Prospect Lifestyle Summer 2015

THE FIRST FOR PREMIUM PROPERTY & LIFESTYLE IN BERKSHIRE, SURREY AND HAMPSHIRE

LIFESTYLE

BY PROSPECT

PREMIUM HOMES FOR SALE EVENTS HOME & GARDEN A R T S & C U LT U R E FOOD FAS H I O N T R AV E L S U M M

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With Premium Marketing, we have the resources to market your home to the widest audiences in both print and online, offering maximum exposure.

With our Premium Marketing, your property will be seen by local, national and international audiences through our bespoke and innovative marketing packages.

Publications we advertise in include The Times, The Telegraph, Country and Town House, London Lifestyle, Surrey Life, Berkshire Life and our own magazine, Lifestyle.

Our online coverage includes Rightmove, Primelocation, Zoopla and our award winning website prospect.co.uk

LIFESTYLE

BY PROSPECT

Welcome to our summer edition of Lifestyle by Prospect Premium

B R AC K N E L L

We are proud to bring you this edition of our Lifestyle magazine, showcasing some of our fantastic properties, both for sale and to rent.

2015 has been an exciting year for the property market and whilst the general election has been and gone, two things have been constant, confidence and positivity.

Mortgage rates remain low for buyers looking to borrow and investors continue to expand their portfolios.

Our industry leading marketing packages are tailored to suit your individual circumstances as a seller or landlord. We are proud to present our properties with professional photography, 8 page colour brochures and bespoke magazine and broadsheet advertising. These are coupled with our London Day presentations at our Mayfair Office which showcase your home to buyers and tenants from the City and abroad.

In our 25th year, our goal is to continue to exceed the service standards we have strived to set from the outset.

Our Premium packages and marketing are a fine example of how we want to make your property stand out from the crowd, whilst our passion to deliver results in all aspects of your property journey can be seen in our staff.

Our teams are more than happy to assist you at every step of your journey, whether it is buying, selling, renting or investing, or any other property related matters.

We hope you enjoy browsing the wide selection of stunning homes we have available in our latest edition of Lifestyle.

CAMBERLEY

01344 204 939

01276 536 353

CROWTHORNE 01344 204 942

MAIDENHEAD 01628 564 420

M AY F A I R 0207 467 5330

SANDHURST 01252 917 943

READING 0118 907 9832

WA R F I E L D 01344 204 936

WINNERSH 0118 907 0796

WOKINGHAM 0118 907 0762

PUBLISHED BY Lifestyle is published by Pelusa Create. All rights reserved. This publication may not be reproduced or transmitted in any form in whole or part without the written permission of the publisher. Liability: while every care has been taken in the preparation of this magazine, the publishers cannot be held responsible for the accuracy of the information herein, or any consequence arising from it.

Any artwork will be at the owner’s risk.

pelusacreate

Editorial enquiries: prospectmag@pelusa.co.uk Advertising enquiries: prospectmag@pelusa.co.uk Phone: 020 8123 9545 www.pelusacreate.co.uk

C O V E R I M AG E

If you'd like details on the cover image, please get in touch: prospectmag@pelusa. co.uk

James May, Managing Director

contents 1 8 . H O M E S T Y L E – Make the best of breakfast time 2 6 . L O C A L V I E W – We explore the sights and sounds of Maidenhead 3 0 . H O M E I M P R O V E M E N T – How window shutters can be both a practical and stylish solution 3 5 . T R AV E L – We visit The Sansoucci Collection hotel in Marrakech 3 9 . S C H O O L S – Take a look at some of the best local schools 4 6 . M O T O R I N G – The compact premium SUV – the Land RoverDiscovery Sport

PREMIUM by

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PREMIUM by

K N OW L H I L L ÂŁ660,000

Sandhills

P: 0118 907 0796 E: winnersh@prospect.co.uk

This individual three/four bedroom, chalet style, family home offers spacious and flexible accommodation, including an annexe and a landscaped garden with a large log cabin.

C R OW T H O R N E ÂŁ550,000

Ambleside

P: 01344 204 942 E: crowthorne@prospect.co.uk

This four bedroom detached home is situated in a quiet cul-de-sac, within walking distance of Crowthorne High Street and all its amenities and close to the highly regarded Edgbarrow School.

The first for premium property and lifestyle in Berkshire, Surrey and Hampshire...

View all our properties at www.prospect.co.uk

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Smitten with

smet

Please contact us on 0333

900 10 10 or sales@smetuk.com

smetuk.com

White Hart House, High Street, Limpsfield, Surrey RH8 0DT

PREMIUM by

C O O K H AM ÂŁ630,000

High Road

P: 01628 564 420 E: maidenhead@prospect.co.uk

This period, four bedroom semi-detached property has well presented accommodation combined with character charm.

The first for premium property and lifestyle in Berkshire, Surrey and Hampshire...

View all our properties at www.prospect.co.uk

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PREMIUM by

R E AD I N G ÂŁ2500pcm

Kings Road

P: 0118 907 9832 E: reading@prospect.co.uk

A rarely available, three bedroom penthouse apartment with stunning views over Reading.

The property include two roof terraces and two parking spaces.

WO K I N G H AM ÂŁ2500pcm

Reading Road

P: 0118 907 0762 E: wokingham@prospect.co.uk

This immaculately presented, spacious detached, chalet style house has been finished to a high standard throughout and offers good commuting links and access to good school catchments.

The first for premium property and lifestyle in Berkshire, Surrey and Hampshire...

