July 2016
A taste of France Michel Roux Jr cooks
NORMANDY PRIORY
Relax in a tasty Chambres d’hôte Holiday homes in France INTERVIEWS with the City’s
industry experts
HEALTH SPECIAL
GORGEOUS Garden furniture The region’s LARGEST property publication
&
Fun Feline
WIN these hammocks
FREE
designers choice kitchen interior design
. . . f ro m s t a r t t o fi n i s h . Vi s i t o u r s h o w ro o m : 9 k e y m e r ro a d , h a s s o c k s , w e s t s u s s e x , b n 6 8 a d Te l : 0 1 2 7 3 8 4 1 0 4 8
We b : w w w. d e s i g n e r s - c h o i c e . c o. u k
email: designers.choice9@gmail.com
INSIDE Love Supreme, page 19
5 12
Hill House & Home Truths
18
Interview : Bella Casa Brighton’s Emma Marcello
19 31 36
Property News
Calender : Out and about in July
July collection, page 36
FRONT COVER STORY : Child's-play shopping - WIN our fun cover hammocks July Collection : Water, water everywhere
43
Talk Money : Personal Savings Allowance
55 61
Legal matters : Keeping it out of court
64
Gardening : Midsummer gardening Doing it yourself : Getting garden support
73
Welcome to our world : Chris Mansfield, Davenport Property Investment
74 78
Home tips : Keep it clean Chalk Architecture : The future of Brighton
... Continued over
Garden Support, page 64
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.amazonas.eu
Shopping, page 31
80 Overseas, page 80
Overseas property special : Hopping over the channel
82
COVER STORY : Travel - A tasty break in Normandy
84
Interiors : The latest garden furniture
89
Health Matters : Check it out
90
Face to Face : With Zahra Nassiri, Z-Nutrition
92
COVER STORY : Celebrity chef Michel Roux Jnr's cheese soufflĂŠ
94
Style : Dressing well in the heat
96
Bigger Picture : Olympics countdown with Clare Balding
98
Local news
100
104
Golf guy : Practice makes perfect Celebrity Interview : Nadia Comaneci, sporting icon
Celebrity recipe, page 92
Nadia Comaneci, page 104
The PORTFOLIO team Managing Director: Lynne Edwards Production Editor: Fiona McTernan lynne@portfoliopublications.co.uk portfoliomagazineproduction@gmail.com For advertising and general enquiries contact Lynne Edwards: 07931 537588 lynne@portfoliopublications.co.uk Chief Sub-Editor & Features Editor: Designer: Sally Wynn Daniel Frickelton www.portfoliopublications.co.uk portfoliopublications@dollydesigns.co.uk portfoliomagazineeditorial@gmail.com Cover: Image courtesy of John Lewis www.johnlewis.com
Contributor: Kate Hill
Contributing Editor: Tara de la Motte tara@sussex-homes.co.uk
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
THE HILL HOUSE
T
his time last year we took a half-term holiday to the south coast of Turkey. We had good reasons for packing up: we’d no kitchen, water or boiler, and a houseful of tradespeople sorting it out. We headed for the sun instead. It turned out to be an excellent decision: a week of wandering through wildlife reserve beaches, admiring the beautiful Turkish landscape and wildlife, and floating in natural geothermal pools was the perfect antidote to stress. It was all supposed to be finished when we got back: of course, it wasn’t (and many bits of it still aren’t). Since then, work has progressed very slowly, as we uncovered things the builder should have done (but didn’t), and issues with the work that he went bust before he could fix, like penetrating water in the new kitchen wall every time it rains.
“Spending money you hadn’t budgeted for on fixing builders' mistakes is stressful. So stressful that we self-prescribed another trip to Turkey this half term” Spending money you hadn’t budgeted for on fixing builders' mistakes is stressful. So stressful, in fact, that we self-prescribed another trip to Turkey this half term. It’s been a roller-coaster 12 months including redundancy, major building work, broken limbs and complications, my new (even bigger than the last one) job AND a new baby on the way – who wouldn’t need some down time? So this month’s column was penned from Iztuzu Beach, 4.5km of sand adjacent to a nature reserve, just down river from the little town of Dalyan. Humans are only allowed on the beach between 8am – 8pm: night time is reserved for the loggerhead turtles that nest here. It’s pretty laid back. Our batteries are recharging, and we’re ready for the next push. That is, if we don’t decide to stay here with the turtles…
Euro 2016, Wimbledon... Surely there’s an excuse to pop open some fizz this summer? I don’t know, we’re hardly known for our unblemished successes... maybe just one glass? Seems a waste to open a whole bottle just for one glass. Pass me a spoon and we can finish it tomorrow.
A SPOON? A SPOON? WHAT ON EARTH FOR? It’s a well-known fact that putting a spoon in the top of an open bottle of Champagne keeps the bubbles in overnight… isn’t it? It’s certainly a thing, but that doesn’t mean it works. Professor Richard Zare, a physicist at Stanford University in the US, and colleagues conducted an experiment comparing the ‘fizz’ across bottles kept under five different conditions: bottles of Champagne that had just been opened, bottles opened 26 hours before but re-corked, opened 26 hours before and left with a spoon in the top, and left uncorked overnight. They found no advantage to the spoon technique, nor to re-corking – in fact, the bottles left uncovered overnight were just as fizzy.
Oh no! we’d better drink it all now… No need for that – there are some simple things you can do to keep the fizz in. Firstly, genuine Champagne (manufactured under strict conditions) will hold its fizz much better than cheaper imitations like cava and prosecco (also nice, but you might as well drink the lot). The strict processes required to make Champagne result in the liquid being very pure, allowing it to retain the gas bubbles for longer. If your budget doesn’t run to Champagne, any sparkling wine that calls itself ‘Champenoise’ has been manufactured under the same strict conditions, and will likely hold onto its fizz.
So the scientists should have blown the budget on better Champagne?
Kate Hill
In truth, the Stanford study has subsequently been criticised for its poor scientific controls: most of the fizz testers were pretty tipsy by glass number three. Food scientist and author Robert L Wolke has researched the subject, concluding that re-corking can help to retain fizz, so long as the bottle hasn’t been shaken. Which, if we manage to win something, might be difficult to avoid... PORTFOLIO 5
The gold standard for greener glazing.
Come and visit our extensive showroom to discuss your requirements and ideas – for a greener, more eďŹƒcient windows, doors & conservatories solution.
01903 756699 or visit www.benchmarkwindows.co.uk
Units 4 & 5, 83 Marlborough Road Lancing Business Park Lancing West Sussex BN15 8UF
DYKE ROAD PLACE, BRIGHTON
Offers in excess of ÂŁ1,375,000
An imposing detached red brick coach house of considerable character with a mature south facing walled garden and off-road parking with garage, occupying a much sought after, prime central location. As you walk into the large reception hallway, the impression is of a comfortable family home with understated class and quality retaining a wealth of original features and detail. There are three reception rooms which include a large sitting room and a similarly impressive dining room overlooking the garden, both with ceiling mouldings and period detail. A well fitted office room or family room complement the two main rooms and a large kitchen/breakfast room. From the entrance hallway an impressive staircase leads to the landing. The five bedrooms are all doubles, including a superb master bedroom with en-suite bath and dressing area. The lovely landscaped garden takes full advantage of the sunny south aspect and the acquisition of such a rarely available home should not be missed!
5 94 Church Road | Hove | BN3 2EB
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3
01273 778 877 | mishonwelton.com
TONGDEAN AVENUE, HOVE
Guide Price £1,950,000
A substantial detached family residence, luxuriously appointed to an impressive standard, while providing superb living space of nearly 3,000 sq ft. In recent years, the owners have carried out an extensive modernisation and restoration programme, creating a fine, modern and comfortable home consistent with 21st century expectations. The living space, which spans three floors, is beautifully light and airy. On the ground floor the comfortable reception rooms, are ideal for relaxation and are complemented by a truly magnificent, luxuriously fitted kitchen/dining/family room. This stunning space is one of the main focal points of this property and enjoys an expanse of sliding doors opening on to the rear garden. The bedrooms are luxuriously carpeted (as is the majority of the house) and all bathrooms are fitted and equipped to the highest possible standards. Externally, the attractively landscaped gardens are easily managed and come complete with a work from home “Pod”.
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sales@mishonwelton.com WHATEVER YOU’RE LOOKING FOR
Beyond your expectations www.hamptons.co.uk
Roedean Way, Brighton £2,500,000 Substantial four to five bedroom detached home. EPC D
Dyke Close, Hove £1,925,000 Rarely available detached home in exclusive close. EPC D
Hill Brow, Hove £1,300,000 Five bedroom detached house with parking and garage. EPC D
Carlisle Road, Hove £1,100,000 Extremely well presented four bedroom house. EPC F
Hamptons International Estate Agents Hove Sales. 01273 796 061 | Lettings. 01273 796 159
BEAUTIFUL homes
SHOW HOME Open Weekends 10am-2pm
A
stunning five-bedroom house arranged over three floors, situated at the top of Hill Brow, boasting panoramic southerly views over Hove towards the sea, being one of three newly-built homes. The property is situated in a highly sought-after prime residential area comprised mainly of detached houses. The house presents a rare opportunity to acquire a substantial new home offering circa 3800sq ft of contemporary accommodation in Hove in this unique elevated location. Hill Brow is conveniently located adjacent to Dyke Road Avenue with easy access of Brighton bypass, providing access to the A23. The house has been designed to reflect modern living in its highly desirable setting. The sympathetic use of materials, finishes and colour throughout are of the quality and standard one would expect in a home of this nature. The neutral, stylish effect enhances the generous proportions of the property, which also includes a unique feature fireplace and chimney design.
Hill Brow, Hove BN3 6QG Price: ÂŁ2,000,000 Bedrooms: 5 Bathrooms: 4 Extras: Brand-new development of three stylish homes; Terracing; Southerly seaward aspect Best Bits: Garage; Garden; Generously proportioned accommodation Hamptons International 82 Church Road Hove BN3 2EB 01273 230230 www.hamptons.co.uk
PORTFOLIO  11
LEADERS
If you are buying or selling a property you couldn’t be in safer hands PROPERTY PROFESSIONALS LUNCH
since
Lawyers for Life™
The Summer Property Professionals’ Lunch will take place on Thursday, 14th July, at Pub du Vin, Brighton. Organised by Portfolio Magazine and Searches UK, 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. July’s Guest Speaker is Tamara Roberts, Chief Executive Officer of Ridgeview Wine Estate. The charity prize is a ‘Weekday Tour & Tasting’Gift Voucher for eight people, which has been kindly donated by Ridgeview Wine Estates, with all money raised going towards the Rockinghorse Children’s Charity. The cost is just £30 per person (including a three-course lunch, wine and coffee). To book your place at the event on July 14th, email Melanie@searchesuk.co.uk.
NEW OFFICIAL UK HOUSE PRICE INDEX LAUNCHED
Conveyancer Of The Year The Estate Agency of the Year Awards 2012 in association with The Sunday Times and The Times
31 Duke Street, Brighton, BN1 1AG Tel: +44 (0) 1273 725229 www.cunningtons.co.uk
The government launched the new official UK House Price Index - to be known in short-form as the UK HPI - on June 14. There will be four monthly reports available - a UK summary, plus separate reports for England, Scotland and Wales, and the data will be updated monthly. The new reports will include breakdowns of first-time buyers and new-build homes - although detailed notes on the methodology to be used to compile the new figures suggest this kind of information (that is, the status of the purchaser or whether it is a cash or mortgaged purchase) often has little bearing on price. The UK HPI has been developed by the Land Registry, Office for National Statistics, Registers of Scotland, Land & Property Services - Northern Ireland, and the Valuations Office Agency. www.landregistry.data.gov.uk Read more about these and other industry stories at www.estateagenttoday.co.uk
PROPERTY news
PROPERTY NEWS ESTATE AGENCY RAISES £20,000 FOR CHILDREN’S HOSPICE WEEK Staff at Leaders estate agents took part in a variety of fundraising events in support of Children’s Hospice Week, which took place from 23rd to 29th May and raised over £20,000 nationally for their Charity of the Year, Together for Short Lives. Together for Short Lives is the UK charity that speaks out for all children and young people who are expected to have short lives. Together with the 54 children's hospice services across the UK, they provide care and support to these children and their families, helping them have as fulfilling lives as possible and the very best care at the end of life. Each Leaders branch has been partnered with its nearest children’s hospice so staff and customers can support seriously ill children and their families locally. Leaders first named Together for Short Lives as its Charity of the Year in 2015 and raised £45,000 for the organisation last year. Following Children’s Hospice Week, the firm has now raised just over £25,000 this year, and is more than halfway towards reaching the £50,000 target it has set for 2016.
