Christmas 2020 The Merry-Making Edition

VO LU M E FI V E | I S S U E EI G H T | FR EE

The Merry-Making Issue Christmas cheer for uncertain times

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Welcome to the latest issue of Kensington & Chelsea Review.

Filled with art, auction, culture and luxury, Kensington and Chelsea Review is the magazine for the rather discerning resident of the Royal Borough.

KENSINGTON & CHELSEA REVIEW

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As I write this, the UK is going back into lockdown again, so we’ll have to holster our suitcases, relearn how to cook and give our homes a hygge hit. With things changing so fast, the information in the mag may well change swiftly, but on the other side of this new lockdown, the heavenly hotels and decadent dining places you see within will need your custom more than ever, so please do read and daydream about what the future could have in store.

This is our bumper ‘staycation’ issue, where we pitched up at hotels throughout London and further afield to find the ideal places to hibernate in. From the extraordinarily luxurious to the really wild, we’re excited to share these wonderful stays with you.

We also sought out imaginative modern Italian dishes and authentic French fare, saw a psychic (well, someone might be able to predict what will happen), and tucked into the best Christmas comfort food – something we can all take solace in right now. And, our gift guide is back with presents both budget-friendly and wallet-emptying for all.

Stay safe and we wish you a very merry Christmas.

THE KENSINGTON & CHELSEA TEAM PUBLISHER Talismanic Media

CONTENTS

F O U N D E R & M A N AG ING DIRECTO R Sid Raghava CHIEF EDITOR Kate Weir A RT D I R E C T O R Harriet Bedder MO T O R I N G & B E A UTY E DITO R Lisa Curtiss OFFICE MANAGER Lee Marrero SALES MANAGER Joseph McConville CONTRIBUTORS Sid Raghava, Harriet Bedder, Kate Weir, Kristie Smith, Sara Darling, Sarah Rodrigues, Tani Burns, Emily Williams, Tracy Borman, Lisa Curtiss.

All material in Kensington and Chelsea Review is strictly copyright and all rights are reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or any information storage or retrieval system without prior permission of the publishers. Colour transparencies and photographs submitted for publication are sent at the owners’ risk and while every care is taken, neither the publisher nor their agents accept liability for loss or damage however caused.

The publishers can accept no liability whatsoeverof nature arising out of nor in connection with the contents of this publication. Opinions expressed within the articles are not necessarily those of Kensington and Chelsea Review and any issues arising therefore should be taken up directly with the contributor.

4.

News

Borough and beyond

8.

Art & Culture

Explore the latest openings, exhibitions and events from the

The latest art, a look at hip new work-and-play hub and a dig-deep into a

renowned educational institute

18. Travel

No fly zones? No problem – these are the UK hotels we’re most excited

about this season

34. Dining

Checking out the restaurants who launched after lockdown and a dining

on-demand deli in Kensington

34.

Gift Guide

our tree

39.

Beauty

52.

Motoring

From stocking fillers to grand gestures, these are the gifts we want under

Feel-good seasonal pampering and the top products for winter

The luxury cars for travelling in safety and style

KENSINGTON & CHELSEA REVIEW

© ELENA GUAL. COURTESY THE ARTIST AND GROVE SQUARE GALLERIES

EDITOR’S LETTER

READ ALL ABOUT IT A rundown of news, from the worlds of art and culture (plus the items that intrigue us) all handpicked for the Royal Borough resident

A N E W C O NRAD DINING

PE RA STU D IOS The Pera Studios concept store in Notting Hill was founded by architect and interiors expert Chiara Bardi. It showcases work by contemporary artists and statement furnishings – a carefully curated selection that will be frequently updated. - The inaugural edit includes photography, painting and mosaics by Marisa Culatto and Catherine Parkinson, sculptural objects by Carmen Boyd, and vintage pieces ranging from German and Scandinavian design classics to Benin terracotta heads from the personal collection of late 19th-century diplomat and engineer Ferdinand de Lesseps. www.perastudios.co.uk

OJA R L AU N C H ES AT H ARROD S A new player in the perfume scene – launched this November in Harrods - OJAR was created by Omani founder Ms Hind Bahwan, who was involved in the fragrance, design and marketing.

The name is inspired by Hojari, some of the world’s finest frankincense, found in Oman’s Dhofar Mountains. However, there are 18 fragrances in total, including scents of oud, rose, honey, sandalwood and musk. The brand’s first launch is Absolute, a perfume bottle with a double cap, allowing the wearer to roll on or apply with a glass stick.

OJAR Absolute 20ml is £130 www.ojarofficial.uk www.harrods.com.

ED AKED

CONCEPT The Conrad London St James will launch the first of three new dining concepts come January. At the helm will be Michelin-star-garnering chef Sally Abé (formerly of the Ledbury) and the design whizzes at Wilson Associates will be working their magic with the decor.

The first of these new dining experiences, the Blue Boar Pub, a luxurious take on the classic English pub, will offer a seasonal British menu, plus a comprehensive wine list, craft beers and spirits – a discreet private dining space will also be available. In spring 2021, an afternoon-tea lounge and glamorous cocktail bar will follow. www.blueboarlondon.com

M I R A C L E AT 3 4 Something magical has happened at upmarket eatery 34 Mayfair. In collaboration with beloved English wine producers Nyetimber, they’ve created an immensely cheering Christmas installation.

Designer Jane Wadham has used around 14,000 decorations to make the dining room feel as festive as possible, with 8,400 baubles in different colours coating the walls and ceiling. This is one for maximalists and those seeking a little end-of-the-year pick-me-up. The perfect accompaniment to the decadent manu of Japanese wagyu fillet steak, truffle and fontina pizza, Peking duck and other seasonal selections. www.34-restaurant.co.uk

BESTIL L OU R SVA RT Yes, travelling is still somewhat curtailed – but, we can dream, right? And the current darling of our dreams is Svart, a new hotel in Arctic Norway that looks as if it’s landed from space. Coincidentally, it’s the work of design whizzes Space Copenhagen.

The out-of-this-world hotel floats on the Holandsfjorden fjord at the foot of the Svartisen glacier. When it opens in 2022 (when maybe we can visit), it will have an indoor-outdoor spa, four restaurants, an education centre and a design laboratory, and the hotel has the noble aims of being fully off-grid, carbon neutral and zero waste within the first five years of operation. www.svart.no

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H OMO A L ON E Music will ring out in the Clapham Grand once again this Christmas as the London Gay Men’s Chorus will take to the stage to perform Homo Alone, a socially distanced festive singalong to raise a spot of Christmas cheer. There will be two performances on Sunday 20 December at 4pm and 7.30pm. www.claphamgrand.com

H O T T O TRO T In lieu of the Christmas treats that Covid has unfortunately put paid to, Richmond Park is offering a more traditional take on a festive outing, with old-school horseand-carriage rides. You’ll get sloe gin and a mince pie at Holly Lodge to start your 90-minute ride, and carriages can seat six (social bubbles, you’re all set). Tickets are £450 a carriage and help towards the park’s conservation efforts. You’ll also get refreshments and a tour of the stables.

Rides will run from 28 November 2020 until 3 January 2021. www.royalparks.org.uk/parks/richmondpark/richmond-park-attractions/horsecarriage-rides

G IV E YOU R ART Fine-art gallery Kovet.Art (supported by the Creative Industries Council and the Mayor of London) is dedicated to showcasing young talent emerging from universities and onto the art scene.

They’ve selected an edit of works by new exciting artists, including Loreal Prystaj, Kristy M Chan, Tom Faber and Christopher Pearson, priced between £500 and £3,500 to give as an extra-special gift this Christmas. Something truly special that beats a pair of socks any day. www.kovet.art

C H RISTMAS ROYAL E AT

M I R A C L E AT HE NRIE TTA HO TE L It truly is a Miracle, in the New York pop-up’s first and only UK location. Yes, the group are decking the hallowed halls of Covent Garden’s Henrietta Hotel to bring you a nostalgia-nudging immersive experience with stockings, baubles, lavishly dressed trees and maybe the odd singing Santa. Drinks will include the Fruitcake Flip (brandy, Jamaican overproof rum, amaretto, fruitcake, cherry bitters and egg) and the Jolly Koala (gin, vermouth and pine-cardamom-sage cordial), and snacks will include gnocco fritto with Calabrian guanciale and sardine and lemon skewers. www.henriettahotel.com/miracle

SUGOI JP N X TH E C H EL SEA

TH E MAYFAIR TOWN H OU SE

LO D GE Creators of award-winning street-food concept Sugoi JPN are launching Under One Kitchen to support fellow hospitality brands. By opening ‘dark kitchens’ across London, Sugoi JPN enables start-ups and established brands to work alongside each other as distinct businesses, to maximise their structure and cut down on costs. With sister brand Arepita Sliders they’ll launch their fourth kitchen in Chelsea, working with the Chelsea Lodge. www.sugoijpn.com

H OTEL This glamorous new hotel’s launch date may be a little later than expected, but we’re excited to stay nonetheless. Rooms offer luxury without the frills, with regal blue walls and artwork by Miss Aniela; and the Dandy Bar feels clubby and intimate – a glass of Oscar Wilde’s favourite AR Lenoble Brut Champagne goes down nicely here and the cocktails are very tempting. The all-day dining concept is by turns healthy and less so, and the concierge can arrange a champagnefuelled turn round the London Eye, horse rides in Hyde Park, high-end shopping trips and more. www.themayfairtownhouse.com

TOM FABER, A BAO A QU AND THE MACE

C ABARET C L U B While saying ‘the show must go on’ is perhaps tempting fate, we could well do with the Cabaret Club’s penchant for fabulously glamorous and glitter-sprinkled spectacles. Christmas Royale is their latest festive feast for the eyes, running until late December. This Bond-themed extravaganza covers the vintage classics and explosive blockbusters in a mindboggling 4D experience. We, for one, have our glad rags at the ready. www.thelondoncabaretclub.com

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BE RL IN ATON A L This festival has revived their legendary imprint and are forming an artist-led collection, featuring music, art prints and garments.The imprint has previously hosted contributions from Cabaret Voltaire, Psychic TV and Marshstepper, and will release two new projects: a compilation entitled MORE LIGHT, as well as the 2016 live festival recording of the late Mika Vainio. MORE LIGHT brings together 19 artists, including Caterina Barbieri, dBridge and Laurel Halo, and all profits will be donated to the Alpha School for Boys in Kingston, Jamaica. www.berlin-atonal.com

K E N S I N GTO N + CHELSEA

WALD ORF H ILTON The team at the Waldorf Hilton’s Good Godfrey’s bar have partnered with nonalcoholic spirits brand Lyre’s to serve alcohol-free cocktails. Shaking up what a non-alcoholic cocktail experience should look like, the general bar manager Massimiliano Terrile has developed deliciously distinct signature drinks. Try a Smoked Mojito made from non-alcoholic spiced rum infused with smoke, lime and mint or a Milano Bombay with masalainfused non-alcoholic red vermouth. There is also a non-alcoholic Negroni, Coffee Martini and Olive Old Fashioned. www.hilton.com

SKYL IGH T C H RISTMAS AT TOBA C C O D OC K The igloos are back! Yes, you and your bubble can cosily drink and dine in Skylight’s well-dressed domes. But that’s not all: this exciting festive blow-out will also have an igloo village, spacious Après Ski Lodge bar, Off-Piste Speakeasy bar, Christmas market and Christmas cocktail cinema experience. So you can watch a Christmas favourite (from Love Actually to Die Hard), have a ‘tis the season sixcourse meal or warming tartiflette and glide along the ice in the shadow of the dock’s tall ships. www.tobaccodocklondon.com/skylight

D.R. BOYSEN

R O YA L VO LUNTARY SERV ICE This charity has partnered with NHS England to deliver the Volunteer Responders programme who are looking for Kensington volunteers, an initiative launched to help those isolated throughout the pandemic. Volunteers carry out non-clinical tasks: delivering shopping, providing transport and running a chat service to combat loneliness. They also support local hospitals and GP practices.

Anyone wanting to apply can do so via the NHS Volunteer Responders website – follow the ‘I want to Volunteer’ tab. www.goodsamapp.org/NHS

© CATRIO NA O ’CO NNO R

A RT WE EK A mural has been unveiled on Freston Road, West London as part of this year’s Kensington + Chelsea Art Week. It was decided by public vote and has been created by two local artists on a hoarding where it will stay until Christmas. Curator Bolanle Tajudeen worked with Linett Kamala and Azarra Amoy who created the design for Mural #4 in response to Black Lives Matter and as part of Black History Month. The mural acknowledges local heritage and history, and social justice issues of female empowerment and racial representation. www.kcaw.co.uk

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BA RC H ETTA’S S1 P ROJEC T SPYD ER Luxury Italian coachbuilder ARES will produce a limited-edition run of 24 S1 Project Spyder sports cars. For the ultimate driving experience, the company’s Centro Stile designed two wind deflectors. Elegantly emerging from the streamlined bodywork, these redirect the air current over the passengers into air intakes behind the headrests. Under the handcrafted carbon fiber bodywork, the car houses a naturally aspirated V8 powerplant. With a maximum of 8,800rpm the powerful acceleration will produce an anticipated 0-100kph in 2.7 seconds. www.aresdesign.com

N O B U HO TEL LO NDO N PO RTMAN SQUARE This new Nobu outpost will be the new home for the flagship Berkeley Street restaurant – a staple in London for 15 years. Located in Marylebone, the hotel has 249 guest rooms and suites, a world-class restaurant, ballroom and meeting spaces – all conceptualised by London design firm David Collins Studio with Make Architects. It’s just steps away from Marylebone’s independent boutiques and moments from Oxford Street and Regent Street, and Mayfair’s cosmopolitan restaurants. www.london-portman.nobuhotels.com

GET YOUR KX KX is London’s leading luxury lifestyle and wellness destination, with a club, gym, spa (open to non-members) and restaurant all under one roof. Head chef William Best, formerly of the Ritz, is an exciting addition to the revamped club, and we’re looking forward to getting our greedy mitts on his hero dishes: the katsu sandwich, mushroom broth and poached lobster and mango salad. William joined the KX team earlier this year and has brought life to the menu with healthy but tasty dishes, with a focus on Brit suppliers: the wagyu is from Sussex, the pork from the Cotswolds and Natoora has provided the vegetables. www.kxlife.co.uk

WILD RAD ISH Wild Radish is a chef-led subscription service from culinary stars such as Phillip Howard, Alyn Williams and Marianna Leivaditaki. The recipe boxes give home cooks access to unique dishes and tips, and chefs have created meals that showcase great seasonal ingredients, providing easy-to-follow recipes. Boxes are delivered weekly and contain all ingredients from the chefs’ own suppliers.

Each box comes with a surprise (such as fresh bread or artisanal chocolate) and a bottle of matched wine for the food they are cooking, or they can be bought without. www.wild-radish.co.uk

RH L ON D ON RH London is Richy Hair’s new flagship salon in Knightsbridge, London – the ultimate destination for anyone looking to achieve A-list hair. The luxurious new space is nestled in the quiet yet eclectic boutique shopping destination of Walton Street and is the Royal Borough’s latest go-to destination for a top-drawer blow-dry, the latest colour techniques to enhance natural tones or a full transformation to achieve volume and length with the specialist premium extension service. www.rh-london.com

THE SN OW L EOPARD

D ESIGN ER EXC H A N GE Give the gift of sustainable style this Christmas with Designer Exchange’s pre-loved big-label wares. Their focus is on reusing, recycling and regenerating throughout their seven boutiques, including two in the Borough, and an online store. You might find a Chanel bag, Burberry trench coat or Alexander McQueen sunglasses (there are more than 100 brands to choose from), and all items will have been sanitised and well cared for.

And, if you’re feeling giving, you can sell or exchange your own designer items too. www.uk.designerexchange.com

CO L L EC TION Fenella Smith’s beautiful new veganleather collection is helping to support endangered snow leopards. It’s an ideal gift for those with an eco conscience, as all pieces are sustainably sourced, vegan certified by the Vegetarian Society, and created by a climate-positive company through Offset Earth. The tropical print will look stylish on your travels and the collection includes pouches, wash bags and make-up bags priced from £17 to £24 and a special-edition tote bag for £75. And five to 10 per cent of the profits go towards the WWF’s snow-leopardconservation efforts. https://fenellasmith.com/collections/wwf

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HEAD OF THE BOARD SARAH RO DRIG UES G E TS SO ME IN SIGH T IN TO ON E OF TH E WORL D ’S MOST EN L IGH TEN ED E DUCATIO NAL E STABLISH MEN TS, TH E IN STITU T AU F D EM ROSEN BERG.

‘ENRICHMENT ACTIVITIES ARE NO It’s been a challenging year in a number of ways, but schools are an area on which particular attention has been focused.

The education system has attracted criticism, T-Levels are being introduced, the future of exams is in the balance and the government has voiced recognition of the fact that traditional focus on higher education has probably led to the neglect of further education.

At the Institut auf dem Rosenberg, in St. Gallen, Switzerland, educational stereotypes are being challenged, thanks to the pioneering of its ‘Talent and Enrichment Programme’, which is aimed at giving students an insight into a highly-digitised and rapidly evolving workplace. Recognising that skills beyond those gained in the traditional classroom are necessary to survive and thrive in the modern world, the school offers students a unique opportunity to learn skills that will equip them for the 21st century.

For more than 130 years – and over four generations of the Gademann family – this boutique establishment has offered an unparalleled learning environment that promotes individuality, fosters natural curiosity and enables academic achievement. Its successful combination of holistic, entrepreneurial and creative approaches to education – plus the fact that it offers over 40 courses outside of the core academic curriculum – has made it one of the best international boarding schools in the world.

Even before you delve into its educational offering, Rosenberg is an aesthete’s treat, with its fairy-tale position high on a hill, overlooking St Gallen in the German-speaking part of Switzerland.

Located less than an hour away from Zurich Airport, the campus is set in a 100,000sq m of private parkland, with teaching and boarding-school facilities accommodated in 16 carefully restored and beautifully maintained Art Nouveau villas, where cherry hardwood floors and marble bathrooms are part of the decor.

Across the campus, facilities include latest-generation smartboards, plus recreational and dedicated sports facilities, including a 400sq m Golf Training Facility, featuring a professional multi-hole putting green.

Work experience gets a serious upgrade at Institut auf dem Rosenberg, Pupils have the opportunity to debate at the Model United Nations, alongside students from leading universities such as ETH in Zürich and Oxford University. They can work at Switzerland’s leading hotel the Chedi Andermatt or experience blockchain technologies at the in-house, Google-

NEW PHENOMENON – BUT INSTEAD OF BEING SOMETHING ‘OPTIONAL’, OR AN ADDITIONAL OFFERING OUTSIDE OF THE CLASSROOM, THESE FORM THE CORE OF ROSENBERG’S EDUCATION.’

style, Creative Lab. Cultural explorations of Europe also up the ante on the standard school trip, while, additionally, pupils have the opportunity to immerse themselves and enrich their capacity for creative thinking, with workshops hosting guest speakers from around the world, and leading professors from universities as elite as Harvard.

If it sounds light years away from the British education system, with its closure debates, funding rows and school meal controversies, then that’s due, in part, to headmaster Bernhard Gademann and his refreshingly unorthodox approach.

‘Schools kill creativity instead of enabling it,’ he says. ‘In a world in which artificial intelligence has an increasingly prominent role, the last human bastion is our ingenious minds and our unique ability to collaborate. Yet schools do not adapt quickly enough, with teaching styles and content remaining almost unchanged for the past 120 years. We challenge this stereotype and refuse to run an educational establishment like a factory line. Our unique Talent and Enrichment Programme offers a completely new perspective, preparing the first truly enlightened generation for leadership in an exciting new world.’

Enrichment activities are, of course, no new phenomenon – but

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instead of being something ‘optional’, or an additional offering outside of the classroom, these form the core of Rosenberg’s education. Instead of being seen as ‘extra-curricular,’ they are seen as ‘co-curricular’ – a simple change of prefix that fluently communicates the importance the school places on providing a broad, balanced education and on educating students in opportunities and in life, as opposed to a narrow focus on academia.

Thanks to the diverse range of activities to which students are exposed, they’re able to gain awareness of their own potential, while learning respect of other views and the need to compromise where necessary.

This wide variety of experiences and activities that take place outside the classroom provides an ideal platform for students to acquire important ‘life tools’ such as creativity, adaptability and perseverance. The mix of co-curricular activities is designed to instil a sense of adventure, to encourage the students’ natural curiosity and to inspire a desire for knowledge.

Catering for ages six to 19, Rosenberg is home to 230 pupils of 47 different nationalities, who communicate in several languages, creating a truly international, multilingual environment.

Furthermore, the staff to student ratio is 3:1; this, with an average class size of eight students, ensures that everyone receives individual attention and boosts students’ prospects of attaining excellent academic results. Additionally, Rosenberg offers its pupils an Individual Development Plan, which ensures that pupils of all ages receive personal guidance to nurture their unique talents, with tailored identification, planning and support.

