January 2016
NEW YEAR HOME Your search starts here
SURPASSED
Michelin-starred dining at Matt Gillan at The Pass
Celebration of local artisans NEW
At home with Martin Clunes OBE
TRAVEL special
Winter luxury in Mauritius
&
Dreams Opulence in the bedroom
The region’s LARGEST property publication
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INSIDE 5
The latest property news from around the City
15
What’s trending Calender : Out and about in January
26
Howlett Clarke : Full and frank financial disclosure
28
You thought you knew Lewes
36 45
53 - 65 63
68 New homes, page 53
January Collection, page 36
12
20 Swanlake, page 20
Hill House & Home Truths
January Collection : The best of Lewes Up my Street : Lewis Watts, Director, Creative Developments New Homes Face to face : with incoming BHEAA president Chris Sawyer Chalk Architecture : A place to live
71
Talk money: Mortgage matching
73 76
Brighton Chamber of Commerce : Construction Voice
79
Shopping : The ultimate boudoir buys COVER STORY Interiors : Bedroom glamour ... Continued over
For all advertising, editorial and general enquiries contact Lynne Edwards, Managing Director
07931 537588
lynne@portfoliopublications.co.uk www.portfoliopublications.co.uk
Subscribe to our newsletter Cover: Image courtesy of www.andsotobed.co.uk
Interiors, page 79
82
83 Business lunch, page 96
COVER STORY : Travel special - Mauritius
87
Health Matters : Give us a smile
88
Golf Guy : Winter lies
90
Local & national news
94 96 98 100 Martin Clunes, page 104
Overseas property : Trendy Tenerife
104
COVER STORY : Say Cheese for local food artisans
Local Artisans, page 94
COVER STORY : Surpassed Michelin-starred dining at Matt Gillan at The Pass Style : Looking cool in knitwear plus new Beauty Box Motors : The daring Jaguar F-type AWD COVER STORY : Martin Clunes at home
Travel, page 83
The PORTFOLIO team Managing Director: Lynne Edwards 07931 537588 • lynne@portfoliopublications.co.uk Chief Sub-Editor & Features Editor: Production Editor: Fiona McTernan Daniel Frickelton portfoliomagazineproduction@gmail.com For advertising and general enquiries contact portfoliomagazineeditorial@gmail.com Lynne Edwards: 07931 537588 lynne@portfoliopublications.co.uk Interiors Editor: Tara de la Motte Designer: Sally Wynn www.portfoliopublications.co.uk tara@sussex-homes.co.uk portfoliopublications@dollydesigns.co.uk Cover: Image courtesy of John Lewis www.johnlewis.com
Contributor: Kate Hill
Contributing Editor: Maarten Hoffmann 07966 244 046 maarten@platinumbusinessmagazine.com
Published by: All rights reserved. The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher. The publisher cannot accept responsibility for any errors or omissions relating to advertising or editorial. The publisher reserves the right to change or amend any competitions or prizes offered. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior written consent from the publisher. No responsibility is taken for unsolicited materials or the return of these materials whilst in transit.
EXPERT column
HOME TRUTHS
A
THE HILL HOUSE
h, January. Month of resolutions made and broken, empty bank accounts and tight waistbands. I try to avoid New Year’s resolutions, since I’m no more likely to stick to them in January than I am at any other time of year. If I were going to make one, though, then ‘finishing the house’ would likely be it. I’ve written a list of things that need doing on the (very long) kitchen blackboard, thinking it would be short and satisfying to complete. Trouble is, I’ve run out of space.
“That’s the thing with old houses. Fixing them up is much like painting the Forth bridge” That’s the thing with old houses. Fixing them up is much like painting the Forth bridge – no sooner have you finished a task than something else falls to pieces. That’s if you’re lucky. Otherwise, starting what should be a relatively simple job on one part of the house will uncover a host of complex, difficult-to-mend and possibly unrelated issues. A hornet’s nest of leaks, damp and bewilderment. And then the universe adds a little extra, just to keep you on your toes. First on my to-do list (which I was trying to get through before Christmas) is to start putting things back where they belong, and to get rid of things we no longer need. So Tuesday evening found me up in the attic, desperately searching for the fixings of a dismantled bed that I’d promised to a friend. Despite having carefully labelled and packed them away a year ago, I couldn’t find them. Instead, I discovered that six months of work on one half of the attic has left the part still dedicated to storage in utter disarray. Carefully stored boxes have been squashed, tossed about, split open and mixed with rubbish left by our lovely builders. And don’t even get me started on the dust. Torch in hand (and teeth), I searched through broken boxes, baby clothes and old lamps for the containers marked ‘bed fixings’. Reaching toward something that looked promising, I slipped (bit of a scary moment, as there aren’t many boards) and found … water. Quite a lot of it. A quick survey by torchlight revealed wet beams and several puddles – another leaking roof. I found moths too, but I figure they’ll likely drown over the winter. A visit from a (new) builder confirmed that a year of scaffold and footfall over the flat section at the top of our large pitched roof has well and truly done for it. So here we go again – belts tightened, everyone, because once we open this baby up, who knows what we’ll find...?
Kate Hill
Crikey that’s hot! Trying to warm up a cold January night with a takeaway curry? Perhaps the vindaloo was a little ambitious. And anyway, it won’t work: Curry and other spicy food might feel as though they are hot, but that’s only because the compound in chilli – capsaicin – binds with the same receptors on our tongues that sense heat. It’s not real heat, though, it’s just chilli heat.
I’M BURNING UP… Capsaicin molecules neatly fit into some of the pain receptors in our tongue, which sends a message to the brain – something like ‘argghhwhatonearthisthatgetitoutofhere’, I imagine. Your brain, in turn, triggers tears and other bodily responses like mucus in an effort to flush the guilty substance, quite literally, out of your head. If you’re new to chilli and eat something extraordinarily hot, it could trigger an inflammatory response in your mouth and throat or even vomiting – see, it could be worse!
PASS ME THE WATER! If you’ve eaten something nasty like a ghost chilli (native to India, a ghost chilli is around 400x hotter than tabasco on the Scoville Heat Scale, which measures this sort of thing) it’s only natural to reach for a glass of water. But I strongly recommend you don’t do that – on the basis of chemistry. Drinking a nice cold glass full after eating chilli is a bit like throwing fat on a fire, it stokes up the heat. According to the American Chemical Society (www.acs.org) the molecular structures of water and capsaicin mean that the heat effectively cancels the action of the water out – instead of helping, it neutralises any cooling effect the water might have had and spreads the chilli around your mouth.
What can I do to stop the pain?! The molecular structure of dairy produce – milk or ice cream, for example – has the opposite effect on capsaicin, and cancels out the burn, so grab a glass of milk. You could even try some of that raita over there. The other thing you can do is practice – the more spicy food we eat, the less it hurts as our tongues become desensitised to capsaicin. And once you get past the pain barrier, you might even start to enjoy it, as eating spicy food triggers the release of endorphins (‘feelgood’ hormones that activate the body’s opioid receptors) in the brain. Now if that doesn’t liven up a cold January night, I don’t know what will. PORTFOLIO 5
Downside, Hove BN3 6QJ Offers in the Region of ÂŁ1,850,000
6
3
3
A stunning, detached contemporary style residence, of substantial proportions, providing light and beautifully presented living space, occupying an enviable location on the south side of Downside, with magnificent, panoramic views over the surrounding area towards the sea. The living areas follow the open plan theme, however are very comfortable and have distinct areas or separate rooms, providing varied options for family living. The kitchen/breakfast room is fitted with an expansive range of quality integrated appliances. The first floor features a superb galleried landing with glass balustrading from which all of the bedrooms are accessed, together with the luxuriously appointed bathrooms. The master suite as would be expected, encompasses some truly spectacular views and also opens onto a large sun balcony. Externally, a ground floor sun terrace, water feature and large lawned gardens.
Westbourne Gardens, Hove BN3 5PL Guide Price ÂŁ1,100,000 - ÂŁ1,200,000
WHATEVER YOU ARE LOOKING FOR
4
3
2
An attractive and substantial Victorian semi-detached villa of considerable character, together with a lovely good-sized mature rear garden and private driveway. This fine bay fronted period house provides lovely light and generously proportioned living space arranged over two floors and offers enormous potential for expansion, (STNPC). A fine reception hallway leads to the first floor. A pleasant, sunny west facing room overlooks the front, with the typical features characteristic of the period. A truly stunning, open plan, kitchen/dining family room at the back with a vast expanse of bi-fold doors opening directly on to the well-established rear garden. On the first floor there is an impressive split level landing, from which the good sized bedrooms and luxury bathroom can be found. The property comes with a private driveway to the side.
mishonwelton.com
01273 778 877 94 Church Road, Hove, East Sussex BN3 3EB
The Drive, Hove BN3 3JD Guide Price ÂŁ800,000 - ÂŁ850,000
3
2
2
A quite magnificent three bedroom mansion apartment of considerable character situated on the top floor this prestigious detached Victorian building. Situated in the sought after Drive, this apartment is within immediate proximity of all amenities and the seafront. It is evident that this residence is a historical gem. The accommodation offers an extremely large entrance hall leading to a most fabulous and comfortable double aspect living/dining room which boasts wonderful views. The kitchen is immaculately presented and comes with a range of integrated appliances. The plush master bedroom with vistas to the west oozes luxury and has a wonderful and spacious en-suite. The additional two bedrooms are bright, airy and generously proportioned. The property also benefits from a utility room, plenty of storage and a passenger lift.
Park Avenue, Hove BN3 5RF Guide Price £800,000 - £825,000
WHATEVER YOU ARE LOOKING FOR
4
2
1
A substantial and most attractive, 4 bedroom semi-detached family home, together with a sunny west facing rear garden, offering considerable potential for enlargement (STNPC). An impressive and handsome home, with lovely brick and part tile hung elevations and bay giving the property a sense of solid quality and character. Internally the spacious and wide reception hallway sets the benchmark for the rest of the property. The spacious front reception room, is the ideal relaxing “evening” space and is complemented by the large open plan kitchen/dining/family room at the rear, which opens onto the rear garden. Indeed, we consider that the house offers further potential for expansion to the side to complement the existing reception space and also the already generous, 4 double bedrooms upstairs. There is also a large private driveway and garage.
mishonwelton.com
01273 778 877 94 Church Road, Hove, East Sussex BN3 3EB
PROPERTY news
PROPERTY NEWS ConveyancingFOCUS By
ISSUE 5 | WINTER 2016
TRAINING EYE Making Compliance Easy LAWYER CHECKER Keep Safe From Fraud CHECKAPROFESSIONAL Lay Down The Law On SMEs
SEARCHES UK CONVEYANCING FOCUS WINTER ISSUE
GROUNDSURE Reporting Changes
Searches UK have published the Winter edition of Conveyancing Focus. Launched at the beginning of 2015, and produced by Portfolio Publications, this quarterly magazine for the searches industry features interviews, news, articles and more about trends in the market, new products and commentary from industry experts, plus an interview with designer Kelly Hoppen. Existing clients will be sent the magazine and copies may be requested by emailing info@searchesuk.co.uk or via Searches UK’s website to download a digital version. www.searchesuk.co.uk LANDMARK What To Do When The Earth Moves
PLUS REGULAR FEATURES: Meet The Team, Career Ladder And Industry News
Photo credit: The Negotiator
SAWYER AND CO WIN SILVER IN BEST SMALL ESTATE AGENTS Sawyer & Co have scooped yet another award - the Silver award for Best Small Estate Agents in the UK category at The Negotiator Awards. From over 360 entries – the most in its history – The Negotiator Award-winners for 2015 were revealed at a glamorous gala dinner at The London Hilton on Park Lane in November hosted by impressionist Alistair McGowan. www.sawyerandco.co.uk
THE HOPPEN BRAND Interview with Kelly Hoppen
www.searchesuk.co.uk
searches-uk-ISSUE5-V4.indd 1
07/12/2015 20:21
MILLWOOD DESIGNER HOMES Tonbridge-based luxury residential developer Millwood Designer Homes has won one of the property industry’s biggest accolades at the What House? Awards 2015. The company, which currently has nine sites across Kent, Surrey and East Sussex, won Bronze for Best Small Housebuilder. Judges commented: “Millwood is now about more than large detached houses and has mixed up its portfolio to include larger developments of smaller-sized properties in response to the market, such as its Orchard Gate scheme in Ditton, Kent. Here Millwood created what it calls “a small hamlet that has evolved over time”. This is a look more developers should strive to achieve, not pastiche, but realising that complementary architecture is often a local winner.” The awards, presented by comedian David Walliams and held at the Grosvenor House Hotel in November, are now in their 34th year. www.millwooddesignerhomes.co.uk
GUEST SPEAKER Joining us as guest speaker at this quarter’s lunch is Neil Laughton, a former Royal Marine Commando and Special Forces Officer, who currently runs a management-training company, Laughton & Co. He is an entrepreneur, pilot and adventurer. Throughout his career he has founded eight companies in various industries including property development, construction and commercial interiors. Two of his businesses were sold to a FTSE 100 company in 2011. His passion for aviation sees him fly paratrikes, aeroplanes and helicopters. Neil has travelled to 85 countries and has organised numerous adventurous expeditions by land, sea and air. Neil will discuss the importance of a work/life balance and will explore the tools and strengths needed to run a successful business, as well as expand on his own business triumphs over the years.
Our wonderful charity prize draw, in aid of the Rockinghorse Children’s Charity, will be announced at the lunch. Every guest can enter for as little as £10 and all donations will be put towards ongoing projects at the Royal Alexandra Children’s Hospital and Trevor Mann Baby Unit. WE LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOU SOON!
PROPERTY news
GOLD AGAIN! HAMPTONS ARE BEST LARGE AGENCY FOR THE FOURTH YEAR Hamptons International took home Gold for Best Large Agency for the fourth consecutive year at the Estate Agency of the Year Awards 2015 in association with the Sunday Times and The Times, held at The Lancaster London Hotel on Friday 4th December. The event is recognised as one of the most prestigious events in the industry calendar and attracted stiff competition from agents across the country. It was once again supported by The Sunday Times and The Times, with the winners presented with their awards, by International rugby star and MBE Matt Dawson. Awarding Hamptons International with Gold for Best Large Agency for the fourth year in a row, the judges commented: “Hamptons International is a leading residential property company which offers unrivalled customer service from committed and inspired people. Clients using Hamptons will receive expert advice from highly trained, professional and enthusiastic staff. Hamptons International is a professional and polished brand whose ethics and standards have led to extraordinary levels of repeat and referral business. It is a worthy winner of the gold in this category for the fourth year running.” www.hamptons-int.com
HOLLYWOOD LAND JOINS MISHON MACKAY Matthew Hollywood from Land company, Hollywood Land, has joined Mishon Mackay Land & New Homes as Land & Development Director. During his six years of consultancy to Mishon Mackay, Matthew’s contribution has been invaluable. He has built upon the company’s position and provided a professional and respected Land department which draws both vendors and land buyers from a wide spectrum and has seen Mishon Mackay entrusted with the sale of several sensitive, high profile and heritage sites. ‘Alex Mackay and I greatly admire Matthew’s energy and creativity, while his professional standing in the Land industry is an invaluable asset to Mishon Mackay.’ says Julie Frith, the outgoing president of the Brighton & Hove Estate Agents Association and also director of the new company. ‘It has always been our aim to provide top class service to our clients and we are a strong team. Together our new company will undoubtedly go from strength to strength.’ www.mishonmackay.com
IN MEMORY OF GLENN MISHON The annual Glenn Mishon memorial golf day was held in December at a blustery Dyke golf club. Friends and colleagues from the property industry gathered to take part in this special event in memory of Glenn Mishon and in support of Macmillan Cancer support charity. Organized by Alex Mackay and Marc Cox from Mishon Mackay the day included lunch, raffle and prize giving, with the overall winner being Crosby & Woods’ team. The event raised thousands of pounds for the charity.
PROPERTY PROFESSIONALS UNDER ONE ROOF The Property Professionals Lunch provides the perfect opportunity to mingle with your peers and like-minded professionals in a warm, friendly and relaxed atmosphere to discuss new ideas and create fresh business opportunities.
14/01/16 AT (HOTEL) PUB DU VIN IN BRIGHTON ARRIVE AT 12.00 PM, WITH LUNCH BEING SERVED AT 1.00 PM 2 Ship Street, Brighton, BN1 1AD
RSVP The cost is just £30 per person including a 3 course lunch, wine and coffee. If you would like to join us, please RSVP melanie@searchesuk.co.uk
Beyond your expectations www.hamptons.co.uk
Hill Brow, Hove £2,000,000 One of three New Build five bedroom detached houses with garage. Predicted EPC: B
Lewes Crescent, Brighton £915,000 Three bedroom duplex apartment with roof terrace in sought after location. EPC D
Dyke Road, Brigthon £1,250,000 Five bedroom semi detached family house with garage. EPC D
Palmeira Avenue, Hove £575,000 New two bedroom third floor apartment with underground parking. EPC B
Hamptons International Estate Agents Hove Sales. 01273 796 061 | Lettings. 01273 796 063
NEWS
TRENDING ON THE COVER
And So To Bed, the home of exclusive luxury handmade beds, luxury mattresses, bespoke and period reproduction bedsteads and classically beautiful bedrooms. With 30 bed stores and showrooms to help you create and buy your perfect bedroom. www.andsotobed.co.uk
NINE ROOFTOP FLATS APPROVED FOR OLD DUBARRY PERFUMERY IN HOVE Nine rooftop flats have been approved for the old Dubarry perfumery building between Fonthill Road and Hove Station. A report to the committee said: “On balance, the impact of the proposed additional storey on the appearance of this nondesignated heritage asset is considered acceptable having regards the nature of the significance of the building and the public benefits of providing addition housing units given the absence of a five-year housing supply. “While the additional storey would impact on the amenities of residents to the rear along Newtown Road, the degree of loss of daylight and sunlight would not be sufficiently significant as to warrant the refusal of permission.”
POLPO Polpo, the sharing plates restaurant group from Russell Norman and Richard Beatty, has opened their new 60-cover restaurant in New Road, near the Brighton Dome and Theatre Royal. Inspired by the Venetian “bàcaro” wine bars, the feel is “urban, rustic, and stripped back” with a zinc-topped bar, and a three-metre long skylight bring natural light into the space. The menu will offer the familiar “cichetti” sharing plates, Norman said: “Having visited Brighton with my grandmother Gwen every summer as a child, Polpo Brighton has a special place in my heart. I have such vivid and fond memories of the pier and sitting on the beach with soggy chips and a stick of rock. For me it’s the quintessential English seaside town. As an adult I have loved Brighton for its uncompromising bohemian identity. I’m delighted Polpo will be a part of this vibrant community.” Polpo, 20 New Road, Brighton. www.polpo.co.uk
BRIGHTON IN TRIP ADVISOR TOP TEN Brighton has been named as one of the top ten tourist destinations on the rise worldwide, according to the Trip Advisor website. It ranks sixth and is the only British destination in the latest global top ten. In the European top ten, Brighton is ranked third, just above Liverpool, the only other UK entry. Trip Advisor said that its Travellers’ Choice Awards highlighted destinations that had seen the greatest increase in positive feedback and interest from its online community year on year. Trip Advisor chief marketing officer Barbara Messing said: “Our well-travelled community has helped us identify the destinations around the world that are gaining in interest and popularity. “We hope these destinations inspire those planning their travel for 2016 to book trips to these locales that feature excellent hotels, restaurants and attractions – and also provide a great holiday value.”
WE LOVE: SNAPCAM Wearable tech gets an upgrade with the SnapCam LE from iON Camera. This sleek, powerful SnapCam is as small as an After Eight mint, and as light as a feather at just 27.5 grams. And with the option to clip it to your outfit with the casing included, this camera is the ultimate fashion accessory. Ready for a selfie? Simply add the selfie stick casing to the camera and then with just a tap of the power button the camera springs to life. Press and hold the power button to activate burst mode and you’ll be able to choose your best shot from the selection using the iON Camera app (available on iOS and Android). Set the camera to time lapse mode and SnapCam LE will continue to take photos over long periods of time. The SnapCam. RRP £179.00 | uk.ioncamera.com/snapcam PORTFOLIO 15
Beyond your expectations www.hamptons.co.uk
Happy New Year We would like to take this opportunity to say a huge thank you to all our clients, old & new for their continued business.
