The construction has the challenge of cutting the finger-pull detail, which curves in two dimensions simultaneously, needing to taper from fulldepth in the centre to nothing at the side, achieved by using a combination of machine and hand tooling. This piece is Christopher’s third to be awarded a Bespoke Guild Mark by The Furniture Makers’ Company and duly deserves such recognition. 18th century furniture makers had patrons who supported them with commissions and recommendations, a practice that had disappeared by the post-war environment of the 20th century. With designer/makers like Christopher Hughes and thankfully his many gifted contemporaries it is bound to return. John Bly, 533 Kings Road, Chelsea john@johnbly.com


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HOUSE & GARDEN

LIGHT-UP YOUR

OUTDOOR SPACE When you spend time outdoors, entertaining your family and friends, you’ll need adequate lighting to illuminate your outside space.

W

hether you’re sitting outside on your patio area, or you wish to place a spotlight on specific areas of your garden, outdoor lighting can serve these purposes. You have a variety of options to suit your individual tastes, the size of your outdoor space, and its purpose. It’s important to consider what you need and how you will use the lighting, and with so many benefits to outdoor lighting, you can add beauty, function and safety to your outdoor areas. PRIMARY POINTS TO DECIDING ON YOUR OUTSIDE LIGHTING ARE 1. SAFETY Use a combination of uplights as well as lights installed on outdoor structures to illuminate your seating areas effectively. Outdoor lighting can add safety in a variety of ways. Light pathways to ensure that people navigate these areas safely. Use zone lighting to illuminate areas of your garden and landscape for night-time use. Zone lighting can be effective for lighting your patio, swimming pool or outdoor seating area. Illuminate driveways, garages and entryways to keep your outdoor space safe after dark. The more lights, the safer your outdoor areas will be. 2. SECURITY A well-lit driveway and garden presents a feeling of security and maintenance. When you keep your outdoor areas illuminated, you present a feeling of care and involvement. Install lights with motion detectors so they illuminate when motion activates them. A dark garden can be splashed with bright lights when someone walks through – this can be helpful to deter would-be criminals

154 DECEMBER2014

from trespassing on your property. 3. COMFORT Extend your living area into your garden, particularly if you entertain outdoors on a regular basis. If you have a patio with seating, add comfortable and attractive lighting to enable you to use these areas after dark. The ambience of outdoor seating can be pleasant and inviting, especially when you feature attractive outdoor lighting that adds to your outdoor decor. Use a combination of lights installed on outdoor structures to illuminate your seating areas effectively. 4. DECOR Showcase and highlight specific areas with decorative lighting. By installing lights around your garden in various spots, you pull the eye to these areas and display them attractively. Lighting can be a wonderful way to display planting areas or flower gardens. Install mood lighting along outdoor buildings to add pleasant splashes of light. You can even add low-voltage exterior lights to trees and shrubs outdoors to illuminate planting areas and add beautiful accents to your exterior areas. 5. CURB APPEAL A well-lit home presents a cared-for impression to your neighbours and visitors. Your house will appear warm and inviting, and in contrast to a dark and drab home, your illuminated home will draw people in and offer a warm refuge for family and friends. Regardless of the purpose of your outdoor lighting, the benefits are all positive. From increasing safety and security to creating a warm and inviting environment, adding outdoor lighting will enhance and beautify your home.


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HOUSE & GARDEN

DISCOVER CUTTING EDGE TECHNOLOGY AND DESIGN EXPERTISE

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echniQuest specialise in the design, installation and support of a diverse range of home technology, from their consultancy in Wimbledon Village.

