Fabric Magazine October 2024 by Hatton Collective

Bathing beauty

Create a stylish and functional en suite with a little expert guidance

Face of the future

The Beauty Triangle’s latest, enlightening aesthetics trends report

FAKING IT

Nick Blood on feeling like the outlier and his latest and The Day of the Jackal exciting roles in

Silver Botanical by Nadia Attura Will’s Art Warehouse, £150

EDITOR’S LETTER/

Cosy up for the new season with an exciting new

Personal pleasures

As the daylight fades, it can be all too easy for our mood to cool along with the temperature, which is why our focus this issue is on things that will bring you cheer –from the tiny moments of joy to the big indulgences. Our special feature is about aesthetics; so much more than a superﬁcial indulgence, with the power to transform the way we feel about ourselves, rejuvenating treatments are an important form of self-care. We take a look at the latest technologies and treatments. The interiors focus this month turns to designing the perfect en suite. Usually an exclusively grown up space, the en suite is a room where injecting a bit of personality and luxury can help you to create your own happy place. Elsewhere, our shopping page places the spotlight on quirky lighting that will help to banish the gloom and bring a smile to your face. What brings joy to cover star Nick Blood’s life? Shopping for jackets and trainers for one thing. But also the challenge of a role he can really get his teeth into – and he has two of those coming up. Read what he has to say about those projects in our exclusive interview. And that’s just a taste of what’s in store. Enjoy!

Liz Skone James liz@hattoncollective.com

Arlington Residential arlingtonresidential.com

Aston Chase astonchase.com

Benham & Reeves benhams.com

Chestertons chestertons.com

Dexters dexters.co.uk

Druce druce.com

Glentree glentree.co.uk

Godfrey & Barr godfreyandbarr.com

Goldschmidt & Howland g-h.co.uk

Hamptons hamptons.co.uk

Heathgate heathgate.com

Jeremy James & Company jeremy-james.co.uk

Knight Frank knightfrank.co.uk

Savills savills.co.uk

TK International t-k.co.uk

Winkworth West End winkworth.co.uk

Read our exclusive interview on page 30

Editorial Director Liz Skone James Creative Director Penny Clements Interiors Editor Ali Howard Schools Editor Claire Atherton Client Services Director Becky Pomfret Social Media Manager Alice Bradley Production Heidi Pomfret

Publisher Katie Hutley

Advertising Debbie Russell debbie@fabricmagazine.co.uk +44 7811 347299 Helen Coston helen@inktop.co.uk +44 7974 891721 New Homes & Developments Karen de Pommereau karen@fabricmagazine.co.uk +33 6 70 80 42 45 Editorial and publishing enquiries 020 8242 6222

FABRIC MAGAZINE IS PUBLISHED 12 TIMES A YEAR on behalf of REAP Magazines Ltd by Hatton Collective Ltd, 27 Mortimer Street, London, W1T 3BL fabricmagazine.co.uk

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Glentree Estates Trevor Abrahmsohn Goldschmidt & Howland Philip Green Savills Jonathan Hewlett and Liza-Jane Kelly Aston Chase Mark Pollack

Nick Blood Photographed by Alex Beer

Nick wears: denim jacket and jeans by Applied Art Forms; shirt by ISTO.; and shoes by Grenson

CONTENTS / LIFESTYLE

What he looks for in a role and what keeps him awake at night, plus the gossip on his latest projects

The Beauty Triangle’s Francesca OgiermannWhite on what’s driving our interest in the ﬁeld of aesthetic regeneration

40 STYLE

New openings, new launches and what the new season holds for our favourite north London label

44 FOOD & DRINK

Ready, steady, bake… Prue Leith shares a recipe from her new book, plus all the latest foodie news

TRAVEL

47 SPOTLIGHT ON

It’s shoulder season in Sardinia and it’s a great time to visit. Here’s the most luxurious places to stay

48 TRAVEL REVIEW

Fall for Chicago’s charms with a memorable stay at The Emily, a boutique hotel in the city’s West Loop

INTERIORS

51 INTERIORS NEWS

The latest launches and luxurious new lines

54 INTERIORS TRENDS

How to create a stylish, functional en suite retreatno matter how small or awkward your space

58 AT HOME WITH

Take a tour around the art-ﬁlled home of Will Ramsay, founder of The Affordable Art Fair

60 DESIGNER PROFILE

Shelley Simpson reveals an exciting north London opening for her ceramics brand Mud Australia

SCHOOLS

65 A CAPITAL EDUCATION

How diet affects academic performance, plus, we meet Dominic Oliver, head at Lancing College

PROPERTY

69 TALKING POINTS

As energy costs continue to rise, the experts debate how a property’s EPC might affect a sale

70 HOT PROPERTY

The best homes on the market this month

90 LAST WORD

Meet the newest member of the dynamic team at Arlington Residential

Elegant classical home

Gloucester Gate, Regent's Park NW1

Regent's Park Underground Station: 0.8 miles

An elegant Grade I listed classical home set on a private terrace overlooking Regent's Park, presented in excellent condition. 3 reception rooms, 4/5 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, media room, cellar, guest suite, 4 parking spaces, private courtyard, and direct access to communal gardens.

Leasehold (Lease Expiry 2162) | Service Charge: £4,000 per annum (Reviewed annually) | Ground Rent: £200 per annum (Reviewed annually) | Council Tax Band = H | EPC Rating = EPC Exempt

4,948 Sq Ft | Guide £10.95 milliion

Stephen Lindsay Marius Nazare

Head of Office

Savills St. John's Wood & Regent's Park 020 3043 3602 slindsay@savills.com

Discover more

*pricing correct at the time of print

Residential Sales

Savills St. John's Wood & Regent's Park 020 3043 3610 marius.nazare@savills.com

An impressive family house

Haversham Place, London N6

Kentish Town Underground Station: 1.0 miles

Haversham Place is a prestige development by Octagon Homes. It comprises seven houses, each set within their own grounds and grouped in a superb landscaped wooded setting, approached via electronically controlled security gates. 3 reception rooms, 6 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, off-street parking for 3 cars and a double garage.

James Diaper Harriet Davies

Freehold | Council Tax Band = H | EPC Rating = C 4,529 Sq Ft | Guide £6.25 million *pricing correct at the time of print

PENTHOUSE FLAT

THE BISHOPS AVENUE

LONDON N2

An exceptional penthouse apartment providing circa 3,000 sq ft/277 sq m of accommodation with one of the largest private roof gardens of any apartment in North London. The flat, which is presented in immaculate decorative condition has impressive entertaining space, and features secure direct lift access, has two large underground parking spaces and a walk in store room. All the principal rooms have access to private terraces.

Approached via a sweeping gated driveway, a substantial semidetached period house on North End Avenue, Hampstead, NW3 with spectacular grand entertaining rooms, high ceilings, fireplaces and floor to ceiling windows. Surrounded by grounds of 0.3 acres (0.12 hectares) with landscaped gardens and a large terrace that abuts Hampstead Heath. There is also a substantial 666 sq ft garage which has planning for a low built detached two bedroom house with associated landscaping and parking. North End Avenue forms part of a charming enclave adjacent to Hampstead Heath and a short distance from Golders Hill Park located between Hampstead Village and Golders Green. 3 6 5

Energy Efficiency Rating - D60 ● Council Tax Band - H Hampstead Sales 020 7435 4404

right

An imposing detached period house on Frognal Lane, Hampstead, NW3 with many of the original features including decorative ceilings, cornicing and tiled entrance hall. Set over four floors, in excess of 4,557 sq ft and excellent proportions throughout with direct access onto a private south facing garden with a gate opening onto two acres of communal gardens. The house also benefits from off street parking for three cars and is conveniently positioned for Hampstead Village and Underground Station (0.5miles) as well as Finchley Road and Swiss Cottage Underground Stations (0.5 miles). N.B. Pictures have been created using virtual styling. 4 6 4 Asking Price: £6,500,000 Freehold

Energy Efficiency Rating - D55 ● Council Tax Band - H Hampstead Sales 020 7435 4404

ELM TREE ROAD

ST JOHN’S WOOD, NW8

A rare opportunity to purchase a discreetly appointed low built semi-detached home (275 sq m/ 2,960 sq ft) in this highly desirable street tranquilly located in the heart of St John’s Wood.

The house is arranged over three floors only and features an exceptional reception room, a beautifully landscaped secluded rear garden and gated off-street parking for two vehicles. The property provides light and spacious versatile accommodation and would be ideal for downsizers wanting to avoid an apartment with the risk of noise above and below along with high service charges, a young family, or alternatively international purchasers wishing to acquire a secure and compact home in London that would require relatively minimal maintenance. Elm Tree Road runs between Circus Road and Grove End Road and is less than 0.4 of a mile from St John’s Wood Underground Station (Jubilee Line), the boutiques, restaurants and cafés of St John’s Wood High Street, The American School in London (ASL) whilst the green open spaces of both Primrose Hill and Regent’s Park are less than one mile away.

Entrance Hall, Reception Hall, Double Reception Room, Den/Family Room, Kitchen/Breakfast Room, Utility Room, Guest Cloakroom, Principal Bedroom with Dressing Area and Large En-Suite Bathroom, Three Further Bedrooms, One Further Large Family Bathroom, Shower Room, Extensive Eaves Storage, Landscaped Front Garden with Water Feature, Landscaped Rear Garden with two Terraces, 10 x 9’9 Garden Studio, Gated Off-Street Parking for two Vehicles, First Floor Balcony accessible from two Bedrooms. Council Tax: Band H. EPC: D.

CLIFTON HILL

ST JOHN’S WOOD, NW8

An exceptional semi-detached family home (291.9 sq m/3,142 sq ft) with a fabulous 68ft landscaped southerly facing rear garden.

The house has been architecturally designed to create light and spacious accommodation with the benefit of high ceilings and dramatic double volume spaces. The property further benefits from four bedroom suites and off-street parking for one car.

Clifton Hill is located on the west side of St John’s Wood and is within close proximity to The American School in London as well as the amenities of St John’s Wood High Street and St John’s Wood Underground Station (Jubilee Line).

Principal Bedroom with Dressing Room & En-Suite Bathroom, Three Further En-Suite Bedrooms, Double Reception Room, Fully Fitted Neil Learner Kitchen/Breakfast Room, Family Room, Utility Room, Two Guest Cloakrooms, Plant Room, Front Garden, Sunken Terrace, 68ft Landscaped Rear Garden, Off-Street Parking for One Car. Council Tax: Band H. EPC: D.

Stormont Road, Highgate, N6

£11,500,000

Located on one of the finest roads in Highgate and set back behind a gated carriage driveway for numerous cars on a substantial corner plot of 0.4 acre, is this double fronted detached house which was newly built in 2012, and is now offered for sale in beautiful decorative condition throughout.

The very generous accommodation of 7,885 sq ft/733 sq m (net) is arranged over three lateral footplates and provides an excellent balance of reception space and bedroom suites, with an emphasis on internal entertaining which works hand in hand with the external patio loggia with retractable roof, which in effect doubles as a wonderful extra summer ‘room’.

The ground floor offers a family/TV room, formal dining room, interconnecting informal reception/dining/ kitchen-breakfast room which runs across the back of the house with full height sliding doors leading onto the garden, study, gym, 2nd kitchen, guest WC and two garages. The first floor offers a sophisticated principal suite of large bedroom, dressing room and en-suite bathroom, three further bedrooms all with en-suite bathrooms, and the second floor (which is accessed via a secondary staircase) offers two further bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms, a games room/bedroom 7, a utility room/kitchenette and loft storage.

A major feature of the house is the magnificent rear garden which has been laid out formally and planted beautifully by the vendors, with a large lawn, deep flowering borders and footpath, all of which is framed by rows of mature magnolia trees.

HAMPSTEAD WAY, NW11

£4,500,000

Built in 1911 and on the market for the first time in 38 years, is this unique, Arts and Crafts detached family home, located directly opposite the rolling green acres of the Hampstead Heath Extension.

Spanning over 3,500 sq ft and arranged over 3 floors with offstreet parking for 2 cars, this exquisite property offers an array of original features including wood panelling, a beautiful fireplace and herringbone parquet wood flooring throughout the ground floor.

Currently offering a lounge, a drawing room, a dining room and a study. There is a kitchen diner, a separate utility room and a guest w.c. Two of the reception rooms and the kitchen have doors leading out onto a stunning south facing, mature rear garden.

The first floor has 4 double bedrooms and 4 bathrooms, 3 of which are ensuite and a separate family bathroom. The principal bedroom overlooks the front of the property with a stunning bay window offering views of the Heath Extension. The top floor consists of a large 5th bedroom/playroom/ studio, and a 6th bedroom currently used as a study.

SOLE AGENT

HILL TOP, NW11

£2,195,000

Located on this popular turning on the north side of Hampstead Garden Suburb is this gorgeous mock Tudor 5 double bedroom detached family home.

Presented in very good condition, this stunning property features open plan style living accommodation on the ground floor, with pocket doors leading into a separate family/playroom. A fabulous kitchen occupies the rear of the house with Gaggenau appliances, a central island and a walk-in pantry.

There is a well-equipped utility room, guest WC and two sets of large double doors, leading out onto a magnificent, double plot size, south-facing rear garden that is unique at almost 200ft.

The first floor offers an impressive landing with 4 double bedrooms all with fitted wardrobes. The principal suite is generous with expansive views over the picturesque garden and a well-proportioned ensuite bathroom. The top floor comprises a large 5th bedroom, with an ensuite shower, and a separate office.

SOLE AGENT

Hamilton Gardens, NW8

£6,000,000

Moments from Regent's Park, this immaculate Victorian house is perfectly placed in a cosmopolitan and highly desirable address. With five bedrooms, enjoy this tranquil setting without losing out on the London lifestyle, with the charming high street of St John's Wood on your doorstep. There is also the added luxury of a gym and a sauna. This home is a must see, energy rating c.

Dexters Maida Vale. 298 Elgin Avenue, London, W9 1JS T: 020 7266 2020 E: maidavalesales@dexters.co.uk

dexters.co.uk

Lisburne Road, NW3

£2,750,000

Situated in a sought after north London location, a unique Victorian house offering versatile accommodation. Close to Hampstead Heath, the recently remodelled property has been finished to the highest of standards. There are five bedrooms and an impressive bespoke kitchen designed by Italian design house Snaidero in collaboration with Milanese architect Iosa Ghini, fitted with Smeg appliances, energy rating d.

Dexters Hampstead. 56 Heath Street, London, NW3 1DL T: 020 7433 0273 E: hampsteadsales@dexters.co.uk

David Brand – Sales Director 020 7182 1406

david.brand@chestertons.co.uk

“The quality of the pupils’ academic and other achievements is excellent...The school successfully meets its ambition to empower pupils to become independent thinkers and fearless learners.”