View all our properties at www.prospect.co.uk

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PREMIUM by

C R OW T H O R N E ÂŁ500,000

Farm Close

P: 01344 204 942 E: crowthorne@prospect.co.uk

PROPERTY 3

A four bedroom, semi-detached chalet bungalow, situated on a generous plot, approaching a 5th of an acre, in a cul-de-sac location.

The first for premium property and lifestyle in Berkshire, Surrey and Hampshire...

View all our properties at www.prospect.co.uk

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UK RESIDENTIAL, EUROPEAN & INTERNATIONAL REMOVALS

Import, Export & Storage by Air, Road & Sea

It came through the French Revolution unscathed.

It would be a pity if it came to grief on the M25.

• UK Residential Removals

• Car Transportation & Storage

• Worldwide Relocations

• Office & Commercial Moving

• Weekly European Removals

• Antiques, Fine Art Packing,

• Storage Services

Storing & Moving Telephone: 020 3773 3697 E-Mail: enquiries@abels.co.uk www.abels.co.uk

Certificate No. FS23942

PREMIUM by

B R AC K N E L L OIEO ÂŁ550,000

Manor Close

P: 01344 204 939 E: bracknell@prospect.co.uk

This detached family home has accommodation in excess of 2000 sq ft, including four bedrooms and three reception rooms.

B R AC K N E L L ÂŁ600,000

Lysander Drive

P: 01344 204 939 E: bracknell@prospect.co.uk

An executive, five bedroom, Taylor Wimpey home, located in the picturesque parkland setting on the edge of Bracknell.

The first for premium property and lifestyle in Berkshire, Surrey and Hampshire...

View all our properties at www.prospect.co.uk

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PREMIUM by

SHINFIELD ÂŁ1800pcm

Oatlands Road

P: 0118 907 9832 E: reading@prospect.co.uk

PROPERTY 14

Situated in a private road in a quiet village and occupying a non-estate location, this four bedroom detached character property offers easy access onto the M4 and links to London.

The first for premium property and lifestyle in Berkshire, Surrey and Hampshire...

View all our properties at www.prospect.co.uk

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Prospect Investors Club The Secret to creating wealth through property An interview with Peter Licourinos Director of the Prospect Group, Owner of Prospect Investors Club, Mentor, Inspirational Leader & Entrepreneur It’s no secret that property is one of the most lucrative avenues to invest in, but how simple is it to truly become wealthy through property?

Prospect Investors Club is one of the UK’s only dedicated Investment Clubs and Berkshire's only dedicated Investment Club, completely run by property professionals within an estate agency group. Peter Licourinos, Owner, Director, Mentor and successful Investor himself, talks with us about becoming wealthy through property investment, the goldmine areas, their monthly Property Investors Network (PIN) meetings and the long awaited launch of their new website.

So Peter, is it true that Property Investment is an easy route to becoming wealthy?

Yes, it is! Property investment is easy – IF you seek the correct advice. Many believe that you can buy a property and just watch the money roll in, unfortunately, it’s not quite that simple. There are many things to consider when investing in property. Finding an area and a strategy that suits your aims is important, keeping up with the changes in the property market, trends and evolving strategies is imperative.

What advice would you give to a new Investor?

I would recommend you always take your time and seek advice from professionals before investing in a property. This is to enable you to find a strategy that suits you and helps you understand what the local market, schools, unemployment rates, transport links and above all, demand, is in that area.

Often people are uncomfortable seeking advice and that can lead to investing in the wrong property or area. Not to mention costing lots of money!

You mention investing in the right area a lot, is area that important?

Area is one of the most important things to consider before investing. Many people used to use sourcing agents to find them properties from all across the UK. Since the crash in 2008, many Investors have stayed closer to home, which we feel is the best option. Investing closer to home enables you to view any properties before purchasing, do your own due diligence with local agents as well as keeping a close eye on demand, unemployment rates and schooling.

Besides all of this, we are lucky enough to live within the top ‘Goldmine Areas’ in the UK – so why would you invest anywhere else?

Goldmine Areas? Tell me more…

In and around Berkshire there are some really great areas to invest in. With high yields, continuous demand and excellent transport links these areas offer such lucrative returns, we’ve named them our local ‘Goldmine Areas’.

Areas such as Reading, Bracknell and Maidenhead have so many attributes that they have unquestionable Goldmine status; they offer a high return on investment as well as the option to use a variety of strategies and tenant demand increases he new Cross Rail developments. daily with the rticularly ‘cash rich’, can I still I’m not particularly invest? n! Most money makers and Yes you can! nvestors, believe it or not, started Property Investors, with little or no money at all! So it goes to ing money isn’t just a dream, it’s show, making hich is available to everyone. a reality which

Peter Licourinos ourinos Director & Member

You say the Investors Club is the Secret to creating wealth through property. Can you tell me your secret?

I’d love to! You can join me at our monthly PIN Meetings on the first Tuesday of every month at The Holiday Inn, Basingstoke Road, Reading and I’ll be happy to disclose the secrets! You can also arrange a private one-to-one meeting, free of charge, where I’ll not only tell you the secrets, I will work with you to find the right strategy, find you a property (or several!) and really help you on your way to becoming wealthy through property.

What can attendees expect at the PIN Meeting, except for your secrets of course!

We believe one of the best ways for you to become more successful is to surround yourself with like-minded successful people, from whom you can both learn and be inspired by.

