London Life September 2014 by Fish Media Group Ltd

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Welcome to our September issue... Harrods, the world’s most famous department store, unveils unparalleled luxury in shoe shopping with Harrods Shoe Heaven, spanning almost 42,000 sq ft on the Fifth Floor of the Knightsbridge store.

fire and iron

With 17 plush boutiques presenting collections from over 50 leading designers and brands, from the likes of Chanel, Dior, Christian Louboutin, Manolo Blahnik, Louis Vuitton, Prada, Jimmy Choo, Gucci and Valentino, each lining marble floored corridors, it is truly a shoe lover’s dream.

the award-winning gallery for metal art and jewellery

Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show is one of the most prestigious, and glamourous annual fashion shows in the world, and is to take place in London for the first time this December. Dozens of international supermodels will strut their stuff at the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show at Earls Court in December, the US brand have announced. The event, which will be broadcast to 192 countries, has only ever once before ventured outside America when it transferred to Cannes during the film festival in 2000. The LAPADA Art & Antiques Fair returns to the leafy surroundings of Berkeley Square, Mayfair, London this Autumn. The Fair is a must-visit event for sourcing and buying fine art and antiques from over 100 dealers and experts in their field. Among the exceptional works on offer will be furniture, jewellery, carpets, tapestries, antiquities, clocks, ceramics, silver and fine art. Tucked away between Piccadilly and Park Lane, an idiosyncratic, bohemian little enclave exists of fascinating alleyways and pedestrianised side streets, full of an eclectic mix of upmarket boutiques, shops, bars and restaurants... this is Shepherd Market. There is the leather goods shop whose wares were the favourite of the late Princess Diana, Jackie Onassis and Princess Margaret. If you want to purchase an identical new bespoke case, you can make a private appointment to view the very bags they owned. This gives you just a small taste of exciting events & articles featured in this month’s issue...

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Fast-track your child’s healthcare When it comes to making children better, The Portland Hospital has the highest levels of paediatric expertise and the most advanced technology in the UK. Discover how your child can benefit from the country’s leading experts in children’s health today. Story by Stacey Jackson

ommon sense tells you that, if your child gets ill, the best person to treat them is a leading paediatric consultant experienced in their condition. Our dedicated children’s unit is home to the largest group of private paediatricians in the UK, covering over 50 different clinical specialties. They are among the best in the world at diagnosing and treating both common and complex childhood conditions from birth to age 18. Using the very latest technologies, they treat over 40,000 children each year, ranging from routine check-ups to extremely rare and complex cases. Many of our consultants hold senior posts at leading NHS trust hospitals such as Great Ormond Street and St Mary’s Hospital. They’re supported by a team of experienced children’s health professionals, including specialist children’s nurses and play specialists.

We don’t treat any adult patients in our children’s unit, so your child’s hospital experience will be completely tailored to their needs. We find that this can relieve your child’s anxiety about visiting hospital and help them to make a speedy recovery. When you’re thinking about private healthcare for your child, safety will of course be an important consideration. Do bear in mind that some private hospitals don’t offer any on-site critical care facilities. Our children’s unit is fully equipped with the latest medical technology and facilities. Should the need arise, we have a Paediatric Intensive Care Unit, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit and Special Care Baby Unit staffed by a dedicated team of critical care experts. You’ll be pleased to know that you won’t need to join a queue for this exceptional service. Our convenient and rapid appointments give your child the care they need at a time that suits your family and your lifestyle, including during the summer holidays so none of the new school term will be missed.

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Contents Editors Letter 3 Contents 11 Local Life, Arts & Events 12 The Countryside Is Coming To Town! 12 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show Heading To London 14 Louis Vuitton Opens Pop-Up Store 16 The Streethub App 18 Decorative Antiques & Textiles Fair Fairground And Circus Folk Art & Artefacts 20 Glittering Fashion Show Launches Breast Cancer Awareness Month 22 The London Homebuilding & Renovating And Home Improvement Show 24 Harrods Shoe Heaven 26 Barbarians V Australia 28 LAPADA Art & Antiques Fair 30 London Film Festival 32 The Madder Exhibition At Griffin Gallery 34 A Cornucopia Of Untold Wonders 36 Brides The Show 38 Wimbledon Bookfest 2014 40 Education Guide 43 Editors Letter 41 The Independent Schools Awards 2014 46 Fairley House 48 Sydenham High Celebrates Exam And Scholarship Success 50 Teaching A Way Of Living 52 Individual & Distinctive 54 Think 56 Developing Talent 60 Unique & Exceptionally Tailor-Made Education 64 Preparing Your Children For Future Challenges 66 Achieve Academic Excellence 68 An Education Tailored To Girls 70 Every Child Has The Potential To Exceed Expectations 72 Jumping For Joy 74 Why Choose An Independent Sixth Form College? 76 Another Outstanding Year Of Results 78 School Place Crisis In London: It’s Time To Spread The Net Wider 80 100% ‘Excellent’ 82 The Centrality Of Classics 84 Haberdashers’ Life 86 The Moments That Make Families... Families 92 Fashion 94 Michele Franklin 94 Mary T Collections 96 Men Of Letters 98 Food & Drink 100 London Cocktail Week 100 London Restaurant Festival 102 Celebrate Jack Daniel’s Birthday The Frank Way With Sinatra Select 104 Exmoor Caviar 106 Dine Out In Style 108 A Hidden Treasure In Marylebone 110 Health & Beauty 112 Dr Haus: Ultherapy An Uplift... Not A Facelift! 112 Varicose Veins 114 The Laboratory 116 So What Is A Gilmore’s Groin, Anyway? 118 5 Things You Probably Didn’t Know About Mermaid. 122 Help On Your Doorstep 124 House & Garden 126 Create A Restful Retreat 126 Chelsea Fabrics 128 Contemporary Kitchen Design Tips 130 Make An Entrance! How To Create A Welcoming Hallway 132 Design Led Construction 135 Property Life 137 The World’s Richest 138 London Property Boom 142 London’s Skyline Is On The Rise 146 Living The High Life 148 The Modern Mews 150 Top Of The Class Properties... School Conversions Are A Hit 156 Experience The Benefits Of Good Seating Posture 158 Simple And Elegant... 160 A Truly Unique Reflection 162 John Bly Antiques 164 Naturally Beautiful 166 Bespoke Kitchens And Interior Design 168 7 Of The Best Interior Design Trends 172 Light-Up Your Outdoor Space 178

C OV E R S TO RY

The Countryside is coming to town! The inaugural Country Life Fair will bring the best of British rural life to town - in the beautiful grounds of Fulham Palace, SW6 on 27th and 28th September. The historic Fulham Palace is the former residence of the Bishops of London and was used as the main ‘country’ residence since the 11th Century.

nspired by Country Life magazine, the fair will have something for all countryminded townies, from the green-fingered to the country pursuit enthusiast to the gourmet and bon viveur! An eclectic range of 200 exhibitors, including luxury heritage brands, designers, property and land agents, artists and artisans will be displaying, explaining and selling their wares from country pursuits accessories, tweeds, jewellery, cashmere and leather goods to antiques, sculptures, home wares and garden furniture to fine wines, bespoke gins and a plethora of speciality foods.

Beyond the shopping… Ben Fogle, the fair’s president, will be joined by Tom Parker Bowles, Dick Strawbridge and other well-known names and experts who will share their knowledge of cookery, gardening, ecology and even bee keeping with talks and demonstrations. Family Fun - from ferrets and falconry to dog displays by The Kennel Club in the Showring; the Kidsrome mini farm and rural activities, such as edible window box planting and corn dolly making, from Countryside Learning. What’s more, under 12s have free entry when accompanied by an adult (2 children admitted free with each adult ticket). For the Country Cook - food demonstrations and talks by Tom Parker Bowles, Rachel Green, Mike Robinson, Ralph Skripek, Jose Souto and other celebrity chefs and ‘foodies’ will be sharing their knowledge and skills – from cooking game to smoking fish - in the Country Kitchen Theatre sponsored by Aga Rangemaster. For the Green-fingered - RHS Chelsea Flower Show gold medallists Cleve West and Ann Marie Powell and a host of other gardening experts, including James Alexander Sinclair, Val Bourne, Tiffany Daneff, Laetitia Maklouf and George Plumtre, will be giving talks and advice on how to plan, maintain and make the best of your outdoor space from a large garden to a window box, in the Grand Marquee 12 SEPTEMBER2014

Theatre and Walled Garden (sponsored by Alitex and intoGardens). For the Fashionista - ‘Tweed to Town’ fashion shows – featuring the designs and creations of the Country Life Fair exhibitors from tweed with a twist to hats galore, from race wear to evening wear from beautiful jewellery by Boodles, main sponsor of the Country Life Fair to boots for town and the field! For the Ecologist - sustainability expert Dick Strawbridge will share his tips for greener living in town or in the country, while ‘The Bee Man’ James Hamill will be giving advice on bee keeping and conservation. For the Bon Viveur - take a break in the Country Life Fair outpost of the Brown Cow and Sands End pubs, sample a bespoke ‘Country Life Fair’ cocktail by Mr Fogg’s of Mayfair, try the Ginkhana ™gin-tasting experience, tuck into a delicious lunch or afternoon tea provided by leading London caterer Blue Strawberry or indulge in Caviar House & Prunier’s finest seafood and champagne. Tickets are available now, but selling quickly - priced from £23 (early bird discount) for a garden ticket, £35 for a Boodles Diamond Ticket, which offers a free glass of champagne and the chance to win a Boodles Diamond, and £125 for the Palace Country Life Ticket, providing exclusive access to the Country Life Fair Club with unlimited champagne, drinks and canapés served within the palace, as well as a chance to win a Boodles diamond. The Country Life Fair will revive the spirit of the garden parties hosted by Fulham Palace in the early 20th Century – although visitors will be protected from the rain as the fair is largely under cover. So, dig out your best tweeds for a fun day in the country – without the journey, or the mud!

Visit www.countrylifefair.co.uk for tickets and more details. All ticket prices are subject to a booking fee. All tickets admit one adult and two children aged 12 and under Saturday 27th September, 10.00 – 18.00 Sunday 28th September, 10.00 – 17.00

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Tuesday 2nd December 2014

Earls Court

Victoria’s Secret FA S H I O N S H OW H E A D I N G T O L O N D O N

Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show is one of the most prestigious, and glamourous annual fashion shows in the world, and is to take place in London for the first time this December.

ozens of international supermodels will strut their stuff at the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show at Earls Court in December, the US brand have announced. The event, which will be broadcast to 192 countries, has only ever once before ventured outside America when it transferred to Cannes during the film festival in 2000. Speaking at the company’s European flagship store on New Bond Street, Victoria’s Secret president and chief marketing officer Ed Razek said it had wanted to hold the show in London since 1998. But Mr Razek, accompanied by two of the US brand’s “angels” Adriana Lima and Candice Swanepoel, said this year was now the right time because the brand now has a “critical mass” in the UK with six stores and plans to open more. Although he said the models were not booked yet, he revealed that he has already asked British model of the moment Cara Delevingne to “save the date”. He added: “Cara actually was on the runway the last two years. I’ll let you in on a secret, I saw Cara and told her it was coming to London and told her to save the date, she was excited.” The show is a lavish event featuring elaborate costumed lingerie, a variety of musical acts by leading entertainers, and intricate set designs within the show. Each year, the show attracts hundreds of celebrities and entertainers,

14 SEPTEMBER2014

and features twenty to forty of the world’s top fashion models as part of the fashion show. Past Angels have included Heidi Klum, Adriana Lima, Alessandra Ambrosio, Doutzen Kroes, Candice Swanepoel and Miranda Kerr. Previous year’s musical acts have included Kanye West, Maroon 5, Nicki Minaj, Katy Perry, Akon, Black Eyed Peas, Usher, Seal, Justin Timberlake, The Spice Girls, Ricky Martin, Sting, will.i.am, Mary J. Blige and Destiny’s Child. Guests at the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show are seated among a star-studded audience which has previously included celebrities such as Jay-Z, Beyonce, Orlando Bloom, Elton John, Mark Wahlberg, Eva Longoria, Denzel Washington, P. Diddy, Lenny Kravitz and Serena Williams. The “fashion, fantasy and entertainment” spectacle will be directed by Britain’s Hamish Hamilton, who oversaw the televising of the opening and closing ceremonies for the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. It will be one of the last events hosted by Earls Court, which is due to be demolished next year. www.victoriassecret.co.uk www.cornucopia-events.co.uk/victorias-secret-fashion-show

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LOUIS VUITTON OPENS POP-UP STORE AT DOVER STREET MARKET, MAYFAIR W1 UNTIL 15th OCTOBER 2014

he luxury brand’s first ephemeral store has opened its doors at the iconic London concept store, Dover Street Market. Located on the first floor of the Georgian building, the Louis Vuitton store is dedicating itself to an edit of directional pieces from the coveted debut Autumn/Winter 2014 WRTW Collection by Nicolas Ghesquiere, who was appointed women’s artistic director of the Maison in November 2013. The store will also feature a selection of key runway accessories include leather goods, fashion jewellery, sunglasses and shoes. Dedicated Louis Vuitton spaces for the same collection will also be created at the Dover Street Markets in New York and Tokyo. Louis Vuitton takes over the Dover Street Market London corner window with an exclusive creative concept designed especially for the store from 1st - 15th September, covering the Spring/Summer 2015 WRTW London Fashion Week period. ABOUT THE LOUIS VUITTON AUTUMN/WINTER 2014 WRTW COLLECTION This familiar wardrobe appeals to the collective unconscious, stirring our affective memory. We never tire of these perennial pieces; they are faithful friends. Eternally under their alluring spell, we delight in wearing them again and again. A peppering of original designs shakes up the cosy coterie; these distinctly modern, strikingly stylish newcomers open up the much-loved wardrobe to new pairings and a landscape of possibilities. Louis Vuitton is a land of contrasts. A time-honoured and noble legacy is kept alive by a yearning for discovery and exploration. Coursing boldly and imaginatively through the decades, Louis Vuitton refreshes the world of fashion with an untiring ebb and flow of retrospective and fresh perspective. Glorious smooth, full-grain leather is contrasted with hybrid materials. Bold, bright colours are juxtaposed with muted halftones. Hand-crafted artisanal techniques are updated with

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a high-tech twist. This initial collection tells a tale of expertise made possible by innovative techniques. It focuses on the highlights and remains open to interpretation. Living proof that today’s “timeless” was at one time seen as innovative. In this collection, the timeless is now. ABOUT LOUIS VUITTON Since 1854, Louis Vuitton has brought unique designs to the world, combining innovation with style, always aiming for the finest quality. Today, the Maison remains faithful to the spirit of its founder, Louis Vuitton, who invented a genuine “Art of travel” through luggage, bags and accessories which were as creative as they were elegant and practical. Since then, audacity has shaped the story of Louis Vuitton. Faithful to its heritage, Louis Vuitton has opened its doors to architects, artists and designers across the years, all the while developing disciplines such as ready-to-wear, shoes, accessories, watches, jewellery and stationery. These carefully created products are testament to Louis Vuitton’s commitment to fine craftsmenship. ABOVE DOVER STREET LONDON Opened in September 2004, Dover Street Market is a 1200 square metre store in the middle of London., conceived by Rev Kawakubo of Comme des Garcons. The store covers six floors in a converted Georgian building in Mayfair and houses all the Comme des Garcons brands. Alongside these sit other specially selected designers and artists. There are no set criteria for Dover Street Market; the diverse arrays of collections include established labels and emerging talents, through to traditional products that transcend fashion. This month Dover Street Market celebrates its 10th Anniversary. For more information, visit www.louisvuitton.co.uk and www.doverstreetmarket.com

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The StreetHub App STREETHUB HAS LAUNCHED ITS UNIQUE IPHONE APP, OFFERING SAVVY SHOPPERS A HANDPICKED SELECTION OF ITEMS CHOSEN FROM ACROSS THE VERY BEST OF LONDON’S INDEPENDENT BOUTIQUES.

urchases made through the app receive a 10% discount and are available instantly to either ‘Click & Collect‘ or for delivery in as little as 90 minutes. The app is the first retail app on the market to offer such a speedy delivery service and is now available to be downloaded from the App Store. With over 300 of the best independent boutiques across the Capital, and a combined catalogue of over 10,000 products, the app enables busy Londoners to discover and purchase unique items at the click of a button. The app takes the user’s location and presents a curated list of retailers and products that are nearby. From handmade jewellery to homewares, high-end fashion and lifestyle products, the app allows consumers to explore local shops and boutiques from the comfort of their home or office, or on-the-go. A Twitter-style newsfeed ensures users are kept up to date on the latest trends whilst highlighting particular pieces in their immediate area. Launched in November 2013 with backing from Index Ventures (Farfetch, Net-aPorter, ASOS), and Octopus Investments (YPlan, SwiftKey and Zoopla), StreetHub is designed to bridge the gap between the online and offline retail worlds, enabling more customers to discover original items in boutiques and shops in their local area and supporting London’s independent shops by increasing their exposure and driving footfall.

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“Small independent shops are great places to find unusual and special items. But sometimes people just don’t know what’s around them especially in a world where big chains are taking over the high street. StreetHub is great because it brings together shops in different communities, meaning that shoppers can find inspiration wherever they are – at home or work, whilst supporting local businesses”, John Newton, Manager of Volte Face, Great Ormond Street. “Many see the digital age as the beginning of the end for small independent retailers. The launch of our app at the start of the inaugural London Technology Week makes shopping and browsing in London’s boutiques easier and more accessible and is the natural next step for our business. Following significant investment in December 2013, we have been able to develop and launch this app and partner with Shutl for same day delivery. We’re proud and excited to be using our technology to ensure that these great shops do not get left on the sidelines. We help you discover the things you love near you”, states Mandeep Singh, Co-Founder of StreetHub. Available to download for free on iPhone. Customers who download the app will receive a free ‘Keep London Independent’ tote bag, available to pick up in their nearest StreetHub shop, (only 50 bags per shop!). http://bit.ly/streethubapp

A day to discover! Shopping

Entertainment

Tasting

Inspiration

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*20% oﬀ Adult and Over 65s Advance Standard tickets only (excluding VIP). Oﬀer expires 10/10/14. †Standard Supertheatre seat included, subject to availability. Gold front block seats cost £3 extra. Not all celebrities and exhibitors appear on all days, at all shows. Good Food® Good Food logo© BBC Worldwide. The BBC Good Food Shows are organised and presented by River Street Events.

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Decorative Antiques & Textiles Fair N HARTNOLL/VIVIENNE ROBE RTS IMAGE COURTESY OF JULIA

IMAGE COURTESY THE DECORATIVE ANTIQUES & TEXTILES FAIR

Fairground and Circus Folk Art & Artefacts

30th September – 5th October at Battersea Evolution, Battersea Park, SW11

ascinated by the Tate’s folk art exhibition? At The Decorative Fair there’s a host of exhibitors who specialise in folk art large and small, from giant carved wood shop signs to fairground carousel horses.

The Autumn edition of the Fair will feature a foyer display of fairground and circus artefacts, a highly stylised form of traditional folk art. Works will be drawn from exhibitors at the Fair and will be for sale. More than 140 exhibitors will take part at this Autumn’s fair, specialist design dealers with a wonderful variety of decorative British and European antique and 20th century furniture, objects and art. Renowned amongst the interiors community as a source of the unusual and unexpected, the Decorative Antiques & Textiles Fair attracts leading

IMAGE COURTESY THE DECORATIVE ANTIQUES & TEXTILES FAIR

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decorators and style pundits including Tom Dixon, Sir Paul Smith, Rose Uniacke, Kit Kemp, Olga and Alex Polizzi, Vere Grenney, Stephen Bayley, Spencer Swaffer; buyers from Colefax & Fowler, Anthropologie, Ralph Lauren, Candy & Candy, and interior designers and companies from America to Australia. Thousands of private buyers attend to purchase distinctive, one-off pieces. You can find Scandinavian mid-century glassware priced from under £100 to Rococo Revival mirrors priced at over £50,000. Visiting is a voyage of discovery, with exhibitors creating enviably stylish stand displays that provide inspiration beyond compare. For more details, please visit www.decorativefair.com

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Glittering fashion show launches

Breast Cancer Awareness Month

reast Cancer Care’s annual fashion show, in which all the models have had a diagnosis of breast cancer, will launch Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The star studded event is taking place at the Grosvenor House Hotel in London and will raise vital funds to ensure Breast Cancer Care can offer support to the thousands of women waking up to the harsh reality of breast cancer every day. Whether you’ve had a devastating breast cancer diagnosis yourself, have a loved one facing this brutal disease, or simply want to treat yourself and fundraise at the same time, the fashion show is the perfect occasion for you. It’s a fantastic day of fashion, fine food and first-class entertainment – so don’t forget to pack your dancing shoes! Previous performers and guests at this glamorous event include Geri Halliwell, Denise Lewis, Victoria Pendleton and Andrea McLean. The 24 models, including two men, will be styled by fashion correspondent, Hilary Alexander, alongside London Fashion Week coordinator, Lesley Goring. Last year the catwalk featured a fabulous range of designer clothing from fashion’s elite including Stella McCartney, Temperley London and Jenny Packham, as well as high street outfits. Join Breast Cancer Care - the only UK-wide specialist support charity - to celebrate the models’ courage as together they take to the catwalk and show it’s possible to look and feel fabulous despite a breast cancer diagnosis.

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To book tickets, go to http://www.breastcancercare.org.uk/theshow or call 0345 092 0806 About Breast Cancer Care fashion show Afternoon event: 1pm – 4.15pm Champagne reception and afternoon tea. Tickets start at £75.

Evening event: 6.30pm – 12.30am Champagne reception and four-course dinner. Tickets start at £195. About Breast Cancer Care Breast Cancer Care is the only specialist breast cancer support charity working throughout the UK, founded in 1973 by Betty Westgate, who was herself diagnosed with breast cancer. In the ensuing forty years the charity have supported millions of women and their families through face-to-face, phone and online services.

They also provide training, support and networking opportunities to specialist breast cancer nurses, and Breast Cancer Care publications are used by the majority of breast cancer units throughout the UK. The charity campaigns for better support and care and promote the importance of early detection, involving people with breast cancer in all that they do. Visit www.breastcancercare.org.uk or call their free helpline on 0808 800 6000.

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HOMEBUILDING & RENOVATING AND HOME IMPROVEMENT SHOW

makes its national debut at Olympia

s the property market regains its confidence, the UK’s fastest growing home show is coming to London for the first time as a combined event designed for both self-builders and remodelers. The new London Homebuilding & Renovating and Home Improvement Show will take place from the 26-28 September at Olympia, London. The exhibition will offer visitors the chance to benefit from an extensive range of products and recommendations from more exhibitors than ever before and tips and bespoke advice from an extended expert panel on how to successfully complete a project from start to finish.

of the team, homeowners will leave with the assurance that their plans will be ready to be implemented by well-guided contractors. For attendees undertaking major works, changes and additions to their property, a meeting with planning permission expert, Sally Tagg, is vital to ensure that they understand the complex application process. Sally will be waiting at the Planning Clinic for individual consultations with visitors to offer them professional advice.

Come prepared with your plans and ideas and benefit from the wide Piers Taylor, award-winning RIBA architect and co-presenter range of experts that can offer individual sessions at the Ask the of BBC2 series ‘The House that £100k Built’ will be making Experts zone. This year, the panel of property specialists includes: TH TH his first appearance on the London expert panel to inspire Michael Holmes (editor-in-chief of Homebuilding & Renovating visitors with quality interior design and architecture Magazine); Jason Orme (editor of Homebuilding & Renovating recommendations to help homeowners make the most magazine); Piers Taylor (award-winning RIBA architect and of their projects. Charlie Luxton, sustainable architectural co-presenter of hit BBC2 series ‘The House that £100k Built’); designer and presenter of More4’s ‘Building the Dream’, Charlie Luxton (sustainable architectural designer and presenter will be making his awaited comeback to the London event of More4’s ‘Building the Dream’); Julia Kendell (Interiors and and will also appear alongside other homebuilding and home Decorating expert from DIY SOS and ITV1’s Daybreak); Matt James improvement professionals including Michael Holmes, editor-in-chief of (designer and expert on ITV’s ‘Love Your Garden’); David Snell (Homebuilding the Homebuilding and Renovating Magazine. & Renovating magazine’s self-build and plot finding expert); Douglas Kent (expert in the care and repair and repair of period properties); Tim Pullen (eco Another new feature for this year’s event is the updated Interior Design and expert at Homebuilding & Renovating magazine); Bob Branscome (chartered Decorating Clinic, brought to you by Dulux Design Service. Visitors will surveyor and builder); Chris Reeves (Homebuilding & Renovating magazine’s be provided with insightful ideas on how to decorate their homes through Legal Expert and chartered builder and lawyer) and Jennifer Newton (Real the use of appealing colour schemes, wall coverings and furnishings. Homes magazine financial, property and home improvement journalist). Dulux consultants will be offering free one-on-one appointments to bring attendees one step closer to their aspirational house. Standard tickets are £12 in advance or £17 on the door (children under 16 go free). The Ask the Architects area will provide a space for dialogue between certified RIBA Architects and visitors curious about the design and For further information visit http://london.homebuildingshow.co.uk construction process of their project. After a consultation with a member or call the ticket hotline on 0871 231 0824 .

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SEPTEMBER

2014

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F E AT U R E

PRESENTS

SHOE HEAVEN The world’s most luxurious shoe destination

The new floor of divine inspiration

Harrods, the world’s most famous department store, unveils unparalleled luxury in shoe shopping with Harrods Shoe Heaven, spanning almost 42,000 sq ft on the Fifth Floor of the Knightsbridge store.