ISI Inspection Report Visit our website to find out more: www.channing.co.uk

1 Lee Broom King, part of the Alchemist collection, from £12,750 (leebroomstore.com) 2 BuzziSpace BuzziMoon acoustic pendant lighting, £2,648 (quietmark.com) 3 Nordlux Align Table Lamp, £129.99 (johnlewis.com) 4 Nanoleaf X Umbra Cono portable smart lamp, £110 (nanoleaf.me/ en-GB) 5 Larger Oldfield chandelier in pink glass, £1,410 (pooky.com) 6 Jonathan Adler Globo table lamp, £1,195 (uk.jonathanadler.com) 7 King Living Eye table lamp, from £350 (kingliving.co.uk) 8 Artek A333 Turnip Pendant Light duo-tone white linen, from £511 (aram.co.uk) 9 Kufu table lamp by Ligne Roset, from £255 (heals.com) 10 Original BTC Christie wall light, £765 (originalbtc.com) 11 Applique Murale, Grace, emerald green, Elements Lighting, €299 (nedgis.com) 12 Stanley suspension light by DelightFULL, £1,565.33 (covetlighting.com)

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

The seasons are changing, and the clocks are going back – it’s time to ﬂood your home with mood lifting light

WHAT’S ON IN LONDON

What to see and do in the Capital this October

THEATRE

Well Walk Theatre

Last month, Hampstead welcomed a new cultural gem – and it is nothing short of magical. Nestled in one of the area’s most picturesque spots, this family-owned venue is set to become a vibrant community hub, offering an array of performances from puppet shows to magic acts, all within a beautifully restored Victorian building. With its intimate 50-seat auditorium, the theatre promises a unique and immersive experience. Don’t miss the enchanting Petit Pierre Halloween Show: The 666 Sausages – a spooky, glove-puppet adventure perfect for the little ones. Running on weekends throughout the month, it’s the ideal way to dive into the Halloween spirit in north London’s newest theatrical hotspot. 12 October-3 November, 49 Willow Road, NW3 (020 3951 1465; thewellwalktheatre. com)

COMEDY Comedy Sailings

Prepare for a night of belly laughs on a boat as Thames Clippers hosts its inaugural Comedy Sailings on 4 October. Set against the backdrop of London’s iconic skyline, these Friday night cruises promise a unique blend of biting stand-up and breathtaking sights. A stellar lineup, featuring BAFTA nominees and TV favourites from shows like Mock the Week and Taskmaster, will keep you entertained as you glide past landmarks such as Tower Bridge and the Houses of Parliament. With drinks and snacks available from the on-board bar, it’s the perfect way to unwind and indulge in a night of revelry on the river. Don’t miss the boat! 4 October and 8 November, from Embankment Pier, WC2N (thamesclippers.com)

Culture / LIFESTYLE

EXHIBITION

Haegue Yang: Leap Year

Known for her boundary-pushing work, the internationally acclaimed Korean artist explores themes of cross-cultural exchange, modernism, and personal histories through a multifaceted practice that spans installation, sculpture, collage, and more. The Hayward Gallery presents ﬁve thematic zones, featuring three major new commissions alongside iconic works like Yang’s Venetian blind installations and Sonic Sculptures. Visitors can expect an immersive sensory experience, too, with artworks that transform everyday objects into thoughtprovoking pieces. An unmissable opportunity to engage with her visionary world. 9 October-5 January 2025, Southbank Centre, Belvedere Road, SE1 (southbankcentre.co.uk)

COLLECTING LAPADA

This month, London’s premier art and antiques fair sees its welcome return. Celebrating its 50th anniversary, this year’s event promises to be a standout, featuring over 80 worldclass exhibitors, including fresh faces for 2024. Expect a dazzling array of treasures, from ﬁne art and jewellery to Samurai artefacts and Impressionist masterpieces. The fair coincides with the close of the Capital’s art season, making it the perfect opportunity to ﬁnd unique gifts ahead of the upcoming festivities. Don’t miss the newly launched LAPADA Fringe, celebrating Mayfair’s vibrant culture. This is a must-visit for seasoned collectors and newbies alike. 22-27 October, Berkeley Square, W1J (lapadalondon.com)

MUSIC

Tatiana Eva-Marie

Over the summer, Soho’s legendary jazz club Ronnie Scott’s underwent a stunning refurbishment, marrying its historic charm with modern elegance. The refreshed interiors retain the club’s signature intimacy, now enhanced with plush seating, improved acoustics, and a revamped bar area. And, they have an exciting line-up to celebrate the makeover, including the enchanting Tatiana Eva-Marie for a special Sunday lunchtime performance. Known for her spellbinding vocals and rich blend of musical inﬂuences, Tatiana’s style draws from her French and Romanian-Gypsy roots, the vibrant Parisian art scene of the 1920s to 60s, and the soulful rhythms of New Orleans. Not to be missed.

13 October, 47 Frith Street, W1D (020 7439 0747; ronniescotts.co.uk)

Michael Legge, Photo by Idil Sukan

Red Broken Mountainous Labyrinth, 2008. Photo by Zachary Balber, The Bass Museum of Art, Miami Beach

Nick wears, this page: jacket by Wax London

Opposite page, top: trousers and polo shirt by Wax London

Opposite page, bottom: polo shirt by Sebago; and trousers by Oliver Spencer

Nick Blood on his two latest, very different, roles, and the qualities he thinks have made him successful at what he does

Photography by Alex Beer

Styling by Jack Mills

Grooming by Sven Bayerbach

Shot on location at The Lofts at Goodluck Hope

Words by Liz Skone James

There was a time when Nick Blood thought he may be forced to sport an 80s ’tache on his wedding day. In the event he was clean shaven. “Thank God,” he laughs, “or there would’ve been a lot of Photoshop going on.” The uncharacteristic facial hair was thanks to his part in Joan, which is out this month.

The drama, written by Anna Symon for ITVX, is based on the memoirs of the notorious jewel thief Joan Hannington, who is played by Game of Thrones star Sophie Turner. It tells the story of a fiery and uncompromising woman in her 20s, a devoted mother who is trapped in a disastrous marriage with a violent criminal named Gary (played by Nick). When Gary goes on the run, Joan seizes the opportunity to create a new life for herself and her six-year-old daughter. “Through a guy that she met, who she started a romantic affair with, she got dragged into theft,” Nick explains. “She made and lost a hell of a lot of money. It’s quite an insane story really. Joan is quite a character in real life – most of the cast have met her.”

Nick describes his character Gary as probably one of the nastiest he has ever played. “I feel like I tend to get the nice guy, or the complete opposite end of the spectrum, just a complete bastard. This guy is… well, I’d probably use stronger language than that to describe him. And the true-life version of him, you know joking aside, the true-life version of him is probably even worse.”

There’s a certain attraction to playing the bad guy, Nick believes. “I think with acting, the roles are more accessible where there are stronger intentions, and where there are more extremes to play,” he explains. “And in that character particularly, it was really satisfying to explore that. I’m very grateful to Richard Laxton, the director, because, you know, it is a role I don’t think I would ordinarily be seen for. I don’t think it’s what people immediately think when they see me, or you know, meet me – thank God – but he obviously has faith in me, and I hope I repaid that faith… .”

Beyond the opportunity to flex his acting muscles, an unlikely appeal was in fact that facial hair, or, more accurately, the costumes and sets. “The moustache was the main thing for me!” he laughs. “The whole aesthetic of it, because it is set in the 80s, so, you know, the costumes were brilliant. I love Gary’s vibe – you’ve got that nod to the 80s kind of flashiness, but also a little bit of the football casual look… I had sort of a Begbie from Trainspotting kind of vibe. The costumes and everything were brilliant, the guys did an amazing job on costumes. Although I did have to go around with the moustache for ages. Thankfully I had enough time off for the wedding that I could shave it off and grow it back!”

It was while filming this that Nick’s role in The Day of the Jackal, which will be coming to Sky Atlantic next month, came about. “I literally jumped straight from Joan to filming that out in Budapest,” he recalls. The drama, the biggest ever selling series to the global market from NBC and Peacock, is a reimagining of Frederick Forsyth’s famous spy thriller novel and Universal Pictures’ award-winning 1973 film of the same name. Boldly updated and set in the present day, the series is written and adapted by Ronan Bennett, creator and writer of the critically acclaimed Top Boy, and directed by Brian Kirk, who is known for his work on Game of Thrones, Luther and Boardwalk Empire. It follows an underground group intent on eliminating a high-profile target (given the modern-day setting, this is not Charles de Gaulle as in the original, that’s as much as we know). When numerous attempts on his life fail, they resort to hiring the infamous hit man known as ‘the Jackal’.

“You’ve got Eddie Redmayne playing the Jackal,” Nick tells me. “It is just perfect casting for that role – as soon as you know who is doing it, you feel, oh yeah, you can completely see him in that role. He looks great in it as well; again, you know, the costume and the styling of this one is fantastic. There’s a little bit of a nod to the original, and you know, Eddie is not a bad looking guy, so he wears it very well! I am alongside Lashana Lynch, who plays Bianca, the British intelligence officer tasked with chasing down the Jackal. I’m kind of hired help for MI6, I work in police protection, Vince is my character’s name.”

Embodying this role was an equally appealing challenge, he tells me. “When it comes to character, I find as soon as there are spies or police, it can start to get very generic,” he explains. “I think things can get a little bit po-faced and lose the humanity. I often watch things and find myself going, well I don’t believe I would bump into that person on the street. It feels like they live in a slightly other world. In certain films or TV shows that’s a stylistic choice and is exactly what you want: a kind of a hyper reality version. But my intention with Vince was just to make him more human, and more relatable. And I was very fortunate with the creative team – the writers, producers, directors – that they gave us quite a bit of leeway to experiment and try different things out. At times try different lines out, and really kind of contribute to that creative process. We made sure that while you’re telling this incredibly exciting, heightened story of spies and assassins and so on, you are also then keeping it real and keeping it very human. That was kind of the high goal that I was aiming for, and you know, people will have to judge for themselves whether I succeeded… .”

In classic The Day of the Jackal style, Redmayne’s hitman rocks up in multiple European cities throughout the course of the series. Most of the filming took place in Budapest, though. “We were there on and off for six months,” Nick explains. “We did some stuff in London, we also shot in Croatia… and then some of the guys shot in Spain as well. When we were out in Croatia it was just at the end of the summer season. Pretty much everything was closed, but the weather was still nice… I’d jump into this freezing cold pool every morning or go down to the beach and have a little swim in an ice-cold ocean to get

Nick wears: cardigan by Wax London; denim shirt and jeans by ISTO.; t-shirt by Wrangler; and necklace by CRAFTD London

“I love UNDERSTANDING people, I love CHATTING to people, and just FIGURING out how they came to be WHO they are. I could spend HOURS talking about SOMETHING someone DID , or they SAID , and WHY ”

Nick wears: denim jacket and jeans by Applied Art Forms; shirt by ISTO.; and shoes by Grenson

me started for the day. And then Budapest is just a stunning city. I was surprised to find that it’s a real hub for the film and TV industry. On our first weekend there I saw a friend that I hadn’t seen for maybe six or seven years, who lives out in LA, and we were in this bar, and she was saying hello to various different people, and I asked, ‘Oh are they on the film that you’re shooting?’ And she was like, ‘Oh no, they’re shooting this TV series, and they’re on that film…’.”

Travel is, Nick admits, one of the “great privileges” of his work. “I love it – getting to experience different places and different cities. And just getting to explore. Budapest has all these ancient baths and stuff, you have a day off and you get to go and chill in these incredible spas. That was lovely. You’ve got this incredible architecture and great places to eat, really good places to go out. One of the cool things there was that we got to see it in almost all the seasons really – you know, we were there and it was boiling hot in summer, and got see it through the autumn into winter, and then the springtime was starting to creep in, so that was an experience as well.

When I picture Budapest, I don’t actually think of it as a summer destination, but it was roasting hot to start with. They have got a cool water park on Margaret Island, so I was enjoying that… I mean, it sounds like I wasn’t really working, doesn’t it! But it’s all about work-life balance – the yin and yang,” he grins.

This balance is just one of the reasons why he loves his work.

“Mostly, I’m just very grateful that I get to do something that is my hobby and that I love as a job,” he tells me. “You have to stop and remind yourself, maybe when you didn’t get the role that you wanted, or you know things aren’t going exactly how you planned, how fortunate you are. You’ve kind of got to touch wood and thank your lucky stars that you get to do your passion as a job.”

How did Nick come to be doing this? I ask. He remembers joining a youth drama group and loving hearing the audience’s reaction to his first performance. “I think probably people were laughing at us, rather than with us, but that response from the audience, it just set something off in me, and I knew from that moment forth that it was just something I wanted to do,” he recalls. “I was really lucky that at that time, there’s a guy called Paul Megram, who’s actually a magician by trade, he’s part of the Magic Circle, he took over that drama group, and he’s probably

the best acting teacher I have ever had. We rarely ever used scripts, it was all improvising and devising, and it was just my obsession really from that age.”

That said, acting was not something he believed he could ever do as anything other than a hobby. “No one I knew went to drama school, you know, I wasn’t from a background where it was really a viable career path. That was a sort of fantasy life –not that my parents didn’t always support me and encourage me, but it took me a little while to work out how to do it. When I was at university, I met somebody that was going to the ITV Television Workshop in Bristol, and I auditioned for that and got in, and that was when I met people who were serious about acting and wanted to do this professionally, and some of them wanted to go to drama school. So that’s when I discovered the path that I could go down… I applied for drama school, and it all went from there, so I am very grateful for those little moments.”

Perhaps best known for the seven seasons he spent in Marvel’s hugely successful TV franchise Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. playing one of the show’s leads, Lance Hunter, Nick’s other screen credits include Gus Howard (father of Sydney Sweeney’s character Cassie) in the hit HBO, Emmy and Golden Globewinning series Euphoria, Sturges in the BAFTA nominated Apple TV series Slow Horses, and Thomas in Close to Me (Channel 4/AMC), he also appeared in Danny Boyle’s Babylon (Channel 4), and the BAFTA and RTS award-winning Misfits (E4). “I’ve been one of the lucky few – from maybe six months out of drama school, I’ve not had to do any other job – lots of actors would recognise how much for privilege that is,” he says, talking about his career.

So, what qualities does he think have made him successful at what he does? “I don’t think I’ve ever been asked that before…” he ponders. “I mean, probably the best people to ask would be the directors I have worked with. But I guess the main thing is that I find people endlessly compelling. I just find people fascinating, and I think that is a big help. I love understanding people, I love chatting to people, and just figuring out how they came to be who they are. I could spend hours talking about something someone did, or they said, and why. I find people fascinating and hilarious. So often we’re all kind of faking things to a certain degree. And the ironic thing is that everybody else knows that we are doing that. I heard a quote, and I can’t remember who it is attributed to, but it was something like ‘the one thing we have in common is that none of us feel we have anything in common’. We all kind of feel that we’re the outlier, and that’s what unites us all.”