According to Gademann, ‘Our teams are true artisans of education who apply their experience, skills and attention to detail in order to enable each pupil in our care to reach their full potential. We are not a boarding school in a traditional sense, but a unique and holistic learning environment that is well beyond what other schools offer.’ That’s not to imply that academia is in any way neglected, of course: Rosenberg’s broad range of courses is unparalleled throughout the world. Five different options are available to students, including British GCE Advanced Levels (A Levels), the American High School Diploma, AP Examinations, the IB DP (International Baccalaureate) as well as the GIB (German International Baccalaureate).

The programme offers over 40 courses in a diverse array of fields including product design, biotechnology,

hotel management, digital art, international law and artificial intelligence to name a few. The school collaborates with some of the world’s leading organisations and industry experts to ensure relevant, upto-date content. The school’s first-of-itskind Creative Lab merges the academic world with future technologies and gives students the chance to explore and apply skills in project-based work in areas such as artificial intelligence, robotics, fast prototyping and product design.

According to Gademann, ‘The disconnect between skills taught in traditional schools and the requirements to succeed in the professional world has never been this extensive. With change taking an exponential trajectory, this gap will only grow bigger. Rosenberg Talent and Enrichment bridges this rift by merging the academic world with the learning requirements of the 21st Century.’

Physical activity – so necessary for the fitness, mental health and general wellbeing of young people – is catered to by a rich sports programme, which offers over 30 different activities, including skiing, horse-riding, climbing, fencing and football. All of these are delivered by professional instructors, with students expected to complete at least one cocurricular course and one sport option a term. A summer camp is also offered for children and young adults with a wide range of programmes, during the school holidays.

Institut auf dem Rosenberg’s former students include Nobel Prize Winner and Rosenberg Alumnus Mario J. Molina, as well as international politicians, global business leaders and members of royal families and imperial dynasties.

The average overall cost for a year at the school is CHF120,000 to 130,000, consisting of a base fee as well as individual fees. www.instrosenberg.ch

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BIRCH: A NON-STOP FESTIVAL ON THE OUTSKIRTS OF LONDON EMILY W ILLI A M S TR I ES HER HA ND AT G L ASSBL O W I N G , AU T U MN AL W RE AT H -MAK I N G AND PO TTERY, A ND DELVES I NTO TH E SE ASO N AL TAST I N G ME N U AT C H E SH U N T ’ S N E X TGENERATION HOTEL. millennial Hogwarts. In fact, prior to its use as a post-wartime school, this picturesque property was owned by an eccentric American socialite, Lady Valerie Meux, who bought elephants, ostriches and emus as pets and installed an indoor roller-skating rink just for fun. Her flamboyant party pad sounds as though it would fit the bill for a JK Rowling novel, although only pigs and chickens roam the 55 acres today.

Passing the regal pillars and lioness sculptures at the porch of the mansion, I stepped through the door framed by lavish terracotta velvet curtains and marvelled at the staircase that’s become a hit on Instagram feeds across the country.

There’s just something so perfectly ‘undone’ about the way its dishevelled stone steps contrast against the polished walnut handrail and intricate mosaic floors. Architects from Red Deer have played with bold colour and minimalism to breathe new life into the 18thcentury building, while staying true to its origins. Even as I wandered into the electricblue hallway with its suspended lunar lamp, the lofty ceilings seemed to stretch my imagination and create room for new ideas.

But upstairs in the sleeping quarters, the rooms tell a simpler story. All 140 ensuite rooms feature earthy jute carpets, breezy linen curtains and quirky valet stands crafted by local designers using recycled materials.

© STEVE WOOD

Opening a brand new hotel is no easy feat in the middle of a pandemic, but Chris Penn (former Managing Director of Ace Hotel London) and serial entrepreneur Chris King were right on cue when they opened their latest ‘staycation’ sensation in Hertfordshire.

Birch is a co-working hub slash members’ club that makes a refreshing antidote for weary Londoners who’ve had their holiday plans scrapped by Covid-19. Located just outside of the M25, Birch is a respite from urban living without the hassle of travelling too far out of town.

Named after the What3Words system, where every three-metre square of the world map is given a unique trio of words, Birch ‘handle.silk.comet’ is a short taxi drive away from Cheshunt Station. After one mention of the hotel, my driver nodded as though I’d whispered a secret password and whisked me away towards this curious colony out of sight from the main road. Bemused by Birch’s sudden popularity, he revealed en route that it was once his grandma’s school and is now the up-and-coming spot in the area. Families, couples, solo travellers and friends had been flocking in since its official launch in August.

As we cruised along the sweeping drive, the imposing red-brick Georgian manor came into view and it felt like the closest I’d get to starting my first term at

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Every nook of the place is curated with care, and I also admired the lack of in-room TVs to encourage guests to immerse themselves in the festival-like programme of events. In its place was the gentle babble of an oldschool Roberts radio, that reminded me of waking up on wholesome weekends at my family home.

Within an hour of arrival, I was already knee-deep into my activity schedule, starting with a thrilling glassblowing session with Gather Glass. The two trained experts made me feel safe, even when stepping close to the 1,100-degree furnace and manipulating the molten glass with iron tools. The finished result was impressive – a speckled glass tumbler that looked like one I’d just picked up from an artisan homeware store.

Next up was my first gong-bath experience with the free-spirited yogi Melanie Fismer. I had no idea what to expect but arriving with an open mind was key. I lay down on a mat next to my classmates and was handed a soft blanket and a fragrant lavender eye mask. Before I knew it I was drifting off to the reverberating sounds of a planetary gong, rainmakers and celestial Koshi chimes. Basking in the soundwaves had a mesmerising effect and I awoke in a blissful haze.

The best thing about Birch is that your time here is what you make of it. You can have a non-stop weekend kneading bread in the bakery, blasting out a high-intensity fitness session, or roaming the estate with Farmer Tom to learn about growing your own produce. Equally, your time at Birch can be very relaxed, from reading in the tree hammocks and watching films in the moviescreening room, to huddling around a fire pit with a glass of wine as dusk begins to fall.

As evening drew in, I practically skipped towards the stable block, buzzing after a day exploring Birch’s interactive playground.

Little did I know that the sensory experience was only just getting started. Chefs Robin Gill and Ben Rand, famous for their finedining pursuits at the Dairy, have come together to create a nature-led culinary experience for Birch members and restaurant guests. Known as the ‘Zebra Riding Club’, after the zebra-drawn carriage that used to ride Lady Meux into London, the disused barn has been transformed into a decadent dining space with exposed beams, vintage furniture and a tasting menu that I’m still thinking about.

Gill has worked closely with Farmer Tom’s circular food concept, to celebrate seasonal ingredients, connect with highquality suppliers and return all the nutritious vegetable compost to the pigpen.

Highlights included a warm bowl of heritage grains with tasty eggs from Birch’s rescued

© STEVE WOOD

© ADAM FIRMAN

hens, wild Dorset oysters and delicately wood-fired venison, washed down with a crisp white wine from West Sussex. For the finale, the lemon balm rice-pudding with fig-leaf ice cream was a delicious finish to an already memorable meal.

Over in the main house, Valeries is a laid-back daytime dining alternative, where dishes include brown crab and leeks on toast, bacon braised beans and cheese and marmite scrolls. After a nutritious brunch there, I felt fuelled up and ready to dive into my next class with Florette Flowers, whose sustainable ethos echoes the wider Birch philosophy. Using dried blooms like eucalyptus, pampas, wheat and beech, she taught us how to weave their sturdy stems into the rattan base to create an everlasting autumnal wreath to hang up at home.

Before my afternoon departure, I dipped into the pottery studio for a therapeutic few hours learning coil and pinch-pot techniques, while the ceramicist Bryony Applegate rustled up some clay dog bowls for the four-legged visitors at Birch. There’s simply no end to the fun here, and I could have stayed on for days trying out everything on offer. Birch is a stroke of genius that embraces sustainability, human connectivity and creative collaboration. It’s as much an escape from the city as it is for the mind, which is needed more than ever in a year like 2020.

Double Rooms start from £150. Book Friday and Saturday and get Sunday free.

Memberships are available with a £200 joining fee and then a monthly fee of £120.

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KENSINGTON & CHELSEA REVIEW

TAKING FLIGHT MARK HARVEY’S NEW COLLECTION OF FINE-ART PHOTOGRAPHS PRESENTS A SENSE OF HOPE AND FREEDOM IN THE MIDST OF LOCKDOWN. THE CULTURE TEAM EXPLORES THE BEAUTIFUL NEW SERIES, ENTITLED ‘IN-FLIGHT’ If you had one superpower, what would it be? Invisibility? The ability to stop time?

To be able to fly?

Right now, the freedom to fly would be top of many people’s lists. Not just the getting-on-a-plane, in-flight cocktail type of flying – although a holiday without enforced quarantines would be a luxury – but the ability to soar, dive and swoop through our daily lives.To have that freedom – now that would be a superpower.

‘Twitching’ has never enjoyed the sexiest of reputations. But as we spend more time alone, and as the undeniable allure of nature’s open spaces increases week on week, our fascination with birds, and their beautiful, mysterious, uninhibited lives, has grown strong. Between late March and early August, the RSPB (the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds) reported a 69 per cent increase in website traffic compared with the same period last year; sales of bird feeders on the RSPB website nearly trebled, and sales of bird seed rose 86 per cent. Sunflower hearts – a favourite of the colourful goldfinch, woodpeckers and tits of all kinds – were a top seller.

‘In-Flight’, by Mark Harvey, is a new limited-edition print collection featuring detailed studies of everyday free-flying British birds, captured in photography as they go about their everyday lives. The series features breathtaking studies of eight different species of some of Britain’s most common birds, which we all know – yet rarely notice. Photographed in the Norfolk Broads during lockdown earlier this year,

the collection includes magpies, blue tits, starlings, goldfinches, great tits, coal tits, long-tail tits, and green finches.

The collection is, quite simply, stunning, whisking you away to a world without restriction, where the air is clean and where the expansive skies are full of promise.

Recognised as one of the UK’s leading practitioners in equine fine art photography as well as canine portraits, Mark Harvey is an internationally acclaimed animal photographer, and by looking at his work you would imagine him as some sort of animal whisperer. His portraits are true portraits – not just commissioned pictures, but artworks that somehow distil something of a creature’s personality and energy, a skill impossibly difficult even in capturing portraits of people.

Harvey’s reputation for a natural style that avoids the clichéd pose has seen him commissioned by clients as diverse as Juddmonte Farms – for the first ever photographic commission of Frankel, one of the world’s most famous racehorses – as well as documenting the life of the Household Cavalry. He has been commissioned to take portraits for Olympic three-day eventers William Fox-Pitt and Mark King as well as for Grand Prix showjumpers William Funnel and Ellen Whittaker, Dubai’s racehorse-owning ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al-Maktoum, Andrew Llloyd Webber, and even Top Gear presenter Richard Hammond. But during this time of social distancing and isolation, he looked to his garden and his rural

‘SIMILAR IN GRACE TO AERIAL ACROBATS, ALL OF THE BRITISH BIRDS WERE CAPTURED IN MID-FLIGHT USING SLOW, MEDIUM FORMAT WITH A HASSELBLAD CAMERA – THE VERY CAMERA THAT WAS FIRST MANUFACTURED BY DEVOTED BIRDWATCHER VICTOR HASSELBLAD IN THE 1960S TO OPTIMISE HIS BIRD-PHOTOGRAPHY ENDEAVOURS.’

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surroundings for inspiration.

‘There’s no doubt that the pandemic has forced us to adopt a much slower pace of life. Having lived in Norfolk on and off for over 20 years now, I took the opportunity during the spring to spend more time immersed in the wild, while appreciating the nature that is on my doorstep.

Being more closely connected with nature certainly brings a great sense of calm and the closer I looked, the more beauty I saw in these refined animals.’

Mark Harvey

Renowned for his carefully crafted lighting and detailed animal studies, whose trademark style lends a dramatic, almost sculpture-like stillness to his subjects, for this new collection Harvey has taken an unconventional photographic approach.

His signature lighting style, refined through 15 years of working with horses, is now used in a scaled-down version, resembling a set-up more suited to high-end jewellery photography, with the key difference being that the subjects are free-flying wild birds.

Similar in grace to aerial acrobats, all of the British birds were captured in mid-flight using slow, medium format with a Hasselblad camera – the very camera that was first manufactured by devoted birdwatcher Victor Hasselblad in the 1960s to optimise his bird-photography endeavours. This technique meant that only one shot could be taken at each fleeting opportunity but ensured the resulting images could be produced at a breath-taking scale, while revealing the intricate details of each subject.

The prints are available in four limitededition sizes with prices ranging from £700 for a 20” by 20” print to £2,100 for a 50” by 50” version, of which a very limited edition of only 15 prints will be made in total for each artwork. The c-type prints will come complete with a signed, numbered, certificate of authenticity and are created using the traditional method of exposing the paper then sending it through a wet printing process.

‘We have a garden frequented by deer, owls, a great number of amphibians and the smaller garden birds. I’m sure all these animals will become part of future projects.

As we now approach the winter months, my hope is that the new prints/studies from my new collection will provide a welcome addition to people’s homes, connecting them to nature and our often lesser spotted wildlife.’

Prints can be order via www.mark-harvey.com

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CLO CKWISE FROM THE TOP: BLUE TIT, MAGPI E, LONG-TAIL TIT, AND G OLD FIN CH

NEW WAYS OF SEEING Launching a new gallery at any time is a rocky road. Launching a gallery during a pandemic is a whole other story. But Grove Square Galleries did just that, and you can now visit its latest exhibition, ‘The Colour of Abstraction: New Ways of Seeing’.

We spoke with gallery director Serena Dunn on the challenges and rewards of the last few months, and what Grove Square Galleries is planning for 2021.

LAUNCHING DURING A PANDEMIC IS A BOLD MOVE - WHAT HAVE THE CHALLENGES BEEN? Covid-19 has provided a very unique set of challenges. As a new space, however, it is an exciting opportunity to help create the new norm without the baggage of ‘how things have been done in the past’ – we haven’t had to unlearn old habits. Instead, we can creatively work together to forge a new path. Each of our artists has a story that should be heard, and we aim to do that through a dynamic programme of exhibitions and events. While the method of sharing those stories may have changed, our compulsion to do so hasn’t.

The pandemic has caused a significant problem for a lot of artists and we think supporting them is more important than ever.

TELL US A BIT ABOUT YOUR ARTIST ROSTER – WHAT DO YOU LOOK FOR WHEN TAKING ON A NEW ARTIST? Our aim is to champion artists at various stages of their careers. For our emerging and mid-career artists, we pride ourselves on providing them with a safe space for them to discover their full potential and I’m always on hand to facilitate that – whether it is a new idea, opportunities to collaborate or commissions. When looking for new artists, our criteria is simple – artists who have a unique voice, a story to share, and a desire to succeed in a collaborative setting. We are here to support and nurture, as much or as little as each of our individual artists’ needs.

WHAT’S ON NOW AT THE GALLERY? ‘The Colour of Abstraction: New Ways of Seeing’ (10 December 2020 to 22 January 2021) is a showcase of our brilliant roster, with colourful, expressive, abstract works

by Orlanda Broom, Crystal Fischetti, Elena Gual, Harry Rudham and Marc Standing.

Each uses colour as their own distinctive language, but the exhibition is unified in its curation of bright, dynamic and powerfully

gestural work, championing buoyant freedom across the canvas. Part of the title of the show ‘New Ways of Seeing’ is a nod to writer and critic John Berger, who gave us a new perspective on viewing art in his 1972 book ‘Ways of Seeing’.

It is poignant in a Covid world, when more than ever we are taking the time to pause and question. This exhibition aims to reveal much about the world in which we live now and what has changed in our ways of seeing. It’s an invitation to see and know the world differently, like Berger before. As he wrote: ‘This relation between what we see and what we know is never settled.’

WHAT NEXT? Next for Grove Square Galleries is our solo exhibition with Crystal Fischetti, opening in February. ‘Hello Again’ will be an intensely personal series of 36 new works, inspired by transformative events and symbolic of her age – culminating in her 37th Birthday, which falls within the exhibition. Crystal is known for painting her feelings and this beautiful collection is a painterly expression of the ups and downs which have impacted her life and career.

WHAT SHOULD OUR READERS LOOK FOR WHEN BUILDING THEIR OWN COLLECTIONS? Buy what you love. However, it all does come back to the simple question of what a collector or investor is looking for. For example, are they looking for a long-term opportunity to support an artist’s journey as they become more recognised? We’ve found that the shift towards a more digital way of engaging with audiences presents an opportunity to engage with new collectors.

It’s only natural that people have a new appreciation for how art can transform a space and we’re enjoying working with both new and established collectors; sharing our knowledge and passion to help them build their collections.

WHAT DOES A TYPICAL DAY LOOK LIKE FOR YOU? Being a director in a gallery is such a diverse role. It’s a privilege to be working directly with some great contemporary young artists. There is the nitty-gritty of logistics and schedules, of course, but it is wonderful to be in a role where I am speaking with creatives every day, working to foster their development. What’s so exciting about opening a new gallery and especially at this

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time, is that the everyday norms of gallery structures and systems have been turned on their head. This means we have had to be really innovative and much more personal in how we find and show our artists and how we work with our collectors. I am enjoying the challenge and it’s making me much more aware of new ways of doing things.

IF YOU COULD OWN ANY PIECE OF ART, WHAT WOULD IT BE? If money really were no object, my first reaction would certainly be Love Among the Ruins by Edward Burne-Jones – a Pre-Raphaelite masterpiece I saw sold at a Christie’s auction in 2013, breaking three auction records in the process. At the time it achieved the highest price ever for a preRaphaelite work. I took a client to view it in 2013 and instantly fell in love with both the story behind the work and the work itself.

The impact the painting has had on my own journey is particularly important to me and I loved seeing it once again at the exhibition at the Tate in 2018.

WHEN YOU’RE NOT AT THE GALLERY, WHERE WOULD WE FIND YOU? In ‘normal times’, I would spend many evenings at the theatre – my other great passion. Everything from the West End to cabaret, comedy to opera, I. I studied dance and musical theatre from the age of six and joined Italia Conti Associates from 10 to 18 – I even did work experience in the West End in the Costume Department (I laced corsets at Les Misérables and helped some of the most exciting stars of the stage with their quick changes). It’s an experience that will always stay with me. Unfortunately, the pandemic has severely affected the industry – I can’t wait for shows to reopen, so that we can all escape to the theatre once again.

‘The Colour of Abstraction: New Ways of Seeing’ runs from 10 December 2020 to 22 January 2021 at Grove Square Galleries.

For more information visit www.grovesquaregalleries.com

© ELENA GUAL. COURTESY THE ARTIST AND GROVE SQUARE GALLERIES

‘WHEN LOOKING FOR NEW ARTISTS, OUR CRITERIA IS SIMPLE – ARTISTS WHO HAVE A UNIQUE VOICE, A STORY TO SHARE, AND A DESIRE TO SUCCEED IN A COLLABORATIVE SETTING. WE ARE HERE TO SUPPORT AND NURTURE, AS MUCH OR AS LITTLE AS EACH OF OUR INDIVIDUAL ARTISTS' NEEDS.’

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LIFE ON CLOUD TWELVE SID RAGHAVA TALKS TO FOUNDER OF NOTTING HILL CLUB CLOUD TWELVE, JENYA DI PIERRO, WHOSE BRILLIANT TEAM OF EXPERTS ARE SKILLED IN HEALTH AND WELLBEING.

The Ramayana is a Hindu epic which recounts India’s fabled history, underlining the basis of Indian philosophy and spirituality in metered Sanskrit. It tells the story of Lakshmana, Lord Rama’s brother, who is impaled by the demon Meghanada. There’s only one way to bring him back from certain death – the magical herb Sanjeevani – which only grows on Mount Dronagiri in the Himalayas. So, Hanuman, the monkey god, flies north to find it. However, unable to identify the plant, he uproots the entire mountain to take to Lakshmana (a true mountain to Mohammed moment).

Then Ayurvedic expert Sushena uses the precious root to bring Rama’s brother back to life. Apocryphally, ecstasy ensued and Hanuman was hailed as a hero, as was Sushena the herbalist for his botanical know-how. Throughout history we’ve used herbs and roots in soothing treatments, and modern medicine makes extensive use of plant-based knowledge to achieve high standards of care.

The past decade has also seen a sea change in attitudes, with throes of people preferring to live a holistic lifestyle and embrace a more natural way of living and eating. We are increasingly convinced that our physiological and mental health can be improved with a diet and lifestyle centred around adroit use of herbs and flowers coupled with our usual focus on nutrition and fitness,

A herbalist is someone who employs their botanical knowledge to energise and complement one’s physical, mental and spiritual health. Jenya Di Pierro is one! She is also the founder of Cloud Twelve, a unique wellness club in Notting Hill. The lifestyle retreat houses a bevy of treats for all of the family: a crèche, salon, spa, a wonderfully quaint-yet-ultra-stylish eatery and a staggeringly effective wellness clinic – all on a charming mews street set away from the bustle of Notting Hill’s markets and trendy thoroughfares.