SAWYER & CO LETTINGS TEAM EXPANDS Brighton and Hove awardwinning estate agents Sawyer & Co. welcome two new members to their lettings team. As part of a major restructuring of the lettings department, Joe Newman has been brought in to lead the team. With his proven lettings experience due to having managed another local company for many years, Joe is committed to delivering outstanding customer service and will also be overseeing the introduction of new and innovative systems. The second new face is Eva Brdusikova, who will be responsible for all of Sawyer & Co.'s lettings financials as Accounts Manager. Before joining the firm to specialise in financial management, Eva was a Lettings Property Manager and has a wide-ranging insight into the unique ways in which this important sector works. Further expansion of the team will take place soon, so watch this space. Sawyer & Co. Lettings Department. 01273 778844
MEET THE BUYER EVENT Balfour Beatty is working in partnership with the University of Sussex to deliver 2,117 new student beds, social facilities and a student union facility on its Falmer campus. The project will be delivered over multiple phases commencing in 2017. To ensure the project delivers a positive local economic impact, they are promoting opportunities for local businesses (including social enterprises) within Balfour Beatty’s supply chain. To highlight the potential opportunities available to local businesses and to help them compete for the work, they are hosting a ‘Meet the Buyer’ event in partnership with the University. There will be an opportunity to meet one of the procurement team face-toface at the event. Additionally, there will be support for local organisations to complete the supplier questionnaire, which will highlight the types of opportunities that are available. Meet The Buyer, Stanmer House Wednesday 20 July. For further enquiries contact Emma Johnson. emma.johnson@balfourbeatty.com. Closing date for registration is Tuesday, 5 July 2016. Representatives limited to two per company. PORTFOLIO 13
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 NEWTOWN ROAD, HOVE, £385,000
HOVE OFFICE: 01273 778844
2 Bedroom Maisonette In Period Property With South-West Facing Garden And Private Parking. Conveniently located to Hove Station and the shops of Goldstone Villas, this spacious, bay fronted maisonette is a great example of contemporary living in a period property. EPC rating E.
CANNING STREET, BRIGHTON, OIRO £525,000
BRIGHTON OFFICE: 01273 685111
Spacious 4 Bedroom Bay Fronted Terraced House. Conveniently located on a quiet road in the heart of the Queens Park area, within easy reach of the city centre, seafront and mainline train station. This stylish bay-fronted home is situated in the catchment area for the very popular St. Luke's Primary School (currently rated Outstanding by Ofsted) and offers a beautiful example of contemporary, family living in an extensive period property. EPC Rating D.
www.sawyerandco.co.uk
WILBURY CRESCENT, HOVE, ÂŁ875,000
HOVE OFFICE: 01273 778844
Spacious Early Edwardian 5 Bedroom Semi-Detached House. An elegant two storey house with a wealth of wonderful period features and large, landscaped rear garden. Set back from the road, on a quiet tree-lined crescent, in a highly sought after area of Hove, a classic red path leads up to a distinguished bay-fronted home. Dating back to 1904, stained glass leaded windows, exposed beams and working period fireplaces all combine to create a beautiful example of a picture-perfect period property. EPC rating E.
BRITTANY COURT, HOVE, ÂŁ299,950
PORTSLADE OFFICE: 01273 383830
2 Bedroom Apartment with South-Facing Balcony in Purpose Built Complex. Sitting on the ground floor of a sought after and well-maintained complex close to the seafront on Hove's leafy New Church Road. A short walk from Hove Lagoon and the popular shops, bars and restaurants of Boundary Road. Set back from the wide road, this spacious apartment benefits from two double bedrooms, a separate kitchen and a south-facing balcony. No Onward Chain. EPC Rating E.
www.sawyerandco.co.uk
BEAUTIFUL homes
BEACH HOUSE
T
his five bedroom detached house is close to the beach with a large terrace and sea views. Sitting on a quiet road in a highly sought after location, commanding sea views and easy access to the beach, this wonderfully spacious house is thought to have originally been built by a ship's Captain. Crisp white walls and contemporary interior design features blend effortlessly with the elegant, original parquet flooring and an abundance of natural light. Old Fort Road is a very child-friendly area to live in and the local private schools provide a shuttle pick-up service. Shoreham-By-Sea train station offers convenient commuter links, while Ferry Road is nearby with plenty of shops, a bakery and a popular seafood restaurant. The independent and high street shops and amenities of Shoreham Village are all within easy reach. Local schools include Shoreham Beach Primary, Shoreham College and the private Lancing College. There is no onward chain and the EPC Rating is F.
Old Fort Road, Shoreham By Sea, BN43 5HL Price: OIEO ÂŁ700,000 Bedrooms: 5 Bathrooms: 2 Extras: Spacious south-facing sun terrace; Sea views, Garage Best Bits: Parquet flooring; Contemporary interior; Large gardens Fine & Country 46 Church Road, Hove BN3 2FN 01273 739911 www.fineandcountry.com
16  PORTFOLIO
fineandcountry.comTM
Fine & Country 46 Church Road, Hove BN3 2FN
Elm Close, Hove
EPC: B
Luxury 5 Bedroom Detached Contemporary House. Commanding an idyllic setting, the peacefulness and privacy of this spacious, detached family home offers a slice of countryside living in a central and highly sought after Tongdean location. Solid bamboo floors, luxurious finishing touches and a wealth of landscaped gardens all combine to create a beautiful example of contemporary architecture at its very best.
Tel: 01273 739911
Lyndhurst Road, Hove
ÂŁ1,650,000
EPC: E
Beautiful Late Edwardian 3 Bedroom Detached House with Garage. An elegant three storey house with a wealth of wonderful period features and planning permission to build a two storey eco-home. Set in a quiet tree-lined street in a highly sought after area of Hove, a paved path leads up to a distinguished bay-fronted home. Sash windows, exposed beams and working period fireplaces all combine to create a beautiful example of a picture-perfect period property.
Tel: 01273 739911
ÂŁ1,100,000
Tel: +44 (0)1273 739911
INTERVIEW
BELLA CASA BRIGHTON Emma Marcello loves property and people. Here she explains to Portfolio Magazine how her unique business, Bella Casa Brighton, has evolved Emma, tell us about your business and why you started it? I’ve been involved in property for over 20 years, having initially worked as a property negotiator this then ignited my passion for property development and interior design. I have worked on various projects, from tiny apartments to largescale houses. I advise clients on how to style and stage a property to reflect its full potential. So, you can help busy professionals find their ideal properties. That sounds like a dream job. Presumably, they can do this from outside the area, London perhaps, or even abroad? I work with clients who are relocating to the area, advising on such matters as local schools, desired locations and property potential. Several of my clients live overseas and are looking to invest in the lettings and holiday home markets.
"I have a little black book full of tried, tested and, most importantly, trusted contacts in the industry" Once you’ve helped people buy the property, can you look after any renovation work that is required and manage the project for them? I can project-manage all works that are required on a property, from a simple redecoration through to design and fully furnishing and equipping a home for the lettings market. I manage several properties for my clients, providing a full service from the search, interior design and fully fitting out a property-through to-property management. You must have some great contacts in the industry for furnishing properties intended for selling, or maybe even renting on behalf of owners? I have a little black book full of tried, tested and, most importantly, trusted contacts in the industry, including local estate agencies, all of the building trades and all aspects of interior design.
18 PORTFOLIO
Tell us about some of the projects you have been involved in, and the type of people who use your services? It’s a busy time in the property world, and I’ve had several projects running recently. I have just overseen the sale of a property in Kemp Town that was on the market for quite a while with no interest. I redecorated and staged the property for my client and it went under offer immediately. Another client based in the Middle East was searching for a large family home in Brighton. I made a final selection for the family, who, relying on my advice, purchased the property unseen. For another of my overseas clients I project-managed the redecoration of a large Eco home and fully equipped and staged the house for the lettings market, and I now manage the property for the client. We appear to have lots of people buying properties in the City from abroad these days who have little time to do the groundwork, so this must be a growing industry? Exactly. It’s very time-consuming looking for property, and by the time properties are advertised on the open market they are often already sold. I use my extensive contacts in the industry to learn about potential properties and conduct all viewings on behalf of my client to provide a small shortlist. Actually, it’s not unusual for my clients to buy a property unseen. Do you generally meet clients face-to-face initially to discuss their specific needs? Yes, I offer all of my clients an initial free consultation to discuss their needs, whether that be helping with a search for property, property refurbishment or styling/staging. Understanding my client’s requirements is paramount in order to match them to their perfect property.
Photo credit: Brand Vaughan
Photo credit: Bella Casa, Brighton
Photo credit: Bella Casa, Brighton
Finally, do you speak Chinese or have translators so you can help all these buyers who we are told are investing in the City? Actually, I do have several contacts who speak fluent Mandarin, so yes, I can certainly help, and I do love a challenge!
Contact Emma : Tel. 07712 277521 or visit www.bellacasabrighton.co.uk Photo credits: Brand Vaughan
CALENDAR of events
July Our pick of July events includes Love Supreme Jazz, Paddle Round the Pier and Sir Tom Jones
July Highlight
1 - 3 July, Love Supreme Now in its fourth year, Love Supreme has a truly eclectic line-up of international stars and up-and-coming talent confirmed for the three-day event. The latest addition to the bill is acclaimed jazz-house producer St Germain, who joins Burt Bacharach, Grace Jones, Lianne La Havas, Melody Gardot, Kamasi Washington, Gogo Penguin, Average White Band and many more at Glynde Place in East Sussex. The festival will this year also play host to the Verve Jazz Lounge, which will celebrate 60 years of the iconic American jazz label with a range of talks, panel discussions, film screenings and exclusive performances. Renowned record store Rough Trade will also be on-site, hosting artist signings throughout the weekend.
Glynde Place, East Sussex. For full information visit www.lovesupremefestival.com.
14 July, Stunning The Punters 26 years ago, audiences and critics in Brighton and Edinburgh witnessed a young Brighton actor’s stunning debut. That show, a triple bill of world premieres, returns to TOM for one night only… Stunning the Punters (& Other Stories) is George Dillon, on a bare stage giving a bravura high-energy performance of three tales of imagination run wild: Master of Café Society by Steven Berkoff, the title story by Glaswegian writer Robert Sproat and Dillon’s own adaptation of The Dream of a Ridiculous Man, by Fyodor Dostoevsky. Since 1990, Brighton actor George Dillon has given nearly one thousand solo performances in seven highly acclaimed shows, including Berkoff’s Graft – Tales of an Actor (for which George won a Herald ‘Angel’ award in 2000), “The best example of someone to watch how to perform... I was most proud of my written work when I saw him.” (Steven Berkoff)
The Old Market, Hove. 7.30pm. www.theoldmarket.com
More events continued over the page
CALENDAR of events
26 - 30 July, Quatar Goodwood Festival With five days of thrilling action set against the magnificent backdrop of the rolling Sussex countryside, Qatar Goodwood Festival – popularly known as Glorious Goodwood – is the sporting and social highlight of the flat-racing season. Traditionally taking place at the end of July, here the finest thoroughbreds compete in some of the world’s most prestigious races. The Stewards’ Cup was first run in 1840, and it was here that Edward VII caused a sartorial stir by sporting a panama hat and lounge suit instead of traditional top hat and tails. 2015 saw a new association with Qatar. Includes Ladies Day on Thursday, 28 July, the most glamorous day of the meeting, and the place to see and be seen. For more details, visit www.goodwood.com.