What a successful year we have had Here is a small selection of high quality properties that we agreed tenancies for in 2015 on just the first viewing. Whether you are a landlord or a tenant, why not contact us today and get the high quality service you deserve. Take a look at our news page inside this publication to see what we have been up to and why people keep coming back to us.
Brunswick Street West £3500 PCM A wonderful four bedroom, two bathroom gated home in central Hove. EPC 64
West Drive £3,450 PCM A substantial detached four bedroom family house in popular park location. EPC 39
Addison Road £2,500 PCM A beautiful four bedroom mid-terraced house located close to Brighton station. EPC 56
Cleveland Road £2,000 PCM A four bedroom extended family home in popular park location. EPC 62
Upper North Street £1,900 PCM A four bedroom period home located in the heart of Brighton and close to the station. EPC 67
Adelaide Crescent £1,595 PCM A stunning two bedroom ground floor apartment, with high ceilings & sea views. EPC 67
Preston Park Avenue £1,400 PCM A second floor, two bedroom executive apartment with balcony and secure parking. EPC 83
Robert Street £1,100 PCM A one bedroom apartment located in the heart of Brighton and close to the station. EPC 80
Hamptons International Estate Agents Hove Sales. 01273 796 061 | Lettings. 01273 796 159
NEWS
HAMPTONS INTERNATIONAL
news
A successful 2015 and plans for an even better 2016. Hamptons International Hove Lettings office have it covered MARKET TALK 2015 was a hugely successful year for your local Lettings Office in Hove. We saw two out of three tenancies agreed on properties within three viewings, showing not only the dedication and seriousness of our applicants but the importance of full professional marketing. The average rent of a newly-let home was 3.6% higher than 2014, and our busiest month was July, where we saw 80% of tenants relocating from London and overseas, proving how effective our branch network is. Furthermore, the average rental achieved for 4-bedroom-plus houses was £3,240pcm, making us the logical choice when looking for the best agent with which to place your property to let. We currently have professional applicants who have budgets ranging from £1,000pcm to £4,000pcm for one bedroom properties; and we urgently require goodquality properties of all sizes. If you want to guarantee the best tenant, the best rent and an efficient and professional service, appointing Hamptons International to let and manage your property is a great place to start. We would also like to assure you that as a member of ARLA (the Association of Residential Letting Agents) Hamptons are fully bonded and regulated, adhering to a strict code of practice.
HAMPERS Each month Hamptons new tenants are automatically entered into a draw to win a Fortnum and Mason hamper. This has gone down very well, as you would expect, with our winning tenants!
SCHOOL LINKS Every Christmas we team up with the pupils at Windlesham School for a colouring competition, and 2015 was bigger and better than ever before. Celebrating the release of Snoopy and Charlie Brown: The Peanuts Movie, we asked the pupils to dream big and decorate the dog house of Snoopy’s dreams. Members of the public voted for their favourites, and one lucky winner won a Snoopy Goody Bag.
SPONSORSHIP This year Hamptons International are proud to sponsor the Artist Open House Festival for the 4th year in a row. This is an exciting bi-annual event; keep an eye out for our Hamptons Artist In Residence Boards in May & December. We are also thrilled to announce that we will be sponsoring Brighton Dome and The 50th Brighton Festival, which also takes place in May.
GOOGLE IT!
AWARDS
Don’t take our word for it, take a look at our Google reviews, which show that over 96% of reviews for lettings scored us 5 out of 5. Just search Hamptons Lettings Hove on Google to see for yourself.
We are elated to announce that we have once again taken home GOLD for The Best Large Agency at the Sunday Times Estate Agency of the Year Awards for the fourth consecutive year which took place in December 2015.The local office also won a Stick It Up Award for prominently displaying fees and charges for the benefit of our customers. Displaying fees in full within a branch has been a legal requirement of all agents since May, however still some choose to hide them.
“Compared to other estate agents I’ve dealt with in the past, Hamptons offer a much higher level of customer service. They respond and deal with any queries promptly and they’re extremely organised.” (Anna)
SUPPORTING CANCER RESEARCH UK Hamptons International supports Cancer Research UK. Working together with the local community and acting as a socially responsible organisation is something that is incredibly important to us. As part of this exciting partnership, we raise awareness and funds throughout the year to help Cancer Research UK continue its life-saving work. So far, we have raised over £146,000. Keep an eye on our Twitter page to see when our next fundraising events take place.
Hamptons International Lettings | 82 Church Road, Brighton BN3 2EB | 01273 796 159 | www.hamptons.co.uk
maslen.co.uk
Hova Villas, Hove
OFFERS OVER
ÂŁ465,000 TO INCLUDE THE FREEHOLD
A fantastic 2/3 bedroom raised ground and first floor maisonette Located in sought after Hova Villas, just off Church Road. This property is beautifully presented throughout and features an attractive walled rear garden, a smart kitchen, bathroom and shower room, period features, sash windows and an open fireplace. The freehold for the building is included. Energy Rating E51.
Maslen Estate Agents 174 Church Road, Hove, East Sussex BN3 2DJ t:01273 321000 e:churchroad@maslen.co.uk
LEWES ROAD
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WOODINGDEAN
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HOVE
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FIVEWAYS
BEAUTIFUL homes
FOUR STOREYS
A
simply stunning four-bedroom, two-bathroom Victorian family home in the popular Elm Grove area of Brighton. Located within one mile of Brighton Station, the property makes the ideal home for the buyer who wishes to move to Brighton but still needs convenient transport to the capital. The property is arranged over four floors and offers flexible accommodation in excellent condition throughout. Of particular note is the exceptional lower ground-floor kitchen/family area with direct access onto the garden. Other benefits include a homely sitting room with log burner, well-maintained rear garden with decking, separate front door for the lower ground floor and an en-suite to the master bedroom.
Bonchurch Road, Brighton, BN2 3PH Price: OIEO ÂŁ540,000 Bedrooms: 4 Bathrooms: 2 Extras: Excellent location; Flexible accommodation; Recently refurbished Best Bits: Wonderful open-plan kitchen/family room; Master bedroom with ensuite; Contemporary finish with period charm Maslen Estate Agents 39 Lewes Road, Brighton BN2 3HQ 01273 677001 www.maslen.co.uk
PORTFOLIO  19
CALENDAR of events
January Our pick of January events: ballet, magic, comedy and Strictly
19 January Ross Noble: Warm Up ‘The supreme master of spontaneous stand-up and true king of surreal flights of fantasy’ (Time Out). Don’t miss your chance to see Ross Noble in this intimate venue as warm-up for his brand-new 2016 tour. Noble is back doing what he does best, spinning forth hilarious nonsense for your amusement. Now is your chance to see one of the best live comics working internationally today in an intimate setting as he tries out new material. ‘Noble turns over as many good ideas in one night as most comics do in a year .. gleeful, free-wheeling silliness’ (Chortle). The Hawth, Crawley, 8pm. www.parkwoodtheatres.co.uk
12 - 16 January Annie Annie, the world’s favourite family musical, starring Birds of a Feather star Lesley Joseph as the tyrannical Miss Hannigan. Annie lives a life of misery at Miss Hannigan’s orphanage in1930s New York during The Great Depression. Determind to find her real parents, her luck changes when she is chosen to spend Christmas at the residence of famous billionaire Oliver Warbucks. Miss Hannigan has other ideas and hatches a plan to spoil Annie’s search. With its award-winning book and score, this stunning new production includes the unforgettable songs Hard Knock Life, Easy Street, I Don’t Need Anything But You and Tomorrow. Theatre Royal, Brighton. For times and prices visit www.atgtickets.com/brighton
18 & 19 January St Petersburg Classic Ballet Combining classical training and technique with the best-loved Russian ballets, Saint Petersburg Classic Ballet’s performances always have an air of magic. One of the few 19th century Romantic ballets to survive intact, Giselle tells of a village girl whose everlasting love saves her beloved from a wretched dance to the death. The Nutcracker is a delightfully festive tale and the perfect introduction to ballet, as Clara is whisked away on a fairy tale adventure by her Nutcracker prince. ‘The high level of dancing was also a great pleasure, particularly in its authority and a classical purity that is rare today’ (The New York Times). Giselle: 18th January, The Nutcracker: 19th January The Hawth, Crawley, 7.30pm. www.parkwoodtheatres.co.uk
20 PORTFOLIO
24 January Oysters3 Up close and personal: John Jones, Alan Prosser and Ian Telfer, the three founder members and creative heart of folk-rock legends Oysterband, invite you to an evening of fresh acoustic performance and not-entirely-discreet stories - an insight into their history, sometimes turbulent, often funny, with great songs from every era of a unique career. “The idea arose from Sidmouth and Shrewsbury Festivals recently, asking us to do ‘something different’ as well as the regular Oysterband style of concert. We more or less improvised the show and it went down a storm. And we wondered how on earth we’d never thought of doing this before!” De La Warr Pavilion, Bexhill-on-Sea. 7.30pm. www.dlwp.com
CALENDAR of events
5 - 10 January Moscow City Ballet Returning to Chichester to begin the New Year in style, Moscow City Ballet present two classic productions featuring Tchaikovsky’s beautiful scores.. Swan Lake: Romantic, passionate and magical – the powerful story of the doomed love of Prince Siegfried for the beautiful Odette has captured the hearts of ballet lovers the world over. Performed to Tchaikovsky’s emotive and unforgettable score, this production delivers exquisite dancing from Moscow City Ballet’s virtuoso dancers. The Sleeping Beauty: With opulent costumes, enchanting characters and sparkling dances, the tale of Sleeping Beauty is one of the most beloved of the classical ballet repertoire, the evergreen tale of the love of a handsome prince and beautiful princess. Swan Lake: 5th to 7th January, The Sleeping Beauty: 8th to10th January | Chichester Festival Theatre. For times and prices visit www.cft.org.uk
28 January
27 January Dynamo Seeing is Believing. Dynamo, whose real name is Steven Frayne, hit our screens just three years ago with his first series of Magician Impossible. In that short time he has quickly established himself as one of the world’s best-known and most-loved magicians, with his series airing in over 180 countries worldwide and reaching over 250 million cumulative viewers across the world. He was recently awarded the highest accolade by the magic circle with his promotion to Member of the Inner Magic Circle with Gold Star, a position only held by 300 magicians worldwide, including HRH Prince of Wales. Brighton Centre, 8pm. www.brightoncentre.co.uk
Anton & Erin Strictly may be over for another year but you can get your ballroom fix at The Dome this January. Join Anton Du Beke & Erin Boag with a dazzling new dance show featuring exciting new choreography, sparkling costumes and a sensational show band playing timeless music from the golden age. Professional partners since 1997, Anton & Erin are one of Britain’s best-loved ballroom dancing couples. The couple encapsulate the glitz, glamour and elegance of a bygone era and add showbiz sparkle wherever they appear. Anton du Beke & Erin Boag ae joined by Richard Balcombe, Conductor, Lance Ellington, star vocalist, ensemble dancers and the full 25-piece London Concert Orchestra. Brighton Dome, 7.30pm. www.brightondome.org
1 - 6 February Private Lives This major revival of Noël Coward’s masterpiece, Private Lives, stars stage and screen stars Tom Chambers (Strictly Come Dancing) as the loveable and charming Elyot and Laura Rogers (Tipping The Velvet) as the unconventional and vivacious Amanda, alongside Charlotte Ritchie (Call The Midwife) as Sybil and Richard Teverson (Downton Abbey) as Victor. Private Lives is the tale of two warring ex-lovers who unexpectedly meet while on their luxury honeymoons with their new partners. Theatre Royal, Brighton. For times and prices visit www.atgtickets.com/brighton
”A masterpiece of 1930’s high comedy, Private Lives is a sophisticated evening of acutely sharp, divinely decadent and unashamed humour”
PORTFOLIO 21
52 Church Road Hove, BN3 2FN • Tel 01273 778844 113 St. Georges Road, Brighton BN2 1EA • Tel 01273 685111 10 Station Road, Portslade BN41 1GA • Tel 01273 383830
Camden Terrace, Brighton - Guide Price £375,000 - £395,000
Brighton Office 01273 685111
Truly unique in so many ways and with so many boxes already ticked. If you want to enjoy an all year round peaceful, light filled existence with the option to take full advantage of funky Brighton or exclusive London at the drop of a hat - then this delightful two bedroom end of terrace cottage is for you. Just across the way is a lovely little shop selling organic and locally produced food, Small Batch Coffee, breads, pastries and fruit and veg. Within a minute or two there is a Marks & Spencer Food, Tesco Express, an off-licence, numerous pubs and take away shops. You are spoiled for choice having it all on your door step but from the comfort of a quiet yet central location. If you need to commute to London then the Station is a few minutes away by foot, equally you can access all parts of the city with ease using public transport or indeed by car as 7 dials is just up the hill and Lewes and London Road just down the hill - no crossing the city to get out. Like Brighton, the cottage has a special atmosphere - in summer the place is alive with sun and fresh air and in the depths of winter it remains light and bright as well as warm, cosy and inviting. EPC Rating D
Highdown Road, Hove - £795,000
Hove Office 01273 778844
Refurbished period property in highly sought after location moments from Seven Dials. There are excellent local shops, restaurants, coffee shops, bars etc literally just around the corner. The layout of this property has been skilfully remodelled by architects to suit modern life. They have created a superb family house with a prefect mix of contemporary and period features. The ground floor has 2 spacious reception rooms, both with beautiful original fireplaces, and a large kitchen, dining room, breakfast room with bi-fold doors opening to the rear garden. On the first floor the master suite has a large bedroom, dressing room and very generous bathroom. There is another bedroom and family bathroom on this level too. Up again to the top floor and you’ll find another large bedroom again with dressing room and bathroom en-suite. There is potential to extend further subject to the usual consents. EPC rating E
www.sawyerandco.co.uk
St Aubyns Road, Portslade - ÂŁ499,950
Portslade Office 01273 383830
Lovely five bedroom family home in South Portslade with south-facing garden. On a small grid of very popular residential roads off Portslades main thoroughfare, St Aubyns Road is unexpectedly quiet being just one-way. Over three levels this yellow brick Victorian home with distinctive red brick detailing sits mid terrace. Inside dĂŠcor is largely neutral with a combination of engineered wood flooring on the ground floor and cream carpets elsewhere. This is a spacious and light home in a family-friendly neighbourhood. EPC rating E
Another Award Winning Year!
www.sawyerandco.co.uk
BEAUTIFUL homes
ASSURED ELEGANCE
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n assured, elegant family home with five bedrooms in the Tongdean area of Hove. Distinctive with its curved double frontage of bay windows and terracotta hung tiles, balustrade sided steps lead up to the portico entrance of this imposing detached red-brick property. With neutrally-toned interior decor, deep cream carpets throughout and with elegant alabaster plantation shutters fitted to every window, this home embodies a superb cohesion of elegant style. Comfortably sized rooms with their high ceilings and largely south-westerly aspect optimise natural light. This is a superb family home in a quiet, tree-lined neighbourhood of grand individual properties. EPC rating E
Shirley Drive, Hove, BN3 6QP Price: £1,100,000 Bedrooms: 5 Bathrooms: 2 Extras: Off-street parking; Large garden; Immaculate décor; Garage Best Bits: Stunning garden; Bespoke kitchen; Separate Dining Room Fine and Country 46 Church Road Hove BN3 2FN 01273 739911 www.fineandcountry.com
24 PORTFOLIO
fineandcountry.comTM
Fine & Country 46 Church Road, Hove BN3 2FN
Grange Walk, Brighton
EPC: D
Along a leafy, winding driveway this substantial 5-bedroom family home sits in the middle of just three properties. Set well back from Old London Road the home’s location is secluded and tucked away and comes complete with a welcoming portico entrance way. Recently updated throughout, there is an easy natural flow between reception rooms. Combining décor of fresh white with a touch of soft grey and mullioned windows, its singular style signature is both relaxed and contemporary. Located towards Brighton’s northern periphery, excellent transport links are close by while it’s just a few minutes walk to Patcham’s historic village centre for local shopping.
Tel: 01273 739911
Surrenden Road, Brighton
£1,000,000
EPC: C
Spacious double-fronted family home with five bedrooms in leafy Surrenden. Built in 1933 on what was originally the Surrenden Park Estate, all the homes on this wide treelined road are individually designed. High up above the city there’s a relaxed spaciousness to the area with its wide grass verges on both sides of the road. Custom-built storage and professionally styled co-ordinated colour themes are indicative of this detached family homes sensitive update. Far-reaching sea views from the front bedrooms further engender a sense of space. Warm and inviting, this is a home that emanates an assured confidence from its generous one third of an acre sized plot.
Tel: 01273 739911
£1,200,000
Tel: +44 (0)1273 739911
LEGAL matters
FULL DISCLOSURE What is full and frank financial disclosure? Howlett Clarke explain
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ny spouse who seeks advice about financial matters while going through divorce proceedings will have heard the phrase ‘full and frank disclosure’. This is the process whereby each spouse supplies full details of their financial situation to the other so that each of them is able to properly decide how best to divide up the assets and to give fully informed consent to any proposed agreement. It also allows the Judge to approve an agreed order or to make an order if agreement cannot be reached. This article concentrates on how financial disclosure is achieved within court proceedings and why it is important. Of course, there are several alternative methods available to resolve disputes, but these are not covered here. The ability to make a financial claim within divorce proceedings stems from The Matrimonial Causes Act 1973; the process is governed by the Family Procedure Rules 2010. The court will (among other things) direct each party to complete a ‘Form E’. This is a substantial form and specific documents must be filed: for example, copy bank statements, a valuation of the home and a P60. You cannot 26 PORTFOLIO
attach whatever you like as the court manages the process and decides throughout what evidence it needs in order to allow the Judge to make a decision. Once Form Es are exchanged, if all is well, everyone will have a general understanding of the full financial position. Clients, and indeed
“Each spouse supplies full details of their financial situation to the other to properly decide how best to divide up the assets” their solicitor, will often have questions about the other party’s Form E. A Judge will determine which questions should be answered, and may also direct that a valuation of a property or business be obtained, or that a pension expert should be instructed. Providing full and frank disclosure is an on-
going obligation, meaning that if circumstances change a spouse must inform the court. In order to finalise matters a client needs an order of the court, reached either by agreement or imposed by a Judge. Where a spouse fails to disclose something, fails to update the court or deliberately lies, then any order made could be set aside and the case reheard. The reason is straightforward; if a spouse or a Judge does not know what the correct financial situation is, how can they agree or approve an order? To ignore the obligation of full and frank disclosure these days could be very costly. Fiona Connah, is Associate Solicitor at QualitySolicitors Howlett Clarke 8-9 Ship Street, Brighton BN1 1AZ 01273 327 272 www.qualitysolicitors.com/howlettclarke
See more from Howlett Clarke at www.portfoliopublications.co.uk
AREA feature
IF YOU KNEW LEWES... Daniel Frickelton turns over a few stones to discover some fascinating, lesser-known facts and factoids about Lewes...