Since he spends so long studying everybody else, I think it only fair that he reveals a little about himself. So, what makes Nick, Nick, then? “Well, my guilty pleasure is buying clothes. I’m terrible. Jackets particularly, jackets and trainers. I’ve got so many jackets!” And what keeps him awake at night?

“Everything, honestly. Last night I had the worst night’s sleep because we’re currently under construction here, so last night the thing keeping me awake was how I might arrange the loft space. If I had one wish, it would be just to sleep. My wife is the exact opposite of me – she can just sleep anywhere; she just closes her eyes, and she sleeps. And I’m there and my brain just whirs and whirs and whirs. So, I would say absolutely everything, but at the moment it is how to arrange a loft space. The perfect shelving units for a loft.” That’ll be for storing all those jackets and trainers, I expect.

Joan is available to stream on ITVX now. The Day of the Jackal will be on Sky Atlantic and Now TV in November

GOODLUCK HOPE

Recognised as ‘Best New Place to Live’ at the Building London Planning Awards, and ‘Development of the Year’ at the British Homes Awards, this development by Ballymore is undeniably special

Located on the historic Leamouth peninsula and offering easy access to both Jubilee Line and DLR services at Canning Town, award-winning Goodluck Hope could not be better placed for those who work in Canary Wharf or the City, but, surrounded by water on three sides, this beautiful island neighbourhood offers a sense of tranquillity that is rarely found in a location so close to the centre of London.

The name honours the site’s history – this area of east London where the River Lea meets the Thames was once a busy working dockland, known as Godelockhope – records show that ships docked here as far back as 1297, unloading their exotic cargoes of tea, spices, silk and Persian carpets, to be stored in the warehouses located on the docks. This heritage is celebrated in the architecture, which takes inspiration from those warehouses – buildings feature pitched roofs, staggered terraces, and flat rooftops, all oriented to maximise views of the river and city skyline. Designed to appeal to families, young professionals, downsizers and pets alike, the 841 homes on offer here include a mix of suites, one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments, Loft penthouses, and Townhouses, all set by the waterside amidst landscaped courtyards and slipways.

As well as a 24-hour concierge service, Goodluck Hope residents benefit from access to the world-class, resort-style amenities on offer at the exclusive 1595 Club – these include an indoor pool with views of the O2, a Scandinavian-style steam room, a state-of-the-art gym and fitness studio, a business centre, and a private cinema. And The Lantern Room, a spectacular lounge on the 29th floor, provides a sky-high sanctuary for co-working, relaxing, socialising or hosting private events. Meanwhile, the Orchard Dry Dock provides a focus for the neighbourhood’s community life, offering an organic grocery store with deli and wine bar, and a destination bakery and coffee shop serving craft breads, pastries, cakes, brunches and drinks.

Though all of the homes here are special, the jewel in Goodluck Hope’s crown is undoubtedly the spectacular Lofts – an exquisite collection of 19 luxury penthouses. With high, pitched ceilings and an industrial aesthetic that features exposed brickwork, metalwork, and expansive windows, the Lofts are seriously showstopping. At the heart of each sits a contemporary indigo kitchen, designed to reflect the maritime history of the location, and emphasising this, the open-plan layout spills out onto a spacious balcony overlooking the Thames, with the O2 directly opposite and breathtaking views of the city skyline beyond. Some of the apartments also offer a dedicated home-office, complete with private balcony and stunning river views, as well as two further bedrooms and stylish bathrooms. These seriously special spaces are, without doubt, a sanctuary for relaxing, entertaining, socialising, studying and working.

Apartments at Goodluck Hope are priced from £405,000, with two-bedroom Loft apartments starting from £840,000. To find out more, email sales@goodluckhope.com (020 3797 2785; goodluckhope.com)

Offering chic urban living and stunning city views, The Lofts are the jewel in the crown at Goodluck Hope

THE NEW WAVE OF REGENERATION

From biostimulators and nifty needlework to next generation skincare, Francesca Ogiermann-White identifies what’s driving our interest in the field of aesthetic regeneration

Words by Francesca Ogiermann-White

Tatler’s Health & Beauty Editor-at-Large, and Chair of the Press Advisory Board for BAAPS, Francesca OgiermannWhite set up The Beauty Triangle to bridge the gap between patients and practitioners from all corners of the aesthetic and wellness industries, with the aim to educate, but also to empower – but mostly, to initiate the conversations that no one else was having. Through inspiring, intimate panel discussions The Beauty Triangle provides up-to-the-minute knowledge about all aspects of holistic wellbeing, from hormones to mental health and cosmetic surgery. With a community of best-in-class practitioners – encompassing aesthetic doctors, hormone specialists, life coaches and nutritionists – it’s safe to say that nobody knows more when it comes to the topic of wellness. With input from these experts, Francesca has just released The Beauty Triangle’s 2024 trends report. An inspiring and enlightening read, entitled The Future of Wellness, it encapsulates the latest findings from the aesthetics space, insights from the UK’s leading health advocates, and topical conversations to inspire. In this extract from the report, Francesca writes about the new wave of regeneration.

IT’S ALL ABOUT BIOSTIMULATORS...

Biostimulators are hot right now, with technologies both new and old all coming into focus. Designed to trigger the body’s natural healing and rejuvenating capabilities, these powerful products are proven to stimulate the formation of the body’s natural building blocks – like collagen and elastin, hyaluronic acid, and even bone.

“Bioregenerative treatments – such as polynucleotides, exosomes and biostimulatory fillers – are the biggest trend in minimally invasive aesthetics,” agrees oculoplastic surgeon, Mrs Sabrina Shah-Desai. Better yet: “Rarely does something go wrong when using them,” says regenerative expert Dr Anna-Marie Olsen. “That’s because biostimulators are based on the natural components of the human body, like calcium hydroxyapatite or hyaluronic acid. They speak the same language, so the body interacts with them quicker, and the results are more natural-looking.” For best effects, experts agree that combining your biostimulators is key.

NIFTY NEEDLEWORK

Step aside skin-boosters: there’s a new host of injectable treatments making waves. Derived from salmon or trout DNA, injectable polynucleotides are having a moment – in large part due to their composition, which is free from moistureattracting hyaluronic acid (so they’re excellent for those prone to puffiness). “Polynucleotides stimulate the fibroblasts to produce collagen and elastin,” explains aesthetic doctor, Dr Wassim Taktouk. “But they also increase vascularity –therefore bringing nutrients to the area and imparting luminosity – and promote the formation of bone.” Dr Aggie Zatonska, who injects hers using a super-fine Korean needle to eliminate bruising, adds: “Polynucleotides are excellent for the undereye area – they remodel crêpey skin beautifully.”

SUPERCHARGED REGENERATION

Also creating a buzz are exosomes: ‘These are tiny particles, which carry important information and signal to other cells how to respond,” explains regenerative surgeon Mr Tunc Tiryaki. “Their potential is enormous – and they play a powerful

role in rejuvenation.” Exosomes can be derived from animals, fish or plants (human-derived exosomes are illegal in the UK) – and while injecting them is prohibited, they can be applied topically to the skin: for example, after micro-needling or, as Tiryaki prefers, following a fat-transfer assisted facelift.

And don’t overlook the OG of injectable collagen stimulators, Sculptra. 25 years after its creation, the poly-L-lactic acid-based product is now being heralded for its impressive effect on the derrière –effectively promoting fresh collagen and improving the appearance of a sagging or flat bottom, as well as those lacking contour or affected by cellulite and stretch marks.

It can feel overwhelming, with countless treatments, therapies and practitioners jostling for our attention

Francesca Ogiermann-White

NEXT-GENERATION DEVICES

“Micro-trauma to the skin is the fastest way to stimulate fibroblasts – however, this can also be done without a needle,” says aesthetic doctor, Dr Ifeoma Ejikeme.

Take BTL EXION, a multi-platform device with four applications to optimise the skin, face, body and intimate health: “For the first time, we’re able to upregulate the body’s own natural hyaluronic acid production,” says BTL Global Key Opinion Leader, Miss Sherina Balaratnam, of the device. (EXION Face, which fuses radiofrequency with targeted ultrasound and feels like a hot stone massage, increases HA production by 224 per cent). Then there’s the Alma Harmony XL Pro, which uses a high-power light source in the near infrared spectrum to heat the dermis and stimulate fresh collagen. Not forgetting Ultherapy, the gold-standard of collagen induction. Over at The Cosmetic Skin Clinic, Dr Matt Jarvie-Thomas combines it with collagen-stimulating injections of diluted Radiesse in the new Collagen Force treatment, which firms and hydrates the skin, with results lasting up to 18 months.

STIMULATORY SKINCARE

Do your homework. After all, “using the right topical ingredients can really help to prolong the results of your in-clinic treatments,” says aesthetic doctor, Dr Wassim Taktouk. ‘For example, topical hyaluronic acid can prolong the effects of dermal fillers or skin-boosters.’

Check out Alastin, a cutting-edge range of skincare, recently landed from the United States. Its HA Immerse Serum is already making waves thanks to its Proprietary Octapeptide-45, which enables the skin to increase its own high-molecular hyaluronic acid production, naturally, for supercharged hydration.

NEW FRONTIERS IN FACELIFTING

When it comes to surgery, the Deep Plane Facelift

Aesthetics / LIFESTYLE

isn’t new – but more and more, surgeons are relying on it to achieve a look that appears startingly natural. “It permits repositioning of the deeper tissues, and facial volume, but without tension –which is the main reason that faces can sometimes appear ‘operated’,” explains plastic surgeon and former BAAPS President, Mr Rajiv Grover. “In doing so, we can ensure that the individual continues to look like themselves – but also as if they were never touched.”

Facial plastic surgeon, Mr George Orfaniotis, adds: “While there is no changing of the structure, it enables us to address some areas of the face which are notoriously difficult to treat, such as the marionette lines and the neck. Best of all, it avoids the traditional ‘windswept’ look; and it is also longer lasting, giving a dramatic improvement for between eight to 10 years.”

GETTING AHEAD

A burgeoning interest in future-proofing our hair has emerged – and some hi-tech methods are gaining in momentum. Over at Ouronyx, it’s all about Micrografting, which involves taking small punch biopsies from behind the ear, before processing the tissues to break them down, and mixing them with saline. “We end up with a solution rich in growth factors and stem cells,” explains Ouronyx’s Medical Director, Dr Marco Nicoloso. “Then we reinject into areas where the hair is thinning or depleted – the results can be seen in three months.”

Meanwhile, Farjo Hair Institute is going one step further with its HairClone follicle banking. “We have the world’s first and only hair bank,” explains hair transplant surgeon, Dr Greg Williams. “This enables us to bank the hair cells – much like you would a baby’s umbilical cord – with the idea that, in the future, we’ll be able to clone the follicles in the lab and re-implant them.” (To do so requires extracting approximately 40 to 50 grafts from the back of the head, under local anaesthetic, before storing them at a licensed tissue bank at -180C degrees to preserve their quality for 20-25 years). Otherwise, to prevent future falling, look to Philip Kingsley – its Density Preserving Scalp Drops are clinically proven to reduce hair shedding and slow down hair loss.

To find out more about The Beauty Triangle, or any of the experts quoted and the treatments they mention, see thebeautytriangle.com

Countourel thread lift by Croma

Promising to rejuvenate and lift, we put this innovative, minimallyinvasive treatment to the test

Words by Becky Pomfret

I’ve been spending quite a lot of time pondering my increasingly droopy jowls and somewhat saggy neck Resenting its impact on my confidence, I decide to take action, and I know just the man to see. Situated on Harley Street, Professor Syed Haq’s excellent reputation goes before him; charming, friendly and chatty, he instantly puts me at ease. His suggestion: a thread lift. It’s an area in which he has vast experience, having performed more than 2,500 of these treatments. And he has the compelling before and after shots as proof – it doesn’t take much arm twisting to persuade me.

Croma’s Countourel Absorbable PDO (polydioxanone) thread lifts are like a little magic trick for the face: dissolvable threads are used to lift and tighten sagging skin, promoting collagen production and improving overall texture, giving a more youthful appearance without the need to go under the knife. A mini face-lift without the drama of full-on surgery, if you will.

Although my main concern is my saggy neck and chin, Professor Haq explains that inserting threads in that area can create unwanted bulges. The best course of treatment is to lift the whole lower face instead, by inserting (in my case) six threads in either side. This in turn will help to lift the jowls and neck, and even makes the eyes appear brighter as it reduces the ‘drag’ from the jowls. In the course of threading these thin, dissolvable, yet incredibly strong threads underneath the skin, invisible ‘projections’ grab on from the inside, gripping

PDO threads consist of biodegradable material and can be used to treat a wide range of skin concerns on the face and body

the underlying tissue as the thread is pulled tight. The body’s healing response is then triggered – there is no actual injury caused by the threads under the skin, but the body, detecting the threads, stimulates collagen production in the affected area. Collagen can fill gaps in sagging skin and restore a more youthful elasticity to the face, so as well as the immediate physical lift, there is an ongoing benefit as the threads gradually dissolve, resulting in lovely, lifted contours.

Professor Haq applies numbing cream first, and then a local anaesthetic is inserted via a cannula, which does feel a little scratchy at times. The Croma Countourel procedure uses a new type of cannula, shaped like the letter W, and this is, I am told, much less invasive than the traditional L shape, lessening any bruising and reducing downtime. Next, the threads go in and are tightened, which feels a little odd, albeit satisfyingly so, as I can feel the skin on my face physically lifting. There is some uncomfortable massage that’s necessary to make sure that the threads are in place, and that they aren’t touching at the point where they cross over each other, but the whole procedure is over in less than an hour.

There is quite a lot of temporary swelling and puckering afterwards (which I have been warned to expect) and it means I can’t open my mouth too wide for a few days, which certainly slows down my eating! At my four week follow up appointment Professor Haq is very happy with the healing, and looking at the before and after photos, the improvement is impressive. My neck and chin are definitely less saggy and my jawline sharper. It will continue to improve over the next few weeks, and the effects should stay with me for up to two years. Since the treatment I find myself looking in the mirror and smiling, and that’s a big win.