Until 10 July, Brighton Big Screen
14 July - 3 September, Half A Sixpence Half A Sixpence is the iconic British musical adaptation of H.G. Wells’s disguised autobiographical novel Kipps: The Story Of A Simple Soul, based on the author’s unhappy apprenticeship as a draper at Hyde’s Drapery Emporium in Southsea. This new stage version of the novel is a completely fresh adaptation by Julian Fellowes, Oscar-winning screenwriter and creator of Downton Abbey. Arthur Kipps, an orphan, is an over-worked draper’s assistant at Shalford’s Bazaar, Folkestone, at the turn of the last century. He is a charming but ordinary young man who, along with his fellow apprentices, dreams of a better and more fulfilling world, and When Kipps unexpectedly inherits a fortune that propels him into high society, it confuses everything he thought he knew about life. Chichester Festival Theatre. For times and prices visit www.cft.org.uk
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There’s something about the open-air environment that makes watching live sport and movies an unforgettable experience. Whether it’s the sea air, the gigantic screen, enormous bar, the great food or the Brighton Pier in the back ground, whatever it is, Brighton Big Screen is back on Brighton Beach with live sport and films and runs until 10 July. The 2016 programme combines live Euro 2016 and Wimbledon coverage, plus classic and recent box office hits on the gigantic 40sqm screen. Family favourites and classic films include Finding Nemo, Harry Potter, Romeo + Juliet, The Great Gatsby – and, of course, Jaws and Quadrophenia… For more details and full programme, visit www.brightonsbigscreen.com
CALENDAR of events
18 - 23 July, Let It Be Come Together and experience the iconic music of The Beatles with Let it Be, the spectacular concert jam-packed with over 40 of The Beatles greatest hits! Direct from the West End, this international hit show celebrates the legacy of the world’s greatest rock ‘n’ roll band. Relive The Beatles meteoric rise from their humble beginnings in Liverpool’s Cavern Club, through the heights of Beatlemania, to their later studio masterpieces, with live performances of early tracks, including Twist and Shout, She Loves You and Drive My Car, as well as global mega-hits Yesterday, Hey Jude, Come Together and, of course, Let It Be. Travel back to the magical 'sixties when all you needed was love, and a little help from your friends… Theatre Royal, Brighton. For times and prices visit www.atgtickets. com/brighton
Plus… Festivals continue with literature, jazz, opera and more Until Sun 17 July Festival of Chichester A month-long extravaganza of arts, crafts, music, spoken word and community events that also includes Chichester Cycling Festival, a beer festival, walks, an Artworks Exhibition, dramatic readings and world premieres. For full programme, visit www.festivalofchichester.co.uk 14-30 July Petworth Festival A two-week mix of classical and chamber music, jazz, comedy, young musicians and outdoor theatre, plus family entertainment at venues, including St Mary’s Church, Bignor Park and Leaconfield Hall. For full programme, visit www.petworthfestival. org. uk 26 - 31 July Alfriston Summer Music Alfriston Summer Music Festival brings some of the finest international artists to perform and share a great repertoire of old and new classical music in the South Downs. For full programme, visit www.alfristonsummermusic.co.uk Until 28th August Glyndebourne Festival Glyndebourne Festival 2016 continues with Rossini’s Il Barbiere di Siviglia (until 17 July) and Janacek’s The Cunning Little Vixen (until 31 July), Mozart’s Le Nozze di Figaro (from 3 July) Berlioz’ Béatrice et Bénédict (from 23 July) and Britten’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream (from 11 August). For full details and prices, visit www.glyndebourne.com
2 - 3 July, Paddle Round The Pier 17 July, Tom Jones Legendary artist Tom Jones performs at The County Ground, Hove, home of Sussex County Cricket Club, as part of his 2016 UK tour. Tom Jones’ distinctive voice and iconic records have earned him a place as one of the best loved artists ever to emerge from the 1960s, with an eclectic musical mix spanning pop, rock, soul, R&B, dance, country and gospel. To date he has achieved more than 100 million record sales, generated by hits such as It’s Not Unusual, Kiss, Delilah and What’s New Pussycat. Tom and his band’s repertoire will span all five decades of his popular music, including his latest album, Long Lost Suitcase, a compilation of songs and musical inspiration collected by him over the years and stored in a suitcase, only to be found years later and brought to life. Sussex County Cricket Ground, Hove. Tickets from www.ticketmaster.co.uk or www.tomjones.com
It’s the 20th anniversary of the world’s biggest free beach and watersports festival, which takes place on Hove Lawns and between the piers in the first weekend of July. Paddle Round The Pier incorporates water, street & urban sports, live music, kids’ entertainment and ‘have a go’ opportunities. Paddle round the Pier also includes the gruelling Maritime Marathon Plus surfers, swimmers and all manner of vessels being paddled around and between the piers. Highlights are The Paddle, Paddle Something Unusual and the Pier2Pier Race. For the full timetable, visit www.paddleroundthepier.com
Come back next month for our top picks in August
maslen.co.uk
Brading Road, Brighton
ÂŁ500,000 FREEHOLD
Exclusive to Maslen Estate Agents. A beautifully presented 4 bedroom family house arranged over 3 storeys. Situated in the sought after Hartington Road area this property has a lovely 25'5 lounge/dining room and a separate kitchen/breakfast room. Additional highlights include many period features and a west facing rear garden. Energy rating: D59
Maslen Estate Agents
39 Lewes Road, Brighton BN2 3HQ t:01273 677001 e:lewesroad@maslen.co.uk
LEWES ROAD
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WOODINGDEAN
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HOVE
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FIVEWAYS
BEAUTIFUL homes
CLASSIC STYLING
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ucked away, yet in the heart of upmarket Fiveways, you’ll find Hollingbury Park Avenue, with its eclectic mix of period homes. A hop from Ditchling Road, there is an array of boutique local shops, delicious eateries and wonderful local pubs on your door step. You are in the catchment area for numerous renowned schools and sit in the midst of several parks, yet are walking distance to both the city centre and South Downs National Park. The current owners of this stunning Edwardian, semi-detached family home have undertaken a complete renovation to an exceptionally high standard. It is beautifully presented and has been classically styled to maintain its wealth of original detailing. Energy Rating E53.
Hollingbury Park Avenue, Brighton, BN1 7JQ Price: Offers Over: £650,000 Bedrooms: 3 Bathrooms: 1 Extras: Original features; Popular residential area; Refurbished to an exceptionally high standard Best Bits: Simply stunning kitchen/ breakfast room; South-west facing rear garden; Five stunning period fireplaces Maslen Estate Agents 290 Ditchling Road, Brighton BN1 6JF 01273 566777 maslen.co.uk
PORTFOLIO 23
Let Agreed
SHIRLEY STREET, HOVE
£1800 pcm Three Bedrooms , Three Bathrooms
MONTPELIER TERRACE, BRIGHTON
Let Agreed
£1170 pcm One Bedroom , One Study, One Bathroom
Do you have a premium property to let? We understand that an extra special home requires a unique approach.
Call the experts in luxury property rental. 107 Queens Road | Brighton | East Sussex | BN1 3XF
T: 01273 202089 | www.parksletting.com
NEWS
TRENDING VRUMI EXPAND INTO BRIGHTON & HOVE THE Airbnb of workspace has arrived in Brighton & Hove. Start-up Vrumi connects workers needing space with householders with rooms available in the day. Vrumi was founded by Roddy Campbell and William Sieghart, friends with many years' combined experience working in business, notfor-profit organisations and financial services. Roddy’s idea was simple. He wanted to convert daytime room rental into affordable workspace. As well as workspace, the platform can be used to advertise and find space for meetings and events. Daily rates on the site can range from £10 to £6,000 (for an old post office in London’s King’s Road, Chelsea), and quirky locations include a log cabin in woods near Brighton and a houseboat in King’s Cross, Central London. Hosts pay Vrumi 5.5 per cent and guests are charged 5 to 10 per cent. www.vrumi.com
BRIGHTON DIGITAL FESTIVAL HAS NEW MANAGER The UK's largest celebration of digital culture will be headed this year by Laurence Hill, who has been the festival’s arts coordinator for the past two years. He will be known by many in the city for his work at Fabrica in Duke Street. New festival manager Laurence Hill said: "This year is very much a transition year for Brighton Digital Festival; it’s our first as a newly-minted community interest company and this has given us time to reflect on the long-term future of the event. We have seen a year-on-year increase in organisers, events and audience numbers, which has been very gratifying. “Our ambition is to plug into every part of the city of Brighton and Hove and we will be encouraging and programming work with that in mind. "This is an exciting time to be involved with the festival, and I’m very much looking forward to the next few months.” Brighton Digital Festival takes place in September www.brightondigitalfestival.co.uk
THE BIG DEBATE: WORK SPACE A growing economy needs growing businesses – but growing businesses need work spaces to grow into. The latest in the Brighton & Hove Chamber of Commerce Big Debates looks at the issue of workspaces in the city and asks whether a shortage of suitable, affordable workspaces could be hindering the local economy, and whether the right types of workspaces are being built for today’s (and tomorrow’s) businesses. A panel of experts will lead the discussion and the floor will be open to the audience to take part in the debate. The debate will be chaired by Nick Juba, Chief Executive of City College, which itself has plans to develop the college to include new workspaces. This Big Debate is sponsored by First Base, one of the partners in the development of Anston House. Wednesday, July 6, 2016, 4pm. www.businessinbrighton.org.uk
WE LOVE:
ROCA’S RIO BASIN Add a Rio touch to the bathroom ahead of this summer’s largest sporting event. Update the bathroom this summer with a cosmopolitan vibe with Roca's Rio-inspired Urban washbasin, ahead of this summer’s sporting events. Also available in other styles of cities around the world including: London, Barcelona, Berlin, New York and Shanghai. Priced at £371. Stockists: www.uk.roca.com
PORTFOLIO 25
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Estates a
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HURSTPIERPOINT | OIRO £1,425,000 Character country house - Approx. 2 acres - Detached annex over double insulated garage & gym complex - Large master suite with dressing room - 4 double bedrooms - 6 reception rooms - 3 bathrooms - Rural views over neighbouring farmland - Swimming pool
HURSTPIERPOINT | £479,950 Beautifully extended family house - Large open plan living space - Oak flooring throughout the whole of the ground floor 4 bedrooms - 2 reception rooms - 2 bathrooms - Landscaped rear garden - Detached garage
chattestates.co.uk | 01273 844500 34 HIGH STREET, DITCHLING, EAST SUSSEX BN6 8TA
HURSTPIERPOINT | Price Guide £2,750,000 Imposing Grade II listed Georgian house of immense stature – 9 Bedrooms – 6 Bathrooms – 6 Reception rooms – On the market for the first time since 1953 – 2 minutes’ walk from the High Street – Self-contained annex – Garaging and outbuildings - Breathtaking views of the South Downs – Stunning landscaped gardens and grounds of approx. 2 acres - Swimming Pool
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 SOCA 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
Life and Family
info@engleharts.co.uk • 01273 204411
• Family and Matrimonial • Co Habitation Agreements/Disputes • Civil Partnerships • Pre-nuptial Agreements • Divorce
www.engleharts.co.uk
Commercial Litigation • Commercial contract/ Consumer Disputes • Director/Shareholders/ Partnership Disputes • Insurance Claims • Construction and Engineering • Commercial Property Disputes • Professional Negligence Claims • Intellectual Property Disputes
BEAUTIFUL homes
GLORIOUS GARDEN
‘G
illivers’ is set back off the road and sits in glorious west-facing landscaped gardens. The house itself is flawless in its presentation and boasts large, spacious reception rooms, the majority of which have views onto the gardens. The first floor provides a large master bedroom with en-suite shower room, three further bedrooms and a family bathroom. Having the benefit of a detached double garage, the property also offers an attached workshop. The large rear gardens are secluded and comprise areas of terrace, expanses of lawn and beautifully maintained shrub and plant borders. There is scope for further extension to the property and there is considered to be potential for another dwelling in the rear garden, which benefits from its own access by the adjacent lane (subject to any necessary consents).