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ewes in East Sussex has a remarkable history spanning millenia of human life and development and encompassing events of every imagineable sort. There have been wars, revolts, political and religious upheavals and sickening executions galore. On the other end of the spectrum, there have been iconic artistic communities such as The Bloomsbury Group, literary communities and a non-conformist historical tradition of which the citizens of Lewes are rightly very proud. We have all been to Lewes for shopping, eating out,
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enjoying the tourist attractions or just mooching about in the many quirky twittens dissecting this ancient town. We all know something about Lewes, but there are bound to be some surprises for anyone wanting to look under a few stones. Take The Battle of Lewes (1264), for instance. Many will know that this uprising of the Barons was one of the first steps in Britain towards parliamentary democracy. It involves Lewes Castle, which everyone knows was built by the Normans in 1067 following the the Battle
of Hastings in 1066. King Henry III was driven from the castle and forced to hide in the Priory as his forces were slaughtered around him. A skull recently found in a medieval cemetery in Lewes was at first expected to shed light on the Battle of Lewes. However, archaeologists have been shocked to learn that carbon dating of these remains places them nearer in time to the Battle of Hastings (1066), providing the first evidence linking Lewes and the castle to the more historically significant Battle of Hastings. This could radically change the way historians
AREA feature
to as The Father of the American Revolution, spent much time arguing his case here. Witnesses claim to have seen the ghosts of several men sitting in a circle at The White Hart, all wearing old-fashioned black clothing and hats. They always look up when observed, stare back at the watchers, then dissolve away. In the mid-1550s, some 17 Protestant men and women were burned at the stake at Lewes for refusing Bloody Queen Mary’s demand that they accept Catholicism. Prior to execution, the martyrs were imprisoned in the medieval wine cellars of this inn, and the ghosts are thought to belong to these victims of religious executions. They haunt the Tudor Room. Br-r-r-r-r-All right, ghosts may not be everyone’s favourite brew, but who would turn down a wellbrewed local pint? Everyone knows Harvey’s Brewery, and many of you may even have toured the place. Walking about Lewes at this time of year, you may have noticed the lovely, mysterious murals decorating the brewery’s malt hoist and depicting The Adoration of the Magi. But who are the individuals portrayed in the murals? According to Harvey’s Managing
view the aftermath of the Norman invasion. It now appears likely that there was significant resistance to the invaders and their activities. (BBC 17 May 2014 http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/ uk-england-sussex-27446020). Another well-known Lewes attraction is Lewes Priory (St Pancras), and many will have seen Mark Rylance playing Thomas Cromwell, Henry VIII’s “fixer” in BBC2’s adaptation of Hilary Mantel’s novels Wolf Hall and Bring Up the Bodies. Few will know, however, that during The Dissolutions, when Henry VIII appropriated or destroyed Church lands and property, Thomas Cromwell was charged with the task of destroying The St Pancras Priory. In 1538 the manor of Southover and the site of the dissolved monastery were granted to Thomas Cromwell. Cromwell built a substantial house on the site of the prior’s lodgings that was known as “the Lord’s Place”. After Thomas Cromwell’s fall from grace the manor was given to Anne of Cleves. Following her death it reverted to the Crown (Wikipedia). Everybody loves a good ghost story and The White Hart, a splendid former coaching inn on Lewes High Street, boasts some delightfully creepy guests. The building is originally from the 16th century. Thomas Paine, often referred
Director Miles Jenner, the Harvey’s Brewery murals were commissioned by the brewery to celebrate Christmas and were done by local artist Julian Bell. In true renaissance style, the artist used local people to populate the scenes, and the artist’s self portrait can be seen in the background leaning against the open door of the inn. The brewery is known locally as Lewes Cathedral, and, at Christmas, the traditional Christmas Ale is blessed by an eclectic band of multi-denominational clerics. Miles Jenner shares his favourite blessing with Portfolio readers: “Generous God, all good things come from You. Bless, we pray, this Christmas Ale that we have mashed today and all those who have harvested and prepared it with skill and loving care. May this ale be to all who drink it a true celebration of Christmas, warming the heart, cheering the spirit and embodying that fullness of life which you promised to us in your Son, our Saviour Jesus Christ. Amen.” Clearly, there’s more to Lewes than meets the eye of the casual observer. Look under some stones. You will be amazed.
“There have been iconic artistic communities such as The Bloomsbury Group, literary communities and a non-conformist historical tradition of which the citizens of Lewes are rightly very proud”
PORTFOLIO 29
DITCHLING | Offers In The Region Of £775,000 Deceptively spacious detached property offering flexible accommodation over two floors, being only a ‘stone’s throw’ from the centre of the village. Approaching nearly 3,000 sq ft and offering 4 double bedrooms, 5 receptions rooms, 3 bathrooms, attached garage and private gardens on all sides.
WOODMANCOTE | £1,650,000 Beautifully presented, recently extended and modernised family house boasting luxury spacious living with a wealth of extravagant features. Including 5 double bedrooms, 4 reception rooms, 3 bathrooms. Set in mature gardens and grounds of approximately 5 acres with stunning rural views.
chattestates.co.uk | 01273 844500 34 HIGH STREET, DITCHLING, EAST SUSSEX BN6 8TA
BEAUTIFUL homes
PICTURE PERFECT
Rowan Gardens, Ditchling, BN6 8TU Price: £949,950 Bedrooms: 5 Bathrooms: 3 Extras: Oak Flooring; Solid oak staircase; Cast iron inset ‘Jotul’ log burner Best Bits: Large double aspect sitting room; Good-sized south-facing rear garden
‘R
owan Gardens’ was built in 2006 by the current owners to their exacting standards. An attractive five bedroom detached house with a good-sized south-facing garden, the property is situated in an outstanding position in the heart of the village of
Ditchling. This home has an airy open plan feel with a large double aspect sitting room and spacious kitchen/dining room. There is a wealth of oak with oak flooring to the majority of the ground floor and a beautiful solid oak staircase. The property offers five bedrooms, two of which have en-suite facilities. The property also offers a double integral garage and good-sized rear south-facing garden as well as parking for several cars.
Chatt Estates 34 High Street, Ditchling, East Sussex BN6 8TA 01273 844500 www.chattestates.co.uk
PORTFOLIO 31
BEAUTIFUL homes
AMAZING HOME
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his four bedroom terraced house located in this extremely sought after area of Hove has been completely refurbished throughout to the highest standard. The property benefits from brand new double glazing, new gas central heating system and new re-wiring. Plus lots of period features. Newly fitted kitchen and a beautiful newly fitted bathroom with a Japanese style square bath. This is a perfect home for a commuter, being extremely close to Hove Station, while the green space and facilities of Hove Park are only moments away. Internal inspection is essential to fully appreciate the full wealth and benefits of this property.
Newtown Road, Hove, BN3 6AA Price: ÂŁ775,000 Bedrooms: 5 Bathrooms: 2 bathroom, 1 cloakroom Extras: Original period features: lovely rear garden Best Bits: Amazing open plan living space with living/dining and kitchen; Beautiful bathroom Goldin Lemcke 160-162 Church Road, Hove, BN3 2DL 01273 777123 www.goldinlemcke.com
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We have a fresh new look for 2016 to match our well renowned service. Thinking of selling? Let’s talk.
01273 777123 goldinlemcke.com
THE collection
THE JANUARY COLLECTION We turn our focus this month to property available in the desirable market town of Lewes. There is something for everyone in our January collection…
Unique history Fitzroy House, High Street, Lewes A unique opportunity to acquire this exceptional piece of Lewes history, situated on the corner of High Street and Friars walk originally built in 1862 as the Fitzroy Memorial Library, designed by renowned architect Sir George Gilbert Scott. Arranged over two floors the accommodation includes the stunning reception room with octagonal balcony at first floor level and an Octagonal roof light highlighting the ornate clock tower. Now requiring updating and refurbishment ,the property offers a wonderful opportunity to create a truly individual property of immense character. The accommodation features a 19’6 x 16’0 entrance hall with original Gothic Victorian pillars and tessellated tiled floor, four bedrooms and three bathrooms.
Price: £950,000 Graves Son & Pilcher 01273 321 123 www.gsp.uk.com
36 PORTFOLIO
THE collection
Holiday hideaway Yellowhammer, Plumpton, Sussex Nestled deep in the Sussex countryside, this secret hideaway house provides the perfect escape from the world. We love the generous proportions and amazing use of light, while the beautiful gardens and views almost seem to be superimposed on the huge windows. Yellowhammer offers spacious versatile accommodation for a large family gathering or a group of friends. The house has been decorated with a traditional feel and a strong sense of fun with the use of bright colours and quirky art-work. The main dining room forms an L shape with the kitchen and enjoys views across the garden towards the swimming pool. Tennis fans will appreciate the court in the grounds and children will love the games room with table tennis and computer games.
Price: from £2,100, sleeps up to 16. Mulberry Cottages 01227 464 958 | www.mulberrycottages.com
Stunning potential Malling Hill Lewes This substantial, detached Victorian house has period style living throughout with luxe features. Six generous bedrooms, two bathrooms and three reception rooms make up the main house, with a workshop and garage within the grounds. The kitchen/breakfast room with floor to ceiling glazed French doors opens out onto a south facing sun terrace in turn leading onto a lawned rear garden on two levels. The double garage which opens on to Spences Lane has potential to create a substantial separate dwelling, or possibly two smaller properties, subject to a buyer obtaining the relevant planning permissions necessary. The current owner has made provisional enquiries and further details are available on request.
Price: OIEO £999,950 Oakley Lewes Town & Country Residential Sales & Lettings 01273 487 444 | www.oakleyproperty.com
Secret Courtyard High Street, Lewes Perfect as a home or rental investment, this contemporary two bedroom maisonette is quietly tucked away off the bustling Lewes High Street, which you are shielded from by an attractive building on the street side of a pretty courtyard. This is a Penthouse set over two floors of a modern building circa 1980s with two double bedrooms, and a spacious living room with views. Chain free, you could move straight into this home which has a private terrace of its own and spectacular views over the Downs from the living room.
Price: OIEO £375,000 Brand Vaughan 01273 504 441 | www.brandvaughan.co.uk
PORTFOLIO 37
sunday times best small agency UK 2014 brighton & hove’s top selling agent 2015 source: rightmove insights january 2015 to november 2015
style icon dyke road bn1
price: £1,950,000 | area: 2015 sqft | call: 22 11 00
Glide into a life full of glamour in this exceptionally stylish family home. Beautifully designed, the spacious living rooms smoothly flow into each other and this streamlined building wraps around three sides, so the entire floor opens on to sun terraces surrounding the central lawn. Sweeping through a remote controlled gate into a smartly paved forecourt with a detached double garage, this two the broad hallway gleams with porcelain, the subtle changes of level introducing the high quality of the design, driven by a desire for freedom of both physical movement and light whilst providing unique, visual interest. The pool house is incredibly warm due to the heat recovery system. The large pool also has a power jet and timer for the competitive swimmer. Pillars continue the Romanesque feel of this part of the house. Well located in the popular Withdean, with its great schools, parks, shops and golf course, so should appeal to all generations!
“”
We sold the property to the owners many years ago, and it’s fantastic to market this wonderful house on Dyke Road again. We all think the pool is sensational! Jason Brand | Director
book a valuation. hove: 01273 22 11 00 kemp town: 01273 683 111 preston park: 01273 504 441
luxury penthouse southdown house price: £650,000
new listing
At the heart of the City of Brighton and Hove with exclusive views of the sea from a glamorous wrap- around sun terrace, this three bedroom penthouse sets a high standard of luxury rarely seen on the market. Within a prestigious development incorporating a gym above the secure car park and which has communal gardens, this contemporary apartment close to the sea, shops and station is ideal as a home or glamorous retreat. type: apartment | beds: 3 | area: 1152 sq ft | call: 01273 22 11 00
period drama lancaster villas
price: £1m - £1.2m
new listing
Enjoy the gracious proportions of this five bedroom Victorian Villa which has carefully retained precious period detail during its transformation into a sensational family home. Within walking distance of popular schools and the station, this beautiful house close to the fashionable 7 Dials has an unusually large south facing garden as well as rare off street parking, and is so fabulous that it is shortly to feature in a magazine. type: house | beds: 5 | area: 2561 sq ft | call: 01273 683 111
city treasure vine place
price: £1,375,000
new listing
Tucked away in the prestigious Clifton Hill Conservation Area, sits this exquisite four bedroom Cottage which is steeped in local history. Built in 1800, it boasts a wealth of period features such as wooden beams and brick fireplaces, and these blend in beautifully with the modern additions which have been added over recent years. This a unique opportunity for someone to acquire a central home, but with all the character and seclusion of a cottage in the country. type: house | beds: 3 | area: 1708 sq ft | call: 01273 504 441
promote your home exceptionally | book a valuation. hove: 01273 22 11 00 | kemp town: 01273 683 111 | preston park: 01273 504 441
Montpelier Road, Brighton
£650,000 O.I.E.O
Newly refurbished 5-6 bedroom, three bathroom mid-terrace house situated just off the seafront in central Brighton. This stunning property is in an enviable location, walking distance from the beach, the city centre and the array of local shops and restaurants on Western Road.
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Buy & sell with the experts. Four of our favourite properties this month . Visit our website at justinlloyd.co.uk to view all our properties. Marine Drive, Brighton
£300,000
Eley Drive, Rottingdean
Highly Sought After. This incredibly spacious two double bedroom flat situated on the ground floor of a purpose built 1930’s Art Deco building on Brighton seafront with stunning sea views is now exclusively available through Justin Lloyd. South facing patio area which is accessed from the living room. Also benefits from 24 hour security, concierge and unallocated off street parking.
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£499,950
Newly refurbished and renovated, three bedroom semi-detached chalet bungalow in Rottingdean. This superb property boasts a fantastic fourtiered rear garden offering unrivalled outside space (approximately 2820 sq ft / 262 sq m) with fantastic views; there is also a front garden, driveway parking and a garage.
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“An extremely efficient service from start to finish. From initial valuation through to the sale, the team at Justin Lloyd were informative, available and honest. Would use them again” Vendor comment, November 2015
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£479,950
A truly luxury two bedroom, two bathroom apartment situated on the third floor (with lift) of a newly built block in the Royal Alexandra Quarter in central Brighton. The property, which boasts an allocated underground parking space and far reaching views, is in a superb location, walking distance from the city centre, Brighton Train station and the seafront – Incredible home or investment opportunity.
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The International Property Awards 2013-2014
Call us now 01273 692424 Email info@justinlloyd.co.uk Visit justinlloyd.co.uk
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Dyke Road, Brighton
Highly Commended Real Estate Agency East Sussex
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Kemp Town 118 St James’s Street, Brighton BN2 1TH Hove 111 Western Road, Hove BN3 1DD
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BEAUTIFUL homes
PENTHOUSE APARTMENT
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truly magnificent two double bedroom, two bathroom penthouse apartment (with lift) with stunning direct sea views practically from all rooms, a south facing roof terrace and a visitor’s parking space for one car. This spacious property is situated in the iconic, Grade II listed Chain Pier House on the seafront in Kemp Town within easy walking distance to the city centre, Brighton Train Station, and all the local shops and restaurants. In more detail the accommodation comprises: entrance hallway, south facing living room with direct sea views leading to the terrace, kitchen, master bedroom with en-suite shower room, second double bedroom and a family bathroom. The apartment is also being sold with a storage room off the communal hallway, a share of the freehold and an option to purchase an allocated parking space by separate negotiation.
Marine Parade, Brighton, BN2 1PE Price: £475,000 Bedrooms: 2 Bathrooms: 2 Extras: Wood Flooring; Roof terrace with raised decked area; Well-formed and maintained greeting lobby; Share of Freehold Best Bits: Direct sea views; Top floor of Grade II listed building on Kemp Town seafront Justin Lloyd, Kemp Town Office 118 St James’s Street Brighton BN2 1TH 01273 692424 www.justinlloyd.co.uk PORTFOLIO 41
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LOWER MARKET STREET, HOVE
OIEO £775,000
Brices are delighted to offer this beautifully-presented three bedroom period house with accommodation arranged over four floors. Situated in the sought after Brunswick Town Conservation Area between Hove seafront and Western Road with nearby shops, restaurants and public transport. The accommodation comprises two street entrances, 24’10 double aspect lounge/ dining room, 23’5 kitchen/dining room, separate utility room, three double bedrooms with wardrobes, family bathroom, shower room, west aspect patio/garden, wealth of period features including fireplace and sash windows, wood flooring, gas fired central heating.
brices sales & lettings
SALES & LETTINGS 01273 323000 30C WESTERN ROAD, HOVE BN3 1AF
UP MY STREET...
BEAUTIFUL homes
...THIS MONTH WE SPEAK TO LEWIS WATTS ABOUT WHERE HE LIVES AND WHY HE LOVES IT LEWIS WATTS IS DIRECTOR OF CREATIVE DEVELOPMENTS WHERE IS HOME FOR YOU, LEWIS? We live in the Keymer Conservation Area, tucked away down a little lane backing onto the South Downs. It is a great spot to live and has all the benefits of the countryside, yet it is within walking distance of local shops and Hassocks Station. There is open countyside literally across the road and the South Downs Way is within walking distance if you feel particularly energetic. WHAT TYPE OF PROPERTY DO YOU LIVE IN? Our house is a lovely old Georgian Farmhouse which we have lovingly restored. Part of it is much older, dating back to the 16th century, and incorporates an old bakery with the original bread oven still in situ. I live there with my wife Marilynn and our youngest son Hugo. HOW LONG HAVE YOU LIVED IN THIS PARTICULAR AREA? We have lived in Keymer for about seven years. Before that we were in Albourne in a very rural spot, which was perfect while our two sons were growing up. Before that we lived in Brighton/Hove. TELL US ABOUT YOUR GARDEN… We have a very large garden. My wife Marilynn is definitely the gardener and I deal with the lawns, hedge-cutting and so on. We did a massive amount of planting and landscaping when we first moved in and it is pleasing to see how well it has established itself. HAVE YOU CHANGED MUCH ABOUT YOUR PROPERTY SINCE LIVING THERE? Virtually everything! The original building was a dilapidated farmhouse with a selection of farm buildings and a derelict dwelling. With the help of our architect friend Jon Turner we restored and extended the original farmhouse, built a barn-style dwelling, which we let, and converted the stables into an office. We were proud to receive an award from the Sussex Heritage Trust for the restoration we carried out in an area of outstanding beauty. WHAT IS YOUR COMMUTE TO WORK LIKE? My commute to work is about 20 yards. I work out of a beautiful old converted stable building with views towards Ditchling Beacon.
DO YOU FOLLOW ANY LOCAL SPORT AT ALL? Yes, definitely! I am a massive Seagulls fan and rarely miss a match. I started going in the late ‘sixties and feel privileged at long last to see them playing at the wonderful Amex Stadium. ARE YOU A MEMBER OF ANY LEISURE OR FITNESS CLUBS? I belong to the local Freedom Leisure Gym, which is virtually round the corner. The staff are great and the members friendly and I go there most days. DO YOU ENTERTAIN AT HOME, OR DO YOU LIKE EATING OUT LOCALLY? Nowadays we would rather eat out. Locally, our favourite is the Ginger Fox. The Bull in Ditchling for a pub lunch. Also like the Nupur in Hurstpierpoint for a good curry! WHERE WOULD YOU TAKE CLIENTS OR HAVE A BUSINESS LUNCH? Any of the Ginger restaurants. We are currently doing a development in Kemp Town and tend to gravitate to the Ginger Dog for lunch or Marmalade for a quick snack. IS THERE ANYWHERE IN THE AREA THAT YOU ALWAYS TAKE VISITORS? We have quite a few American visitors nowadays, so it tends to be Lewes or Brighton. Also the Royal Oak at Wineham goes down well as an iconic English country pub. AND IF YOU ARE HEADING FURTHER AFIELD, WHERE DO YOU GO? Usually Brighton. We tend to jump on the train at Hassocks then walk to the city centre. An early meal at Cote then the Theatre Royal is a great favorite. FINALLY, DO YOU EVER HANKER TO LIVE SOMEWHERE ELSE IN THE WORLD? Probably the US. My eldest son, Rupert has been living in New York for the past seven years but recently married a Georgia girl in Atlanta and he has moved south. I suspect we may buy a home near them at some stage, especially as they plan to start a family.
Creative Developments currently have a selection of warehouse apartments and townhouses available at Factory Mews, Arundel Place in Kemp Town, Brighton. For more information go to www.creativedevelopmentsuk.com
PORTFOLIO 45
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BEAUTIFUL homes
SEAFRONT STUNNER
A
fantastic opportunity to rent this truly stunning two bedroom furnished apartment situated in the heart of Hove. Bursting with character, this flat features a spacious lounge, dining room with wooden floors & neutral modern décor. It also benefits from a spacious master bedroom & a smaller second double bedroom. The flat also has a top of the range galley style modern fitted kitchen and a small front patio area. Situated directly on the seafront road within the ever-popular Brunswick area, the property can’t fail to disappoint when it comes to location; Surrounded by the grandeur of the regency architecture, with local boutique shops, popular restaurants & Hove’s prestigious seafront all on your doorstep. It’s the Ideal property for those looking to be a short stroll from the city centre, and those looking for a home with many period features combined with a contemporary twist.