That’s why we teamed up with Simon Zutshi and his Property Investors Network (PIN) team to create Reading’s biggest and best property networking event. Each meeting brings together some of the top speakers, trainers and investors throughout the UK, gives you great insights of the local Goldmine Areas, including case studies on various strategies with figures and yields, current market trends, new and upcoming legislations, lettings and investment

updates, financial updates and of course the chance to network with other local investors… Plus much, much more!

Wow, sounds action packed!

It is! The property market is ever changing so we try to ensure we cover as much as possible in every meeting. Every day is a school day!

Okay, so is there anything you can tell me today?

Yes, visit us online! We have just launched our new website www.prospectinvestorsclub.co.uk which keeps you up-to-date with property news, legislation trends of both national and local councils, insights into different strategies we are successfully using, detailed information on the local goldmine areas, top tips and so much more. It really is a one-stop-shop for everything you’ll need when investing in property, and it’s free to join!

Oh, so I can see everything online?

Not everything! Our brand new website www.prospectinvestorsclub.co.uk is jam packed full of information, data, resources and certainly gives an insight in to what we do. As I mentioned earlier, it’s quite a simple formula, but it needs explaining in context.

If you are interested in becoming wealthy through prop property, then I recommend coming in and having an informal, confidential chat about your go goals and aspirations. Together, we can tailor make you a plan and work together to ensure e you achieve them.

Well it’s clea clear after speaking with Peter that Property Investment is a sure fire way to becoming wealthy. It looks like we’ll find out how this can happen at one of his PIN meetings he held on the first Tuesday of every month.

You can find out more information about the PIN meet meetings at www.prospe www.prospectinvestorsclub.co.uk/training -events/read -events/reading-pin and for people who have never attended a before they can get their first eve event free!

If you’d like to meet with Peter on a one-to-one basis, then book online here, emai email Peter at peter@prospectinvestorsclub.co.uk peter@pro or call 0118 955 9712

By Hanna Forrest For

t: 0118 955 9712 w: www.readingpin.co.uk e: peter@prospectinvestorsclub.co.uk

C R OW T H O R N E ÂŁ700,000

Rowan Drive

P: 01344 204 942 E: crowthorne@prospect.co.uk

An individual, well-presented four bedroom family home, close to local amenities and in a popular location.

The first for premium property and lifestyle in Berkshire, Surrey and Hampshire...

View all our properties at www.prospect.co.uk

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PREMIUM by

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PREMIUM by

AS C OT

Windsor Road Guide Price ÂŁ800,000 P: 01344 204 936

E: warfield@prospect.co.uk

A three bedroom apartment located in this impressive gated development of just 14 luxury apartments, opposite the world famous Royal Ascot Racecourse and conveniently located for access to Ascot High Street and its mainline railway station, Windsor and the Great Park.

L I G H T WAT E R ÂŁ550,000

Grasmere Road

P: 01276 536 353 E: camberley@prospect.co.uk

This period cottage, dating back to 1910, has been extended and improved by the current owners and offer driveway parking and a landscaped rear garden.

The first for premium property and lifestyle in Berkshire, Surrey and Hampshire...

View all our properties at www.prospect.co.uk

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Quality Reliability Excellence

0845 24 13 100 mail@cplaw.co.uk 17

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. . . S t yl e & fun c t i o n. . .

Home Style 4

WA K E U P I T ’ S A B E AU T I F U L M O R N I N G. . .

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1. Inspaces – www.in-spaces.com The Peacock Flower Tea Towel In Red is an original design hand printed onto 100% unbleached cotton and comes with a printed woven ribbon for hanging up. Hand printed in the UK. Also available in Red & Lime and priced at £11.00.

Tea towels come beautifully tied in twine and wrapped in tissue.

2. The Cutlery Commission – www.thecutlerycommission.com The Spread the Love Butter Knife details the words “Spread the love” hand stamped onto the blade. Based in the beautiful Cotswolds, The Cutlery Commission prides itself on customising each piece of cutlery by hand. The cutlery has a charming vintage feel and available with a simple or ornate handle. The actual cutlery itself is all silver plated and hand crafted in an antique style so again, each one is unique and truly a one-of-a-kind keepsake.

3. Whisk Hampers – www.whiskhampers.co.uk Honey and Jam – two musts for the breakfast table! This beautiful, brand new jam jar lid adorned with a dainty bee motif will make a fabulous finishing touch to your breakfast table and look great on your favourite jar of jam or marmalade. Supplied with a Jar of Organic Blossom Honey. Matching items also available.

The Silver Honey Bee Lid & Organic Honey Gift Set is available at £17.50.

4. Alexander and Pearl – www.alexanderandpearl.co.uk The Manhattan Wood & Iron Bar Stool is an urban style iron and wood bar stool that is height adjustable.

This trendy bar stool will add an industrial chic element to any kitchen or bar area.

5. John Lewis – www.johnlewis.com The stylish Philips HR1832/41 Compact Viva Collection Juicer is available for £69.95 6. The Contemporary Home – www.tch.net We love the funky little cream ceramic White Hen Glug Jug. Small but perfectly formed, at just £12.00 it makes a great addition to any spring time table collection.

7. Alison at Home – www.alisonathome.com The Kitchen station is the new addition to Alison at Home’s Retro Kitchen Collection. This substantial freestanding workstation is crafted using 100 per cent, natural coloured mango wood. A really well designed, good looking and highly practical piece of kitchen furniture, which ties in beautifully with our kitchen plate rack. Available for £395.00.