Gillivers, 67 North End, Ditchling, BN6 8TE Price: OIRO £1,100,000 Bedrooms: 4 Bathrooms: 2 Extras: Workshop; Potential building plot in garden Best Bits: Glorious west-facing landscaped gardens; Spacious receptions rooms, Scope for further extension Chatt Estates 34 High Street, Ditchling, BN6 8TA 01273 844500 www.chattestates.co.uk PORTFOLIO 29
PROPERTY
Grade I Regency House sells for 3.4 million Fine & Country, the specialist luxury estate agency based in Hove's Church Road, have just sold the joint most expensive domestic property in the city*
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n one of the biggest property deals Brighton and Hove has ever seen, Consort House, in Brighton's famous Lewes Crescent, has just completed a sale worth £3.4m. The Grade I listed building, once owned by HRH the Princess Consort of Thailand, is situated in one of the most historic Regency locations in the city and boasts six double bedrooms, four reception rooms and sea views. Widely considered to have inspired Lewis Carroll to write Alice in Wonderland over 150 years ago, a secret tunnel leads directly from Kemp Town Enclosures (owned collectively with property’s neighbouring freeholders) onto the beachfront. Fine & Country Director Adam Farrell said: "We're really proud to be the selling agent of Consort House as it is such a fine example of the very best the city has to offer." "The successful sale of this kind of luxury property is exactly what Fine & Country specialises in, and it goes to show how attractive the city is to such a wide and diverse demographic," he added. Under the directorship of Farrell, Dominique Scott and Chris Sawyer, Fine & Country have built a solid reputation as the 'go-to' firm for the most expensive properties in the area. They offer premier opportunities for sale and to rent throughout East Sussex, and their knowledge of the luxury property market in Brighton and Hove and the surrounding region is second to none. *Data supplied via RightMove statistics of June 2016.
THURSDAY 14 JULY 2016 AT (HOTEL) PUB DU VIN IN BRIGHTON ARRIVE AT 12.00 PM, WITH LUNCH BEING SERVED AT 1.00 PM The cost is just £30 per person (including a 3 course lunch,wine and coffee).
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. Guest Speaker - Tamara Roberts, Chief Executive Officer, of Ridgeview Wine Estate will join us as guest speaker at this quarter’s lunch. Ridgeview make English Sparkling Wine using traditional sparkling wine grape varieties & methods. Devotion to the vineyards and winemaking has resulted in Ridgeview being the proud winners of numerous international sparkling wine trophies and their wine is served regularly at Buckingham Palace and at Government events. Tamara has overseen the growth of production from 25,000 bottles per annum in 2014 to nearly 300,000 bottles with plans to double production incrementally over the next 5 years.
Our charity prize is a ‘Weekday tour & tasting’ gift voucher for 8 people, which has been kindly donated by Ridgeview Wine Estates. All money raised will go towards the Rockinghorse Children’s Charity. Only £10 to enter the prizedraw.
LOCATION 2 Ship Street, Brighton, East Sussex, BN1 1AD
TO RSVP
Email: melanie@searchesuk.co.uk
SHOPPING
CHILDS-PLAY Get outdoors with these great kids’ activities. Some are suitable for big kids too…
ON THE COVER
WIN! EXOTIC CREATURES Go wild with these these Mini Zebra & Giraffe hanging seats and give a safari feel to your garden. These super-soft, child-sized hanging seats are £65.00 from Amazonas. www.amazonas.eu WE HAVE ONE OF EACH DESIGN TO GIVE AWAY! For your chance to win a Mini Zebra & Giraffe hanging seat, just email: competitions.portfoliomagazine@gmail.com with your name, address and Zebra or Giraffe in the subject box.
WIN!
BLOCK & ROLL Fill, push, pull, build, carry, play, walk and tip with this wooden baby walker filled with colourful wooden blocks. Solid construction and stable design combined with rubber wheels makes this an excellent baby walker. The colourful wooden blocks are great for building and learning shapes and colours. Recommended for 12 months + Hape Block and Roll is available from Babi Pur for £39.49. www.babipur.co.uk
More shopping continued over the page; including how to get your hands on this great Wigwam
WE HAVE A HAPE BLOCK AND ROLL TO GIVE AWAY! For your chance to win a Hape Block and Roll, just email: competitions.portfoliomagazine@gmail.com with your name, address and Block and Roll in the subject box. PORTFOLIO 31
SHOPPING CONTINUED...
WIGWAM FUN Secret Garden and Bughunter Wigwams are perfect for outdoor play. The foldable, pretty wigwams store easily and look beautiful in any home or garden, for adventures or quiet time. £85.00 from Great Little Trading Co. www.gltc.co.uk
CHECKMATE This Outdoor Chess Set is a fun garden game for children and adults. Perfect for the smaller garden or a conservatory. The set comes complete with a 1.2m square playing mat. Garden Games’ Outdoor Chess Set £39.00 from Cuckooland. www.cuckooland.com
MAKE WAVES Kids can sit back on the deck, grab the handles and rock back and forth like they are rolling the ocean's waves. For 12 months + , the Hape High Seas Rocker is available from Amazon at £69.00. www.amazon.co.uk
ROUND 'EM UP This Rounders Set contains four wooden stakes, a wooden bat and a ball, all neatly packaged in a colourful box. A great summer game for all the family. Rounders Set £23.95 from Annabel James. www.annabeljames.co.uk 32 PORTFOLIO
MEGA JENGA Playing outdoors, there is no compromise on height, so stack it high and let whoever has the most courage and steadiest hand win. This outdoor garden game will provide much fun during the summer. Giant Tower Jenga £58.00 from Cuckooland. www.cuckooland.com
ANIMAL MAGIC This colourful frog-themed baby pool features an inflatable sun shade to protect from the sun, and a soft inflatable floor for added comfort. Baby Pool with Canopy £14.99 from Toys’R’Us. www.toysrus.co.uk
CLIMB AND SLIDE This toddler slide will provide hours of garden fun this summer. Features high hand rails that snap into place and conveniently folds for easy storage. Little Tikes First Green Slide, £24.99 from Toys’R’Us. www.toysrus.co.uk
COOL CAMPERVAN Cool, scaled-down replica of the iconic '60s VW Bus. Every detail is inspired by the original 1965 Split Screen VW Campervan. VW Campervan Kids Play Tent £85 from The Design Gift Shop. www.thedesigngiftshop.com ROLL UP, ROLL UP Step inside this fun circus-inspired mini big top. This canvas tent with iconic red and white stripes is perfect for outdoor use and has plenty of room to clown around in. Children's Circus Play Tent £29.00 from Mini Eden. www.minieden.co.uk
TOTALLY TROPICAL Keep cool with these inflatable Pineapple and Watermelon Lilos. £45 from Oliver Bonas. www. oliverbonas.com
PLAY HOUSE Double-Storey Playhouse for boys and girls. Make it personal with any suitable timber paint, or leave plain if you wish. Mercia Kids Double Storey Wooden Playhouse £599.00 from Cuckooland. www.cuckooland.com PORTFOLIO 33
St James’s Street, Brighton
£515,000
Stunning two double bedroom apartment situated on the second floor of a modern purpose built block, with south facing balcony and 40ft living room. The superb property is in an excellent location, in the heart of Kemp Town; moments from the array of local shops and eateries, as well as the beach and Brighton Pier.
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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. Eastern Road, Brighton
Wentworth Street, Hove
£325,000
£400,000
A centrally located and spacious two double bedroom maisonette situated on the first and second floors of a converted period house. The property is in an excellent location in Kemp Town, moments from the Royal Sussex County Hospital, a short walking distance from all the local shops and restaurants in Kemp Town village, as well as the seafront.
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'Pebble Cottage' is a delightful and beautifully presented two bedroom period house arranged over three floors. The property is in excellent condition throughout and is also in a superb location just off the seafront in Kemp Town; moments from the local shops and restaurants as well as the Brighton Pier, American Express and with easy access onto the A23.
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“I have used Justin Lloyd twice as a buyer and have twice had an excellent service. They are communicative, hard working and above all honest! Many thanks to Nick and the team.” Vendor comment, May 2016
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£315,000
Very well presented two double bedroom apartment situated on the top floor of a converted Grade II listed building. The property is in an excellent location on the borders of Kemp Town and Queens Park, walking distance to the seafront and all the local shops and restaurants.
Highly Commended
The International Property Awards 2013-2014
Call us now 01273 692424 Email info@justinlloyd.co.uk Visit justinlloyd.co.uk
1
Egremont Place, Brighton
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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
ROOF TERRACE
J
ustin Lloyd is proud to present this truly delightful, bright two-bedroom secondfloor apartment (with lift) situated in a Grade I listed Regency house on Brunswick Square, which lies in the Brunswick Town Conservation Area and is well located for the amenities of Church Road and Western Road. The property boasts a passenger lift and enviable roof terrace and is less than a mile to both Brighton and Hove mainline railway stations. In more detail, the property consists of an entrance hallway, spacious living/dining room with sea views over the square, two bedrooms, one en-suite, bathroom and kitchen with access to a fantastic 35' west-facing, sunny roof terrace. The property in this well maintained building is sold with a share of the freehold.
Brunswick Square, Hove, BN3 1EE Guide Price: ÂŁ545,000 Bedrooms: 2 Bathrooms: 2 including en-suite Extras: Two-bedroom second-floor apartment with passenger lift; Square and sea views Best Bits: Fantastic 35' west-facing roof terrace; Two bathrooms; Share of the freehold Justin Lloyd Estate Agents, 111 Western Road Brighton BN3 1DD 01273 692424 www.justinlloyd.co.uk
PORTFOLIO  35
THE collection
THE JULY COLLECTION It’s July and we just want to lie by the pool. Our own pool. So we have looked out some of the best homes with pools and hot tubs available…
Heated pool Ovingdean Road, Ovingdean Stunning five bedroom detached Spanish style villa in the picturesque village of Ovingdean. The property offers perfect accommodation for entertaining with several reception rooms including a stunning 36' games room with open bar area. There are five double bedrooms, (two with luxury en-suites), a luxury bathroom suite and an additional luxury shower room. To the front is a sweeping driveway suitable for several vehicles. The large landscaped garden is secluded, and includes a sun terrace, perfect for alfresco dining, a heated swimming pool, an open summer house area, with changing room plus a level lawned area, with ornamental fountain.
Guide Price: £1,750,000 Hamptons International 01273 230230 www.hamptons.co.uk 36 PORTFOLIO
King & Chasemore 01273 796017 www.kingandchasemore.co.uk
THE collection
Hot Tub Shirley Drive, Hove This luxury, ultra contemporary detached residence, makes full use of natural light and offers individuality and privacy. On the lower level there are four separate bedroom suites, whilst the fabulous reception hallway with feature staircase, surrounded by glass balustrades above provides a quite stunning entrance and first impression. At first floor level there is an enormous living area. A quality kitchen is incorporated, a separate utility room and separate study off. Outside, there is plenty of space to relax including water featured terracing and patio sections, hot tub and additional garden room or home gym.
GuidePrice: £1,800,000 Elliotts Estate Agents 01273 773399 | www.elliottsestateagents.co.uk
Coastal home The Highway, Peacehaven Lighthouse Point is an individually designed home with stunning panoramic views to the English Chanel and the South Downs. The property offers versatile accommodation with four bedrooms. An attractive sweeping spiral staircase in the turret leads to the light and spacious open plan living accommodation with stunning triple aspect and access to a spectacular sun deck with open coastal views over the private sweeping gardens. The master suite has a dual aspect view and has access through its own doors to the southerly sun deck. The southerly sun terrace and extensive grounds include a hot tub and a pond.