A udio visual entertainment L ighting design and scene control I T & Voice Communications W hole home automation I ntruder, Fire & CCTV / Entry Security Advanced Mechanical & Electrical Services Design Established in 1999, TechniQuest is a leading London home technology consultancy. TechniQuest’s team of designers, project managers and system installation and support engineers includes some of the best-respected personnel in the UK integration sector. Since its inception, TechniQuest has been synonymous with an unparalleled level of attention to detail from brief to installation; commissioning to support. TechniQuest’s Design Director and founder, Vincent Murphy, talks through the process. “The initial appointment establishes individual requirements and the scope of technology integration for our client’s project, developing a detailed and bespoke brief.” Vincent explains “As well as specialising in whole home/multimedia automation, TechniQuest’s project work often

156 DECEMBER2014

also involves single elements of household technology. These projects have previously involved optimised WiFi, projection-based home theatre, multi room audio or lighting design and control”. When the project has been defined and costs agreed; TechniQuest’s designers prepare detailed drawings and documents. TechniQuest’s specialist engineers install and commission the final systems through to full and final completion; and on handover always provide full training to their client as well as exemplary ongoing support. It is a seamless process achieved through proactive communication between the client, design team, and engineers; producing an exemplary quality of work at every stage allowing the technologies installed to achieve the optimum results they were designed for. This attention to detail has enabled TechniQuest to forge premium partnerships with the finest system manufacturers worldwide including Meridian Audio, AMX, CISCO, Lutron, Savant and Loewe amongst others. Discover cutting edge technology and design expertise at TechniQuest’s Wimbledon Village consultancy, featuring Meridian Audio digital theatre and audio demonstration, Lutron lighting control and Savant automation. THE DETAILS By appointment. Telephone: 020 8944 9040 email: info@techniquest.co.uk www.techniquest.co.uk



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AT GÜTLIN CLOCKS & ANTIQUES RHODIUM PLATED 519 CAL LARGER SIZE BELL-JAR ATMOS CLOCK

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ütlin Clocks has been specialising in Swiss Jaeger Le Coultre atmos clocks now for the last 10-years, they have gained a wealth of experience and knowledge in repairs and sales of these amazing clocks which keep very good time and never need winding. The Swiss atmos clock winds itself by temperature change in your room; one degree change in temperature will wind the clock up for the next two weeks. Gütlin Clocks new range of atmos clocks are the very trendy rhodium plated models from the 1950’s which not only look very stylish but also are mechanical perfection. The rhodium plated 519 Cal larger size bell-jar atmos clocks are priced at £3,500 and the smaller classic model also from the 1950’s are priced at £2,200. SUSAN ENTWISTLE GALLERY AT GÜTLIN CLOCKS Susan Entwistle, one of the few artists practising the art of pointillism, will be partnering up with Gütlin Clocks to sell her original paintings at Gütlin Clocks, 606 Kings Road. Her vibrant garden and landscape paintings are created in layers of colourful dots and are in the collections of worldwide art collectors including HSH Prince Albert of Monaco. A preview selection of originals and limited editions are on display now including Wisley Border, Kellie Castle Gardens and The Monaco Garden. Susan also undertakes commissions for corporate and private clients, specialising in painting gardens and landscapes for clients who want to immortalise a special place they have in mind. This can be a favourite landscape, a special location, beautiful garden or a country residence for example. Susan captures the location and atmosphere with

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MONACO GARDEN

her unique style, resulting in a beautiful painting her clients can cherish for years to come. Susan also paints to specific colour ways to fit her clients interior decor plans and colour palette. Susan is always happy to discuss your requirements by appointment. THE DETAILS

GÜTLIN CLOCKS

606 Kings Road, SW6 2DX Telephone 020 7384 2804 Email mark@gutlin.com www. gutlin.com


GÜTLIN CLOCKS & ANTIQUES

One of London’s largest selections of antique grandfather clocks and French mantel clocks All types of antique clocks repaired and restored. FREE ESTIMATES! 606 King’s Road SW6 2DX Tel: 020 7384 2804 www.gutlin.com E-mail: mark@gutlin.com