Jenya has meticulously introduced different aspects of health, beauty, wellness, childcare and delicious healthy food into a cosy and dynamic lifestyle hub. And she happens to be a keen herbalist too…

Here is a summary of the tiered delight that is Cloud Twelve.

The ground floor is a delight for children and families, with a magical forest-themed playzone, various arts, music and ballet classes and a crèche. The spa, hair salon and organic brasserie occupy the second floor while the wellness clinic completes the pyramid on the third. In a nutshell, their philosophy dictates achieving emotional, mental and physical balance while cherishing togetherness, achieving inner and outer beauty, promoting curiosity and creativity in children and conscious living. Above all, Cloud Twelve is about love: loving life, each other and most importantly yourself.

We urge our readers in the Royal Borough to try out this

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wonderful haven for a holistic reboot especially after the collective travails endured by one and all in 2020. There’s acupuncture from the likes of famed practitioner Ross Barr; a salon with a nail bar; the nutritionally sound brasserie and bar (the vegan cakes are to die for); a superlative spa, complete with a Himalayan Salt Room and a dedicated massage area, plus talks on nutrition, IV infusions, colonic irrigation and cryotherapy – you name it, they likely have it here. When I spoke to Jenya about the vision behind her outstanding project, I wanted to know what inspired her personal mission to promote herbal remedies. We discussed that and other aspects of her life and philosophy over several sessions of coffee and cake in the brasserie. I also experienced the power of botanics and herbal therapy first hand, after a lengthy course that followed from diligent know-your-patient sessions.

When asked why we should all be consulting a herbalist, Jenya’s passion borders on philanthropic zeal. Yes, it’s a business but there is a degree of determined earnestness, to share these ideas with her patrons, friends and family. The sincerity and generosity of her spirit shines through. ‘Chronic diseases that people endure are not simple. The problem is always much broader, including lifestyle and diet. We need to go deeper and investigate the root cause beneath the manifestation. Nutrition and herbal medication go hand-in-hand and that dawned on me instantly, much like a personal epiphany, when I first started my herbal education’, she declares. Back then she was a busy finance professional deep into asset management. She loved it, but once she started weekend courses exploring her passion for naturopathy, she knew her calling probably lay elsewhere. She finally decided to take the plunge and soon she was at the helm of a busy startup. The stress and rigour of juggling a busy finance job with other pursuits finally wore her down. So she chose the holistic path.

‘Herbalism is the future’, she declares, immaculately dressed in a green velvet dress and flashing her omnipresent, elfin smile.

‘Wellbeing is the cornerstone of my philosophy, and all natural medicine and therapies – colon therapy, aromatherapy, acupuncture – when used together, apposite to the subject, lead to all-round holistic health. Social wellbeing and meaningful social interaction are keys to unlocking that state of holistic nirvana and achieving or getting close to that state of balance is the idea behind Cloud Twelve’. It’s obvious that a healthy balance in life is the ultimate and most important goal. Hence the beauty salon, crèche, spa, herbal outpost, cakes and wine. Yes, wine. Wellness in every way.

Jenya’s husband is an IT and social-media professional who puts his Italian heritage to good use by selecting some of the

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choicest wines for the C12 brasserie – all vegan of course. Quality is paramount and these organic wines don’t disappoint. Try the English Sparkling for instance, ‘Some of the best in the stable’, Jenya says.

I couldn’t agree more – I’ve been a fan of bubbly from Blighty for a while now. It’s refreshing to see a couple who are so fastidious about the quality of the wines they serve, championing indigenous sparkling over prosecco and champagne.

‘Our business is completely vegan and we’re very proud of it. Living ethically and sustainably is a journey, one that I chose to embark on, and sharing it with the world is a privilege.

Natural medicine can help ease pressure on the NHS and people need to start considering a herbalist to bring a balance to their lives and enable a healthy lifestyle based on precautionary defense’.

A personal encounter with appendicitis around Christmas last year has made Jenya even more convinced of this need. ‘Not many people know what a herbalist does. Nutritionists are in the limelight but it’s different for us. It’s all word of mouth for now. Plant-based medicine is the past and the future and people should Google herbalists and seek them out for their own good’. I should know – I can firmly attest to the efficacy of plant-based remedies. On my latest trip to Cloud Twelve, I had feasted on a gorgeous vegan cake before picking up my latest round of tinctures and herbal powders – a customised therapy which has been working wonders on my digestion for the last three months. Thank you Jenya! My gut health has definitely improved and balance seems to have been restored.

I am hooked on your potions, powders and tinctures, naturally. www.cloudtwelve.co.uk Sid Raghava enjoyed the Cloud Twelve Signature DeepRelief, CBD-Oil Massage, which soothes the body, mind and soul. Cloud Twelve uses an organic and superior grade of CBD oil, which has been through many clinical trials.

Known for its myriad of health benefits, including pain relief, reducing inflammation and speeding up the healing process, CBD oil allows the therapists to work muscles on a deeper level, as well as aiding overall stress and anxiety. Combining deep-tissue and aromatherapy massage techniques, this is the perfect choice for anyone with aches and pains that require specific attention, as well as to help balance body and mind. Kloris CBD, creators of broad-spectrum and organic CBD oils and balms partnered with Cloud Twelve for the Deep-Relief Massage. www.kloriscbd.com

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AN INTUITIVE SPELL AT THE WELLNESS FOUNDRY IN UNPR ECEDENTED TI M ES , S ID R A G H AVA I N V E ST I G AT E S H I S F O RT U N E S… The Wellness Foundry, London is led by Fiongal Greenlaw, a tarot reader, psychic artist and spiritual adviser. His mission is to make intuitive practices available to all, for he believes it is the greatest path to healing, clarity and growth. He states, ‘I (want) to help others find the answers, reassurance and healing they need in their lives.’

Having worked as a fashion designer for over eight years, heading up design houses in London and overseas, his health, both mental and physical, suffered drastically as a result of the stressful reality that is the fashion world and he hit a crisis point.

Fiongal hit a new low and was hospitalised for five days.

Weirdly enough, the symptoms couldn’t be diagnosed by doctors nor treated by conventional medicine.

Desperate for an alternative result, he began a quest to find a solution to his condition. Fiongal started with acupuncture and then progressed further to discovering reiki and yoga, and soon enough he was firmly on the path to further spiritual and psychic exploration. ‘The relief I felt from these practices was so great, and my transformation so complete, I was driven to share these discoveries with others’. Since then, Fiongal and the Wellness Foundry have treated hundreds of clients, offering tarot readings, past-life regressions and intuitive guidance. In addition, they run several Intuitive Development Groups, as well other sold-out workshops, masterclasses, retreats and events. Fiongal says, ‘I now finally feel as though I have aligned with my life’s purpose: to help others on their journey. Here I welcome people who seek a more enlightened path to recovery and healing.’

So give your near and dear ones the gift of a tarot reading with the highly-acclaimed Fiongal Greenlaw; it’s the ideal gift for someone who’s looking for spiritual guidance, clarity of mind and assurance. It might just inspire and encourage them for 2021 and we sure can do with some of that. Fiongal is a tarot master, psychic artist and spiritual adviser. His mission is to make intuitive practises available to all, for he believes it is the greatest path to healing, clarity and growth. The reading will offer guidance and leave you feeling enlightened and inspired as you continue on your path to recovery and healing during these uncertain times.

Fiongal also offers guide readings, spirit portraits and past-life regression. To book simply visit www.wellnessfoundry.co.uk to redeem the sitting at any time that suits best.

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THE KARL LAGERFELD OF HIGH-END AUDIO S ID R A GHAVA TA LKS TO T H E H E AD ( AN D E ARS) O F ABSO L U T E SO U N D S…

In 1977 Ricardo Frannasovici started Absolute Sounds – a high-end audio consultants, importers and distrubutors which intended to bring esoteric listening pleasures to the UK public. Having been involved in the music industry for a while, working for record labels, promoting concerts and managing bands, he always exhibited a tendency to consume music in the purest way – wherein one could experience live sound. He was always ‘the eccentric’ because he’d never test white labels on ‘ordinary’ audio gear.

Esoteric audio equipment was his calling and Absolute Sounds emerged from his obsession with high-end music equipment.

Absolute Sounds philosophy is simple. Ricardo informs us ‘High-end audio is about extinguishing the layers that ‘bad’ electronic companies have put between the music signal and the speakers, so you get closer to the sound of a live musical performance.’ Minus the electronic noise, your brain relaxes and the experience is instantly more pleasurable. The scale, the detail, the energy: high-end audio equipment is a conduit to bring you closer to the music in every possible way. Frannasovici wants us to step back and analyse our consumption of music. Music excites the brain in the same way as drugs and alcohol and sex. In that sense, music is the best addiction to have, with the unbeatable advantage of minimal toxicity. However, we do have ‘bad’ music out there, such as that consumed on streaming services like Spotify, which actually can stress people out. It does not incite relaxation in the way that it should. The beauty of music is being that veritable form of relaxation reachable at the drop of a hat. It’s that spiritual connection that we have with music that makes it such a unique commodity.

To achieve that perfect sound system, Absolute Sounds chooses equipment from all over the world. Ricardo says, ‘Most equipment suffers from ‘electronicity’, the veil that masks the music and takes the natural flavours and true soul out from the end product. People who are after a great sensation, similar to driving fast cars or eating a great meal in a Michelin-starred restaurant, are looking for a great musical experience out of their equipment.

Delivering a great sound system in a home is one of the greatest achievements of my life as MD of Absolute Sounds. People can reward themselves with one of our systems if they love music. If they don’t love music, we have nothing to offer.’

However, being a music lover is enough of a requirement to be an Absolute Sounds customer. You don’t necessarily have to have a refined ear. That’s a restriction you put on yourself.

Ricardo harks back to a time when he asked a cab driver to assist him with his luggage, and having a particularly good system on hand at that point, decided to give the cabbie a taste of some premium sounds. He left the premises more than overwhelmed and that is the beauty of a high-end audio unit. It delivers your beloved music in its purest form. In this respect, Ricardo compares experiencing an Absolute Sounds system to experiencing a great bottle of wine or a premium cigar rather than driving an exclusive car or buying an expensive watch. The latter he believes are more thrill-seeking pursuits in line with acquiring status symbols. ‘I don’t know much about cigars but somebody lighting a £5,000 Davidoff and relishing it is an experience that I equate to our systems. It is a totally different type of consumption bereft of that urge to show off.’ In that regard, he warns us to never buy equipment based on price.

For £10,000 you can get an absolutely good sounds system.

However, it’s not about the cost of the system – it’s about attaining maximum quality for consumption.

So the next step is how do Kensington & Chelsea Review readers avail of the Absolute Sounds experience? Put in an enquiry over the phone or online. They will then initiate contact with the customer and ask them for some basic facts, such as their favourite genres of music, and listening tastes and habits. They can then opt for an in-studio demonstration at Absolute Sounds’ Wimbledon premises or go for an in-home test. In these restricted times of Covid-19, Ricardo’s team comply with all rules and regulations and

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make sure safety is prioritised first and foremost. In regards to the global pandemic, Ricardo says, ‘The space you used to retreat to after a hard day of work has taken on a totally new dimension of late. It is the place where you spend most of your time. We are happy to deliver pleasure to the senses in that most precious of spaces.’

At this stage he expounds upon the specialist quality of the manufacturers and producers that he works with. All component suppliers have perfected their respective arts. ‘A master shoemaker doesn’t supply premium tailor-made shirts and suits as well.

All our manufacturers are specialists. We like to see ourselves as master chefs who produce a mix and match of components for best results.’ He mentions a couple of interesting companies such as DarTZeel, the Swiss manufacturer whose volume controls are gleefully referred to as ‘Pleasure Controls’. They obviously take pride in their sonic achievements.

We end the interview with a couple of selections from Ricardo’s vast collection of over 6,000 vinyl records, brimming with rarities and oddities. He proudly displays Mozart A Paris, the rare seven-vinyl box set of Mozart’s complete Parisian compositions. Released in 1956 on the French label Pathé, mostly to a select list of record executives, the vinyl currently sells on Discogs for £7,500.

He also shows off a rare copy of Magic Lantern’s Haymarket Square, something he believes renders a lot of Beatles’ and Rolling Stones’ output to be just plainly pop music. It has been a pleasure talking to Ricardo and following his sonic journey to the pinnacle of highend audio. He is a great admirer of Karl Lagerfeld, the late fashion designer who demonstrated a huge amount of taste and refinement, and that’s how he sees himself in regards to music systems.

The Karl Lagerfeld of high-end audio indeed. ‘When music is good and it sounds good, it leaves a very strong, lasting memory’. www.absolutesounds.com

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‘THE SPACE YOU USED TO RETREAT TO AFTER A HARD DAY OF WORK HAS TAKEN ON A TOTALLY NEW DIMENSION OF LATE. IT IS THE PLACE WHERE YOU SPEND MOST OF YOUR TIME. WE ARE HAPPY TO DELIVER PLEASURE TO THE SENSES IN THAT MOST PRECIOUS OF SPACES.’

VO LUM E FI V E | I S S U E F O U R | FR EE

The Gift Guide 2020 Dear Santa, here’s what we would like this year…

SHOPPING FOR THE HOME

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1 . T I EL L E LO VE LU X U RY

Cream check 100 per cent pure-wool blanket / £115 www.tielleloveluxury.co.uk

2 . K D LO VES

Velvet-trimmed woollen bed runner in navy and fuschia / £175 www.kdloves.com

3 . L EAF EN VY

Plant & Pot gift subscription £35 a month / www.leafenvy.co.uk

4 . AR EN A F L O WER S

Ethical flower-subscription service From £15 a box www.arenaflowers.com

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5 . P I G LET

Blueberry bedtime bundle / £261 www.pigletinbed.com

6 . I FI AU R O R A

Wireless sound system / £1,399 www.harrods.com

7 . MO N O WAR E

Stoneware Pitcher £50 / www.monoware.com

8 . AU D I O LAB

6000A Play wireless audio-streaming player / £799 www.audiolab.co.uk

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SHOPPING FOR HER

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1. ALÖE 100 per cent Crepe de Chine, Jade Green Leaf pyjamas £215 for the set / www.aloeloungewear.com

5. P ESTLE & MORTAR ’S VITAMIN C 2 P HASE SER UM £68 / www.pestleandmortarcosmetics.com/uk

2 . D AV I NES What Bright Colours sustainable gift set (with MINU shampoo and conditioner and IO all-in-one milk) £41.40 / www.davines.com

6. ONE WE MADE EAR LIER Van necklace £75 / www.onewemadeearlier.com

3 . A E SO P Gift kit with a biodegradable case and a QR to download a work of literature, The Metaphysical Voyager kit £123 / www.aesop.com/uk 4 . N A D YA SHA H Allegra Rose cape £1,250 / www.nadyashah.com

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7. CLIVE CHR ISTIAN Crab-Apple Blossom pure perfume £325 for 50ml / www.clivechristian.com and www.harrods.com 8. TATA HAR P ER Restorative eye cream (£91) and purifying cleanser (£66) www.tataharperskincare.com 9. R EFOR MATION Kora dress / £265 www.thereformation.com

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SHOPPING FOR HIM

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1 . C O P E NHA G EN G ROOM ING Beard Growth Kit £69 / www.cphgrooming.com

7. HEIST 2.0 hairdryer (£99) and all-in-one styling set (£60) www.heistof.london

2. VEJA Condor trainers £130 / www.veja-store.com

8. THE SINGLETON OF GLEN OR D DISTILLERY Single-malt Scotch £2,100 / www.malts.com (image by Catherine Humphrey)

3 . V O LT Kensington e-bike £1,659 / www.voltbikes.co.uk

9. FENDER American Professional II Stratocaster guitar From £1,599 / www.shop.fender.com

4 . E L C A M INO Travel bracelets From £21.99 / www.elcaminobracelets.com

10. THE NUE CO. Forest Lungs fragrance supplement £80 / www.thenueco.com

5 . M E T E RS OV-1-B-Connect headphones £349 / www.metersmusic.com

11. DUK E + DEXTER Bespoke hand-painted collection From £245 / www.dukeanddexter.com

6 . B E R L IN AT ONA L Clothing, Ezra Miller t-shirt (£40) and Perks and Mini long-sleeved shirt www.berlin-atonal.com

12. IFI HIP -DAC HEADPHONE AMP LIFIER £149 / www.ifi-audio.com

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SHOPPING FOR KIDS

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1 . L O V E VERY Wooden block set £90 / www.lovevery.com

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2 . C A M CA M COPENHA G EN GOTS organic Flora doll £45 / www.camcamcopenhagen.com 3 . SN O OBEA R White-noise machine for babies £59.95 / www.happiestbaby.com 4 . R E F O RM AT ION Little Ref Abbie dress £74 / www.thereformation.com 5 . M E R RYT HOUG HT X M ULBERRY LIM IT E D E D I T I O N T EDDY BEA RS £155 / www.mulberry.co.uk

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SHOPPING STOCKING FILLERS

1. LADUR ÉE Limited-edition Christmas collection by - Michelin-star-holding chef Jean François Piège From £19.50 / www.laduree.co.uk 2. P UR DY & FIGG Set of three 50ml bottles of artisanal hand sanitiser (in Wild Woody, Original and Charlotte’s Floral fragrances £19.99 / www.purdyandfigg.com 3. 2204 HEART-WAR MED OUD CANDLE £19.99 / www.2204candles.com 4. LG XBOOM Go PL2 Portable Bluetooth Speaker £49 / www.amazon.co.uk and www.ao.com

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KENSINGTON & CHELSEA REVIEW

FOOD & DRINK GUIDE

DRINK & BE MERRY HE RE ’ S T HE K CR TEA M’ S P I C K F O R F EST I V E SP I R I TS… REDBR EAST 12-YEAR -OLD IR ISH WHISK EY Matured in a combination of bourbon-seasoned American oak barrels and Oloroso sherryseasoned Spanish oak butts, this makes a rich Christmassy tipple. £49 / www.redbreastwhiskey.com ROCK R OSE GIN WINTER EDITION This edition with a festive feel – from craft distillers Dunnet Bay is made using foraged botanicals. Spruce tips add an earthy feel to the original notes. £37.50 / www.dunnetbaydistillers.co.uk SEA AR CH COASTAL JUNIPER AND TONICS GIFT PACK This non-alcoholic gin substitute has coastal notes and Devon character. Distilled from wild seaside herbs, it has flavours of juniper, blood orange and coriander. Enjoy in a ‘Sea & T’ with this gift pack. £19.95 / www.seaarchdrinks.com SWEE TDR AM SMOK ED SPICED R UM This Edinburgh-crafted rum is a heady, aromatic spirit made with Caribbean rums, lush green botanicals, grains of paradise, lapsang souchong and warm-smoked organic figs. £31 / www.rebelliousgoods.com CHRI STMAS IN A BOTTLE COCK TAIL A warming drink that inspires merriness with just a sip. This is infused with seasonal spices for eight weeks and has notes of orange, cinnamon and cardamom. £17 / www.bottlebarandshop.com BELUGA CELEBR ATION VODK A This limited-edition bottling commemorates the 115th anniversary of Siberia’s Mariinsk Distillery, where the vodka is made. The smooth, fullbodied spirit and gold-lacquered bottle makes for excellent seasonal cocktails. £39.99 / www.masterofmalt.com DIPLOMÁTICO R ESERVA EX CLUSIVA Made using molasses in a copper-pot-still before 12 years of aging, this Venezualan rum is one of the best out there. Notes of coffee, chocolate and orange zest make it sippable by itself and you can even have the bottle engraved. £41.95 / www.thewhiskyexchange.com MICHTER ’S US*1 BOUR BON Made in batches of just 20 barrels, this special bourbon is made using high-quality US corn then matured until it has the rich aromas of dried fruits, cinnamon and raisin. £55 / www.waitrose.com MONK EY 47 GIN This gin from Germany’s Black Forest has surprising exotic notes and the unusual addition of lingonberries. It’s name nods to the number of botanicals used, so it’s appealingly aromatic. £46.89 / www.selfridges.com MALFY GIN We miss the Italian riviera, but Malfy gin – made from the finest botanicals, including handpicked juniper, Italian lemons, pink grapefruit and oranges, blended with Italian water – takes us right back there with one sip. Try with tonic or in a refreshing spritz – it’s la dolce vita distilled. £28 a bottle / www.sainsburys.co.uk

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FOOD & DRINK GUIDE

CHRISTMAS DINNER & BEYOND...