Red Candy – www.redcandy.co.uk Bring some charisma to the table with the Alessi Cico Egg Cup in White. This stylised, anthropomorphic egg cup comes in a subtle white frosted body with a jet black cap and spoon. This fantastic design allows the cartoon character to be holding the spoon in his left hand, whilst his cap sits in the bowl of his head and also doubles as a salt shaker. Just £11.50.

5. Ochre & Ocre – www.ochreandocre.com Take time for tea and set your table with this pretty organic cotton Ledbury (soft duck egg & grey stripe) Tea Cosy, only £12.00. Generously sized, it is the finishing touch to any elegant tea party. Just add some yummy cakes, then sit back and enjoy! Available in all Ochre and Ocre designs, the cosies make a great gift for a friend, make the perfect teacher gift and are ideal for any tea loving aunt or gran. You can even request gift wrapping!

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9. Cotswold Trading – www.cotswoldtrading.com A delight for all terrier fans is this bone china Plum & Ashby Terrier Mug. Hand decorated in the UK, this charming mug features an anatomy drawing of a wire fox terrier on one side and the Plum & Ashby logo on the other, all in a subtle blue hue. The bottom of the mug surprises you with the ‘Fancy Another’ message!

Dishwasher and microwave safe and only £9.99.

10. Tesco – www.tesco.com Tesco Marmalade and Strawberry Jam Jar and Spoon, £5 each.

11. Creative Tops – www.creative-tops.com The delightful Katie Alice Embossed Lace Cereal Bowl gives an inspired start to any morning.

12. Red Candy – www.redcandy.co.uk A toast to The Regent Toaster: the ultimate vintage, retro and, most importantly, downright stylish toaster seen this side of the summer of love! Winner of the Best British Product at the House and Garden awards 2012, the Regent Toaster has been in continuous production since the 1960’s and has more than half a century toast making knowledge behind it. It is handmade in the UK by skilled crafts people, it features a variable timer and ‘toast ready’. Added to this is an energy efficient rotary slot selector, which can be changed between one and four, depending on your hunger levels. Available in various colours it is priced at £190.00.

13. Smeg – www.smeg.fr The stylish Bouilloire KLF02CREU kettle features temperature control, stainless steel structure, a capacity of 1.7 litres, electronic temperature control, 7 levels of adjustable temperature from 50°C to 100°C, keeping warm function, 360° rotary detachable base, automatic stop when the water reaches the desired temperature, stainless steel filter removable and washable anti-scale hidden resistance. Available for £126.

14. The Contemporary Home – www.tch.net Have fun at Easter, and all through spring time, with our pretty little bunny egg cosies.

The irresistibly cute Bright Egg Cosy featured below is just £4.50.

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Elegance for your garden...

Woodcraft Garden Carpentry specialise in bespoke handcrafted wooden structures for the home and garden, across Surrey and Greater London.

Expert craftsmen ensure that each project is tailored, designed and finished to meet the very highest of standards and expectations.

Tel: 01372 238987 | Email: halliwelltim@gmail.com | www.woodcraftgardencarpentry.co.uk

PREMIUM by

WAR F I E L D OIEO ÂŁ600,000

Jigs Lane South

P: 01344 204 936 E: warfield@prospect.co.uk

PROPERTY 7

This rarely available, detached residence is conveniently located for access to both Whitegrove & Warfield C of E Primary Schools and includes an impressive refitted kitchen/breakfast room and four bedrooms.

The first for premium property and lifestyle in Berkshire, Surrey and Hampshire...

View all our properties at www.prospect.co.uk

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PREMIUM by

S AN D H U R S T OIEO ÂŁ500,000

Sunray Estate

P: 01252 917 943 E: sandhurst@prospect.co.uk

Tucked away in a quiet non estate location on the outskirts of Sandhurst, this exceptionally well presented four/five bedroom detached residence is offered to the market with no onward chain.

WINNERSH ÂŁ625,000

Winnersh Gate

P: 0118 907 0796 E: winnersh@prospect.co.uk

This spacious, four bedroom, executive, family home is located in a quiet cul-de-sac, within a short distance of Winnersh mainline railway station, Forest and Holt Schools, local shops and amenities.

The first for premium property and lifestyle in Berkshire, Surrey and Hampshire...

View all our properties at www.prospect.co.uk

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FINCHAMPSTEAD OIEO ÂŁ750,000

Reading Road

P: 0118 907 0762 E: wokingham@prospect.co.uk

PROPE

Presented in excellent decorative order throughout and positioned on a generous overall plot, this extended and detached property originally dates back to 1928.

The first for premium property and lifestyle in Berkshire, Surrey and Hampshire...

View all our properties at www.prospect.co.uk

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PREMIUM by

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. . . L o c a l Vi e w. . .

Maidenhead L O C AT E D O N T H E B A N K S O F T H E T H A M E S , T H I S P I C T U R E S Q U E B E R K S H I R E T OW N H AS E V E R Y T H I N G YO U C O U L D AS K F O R .

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Located at the heart of the Middle Thames in the Royal Borough of Windsor, Maidenhead is a popular residential and commercial hub that is considered one of the most interesting and enjoyable places to live in the whole county. Great schools, a vibrant town centre, incredible restaurants and a location that provides easy access to London, Slough and Reading; there are a multitude of reasons as to why people from all over the region make Maidenhead their preferred place of residence.

“Maidenhead has long been seen as an affluent area that attracts families, couples and single professionals,” states Jon Pegg, Area Manager of Prospect Estate Agency. “ And the imminent introduction of Crossrail has caused the area to become a hot spot for commuters, causing the area to experience exponential capital growth.” he adds.