HOUSE & GARDEN

A REPUTATION CARVED

IN STONE E

nglish City Stone are specialists in the area of restoration of Victorian and Georgian stone steps. With over 25 years’ experience in the field they can return any worn out flight of leaking steps to its former glory, both transforming the entrance to the property and protecting it from the elements. During the Victorian and Georgian eras the majority of townhouses were constructed with stone steps in either Portland limestone or Yorkshire sandstone (Yorkstone). These natural stones gave the entrance to homes and offices a bold elegance and were designed to withstand many decades of foot traffic and weather erosion. However, most of these original steps are now in a state of disrepair and many allow water to leak into the space beneath them. A quick look down any London street will demonstrate the way in which this problem has been tackled in the past: an ugly covering of bitumen or concrete. English City Stone supply and fit both Yorkstone and Portland limestone to replace worn or leaking stone, concrete or tiled steps. They have a revolutionary waterproofing system combining several membranes which funnel water away from the property whilst retaining flexibility, so even if the building moves over time the waterproof barrier is not compromised. For a genuine Victorian or Georgian finish a flight of steps may require a cast metal handrail or gate, often with ornate baluster panels. If there are already railings in place these can be removed and refitted and any damaged sections

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can be re-cast using traditional methods. Installing the railings usually involves diamond drilling the stone, a process which can easily damage the underlying stonework if the materials are not fully understood by the drill operator. English City Stone have their own in-house stonework and metalwork teams, so finishing work does not have to be sub-contracted to other companies who may not have the same in depth knowledge of the base materials. With this in mind, customers can be assured that the company take full responsibility for all of the work undertaken. The scope of the works English City Stone will undertake does not stop at the steps. They will supply and fit all associated stone paving and other masonry items such as coping stones, pier caps, window sills and door surrounds. Again, all of this work is carried out by their in-house teams ensuring the highest quality of craftsmanship. They are members of The Guild of Master Craftsmen and are happy to provide references and addresses of where their work can be viewed. Whether the work you require is purely cosmetic or a means to protect your home or office against water damage, English City Stone have the all the skill, experience and materials you’ll need. THE DETAILS For more information about English City Stone call 0208 673 8785 or email info@englishcitystone.co.uk 74 Fernlea Road, London, SW12 9RW www.englishcitystone.co.uk


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DECEMBER2014 165


HOUSE & GARDEN

ENERGY-EFFICIENT

WINDOWS

Energy-efficient glazing keeps your home warmer and quieter as well as reducing your energy bills BENEFITS OF ENERGY-EFFICIENT WINDOWS Smaller energy bills. Smaller carbon footprint. More comfortable home: energy-efficient glazing reduces heat loss through windows and means fewer draughts and cold spots. Peace and quiet: as well as keeping the heat in, energy efficient-windows insulate your home against external noise. Reduced condensation: energy-efficient glazing reduces condensation build-up on the inside of windows. The costs and savings for energy-efficient glazing will be different for each home and each window, depending on its size, material and the installer you choose. Double glazing should last for 20 years or more. To get a better idea of how much you could save by replacing your windows, use the Energy Saving Calculator on the Glass and Glazing Federation’s website, developed in conjunction with the Energy Saving Trust. HOW ENERGY-EFFICIENT GLAZING WORKS Double-glazed windows have two sheets of glass with a gap in between, usually about 16mm, to create an insulating barrier that keeps heat in. This is sometimes filled with gas. Triple-glazed windows have three sheets of glass, but aren’t always better than double-glazed windows. To choose the most energy-efficient window look for the BFRC rating. WHAT TO LOOK FOR Glass The most energy-efficient type for double glazing is low emissivity (Low-E) glass. This often has an invisible coating of metal oxide, normally on one of the internal panes. This lets

166 DECEMBER2014

in light and heat but cuts the amount of heat that can get out. Gaps between the glass Very efficient windows might use gases such as argon, xenon or krypton in the gap between the sheets of glass. Pane spacers These are set around the inside edges to keep the two panes of glass apart. For maximum efficiency, look for pane spacers containing little or no metal – often known as ‘warm edge’ spacers. FRAME MATERIALS For all frame materials there are windows available in all energy ratings. uPVC frames last a long time and may be recycled. Wooden frames can have a lower environmental impact, but require maintenance. They are often used in conservation areas where the original windows had timber frames. Aluminium or steel frames are slim and long-lasting, and may be recycled. Composite frames have an inner timber frame covered with aluminium or plastic. This reduces the need for maintenance and keeps the frame weatherproof. CONSERVATION AREAS These areas are of special architectural or historic interest, meaning that any work you carry out on your home must preserve or enhance the character of the area. This does not necessarily mean you cannot replace your windows, but might mean you will need to get windows that complement the character of the building and area. Double glazing can be made to look like your building’s original windows, but for any changes you do need to contact your local council’s conservation officer for guidance.