THE FI NES T CHRI ST MAS F O O D T O G RAC E YO U R TABL E

© PHILIPPE VAURÈS

P OILÂNE’S® SWEET TR EATS Best known for their sourdough, this much-loved heritage French bakery also does a dine line in stocking stuffers and sugary snacks. Their gingerbread men (£3) are plump, pliant and spicy, and their Christmas brioche (£18.50) is an indulgent and moreish meal-ender www.poilane.com BR INDISA’S SPANISH MEATS The excellent deli and tapas bar have a range of hampers laden with wines, cheeses, fish, meat and high-quality store-cupboard items ferried over from Spain. Our pick is the Charcuterie Box (£70), with ibérico bellota jamon, salchichon and chorizo, wild-boar pâté, sobrasada, bread sticks and caperberries. www.brindisa.com SECR ET SMOK EHOUSE SALMON We’ve been fans of these East London curers and smokers, with an impressive PGI status, for a while now, from the hot-smoked mackerel fillets to their creamy salmon pâté. Their oak-smoked whole V-cut fillet (£72) provides flavourful, allnatural fish for 10 to 12 guests. Or get a pack of salmon slices to upgrade your breakfast for just £13. www.secretsmokehouse.co.uk OUR PICK S FR OM MAR K S & SPENCER ’S CHR ISTMAS R ANGE The food store that continually excels at Christmas offerings, whether you’re passing round their mini battered sausages with a curry dip and chicken-doughnut dippers (oh yes) pre-dinner or pouring an apéritif of their magical light-up Snowglobe gin liqueur.

We also love the deliciously oozy molten mountain-cheese bake and the sod-the-calories triple-chocolate panettone. www.marksandspencer.com OUR P ICK S FR OM THE TESCO CHR ISTMAS R ANGE The supermarket has a wonderful selection this year. Veggies can enjoy a hearty feast with the Plant Chef butternut, mushroom and chestnut wreath; pescetarians can dine on a salmon joint with chestnut and mushroom stuffing with a cranberry glaze; while traditionalists can tuck into an easily carved free-range bronze turkey with a hidden orange centre. www.tesco.com PAX TON & WHITFIELD TR UFFLE CHEESE SELECTION The 200-year-old cheesemonger to royalty has put together a dangerously addictive cheese selection with its truffle-focused pack. Containing Brillat Savarin aux Truffes and Moliterno with truffles accompanied by the perfectly paired truffle honey and a packet of charcoal crackers, it’s outrageously creamy with the perfect sweet and pungent kick. We love it. £45 / www.paxtonandwhitfield.co.uk

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FOOD & DRINK GUIDE

WINTER WINE TIME S PE CI ALLY CURAT E D WI N ES TO A C C O MPA N Y C H R I STMA S FA R E

T HE EMISSARY ASOLO PR OSECCO SUP ER IOR E DOCG BR UT Refined, elegant, vibrant and zesty with a delicious lingering fruit finish. This fine prosecco is the perfect festive tipple and ideal partner for Christmas canapés. £17.99 / www.theemissary.co.uk

CHUR CHILL’S P ORT 10 YEAR S OLD TAWNY Striking a perfect balance between the exuberance of youth and the complexity of age, this moreish tawny has wonderful freshness and depth. Perfect with Christmas cake or a cheeseboard. £25.50 / www.harveynichols.com

DIG BY FINE ENGLISH NV BR UT One of the country’s very best sparkling wines, this elegant fizz is the ideal celebratory tipple. It’s made from pinot noir with rich, aged chardonnay and plummy pinot meunier. £32 / www.armitwines.co.uk

2 0 1 8 ASTR OLABE, K EK ER ENGU COAST SA UVIGNON BLANC A super example of this variety, with lime rind and pink grapefruit, ripe gooseberries, lemongrass and lemon balm. It’s full bodied and has a crisp dry lingering finish. £17.98 / www.armitwines.co.uk

CHAMPAGNE IR R OY EXTR A BR UT NV This very special sparkly from the Marne and Aube regions is a 30 per cent chardonnay, 70 per cent pinot noir and meunier blend.

Crisp, rich and delicious – the ideal festive tipple for welcoming guests. £35.55 / www.thewinereserve.co.uk

2 0 1 4 VINA AR ANA GR AN R ESERVA, LA R IOJA ALTA A wonderful take on Rioja Alta’s traditional style. It’s matured in American oak, racked by hand and by candlelight, followed by three years in bottle. Ideal with roast meats. £35 / www.armitwines.co.uk

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FOOD & DRINK GUIDE

J ENKYN PLA CE BLANC DE BLANCS 2015 A fantastic English wine that’s notched up prestigious awards, including winner of Best English Sparkling Wine at this year’s World Sparkling Wine Awards. £38 / www.jenkynplace.com

VILLA M A RIA R ESERVE WAIR AU VALLEY SA UVIG NON BLANC 2019 A much loved 100 per cent sauvignon blanc classic from Marlborough, New Zealand. Perfect with shellfish, lobster and fresh goat’s cheese starters. £16.15 / www.nzhouseofwine.co.uk

J OSEPH M ELLOT SANCER R E R OSÉ 2019 If you adore Sancerre and a great rosé, this is the wine for you. Made of 100 per cent pinot noir, it’s lively with delightful berry and floral notes and is ideal paired with oriental dishes. £21 / www.northandsouthwines.co.uk

OA ST BROOK ESTATE 2014 SPA RKLING ROSÉ Made from pinot noir and auxerrois grapes, this awardwinning wine is packed with cherry and berry flavours and notes of buttery brioche. Perfect with shellfish and smoked salmon. £38 / www.oastbrook.com

A LEXA NA T ER R OIR SER IES PINOT NOIR This delicious wine from Oregon, USA is bright and fresh with crunchy fruit notes underpinned by oak, giving it real complexity and a juicy finish. Best enjoyed with rich fish or light meat dishes. £30 / www.winebuyers.com

FREREJ EA N F R ÈR ES BLANC DE BLA NCS CHA MPAGNE A champagne from the hills of Côte des Blancs with a bold character – the result of a robust blend of Premier Cru and Grand Cru Chardonnay – ideal for Christmas toasting. £79 a bottle / www.frerejeanfreres.com

BRA NCOT T ESTATE TER R OIR SA UVIG NON BLANC A wine that pairs well with seafood or a cheese plate, this has notes of citrus, nettle and cut grass, laced with a hint of honey, a very complex and layered bouquet. £13.39 / www.tesco.com

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KENSINGTON & CHELSEA REVIEW

NOW OPEN Located in the heart of London’s most prestigious Royal Borough, the newly refurbished Forty Five Kensington offers a dining and gaming experience that sets new standards in style and sophistication.

Sample the delights of our luxurious new restaurant, offering fine dining with an inspiring menu of dishes from around the world. Equally as impressive as the menu is the level of service, with our team of highly trained staff attending to your every need.

After your meal, enjoy a drink in the relaxed surroundings of our elegant bar or experience the excitement of the Kensington Gaming Floor, where you’ll find all your favourite table games and state-of-the-art electronic gaming machines.

Whether you’re a discerning gamer wanting to take your skills to the next level, or simply looking to enjoy an evening of first class dining and entertainment, Forty Five Kensington promises to go above and beyond every expectation.

Open 5pm - 5am, 7 days a week

Restaurant Open 7pm - 1am, Wednesday to Sunday No membership required, over 18s only

Forty Five Kensington, 45 Cromwell Rd, South Kensington, London SW7 2EF

KENSINGTON & CHELSEA REVIEW

+44 (0)20 7589 4041 www.fortyfivekensington.co.uk

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KENSINGTON & CHELSEA REVIEW

BAMBI ON ICE SARA DAR LING TOOK UP THE CHA LL E N G E O F L E ARN I N G T O SK I AS AN A DULT, I N A COM B INATI ON O F BRI T I SH VAN C O U V E R’ S FAIL SAFE S NOW DES TINATI ONS , A ND L I V E D T O T E L L T H E TAL E .

So I’ve made it to the grand old age of 40-something, and have never even tried on salopettes. Never mind a ski boot… I didn’t belong to the tribe that went skiing with school – my family went on a caravan holiday in West Wales.

We didn’t know about snow ploughs, or powder or the joys of après-ski. The closest we got to snow on mountains, was watching the annual James Bond film – and even that didn’t always involve a ski chalet and beautiful snow bunny.

So after years of listening to friends gushing about ‘the slopes, daaaaahling’, and how good it is for the soul, I bit the bullet and enrolled for my first ever ski lesson, in Canada, no less. Even the prep is daunting. I was sent a list of essentials, which, as a beginner, I would never have considered: base layers (basically lots of layers you can remove if you’re really good and get a sweat on), sock layers and thermal socks, waterproof gloves – woollen mittens just won’t cut it – padded bottoms and a warm, snow-proof jacket.

Beginners even need goggles, as attempting to ski without them in a blizzard is asking for trouble.

So, kitted up through the generosity of friends, charity shops and the deepest corners of my wardrobe, I nervously and somewhat excitedly, jetted off to Vancouver. I had, of course, been informed of the joys of après-ski and the promise of hot tubs and saunas to relax my weary limbs, but what I wasn’t expecting was the fierce, biting temperature when I landed. My first night was spent at the luxury Fairmont hotel at Vancouver airport, so I could acclimatise before jetting off to the family-friendly Big White Ski Resort in hip Kelowna. Famous for its ‘snow ghosts’ (created by snow and ice hardening around exposed coniferous trees) as well as its 105k runs, 15 lifts and 118 tracks, it sounded like a well-suited theme park for a novice like me.

As a first-time visitor to any ski resort – to be honest, I have never experienced this abundance of snow – my first impression was

that I had landed in a Disney film on seeing the vista of pure white with several low-rise hotels dotted on the horizon. As well as a village of bars and restaurants and brightly clad snowlovers gliding past, making it seem as easy as walking. This modern, purpose-built ski-in/ski-out accommodation is hugely popular with families and the main street is even a designated ski run.

Checking into my room, I didn’t know what I was more excited about – gearing up into my borrowed sportswear, or opening my free wine. However, a late lunch beckoned, where I experienced my first ever poutine. This delightful dish of chips, cheese curds and gravy is so stuffed with calories that you need to be prepared to work them off. However, I didn’t have any mountain action planned, so took advantage of my loose-fit leggings, while I still could.

I wasn’t the only one who wasn’t whizzing down the mountain that afternoon. I spent 20 minutes rooting for a small child who was navigating an ice wall, all the way to the top.

Not tempted myself, I became obsessed with the tubing slopes – which don’t really take any effort at all. I was even enthusiastic about ice skating.

However, when I realised the rink was extremely, erm, icy (and didn’t have sides), my confidence waned somewhat, and I just managed a few laps before getting too big for my boots and taking a tumble. Thankfully I was going at zero miles an hour, and removed myself in time for warming drinks.

On the day of my ski-school, it was extremely cold. However, I was keen to get out on the slopes and see what all the fuss was about. I was confidently placed in the adult ‘extreme novice’ group, and Sonia, our instructor, took us like lambs to slaughter. I had to undo zips on my layers in order to bend over and attach my boots, which felt very alien – and that’s before the 1.5-metre planks are attached. We didn’t put our skis on until we got to the snow, and even that was a learning

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IMAGES: APEX MOUNTAIN RESORT

curve as we had to get rid of snow that had accumulated on the soles of our boots first. Sonia had the patience of an angel, as my legs could not translate into practice what she was saying; I felt like Bambi slithering around on the ice. There was no question that I was the weakest link in my group of three, as the other (grown-up women) soon managed to control their movements and even come to a halt, while I was stuck at the very first hurdle of standing up.

After several false starts, I tried a gentle incline – being very aware that I should bring my toes together and heels out in order to stop.

But, momentum got the better of me, and I kept sliding and sliding until my body weight got the better of me, and I took another tumble.

This was my first lesson with skis on real snow, so I couldn’t beat myself up too much. The three-hour lessons allowed for plenty of time for hiccups, and by the end I was pretty proud of myself.

I had tentatively ridden the ‘magic carpet’ on several occasions, and skied down the baby slope (all on my own) to a much-improved halt at the bottom. As they say, baby steps are better than a broken ankle, and mastering those pizza toes was enough for one lesson.

My next foray on the slopes was at the laidback Apex Mountain resort, which has a reputation as being popular with the locals.

A buzzing bar, huge dumps of snow and a fairy-tale location up a windy mountain road: it’s just as famous for its snow-shoeing and gun-barrel coffee as its slopes. I felt slightly smug that this was the location for my second lesson. At least if I stacked it here, the scenery was divine.

There was a log fire in the communal lounge, my room was cosy and close to the all important pub and the hub of skiing action.

However, the skiers looked pretty pro, as they zipped on down through the black-diamond trails, from a great distance beyond

my comprehension. Thankfully, my instructor Tania was used to working with newbies, and I had her all to myself, which helped my confidence. Almost second guessing my nerves of losing control, she quite literally held my hands as I tackled my pizza feet with her going down backwards, giving encouragement.

Once I had mastered stopping (which seemed much easier the second time round), the next stage was turning to restrict my speed – a vital skill when hurtling down an icy mountainside.

With Tania’s full attention, I nervously maneuvered left and bent my leg to navigate right without bombing ahead, and then did a swoop to repeat the process. Alas my left leg must be a bit weaker as it was my crux of tumble, but I got back up again and carried on, like a pro. With a very patient instructor, by the end of the lesson, I managed to make it to the bottom of the slope without a hitch, and looking back up, that seemed a very worthy brag. However, this was only a baby slope – I’ll be tackling the blue slopes in no time.

Learning to ski in Canada might have been a bit ambitious, as the ‘powder’ is fluffy and there’s plenty of it. On the other hand, it is also pretty soft to tumble onto – and tumble I did. For complete beginners, I would recommend a few private lessons, just to ask silly questions and get a hand up when you fall. But kids and those who need a bit of practice will love the sociable ski schools.

Off-piste, there’s snowshoeing, tubing, skating, snowmobiling, dog-sledding, horse-drawn sleigh rides and Nordic skiing, as well as the spa and delicious food. Failing that, you could make a very impressive champagne-powder snow angel.

For more information, check out The Big White www.bigwhite.com and Apex Ski www.apexresort.com

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KENSINGTON & CHELSEA REVIEW

PRIDE OF PLACE KR I S TIE S M I T H C H E C K S I N F O R A W I L D N I G H T AT P ORT LYMPN E RE SE RV E ’ S L I O N L O D G E .

It’s hard to believe that sleeping with lions is a possibility, just a 90-minute drive outside of London. Nestled in the heart of the Kent countryside lies Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve, which is home to a rare Barbary lion pride and two immersive lodges in which guests can experience getting close and personal with these magnificent beasts. Barbary lions have been extinct in the wild since 1942 when the last recorded Barbary lion was shot in Morocco, making Port Lympne’s Lion Lodge all the more special.

The first of their kind worldwide, the two Lion Lodges are timber-clad Manhattan loft-style buildings set within the pride’s territory. On arrival at the reserve we were given keys to a buggy belonging to the Jibana Lion Lodge which would be our mode of transport during our stay. As we approached the gated lodge we were eager to discover what was inside and despite knowing exactly what lay beyond the glass, we found ourselves stood speechless as we turned the key to find our window overlooking the entire lion pride basking in the autumnal sunlight.

The lodge’s interior has a safari-esque feel with dark-brown leather furnishings, animal-skin rugs and throws and tribal-like accessories throughout. A roaring fireplace takes centre stage in the open-plan living area but it’s the Attenborough-documentaryesque view beyond the picture window that spans the entire length of the lodge that steals the show.

A striking spiral staircase leads you to a mezzanine where you’ll find two single beds and another picture window – perfect for families with little ones who wish to lay on the floor with their nose pressed up against the glass – while the cosy master bedroom can be found downstairs just beyond the living area.

A highlight of the Lion Lodge is its very own outdoor Scandinavian bath tub positioned just a breath away from the lion pride.

The wood-fired bath tub is a unique experience by itself, made all the more unique by the leader of the pride, Milo, brushing up against the glass as he paces back and forth.

As night fell, we wondered where the lions would go.

The three not-so-little 18-month-old cubs nestled down with their parents right outside our living area window, but not until they’d

had one last bashful run around and excitable release of energy.

The cubs may no longer be small but they are certainly playful.

The protective mother came close to the glass for the first time which felt like she was circling the area to protect her offspring.

Utterly mesmerised, we tore ourselves away from the glass and headed to the reserve’s newest restaurant, the Garden Room, for a dinner to remember.

Reminiscent of a greenhouse, The Garden Room features pitched mirrored ceilings which turn to glass come morning.

The rustic wooden garden-like furniture sits against a redbrick backdrop to create a space that invites the outdoors in.

Beneath stunning chandeliers, we browsed the menu feeling spoilt for choice.

After much decision-making, we chose to order a selection of starters to share between us: Wild Bread sourdough and homemade focaccia served with seaweed butter, cheese croquettes with roast garlic mayonnaise, and sticky sesame pork belly with chilli caramel, kohlrabi remoulade, apple and vanilla purée – the latter of which was the best version of pork belly that I had ever tasted.

For the main course I chose the longland farm chicken which was served with creamed potatoes, sweetcorn, cep purée, girolles and cavolo nero. Each mouthful was as delightful as the one before. My guest had the wild seabass fillet with octopus, smoked pancetta, tomato ragu and saffron aioli which he told me paired perfectly with the white wine that our waitress had recommended.

To finish, we skipped dessert and ordered two espresso martinis before heading back to the lodge in time for the 10pm curfew, eager for our own private showing of The Lion King IRL. Port Lympne Reserve, Aldington Road, Lympne, Hythe CT21 4LR, www.aspinallfoundation.org/port-lympne

‘AS NIGHT FELL, WE WONDERED WHERE THE LIONS WOULD GO. THE THREE NOT-SO-LITTLE 18-MONTH-OLD CUBS NESTLED DOWN WITH THEIR PARENTS RIGHT OUTSIDE OUR LIVING AREA WINDOW, BUT NOT UNTIL THEY’D HAD ONE LAST BASHFUL RUN AROUND AND EXCITABLE RELEASE OF ENERGY.’

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A BLOW-OUT STAY AT BVLGARI KATE W EIR FINDS A CHR IS TM A S S TAYC AT I O N THAT TR ULY S PA R KLES AT THE B ULG ARI HOTEL I N KNIG HTS B R I DGE

KENSINGTON & CHELSEA REVIEW

Once, when staying in Rome, I had a concierge whose attentiveness was such that he ran out to buy me a manicure set when I mentioned a rogue hangnail. He was impeccably tailored and unflaggingly polite, and it wasn’t until I ran into him arriving at work, nearly unrecognisable out of his tailoring, that – while he was still as charming as ever – I realised just how much a hotel’s theatricality elevates our experience. And, if that’s the case, then Knightsbridge’s Bulgari Hotel is a full-throated opera seria.

This isn’t to say it’s flashy – the brand may be best known for their exquisite silversmithing and glinting jewels – but from lobby to bar to suite to ballroom, this elegant outpost in Antonio Citterio’s discreet modern building is gleamingly polished, effortless in its tasteful Italian style and big on the small details. Doormen run to open your cab door, already aware of who you are, staff are quick to reassure you that they’ll fulfil all whims within legality, and in suites you’ll find personalised cards denoting that you’re ‘in residence’, plug sockets in bedside and dresser drawers, every bit of bathroom kit you could possibly need, a pillow menu with an 11-strong selection and so many more above-and-beyond touches.

But, the bigger picture is also as dazzling as Bulgari’s Serpenti bangles. Our Bulgari Suite is about three times the size of my London one-bed. Decked out in sleek woods, dark-chocolate leather and mirrored glass, it’s one of the most opulent places I’ve stayed in throughout my time travel writing. The vast living room has a fireplace, cinematic TV, sprawling Berber rug, and a sofa so deep and embracing just my feet dangle over the edge.

There’s a dressing room which my rucksack looks slightly meagre in, a chandelier-lit dining room set for eight, and a full kitchen with a wine fridge and all you need to entertain. The bedroom has a statement headboard inspired by a brooch design and the bed is dreamily soft. A bathroom – one of two – is lined in black Marquina marble veined with white and has twin sinks, a bath tub and its own steam room. Heaven.

We could have spent all night lording it up in our new digs, and we spent considerable time acquainting ourselves with the full bar’s bounty, getting very cosy on the sofa and conducting our own Zoom cheese and wine tasting – ensuring attendees get a good eyeful of our background. But, we’re also here to try restaurant Sette’s new Aperitivo offering. Sette is the first London outpost from the team behind New York’s Scarpetta, and it has all the buzz of the Big Apple with swish Italian flair. We wash down cicchetti-style plates (petite jamon and manchego sandwiches, saffron-infused vegan arancini) with yuzu- and grapefruit-laced cocktails and are

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then whisked to a leather banquette in the sultrily lit restaurant for parmesan-crusted focaccia, a simple yet spot-on plate of tomato and basil spaghetti (Scarpetta’s signature dish), and a goldfish bowl filled with salted caramel, chocolate biscotti, and hazelnut gelato.

We sleep very soundly after waddling back to our suite and awaken to a breakfast of eggs Benedict and royale and a fruit plate delivered in hush-hush style through the service entrance (yes, we have a service entrance) – finished just in time for my massage in the subterranean spa. The hotel carved out five floors below ground to fit in one of London’s largest pools, a ballroom, cinema, twostorey spa and gym; and in this serene space, I’m offered a fluffy robe, flavoured waters and slippers before being soothed and deknotted with bespoke aromatherapy oil blends and even a calming cream for patches of psoriasis. It’s the first massage I’ve had since last year and I leave floating. Although we’ve been in that floaty state throughout the stay. A feeling we hold on to as we woefully check out and emerge blinking back to Earth into Knightsbridge’s well-heeled streets.