The town traces its beginnings back to 1296, growing out of a small hamlet after the first bridge was built. As it was only a day’s travel from London, Maidenhead established itself as a prime stop off point with numerous coaching inns. This sense of the town

as a Thameside resort has continued through to the modern day and it has, since Edwardian days, been renowned for fun and entertainment.

Today, there is a lively town centre that boasts an array of shops, restaurants, bars and leisure facilities which is soon to benefit from £100m regeneration bringing over 100 new shops, a new car park and new housing to the area. Away from the high street there is a wide variety of independent and specialist stores and a buzzing nightlife that includes live music venues, relaxed wine bars, traditional pubs and funky clubs.

For those with an interest in the arts, culture and history there are a range of options. These include the Heritage Centre, which has regular exhibitions on the towns past and the Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, located a mere 5 minutes outside the town centre, which offers a diverse programme of theatre, dance, comedy, visual arts, music and film.

The heritage and history of Maidenhead is visible throughout the town and its surrounding areas.

Brunel’s famous ‘Sounding Arch’ as it is locally known, featured in Turner’s painting of ‘Rain, Steam and Speed’ is a great example along with Boulter’s Lock which was immortalised in Gregory’s 19th-century painting. The All Saints Church, Boyne Hill was completed in 1857 is one of the finest examples of the early work of the architect G. E. Street and is regarded by many as the premier architectural site in the town.

A key motivator for families deciding on where to move to is the quality of the schools. In this respect, Maidenhead certainly doesn’t fall short.

“There are numerous highly regarded schools in the area with families very keen to secure properties within their catchments.” says Pegg.

A mixture of state, academy, independent, all-boys/girls and coeducational schools ensure a wide variety of education types are available up to the age of 18. Higher education is available in close proximity too; Thames Valley University is only 6 miles away and University of Reading 13 miles to the west of Maidenhead.

Opposite page: the local bridges and area.

From top left: The Fat Duck outside sign (Photo: Ashley Palmer-Watts); All Saints Spire, Norden Farm.

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Whilst Maidenhead has always been an attractive place to live, the recent and future transport and commercial developments have created an increasingly lucrative property market.

According to the Land Registry House Price Index, property value in the area increased by 12.8% in 2014 far exceeding the national average of 7%.

“The Telegraph has reported that house prices in the area should be expected to rise up to 46% by 2020 and Maidenhead has recently been

ranked in the top 3 places for buy-to-let investments by a number of national newspapers,” states Pegg. “The town hosts a number of big brands within the pharmaceutical and technology industries including Glaxo Smith Klein and Adobe, not to mention Europe’s largest Trading Estate nearby in Slough, which continues to attract thousands of high earning professionals relocating to the area,” he continues.

Maidenhead is somewhere that sees properties of all types always in

demand and is fast becoming one of the most desirable areas in the region to live in. A beautiful riverside location, great transport links and abundance of bars, shops and restaurants; little wonder then, that it is top of so many people’s wish list when considering where to make their next move.

Clockwise from top left: Norden Farm farmhouse in the snow; Macbeth showing at Live Cinema, Norden Farm (photo: Rod Bird); The Hinds Head – Bray’s latest Michelin star pub & restaurant.

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...ho me s tyle...

Open and shut S T E P H E N K E AR O F T H O M AS S AN D E R S O N D I S C U S S E S W H Y S H U T T E R S A R E S U C H A N AT T R A C T I V E W I N D O W C O V E R I N G P R O P O S I T I O N , B O T H A E S T H E T I C A L L Y A N D F U N C T I O N A L L Y.

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There are not many parts of a home that look equally great from the outside as in; however for anyone who has been to a property with high quality shutters adorning the windows, they deliver a real ‘wow’ factor.

Offering a huge level of versatility and style in both classic and contemporary properties, window shutters are enjoying a real renaissance of late. People love the smart clean lines that shutters offer.

They work equally well on their own, or if you want to retain that cosy feel they can still be dressed with curtains.

They provide an eco-friendly alternative to warming the house offering up to 40% extra insulation.

Other benefits include: • Keep rooms warm in the winter and cool in the summer • Have louvres that tilt and allow you to regulate the light • Make your home feel more secure as nobody can tell if you are in or out • Fold back completely when you want them open • Really help with anybody that suffers from allergies • Significant amount of noise reduction • Can be manufactured in any colour, and a multitude of styles to match your room design

Shutters work fabulously in a Bay Window without interrupting your window sills. When the shutters are fitted they will look like they always belonged. The panels of the shutter line up with the window frames and the attention to detail is second to none.

Sash Windows – how about two shutter panels, one for the top and one for the bottom tier on tier? Half open during the day to let the light in at the top and closed at night to give that warm cosy feeling.

Bedrooms – For those whose night’s sleep is disturbed in the early morning when first light breaks, consider complementing a shutter with a discreet remote control blackout blind.

This product is extremely versatile, by day the shutters can be folded back completely, if you are out they can be closed up with the louvres tilted, and at night with the blind rolled down you can enjoy total ‘black out’.

Wetrooms – In these areas where they are likely to be exposed to water and intense humidity a UPVC shutter would provide the perfect solution as it would stand up to the job perfectly!

Café Style – Fitted to the lower half of the window so they stop people being able to look in, yet are fully open

on the top allowing lots of light to come in. Often these will be installed in front rooms, bedrooms and flats on upper floors where they are overlooked.

Shaped Windows – if you ever wondered how to cover your odd shape window then it is very likely that you could make a design feature of it by installing shutters.