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WINDOWS & DOORS

LET P&P GLASS OF WIMBLEDON

ENHANCE THE VALUE AND BEAUTY OF YOUR HOME

W

hen it comes to replacing windows and doors, discerning homeowners need to be able to make informed decisions about the best products to specify when refurbishing or extending their homes. Since opening their doors in May 2012, P&P Glass of Wimbledon have been helping the residents of South West London plan their replacement projects with ease. Visitors to their 1050 square foot specialist window and door showroom are able to view a wide range of products from the quintessential vertical sliding sash, to neat flush fitting casements, entrance doors, sliding doors, bi-fold and French door sets in traditional and contemporary styles all available in a range of materials. P & P Glass also market and install a range of lanterns and flat roof lights which meet today’s essential performance standards with ultimate style. If there can be any doubt about the longevity and reliability of timber as a reliable fenestration material homeowners can have confidence in the technical attributes of the timber used in all Timber Windows’ made-to-order products. Although common throughout the continent, but rare in Britain, is the use of engineered timber for window and door sections. This multi-layered structure is particularly effective in resisting warping and twisting, with the opposing grains evening out natural moisture movement. Added to this are Timber Windows’ other technical innovations such as superior double glazing systems, improved ventilation techniques, modern hardware, advanced paint finishes and simply better build quality. While all this adds up to great looking windows, that are smooth and easy to operate, they are low maintenance and energy efficient, with exemplary U-values, saving on heating costs and essential CO2 emissions. A choice of hundreds of hand-finished traditional colours and timber stains are available as well as the popular

168 DECEMBER2014

colour-match service to Farrow & Ball and Fired Earth paint ranges. On-trend dual colours are no problem either. Quality ironmongery is fitted as standard, or customers can choose from a wide selection of beautifully coordinated ironmongery and accessories from the Samuel Heath collection. “Vertical sliding sash windows are a particular feature of the style and period of the homes in this area and we are working with homeowners to restore the original architectural style of their properties,” says Richard Gilham, Company Director. “Sadly many beautiful buildings have been ruined with the wrong choice of style and material of replacement windows and doors and for many of our customers restoring the integrity of the original structure is paramount.” Visitors are welcome to come along and browse and consult with window specialists who will help and advise on the right window and door products for your home. In addition to the authentic timber designs visitors may be surprised to see windows and doors that look and feel like traditional timber products but require no painting or laborious maintenance. For more contemporary installations there is a selection of energy efficient aluminium windows and doors available in a wide range of RAL paint finishes. P&P Glass will take the time to assist you through the decision process and will manage the project from initial estimating, through the ordering process to final delivery and installation by their own fully employed, trained and accredited installers who take pride in their craftsmanship. THE DETAILS Open 8.00 to 5.00pm Monday to Friday and 9.00 to 4.00pm every Saturday. Parking available. Reach us on 0208 544 2420 email: wimbledon@timberwindows.com or visit www.timberwindows.com



WINDOWS & DOORS

WHY INSTALL

SASH WINDOWS?

S

ash windows are charming and full of character, so it is no wonder so many of us want them featured in our home. Sash windows give a home real character. Certainly towards the end of the seventeenth century, sash windows were apparent in England, for example at Chatsworth House, Kensington Palace and the Hampton Court Palace, among many others. This appealing style of window is basically made of panes of glass set into a sash which moves up and down, or side to side.