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Harrods Silver Linings Exclusive

26 SEPTEMBER2014

Givenchy £1055

Harrods Silver Linings Exclusive

F E AT U R E Valentino £1045

Harrods Silver Linings Exclusive

Christian Louboutin £625 Harrods Silver Linings Exclusive

ith 17 plush boutiques presenting collections from over 50 leading designers and brands, from the likes of Chanel, Dior, Christian Louboutin, Manolo Blahnik, Louis Vuitton, Prada, Jimmy Choo, Gucci and Valentino, each lining marble floored corridors, it is truly a shoe lover’s dream. Designed by the late David Collins, with velvet banquet lounge seating, private shopping suites and beautifully edited displays, Harrods Shoe Heaven – and its expert style advisers – invite customers to experience a new way to shop that is more five-star hotel than shoe department. Shoe Heaven spans across an area equal to 3 Olympic sized swimming pools, so prepare to indulge in a real-life shoe fantasy world, with over 100,000 designer shoes available to whet your appetite. To celebrate the exciting launch, Harrods reveals the limited-edition “Silver Lining” collection showcasing 37 of today’s most iconic shoes in silver – created exclusively for Harrods by designers including Valentino, Manolo Blahnik, Roger Vivier, Christian Louboutin, Rupert Sanderson and Charlotte Olympia. Choose from metallic silver Valentino Rockstuds to Manolo Blahnik’s silver brooch-adorned Ariona mule, to silver leather Kitty flats by Charlotte

Rupert Sanderson £600 Harrods Silver Linings Exclusive

Jimmy Choo £575

Harrods Silver Linings Exclusive

Olympia and silver booties from Alaïa – every style a perfect addition to an Autumn/Winter wardrobe and for the forthcoming festive season. Helen David, Harrods Fashion Director of Womenswear, Accessories, Fine Jewellery & Childrenswear, comments: “With shoes becoming an ever increasingly important part of the way a woman dresses, and indeed a key part of our business, we are creating a truly fabulous shoe destination in Harrods, to celebrate this. From stilettos to sneakers, Harrods Shoe Heaven will be home to all the best shoes from the world’s leading and need-to-know designers. The space will be more ‘Penthouse’ and less ‘Shoe Floor’, creating a luxurious and sophisticated environment with flagship shops for all of our biggest brands.” “A retail concept that reflects the brand’s global reputation for delivering a superlative shopping experience to the world’s most discerning clientele” Simon Rawlings, Creative Director David Collins Studio For a full list of the prestigious designers at Shoe Heaven please visit www.harrods.com And for the latest news follow @Harrods #HarrodsShoeHeaven

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Barbarians v Australia Saturday 1st November 2014 Twickenham Stadium 2.30pm kick off

ead to the home of rugby at Twickenham Stadium on Saturday 1st November for the Barbarians v Australia Killik Cup match, which guarantees to be filled with crunching tackles, explosive tries and sublime skill. The hotly-anticipated fixture will kick-start the autumn international rugby period, and pits the mercurial backs of the Wallabies against the star-studded ranks of the invitational Barbarians team. With both teams looking to showcase their many talents, the game promises an abundance of fast, high-scoring running rugby. The All Black legend, Sir John Kirwan, has already agreed to coach the Barbarians and the squad will be full of high profile international stars from around the globe. He commented: “The Baa Baas has a proud history and I will be selecting a team that will respect that. We will look to play the sort of rugby against the Wallabies that encompasses that spirit and we want to win” Both teams were in winning form over the summer with the Barbarians cruising to a 39-29 victory against a young England team and Wallaby successes against France. Ewen McKenzie, the Australian coach also remarked; “This match against the Barbarians will be the perfect way for us to start off our 2014 Tour of the Northern Hemisphere. Matches between the Qantas Wallabies and Barbarians are always played with an abundance of passion and flair featuring plenty of action packed running rugby, and we are certainly looking to repeat our performance when we last met in 2011 and look forward to having plenty of support from fans in the UK. The Tour will also feature matches against some powerhouses of world Rugby – so this match will be a great way to help us prepare for Wales, France, Ireland and England.” 50,000 tickets have been sold already for the match – so a bumper crowd is expected. A great day out at Twickenham and a feast of rugby with end to end action will surely be in store for all. Tickets are still available from £30 for adults and £15 for juniors (U16) at www.ticketmaster.co.uk 0844 847 2492. (Booking fees apply) For more information on the event visit www.rfu.com and for the Barbarians www.barbarianfc.co.uk

28 SEPTEMBER2014

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ST. PAULS CATHERAL IN 1900 BY STEVEN SCHOLES OIL ON CANVAS FROM ASHLEIGH HOUSE FINE ART

E PERIOD FINE GEORGE III HEPPLEWHIT BONHEUR DU JOUR SATINWOOD VENEERED ANTIQUES FROM FRESHFORDS FINE

LONDON UNDERGRO BY FRANK ORMROD, UND, REGENTS PARK UNDERGROUND POST1937, VINTAGE LONDON ER FROM ANTIKBAR

LAPADA ART & ANTIQUES FAIR 24th – 28th SEPTEMBER 2014 - BERKELEY SQUARE, MAYFAIR, W1J 6EB

London’s most prestigious annual art and antiques event

he LAPADA Art & Antiques Fair returns to the leafy surroundings of Berkeley Square, Mayfair, London this Autumn. The Fair is a must-visit event for sourcing and buying fine art and antiques from over 100 dealers and experts in their field. Among the exceptional works on offer will be furniture, jewellery, carpets, tapestries, antiquities, clocks, ceramics, silver and fine art. The sixth annual LAPADA Fair follows the success of last year’s event, where more than 19,000 visitors from around the world attended over the course of five days. Private collectors and art and antiques enthusiasts flocked to the Fair, where an expert committee of 50 specialists pre-vetted every piece on sale at the show to ensure quality and authenticity.

trusted resource for private collectors and the art & antiques trader in the UK and 16 other countries around the world. Established in 1974, and celebrating its 40th anniversary in 2014, it boasts 600 worldwide members, who are experts in their fields, with specialities ranging from fine art, jewellery and furniture to contemporary works, sculpture and ceramics. Due to the Association’s strict Code of Practice, clients are offered total reassurance when purchasing from a LAPADA member. LAPADA offers a referral service for any member of the public looking for a trusted dealer in a specific area, who is seeking quality and assurance of authenticity. It also offers industry advice and lobbies on issues affecting its members and good practice in the art and antiques trade.

The Fair’s popularity continues to grow, due to its reputation as a ‘one stop shop’ for the A ROYAL PRESENTATION CLOCK COMMISSIONED Admission - Entrance by ticket priced most sought after works from trusted LAPADA BY HRH ALBERT EDWARD, PRINCE OF WALES FROM at £15 each or by invitation ASPREY’S OF BOND STREET FROM WICK ANTIQUES members. Prices of art works range from £500 *£65 each for Collectors’ Preview invitation up to £500,000 and beyond, offering the most Underground - Green Park - Jubilee, Victoria & discerning collector exceptional antiques and fine art to choose from Piccadilly lines, Bond Street - Central & Jubilee lines. and inviting first time collectors to develop exciting new interests. Major bus routes via Piccadilly, Regent Street and Oxford Street LAPADA, the Association of Arts & Antiques Dealers is the largest society of professional art and antiques dealers in the UK. It is a 30 SEPTEMBER2014

For more details, please telephone 020 7823 3511 or visit www.lapadalondon.com

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INFINITI CENTRE PICCADILLY, 77 Piccadilly, London W1J 8HU. 020 3130 6726 Official fuel economy figures for the Infiniti Q50 range in mpg (l/100 km): urban 29.4 to 50.4 (9.6 to 5.6), extra urban 53.3 to 76.3 (5.3 to 3.7), combined 41.5 to 64.2 (6.8 to 4.4). CO2 emission: 159 to 114 g/km. Official EU Test Figures. For comparison purposes only. Real world figures may differ. Model shown: Infiniti Q50 Sport 2.2d 6MT with optional metallic paint and electric glass sunroof at OTR price £34,260. BUSINESS USERS ONLY. Example based on 3 rentals in advance followed by 35 monthly repayments, 10,000 miles per annum on a non-maintained (you are responsible for all maintenance and servicing costs) contract with non-metallic paint. Finance provided by Infiniti Financial Services Limited, PO Box 149, Watford WD17 1FJ. Subject to status. Terms and conditions apply. Guarantees and indemnities may be required. You must be 18 or over and a UK resident (excluding Isle of Man and Channel Islands) to apply. At the end of the contract you will not own the vehicle. Further charges may apply subject to mileage and condition at end of contract. Visit your local dealer for full details. Offers valid on eligible vehicles ordered before 30 September 2014. Subject to availability. Private customer offers are also available. Infiniti Europe, Zone d’Activités La Pièce 12, 1180 Rolle, Switzerland.

EV E N TS Benedict Cumberbatch, Keira Knightley, Matthew Beard, Matthew Goode and Allen Leech in

The Imitation Game STUDIOCANAL

LONDON FILM FESTIVAL The Imitation Game European Premiere OpensThe 58th BFI London Film Festival

8th - 19th

October 2014

he 58th BFI London Film Festival in partnership with American Express®, is delighted to announce that this year’s Opening Night film will be The Imitation Game, a dramatic portrayal of the life and work of Alan Turing, one of Britain’s most extraordinary unsung heroes, and one of the world’s greatest innovators. The film will receive its European premiere on Wednesday 8th October at the Odeon Leicester Square with a live cinecast from the red carpet and simultaneous screenings taking place at cinemas across the UK. Stars Benedict Cumberbatch and Keira Knightley, and director Morten Tyldum are expected to attend the London event. The pioneer of modern-day computing, Turing is credited with cracking the German Enigma code and the film is a nail-biting race against time by Turing and his brilliant team at Britain’s top-secret code-breaking centre, Bletchley Park, during the darkest days of World War II. Turing, whose

32 SEPTEMBER2014

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH

contributions and genius significantly shortened the war, saving thousands of lives, was the eventual victim of an unenlightened British establishment, but his work and legacy live on.

The Imitation Game stars Benedict Cumberbatch (Star Trek Into Darkness, TV’s Sherlock) and Keira Knightley (Atonement) as close friend and fellow code-breaker Joan Clarke, alongside a top notch cast including Matthew Goode (A Single Man), Mark Strong (Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy), Rory Kinnear (Skyfall), Charles Dance (Gosford Park, TV’s Game of Thrones), Allen Leech (In Fear, TV’s Downton Abbey) and Matthew Beard (An Education). Studiocanal release the film in UK cinemas on 14th November, 2014.

EV E N TS The 58th BFI London Film Festival in partnership with American Expresss® is delighted to announce that this year’s Festival will close with the European Premiere of Sony Pictures Entertainment’s FURY on Sunday 19th October at the Odeon Leicester Square. Written and directed by David Ayer, whose film End of Watch screened in LFF Official Competition 2012, Fury stars Brad Pitt (World War Z) as Don “Wardaddy” Collier, Shia LaBeouf (Nymphomaniac) as Boyd Swan, Logan Lerman (Noah) as Norman Ellison, Michael Peña (End of Watch) as Trini Garcia, and Jon Bernthal (The Wolf of Wall Street) as Grady Travis. Pitt and Ayer are confirmed to attend the Closing Night Gala in London’s Leicester Square, while a cinecast from the red carpet and simultaneous screenings will take place at cinemas across the UK. In Fury, it is April, 1945. As the Allies make their final push in the European Theatre, a battle-hardened army sergeant named Wardaddy (Brad Pitt) commands a Sherman tank and her five-man crew on a deadly mission behind enemy lines. Outnumbered and outgunned, and with a rookie soldier thrust into their platoon, Wardaddy and his men face overwhelming odds in their heroic attempts to strike at the heart of Nazi Germany. Written and directed by David Ayer, the film is produced by Bill Block, David Ayer, Ethan Smith, and John Lesher. The executive producers are Brad Pitt, Sasha Shapiro, Anton Lessine, Alex Ott, and Ben Waisbren. Sony Pictures Releasing (UK) will release the film in UK cinemas on 24 October 2014

The full programme for the Festival will be announced on Wednesday 3th September. Festival Information & Ticket Booking BFI Members’ priority booking opens 10am,11th September - join at www.bfi.org.uk/join Public booking opens 10am, 18 September Telephone Bookings: 020 7928 3232 between 9:30am-8.30pm Online: www.bfi.org.uk/lff In person: BFI Southbank Office: 11:30am–8.30pm NB. Last minute tickets are available to be purchased on the day about 30 minutes prior to the screening at Festival venues

The 58th BFI London Film Festival to close with European Premiere of“Fury” The BFI London Film Festival BFI London Film Festival is an iconic international film festival that supports London’s position as the world’s leading creative city. It presents the best new British and international films to an expanding London and UKwide audience. It provides career-enabling opportunities for British and international filmmakers through its industry and awards programmes. Twitter - @bfi #lff Facebook - facebook.com/londonfilmfestival About American Express® Company American Express is a diversified worldwide travel, financial and network services company founded in 1850. It is a leader in charge and credit cards, Travellers Cheques, travel and insurance products. As part of the premium service American Express provides, Cardmembers have access to enriched experiences at some of the UK’s most sought after entertainment events, including best seats, exclusive offers and earlyon-sale tickets. The company has multi - year partnerships with a range of entertainment institutions including AEG, Live Nation, Ticketmaster, Somerset House, The British Film Institute and National Theatre. For more detail on the enriched service American Express offers its Cardmembers, please visit www.amex.co.uk/potential or connect with AmericanExpressUK on Facebook or Twitter @AmexUK

Don “Wardaddy” Collier (Brad Pitt, centre) and his men Boyd Swan (Shia LaBeouf), Norman Ellison (Logan Lerman), Trini Garcia (Michael Peña) and Grady Travis (Jon Bernthal)

Fury COLUMBIA PICTURES

SEPTEMBER2014 33

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Open from 11th September 10th October 2014

Luke George and Elizabeth Rose, ‘Madder’ Courtesy Griffin Gallery

The Madder exhibition AT GRIFFIN GALLERY

GRIFFIN GALLERY, 21 EVESHAM STREET, LONDON W11 4AJ

his autumn, West London’s Griffin Gallery is proud to present MADDER, a solo show featuring 2013’s Griffin Art Prize winning duo, Luke George and Elizabeth Rose. Working with archive materials and historically significant pigments, the couple have produced a vivid response to the distinctive pink hue of rose madder. Their new paintings capture the physicality and versatile nature of madder pigments, presenting works almost geological in the process of their creation. As part of the Griffin Art Prize, George and Rose were awarded a six-month residency at Griffin Gallery and Studios, additionally receiving a supply of the world’s finest artist materials from Winsor & Newton. The couple’s experimentation with rose madder pigment involved working closely with Winsor & Newton’s innovation and development department. Not only does the exhibition highlight the brilliance of madder and its unique natural properties, it also uncovers the vibrant journey of its creation, a process George and Rose have allowed to shape the direction of their work.

known as a madder lake. It had a longer-lasting colour and could be used in creating paints. Field’s discoveries were hugely significant for William Winsor, co-founder of Winsor & Newton, who have now been producing the pigment rose madder according to Field’s method since 1835 with no additional synthetic chemicals or modern machines. The exhibition draws attention to the complexity of creating madder pigments which take an astounding 13 weeks to blend and perfect. Many methods have been tried and tested but no synthetic pigment has been found to match the unique beauty of genuine rose madder.

Becca Pelly-Fry, Griffin Gallery curator says: ‘‘We are very excited to have George and Rose’s collaborative show, MADDER exhibiting in the gallery this September. Visitors will leave having been physically and visually immersed in the delicate beauty of rose madder, just as George and Rose have been in creating the exhibition. Following the pair’s impressive 2013’s Griffin Gallery Art Prize winning painting, this show Luke George and Elizabeth Rose, ‘Madder’ Courtesy Griffin Gallery promises to be spectacular. Both the Griffin Gallery and Winsor & Newton have observed how intensely the pair have been working on the upcoming show and it has been gratifying and encouraging to see young artists engage with the history of their George and Rose were the first couple to win the prize with their showmaterials and fully utilise the opportunities given them by winning the stopping abstract piece, Gate. The unique theme for this exhibition Griffin Art Prize.’’ began with their uncovering the story of the rose madder pigment and its historical connection to Winsor & Newton, sponsors of the Griffin For further information: Art Prize. In 1804, George Field, colourman and chemist who developed Twitter: twitter.com/GalleryGriffin paints and pigments for J.M.W. Turner, was in pursuit of a vivid pink Facebook: www.facebook.com/griffingalleryuk shade. Field managed to turn the madder plant extract, which was soluble YouTube: www.youtube.com/user/GriffinGalleryUK in water, into a solid pigment that was insoluble. This resulted in what is www.griffingallery.co.uk 34 SEPTEMBER2014

Three outstanding Volkswagens displaying â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;64 plates. (Great offers also showing.)

F E AT U R E

A cornucopia of untold wonders

If you are ever fortunate enough to receive a luncheon invitation at Ronald Phillips Fine English Antiques, do accept.

nside the elegant glass façade of the Bruton Street gallery, in the heart of Mayfair just steps from Berkeley Square, are untold wonders: with over 5,000-square feet of wood-paneled rooms decorated with fine Georgian consoles, Regency mirrors, glittering crystal chandeliers and massive antique globes. The varied spaces – and there are many - chockablock with English treasures are furnished with enough stock to fill more than a few of the grandest houses in England (or abroad). If you go to lunch, you will be led to an intimate dining room dominated by a round antique English mahogany table. This is where the current owner, Simon Phillips (Ronald’s son), will serve a gourmet lunch made by his private chef. Phillips pairs each course with a fine wine from his own cellar (in my case, a memorable Chassagne Montrachet). Due warning: If you don’t leave right after lunch, you may be tempted to make some spontaneous purchases. Phillips is an amiable host and wonderful conversationalist. He is a charming man, full of tales of his own family life and talk of the trade, but he is most passionate, and erudite, when taking about English antiques. He knows his stuff.

36 SEPTEMBER2014

The message is all about quality. The gallery his father opened in 1952 was known for selling good, solid English antiques, from the Queen Anne period to the Regency (roughly 1700 to 1840), but in the last decade Phillips decided to eschew the ordinary for the extraordinary. “In my father’s day, there were many more collectors of English antiques,” he says. “And more competitors. Now there are fewer.” Several prominent dealers specializing in English antiques, like Jeremy and Hotspur, closed in recent years due to death or retirement. So Simon Phillips went upscale and, as he puts it, “away from providing dining-room furniture.” He wants to sell only spectacular pieces that he considers “works of art.” And he has a loyal, long-term clientele that includes Americans, foreigners living in England and English collectors. He boasts pieces by renowned 18th-century British designers and cabinetmakers, including Robert Adam, Thomas Chippendale, George Hepplewhite, Thomas Hope and William Kent. And he will willingly brag about provenance: current name drops include antiques once owned by the Earl of

F E AT U R E

The St.Giles House Commodes A Pair of George III Chinese Lacquer Commodes Almost Certainly By John Cobb

A George III Carved Giltwood Chimneypiece attributed to Matthias Lock

Warwick, the Duke of Leeds and the Americans Walter P. Chrysler, Jr. and Barbara Hutton. (At the same time, he is utterly discreet about recent provenances and current clients.) Phillips was born for the job. He attended Harrow, took a decorative arts course at the Victoria & Albert Museum, worked at a London auction house and then went to join his father at the family firm in 1979. He is energetic and forward thinking. He does not wait for clients to walk through the door, well aware of the uncertain market for 18th-century English. A few years ago, when the Grosvenor House show closed (it was, arguably, London’s most prestigious antiques fair, Phillips helped organize a new fair, Masterpiece London, with colleagues from two other top English firms: Mallett and Apter-Fredericks, along with Asprey and Stabilo, the company that constructs the stands at TEFAF, the European Fine Art Fair, that takes place each March in the Netherlands. This year Masterpiece London attracted more than 35,000 visitors and was considered a huge successes. Simon says most of clients find him “by word of mouth.” But like other serious dealers he leaves little to chance. He regularly produces a luxurious but also scholarly catalogue on his antiques in stock, organizes exhibitions abroad and participates in high caliber fairs like the International Fine Art & Antique Dealers Show in New York in October. What distinguishes his gallery is his rarified taste. He specializes in highstyle, drop dead pieces like his George III carved chimneypiece attributed

The Glemham Hall Gainsborough Armchairs A Magnificent Pair of George II Mahogany Library Armchairs

The Windsor Castle Cabinets A Pair Of Regency Ormolu Mounted Mahogany Side Cabinets Attributed To Tatham Bailey And Sanders

to Matthias Lock; this Chinese Chippendale mantle is wall-size, with phoenixes, waterfalls and flowering trees. (There is a 1752 Lock drawing of it in the V&A.) Equally dazzling is a pair of George III Chinese lacquer commodes attributed to John Cobb; they were ordered by the 4th Earl of Shaftesbury for his dressing room in St. Giles, Dorset in about 1765. Not everything is Georgian. There is a fine Regency reclining armchair by William Pocock and a fantastically colorful pair of Chinese Export Canton enamel wall sconces. Antique English mirrors are what he calls his “personal interest” and he has a large collection of them, both singles and pairs, in various styles and forms ranging from, he says, the “earliest petit-point mirrors of Charles II to large Regency convex mirrors surmounted by eagles.” The mirrors are extravagantly carved and gilded, festooned with shells, cupids, imaginary birds and fanciful foliage. Many retain their original plate glass. What is evident is Phillips’s insistence on rarity, enviable provenance, top quality, original condition and that certain indescribable extra, perhaps defined as “best in class.” You never know what you will find at his gallery, but it’s always worth taking a look. For more information about Ronald Phillips Ltd 26 Bruton Street, London W1J 6QL Tel: +44 (0)207 493 2341 www.ronaldphillipsantiques.com

The Dundas Console Table A George III Giltwood Demi-Lune Console Table Designed By Robert Adam And Made By William France And John Bradburn

The Percival D. Griffiths Card Table A George II Walnut Card Table

SEPTEMBER2014 37

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Brides The Show The UK’s most sophisticated, luxury bridal show returns, and will be held for the first time at The Business Design Centre, Islington, N1 0QH.

oused at a new venue, just a few steps away from Islington’s bustling Upper Street, Brides The Show has everything - and more - discerning brides-to-be and their bridal parties could hope for to make their Big Day truly unforgettable.

The event, in association with Condé Nast Brides, Britain’s leading quality bridal magazine, treats visitors to an experience like no other: featuring over 130 of the most prestigious bridal and lifestyle brands, from designers and florists to photographers and venues, the industry’s biggest names will be on hand to help, advise and inspire. These include Le Manoir aux Quat’Saison, Wedding Shop by Selfridges, Blenheim Palace, John Lewis, Mary Jane Vaughan Flowers, Zita Elze Flowers, Elizabeth’s Cake Emporium and Twobirds Bridesmaids. Visitors will also be treated to a series of stunning live catwalk shows, curated by Brides’ fashion director, Bryony Toogood, and showcasing the latest collections from some of the best UK and international designers, including Ian Stuart, Stephanie Allin, Naomi Neoh and Kate Halfpenny. And this year, brides-to-be can get even closer to the action by booking their Gold Catwalk ticket (priced £35). This VIP experience will enable 38 SEPTEMBER2014

ticket-holders fast-track entry, to pre-book their seats in the first front two rows, a complimentary glass of champagne and luxury gift bags. Standard tickets, priced £20, are also available. For added inspiration, visitors can also get hands-on, with the return of the hugely popular Imagination Room. With live DIY workshops on everything from bespoke invitations to personalised favours – hosted by the best in the business – The Imagination Room is designed to help bridesto-be realise their wedding look down to the smallest details. Brides and their parties can also enjoy beauty tips, makeovers and hair consultations at the Bridal Pampering sessions while On The Sofa – the show’s popular programme of interviews, presentations and Q&As – is the perfect way to stay ahead of the trends, and gain advice and tips from leading industry experts.

With all this, and so much more, Brides The Show is the ultimate wedding day out.   For a full list of all the show attractions and further general show information, please visit the website at: www.bridestheshow.co.uk

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EV E N TS

3rd – 12th

October 2014

Wimbledon BookFest 2014 T he eighth annual Wimbledon BookFest is back this autumn with a stellar line-up showcasing literatures leading names and local talent. Headliners include: global best-seller Alexander McCall Smith; Olivier Award winning actress Juliet Stevenson who will be reading the poetry of Pablo Neruda; TV and radio presenter Clare Balding; comedian Paul Merton, who grew up in Wimbledon; and Man Booker Prize winning novelist Ian McEwan, who will be in conversation with BBC Radio 4 presenter and BookFest regular, James Naughtie. Set on the glorious Wimbledon Common, a specially commissioned Big Tent seating up to 500, and an intimate William Morris themed marquee, provide the focal point for the festival. With the sociable attractions of Wimbledon Village a step away, Wimbledon BookFest is one of the most charming festivals in London today. The Festival also includes an eclectic programme of film screenings, live music, workshops, the popular Comedy on Wimbledon Common event with Josh Widdecombe and sports nights with hosts John Inverdale and Brian Moore. Children’s events are at the heart of the programme - with art workshops, storytelling with CBeebies presenter Cerrie Burnell and the ever popular Wombles sing-along. Caroline Lawrence will be teaching children How to Write a Great Story. Events for schools include Jacqueline Wilson, Benjamin Zephaniah, Michael Rosen and a special 10 year anniversary event of the Chronicles of Ancient Darkness Series with Wimbledon writer and Patron, Michelle Paver.