Shutters on Tracks – for large expanses of glass, tracked shutters are a great option and make a fabulous design statement. They fold back at either end of the room discreetly when opened back and allow the light to gently diffuse into the room when closed during the day and give privacy and security at night.

Overall, shutters provide a great solution for any property; not only do they add to the beauty of your home, add a number of functional benefits, they also can add to its value.

Stephen Kear designs for Thomas Sanderson, manufacturers of bespoke blinds & shutters.

For more information: www.thomas-sanderson.co.uk Quote ref: Q9272.

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PREMIUM by

WO K I N G H AM ÂŁ750,000

Southlands Close

P: 0118 907 0762 E: wokingham@prospect.co.uk

Nestled in the corner of a quiet cul-de-sac in the most sought after part of Wokingham town centre, sits this substantial detached property, which is offered with no onward chain complications.

B R AC K N E L L ÂŁ2000pcm

Lily Hill Road

P: 01344 204 939 E: bracknell@prospect.co.uk

This four bedroom detached house has been renovated throughout and has a large enclosed rear garden.

The first for premium property and lifestyle in Berkshire, Surrey and Hampshire...

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WAR F I E L D ÂŁ2050pcm

Bracknell Road

P: 01344 204 939 E: bracknell@prospect.co.uk

Situated within the popular area of Brock Hill, this unique four bedroom, semidetached cottage has been extended and renovated to a very high standard.

M AI D E N H E AD ÂŁ2500pcm

Folly Hill Gardens

P: 01628 564 420 E: maidenhead@prospect.co.uk

This brand new, luxury, four bedroom town house occupies an enviable position within a conservation area just a short distance from Maidenhead town centre, with accommodation arranged over three floors, offering ample living and entertaining space, to suit modern lifestyles.

The first for premium property and lifestyle in Berkshire, Surrey and Hampshire...

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. . . Tr a v e l . . .

The Sansoucci Collection, Marrakech R E L A X AT I O N A N D C U L I N A R Y E X C E L L E N C E AT T H E S E S T U N N I N G B O U T I Q U E M O R O C C A N R I A D S

Marrakech, Morocco’s capital of chic, is an enchanting city that has always welcomed visitors from all corners of the earth. The intoxicating souks, blushing pink stoned architecture and centuries old landmarks create an overwhelming sense of history at every turn. Combine this with the world leading cuisine, a vibrant art and music scene and a vast number of luxury boutique lodgings and it’s not hard to see why it is the destination of choice for discerning travellers all year round.

Whilst there are a wide variety of types of accommodation available it is the riads, traditional courtyard guesthouse, that really make a trip to Marrakech truly unique. They can be found across the city and a stay at one of the many beautiful, boutique, dwellings on offer can transform a short break or holiday in to something that will live long in the memory.

The Sanssouci Collection has 2 such riads that are considered among the best in the whole city. The Dar Les Cigognes and Riad Kaiss are elegant, 5 star boutique riads that provide guests with the highest standards of service and comfort. Located in the Palace Quarter, both hotels are within easy reach of the major tourist attractions in Marrakech and boast bedrooms, cuisine and relaxation of unrivalled quality.

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The Dar Les Cigognes, or ‘House of Storks’ after the graceful birds that perch on the ramparts of the Royal Palace of Hassan II directly opposite the hotel, opened in 2001 and offers 11 bedrooms, including 1 suite. It is a luxurious retreat that has been shortlisted as the best boutique hotel in Africa on four occasions, combining rich cultural traditions of Moorish art and architecture with a careful attention to privacy.

Moorish decorative techniques can be found throughout the hotel; walls are decked in varying hues of tadelakt, a time-consuming plastering technique that leaves a marble-like, shiny surface and flooring materials are either handmade tiles or das, a material similar to tadelakt. The huge carved wooden doors, roof terrace views of the Atlas Mountains and a magnificent open courtyard create an awe inspiring yet utterly relaxing environment for guests.

The emphasis on relaxation and wellness is evident with the red marble hammam and beauty spa in the hotel.

The traditional Moroccan hammam offers a wide range of spa services using Sanssouci’s in-house developed range of organic spa products based on Argan oil, a Moroccan beauty secret for millenia. The stunning beauty salon has high, arching ceilings bejewelled with coloured glass and is a spectacular setting for the massages and local essential oil treatments available.

Morocco’s world famous cuisine is well represented at The Dar Les Cigognes.

The organic menu changes daily and is dependent on what is at its fresh and seasonal best. Guests can dive in to traditional Tangia or the incredible signature dish, Trid, with its tasty layers of light, buttery pancakes with quail or poussin and a delicious lemon onion sauce. The kitchen is open for guests to enter as they please and there is the opportunity to learn how to prepare some of the many delicacies served throughout the day with the renowned cooking classes. These classes are so good that the Dar Les Cigognes has been voted best Moroccan cooking school in the world.

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World class cooking classes which cater for all levels of culinary skill are also available at the other jewel in the Sanssouci crown, Riad Kaiss. Originally built by internationally renowned hotel designer, Christian Ferre, the elegant architecture and layout make Riad Kaiss a class above most riads in the city and have led to it becoming a member of ‘Hip Hotels’ group.

The 9 bedrooms and suites, all with en-suite bathrooms and inroom climate control, have been painstakingly finished to the highest level and are rich in Moroccan tradition. Each room or suite is uniquely decorated and comes with either courtyard views or private roof terraces. The roof terraces offer stunning views of the city and beyond and are the ideal place to enjoy some al fresco dining.