Price: £999,950 Oakley Property 01273 688881 | www.oakleyproperty.com
Pool with a view Old Fort Road, Shoreham-by-Sea Four bedroom beach front detached house with swimming pool. Located on a peaceful road in a highly sought after location, this wonderfully spacious, beachside, house commands panoramic sea views and has direct access to the sandy beach from the private rear terrace. Effortlessly combining soft neutral tones with an abundance of natural light, four bedrooms are arranged over three storeys. Modern design blends seamlessly with traditional features and the property’s impressive location means that the beach is visible from throughout the house.
Price: OIEO £700,000 Fine & Country 01273 739911 | www.fineandcountry.com PORTFOLIO 37
For Sale Buckingham Place ÂŁ995,000 home@nashwatson.com 01273 733 500 69 a&b Church Road Hove
BEAUTIFUL homes
simon lemcke get to know the man at helm of our hove sales office
harrington road bn1
paradise found price ÂŁ1,250,000
beds: 6 | living rooms: 1 | area: 2380 sq ft | location: preston park
In an exclusive area of this coastal city popular with families and professionals this extraordinary house is one of a pair purportedly built for two brothers in a style that would not look out of place in the smart parts of London. Both heart and head will fall for this wonderfully extravagant six bedroom Victorian Villa, adorned by granite columns and wrought iron balconies and so large that the lower ground floor has been used as a one bedroom self-contained annexe. The south facing garden is also unusually long even for this leafy, affluent area of Preston Park within walking distance of Preston Village, popular schools and the station. At the front, off street parking for two cars has been sensitively arranged and inside, the delicate balance between retaining period detail and contemporary luxury is a joy to behold. Inside does not disappoint with a broad hallway brimming with period features and painted, as is the rest of the house, in the classic hues of Farrow and Ball.
register your interest | call 01273 504 441 40  PORTFOLIO
book a valuation
find out the value of your property with a free valuation
hove: kemp town: preston park:
01273 22 11 02 01273 683 111 01273 504 441
BEAUTIFUL homes
brunswick square, bn3 seaside grandure
guide price
£1,000,000 - £1,200,000
beds: 4 | living rooms: 1 | area: 1862 sq ft | location: hove
This stunning apartment encompasses the entire top two and a half floors of a Regency townhouse on one of Hove’s most prestigious squares. With soaring ceilings, opulent decor, four bedrooms and three en suite bathrooms, this property has retained its air of grandeur since being built in 1826. It also boasts a west facing roof terrace as well as access to the manicure gardens within the square, and the sparkling sea and Hove Lawns are visible from the living room. The vibrant shops, restaurants, cafes and bars of Western Road are a short stroll away, as are two commuter stations, so this apartment would suit those wishing to live in luxury by the sea- and it’s also chain free!
clifton hill, bn2
period home
£1,200,000
beds: 4 | living rooms: 2 | area: 1885 sq ft | location: clifton hill c/a
A rare find, this elegant, three bedroom, early Victorian home, in the sought-after Clifton Hill Conservation Area, with stunning sea views and a large sunny garden, is on the market for the first time in 30 years. Within easy walking distance of the beach, shops and station, this unique house has been sensitively brought into the 21st Century, creating an ideal family home with a delightful self-contained apartment on the lower ground floor
hove office
call: simon lemcke 01273 22 11 02
clermont terrace, bn1
beautiful classic
kemp town office
£1,000,000
beds: 4 | living rooms: 2 | area: 2037 sq ft | location: preston park
With high ceilings, gracious room proportions, a refined palette, original features and a magical garden; this house is an exceptional example of one of this city’s fine Victorian townhouses. It is spread over three floors, and has been a wonderful family home for the last 34 years. It has been lovingly maintained by the current owners, who both clearly have a keen eye for colour and design. It is versatile with four large double bedrooms, plus two receptions, and unusually has access to a private garage accessed from a shared drive from Cumberland Road. Its
call: david vaughan
01273 683 111
preston park office call: jason brand
01273 504 441
PORTFOLIO 41
FIVEWAYS – OFFERS IN EXCESS OF £850,000 Elegant Victorian four bedroom terraced family residence with many original features. 15' lounge flowing through to an 11' dining room with patio doors leading to the rear garden. Third floor balcony, southerly views, garage.
108 Old London Road, Brighton. Tel: 01273 565566
www.spencerandleigh.co.uk
TALK money
TAX-FREE SAVINGS INTEREST Claire Cook from Independent Financial Advisors Talk Money explains the new Personal Savings Allowance
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rom 6th April 2016, if you are a basic rate taxpayer, you will be able to earn up to £1,000 in savings income tax-free. If you are a higher rate taxpayer, you will be able to earn up to £500 savings interest tax-free. This is the new Personal Savings Allowance, or PSA. Previously, if you were a basic-rate taxpayer, you would pay 20% tax on your interest, deducted directly by the bank or building society. If you were a higher-rate taxpayer, you would pay an extra 20% tax. This has changed, and the providers will now pay the interest without deduction of tax. What is included? The allowance includes interest on building society or bank accounts, interest distributions from authorised unit trusts or Open Ended Investment Companies (OIECs) and investment trusts. Also, income from Government bonds (Gilts) or Company Bonds. What about ISAs? ISA interest is already tax-free, so any interest you earn on cash ISAs does not have to be included. Interest will continue to be paid tax-
free but doesn’t count towards your PSA limit. What do I need to do to claim the interest tax-free? Quite simply, you don’t need to do anything. Your building society or bank will automatically pay the interest without deducting any tax. They will then provide the relevant information to HMRC, who will adjust your tax code accordingly.
“Investing in a cash ISA each year using your ISA allowance ensures that interest will be paid tax free both now and in the future” Is it worth saving in a cash ISA now? If you can get interest tax-free, you may wonder if it is worth putting your savings into cash ISAs, especially if there are higher rates available in normal savings accounts. Some
See more from Talk Money at www.portfoliopublications.co.uk
people have been reviewing their investments for this reason and some are now directing their savings into higher-rate accounts which are not cash ISAs. It really depends on your circumstances, the level of cash you have to invest and your own personal tax situation. Remember that interest rates are low at the moment, and much of your interest may come within the new personal savings allowance. However, in future years tax allowances can change and the interest you receive may increase. Investing in a cash ISA each year using your ISA allowance ensures that interest will be paid tax free both now and in the future. If you would like advice on the above, or any other financial matters, please call me, Claire Cook, on 01273 224667. I offer a free initial consultation and would be very happy to assist. Talk Money is a trading style Aspect 8, a member of Best Practice IFA Group Ltd which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. The value of investments can fall as well as rise and you may not get back the amount invested. PORTFOLIO 43
2 Church Road, Hove BN3 2FL hove@elliottsestateagents.co.uk 01273 773399
www.elliottsestateagents.co.uk Also in Hangleton
HILL DRIVE, HOVE Undoubtedly one of Hove's most exclusive properties, accommodation is arranged over four levels, offering size and versatility with areas suitable to create a separate annexe, work from home or recreational areas, all in addition to it being a substantial family home. Transformed by the current owners, the house has been enlarged and modernised to a high standard and with a clear eye for detail, the house boasts numerous features which internal inspection is essential to appreciate. Set back behind a walled and gated frontage, a sweeping staircase leads to a glazed panelled three level vaulted entrance and there is lift access between the lower two levels. In an elevated position, the house enjoys views that extend across the roof tops right across to the sea, and there is a lovely secluded and established rear garden.
PRICE £2,450,000
• • • • • • • • • • • •
Up to 7 bedrooms Three en-suites plus main bathroom Feature kitchen/family room Fabulous living area Twelve seat jacuzzi + steam room Gated private off road parking Large well established garden Premier residential location Feature glass themed vaulted entrance Sizeable accommodation Huge versatility In excess of 6,000 sq.ft.
BEAUTIFUL homes
PREMIER HOME
A
n attractive,unique detached residence which occupies a quiet, yet prominent, corner plot in what is considered to be Hove's premier residential avenue. Gardens extend on two sides, and are both sizeable, yet manageable, with large brick-terraced areas for entertaining, and double-width off-road parking. There is a large kitchen/family room to the rear providing access to the gardens, plus separate lobby and utility room, a particular feature being a fabulous split-level living area, also ideal for family use and for entertaining. In one of Hove's most prestigious addresses, the house is nicely located on the corner of Tongdean Avenue and Barrowfield Close, and is ideally placed for access to either parts of the City or into the town centre, and two local mainline stations.
Tongdean Avenue, Hove BN3 6TN Guide Price: ÂŁ1,295,000 Bedrooms: 4 Bathrooms: 2 Extras: Plenty of off-road parking; Lots of character; Hove's most prestigious residential location Best Bits: Fabulous split-level living room; Large kitchen/family room; Prominent corner plot Elliotts Estate Agents 2 Church Road, Hove BN3 2FL 01723 773399 www.elliottsestateagents.co.uk
PORTFOLIO  45
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
Central Brighton £409,995
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London Office 40 St James’s Place London SW1A 1NS T 020 78390888 E enquiries@tlo.co.uk
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Withdean £650,000
An attractive, centrally located second floor two double bedroom apartment with private westerly balcony and in this modern block completed in 2015. The property offers an easy commute to Brighton Station and benefits from a concierge and lift access.
Peacehaven £999,950
Lewes Town & Country Residential Sales & Lettings 14a High Street Lewes East Sussex BN7 2LN T 01273 487444 E lewes@oakleyproperty.com
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A spectacular individually designed seafront house with stunning uninterrupted views toward the English Channel and the South Downs. The property benefits from spacious and versatile accommodation, ample parking and a double garage/studio block with its own facilities.
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A substantial family home situated in an elevated position overlooking Withdean. The property benefits from two reception rooms, a master bedroom with en-suite & dressing room, integral garage, garden to three sides with a southerly paved patio area and off road parking.
Central Brighton £375,000
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Guide Price: £375,000-£425,000. A first floor generously proportioned loft apartment with attractive exposed brick & arched windows with a westerly aspect forming part of this attractive period building situated in the heart of the vibrant North Laine area of Brighton city centre.
oakleyproperty.com
PEOPLE Lagoon Watersports
'Everyone is welcome’ WINNER Hospitality, Leisure & Tourism Award Sponsored by PORTFOLIO magazine The Brighton & Hove Independent Awards 2016
www.lagoon.co.uk
WATERLOO STREET, HOVE
A SYMPATHETICALLY AND STYLISHLY REFURBISHED THREE STOREY GRADE II LISTED MAISONETTE RETAINING A WEALTH OF PERIOD FEATURES AND CHARM, located in this HIGHLY SOUGHT AFTER STREET BETWEEN WESTERN ROAD AND THE SEAFRONT. The accommodation comprises DOUBLE ASPECT LOUNGE AND DINING ROOM, BALCONY, SOUTH ASPECT KITCHEN/BREAKFAST ROOM, LOVELY WEST ASPECT ROOF TERRACE, THREE DOUBLE BEDROOMS, FAMILY BATHROOM with PERIOD SUITE, FURTHER BATHROOM, UTILITY ROOW, ATTIC, PERIOD FEATURES including FEATURE FIREPLACES, OBLIQUE VIEWS TO THE SEA, GAS FIRED HEATING.
£1,000,000 SHARE OF FREEHOLD
A BEAUTIFULLY PRESENTED THREE/FOUR BEDROOM GRADE
LOWER MARKET STREET, HOVE
II LISTED 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 REAR PATIO, WEALTH OF PERIOD FEATURES INCLUDING FIREPLACE AND SASH WINDOWS, WOOD FLOORING.
£780,000 FREEHOLD MONTPELIER CRESCENT, BRIGHTON W
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A STUNNING TWO BEDROOM GROUND FLOOR FLAT IN A CONVERTED GRADE II LISTED BUILDING in the SOUGHT AFTER MONTPELIER/CLIFTON HILL CONSERVATION AREA. The property has been SYMPATHETICALLY REFURBISHED with FABULOUS ATTENTION TO DETAIL retaining a WEALTH OF PERIOD CHARACTER AND CHARM. The accommodation comprises WEST ASPECT LOUNGE/DINING ROOM, FITTED KITCHEN, TWO DOUBLE BEDROOMS with EN-SUITE SHOWER ROOMS, SEPARATE WC, PATIO/GARDEN.