Paul Merton

40 SEPTEMBER2014

Juliet Stevenson

Ian McEwan

Festival Director, Fiona Razvi said “The Festival is really evolving with a broader emphasis on arts and culture. We’re delighted to have such talented writers as Alexander Mc Call Smith and Ian McEwan opening and closing the Festival this year. We also have sport, politics, and film, music and comedy events in our 10 packed days on the Common. Children visiting might find something unexpected on Wimbledon Common –as well as our traditional Wombles themed events, The Gruffalo will be paying a visit on 3rd and 4th October.” Other programme highlights include: For the first time ever the Agatha Christie estate has invited an author to write a new Hercules Poirot novel. Listen to Sophie Hannah discuss Monogram Murders for an evening of Crime in the Library. Go back in time with David Starkey, Andrew Roberts and Charles Spencer. Desert Island Books with Radio 4 presenter Jayne Thynne chairing Adam Foulds, Daisy Goodwin and Rachel Johnson. Former Home Secretary Alan Johnson discusses his memoirs Please Mister Postman, the sequel to This Boy. A Literary Lunch with Wimbledon writers Penny Vincenzi and Sophie Kincella. Delve into the life of The Unexpected Professor with John Carey. Victoria Hislop discusses her new work The Sunrise. A day long writing course and a short story competition for budding writers in the beautiful historic location of Southside House. For further details and to purchase tickets, please visit www.wimbledonbookfest.org

Alexander McCall Smith

Clare Balding

James Naughtie

Get behind the scenes

EV E N TS

at the Museum Depot, Acton Saturday and Sunday, 13–14 September 2014 11.00 – 17.00 (last entry 16.00) See the B-type bus No. B2737 converted into a First World War ‘Battle Bus’ Family fun – storytelling and craft activities Curator-led talks and tours See film footage from the Museum’s archive Heritage bus runs and miniature railway rides Transport ephemera stalls Bus pit tours

London Transport Museum Depot Museum Way, 118 – 120 Gunnersbury Lane London W3 8BQ

SEPTEMBER2014 41

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Welcome to our Independent Schools Guide Independent Day School for Girls aged 4-18 The independent school system in the UK is one of the finest in the world, and we are fortunate to have some of the best schools in the country right on our doorstep. Making the right choice for your child’s education is of paramount importance. Sometimes every parent needs a helping hand in deciding what is best for their children. Our Independent Schools Guide is an invaluable resource for any parent considering private education for their child. We publish our dedicated Schools Guides throughout the year. This months issue specifically features open days for the best independent schools to the UK’s most affluent parents. The Fish Media Group are proud to publish The Independent Schools Guide with our luxury titles for the most affluent homes across London and each of The Home Counties. You can also pick up the Schools Guides with our luxury titles at Waitrose, Marks & Spencer and other retail outlets. It is available at all leading estate agents, targeted five-star hotels and UK, European first-class airline and private jet lounges. Our digital magazines are now also sent to all subscribers.

If you would like your prestigious school or college to appear in our Independent Schools Guides, please call Vanessa on 020 8240 0036 or email Vanessa@fishmediagroup.co.uk

Alex Lux

Open Days 2014

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

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DESIGN & PRODUCTION

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SENIOR BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER

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Senior School Thursday 18 September 5pm Monday 6 October 5pm Tuesday 14 October 9.15am Wednesday 12 November 9.15am Sixth Form Wednesday 1 October 6pm The Bank, Highgate, London N6 5HF T: 020 8340 2328 Book online

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THE INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS AWARDS 2014

13th NOVEMBER 2014, NOTTINGHAM BELFY HOTEL

he Independent School Awards recognise excellence in the strategic and financial management of independent schools. Highlighting independent schools’ successes will help to spread and raise best practice across the sector, and create good publicity about the sector’s value to the UK. They are organised by the team behind Funding for Independent Schools magazine, the leading sector title. The awards are open to all independent schools in the UK, whether charitable or proprietor-owned. All schools, irrespective of their size, can compete on an equal basis as context is taken into account by the judges. Entry to the awards is free. Award Categories 1. Outstanding Strategic Initiative: this recognises initiatives in strategic planning, including: your school’s website, marketing campaign, a legal initiative, innovative recruitment drive, excellence in governance etc. 2. O utstanding Financial/Commercial Initiative: this recognises initiatives in financial planning, investments, property planning, commercial enterprise, fees strategy, raising bursaries etc. 3. O utstanding Fundraising Initiative: this recognises initiatives in fundraising and development that have raised income for the school directly. Applicants are expected to show innovation in some way. 4. Outstanding Community Initiative: this recognises initiatives that involve working with external groups such as parents and the local community (also either inside or outside a charitable school’s objectives, where appropriate). It could also include a link up with an overseas school. 5. B est Independent-Maintained School Collaboration: this recognises initiatives with a leading role with a state school(s). 6. E ducation Initiative of the Year: this recognises a project that has helped children to fulfil their potential and to improve learning outcomes. It could be a commercial product, but not necessarily. 7. S pecial Needs Initiative of the Year: this recognises a project that

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has helped children with special needs to fulfil their potential and to improve learning outcomes. 8. Boarding Initiative of the Year: this recognises an initiative within a boarding setting that has had a substantial and measurable impact on the (boarding) pupils. 9. Outstanding Senior Leadership Team of the Year: an SLT that has shown inspirational leadership of a school. 10. Outstanding Governing Body of the Year: this recognises an inspirational contribution to a school. 11. Lifetime Achievement Award: a school leader who has shown a commitment to and achievement in the independent school sector over many years. 12. British International School of the Year: an inspirational school based outside the UK that espouses a British education and has made an outstanding strategic or financial achievement. 13. Independent School of the Year (chosen from one of the winners of the first nine categories). Please note that it is not possible to apply directly for this award. The awards are decided by an independent panel of judges, all highly respected for their expertise and experience in the independent school sector. The judges have complementary skills: they consist of former heads, former bursars, current governors, an inspector, a union representative and a marketing expert and others. Up to four schools/candidates will be shortlisted for the awards, except for the Independent School of the Year award, which will be chosen from one of the winners of the first nine awards. The shortlisted schools will be announced on 17th September 2014. We wish all the schools who have submitted entries for this year’s awards the very best of luck.

Creativity in the Classroom

‘Knowledge’, Einstein observed, ‘is limited. Imagination encircles the world.’ In order to be ready for a professional life, where knowledge must be constantly updated and expanded, pupils, like Theoretical Physicists, need to look to the future and to dream. So, whilst inspirational teachers will always make the acquisition of knowledge an exhilarating experience, the best education will also fulfil a mind-opening, eye-opening and imagination-opening function. At Bromley High School, excellence in GCSE and A level examination is our traditional expectation but now new technologies are also giving pupils an inspirational window onto a wider world. Freed from the shackles of the National Curriculum, girls take an exploratory approach to learning which nurtures imagination and develops empathy. Crucially, the cultivation of creative imagination fuels aspiration beyond the curriculum. Those who enjoy the privilege of an excellent education should always be properly ambitious: both to make the most of their talents and to change their world for the better. Angela Drew Headmistress, Bromley High School www.bromleyhigh.gdst.net Open Events: Saturday 4th October 2014, 9.30 am – 1.00 pm; Sixth Form Open Evening, Tuesday 7th October, at 6.45 pm. Contact admissions@bro.gdst.net or Tel 020 8781 7000 to arrange a visit

BROMLEY HIGH SCHOOL Firing Girls’ Imagination since 1883

OPEN MORNING Saturday October 4th 2014 9.30 am ‐ 1.00 pm

SIXTH FORM OPEN EVENING Tuesday 7th October 2014 at 6.45 pm

Find out more about life at Bromley High School

For Girls 4 ‐ 18 years Fees Assistance & Scholarships available in the Senior School admissions@bro.gdst.net Tel: 020 8781 7000 www.bromleyhigh.gdst.net/Dul1

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FAIRLEY HOUSE FAIRLEY HOUSE, DESCRIBED IN THE SUNDAY TIMES AS ‘THE GOLD STANDARD’ IS LONDON’S LEADING DAY SCHOOL FOR CHILDREN WITH SPECIFIC LEARNING DIFFICULTIES. We offer an education almost unique in that Educational Psychologists, with Speech, Language and Occupational Therapists are integrated into the school curriculum. We enjoy a central London location with excellent facilities. Fairley House addresses the difficulties of children between 5 and 14 with dyslexia and dyspraxia. There is a staff: pupil ratio of 1: 3.5 and the average stay is two to three years after which children return to mainstream schooling with a new ‘can do’ attitude. At Fairley House our intention is to provide your son or daughter with an educational experience which rivals that of any mainstream independent school. Many of our alumni have had excellent grades at GCSE and A-Level and progressed to top universities and now have successful careers in a range of areas.

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

...and all of a sudden, nothing is impossible. FH_ISGUIDE_HP185mmx 125mm Aug 2014 06.43.11.indd 1

14/08/2014 06:44

Open Morning Saturday 4 October 2014

“ Lancing College is an inspirational place. Its guiding principles

prepare our pupils to live fulfilled, happy and successful lives and it will

”

be a privilege to lead this exceptional school in the years to come.

DOMINIC OLIVER, HEAD MASTER

Contact our Admissions Officer for more details on 01273 465805 or visit our website

www.lancingcollege.co.uk Tel 01273 465805

West Sussex BN15 0RW

AN iNdepeNdeNT SChOOl fOR BOyS ANd giRlS Aged 13 TO 18 Registered Charity Number: 1076483

E DUCAT I O N

Sydenham High celebrates exam and scholarship success Students at Sydenham High GDST have been celebrating exceptional exam success, prestigious scholarships and university places this Summer.

level results brought a 100% pass rate, with three quarters of the Sydenham High students achieving A*/B grades and a third securing A*/A grades. There were also celebrations for places on a wide range of courses at top universities including Cambridge, Edinburgh, Exeter, Manchester, St Andrews and York. At GCSE, 65% of students gained A*-A grades and 29% achieved specifically A*s, with three girls gaining ten A* grades. Ninety-six per cent of passes were A-C. One very happy student was Katie Mills. Not only did the 16-year old (pictured with Headteacher Kathryn Pullen) achieve two A*s and eight As, she has also been awarded a nationally sought-after Arkwright Engineering Scholarship which identifies her as one of the country’s future leaders in engineering and technical design.

What makes us different is the difference we make... From scientific exploration to personal discovery, our outstanding education goes way beyond the curriculum Find out more at our open events: Junior

Sat 27 September 10am-1pm Weds 8 October 9.30-11am

Senior

Sat 20 September 10am-1pm Weds 1 October 9.30-11am

See our website for further Autumn Open Events & bookable Taster Days 020 8557 7004 admissions@syd.gdst.net www.sydenhamhighschool.gdst.net 15 & 19 Westwood Hill, London, SE26 6BL

Katie competed against over 1,300 candidates from across the UK for the renowned Scholarship which will not only provide her with a financial award to support her A level studies but also a range of activities to enhance her understanding and experience of engineering. Kathryn Pullen, Sydenham High’s Headteacher, said: “I am so proud of our girls in achieving these great results. They’ve all worked hard and had tremendous support from their teachers and parents. Their resilience and determination will stand them in good stead as they progress with their education and into the world of work.”

For more information about Sydenham High School 19 Westwood Hill, London SE26 6BL call 020 8557 7004 or email admissions@syd.gdst.net www.sydenhamhighschool.gdst.net

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Teaching a way of living S at St Benedict’s School

t Benedict’s is London’s leading independent Catholic coeducational school. Our Mission of ‘Teaching a way of living’ is at the core of the holistic Catholic education that is provided to boys and girls throughout the School from Nursery to Sixth Form.

St Benedict’s is committed to supporting all children to develop their full potential and has a proud academic record. Inspections by ISI (November 2012) and Westminster Diocese (September 2013) have endorsed our success in fulfilling the School’s aims and have recognised the many strengths of the School. In December 2013 St Benedict’s School was recognised as an Investor in People – Gold, an award held by a select group of fewer than 700 organisations in the United Kingdom. The school welcomes children of other Christian denominations and other faiths. The Junior School and Nursery provide a supportive, friendly and vibrant co-educational environment. Your child’s educational journey begins and the seeds of our Benedictine ethos are planted, nurtured and given every opportunity to flourish. Senior School pupils are encouraged to think and

St Benedict’s Senior School 54 Eaton Rise, Ealing London W5 2ES 52 SEPTEMBER2014

express themselves creatively, to work independently and to take pride in all their achievements. In the Sixth Form students take on leadership roles and all contribute to a variety of projects, which raise funds for communities across the world. There has been huge recent investment in buildings and facilities, including a full size all-weather facility at the playing fields, a new playground area for the Junior School, a major refurbishment of the Senior School Library and a new serving area adjacent to the dining hall. St Benedict’s is renowned for its sporting tradition and has a national reputation for rugby. Whilst promoting the highest sporting aspirations, the school is committed to sport for all. A wide range of co-curricular activities is offered including music, drama and opportunities for Christian service. St Benedict’s School is unique. We are an extended family in which pupils can thrive and we are proud of our cohesive community. Come and visit and see what we have to offer. You can be sure of a warm Benedictine welcome.

St Benedict’s Junior School 5 Montpelier Avenue, Ealing London W5 2XP

Tel: 020 8862 2254 Email: enquiries@stbenedicts.org.uk Website: www.stbenedicts.org.uk

Open Morning Saturday 11th October 2014 10am – 12 noon 020 7348 1793 www.stjamesjuniors.co.uk

ST JAMES Junior School

Earsby Street | London W14 8SH

for girls and boys

Registered Charity No. 270156

St Benedict’s, Ealing Independent Catholic Day School

Teaching a way of living

Co-education from 3 years through to 18

OPEN MORNINGS for NURSERY: 30 September, 14 October, 20 November

JUNIORS: 18 September, 7 & 11 October SENIORS: 15 September, 3, 11 & 16 October SIXTH FORM OPEN EVENING: 25 September SCHOLARSHIPS AND BURSARIES IN SENIOR SCHOOL To book a place at an open event or for more information, please contact: T: 020 8862 2254 E: enquiries@stbenedicts.org.uk W: www.stbenedicts.org.uk We respect the dignity of all and welcome children of other faiths.

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Individual

t UCS, education is founded on a dual emphasis on liberal academic scholarship and on being a community of individuals; this lends the School a distinctiveness for which it is known and respected. The UCS Foundation comprises three schools providing an excellent education to children aged 3 – 18. The Phoenix School (ages 3 – 7) aims to provide a happy and stimulating environment for the 130 pupils who attend. Intellectual curiosity and independence of mind are developed, self-discovery and self-expression are fostered, and learning co-operatively and collaboratively is highly valued. Around 240 boys attend the UCS Junior Branch (ages 7 – 11) which is set in the heart of Hampstead Village. The JB provides each student with the opportunity to mature steadily so that he develops the academic and personal disciplines, self-confidence, and thoughtfulness to enable him to transfer smoothly to the Senior School. Both the Phoenix and the Junior Branch have their own excellent facilities, and enjoy full use of those at the Senior School, Sports Centre and Playing Fields. Around 850 pupils (aged 11 – 18) attend the Senior School, and each year around 40 girls join the Sixth Form. The aim is to produce students who can progress to university with the confidence and motivation to stand alone as

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Distinctive

independent learners, with a love of learning for learning’s sake. Academic endeavour is supported by a wide range of co-curricular activities, including excellent provision for Sport, Music, and Drama. In 2014, A level pupils achieved impressive results (70% A*-A, 93% A*-B) and 50% of the cohort achieved three A grades or better. GCSE pupils secured the school’s best ever results with 88% A*-A and over 60% of exams graded at A* alone and a third of the cohort secured nine or more A*s. UCS is firmly committed to promoting wider access to the unique education provided through fee assistance. The School has grown this programme over a number of years and consistently ranks at the top of independent schools in London for the number of full (100%) bursaries awarded each year. Currently, funding is available to pupils applying to the Senior School (11+, 13+, and 16+ entry points). Assistance is also granted in the form of competitive Music Awards. To learn more about the UCS Foundation and its admission requirements, please visit www.ucs.org.uk. University College School Frognal, Hampstead, London NW3 6XH www.ucs.org.uk

inspires We are a leading 11â&#x20AC;&#x201C;18 boarding & day school for boys & girls. Academic rigour and outstanding co-curricular provision are at the heart of Haileybury,providing the exceptional opportunities and truly all-round education that allow our pupils to discover enduring passions and talents. We offer a choice of IB Diploma or A Levels in the Sixth Form. Our next Open Mornings in 2014 are: (11+) 26 September and 7 November; (13+) 11 October; (16+) 13 September

For further information, or to attend an Open Morning, you are warmly invited to contact the Registrar, Iona Hutchinson registrar@haileybury.com 01992 706353 Haileybury Hertford Herts SG13 7NU haileybury.com

@HaileyburyUK

/HaileyburyUK Registered charity number 310013

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think. HowWestminster School’s pupils learn to excel in all areas of life.

estminster School is an exciting place to be. It is a school where pupils are taught to think by teachers who inspire them. Westminster’s renowned academic pre-eminence is a result of pupils learning the skills of intellectual enquiry and debate and applying them with relish well beyond the syllabus. It is by these means that pupils achieve exceptional public examination results and gain entrance to the top universities worldwide. In 2014 150 pupils sat A-level Mathematics and 76 of them (just over 50%) achieved an A* grade. Grades were equally strong in the humanities. In English Literature Westminster pupils take the Cambridge Pre-U, which is alternative form of A-level. This year there were 63 English Literature candidates and 55 of them (87%) achieved the Pre-U equivalent of an A*. 97 of this year’s leavers (over 50%) received offers to study at Oxford or Cambridge. Most of the remainder will go to Russell Group universities in the UK but more than 10% will go to universities in the USA. Offers have been received, among others, from Harvard, Yale, MIT, Brown, Chicago, Cornell and Dartmouth. Westminster parents also choose the School for their sons and daughters (the Sixth Form is fully co-educational) for the astonishing range of opportunities beyond the classroom, for example in music, drama, debating and sport. Pupils are keen to look outward as well and to play their part in the life of the local community through a programme of civic engagement; and Westminster has close relationships with neighbouring state schools, both primary and secondary. 120 boys are admitted every year at 13+. Just under half come from our Under School and most of the remainder come from London prep schools. Since the early 1970s girls have joined the school at 16+. There are currently 128 girls in the school. Some come from country boarding schools or from overseas but the majority come from London day schools. Westminster School Little Dean’s Yard, London SW1P 3PF 020 7963 1003 registrar@westminster.org.uk www.westminster.org.uk 56 SEPTEMBER2014

WESTMINSTER SCHOOL www.westminster.org.uk

‘For the right girl or boy, simply the best.’ Good Schools Guide

16+ ENTRY FOR GIRLS & BOYS To find out about Open Days and online registration please look at our website.

13+ BOYS ENTRY To request a prospectus or to arrange a tour of the school, please call 020 7963 1003 or email registrar@westminster.org.uk For information about 7+, 8+ and 11+ entry to Westminster Under School please go to www.westminsterunder.org.uk Westminster School is a charity (No. 312728) established to provide education.

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Open Morning

Independent education for boys aged 7-11

Independent day and boarding school for boys

For entry into Years 3-6

For entry into Year 7

Saturday 4 October 2014 9.30am–12 noon (Entry via Hunts Slip Road)

Saturday 11 October 2014 9.30am–12 noon

The Junior School at Dulwich College provides a nurturing and challenging environment for boys aged 7-11, whilst allowing pupils to benefit from our outstanding facilities.

Dulwich College welcomes parents and boys considering entry into Year 7 to our Open Morning. No appointment is necessary. Conducted tours of the College are offered with opportunities to meet pupils and staff.

We welcome parents and boys to our Open Morning on Saturday 4 October when there will be talks by the Master of the College and the Head of the Junior School at 9.30am,10.30am and 11.30am. We also have an Open Afternoon on Tuesday 18 November at 2.00pm and smaller parent tours and visits are also available by arrangement.

Other opportunities are available to visit the College during the school day. Dates can be found on our website, or please telephone the Registrar for further details.

.............................................................................................................

For more information please contact the Junior School Dulwich College, Dulwich Common, London, SE21 7LD Telephone: 020 8299 8432 Email: junioradmissions@dulwich.org.uk www.dulwich.org.uk/junior-school

For more information please contact the Registrar Dulwich College, Dulwich Common, London, SE21 7LD Telephone: 020 8299 9263 Email: the.registrar@dulwich.org.uk www.dulwich.org.uk

Opening

For Readers from 3 years to Young Adult (and their parents) Saturday 8 November 10am - 5pm at Streatham & Clapham High School 42 Abbotswood Road, SW16 1AW

STREAM

Packed with fun activities, visiting authors, book readings and signings, creative workshops, competitions, prizes and much more STREAM is open to all and admission is free For details of all authors and events visit our website Booking now open

www.STREAM2014.co.uk

Empowering girls to pursue ideals and knowledge unafraid Sixth Form Open Evening 2014 Thursday

9 October

6.30 pm - 8.30 pm

Empowering girls to pursue ideals and knowledge unafraid Senior School Open Days 2014 Saturday

27 September

Tuesday

14 October

10.00 am - 1.00 pm 9.15 am - 11.30 am

Senior School (11-18)

42 Abbotswood Road, SW16 1AW

020 8677 8400 senior@schs.gdst.net

An Award-winning Sixth-Form College In the Heart of Central London

Principals James Eytle and Beverley Mellon receiving the award for Best London Independent Sixth-Form College 2013 from Les Webb of sixth-form.com

• Small group sizes – max class size of 8 • Excellent location – in the heart of Mayfair in central London close to Hyde Park and Oxford Street • Excellent results – 89.4% of A-level students gained A*, A, B grades in June 2013

Wide subject choice A-level & GCSE course covering a wide range of subjects across Sciences, Humanities, Social sciences, Arts and Languages.

Specialist Programmes for University Entry Specialist programmes for university entry onto competitive degree courses including Medicine, Dentistry, Law, Economics, Psychology, Architecture and Engineering.

For enrolment enquiries please contact the College Administrator Julia Millar on 020 7409 7273 or by email admin@albemarle.org.uk

www.albemarle.org.uk

E DUCAT I O N

talent developing

ountview Academy of Theatre Arts in north London boasts an international reputation for training actors, directors and theatre technicians. There are just under 400 students studying on foundation, undergraduate and postgraduate courses and Mountview also runs a thriving series of Saturday and summer schools for young people and amateur actors. Alumni include Ken Stott, Douglas Henshall, Eddie Marsan, Amanda Holden, Lindsey Coulson, Michael French, Brendan Coyle and Artistic Director of Hampstead Theatre, Ed Hall. Courses are validated by the University of East Anglia (UEA) and the most recent OFSTED inspection declared the Academy ‘outstanding’ for its performance work. There is a student to staff ration of 12:1 with core staff supported by a large number of visiting tutors who also work in the theatre industry. Performance training includes a new BA (Hons) for Actor Musicians as well as specialist training in acting and musical theatre. Postgraduate study includes a popular diploma in musical direction alongside Masters degrees in theatre directing, acting and musical theatre. Artistic Director and Principal Stephen Jameson says “the focus is on training students to be rounded, creative individuals who can work in many fields.” Third year acting student Kathryn Taylor-Gears adds “what is great about Mountview is that training covers all the elements of classical acting such as voice, text and stage combat as well as a strong leaning towards TV, film and radio work and new writing.” The technical department offers a two-year foundation degree (FDA) as well as a three-year BA (Hons)in Theatre Production Arts. Students gain practical experience in all areas of technical theatre – stage and production management, lighting, sound and digital design and design and applied arts – before specializing later in the course. Over the length of the course students move from assistant through to lead roles in a live theatre environment. Musical theatre undergraduate Jonathan Halliwell concludes “there is a great support system here and motivation to push you to succeed. The school is like one close-knit theatre company.” For further details visit mountview.org.uk or call 020 8881 2201

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THEATRE TRAINING AT ITS FINEST Short Courses · Foundation · Diploma · BA (Hons) · MA

ACTING ACTOR MUSICIAN MUSICAL THEATRE THEATRE DIRECTING MUSICAL DIRECTION THEATRE PRODUCTION ARTS CREATIVE PRODUCING

MOUNTVIEW.ORG.UK · @MOUNTVIEWLDN · 020 8881 2201

ASHBOURNE COLLEGE A Level Scholarships Music and Performing Arts

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

• One of London’s best private colleges • Outstanding facilities for music, drama and art including state-of-the-art composing and recording software • Emphasis on study skills, independent thinking and individual attention has produced excellent exam results and university destinations • Informal, university-style approach and wide range of cultural activities • Opportunities for full and partial scholarships for students with exceptional talent and academic ability.

Contact admissions on: 020 7937 3858 admissions@ashbournecollege.co.uk

college.co.uk

Ashbourne Independent Sixth Form Kensington, London W8 4PL

A co-educational IAPS Prep and Pre-Prep School for children from 3 to 13 with its own Oak Tree Nursery for children from 2½ to 3½ OPEN MORNINGS Wednesday, 15th October 2014 Thursday, 16th October 2014 For more information contact the Admissions’ Secretary: 020 7435 1916 enquiries@devonshirehouseprepschool.co.uk www.devonshirehouseschool.co.uk

Saint Christina s School

Independent co-ed pre-prep & nursery 3–7 years . Founded 1976 . Member ISA

Where happy children are successful learners

Independent Catholic Preparatory School IAPS member, Girls aged 3-11, Boys 3-7

You are assured a warm welcome at our family-orientated, purpose-built School, close to Primrose Hill and Regent’s Park. We offer a rich and varied learning experience, with excellent examination results and a wide range of extra-curricular activities. For further details, please email: secretary@saintchristinas.org.uk www.saintchristinas.org.uk 25 St. Edmund’s Terrace, London, NW8 7PY T: 020 7722 8784

Constructing, for life

SINGING FROM THE HEART Being a chorister at St Paul’s Cathedral is the experience of a lifetime

Excellent and outstanding: 58 times! Verdict from the latest Independent Schools’ Inspection report: The words excellent (highest rating for Whole School and Key Stage 1) and outstanding (highest rating for Early Years) feature an incredible 46 and 12 times, respectively. See www.isi.net.