Treatments can focus on the face, neck or body. Prices are determined by the area and the number of threads being used, but usually start from £500 for one dedicated area, and go up to £2,700 for a treatment encompassing the face, neck and jawline. 10 Harley Street, W1G (info@amaesthetics.clinic; amaesthetics.clinic)

Mariana Demesh

Dmytro

Buianskyi

PERSONAL STYLIST

The latest in luxury fashion, beauty and healthy living

NEW LAUNCH

Buy better, buy British

BRINGING SPARKLE TO HOLLAND PARK

This month sees the opening of a brand-new boutique for Otiumberg, in the heart of Holland Park; it is their ﬁrst bricks and mortar store. The jewellery brand was launched by sisters Rosanna and Christie Wollenberg from their home back in 2016 to bridge the gap between fashion and ﬁne jewellery. The core collection focuses on elevated staples that will never go out of style, all responsibly handcrafted using recycled raw materials.

The ﬁttingly gorgeous new store has been designed in collaboration with Nick Short of Short Designs and features oak and steel glass vitrines that reimagine the old haberdasheries and pharmacies that Rosanna has always loved. And an upper mezzanine level features a special artwork by Joshua Perkin that reminds both sisters of the power of sisterhood. Meanwhile, outside, a seating area under an awning provides a space where clients can sit for coffee – the sisters are passionate about forging relationships with the local community, and hope that the store will become a destination, hosting trunk shows and collaborations with local brands. Rosanna tells us: “This really is a dream come true for us both… The store will share a promenade with the Michael Hoppen Gallery and the Speck Deli and is just down the road from Julie’s, where our mother used to hang out. We love the idea of being part of a destination village.”

2 Portland Road, W11 (07761 918159; otiumberg.com)

Give your wardrobe an autumn update with some considered pieces from brand new slow fashion label Gladstone/Hellen. Launching this month, the capsule collection champions British heritage crafts and exclusively uses British materials. A collaboration between Charlie and Caroline Gladstone and designer, Sarah Hellen, Gladstone/ Hellen will offer original designs – from fullylined British ﬂannel jackets to the ﬁnest Shetland wool jumpers – alongside a curated range of homewares. Though the collection was inspired by the Gladstone’s estates of Hawarden in Wales and Glen Dye in Scotland, these beautiful pieces have been designed to be as at home in the town as in the country. And everything is made to last, to improve with age, and to be an antidote to the world of fast fashion. Charlie tells us: “We hope that our audience is ready to invest in new luxury products where that luxury comes from provenance as much as quality and where everything has a deep meaning and, what’s more, should last forever.”

The collection is priced from £120 for a screen-printed, silk neckerchief, and is available exclusively online at gladstonehellen.co.uk

CHARITY PARTNERSHIP Skin Diligent X Future Dreams

To mark Breast Cancer Awareness Month this October, Skin Diligent are partnering with breast cancer charity, Future Dreams, donating 15 per cent of their sales for the entire month. And it’s no empty gesture – Skin Diligent have always been dedicated to helping customers who have undergone cancer treatment and are the ﬁrst skincare brand to systematically test their ﬁnal formulas to ensure that they are free of oestrgenic endocrine disruption, making them safe for women to use post-cancer treatment. We love the Regulation Serum, which is both an effective alternative to harsh acne treatments and an effective SOS serum for occasional spots.

During October, customers can also get 10 per cent off all products when they use the code FDSD (skindiligent.com)

1 Hifas da Terra Nutricosmetic Optimum, £85 (hifasdaterra.com) 2 Sixways Hormone Balance, £35 (sixways.co) 3 Dirtea Lion’s Mane Gummies, £29.99 (dirteaworld.com) 4 Adaptogenic Apothecary Freedom, £55 (adaptogenicapothecary.com) 5 fabÜ Shrooms Meno and Peri, £24.99 (fabuwellness.com/en-gb)

ON FASHION: PALAVA

Bryony Richardson, founder and primary designer on creating clothes for women who do not want to disappear into the background

Tell us a little about your background and how Palava came to be?

Being quite dyslexic and not in any way academic I struggled to find my place in it the world. I never thought I’d end up running a clothing company – even now I’m surprised. I was always fascinated by objects though; I come from a long line of hoarders so it’s no wonder really. It is probably this that led me to study 3D design at Manchester University. It was a very open, practical course, covering ceramics, glass, product design and woodwork, and although I loved it, I had no idea what I was going to do when I left.

After graduating I took a job working for Cath Kidston, filling in when people were off. I got to cycle all over London between the different shops and quickly picked up a feel for their prints and how they functioned. I asked many times if they would let me into their design studio, but they would always say no!

Needing to put my energy into something creative, I moved home to Teeside to take over my parents’ dormant children’s clothing business, Poppy. Imagine little dresses with bright colours, add a cat or two, a nursery rhyme, plus a few frills and a matching hat and you’re probably there. It was crazy but people loved it, and Poppy was very successful. Between 1980 and 2000 the whole industry saw such a change: clothing manufacturing in the UK pretty much disappeared. The word sustainability didn’t exist at that time, and people would laugh at me for wanting to manufacture in the UK, but both things were very important to me; I wanted to make a difference. It was a steep learning curve and one I didn’t think I would succeed at, but from Poppy, Palava was born, and I’m so proud to still be here.

Bryony, who is dyslexic, struggled to find her way in the world, but has found her niche with Palava, a clothing brand for women who do not want to blend in

What’s your brand philosophy?

We make clothing not fashion. We do our own thing. We do not follow fads or trends. I’ve always made clothes in a way that I feel I can hold my head up high and say I’m proud of. That for me is very important.

What is your USP?

We don’t blend in. It’s easy to feel invisible in this world especially as women who have kids and then hit menopause; we want women to feel proud of who they are and to want to stand out in the crowd. So many customers come in and say how many people stop them in the streets and compliment their clothes. That makes us happy.

We believe women have the right to pockets! Palava is made for every day and every evening, we make our clothes as practical and hardwearing as they can be. This gives longevity and wearability, ensuring people get the most out of their clothing.

We are passionate about supporting a struggling UK clothing industry by creating jobs and helping companies survive –from fabric merchants to button suppliers, the UK textiles/ clothing industry is a delicate ecosystem. We have always made everything here in the UK and we will always support manufacturers based here. We value the people who make our clothes. We know every detail about our clothing; very few people understand what goes into making a single item of clothing. We need to build an appreciation of our makers.

Describe your style

Ha! My style is anything goes really, I love mixing and matching and not being afraid to put different colours together. In that way, I’m probably an oddity for someone who’s ended up in the clothing industry. I think I’m more of a tomboy than a glitzy girl: I’m often a little on the scruffy side it has to be said. I always feel clothes and shoes are for wearing and enjoying, getting the most out of, so I’m never that careful, always finding accidental bits of paint.

Tell us about what we can expect from Palava’s autumn collection this year?

This autumn marks 15 years of Palava and we will be celebrating 15 years of unique prints. So, it’s a time capsule of prints from collections gone by. Each one picked for its part in the Palava history. It gives us time to reflect and also bring back some of the prints people have really missed.

This sits alongside our ongoing heritage collection of British wool and British waxed cotton raincoats. We don’t make anything in large quantities, so people have to get in there fast.

How do you want people wearing your pieces to feel?

Palava is about feeling comfortable in your own skin. We design pockets into everything so that comfort and practicality are always considered. I want women to feel like they stand out, but for all the right reasons. Confidence is so important to us all, especially as we get older. I don’t want women to feel like they have to disappear into the background.

Is there anyone you’d really love to see wearing one of your designs?

That’s a good question, we’ve had our fair share of amazing customers, but I guess the big shot would be Mary Portas, who is a great advocate for UK manufacturing, and I admire her hugely. We also make a handful of men’s shirts, and I would love to see Patrick Grant in one of our designs. His new book, LESS, is well worth the read and explains why we need to buy more products that are made here in the UK. I would say these two are my industry heroes

Fashion / LIFESTYLE

Tell us about the role of sustainability in your business

It’s something that has always been at the heart of Palava, even 15 years ago. It’s so important that when you put something out into the world, you consider every part of its journey. That’s why we care so much about traceability and being able to know each step. We also consider what happens when a product leaves our hands, offering a mending service. And next month we are launching our very own re-sale site. All our fabrics are natural, so we also think about their afterlife: the ability to be recycled or worse case, what will happen if they end up in the ground. We need to consider the whole cycle.

What’s new/next for Palava?

Well, there is so much on the horizon, we can’t share all of it just yet, but we have some big ideas. The future is different for clothing, I am sure, and we are looking at how we make it a super positive thing instead of the negative view we have at the moment. We have some projects in the pipeline that will be made using materials that already exist. It’s exciting but a lot to do for a small team!

98 Calendonian Road, N1 (020 7052 3888; palava.co)

We don’t blend in… we want women to feel proud of who they are and to want to stand out in the crowd

Prue Leith’s

Glazed Cinnamon Rolls

Even the Great British Bake-Off judge cheats sometimes, as she reveals in her new book. Here, she

Chef and TV legend Dame Prue Leith is releasing a brand-new book this month, and, with 80 delicious recipes, all featuring kitchen shortcuts and hacks, it promises a lifetime of easy cooking. Life’s Too Short to Stuff a Mushroom (17 October, £25, Carnival) is packed with recipes where a neat trick can save you time, or where the cheat versions taste just as good as the home-made, and better yet, every recipe has been designed to help you avoid waste and save money. Coined by Shirley Conran in her 70s bestseller Superwoman, “Life’s Too Short to Stuff a Mushroom” is a phrase that every time-poor cook can relate to. Prue tells us: “‘It’s taken me a long life to know for sure that life is for living, and that hard graft has to be worth it. So, if you are whacked, short of time or just don’t like cooking, cheating is fine. I cheat all the time, and I LOVE cooking.” In celebration of both the book, and the new series of BakeOff, she shared this tasty recipe for cinnamon rolls from the book.

INGREDIENTS

For the dough

500g strong white bread flour, plus extra for dusting • 50g caster (superfine) sugar • 7g instant dried yeast • 1 tsp salt • 50g butter, melted • 270ml + 3 tbsp whole milk, warmed (tepid, not hot) • 1 egg, beaten

For the filling 75g butter, softened • 75g caster (superfine) sugar • 2 tbsp ground cinnamon

For the glaze

100g icing (powdered) sugar • 2–3 tbsp whole milk

METHOD

1. To make the dough, in a large bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, yeast and salt. In a separate bowl, mix together the melted butter, warm milk and beaten egg.

2. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.

3. Knead the dough (see hack) on a lightly floured work surface for 8-10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp tea (dish) towel and leave to rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

4. Mix all the filling ingredients

shares one of the delicious recipes

MAKES 10

together in a small bowl. Set aside.

5. Roll out the risen dough on a lightly floured surface to a rectangle measuring about 40x30cm. Spread the cinnamon and sugar mixture over the dough in an even layer all the way to the edges.

6. Starting at one of the longest edges, roll up the dough tightly into a log shape. Cut the log into 10 equal slices.

7. Heat the oven to 180°C/160°C fan/350°F/Gas 4.

8. Lay the buns, cut side up, on a lined baking tray. Cover with a damp tea towel and leave in a warm place for 20-30 minutes, or until risen and puffed up. Once risen, bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes, until golden brown.

9. While the buns are baking, make the glaze. Mix the icing (powdered) sugar and milk until you have a smooth, thick paste. Spread the glaze over the hot cinnamon buns and serve.

Prue’s handy hack: kneading dough

Bring the dough together with your hands and squash it into a ball. Then, push it down and away from you on the work surface, using the heel of your hand. Gather it together again, give it a quarter turn, and push it away from you again. Keep pushing, gathering and turning with a good bit of welly until the dough is elastic and springy – probably 10 minutes.

ON THE MENU

Tuck into the latest foodie news from across the Capital

ALL THE GOOD THINGS

Foodie friends Alex Young and George de Vos have launched not one, but three fabulous new destinations in Islington. Over the past few months, the pair have opened an exciting new wine bar and restaurant, Goodbye Horses, a speciality coffee shop, Day Trip, and an artisanal ice cream shop called The Dreamery. Located in an old pub, the gorgeous wine bar features a striking 10-metre-long timber bar and hand painted murals by artist Lucy Stein. Wine Director Nathalie Nelles, previously of Noble Fine Liquor and Wright’s Wines, has curated the wine list, showcasing some of Europe’s most beloved natural wine producers, with more

BOOK THIS Spring ﬂ ing

A series of exciting collaborations has been planned to celebrate the 10th anniversary of Skye Gyngell’s Spring this autumn. The restaurant, which is also marking ﬁve years since becoming completely plastic free, will be hosting special lunches with some famous foodie names to mark the milestone. The ﬁrst, a lunch with pastry

than 20 wines by the glass and more than 300 by the bottle.

The kitchen is led by Jack Coggins –known for his prior success at Papi, Planque and The Baring – whose fun menu of sharing plates celebrates seasonality and sustainability.

Located in the same building, Day Trip focuses on the art of pour-over coffee and boasts an enchanting garden space for sipping in the sunshine. Meanwhile,

The Dreamery, located just across the street serves wine alongside a selection of unique ice cream ﬂavours made in-house by Jack.

All your vices covered. 21 and 20a Halliford Street, N1 (goodbyehorses.london; daytrip.coffee)

chef Ranveet Gill took place late last month, while Julius Roberts will be cooking with Skye later this month, and Melissa Hemsley in November. The chefs have designed menus to throw a spotlight on the ‘Scratch’ concept which Skye ﬁrst launched in 2017 with the aim of drawing attention to the ever-growing issue of food waste, utilising daily offcuts from the kitchen and creating delicious dishes from

them, repositioning these as the star of the show. A portion of the proceeds from each of the menus is being donated to food waste charity The Felix Project. Skye tells us: “I am thrilled to collaborate with these three incredible chefs to celebrate Spring’s 10th anniversary. These partnerships are a perfect way to showcase our shared passion for sustainable, seasonal cooking and to create

PRODUCT NEWS Fine dine in

Milne

Photography by Stuart

If we mention frozen food, we’ll wager your mind goes to fish fingers, chips and other beige basics… us too, until we tried Farmyard Frozen. And it’s no exaggeration to say that it’s a discovery that has transformed weeknight dinners. Frozen food for foodies, the delicious ready meals have been crafted by Andrew Jones, chef patron of Michelin-listed Farmyard restaurant, using premium British produce. Available for delivery nationwide, Farmyard offers a sophisticated menu of starters, mains, sides, and desserts, all meticulously prepared by restaurant chefs and delivered frozen to ensure optimal freshness and flavour. Think showstopping beef Wellington, twice-baked cheese soufflé, or the double award-winning Farmyard ‘Gold Bar’. Serving up restaurant-quality meals in the comfort of your own home, Farmyard proves that frozen food can be both convenient and exceptional. Managing director Hannah Jones, Andrew’s wife and business partner, tells us: “Our goal was to break the stereotype of frozen food being an inferior choice. We wanted to offer something that not only brings the quality of a Michelin-listed restaurant into people’s homes but also highlights the incredible local produce of Norfolk – a Fine Dine In experience.”