‘WE COULD HAVE SPENT

Bulgari Hotel, 171 Knightsbridge, London SW7 1DW. Bulgari Suites are from £7,500 a night, plus VAT. To book visit: www.bulgarihotels.com

VERY COSY ON THE SOFA

Or book the hotel’s new B.Festive Christmas staycation package, a two-night stay with decadent dinners, a Boxing Day brunch, seasonal treats and even a Christmas stocking.

ALL NIGHT LORDING IT UP IN OUR NEW DIGS, AND WE SPENT CONSIDERABLE TIME ACQUAINTING OURSELVES WITH THE FULL BAR’S BOUNTY, GETTING AND CONDUCTING OUR OWN ZOOM CHEESE

B.Festive is priced from £1,996 for two adults in a Superior Room £2,771 for two adults and a child (under 12) in a Deluxe Room £5,076 for a family of four in a Studio suite connecting with a Deluxe Double room £15,000 for six people in a Bulgari Suite with two superior rooms.

Guests have the option to dine in-suite or at Sette by Scarpetta.

AND WINE TASTING – ENSURING ATTENDEES GET A GOOD EYEFUL OF OUR

10 per cent of proceeds from each staycation will go to the Bulgari Virus Free Fund – a new corporate philanthropy fund to support Oxford University’s world-leading groups working on researching, manufacturing, and testing vaccines.

BACKGROUND.’

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LIME WOOD HOTEL TA NI B UR NS CHECKS I N AT O N E O F T H E U K ’ S PRE MI E R COUNTRY HIDEAWAY S .

Lime Wood is one of those special places where you can either feel like a royalty for a night or really make yourself at home for a week or more. True laidback luxury at its best.

Originally a mediaeval hunting lodge way back in the 13th century, this Georgian New Forest manor was reclaimed for royalty by the Duke of Clarence in the 1740s.

Today, it is a glamorous yet relaxed country house hotel, with everything you could possibly want from a staycation. It makes you forget about travel restrictions to know that such a place exists, with its incredible grounds and gorgeous interiors.

Nothing too overstated, nothing too bling, dining possibilities second to none, staff the perfect levels of ‘at your service’: everything ‘just right’.

A range of rooms and suites are available, with even the simplest having garden and forest views. There are twostorey suites, pavilions with spacious lounges and private terraces, and a sumptuous cabin by the lake with an outdoor bath tub – think Malibu elite meets Donald Judd. We stayed in the gloriously secluded Pavilion Forest Lodge, a tranquil two-storey retreat set a garden stroll away from the main house, with high-domed ceilings, antique furniture, a rolltop bath tub in the bay window as well as a waterfall shower, separate lounge and kitchen, open fires and a private terrace looking right out to the New Forest itself. Here you can make that special someone fall in love with you –

or fall in love with you all over again. This is the place.

For dinner, head to Harnett, Holder & Co., the hotel’s famous restaurant brought to you by Michelin-starred Angela Hartnett and Lime Wood’s head chef, Luke Holder, who plunder their British and Italian heritage for seasonal, local ingredients such as foraged fungi and hand-reared meat, some of which is cured at the onsite Smokehouse.

It is refined comfort food, stylish and full of character yet unpretentious – locally caught game and fish are cooked and served to perfection. Oh, and be sure to check out the Tracy Emin artwork as you wine and dine. We were able to order dessert to be brought to our suite, where we returned to light a fire just in time for our hamper to appear: a selection of ice cream and the most delectable cheese board full of locally produced cheeses, quince jelly and figs.

Wind down in the bath, leave your breakfast request on the door knob and sleep deeply until morning.

Public rooms in the main house are a warren of perfectly designed spaces – some lively and sociable such as the Courtyard Bar, with its expansive glass ceiling and marble bar, others quiet and enticing, like the sumptuously cosy Library Room.

By day the whole place is light-filled and open, an invitation to take a deep breath of that countryside air, with either a walk in the grounds, or a longer journey through the forest. Boots can be borrowed, as can bikes and helmets – and staff will happily provide

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you with either walking or cycling trail routes to guide you.

If rest and relaxation is more your style, make sure you head to the soulsoothing Herb House spa. Due to Covid-19, during our visit the pool could be used on appointment and some facilities were unavailable, however we look forward to the reopening of the mud house, sauna and steam room – all with stunning forest views.

A variety of treatments can be booked, from massages and facials to manis and pedis.

A gym is fitted out with the latest equipment and a range of classes can be attended in the studio. Afterwards, head to Raw & Cured eatery for fresh smoothies, juices and healthy plates. As with the restaurant, Herb House treatments can be booked by nonguests, and if you are lucky enough to live locally, a monthly membership is available.

In the summer, you can surround yourself with the scents of the flowers and herbs growing on the spa roof.

Lime Wood has all the air of aristocracy, but the kind where you are part of it.

It’s home – or at least we wish it were.

Double rooms from £395 a night.

Pavilion One available from £1,250 a night.

MODDERSHALL OAKS COUNTRY SPA MO D D E RSH AL L O AK S C O U N T RY SPA I S A D E L I GH T F U L W O O D L AN D RE T RE AT L O C AT E D I N T H E H E ART OF STAF F O RD SH I RE – PE RF E C T F O R A W E E K E N D E S C A P E F RO M L O N D O N AS I T ’ S J U ST A C O U PL E O F H O URS AWAY.

It’s rightly earning a reputation for being one of the best places to stay and spa in this pretty part of the country, with guests enjoying gourmet lakeside dining, luxury suites and excellent spa facilities and treatments.

Nestled in 72 acres, this five-star venue offers plenty to do during your stay; naturally spending time in the spa will be at the top of the list. Guests can enjoy a large outside heated spa Jacuzzi with poolside service, a tech-free ‘chill area’, relaxation lounge with super comfortable cushioned wicker pods and beds in front of a calming, flickering fire pit – all accompanied by soft mood lighting and peaceful meditation music.

This lovely country retreat also has a heated pool, available to 20 people at a time. If you’re looking to be poolside, you can enjoy ergonomic heated stone beds designed to provide relief and heat to your back. Next to this, the spa offers a hydra pool too, allowing you to enjoy a full wet-room experience whatever the weather.

During your stay, do make the most of the excellent treatments on offer. There’s a great choice, including Elemis facials, deeptissue massages and more. A range of treatments for specific conditions are available too, including those suitable during pregnancy and for cancer patients to provide most welcome relief.

If relaxation is the aim, the last thing you want to do is worry about keeping safe. Rising to the challenges Coronavirus has presented, Moddershall has taken every step to ensure all guests and staff are as protected as possible. They’ve achieved this in a way that doesn’t overwhelm the experience and you are still very much able to enjoy the luxuries on offer. The steam room is still accessible, for example – just by appointment – same for the deluxe sauna where numbers are limited to allow for safe spacing.

Accommodation wise, Moddershall offers 12 luxury boutique suites, all overlooking the wonderful countryside – bringing nature to the forefront of your stay. All are beautifully designed and spacious and furnished with plush fabrics, Elemis bathroom essentials and fluffy robes. As a guest, you are able to access exclusive facilities such as a bookable private hot tub experience with your partner.

In terms of dining, you’ll certainly not be disappointed. The Lakeside Restaurant is the perfect place to relax, enjoy the view and the best in organic, locally sourced and carefully prepared fare.

The menu caters for vegan and vegetarian options too. And why not round off your stay with a luxury afternoon tea, before heading back to London, relaxed and revived.

Moddershall Oaks Country Spa Retreat, Moddershall, Staffordshire, ST15 8TG, www.moddershalloaks.com

SUPER-COOL WELLNESS AT WALDHOTEL SARAH RODRI GUE S F I NDS LOW E R T EMP ER ATU R ES C A N J U ST AS EAS I LY LI F T HE R M OOD ON A DET O XI N G B R EA K I N SWI TZER L A N D .

The words ‘detox’ and ‘retreat’ summon up, in my mind at least, images of sun-washed beaches: restorative yoga, undertaken as the sky is stained pink by evening, deep breathing to the rhythm of waves. In my retreat imaginings, I feel long and limber in leggings and a tank top, my skin gently goldened, my hair pulled casually into a messy and effortless ponytail. My days begin and end in a hammock, draped with mosquito nets, or on bright cushions in a rustic beach shack.

This is all nonsense, of course: a highly idealised version of a situation, and the same kind of fancifulness that occasionally leads me to think that I can learn to speak Mandarin while whipping up a soufflé and conducting an orchestra. Nevertheless, whatever variables there are in my detox vision, (would you prefer the kale juice, or the acai smoothie bowl? A detoxifying mud wrap or a seven-mile hike?) warm weather is always a constant.

So it came as something of a surprise to me, to be scudding across Switzerland’s Lake Lucerne in a catamaran that looked as though it had journeyed from the future to transport me to a wintry detox at Bürgenstock Resort’s Waldhotel. As the biting January wind whipped my hair around my face, on which my uncertain smile felt frozen in place, I huddled further into a bulky mass of coats and scarves, as far removed from the imaginary streamlined version of myself as possible.

Bürgenstock Resort is elevated at 500 metres above the lake; on disembarking from the boat, we were whisked up the dizzyingly steep mountainside by way of a bright red, charmingly vintage funicular. As one of four hotels at the resort, the Waldhotel differs from others in the collection with its rigorous commitment to health – something that is tangibly reflected in the build’s eco-design principles, combining the liberal use of glass and natural materials: the work of renowned architect Matteo Thun.

Inside, the atmosphere is one of Swiss efficiency: it doesn’t so much hold you in a healing embrace as check your vital signs.

It comes as no surprise, then, to learn that the building houses a vast Medi-spa, where treatment rooms, specialists and high-tech machinery exist for the examination and improvement of just about every part of the body. In keeping with this somewhat clinical approach, the rooms are minimal – although the views, over the surrounding valley, more than compensate for their relative severity.

Chef Martin Stein presides over the menu, which features

‘FROM MY ROOM IN THE WALDHOTEL, DISTANT PEAKS ARE CAPPED WITH SNOW, WHILE, IN THE FOREGROUND, LUSH GREEN FARMLAND, DOTTED WITH COWS, LOOKS EXACTLY LIKE A SCENE FROM A CHOCOLATE WRAPPER. FLINGING THE CURTAINS OPEN EACH MORNING AND THROWING MY ARMS WIDE, SOUND OF MUSIC STYLE, IS DAFT, BUT IRRESISTIBLE.’ ‘colour cuisine.’ In any other detox setting, one might assume that this would involve a buffet bursting with vivid hues, a cornucopia of ‘eat the rainbow’ temptation. Here, however, the name refers to the concept of adhering to a single colour at each meal, in the belief that similarly coloured foods contain similar active substances and can therefore offer optimum benefits when eaten together. It may have been unlucky that we arrived on a ‘white’ night and our meal, while tasty, wasn’t overly pleasing to the other senses; green would probably have been far more exciting. There’s also an adjoining Temperance Bar, where a range of non-alcoholic cocktails provide virtuous refreshment.

Holistic health offerings, such as yoga, flotation tanks, circuit training and silent woodland walks, are interspersed with more aggressively modern ones, such as vigorous morning workouts on high-tech gym equipment, ice baths, body wraps and DEXA scanning, which measures bone density. Yet for all of its medicalised worthiness, there are some puzzling anomalies – like the existence of a smoking lounge. Others – such as the fact that you’re at liberty to swerve the colour cuisine and Nojitos in favour of the resort’s other, more conventional, restaurants and bars – may be just as baffling, especially if you’ve signed up for rigidity. Nevertheless, research upholds the idea of the occasional cheat day so, depending on your personal preferences, this room for manoeuvre is worth celebrating.

In the same vein, we find that we are able to swap the tranquil stillness of the Waldhotel’s pool for the nearby Alpine Spa’s outside infinity pool. Jutting out high above Lake Lucerne, it is swathed in

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© MATTEO THUN & PARTNERS, ANDREA GARUTI

a haze of mist that rises from its heated water in the freezing night air, and more playground than ‘sacred space.’ If the laughing faces of splashing guests, lit by colourful lights, were not proof enough that frivolity is welcome here, then the fact that the hotel has made allowances for ‘Photo Hour’ – a small window during which you can take those envy-inducing snaps – should do the job.

These differences are brought even more sharply into focus by the contrast between the clinical feeling of the Waldhotel and the gloriousness of the surrounding landscape. Bürgenstock Resort’s elevated setting is incomparable, with views of mountain villages tumbling down to the edge of the lake, across which boats, impossibly tiny from this height, cut. As evening falls, these distant homes are transformed into ribbons of twinkling lights, and the vast body of water deepens to an inky blue under the darkening sky.

From my room in the Waldhotel, distant peaks are capped with snow, while, in the foreground, lush green farmland, dotted with cows, looks exactly like a scene from a chocolate wrapper.

Flinging the curtains open each morning and throwing my arms wide, Sound of Music style, is daft, but irresistible.

With all of this surrounding us, the restorative time we spend indoors feels like something of a Faustian struggle. Despite the ideals I’ve held around the setting and climate necessary for a reset, I begin to realise that just being outside – in any temperature – is a win.

On silent walks, I revel in the coldness of my nose and how it contrasts with the warmth of my ears, snugly tucked beneath a woolly hat. The shortened hours of winter light cause me to be more mindful of the passage of the day, more observant of how the sky softens as the light falls; its gradual easing into night. In the woods, all of my senses are heightened, and I find that I become acutely aware of the sharp crack of a branch underfoot, the earthy scent of

neatly stacked logs, the dull thud of a falling pine cone, the startling clash and clatter of leaves as a bird takes sudden flight.

It occurs to me that, as a society, many of us may have been conditioned to associate spring and summer with concepts of wellness, while autumn and winter have become synonymous with hunkering down inside, staying warm and eating more stodgily.

There’s a beauty in how these cooler months are portrayed, but spending time outside is rarely a large part of it – not unless there’s a cosy pub lunch waiting at the other end of a muddy walk.

Winter sports are an exception, of course, yet are sometimes beyond the realm of possibility, whether because snowfall, skill or expense form obstacles.

Ultimately, the winter wellness offering at the Waldhotel (of an undeniably high quality on its own terms) carries with it an added bonus, regardless of season: the message that wellness – that is, being well – does not need to be bland, nor restrictive, nor devoid of sensory enjoyment. It can be wholesome but fun; pleasurable, rather than punitive. Balance. Time alone. Time with people. Time outside.

Time inside. Sleep. Healthy food. Indulgent food. A glass of wine, a gallon of water. As far as resets go, this realisation is a worthwhile one, because I can take it home with me, to a place where a DEXA machine does not, necessarily, follow.

www.buergenstock-waldhotel.ch

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‘YOU NEEDN’T ARRIVE TWEED-CLAD FROM

Henry VIII made St James’s his seat in the 16th century and attracted a who’s who of literary greats, artistic legends, nobility and big-deal politicos into his orbit, which accounts for Mayfair’s ongoing blueblooded nature. Here you’ll find the grandest of London’s hotels – the Ritz, the Dorchester, the Connaught – all giants of the scene, but none have quite nailed laidback luxury like DUKES London. This esteemed hotel sits beside Spencer House members’ club, Buckingham Palace and some of London’s finest shop lineages: Lock & Co Hatters, Berry Bros & Rudd vintners, John Lobb footwear, William Evans Ltd gun and rifle makers… However, you needn’t arrive tweed-clad from a grouse shoot or trussed up in royal-warranted tailoring to feel at home here.

Tucked away off St James’s Place, with a cheery redbrick façade and bijou courtyard, the hotel feels discrete and exclusive from the getgo – and quintessentially English (the Union Jack hangs over the door).

DUKES was built in 1908 and has all the romantic flourishes of the era: chequerboard tiling, wood panelling, velvet-upholstered wingbacks and antiques that feel handed down through generations (oil paintings, gilt-framed mirrors, grandfather clocks). When we arrived the hotel was in full Covid-compliance swing, with one-way systems, and gloved and masked staff, yet it lost nothing of its glamour. From check-in to the tour of our room, you can sense the exuberance of staff to have guests to look after, but even at a reduced capacity, the hotel’s intimate feel ensures it doesn’t lack atmosphere.

Our one-bedroom suite was a peaceful haven decorated in restful hues (cream, dove-grey, latte) an elegant backdrop for vintage polished-wood furnishings and mid-century seating. It’s a vast crashpad for this part of the city and we enjoy stretching out in the separate living and dining room and relish having a super-king-size bed – one dressed with high-thread-count sheets and cloud-soft pillows – and a writing desk in our bedroom. There’s also plenty of storage for those lucky enough to stay longer. The bathroom, in honey-hued marble is roomy enough for swishing around in a bathrobe and has a bath tub for two and a walk-in shower, plus deliciously fragrant Floris toiletries. Sweetly, there’s a plush DUKES’ branded pup on our bed and packets with masks and sanitiser, so we’re all set for our trip down to the Drawing Room for afternoon tea.

Many recognisable names – among them the Queen Mother, Princess Diana and Princes William and Harry – have passed an evening undisturbed in DUKES’ Drawing Room, an unassuming yet attractive space with sink-into chairs and an open-air terrace (open from 6pm) where you can puff away on cigars while swirling a cognac (the hotel has a partnership with Rémy Martin) – although do note that cigarettes must be smoked out front, as cigar smoke is all the residents above will permit. We tuck into dainty finger sandwiches and warm scones as part of DUKES’ afternoon tea offering, with flutes of champagne. Currently the GBR restaurant is closed, but you can request a luxurious picnic to take into Hyde Park (with pulled-pork and cheddar scotch eggs, artisan breads and dips, salads, Eton mess and Paxton & Whitfield cheeses), plus a Little Dukes and Duchesses picnic or picnic for dogs. Or nurse what’s said to be the world’s best martini in DUKES Bar.

A GROUSE SHOOT OR TRUSSED UP IN ROYALWARRANTED TAILORING TO FEEL AT HOME HERE.’

Whether it’s your first time visiting or you’re a stalwart fan, are titled or blowing your budget, staying at DUKES immediately feels comfortable and welcoming, and just like coming home, albeit an extremely wellheeled one.

DUKES London, 35 St James’s Place, St James’s, London SW1A 1NY. To book visit: www.dukeshotel.com

DUKES LONDON A FIRM FAVOUR ITE ON LONDON’ S H O T E L SC E N E AND A C OM FORTING S TAY IN UNP R E C E D E N T E D TIMES, KATE W EI R CHECKS I N TO DU K E S L O N D O N

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A CLOSER LOOK AT DUKE + DEXTER SI D RAG H AVA TAK E S A D E E P-D I V E I N T O T H I S C E L E B-L O V E D F O O T W E AR BRAN D .

‘A TRULY BRITISH ENTERPRISE, EACH PAIR OF DUKE + DEXTER SHOES IS DESIGNED IN LONDON AND HANDMADE IN OUR FAMILY-RUN SHEFFIELD WORKSHOP. OVER 80 YEARS OLD, THE FACTORY PRIDES ITSELF ON COMBINING DEEP-ROOTED SKILLS WITH PRECISION AND CARE TO ENSURE ALL PRODUCTS ARE CRAFTED TO THE HIGHEST STANDARD.‘

This special Christmas Edition, we’d like to profile a very special, London-based brand: Duke + Dexter. A premium footwear brand that’s designed in the city (its flagship store is in Covent Garden), handmade in England (Sheffield) and all this using sustainably sourced materials. The result is a deft balance between trailblazing, modern and progressive British style and quintessential British charm.

Over the past four years, Duke + Dexter has expanded from its London roots into a global community, working with athletes, musicians, artists, designers, photographers and pioneers all around the world to create innovative and ultra-stylish footwear that has a unique identity of its own. Everything they do revolves around inspiring, enabling and challenging others to dare to live fearlessly and with purpose. They’re big believers in making the most of what you own – buy once and buy right is a powerful mantra – and they want the way their shoes are worn to reflect that.

Since launching in 2015, Duke + Dexter has received international recognition, selling to over 120 countries worldwide and working with reputable international retailers, including Harrods, Selfridges, the KaDeWe Group, Levels and Tsum. A Winner at Draper’s 2017 and 2019 Footwear Awards as Premium Footwear Brand of the Year and nominated for Best Online Footwear Business in 2018, the brand has found favour with a credible celebrity clientele. Eddie Redmayne, Ryan Reynolds, Justin Timberlake, Jonah Hill, David Beckham, Snoop Dogg and Rihanna have all sported the brand – helping cement their position as a leading footwear label. A truly British enterprise, each pair of Duke + Dexter shoes is designed in London and handmade in our family-run Sheffield workshop. Over 80 years old, the factory prides itself on combining deep-rooted skills with precision and care to ensure all products are crafted to the highest standard.