Main entry at 2+, 3+ and 4+. We look forward to meeting you! W www.hernehillschool.co.uk. E enquiries@hernehillschool.co.uk T 020 7274 6336

St Paul’s choristers sing in one of the most famous and beautiful places of worship in the world, perform in concerts around the globe, and receive a first-class academic education at the Cathedral School. Boys are not expected to have fully-developed voices or much formal singing experience – enthusiasm, intelligence and musical potential are the keys. — — — — —

100% tuition fees for all choristers Assistance with boarding fees available One of the top preparatory schools in the country The finest musical education An amazing start to life

If your son is aged 6–8 and shows musical promise, do get in touch. He could become one of the next generation of choristers at St Paul’s.

The Old Vicarage 127 Herne Hill London SE24 9LY

For more information please contact: Clare Morgan, Registrar, St Paul’s Cathedral School 020 7248 5156 · admissions@spcs.london.sch.uk

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Unique & Exceptionally Tailor-Made Education AT

W H I T G I F T

hitgift is situated in a beautiful and historic park. A Whitgift education here is unique and exceptionally tailor-made, offering a variety of pathways to qualifications which include the International Baccalaureate, A Levels and BTEC, with a bilingual section for native French speakers. Exceptional pastoral care is at the foundation of our provision, and each pupil, and his parents, are guaranteed a friendly face to turn to for advice and guidance. Whitgiftâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sport is at the forefront of achievement, with over 100 national titles won in the past five years. More than 40 sports are available, including modern pentathlon, golf, judo and cycling. Many boys represent their country in a wide variety of sports, or go on to pursue a career at the highest level. An exciting Performing Arts programme is offered by the School, with first-class musicals and plays performed regularly. Orchestras and choirs tour internationally, and play at major venues, including the Royal Albert Hall, the Royal Festival Hall, Cadogan Hall, Goodwood House, and the Royal Pavilion, Brighton. The School enjoys close links with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, enabling pupils to learn side-by-side with professional musicians.

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S C H O O L

Co-curricular activities feature more than 80 clubs, an Outdoor Education programme that travels worldwide, and a wellestablished Combined Cadet Force. The Schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new Boarding House, opened in 2013, is superblyequipped, and offers full, weekly and flexi-boarding to boys aged 13-18. Boarders have cutting-edge IT facilities, private study areas, ensuite bathrooms, and spacious, communal social areas with kitchen facilities. Whitgift offers generous scholarships and bursaries. There are many opportunities throughout the year to visit Whitgift. Details of Open Days are available at www. whitgift.co.uk/opendays.

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

Whitgift. One of Britain’s finest independent day and boarding schools for boys aged 10-18

‘Some might say it’s just bricks and mortar. Others may say it’s just a school. But Whitgift is so much more than that’ Old Whitgiftian (2006–2014)

OPEN MORNING | SATURDAY 20 SEPTEMBER 2014 OPEN EVENING | TUESDAY 7 OCTOBER 2014 SIXTH FORM AND BOARDING | BY APPOINTMENT admissions@whitgift.co.uk +44 (0)20 8633 9935 www.whitgift.co.uk/opendays Haling Park, South Croydon, CR2 6YT, United Kingdom

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Preparing your children for future challenges at Fulham Prep School

his family run co-educational pre-prep and prep school for 4-13 year olds specifically prepares children for the selective 11+ and 13+ entrance exams to the leading London day and boarding schools.

The school has an enviable record of placing children in their first choice secondary school whilst, at the same time, providing a broad and enriching curriculum which prepares children for future challenges. A recent OFSTED inspection (June 2014) rated the school “outstanding” in all categories. The school is proud of its international community although fluent English is a requirement of entry as is a stay of no less than three years. The school aims to foster independence and a life-long love of learning in all its pupils. Fulham Preps Common Entrance results this year were also outstanding with pupils going to their first choice schools. Pupils go to a wide range of schools from Kings Wimbledon, Godolfin Latymer , St Paul’s, Eton, Harrow, Malborough, St Edwards to name just a few. The Prep school is situated behind Queens club at 200 Greyhound Road, London W14 9SD. Telephone 020 7386 2444 The Pre Prep school is just by Putney bridge at 47A Fulham High Street, London SW6 3JJ. Telephone 020 7371 9911

Open Day Fulham Pre-Prep Open Day is Thursday 20th November, 2014, between 9:30am – 11:00am. You can walk in anytime, no need to register and all prospective parents are welcome. For more details of both schools, please visit www.fulhamprep.co.uk 66 SEPTEMBER2014

CE 4147 Fulham Life Advertisement:Layout 1 8/4/14 2:16 PM Page 1

Inspiring Brilliant Futures In the 2014 senior school entrance examinations Year 6 pupils were awarded • 29 Academic Scholarships • 7 Art Scholarships • 4 Sports Scholarships • 3 Music Scholarships

Open Day

Saturday 27th September 10.00 – 12.30 020-8670 5865

email: admissions@rosemeadprepschool.org.uk www.rosemeadprepschool.org.uk

W f

Fulham Prep School

Independent Co-educational 3-11 years. Founded 1942. ISA & IAPS

Is your child passionate about music, or in tune with a wide curriculum of subjects? Find out how your child can reach their full potential by calling 020 7371 9911 (reception to year 2) or 020 7386 2444 (years 3 to 8) www.fulhamprep.co.uk

E DUCAT I O N

Achieve Academic Excellence at Sinclair House School

inclair House School opened in Fulham in 1989 as a small coeducational Nursery and Pre-Prep, offering a warm, caring and secure school environment. Since then, the School has been committed to personalised teaching, nurturing each childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s talents, building on strengths, and developing their confidence to achieve academic excellence. Sinclair House believes that education should go beyond assessment and evaluation; early schooling provides critical knowledge and understanding to develop both intellectual and human skills. The School Day is structured around a range of opportunities and experiences which foster healthy growth in pupils, as well as enriching learning and supporting academic development. Sinclair House Nursery uses the Montessori Method and delivers the curriculum individually and in small groups, with experienced and committed teachers, allowing the children to progress at their own pace. This mode of learning in the early educational stages facilitates greater enjoyment and confidence, which are key to developing strong social skills and independence. Sinclair House places emphasis on values-led teaching with individual attention and support, and provides a consistent gradient of learning from the Early Years to preparation for 11+ and 13+ Common Entrance examinations. The core curriculum is structured to be intellectually stimulating, rounded and balanced, supporting each childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s unique

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academic progression and abilities. From Reception to Year 8, the children participate in a wide range of activities, including swimming, martial arts, drama, choir, and local and international school trips. In September 2013, to meet increased demand for student places, Sinclair House opened new premises for its Prep School on Fulham High Street. The new building offers enhanced facilities, including individual Music Rooms, an Art Studio, a Science Lab, an ICT suite, and a large, multipurpose hall. This development also included the Nursery expansion across two premises, each with outside garden space. The Preparatory School will continue to develop as from September 2014, it will benefit from an additional 5,000 sq ft of space, which will feature an expanded playground and covered sports facilities. Due also to increased demand, the Preparatory School will introduce a two-form entry at Reception and Year 1 from September 2014, whilst maintaining its personalised teaching style and nurturing environment with a maximum class size of 16.

For more information about Sinclair House School Montessori Nursery: Lower Nursery: 196 Munster Road, London SW6 6AU Upper Nursery: 159 Munster Road, London SW6 6DA Preparatory School: 59 Fulham High Street, London SW6 3JJ Call 020 7736 9182 or email info@sinclairhouseschool.co.uk www.sinclairhouseschool.co.uk

OPEN DAY Sinclair HouSe ScHool Preparatory School for Boys and Girls aged 4-13

10.00AM â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 12.00 NOON

SATURDAY 20TH SEPTEMBER 59 Fulham High Street, London SW6 3JJ TEL 020 7736 9182 EMAIL info@sinclairhouseschool.co.uk www.sinclairhouseschool.co.uk

E E DUCAT DUCAT II O ON N LIFE

AN EDUCATION TAILORED TO GIRLS An interview with Headmistress Sarah Labram

t James Senior Girls’ School, located in Kensington Olympia, welcomes pupils aged from 10-18 years. Sarah Labram, formerly the Deputy Head (Academic) and herself a former pupil, has just taken over as Headmistress of the school. ‘I wanted to become Headmistress of St James because I know the school so well and love it. We have dedicated teachers, hard-working, enthusiastic pupils and, being a relatively small school, a wonderful sense of community,’ she says. ‘I aim to continue to provide an inspirational and supportive environment, allowing every girl to participate widely and achieve her personal best academically. I also plan to re-invigorate the school’s House System to strengthen relationships between the different year groups and provide more opportunities for leadership. When our pupils ultimately leave the school, we want them to move into the world with confidence as young women of integrity, equipped with the knowledge and skills to make a generous contribution to society.’ When asked what distinguishes St James from other schools, Sarah Labram says, ‘Although our pupils achieve the highest academic standards, we believe education to be a great deal more than the acquisition of exam results. We provide an environment which enriches the emotional, moral and spiritual dimensions of our pupils’ lives as well as their intellectual development. We aim to inspire a love of wisdom in our girls by offering them a philosophically led education.’

7 SE 20 0 s eP pT tE eM mB bEeRr2 02 10 41 4

Unusually the school also values the practice of meditation and stillness which it says is becoming increasingly sought-after by parents who are keen to secure their daughter’s well-being in an increasingly complex world. A short period at the beginning and end of every day is allocated to quietude in which pupils may meditate, contemplate or simply be still – according to their own spiritual inclinations. Quality of attention and power of concentration are seen as essential to an effective and happy way of life. Mrs Labram adds, ‘When people meet our pupils, they always remark upon their happiness, good nature, considerate conduct and generosity of spirit. The girls are inspired to work very hard at everything they do, not through fear but out of a natural desire to make full use of the opportunities available to them. As a result, the standards they achieve are excellent. They value being part of a strong community: they celebrate the achievements of others as well as their own and aim for their skills and qualities to be of real use to the community at large.’

OPENING EVENTS To find out more, please attend one of the following open events: Sixth Form Open Evening Wednesday 1st October 5.15 - 7.30pm Open Morning Saturday 4th October 9.30am – 12.15pm Open Evening Thursday 9th October 4.30 – 7.00pm School in Action Wednesday 5th November 9.00 – 10.45am St James Senior Girls’ School, Earsby Street, London W14 8SH Tel: 020 7348 1748 admissions@sjsg.org.uk www.stjamesgirls.co.uk

Open Events 2014 Sixth Form Open Evening Wednesday 1st October

5.15pm – 7.30pm

Open Morning Saturday 4th October

9.30am – 12.15pm

Open Evening Thursday 9th October

4.30pm – 7.00pm

School in Action Wednesday 5th November

9.00am – 10.45am

To book: 020 7348 1748 admissions@sjsg.org.uk www.stjamesgirls.co.uk Earsby Street | London W14 8SH

ST JAMES

Registered Charity No. 270156

Senior Girls’ School

E DUCAT I O N

Every child has the potential to exceed expectations

at Alleyn’s School

oday’s curriculum rightly emphasises the importance of key skills such as literacy and numeracy. Competence in these, along with a whole range of other artistic, creative, imaginative, and technological skills, across the full range of subjects, is the aim of a rounded education.

However, believing a child’s potential to achieve in all these areas is determined by their genes makes life something of a lottery and is inherently de-motivating when predicting academic achievement. A more optimistic contrary view suggests that children’s attitudes to learning might well be among the most important determinants of their overall success. The implications of this for schools are powerful. Above all, it ought to mean that every child has the potential to exceed expectations. Significantly, learning how to think has moved from being the preserve of classical philosophers into the pages of popular selfimprovement literature. Edward de Bono’s pioneering work and more lately Carol Dweck’s concept of the ‘growth mindset’ have shown exactly how attitudes affect achievement. Research confirms the proverbial wisdom of ‘well begun is half done’. Approach a difficult task or complex problem with the right attitude and success is much more likely.

of striking a balance between traditional whole-class, didactic instruction and providing opportunities for pupils to practise thinking for themselves. Active learning, for example collaborating through group work, conducting experimental investigations, collecting data in fieldwork, in other words learning by doing, leads to deeper learning. Pupils who enjoy exploring, testing and developing ideas are becoming better thinkers. The Alleyn’s Learning Council is one more manifestation of this theme of making how we learn explicit: pupils can share their views with teachers on topics such as homework and revision. Additionally, taking part in our massive programme of cocurricular activities, clubs and societies, and hearing weekly visiting speakers, are central to the Alleyn’s educational experience and encourage our pupils to develop their interests and their thinking. Their positive attitude to learning is one reason why they succeed at university level too.”

Alleyn’s School, Townley Road, London SE22 8SU Telephone - 020 8557 1500 Email - registrar@alleyns.org.uk Please visit our website - www.alleyns.org.uk

Senior Deputy Head, Antony Faccinello says, “Alleyn’s School puts this theory into practice every day. Our teachers know the importance 72 SEPTEMBER2014

Alleyn’s is a registered charity. Charity No. 1057971

Fish Media April 2014 ad:Alleyn's

8/4/14

11:20

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Alleyn’s School Co-educational, academic excellence is closer than you think. Alleyn’s School, Dulwich: 14 minutes from London Bridge; 12 minutes from Victoria.

Westminster 3 miles

Surrey Quays 4 miles

Notting Hill 6 miles

Marble Arch 5 miles

Knightsbridge 6 miles

Greenwich 4 miles

Fulham 6 miles

Clapham 3 miles

The City 5 miles

Chelsea 6 miles

Borough 5 Miles

Battersea 5 Miles

Balham 3 Miles

Independent day school for boys and girls aged 4–18. Dedicated daily coaches serving inner and outer London.

OPEN DAYS 2014 11+, 13+ Wednesday 17 September 2.00pm 11+, 13+, 16+ Saturday 4 October 9.30am 16+ Tuesday 4 November 2.30pm 11+, 13+ Wednesday 5 November 2.00pm All welcome – no need to book For more information visit our website alleyns.org.uk Tel: 020 8557 1478

E DUCAT I O N

jumping for joy PICTURE COURTESY OF SOUTHWARK NEWS

St Saviour’s & St Olave’s score record results for second year running

tudents at St Saviour’s and St Olave’s School are jumping for joy as their acheivements have produced yet another recordbreaking set of exam results.

First it was the turn of Sixth Formers, who produced an array of fantastic results, which included outstanding individual successes: Emma Rahman will take up a place at Christ’s College Cambridge to study Natural Sciences and will be joined at the country’s best university by Hanen Ziad, who will study Philosophy at Trinity Hall. Ayesha Ahmed will be going to Imperial College to study Medicine, Chelcie Ambrosio will begin undergraduate studies in Accounting and Finance at LSE, whilst Yasmin Kudsi will study at Skidmore College in New York having secured a scholarship through the Fulbright Programme. Head of 6th Form, John Breslin expressed his delight: “This confirms our status as one of the best state schools for girls in South London. Whether you are aiming for the best universities or the most prestigious industry placements, St Saviour’s girls have shown that with hard work and commitment, you can achieve these goals.”

74 SEPTEMBER2014

The following week was even better as the school delighted in announcing its best ever GCSE results. 82% of Year 11 students achieved the key benchmark of 5 A* to C including English and Mathematics, an improvement of 4% on last year. Achievement was reflected across a broad range of subjects, with a record 45% of students achieving the EBacc group of qualifications. Headteacher Catherine May enthused: “Congratulations to all of our year 11 students on these wonderful results. They are the best in the school’s history and I am so proud of the girls. They have worked extremely hard along with our totally dedicated teaching and support staff, and I’m delighted their effort has been so well rewarded. We look forward to them achieving further success in our 6th Form. I would strongly urge any parents looking for a truly great school for their daughter to come along to our open sessions and see how we do things.” Details can be found at www.ssso.southwark.sch.uk or by calling 0207 407 1843.

‘Outstanding’ in EVERY respect... Open Sessions 2014

SIAMS Report 2014

Tuesday 16th September 6pm - 8pm Talk and questions with the Headteacher at 7.30pm

Wednesday 17th September 10am Talk and questions with the Headteacher at 10.45am

Thursday 18th September 10am

BEST RESULTS EVER!

Talk and questions with the Headteacher at 10.45am

Friday 3rd October 10am Talk and questions with the Headteacher at 10.45am 11 - 18 Church of England Girls’ School New Kent Road, London SE1 4AN T: 0207 407 1843 www.ssso.southwark.sch.uk E: office@ssso.southwark.sch.uk

details on

line

E DUCAT I O N

Why Choose An Independent Sixth Form College? F

or independent sixth form colleges, formerly known as “crammers”, times have changed dramatically over the past 20 years. There are currently over 100 such colleges in the UK, located nationwide from Exeter to Edinburgh, and significantly the majority of the A-level courses that they run nowadays are of the traditional two-year variety, rather than the shortened retake courses for which they were renowned. Most still run resit and revision courses, but this sector is now firmly established as a provider of the standard post-GCSE two-year programme. Most of the best colleges are members of the Council for Independent Education (CIFE). CIFE, founded in 1972, is a national association whose colleges each offer individual features but are all subject to high standards of accreditation. Details of each college can be found at www.cife.org.uk. Chris Kraft, Principal of Duff Miller College, explains why the sixth form colleges are no longer the poor relation of the independent sector: “Students are making a pro-active choice to seek alternatives to the traditional school sixth form. The die is not cast for 16-year-olds to stay where they have been since 11 or 13, and many parents are now seeking a bespoke solution to the problem of ensuring entry into highdemand courses such as medicine and law at top universities. They are increasingly unconvinced that staying put is the best option.”

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So, what are the main attractions of private sixth-form colleges? Firstly, they provide a more adult learning environment compared to schools, a wider variety and range of subjects on offer (over 40, in some cases) and fewer restrictions on subject combinations. Mike Kirby, who founded Ashbourne Independent Sixth Form College in the 1970s, stresses: “We offer the opportunity for change, growth and development and are rightly called half-way houses to university. There is an excellent balance between freedom and discipline: students have much more responsibility to manage their academic and social lives, but at the same time colleges are slightly obsessed with monitoring attendance, work submission and exam preparation.” Secondly, the best colleges have experienced teachers who are A-level subject specialists, familiar with all the exam board requirements and often examiners for the syllabuses they teach. Steve Boyes, Principal of MPW London, adds: “Sixth form college teachers have developed special expertise because they cater only for Key Stage 5 and can focus on delivering A-level specifications in innovative and creative ways, which translates into high-level academic outcomes.” For more information go to www.cife.org.uk or telephone 020 8767 8666.

A thriving Surrey prep school where boys get a head start • 125-year heritage, totally up-to-date teaching • Set in 45 acres of gardens and playing fields • Enthusiastic, dedicated and caring teachers • Exceptional results at Common Entrance • Huge range of sport and pastoral activities • Excellent transport links to/from London • For boys aged 4-13, with co-educational nursery

The Manor, Stoke D’Abernon, Cobham KT11 3PX

OPEN MORNING SATURDAY 20th SEPTEMBER | 9.00AM

01932 862749 • office@parkside-school.co.uk

OPEN MORNING 3rd OCT 2014

www.dulwichpreplondon.org

E DUCAT I O N

Another Outstanding Year of Results Students celebrated their exam successes with champagne at Queen Ethelburga’s Collegiate near York

n another outstanding year of results, pupils, from the independent school at Thorpe Underwood, toasted their excellent grades with a sip of bubbly and smiles all round.

Last year, QE College was ranked fifteenth in the Daily Telegraph’s national independent schools’ league table for its percentage at A*-A at A-Level. This year’s UCAS average points score saw the College smash the 500 points landmark – scoring 501, which will most certainly guarantee it a top place in the league tables again. The College and the Faculty are presently the first and second placed independent day and boarding schools in the North of England in last year’s Daily Telegraph’s table. “It has been another impressive year for us at QE,” said the Principal Steven Jandrell. “We have had another 100% pass rate for all the students in both our Sixth Form schools, an excellent set of grades for our students and proof that our ethos of working with each student individually really gets results. “ “We have always believed at QE that if you work at trying to find something that every pupil enjoys or is good at then that will make a difference in their approach to coursework and sitting exams,” he added. “And I think from our results again this year it is pretty obvious that that is working.” Students in QE’s College, which follows a more traditional, academic curriculum, gained an average UCAS points’ score of 501 – the equivalent to 78 SEPTEMBER2014

more than 4 A grades at A-Level. The percentage of grades at A*-A was 80%, another excellent performance, bucking the national trend of A*-A grades having declined over the last three years. Faculty pupils, who can take more vocational BTECs alongside A-Levels, celebrated an average UCAS points score of 481– the equivalent to more than 4 A grades at A-Level. The percentage of grades at A*-A at A-Level was 74%, up from last year’s 68%. 95% of BTECs taken in the Faculty were awarded a Distinction * or Distinction grade – the equivalent in UCAS points to A* and A grades at A-Level. This was an impressive improvement from an already excellent 91% of BTECs in the Faculty awarded Distinction*s or Distinctions last year. “We are absolutely delighted with the performances of our students yet again,” said Mr Jandrell, “It is a great day for us at QE and I would like to thank all our students, teachers and staff who have worked so hard for these excellent results.” Queen Ethelburga’s motto is about ambition and excellence – “to be the best that I can with the gifts that I have” – it is a school rich in talent and opportunities and well deserves such a maxim. Thorpe Underwood Estate, York YO26 9SS Telephone 01423 33 33 30 www.qe.org

Queen Ethelburga’s York, North Yorkshire

•

Ranked by the daily Telegraph the top Northern day and Boarding Co-Educational School for Academic results - average UCAS point score

• • • • •

Over £65m invested in new facilities

•

New £6m Sports Centre - www.qesportsvillage.org New elite rugby and netball academies Wide choice of GCSEs, A levels and BTECs 98% of 6th form students go to University; mostly to prestigious Russell Group Universities Confident, happy and highly successful students

Come and see for yourself what makes us so special Thorpe Underwood Hall, Ouseburn, York 01423 333330 | info@qe.org | www.qe

E DUCAT I O N

School place crisis in London: it’s time to spread the net wider Three innovative weekly boarding schools in the south-east have come up with a practical solution to the growing crisis in secondary school places in and around the capital.

he last census in 2011 shows the stark reality of the problem, with the population in London increasing by one million to 8.17 million in just 10 years. Among school-age children, the numbers mushroomed by 107,000, a rise of 8.2%. Described in the Financial Times as the biggest in the UK since the end of World War II, the baby boom responsible promises even more growth in the coming years. The most successful state secondary schools are already massively oversubscribed. Over 1800 children chased just 150 places at Tiffin School, for example, and over 2000 competed for just 180 places at Harris City Academy in Crystal Palace. In its report Do The Maths 2014, London Councils, which represents all London local authorities, showed that London has the highest predicated pupil growth and subsequent shortage of secondary places in the UK. The shortfall is predicted to reach 118,000 by 2016. The situation among the capital’s elite private schools is no less explosive. Indeed, the Times Educational Supplement quoted Susan Hamlyn, Director of the Good Schools Guide Advice

80 SEPTEMBER2014

Service, as saying the demand for private school places in London is causing “tension and panic” among parents. With demand at crisis levels across the state and private sectors comes increased competition and increasingly desperate tactics by parents. Some suddenly ‘find’ religion; others keep the names of the best tutors secret from even their closest friends. Children face pre-testing for several different schools, a military regime of after-school activities designed not to match their interests but to give them the edge over others and constant pressure from parents whose expectations may be far from realistic. This pressure, driven by parents and schools, has been described by psychologist, writer, television personality and child therapist, Professor Tanya Byron, as leaving children “shattered by fear of failure”. With places at a premium, schools able to cherry-pick their intake and parental expectations stratospheric, the situation is akin to a pressure cooker in dire need of letting off steam. Today there is a viable alternative. See www.3VA.co.uk

3 V/A

V I A B L E A LT E R N AT I V E S

School place crisis in London: Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time to spread the net wider www.3va.co.uk

A realistic choice for parents

E DUCAT I O N

100% ‘Excellent’ say ISI Inspectors

elsted School has recently been acknowledged in a glowing Independent Schools Inspectorate Report. Judged to be ‘excellent’ in each of the tough ISI standards, including teaching, inspectors commented:

‘Felsted is a thriving and distinctive educational community. Pupils are very well educated, are reflective, ambitious, life-long learners with high levels of emotional and intellectual skills and knowledge.’

These glowing reports come at a particularly momentous time for Felsted, as it celebrates 450 years of education, one of only a handful of schools in the country to reach this historic milestone. Her Majesty The Queen visited Felsted in May, with HRH Prince Phillip, for a very special commemorative service and lunch. A magnificent Service of Celebration was also held at St.Paul’s Cathedral in February for all pupils, staff, parents and former pupils.