Brunswick Terrace, Hove, BN3 1HL Price: £1,395 pcm Bedrooms: 2 Bathrooms: 1 Extras: Own Street entrance: Fully fitted kitchen; Furnished Best Bits: Modern; Great location; Very close to the seafront Property Moves 109 Church Road Hove BN3 2AF 01273 321333 www.propertymoves.co.uk
PORTFOLIO 47
9 Offices Covering Brighton & Hove 27 Offices in Sussex 38 Offices in London
HANGLETON ROAD, WEST HOVE Beautifully presented detached four bedroom family house with southerly rear garden situated within reach of local schools. The house is well appointed with two main reception rooms, contemporary fitted kitchen/breakfast room, contemporary family bathroom, ensuite to ground floor bedroom 4, garage and a large summerhouse. Viewing essential.
PRICE: £625,000 EPC RATING: TBC WEST HOVE OFFICE: 01273 778455
PORTLAND ROAD, HOVE One of two truly impressive renovations that ooze bespoke features and have genuine wow factor, as well as being perfectly positioned in this desirable area. The property has excellent curb appeal, boasting three bedrooms, two luxury bathrooms, a sunny south facing rear garden, a bespoke floating staircase, quirky multi-purpose ‘snug’ and a stunning freestanding bath in the master bedroom, this property is a one of a kind renovation that will be the envy of everyone if you are lucky enough to secure it. Not to be missed.
PRICE: OIEO £425,000 EPC RATING: B HOVE OFFICE: 01273 820280
LYNDHURST ROAD, HOVE This is an EXCITING OPPORTUNITY to purchase this deceptively spacious terraced house situated in a sought after location in Hove. The property offers 4 bedrooms, 2 reception rooms, separate fitted kitchen, utility room, separate ground and first floor w/c, shower room and bathroom and a rear garden.
PRICE: £700,000 EPC RATING: E WESTERN ROAD OFFICE: 01273 777000
HOLLINGBURY ROAD, FIVEWAYS Presenting a BEAUTIFUL End of Terrace House in the popular Hollingbury Road, Brighton. Internally this property accommodates a SPACIOUS & AIRY feel throughout with a WONDERFUL Through lounge/Dining Room, ELEGANTLY PRESENTED fitted Kitchen/Breakfast Room, 3 Double Bedrooms, a Ground Floor Cloakroom & a WONDERFUL Family Bathroom on the First Floor. TO TOP IT OFF! The property has a LOVELY Private Rear Garden, which enjoys a South/Westerly Aspect too. The property is being Sold with NO ON-GOING CHAIN.
PRICE: £580,000 EPC RATING: C LEWES ROAD OFFICE: 01273 677544
www.rightmove.co.uk www.primelocation.co.uk www.fox-and-sons.co.uk
SUSSEX SQUARE Fox & Sons are delighted to offer this stunning ground floor apartment with private garden, two garages and a conservatory, drawing room, two bedrooms both with ensuite, kitchen and reception hall. These renowned enclosures offer six acres of private, landscaped gardens. Only the residents of Sussex Square, Lewes Crescent, Arundel Terrace and Chichester Terrace have access. The enclosures are located in the East Cliff conservation area, which was constructed in the early 19th Century, and is located within ¼ mile of Brighton Marina. The layout has been designed to offer sheltered mature planting, open grass spaces, barbeque area and uniquely a private tunnel leading down to the esplanade & Brighton Beach, and it is believed that the passage gave Lewis Carroll the idea for the rabbit hole in ‘Alice in Wonderland’ while he was a resident there.
PRICE: OIEO £800,000 EPC RATING: EXEMPT KEMPTOWN OFFICE: 01273 688148
FACTORY MEWS Arundel Place, Kemp Town Stunning Warehouse Style Converted Apartments
OPEN DAY SATURDAY 23rd Jan 10am - 12pm Prices from ÂŁ525,000 Choice of three 2 bedroom loft style apartments formed from historic 19th century industrial building. The apartments benefit from original features including vaulted ceilings, original beams and warehouse style windows.
Each stylish home delivers flexible ergonomic layouts with sunny outside spaces including gardens, balconies and roof terraces. Italian kitchens with stone worktops are standard and log burners are installed to the ground and first floors. Developed by
creativedevelopmentsuk.com
01273 829300
newhomes@mishonmackay.com
01273 321123 al@gsp.uk.com
@
TWITTER CHATTER We asked all of our Estate Agent supporters (and a few others!) to let us know what they’d been up to in 2015 and what plans they have for this year. Why not follow them on Twitter and find out more. @LeadersLimited
tn @maslenbnow complete and
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office and new New owners, new look Kemp Town ioned service! website - but still with good old fash Pop in and see us!!
@
UK oMag HE place i l o f t Por ine. T
and Hove to Demand from buyers in #Brighton bolstered are continue growing as stock levels 2016 t by steady house prices throughou
@gravesjenkins property people
day @EATo rst time
d thank you to all Great year 2015 an ward to 2016 with clients. looking for d hopefully some some new staff an new clients
@rightmove
Thousands more familie s offered the chance to get on property ladder with exp ansion of shared owner ship scheme
@ArchAngelsBton
Follow us on Instagram! ‘ArchAngelsArchitects’ for current projects, completed jobs and all roun d inspiration for your dream home!
K s buyer ich.U @Whctive first-time y ISA e Bu Prosp elp to naH e p o can
@Togeth
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fi Sales to ix year ow at s n s r buye EA ims NA f high cla iation o l Assoc Nationa ! Agents Estate
@BaronEstates
Continuing to support The
Rockinghorse Appeal in 2016
@MishonWelton1 for
looking Whatever you are erty... Let us in your #Hove prop help you find it
@country_fine
#Hove office with st year in our new After a fantastic fir 16 is looking to be rEuropeAward, 20 a #BestNewcome appyNewYear and our clients #H even better for us
@naea_uk
@Property_Moves
The NAEA Find an Agent tool helps thousands of consumer to find property services every year
We were proud to be voted best Letting Agent in Brighton & Hove for the third year running, we hope to continue this trend into 2016!
PORTFOLIO 51
Residential Estate & Letting Agents • Land & New Homes Brighton & Hove City Office Residential Sales & Lettings 3-6 North Road, Brighton East Sussex BN1 1YA Sales 01273 688881 Lettings 01273 688884 E brighton@oakleyproperty.com
3
Hove Seafront £1,000,000
2
2
A stunning raised ground floor mansion flat situated in central Hove with fabulous views across Hove Lawns and to the sea.
Kemptown £750,000
4
1
2
A contemporary four bedroom house situated close to Kemptown Village with bi-folding doors creating amazing inside outside modern living. 10 year BLP premium guarantee.
oakleyproperty.com
Lewes Town & Country Residential Sales & Lettings 14a High Street Lewes East Sussex BN7 2LN T 01273 487444 E lewes@oakleyproperty.com
The Historic Lanes POA
London Office 40 St James’s Place London SW1A 1NS T 020 78390888 E enquiries@tlo.co.uk
3
2
1
2
An attractive Grade II listed house offering versatile accommodation situated in the heart of the historic Lanes with several period features and a courtyard garden.
Central Brighton £350,000
2
1
1
A two bedroom Period house close to Preston Circus and accessible to Brighton Mainline Station, benefitting from a rear garden and convienient access to the City Centre/Seafront.
NEW homes
A FRESH START A brighter view for 2016; views of the park, the sea and the Downs come as standard at Hyde New Homes’ One Hove Park development
S
ituated
sought-after
for purchases against a deposit of only
Its close proximity to a variety of restaurants
residential area, Hyde New Homes’
in
a
highly
5%. A selection of two-and three-bedroom
within Brighton and Hove’s vibrant and eclectic
One Hove Park offers its last remaining
apartments is also available, starting from
nightlife ensures residents will enjoy easy
£479,950.
access to a selection of High Street stores,
penthouse and three-bedroom apartments, ready to kick start the new year with a new home.
One Hove Park is a contemporary scheme
independent shops and boutiques.
situated near two of the most popular green
For commuters into the capital, One Hove
Offering the spectacular view of the sea and
spaces, Hove Park and Hove Recreation
Park is surrounded by great transportation
the South Downs from its terrace, the three-
Ground. With almost 40 acres of open space
links, with nearby Hove station located just a
bedroom penthouse is immediately available
on its doorstep, and located just a short walk
short walk away. London Victoria and London
for £599,950.
away from the beach and the much-loved Hove
Bridge are reachable in just over an hour via
Equipped with high specifications, and
Lagoon, the development provides residents
high-speed rail links.
with modern amenities throughout, including
with unparalleled access to outdoor fitness
Homes are ready to move into and visitors
an
shower
and leisure facilities. It also enjoys access to
can view a selection of furnished apartments
and underfloor heating to bedrooms and
ensuite
with
thermostatic
a communal garden area, designed by Chelsea
and penthouses immediately.
bathrooms, the property comes with its
Flower
own secure underground parking space.
artist Nicholas Dexter. Sympathetic to the
Visit www.onehovepark.com or call Oakley
This fabulous penthouse is also available
surroundings of Hove Park, the development
Residential on 01273 964605 for more
through the Help-To-Buy scheme that allows
also features several ‘Wildlife Corridors’.
information.
Show,
award-winning
landscape
PORTFOLIO 53
PA L M E I RA AV E N U E | H OV E B N 3 3 G E
READY NOW Eight spacious contemporary apartments and penthouse, with terraces and secure underground parking* in a prime location on the edge of Sussex County Cricket Club. A highly detailed specification including:
•
Zoned underfloor heating throughout
•
Seamless contemporary fully equipped custom kitchens with quartz worktops and integrated appliances
•
Fully fitted carpets to all Bedrooms
•
Medium oak engineered wood to Kitchen, Living Room, Dining Room and Hallway
•
Luxury bathroom suites with seamless, contemporary lines and full height porcelain tiling
•
Lift access to all floors
•
Well planned two or three bedroom accommodation
•
Granite paving to all terraces
•
Secure underground parking to apartments 3-9*
•
Prices from £525,000
01273 829300 e: newhomes@mishonmackay.com w: www.mishonmackay.com
NEW homes
GLORIOUS HOVE Its official – Hove is a property hotspot. According to What House magazine, Hove is the top choice location in the country for young professionals, and there are some beautiful apartments just waiting for them
I
nnings House in Palmeira Avenue offers
their own warranties – and the developer
exceptional
offers a high level of aftercare.
space
and
light.
These
The apartments range from £515,000 to £605,000 and are ready for occupation. For
contemporary apartments offer a choice
With only two apartments per floor, the
buyers looking for something even more
of two or three bedrooms, almost all with
common ways are peaceful, and the lift whisks
exceptional, there is a magnificent 3-bedroom
underground parking, with tranquil views
you from the underground car park to each
penthouse, which occupies the entire 4th floor.
across
floor.
With direct lift access, 1200 sq ft of internal
Hove’s
historic
cricket
ground.
space, four balconies and terraces and two
Relaxation and calm are the order of the day. Enjoy a glass of Prosecco on your terrace while entertaining your friends, or indulge your family with weekend lunch cooked in your stunning kitchen – just like Nigella. Or simply unwind at the end of the day, luxuriating in one of the gloriously indulgent bathrooms before retiring to your sumptuous bedroom suite, complete with fitted wardrobes. Unlike
the
majority
of
second
hand
“Luxuriate in one of the gloriously indulgent bathrooms before retiring to your sumptuous bedroom suite”
underground parking spaces, this sublime space has a wonderful view of the cricket ground. It’s perfect for any fan! With two master bedroom suites, a guest room and a magnificent open-plan living space, this is a stunning and unique property – a collector’s item which is set to be one of the city’s iconic apartments for decades to come. Price on application.
properties, with a new home there is no DIY required, no repairs outstanding or worry
“Luxury comes as standard” says Sara Van
about the heating system to disturb your down
Loock, Sales Manager for Mishon Mackay New
For full details of Innings House, including
time. These lovely living spaces come with a 10
Homes “and Innings House has been carefully
details of incentives, call Mishon Mackay
year Premier New Homes warranty, for peace-
designed to delight buyers who are looking for
New Homes 01273 829300
of-mind purchase. All the appliances carry
exceptional standards.”
or email newhomes@mishonmackay.com
PORTFOLIO 55
TIPS
SIMPLY STORAGE A new survey has revealed the top priorities potential buyers look for when house hunting. Surprisingly, ample storage space came out on top, above cosmetic appearance, off-road parking and outdoor space
O
ne in four of us wouldn’t buy a house due to its lack of storage space, whilst 19% have previously turned down a property due to its lack of storage space. New research has revealed the top priorities potential buyers look for when house hunting. A study of 1,000 UK homeowners by interiors e-tailer Furniture123.co.uk, revealed that ample storage space was the number-one priority, with 26% claiming this is most important to them. The research, which looked into the top features homebuyers look for when purchasing a new house, found one in four wouldn’t buy a house due to its lack of storage space. Cosmetic appeal, such as fitted kitchen and bathrooms that suit the buyers’ taste, was the second-most important aspect, with 23% of respondents saying that finding a house that needs little to no cosmetic work at all was the most important to them. More than one in five (21%) of those surveyed said that a home with off-road parking, such as a driveway or a private garage was the most important aspect, while ample garden or outdoor space was the most important to 16% of homeowners. 14% of homeowners said having a second toilet in the home was their biggest priority. Mark Kelly, Marketing Manager at Furniture123.co.uk ,comments: “Buying a home
56 PORTFOLIO
is the biggest investment an adult will make in their lifetime, so finding something that meets the needs and wants of the buyer is so important. Whether it’s a first time buyer or a seasoned property developer looking for their next business opportunity, it takes time and lots of patience.
“The top features homebuyers look for when purchasing a new house, found one in four wouldn’t buy a house due to its lack of storage space” “What’s interesting from these findings is the number of adults who say that a lack of storage space would deter them from buying a house. However, the property market in the UK means that some buyers can’t afford to be so choosy, but also that those selling need to enhance the space they have wherever possible.” Kelly adds, “There are ways that those who are looking to sell can make the most of limited storage space in their homes, such as built-in storage solutions and de-cluttering the home to
give the impression of more space”. 19% of UK homeowners claim they have viewed a property in the past and have decided against it due to its lack of storage. And, with research carried out by the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors showing that UK homebuyers face £3.6million in unexpected repair bills, those looking to buy a home should look to save money wherever possible. Furniture123.co.uk has provided some top tips for making the most of limited storage space: • Built-in storage solutions such as fitted wardrobes or shelving inside the boiler cupboard mean that clothes and towels can be stored away easily. • Furniture that offers both storage and decoration, such as an ottoman at the end of the way are a great way to add style and storage space to the home. • Cluttered homes can often give the impression that a house has limited storage space. Tidy shoes and coats away into either a cupboard or a shoe and coat rack. • Make use of alcoves in the home by fitting in a dresser, bookshelf or cabinet to make best use of the often unusable space. • Fitted appliances such as microwaves and fridge/freezers allow for more space in kitchen.
1. Maximise under the bed: and hide it Feng Shui experts might cringe at the idea of putting stuff under the bed, but it’s one of the smartest and easiest ways to add a whole area of storage to your sleep space. If you don’t currently have any built-in storage here, you can buy pretty, matching, super-sized boxes or bags from Lakeland, Cath Kidston or John Lewis to store items in. Try to keep ‘soft’ items stored under beds (extra bedding for example). 2. Organise your bedroom furniture like a pro Make good use of folding and drawer dividers. Taking the time to properly store the clothing you’ve got in your drawers and wardrobe could deliver you more storage space instantly. Vacuum pack out-of-season clothing and spare duvets. 3. Find unused space in your wardrobe How well is your wardrobe organised? Are you using every inch of storage space that you could in there? Customise for your needs by adding shelves, clothing rods, over-the-door hangers and other super storage tools. 4. Make your bedroom furniture work twice Small storage cabinets instead of a table, a floating drawer instead of just a shelf — even a nightstand - can double as extra storage if you let it. 5. Add a floor-to-ceiling wardrobe wall Installing shallow ceiling-height wardrobes along a whole wall will create a sense of space and height to the entire room while adding fantastic storage. Use light gloss colours to bounce light or mirrored doors to make the space appear bigger. Thanks to www.furniture123.co.uk and www.apartmenttherapy.com
www.portfoliopublications.co.uk
Need to make over your bedroom storage so you can fit stuff more comfortably and cleverly? Here are five smart ways to fit more storage in your bedroom without making it feel too cramped.
PORTFOLIO magazine
helping YOU stand out from the crowd
BEDROOM STORAGE TIPS
Next issue out 1st February
leaders.co.uk
WINTER WARMER leaders.co.uk
Ensure your property is working hard for you with our exclusive Leaders Winter Warmer offer for landlords Brighton Central 01273 720714
Brighton Marina 01273 622007
Fiveways
01273 561534
Our Winter Warmer offer includes: Fully Managed Service FREE Premier Rent Guarantee FREE gas safety record FREE premium listing on Rightmove FREE fitting of CO detector and smoke alarms ... plus much more
ople ing pe ty er nect Con ith prop w
For full details of our Winter Warmer offer please contact your local Leaders branch This offer applies to new landlords only. For full terms & conditions, visit leaders.co.uk/pages/winter Offer expires on the 29th February 2016
Hove
01273 321721
North Laine 01273 675571
LEADERS
BUOYANT MARKET A busy year lies ahead for both the sales and lettings markets in Brighton & Hove, according to one of the City’s leading estate agents
A
ndrew
Hovey,
of property are in demand across the City. For
to benefit from a solid rental income and good
Branch Manager
rentals, studios and one-bedroom flats are
prospects of strong capital appreciation.
at Leaders in
always popular, while for sales, family homes
“There are a number of new developments
near to the many good schools Brighton &
springing up in the City which are sure to
Hove has to offer are also much in demand.”
appeal to home buyers, landlord investors
Western
Road,
says:
“The market in the City is very buoyant, with plenty of demand for flats and houses to buy and rent. Brighton & Hove is such a popular place to live that goodquality properties are always sought after, both by people moving here from other areas and people within the City looking to move home.