Committed to supporting British craftsmanship and appalled by many of the shocking practices within the fashion industry, they work closely with their workshop to sustainably source and handpick leathers, suedes and fabrics. By releasing their styles in very limited runs, Duke + Dexter furthermore are able to ensure elimination of almost all wastage and only buy what they really need. Durability and comfort remain at the brand’s core and the choice of linings and sole units lend themselves to the demands of a contemporary lifestyle.

The attention given to each shoe at every step of the process is apparent in the finished product, which is then complemented with a ‘handmade in England’ on the sole as a stamp of authenticity.

The wonderfully congenial Archie Hewlett founded the brand most fascinatingly enough around the concept of a velvet slipper and how to render it cool and contemporary. The weird concept took off and the evolution of Duke + Dexter has been nothing short of exponential. It’s a specialist footwear label that knows its market, thrives on its branding and is constantly trying to keep their customers excited and interested.

Duke + Dexter’s myriad collaborations with celebrities are all that’s needed to understand the stratospheric rise of the brand among fans.

We at Kensington & Chelsea Review are firm fans and very proud to stand behind this iconic London brand. www.dukeanddexter.com

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CINQUECENTO 500

1 Cale Street, Chelsea, SW3 3QT

WORDS: HARRIET BEDDER Cinquecento has made 35,000 pizzas. With chefs hailing from the original Brixton Village Franco Manca, and Fulham’s Santa Maria, Cinquecento brings the very best of pizza to the heart of Chelsea for the tastiest Neapolitan offering north of the river. Our visit is a little out of the ordinary. In between UK lockdowns we eagerly head to Chelsea Common for a taste of Napoli, and are greeted with a bustling trattoria among…not much else. Most of the patrons dining here at the moment are locals willing to queue up for a table, scrambling to get their fix. Despite there being few covers downstairs, the staff successfully manage a bustling street presence. Thanks to social distancing, tables lining Cale Street sit people wolfing down pizzas under blankets. We head upstairs to a cosy, quiet corner where we pore over the menu, an Aperol spritz and Negroni in hand, pretending we haven’t been studying it for the past week.

First to arrive is the Parmigiana Napoletana – usually a firm favourite of ours.

Traditionally fried aubergine is layered between creamy mozzarella and parmesan, with a crisp cheesy top. I usually find a parmigiana can go one of two ways: dripping with oil and leaving you stuffed, or refined enough to leave you wanting that next mozzarella hit.

Luckily, Cinquecento provides the latter. We also chose the bruschetta gorgonzola and noci, which had been recommended by friends. It doesn’t disappoint and is truly the star of the starters. The gorgonzola and mascarpone cream, paired with sweet fig and rich truffle oil is a combination not to miss.

For our main we share two pizzas. We first select the Burrata as our base (burrata, aubergine, buffalo mozzarella, parmesan), and add anchovies, capers and truffle oil. We actually both want the same pizza, but in respect to trying other things on the menu, I reluctantly compose another masterpiece. The second base we go for is the Sicilia; mozzarella, fried aubergine and Sicilian salted ricotta shavings – we add anchovies, capers and mushrooms. Both pizzas are quite similar, but my friend is such a fan of the creamy burrata, I barely get a look in for a slice. Instead I dip the crusts of my tasty Sicilia, with remnants of sweet tomato sauce, into garlic butter I’ve requested as a side dip (you can take the girl out of Pizza Express…) and refuse to share it.

We’re stuffed, but for ‘research’ we have to get dessert. My favourite desserts are actually cannoli and tiramisu, so we go for both of those and finish off both plates along with our bottle of Sauvignon Blanc. The pizza’s dough is fermented for 48 hours to make it easy to digest, so we leave able to go for an after-dinner apéritif without feeling too sluggish.

Cinquecento’s location, just off the King’s Road, means that in under 10 minutes we’re sat in a local bar, thinking about what to order next time. Or whether we should just start a ‘symmetry dinner’ Instagram account.

Cinquecento 500 have opened a second site in Portobello road with another opening soon in Holland Park.

They are also available to collect and on Deliveroo.

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L’ARTIGIANO MODERN KITCHEN 343 Fulham Road, Chelsea, SW10 9TW

WORDS: KATE WEIR

Italian food is loved for its comforting predictability – cheese-laden macaroni and spag bol have seen us through lockdown. But, when you’re reaching for the colander on day 61 of carb-loading, you wonder if there could be more to this Sisyphean dining experience. And, as new Chelsea restaurant L’Artigiano shows with fantastical flair, there certainly can be.

L’Artigiano was slated to open in March – but…plans changed. Luckily for us it launched in time to visit for this issue. Founder and manager Leandro Longo (formerly of Harrods and La Caricatura) is a delightful host – as guests trickle in we glean from some eavesdropping that they’ve already acquired regulars.

He’s an effusive social butterfly, flitting from table to table charming everyone with his enthusiasm.

It’s an intimate restaurant, stylishly dressed, yet able to maintain social distance. But, these Tardis-like proportions belie the roomy wine cellar, which holds more than 150 bottles from Italy’s beloved and undersung appellations – many from small suppliers. Impressive stuff. The chef Ignacio Ruggiero, hails from the almost intimidatingly excellent restaurant Re Maurì in Salerno, which holds a Michelin star. It’s the sort of place where even the simplest dishes are presented like edible masterpieces and the same theatrical precision is apparent here too.

An updated vitello tonnato pairs tuna and veal in sushi rolls, with an olive crumb and smoked mayonnaise, a refreshing take on the classic. Oxtail soup, inspired by the owner’s nonna, is poured over a bowl of vegetables – keeping them crisp and flavourful. Red and black lobster-filled tortello, drizzled with bisque and sprinkled with parsley sponge, is generous and decadent, but mindful of the seafood’s delicacy. And the ‘gnocchi all`amatriciana’, the chef’s signature dish, is a revelation. This simple, homey pasta has assuredly handcrafted gnocchi pillows, merrily floating in amatriciana ‘froth’ peppered with bacon powder, with strings of punch-packing tropea onion and shards of 36-month-aged parmesan.

The chef’s surprise dessert is a showstopping finish with a deconstructed tiramisu, comprised of singularly delicious elements, and a crème-filled ‘cigar’ in mango mousse, which is torched on one end and served in an elegant ‘ashtray’.

So, if you can no longer bear a woeful tuna bake, book L’Artigiano Modern Kitchen for a truly extraordinary mod-Italian meal.

L’ARTIGIANO MODERN KITCHEN

www.lartigianorestaurant.co.uk

SAATCHI GALLERY AFTERNOON TEA

Duke of York’s HQ, King’s Road, Chelsea, SW3 4RY

WORDS: TRACY BORMAN ‘There are few hours in life more agreeable than the hour dedicated to the ceremony known as afternoon tea,’ observed the celebrated American author Henry James.

I couldn’t agree more, so was delighted at the opportunity to review London’s latest offering.

The Saatchi Gallery is known for its edgy, contemporary vibe so it’s perhaps no surprise that in deciding to venture into the quintessentially English tradition of afternoon tea, it has taken a different twist. For a start, it is much more accessible than stalwarts such as the Ritz and Fortnum & Mason, where booking is often required months in advance. King’s Road shoppers who find themselves flagging can just turn up at this elegant brasserie in the heart of Duke of York Square and receive some muchneeded sustenance.

Taking our seats, the first thing we noticed was that the music was more funky than the traditional grand piano offerings of most afternoon tea venues. Ditto the decor, complete with an eclectic range of artworks from the adjoining gallery. Being watched by an enormous blue eye was less disconcerting than it sounds.

The menu ranges from the Chelsea Afternoon Tea at a very reasonable £35 to the limitless bubbly option at £79. A Children’s Afternoon Tea is also available at £17.50,

SAATCHI GALLERY / CREDIT: JASON PURPLE

although for those parents (like me) with fussy eaters, it’s worth bearing in mind that this is just a smaller version of the adult one – with the exception of a delectable hot chocolate, complete with marshmallows.

Purely in the interests of research, I opted for a glass of bubbly with mine – English sparkling wine (Louis Pommery, to be precise), and very delicious it was too.

So too was the food, which – in another break with tradition – was served in three courses. The smoked salmon mousse entrée set the bar high but it was more than matched by what followed. There were four different but equally delicious sandwiches, and the cake selection was so generous that even this sweet-toothed diner had to admit defeat and ask for a doggy bag.

It’s hard to choose a favourite, but for me the delectable square of Black Forest gateau just pipped the oven-warm scones and melt-in-the-mouth lemon macaron at the post.

Friendly and efficient staff, and a warm, relaxed atmosphere, made the experience an all-round delight. With Christmas fast approaching, the King’s Road shops are about to get even busier, so what better excuse to escape the throng for an hour or two?

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MAISON FRANÇOIS

34 Duke Street St James’s, Greater, St. James’s, SW1Y 6DF

WORDS: KATE WEIR

I was supposed to go to France for my birthday

this year; however, 2020 put paid to that plan, and my dreams of glasses of crisp chilled champagne, gamey slices of pâté en croûte and meats drenched in buttery sauces disappeared faster than someone hearing the person next to them cough. However, salvation arrived in the form of Maison François, a restaurant that ballsily opened in the midst of a pandemic and who – I’m certain – have the chutzpah to ride it out.

The cavernous space, tucked away down Duke Street, is reminiscent of some Nouvelle Vague set, colourised in coral hues, with wooden banquettes suited to hush-hush affairs, all sultrily lit by strip-light chandeliers. You half expect a kitten-eyed Anna Karenina to swoop in for a furious rendezvous with Jean-Claude Brialy, or Jean Seberg and Jean-Paul Belmondo to be dashing down wine in the corner.

The menu is delightfully authentic, devised by ex-Masterchef 2018 finalist Matthew Ryle.

It runs all day, too. There’s oeuf en gelée and celeriac remoulade, various pâtés and oysters mignonette,

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plus entrecôte de boeuf and john dory with pig’s trotter for mains. We choose the dangerously moreish comté gougères, the pâté en croûte, which arrives with a little ceramic pot of cornichons, and skewered cubes of tender ox tongue with a spiky sauce gribiche.

To follow, the fish of the day, a thick hunk of stonebass simply served with lemon, and the equally mammoth côte de porc with a mustard sauce – paired with a briquette of pommes anna and a genius pillow of garlicky flatbread topped with mussels. It almost – as any top-drawer French dinner should – finishes us off. But then, to our utmost glee, the waitress wheels over an honest-to-god dessert trolley, its drawers packed with Paris brests, madeleines, canelés, macarons, an artful tarte tatin – it’s a moveable feast of the best kind: a pâtisserie on wheels. God knows if my French trip will be delayed for yet another year, but with Maison François allowing us to indulge in authentic Gallic gluttony – a gougère and baba au rhum at a time – it makes that prospect much less dismal.

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COMFORT FOOD WITH COLETTE 315 Fulham Road, Chelsea, SW10 9QH

WORDS: KATE WEIR

It’s fair to say that dining in has become the new dining out – at least for now, while we’re cloistered in our homes – and one of our favourite new west London delis is doing its best to bring cheer during the winter months with their eat-at-home service. Named for co-owner Dimitri’s grandmother (a matriarch clearly skilled in the culinary arts), this deli has a team of chefs from renowned and Michelin-star-holding eateries (Social Eating House, Roganic, the Ritz) who can put together elegant hampers, private dinners and simply pieces for when you’re peckish, with fine-dining verve.

There’s a French twist to proceedings at the traiteur, where seasonal gourmet meals are put together, and the deli counter holds charcuterie, cheeses and seafood from top suppliers throughout the UK and Europe. The pâtisserie bakes everything from fluffy croissants to rustic baguettes and the dessert counter’s fresh strawberry tarts, moreish Lamington cake and creamy éclairs encourage saucer-eyed lusting after. But, the best part is that the team will bring all these to you in smart olive-green bags with gold lettering.

We tried Colette’s Christmas menu – although, it should be noted, due to review timings not all the Christmas items were available. And what a thrill it was to open the door to someone holding two large cake boxes, with bulging bags full of edible delights – step aside, Santa. The festive menu is the sort of sod-the-calories, I’ll have one of each read that a glutton like myself lives for: there are canapés of lobster spring rolls and comté gougères, starters of pâté en croûte with Cumberland jelly and foie-gras terrine, and even platters of fruits de mer or caviar with blinis if you want to wallow in unbridled gourmet feasting.

Our meal is comprised of Severn & Wye smoked-salmon Muscovite tartlets, ham and manchego croquettes and shortbread goat’s cheese sables with red pepper as amusebouches. To start we have hand-dived scallops baked in their shell with a pastry crust and buttery leeks. Our main is coq au vin in Gewürztraminer wine (which would actually make quite a refined change from turkey, should you not fancy the latter), with crisp steamed vegetables; then a trio of desserts: warm mince pies – as buttery and fluffy as the best of them should be – a delicately layered chocolate-and-coffee Opera cake and a whole traditional Christmas cake. It could have fed many more (no, we didn’t eat the whole cake), but it’s made me realise that should I save wisely I need never cook again. It’s definitely recommended for those who find cooking Christmas dinner an arduous task and would rather flit about with champagne until the doorbell goes.

You can also add a floral centrepiece and wines – pretty much all you need for a convincing ‘oh, this, I just rustled it up’ dinner party. We were very taken with Colette and we’ll definitely keep her in our pockets when we want to impress someone with ease.

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ADVERTORIAL

PAPER OR ART? GET TO K NOW T HE ART AND CRAF T O F C H I YO G A MI AT J A PA N HOUSE LONDON. Chiyogami is Japanese hand-printed washi (Japanese paper). Its finely detailed decoration of repeating patterns is created in the same way as Japan’s famed ukiyo-e woodblock prints, involving an artist to draw the design, a carver to carve the woodblock and a printer who applies colour to the various blocks. Chiyogami patterns, which are often reminiscent of rich textile designs and frequently depict motifs from nature, can have as many as twelve different woodblock colour applications. Edo-Chiyogami was characterised by its bold bright patterns, which were favoured by the increasingly wealthy metropolitan inhabitants of Edo, now Tokyo.

Famous for its chiyogami, Japanese fine paper manufacturer Haibara has been producing fans, stationery and other decorative paper items in Tokyo’s Nihonbashi district since 1806 (when the city was then still known as Edo). Haibara was the first to present chiyogami abroad in the late 19th century at a number of World’s Fairs, including Vienna, Paris and Barcelona, fuelling the European fashion for Japanese decorative arts. Ever since the Bunka/Bunsei era (1804 to 1830), woodblock-printed uchiwa (round paper hand-fans) have been a popular Haibara product. Each year on 14 April – ‘the first day of uchiwa’ – people gathered to buy the latest fan designs: they were so popular that they became a seasonal marker, the first sign of summer fashion. The popularity of these products stemmed in part from the fact that they allowed everyday people to own an item decorated with the work of prominent artists.Today, examples of Haibara chiyogami can be found in museum collections in London, Glasgow and Paris. Haibara continues to manufacture a variety of stationery items with chiyogami today, and this winter a collection of Haibara chiyogami is on display at Japan House London, alongside woodblocks and other artefacts from their two-century history. Japan House London is a unique space in the heart of Kensington High Street, the ground floor of which blurs the lines between gallery and shop. Alongside the Haibara installations, you will also find a range of goods available including prints, pen pots and notebooks. You’ll find that many of the designs have something of a festive feel about them. The Shop at Japan House London stocks a wide range of crafts, homewares, books, stationery, jewellery and food and drink from Japan, making it an ideal shopping destination this winter. You can also pop into the popular Architecture for Dogs exhibition which runs until 10 January (booking essential).

J A PA N HOU S E L OND ON 101–111 Kensington High Street Open daily. For more info please visit www.japanhouselondon.uk

THE

Beauty EDIT.

BEAUTY

FABULOUSLY FESTIVE F R A G RA N C E 1.

FROM R OM A NTI C R OS E TO P R ECI OU S O RAN G E BL O SSO M AND ZING Y P I NE, B EA UTY EDI TOR L I SA C U RT I SS H AS SELECTED S OM E W ONDER FULLY FE ST I V E F RAG RAN C E D TREATS TO B R I NG S EA S ONA L CHEE R AN D BRI G H T E N U P AN Y DARK DAY.

1. ORGANIC GLAM ROSE OUD FRAGRANCE BY ORGANIC PHARMACY If you are a true perfume lover, and appreciate the finest fragrances, this fantastic perfume is an absolute must. Inspired by love and romance, Rose Oud evokes magical memories of summer. Zesty lemon and bergamot are softened with rose and jasmine, and warmed with tonka bean, amber and woods. www. theorganicpharmacy.com

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2. 05 BY ESCENTRIC MOLECULES For those who love their perfume to be truly unique and distinctive, niche, high-end fragrance brand Escentric Molecules will delight. The just-launched ‘05’ is simply perfect for this time of year as it takes you back to balmy summer days, walking through orange groves by the sea on a beautiful Mediterranean island. www.escentric.com 3. EBONY ROSE BY NOSTARA As home fragrances go, Nostara is one of the very best luxury brands to choose. It offers a lovely range of beautifully scented candles and reed diffusers all made with natural, eco-friendly ingredients. The candles are 100 per cent soy wax , so no noxious nasties, and are hand poured in the UK. We adore Ebony Rose, but do look out for Winter Wonderland too. www.nostara.com.

4. ALTEYA ORGANICS ROSE OTTO REGENERATING CONCENTRATE Sensationally scented and a dream to use, this high-performance regenerating serum transforms skin texture, reduces wrinkles, stimulates cell regeneration and improves luminosity. Its potent bio-active ingredients include rose otto, mullein, marine bio-active complex and white truffle. www.lovelula.com 5. IDÔLE L’INTENSE BY LANCÔME Elegant yet approachable, warm and romantic, this lovely fragrance has notes of rose accord, jasmine absolute and chypre accord. It comes in a handbag-perfect ultra-slim bottle which is also refillable. www.theperfumeshop.com 6. MOROCCAN ROSE OTTO RANGE BY REN A firm favourite of celebrities, beauty influencers, and of course us, for years, this luxurious range of deliciously fragranced and effective body, bathing and skincare wonders is a must for anyone who adores the scent of rose. It’s a wonderful self-care treat and guaranteed to soothe any stressed and worn-out soul. www. renskincare.com

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7. LIBRA INTENSE BY YSL A more intoxicating and romantic evening version of the floral bestseller, with top notes of mandarin, blackcurrant and petitgrain; a jasmine, lavender and orange-blossom heart; and base of vanilla, cedar, ambergris and musk. www.theperfumeshop.com 8. LES CLASSIQUES BY VALEUR ABSOLUE This brand offers a truly innovative approach to fragrance, using a combination of aromachology (the study of scent and feeling) and lithotherapy (crystal healing). Experts in these fields, neuroscientists and renowned perfumers worked together to create a collection of perfumes, scented candles and dry body oils, to soothe, heal and provide a potent antidote to life’s stresses and strains. Ingredients used are sustainably sourced, vegan and organic too. Try Rouge Passion with notes of ylang ylang and champaka, empowered by semi-precious garnet to symbolise sensuality and intimacy. www.valeurabsolue.co.uk 9. LITTLE BOX OF WELLBEING COLLECTION BY TISSERAND AROMATHERAPY Whether you need support in stress, sleep or encouragement to unlock creativity and boost self-belief, Tisserand Aromatherapy’s ‘Little Box Of’ collection has all your concerns covered. Each of the three sets includes a trio of roller balls beautifully fragranced with essential-oil blends to help look after your mind and body. Keep them in your handbag ready for times of need. www.tisserand.com

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10. SANTA BABY BY VICTORIA CATOR Another luxury home fragrance range loved by celebrities is Victoria Cator. There are 12 bottled fragrances to choose from, which fill any room with a beautiful aroma to enhance your mood. You can also pair these with a candle from the collection too. Perfect for this time of year is Santa Baby room spritz, which smells just like you’ve stepped into a wintry wonderland. www.victoriacator.com 11. GUCCI BLOOM PROFUMO DI FIORI A sophisticated floral which harnesses the fresh natural greenness of tuberose essence, with notes of jasmine and a warm base of sandalwood, orris, benzoin and musk. The result is an intense and romantic fragrance perfect for party-time and a new twist on the Bloom classic. www.theperfumeshop.com

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C UR A TED C HRIS TMAS BEA U TY B ESTS OUR BEA UTY EDITOR HA S HA ND- P I C K E D SO ME O F H E R FAVOUR ITE TR IED- A ND- TES TED B EA U T Y FAV O U RI T E S F O R YOU TO ENJ OY OVER THE FES TIVE PE RI O D .