Based on a stunning, 90 acre site near Dunmow in North Essex, Felsted ‘Felsted’s broad and welloffers pupils aged four planned curriculum, to eighteen a broad and combined with a very vibrant curriculum with extensive range of coday, flexi, weekly and curricular activities produces full boarding options, in well rounded pupils who are addition to bus routes ready to accept life’s changes. from across the region. Parents are overwhelmingly Weekly boarding in positive about the impact the particular has become school has on their children’s an attractive option lives. They expressed very high for London families. levels of satisfaction with Prospective families are regard to the care, safety and welcome to visit Felsted at Dr Walker welcomes Her Majesty The Queen to Felsted. happiness of their children.’ any time by appointment, or to attend their next Felsted is also celebrating its second year in the top 10% of the Value Added Open Morning on Saturday 27th September, at 9.30am. Tables, based on Sixth Form results. In simple terms, pupils are more likely to improve their academic performance at Felsted than at 90% of For further information, please visit www.felsted.org other schools, either state or independent, in the UK. This is an impressive or contact our Admissions Office on 01371 822610 (ages 4 to 12) statistic indeed! or 01371 822605 (ages 13-18). 82 SEPTEMBER2014

Project1_Layout 1 05/06/2014 10:55 Page 1

E DUCAT I O N

The centrality of Classics

BY PHILIP HARRISON, HEAD OF CLASSICS AT MERCHANT TAYLORS’ SCHOOL

ewilderment and amusement are common reactions when parents and pupils are informed that Latin is compulsory for the first three years at the school. There is often the same tone when a parent informs me, a few months into the academic year, that his or her son is actually enjoying Latin. How and why, seems to be the hint, is my son enjoying a dead language that is associated with gowns, mortarboards, and dusty old books? The world of beginners’ Latin therefore confounds expectations: for a start, there are colour textbooks, which introduce the language along with accounts of everyday life in Pompeii, and which challenge pupils to think not only about the workings of the language, but also about the Roman world in which it was spoken. Pupils follow stories set in a different area of the Roman Empire each year, and meet the language en route. And yes, many do continue to enjoy it: at Merchant Taylors’, almost half the boys continue to GCSE, and sixth form numbers are strong. The study for GCSE and A level is focused on literature, so pupils encounter Cicero, Virgil, and Tacitus amongst others. Classical study is not restricted to Latin. At Merchant Taylors’ we are fortunate to have an exceptionally large department and pupils can choose to study Classical Greek as early as year 9: this stimulates and stretches bright boys and allows them access to the canon of Greek epic and tragedy. Greek inevitably has always been a minority subject, yet it survives, and the question is begged: why do schools continue to offer a subject such as Greek, when the numbers can be very small? Several factors need to be borne in mind when answering this question. It is a fact that schools such as Merchant Taylors’ – in fact any school founded during or before the 16th century – were founded with the express intention of teaching Latin and Greek, since the cultures of Greece and Rome were seen as the foundation of Western culture. It is difficult even nowadays to argue against the unparalleled significance of Greece and Rome in the formation of Western literature, philosophy, and political structures, and so the exploration of these cultures remains entirely. Furthermore, the subjects offer very clear intellectual rigour and stimulation: aside from mastering the languages, which work very differently from English, pupils are challenged to analyse with logical rigour and become familiar with some of the greatest poetry and historical writing of all time.

84 SEPTEMBER2014

In these ways, the study of the Classical world equips pupils with not only intellectual knowledge but also intellectual skills that will prove beneficial to later life. When studying a text, they are urged to analyse every word, to seek flaws in an argument, to look at detail while remaining aware of the bigger picture. For these reasons, Classicists – and this surprises many parents – are much valued in a wide range of careers, where their intellectual skills are allowed to flourish. At this point in conversation, I am forced to admit that whereas I may be using both the knowledge and skills learned from Classics in the course of my own job, there are plenty of Classicists who deploy their skills in the Square Mile, and the worlds of Law, journalism, and so on. For some graduates, such as our Old Boy novelist Conn Iggulden, they provide a rich vein for contemporary fiction. All this gives the lie to specious, facile notions of ‘relevance’: young minds are endlessly fertile and subjects that may superficially appear ‘old hat’ may, in fact, prove to be inspirational to the keenest of intelligences. Above all, in a world dominated by the superficialities of League Tables and ‘attainment objectives’ they come to realise that the intellectual value of the Socratic tradition lies not only in the interrogation of concepts, but also in acquiring the most important knowledge of all: self-knowledge. What then is the condition of Classics in schools today? Mary Beard and Boris Johnson promote the subject with vigour in the media, while Michael Gove has made clear his desire for Classics to be taught more widely in state schools – of which very few now have the resources to support large Classics departments – and has set about training non-Classicists to teach Latin at beginners’ level. This is obviously welcome news for any Classicist who is eager that the subject should be widely accessible and enjoyed. However, real challenges lie beyond the soundbites. What seems to be suggested is a curriculum where Classics is a desirable extra, rather than a vital part of the curriculum for all pupils, as it has been at a school such as Merchant Taylors’ for almost five hundred years. The programme that is being launched to train non-specialists to teach Latin is admirable, but it is surely uncontroversial to claim that for a subject to flourish, a school needs teachers who are expert in the field, and who can bring the enthusiasm and learning of many years of study into lessons. This certainly is the case in schools where the central importance of Classics to a school syllabus is recognized and celebrated.

MTS

Merchant Taylors’ School Excellence, integrity and distinction since 1561 1561

Open Morning

September 27th 2014 10.00 - 12.30

Wouldn’t you prefer a London school in the country? 40 minutes from Bond Street and Marylebone is: • 2015 Registration: 11+ November 30 2014 16+ December 31 2014 • 2016 Registration: 13+ February 28 2015

• A traditional boys’ education for your son • ‘Exceptional’ 2014 School Inspection • Inspirational teaching

• Unique tutorial system

• Civilized, friendly & unpressured • Magnificent sports fields

• Bursaries • Academic, Art, Drama, Music and Sport Scholarships

• Superb facilities set in 250 acres

St John’s Wood coach from September 2015

Getting here

Online

Coaches : Barnet (via Stanmore), Beaconsfield, Brent (via Harrow), Ealing, Harpenden, Harrow, Highgate, Mill Hill, Radlett, St John’s Wood from 2015, Stanmore Car : MTS is 15 minutes from the M1, the M25 and the A40 Transit : MTS is adjacent to Moor Park (Metropolitan Line) and is accessible from any Jubilee/Metropolitan Line station. Chiltern line trains change at Rickmansworth From Marylebone: Chiltern Line trains change at Harrow. Travelling time from WC1/W1 is 40 minutes

Guided tours (last tour 11.30) The Head Master speaks at 11.15 and 12.15

Visit us at www.mtsn.org.uk Find us on Facebook Merchant Taylors’ School Follow us on Twitter @MerchantTaylors

Please contact Gregg McCann, Admissions Officer admissions@mtsn.org.uk +44(0)1923 845514 Merchant Taylors’ School Northwood Middlesex HA6 2HT

Excellence, integrity and distinction since 1561.

For boys 11 - 18

Windlesham

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

Open Morning

Saturday 4th October 10am • A record number of scholarships gained to senior schools this year • Outstanding Ofsted and ISI Reports • Excellent pastoral care • Extensive extra curricular programme RSVP - call admissions on 01903 874700 or email whsadmissions@windlesham.com Windlesham House School, Washington, West Sussex, RH20 4AY

windlesham.com

HABERDASHERS’ LIFE I N D E P E N D E N T D AY S C H O O L S F O R B O Y S A N D G I R L S A G E D B E T W E E N 4 - 1 8 Y E A R S

W W W. H A B S B O Y S . O R G . U K • W W W. H A B S G I R L S . O R G . U K

THE HABS SCHOOLS MAGAZINE • SEPTEMBER 2014

THE HABERDASHERS’ ASKE’S SCHOOLS EXCELLENCE IN MUSIC The Haberdashers' Aske's Schools (Elstree), placed 'side by side for excellence', enjoy the best in school education. On adjoining sites in 100 plus acres of secure grounds, they are two, single-sex, independent day schools whose pupils benefit greatly from a vast range of social and educational opportunities. The academic reputation of the two schools is well known: they are firmly established in the ’premier league’ of annually published league tables, a remarkable achievement in itself. The vast majority of Haberdashers students go to their first choice university, exceptionally high numbers to Oxford and Cambridge, and many achieve national academic distinction during their time at school. The Habs style is to love learning and to enjoy the academic opportunities alongside a huge wealth of extra-curricular activity. In both schools the range of the non-academic curriculum is enormous and the level of participation by pupils very high. Sport, music, theatre, art, service in the community, partnerships with local state schools, debating, public speaking, society meetings, fund-raising initiatives, outward bound and adventurous training activities, and every type of leadership and resourcefulness opportunities are all regular features of the termly routine.

Advertorial feature music tours are a feature of the school year previous destinations having included Salzburg, Lake Garda and Barcelona - and major concerts have previously been held at the Royal Festival Hall, St Martin-in-the-Fields, St John’s Smith Square and St Albans Cathedral. Over 100 different extra-curricular musical activities are offered across both the Senior and Junior Departments. Over 60 specialist visiting music teachers offer in excess of 1,100 instrumental lessons per week. Academic music flourishes, with healthy numbers choosing to study music for GCSE and A Level, and excellent grades are achieved at both. Every year students continue to apply to study for a degree in Music at university, with recent destinations including Cambridge, Durham, Leeds, Manchester, Oxford, The Royal Northern College of Music and Trinity Laban.

Both schools have a long tradition of excellence in Music, aided by excellent purposebuilt facilities that make the vibrant combination of large group rehearsals, concerts, small recitals, individual lessons and practice possible. Both schools foster a welcoming, inclusive musical atmosphere that encourages and praises music at all levels, with a strong emphasis on personal creativity. Opportunities for pupils at all levels to play in both large and small ensembles are plentiful and are greatly appreciated by pupils, which is illustrated by the high participation. One of the highlights of this year’s music programme was the Gala concert at the Barbican in London. Over 400 performers from both Haberdashers’ schools joined together to perform a challenging repertoire, including Tchaikovsky’s Fantasy Overture, Romeo and Juliet, and John Rutter’s Mass of the Children. Through the evening the choirs were accompanied by Habs old girl soprano Olivia Clarke, now a professional singer. Selections from the concert are available to watch on Youtube at www.bit.ly/UFAOQE. Regular concerts at both schools provide musicians with opportunities to perform – everything from annual Autumn, Spring and Summer concerts and weekly lunchtime recitals to ‘Battle of the Bands’ and ‘Unplugged’ on the Boys’ School Quad. Additionally,

Music scholarships and bursaries are offered to children who demonstrate advanced musical skills and/or potential for further development. There are a number of financial awards available, from a Music Scholarship, to awards of free tuition on individual instruments where great promise has been shown. For further information, please contact the schools directly.

Haberdashers’ Aske’s Boys’ School Butterfly Lane, Elstree, Hertfordshire WD6 3AF Tel: 020 8266 1700 office@habsboys.org.uk www.habsboys.org.uk Open Day: Sat 11th Oct 1 – 4pm Haberdashers’ Aske’s School for Girls Aldenham Road, Elstree, Herts, WD6 3BT Tel: 020 8266 2330 admissions@habsgirls.org.uk www.habsgirls.org.uk Open Day: Sat 11th Oct Junior School: 10am – 12.30pm Senior School: 2pm – 5pm

Haberdashers’ Aske’s School for Girls

learning & independence Open Day 11 October 2014 Juniors 10am-12.30pm, Seniors 2pm-5pm Scholarships and Financial Assistance available from 11+

Independent Day School for Girls aged 4-18 Aldenham Road, Elstree, Herts, WD6 3BT e: admissions@habsgirls.org.uk t: 020 8266 2300 www.habsgirls.org.uk Registered Charity No. 313996

The Haberdashers’ Aske’s Boys’ School Nurturing Excellence

An outstanding independent day school for boys aged between 5 and 18.

Open Day Saturday 11th October 2014, 1–4pm

(no appointment necessary)

Headmaster Peter B Hamilton MA Butterfly Lane, Elstree, Hertfordshire WD6 3AF Tel: 020 8266 1700 office@habsboys.org.uk

www.habsboys.org.uk

registered charity no: 313996

www.hurtwoodhouse.com

F E AT U R E

The moments that make families...

families

amily life moves quickly, especially in London, and it’s easy to miss so many moments of your child growing up. A smile or a gesture, a cheeky smirk or a naughty grin can pass by in a flash. Helen Bartlett, portrait photographer, specialises in capturing the tiny exchanges that pass between siblings, children and parents – the moments that make families families. Helen has eleven years’ experience photographing children and families, and has become sought after as one of the UK’s most accomplished and respected family portrait photographers. Based in Crouch End, North London, she has visited and worked with families all over the capital, as well as travelling the length and breadth of the country, photographing children among the historic buildings of Cambridge, in the landscapes of Yorkshire and by the Cornish coast. Helen’s love of photographing children and families was instilled in her during her own childhood. Her father, John, was an accomplished photographer, who lovingly and carefully documented Helen and her brothers as they grew up together. Her mother, Cilla, ran a nursery from their family home in Blackheath, which helped Helen to develop a great rapport with children and a sense of how they play, as well as a talent for capturing the flashes of expression and emotion that childhood produces. Because of her upbringing and her experience, Helen’s photoshoots are tremendous fun. She likes to watch families in their natural habit, playing together at home or outdoors, perhaps feeding the ducks, climbing trees, or enjoying a game of hide and seek in the park. Wherever a family likes to visit, and whatever they like to do, that’s where Helen prefers to photograph them. The images she produces capture the joy and intimacy of a family relaxing together. Those families that return to her over years and decades are able to build up a unique record of their children’s young lives as they grow from newborn babies into toddlers, schoolchildren, teens and young adults. Autumn especially is a time of change. The new school year begins, bringing for some children their first taste of school, and for many parents a bittersweet moment: one that feels as if ought to be marked. Other children will be moving to new schools or into new classes, taking up new sports, developing new interests, perhaps finding new friends. And as the season changes, so does the light. As well as bringing change in many children’s lives, autumn is an ideal time to take photographs. Britain is at its most photogenic as summer fades and the sunlight begins to soften, the shadows and shades grow warmer and more varied. Then Christmas quickly follows. Parents aren’t the only ones who like to keep record of their children changing and growing up, and Helen’s autumn photographs make great presents for grandparents. Her portraits of families, big or small, all together are ideal, too, for personalised family Christmas cards. For more information contact Helen on 03456031373 or email info@helenbartlett.co.uk www.helenbartlett.co.uk 92 SEPTEMBER2014

BLACKHEATH SUNDAYS

Series highlights include Nikolai Demidenko and Pascal Rogé. Quote “BHSUNDAY” on the phone and online to get a 20% discount off full price tickets.Check our website for full listings.

THE TIGER LILLIES

This unique “anarchic Brechtian street opera trio” perform a mixture of pre-war Berlin cabaret, anarchic opera and gypsy music. Quote “OVERTURE” to get a 10% discount

TICKETS: £14 | £12

WED 26 NOV 20.00h

DOWN TO EARTH: AN EVENING WITH MONTY DON

HOUSE OF FUN

Hear renowned gardening writer and broadcaster, Monty Don talk about his life and travels visiting gardens all over the world.

FRI 21 NOV 19.30h

TICKETS: £18 | £16

PAUL CHOWDHRY

Lafta’s Funniest Stand-Up Winner 2013 brings his hilarious tour PC’s World to Blackheath Halls

SAT 25 OCT 20.00h

TICKETS: £16 | £14

See our website for our full comedy line up, including Marcus Brigstocke, Shappi Khorsandi, Rich Hall and Seann Walsh.

020 8463 0100 BLACKHEATHHALLS.COM

TICKETS: £18 | £16

An uproarious night of variety with fantastic comedy, sparkling music, saucy stand-up, scintillating theatre in the company of Arthur Smith.

SAT 18 OCT 19.30h TICKETS: £17.50 | £15

BLACKHEATH HALLS

AUTUMN SEASON EVENTS HIGHLIGHTS

CHILDREN’S EVENTS

Series highlights include The Pied Piper of Hamelin, Pinocchio and Aladdin. Visit our website for the full Children’s Events listings.

TICKETS: £7 Ages: 3+

23 LEE ROAD SE3 9RQ

FA S H I O N

Michele Franklin Jeweller, artist & founder of Personal Jewellery Member Of The British Jeweller’s Association

ome of you will recognize me from Bentley’s of Blackheath jewellery shop in Blackheath ,London, SE3, which I left when forced out by the high rent. I decide to offer my local customers a jewellery service in their own homes, calling on them on, evenings and weekends, which is still the service I provide in Blackheath, Greenwich and Brockley; although Costa is now my preferred meeting place! I rarely visit my customers’ houses now as it’s not cost effective for me. I prefer to meet them in nearby cafes which seems to suit everybody. This timetable allows me time to paint in my studio and have exhibitions.

It wasn’t until 2006, by which time we had three young children, that I realized the irregular income of artists wasn’t going to sustain us all forever! So I bought Bentley’s of Blackheath shop in London (SE3) jointly with a goldsmith. He did all our small repairs and for other specialist work such as diamond setting, restringing and watch repairs, we used our Hatton Garden contacts. It was while I was on the shop floor that I learnt about jewellery, from both the goldsmith and the customers. The latter were often better informed than I was to start with! However I didn’t let on and soon learnt what was required! My customer base is growing rapidly and I can honestly say that I love being selfemployed. I organize my appointments on the evenings and weekends of my choosing, usually pre-booking the customers’ pick up appointment with a turn around time of about three weeks. I’m building up a collection of new paintings and a website is on the way.

I was born in America to a black American and Native American Indian mother and a white, British father. In 1966 we moved to England where my paternal grandfather lived. As a child I’d always wanted to be an artist, so viewing his marvellous collection of artists such as Epstein, Pissaro, Utrillo and Goetler…was a good start! I got my Fine Arts degree in painting at Camberwell College of Arts and Crafts, which was also where I met my future husband, the late sculptor Brian Taylor! He passed away a year and a half ago. (www.briantaylor.biz) Deputy Head of Sculpture at Camberwell, he taught for twenty years, always continuing his studio work and regularly exhibiting at the Royal Academy. He was a Fellow and Vice Principal of the Society of Portrait Sculptors, as well as a Fellow of the Royal British Sculptors. I also continued to paint and exhibit my work at the Royal Academy amongst other London galleries.

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I have an exhibition booked at “Made in Greenwich” 324 Creek Road, Greenwich, SE10 9SW info@madeingreenwich.co.uk October 22nd to November 11th 201 Call 07809 502 714 or email michele@personaljewellerylondon.co.uk www.personaljewellerylondon.co.uk Member of the British Jeweller’s Association

sporti g feet sports shoes for sporty people

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FA S H I O N

Mary T Collections Fashion designer sees success in business following the launch of their online shop

he fashion designer of a newly launched fashion brand “Mary T Collections” has seen success since the launch of her online shop. Maria Tshibola, the designer of the Mary T Collections began as a volunteer at Skills For Communities down Anlaby Road, Hull. Skills For Communities is a centre for training the disadvantaged and helping the long-term unemployed find work. They help hundreds of people across Hull and the East Riding to unlock their potential. People from all across the world can be found at Skills For Communities. This is where Maria began her career. In 2006, Maria joined Skills For Communities as a volunteer. They helped her to unlock her potential in arts and crafts. She took the activity forward and the sewing department was opened. Here she ran a service that altered and ironed clothes. She then began to design and make her own bespoke clothing. Skills For Communities with Maria began to develop the sewing department into what it is today: A place where people can come and share their stories, gain social skills and learn how to sew. These were mainly women who came from a range of difficult circumstances to learn vital, transferable skills which improve their self-esteem. Maria was delighted to see that her passion for the arts and her love of people and culture was coming together. The concept and foundation of Mary T Collections was established by Skills4Communities as part of its mission to empower and unlock potential in disadvantaged communities through various support services including sewing. Now, Maria has a team of people from different backgrounds and cultures who make the outfits. It was through Skills4Communities that the team realised and developed their own talent and potential. These people inspired her to reflect the fusion of cultures in her fusion of fashion. There has been a great deal of interest in its products

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after the launch of its online store. Here customers can purchase a wide range of clothing which fuse African, Asian and European designs and cultures to create vibrant and colourful outfits. They make the garments to order and tailor the clothing to the customer’s specific requirements. Maria studied at the Centro Moda (Trento, Italy) and gained work experience at Mattarello (Hilton), a menswear Fashion House which creates and supplies garments for fashion giant Armani. She said, “The brand will help reach out to more people and serve as a platform to expose designs and talents of different designers in the fashion and creative industry. The service has flourished over the last few years and it is all down to the abilities and hard work of our team to create outstanding outfits. We have already seen a considerable number of visits to the online shop and we hope it will continue. Adding a digital element to the fashion brand has enabled us to expand our market. We are sure this will attract a lot of new customers and inspire other women in the UK to realise their potential. We have helped women from different backgrounds, some of whom have been through difficult circumstances. I felt it was important to give these women a working environment where they would not only be able to learn sustainable skills, but be part of a free and accepting environment. Embracing diversity and different cultures from every member of our team encapsulates the ethos of Skills4Communities.” Skills4Communities’ Chief Executive Andre Ntenda said: “We are delighted to see the impact that our organisation has had with the launch of the fashion brand, ‘Mary T Collections’. We recently celebrated global cultures with a fashion show, which featured music and dance. This is about discovering talent in people and empowering them to impact not only their own community but the fashion and creative industry.” www.marytcollections.com www.skills4communities.co.uk

INTRODUCING T

10% discount on show orders

The Mary T Collection fuses styles, Use FASHIONSHOW10 at check outpatterns and prints from different cultures: Africa, Asia and Europe.

WWW.MARYTCOLLECTIONS.COM sponsored by

EV E N TS

From the acclaimed author of The Sugar Girls and GI Brides

MEN OF LETTERS The Post Office Heroes who Fought the Great War by Duncan Barrett “Apart from the strength of the individual stories, one of the richest things about this book is the detail…” BELL MOONEY, THE DAILY MAIL ON GI BRIDES

“The news came to me this afternoon like a nightmare, but I want to say this. In the past five years no family could have been happier than ours: no two brothers could have been better friends…We must look forward now and not backwards.” LETTER FROM ALFRED BROOKE TO HIS MOTHER ON THE DEATH OF HIS BROTHER, RUPERT BROOKE

hen the Great War broke out in August 1914, the Post Office was the world’s largest employer and thousands of men who had made their living sorting and delivering mail bravely volunteered to fight for king and country against Germany. From Rupert Brooke’s younger brother Alfred who fought with the Post Office Rifles, to the youngest volunteers who snuck into the regiment aged 14, Duncan Barrett’s Men of Letters tells the personal stories of the Post Office Rifles, a 12,000 strong unit of the British Army. In the centenary year of World War One, Men of Letters offers a rare and insightful glimpse into the personal stories and letters of the men who joined the Post Office Rifles. A moving account of how the war touched the lives of ordinary men - how it changed communities, how women took up men’s working roles, and, of course, the vital role the mail played in the war. Love letters, letters with news of postings, letters from the front line, much-welcomed parcels of food and cigarettes, and sad letters of condolence – together these tell the story of our fallen heroes.

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Duncan Barrett says of the book: “Letters are such a key aspect of our understanding of the war, and were a lifeline between those who fought and their families. From the first cheery postcards sent from Europe, to devastating letters of condolence, the postal system was the critical link between the front lines and those waiting at home, offering solace and support as well as heartbreak.” About the Author Duncan Barrett’s own great-great uncle, Eric Layton, was one of the five thousand men killed at High Wood on the day the Post Office Rifles fought there. Duncan is an author of historical non-fiction and is the acclaimed co-author behind the bestselling WW2 titles, The Sugar Girls and GI Brides (with Nuala Calvi). While researching this book Duncan visited the war graves of Europe with his mother, a professor of English at Queen Mary’s who is currently working on the War Graves Commission; he also carried out research at the British Postal Museum Archive in Islington. Men of Letters is Duncan’s first solo title and the first in which he explores the social history of WWI. Men of Letters released on August 2014, £8.99, AA Publishing

‘‘

Dad died three years ago... Yesterday it was his birthday and I wish we had placed his cremated remains in a place where we could go and reflect on his life

Welcome to Kemnal Park, a multi-denominational cemetery and memorial gardens offering a number of options for you to lay the cremated remains of your loved one to rest... The tranquil memorial rose garden, situated next to a natural brook, provides a peaceful resting place. Each plot includes a dedicated rose bush which is maintained all year round along with a personalised memorial plaque. A memorial bench can be a meaningful way to honour a loved one while offering a restful place to sit and enjoy the park or to reflect on days gone by. Newly planted silver birches are available to be dedicated to the memory of a loved one. A granite plaque is placed at the base of each tree, with wording of your choice. A place for the living - as well as those gone before us

0208 300 9790 • www.kemnalpark.org

Our park is home to a wide variety of wildlife including many types of bird. A bird box memorial offers an alternative way to remember a loved one. Each box is individually engraved with your choice of wording.

Can you provide great memories for children and young people? Fostering can be a challenging and very rewarding step to take - Why not talk to us and find out more about becoming a foster carer.

Freephone: 0808 284 9554 Tel: 0208 768 8643 email: enquiries@kindercare.co.uk www.kindercare.co.uk Text: FOSTER15 and your full name to 88020

FO O D & D R I N K

6th –

OCTO1B2th ER

2014

London CocktailWeek

ack for the fifth year, London Cocktail Week – the biggest drinks festival in the UK – is just around the corner. From Monday 6th - Sunday 12th October 2014 get ready to shake, sip and party your way to a fantastic celebration of our capital’s unrivalled cocktail culture.

Following on from the incredible success of 2013 with over 176 bespoke events and more than 160 participating bars across London, this year will be jam-packed with more tastings, master classes, pop-ups and parties than ever before. To be part of London Cocktail Week 2014, festivalgoers must buy a wristband, which cost just £10 if booked in advance and allow the wearer access to the huge amount of free sampling and cocktail demonstrations, as well as the renowned Cocktail Tours. The most visible and inclusive part of the festival; 200 of the best bars across the capital will be throwing open their doors to offer bespoke and unlimited £4 cocktails throughout the week. These partnering bars have been cherry-picked because of their shared dedication to delivering wonderful service, excellent drinks and a great experience – always fancied that exclusive hotel bar? Never got round to tracking down that

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elusive speakeasy? Want to visit a brand new venue or revisit an old favourite? Now is your chance! The Ketel One Hub, a specially created pop-up within Seven Dials, will continue to be the main wristband collection point during the week, where you can get drinks-making tips from the experts and meet the London Cocktail Week team who can help you plan your time during the festival. The area will once again play host to London Cocktail Week’s Shop and Sip, with stores in the area teaming up with our sponsors to offer tasters, masterclasses and the chance to discover something new. Expect liqueurs and racy lingerie or hard liquor with your beard trim – Seven Dials has something for everyone. Want to try somewhere different? This year there will also be the opportunity to collect your wristbands from other areas of London, so you can go straight out to enjoy the fantastic bars across the capital. Join the conversation at www.facebook.com/LDNCocktailWeek or on twitter @LDNCocktailWeek or hashtag #LCW. For more details visit www.londoncocktailweek.com

FO O D & D R I N K

The Passport To Londonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Thriving Restaurant Scene

LONDON RESTAURANT 2014 FESTIVAL

8th - 27th

OCTOBE R

This October sees Jason Atherton, Simon Rogan,Angela Hartnett, Theo Randall and Paul Rankin involved in London Restaurant Festival.