To discover the range, see farmyardfrozen.com

memorable experiences for our guests. It’s a wonderful opportunity to reﬂect on our journey and look forward to the future with renewed inspiration and creativity.”

The menus include three courses and are priced at £30 per person. To book for Julius’ lunch on 26 October or Melissa’s on 9 November, see springrestaurant.co.uk Somerset House, New Wing, Lancaster Place, WC2R (020 3011 0115)

THE BEST OF: SARDINIA

There’s no better time to experience the charm and tranquility of this Italian gem than in the golden ‘shoulder season’, when there are fewer crowds and the weather is still beautifully balmy

HOTEL CALA DI VOLPE

Set in a secluded bay, the iconic Hotel Cala di Volpe has been a favourite amongst the international jet set for over 60 years – fans of 007 might even recognise it as one of the stunning locations from the 1977 film, The Spy Who Loved Me. The original design by French architect Jacques Couëlle was modelled on a traditional Sardinian fishing village, and the exteriors are matched by a breezy, boho vibe inside. There are 121 rooms, all offering a feeling of barefoot luxury with local artisan pieces and bespoke furniture. For something a bit special, opt for the Harrods Suite. Widely regarded as one of the most luxurious in the world, this penthouse boasts three separate suites, a secure vaulted wine cellar, a cigar humidor and an impressive marble cocktail bar. On the private roof terrace, a raised infinity pool, sunbathing deck and al fresco dining area complete the offering. And while rooftop dining might not be available to all guests, there are still options aplenty with nine exceptional restaurants and bars situated in beautiful spots across the hotel, notably, a Beefbar, and the waterside Matsuhisa, named after celebrity chef Nobu Matsuhisa. Memorable holidays are guaranteed. marriott.com

FORTE VILLAGE

With eight four- and five-star hotels, 13 luxury villas, and 40 exclusive suites nestled within 118 acres of subtropical gardens at the foot of pine forested mountains on the sandy shoreline in southern Sardinia, this special resort boasts unrivalled service levels and facilities. The perfect spot for a family half term break, from Go-Karting and bowling to paddleball and pickleball, Forte village offers endless activities to keep all ages engaged. And younger children will love getting stuck into the fun on offer at Children’s Wonderland, Forte Village’s very own kids’ club. While the younger generation are occupied, parents can relax in extraordinary Acquaforte Thalasso and Spa; inspired by Ancient Roman thermal baths, the thalassotherapy course consists of six pools filled with pure Sardinian seawater at different temperatures and saline densities. With 21 restaurants and 14 bars across the resort, serving everything from fine dining menus to barbecue spreads, you need never eat in the same place twice here. Special mention goes to La Terrazza San Domenico, where Michelin-starred chef Massimiliano Mascia offers an Italian experience beside the sea. Unforgettable. fortevillageresort.com

CHIA LAGUNA RESORT

Set beside two of Italy’s most beautiful beaches – Monte Cogoni and Dune di Campana – Chia Laguna presents a choice of three beautiful hotels, each with its own unique appeal. While the peace and quiet at adults-only Baia di Chia will appeal to couples, the Hotel Village, with its fabulous kids’ club, is perfect for family groups. Perfectly placed to offer exclusive views of the bay and flamingo-dotted lagoon, the chic and stylish Conrad Chia Laguna Sardinia is the resort’s five-star hotel. It goes without saying that the food and drink offering here is as varied as the accommodation, and the dine-around option means that wherever guests are staying, they can visit any of the restaurants. Flow Restaurant & Lounge is the newest, having opened this summer; tuck into a delicious sushi menu to a soundtrack of live DJ sets. And don’t miss the ‘Stairway to Nature’, a winding pathway that curves along the hillside, taking in the panoramic vistas. At the summit there is a scenic look-out, ideal for a sunset aperitivo. Who could ask for more? chialagunaresort.com

The Forte Village is nestled within verdant gardens on southern Sardinia’s sandy shoreline

Photography by Diego De Pol

The iconic Hotel Cala di Volpe was designed to reflect a traditional fishing village

The Conrad Chia Laguna is the resort’s gorgeous five-star hotel

UPSTATE STATE OF MIND

From peaceful mornings by the lake to lively dinners in Fulton Market, Chicago is nothing short of magical, and The Emily offers visitors a truly special place from which to enjoy everything it has to offer

Words by Penny Clements

Early in the morning, too early for most, I find myself standing on the shores of Lake Michigan in Chicago, the city still waking up around me.

The water glitters with the first rays of the rising sun, and boats bob quietly at their moorings, as if deep in their own morning meditation. Overhead, seagulls drift through the warm air, their calls mixing with the gentle whispering of the trees lining the waterfront.

Jet-lagged but determined, I have set out for a run along one of the city’s most iconic paths – the Riverwalk. Bleary-eyed but eager to explore, I decide to make the most of rising early, lacing up my trainers and setting off through the streets and along the waterway that winds through the city’s heart.

The Chicago River, once the pulse of trade and industry here, becomes my guide as I navigate this unfamiliar city. Towering skyscrapers punctuate a patchwork of world-renowned architecture, the sleek and modern sitting alongside the historic, with bridges of all designs stretching over the water alongside me. It is a cityscape that seems to murmur stories of resilience, rebirth, and reinvention – a testament to the city’s ever-evolving identity.

This hour – as the sun blooms over the funfair rides along Navy Pier – quickly becomes my favourite time of day here. But as stunning as these reflective mornings are, they are just one of many wonderful things I discover in Chicago, where the buzzing local culture, welcoming atmosphere and burgeoning food scene draw me in deeper with every passing day. And nowhere is all of this more apparent than at my hotel, in the trendy Fulton Market District on Chicago’s West Loop.

Formerly the Ace Hotel, The Emily feels like the embodiment of this city’s unique brand of cool. The design is chic, minimalist and art led. Throughout the sleek, sociable common spaces, the interiors carefully balance sophistication with a sense of relaxed living – I am fascinated by the striking artworks lining the walls, all I am told, created by local artists, and part of an ongoing artist in residence programme. In my comfortable bedroom, mixed textiles and organic textures seem to connect the hotel with the nature and the urban landscape that it sits within; the result is warm and welcoming, and I feel instantly at home here.

Enjoy the view from The WIllis Tower Skydeck

Though the hotel is within walking distance of the heart of the city – the immediate neighbourhood is equally appealing. I find myself wandering between stylish boutiques, artisanal coffee shops, and some of the city’s best restaurants and bars. A few steps from the hotel, I discover The Oakville Grill & Cellar (theoakville.com), a true gem in a sea of incredible restaurants. The farm-to-table dishes here, paired with a thoughtfully curated wine list, make for one of my favourite meals in the city. The warmth of the place, combined with the creative food, leave me feeling connected not just to the meal but to Chicago itself.

That said, the food offering at the hotel is pretty impressive, too. Indeed, The Emily bills itself as much as a hip local hangout as a place for tourists to lay their heads, and there are various options when it comes to eating here. On the terrace at Fora I enjoy a tasty bite from the globally inspired all-day menu. Dinner at Sushi by Bou offers something a little more intimate and unique: an elevated omakase experience is set to hip-hop beats, the blend of unexpected flavours and sounds making for an unforgettable night. I spend another memorable evening relaxing at the rooftop cinema club on the fifth-floor terrace, watching a film under the stars, before moving on to Selva, the stylish Latin-American inspired bar perched on the seventh floor. Here, the handcrafted cocktails and city views are truly spectacular. Come the morning, the hotel’s coffee bar serves up fresh, locally roasted brews from Sparrow Coffee accompanied by out-of-this-world bakes crafted by pastry wizard Dan the Baker (danthebakerchicago.com) whose creations are nothing short of edible art.

Of course, no trip to Chicago would be complete without embracing the full range of experiences the city has to offer. If you’re the kind who likes to follow their stomach, and doesn’t mind a little pedalling, I highly recommend skipping breakfast and jumping on a Bikes, Bites and Brews tour (bobbysbikehike.com) –this food focused cycling tour around some of Chicago’s most famous, vibrant and diverse districts is great for discovering more about the local history, and incorporates plenty of stops to sample the local specialities. Fuelling the pedalling, we tuck into famous deep-dish pizza, hot dogs (no ketchup – because in Chicago, it’s practically a rule not to) and local brews.

The next day we hire kayaks from Urban Kayaks (urbankayaks.com) and head out to experience Chicago from out on the water, paddling between the city’s skyscrapers and absorbing the city’s most iconic sites from a whole new angle. And if that sounds too much like hard work, you get a similar perspective on a river cruise, which gives you the opportunity to learn about local design and architecture from some of the city’s most knowledgeable guides (cruisechicago.com).

We also spend a chilled-out afternoon wandering through Millennium Park, marvelling at the gigantic alien-drop like sculpture, Cloud Gate (better known to locals as “The Bean”), nosey through the art galleries, catch a Cubs game at the historic Wrigley Field, and stand 103 floors up on the glassfloored balconies of the Willis Tower Skydeck (theskydeck.com). Chicago is a city where past and present meet, where innovation thrives, and where every corner offers something new to discover. This gorgeous city has a way of capturing your heart and refusing to let go; I know mine is still there, waiting for my next visit.

DETAILS:

For more information on Chicago visit choosechicago.com Rooms at The Emily Hotel start from $300 per night (emilyhotel.com)

The rooms at The Emily Hotel are sleek and minimalist in design

The hotel’s beautiful outside terrace

Creative baking by @danthebakerchicago

Cloud Gate by Anish Kapoor

FORA restaurant at

The Emily hotel

Jansen Miller

© Eric Benjamin Kleinberg

Introducing

The

£95 per person

Nightmare on Elm Street

HOUSE STYLE

Latest launches, luxurious new lines and eye-catching trends

WHERE THE ART IS

In a dynamic new partnership, Soho Home and Rise Art present an exclusive ﬁne art collection, available both online and at Soho Home showrooms. This autumn, Westbourne Grove Studio unveils Dwellings, which celebrates the intersection of art and home. Featuring standout pieces like Meghan Spielman’s interactive embroideries and Clare Thatcher’s locally sourced landscapes, the curated collection offers a unique opportunity to experience and buy contemporary art, all within the reﬁned interiors of Soho Home. riseart.com; sohohome.com

FADED SPLENDOUR

Historian Steven Brindle’s London Lost Interiors offers a mesmerising journey into the Capital’s forgotten grandeur. Featuring over 650 rare black and white photographs, the book captures the opulence of London’s interiors from 1880 to 1940. From aristocratic mansions to Art Deco ﬂats, it unveils the architectural and design innovations of a bygone era. A joy to dip into for any design lover, this volume preserves the memory of interiors lost to both time and transformation. £50, hardback, published 24 October (atlantic-books.co.uk)

GLAMOROUS GLOW

Giving Art Deco glamour with a modern edge, Atelier Raff’s new colour pop candlestick holders are a statement in style. The geometric crystal designs catch and refract candlelight, adding a warm, intimate glow to any set-up. Perfect for creating a chic vignette on a mantelpiece or dining table, they can be displayed individually or grouped for maximum impact. Available in three designs, mix and match for a bespoke look. From £76 (atelierraff.co.uk)

1 Emily sheepskin lounge chair, honey, £3,295 (limelace.co.uk) 2 Studio Variously wool throw, beige macaroon, £600 (thepositive.co) 3 Eva Sonaike Ona rug, £2,615 (sweetpeaandwillow.co.uk) 4 HAY Bonbon Shade 500, £839 (skandium.com) 5 Mongolian low stool, dusty pink, £175 (wheresaintsgo.co.uk)

INTERIORS / Object of desire

Object of DESIRE:

TAO BY MARCO PIVA

Luxe bathroom specialists Kreoo present a collection of freestanding washbasins that wouldn’t look out of place in a London gallery space. Marco Piva’s sculptural Tao offers minimalist elegance with its slender brass lines crossing its sleek cylindrical form. The basin comes in 10 material options including a richly veined white marble. POA (kreoo.com)

PUTTING GIRLS FIRST

Roedean is more than just a school; it is a place where girls discover the extraordinary!

Located on the cliffs near the bustling city of Brighton, Roedean is a beacon of excellence in allgirls’ education, offering boarding and day places to girls aged 11-18. Roedean has a rich heritage dating back to 1885 and has consistently championed the holistic development of young women, empowering them to discover their extraordinary potential. The school believes that an all-girls’ education is transformative. Free from gender stereotypes, students are empowered to take on leadership roles, excel in STEM subjects and pursue their passions

without limitations. Research shows that girls in single-sex schools perform better academically and develop higher self-esteem. Roedean girls develop the conﬁdence to express their own voice and the self-belief to realise that anything is possible.

The commitment to academic excellence is unwavering. A rigorous curriculum is designed to challenge and inspire. With small class sizes and dedicated specialist teachers, girls receive personalised attention, ensuring they thrive in an environment that fosters intellectual curiosity and a love for learning. The school boasts an impressive record of academic achievements, with students consistently securing places at top universities, both in the UK and internationally. This holistic education extends beyond the classroom, engaging students in a wide range of activities. From music and drama to sports and community engagement, there are countless opportunities for girls to discover and nurture their talents. Amongst its exciting programme, Year 7s develop a deep appreciation for the natural world through the Wild Fridays programme, whilst the introduction of the Roedean Diploma will encourage all students to engage in a diverse range of activities, promoting leadership, creativity and social responsibility.

Roedean’s site offers competitive facilities. With a recently renovated library, classrooms overlooking the sea and performing arts spaces, to name a few, the school provides the perfect environment to stimulate curiosity and creativity.

The Sixth Form Centre, with its university-style study areas, fosters both independent learning and collaboration. Students can also take advantage of

the extensive sports facilities on offer, including an indoor swimming pool, sports hall, 13 tennis and netball courts, two cricket pitches and a ﬂoodlit all-weather pitch.

Roedean is a school that welcomes students from all over the world. The diversity enriches the students’ educational experience, fostering global awareness and cultural understanding.

The wellbeing of students is paramount. Roedean provides a nurturing environment where every girl matters, and every voice is heard. The dedicated pastoral care team ensures that each student’s emotional and social needs are supported, creating a strong sense of community and belonging. Girls leave the school as conﬁdent global citizens, ready to make a positive impact on the world stage.

The power of an all-girls education is harnessed to shape future leaders and innovators. A nurturing environment sparks curiosity, fosters conﬁdence and empowers girls to pursue their passions with courage. With unparalleled opportunities to explore, the enriching co-curricular programme complements academic excellence, preparing each girl for a bright, successful future. Visit the school and see for yourself what a Roedean education is all about. For more information, go to roedean.co.uk

SMALL SANCTUARY

How to turn even the smallest, most awkward spaces into stylish and functional en suite retreats

Words by Ali Howard

Ripples hits all the right notes with this sleek and modern loft conversion en suite (ripplesbathrooms. com)

Bathrooms / INTERIORS

Creating the perfect en suite in a tight or awkward space can be an interesting challenge, one that requires creativity, clever planning – and a little bit of bravery. Whether you’re dealing with a loft conversion, a snug guest room, or a corner of the bedroom that’s crying out for a luxe copper roll top, there’s always a way to make it work. But with floor space at a premium in London homes, particularly in older properties where the layout can be less than ideal, it pays to call in the experts.