PRICE OFFERS IN EXCESS OF £485,000 SHARE OF FREEHOLD
brices sales & lettings
SALES & LETTINGS 01273 323000 30C WESTERN ROAD, HOVE BN3 1AF
BEAUTIFUL homes
PERIOD CHARM
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beautiful three-bedroom Grade II listed house with accommodation arranged over four floors. Located in the sought-after Brunswick Town Conservation Area and benefiting from a wealth of period charm and character, including exposed floorboards, sash windows and feature fireplace. The accommodation comprises double-aspect lounge/dining room, double-aspect kitchen/dining room, three bedrooms, bathroom, south-aspect patio/garden, period features, exposed floorboards throughout and gas-fired central heating.
Lower Market Street, Hove, BN3 1AT Price: Offers in excess of ÂŁ575,000 Bedrooms: 3 Bathrooms: 1 Extras: Double-aspect lounge and kitchen/ dining room; Period features Best Bits: South-aspect patio/garden; Close to seafront; Conservation area Brices Sales & Lettings 30c Western Road, Hove, BN3 1AF 01273 323000 www.brices.co.uk
PORTFOLIO  49
BEAUTIFUL homes
DOUBLE-FRONTED
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his is arguably one of the finest properties in this immediate location. To find such versatile accommodation with self-contained lower ground floor one bedroom flat (which could be incorporated back into the main house) is incredibly hard to find. For this reason, early inspection is essential. The main house is approached via an impressive entrance hallway with original mosaic tiled flooring, either side of this are two fantastic reception rooms with the stunning main reception room having double aspect with French doors leading out onto the rear garden and superb working feature fireplace. The beautiful kitchen/breakfast room is wonderfully light with full width bi-folding doors onto the rear garden and feature skylight. To the first floor are three excellent size bedrooms, family bathroom and good size utility room which could be made into a further shower room. The second floor has two double bedrooms with excellent size shower room. The lower ground floor self-contained flat can be accessed via the main house down the original staircase or via street entrance. The flat comprises lounge/open plan kitchen, with large size shower room and bedroom.
Norfolk Road, Brighton, BN1 3AB Price: OIRO £1,500,000 Bedrooms: 5 Bathrooms: 1 Extras: Fantastic through reception room; Beautiful kitchen/breakfast room; Self-contained one-bedroom flat Best Bits: Unique opportunity; Fantastic central location; Stunning original features Goldin Lemcke 160-162 Church Road Hove, BN3 2DL 01273 777123 www.goldinlemcke.com 50  PORTFOLIO
01273 777123 goldinlemcke.com
Holland Road, Hove
GP: £500,000 - £550,000
A Fantastic, bright flat opposite Palmeira Square, just a few minutes from Hove's seafront. This flat also benefits from having direct access to the well maintained communal gardens.
• 3 Bedrooms • Communal Gardens • Palmeira Square Location
FIND US 160-162 Church Road Hove East Sussex BN3 2DL
property@goldinlemcke.com
Dyke Road, Brighton A truly stunning property with amazing open plan kitchen/lounge/dining space that opens out onto the garden creating a fantastic entertaining space. Internal inspection is essential to fully appreciate this property.
£1,700,000 • 7 Bedrooms • 2 ensuites • Gated driveway & parking
selling homes In Brighton & Hove since 2002
Stanford Avenue, Brighton, BN1 £1,400,000 Constructed in 1886, by John George Blaker the creator of Blakers Park, a double fronted, semi-detached period home. Set back on an elevated corner plot bordering Waldegrave Road and Stanford Avenue with commanding views from all outlooks over landscaped gardens. Offered to the open market for the first time in over 30 years this unique family home oozes character and retains period features throughout. Extensive living space of approximately 2160 sqft over four levels comprising five bedrooms, three receptions, kitchen-dining room, two bathrooms and utility/cloaks area. 110ft gardens. Patio area. Vegetable gardens. Two garages (suitable for conversion STNC) and rear access.
View Next Generation Virtual Tours at www.knightandknoxley.com
01273 28 66 66 CLYDE CORNER, PRESTON CIRCUS, BRIGHTON THE NEXT GENERATION OF ESTATE AGENCY
INFO@KNIGHTANDKNOXLEY.COM WWW.KNIGHTANDKNOXLEY.COM KNOWLEDGE & KNOWHOW
BEAUTIFUL homes
PERIOD ELEGANCE
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his beautiful period home is in one of Brighton's most desirable residential enclaves and is elegantly presented, combining the exceptional period features with contemporary styling. The entrance hall leads to a mahogany period turning staircase to the first floor. The reception and dining room, with grand dual-aspect, features fine period detailing and attractive Victorian fireplaces. French doors from the rear reception/dining room lead to a level and delightful landscaped garden. The fully fitted kitchen/dining room has French doors to the garden. On the first-floor half landing is a contemporary and well fitted family bathroom. Bedroom three is to the rear, overlooking the garden, with far-reaching views. Bedroom two also has views over the rear garden. The bright and spacious master bedroom to the front of the house is graced with period detailing and a pretty period fireplace. There is also scope to convert the loft space (subject to usual consents). Wonderful landscaped gardens to the front, rear and side of the house, with sun trap patio area, are perfect for late summer evenings. View Next-Generation Virtual Tour at www.knightandknoxley.com.
Hollingbury Park Avenue, Brighton, BN1 7JF Price: £550,000 Bedrooms: 3 Bathrooms: 1 Extras: Elegant period home; Potential to convert loft (subject to consents) Best Bits: Lovely garden; Great location in catchment for schools; Fantastic period features Knight & Knoxley Clyde Corner, 2 Clyde Road, Preston Circus, Brighton BN1 4NP 01273 286666 www.knightandknoxley.com PORTFOLIO  53
PROPERT Y PLUS RELIABILIT Y EQUALS LET TINGS
PROPERT YPLUSLET TINGS.COM 01273 777010
LEGAL matters
AVOID COURTING A COSTLY MISTAKE Howlett Clarke on keeping it out of court
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hy go to court? Why expose your business to the costs of going to court and the inherent risks of doing so. There is another way… In every commercial dispute which ends up going to court, there is no certainty of the outcome; the judge’s decision will always be imposed upon both parties. This can often lead to an unhappy (and often expensive) outcome for everyone involved. A judge will make a decision based upon the past without being able to take into account any of the real issues that may exist, which could put you or your business at a great disadvantage in court. The alternative, which is immediately available to you, is the appointment of an independent and neutral commercial mediator. It is well recognised and established that mediation has a proven track record; on average 85% of disputes taken to mediation will be resolved on the day or fairly swiftly afterwards. Invariably, the process is more economical and cost-effective. It works to resolve the
current differences and can consider so much more than is often possible within the bear pit atmosphere of a court. All parties involved will have the opportunity of speaking and expressing their views as opposed to being cross-examined, which can be an emotionally draining experience. The formality, time constraints and stress of the court can all be avoided.
“85% of disputes taken to mediation will be resolved on the day or fairly swiftly afterwards” If you are having difficulties reaching a settlement during a mediation and come to no agreement, litigation can still be carried out, if you wish to do so. Mediation is entirely confidential and the format of the process leads to a more
See more from Howlett Clarke at www.portfoliopublications.co.uk
satisfactory resolution. And the agreement, that records the terms of settlement, is legally binding and enforceable. It is never too late to go to mediation; however, the later you leave it and the closer it gets to the trial, the greater amount of legal costs you will incur, with correspondingly fewer assets with which to settle! If you would like to discuss your dispute with Howlett Clarke’s accredited mediator, Richard Schaverien, then please get in touch using the contact details below. Find out whether you can break the deadlock and find a resolution today. Richard Schaverien Civil and Commercial Mediator QualitySolicitors Howlett Clarke 96 Church Street, Brighton, BN1 1UJ 01273 327272 www.howlettclarke.co.uk
PORTFOLIO 55
FEATURE home
HOME OF THE MONTH
...as selected by PORTFOLIO magazine
2-bedroom flat for sale in Bristol Gardens, Kemp Town, Brighton Price: OIEO £315,000
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ristol Gardens is a lovely residential street, tucked away behind Sussex Square. This contemporary, well presented flat is entered through your own, red bricked private courtyard. From the hallway tiled flooring leads you through to a lovely living room with windows over the courtyard and flows to a raised kitchen with modern, high gloss units, stone tiled floor, contemporary counter tops and a breakfast bar. Off the living room is the second double bedroom which boasts an en-suite, modern shower room along with integrated wardrobes and direct access to the courtyard. Moving back along the hallway toward to master bedroom you will find ample storage and the main bathroom with slate grey tiled flooring and a modern, white bathroom suite. No onward chain
Q Estate Agents 195 Lewes Road, Brighton BN2 3LA 01273 622 664 | www.qsalesandlettings.co.uk
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
THIRTYFOUR TWO NEW 3 BEDROOM FAMILY HOMES WARREN AVENUE, WOODINGDEAN, BRIGHTON
NOW ON SALE- £399,950
SMALL DEVELOPMENT OF JUST 2 NEW MODERN FAMILY HOMES 10 YEAR LABC WARRANTY 3 STOREY, 3 BEDROOM, 3 BATHROOMS STUNNING VIEWS OF THE DOWNS AND SEA CALL 01273 455934 FOR FURTHER INFORMATION
WWW.GOLDSTONEHOMES.CO.UK
Estate Agents
Belton Road Brighton BN1
Smart, elegent and different. This four bedroom house is close to sought-after schools and the city centre; the perfect family home.
Guide price of ÂŁ525,000
Arrange a viewing or property valuation on 01273 622664
Whichelo Place Hanover A characterful Victorian home that has been finished with some clever touches to create a pefect family home OIEO £465,000 Freehold
Bristol Gardens Kemp Town A wonderfully individual two double bedroom garden flat, tucked away in this peaceful corner of Kemp Town. OIEO £315,000 Freehold
Washington Street Hanover Exposed brick, stripped wooden flooring, a butler sink and flint walled garden. A stunning three storey, three bed house OIEO £425,000 Freehold See more properties at www.qsalesandlettings.co.uk
Martyns Close. Ovingdean, Brighton £475,000 Freehold Lovely semi-rural location, Contemporary style detached bungalow, 2 Bedrooms, bath, 24’ x 18’ split level lounge/dining room, Kitchen, conservatory, integral garage, Double-glazing, gas heating, gardens, Updating & redecoration required
High Street, Hurstpierpoint Offers in the Region of £500,000 Freehold Double fronted period property in Village High Street, Currently as ground floor offices (12 rooms) & 2 bed flat on AST, Residential development/conversion/investment opportunity
Graves Son & Pilcher, 51 Old Steyne, Brighton, BN1 1HU 01273 321123 | www.gravessonandpilcher.co.uk
GARDENS
INTO THE GARDEN Enjoy your midsummer garden at its best. Tara de la Motte, on what to do in the garden this month
Things to do in the garden this month •
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idsummer has arrived and the garden is filled with colour. Now is the time to enjoy the richness of the borders and the delicious scents of summer. This is the season for sitting out, impromptu gatherings, to sip a glass of wine and absorb the beauty of your midsummer garden. It is never too late to buy a few more plants to pep up your garden and keep your borders looking beautiful as summer very slowly rolls into autumn. If you look around your garden centre, you can still find a few bedding plants to liven up the pots and keep them full and vibrant for some time yet. Visiting the beautiful gardens on display at the great Chelsea flower show throws up inspiring ideas and plant combinations that can be taken home and adapted to work in even the smallest garden. The gardens on display rather looked like a series of rooms, each with their own colour schemes, and the
blue and white combined planting with walls of box hedging was truly striking. A border with two or three colours has a great appeal and a more definite intent. The combination of blue and white and a dash of green can create a stunning effect, and this type of planting can be both formal or informal. For a formal effect, keep the blue and white flowers within a low box hedge, and if you want to create an air of informality, plant the blues and whites loosely within the border, without the use of a box hedge. To create your own blue and white garden, the planting should be 60% white flowering plants, 30% blue flowering plants and the rest should consist of green foliage. There is no set pattern to this kind of planting, so keep it simple. Finally, find time to relax and enjoy your garden and gather friends for a summer barbecue.