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FO O D & D R I N K

ow in its sixth year, London Restaurant Festival (LRF) in partnership with American Express®, is the capital’s annual citywide celebration of eating out, and comprises two elements: Events and Festival Menus.

With your first course in one top London restaurant, your main in another and dessert in a third, London’s m ost original gastronomic road trip - the Champagne Laurent-Perrier Gourmet Odyssey – is back, and boasts the strongest line-up to date. On the Discover Hotels Odyssey guests will dine at some of the best London hotel restaurants including The Northall, Plum & Spilt Milk and Holborn Dining Rooms. The Discover East London Odyssey includes Merchants Tavern, 8 Hoxton Sq and The Clove Club. The Discover America Odyssey includes Avenue, The Lockhart and Cut. Each course along the Gourmet Odyssey tour has been expertly paired to complement the range of Laurent-Perrier champagnes, ensuring all aboard get to experience the Brut, Ultra Brut, Cuvée Rosé and Vintage 2004. New to 2014 is Food With Friends, an exclusive event for American Express Cardmembers, which will see renowned chefs Jason Atherton, Simon Rogan, Theo Randall, Russell Norman, Angela Hartnett and Adam Handling prepare lunch dishes that have been inspired by their friends. Guests will receive a glass of champagne on arrival before having the opportunity to try these mouthwatering treats prepared by some of the biggest names from London’s dining scene, followed by a meet and greet with the chefs themselves. This year Eat Film returns with a bang. LRF has invited world-famous photographer Rankin to curate a three-course dinner inspired by the 1988 Academy Award winning film, Cinema Paradiso, in the stunning cinema and restaurant at BAFTA 195 Piccadilly. This event represents a unique marriage of London’s great cultural pillars: food, film, fashion and photography. Guests will enjoy a Peroni Nastro Azzurro Piccola and delicious Parma Ham canapés the screening with Parmigiano Reggiano popcorn and a threecourse dinner with wine prepared by Anton Manganaro. LRF pioneered, and is now synonymous with, the concept of restauranthopping. The Tapas Tours, in partnership with Tio Pepe & Beronia Rioja, will return to this year’s festival, along with last year’s popular Cicchetti Trails, in partnership with Peroni Nastro Azzurro Piccola, Parmigiano Reggiano and Parma Ham, and Japanese Journeys, in partnership with

Suntory Japanese Whisky. Festival-goers can experience the best Spanish, Italian, Japanese food the capital has to offer guided by their unique passports, which will be used to redeem a dish and a drink in each of six participating venues. New for 2014, are the Chinatown and Carnaby Tours. Six restaurants in each village have been carefully selected giving guests a chance to explore some of the best restaurants in these iconic areas of London, including the new foodie destination Kingly Court. A special passport will be used to redeem a dish and a drink in each of the participating venues. Over 250 restaurants will take part in the capital’s biggest restaurant festival, where great value Festival Menus are created by chefs to giving food-lovers the chance to try new restaurants. The Festival Menu programme is run in partnership with Bookatable, Europe’s largest restaurant booking reservation service. Ocado is the official retailer and Pago Fruit Juice is the official soft drink of the festival. Festival Menu diners that book a table of 6 or more will receive complimentary arrival cocktails, fizz or an aperitif at the below participating restaurants, through the Restaurant Payment app, Spleat. Selected restaurants offering Festival Menus are also taking part in Cassoulet Celebration, in partnership with Sud De France, where guests can enjoy a delicious French Cassoulet with a complimentary glass of Languedoc-Roussillon wine. London Restaurant Festival founder Simon Davis comments, “London Restaurant Festival continues to deliver an incredible line-up of gastronomic delights and unforgettable events across the capital, and this year’s festival promises to be the strongest yet. With something to please every taste-bud and all budgets, avoid disappointment by booking your tickets now.” For more information and details of participating restaurants, visit www.londonrestaurantfestival.com @LRF_2014 Tickets for the festival are available from TicketMaster www.ticketmaster.co.uk and Bookatable www.bookatable.com/uk American Express Cardmembers can purchase tickets via www.ticketmaster.co.uk/americanexpres Tickets can only be purchased with an American Express Card. SEPTEMBER2014 103

FO O DU& F E AT R ED R I N K

CELEBRATE JACK DANIEL’S® BIRTHDAY THE FRANK WAY WITH SINATRA SELECT This September, take a tour of some of Frank Sinatra’s top London haunts with Jack Daniel’s® Sinatra Select - a special edition Tennessee whiskey that celebrates the everlasting relationship between Ol’ Blue Eyes and Jack Daniel’s.

hether marvelling at an original Frank Sinatra tux in Selfridges, enjoying a predinner tipple at the LONDON Edition Punch Room, dining at one of Sinatra’s favourite restaurants Santini, or relaxing over a nightcap in The Savoy, you’re invited to experience a complimentary Sinatra on the Rocks during the month Jack Daniel celebrated his birthday. Sinatra’s bond with London was evident throughout his career; frequently performing at the London Palladium, Royal Festival Hall and Royal Albert Hall, it was the British audiences that kept him coming back, along with the Capital’s famous range of shops, bars, restaurants and hotels. Now you too can experience London Sinatra Style, by visiting one of these timelessly stylish locations. Sinatra Selects… The Savoy – guests staying in the Sinatra Personality Suite at Frank’s much loved London Hotel will receive a complimentary Sinatra on the Rocks nightcap in the world-renowned American Bar, or the theatrical setting of the Beaufort Bar. Sinatra Selects… Santini – one of Frank’s favourite Italian restaurants will serve complimentary Sinatra on the Rocks to anyone over the age of 18 that orders

8 0s4e p tP eT mEbMeBrE 2R021041 4 1 SE

his favourite Lemon Posset at dinner time. Sinatra Selects… The Punch Room, The London EDITION – the nostalgic charm of this bar would have been an obvious choice for Frank. Order its limited edition Sinatra Punch made with Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel® in September and you will receive a complimentary Sinatra on the Rocks. Sinatra Selects… Selfridges – Frank exuded style and sophistication, which this desirable department store would have more than catered for. Frank’s spirit will come alive throughout the store whilst you muse over a Sinatra cocktail in Harry Gordon’s Bar, or meet Jack Daniel’s Master Distiller, Jeff Arnett, at his bottle signing on the 8th September. Sinatra Select will also be running activity in Selfridges Birmingham. Independent in character, with an appealing smoothness, it is no surprise Frank Sinatra found a friend in Jack - a relationship that Jack Daniel’s now extends to whiskey lovers worldwide. Jack Daniel’s Sinatra Select is available in Selfridges and The Whisky Shop with an RRP of £150. For more information, visit www.jackdaniels.com.

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.

FO O D & D R I N K

Exmoor Caviar Britain’s First and Only British Caviar Producer

xmoor Caviar is the first and only British caviar producer based in the United Kingdom. Set in the heart of Devon’s Exmoor, the pioneering farm is ethical, fastidious on sustainability and provenance whilst never compromising on the unique and exquisite taste, producing the finest caviar celebrated by chefs and aficionados alike. Exmoor Caviar is the vision of caviar expert Ken Benning a who understands the nuances of creating a beautiful product that stands testament to the unique procedures the British farm has developed and placed throughout the sturgeon’s lifespan. Exmoor Caviar prides itself not only as Britain’s first and only home produced Caviar but also on the ethical methods in which they nurture and harvest their sturgeon. The water in which the fish resides is of paramount importance to the health of the fish and thus flavour development of the eggs. Exmoor Caviar ensures that there is no hothousing in un-naturally warm waters and that, unlike the re-circulated farms of Europe, each and every day over 40 million litres of fresh Exmoor Spring water passes through the farm’s pools providing the perfect habitat for the sturgeon. The farm also ensures

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no pain is induced to the fish through the harvesting process and has pledged a total commitment to use the whole sturgeon as meat once the caviar has been reaped. After using ethical and coveted extraction methods, the caviar is carefully washed and cleaned in natural, local spring water from the ground, then hand sieved and rested, allowing the natural flavors and textures to be showcased. The final stage of the caviar making process is the inclusion of the fresh salts which creates Exmoor Caviar’s two very distinct variants in its ever-expanding portfolio - Cornish sea salt and Hebridean salted. The Cornish salted possesses a mellow, delicate taste with a smooth, clean finish and the Hebridean gives a more robust, stronger, punchier tickle to the tastebuds. Caviar is served in may different ways but we prefer the simplest method of placing the eggs on the back of the hand with a mother of pearl spoon and then bringing directly to the mouth allowing the exquisite and subtle flavour to shine through. Exmoor Caviar is available to purchase at www.exmoorcaviar.com

FO O D & D R I N K

Dine out in style

Enjoy grand dining and an informal Brasserie experience at Luton Hoo Hotel, Golf & Spa

ne beautiful setting provides discerning guests with two very different experiences. Delight in fine dining set against the elegant backdrop of a bygone age or enjoy modern cuisine in a casual atmosphere – at Luton Hoo Hotel, Golf & Spa the choice is yours.

A dazzling setting

The two AA Rosette Wernher Restaurant in the 18th century mansion house is named after Luton Hoo’s most renowned former owner, diamond magnate Sir Julius Wernher. Located in the original state dining room, it retains all the original features which have been restored to their former glory. Overlooking Capability Brown’s rolling parkland, the decor includes four different types of coloured marble, ornate eight-foot chandeliers and vast wall tapestries. The restaurant also encompasses the Grinling Gibbons room. England’s most famous wood carver hand carved detailed images of birds flowers across the walls, completing the atmosphere of classical grandeur. In addition to the fixed price menu, where dishes might include spiced and roast loin of monkfish spring onion and saffron rosti, sautéed Swiss chard and roast red peppers finished with coriander and coconut cream, there is also an exquisite seven-course tasting menu, making it the perfect place to celebrate a special occasion or enjoy a sumptuous meal with family and friends.

Star-studded Brasserie Housed in the original coach house and stable complex designed by famous 18th century architect Robert Adam, Adam’s Brasserie is relaxed and informal with a menu featuring contemporary dishes and familiar favourites. Guests dine under photographs of Tom Cruise, Nicole Kidman, Hugh Grant and other stars who appeared in films shot on location at Luton Hoo.

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Awarded one AA Rosette, the menu changes regularly and features seasonal and local produce. Expect innovative starters such as braised rabbit lollipops with carrot puree and orange salad with mains including very slow cooked Dingly Dell Farm pork belly, roast pears, sticky red cabbage, olive oil mash and red wine. Needless to say there are plenty of tempting desserts, and every Sunday guests relax to the sounds of live jazz during lunchtime. Luton Hoo also offers more than a dozen rooms for private dining, ideal for celebrations, family parties and business lunches. They offer set, bespoke and buffet menus for everything from a banquet for up to 300 guests to an intimate gathering for a handful of family and friends. The Wernher Restaurant is open for lunch and dinner Wednesday to Friday from 12.30pm-2pm and 7pm-10pm, on Saturday evening from 6.30pm-10.30pm and Sunday lunch 1pm-9pm. Adam’s Brasserie is open for lunch and dinner Monday to Saturday from 12pm-3pm and 6pm to 10pm and Sunday lunch from 12.30pm-5pm. For further information, online reservations and menus visit www.lutonhoo.co.uk or call 01582 698888.

Exclusive Reader Offer Luton Hoo is offering free room hire for private dining to Life Magazine readers. When it’s time to celebrate, a private dining room at Luton Hoo turns a special occasion into an exceptional one. Call our dedicated events team on 01582 69 88 89 and quote “Life Magazines” to organise your event and receive free room hire. Terms and Conditions Subject to availability and allocation. Can’t be used in conjunction with any other offer. Must be booked in advance and intention to use a voucher must be made clear at time of booking. Expiry date 31st March 2015.

FO O DU& F E AT R ED R I N K

A hidden treasure in Marylebone

f Trip Advisor and food bloggers are anything to go by, Ozz has started with a bang! Located off the beaten track and well hidden in Lisson Grove, in front of a Tesco Express, neighbouring a fish and chips shop and a forgettable pub, it’s the last place you’d expect to find a fine dining restaurant. And what a lovely surprise this little restaurant is! When you walk in to Ozz you don’t know if you are in your old grandmother’s living room or in a smart interior designer’s mind whose touches you don’t really understand. Seats are comfortable and the music takes you to an era of elegance with Cole Potter, to a time of innocent romance with Astrud Gilberto all the way to the personable and pernicious Ruffus Wainwright. There is a list of classic cocktails and a good selection of single barrels and brandy, all palates catered for. Even a Roberto Cavalli vodka for the one who doesn’t feel sorry for his credit card. And there is the wine menu. And what a list! The house red is a coup d’etat, Terra Milenaria, a brilliant Rioja from Aldeanueva de Ebro, biodynamic, 100% tempranillo. It’s so good that it sounds unbelievable. How can they afford such a wine as an entry level? The secret, I’m told, is they source it straight from the winemaker, Viñedos Real Rubio. No middle men. Instead of trying to make an extra buck by charging what any other restaurant would for such a wine, they would rather have this amazing gem as a house wine at an incredible low price. The list covers a diverse mix of grape varieties, with an emphasis on small wineries from producers who use traditional methods and native grapes.

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And then there is the food. Where do I start? Fresh rock oysters from Maldon? Tick. Charcuterie of acorn-fed premium breed Spanish jamón ham? Tick. Food crafted from scratch by a hand-full of highly trained chefs all with Michelin Star experience behind them? Tick. They even tread carefully in sustainability issues getting their food from Billingsgate and New Covent Garden Markets, supplied mainly by British farmers. But now and then the menu surprises you with ingredients you only heard of, such as açaí palm heart, breadfruit and pequi. But what strikes you is the beauty and amazing way the food is laid on the plate. What a refreshing experience this is. You have here the highest quality food at a price no Michelin starred restaurant would dare to offer. 41-43 Lisson Grove, London NW1 6UB Phone:020 7724 6764 www.ozz.uk.com

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H E A LT H & B E AU T Y

Cosmetic Dermatologist, Dr Ariel Haus Introduces...

Ultherapy an Uplift... not a Facelift!

The new non-invasive lifting and toning procedure that reaches the same tissue targeted in a facelift but without disrupting the surface of the skin. No downtime. Visible improvement usually seen after just one treatment.

razilian Dermatologist, Dr Haus is proud to offer the acclaimed non-surgical lifting procedure Ultherapy, which is the only FDA-approved non-invasive treatment for lifting the skin on the neck, chin and brow and to improve lines and wrinkles on the décolletage. Ultherapy uses focused ultrasound technology to stimulate collagen deep within the skin without downtime. The result? Tighter, betterfitting skin... even on the neck! What is unique about this procedure? Ultherapy is the only non-invasive treatment that can specifically target the deep foundation below the skin, that which is typically addressed in cosmetic surgery, but without cutting or disrupting the surface of the skin. It is also the only procedure to use ultrasound imaging, which allows the doctor to actually see the layers of tissue to target during treatment and ensure the energy is directed to precisely where it will be most effective. Dr Haus says, “Being able to offer my patients the ultimate skin technology that Ultherapy offers, 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.” Who can have the treatment? Ultherapy is safe and effective for all skin types and colours.

before treatment

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after treatment

How long will the treatment take? In just one hour - and without any downtime - you will be well on your way to tighter, better-fitting skin. How many sessions would I need? Only one treatment is required; however, some patients may benefit from more than one treatment depending on how much laxity they have, and their body’s own biological response to the ultrasound and collagen-building process. How long do results last? Improvement following treatment is cumulative, and most patients treated with Ultherapy still have fresh young collagen a year following the procedure. How long until I see results? Patients may enjoy some initial effect but the ultimate lifting and toning will take place over 2-3 months, as tired collagen is replaced with new, more elastic collagen. As this collagen-building process continues, further improvements can appear up to 6 months following a procedure. Ultherapy lifts and tones your skin in one transforming treatment, minus the downtime! For Appointments Telephone 020 7323 6559 10 Harley Street, London W1G 9PF www.drhausdermatology.com

before treatment

after treatment

h e a lt h b e au t y

H E A LT H & B E AU T Y

VARICOSE VEINS Michael Gaunt is a specialist consultant with over 25 years’ experience tackling varicose veins. He has warned against the dangers of ignoring the problems – or viewing them as primarily a cosmetic concern. With clinics specialising in treating varicose and thread veins in Harley Street, London, Cambridge, Norwich and Bury St. Edmunds, Mr. Gaunt has treated more than 4,000 patients and he outlines the dangers of dismissing potential problems which could ultimately lead to a host of complications including veins bursting, clotting or even deep vein thrombosis. He said: “Varicose veins are often considered a cosmetic condition but if neglected, they can result in complications. “Fortunately, most modern techniques for treating varicose veins are associated with very good long-term results. “Minimally invasive local anaesthetic procedures can be used to treat varicose veins on a walk-in, walk-out basis. “This leaves the patient with minimal pain following the procedure, with practically an immediate return to normal activity.” Specialising in both the Endovenous Laser and Clarivein techniques, Mr Gaunt has built up a reputation as one of the country’s eminent venous experts. The treatments he oﬀers include foam sclerotherapy,

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Endovenous Laser, VNUS and Clarivein – the proven technique from the USA where a chemical is sprayed into the vein, sealing it and preventing the varicose vein from reappearing. In his three decades working on varicose veins, Mr Gaunt is only too aware that one of the biggest problems is one of ignorance. He explained: “At least 20% of the adult population suffer with some form of varicose veins. While in the developing stages problems may be cosmetic, they can lead to far bigger concerns if left untreated. “The condition can deteriorate and a variety of complications may occur, ranging from leg swelling, ulcers and pigmentation of the skin around the ankles. “There are occasions when veins can burst causing bleeding, or the blood within the veins can clot leading to painful inflammation known as phlebitis.” “Varicose veins can affect men just as much as they can affect women. Men tend to cover their legs up more, so the problem may be hidden away and ignored; with some men only seeking treatment when their veins become very large and complications start to occur. “It is important to target varicose veins before they become a significant problem, as without medical treatment varicose veins always deteriorate, sometimes suddenly, and complications may have a major impact on daily activities.” For those wanting to discover more, or who may be worried about potential problems, Mr Gaunt offers mini-consultations to perform an initial assessment and discuss potential treatments. More information on treatment options at his clinics in London, Cambridge, Norwich and Bury St. Edmunds can be found by calling 01223 305858 or visiting www.michaelgaunt.com.

Book a mini-consultation today

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

Mr Michael Gaunt Consultant Vascular Surgeon Mr and Michael Gaunt Varicose Thread Veins Consultant Vascular Surgeon Varicose and Thread Veins

look forward to 2015 with confidence.

C Consultant onsultant vvascular ascular sur surgeon geon Michael Gaunt speacialises in varicose veins and thread veins in Harley Street. He is xp a leading vvenous enous e expert, xpert, e experienced in treating varicose veins with both the Endovenous Laser and ClariVein Consultant surgeon Michael Gaunt aspeacialises in varicose veins and thread Street. He is ttechniques. echniques .V arvascular icose vveins eins ar Varicose are often considered cosmetic condition but if neglected canveins resultininHarley complications. a leading venous expert, experienced in treating bothveins the Endovenous andbasis. ClariVein ocal anes M inimally in vasiv e local anesthetic pr Minimally invasive procedures can bevaricose used toveins treat with varicose on a walk in, Laser walk out 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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H E A LT H & B E AU T Y

THE LABORATORY L

Winner of the UK Health Club of the Year Award

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 mostrespected 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.

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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. 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. 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

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GREAT OFFER

THE BEST HEALTH CLUB IN THE UK... JUST GOT BETTER! WE’VE JUST SPENT HALF A MILLION POUNDS REFURBISHING OUR STUNNING POOL AREA! To celebrate this we are releasing a limited number of spaces for joiners to receive 60% off our joining fee*. Plus, every new member in September will receive £200 worth of exclusive club vouchers.

CALL NOW AND BOOK YOUR TOUR. *

Terms & Conditions apply. Offer expires 30th September 2014. Joining fee normally £150.

MUSWELL HILL THE AVENUE N10 2QE CALL 020 8482 3000 LABSPA.CO.UK

H E A LT H & B E AU T Y

SO WHAT IS A GILMORE’S GROIN, ANYWAY? WORDS SIMON MARSH SURGICAL DIRECTOR AT THE GILMORE GROIN AND HERNIA CLINIC, 108 HARLEY STREET The easy way to answer this is to start by saying what its not. Despite the fact that it is often called a sportsman’s, or footballer’s hernia, it is definitely not a hernia! All doctors will recall whichever definition of a hernia was drummed into you by whichever fearsome anatomy demonstrator you were lucky enough to be taught by. I can still instantly recall that a hernia is “the protrusion of part, or the whole, of a viscus through the wall of the cavity that normally contains that viscus”. In a Gilmore’s Groin there is no definite defect in the abdominal wall and so no protrusion of a viscus. The condition of groin disruption was first recognised, and successfully treated, by the London surgeon Jerry Gilmore in 1980. He operated on a small series of 3 professional footballers, none of whom had been able to play because of severe groin pain. All of them subsequently returned to top flight football. During the surgery he was able to define the abnormal anatomy that defines the injury and by restoring it to normality, allowed them to return to their sport. The operation became known in the physio and sports world as the Gilmore’s Groin. Groin disruption produces a characteristic set of symptoms including pain with running, twisting, turning and kicking. After playing sport, sufferers are stiff and sore and this is often much worse the next day. Rising from a low position (for example getting out of bed, or in and out of a car) and coughing and sneezing make the pain worse. Only a third of patients can remember a specific injury, usually involving overstretching. There is a history of specific injury in only 30% of patients – usually overstretching, abduction and eversion injuries. Symptoms usually indicate it is an overuse (wear and tear) injury. Gilmore’s Groin is a clinical diagnosis based on the history and examination. Inverting the scrotum and placing the little finger into each superficial inguinal ring in turn gives the diagnosis. On the affected side the ring is usually dilated with a cough impulse and most importantly marked tenderness. Adductor weakness is present in 40% of patients and this may also need surgery. Minor and moderate adductor tears will respond to adductor exercises 118 SEPTEMBER2014

and physiotherapy. If a severe tear is present adductor tenotomy or release may be required. Pre-operative investigations include stork or flamingo x-ray views of the pelvis to exclude pelvic instability, osteitis pubis and hip problems. M.R.I. scan and ultrasound may be required in some patients with conflicting symptoms and physical signs. Successful treatment depends on accurate realignment of the groin muscles in each layer. The whole length of the groin muscles needs to be exposed to allow a proper repair to be carried out in all the layers. The repair cannot be done laparoscopically as it does not allow full exposure of all the muscle layers. Following surgery there is a period of intense rehabilitation, following a standard programme. Surgery is required in sportsmen, of all levels, who are unable to play their sport, or in cases that have not responded to physiotherapy. Gilmore’s Groin is most commonly seen in footballers, but is also seen in rugby (union and league), athletics, racquets sports, cricket and hockey as well as those undertaking general fitness training for other sports. Correct assessment, diagnosis and treatment means that the vast majority can return to their normal activity between 4 and 8 weeks after their operation. So, what is a Gilmore’s Groin? It is a severe musculo-tendinous injury of the groin, which can be successfully treated by the surgical restoration of normal anatomy. Its not a hernia and should not be treated as one! Although herniae of all types can also be repaired at the clinic as well. Simon Marsh is Surgical Director at The Gilmore Groin and Hernia Clinic, 108 Harley Street and a Consultant Surgeon at Essex Rivers NHS Trust. For more information email: info@108harleystreet.co.uk or visit the website at 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

Web

020 7563 1234

020 7563 1212

info@108harleystreet.co.uk

www.108harleystreet.co.uk

Dive back into the pool this term.

Your local leisure centre has fantastic pool facilities for the whole family. Why not visit your nearest site and take the dip today.

Text the code to your nearest site to redeem 1 FREE child swimming weekend pass. BALHAM LEISURE CENTRE

PUTNEY LEISURE CENTRE

020 8772 9577

020 8785 0388

Elmﬁeld Road, Balham SW17 8AN www.balhamleisurecentre.co.uk

Text Code: BALHAM to 81025

LATCHMERE LEISURE CENTRE Burns Road, Battersea SW11 5AD

020 7207 8004

www.latchmereleisurecentre.co.uk

Text Code: LATCHMERE to 81025

Dryburgh Road, Putney SW15 1BL www.putneyleisurecentre.co.uk

Text Code: PUTNEY to 81025

TOOTING LEISURE CENTRE

Greaves Place, Tooting SW17 ONE

020 8333 7555

www.tootingleisurecentre.co.uk

Text Code: TOOTING to 81025

Cost of the text is charged at standard rate depending on your network. Valid from the 15th September- 15th October 2014

*Children under 8 must be supervised by a paying parent or adult (18 years or over) throughout their use of the pool facilities. Max ratio of 3 children to 1 adult. Those supervising must be pay adult fee for a swim session & accompany the children in the water.