NUTURE PLANT BASED SKINCARE New brand Nuture has created a range of gorgeous plant-based skincare products designed to care for all skin concerns, including scars, stretch marks and post blemish marks. The treatment oils, creams and serums are free from nasties and highly effective. www.nutureskin.com THE ORGANIC PHARMACY DETOX This super supplement from the Organic Pharmacy contains dandelion, fennel, chlorella and a plethora of other highly effective ingredients, designed to support the detoxification of the whole body – an ideal remedy for some seasonal over-indulgence. www.theorganicpharmacy.com ARTISTRY STUDIO NYC EDITION LASH-BOOSTING 3-IN-1 MASCARA This excellent, award-winning mascara in Gotham Black volumises, lifts, conditions and lasts. It features an adjustable wand so you can tailor your application and look. www.amway.co.uk REGULAR GIRL Keep your tummy happy with this innovative probiotic and fibre blend. Just one serving of Regular Girl contains a whopping eightbillion clinically proven probiotics which boost immunity, mood and other bodily functions. www.regulargirl.com MANTA MIRROR HEALTHY HAIRBRUSH The multi-award winning Manta features a handy mirror for onthe-go touch-ups and it works wonders, taming even unruly locks without damaging your hair. www.mantahair.com DANIEL SANDLER WATERCOLOUR LIQUID CHEEK COLOURS AND CUSTOMISABLE CHEEK SET For a sheer, easy to apply pop of colour to give a natural healthy glow to even the palest cheeks, this is a must. The lightweight formulation is versatile and rub-proof and is now available in a customisable set. www.danielsandler.com 4711 FLORAL COLLECTION With elegant nuances of rose, jasmine and lilac, 4711’s new floral collection of fragrances are inspired by the original eau de cologne combined with feminine and mellow touches. www.boots.com BALANCE ME LIMITED-EDITION SETS Prettily packaged in recyclable gift boxes, the Dawn to Dusk and Beauty Sleep sets are a perfect gift that will be appreciated by any loved one needing a little self-care. www.balanceme.com ELIXSERI – OPENING ACT SERUM This acclaimed Swiss brand’s gentle overnight re-surfacer uses lactic acid and tropical-fruit ferments to work while you sleep, leaving skin beautifully smooth, soft and glowing. www.elixseri.com LEG MASTER SLIM This is the ideal solution to keeping your legs trim and core tight when getting out and about is a challenge. Clinically-proven Leg

KENSINGTON & CHELSEA REVIEW

Master Slim is a portable, lightweight, muscle-strengthening exercise device you can use even while sitting at a home-office desk. www.legmaster.co.uk DELILAH GIFT COLLECTIONS These two collections make lovely presents. Stay the Night features three super-smooth, long-lasting shadow sticks which come with a handy sharpener. Nude Lip Collection includes a lip liner, colour-intense lipstick and finishing gloss. Both Collections come in gorgeously flattering neutral shades. They are paraben free and vegan friendly too. www.delilahcosmetics.com THE ORGANIC PHARMACY ORANGE-BLOSSOM FRAGRANCE Another excellent product from The Organic Pharmacy, this simply beautiful and uplifting fragrance evokes memories of much-missed warm Summer days. Fresh notes of Brazilian tangerine, green mandarin and sweet orange are tempered with precious Moroccan orange blossom and rosewood. www.theorganicpharmacy.com WILD BEAUTY FROM RHUG ESTATE This new Soil Association-certified skincare collection uses wild foraged and organic ingredients from the idyllic Rhug Estate in North Wales. The Protecting Day Cream is beautifully packaged, highly effective and lovely to apply. www.rhugwildbeauty.com OUR REMEDY, MOON SWINGS OIL Designed to help balance hormones and help you sleep, this pleasant tasting and effective elixir contains CBD, peppermint and clary sage. It’s vegan, sustainably packaged and for each bottle sold, the company donates to charity. www.ourremedy.co.uk DR LEVY GIFT SETS Exclusive for Christmas, and launched with a women’s charity, Savera UK, as part of their Self Worth, a Gift Worth Giving Campaign, these three gift sets feature the brand’s hero products.

An ideal present for a loved one in need of some pampering. www.cultbeauty.co.uk GLO’UP! BY FREYA & BAILEY An ideal facial cleanser for those prone to blemishes and breakouts.

It contains soothing oat silk, and essential fatty acids and vitamins to help neutralise the effects of stress, free radicals and pollution. It’s over 98 per cent natural too www.freyaandbailey.com PMD CLEAN PRO GOLD For the ultimate in skincare luxury, this wonderful product cleans and massages your skin in a unique way. It combines self-heating Activewarmth technology with precious metals to give you a spaworthy skincare routine from home. On one side silicone bristles gently deep cleanse and stimulate collagen production, and the other features heated gold massage plates to open pores allowing your skincare products to be fully absorbed, leaving your complexion looking and feeling absolutely radiant. www.uk.pmdbeauty.com

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WILD BEAUTY FROM RHUG ESTATE

THE ORGANIC PHARMACY ORANGEBLOSSOM FRAGRANCE BALANCE ME

MANTA

4711 FLORAL COLLECTION

4711 FLORAL COLLECTION

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H A P P Y HEALTHY Y OU IT’S THAT TI M E OF Y EA R W HEN W E RE AL LY N E E D T O TAK E EXTRA CA R E OF OUR S ELVES , NOT J U ST PH YSI C AL LY BY MENTAL LY TOO. IT’ S EA S Y TO B ECO ME O V E RW H E L ME D , RU N DOWN AND M OR E P R ONE TO ILLNES S. BU T H E L P I S AT H AN D FROM A W I DE A R R AY OF INNOVATIVE H E ALT H -BO O ST I N G PRODUCTS W HI CH CA N B E OR DER E D O N L I N E . H E RE ARE O U R TOP PIC KS FOR THE S EA S ON. 1. NUTRI-GENETIX (NGX) This is the world’s first genetically personalised nutrition shake, tailored to an individual’s own DNA to achieve enhanced performance. Using a super quick and easy inside-cheek swab test, NGX team builds a personalised blend of NGX Bodyfuel based on your genetic make-up. They test for 28 traits in your DNA to assess how you metabolise and process different nutrients, your sensitivities to different foods and your body’s detoxification process. You’re then given a detailed report of your results and how this may affect you.

It’s perfect for anyone who wants to increase performance, boost immunity, build lean muscle or lose fat as they’ll have the confidence they are fuelling their body optimally. www.nutri-genetix.com 2. LUMEN METABOLIC TRACKING This is a first-of-its-kind handheld, portable device and app that measures your metabolism in real time with just your breath.

Perfect for those trying low-carb and the super popular keto diets, it measures the body’s carbon-dioxide concentration which shows the type of fuel your body is using to produce energy – a mix of fat or carbs. Lumen also provides you with personalised suggestions on when and what to eat to fuel your workout, based on your metabolism. With these insights, you can really boost your metabolism by improving metabolic flexibility: the body’s ability to shift efficiently between using fats or carbs as a source of energy. www.lumen.me 3. BIO-SYNERGY ACTIVE WOMAN BOX If you are training you need the very best supplements to support your goals. The Active Woman range is made from natural ingredients that really deliver, containing specific nutrients such as vitamin D, iron, calcium and folic acid which are essential for all women. This bundle includes everything you need to get in shape and smash your fitness goals, including a delicious protein shake, crave-curbing supplement, vitamins and a handy shaker. £55 | Available from www.bio-synergy.uk 4. SASKIA’S FLOWER ESSENCES For lovers of natural and vibrational healing, flower essences are a delight. Lovingly created by expert Saskia Marjoram, they can be a 1.

huge support during difficult times, and help erase negative thoughts and behaviours, to help you find your calm, happy and balanced true self. In addition to a fantastic range, Saskia can also make a special unique blend that’s created just for your particular needs. www.saskiasfloweressences.com 5. LAVI DAVI GUMMIES These are some of the best tasting and most effective gummies we’ve discovered. They are designed to not only boost skin hydration, treat skin inflammation, reduce fine lines and wrinkles, but improve skin elasticity and balance your skin’s microbiota too. www.funderm.com 6. CENTRED TENDER LOVE AND HAIR SUPPLEMENTS These hard-working and highly acclaimed vegan and 100 per cent natural supplements are designed to deliver key hair-boosting vitamins to the follicles to encourage healthy hair growth. Potent ingredients bamboo extract, aloe vera, biotin and amino acids – all designed to help reduce stress and improve energy levels while supporting the immune system and promoting healthy hair growth from the inside out. www.wearecentred.com 7. PURE SPORT CBD This Olympic Standard Certified organic CBD brand’s products are designed to relieve aches and pains; benefit sleep, anxiety issues and immune function; and aid relaxation and performance.

Their CBD oil is made from all-natural ingredients and is GMO, dairy and gluten free, paleo and vegan friendly. Their product is one of four CBD brands in the world that is BSCG certified. Try the powerful turmeric and ginger capsules, and excellent Immunity Booster Pack which includes their 3,000mg tincture and 1,500mg ginger, turmeric and CBD capsules, designed to keep body and mind at ease and the immune system functioning at its absolute best. www. puresportcbd.com 8. CANNADOX CBD Another excellent CBD brand, Cannadox offers a highly effective CBD cream which is infused with 500mg of oil and clinically proven to repair, restore and relieve even dry, sensitive and sore skin. This cream can also be used topically on aching, painful areas too. If you are seeking high-strength CBD oil, theirs is an ideal choice. You can opt for 20, 30 or even 40 per cent potency, to suit all healing and soothing needs. www.cannadoxshop.com 9. WICKED GUMMY Gummies are a perfect solution if you want to take supplements, but hate swallowing tablets. Some of the most delicious available are from Wicked Gummy – they are effective and taste better than most sweets. You can choose from nine varieties to suit most nutritional needs – including their Hair, Skin and Nails Gummy and Apple Cider Gummy to aid weight loss – and you can order Gummy Bundles of goodness. All are vegan and allergen, gluten and cruelty free. www. wickedgummyco.com 10. PROLON PLANT-BASED MEAL PROGRAMME For those wanting to quickly and safely lose a few lockdown pounds, ProLon is an ideal solution. It’s a ground-breaking five-day plant-based meal programme which nourishes the body while enabling it to enter a fasting state which provides metabolic and cellular benefits. This also helps support healthier eating habits, including reduced food cravings and better portion control. The tasty meals come in five small boxes (one for each day) and are additive, preservative, gluten and chemical free. www.prolon.co.uk

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11. GOPO JOINT HEALTH Made of specially cultivated Vitamin C rich rose hip, this powerful, natural, anti-inflammatory treatment has no known side-effects and has been proven in extensive scientific studies to reduce joint pain and swelling, improve joint mobility and activity levels, and reduce the need for painkillers by 40 per cent. In addition to this, lab studies have indicated when taken long term, the galactolipid GOPO may protect cartilage cells and help to rebuild joint tissues.. High levels of the galactolipid GOPO are found only in this product. www.gopo.co.uk 12. VEGETOLOGY OPTI3 OMEGA-3 While all Vegetology products are suitable for vegetarians and vegans, the Opti3 Omega-3 EPA and DHA supplement is particularly popular, as it provides all of the Omega-3 nutritional benefits of fish oil without needing the fish. Vegetology has gone straight to the algal source. The unique Opti3 Complex provides the body with proven levels of EPA and DHA, the active forms of Omega-3, together with a dose of plant-source Vitamin D3, to help support joints, the brain, and the heart. www.vegetology.co.uk 13. KAYA PLANT-POWERED STRESS RELIEF Prettily packaged and very nice to use, Kaya’s range of Happy Gummies, Adaptogenic CBD Oil Natural Chewing Gum and Rise & Shine and Sweet Dreams supplements are made with adaptogenic plants – powerful herbs which can help the body cope with stress.

All are vegan and handily bite-sized so you can carry with you and take whenever you feel you need. Do try the whole range, and certainly the oil which cleverly relaxes but doesn’t slow you down thanks to Ashwagandha and Maca. www.feelkaya.com 14. MINAMI CBD + OMEGA-3 This is a first-of-its-kind, premium nutritional supplement that combines high-quality omega-3 with CBD in one convenient capsule. Minami is renowned as the purest fish oil on the planet – boasting a super high-concentration of up to 95 per cent omega-3

per capsule. A match made in heaven, CBD and omega-3 have synergistic effects with the endocannabinoid system. Together, they could help boost the physiological effects to your body, supporting essential organs like your heart and brain. www.minamihealth.co.uk 15. REVIVE COLLAGEN It’s important that any collagen you take is easily absorbed and super effective. Revive Collagen sachets contain an impressive 8,500 MG of high-quality marine collagen. You need to ingest at least 6,000 MG of collagen peptides daily to trigger fibroblast (the cells responsible for collagen production) activity in the dermis.

Without this quantity, you won’t see results. This brand uses type-one hydrolysed marine collagen, which has a 90–97 per cent absorption rate so it is taken in faster and more easily than other forms of ingestible collagen, meaning you’ll see results quicker. www.revivecollagen.com 16. COLLAGEN ZOOKI Tasting great and containing an impressive 500mg of hydrolysed marine collagen to help skin and muscle rejuvenation, Collagen Zooki is now available in a 10-week subscription bundle, with a free trial pack and gift card. A perfect self-care boost for you, or present that’s bound to be appreciated. www.yourzooki.com 17. CATCHFREE OMEGA This is the first health supplement in the world that not only offers vegans and vegetarians their daily dose of omega-3s and vitamin D from plant-based sources, but can also be used as an ingredient to create delicious meals such as desserts, smoothies and salads.

The full-spectrum liquid and soft gel capsules are made from Britishgrown Ahiflower seed oil, Algarithm DHA derived from marine algae plus MenaQ7 and Vitashine vitamin D3. They come in a light tropical mango flavour. www.wileysfinest.co.uk

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FESTIVE FITNESS FROM HOME W ITH LOCKDOW NS A ND W I N T E R W E AT H E R, MAN Y O F U S ARE F I N D I N G WAY S TO ENJ OY W OR K I N G O U T F RO M T H E C O MF O RT O F O U R O W N HOM E. HER E A R E S OM E O F T H E L AT E ST AN D BE ST PRO D U C T S AN D CLA SSE S T O C H O O SE F RO M.

1. WATTBIKE ATOM There are a host of exercise bikes on the market now, but if you’ve ever used them, you know how hard it can be to find a good one. This sleek model offers the very best in indoor cycling technology, with great connectivity to apps like Zwift and excellent analysis and accuracy for the more serious rider. It’s ideal for those that are missing their weekly spin sessions. £1,899 | www.wattbike.com 2. LIFTING PRETTY Who said weights were just for guys? These gold and rosegold beauties are receiving oodles of praise for not just their gorgeous looks, which will match any decor, but for how durable and effective they are too. You can choose from 2KG up to 10KG, and can even personalise them. £70 to £150 | www.liftingpretty.co.uk 3. ECHELON CONNECT SPORT EXERCISE BIKE More than just a bike, this is an excellent whole fitness system. It offers not just an abundance of live and scenic on-demand rides, delivered by trainers to suit your style, but a host of off-bike workouts from Zumba to kickboxing, yoga, stretching, Pilates, HIIT and more.

From £799.99 | www.echelonfit.uk 4. MEGLIO FITNESS BUNDLE This pack of high-quality fitness products contains all of the essentials you need to stay active and toned while at home, and are perfect for creating your very own workout area.

Included are resistance tubes, loops and bands, rollers, a skipping rope and massage ball.

From £59.99 | ww.mymeglio.com 5. THE BIO-SYNERGY DNA AND EPIGENETICS TESTING KIT AND APP Ever wondered what your true fitness potential might be?

This world-first epigenetic tracking test combines DNA and epigenetic profiling to allow you to unlock the health secrets of your DNA and empower you to make the best decisions for optimal fitness and health. The kit includes a free workout, meal planner and dynamic health objectives – all bespoke to your uniquely special genetic make up. £219 | www.bio-synergy.uk

8. HIS AND HERS ALL-WEATHER DARE 2B JACKETS For long walks whatever the weather, or skiing in the Alps, these two gorgeous luxury jackets are an ideal choice. The form-flattering Swarovski crystal-embellished women’s Auroral waterproof jacket has a detachable faux-fur hood trim and headphone port. For him, the Jenson Button Edit Surge-Out Black-Label jacket also features a handy headphone port and host of useful advanced thermoregulating graphene VECT technology designed to keep you cool when hot and warm when cold. Both are lightweight, breathable, stylish and comfortable. www.dare2b.com 9. 361 STRATA 4 For those combining home workouts with heading out for a socially distanced run most days, a super trainer choice is the advanced 361 Strata 4 which offers excellent stability, comfort and support mile after mile. £134.99 | www.361europe.com 10. VÍVOMOVE LUXE FITNESS TRACKING WATCH Garmin’s gorgeous 18K, rose-gold, fitness-tracking smart watch can monitor everything from your heart rate, calories burnt and stress levels, to hydration, menstrual cycles, sleep and more. It also has sensors to detect things like altitude and oxygen saturation levels and smart tech including Garmin Pay and connected GPS. | www.garmin.com 11. LIVENOW This platform offers over 60 exercise classes live-streamed straight to your home each week – that are completely free until 31 January 2021. They are taught by a team of worldclass personal trainers and classes range from barre to dynamic Pilates, HIIT to Muay Thai and many more. www.live-now.com 12. CLASSPASS This gift card is a unique and perfect gift for fitness and wellness lovers as it enables the ability to build a customised routine that fits around you, whether that be at home on a live-streamed class or, when lockdown-free, in a studio. You can also use it for beauty and wellness treatments too. | www.classpass.com

6. ACTIV5 A whole gym in your pocket! The Activ5 system has everything you need to get a full work out in a few minutes a day. If you are recovering from an injury, or just want to tone and get fit, this is the ideal way to get started. It’s easy to use and portable – the perfect solution for your at-home fitness regime. | www.activbody.com 7. MIHIGH INFRARED SAUNA BLANKET After working out, what better way to relax your muscles and your mind than a sauna – this is one with a difference though, and comes in cosy blanket form. The infrared heat penetrates the skin seven times more efficiently than a regular sauna to flush out toxins, boost collagen levels and rejuvenate your skin. It’s actually able to burn up to 600 calories in just 30 minutes too, and help aid sleep. £399.99 | www.mihigh.co.uk

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BEAUTY

A NEW LOOK AT D ANIEL G ALV IN KENSING TON J U ST BE F O RE T H E L AT E ST L O C K D O W N W E W E RE L U C K Y E N O U G H T O BE BO O K E D I N T O D AN I E L G ALV I N ’ S K E N SI N G T O N SAL O N T O E N J O Y A W O N D E RF U L LY RE L AX I N G , AN D C O V I D -SAF E , C U T AN D BL O W D RY.

Located in a period building on Abingdon Road in Kensington, this, one of four salons in London, has been designed to provide a peaceful home-from-home ambience and welcome sanctuary from the stressful world outside.

From the moment you enter, you’re warmly greeted and gently ushered to a sanitisation station; reassuringly, every person inside the salon was wearing a mask and/ or visor, and were at least two metres apart. Covid-19 precautions, such as Track-and-Trace, perspex screens and temperature checking were all evident, but didn’t detract from the overall experience. It just made you feel you were in a safe place, and in safe hands.

The salon also takes great care to ensure the welfare and safety of those clients who are the most vulnerable to Covid – these have first choice on appointment times (typically first or last in the day), and all stations are cleansed between appointments, each gown is freshly laundered at 60-degrees Celsius and every member of staff must wear PPE. They also provide their very own confidential risk assessment online via their website. It was refreshing to see that in such difficult and uncertain times, a company that’s doing all it can possibly do to ensure the safety and comfort of its customers and team.

Unlike so many salons, which can be rather chaotic, leaving you feeling stressed and rushed, the handpicked and in-house-trained stylists and colourists at this Daniel Galvin salon really spend time identifying and creating the optimum tailored style for every client. They assess your features, skin tone, eye colour, hair texture and lifestyle and recommend what will be the most flattering style and colour for you. The result – the best cut and style experienced for years.

The salon also offers a wide range of premium beauty services too and clients can team treatments with a colour or hair service, or enjoy a standalone beauty service at their leisure.

If you are looking for somewhere that not only provides an exceptional service and flattering results, but one that’s as safe as can be too, this Daniel Galvin Kensington salon is an excellent choice. www.danielgalvin.com PAGE 59

KENSINGTON & CHELSEA REVIEW

SENSIFIRM FROM SENSICA

‘IT WAS REFRESHING TO SEE THAT IN SUCH DIFFICULT AND UNCERTAIN TIMES, A COMPANY THAT’S DOING ALL IT CAN POSSIBLY DO TO ENSURE THE SAFETY AND COMFORT OF ITS CUSTOMERS AND TEAM.’

BEAUTY

THE QUEST FOR A

SIX-SESSION SIX PACK H A R R I E T B E DDE R B UR NS O FF FAT WI THOU T T RYIN G ( W E L L , A L MO ST) AT THE SKI N+ I Q CL I NI C. On Elystan street, a stone’s throw from Chelsea Common and the King’s Road, sits Skin+IQ Clinic. Owned and run by Sadaf Jaffari, one of the most experienced therapists in the UK, the clinic offers a number of unique and tailored treatments that have garnered a long list of loyal clients and high-profile clientele who return week after week. The clinic is one of hundreds in the capital that offers fat-reduction technology, but one of few that can boast hosting the latest high-spec equipment from Cutera. TruSculpt® iD and TruSculpt® flex are new technologies with short treatment times followed by remarkable results.