WHAT TYPES OF SASH WINDOWS ARE AVAILABLE? Single-hung sash window This style of sash window only has one section which moves. In most examples of this window the bottom pushes up whilst the top is fixed in place. This style is an older design and thus usually found in older homes. If the window is very old it will probably have a pulley set-up of weights and cords used to open and close it. As they usually only have a single pane of glass in the frame they tend to be less energy efficient than more contemporary windows. Double-hung sash window These types of windows slide both up and down with both sections able to open and close. This is an improvement on single-hung sash windows and so has become standard in more recent properties. Often this style is found in a classic six over six; two rows in each section, divided into three panes for each, for a total of six panes in the top section of the window and six panes in the bottom. There are variations on this but the six by six is the main one. One of the best features of this window style is that both sections can be partially opened, so in the summer, heat will leave through the opening whilst the cooler outside air enters through the bottom. This style also doesn’t include weights and pulleys, instead opting for a more modern mechanism to slide the window. Sections of newer windows can also be removed from the frame for repair or cleaning. Double-paned glass may also be used as insulation. Horizontal sliding sash This style has two sashes that slide sideways within the window frame. Horizontal sliding sash windows are far less common than their vertical counterpart. Often they are referred to as Yorkshire Windows as this style is typical to

170 DECEMBER2014

that part of the UK and could have quite possibly originated from there. WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES OF SASH WINDOWS? First and foremost has to be kerb appeal; there is no denying they are a beautiful addition to any home. Sash windows are also suited to the wet climate Britain has, as they can be closed down to a narrow gap meaning the room can still enjoy good ventilation whilst reducing the risk of rain entering. Longevity; due to being encased within the box the sashes are less susceptible to distortion and rot than a hinged casement. Window corners do not protrude when open which eliminates the possibility of injury. WHAT ARE THE DISADVANTAGES OF SASH WINDOWS? Access to the exterior is hard for those located on the second storey or above Small panes of glass mean hard work when cleaning Repainting can be a very messy job if the painter is not skilled in painting sash windows, it can also lead to window jams if not done correctly If the sash window has a faulty mechanisms it could very easily injure somebody Rattles and draughts DRAUGHT-PROOFING SASH WINDOWS The latter on the list of disadvantages can easily be eliminating by draught-proofing. Both rattle and draught are caused by too big a gap between the beading and the sash. The original way to address the problem was to refit the beading to reduce the gap. Contemporary draught excluders have the advantage that they will continue to be effective if the beading clearance changes, as is prone to occur. An effective method is to simply route a groove in the sides, top and bottom of the sashes and insert a light plastic or brush strip HOW MUCH DO SASH WINDOWS COST TO REPLACE? This depends on the type of sash window you have, the size and specification as well as how many. It could cost anything from £300 upwards of £1000 per window.



WINDOWS & DOORS

BLINDS, SHUTTERS AND SHADES

W

indows are a great focal point in a room and blinds, shutters and shades should be both decorative and functional. Thankfully, we’ve come a long way from the days of hiding them behind basic mini blinds. Now you can dress up a room in hundreds of ways without making a major investment.

Today, with so many styles to choose from, finding the right one for your needs isn’t always a quick open-andshut deal.

HERE’S WHAT TO CONSIDER… Decide whether you want your room bright and airy or more “buttoned up” and cosy. Is your goal to block out light for snug sleep in the bedroom or hang a sheer fabric in your kitchen that lets the sun shine in? Are the windows you’re covering near the front door or facing the sunny side of the house? All of these factors will influence the styles and fabrics you choose. Are you outfitting just one window or the entire house? You may consider spending more on certain windows and scaling back on others.

172 DECEMBER2014

How much time and effort you’re willing to spend cleaning - standard blinds can be cleaned at home, but are magnets for dust and need frequent attention. Shades in textured fabrics and weaves hide soil better and are best cared for with vacuuming or professional cleaning. Your decorating style is it formal or casual, comfortable or chic? Bold colours can be fun or dramatic. Subtle hues are perfect for a room decorated in neutral, earthy colours.

BLINDS Blinds are best if you want tiltable slats that can be adjusted to let the sun shine in (or not). They offer a handsome, clean-looking custom fit and plenty of privacy. Prices for blinds generally climb in this order: vinyl, aluminum, faux wood (or textured vinyl) and wood. Here’s what to know about some types.