Operated by Places for People Leisure Ltd on behalf of Wandsworth Council

PFP85808

Raynes Park Health Centre

World Class Healthcare now at your doorstep The centre was built speciﬁcally with healthcare in mind, lending a calm environment for the provision of high quality medical services; offering patients the best of modern medicine in the caring and welcoming nature expected of St Anthony’s. To give immediacy of service and increased convenience to the patient, we will also be providing ECG and blood testing services at Raynes Park, with a range of outpatient diagnostic tests available on-site.

Clinics are held Monday - Saturday by a number of top consultants from a wide range of medical specialities. LVER TO NE RO AD

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Bookings: 020 8099 2222 Enquiries: 020 8099 2020 Email: raynespark@stanthonys.org.uk

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Raynes Park Health Centre

Raynes Park Health Centre is situated on the one-way system of Lambton Road, within 100 yards of Raynes Park train station. There is a bus-stop directly outside the centre and public parking is also available nearby.

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St. Anthony’s Outpatient Suite. 1 Lambton Road, Raynes Park, London SW20 0LW

How to reach us DUR

St. Anthony’s Hospital is now operating a brand new outpatient consulting suite in the purpose built Raynes Park Health Centre. This allows us to hold 8 consulting rooms in addition to the 12 already located at St. Anthony’s in North Cheam. Patients in surrounding neighbourhoods such as Wimbledon, New Malden, Kingston and Raynes Park can now beneﬁt from the excellent levels of care associated with the hospital in a location more convenient to them.

H E A LT H & B E AU T Y

things you probably didn’t know about Mermaid.

What is it? Mermaid Maternity Retreat is the UK’s first and only boutique maternity retreat. Based in a serene and secluded enclave on the Kings Road in Chelsea, Mermaid offers first class ante-natal and post-natal support for women living in London. Comprising 14 beautifully appointed en-suite bedrooms, an onsite restaurant, fitness studio, wellness spa, 24 hour crèche and relaxing spaces for breast-feeding mums, Mermaid sets the undisputed standard in private Maternity care. We’ve gathered together the UK’s leading therapists, instructors, practitioners and maternity nurses under one roof to offer you exemplary support and advice about all aspects of your pregnancy. How does it work? We welcome women after their 3 month scan right through the first year of their baby’s life and have a range of membership packages. We have recently launched our new “Personal Pregnancy Plan” consultations, to help you achieve the most positive and enriching pregnancy experience which fits into your own lifestyle and commitments. We recommend coming along for a free taster class and a tour of our retreat so you can experience first-hand the benefits of the service we offer. Why is it so valuable? Nowadays new mothers are routinely checked out of hospital following delivery within 24 hours for uncomplicated deliveries, and within 48 hours for caesarean deliveries. A recent survey conducted by the Royal College of Midwives found that a majority of women felt that their post-natal experiences were rushed and unsatisfactory. Many women felt very uncomfortable about the prospects of returning home before they were ready to manage on their own. Mermaid not only helps to bridge this gap, by offering a comprehensive support programme to women at various stages of their journey, but it also offers a crucial first port of call for pregnant women who are nervous about navigating the maelstrom of conflicting advice, strong opinions and judgemental peers. We’re here to offer no-nonsense advice to help you achieve the best fitness, wellness, nutritional and educational plans that will set you

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on the right footing for the challenges ahead. An investment in a stay or membership at Mermaid will pay enormous dividends throughout the whole of the first year of your baby’s life. What kind of accommodation options do you offer? Most of our guests are looking for a short stay (3-7 days) following discharge from hospital in order to learn the basics of breast-feeding, sleep techniques and general advice on how to cope with the pressures of motherhood (starting with some much-needed recuperation, whilst one of our qualified maternity nurses cares for your baby). However, many of these guests are also starting to take advantage of our new accommodation packages, ranging from preparenting retreats or city-break hotel stays in a baby-friendly facility, right through to our “back in shape” post-natal fitness and nutritional retreats for mothers who want to get back on track in a place where their baby can be cared for throughout their stay. How can I find out more? You could come along to one of our taster classes and find out about signing up to one of Mermaid’s membership packages which offers discounted antenatal exercise classes at our on-site studio. Or you could contact reception on hello@mermaid.co.uk or by telephone on 020 7199 3220 and enquire about coming in for a complimentary personal pregnancy plan consultation and a tour of the retreat. Many people don’t appreciate the value of planning a positive pregnancy journey and how to place themselves into the best physical, mental and emotional state prior to delivery, but for those who are forward thinking and looking to give their babies the best possible start in life, we would love to meet with you and help you achieve your goals. We pride ourselves on helping you to understand yourself, grow in confidence, learn the basics and meet with other like-minded women who are travelling the same journey as you. Mermaid Maternity Retreat, 234a Kings Road, London, SW3 5UA hello@mermaid.co.uk 020 7199 3220

H A LT HE& B E AU T Y F EEAT UR

HelP on your doorsteP: A new diagnostic service for people worried about dementia Red & Yellow CaRe, the first private healthcare provider dedicated to dementia, has now launched in london and the south east. among their range of services, red & Yellow care provides an easY-to-access, fast track diagnostic assessment

eople who are concerned that they or their loved one may have dementia often feel lost and confused. They need clarity about the symptoms, sensitive support and useful advice. Unfortunately, many people worried about dementia do not receive the guidance they require. Some people do not seek help themselves due to fear and stigma. Others have difficulties finding or accessing specialist services. Overall, only 48% of people with dementia in the UK are formally diagnosed, leaving the majority to struggle on for many years without clear answers, without a plan and without crucial treatment and care. The right care and support helps people manage their everyday activities better, reduces psychological and behavioural symptoms and prevents rapid decline of physical health. This avoids crisis and unnecessary hospital admissions, helps people with dementia to live in the comfort of their own home for longer and above all, lead a more fulfilling life. It is therefore essential that people with dementia receive a timely diagnosis. Red & Yellow Care provides a consultant-led diagnostic service without the usual barriers. It offers discrete home assessments typically within 1 week of referral. The specialist consultants are flexible and can arrange visits during the day, evening or weekend. The assessments are thorough yet sensitive, and plenty of time will be devoted to discussing the assessment results and providing information that helps the individual and their family to move forward. If the assessment does not lead to a diagnosis of dementia but other health issues are found or suspected, then Red & Yellow Care will guide the individual to the right specialist for further investigation.

0 4s e tT eE mMbBeErR 22 00 11 44 12 Sp EP

How does the diagnostic service work exactly? • Assessments are led by a specialist consultant – either a geriatrician, a psychiatrist or a neurologist. • The consultant visits the individual at home – or alternatively can meet in Red & Yellow Care’s consulting rooms in Kensington – to assess memory and recall, along with physical and psychological wellbeing. • In some cases the consultant may recommend additional tests in order to reach an accurate diagnosis. • A follow-up consultation with the individual, their carer, the consultant and a specialist dementia nurse takes place to discuss the diagnosis and possible treatment and care options. • A detailed report is then prepared by the consultant. If dementia is diagnosed, Red & Yellow Care can also provide specialist care and support tailored to the individual, whether they live at home or in a care home. A named specialist dementia nurse draws up a care plan, monitors and manages the individual’s health and supports the carer and family. The service includes 24 hour phone support and access to a multi-disciplinary team of consultants and therapists. This unique health management service for people with dementia and their family is ideally combined with the daily personal care delivered by domiciliary care providers. “Had a wonderful appointment with my mum. Amazed at the thoroughness and delicacy which the doctor afforded her.” Laura, daughter and carer Dr Nori Graham, Red & Yellow Care’s Medical Director, has worked with people with dementia for over 40 years and recommends that anyone worried about dementia “seeks a timely diagnosis to end the uncertainty, make plans for the future and put care and support in place from the start.” To find out more about Red & Yellow Care and their diagnostic and care services call 0203 7000 163 or email contact@redandyellowcare.com. You can also visit their website www.redandyellowcare.com.

H OUS E & GA R D E N

CREATE A RESTFUL RETREAT Your bedroom should be a place of comfort; somewhere you can go to feel warm and cosy, the place where you can spend the night properly unwinding with a long, uninterrupted sleep.

s life’s pace quickens, people are finding it more difficult to build time into their lives for rest. The lines between work and home are fading, with many people doing substantial portions of their work at home. In fact, with nearly everyone bringing home some work these days, the home has lost its status as a sanctuary. We need a place where we can detach ourselves, and as a result, people are increasingly embracing the concept of the master bedroom suite. Master bedrooms have been around as long as houses, but master bedroom suites are a relatively new concept. Essentially, a master bedroom suite is a home within a home. It’s a refuge where one can enjoy a space free of the many demands of modern living. It’s a hideout for finding peace. Master bedroom suites come in many shapes and sizes, as unique as the lives they are designed to insulate. Most are designed to support three aspects of life: Daily personal routines Rest and relaxation Romance If you are planning a full makeover, you need to decide on a theme – Country Style, Contemporary, Hollywood Glamour, or even Retro. This is crucial not only for personal taste but also creating a relaxing atmosphere where you will be at your most comfortable. Calm neutral schemes come to life by introducing textured fabrics and

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tactile wallpapers and good design can still incorporate blackout lined curtains and blinds enabling your room to be both beautiful and practical. Whatever you do, invest in a good bed. The same with pillows and duvets – quality is very affordable and aids sleep. Ideally, purchase a duvet larger than your bed (e.g. king size if you have a double), this reduces the inevitable fight for cover and adds an aesthetic air of luxury by draping down the sides of the bed. Choosing the right bedroom lighting for creating an oasis of tranquillity For years now, people no longer have just one light source per room. Ceiling lighting in the form of a ceiling lamp or hanging lamp still functions perfectly well for general lighting purposes. For settling into a good book you’ll probably switch off the ceiling lights and switch on the wall lighting. Naturally the atmosphere is also important. Mood lighting helps create the right atmosphere. It’s also a good idea to have dimmable lighting in the bedroom. This allows you to set the level of lighting according to your mood. Don’t forget about coloured lighting for creating that special atmosphere in your bedroom. You could also use LED strip lighting to create a cosy and warm effect. Whatever your bedroom becomes, it must be a place that you love to visit! The more tranquil you feel, the better you will sleep.

Individual and exceptionally tailored interiors dedicated to each property

• Free consultation • • Comprehensive Interior Design for individual rooms or entire homes • • Theme Boards and sampling • • Sourcing and Installation of furniture or supply only • • Expertly made curtains and soft furnishings • • Homes abroad – design and installation •

For further information please contact Saloni at Cocoon Interiors Concepts Ltd. M: 07932 062597 • E: saloni@cocoon-interiors.co.uk • W: www.cocoon-interiors.co.uk

H OUS E & GA R D E N

CHELSEA FABRICS Chelsea Fabrics was established twenty years ago as producers and wholesale suppliers of Curtain and Upholstery fabrics.

t that time the most popular fabrics were printed designs and the Company sold its own exclusive designs not only to numerous shops and stores in the UK but exported to markets as diverse as Japan, Hong Kong, Taiwan, the UAE and Scandinavia amongst many others.

About three years later, the company set up a showroom in Fulham, West London, which included a retail department named The Curtain Fabric Factory, to sell its discontinued designs direct to the public at greatly discounted prices. Over the next decade, demand for prints diminished and plains and textures almost entirely took over the market. Such was the demand for discounted fabrics in the retail shop, that more emphasis was placed in that area and the offer was greatly expanded. Making excellent use of the contacts that the company had established overseas enabled a huge selection of fabrics to be sourced from the best Mills Worldwide, cutting out the middle man and offered at very keen prices. Other products and services were gradually introduced, including curtain tracks and poles of every description, including electric, remote controlled systems, Roman, Roller, Venetian and Vertical blinds, again including motorised systems, all fitted by the Companies expert fitters. Also a recently introduced upholstery service to compliment the huge range of upholstery fabrics on offer, all discounted of course. Over the years, the ranges of fabrics have been increased expedentialy, to 128 SEPTEMBER2014

the extent that the choice of colours, styles, qualities and effects, is probably the largest in West London. There are dozens of different types of plains and semi plains, ranging from pure silks to velvets, traditional florals to the latest themes in abstracts, jacquards, embroideries, satins, designs with horses, designs with maps, butterflies, flowers of every description, trees, animal skins, the list is virtually endless. And for clients who cant find their perfect choice in stock, there are thousands of samples from the Worlds leading Mills to browse through. The only criticism and one often repeated, is that the choice is too large ! But to help with this expert staff are on hand to advise with a no pressure, one to one service. It is no accident that a large percentage of customers are repeat ones or have been personally recommended. The stores somewhat unlikely location is in the middle of North End Road, Fulham at the junction with Lillie Road, just along from the famous fruit and vegetable market and within a short walk from West Kensington, Fulham Broadway and West Brompton Road tube stations or easy pay & display parking around he corner. The narrow entrance belies the 5,000 square feet of space crammed full of stock to which it opens up. If there was such a thing as a â&#x20AC;&#x153;Fabric Tardisâ&#x20AC;? this is certainly it, and well worth a visit. For more information about Chelsea Fabrics, 230/6 North End Road, Fulham W14 9NU call 0207 386 0008 or email cfpolytrad@aol.com www.curtainfabricfactory.co.uk

H OUS E & GA R D E N

CONTEMPORARY KITCHEN

DESIGN TIPS

Upon moving into a new home, many people want to redesign their kitchen. For many people the kitchen is the centre of the home. It is the place where we create our culinary masterpieces, and gather with friends and family.

ne trend that is particularly sought-after is a contemporary kitchen design. The first thing that separates a contemporary kitchen from other styles is its clean lines and minimalist feel. Although some people equate contemporary with cold, it does not have to be so. “Cool” materials such as glass and steel used in a contemporary kitchen design can be “warmed” up by the strategic use of accessories or colour. Six major components that make up a contemporary kitchen are: Glass Glass is an important feature of minimalist design. Glass can be incorporated into contemporary kitchen design through windows, lighting, shelving or toppers for an island. Cabinetry can also have glass doors which provide a visual of the inside. Metal The most popular type of metal used in the design of a contemporary kitchen is stainless steel. It is most often used in appliances such as refrigerators, ovens and dishwashers. The use of stainless steel gives an urban feel to a kitchen. Lighting When designing a contemporary kitchen, lighting is key. Many contemporary designs incorporate recessed lighting into ceilings and underneath cabinets. If however, you don’t’ like recessed lighting, track lighting or fixtures made of metal or glass can also impart a contemporary feel. Marble/Granite Marble and granite are usually used for countertops but fit well within contemporary kitchen design. They are both cool to the touch, allow for

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sharp clean lines and depending on the colour and design chosen really impart a big city feel to your kitchen. Colour As part of the minimalist design ethic of a contemporary kitchen, “cool” colours are usually used. “Cool” colours are those that come to mind; blues, greens, grey, silver and even black and white. Using these colours in your kitchen invokes a modern feel. When putting these elements together, four other design points to consider are: backsplash, cabinetry design, appliances and accessories.When it comes to backsplash, most contemporary kitchens use either tile or metal; your personal preference will decide. As far as cabinets are concerned, some designs don’t require pulls to open, while others use metal hardware. Having a built in design also provides great storage (because clutter does not fit into contemporary design at all). Appliances are an easy way to impart some contemporary style into your kitchen. As I mentioned earlier, many refrigerators, freezers, ovens and the like come in stainless steel. If you don’t really like the look of metal, all black or all white appliances also project a contemporary feel. The last component of contemporary kitchen design is that of accessories. Accessories are another way to easily modernise your kitchen, with a minimalist design. Contact a luxury kitchen specialist like Poggenpohl who specialise in bespoke kitchens and lead you to the contemporary kitchen of your dreams!

H OUS E & GA R D E N

Make an entrance! How to create a welcoming hallway E

The hallway is the first room guests see in a house. Make yours warm and welcoming with our inspirational design tips and advice…

ntrance ways tend to be dark and narrow but painting them white isn’t necessarily the best option. “Hallways, especially busy family ones, can take a lot of wear of tear and white be very unforgiving, as well as cold, so a better option, is to choose a light, bright colour in a warm tone. Choose a colour that is a shade or two lighter than the main room the hallway leads to, and it will help create continuity between the two spaces. As this room is primarily a walk-through, you can afford to make a strong design statement and be bold with colour and pattern. Patterned wallpaper with a slight shine will help reflect the light, while vertical stripes can create the illusion of height. If you’re concerned about knocks and scratches, a practical option is to have painted wood panelling on the bottom of the wall, with statement wallpaper above. Feature flooring Flooring in a hallway needs to be durable but choose wisely and you can create impact while being practical too. If you have a particularly long and narrow hallway, a chequerboard effect on the floor will create the impression of width - the wider the tiles, the wider it will look. Hallway runners are a great way to inject colour, while colourful striped carpet will instantly enliven a stairway. If you have bare wooden stairs, consider painting each step a different shade of the same colour or have fun with stencils to create patterns or words. Let the light in Hallways can often be dark, so getting the lighting right is essential. If you

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have a high ceiling, a large pendant light will act as a beautiful centrepiece and be the first thing that people see when they enter your home. If the ceiling is low, pendant lights will have the effect of making the room feel smaller, so wall lights are the better option. Mirrors are a good way to reflect natural light and give the illusion of more space. A large mirror placed at the end of a hallway instantly provides depth, making a hallway feel larger. Storage solutions Hallways can easily become cluttered so finding a space for coats, keys and shoes is a must. A wooden bench with storage If you have room, offers storage as well as a useful seating area. The more floor space you can see, the larger your hallway will seem and there are lots of great wall-hung cupboards available. Make a feature Hallways may be small but that doesn’t mean you can’t create a stunning focal point. A narrow console table with a pair of lamps and mirror above makes a pretty focal point - while a vase of fresh flowers or a scented cinnamon candle will create an inviting aroma. A group of family portraits is another great way to add interest and personalise the space. Generally, it’s best to hang fewer, larger pictures as opposed to several smaller ones, as it can make the space seem more confined and cluttered. With a little imagination and the right colours, storage and lighting, you can create an inviting entrance you’ll love coming home to and will want to show off.

H OUS E & GA R D E N

DESIGN LED CONSTRUCTION THE KEY TO SUCCESSFUL RESIDENTIAL REFURBISHMENT & CONSTRUCTION

efurbishing a home is an exciting and rewarding experience. It is often a once in a lifetime opportunity to create a unique living space completely personal to you and your family. This article highlights the importance of taking time to research and select the right designers and builders for your project and argues the case for appointing a specialist, established design and build company as a one-stopshop for the entire process. You only have to turn on the television or talk to friends and family who from experience will highlight the frustrations and pitfalls of the traditional design, tender, build approach. Projects often run over budget and over schedule, turning what should be the realisation of a dream into a very stressful experience. Consequently, more and more people are seeking a fresh approach to creating their new home. Design led construction - often referred to as design and build - provides a full service through a single company, where design is fully integrated into the construction phase. This approach ensures all parties understand the design, detailing, cost, quality and time issues involved thus

eliminating problems that traditionally occur once responsibility is divided amongst individual professionals and contractors. Red Square Design and Build based in West London is an example of a firm that has employed design led construction for over 14 years and offers a comprehensive service under one roof. Red Squareâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s experienced team comprises a collective of professionals ranging from architects, interior designers, furniture designers, structural engineers and construction managers to experts in home automation technology, all required to successfully complete a residential project. At Red Square, because the design and construction teams are part of the same business this means reduced risks and fewer frustrations for the client. The build management team are involved throughout the design process so any potential problems are literally designed out and addressed prior to work commencing. Investigative works are performed early in the process to ensure the design team consider any constraints within the existing structure of the property. In this way any unexpected issues are avoided and the final design of the project is never compromised.

A design led approach also allows the client greater flexibility, permitting changes to be considered throughout the term of the project. This is a huge advantage in areas of innovation such as home automation (centrally controlled entertainment, lighting, climate and security systems) where products are constantly being updated. The design team are able to review the market prior to ordering goods to ensure these are still the best available in terms of quality and function. This gives the client an opportunity to make informed changes without causing delay to the project programme and allows the very latest products and finishes to be incorporated into the final build. For these reasons, design and build is now considered the best option for the client, delivering both innovative design and peace of mind that the project will be completed to brief, on time and within budget. Contact Red Square for further information and to arrange a free, no obligation consultation call 020 7385 8500 enquiries@redsquaredb.com www.redsquaredb.com SEPTEMBER2014 135

“Buy To Let Is For Mugs!”

Earn 10% per year return for the next decade owning a dementia care home suite You rarely become wealthy by following the crowd and doing what everyone else does. And it’s clear that tens of thousands of people are entering the Buy To Let market in the belief that residential property is a one-way ticket to long term prosperity.

London Buy-To-Let Yields Are Now Below 3% That view is not born out by the facts. As prices continue to rise due to record low interest rates, net rental yields in London are falling to 3% or less. And that’s before you consider the hassle factor of being a private landlord. The market can go for decades with little or no capital growth, a historical fact ignored by many because they are too young to remember it.

This Commercial Property Yields 10% p.a. for 10 Years The good news is that a better alternative now exists for those savvy investors willing to be different to the madding crowd. Because it’s classed as commercial property, its value is based on its rental yield. There’s a huge social need which means demand massively outstrips supply in every area of the country. I’m talking about dementia care homes.

Helping Address the Dementia Epidemic With 820,000 dementia sufferers in the UK, it’s not surprising David Cameron has held two G8 Summits on the issue in London in recent months. One major local authority admits that only 12% of its care home stock meets the latest standards of the EU and the sector regulator, the Care Quality Commission. Yet our old friends the banks are still refusing to

lend against off-plan care home projects. So developers have had to get creative by enabling private investors like you and I to own individual suites on a 125 year lease. We lease the suite back to them for 10 years on a fixed rental return of 10% per annum, and there are a range of exit strategies during and after the 10 year period.

Savills Have Confirmed The Value & Feasibility Of the Project The dementia facility we can invest in is called Clifton Moor and its located near Wigan in Greater Manchester. It’s a 70 suite care home with every room overlooking the courtyard gardens or open fields. An independent report by Savills has confirmed the value of the home and its feasibility in the market, while KPMG have advised on the tax aspects for private investors. We can own a suite outright for £90,000 and receive £9,000 a year income, or place a deposit of £36,000 and take the remainder as an interest free loan paid back from rental income.

Watch This Video That Explains Why I’ve Invested In This Project I’ve recorded a detailed video to explain the whole concept and why I’ve invested in it myself. You’ll find it at www.CareInvest.co.uk When you understand the full details of this opportunity, I’m sure you’ll see why I believe that, in comparison, Buy-to-let is for mugs! Warm regards

Graham

Graham Rowan, Wealth Coach & Renegade Investor

KPMG have advised on the tax implications for investors

Suites are equipped to latest EU and CQC standards

Savills have assessed the value & feasibility of the project

For more information please contact the exclusive agent Wealth Invest Limited, 2 Eaton Gate, Belgravia, London SW1W 9BJ 020 7760 7681 Email: support@wealthinvest.co.uk

LIFE LONDON’S FINEST HOMES & PROPERTY

P R O P E RT Y L I F E

The World’s richest SPLASH OUT ON PROPERTIES IN LONDON’S MOST EXCLUSIVE AREAS

wning a piece of London’s prime real estate is something most can only dream of. The average price of a home here is £1.12million, which given the average wage, would take most people over 60 years to pay off. And yet, remarkably, prime London property has pulled through the recession with barely a scratch to show - regularly clocking double digit annual growth. In fact, the capital’s housing market has even been credited with single-handedly propping up the rest of the country. Property in the City of Westminster alone, the richest of the capital’s boroughs, is worth a staggering £95 billion, more than twice that of Edinburgh and almost three times more than Bristol. But where is all this wealth coming from, and why is it all being piled into London’s top homes? INTERNATIONAL LURE In large part the money is piling in from overseas. Agents estimate that around two thirds of buyers are foreign. And more than £18 billion of international cash has been injected into the market since 2007, according to Savills. Russians, Italians, French and the Chinese are the four largest investing groups. Many of these buyers don’t even have to leave their country to pick up a piece of prime property, as agents and developers set up overseas exhibitions marketing investments, particularly in the Far East. Contract lawyers are on hand so property can change hands in one swift transaction. As a result, Chinese and Pacific Asian make up around 80% of buyers new-build properties over £5 million.

owning up to a dozen residential properties with the largest and most modern being allocated to the head of the family. THE LONDON STATUS SYMBOL In terms of political power, quality of life, economic activity and knowledge and influence, London is second only to New York as the most important city to the global rich. And based on global sentiment and attitude alone, the British capital rises to top the tables, thanks to its closer proximity to wealth hubs in the Middle East and Russia. The small number of opportunities to buy has also bolstered demand. On average, property only changes hands once every 40 years in central London boroughs. In part this is thanks to strict planning and conservation laws in central London. “The stock just isn’t available, people hold on to their property, which creates desirability,” said Naomi Heaton, chief executive of residential investment specialists London Central Portfolio (LCP). The cosmopolitan nature of the city is also important according to Heaton, whose clients are almost 100% international. “People like and feel welcome in London, in a way that they don’t in Paris or New York,” she said. CAN IT CONTINUE?

Meanwhile, heads of oil and gas rich states in the Middle East are a significant group alongside African oil traders and business tycoons.

But even if the average property price in Kensington and Chelsea now tops £1.12 million it seems demand for prime London property is showing no sign of tapering. “We have only seen the tip of the iceberg with the Chinese,” said LCP’s Heaton who also points to the strengthening currency of Malaysia and Thailand as bringing more buyers through the door. Property taxes and soaring prices in the Far East also make London seem like a relative bargain in comparison.

Royal families from the Middle East and Asia will typically spend between £50-£100 million on residential property in London’s West End, often

At least for the foreseeable future it seems there is little to stop the world’s rich splashing out on a pad in London.