“We had an exceptionally busy 2015 and are expecting more of the same this year” Leaders reports that the City’s lettings
and those looking to rent a new home,” says Andrew. “We are looking forward to using our expertise to help more buyers, sellers, landlords and tenants make the most of Brighton & Hove’s exciting property market during 2016.” Leaders can offer advice on all current matters regarding sales and lettings. Please
“We had an exceptionally busy 2015 and are
market is particularly strong and there is a
contact your local Leaders branch to speak
expecting more of the same this year. All types
great deal of interest from investors looking
to a member of the team: www.leaders.co.uk
60 PORTFOLIO
solicitors Incorporating Johnson McCabe
local & independent
We are local, independent solicitors providing an expert legal service with a personal approach Property
Civil Litigation
• Buying and Selling Property • Re-Mortgages • Freehold Enfranchisement • Lease Extensions • Buying and Selling Investment Properties
• Employment • Debt Recovery • Property • Contentious Probate • Insurance Claims • Fraud Claims to include Defending NCA Claims • Consumer Law • Neighbour disputes • Dispute Resolution/ Mediation of Claims
Business • Landlord and Tenant and Commercial Property • Buying and Selling Businesses and Shares • Employment Law • Licensing
Wills and Trusts • Wills • Probate and Administration of Estates • Inheritance Tax Planning and Trusts • Lasting Powers of Attorney and Court of Protection • Elderly Client Care
For more information please contact us at Engleharts Solicitors:
Vallance Hall, Hove Street, Hove, East Sussex BN3 2DE
info@engleharts.co.uk • 01273 204411
www.engleharts.co.uk
Life and Family • Family and Matrimonial • Co Habitation Agreements/Disputes • Civil Partnerships • Pre-nuptial Agreements • Divorce
Commercial Litigation • Commercial contract/ Consumer Disputes • Director/Shareholders/ Partnership Disputes • Insurance Claims • Construction and Engineering • Commercial Property Disputes • Professional Negligence Claims • Intellectual Property Disputes
PROPERT Y PLUS RELIABILIT Y EQUALS LET TINGS
PROPERT YPLUSLET TINGS.COM 01273 777010
62 PORTFOLIO
INTERVIEW
FACE TO FACE As the annual Brighton & Hove Estate Agents Association dinner approaches, Lynne Edwards talks to incoming President Chris Sawyer on the role, and his ambitions for 2016 FIRSTLY, CHRIS, TELL US ABOUT THE DINNER EVENT, WHICH IS THE HIGHLIGHT OF THE ESTATE AGENTS’ CALENDAR. This year it is on Friday 5th February at The Grand Hotel and unlike all the other dinners, it will be less about the President’s speech and comic turns and more about creating more of a party atmosphere. Everyone who goes to the event loves getting together, and, most importantly, I want to ensure everyone has fun. Which will mean fewer speeches and less formality, and we will have a live band – Revolver - and dancing. It will be a celebration of the industry with friends and colleagues. PRESUMABLY, YOU WILL HAVE A NOMINATED CHARITY WHO BENEFIT FROM MONIES RAISED ON THE NIGHT? Yes, this year it will be the Clock Tower Sanctuary, which supports the young homeless in our City. It costs this amazing local charity £544 per day to run, and Sawyer & Co already support this charity, so I felt it only right that we extend this to the BHEAA event this year. Our City has the secondhighest homelessness in the UK after London, which is a shocking statistic. We will ensure other local charities feature in regular events that we are holding throughout 2016.. TELL US ABOUT SOME OF THE PLANS YOU HAVE FOR THE ASSOCIATION IN THE COMING YEAR, CHRIS. I’m particularly keen to expand our training programme within the organisation. We hold
regular seminars, bringing in speakers from across the area, but also use the talent within the membership to pass on their knowledge. One such member is Robert Desbruslais, an independent surveyor, who will give a series of talks on his area of speciality. Younger members will find these talks particularly helpful early in their careers. Speakers from the Council and other organisations have also previously give their time. ARE YOU PARTICULARLY FOCUSING ON GETTING NEW, YOUNG MEMBERSHIP INTO THE BHEAA? Yes, it is a passion of mine. We would like to introduce a more inclusive membership system and encourage all local estate and letting agents to get involved, whatever their role in their company and benefit from the vast knowledge and experience within the organisation. SO YOU SEE THE ASSOCIATION AS STILL BEING RELEVANT IN THE CITY? Absolutely yes. It was formed in 1886, and, of course, the industry has changed a great deal since then. Bodies like the Ombudsman Scheme now exist to improve customer service for the public, so the BHEAA has had to change to become more relevant over recent years. I believe we have done that, and will continue to modernise. YOU HAVE RUN A SUCCESSFUL ESTATE AGENCY FOR MANY YEARS, CHRIS. TELL US A BIT ABOUT YOUR OWN CAREER PROGRESSION. I started out in 1988 working for David Weston and Saville Whittaker (Weston’s Estate Agents) in Station Road, Portslade – coincidentally, where I still have one of our three Sawyer & Co
residential sales and lettings offices. I learned a great deal from them, and after they sold their business I worked for a corporate agent for the next 6 or 7 years before co-founding Tingley’s Estate agents in 1996, with previous business partner Ralph Tingley. The time was right to “go it alone” in 2008 and Sawyer & Co was launched following the acquisition of Tingley’s. We have since won various awards, mostly recently the Silver award for best small agent in the UK at the Negotiator awards last month. In recent years we moved into our current, larger premises at 52 Church Road, as well as opening a third residential sales office in St. George’s Road, Kemp Town. We also have a sister company, Fine & Country that offers a different strategy for marketing prestige properties. Fine & Country is able to attract London and International buyers and can also offer advertising in national press including the Sunday Times, Telegraph and the Evening Standard. DO YOU SEE YOURSELF IN ANY OTHER PROFESSION, CHRIS? No. I love this City. I live at the Seven Dials and I was also born and raised here. I also love the business, and with Sawyer & Co’s recent awards, I don’t plan on changing a winning formula.
For ticket information email: bheaadinner@barriealderton.co.uk Or call Andy Garth 07774272594
PORTFOLIO 63
FEATURE home
HOME OF THE MONTH
...as selected by PORTFOLIO magazine
4 bedroom semi-detached house to rent Portland Villas, Hove Price: £2,600 pcm
T
his beautifully presented four bedroom semidetached house is located in a sought after location off New Church Road. A stunning double aspect kitchen/dining room is a focal point of this stylish home along with a smart lounge and four generous double bedrooms which include a luxe master bedroom with dressing room and en suite shower room. There is also a contemporary family bath/shower room. The property features exposed wooden floorboards, contemporary lighting, a front garden and a lovely west aspect rear garden.
brices sales & lettings Brices Sales & Lettings 30c Western Road, Hove, BN3 1AF Tel: 01273 776633
Making Moving a Pleasure If you are buying or selling your property, Healys offers an unrivalled legal service. In order that your matter proceeds smoothly we offer the following as standard to our clients: • • •
Direct dial to your Solicitor No hidden charges Competitive fees
We would be delighted to provide you with a free personal quotation. Please contact one of our team on: 01273 669139 or email: property@healys.com or visit www.healys.com and complete our online quotation form.
8/9 Old Steine Brighton BN1 1EJ
NEW homes
NEW YEAR, NEW HOME BY THE SEA Nine exclusive apartments make up Generator Developments’ boutique development Azure, in Rottingdean
W
ith its unparalleled sea views,
heating, video door entry systems, engineered
range of integrated appliances. Bathrooms
Azure offers some of the most
wood flooring and broadband connectivity,
have contemporary bathroom suites, centre-
impressive coastal homes currently
all included as standard. Each home benefits
fill baths and separate showers with rain
on the market. This collection of nine exclusive
from secure underground car parking with
forest showerhead, while master bedrooms
apartments built by niche property company
allocated spaces and lift access to each floor.
include walk-in wardrobes.
Generator Developments in the picturesque
Interiors offer flexible, airy open-plan living
Not only is Azure next to the sea, it is just
village of Rottingdean represents the best in
space filled with natural light that are ideal
three miles from the buzz of Brighton, in a
modern luxury living.
for entertaining. Sliding glazed doors lead on
friendly village setting on the edge of the
Perched high above the beach, the properties
to the stunning balcony that wraps the length
South Downs. Offering a lifestyle that ticks all
combine stylish design, high-spec interiors
of the property, providing a peerless vantage
the boxes, Azure has proved highly successful.
and large private balconies with unbeatable
point for enjoying the waterside setting.
The fabulous show apartment is now open by
views across the South Coast.
Finished with meticulous attention to detail,
appointment.
Azure takes inspiration from the elegant,
the specification is sophisticated but neutral,
simple lines of Art Deco design, reworked
providing a fresh canvas on which buyers can
For further information visit:
in a sophisticated, contemporary style. The
stamp their own style. Contemporary designer
www.azurerottingdean.com, or contact
high-quality interior specification includes
kitchens feature high-gloss handle-free units
agents Mishon Mackay on 01273 829 300
an exacting level of detail, with underfloor
and stone worktops, complete with the full
or David Webb Residential on 01273 300525.
PORTFOLIO  65
Rostrum Lodge, Ditchling Road, Brighton www.cliveemson.co.uk Call: 01273 571853 sussex@cliveemson.co.uk
SOLD £240,000 - June 2015 Drove Road, Woodingdean A site extending to 5.19 hectares (12.83 acres) situated within close proximity to an urban area of Woodingdean and backing on to open farmland. The site was previously used as an equestrian facility and consists of a variety of buildings including stables, mobile home, portacabin, dutch barn and courtyard. Guide: £130-150,000 - FREEHOLD
SOLD £1,110,000 - July 2015 Ferry Lane, Bourne End, Buckinghamshire A substantial late Victorian house occupying grounds extending to three quarters of an acre. With versatile accommodation over three floors, this fabulous family home was in need of renovation/refurbishment work and was offered with vacant possession. EPC:D Guide: £1,000,000-£1,200,000 - FREEHOLD
INVITING ENTRIES
SOLD £195,000 - November 2015 Hollingbury Park Avenue, Brighton A two bedroom maisonette occupying the first and second floor of this end-terrace period property which is located within the Fiveways district of Brighton, just off Ditchling Road, within easy access of local shops and amenities. EPC:E
WE ARE CURRENTLY INVITING ENTRIES FOR OUR SUSSEX & SURREY AUCTION TAKING PLACE ON WEDNESDAY 10TH FEBRUARY 2016 CONTACT US ON 01273 571853 TO ARRANGE AN AUCTION APPRAISAL
Guide: £190-195,000 - LEASEHOLD
Richard Payne, Emma Attrell, Sam Kinloch & James Emson
Guides are provided as an indication of each Seller’s minimum expectation. They are not necessarily figures which a property will sell for and may change at any time prior to Auction. Unless stated otherwise, each Lot will be offered subject to a reserve (a figure below which the Auctioneer cannot sell the Lot during the Auction). We expect the reserve will be set within the guide range or no more than 10% above a single figure guide. Please check our website regularly at cliveemson.co.uk, or call 01273 571853, in order to stay fully informed.
SUSSEX & SURREY AUCTION - WEDNESDAY 10TH FEBRUARY THE HILTON BRIGHTON METROPOLE - COMMENCING 11AM
NEWS
CLIVE EMSON AUCTIONEERS
news
News from 2015 and what’s coming in 2016 from Clive Emson Auctioneers
JOINT AGENTS! At Clive Emson Auctioneers we pride ourselves on the fantastic relationships we have built over the years with many of our local estate agents, letting agents and property companies. Providing a high-profile auction facility that is not in direct competition with other agents allows us to work jointly with them to achieve the best price for our clients. Sharing the commission on an equal basis, we have paid in excess of £900,000 to our joint agents in 2015 alone. If you would like information on how referrals work, please contact a member of the team. Tel 01273 571853 sussex@cliveemson.co.uk
FUNDRAISING! During 2015 the staff at Clive Emson Auctioneers have been pleased to help raise funds for many charities, conducting charity auctions and assisting with events all over the southern region. The total amount raised is somewhere in the region of a respectable £500,000 and we wish all those organisations continued success in raising funds for their worthwhile causes. Picture of Clive Emson at the Young Lives Foundation Summer Supper which raised £15,000 for the charity.
FEBRUARY AUCTION INVITE! The first of our eight auctions in 2016 will take place at the Hilton Brighton Metropole on Wednesday, 10th February, starting at 11am. Please contact one of the team if you have any auction-related questions or are considering placing a lot into one of our sales. Tel 01273 571853 sussex@cliveemson.co.uk
WEIRD AND WONDERFUL! 2015 saw its fair share of unusual properties go under the hammer. With coverage from Kent to Cornwall, including Essex and London, it is not surprising some real gems shone out. Highlights included subterranean W.C’s in Canterbury, nuclear bunker in Chigwell, a former quarry with mine engine house in Tintagel and a house boat in Shoreham, showing that variety really is the spice of life!
REVOLVE 24! Company Director Sam Kinloch took part in Revolve24 (24-HR Cycling Relay Race) at Brands Hatch in aid of Breast Cancer Care. “Our team completed 169 laps (661.8 km) in 24 hours at an average speed of 27.7 kmph and placed 28 out of 55. So... some work to do before next year’s event! We climbed a total of 11,661 meters (38,257ft – Mt Everest is only 8,848 meters (29,028ft)) - and raised £2,500 between us for Breast Cancer Care.”
Sam Kinloch’s (Director of Clive Emson) team at the Revolve 24 (Sam is second from right).
AUCTIONEER OF THE YEAR COMPETITION 2015 On Wednesday, 23rd September, Clive Emson Auctioneers were outstandingly represented by Emma Attrell and Katie Semmens, who were among four contenders for the NAVA Novice Auctioneer of the Year Award. Both Emma and Katie performed admirably, displaying a high level of skill and staying calm in what must have been trying circumstances. Katie, who can be seen here with Managing Director James Emson, was announced the overall winner on the night and looks forward to taking the main stage again in 2016.
Clive Emson Auctioneers, Rostrum Lodge, The Level, Ditchling Road, Brighton, East Sussex, BN1 4SB 01273 571853 | www.cliveemson.co.uk
FUTURE BRIGHTON A PLACE TO LIVE
Paul Nicholson at Chalk Architecture on how to build more homes without compromising the city
H
ere is a very simple essay question to
doing so at the expense of future generations is
reinforces the cultural identity of a place and its
throw out there: Where shall we build
not a sustainable position. What was good for
community and allows said community to expand
11,300 new homes in Brighton and Hove
the promenading Victorians or the Prince Regent
and evolve. The key to unlock great urban design
by 2030? Discuss. If anyone has any brilliant
and his chums is not suitable for our tech-savvy
is to remember the scale of the human form
ideas that will not illicit an immediate negative reaction once shared with the community within the proposed environs, please do share them. Write your practical ideas on a postcard and send to… A simple question maybe, but detail of the answer is uncomfortable, whichever solution you propose. There has to be compromise and we will have to think innovatively to solve this conundrum. Believing that a status quo can
“We are going to have to conceive of new communities that have height integrated into their landscape”
in the detail of a building and public space that surrounds it; big architectural gestures only work when the everyday and mundane interaction of the individual has been considered and embedded. We live in a city, not a country village. If you want to live in a city you’ll have to deal with living with a lot of other people. In all honesty, the only realistic solution to the mass housing crisis is to build tall. Whenever I hear of yet another housing development
exist in the landscape of our city is to be blind
Millennials. If there is a better solution for a place
proposed on a flood plain I get cold shivers. If
to the fundamental socio-economic pressures
that can solve some of these massive issues,
you haven’t heard the news already, SEA LEVELS
that our expanding population and deteriorating
then we, as a community, are not really left with
ARE RISING. This situation is a fait accompli, and
building fabric is facing. We clearly need to
much of a choice but to adapt and change. The
the sooner we come to terms with it, the more
protect the historical core of our heritage, but
trick is to demand the best possible solution that
effective and creative our solutions can become.
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BUSINESS
“In all honesty, the only realistic solution to the mass housing crisis is to build tall”
Sprawling out across our landscape horizontally
into shoebox isolation, spawning countless
during the democratic planning process; the
is impossible for Brighton & Hove, given our
grim narratives for art, literature, film, theatre
planning committee took the bold step to approve
topographical constraints. In other areas of the
and television that will live on in our cultural
it. Work has started on site now. I’m sure the
country that do not possess brown field sites to
consciousness for years to come. The curious
community will watch with great interest to see
re-develop, taking over green field sites simply
paradox we have today is that the scourges of
how the concept turns into reality and how living
exacerbates the issues with landscape: rain
many 20th-century communities are now iconic
tall in the 21st Century might actually work. Other
water run off, inefficient energy conservation,
beacons of the aspirational home-owning middle
big development proposals in Brighton & Hove
relentless street upon street of identikit cul-de-
classes, Trellick Tower in London’s Westbourne
starting to come forward, that incorporate height,
sacs devoid of public space or amenity.
Grove being a particular classic example.
have their work cut out to allay the concerns of
Architects have been exploring the ‘city in
In
collaboration
with
forward-thinking
the community at large and prove the benefits outweigh the costs. Good luck to them.
the sky’ paradigm for decades; we have come a
developers and town planners, we are going
long way in urban design since our modernist
to have to conceive of new communities that
forefathers first conceived of the tabula rasa
have height integrated into their landscape. This
Chalk Architecture, The Cycle Hub,
propagated by staggering monoliths of brutal
height will have to positively enhance the spatial
109 Stroudley Road, Brighton BN1 4DJ
concrete and elevated walkways. Still, we as
experience of residents and engender a sense
Tel: 01273 448700
a nation are terrified by the idea of building
of place and emotional attachment. The Circus
Twitter: @chalkdesign &
tall; up spring the memories of the sink estate
Street development behind Victoria Gardens
@chalkarch #FutureBrighton
wastelands, communities uprooted from the
at the foot of Hanover is a starting point for
www.chalkarchitecture.com
post-industrial slums, stacked and packed
Brighton. Height was a major part of the debate
https://m.facebook.com/ChalkArchitecture
Sussex’s original wooden flooring centre For friendly advice contact 01273 423600 99 Trafalgar Road, Portslade, BN41 1GU www.woodenflooringcentre.com FREE PARKING AT BACK OF SHOWROOM
TALK money
“The best way of finding the right lender and best mortgage deal for you is to consult an independent financial adviser”
THE RIGHT ONE With so many mortgage products on the market, how do you find the one which is best for you? Claire Cook from Independent Financial Advisors Talk Money offers some tips on finding the right mortgage deal for you •
•
•
Think about the type of rate you would like. Although rates are historically low currently, some people are opting for fixed rates. This secures a set rate and allows them to budget ahead for a set period of time. Trackers are set at differential rates to the Bank of England base rate and will go up or down if the bank base rate changes. Check out the redemption terms. Fixed rates normally come with early repayment charges; you may have to pay a penalty if you pay off the mortgage during the fixed-rate period. If you think your situation may change, you might be better off opting for a tracker rate; some of these deals are more flexible and allow you to redeem at any time without penalty. Take the charges into account. Some lenders offer low rates, but have higher application and valuation fees. Over the deal period, this can make a big difference to the overall cost of your mortgage. Check out the overall outgoings during the deal period; you
•
•
•
may find that it would be better to opt for a slightly higher rate, but with lower initial costs. Check affordability should rates rise. You will be given a Key Features Illustration by your adviser. This will show how much your monthly repayment will increase should the interest rates rise by 1% or 2%. Make sure that you can afford the higher payments should this happen. Alternatively, if your budget is tight, consider a fixed-rate mortgage. Check the mortgage features. Some rates offer overpayments, underpayments and payment holidays. This may not seem important when you apply for your mortgage, but could make all the difference later on. Shop Around. If you simply walk into your local building society, you are seriously restricting your chances of finding the best rate. Remember, they only offer their own range of products, and you may find a better deal elsewhere; also, their lending policy may not suit your own circumstances.
The best way of finding the right lender and best mortgage deal for you is to consult an independent financial adviser. They can research the whole market, advise you on the right rate and deal with the lender on your behalf. Talk Money are happy to announce that we now have a new adviser who will specialise in mortgage advice only. We offer a free initial consultation and independent advice. If you would like to speak to an adviser about mortgages or any other financial matter, please call Claire on 01273 224667. Talk Money is a trading style of Aspect 8 Ltd, which is an appointed representative of Best Practice IFA Group Ltd, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up the repayments on your mortgage. See more from Talk Money at www.portfoliopublications.co.uk
PORTFOLIO 71
www.willtaylor.cc
CHAMBER of Commerce
GREATER BRIGHTON
Is a ‘Greater Brighton’ better for your business? What does it mean, geographically? And is it good news for your company or not?
T
his was the topic for the 100-strong audience at the latest Construction Voice debate, held at the Sussex County Cricket Ground on 11th November. Every day 33,000 people commute out of Brighton to London and other parts of Sussex. And 28,000 people commute in from the surrounding towns like Lewes, Worthing, Shoreham and Burgess Hill. As Acting Executive Director of Environment, Development and Housing at Brighton and Hove City Council, Nick Hibberd, one of the panellists, is aware of how important it is to give this bigger region – spanning the Lewes, Worthing, Adur and Mid Sussex local authority areas – a united voice. The Greater Brighton Economic Board, which brings together political and business leaders from the wider region aims to do just that – provide a stronger voice on a bigger stage. It’s been going for 18 months, and in funding terms alone, Nick feels it’s a success: “It depends slightly on how you count it, but it’s secured about £100 million worth of funding over the last 18 months for various projects.” Andrew Swayne, Senior Manager at
Ricardo, Chair of Adur and Worthing Business Partnership and a member of the Greater Brighton Economic Board, was also on the panel. He explained how this united voice has helped to leverage national and/or European funding for a number of crucial schemes.