Similar to CoolSculpting® in that the initial treatment takes less than a lunch break to administer and has no recovery time, TruSculpt® iD is a non-invasive fat melting procedure. The difference between the treatments is that while CoolSculpting® relies on visible fat ‘bulges’, TruSculpt® iD can be used on any area regardless of the amount of body fat that is ‘grabbable’, perfect to shift stubborn fat that won’t seem to budge. We are also told that often, with CoolSculpting®, you can be left with ‘ridges’ where the machine has been used and body fat successfully targeted, whereas the new technology that TruSculpt® iD uses radiates outwards, which means that the site of fat reduction blends seamlessly into untreated areas.

TruSculpt® iD is a safe and effective technology that is clinically proven to permanently eliminate fat cells in stubborn areas such as around your abdomen and flanks. For this reason, I sign up immediately to test it out and see how much of a reduction I get on what I call my belly ‘pouch’. I go for one treatment, which takes only 15 minutes; it feels like holding a hot water bottle to your stomach, but not scaldingly hot. It is a hard sensation to describe, but it isn’t unpleasant and is over in no time. I’m pretty sceptical about treatments that don’t offer immediate results, but I am hopeful that I’ll soon see some. Cutera promises that ‘after only 12 weeks, patients can expect to see an average of 24 per cent fat reduction in their treated area’ with little to no supplementary exercise.

The specially trained technicians at Skin+IQ answer all my questions thoroughly, perhaps a little too in depth for my non-scientific mind to understand, but the gist of the science behind the tech is that the machine uses innovative Monopolar RF technology to selectively target fat and therapeutically heat it – until the fat cells themselves are eliminated by passing through the body naturally over the course of the three months following treatment.

KENSINGTON & CHELSEA REVIEW

Skin+IQ encourages pairing the TruSculpt® iD treatment with the TruSculpt® flex; during this treatment, patients are hooked up to a similar looking machine, but this treatment lasts for 45 minutes and is, let’s say, slightly uncomfortable. Unfortunately, this part of the paired treatment plan, designed to firm and tone the muscle, needs around six treatments before results become noticeable. For 45 minutes, multi-directional pads are dialled up and down depending on the intensity Jaffari, or her practitioners, deem you need to see results. It’s a true love-hate relationship, knowing that you should be going higher as your muscles twitch involuntarily below the sweaty cummerband that secures the electrodes onto your skin.

In fact, after each treatment I leave with not only sore abs from the stimulation, but sore buttocks from the clenching I do to try and counteract the abdominal shocks.

Despite having the treatment on my abdomen to supplement my TruSculpt® iD treatment, the TruSculpt® flex can work on any muscle in the body, with the buttocks and biceps being popular choices at the clinic. The technology involves the direct stimulation of muscles through the electrodes that are secured with special gel onto the skin, and result in full muscle contractions similar to the voluntary contractions that you have during natural exercise.

However, the contractions applied are more intense, consistent and frequent, which therefore result in increased muscle mass, strength, and tone. A fortnight of gym sessions in 45 minutes? Yes please!

The staff and practitioners at Skin+IQ are all on hand and eager to answer any treatment questions you have during the process, and chat happily away to you for the session, unless you’d prefer to watch something on Netflix whilst sipping a bottle of Fiji water while your body works its way through completing the equivalent of 54,000 sit-ups in 45 minutes. Impressive. Both treatments are noninvasive and FDA approved, allowing you to safely and confidently personalise your ideal body – in areas that perhaps have been previously resistant to consistent diet and exercise – in as little as six sessions. Perfect, we think for pre-holiday prep or after the festive season is over.

My personal results? I would happily share them with you, but Lockdown 2.0 ruined my return photoshoot at the salon, so I have included before and after shots from the clinic itself.

Personally, I think the treatment worked visibly, reducing the amount of abdominal belly-pouch fat substantially, while strengthening my core.

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MOTORING

Masterfully combining the bold stance of an SUV with the sleek profile of a coupe, the CX-30 is a model with class and ample kerb appeal.

These attractive lines hint at an agile and sporty drive, underpinned with the sturdiness and stability you’d want from a model capable of more than a daily commute. As with all Mazda cars, there’s a great choice of exterior colours, from the bright and bold to classic neutral metallics. All are set off to their best advantage by ample bright chrome detailing and stylish wheels.

The CX-30’s interiors are pleasing to the eye too.

Slip inside to discover a spacious, light and airy cabin, furnished with durable and attractive fabrics and neat practical touches. Premium dark-grey cloth with navy-blue accents is standard, while GT Sport and GT Sport Tech models feature black leather with rich brown accents, or you can opt for a rather elegant stone-coloured leather.

There’s plenty of room in the 430-litre boot too – more than enough for a couple’s or busy family’s needs.

Available in five trim levels – SE-L, SE-L Lux, Sport Lux, GT Sport and GT Sport Tech, the new CX-30 features Mazda’s characteristically generous standard equipment levels across the entire range. Every car features a colour windscreen projecting head-up display, radar cruise control and LED headlights to name just a few of the high-grade items found on every model.

Here in the UK, the model is offered with a choice of two petrol engines, both of which feature the 24v Mazda M Hybrid mild-hybrid system. Familiar from the recently launched all-new Mazda3, the 122ps 2.0-litre Skyactiv-G engine features cylinder-deactivation and is exclusively matched to front-wheel drive with a choice of automatic or manual transmission across all five trim levels. Likewise, the ground-breaking Spark Controlled Compression Ignition (SPCCI) Skyactiv-X petrol engine is also offered across all grades with a choice of transmission. Additionally from Sport Lux upwards, the Skyactiv-X CX-30 is available with Mazda’s latest advanced i-Activ all-wheel drive system – ideal for driving in challenging winter conditions.

Thanks to its unique combustion method, in which sparkplug ignition is used to control compression ignition, the resulting efficiencies mean the 180ps petrol SPCCI engine delivers diesel rivalling economy combined with low CO2 emissions and flexible performance. With emissions as low as 133g/km and WLTP combined economy as high as 47.9mpg, the Skyactiv-X engine is the perfect solution for private and business customers, offering the ideal alternative to diesel.

On test, the CX-30 proved the perfect urban run around – and was equally at home heading cross country on weekend escapes.

It’s engaging to drive, spacious enough for a family of four, well made and a perfect choice for those wanting a capable, versatile and compact SUV. www.mazda.co.uk

KENSINGTON & CHELSEA REVIEW

MAZDA CX-30: A COMPACT AND STYLISH SUV T H E C X-30 IS A PERF EC T C H OIC E F OR C IT Y DWELLERS WAN T IN G A ST YLISH AN D VERSAT ILE C OM PAC T SU V F OR WEEKEN D ESC APES.

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MOTORING

TOYOTA GT 86 SUPER COUPE For a thoroughly engaging, exciting and stylish drive, the GT 86 takes some beating. It might be the world’s most compact four-seater sports car, but it certainly packs a punch and it’s no surprise it’s a firm favourite for countless performance car lovers across the globe.

Conceived as an entirely driver-focused machine, the GT 86 was designed to recapture the purity of a true classic sports-car experience – with precise, instant responses to the smallest throttle and steering inputs, and the kind of performance that’s sought out by those for whom driving is one of their life’s passions.

To achieve this exceptional drive, chief engineer Tetsuya Tada and his Subaru counterpart, Toshio Masuda, were determined for the GT 86 to be rear-wheel drive and also turbocharge free, opting to go back to Toyota’s sporting roots. Instead of a conventional heavy powertrain, they installed a compact, front-mounted, freerevving, horizontally opposed ‘boxer’ petrol engine that drives the rear wheels. This, combined with the car’s lightweight, low inertia and a low centre of gravity, to achieve the best possible power-toweight ratio, resulted in a spirited and accessible performance and dynamic character.

It’s not all about performance though; this is a wonderfully handsome and striking car – and one that’s even better viewed in the metal on test. Its design is all about using modern sports car technologies to create a car that is both beautiful to look at and a pleasure to drive. Toyota calls this concept ‘Neo Functionalism’, expressing how the car’s driving quality and aesthetic beauty are part of its functionality.

An example of this ethos are the exterior lines and surfaces which are designed not only to look good, but also to help the driver to know just where each corner of the vehicle is at all times, so it is easy to place accurately on the road or track. The view out from inside the car was integral to the design process too, so the front wings are clearly visible from the wheel, as are the car’s rear

quarters. This continues inside with a horizontal dashboard design, which helps communicate the vehicle’s roll posture and also centreline to the driver – both handy performance driving aids.

Every design detail also serves to maintain or improve the car’s aerodynamics, including the addition of two fins in the lower bumper beneath the grille aperture. There are seven bold exterior paint choices – pure red, GT ice silver metallic, GT black metallic, GT starlight blue, GT grey metallic, GT orange metallic and G white pearl.

Enter the cabin to experience quality trims and fabrics, a small track-car-inspired steering wheel and a 4.2-inch, colour TFT multiinformation display which shows read-outs for performance-focused driving, including torque and power curves, lap-time function and even G-forces.

Drivers can also make use of a new ‘Track’ driving mode, that deactivates the car’s vehicle-stability control and traction-control electronic systems. All controls are driver-centric and ergonomically placed. There’s a comprehensive raft of other state-of-the-art, safety, infotainment and driving aid tech too, as you’d expect from Toyota.

On test, the GT 86 proved an absolute driving delight. Its agility, instant power and pin-sharp cart-like handling delivered thrills and excitement on-trip. It’s actually as good, if not better a drive than more than a few performance cars costing many times its price.

The Nürburgring – tested driver’s seat provided welcome support even when negotiating tight turns at speed, and was comfortable on even long journeys. The soft knee-pads built into the door trim and centre console were handy too in helping keep pedal control when the car was thrown around. Eye-catching to a fault, it won many an admiring look. A simply cracking car I wish I owned! www.toyota.co.uk

MOTORING

TOYOTA NEW RAV4 HYBRID: A VERSATILE AND ENGAGING COMPACT SUV Another excellent example of a compact SUV suitable for both urban and country life is the new Toyota RAV4 Hybrid. This perennially popular car is loved for its go-anywhere performance, rugged SUV stance and agile and fun hatchback handling. Little wonder it’s been one of the world’s biggest selling models of this type since its launch.

Viewed kerbside, the RAV4 looks sturdy, powerful, and, with its pretty high-ground clearance, and large wheels, all-terrain capable too. Important for an SUV, the latest model has improved visibility with a lower bonnet and mirrors, and larger rear windows which open up the driver’s field of vision. The cabin is a harmony of softtouch surfaces, high-quality fabrics and artistic design flourishes.

A larger, open-centre console is in keeping with a welcoming, functional SUV interior. In addition, extra special attention was paid to providing plenty of useful and easily accessible storage for the driver and front passenger.

Space-wise, the latest RAV4 boasts best-in-class load space and comfort. With all seats in place, the cargo area is 580 litres, 79 litres more than the previous generation car. The new model is shorter to enhance manoeuvrability, yet the wheelbase has been increased, creating a more spacious cabin. It’s also 10mm wider and the same lower, too, which helps give the model a more stable and purposeful stance.

Out on the road, focus on driver comfort, control and convenience is evident. The new TNGA chassis the RAV4 is built around allows for a more engaging driving position, without detracting from the commanding view of the road that’s a defining quality of an SUV. The driver’s hip point has been lowered and the range of steering-wheel adjustment increased. This, together with a generous seat adjustment range and precise positioning of the pedals and armrest make it easy to achieve an ideal driving position.

Passenger comfort has been improved too. There’s more space and it’s now easier to get in and out of the doors too – handy for those negotiating awkward child seats. And the load space behind the rear seats has been made larger and more user-friendly thanks to a fully flat floor and increased length. With the rear seats folded down, the new RAV4 can even accommodate a 29-inch mountain bike without any wheels having to be removed.

There is a height-adjustable, two-level deck board that can be reversed when dirty items need to be carried. The rear seats have a 60:40 split-folding function and there are storage nets on each side of the boot. Other clever details include a hand grip on the tailgate that can serve as a hanger and a power-operated tailgate with hands-free function.

For an SUV, the RAV4 Hybrid is a refreshingly engaging and agile drive. Its low centre of gravity, and lightweight and strong, rigid and balanced chassis delivers excellent handling, stability and driver rewards. It’s a safe car too, thanks to an enhanced Toyota Safety Sense system. Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane-Tracing Assist, Lane-Departure Alert with Steering Assist, Pre-Collision System, and a Road-Sign Assist System are just some of the highlights. It’s also equipped with a significantly improved and more capable electric AWD-i system which enables better fuel economy during urban driving, quieter performance at high speeds and better traction in slippery conditions – handy for this time of year. The new 2.5-litre Hybrid Dynamic Force engine combines fuel and emissions efficiency and quiet operation with more power and greater responsiveness. It’s supple, smooth and refined.

Whether for taking the kids to school, doing the weekly shop or escaping the city for a welcome weekend coast or countryside escape, the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid is a great choice.

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KENSINGTON & CHELSEA REVIEW

MOTORING

NEW VOLVO V60 – SUPER-STYLISH SCANDI ESTATE Volvo’s excellent V60 stands right at the pinnacle of the brand’s decades-long heritage of making the most safe, reliable, capable and desirable estates in the world. It brings all these attributes, ground-breaking technology and striking Scandinavian design together to create what’s being hailed as the best new estate money can buy.

Designed to prove that estate cars don’t have to be dull, the V60 combines stunning looks with Volvo’s legendary practicality.

Perfect for modern family life, its versatile design and plethora of practical touches make it the ideal car for those who need an estate but don’t want to be stuck with the dull and boxy lines typical of this type of car.

Viewed kerbside, our Volvo V60 R-Design in fusion red is a handsome and elegant car. The brand’s hallmark clean Scandi lines and eye-catching details are displayed to their best advantage and the result is a car of class, substance and purpose. From its distinctive headlights with their T-shaped daytime running lights and indicators, to the tail-lights that emphasise the muscular line that flows down the car’s flanks, the V60 is the epitome of modern, elegant design. The R-Design models feature a high-gloss black exterior trim, dual integrated exhaust pipes and 18-inch diamondcut alloy wheels.

Enter the cabin and the visual delights continue. The clean design and use of premium natural materials such as the handfinished driftwood inlays of inscription versions, make the V60’s interior a serene and distinctive place to be. Craftsmanship and attention to detail are evident everywhere you look. Being a Volvo, everything is ergonomically placed, and there’s no superfluous knobs and switches to clutter the minimal design. There are a host of features to enjoy however – our car was fitted with a power-glass tilt and slide sunroof; heated screen, steering wheel and seats; Sensus connect with premium sound by Harmon Kardon with Dolby Pro Logic II surround sound, and much more…including an excellent 360-degree parking camera. Music lovers, you can opt for a fantastic Bowers & Wilkins 15-speaker, 1,500-watts premium sound-system too.

Despite being Volvo’s smallest estate, the V60 is far from diminutive. With 529 litres seats up and 1,442 down, it has the largest boot of any premium compact estate, along with one of the biggest cabins in the class. Flat boot sides and no loading lip make using all the available space easy, too. A retractable load cover

keeps your valuables hidden from prying eyes, and petrol and diesel versions even have storage space beneath the boot floor.

A power-operated tailgate is fitted as standard to every V60.

It is available with hands-free opening, which enables you to open and close the tailgate by simply putting your foot beneath the rear bumper – perfect for when you’ve got your hands full or when loading bulky, heavy objects in the boot. Its long wheelbase means passenger space is equally generous.

All Volvos are tech rich and generously loaded even as standard. And, of course, this includes a pretty much matchless array of the most advanced safety systems available – from Volvo On call, to a blind-spot info system with steer assist, cross-traffic alert with autobrake and rear-collision mitigation, run-off-road protection and more.

This continued focus on safety innovation is all part of Volvo’s Vision – that no one will be killed or seriously injured in a new Volvo car.

Out on the road, this is a powerful, dynamic and engaging car to drive. Drive Mode settings allow you to tailor certain dynamic functions and convenience features of the car to suit your personal preference or the road conditions. These include the responses of the engine, automatic gearbox, suspension, steering, brakes and the climate control. As with all new Volvos, the V60 is powered exclusively by the brand’s powerful yet efficient Drive-E engines, designed and built by Volvo. Every engine in the V60 is Volvo’s own 2.0-litre, four-cylinder Drive-E unit. These all-aluminium engines use sophisticated injection and boosting technology to offer an exceptional combination of power and efficiency. Our test car’s 250hp B5 engine coupled with an auto box proved swift, smooth and frugal too.

In summary, there’s so much to admire with this car. It simply ticks all the boxes in terms of style, space, speed, practicality, quality, class and safety. The V60 is one of those very rare cars it’s impossible to pick fault with. It really is that good. www.volvocars.com

AN INTERVIEW WITH THE FOUNDER OF SCREENHITSTV Rose Adkins Hulse is a CEO and Founder of ScreenHits TV. She grew up in Santa Monica, California, and now lives in London, with her husband, two daughters, and their dog.

WH AT I S YO UR PRO FE SSIO NAL TITLE , PURP OSE OR PA SSION ?

Mum, wife, daughter, founder and CEO. My everyday purpose is to get up in the morning and to try and find a way through this maze we call life. And hopefully doing it with a smile on my face.

WH AT I S SCRE E NHITS TV AND HO W DID IT C OME ABOU T? ScreenHits TV allows you to see what is trending, what you have been watching and what shows are recommended to you across all your streaming apps without needing to switch between each one. There are so many new apps in the market now, from Netflix to Amazon Prime, Disney +, Starz, ATP TV, Hayu, BBC iPlayer, ITV, Britbox and the list goes on and on.

Consumers are not able to discover content unless they close one app to open another.

There is too much fragmentation and too much choice. We wanted to simplify this process and make the switch from satellite TV to TV apps as painless and cost effective, as possible.

I personally was very motivated to launch this idea after I went to search for a film on one TV streaming platform and I later realised I already had it for free on another platform. And we are soon to launch our new App. WH AT ' S THE BEST CAREE R ADV ICE YO U'VE EVER BEEN GIVEN ?

‘Don't wait until next year to start this venture, Rose. You will want that year back. Do it now.

You can always go back and get a job.’

WH AT D RIV E S YO U? As a young girl I was told ‘no’ a lot. Everything I wanted, no matter how big or small it was always a ‘no’. I wanted to prove to myself that they were wrong. I wanted to turn those ‘nos’ into ‘yeses’. I am an optimistic person, no matter how disheartening a situation may be, I am always looking for the light at the end of the tunnel, I am always justifying the struggle to reach the goal. I think back to many people who came before me from all walks of life who struggled. I once saw a painting of people leaving behind a horrible past for a future of hope and it was called ‘Troubles Don’t Last.’ It immediately inspired me and reminded me that if people could overcome so much adversity, pain, loss, grief and misfortune and rise above it all to achieve success and strength, then there is nothing in my life that I cannot obtain.

Martin Luther King once said that he may not get to the promised land, but we as a people will get there. All the work that he did in his lifetime has helped to pave the way for others to follow, and even if I am unable to reach my full potential in this lifetime, I am driven to know that whatever I do, others will get there eventually, and this is ultimately what drives me to be the best I can be, no matter my limitations.

WH AT H AV E YO U ACHIE V ED THAT YO U FEEL MOST PROU D OF? Having my family. All the success in the world means nothing if you can’t build a better life for others. It is my greatest achievement, followed by of course starting ScreenHits TV. It has changed my life and hopefully inspires so many other women to start their own businesses.

WH AT WAS YO UR BIG G E ST FAILURE? Not making it to the Olympics to compete in figure skating. I really worked hard for that, but it wasn't meant for me. In the end, it wasn't a failure, It was the very thing that set the stage for my work life. Sometimes failure has to happen to move us to the next stage in our lives.

Failure always opens up doors and eventually better ones that were always meant for you.

WH AT D O YO U LIK E MO ST ABO UT YO URS EL F? I always get back up. No-one but you is responsible for ensuring that you move forward.

Onwards and upwards. There is always a way.

H O W C AN WE MAK E THE WO RLD MO RE IN C L U SIVE AN D AC C EP TIN G? By seeing people as people. It is a simple phrase, but it is everything. Nobody wants handouts. Nobody wants to be a victim. Nobody wants your pity. They just want a fair chance to get a seat at the table.

ScreenHits TV app will allow subscribers to integrate the leading streaming platforms such as Netflix, Amazon Prime, Disney+, Britbox, BBC iPlayer, ITV Hub, Kidoodle, Eurosport and more onto one app. Will be available via desktop, Samsung/LG Plus Smart TVs, Amazon Fire TV Stick, Roku Stick, Apple Store, Google Chromecast, iOS and Android. www.screenhits.tv Twitter: @ScreenHits Instagram: @ScreenHitsTV Facebook: @ScreenHits

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Tired of dashing through endless TV Apps to find the perfect Christmas movie?

It gave Rudolph a red nose just thinking about it! Put your feet up and let ScreenHits TV do all the work.

Merry Christmas!

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We specialise in interior design but are able to offer a wider range of building design services.

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