Wood blinds come in light and dark hues and polished or painted finishes. They’re not the best choice for kitchens or baths, where moisture could do damage (choose polymer or faux wood instead), or for bedrooms or living rooms where you want a softer, more romantic effect. Insulating blinds help conserve energy and filter or block light, so they work hard for your money. WHEN CHOOSING BLINDS, KEEP IN MIND Wider horizontal slats create the illusion of bigger windows and more space in apartments and small rooms. Vertical blinds work for windows that are wider than they are tall. They’re an ideal pick for picture windows with a sweeping view or across sliding glass doors. Upside: You don’t have to put blinds at half-mast to let in light, as you do the with shades - the full length of the window pane can always be covered for a finished look, even when slats are open. Handy for bathrooms and bedrooms because you can leave blinds down for privacy but adjust as needed for light. Downside: Blinds generally require more of a commitment to keep clean, because the slats attract dust and grime. SHADES Shades are the answer if you’re looking for tremendous versatility and style. They provide more ways to create different looks and moods using texture, pattern, and fabric weight. Woven wood (such as bamboo) offers full, natural-looking coverage. It works well in garden rooms aswell, where you often need to filter out the sun to read the newspaper or see your iPad screen. Tight weaves like twill or micro-suede offer optimal privacy because they’re opaque. These work well in bedrooms and bathrooms— and don’t forget the guest room. Roman shades have soft, wide pleats that fold flat when raised by a cord. These are lovely for the dining or living room. Balloon, where the fabric is gathered into billowy poufs make a high-style statement and are a dressy touch for formal living rooms or sitting rooms. Blackout, with a room-darkening fabric, block out up to 100 percent of light (they cost more than conventional styles) are ideal for bedrooms and home cinemas. Solar are made from a sheer weave that offers protection from harmful UV rays but don’t completely block your view. They are a good option for sunrooms, kids’ rooms, dining areas, and light-drenched offices.

SHUTTERS Shutters provide a chic and stylish alternative to blinds and curtains, and are a cost-effective way to completely update the look and feel of a room. They are more hygienic too as they simply wipe clean and don’t absorb the dust, unlike curtains or blinds. Shutters offer you a great deal of flexibility, for instance you can have different slat sizes, different colours and different panel designs. You also have more control over how much light enters the room. With blinds, there’s relatively little light control flexibility. Shutters can also save you valuable pennies as they provide further insulation, which is particularly appealing in these cash strapped times. There are three types of shutters: plantation, solid and café style. Most people go for the plantation style, which have slats (also known as louvers) that rotate open and closed to control light levels. Solid shutters are ideal for those wanting to create a more traditional look, and are designed to be folded back during the day and closed at night. Café style shutters are popular in restaurants and cafes, hence the name. With this style, the shutters normally cover just the bottom half of the window. With tier-on-tier shutters, there are two sets of shutters, one above the other. You can open each set individually, which gives you more flexibility and more light control. These are ideal if you have larger bay windows. And finally, shutters last longer and are more durable.

Upside: Shades are a versatile way to easily refresh any room and can lend a warmer, softer look than blinds. Downside: To keep them fresh and clean, you’ll need to handwash vinyl shades. Fabric shades should be vacuumed regularly and either spot-cleaned or sent out for professional cleaning.