Deadhead sweet peas and bedding plants.This will encourage fresh blooms Cut back Delphiniums and lupins after flowering and you will be rewarded with more flowers later on Prolong your baskets and containers by pinching out the growing tips to encourage production of even growth and more flowers Feed and water summer bedding regularly to keep them looking their very best
Plants for your Blue and White garden Blues Agapanthus (loch hope) Campanula Latifolia Eryngium Bourgattii Salvia Patens Veronica Austriaca White Phlox Paniculata (whie admiral) Campanula (latiloba alba) Eremurus Himalaicus (foxtail lily) Cosmos - white sensation
“The combination of blue and white and a dash of green can create a stunning effect” See more garden ideas at www.portfoliopublications.co.uk
Lansdowne Place, Hove
£995 pcm
Immaculate flat in sought after location
Tisbury Road, Hove, Hove
Brand new conversion in central Hove
Sackville Gardens, Hove
£1,150 pcm
Spacious flat south of New Church Road
£1,150 pcm
Kingsways, Hove £1,300 pcm inc Heating & Hot Water
Refurbished flat with fantastic seaviews
from pads to maisonettes you’ll soon be planning madly w
BEAUTIFUL homes
Park View Road, Hove
£1,500 pcm
Fantastic new house near park
Havelock Road, Brighton
Beautiful family house in popular location
with property moves...
Westfield Crescent, Brighton
£1,695 pcm
Lovely semi detached property with driveway
£2,295
Hill Drive, Hove
£3,500 pcm
Stunning detached home in highly sought after area
PORTFOLIO 63
GARDEN SUPPORT Garden structures come in all shapes and sizes and serve multiple functions, from adding valuable extra living space to screening and support for climbing and rambling plants
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t has never been easier to customise your garden with some simple, or even some major, structures that provide functional and stylish solutions to storage, privacy and zoning in the garden. GARDEN BUILDINGS AND SHEDS Garden buildings, sheds and structures come in all shapes and sizes and can serve multiple functions, from adding valuable extra living space to providing garden design solutions, such as screening and support for climbing and rambling plants. The big guys - conservatories and summer houses - are versatile and adaptable, working just as well as living and dining spaces or home offices.
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But you don't have to go for a full-on bricks-and-mortar garden building to get the extra space you need. The garden shed has got grand in recent years and, alongside the basic 5ft-square variety for housing the lawn mower, garden tools, you will now find all sorts of design permutations, some incorporating covered porches, greenhouse-style windows and staging and pitched and tiled roofs. If you need more space, an outdoor room could be the answer. The great thing about a garden room or garden office is that building one creates minimal disturbance, plus you’ll be quoted a fixed price, so there will be no extra costs from builders halfway through. Structures can be adapted for a host of uses, such as a gym, a guest room or a spa.
GAZEBOS AND ARBOURS It is possible to create dining and living spaces in simpler garden structures, too; bring a table and chairs to a basic octagonal gazebo with pitched roof and use it for eating and entertaining. These types of garden buildings can also make the perfect playhouse for little ones. In a small garden, a wooden arbour can incorporate covered seating in lieu of a porch or sheltered deck. Look out for corner arbours, which are the perfect solution for tiny spaces. Likewise, mirrors designed specifically for outdoor use will make the eye travel further, creating the illusion of space, even where there isn't any. Look for small-scale garden buildings, such as gazebos and arbours,
With thanks to www.housetohome.co.uk, www.gardentrellis.co.uk
DO It Yourself
which can bring shelter and structure without needing lots of space. Trellis and gazebos structures can add form to garden planting schemes, lifting climbing and rambling honeysuckle, jasmine and clematis high and into the sun where they will get noticed. Trellis garden structures can also be used to split a garden into individual 'rooms,' each with its own character and personality. TIP: Pick a simple gazebo design and add a table, chairs and tablecloth for elegant outdoor dining. Decorate as you would any indoor space and surround with potted plants to integrate the building into your garden space. THE GARDEN FENCE One element of a garden that's often overlooked and relegated to the realms of the practical is the garden fence. Its main function might be to separate one garden from another, but the type of fence you have can really affect the look of your garden. Be imaginative and make full use of your fence: add decorations, strings of lights or helpful storage pieces. Or paint it in a bold colour for a standout look. TIP: Look for contemporary fence designs that will lift and complement your garden. GARDEN TRELLIS Garden trellis is a versatile item of garden design. Use it to create a cosy outdoor dining or living space, or go for tall panels and place them where they can screen off less attractive features of your own or neighbouring gardens. Mount trellis panels on top of existing
fencing or walls to shelter an exposed site or, of course, just use them to support beautiful trailing plants, vines and vegetables. Trellis can bring interest to patios, sheds and forgotten corners and create archways and walking routes around larger outdoor spaces. Trellis comes in all shapes, sizes and materials and can be painted, stained or just left in its natural state. Look for square, diamond shaped, expanding and decorative designs that look beautiful as well as practical. Some designs come backed by mirrored panels, which can trick the eye into believing your garden is bigger than it really is. If you're feeling crafty, why not build your own trellis from wooden poles and sticks, bamboo, lumber, copper or wire mesh. Paint your trellis in an earthy colour palette to mimic that of your garden or, if you're designing an urban oasis, use a contrasting primary palette for added effect. Be a little different and use a trellis to hang up garden tools in the summer or as a display for a collection of potted-up terracotta pots. TIP: Use a compact linear design in on-trend grey to create a decorative wall and provide screening, protection and dappled shade. BENCHES AND SEATING A garden bench provides the functionality of seating whilst offering a versatile and attractive way to add colour and interest in your garden. Garden benches can be painted in contemporary colours to match or contrast with your garden. Built-in seating has the advantage of also providing storage space.
“It is possible to create dining and living spaces in simpler garden structures, too”
9 Offices Covering Brighton & Hove 27 Offices in Sussex 38 Offices in London
Dean Court Road, Rottingdean: £920,000
01273 309968
Harrington Road £1,200,000
01273 508761
Dean Court Road is situated in the historical and picturesque village of Rottingdean. This immaculate and beautiful detached house is packed with charm and character, comprising of four bedrooms, two reception rooms, and family bathroom with two additional cloakrooms.
A magnificent Edwardian semi-detached house with 5 bedrooms and off-road parking. Fine period details in abundance, southerly facing walled garden, excellent local schools and less than quarter of a mile from Preston Park station.
Dyke Road Avenue £1,150,00
Havelock Road £700,000
01273 777000
A substantial and delightful four bedroom detached house set within a substantial grounds. Access via electric gates with parking for several cars, master bedroom with luxury en-suite, bedroom two with access onto private balcony with distant sea views.
01273 508761
Impressive four storey period semi-detached house within the Preston Park Conservation Area, central to Preston Park, shopping amenities and excellent local schools. Featuring tall ceilings, stunning kitchen/family room and versatile rooms which can be utliised as 3, 4 or 5 bedrooms.
www.rightmove.co.uk www.primelocation.com www.fox-and-sons.co.uk
Sussex Mews £850,000
01273 688148
Denmark Villas £500,000
01273 820280
This beautiful bright and spacious four bedroom Mews house located in the delightful location on Sussex Mews, the property is well presented throughout. Sold with no onward chain, private garage and parking space.
Finished to a high standard, taking into account every single detail to leave a perfect flat for many years. Luxury bathroom with walk in shower, two double bedrooms, en-suite, dual aspect living room leading to a beautiful kitchen with fitted appliances. Professionally landscaped westerly garden, share of freehold.
Redhill Drive £675,000
Tongdean Lane from £785,000
01273 508761
Superb 4 bedroom detached family home enjoying elevated views across Withdean, spectacular 30’ kitchen/family/living room, master bedroom with dressing room and luxury en-suite and family bathroom, secluded patio leading to lawned rear garden, second reception room, study, utility room.
01273 508761
Choice of two elegant white painted 4 bedroom, semi-detached family homes enjoying landscaped southerly facing terraces and gardens, redesigned interiors with a luxury fittings and flooring, high specification kitchen, stylish bathroom and shower room. No chain. Viewing essential!
Be among the first to live in the exciting, ground-breaking new development at Brighton Marina
Leaders is pleased to offer a selection of spacious apartments in the stunning development available to let and buy. Each apartment ranges in size but they all offer more spacious and luxurious accommodation than comparable apartments across Brighton & Hove.
Built to the very highest specifications with luxury fixtures and fittings throughout and an option to include a furniture pack at no extra cost for lettings, each home boasts full-length glazing and open balconies to ensure residents will be in a position to enjoy not only the spectacular views but also a relaxed and sophisticated lifestyle.
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BEAUTIFUL homes
FO R
SA LE
Newly built two bedroom luxury apartments available from £1800pcm (fees apply)
A limited selection of apartments available to buy including 1, 2 and 3 bedrooms
OVER
80% SOLD
Call us today on 01273 622007 to book a viewing or visit us at leaders.co.uk
SOLD
PORTFOLIO 69
We design, create and install bespoke furniture to commercial, domestic and retail sectors.
EVER WISHED YOU COULD HAVE YOUR VERY OWN SMALL MAGAZINE FOR YOUR COMPANY? Maybe we can help. For an informal chat or to arrange a meeting to discuss how, call Lynne today. 07931 537588 www.portfoliopublications.co.uk
Web site: www.redjoinery.com Twitter: @redjoinery Tel: 01273 463799 Mob: 07970274626
LEADERS
INVESTING IN PROPERTY The Brighton property market continues to enjoy a strong 2016. Andrew Hovey, Leaders’ Area Sales Manager, looks at the trend
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righton and surrounding areas continue to prove popular with homebuyers, with the local property market showing signs of great strength in the opening months of 2016. House prices are rising - albeit at a slightly slower rate than last year - and the market is benefiting from stability and high demand. Andrew Hovey, Leaders’ Area Sales Manager, says it is the perfect time for sellers to get a good price for their homes and make their next moves. In a robust market, buyers are confident and fall-throughs are typically much rarer. “We have certainly noticed there is a feeling
of positivity within the local market at the moment, which is encouraging many people to put their homes on the market and look for a new place to live,” he explains. “Brighton and Hove is incredibly popular with families, so there is understandably high demand for two-, three- and four-bedroom houses. And it is not only people already living here who are behind this trend, as we have many buyers from London looking for a great property by the sea. “Stability within the property market is ideal for both sellers and buyers. It often allows sellers to benefit from having more time to find their perfect home and move in a
time frame that suits them.” Getting a great price for a property is a priority for all sellers, but Andrew believes there is more to the process than simply focusing on money. He adds: “Selling a property is about much more than figures. I take tremendous pride in delivering a personal, bespoke service to every customer, taking into consideration their particular needs and preferences. “Selling now offers a fantastic opportunity to local homeowners and I would be delighted to advise anybody on exactly what they stand to gain by putting their property on the market.”
PLAY IT SAFE Make sure you play it safe when letting and renting a home. Joanne Darroch, Branch Manager at Leaders, Western Road answers some key questions about Client Money Protection
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andlords and tenants - do you know if the rent and deposit your agent is holding for you is safe in a protected account? Over the years there have been many horror stories of letting agents misusing their clients’ money - and in the worst cases going bust or running off with thousands of pounds of rents and deposits. So what can you do to be certain your money is safe? The answer is simple: choose an agent that is a member of SAFEagent. That way you can be sure they are part of a Client Money Protection (CMP) scheme which means the money they hold for their clients is protected. I have answered four key questions you must consider before letting or renting a property.