“We recognise that Brighton has a strong brand. Yes, Lewes has a strong brand, but Brighton is much stronger on a global scale” Benefit from the Brighton ‘brand’? Of course, when you bring together a group of towns – each with its own history and identity – there’s always a fear that Big Brother Brighton might take over. As Head of Regeneration and Investment at Lewes District Council, Max
Woodford is acutely aware of this. He was the third panel speaker and he made it clear that the Lewes district, which includes Newhaven, does not feel like that: “We recognise that Brighton has a strong brand. Yes, Lewes has a strong brand, but Brighton is much stronger on a global scale. So it’s really a case of riding on that and working with partners to maximise the economic benefits for the area. “What we think we bring to this is the space to grow and space to balance the economy.” Ed Westlake, Development Manager at Bouygues Development , the evening’s sponsor, summed up the positive mood: “We’re a big company that operates all over the UK, so for us, Greater Brighton is a real opportunity. To date our focus has been on Brighton and Hove, but we are keen to build relationships into the surrounding areas, across the Southern Coast.” The Construction Voice quarterly events are run by Brighton Chamber with event partners Graves Jenkins, Robinson Low Francis and Haydon Consulting. www.businessinbrighton.org.uk PORTFOLIO 73
Contemporary by
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SHOPPING
BEDROOMS A bedroom needs to be luxurious, reflect your personality and be a sleep sanctuary. Refresh your bedroom and sleep in style with these bedroom ideas www.thewhitecompany.com
BEAUTIFUL BEDS Velvet cushions in jewel colours and sumptuously soft throws from Zara Home will make any bedroom look and feel luxurious. www.zarahome.com
IVORY BED CABINET QUILT BEDSPREAD GREY Hand quilted 100% cotton bedspread in grey with stunning stitching detail. Available in different sizes. From £229.00 from Scandi Living www.scandiliving.com
These beautifully decorated little cabinets are great next to a bed. Handcrafted from reclaimed elm with veneer panels, in a choice of colours and decorative elements. W50 x D38 x H55cm £520.00 from Shimu www.shimu.co.uk
SWEET HEART Embroidered Pink Heart Rectangular Pillow from Charmesty. Luxury European White Cotton, also comes with red embroidery. 12” x 24” . £75.00. www.charmajesty.com
GOOD MORNING! Just the thing for sleepy heads. ‘I’m Not a Morning Person’ cushion from John Lewis says it for them! £15 www.johnlewis.com
PLAYFUL DESIGN SHOW SOME LOVE Graphics are still a strong trend for homes. Resin ‘Love’ Sculpture from Next, £16.00 www.next.co.uk 76 PORTFOLIO
Tallow Candle is made entirely of wax, available in pink or blue. Snuff before bedtime! £15.00 www.stylechapel.com
SLEIGH STORAGE BED
INDUSTRIAL CHIC
Beautiful sleigh storage bed is available with a choice of painted, oak, walnut or mahogany in various sizes. Prices from £2,995.00 from Furl www.furl.co.uk
Shoreditch Bedside Table from Next is solid pine, with a grey painted finish is an invidual look for a bedroom. £110.00 www.next.co.uk
LOVE, SLEEP & DREAM We love all the bed linens and dressings from The White Company. Especially these Love, Sleep and Dream soft knitted cushions. £35.00 www.thewhitecompany.com
GOOD NIGHT!
CREATURE COMFORTS
Nothing will improve your sleep more than a quality mattress. We spend an average of 2,372.5 hours per year asleep so it makes sense to invest. The best ranges can be found at John Lewis or Mattresses Online www.johnlewis.com, www.mattressonline.co.uk
Who wants a ‘real’ hunting trophy when you can have a soft deer head in green tartan? Hangs from a nail, no drilling necessary. Tartan Soft Deer Head, £69.00 from www.stylechapel.com
SILK SOFT A silk pillowcase is the ultimate beauty accessory, soothing and smoothing while you sleep. Gingerlilly Gift Pillow Case from Sweetpea & Willow £39.00 www.sweetpeaandwillow.com
CRISP AND WHITE Embrodered bedlinen in classic styling is always on trend. Zara Home have a super range of pretty linens. www.zarahome.com
MINIMALIST STYLE Hooper Bedside Table is inspired by the bold designs of classic sixties decor. A great way to add some retro space-age style to your room. £119.00.wwww.made.com
PORTFOLIO 77
A MOST MAGNIFICENT
WINTER
D O R S E T H O U S E , H I G H S T R E E T, H A N D C R O S S , H AY WA R D S H E AT H , R H 1 7 6 B J IN STORE | ONLINE ANDSOTOBED.CO.UK | CALL 01444 401 789
BEAUTIFUL BOUDOIRS
INTERIORS
The special room in your house that should be a blissful retreat. Portfolio Interiors Editor, Tara de la Motte snuggles up with the perfect ingredients for a beautiful bedroom
A
bed should be an enticing focal point in any bedroom. Comfort, style and good design are all factors to consider when it comes to choosing beds and bed linen - all are conducive to a peaceful nights sleep. The bedroom should be a personal retreat of blissful calm for all of us who lead busy lives.
Photo: www.johnlewis.com
INTERIORS
The best way to style any bedroom is to start with the bed, and if you are looking for inspiration, look towards luxury hotels or stately homes to see how they showcase the bed. Here the bed will always take centre stage, complemented by the decor and furnishings. If you follow this example, choose the bed first, whether it is inspired by the past or contemporary, then decorate the rest of the room around it. We spend a third of our lives asleep, so a good comfortable bed is vital. The right combination of base and a mattress which will provide good body support is conducive to a good night’s sleep. With so many types and styles of bed available today, there will be a bed suitable to your every need. The bed you choose should not be too hard or too soft, and sleeping on it should leave you reinvigorated when you wake up the next day. FIRST, DECIDE WHETHER YOU WANT TO BUY A DIVAN OR A BED FRAME. The Divan … is basically an upholstered box, topped with a mattress and both should be bought together. These are considered to be the most comfortable option. If you are looking for a luxurious bed with an upholstered headboard, divans are the perfect choice. They come in various shapes and sizes, including deepbuttoned and tall, hotel-inspired designs. Fabrics for divan beds range from linens to velvet and even leather. You can even choose a separate headboard from the divan base and combine it with existing fabric elsewhere in the room to tie the scheme together. If you have a room where space is tight, a divan is a good option. The absence of a frame around the mattress will make the bed more compact and will open up the room, too. Divans have the added advantage of integrated storage, with drawers built in which are useful for keeping extra linen or clothing. Some divans offer even more space, with tops that lift up with even bigger storage space below. Hi-Tech Beds Today the bed market has gone hi-tech with beds that have a 4K LED Smart TV built in. At the touch of a button, a TV can pop up and disappear from sight into the footboard. Another great innovation is the Colour Ambience headboard, which will allow you to change the atmosphere in the room using a remote with a colour wheel. Just by touching the colour wheel you can bring a subtle glow to the bedroom.
Photo: www.andsotobed.co.uk
Photo: www.johnlewis.com
Photo: www.next.co.uk
80 PORTFOLIO Photo: www.johnlewis.com
INTERIORS
Photo: www.marksandspencer.com
These days people use their beds not just for reading, but increasingly for working on a laptop or iPad, all of which require comfort, and the reinvention of the adaptable bed will suit all these needs. These beds can even be controlled by your smartphone. Bed Frames Many people will gravitate towards a bedstead, classic examples being wooden, metal and antique beds. Some contemporary designs also incorporate leather and suede. A bed frame made up of base, legs and headboard will allow you to choose the type of mattress you want. Beautiful French-style beds upholstered in plain fabrics and simple detailing are very much on trend at the moment. Contemporary fourposter beds, too, are a key trend, providing the room has ample space to show it off. Designs vary from traditional, intricately carved designs to dark wood, metal or painted wood modern alternatives for use with or without curtains for a minimal effect. Beautiful Bedlinen Choosing sumptuous bed linen to dress your bed will give the bedroom a fresh look. Whether
Photo: www.andsotobed.co.uk
you prefer the classical elegance of crisp white bedding, rich damasks or lots of colour and pattern, there are plenty to choose from. Pure white cotton bedding is a perennial favourite, whilst damasks are great for dressing more ornate beds. Pale linens are suitable for bedrooms with intense colour and pattern accents.
“Choose a variety of fabrics and textures for a luxurious combination and layering is good when dressing beds for great style impact” Choose a variety of fabrics and textures for a luxurious combination, and layering is good when dressing beds for great style impact. Use a range of covers, cushions and throws when layering as the more you add, the more inviting it will look. There is a great choice of mix-and-match designs with reversible linens. Stripes are a popular trend, as they are versatile and can work with a secondary pattern without
overpowering. Stripes backed by a floral print work really well in a bedroom. Linens with geometric patterns, whether they are zigzags or more intricate, are striking in contemporary bedrooms. Fabric Choices Cotton is used for most bed linen and is affordable and easy to care for, whilst linen is the most comfortable fabric to sleep under, and it softens with washing, too. For easy care, choose bedding with a linen/ cotton mix. Silk bedding is totally sensual and lush and helps regulate the body’s temperature, providing a better night’s sleep. Silk is also hypo-allergenic. However, organic bed linen is the best choice for allergy sufferers as it has none ot the chemical residues that can be present on standard fabrics. The bedroom is the most private space in our home, so finding the perfect ingredients for a beautiful bedroom is essential - from a comfortable bed to luxurious bedding, without which the bedroom just would not be complete. See more interiors ideas at www.portfoliopublications.co.uk
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OVERSEAS
ISLAND LUXURY With year-round sunshine, Tenerife is the perfect place to buy abroad. Abama Luxury Residences offer a range of options
T
enerife is often described as the island
over the Atlantic Ocean. Sun worshippers
amenities of the highest calibre, with access
of ‘eternal spring’. Located just off
can take a break from poolside living to
to 10 restaurants, two of which, the Ritz-
the north coast of Africa, it promises
enjoy the world-class sporting facilities on
Carlton and Abama hotels, have a total of three
“Sun worshippers can take a break from poolside living to enjoy the world-class sporting facilities on offer”
Michelin stars between them, nine additional
sunshine, glorious blue skies and warm temperatures for most of the year. Located in Guía de Isora on the west coast of the island, The Abama resort is the perfect year-round destination. The Abama Custom Villa Plots enjoy prime
swimming pools, luxury boutiques, spa and golden sand beach. Prices: Abama Custom Villas start at approximately €2 million, including plot, construction, permits, licences and fees.
positions overlooking the resort’s golf course,
offer, including seven tennis courts and the
Abama Terraces apartments start from
allowing owners to custom-design their dream
internationally renowned Dave Thomas golf
€350,000. Bellevue Villas start from
homes with breath-taking panoramic views
course. The wider Abama resort features
€1,650,000. www.abamahotelresort.com.
Mark Gibson, Travel Counsellor Travel Counsellors are one of the world’s leading independent travel companies, one of over 1,300 friendly and professional agents worldwide. You’ll enjoy a uniquely personal relationship with a travel expert who cares about you and your journey. Contact Mark to help you find your perfect holiday destination. 01273 761060 mark.gibson@travelcounsellors.com www.travelcounsellors.co.uk/mark.gibson
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A TROPICAL PARADISE
TRAVEL
Daniel Frickelton reports on a magical holiday of sun, fun and unforgettable golf in a little piece of heaven in the Indian Ocean...
G
azing forlornly out of our fifth-floor Holiday Inn window at the spaghetti junction of motorway interchanges bordering the edge of Heathrow airport on the first night of our Mauritian holiday, Paradise seemed a lot further away than the 6000 km distance we would soon be travelling. Our Air Mauritius flight had been forced to land unexpectedly in Rome on the day of our departure and we would now be leaving a day later than expected. Nothing wrong with a Holiday Inn, of course but not quite what we expected on the eve of our dream trip. Nevertheless, we were aquiver with anticipation.
Photo credits: credits to Heritage Resorts
Twelve hours later, our taxi driver deposited us at La Telfair Resort, one of three resorts comprising the expansive Heritage Resort on the south coast of Mauritius. Our first impressions were unforgettable, an adjective that will get quite a workout in this report. La Telfair is an architectural masterpiece combining French Colonial plantation style with breezy, wide-open, windowless spaces only achievable in a warm, stable climate such as this little corner of heaven in the Indian Ocean. We were warmly received by Michel, the Telfair’s General Manager, and Jay, the hotel’s award-winning Concierge (literally The Best Concierge In The Indian Ocean) and
his team of cheerful accolytes. We enjoyed a cool, refreshing drink and admired the gobsmacking view from the hotel lobby of the bridge crossing the Citronnieres River and stretching expansively past the Cavendish Bar and Annabella restaurant to the massive blue-water pool, beachside restaurant and the sea beyond. Oh, the sea! Turquoise and white water, sandy beaches and magnificent rollers crashing relentlessly onto the coral reef that surrounds most of Mauritius. We will conjure this neural image many times in the coming winter months and wonder each time if we were actually dreaming all of this loveliness.
TRAVEL
Jennifer arrived. She would be our personal butler during our stay at the resort, solving problems large and small, always with consummate professionalism, a friendly smile and utter unflappability in the face of challenges. At this juncture she walked us across the resort to our room, a spacious, well-furnished suite with French doors opening onto a large private veranda overlooking the beach and, fifteen or so paces from our apartment, the sea. We just stood there, slightly overwhelmed by the beauty of what lay at our feet, at a complete loss for words. Jennifer wanted to know if everything was to our liking and I just asked if I were still alive or had in fact died and gone to heaven. Jennifer’s smile simply said that she had heard this all before, but that she never got tired of hearing it. She then showed us the day-by-day plan she had constructed for the remainder of our stay at La Telfair: rounds of golf, meals in a half dozen or so of the many restaurants in the resort, and went through the list of further
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options available to us. We immediately booked a pre-golf massage and an excursion on the glass-bottom boat before being whisked off on a guided tour of the estate.
“For the next hour the expert fingers of our highly trained masseuses coaxed every suggestion of tension out of our gnarly old golfing muscles and we were transported to another part of the universe” Day one began with a sumptuous breakfast at Annabella’s, the main restaurant, located very centrally on the estate. Employing a unique “interactive” strategy, this spacious, plantationstyle venue offers every imaginable breakfast
option, whether you prefer continental, British or local options. The chefs will help you construct an omelette from about twenty different ingredients and fry it before your eyes. Scrambled or fried eggs are, of course, also available. Another chef is busy whacking up mangoes, pineapples, watermelons and a variety of other local fruits into bowls. Something missing? Not likely, but ask, and you shall receive. In the evenings, you get to see what your dinner will look like on the plate as it is all being prepared before your eyes in this same buffet area. Brilliant! A quick hop in the surf back at our suite and we were ready for the spa experience. Following a relaxed conversation about what we would like them to focus on, we were led by our respective masseuses past calming water features to an enclosed, covered outdoor area oozing serenity. Twin massage tables occupied the centre stage of this temple of calm. This was my very first experience of full-body massage,
so I really had no idea what to expect. For the next hour the expert fingers of our highly trained masseuses coaxed every suggestion of tension out of our gnarly old golfing muscles and we were transported to another part of the universe. We were ready for some golf! The Heritage Golf Course was what had put this resort on our radar in the first place. We had seen the AfrAsian Bank Mauritius golf tournament broadcast on Sky Sports last May, combining the European, Asian and Sunshine tours in one spectacular event that was eventually won by George Coetzee of South Africa. The course lived up to our high expectations of quality, playability and suitable degree of challenges, regardless of handicap. Players of all ability levels will enjoy unforgettable rounds on these immaculate fairways and greens. Whether you choose to play with state-of-the-art rented equipment as we did or bring your own, the friendly, helpful staff at The Heritage Golf Resort will ensure you have a memorable experience.
“Another quick swim a few steps from our veranda and we were off to the Boma outdoor restaurant for a truly spectacular barbecue and entertainment by a troupe of dancing, drumbeating, fire-eating Africans in full regalia.” Not a golfer? Never mind. How about a bit of kite surfing, snorkelling, swimming with the dolphins, or just looking down at the corals and their fishy inhabitants through the bottom of a glass-bottom boat? Swish new mountain bikes await those who want to explore the surrounding mountains and towns. There is a fully equipped gym on the property, tennis courts and yoga classes every morning. You can go hiking or quad biking through the nature reserve, hire a taxi for a half day of visiting nearby waterfalls, The Seven Colours of Sand, the Black River gorge and the local rum distillery (the other main source of income in Mauritius besides tourism). There are more activity options than there is space in which to describe them, for children and adults of all ages. Another quick swim a few steps from our veranda and we were off to the Boma outdoor restaurant for a truly spectacular barbecue and entertainment by a troupe of dancing, drum-
beating, fire-eating Africans in full regalia. After dinner we were invited to gather around the fire for some interactive dancing with troupe members and other guests. Other restaurants are more traditional. You sit down, sometimes with sand beneath your feet, always very near the sea and allow the expert staff to help you choose among the mouth-watering food and drink options available. Besides the many seafood and meat options available, it was gratifying to see the large variety of vegetarian dishes on the menus of the six venues we sampled. If you can’t survive a week without a curry, then scurry to the Zafarani Restaurant, where Deepak, the Indian chef, and Varsha, your aide de table, will ensure you leave with a smile on your face.
We did variations on this theme for the next ten days and could happily have carried on for another month without even wondering what was going on in the “real world” - or even if there was another world somewhere. This was the ultimate holiday experience, and the only downside is that all future holidays will pale by comparison. We will be back, and next time we will bring some friends and family with us. Maybe we will see you there. Direct Flights are available from Gatwick, Heathrow and other UK airports. Heritage Resorts, Domaine de Bel Ombre 31803 Bel Ombre, Mauritius Tel: +230-266-9777 www.heritageresorts.mu
DR ADYL ASANI
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HEALTH
GIVE US A SMILE Our City is leading the way in dentistry. At the recent Private Dentistry Awards 2015 Hove’s TWENTYONEDENTAL won the coveted Best New Practice Award So this month we’re in the dentist’s chair finding out why the health of our teeth and gums have such a huge impact on our general health
T
eeth and gum health are more important than you think. According to NHS Choices (www.nhs.uk/Livewell/dentalhealth/ Pages/gum-disease-and-overall-health.aspx), gingivitis or gum disease – inflammation and infection that set in when teeth and gums aren’t properly cared for – is related to increased risk of several health issues including stroke, heart disease and diabetes. even pregnancy problems and dementia. Bleeding when you brush your teeth is often the first sign. Left untreated, intense gum inflammation can impact on other body systems via the bloodstream, slowly damaging blood vessels in the heart and brain. Sadly, relatively few people are aware of these risks, or the wider benefits of healthy teeth and gums. Good oral health isn’t difficult: the Dental Health Foundation (www.dentalhealth.org) recommend brushing twice a day with a fluoride toothbrush for at least two minutes; cleaning between the teeth daily with floss or interdental brushes; reducing consumption of sugary foods and drinks and going for regular – at least yearly – dental check-ups. Consistency is key: getting children into good habits helps them maintain healthy teeth and gums later. Many of us let things slip in young adulthood, only developing good habits once problems have started. You can register with an NHS dentist, or join a private dental practice. NHS dentists require most people (some, including children, pregnant women and people on income support receive it free) to contribute to their dental care. Demand for NHS treatment means you may not be able to join your closest NHS practice, but there is likely to be one nearby – search here (www.nhs. uk/Service-Search/Dentist/LocationSearch/3). Private dental care means you’ll pay the full cost, directly or via a dental insurance scheme,
but you’re more likely to be able to register with your first choice. OPEN WIDE How teeth look is important too: Stained, overcrowded or missing teeth can affect confidence and self-esteem. Although some children will qualify for treatment on the NHS, adults generally won’t qualify for cosmetic treatments on the NHS. However, many dentists and orthodontists offer payment plans to spread the cost. There are lots of cosmetic and orthodontic treatments available to improve your smile, including: • Overcrowded or misaligned teeth: Devices such as braces are used to realign – techniques used will depend on your teeth. Some orthodontists offer ‘invisible’ clear braces, which many adults prefer. • Stained or discoloured teeth: Professional teeth whitening techniques can make a huge difference to surface stains. Different treatments are available, including custom-fitted ‘trays’ for home use on teeth, and in-clinic treatment over varying lengths of time – or a combination of the two. • Uneven teeth: Porcelain veneers and crowns, where a layer of porcelain is attached to the tooth’s surface, correct the appearance of uneven, chipped or discoloured teeth. Crowns or composite (white) resin fillings can be used to further improve appearance. • Uneven gums: ‘Gum sculpting’ or reshaping techniques – often with laser therapy – can correct these. • Missing teeth: Dentures and bridges (fixed artificial teeth placed between natural
teeth) are used to fill gaps. However, dental implants – bio-compatible artificial teeth (usually made of titanium) implanted and fixed into your gum - are increasingly popular. NEXT STEPS • Get informed: If you haven’t already, find and register with a local dentist. Have check-ups at least yearly – your dentist can advise you how often. It’s also helpful to see a hygienist (to clean your teeth and advise on oral care) at least yearly, too. • Good habits: Get into a routine of brushing twice a day, and daily inter-dental cleaning with floss or brushes. If you’re a parent, talk to your dentist about the most effective ways of teaching children good oral health habits... you never know, they might brush off on you! • Brighten up: if you want to invest in your smile, ask your dentist whether you’d benefit from cosmetic or orthodontic treatment. Sometimes a simple visit to the hygienist will make your teeth sparkle, but if they need something more, your dentist can recommend a practitioner. Dr Catherine Swann Senior partner at Evidence into Practice Associates, a research and delivery organisation specialising in health, care and community.
www.eipa.co.uk PORTFOLIO 87
GOLFGUY...