According to Barrie Cutchie, design director at BC Designs, the trick is to ensure that adding an en suite doesn’t compromise the overall feel of the space. “The way to make it work is to look at the existing layout and if the addition of an extra bathroom doesn’t compromise it, then it will most likely work.” This means thinking carefully about the flow of the space and ensuring that your new bathroom doesn’t leave you with a bedroom that feels cramped or claustrophobic.

So, how do you make the most of what you’ve got? Philippa Thorp, founder of architect practice Thorp, believes that it’s all about scale, proportion, and a bit of creative thinking. “When designing any room, scale and proportion are key,” she says. “You can always fit a lot in a space, no matter how awkward or tight it is, you’ve just got to be clever and think outside of the box.” Philippa suggests that if your heart is set on a bath, but your space is limited, you could consider dropping it into the floor. “This creates more vertical space and an open feel,” she explains. When it comes to creating a sense of space in an en suite, it’s all about the materials and colours you choose.

“Using a glass screen for your shower will allow you to see all the perimeter walls, creating the illusion of a larger space.”

For those grappling with a particularly compact or oddly shaped space, Lewis Neathey, leader of product management at GROHE UK, has some

GROHE keeps the look light and airy with a luxe, minimalist rainshower (grohe.co.uk)

The colours of this stylish en suite by BC Designs are subtly echoed in the adjoining bedroom (bcdesigns.co.uk)

INTERIORS / Bathrooms

handy tips. “Incorporating a compact WC or wetroom showering space into an awkward, unused space is a great way to add enhanced functionality and convenience within a family home,” he says. There are plenty of innovations and designs on the market aimed at helping homeowners maximise small bathroom spaces. Wall-hung fittings can work wonders in giving the illusion of space and creating a sleek, streamlined finish. Lewis recommends compact basin models, which are specifically designed for small bathrooms or en suites. “They provide a small footprint while still offering style and functionality,” he says. While functionality is paramount, an en suite is also a place where you can inject a bit of personality and luxury – after all, this is often a grown-up zone that doesn’t have to stand up to the wear and tear of a family bathroom. As Barrie puts it: “As an en suite is generally only used by adults, it is a space where you can be playful and more adventurous.” This might be the place to splash out on high-end fixtures and fittings, or to experiment with bolder colours and textures that you might shy away from elsewhere in your home. Creating a harmonious flow between the bedroom and en suite is also crucial, according to Barrie. “Rather than jar against the rest of the space, an en suite works well when there’s a sense of flow from your bedroom into the bathroom. This doesn’t mean you have to use exactly the same colours or scheme, instead it might be that the floor runs through the whole space, or that you use one or two colours across the two spaces.”

Once you’ve settled on your layout and design, it’s time to think about the finer details. According to Lewis, the shower model you choose is key to ensuring a truly luxe experience, even in the tightest spaces. “For those working with compact or complex bathroom spaces, space-saving concealed shower valves are an ideal solution because the mechanics of the product are behind the wall –whilst also providing a sleek and contemporary finish. The positioning of the controls will be a key design element as these can be placed separate from the shower head, however, it’s best to consider where these will be placed for ease of function.”

And let’s not forget the all-important shower door. Lewis warns that this is an area that can make or break the usability of a compact en suite. “The positioning and opening of the shower door can have a big impact on a compact space. It’s best to ensure the shower door can open freely without impacting other key areas of the bathroom.”

If you want your en suite to feel like a sanctuary, take a leaf out of the luxury hotel and spa playbook. “Metallic finishes such as brass and copper are a great way of adding colour in a subtle way and will add an air of warmth and indulgence to the space, too,” says Lewis. Finishing touches such as houseplants, trinkets, and wall art can also help to

ensure your en suite feels inviting and in keeping with the rest of your home. In the end, creating a stylish and functional en suite is all about balance – between practicality and luxury, between the bedroom and the bathroom, and between the constraints of the space and your design ambitions. With a bit of careful planning, some innovative design solutions, and a willingness to think outside the box, you can create an en suite that not only enhances your home but also provides a personal retreat where you can relax and unwind. After all, as Barrie reminds us, a principal suite is “your innermost sanctuary,” and it’s worth getting right. bcdesigns.co.uk; thorp.co.uk; grohe.co.uk

Contrary to popular belief, bold colours and patterned tiles can work wonders in tiny spaces (capietra.com)

Getting creative with your layout can pay dividends, as this open-concept Lusso en suite proves (lussostone.com)

MAKING HIS MARK

As Rob Garvey begins his first year as Head of Wetherby Senior School, he tells us about the plans he has for the school

Tell us a bit about your background

From my earliest years, I wanted to do a job which would make a difference. I studied Law with a view to going into politics, but in my twenties, I became convinced that I could have more of an impact by working with young people in education. Education really does change lives, and I wanted to inspire pupils the way I had been inspired at school.

What is your vision for Wetherby Senior School?

We’re still a relatively young school: this is our tenth year and I am excited to celebrate our journey to date. My vision for the future of the school is simple: I want us to be the first-choice boys’ school in London. Our academic results are excellent and improving every year; continuing that trend is my primary goal and I am unapologetically ambitious in this regard. I want to maintain and enhance the superb reputation the school has for pastoral care, because no pupil can learn if they’re unhappy. And I want to draw on the many riches of our location to continue developing an original co-curricular, skills and careers programme. We are uniquely placed: most schools would kill to have our proximity to the City, Mayfair and the West End.

How do you plan to maintain and enhance the school’s reputation for academic excellence?

No school is better than its teachers and I am hugely impressed by the staff here. The boys are taught by experts in their field, who love what they do and want the absolute best for their pupils. My job is to continue to support my staff and ensure they have all the resources, time and space they need to teach

Rob Garvey is keen to build on and enhance the already excellent reputation of

How will you look after pupil wellbeing?

We are well-known for the quality of our pastoral care and that’s down to both the people and the programme we have. Our boys meet daily in their Tutor groups for pastoral support. Tutors are supported by Heads and Assistant Heads of Section, and they all work under the direction of our fabulous Deputy Head Pastoral. To support the boys in their personal development, it is also their Tutor who takes them for their weekly PSHE lesson, and that means these key and often delicate conversations are led by somebody who knows the boys well. In addition, we have two specialist school counsellors who have really helped pupils facing particular challenges. It’s not easy being a teenager, but with proactive and reactive support in place we can help our young men to navigate their world.

the most engaging lessons they can. I’ve always found the best schools are the ones where the staff look forward to coming to work: that positivity is infectious and helps pupils to flourish.

How will you ensure that the school’s curriculum remains challenging and relevant for students?

Top schools never just teach to the exam. That’s not to say that we can ignore what’s required by the exam boards, but it’s not sufficient. We want the boys to genuinely engage with the material being taught, so that it is learnt deeply not superficially; understood not just remembered. One of the great things about being part of the Inspired Education group is its focus on the use of educational technology. The group has invested in developing innovative AI-powered learning platforms (including its own Metaverse) to support all our pupils with deep, bespoke learning. The early indications are that this approach is having a huge impact on understanding and retention of concepts, and I can’t wait to see how this develops.

Tell us about your co-curricular activities?

The co-curriculum helps our boys to develop the skills they will need both in their personal lives and in the workplace; it provides opportunities for them to discover new interests and passions; and it’s fun! Having a vibrant and integrated programme means that every boy at Wetherby can find their own pathway which will allow him to develop and flourish. Alongside the weekly clubs and activities, on Friday afternoons the whole school takes part in co-curricular activities to finish the week.

How do you plan to foster a sense of community? With not-quite 500 pupils in the school our size means that everyone at Wetherby is known, valued and understood as an individual. We meet communally for assemblies as well as in sections of the school and in ‘Tribs’, our Houses named after the tributaries of the Thames. Being in London means we are a very international school too, with pupils coming from all over the world. We celebrate that diversity explicitly, but more often than not it is simply a reflection of who we are: it’s natural to us to be a diverse and inclusive community. I’m also really proud that many of our pupils come to us via the Gold Standard Charitable Trust, who provide very substantial or complete bursaries to allow access for pupils who wouldn’t otherwise be able to come to us: they bring talents and experiences which enrich the whole community.

How will you engage with parents?

I love engaging with parents because we want exactly the same thing: for their sons to flourish. We have a very active PTA and we meet with them monthly, but I also love meeting parents both individually and at regular open door events. I am often at the school doors, meeting parents as they drop off in the morning and I attend every school event that I am able to. Schools which value their parents are the ones which see their pupils flourish, because those pupils are getting the support they need both in school and at home. I want as much parental engagement as possible, as long as it isn’t parents doing their son’s homework!

For admissions information, see wetherbysenior.co.uk

Wetherby Senior School as he takes on the role of Head

It comes as little surprise that Will’s home and garden are filled with sculptures and pieces of art

At home with The Affordable Art Fair founder shows us around his (naturally) art-filled

Will Ramsay

historic home

Words by Ali Howard Photography by Phil Wilkinson

Stepping into Will’s 18th-century mansion, you cannot help but feel immediately captivated by the blend of old-world charm and contemporary flair that defines his home. The Georgian architecture, with its grand proportions and timeless elegance, sets the stage for what is clearly a labour of love – a space where history and modernity, art and family life merge. Will explains that the house, built in 1785, was bought by his grandparents, Admiral Sir Bertram Ramsay and Margaret, daughter of John Menzies the bookseller, in 1938. “My parents moved in 1973, and in 2013, I moved in with my family,” he says.

When Will and his wife took over, the house was in good repair, but it was a little constrained by its numerous small rooms, a common feature of properties from that era. “We redesigned the layout, removing unnecessary rooms and adding a grand spiralling staircase that links the four floors,” he says. “We filled the house with artworks and curiosities, really putting our stamp on the place, whilst ensuring we were appropriately elevating the property’s beauty.” The renovation became a careful balancing act, honouring the house’s historic architecture while also transforming it into a space with bags of personality – and some brilliantly eccentric contemporary touches.

Will’s journey into the art world began at a young age, and his collection reflects decades of careful curation and a deep appreciation for quality. “I bought my first piece in Moscow at 19,” he tells me. “A painting of three Russian men drinking vodka that reminded me of Lucian Freud’s work. Since then, I’ve visited hundreds of galleries, auctions, and art fairs, refining my taste and appreciating quality art.” Each work in Will’s collection tells a story, not just about the artist or the piece itself, but about the

moments and memories that have shaped his life. “Bringing these pieces together from around the world into one home is truly special,” he tells me.

But Will’s passion for art extends far beyond his personal collection. In 1996, he launched Will’s Art Warehouse with the aim of making art more accessible to all. “Many people feel intimidated by galleries, thinking they need extensive knowledge to buy art,” he explains. This realisation led to the creation of the Affordable Art Fair in 1999, an event designed to break down exactly these barriers and encourage a wider audience to enjoy and own original contemporary art. And Will’s mission is simple yet profound: art should be for everyone, not just the elite. His advice to new collectors is refreshingly straightforward. “Buy what you like, not what you think you should like; it’s you that’s looking at it,” he says, and if you’re unsure? “Sleep on it – if you’re still thinking about it in the morning, it’s worth returning to.” It’s advice that’s both practical and empowering, and it is rooted in a deep understanding of the emotional connection that art can evoke.

I am struck by the effortless way Will has blended old and new, not just within his art collection, but throughout the entire décor of the house. “I use colour as a base, rather than sticking to what’s expected,” he tells me. “We have video art in a dining room full of classic portraiture, and contemporary art in a brightly painted library full of old books… Fabrics can also help meld old and new, blending the furniture and spaces with both old and new elements,” he explains.

The Georgian bones of the mansion play a significant role in how Will displays his art, too. “The geometry of the house

At home with / INTERIORS

encourages us to use symmetry in both art and furniture. Art pieces are often flanked by pairs of lamps, chairs, or candlesticks to draw attention to them. We’re lucky to have high ceilings and large windows that bring in bags of natural light, which is ideal for displaying art.”

It’s clear that Will’s approach to interior design is guided by the art, rather than the other way around. “We position furniture to complement the artwork,” he confirms. “I love recovering and reviving antique furniture to ensure it matches the art. For instance, we’ve re-covered antique chairs in hot pink textiles, and reworked seating areas in complementary colours across other rooms to create a cohesive look,” he says. This philosophy has given him a home that’s both connected and thoughtfully curated, with each piece of furniture playing a supporting role to the artwork that surrounds it.

The house isn’t just filled with paintings and prints – sculpture plays a significant role, too. Will’s garden, in particular, is home to several striking pieces. “I love the Give Us A Smile Love sculpture by Ren Aldridge in our garden, commissioned from the Affordable Art Fair in 2014. Another favourite is The Frog Prince by Kate Williamson from the same year’s Recent Grads Show. My third favourite is a painted pistachio I bought for one Euro on holiday –the most affordable art piece of all,” he says, relishing the eclectic mix of high and low, traditional and contemporary, that defines his collection.

Inspired to crack on with my own collection, I’m keen to find out more about this month’s Affordable Art Fair. What can visitors expect? “The anniversary edition will celebrate the best in contemporary art, all under £7,500, and bringing over 100 leading galleries together from across the world at its founding location of Battersea Park,” Will explains. “Visitors can also expect returning favourites like Family Morning and the Recent Graduates Exhibition, showcasing the best emerging talent with an exciting Class of 2024 artist line up.”

I wonder if Will might share some practical advice for those looking to create their own art-filled spaces. “Hang art at eye level – put the middle of the piece at the average eye level. If you don’t have a single large piece for a wall, consider a gallery hang. Avoid placing watercolours or colour photographs in direct light, as they will fade. Let the artwork be the dominant colour, and don’t use bright frames or mounts,” he advises, and the tips are duly lapped up and noted.

For someone who lives, sleeps and breathes art, my final question to Will is admittedly a bit mean. But I want to know, in the case of an alien invasion, which three pieces in his private collection would he grab and save? “I’d save a photograph of James Dean in Tibet by Barry Cawston, Louise Bourgeois’ Frail hand touching sheet music and, of course, our family portrait commissioned in 2018 by Maisie Broadhead, based on a Zoffany group portrait – with a modern twist.” It’s almost as if he’s thought about this before.