As with The Dar Les Cigognes, relaxation is a key part of the Riad Kaiss’ offering. Guests can unwind in the on-site hamman or spa where a variety of traditional treatments are available. The highlight, however, is a traditional hammam and gommage, which is a cleansing and highly relaxing experience.

Added to this is a rooftop pool which is open to all guests who want to soak up a bit of Moroccan sun.

The Sanssouci Collection is a hotel brand dedicated to serving the globetrotting traveller in search of bespoke and local experiences.

It’s unique and historic hotels are characterised by their understated luxury and emphasis on service and the facilities and services are designed to ensure guests get the most of every moment. The emphasis on relaxation and wellness is evident throughout the hotels and a stay at either the Riad Kaiss or The Dar Les Cigognes will leave every guest with a memorable experience of Marrakech at its finest.

Contact +212 524 38 27 40 or info@sanssoucicollection.com or visit www.sanssoucicollection.com for more information.

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M AI D E N H E AD £700,000

The Courtyard

P: 01628 564 420 E: maidenhead@prospect.co.uk

An immaculately presented, four bedroom semi-detached property with bright and airy accommodation, suitable for the modern family lifestyle.

CAM B E R L E Y £650,000

Youlden Drive

P: 01276 536 353 E: camberley@prospect.co.uk

Set within 0.2 of an acre and backing onto Camberley Heath Golf course, this individual ‘Potten’ built four bedroom detached residence has recently been updated and offers an enclosed mature rear garden.

The first for premium property and lifestyle in Berkshire, Surrey and Hampshire...

View all our properties at www.prospect.co.uk

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...Scho ols...

Top of the Class E A C H I S S U E W E L O O K AT S O M E O F T H E F I N E S T L O C A L S C H O O L S AND COLLEGES WITHIN OUR REGION.

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Wellington College 2015 is turning out to be quite a year for Wellington College, the Berkshire school founded by Queen Victoria as the national monument to the Duke of Wellington. Not only is it the 200th anniversary of the Duke’s victory at Waterloo, but this year also sees the arrival of a new Headmaster - Julian Thomas. Julian, currently Head of Caterham School in Surrey, recently completed a three-month trek to the South Pole, perfect preparation for taking over a school which has become one of the leading co-educational boarding and day schools in the UK. Wellington’s examination results place the College in the premier league of independent schools, with a record 24 pupils winning places at Oxford or Cambridge this year. The Arts Council’s award of ‘Artsmark Gold’ reflects the stellar quality of the Arts with recent highlights including a singer-songwriters’ tour to Memphis, a full-scale production of Les Miserables, and no fewer than three current Year 9 pupils playing in the National Children’s Orchestra.

Sport is second-to-none with College teams and pupils achieving national recognition in netball, hockey, rugby, squash, cricket, golf, chess, athletics, triathlon and shooting over the past twelve months. At the heart of the College’s ethos remain the concepts Clockwise from top left: Marina Piccola on Capri Island; overlooking Capri harbourasdfas dasdfassdsssfasdfs from of leadership and service to others, as the rotunda in Villa San Michele; Positano by night; a cave on the Capri coast – just one of countless beautiful coastal does a focus on internationalism through formations to explore in the area.

Wellington’s sister schools in China and a commitment to the International Baccalaureate as an alternative to A-levels in the Sixth Form.

No wonder the College was crowned “Best Public School” in 2014 by Tatler!

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Highfield Preparatory School Who wouldn’t want their daughter to skip happily into school, make really good friends and discover all her talents in a small class, where she can become the best she possibly can be? This is our aim for every girl here and it is what makes Highfield so wonderful.

Who wouldn’t want their daughter to skip happily into school, make really good friends and discover all her talents in a small class, where she can become the best she possibly can be? This is our aim for every girl here and it is what makes Highfield so wonderful.

We believe, that in the important primary years, girls learn best in girls’ schools. They learn by doing, listening, exploring and experimenting. The girls are given daily opportunities to explore, question, try, investigate, discover, apply and have fun! This all starts in the Nursery, which was graded Excellent at inspection in 2013, where the girls learn to develop confidence and independence.

Our girls achieve well beyond national expectations and move on to some of the best schools in the area at 11+, often achieving academic, sports and music scholarships. We also offer a wide range of after school clubs ranging from water colours to cookery.

We offer wonderful resources in a happy, secure and stimulating environment where all girls learn and develop at their own pace. Highfield Prep School is a local school, 5 minutes’ walk from the town centre, on the same site since 1918, and really is Maidenhead’s best kept secret!

From Nursery to Year 6, we offer extended day care from 7.45am to 6.00pm, have an all-year round holiday club, serve hot lunches every day and our fees are highly competitive.

Come and see for yourself why Highfield Prep is first for girls. www.highfieldprep.org

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Italian design - sheer privilege

logica twin The tradition of the Sauna and the Hammam, the freshness of pure water, natural materials combined in a single exclusive product, all in the very best Italian taste

www.effegibi.it

App Store is a service mark of Apple Inc.

F I N C H AM P S T E AD ÂŁ2250pcm

P: 0118 907 0762

Gilbert Way

E: wokingham@prospect.co.uk

A four double bedroom, family home, built by Messrs Redrow Homes, situated on a quiet and sought after cul-de-sac in Finchampstead

The first for premium property and lifestyle in Berkshire, Surrey and Hampshire...

View all our properties at www.prospect.co.uk

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...Mo t oring...