WINTER LIES
Soft, mucky winter fairways can make ball-striking a real challenge
GolfGuy writes: Only a few weeks ago we were hitting shots off the immaculate velveteen fairways of the Heritage Resort golf club in Mauritius, home to the combined European, Asian and Sunshine tours in the AfrAsia Bank Mauritius Open 2015 last May. Like millions of other keen British golf fans, we had followed the tournament on Sky Sports, and when we were given the opportunity to review this magnificent resort and its golf facilities, it didn’t take many nanoseconds to make up our minds. When playing a top course like this, with a strong reputational precedent, you expect a brilliant, entertaining design, excellent support facilities and a layout with superb fairways and greens. Everything on the Heritage Course exceeded our expectations: greens ran fast and true and fairway shots were struck off springy-but-firm, loamy fairways. Now that we are back on our beloved Sussex winter fairways, the contrast couldn’t be more striking...and shocking. At the Heritage, a well-struck six-iron shot had that satisfying “knife-
through-cold butter” feel at impact and your divot flying forward confirmed your success. Back in Winterland, perfect strikes are a distant memory. Too often we hit it thin in an effort to avoid ploughing the club head into claggy, wet earth. Just as often we chunk shots, and what should have been a lovely divot flying forward has instead become a Mars bar of mud stuck to the face of the club. I’m not sure what it is that makes the difference in ball striking, whether it is mainly psychological factors causing us to alter our normal swings to compensate for heavy lies or actual physical differences between Paradise courses and our winter tracks. It is nevertheless undeniably more difficult to hit consistently good shots on winter courses. What changes, if any, would a professional make when coming to our winter courses after months of playing in Paradise?
GolfGuy
GOLF
The Golf Pro replies:
“Back in Winterland, perfect strikes are a distant memory. Too often we hit it thin in an effort to avoid ploughing the club head into claggy, wet earth”
Most shots in winter seem more difficult than in summer. Wet and muddy conditions lend themselves to more Lee Andrews frequent heavy strikes, leaving you covered in mud and having only advanced the ball a fraction of the distance you had intended. With this fresh in your mind, you then try not to touch the ground and ‘thin’ the ball, thus making it more difficult to create an efficient strike, where the contact is with the ball first. One of the most common themes is that you should move the ball to the back of your stance and hit more down on the ball in order to strike the ball first. In principle, this seems a logical idea. Placing the ball back in the stance will help the downward blow to strike the ball first but will reduce the bounce and drive the club deeper into the wet, claggy mud. I would recommend changing the angle of attack on the ball to approach it on a shallower path. In my opinion, the lower you can keep the club to the ground, the more likely it is for you strike the ball properly in these wet conditions. For me, the following method would enhance the chances of a wellstruck golf shot: Instead of placing the ball at the back of your stance, place the ball in the middle, make the swing lower on the take away and feel that the follow-through is taking a long but shallow divot. This will help to you keep the club closer to the ground through impact, leading to a more consistent strike. Think about skimming a stone across a pond. Throw the stone from too high and it simply plunges into the water. Throwing from just above the water line, on the other hand, can produce a long, skimming stone that lightly skips across the surface.
If you have any questions, please feel free to email me at: lee@midsussexgolfclub.co.uk
The left hand one is perfect ‘u’ shape shallow plane and the right hand one is too steep.
With thanks to our golfing expert, Lee Andrews, PGA Golf Professional, Mid Sussex Golf Club www.midsussexgolfclub.co.uk
Bring this article with you to Mid Sussex Golf Club, and when you pay for a round, another player can go free.
LOCAL news
LOCAL NEWS WELCOME ON BOARD, BRITISH AIRWAYS I360 IN BRIGHTON
PhotoGary Eastwood British Airways i360
The iconic Brighton beach attraction has signed a ‘landmark’ five-year deal with British Airways. Opening next summer, the British Airways i360 viewing pod will cruise up to 450 feet high, where guests on board can enjoy 360-degree views of the stunning Regency city, surrounding South Downs and Sussex coastline. At 162 metres tall, the British Airways i360 is already the tallest structure in Sussex, and customers flying into Gatwick airport can already see the spectacular tower from the air. The attraction will be the world’s first vertical cable car and will provide a stunning new venue on Brighton beach, with a brasserie with sea views and an outside beach-side terrace serving food from “Sussex’s larder,” with signature dishes from MasterChef: The Professionals winner, Steven Edwards. The beach building also encompasses a range of facilities for visitors, including a gift shop, an exhibition, hospitality rooms for 10 to 1,000 people and an indoor kids’ play zone. www.britishairwaysi360.co.uk
SUSSEX BUSINESS AWARDS Searches UK Managing Director, Andrew Stenning, was unveiled as Entrepreneur of the Year at The Sussex Business Awards on 3rd December. Rockinghorse CEO Ryan Heal was awarded Greatest Contribution to Sussex Charity, and congratulations to Boss of the Year, Alan Margetts of The Kitchen Store. The awards ceremony took place in Brighton at The Grand Hotel, with entertainment from magician Matthew McGurk and Paul Sinha from ITV’s The Chase. Full details of winners can be found at www.sbawards. Ryan Heal org.uk
CHICHESTER FESTIVAL THEATRE APPOINTS NEW ARTISTIC DIRECTOR Chichester Festival Theatre have appointed Daniel Evans to succeed Jonathan Church as Artistic Director of Chichester Festival Theatre. Daniel Evans has been Artistic Director of Sheffield Theatres since 2009. He will take up his new post in July 2016. Daniel Evans said: “I am truly delighted to be asked by the Board at Chichester Festival Theatre to become its next Artistic Director. Under the leadership of Jonathan Church and Executive Director Alan Finch, Chichester has developed into the most incredible theatrical powerhouse, which has fed and nourished the local community in the South East as well as the theatre ecology throughout the UK and internationally. I look forward to collaborating with the team in West Sussex to develop that work further as the organisation evolves into this next exciting chapter in its history.” Jonathan Church, who leaves Chichester in September 2016, added: “I could not be happier with this fantastic news. Daniel is a first-rate director with a real passion for theatre and I’m really pleased to be leaving Chichester Festival Theatre in such good hands.” www.cft.org.uk
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LOCAL news
ALBERT WORKS, FOR OFFICE OCCUPANTS!
SNOWMAN SPECTACULAR BALL RAISES OVER £455,000 FOR CHESTNUT TREE HOUSE CHILDREN’S HOSPICE Chestnut Tree House’s Snowman Spectacular Ball on Saturday 5th December celebrated another fundraising success for the Sussex children’s hospice, with an incredible total of £455,011 pledged on the night. Guests were wowed by an exclusive evening of magical entertainment in a winter wonderland setting inspired by the charity’s Patron, Raymond Briggs’ iconic Snowman. Other celebrities at the Snowman Spectacular Ball included Olympian and Chestnut tree House Patron, Sally Gunnell OBE, Monty Python actress and comedian, Carol Cleveland, and footballers Paul Jones (also a Chestnut Tree House Patron), Casper Angerken and Kerry Mayo. The ball was hosted by Brighton-based broadcaster Marcella Whittingdale. Said Linda Perry, Director of Children’s Services at Chestnut Tree House, “We are so grateful to our wonderful guests at this year’s Snowman Spectacular Fundraising Ball for their amazing support and generosity. “£455,011 is an incredible sum and will pay for two months of care provided by Chestnut Tree House, both at our children’s hospice and in families’ own homes across East and West Sussex. www.chestnut-tree-house.org.uk
Exceeding clients’ expectations is a difficult thing in the property industry, but Oakley Commercial have achieved exactly that with the Albert Works project in Conway Street, Hove. Oakley Commercial advised Harket Properties LLP on the conversion of the building which was formerly known as Gill House to enable the newly-created office suites to appeal to the local office market. Works commenced on the conversion of the building in late spring this year and Oakley started marketing in early summer, prior to the building/conversion works being completed. Steven Harvey, Director at Oakley Commercial, commented: “Upon launching Albert Works to the market, it was quickly obvious that these small suites of circa 800 sq ft were perfect for the local market. Deals were agreed on all four available units within 2/3 weeks of launch. All four units were let at the asking rents on standard leases of three years, with one unit being leased for a longer term. We are very pleased with the marketing results and are very keen to advise other clients on similar projects.” Further information on the property itself can be found at www.albertworks.co.uk or www.oakleyproperty.com
NEW REGIONAL AIR ROUTES OFFER FAST JOURNEYS FROM THE SOUTH OF ENGLAND Aviation Minister Robert Goodwill has welcomed the new domestic and international routes that will start in 2016 from Oxford and Southampton airports. The Chancellor announced in last week’s Spending Review that 11 successful bidders across the UK had been awarded support from the UK Government’s Regional Air Connectivity Fund. The new flights will offer fast journey times to Edinburgh from Oxford and quicker connections to Lyon and Munich from Southampton. The start-up aid bidding competition was open to airports with fewer than five million passengers per year and allows air routes that are not currently commercially viable to be introduced early, giving time for airlines to build passenger numbers and deliver a more sustainable service. It is anticipated that flights will begin from Spring 2016. Start-up aid of up to £7 million is being provided through the Regional Air Connectivity Fund. The fund already supports strategic routes to London from Newquay and Dundee.
THE WATERFRONT HOTEL TO BECOME A JURYS INN WITH £5.6 MILLION INVESTMENT The Waterfront Hotel Brighton, formerly The Thistle, has been taken over by hotel investment and hospitality group Amaris Hospitality. The 210-room four-star hotel will be enhanced and rebranded as Jurys Inn Brighton Waterfront. Amaris Hospitality will also invest £1.9 million into its existing Jurys Inn Brighton hotel. The moves form part of a £100 million capital investment programme the group is currently undertaking to transform its 89-strong portfolio of hotel properties. John Brennan, Chief Executive of Amaris Hospitality, said: “We are delighted to be adding such a high-performing hotel to the Jurys Inn brand. This initiative will see the hotel leverage its prime location, next to Brighton’s famous pier, with a significant investment programme to further enhance its exceptional customer service and business performance.”
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NATIONAL news
NATIONAL NEWS THE 1939 REGISTER REVEALS UNPRECEDENTED INSIGHT INTO LIVES, HOUSEHOLDS AND COMMUNITIES
MOST FIRMS WILL BE USING 3D PRINTING It sounds like the stuff of science fiction - machines that can “print” solid objects - but 3D printing isn’t really printing at all, at least not in the traditional sense. It is the process of making three dimensional solid objects from a digital file. Successive layers of material are formed under computer control to create objects ranging from plastic bottles to aircraft parts and prosthetic limbs. Rafal Tomasiak, Chief Executive of Polish 3D printer company Zortrax says, “For the time being, 3D printers are not ready to be used at home. The printing process is not as easy as the promotional films present. You need to be a specialist.” He continued, “I think that most small- and mediumsized companies that have not started using 3D printing will definitely start to do so. The future is the medical sector, which is using it more and more, and I think that is where 3D printers will be most useful - saving lives and treating patients.”
The records of the 1939 Register have been launched online by Findmypast, in association with The National Archives. Anyone can now explore what their home and neighbourhood used to be like in 1939. In addition to the records, Findmypast will also provide unseen images of the time and maps (dated 1888-1913, 1937-1961 and 2010-2012) so users can get a full glimpse of their neighbourhood on the eve of WWII. Every 10 years, there’s a census to count the population. Until now, the most recent information available was the 1911 census. The release of the 1939 Register is not only insightful for family researchers, but for everybody looking to find out more about their neighbourhood and community. The National Archives is one of the world’s most valuable resources for research. As the official archive and publisher for the UK government and England and Wales, they are the guardians of some of the UK’s most iconic national documents, dating back over 1,000 years. www.nationalarchives.gov.uk
GOVERNMENT TO ENCOURAGE MORE STARTER HOMES
FORD TO INVEST 3.5BN IN ELECTRIC CARS Ford says it will invest 3bn to expand its fleet of plug-in and hybrid electric vehicles, and will start selling 13 new electric models by 2020. That will include a new Ford Focus that charges more quickly and has a longer range, the US car giant said. It also intends to move into the commercial ride-hailing market occupied by firms such as Uber and Lyft. The initiatives are part of a broader effort by Chief Executive Mark Fields to counter firms offering alternatives to car ownership and regulators who want vehicles to emit less carbon dioxide. Mr Fields said the company wants 40% of its vehicles to have electric versions by 2020, up from 13% now. The new Focus will take an 80% charge in 30 minutes, about two hours faster than the current version, Ford said. It will also have an estimated 100-mile range, as opposed to 76 miles. The firm also plans to introduce a Mondeo hybrid and a C-Max Energi plug-in hybrid in China next year. Ford currently sells electric, hybrid and plugin hybrid versions of its Focus, Fusion, C-Max and Lincoln MKZ cars.
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The government has launched a £26m fund for house builders and developers to demonstrate the range of high-quality homes appropriate for first-time buyers. Communities Secretary Greg Clark says the funding will complement the government’s existing starter home initiative by “support [for] architects, developers, councils, housing associations and small builders to build properties that will increase the quality of design as the government delivers on its pledge to build 200,000 starter homes by 2020.” The DCLG has also announced that up to £10m will be available for councils to prepare more brownfield land for development of starter homes. “We are committed to delivering 200,000 starter homes by the end of this Parliament, providing a real boost to aspiring, young, first-time buyers. This competitive fund will build homes that will clearly show the wide range of new properties that will be available for first-time buyers as they take their first step onto the housing ladder,” says Clark. Read more about this and other stories at www.estateageenttoday.co.uk
NATIONAL news
TOBACCO FIRMS CHALLENGE PLAIN PACKAGING RULES Four of the world’s biggest tobacco firms have begun a legal challenge to the government’s new packaging rules. The regulations will ban companies from using any logos or branding on packets of tobacco products from May 2016. Under the new regulations, any part of tobacco packaging not covered by the health warning carried on it must be a dark brown or green colour. Brand names must be in small, non-distinctive lettering. The four major tobacco companies argue the regulations will render products indistinguishable from each other. Japan Tobacco International’s barrister, David Anderson QC, told the High Court the companies “manufacture lawful products” used by 19% of the adult population. He said their sales contributed approximately £10bn in excise duty alone to the Exchequer. The companies claim the regulations violate a number of UK and EU laws and that data from Australia, which brought in plain packaging in 2012, fails to prove such a move reduces smoking rates. The Department of Health is fighting the challenge.
SCANDAL CUTS VW SALES BY 4.5% THIS YEAR Sales of Volkswagen-branded vehicles fell 2.4% globally in November in the wake of the emissions scandal, the German car maker said on Friday. VW-brand board member Juergen Stackmann said: “In view of the current challenging situation, I don’t believe VW will be able to make up the gap in the remaining days of the year.” Sales plunged in Brazil, with a 51.4% fall, and slid by 31.8% in Russia, although economic problems in both countries were largely to blame for those declines rather than the emissions scandal. Volkswagen group chairman Hans Dieter Poetsch said on Thursday that a “chain of errors” led to the emissions scandal and that the entire company was now focused on regaining the trust of customers. In September, US regulators found that some VW diesel cars had a “defeat device” - or software - to cheat emissions tests. The company said the situation arose when it decided to launch a large-scale promotion of diesel vehicles in the US in 2005, but found it impossible to meet strict emissions limits in force in that country in time. Chief Executive Matthias Mueller said he was confident that customers would overcome their reluctance to buy the group’s vehicles in the coming weeks.
FRASERS HOSPITALITY ACQUIRE FOUR MORE PROPERTIES FOR MALMAISON AND HOTEL DU VIN GROUP Frasers Hospitality’s global footprint stands at 136 properties across 78 cities. Frasers Hospitality, the hospitality arm of Frasers Centrepoint Limited, has announced the acquisition of a portfolio of four properties in the UK through the group’s subsidiary, Malmaison and Hotel du Vin Property Holdings Limited. This acquisition comes on the back of Frasers Hospitality’s recent purchase of the Malmaison and Hotel du Vin group, which comprised 29 upscale lifestyle boutique hotels in June this year. Mr Choe Peng Sum, CEO, Frasers Hospitality, said, “These four stylish and iconic hotels are, in their respective cities, a perfect fit for Malmaison and Hotel du Vin, and this acquisition is clearly in line with the Group’s expansion strategy of the brands within the UK, Europe and Asia.” The hotels will continue to operate under their existing names until 2016 when development plans will be revealed for each of the hotels. The hotels are: Avon Gorge Hotel, Bristol; Magdalen Chapter, Exeter; Montpellier Chapter, Cheltenham; and Hotel Seattle, Brighton. For more information on Malmaison and Hotel du Vin, please visit www.malmaison.com and www.hotelduvin.com
‘SIX-MONTH DELAY’ FOR HEATHROW DECISION The major decision on whether to build a new runway at Heathrow or Gatwick could be delayed for at least six months. Senior sources very close to the process say that there needs to be more “confidence building” about the environmental impact of a new runway at Heathrow, if the government backs it. This could mean another review and also means that expansion at Gatwick will not be ruled out. The decision that there will be yet another delay is likely to go down very badly with businesses which have demanded that the government “get on” with expanding Britain’s aviation capacity. David Cameron is still concerned that any decision to back Heathrow will put his “no ifs, no buts” pledge in 2009 that there will be no third runway at Heathrow in sharp relief. If a decision is not taken until next summer, that means it will come after the election for the next mayor of London, which is in May.
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WINTER FAVOURITES PRIX FIXE MENU
SEASONAL FLAVOURS, REGIONAL INSPIRATION INSPIRED BY THE COOKING TRADITIONS, RICH TASTES AND SUBTLETIES OF THE VARIOUS REGIONS OF FRANCE, CREATED USING A WEALTH OF SEASONAL INGREDIENTS. The fixed price menu is changed regularly offering four starters, four main courses and four desserts running alongside the á la carte menu.
£16.95 FOR TWO COURSES £19.95 FOR THREE COURSES
RECEIVE A COMPLIMENTARY GLASS OF CHARDONNAY OR MERLOT HOUSE WINE
when dining from the Prix Fixe menu before 7pm
0127 385 5221 www.HOTELDUVIN.com
HOTEL DU VIN& BISTRO BRIGHTON Ship Street, Brighton, Sussex BN1 1AD TERMS AND CONDITIONS: Prix Fixe menu is not available on a Friday or Saturday evening or during Lunch. The glass of wine is available for those who dine before 7pm. Not available 94 Sunday PORTFOLIO at Glasgow. One glass of Hotel du Vin House Wine per person who dines.
SAY... Daniel Frickelton is on the scent of the Big Cheese at La Cave à Fromage in Western Road...