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Beach THE

RESI DENCES

WORTHING WEST SUSSEX

Sophisticated living onWorthing’s glorious seafront. Computer generated images indicative only

Whether you're looking for a south coast weekend retreat or considering a retirement investment The Beach Residences could fulfil your every wish for a fabulous new home of exceptional quality. Rising above the ocean and with commanding coastal views, The Beach Residences, a gleaming collection of 2, 3 & 4 bedroom apartments and penthouses, promises an unrivalled lifestyle on Worthing's beautiful seafront. With Worthing's diverse range of amenities on your doorstep, a location just one hour from London and with easy access to Gatwick, Chichester and stunning Sussex countryside, these exceptional homes tick all the boxes for a blend of uncompromised quality, location and style.

It’s time to think differently Marketing suite and show apartment open daily from 10am to 4pm, call now for your personal viewing appointment. Prices from £500,000 - £1.5m

www.thebeachresidences.co.uk To book your personal viewing appointment please contact our selling agents, Michael Jones & Co, on 01903 239755 or email thebeach@michaeljones.co.uk

www.roffeyhomes.com

Saddle Stones Saddle Stones is a magnificent new family residence situated within the prestigious St. Georgeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hill Estate, with far reaching views from its beautifully landscaped south westerly backing garden of over 1 acre. The exceptionally spacious interior features 6 luxurious bedroom suites, a cinema room, staff accommodation, lift access to all 3 floors, a triple garage and an outdoor swimming pool. London Waterloo can be reached in around 30 minutes from nearby Weybridge Station and Heathrow is less than 15 miles. Saddle Stones really does offer the finest. Price ÂŁ9.5 million 020 8481 7500 www.octagon.co.uk

Long Furrow An impressive new 6 bedroom gated residence, situated on the internationally acclaimed Wentworth Estate. Set within 0.7 acres of beautifully landscaped south backing grounds, the house offers spacious accommodation arranged over 3 floors including staff quarters and a triple garage.

Price £5.5 million

Long Walk Villas An elegant terrace of classical townhouses, close to Windsor town centre, overlooking The Long Walk and Windsor Great Park. These traditional style 4/5 bedroom properties offer numerous reception and entertaining areas, garaging, roof terrace and private landscaped gardens.

Prices from £2.75 million - £2.95 million

Computer Generated Image

Octagon’s Finest New Homes.

P R O P E RT Y L I F E

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

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+). The most expensive home sold in Chelsea was 11 Upper Phillimore Gardens, a seven bed mansion which fetched £28.5 million. 142 SEPTEMBER2014

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.

ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN

DESIGN AND BUILD

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

All about you. Few in life have the opportunity to design their own home and then to have it built. But if you do, you will build a home in your style, your layout. A home that is you through and through. One that will feel very special indeed. We help those who can. With over 30 years of experience in building exceptional, award-winning bespoke homes, we can help you build a home that is all about you.

To discuss your wish list, please call or email John Pope, Director of Octagon Bespoke - 020 8481 7500 or email johnp@octagon.co.uk www.octagon.co.uk

P R O P E RT Y L I F E

LONDON’S

SKYLINE is on the rise

hen compared with the heights of, say, Shanghai or Dubai, London’s skyline can seem a little shy and retiring… but not for long. A recent survey carried out by GL Hearn, and commissioned by New London Architecture, has revealed that a remarkable 236 buildings of more than 20 storeys are currently either in the city’s planning system, recently approved or have started on site. It is likely that a good percentage of applications do not get approval, but there is always a steady stream of new proposals to appear. Whatever happens, we can be sure that a decade down the line, London will look a lot taller than previously. Many of the finest designs of the next generation of skyscrapers rise above the others not because of their height, but because of the intelligence, subtlety and elegance of their design. Seventy-five storeys (at the proposed Hertsmere House in east London) is the highest of any of the planned buildings. Perhaps the cream of the latest crop is the impressive Herzog & de Meuron’s 211m proposed tower at One Wood Wharf, east London. Many commentators have mentioned the similarity to one of the world’s most revered skyscrapers – Bertrand Goldberg’s fantastic 1964 Marina City in Chicago – while, in the recent London tradition of comparing towers to everyday objects, some have noted its similarity to a cob with the corn chewed off.

146 SEPTEMBER2014

The Shard, the Gherkin and the Cheesegrater (officially known as 96 Tooley Street, 30 St Mary Axe and 122 Leadenhall Street) were immediately wellloved elements of the London skyline, and show that the standards have been set unusually high for London skyscrapers. Back in the 1960s, when the law that nothing was to be built taller than St Paul’s Cathedral was finally lifted, the city now has an impressive pedigree. Ronald Ward & Partners’ Millbank Tower is a particular favourite, while the BT Tower is also an icon of the era. Vying for similar acclaim is the proposed tower at 52 Lime Street, a refined, flat form that has picked up the nickname of “the Scalpel”. Make Architects founder Ken Shuttleworth (who has some history, of course, being instrumental in Foster & Partners’ design of the Gherkin) has composed a design at 40 Leadenhall Street that Make describe as “shifting vertical slices” – a form surely dictated by the complicated rules over sightlines in the City. The building has stepped heights from 10 to 35 storeys with multiple roof terraces, reminiscent of New York’s Rockefeller Centre. Mention must also be made of Ian Simpson’s elegant proposal for Dollar Bay at West India Dock. Many of the buildings cited here are either in, or surrounding, London’s affluent Square Mile, where the fees of the finest architects can be met. Inevitably there will be a few pimples emerging during what will perhaps be London’s most significant growth spurt, but the city has so far avoided any major growing pains, and long may that continue.

P R O P E RT Y L I F E

Living the high life

Property developers are going penthouse crazy with some extravagant examples hitting the London market.

ime was when the penthouse was the poshest, largest and most expensive property in the capital. It said “my owner is king of the castle”. For that ego boost, buyers would typically pay a premium of around 20% over the flat below and then prices progressively decrease by about 5% per floor as you descend the building.

Some are indisputably one-offs such as The Penthouse at St James Park. Priced at £32.5m through Savills, it’s a 9, 000 sq ft display of decadence with a seven-window-wide living room overlooking the park, nine bedrooms, plus a separate three-bed staff flat. The Palace View Penthouse at 73 St James Street, costing £12m through Strutt & Parker, has similar rarity value as the sole, modern duplex on top of an elegantly historic St James building. As does the £4.95m penthouse with its wrap-around terrace on the top floor of Eight Artillery Row, developed by LBS Properties in SW1 and designed by the highly acclaimed Make Architects. But a penthouse need no longer stand alone. At St Edmunds Terrace overlooking Primrose Hill, there are four penthouses costing from £15.1m through Savills, while at the prestigious One Tower Bridge, there are 15 duplex penthouses across eight buildings, priced £3.3m to £15m. Penthouses don’t even have to be on the top floor anymore. By calling some properties “penthouses”, you give multiple wealthy buyers that king of the castle feeling – and, of course, it means more money for the developer. Roman House – Berkeley’s boutique development of 90 apartments in the City of London – has four penthouses, two on the top floor and two on

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the floor below, priced £3.85m-£4.25m. And St James House at 88 St James Street, next door to the palace, can even be said to have its penthouse on the ground floor. The largest of the eight residences in the building is the 10,000 sq ft “penthouse-style” triplex, called The Buckingham, which sits on the ground and two lower levels and has ceilings heights that aren’t replicated higher up. Its price is being kept secret, but the other apartments start at £20m. Richard Pine-Coffin, residential development director at Jones Lang LaSalle, sees the new definition of penthouse as “an apartment providing something over and above the standard offering of an apartment building. The Canaletto project in Shoreditch is a prime example, with the 25th to 31st storeys given over to two apartments per floor and a single, spectacular duplex at the very top”. As a way round the penthouse issue, Canaletto is one of various new developments who call their fanciest flats “suites”, with prices from £3.2m. Kew Bridge West development’s Hyperion Tower does a similar thing with its properties spread across the top five floors. “Rather than restrict the luxury penthouse specification to the top floor, we decided to create The Suites to take advantage of the breathtaking views from the top five floors,” says Paul Hopkins, managing director of St James Group. “They have all the requirements associated with penthouse living – spacious accommodation, luxury finishes and spectacular views – but don’t have to be exclusively reserved to the top floor of a building.”

So it appears that to ‘live the high life’ in London, you don’t actually need to be to that high up!

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P R O P E RT Y L I F E

The modern mews Originally built to house staff and horses, London’s mews houses are ripe for redevelopment into desirable family homes.

et in quaint cobbled streets that feel more country lane than city centre, London’s mews houses are a paradox. They often have the best locations and come with accordingly high prices. To cater for their new, smarter owners – including families wanting more space and international buyers who prefer the lateral look – mews houses are undergoing a transformation.. For decades mews houses have followed a very traditional internal treatment as they seem to be a very British preserve with the much sought-after private front door. But this new style also gives you all the internal glamour and finish of new apartment blocks. It is not just one-off mews houses that are getting the new look; whole mews projects are cropping up across London. Clay Street in Marylebone is a boutique project of five properties, costing from £4.15million, with textured brick and timber facades and loads of light with floor-to-ceiling windows and staircases relegated to the back of the house. Whether they pay a genuine nod to the idyll and architecture of the old-style mews street or are essentially creating gated new-build terraces that capitalise on buyers’ love of having “mews” in the name, developers are finding innovative ways to overcome the old mews problem of a lack of light and outdoor space. Some, where permitted, are digging down or building up; all are opening up the interiors to be bright, open-plan and minimalist. And mews houses are in short supply and high demand, particularly among traditionally-minded British buyers and also Europeans. Should you want to create a new mews house of your own, finding the unmodernised version with scope for reinvention is the holy grail for would-be boutique developers. “The last one I tried to purchase for a client was fiercely competitive. It saw 38 bids and achieved £500,000 over the asking price,” says Rachel Thompson, partner at The Buying Solution.

It’s enough to frighten the horses. 150 SEPTEMBER2014

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Most of us are relieved to have left the classroom behind years ago. But when it comes to grand, airy spaces, there’s much we can learn from schools.

he Victorians built them a-plenty, and now 20th-century builders are knocking them down or converting them into apartments. The old, draughty turn-of-the-century schools, which are so distinctive all around the country in towns and cities with their imposing exteriors, high gables and large windows, do not lend themselves to modern-day tuition. Victorian-built institutions might not suit modern-day teaching methods, but they do make unique homes. The Victorians built their schools to last, with solid woodblock flooring, good acoustic insulation, high ceilings and tall windows to maximise light. They are also expensive for both private and local authority owners to maintain and keep warm in the winter. And so many schools are being turned into large apartments, with the new residents sometimes lucky enough to have the use of the school grounds, if these have not been sold off separately. One of the difficulties encountered by developers, is how to deal with what is often a very large room with extremely large windows, typical of Victorian schools which have frequently undergone conversion. Where these rooms have been carved up, the proportions can appear slightly unnatural. If left alone, they can be dramatic, but the sheer size and height of the room and surface area of window can lead to large heating bills.

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Some schools have closed down in recent years, and developers are attracted to them because they are easy to convert. They are likely to be structurally sound because the authorities will have inspected them regularly to ensure they comply with health and safety requirements. Most have leisure amenities, such as tennis courts, well-maintained grounds and a swimming pool. Buyers considering school conversions should note that often these buildings are short on views, with windows typically placed higher than normal to avoid distracting daydreaming pupils from their studies. A former public school founded by the Masons, Royal Connaught Park in Bushey, Hertfordshire, has certainly had a colourful history since its closure. At one time an American university visited by John F Kennedy, it then became a film set for productions including the original St Trinian’s, Harry Potter and Little Britain. Now converted into luxurious flats and houses, “no two properties are the same” says Comer Homes’ marketing director Caroline Comer. Prices ranged from £399,000 up to £2.1 million. It would be easier for developers to knock a school down and start from scratch, but maintaining the originality of the schools architecture, space and characteristics, increasing its value considerably.

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Experience the Benefits of good seating posture

any of us underestimate how crucial it is for our bodies to be sitting in the right position. Ill-fitted furniture can provoke back, neck and joint pain that often becomes a long-term problem.

Are you aware that: Nearly 5 million working days are lost per year as a result of back pain Adopting a good sitting posture can prevent and alleviate back related problems

Can I get a modern reclining sofa with high backrest and good lumbar support? The designers at Himolla, a premium German brand, have achieved a perfect balance of modern design and truly back supportive furniture with the following key features.

Good posture and caring for your back starts from an early age. It is vital that children are fitted with the correct desk and chair to support their growing bodies. What better time than the new school year to invest in furniture that encourages your child to study? The Moll Champion height adjustable desk incorporates a tilting desktop to provide a better angle for reading and writing. It adapts as your child grows, making it a worthy investment for your childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s future.

Different seat heights and widths High backrests with tilting headrests Integrated footrests Excellent contoured lumbar support A choice of firmness in the seat A range of 100 quality leathers and 20 wood finishes

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A Moll desk can be used from the age of 5 years through to adult and is ideal for those people who benefit from the tilting desktop, such as artists, hobbyists and writers. The inclined surface removes the need to lean forward across the desk and lose back support.

Whether you are buying reclining furniture for your lounge or an ergonomic office chair for work - explore the options available and take advice from experts in the field of seating and postural support. At FineBack we donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t just supply furniture, we ensure that it fits your dimensions and we adjust office chairs at your workplace, so that the chair operates with the maximum benefit to the user.

FineBack Furniture is a back care seating specialist providing a range of ergonomic furniture to suit every individual and all age groups.

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For more information on FineBack Furniture, please call 01727 827744 or visit www.fineback.co.uk

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Simple and elegant...

shutters are the perfect focal point for any room

t may be the simplicity of shutters that makes them so effortlessly stunning – it’s almost certainly what makes them fit beautifully with so many design schemes. Whatever trend or look you’re going for in your home, you’re sure to find a shutter in a style and colour to complement your room perfectly – whether you’re looking for natural wood or a clean and contemporary painted finish. But it’s not all about looks, shutters are incredibly practical too. As you’d expect, they provide excellent control over light and privacy, but there’s more to them than you might think. They also give fantastic insulation to windows – perfect for draughty homes – they’re easy to keep clean and they’re extremely hardwearing, so it’s not just their classic style that will stand the test of time. Spoilt for choice If you’re sold on shutters but you’re not sure whether they’re within your budget, think again. There are so many ranges, from hardwood through to LDF, which make shutters an achievable option for most. What’s more, there are a variety of shutter styles and finishes to choose from – you can even get bespoke shutters for shaped

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windows, and waterproof shutters for bathrooms. The options really are endless. Local expertise Premier Shutters, based in Basildon, pride themselves on providing unrivalled experience for anyone looking for shutters for their home. Their staff live and breathe shutters, so you can be confident that you’ll not only get sound advice, you’ll also be absolutely delighted with the finished product. Their specialist surveyors bring their knowledge – not to mention their wide range of samples – to you in your home. They’ll take precise measurements, offer simple guidance and leave a competitive quote – all without the pressure of a hard sell. You’ll be surprised just how many options there are when choosing shutters, so having a friendly expert on hand to answer questions and provide honest advice really is invaluable.

You can book a no-obligation home survey or simply request a brochure by calling FREE on 0808 250 2578 or visiting their website at www.premiershutters.co.uk

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A TRULY UNIQUE REFLECTION Your perfect residential space imagined and created by Gregory Phillips

ince establishing the practice in 1991, a holistic design approach and a wealth of experience among Gregory and his team has led to the successful delivery of a wide range of residential projects from extension and refurbishment to new build dwellings, basements and swimming pools across London and the UK.

While every project is unique; tailored to each clients’ lifestyle, aspirations and specific locations, a common thread is the exceptional quality and attention to detail which permeates the work and resulting homes. Throughout their portfolio of work, a balanced composition of spaces and relationship between inside and out is most evident and appealing – certainly to those wishing to create modern, contemporary environments full of clean lines and natural light. In conjunction with developing new layouts and creating new spaces, Gregory and his team are often engaged to carry out the interior design and selection of furniture and soft furnishings. This approach yields an integrated response to the client’s aspirations and an aesthetic which reflects the vision of the architecture.

of the projects going on to win prestigious awards from the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) and publications such as Homes & Gardens and Sunday Times British Homes Awards. In addition to drawing upon their wealth of experience in the residential sector, the team also believe that keeping informed and up to date with new developments in building technology, materials and sustainable solutions for new homes is the key to staying at the top of their game. Clients are assured that these elements are incorporated into the designs at an early stage in a fresh and innovative way.

Based in the heart of central London on Savile Row, Gregory Phillips Architects is a vibrant architectural practice specialising in high end residential design.

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With a significant portfolio of completed works behind them, current projects include exciting new build detached dwellings in Shropshire and Caversham which have just received planning permission, and a number of basement, extension, swimming pool and refurbishment projects on site across London in St Johns Wood, Chelsea, Hampstead, Holland Park and Wimbledon.

We are very much looking forward to seeing more of their work once these exciting projects are completed. Gregory Phillips Architects, 17 Savile Row, London, W1S 3PN t 020 7724 3040 www.gregoryphillips.com

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Silver Sterling good work – a phrase that conjures up stalwart reliability. But why the word sterling? Most people know it is applied to silverware and describes only that metal made up of 92.5% silver and 7.5% hardening agent or alloy.

he reason for the 7.5% alloy is because pure silver is too soft to be durable but the alloy, originally copper, does not alter the colour of the silver leaving the whole manufacturing process open to corruption.

To control this, a system of authorised testing and marking was introduced, starting in the year 1300; a small stamp in the form of a Leopard’s Head. First known as the King’s Mark it became the London town mark as here was the headquarters of the Guild of Goldsmiths, the body responsible for the testing. To further guard against malpractice a mark which would identify the silversmith was introduced in 1363. The post of Assay Master, responsible for testing was an annual office, and in order that he too could be traced a third mark, a letter of the alphabet which changed each year, was established in 1478. In 1544 the Goldsmiths’ Company introduced a mark to show beyond doubt that their wares were of the required standard. This was the figure of a walking Lion which became forever recognised as the Sterling Standard mark. Since then the purchaser of British hallmarked silver has had the assurance of the finest guarantee system in the world. Through it you can tell where a piece was made, when it was made, who made it, who tested it and what it is made of. But why sterling? In the 1180’s King John recognised that some regulation was necessary. He summoned from Germany a group of goldsmiths, reputedly the best in the business, to reduce silver to ‘a fineness’ to retain its value but be hard enough for use as coinage as well as silverware. They were not made overly welcome by the natives who called them Easterlings from whence they came. Soon the ‘a’ was dropped to Esterling and finally Sterling. John Bly 533 Kings Road, Chelsea john@johnbly.com

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ood has many positive attributes, it’s easy to live with and offers endless design options. The rich colours add warmth, while the wood’s texture gives limitless character and style. As well as looking good, wood’s hardwearing nature is another favourable characteristic. It is hugely practical, offers great durability and is extremely easy to maintain on a day-to-day basis. However, with so many products to choose from, getting the right floor can seem tricky and rather daunting. To make an informed choice, it’s a good idea to visit a reputable showroom, see the products close up and make the most of the staff’s expert knowledge. The Natural Wood Floor Company is an established specialist wood flooring manufacturer and supplier based in Smugglers Way, Wandsworth. The company’s superior timber, excellent craftsmanship and first class designs are responsible for a collection of stunning products which reflect 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, 166 SEPTEMBER2014

in various timbers, plus a full range of flooring accessories and maintenance products, including; skirtings, mouldings, underlay, adhesives and finishing products. Two new stunning distressed engineered oak floors have just been launched to extend the existing distressed range. Distressed Drift Wood, with rich detailing in fashionable grey tones and Distressed Pre-oiled Oak, which offers all the elegance of a classic oak board with added character and style. All of The Natural Wood Floor Company’s products are manufactured from sustainable timber, so are kind to the environment. Sustainably sourced timber has fantastic environmental credentials, being a natural product which is renewable, recyclable and biodegradable. With most products in stock, deliveries can be made the next working day or are available for immediate collection. The Natural Wood Floor Company, 20 Smugglers Way, Wandsworth, London SW18 1EG 020 8871 9771 www.naturalwoodfloor.co.uk

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mberth is an interior design studio based in North London with over 10 years of experience in the industry, specialising in bespoke interior design, kitchens and bathrooms. Together with their dedicated team of designers, fitters and project managers they imagine and craft unique living spaces around the lives of their clients. From living rooms, kitchens and bathrooms to everything in-between, they pride themselves in offering a complete service to their clients. Their friendly team work to the highest standards and are always on-hand to insure the needs of their clients are met. Their project managers take full responsibility for all aspects of project process, from initial concept and demolition, through to design and fitting, making sure the whole process runs smoothly and stress-free for their clients. All projects begin with a free consultation and are followed up by a detailed space assessment. The team pride themselves is taking great care to get to know their clientsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; needs well before they come

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up with the final proposal. No detail is too small, when it comes to choosing a colour palette, materials and furniture pieces. As well as creating creative interior schemes, Amberth create bespoke, custommade furniture and fittings from the finest materials sourced from around the world. Combining experience and craftsmanship with dynamic embrace of modern design, they always insure that the final result is not only beautiful, but also functional, ergonomic and is built to last. Being a family run business, Amberth aim to develop lasting relationships with their clients. To create a space that feels personal, warm and comfortable. It is this approach to design that makes their clients come back for more every time. Whatever the challenge, Amberth team will help you turn your space into a real home. For more information about Amberth Studio 311 Essex Road London N1 2YG tel: 02073548958 or email: studio@amberth.co.uk www.amberth.co.uk

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7I N TOF THE BEST E R I O R D E S I G N T R E N DS A

ny proud homeowner knows that keeping your home looking its best is just as important as keeping yourself wellgroomed. 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.

Here are the key interior trends for 2014 that you may want to think about incorporating: TREND 1 TURQUOISE The pastels and beiges of previous seasons are being firmly placed to one side as 2014 sees us 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 in 2013 as quilted fabrics and leather became big news. In 2014, 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, in 2014 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

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or simply pick up some fabric from a local market to drape 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, Eastern-inspired 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, one-off 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. TREND 6 TRANSPARENT FURNITURE Certainly not a trend for the faint-hearted, in 2014 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 In 2014, 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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Unit 5, Anglo Business Park, Asheridge Road, Chesham, HP5 2QA Open Monday - Saturday 10am - 4pm

Can a kitchen have a soul? If you look at the designs of Paul Marazzi, the answer may be yes. Marazzi’s passion for design began a new approach to creating bespoke kitchens that are not only functional but also provide a focal point for a contemporary home. Small wonder why, ten years after Marazzi Design company’s inception, it won the Best of the Best International Design Europe Award 2010. Drawing on his Italian heritage, Marazzi developed a philosophy based on understanding artisans’ techniques of the past, then reinterpreting them using modern engineering and technology. the result is beautiful products and spaces that are wholly custom made for clients. These bespoke kitchens have become part of a repertoire of cutting-edge rooms that belong to a long list of satisfied owners. But the Marazzi library of work stands out not only for its unique design and innovation but also for its ability to influence the lifestyles of those who experience his kitchens. Marazzi feels that “a kitchen should have a soul and presence, transforming a room into an emotional experience, a celebration of family life and convivial living”. Marazzi likes working with fluid shapes inspired by nature. They allow him to do something very creative and individual, and they are peoplefriendly — no hard angles or corners to bump into, no rigid lines to conform to. “fluid shapes and organic and sensual designs have now become something of a trademark for me,” he says. Such concepts reveal an understanding of a client’s needs — not only in his preferred design and materials, but also in his lifestyle. So Marazzi adapts each design to take account of how the client likes to use and move around his kitchen. He turns his clients’ requirements into individual solutions that elevate the cook’s enjoyment and comfort in preparing dishes at home.

MARAZZI LIKES WORKING WITH ORGANIC SHAPES INSPIRED BY NATURE

A clue as to why a Marazzi kitchen is so special is seen in the Colosseo Oro, a limited edition series of 10 individually engineered kitchens presented in September 2011 at the 100% Design Show at Earl’s court, london. Based on the Best of the Best Award winning Colosseo design, the Oro is a refined, no-expense-spared version, which includes newly developed composite materials that form smooth radius central ‘island’ units. Metallic chameleon lacquer emphasises the dramatic curves, giving depth and definition to the surface. Finishes include 24-carat gold leaf. The Colosseo’s ‘no compromise’ futuristic design extends to four metres in diameter, removing the confining planes of wall-facing kitchens. It is a detached, fully integrated island with appliances positioned around the cook, ensuring that everything is close at hand. The circular design complements the natural twisting ergonomic movements of the body while preparing food. The outer circle of the island is a special area that invites friends and family to sit and chat while the chef whips up the

meal, or just allows one to immerse in the enjoyment of one of the most impressive kitchens in the world. Other finishes include crocodile embossed leather, metallic gloss chameleon lacquer, Swarovski crystal lights and Venetian inked gold glass. Appliances are by renowned manufacturers from around the world — Zaha taps, a collaboration between architect Zaha hadid and triflow concepts; Sub-Zero refrigeration and wine storage systems; ovens, hobs and warming drawers from Wolf ovens; Max fire custom-made steel extraction systems with boiled and chilled water delivered via gold plated Zip hydro taps. fisher and paykel make the drawer dishwashers, and worktops are sculpted by hi-MAcS@Solid Surface. The hallmarks of a Paul Marazzi kitchen can be seen in their bold vision, refined engineering and cutting-edge composites and materials. Add to this craftsmanship, bespoke design and practicality and it’s easy to see why the company has a growing client list and enjoys accolades from all over the world. And why many of his kitchens are now the favourite nook in the house.

Finishes include:

Crocodile Embossed Leather, Matallic Gloss Chameleon Lacquer, Swarovski Crystal Lights and Venetian Inked Gold Glass.

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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.

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 from trespassing on your property.

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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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