Affordable Art Fair’s autumn edition runs from 16-20 October, Battersea Evolution, Battersea Park, Queenstown Road, SW11 (affordableartfair.com)

ON DESIGN: SHELLEY SIMPSON

The ceramicist and Mud Australia founder chats sustainability, how it all started, and an exciting new opening for north London

Words by Ali Howard

Tell us about the brand and how it came about

At 28, a move from Melbourne to Sydney introduced me to a housemate with a backyard kick wheel. Left alone with this intriguing tool, I discovered an innate talent for throwing clay. What began as casual exploration quickly transformed into a consuming creative outlet. This journey has led to the creation of Mud Australia, having evolved from a backyard

hobby to opening our first store in Woollahra in 2007, and since then expanding to 12 locations worldwide.

What were you doing beforehand? Previously, I worked in Sydney’s hospitality industry, managing restaurants. While I was there, I was already exploring ceramics on the side. My experience in the industry was wonderful, and it undoubtedly influenced many of Mud’s contemporary porcelain designs.

What can Londoners expect from the new Islington outlet?

In collaboration with DesignOffice, once again, we have created a new space that embodies the neighbourhood’s vibrancy, whilst aligning with Mud’s signature design. Bathed in natural light and situated on a lively thoroughfare, our Islington store is a welcoming hub that reflects the community.

Tell us about the role of sustainability at Mud Australia Sustainability and ethics are fundamental to our philosophy. By maintaining control over our production process, from conception to creation, we’ve established a framework for positive impact where we continuously refine our designs, optimise working conditions, and minimise our environmental footprint. A focus on quality and longevity guides our material selection, and in-house production ensures

transparency and enables us to drastically reduce waste.

Which pieces have emerged as customer favourites?

Our bestselling pieces are commonly chosen for their practicality and utility. Design, for me, is an inseparable blend of form and function, with purpose always at the core. This philosophy is exemplified in pieces like our bestselling Pebble Bowl Medium.

What’s coming up next for the brand?

We’re celebrating a huge milestone – Mud’s 30th birthday! To mark the special occasion, our stores around the world will be hosting community events with our customers. We’re excited to share our journey, focusing on community, sustainability and timeless designs. Mud Australia’s newest outlet opens this month at 152 Upper Street, N1 (mudaustralia.com)

Designer profile / INTERIORS

VIST RMS:

WHERE EVERY PUPIL THRIVES AND IS PREPARED TO SHAPE THEIR FUTURE

EXPLORING BEYOND FOUR WALLS

Melanie Horn, headteacher at Cadogan House, Royal Masonic School for Girls on the crucial role of outdoor learning

When people visit RMS for Girls they often comment on how much green space we have here and the number of students exploring different areas of the site. From the golf course to the trim trail, students are active. We believe outdoor learning is an integral part of developing a well-rounded child and it forms a key part of our learning philosophy.

Outdoor learning transcends the traditional classroom, inviting students into nature’s open arms. Here, lessons are not confined to visual images but spring to life amidst the rustling leaves and shifting seasons. Being in natural environments provides rich sensory experiences that cannot be replicated in an indoor setting. Students have the opportunity to observe and explore the world, making learning more meaningful and memorable.

Children are born explorers, driven by a curiosity to unravel the mysteries of the world. From observing insects in their natural habitats to conducting simple experiments with rocks and soil, every outdoor excursion becomes a journey of wonder and learning. Our students regularly create ‘dens’ in our outdoor areas using the resources they find around them; branches arranged to create campfires, leaves that represent plates… natural items can become anything when children use their imaginations.

At RMS our students are physically active. Pupils in the Early Years and Key Stage One enjoy an active part of their curriculum daily. In an age of increasingly sedentary behaviour, outdoor learning provides a refreshing antidote, encouraging physical movement. Running, jumping,

climbing – these simple acts of play not only strengthen muscles but also invigorate the spirit and sharpen the mind. Students return to classrooms prepared for the next exploration of learning.

It has never been more important for children to develop a sense of responsibility towards our planet. Outdoor learning serves as a powerful catalyst for this transformation, immersing children in the beauty of the natural world. Through first-hand experiences with ecosystems, biodiversity, and sustainability practices, students develop an understanding of nature and a commitment to protecting the Earth. Children in Reception and the Early Years begin their learning of the trees, plants and animals found in our environment and they carry this desire to look after and protect the natural world through the school with them. It is the instilling of these concepts from an early age that guides them on their journey to becoming citizens of the world.

In the face of challenges and obstacles, the great outdoors

becomes a testing ground for resilience and determination. Outdoor learning empowers students to push past their limits and discover the strength within themselves. With each triumph over adversity, confidence blossoms, and a lifelong spirit of resilience takes root. A favourite memory of a forest school session with Year 2 stands out when I think about students learning without limits. A pupil who was new to English and lacking in confidence when it came to using her spoken language exclaimed excitedly, “Come look my snail, it’s so slimy!”. She exuded confidence in this environment, this soon translated into the classroom, and I am sure it was built and nurtured here.

By embracing the natural world as their classroom, schools can unlock a world of infinite possibilities – where every tree becomes a teacher, every rock a lesson, and every ray of sunlight a source of inspiration.

To book a private tour and find out more about the campus, see rmsforgirls.com

Ivy House School thrives as a distinguished, co-educational, and non-denominational school for children aged 2 to 11.

www.ivyhouseschool.co.uk

THE HEAD

Dominic Oliver Lancing College

How long have you been head? For 10 years; 2024-2025 is my 11th year at Lancing College.

What attracted you to the school? Its superb heritage really appealed to me and is something we have celebrated throughout this past 175th anniversary year. While there’s a strong sense of tradition at Lancing, there’s also a liberal openness so that young people can be themselves. Ambition thrives here and I was attracted to the possibilities for all.

How would you sum up the school in a sentence? Lancing College is a school where pupils are independent-minded, reflective and ambitious.

What makes it different? Lots of schools talk about offering a holistic approach to teaching. Where others talk that talk, we walk it. Pupils can be themselves and we encourage them to explore what that means.

Big shifts happen over their time with us, and our alumni list is amazing, ranging from captains of industry and world-leading academics to Oscar winners. (We have two of those!) Whether young people join us at 13 (Year 9) or just for the Sixth Form, they achieve wonders while they are here and go on to do amazing things. I’m proud to lead them on that journey.

How would you describe the atmosphere? It’s warm, inspiring, and welcoming. Lancing College is a place where pupils are expected to work hard but are exceptionally well supported. Whether they are aspirant medics, engineers or filmmakers (or indeed anything else!), they know we’ll be at their side at every step.

What about your personal educational ethos? It’s my job to light fires in young hearts. Oxygenating the flames of their ambition creates a potent and exciting brew. There’s an imperative to this: we must offer opportunity, be it intellectual, creative or otherwise.

Pupils: around 335 aged 2.5 to 5

Founded: in 1986 by a teacher and professional singer, Maureen Turner, who named it after Strawberry Fields Forever by the Beatles. (Maureen is still the head today.) The nursery moved to its present location,

A capital education / SCHOOLS

How do you balance your extra-curricular activities with the academic side?

At Lancing College our results are first rate, and we also pride ourselves on the breadth and depth of our co-curricular programme. We offer plenty of choice, with over 120 options in an average week. Time is ring-fenced each day for the activities and clubs to take place. Our pupils are encouraged to take part in extra activities as part of the Lancing Diploma (something that everybody undertakes). This gives coherence to their school experience while also encouraging them to reflect on what it means to fully embrace Lancing life. That encompasses everything from scholarship, community and leadership to physical endeavour and the creative, cultural and spiritual spheres.

over two floors in the wing of a Notting Hill church, in 2007

Entrance requirements:

Parents are advised to register their child as soon as possible after birth (according to Tatler, registration forms are usually couriered over hours afterwards). The

school will then send a letter confirming the child’s registration and inviting parents to call the school for a private tour and a meeting with the head

Destination schools: (girls) Francis Holland School, Kensington Prep School, Pembridge Hall School; (boys) Wetherby

How do you look after the wellbeing of your pupils? Our pupils’ wellbeing is at the heart of everything we do. The Independent School Inspectorate (ISI) highlighted our pastoral care as a significant strength in our recent inspection. We know our pupils at Lancing College and respect them as individuals. Our structures encourage engagement with children 1:1, whether that’s with tutors, housemasters and housemistresses, teachers or the senior management team. The school is a quasifamilial ‘home’ where success is celebrated, and challenges or disappointments are supported. Children are encouraged to try different things, to keep trying and not be afraid to fail. The school is a happy place as a result. Lancing, West Sussex, BN15 (01273 452213; lancingcollege.co.uk)

School, Arnold House School; (co-ed) Eaton Square School, Notting Hill Prep School, Thomas’s Known for: a long waiting list, due to its fantastic reputation and the prestigious pre-preps children go on to join; attracting many high-flying or celebrity parents; a

beautiful entry garden and classrooms equipped with the latest technology; special emphasis on the expressive arts; the strawberry symbol adorning the children’s jumpers Fees: available on request strawberryfields.london

OPENING THE DOOR TO SUCCESS

Wetherby Preparatory School, in central London, is an independent day school for boys aged 7 to 13. Known for providing exceptional education and pastoral care, the school has a proven track record in preparing boys for entry into the top Senior Day and Boarding schools in the country.

www.wetherbyprep.co.uk

youngFeedingminds

A capital education / SCHOOLS

We all know that nutritious food fuels children’s brains as well as their bodies. But how can schools and parents help them make the right choices?

Words by Claire Atherton

The latest statistics from the National Child Measurement Programme show that 21.3 per cent of Reception-age children and 36.6 per cent of Year 6 children are overweight or obese. Yet a recent survey from the education caterer Chartwells found that 82 per cent of pupils were interested in eating a healthy and balanced diet. We asked Jenaed Brodell, founder and lead dietitian at Nutrition and Co, how well schools are meeting this need and where they could improve. And strangely, there’s no mention of Turkey Twizzlers…

What is good nutrition and why does it matter in schools? A balanced diet with complex carbs, protein, and healthy fats keeps children mentally sharp and engaged in class, with stable levels of energy throughout the day. It also provides the building blocks for brain development, helping with memory, concentration and mood regulation.

How do children’s nutritional needs change as they grow? Primary-aged children require more

energy-dense foods to support rapid growth, while secondary-aged children need balanced meals that support both physical growth and cognitive development during adolescence. For primary-aged children, good nutrition means regular meals with plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins. Secondary-aged children need similar balanced meals but with a bigger focus on whole foods that support sustained energy and development, especially during puberty. Calcium-rich foods such as dairy or fortified plant-based alternatives are important for bone development. And it’s essential that both age groups drink plenty of water throughout the day.

What are schools doing and where could they improve? Many schools now offer a variety of nutritious meals, focusing on fresh ingredients and balanced options. They also educate their students on healthy eating. But there’s still room for improvement, especially in offering more plant-based options and reducing processed foods.

A balanced diet with complex carbs, protein, and healthy fats keeps children mentally sharp and engaged in class

Schools could also do better by involving students more in menu planning, teaching them about food origins and involving them in growing food. This fosters a deeper connection to what children eat and encourages healthier food choices. School gardens can also make learning about nutrition fun and hands-on.

Do you have any advice for parents who want to make sure their children eat well? Ask the school’s catering team about the variety of fruits, vegetables and whole grains they offer. That’s as well as their use of fresh, unprocessed ingredients, the balance and size of their meals and how often they update their menus. Many schools are equipped to handle allergies and specific diets, but it’s crucial to keep an open line of communication. At home, the key is to find quick, healthy meals that your kids enjoy. You can support good habits by involving children in meal planning and preparation, encouraging them to try new foods, and setting a good example by eating balanced meals together. Having consistency between nutrition at home and in school will reinforce healthy habits. nutritionandco.co.uk

A winning recipe

In 2022, Sarum Hall School, an independent girls’ prep in Hampstead, won an Independent Schools Award for ‘Best Independent School for Healthy Eating’. Head teacher Karen Coles explains why.

“Learning how to eat well is a vital part of our overall commitment to health and wellbeing at Sarum Hall. We’re lucky enough to have our own Food Studio, which allows us to embed a profound appreciation and understanding of healthy eating from Nursery onwards.

“A recent project saw Year 4s designing salads using the Eatwell Guide. Pupils had a wide variety of ingredients to choose from, including seasonal vegetables, grains, beans and pulses. The activity was also linked to book characters as part of their English studies. The judge was the school’s head chef, and the winning salad (halloumi and butternut squash) was made in volume for the whole school to enjoy.

“I believe that if you give children the right knowledge, they’ll often make the right, healthy choices by themselves. It’s why I encourage parents to empower their children to choose for themselves, as well as to lead by example and be careful of what they say about food! If children see their parents eating well, they will follow.”

sarumhallschool.co.uk

THE ECO IMPACT

As energy costs continue to soar, there’s more focus than ever on how energy-efficient our homes are. This has brought the onceoverlooked Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating into the spotlight for buyers, particularly in the competitive London property market. But how much does a low EPC score really matter, especially when it comes to older, more characterful homes?

Alicia Lindsay from Savills St. John’s Wood has seen the conversation around energy efficiency grow. “Although eco credentials aren’t always at the fore of a buyer’s wish list, there has been a notable shift in how buyers approach their next purchase, with more emphasis placed on the sustainability credentials that a property has to offer,” she says. In other words, while sustainability might not be the first thing buyers think of, they’re definitely starting to take it more seriously.

Buyers are asking more questions about EPC ratings and insulation, especially as these factors can impact day-to-day living costs. However, Alicia is quick to add that “a lower rate won’t necessarily deter a buyer from a property, particularly if it ticks a lot of boxes in terms of the lifestyle it offers.” In London, especially in desirable areas like St. John’s Wood, lifestyle still plays a key role. If a property offers the right

How does a property’s EPC rating affect saleability? Our experts weigh in

location, space, and feel, a lower EPC rating might not matter as much.

This is particularly true when it comes to the Capital’s vast stock of period properties. As Chris Cooper at Benham & Reeves, explains, “In Hampstead, we have a lot of older properties that fall into the lower end of the EPC metric system. These are typically period properties with single glazed sash windows and brick walls, so there is not a lot of scope for improving their EPC rating.” London’s older homes are undeniably charming but, as Chris suggests, they weren’t built with energy efficiency in mind. Trying to boost the EPC rating of a Victorian terrace or a Georgian townhouse can be an uphill battle. And one that may not pay dividends – if you are trying to sell such a home, it’s worth noting that, these properties often attract buyers who are more interested in their character and architectural heritage than their eco credentials.

Added to this, the system itself isn’t always clear-cut. Chris notes that: “The scores – which can differ depending on who performs the assessment – measure how much it costs to run a home, not how efficient it is, or how little impact it has on the environment.” This means the rating doesn’t always give the full picture, leaving some buyers sceptical about its accuracy.