A
lan Watson awoke one morning in his childhood bed in Cheltenham to find himself kitted out with a stripey apron. No Kafka-esque nightmares for this lad, though. He leapt out of bed, cheese cutter in hand, and Cheese Man was born! Okay, I may have made some of this up, but there is no denying the fact that the Manager of La Cave à Fromage was destined from an early age to be Cheese Man. “Even as a kid I was magnetically drawn to the kitchen, to the smells and sounds of food preparation. I was a porky kid and loved food. I spent a short time in Australia after University and loved to cruise around the farmer’s market. Everywhere I looked I saw wonderful ingredients and would be figuring out what I could make with them.” These days Alan is lithe as a racing snake and has clearly struck a balance between volume and quality in his personal cheese consumption. I can’t resist asking him if La Cave have noticed an upturn in cheese sales now that a US report has recently ‘re-legalised’ butter. “People have always eaten more fatty foods in the winter,” he assures me. “Possibly for genetic reasons, certainly as part of the cosy-warmcomfort culture we associate with colder weather. There is little doubt that people see cheese and wine as a part of this: our busiest time in the shop is from 5pm to 6 pm on Sundays. People have done their shopping and are heading home for some apres-shopping cosy time.” Given the vast abundance of cheese available in supermarkets, I wonder aloud at what ever possessed David Deaves, Regional Manager
CHEESE of La Cave – the actual Big Cheese – to think that a local branch of the original London store could be a success. “Supermarkets are concerned with shelf life, sell-by dates and so on,” says Alan.
“We buy artisan cheeses from local producers in France, Wales, Ireland, Scotland and England, look after them with great care, encourage our customers to taste a variety of types and enjoy their unique flavours” “They therefore tend to buy immature pasteurised cheese, which ripens more slowly. That’s why your supermarket brie has such a firm, chalky centre. We buy artisan cheeses from local producers in France, Wales, Ireland, Scotland and England, look after them with
great care, encourage our customers to taste a variety of types and enjoy their unique flavours. We can also provide loads of information about their sourcing, their ingredients and some guidance on which wines will go best with them. If you ask someone in a supermarket where a particular cheese comes from, they will say “From the warehouse in Dartford, I guess...” Brighton is ‘London-By-Sea’ in many ways, only mellower, trendier, a bit more laidback, and La Cave à Fromage fits brilliantly into that scene.” The constant traffic in and out of the shop seems to corroborate Alan’s analysis. I have to know which three cheeses Alan would take with him to the Desert Island. The look on his face says this is like asking Hugh Hefner to decide which three bunnies he would take with him. “Brin d’Amour, a soft Corsican sheep’s milk cheese in a herb crust, would definitely have to be in the mix. And some Ossau Iraty, a hard sheep’s milk cheese from The Pyrenees region. Oh, and some blue... Bath Blue, from The Bath Soft Cheese Co, officially the best cheese in the world.” You will have to pop by the shop and chat Alan up if you want to know what he would choose to wash down all this milky loveliness. Enjoy. Vive La Cave!
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BUSINESS lunch
GOLDEN PASS Our food writer, Daniel Frickelton, gets down and dirty with The Chief Goatherd at The Pass...
W
hen I first arrived in the UK in the mid-’nineties I was astonished at the absence of veal in UK supermarkets and at the touchingly low prices of fresh pork. I have bored most of my friends with queries about this state of affairs and the vagueness of the responses I have received has left me with the impression that most British consumers
base their buying decisions on poorly defined attitudes about food, with special reference to meat products. We don’t eat veal because calves are cute; pork is “not nice”, unless it is bacon, ham or sausages, and we don’t eat goat, because... well, why don’t we eat goat? They do almost everywhere else in the non-western world.
Matt Gillan, star Chef at The Pass and recent winner of The Great British Menu 2015 competition, has taken up the mantle of intoducing this tantalizing food resource into British cuisine. We leapt at the opportunity to sample his award-winning menu at South Lodge, and now we will be scouting around for suppliers of high-quality goat meat.
“It’s hard to imagine how a fine dining experience in a relaxedbut-elegant environment could be any better”
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BUSINESS lunch
With 28 covers, The Pass is the larger of the two restaurants at South Lodge. In contrast to the grand, Churchillian style of this vast estate, with its vaulted ceilings, acres of oak panelling, roaring fireplaces and archetypal Christmas deccies, the restaurant area comprises an intimate, relaxing space with contemporary decór perched on the edge of the two open kitchens. Service is prompt and efficient, provided by knowledgeable, friendly staff. We settled on a reasonably-priced Cotes-duRhone red to accompany my goaty experiment and a New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc – so fragrant that I could smell it from across the table – to help ease down my companion’s fish and pork dishes. A very passionate and wellinformed sommelier made this an exceptional experience. The Great British Menu (£57.50) departs from the traditional restaurant offering of starter-main-pudding, offering instead four courses of “snacks”, the first of which, Sowing And Growing, was a trio, served warm, of variations on onion, apple and cocao nib, laced with crunchy malt crumble which nicely balanced the softness of the other ingredients. Very creative, very delicious. A couple of sips of the gorgeously dry Cotes-du-Rhone later, the second snack arrived. Jamming and Canning, an astonishing trio of variations on mackerel, rhubarb (yes, rhubarb) and lobster in its sauce was presented by the chef who had prepared the dish, as were all our dishes. The originality and thought behind this dish informed all of the wonderful flavours exploding on the palate. I
was still wondering what could have possessed Matt to combine these particular ingredients into one spectacular dish when Chef No 3 arrived with his Teaching and Preaching, the main attraction: goat prepared in three different ways, garnished with pineapple and goat’s cheese. The dish had a satisfying gamey flavour that imparted a subtle sweetness, aided by the
“The originality and thought behind this dish informed all of the wonderful flavours exploding on the palate” acidity of the pineapple. My head was exploding in a starburst of flavours, and that pretty much sums up Matt Gillan’s whole approach to food. It’s all about flavours and textures, and it works! The pudding chef arrived with my Back to Black (and Yellow), a heavenly concoction of silky honey, yogurt and sorbet laced with a whiff of something so subtle that I had to confer with the next-door diner, who was enjoying the same pudding, on what it could possibly be. Fennel, we decided. Magical. My companion’s four-course ‘snack’ menu (£27.50) embraced imaginative combinations such as skate and liquorice, pork with artichoke and mushroom and chocolate with soy and plum, a pudding that she claims she
still raves ravenously about in her sleep and which Cleopatra would surely have bathed in once a week had Matt Gillan been available then. Everything was cooked to perfection by a Son Of Matt and served by same in playful, beautifully-designed serving boxes under lids. The Sauvignon Blanc was so special that she insisted on sharing a sip. We drink a lot of this grape variety from the Marlborough Estates and therefore expected a good balance of acidity and fruit. The explosion in the mouth of gooseberries and peaches from this vintage was remarkable and worth every bit of the modest price. Matt and his crew are onto something very good here, and the folks at The Pass are clearly aware of that fact as they feature heavily on the restaurant’s website. Excellent ingredients lovingly prepared and attention to details like the “checkerboard” bread loaves with crunchy crusts and wonderfully chewy texture, served piping hot, separate The Pass from the (goat)herd. It’s hard to imagine how a fine dining experience in a relaxed-but-elegant environment could be any better. Flavour, texture and fun: a wicked combination...and a Golden Pass to pure dining pleasure. Treat yourself in the New Year. Tell them Daniel sent you...
MATT GILLAN AT THE PASS, SOUTH LODGE HOTEL, BRIGHTON ROAD, NR. HORSHAM, WEST SUSSEX, RH13 6PS 01403 892235 WWW.SOUTHLODGEHOTEL.CO.UK PORTFOLIO 97
STYLE
LOOKING COOL IN KNITWEAR Staying stylish and warm is all about buying the right key pieces. Samantha Wilding makes it simple in her knitwear guide
W
ell, the festive season is behind us and thankfully I won’t have to endure any more Christmas jumpers! Believe it or not, it is possible to look cool (forgive me) in knitwear without having to resort to jingle bells or reindeer antlers. There are a few key pieces that every stylish man should have in his wardrobe. Read on… THREE KEY ITEMS It’s simple, really: you only need three items. The first is the roll neck. This wardrobe basic is having a bit of a ‘moment’ this winter, and is surprisingly versatile. Best of all, rollnecks fit the ‘smart casual’ bill perfectly – they look fantastic worn simply under tailoring or leather jacket for a night out. Keep the colour neutral (navy, grey, camel) for maximum wearability, and choose extra-fine merino wool as it is fine enough for layering (under a v-neck or shawl collar, for example) but luxe enough to look special worn on its own. Long-standing British brand John Smedley would be my first port of call; their merino ‘Richards’ roll neck is one of their best selling items and comes in five colours. So, channel your inner Steve McQueen and go for it… The second piece should be a heavier knit. This could be a warm, plain wool or wool/cashmere blend, in a neutral colour. It could be crew neck or shawl collar. Better yet, it could be a really chunky cable knit (think fisherman here), which looks fantastic over a shirt and under a pea coat on a blustery weekend. And the third? A graphic knit. You don’t want everything in your wardrobe to be plain, do you? Patterned jumpers have been big news this autumn/winter but that doesn’t mean you have to go crazy. I would advise starting with a subtle monochrome pattern or a colourblock to give a bit of interest. Keep everything else pared back and neutral to avoid overkill, as the jumper will take centre stage and be the main point of focus. M&S is a good place to start for decent quality without breaking the bank. Drykorn or Reiss are for those of you who are a bit braver… Actually, there is a fourth item – but this one isn’t for everyone. The cardigan. The cardigan can look really stylish when worn as a ‘waistcoat’ with a suit, adding colour and texture as well as a bit of warmth. The cardigan should not be bulky or it will ruin the line of your jacket, and it’s best to stick to plain, neutral colours, preferably that pick out a theme in your tie or pocket square. If you choose this look, prepare to be noticed!
Beauty Box
“Don’t discount cashmere – it’s incredibly soft and lightweight, which means it’s toasty and warm without adding unwanted bulk”
Nourish Your Neck
W
elcome to the first Beauty Box column! Over the next 12 months I’ll be writing about some of my favourite beauty products, new and old, that I hope will inspire you.
LEARN TO LAYER The key to managing unpredictable temperature changes is to layer your knitwear. Experiment with combining weights and textures and always stick to natural fibres (cotton, wool, cashmere or a blend of these), but remember to keep base layers fine and breathable so you don’t swelter. Merino wool makes a great base layer, as it has fantastic temperature-regulating properties. Don’t discount cashmere – it’s incredibly soft and lightweight, which means it’s toasty and warm without adding unwanted bulk. It is, of course, expensive (given that it is produced from the fine undercoat fibre of the Cashmere goat) but there are affordable and decent quality options on the high street, including Uniqlo, Mango and M&S. At the other end of the market, N Peal and Brora are great British cashmere brands. If you are going to invest in cashmere, please care for it properly -– see the box for guidance. And if you need further help selecting knitwear that works for you, give me a call!
CARING FOR CASHMERE • • • • •
Many labels say ‘dry clean only’ to avoid liability, but it is safe to hand wash cashmere in cool water using a delicate detergent Squeeze gently when washing (don’t wring, rub or stretch) and rinse thoroughly Press gently with a towel, reshape it and leave it flat to dry. Do not hang it when wet – it will stretch! Never, ever tumble dry cashmere Invest in a ‘cashmere comb’ to take care of any bobbling
LINKS: WHERE TO BUY • • • •
www.johnsmedley.com www.marksandspencer.com www.drykorn.com/en www.reiss.com
• • • •
www.uniqlo.com www.mango.com www.npeal.com www.brora.co.uk
It’s a new year, and the focus, as always, is on ‘detoxing’. You may have revamped your diet and upped your exercise regime, but what about your skin? The skin on our necks and decolletage are particularly neglected, but these are the areas that actually show age the quickest. Evidently, our technology use is hastening this effect; our constant peering down as we do at smartphones and tablets is giving us the delightful-sounding ‘tech neck’.
One of the newest neck creams on the market is by VENeffect, a company started by two sisters, a doctor and a beauty industry veteran. Their products contain an advanced phytoestrogen complex that ‘recognises the inextricable link between your hormonal cycle and your skin’ – a link that has so far been virtually unexplored by the beauty world. I’ve been testing VENeffect’s Firming Neck and Decollete Crème, as I wage my own war against ‘tech neck’. This product is positively unctuous; it has a rich and luxurious texture, without being heavy, and hydrates without being greasy. It is also fragrancefree, so it doesn’t compete with perfume. All VENeffect products are gluten-, fragrance-, silicone- and paraben-free. The Firming Neck and Decollete Crème retails at SpaceNK for £124, so it’s an investment, but well worth it. Until next month….
www.styleandgrace.eu | @alwayschicUK
Samantha
MOTORING
JAGUAR F-TYPE AWD Motoring Editor, Maarten Hoffmann pushes the corners in the daring Jaguar F-type AWD
J
aguar have been breaking the mould fairly consistently over the past few years and roaring back to life. From their grand and powerful days, Jaguar slipped into the doldrums until the Indians came to the rescue, in the form of Tata Industries. They now present a range of extremely good cars, full of character, style and speed. If you read this column on a regular basis, you will know that I have rekindled my love
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affair with Jags. They might not be in quite the same league of build quality as the Germans but they do have that elusive ingredient character. I have reviewed all the versions of the beautiful F-Type, from the drop top V6, the Coupe V8 and the drop top V8 and I have never come away disappointed, Exhilarated, excited and with soiled underpants on occasion but never disappointed. The only issue ever encountered is on a
wet day in a rear wheel drive, front engined V8 monster, with a little too must pressure on the go pedal, you see the rear beside you and realise you are definitely not going to make the corner. That’s the ‘soiled’ time as I realised that the rear wheels have broken free and I am about to demolish £100,000 worth of Crewe’s finest. Jaguar have answered that little problem with the first ever all-wheel drive Jaguar in the
“A lot less frightening on a wet night on the Pease Pottage roundabout”
history of the marque. Now I have four wheel drive AND a 5.0 litre V8 behemoth and there will be no stopping me. Who needs a driving licence anyway? They have had to make a few modifications to make this work such as a bonnet re-profile to accommodate a 10mm engine lift required to fit the AWD bits and an inch or two of the left-side footwell to slide in the electronically controlled clutch, and apart from the rear AWD badge, there is little exterior difference. This clever little bugger only drives the rear wheels under normal driving conditions but when called for, the AWD system kicks in and takes control of all four wheels.The electronic clutch control unit knows what throttle and steering inputs you’ve asked for, and monitors traction underfoot too, so it only sends power forward when it thinks it’s genuinely necessary. Sticking that badge on it just makes me want to challenge it therefore I tried to get the back to break away with a half turn whilst burying the
throttle into the carpet in the rain but after a split second of the computer working out what I was up to, it settled into a well controlled and easily managed four-wheel drift. Less dramatic, admittedly, but also a lot less frightening on a wet night on the Pease Pottage roundabout. From the Audi R8 and Lambo Huracan to the Porsche 911 and Nissan GT-R, AWD is taking over and, following Audi’s lead, is appearing in more and more cars. But then, some might feel it takes the fun (read danger) out of it and Lambo now produce the Huracan in 2-wheel drive. I, along with many others, have also been bitching about all fast motors now coming with an auto box with paddle shift for those that want to pretend they are driving a manual. They are not. So Jaguar are now producing the F-Type with a proper manual gearbox. Do you remember that stick to your left hand side - praise be it’s back and thank the heavens for that. Thank you Jaguar for producing a blisteringly fast and beautiful car that, in anger, can actually be kept on the road.
TECHNICAL STUFF Model Tested: F-Type R Convertible AWD Engine: 5.0 litre V8 Supercharged Power: 550bhp Performance: 0-62 3.9 seconds Top Speed: 186mph Economy: 25mpg combined Price from: £97,145.00 As tested: £103,715.00
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DOC MARTIN’S TRUE CALLING BEAUTIFUL homes
With the seventh series of Doc Martin wrapped up, newly honoured Martin Clunes, OBE, talks about his idyllic lifestyle and reveals his plans for the coming year
104 PORTFOLIO Photo credit: www.aptonline.org
THE interview
M
artin Clunes is exactly how you would expect him to be: funny, affable and ever so dry. Since he won the nation’s hearts (and a BAFTA) as Gary Strang in Men Behaving Badly, Clunes has seldom been off our screens. Appearing often on BBC news quiz Have I Got News For You, voicing beloved cartoon dog Kipper, and his most enduring role as Dr Martin Bamford in Doc Martin, he’s a cherished household name. Currently in its seventh series, Doc Martin has come a long way – not least having Hollywood superstar Sigourney Weaver as a guest this time round. Set in the fictional seaside village of Portwenn, Clunes plays a brilliant surgeon who after developing haemophobia (a fear of blood) is forced to take a position as a general practitioner in the sleepy Cornish town. The comedic charm lies in the contrast of the socially inept Doc and the friendly villagers, who do all they can to welcome him into their community, much to his chagrin. But the show comes with its fair share of drama too, as its separation storyline has demonstrated in the on/off romance that keeps viewers tuning in. With his wife Philippa a producer on the programme and in such
close proximity while he dealt with his marital woes to onscreen spouse Louisa, it could have been emotionally odd for the actor. Slightly bemused, he tells Portfolio: “No, it’s fine. She’s always been there. I don’t get confused between real life and Doc Martin!”
“Clunes’ American fan base refer to themselves as ‘The Clunatics’” The romance with Louisa Glasson (played by Caroline Catz) has held the show’s audience captivated since the very first episode. “It’s always much more fun to do something that’s awkward or complicated,” Clunes says. “Otherwise it’s quite undramatic. ‘I love you, I love you too,’ and off they go. It’s sort of the opposite of drama.” It’s an enchanting combination: the moody, difficult doctor and the lovely, joyous school mistress, and one thing that is especially apparent in this last series is their deep love for another. Despite this they are unable to
sustain the relationship, and Clunes insists that this ‘will they, won’t they?’ aspect is vital for the survival of the show. In his own romantic life, Clunes is far more successful than either Gary or Doc: happily married to Philippa for 16 years, the pair have a teenage daughter, Emily, and enjoy a quiet, idyllic life on their 130-acre farm in Devon. He may have had a reputation as the eternal man-child but these days Clunes is the quintessential family man. When not on set he can be found pottering around his farm, fixing fences and riding tractors, or tending to his horses. He’s a man content. The family have several horses (Clunes is president of the British Horse Society) and he says the equine life simply felt ‘natural’. “Emily has grown up around animals and she has ridden since she was two,” he reveals. “So when we had a house in Dorset with a garden we were constantly looking for a field so we could get a pony for her and we couldn’t find one and then we found this place. Then I got a horse because I realised we could do it all together and it’s taken over and defines who we are.” On the subject of his daughter he is most glowing, saying he considers himself ‘lucky’
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THE interview
“I get a lot of criticism in my own home for taking an interest in people’s medical conditions, particularly their medications. I always want to know what they’ve been prescribed!” to have such a lovely teenager in his life, but also admits that she ‘studiously avoids’ her parents’ work: “She doesn’t watch Doc Martin. When Sigourney Weaver came we went out for supper at Rick Stein’s restaurant and Emily came with us, but when I said ‘Do you want to watch the episode?’ she said, ‘No, I’m alright’!” The show is filmed on a year-on, yearoff basis and as yet another series is not confirmed, but given its enormous popularity worldwide (his American fan base refer to themselves as ‘The Clunatics’) it looks highly likely. But Clunes values that time off, having some very pressing matters to attend to in the form of two large horses. “I don’t have a great deal planned,” he says, “And I’ve been doing really well with big horses. I’ve got two Clydesdales who I’ve started riding so I’m really happy not to work!” There is also talk of an Australian version of Islands of Britain, the 2009 three-part documentary series in which Clunes explored
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the more remote isles of the UK. His fondness for animals and wildlife has extended into his recent non-fiction work, which has included narrating The Secret Life of Dogs and presenting Martin Clunes: The Lemurs of Madagascar. Another ongoing relationship in Doc Martin is with Buddy the dog, played by Dodger – a stray who despite constantly getting rebuffed by the grumpy Doc persists with his attempts at being a man’s best friend. Clunes, of course, is known to adore dogs and rumours are that after every scene he bends down and whispers sweet nothings into Dodger’s ear. So he’s really not like his character at all, it seems, but there’s one thing he does admit to: “I get a lot of criticism in my own home for taking an interest in people’s medical conditions, particularly their medications. I always want to know what they’ve been prescribed! My daughter in particular always goes ‘You’re not a doctor! Shut up!’”
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