Voyage of Discovery THE LAND ROVER DISCOVERY SPORT HITS THE STREETS

One of the most exciting motoring launches of 2015 so far has been the Land Rover Discovery Sport, the new versatile premium compact SUV, and the first member of the Discovery family. Discovery Sport’s dynamic design combines 5+2 seating configurability with design and engineering integrity in a compact footprint.

A suite of Land Rover innovations debut, including the next generation multi-link rear axle, advanced pedestrian airbag technology, an all-new touchscreen infotainment system and state-of-the-art high-strength steel and lightweight aluminium bodyshell for outstanding performance, safety and efficiency.

Discovery Sport has been designed to be as environmentally sustainable as it is affordable to run: CO2 emissions as low as 119g/km are comparable to smaller and less versatile family hatchbacks, and buyers can opt for a range of powerful and efficient four-cylinder petrol or diesel engines, two- or four-wheel drive, and advanced nine-speed automatic or six-speed manual transmissions.

“The launch of Discovery Sport is a pivotal moment in Land Rover’s 66-year history,” said Phil Popham, Jaguar Land Rover Group Marketing Director. “Not only does it mark the introduction of the first new member of our expanding Discovery family, it also brings the versatility of 5+2 seating to the compact premium SUV market.”

This beautifully proportioned vehicle brings a new sense of dynamism to the Discovery family and projects an image of confidence with its wheel-at-each-corner stance.

The fast bonnet line steps down into a rising belt line, creating a distinctively compact profile that belies significant interior space with optional 5+2 seating.

Discovery Sport’s versatile interior has been designed to be premium, not precious. The centre console forms a strong vertical graphic in the middle of the instrument panel, ensuring key controls are deliberately placed to provide easy access from the Sports Command Driving Position. Simple, clean surfaces and high-quality materials feature throughout.

Monocoque construction combines a mix of high-strength steel, ultra-high-strength boron steel and lightweight aluminium panels. This ensures a strong, stiff and light base for outstanding dynamic performance and high levels of torsional rigidity.

At launch, a range of four-cylinder turbocharged petrol and turbodiesel engines is available. All feature stop-start technology, high-pressure direct injection, low-friction internal components and smart regenerative charging for outstanding performance and economy.

2.2-litre turbodiesel derivatives are available in either 150PS TD4 or 190PS SD4 specification. With both TD4 and SD4 producing the same 420Nm, drivers can count on exceptional fuel efficiency of up to 50.2mpg as well as effortless overtaking ability.

Three choices of drivetrain are available for maximum versatility and customer choice: two-wheel drive, permanent four-wheel-drive or Active Driveline. Active Driveline switches between two- and four-wheel-drive to provide an unrivalled combination of on-road agility, off-road capability and all-round efficiency.

Land Rover’s Terrain Response® system features on all four-wheel-drive derivatives, allowing drivers to tailor Discovery Sport’s responses to the prevailing conditions. Up to five settings are available: General; Grass/Gravel/Snow; Mud and Ruts; and Sand. Dynamic mode is optionally available and heightens on-road performance and driver feedback.

The new Discovery Sport features cutting-edge technology to maximise both safety and convenience. New developments include everything from an advanced new infotainment system with 8-inch touchscreen to a pedestrian airbag that minimises the consequences of a collision.

Land Rover’s innovative suite of InControl™ technologies puts Discovery Sport at the cutting-edge of in-car connectivity.

Developed in conjunction with Bosch SoftTec, InControl Apps enables vehicle-optimised smartphone apps to be displayed and controlled with their original look and feel from the vehicle’s new 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system.

Head Up Display (HUD) debuts on the Land Rover Discovery Sport. This advanced laser technology projects key driving data including road speed, gear position and satellite-navigation directions onto a compact area of the windscreen in the driver’s line of sight. Head Up Display allows the driver to safely access information while keeping their eyes on the road.

Available from January 2015 prices range from £32,395 for an SE manual, climbing to £42,995 for the HSE Luxury with the nine-speed auto.

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L IT T L E S AN D H U R S T ÂŁ730,000

Longdown Road

P: 01252 917 943 E: sandhurst@prospect.co.uk

Ideally located for some of the area’s most reputable schools, this five bedroom detached residence offers a wealth of charm and character.

The first for premium property and lifestyle in Berkshire, Surrey and Hampshire...

View all our properties at www.prospect.co.uk

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DEEPCUT ÂŁ1,600pcm

Drifters Drive

P: 01276 536 353 E: camberley@prospect.co.uk

This executive penthouse apartment offers accommodation of approximately 1600 sq ft, within easy reach of Camberley town centre, M3 and A30 London Road.

BAG S H OT ÂŁ2100pcm

Lucinda Walk

P: 01276 536 353 E: camberley@prospect.co.uk

This executive six bedroom town house is conveniently located on a private development and within close proximity of sought after local schools.

The first for premium property and lifestyle in Berkshire, Surrey and Hampshire...

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LOCAL GLOBAL FOCUS

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LOCAL FOCUS When you need the best local advice ask a local.

Our local specialists are among the best in the business.

NATIONAL NETWORK All the best local expertise from across the UK brought together in one major network to create the best informed and most far-reaching group to help you sell or buy your next property.

LONDON BASED London is an important centre for national and international property activity, for the national media and of national influence. Our talented media and marketing team is based in the heart of the West End.

GLOBAL REACH With over 150 overseas offices and a powerful international website www.mayfairinternationalrealty.com. We leave no stone unturned in making sure we find the right buyer or property.

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