So, where does this leave us? In the London property market, EPC ratings are certainly

There has been a notable shift… with more emphasis placed on the sustainability credentials

Alicia Lindsay, Savills

becoming more important, particularly as people look to manage rising living costs. But at the same time, a home’s overall appeal – whether that’s its location, design, or lifestyle offering –still holds more weight for most buyers. While a higher EPC rating may add value, a lower one isn’t likely to stop a sale in its tracks, especially for those seeking a home with charm, character, and long-term potential.

savills.co.uk; benhams.com

ON THE MARKET

We take a peek inside some of the finest properties on the market in Prime London this month

FOR SALE

Fairway Close, NW11

Sitting pretty in Hampstead Garden Suburb, this elegant double-fronted home offers a whole lot of potential. Spread across 3,587 sq ft, it boasts a custom Smallbone kitchen, a double aspect drawing room, and a family room. The first-floor principal bedroom comes with a spacious dressing room, en suite, and terrace overlooking landscaped gardens that back onto the golf course. With four further bedrooms, a den, and terraces, this charming residence is perfect for those seeking tranquillity, whilst still being tantalisingly close to Hampstead Village and Golders Green.

£4.85 million, TK International (020 7794 8700; t-k.co.uk)

FOR SALE

Hendon Avenue, N3

This gorgeous six-bed, six-bathroom detached home, nestled in one of Finchley’s most desirable spots, offers contemporary luxury across three spacious floors. Spanning 5,520 sq ft, it boasts a breathtaking entrance hall, a galleried landing, and seamless indoor-outdoor flow from the 46ft reception room and kitchen to a beautifully landscaped garden and patio. The sleek kitchen is perfect for family living, while additional highlights include a TV room, study, and a generous games/ family room on the top floor. With both a double garage at the rear and a single garage with driveway at the front, it’s a modern masterpiece.

£4.5 million, Godfrey & Barr (020 8458 9119 ; godfreyandbarr.com)

FOR SALE

Stormont Road, N6

Set behind a carriage drive, this stunning home, designed and rebuilt by Red Square Creative, offers over 6,200 sq ft of luxury living. It boasts a beautiful 102ft landscaped garden and an impressive leisure floor, featuring an indoor pool, gym, games room, and wine cellar. The reception areas include a double aspect living room and a striking kitchen/dining area surrounded by floor-to-ceiling glass doors. Additional highlights include a principal bedroom suite complete with balcony, air conditioning, and an idyllic location just moments from Kenwood House and Hampstead Heath. £8.5 million, Goldschmidt & Howland (020 7435 4404; g-h.co.uk)

DIVINE LIVING

A truly unique residence offering modern luxury in a beautifully transformed chapel, set in tranquil Mill Hill

This chapel conversion seamlessly marries historical charm with contemporary luxury, making it a unique home – and it is nothing short of breathtaking. The property boasts four generously sized bedrooms and four beautifully finished bathrooms, all designed with outstanding attention to detail. The soaring vaulted ceilings and original chapel features offer a sense of grandeur, while the bespoke modern fixtures add luxe sophistication throughout.

The open-plan living areas, which are bathed in natural light thanks to the enormous arched windows, provide a perfect setting

for both entertaining and relaxation. And the transformation of the chapel into a stylish reception area preserves the building’s storied heritage while providing all the modern comforts you could want.

Located in one of north London’s most sought-after spots, the property is surrounded by boutique shops, trendy cafés, and renowned restaurants, offering a vibrant yet peaceful lifestyle. And while the leafy suburban setting guarantees tranquillity, residents remain well connected to the City and West End with easy access to transport links. In fact, it strikes the perfect balance between urban convenience

and serene suburban living, making it ideal for families and professionals alike.

With every room meticulously designed, from the principal suite to the inviting living spaces – and the added luxuries of the spa, gym, and sauna – this chapel conversion offers a living experience like no other. Whether you’re hosting guests in the striking reception room or enjoying a quiet evening in one of the elegant bedrooms, this is a luxury home less ordinary, combining the very best of historic character and modern convenience. A rare opportunity to live in an abode as unique as it is luxurious.

£8,975 per week, Dexters (020 8742 4181; dexters.co.uk)

BELSIZE PARK

BELSIZE PARK, NW3

A beautifully renovated and interior designed garden maisonette (210 sq m/2,268 sq ft) set within a stucco fronted development built in 2015.

The apartment benefits from exceptional entertaining areas featuring a spacious reception/dining room with bay window and direct access to a private rear garden.

Other amenities include cinema room with surround sound, underfloor heating and air conditioning throughout the property and 2 demised parking spaces, 1 secure underground space from which you can obtain direct access to the apartment and 1 surface parking space.

for the

Belsize Park is well located

amenities of Belsize Park Village, Swiss Cottage Underground Station (Jubilee Line) and the green open spaces of Primrose Hill.

Principal Bedroom with En-Suite Bathroom & Dressing Room, Bedroom Two, Two Further Shower Rooms (One En-Suite), Fully Fitted Kitchen, Reception Room (Semi-Open Plan to Kitchen), Cinema Room, Home Office Area, Utility Room, Secure Underground Parking for One Car, Additional Surface Space Parking for One Car, Private Rear Garden. Council Tax: Band G. EPC: D.

Randolph Crescent | Maida Vale, W9

WINNINGTON CLOSE · N2

AN OUTSTANDING, CONTEMPORARY DETACHED HOME.

Located in this quiet cul de sac off the internationally renowned Winnington Road, this exceptional and interior designed property is set behind a deep driveway with ample off-street parking for many cars, and within close proximity of Kenwood and Hampstead Heath.

The property spans over 9, 800 sq ft (911 sq m) arranged over four floors, including a lavish spa and swimming pool complex with a state-of-the-art gym, plus a self-contained staff apartment and utility room.

The south facing garden to the rear offers excellent privacy with a large patio, a designated BBQ area, a manicured lawn, and a spacious double garage.

£13,500,000

Joint Sole Agents

Located on Lancaster Mews, W2, within a conservation area - near Hyde Park, a rare opportunity to acquire a well-proportioned, long lease, one double bedroom, ground floor, period apartment, with its own front door, on this charming and quaint cul-de-sac cobbled mews.

Located on this historical and prestigious cobbled cul-de-sac mews - formerly the servants quarters, stable house accommodation serving the stucco fronted town houses on Lancaster Gate.

Only a short stroll from the green open spaces and recreational facilities at the Royal Parks - Kensington Gardens - Hyde Park.

The property is well served for transport connections with close proximity to Lancaster Gate St. (Central Line) and Paddington main line Station (Elizabeth, Circle, District, Bakerloo and Hammersmith and City, in addition to National Rail services and Heathrow Express).

Leasehold about 150 years remaining | Service Charge: Split 50/50 Building Insurance & any external works | Ground Rent: Peppercorn | Council Tax Band: F | EPC: C.

PADDINGTON & BAYSWATER | 020 7467 5770

Email: crosling@winkworth.co.uk, paddington@winkworth.co.uk winkworth.co.uk on

winkworth.co.uk/marylebone

020 7435 3344

HAMPSTEAD GARDEN SUBURB, NW11 £2,750,000

A beautifully presented, Grade II listed, character house located in this prestigious, south side and ever popular enclave adjacent to Hampstead Heath Extension. This lovely home is arranged over three floors and benefits from flexible accommodation comprising an exceptional principal suite with bedroom , large dressing area and en suite bathroom, a further 3-4 bedrooms, 2 further well-presented bathrooms, bedroom 5/reception room 2, drawing room, reception hallway, a particularly spacious kitchen/diner, guest cloakroom, a south facing rear garden plus a large front garden. The property has been exceptionally well maintained by the current vendor and benefits from wood floors to the entertaining space on both the ground and first floors, original period fireplaces, large windows and ample storage. Situated in this lovely cul-de-sac, set back from the road, almost adjacent to Hampstead Heath Extension and approximately 0.5 mile from all the amenities and transport links of Golders Green.

STON E S T HRO W AW AY FR OM H AM PSTEAD

£79 9 ,0 00

JOINT SOLE A GEN T

building tucked into a tranquil, leafy enclave on Whitestone Pond.

Jack Straws Castle is set in front of Hampstead Heath & within very close proximity of Hampstead with its array of luxury shops & cafes & Northern Line Tube Station.The apartment features 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, reception room, kitchen & use of communal, central courtyard at the front.

ON - SITE C ONCI ER GE/24 HOUR SECUR IT Y

£1, 1 95,0 00

JOINT SOLE A GEN T

A 3 bedroom penthouse apartment (measuring 1,560 sq ft) with direct lift access, set within the prestigious, gated ‘Mill Hill Place’ development built by Hersonslea.

Features include a 24 ft double reception/dining room opening to a small en-suite, second bedroom with en-suite, 3rd bedroom/study, guest WC, utility area, 2 underground parking spaces and storage area.

LE AF Y E NC L AV E ON WHIT ESTON E P ON D

£1,4 95,0 00

JOINT SOLE A GEN T

A 3 bedroom Grade 2 listed terraced house tucked into a tranquil, leafy

Jack Straws Castle is set adjacent to Hampstead Heath & within very close proximity of Hampstead with its array of luxury shops & cafes & Northern Line Tube Station. There is parking available on the premises.

FABU LOUS RE SID ENT S R OOF GA RDE N

£1,7 50,0 00

JOINT SOLE A GEN T

A 3 bedroom, 3 bathroom (all en-suite) apartment, measuring 1386 sq ft, set and with secure underground parking.

air conditioning in reception room and master bedroom, storage room & underground parking.

MILL HILL PLACE, NW7

JONAH COURT, NW11

JACK STRAWS CASTLE, NW3

IT’ S A JOURNEY , WE’LL GET Y OU THERE

CHARLIE’S NEW HOME

NICOLA FROM HAMPTONS

CHARLIE BENNETT

QUEEN ANNE STREET, MARYLEBONE VILLAGE, LONDON W1G

We are delighted to bring to the market this spacious 3 bedroom apartment located in the heart of the Marylebone Village, London W1G.

This duplex apartment located on the ground and first floors is approximately 1,407 sq ft (131 sq m). The apartment comprises of three bedrooms, one en suite, a further bathroom, kitchen, reception room, and a cloakroom. The building benefits from communal gardens and a day porter. The building is located on the south side of Queen Anne Street close to the junction with Chandos Street. Both Oxford Circus and Bond Street underground stations are within close proximity. The shopping facilities of Marylebone High Street and Oxford Street together with the open spaces of Regent Park are also nearby.

LEASEHOLD £2,250,000

HARLEY PLACE, MARYLEBONE VILLAGE, LONDON W1G

A unique opportunity to rent a mews house in one of the most sought after mews in the Marylebone Village.

This three bedroom mews house benefits from a spacious living room, garage and terrace. Comprises of entrance hall, reception room, three double bedrooms, two en suite bathrooms, sperate shower room/laundry room, garage and kitchen. Harley Place is a cul de sac located moments away from the shopping facilities of Marylebone High Street. Bond Street, Oxford Circus underground stations together with access to the A40/M40 are within close proximity. The green open spaces of Regents Park are also nearby.

The house is available furnished or unfurnished.

£1,650 PER WEEK

Roderick Road South End Green

London, NW3

Unfurnished

£2,500 per week

Sole Agent

67–71 Park Road

London NW1 6XU 020 7724 4724 astonchase.com

An opportunity to rent an immaculate, newly refurbished four-bedroom Victorian house (222.2 sq m/2,392 sq ft) redesigned by Matheson & Whiteley which is beautifully positioned 0.1 miles from Hampstead Heath. The house benefits from an abundance of natural light, spacious entertaining areas, a rear patio garden and a roof terrace. Roderick Road is well located for the local amenities of South End Green with Hampstead Heath and Gospel Oak Overground Stations close by. It is also within close walking distance of Belsize Park Underground station (Northern Line) and the shops, restaurants and cafés of Haverstock Hill.

Accommodation and Amenities

4 Bedrooms, Double Reception Room, Modern Eat-in Kitchen/Breakfast Room, 3 Bathrooms, Guest Cloakroom, Utility Room, Roof Terrace, Wood Flooring Throughout, Private Patio.

Council Tax: Band G. EPC: D.

LAST WORD / Arlington Residential

NEW BEGINNINGS

Arlington Residential is a distinguished property agency, specialising in luxury homes across central and north west London. And they’ve recently welcomed a new Head of Lettings, meet Robert Lerner

With over 30 years of experience, Arlington has developed a reputation for offering personalised services tailored to the high expectations of their discerning clients. The agency handles some of London’s most prestigious areas, including Hampstead, St. John’s Wood, and Regent’s Park, curating an exclusive portfolio of elegant homes.

Whether it’s off-market property sales or high-end rentals, Arlington Residential places an emphasis on discretion, professionalism, and bespoke service, ensuring that every transaction is smooth and stressfree. The company is renowned for its expertise in handling significant transactions, too, often without traditional marketing, providing a discreet approach that caters to clients seeking privacy

Robert says: “I’m thrilled to be here at Arlington Residential. It’s always been a company I look upon fondly, especially with some former Savills colleagues working here previously.

I’m excited to have commenced my new role after 10 years at Savills and look forward to continuing to build on the brand reputation.

Growing up around a family-run estate agency gave me my grounding in the property sector, which I’ve been passionate about from a young age. After graduating, I spent more than 10 years at Savills in Hampstead/ St. John’s Wood, where I established myself and built my reputation as one of the most well-known and successful agents in the area. I’m a fully qualified member of ARLA and pride myself on excellent market knowledge and providing an extremely high level of customer service to both landlords and prospective tenants alike.

Away from the office, I love my sport; I’m a very passionate Tottenham Hotspur fan, as well as following cricket and tennis. I also enjoy travelling to sunny climates whenever possible!

arlingtonresidential.com

Robert Lerner

Eldon Grove, Hampstead, NW3

£2,250,000

An intriguingly interesting and light filled four-bedroom end of terrace family house (2,344 sq ft), which forms part of a modern development, and which has been well-maintained throughout by the present owners who have lived happily in the house for the past 25 years. The well proportioned family accommodation enjoys a 21' kitchen/dining room and a 21' reception room on the ground and first floors respectively.

The entire second floor boasts the principal bedroom and en-suite bathroom and the third floor provides three further bedrooms, family bathroom and access to a south-facing ‘sun trap’ roof terrace with magnificent views across Hampstead towards the City of London and the South Downs of Surrey beyond. There is also a small pretty patio garden to the side of the house.

Rare for a house so close to the Village, the property benefits from an integral double garage and is ideally situated within a short walk of the shops on Hampstead High Street and Haverstock Hill and is equidistant to both underground stations in Hampstead Village and Belsize Park. Hampstead Heath is also within close proximity.

The leading estate agent for Hampstead and the surrounding areas