DECEMBER2014 173


WINDOWS & DOORS

COME IN FROM

THE COLD

W

ith utility bills rising steeply year on year, energy efficient window dressings are the perfect choice to help you make a saving. According to energy regulator Ofgem, the average yearly bill in the UK is £1420 and forecasters from uSwitch.com have predicted that this cost could be as high as £4,185 by 2020. MATERIAL GAIN “It’s very unlikely that you’d throw a bundle of crisp five pound notes out of the window on a regular basis,” says Sarah Quilliam, head of product design at Hillarys, “but that is exactly what you could be doing if your window dressings aren’t energy efficient. “A lot of heat can be lost through windows, especially in older properties with sash or period windows, but you can make a big difference by choosing the right covering. One of the quickest and most affordable ways to insulate your home is to dress your windows with thermal curtains or roman blinds. Simple steps such as choosing a lining with thermal properties for roman blinds and curtains can also make a surprisingly big difference. The extra layer of fabric provides added insulation and gives the window dressing a luxurious padded look. You may be wondering what thermal or interlined actually means? Curtains and roman blinds are generally made up from either two or three layers. A ‘normal’ lined curtain is made up from the face fabric – the one you’ve chosen for its colour or pattern – and a single back lining layer. This can be plain, thermal or blackout. A plain lining will give some protection from heat loss but will primarily help the curtains or roman blind to hang attractively. A thermal lining is a specially coated fabric that will provide increased insulation. Three layer curtains are lined and interlined – this is an extra lining that is sandwiched in between the face fabric and the lining. It’ll make the curtains seem fuller, hang better and of course provide fabulous insulation. All of the fabrics in Hillarys roman blinds collection can be interlined or you could opt for a beautiful made-tomeasure curtain with a thermal lining, so there’s no need to compromise on style over substance. Parts of your home that are going to benefit the most from thermal treatments are generally hallways, rooms with north facing windows, bedrooms and conservatories. Blinds, curtains and shutters are proven to help prevent heat escaping through any windows, resulting in a cosy home and lower bills. THE DETAILS To book a free home appointment with your local Hillarys Advisor call 0800 916 6569 or visit hillarys.co.uk

174 DECEMBER2014


MAKE IT

LUXURIOUS. MAKE IT HILLARYS. MADE TO MEASURE BLINDS, CURTAINS & SHUTTERS

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TO BOOK A FREE HOME APPOINTMENT OR TO REQUEST A BROCHURE CALL 0800 916 6569 OR VISIT HILLARYS.CO.UK CALL US FROM 8.30AM-9PM WEEKDAYS 9AM-5PM WEEKENDS


WINDOWS & DOORS As smoke spread is an even greater threat to life and property than flames, particularly in the early stages of a fire, fire doors should also be fitted with a ‘cold smoke’ seal to prevent the ingress of smoke around the door edges. Combined smoke and intumescent seals protect from all aspects of fire in a single unit Some fire doors only require intumescent seals (specified as FD fire doors). Others may have to resist the the passage of smoke as well as the spread of fire (specified as FDs fire doors). PERFORMANCE GUARANTEED Fire doors are available in a range of ratings that indicate how long the product can withstand heat and flames. The minimum rating is FD30 doors that protect life and offer 30 minutes fire resistance. Higher specification FD60 doors are also available if required. SLIM LINE FIRE RESISTANCE Fireguard® 35mm doors meet the latest regulatory requirements and are compatible with most existing doorframes, making fire safety in the home more practical and inexpensive.

A BURNING ISSUE

A GUIDE TO FIRE DOORS

B

uildings are compartmentalised to delay the spread of fire from one area to another. These compartments are usually linked by fire doors to allow the flow of traffic around the building. Fire doors have two important functions in a fire; when closed they form a barrier to stop the spread of fire and when opened they provide a means of escape. A well designed timber fire door will delay the spread of fire and smoke without causing too much hindrance to the movement of people and goods. Every fire door is therefore required to act as a barrier to the passage of smoke and/or fire to varying degrees depending upon its location in a building and the fire hazards associated with that building.

176 DECEMBER2014

FIRE RESISTING GLAZING Glazing may range from a small vision panel in a door to a glazed screen for maximum light transmission and safety. Ordinary glass cracks when exposed to heat and is liable to fall out fairly early in a fire. Fire resisting glass can withstand exposure to the heat condition in a fire test for at least 60 minutes before it reaches a temperature high enough to soften it. This is mainly because, with clear FR glazing, nearly 50 per cent of the incident heat is transmitted through the glass by radiation. The size of the glass and the method of its retention are important factors that influence its integrity. As the temperature approaches the softening point, a large sheet will tend to collapse earlier than a smaller one. On the unexposed face, beading retaining the glass is subjected to radiant and conducted heat through the glass and to convection currents at the top of the pane. This can raise the temperature sufficiently to ignite timber beading after approximately 20 minutes. To delay the ignition of beading to 30 minutes, it is necessary either to provide protection by impregnation of a surface coating or a surface covering of non-combustible material or to fit a fire resistant glass secured using a fire resistant glazing system. This will hold the glass firmly in place during normal use, but in the event of fire, allows the intumescent material to expand, thereby securing and insulating the glass and protecting the surrounding timber. For longer periods of fire protection, an improved retention system for the glazing is required. The glass panel should be small and the method of fixing must ensure that no direct path can be created for the transference of hot gases. It is imperative to fit smoke alarms in every room of your property to prevent any fire breaking out in the first place.


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Come and visit us at the showroom: 406 Merton Road, London SW18 5AD Telephone 0208 877 8920 www.ayrtonbespoke.com

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HOUSE & GARDEN

WALNUT

OAK AGED PARQUET OAK COASTAL GREY PRE-OILED

Naturally Beautiful The Natural Wood Floor Company, London’s premier wood flooring manufacturers and suppliers

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ood flooring is as popular as ever and it’s easy to see why. Timber is an extremely versatile material with plenty of natural and beautiful attributes, enabling it to suit any architectural style and interior design scheme. With its timeless appeal, wooden flooring can instantly and effortlessly transform a home by adding texture, warmth and style. It is also a practical choice, being easy to maintain, durable and long-lasting. In addition, it doesn’t harbour bugs, so is a great choice for asthma and allergy sufferers. With a showroom in Smugglers Way, Wandsworth, The Natural Wood Floor Company is one of the largest wood flooring manufacturers and suppliers in Europe. Founded 22 years ago, the family run business offers a stunning range of wood flooring, all of which has been expertly designed and crafted to both preserve and enhance the natural beauty of the wood. “Quality and choice are both paramount to the success of The Natural Wood Floor Company” explains company director, Peter Keane. “As a leading, specialist wood flooring manufacturer, we are passionate about timber, so our skilled craftsmen only use the finest sustainable wood. We also closely monitor each stage of production to ensure that each and every product reaches our high and exacting standards.” “We understand how important choice is” adds Peter, “so invest heavily in the latest cutting-edge technology and manufacturing techniques. This enables our products to both shape and respond to the latest flooring fashions and trends.”

178 DECEMBER2014

The Natural Wood Floor Company’s collection of stunning products reflects both classic, timeless looks and more contemporary, eye-catching designs. The showroom, with free parking, displays the impressive range of over 140 different designs, including; wide boards, on-trend coloured finishes, aged looks and textured surfaces, in both engineered and solid wood. There’s also a fantastic selection of parquet and chevron blocks, in various timbers, plus a full range of flooring accessories and maintenance products, including; skirtings, mouldings, underlay, adhesives and finishing products. The Natural Wood Floor Company’s floors can be seen in many prestigious residential and commercial buildings in London, including; The Tate Modern, Tate Britain, The Natural History Museum, The British Library and Shoreditch House. All of The Natural Wood Floor Company’s products are manufactured from sustainable timer, so are kind to the environment. With most products in stock, deliveries can be made the next working day or are available for immediate collection. THE DETAILS The Natural Wood Floor Company 20 Smugglers Way, Wandsworth, London, SW18 1EG Telephone 020 8871 9771 www.naturalwoodfloor.co.uk


ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN

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DESIGN AND BUILD

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PROJECT MANAGEMENT

From architecture and planning to building and interior design, we can make your most ambitious ideas become reality — and create a home that’s as individual as you are. Iconic Architectural Design creates distinctive and striking homes that reflect clients’ aspirations and personality. From architecture & planning to building and interior design, we can make your most ambitious ideas become reality.

If you would like to make an appointment to view the Iconic Portfolio and discuss your requirements, please contact Andrew Long for design and Nick Barlow for Construction and Project Management. 01932 379307 | andrew@iconicad.com | nick@Iconicad.com | www.iconicad.com


Adapted from a Holland & Holland catalogue produced between 1910-1912

D&H

O

D

OL

LONDON

LLAN

LAN

still making the world’s finest sporting guns and rifles H

33 Bruton Street, London, W1J 6HH | www.hollandandholland.com | +44 (0)20 7499 4411


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