1) What is Client Money Protection? CMP is an insured scheme through which tenants and landlords can seek recovery of their funds when misappropriation or fraud by an agent has taken place. If a lettings and management firm is part of a CMP scheme consumers are protected. 2) Do letting and management agents have to be a part of a CMP scheme? No, it is not mandatory for agents to be covered under a CMP scheme which is why you should be cautious. However, it is a legal requirement for agents to display in their offices and on their websites whether or not they are part of a CMP Scheme so you can make an informed decision.
3) What is SAFEagent? SAFEagent is the easily identifiable mark denoting firms that protect landlords’ and tenants’ money through client money protection schemes. It is backed by industry and consumer organisations such as the Citizens Advice Bureau, The Property Ombudsman and the Trading Standards Institute. 4) Why should I choose a SAFEagent to let or rent through? In addition to the reassurance that your money will be protected, any agent registered with SAFEagent will also belong to a regulatory organisation in the Private Rented Sector, ensuring that they meet defined standards of service and client accounting practices.
For more information and expert advice on letting or renting in Brighton and Hove, please contact your local Leaders branch or visit leaders.co.uk. PORTFOLIO 71
83 Bates Road, Brighton www.cliveemson.co.uk Call: 01273 504232 sussex@cliveemson.co.uk
The Drive, Hellingly
London Road, Brighton
A detached Victorian property situated in approximately 1.5 acres of ancient woodland close to the village of Hellingly.
Situated above the Natwest Bank this three storey maisonette has private rear access from Providence Place. London Road offers a good variety of high street shops, bars and other amenities.
Now in need of renovation the property may be suitable for redevelopment, subject to all necessary consents being obtainable. EPC:TBC Guide: £250,000 Plus - FREEHOLD
Reginald Road, Bexhill-on-Sea A fabulous opportunity to acquire this detached garage/workshop with B1 Light Industrial use. Situated in Bexhill town centre the property also has Planning Permission for re-development into two self contained offices with off road parking. EPC:TBC Guide: £60-65,000 - FREEHOLD
Now in need of some refurbishment the property is considered ideal for owner occupation or could be let to provide a good income. EPC:TBC Guide: £170,000 Plus - LEASEHOLD
Sea Road, Pevensey Bay A fabulous opportunity to acquire this detached public house which has been in the same ownership for many years and offers off-road parking, a good size bar area with dance floor and two bedroom manager’s flat with sea views from the terrace. Conveniently located close to local shops and amenities and with good road links to the A259/A27 the Beach Tavern has been previously let to provide a good income. EPC:TBC Guide: £350,000 Plus - FREEHOLD
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 504232, in order to stay fully informed.
SUSSEX & SURREY AUCTION - WEDNESDAY 27 JULY THE HILTON BRIGHTON METROPOLE - COMMENCING 11AM
INTERVIEW
WELCOME TO OUR WORLD This month we speak to ‘Mr Property’ Chris Mansfield, Managing Director of Davenport Property Investment, the well-known property investment specialists. We asked Chris about Davenport, and exactly what the company does Chris, you used to be an IFA, but you made the move to specialising in property investments, tell us, what inspired you make that change? That’s a good question! When I was an IFA, although I respected the regulated side of my business, what I didn’t like was the fact that I couldn’t offer my clients the potentially better, higher, returns available via some alternative investments. Now, through Davenport, I can maintain the same attitude to compliance and probity as I did as an IFA but the key difference now is that I can offer my clients and investors higher returns at the same time. Tell us more about Davenport, and what you do, exactly. Sure – I started Davenport in 2008. I realised that, if you know where to look, you can unlock the real value in property for one of three key investment types: income, capital growth or lifestyle. So what we do today is spend time with each of our clients finding out exactly what they want their property investment to achieve for them in one, or more, of those key areas. And we’re not talking about our clients homes here; we’re not Estate Agents. The real value to our clients is that we find out how they want to use their cash, savings, pension or equity to increase their wealth or wellbeing and then typically show them a range of opportunities, from good income investments, to potential capital growth, to a spectacular luxury villa in the sun. You’re a regular at the Property Professionals Lunch and you’re frequently seen at many of the City’s other networking events. Presumably, you find this the best way of informing investors how property might help them? You’re absolutely right. Every investment starts with a conversation. So when I’m out networking, and somebody finds out that I understand property investment, they’ve always got questions for me, and I’ve usually got some insights for them. And I love that; it's particularly satisying being able to de-bunk some of the
myths about property investments! Some of the current so-called “great” investments shouldn’t be touched with a barge pole! Many of our readers are themselves landlords or traditional investors. Do you have any words of wisdom for them? I would emphasise that there are many keys to successful investing, from clarity about what you’re trying to achieve, to knowing how comfortable you are with risk, to diversifying your portfolio, to hedging your investments in order to mitigate risk. Recent Government interventions have dampened returns in the
“There are many keys to successful investing, from clarity about what you’re trying to achieve, to knowing how comfortable you are with risk” UK buy-to-let market, and there are more changes coming that may make returns fall still further. I’m now talking to a number of buy-to-let landlords who are looking for viable alternatives, and we’re having some very productive conversations. You see, it’s that conversation thing again! What’s hot right now for investors? You’re going to be surprised by my answer: almost unbelievably, for lifestyle investors, it’s looking like Spain again. I know! Here’s the reason: Spain took a massive hit in the credit crunch; at one time there were an estimated 800,000 empty houses across the country, so prices just tanked. Which means that today, prices are still ludicrously low compared to 2007. However, predictions suggest that values will rise over the next few years and you get the same sunshine, lifestyle, and a short-haul flight. And we Brits just love the Spanish lifestyle. Which means that right now I’ve got some
extraordinary deals in some beautiful places. In fact, to satisfy the demand for high-quality homes, we’ve started a new Property Portfolio service that sources luxury overseas properties and offers our clients end-to-end support, from enquiry, right through to successful purchase. Spain – that’s interesting. Are there any particularly good deals? Yes, there are if you know exactly where to look. Davenport’s got a network of agents on the ground out there, and one client right now (actually he’s a well-known footballer), has just scooped a lovely plot and a gorgeous new contemporary-style luxury villa in the Costa Blanca, and he’s getting the whole lot for a very competitive price! So what should someone do if they are considering property investment? Research. Firstly, through your natural networks of friends, relatives and business contacts. And then the internet; try inserting a search term that includes the investment that you’re looking at, and adding the word “fraud” – that can be very revealing. And then always talk to the experts. Their advice is invaluable. It may not only save you from making very costly mistakes, it could very well make you better off!
If you’ve got any property investment queries, you can call Chris, either at Davenport’s office on 01273 763 900, or call him direct on 07710 294 255. PORTFOLIO 73
HOME tips
KEEP IT CLEAN From cleaning carpets to cleaning wooden floors and laminate floors, we've gathered our top tips on how to keep every kind of floor looking its best
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onfused about which cleaning method is best for your floor? Whatever your floor type, check out our top tips on how to keep them ship-shape CARPET Regular vacuuming is essential for carpets, as it prevents loose dirt and grit from working into the carpet pile, where it will damage the fibres. Upright vacuum cleaners are generally considered to be best, especially those with revolving brushes to dislodge embedded dirt. Use the suction head for loop-pile carpets, as beater brushes and heads can cause the carpet to bobble. Dyson are our favourite and we love the new cordless range. www.dyson.co.uk. Carpet manufacturers generally recommend an annual steam clean. Hire a carpet cleaner and do it yourself – or look for a local cleaning company and get a quote for the number of rooms/flights of stairs. Vacuum thoroughly first for the best result. Whether you do it yourself or call in the professionals, high-traffic areas should be deep-cleaned regularly. TIP: Natural remedy for cleaning carpets Remove wine or grease stains from carpet by lightly sprinkling area with baking soda. Dab it up and add a little more if necessary. Leave on 74 PORTFOLIO
until the wine is absorbed, then vacuum up any residue left. For more advice on cleaning and stain removal, contact The National Carpet Cleaners Assocation. www.ncca.co.uk
“Bring out the natural colour of your wood flooring by wiping the surface with lemon oil and a dry cloth” NATURAL FLOORING All good-quality natural floorcoverings should have a substantial latex back to prevent dust and debris falling through and ensure easy maintenance by vacuuming. A cylinder-type vacuum cleaner without brushes is a good choice for natural floorings to avoid damaging the fibres. Most high-quality natural floorings are sold with a stain inhibitor that protects them from dirt and prolongs their life, so ask your supplier for details of cleaning products for natural fibres. These should be used on stains immediately not once the stain has been absorbed. Mop up with a clean cloth or kitchen paper. Don't use
carpet mousse or shampoo as these can cause natural floorings to shrink. Consider hiring a professional cleaning company if you want to give your flooring a thorough clean, but make sure they use a drycleaning system as opposed to a wet one. Ask your retailer to recommend a firm. WOODEN FLOORS Sweep wooden floors regularly, or use a vacuum cleaner with a brush setting. Mop once a week or so with a well-wrung mop, using soapy cleaner specifically for use on wood. Don't saturate the floor or allow water to stand on it as this can cause damage. Try Method's wood-floor cleaner, from John Lewis. www.johnlewis.com. Wet-clean waxed boards sparingly and wax polish them to improve the patina. Dirty wax build-up should be removed with white spirit and the boards re-waxed. Treat engineered boards with oil or lacquer reviver, applied with a soft cloth. TIP: Natural remedies for cleaning wooden floors Remove scuff marks from wooden floors by rubbing them gently with a pencil eraser. Bring out the natural colour of your wood flooring by wiping the surface with lemon oil and a dry cloth. However, this only applies to natural and waxed flooring, not varnished floors. Thanks to www.housetohome.co.uk
LAMINATE FLOORS Laminate floors should be swept or vacuumed regularly. Using a damp cloth is fine, but never soak the floor with water; they're designed to be water resistant but will buckle if they get over-wet. Most spills on laminate can be removed with household cleaners, but if the stain is lipstick, ink or permanent marker, try acetone. Never use scouring pads to remove stains when cleaning laminate floors, and remove any liquid stains from the floor as soon as possible.
FLAGSTONE, LIMESTONE AND SLATE FLOORS Damp-mop flagstone or slate floors using either clear water, an all-purpose cleaning solution in warm water, or water to which fabric softener has been added. Wring the mop until it doesn't drip, and apply it to the floor in slow, even strokes. Ask the manufacturer to recommend the appropriate cleaning product. Wipe up spills on unglazed floors immediately or they might cause a stain. Remove stubborn marks with white spirit, but always do a spot test first.
STONE FLOORS Stone will often have been treated before it left the factory. If not, it will stain easily, so it's important to seal it with a proprietary sealant or, for terracotta and slate, use linseed oil. Once sealed, clean it with a mix of mild detergent and water. However, it will need re-sealing at regular intervals to keep it looking its best. Reconstituted stone needs to be sealed with a stain inhibitor, then impregnated with a top coat of water-based sealant. It'll need re-sealing every two years. Ask your manufacturer or suppler for specific care advice and suitable products.
VINYLS, LINOLEUMS AND RUBBER FLOORS Vinyls, linoleums and rubber are hardwearing and easy to care for. The amount of cleaning and maintenance depends both on your lifestyle and the colour of the floor. Vacuum or brush regularly to remove dust and grit that might lead to your floor being scratched, and follow with a weekly wipe with the cleaning agent recommended by your supplier. Remove scuff marks by gently rubbing with a scouring pad - the sort you would use to clean non-stick cookware. Clean the floor with mild detergent and water. Don't use abrasive cleaners, which may leave a dull film on your floor. Be careful with spray polishes and other silicone-based products as they can make your floor very slippery, as can white spirit. Lakeland has a great range of cleaning products for vinyl and rubber floors. www.lakeland.co.uk
CERAMIC TILES Ceramic tiles can be cleaned with a mild detergent and water solution and do not require sealing. Damp-mop your ceramic tile with a standard, all-purpose cleaner. Dry the floor with a soft cloth to avoid streaks. Never use harsh, abrasive cleaners that might scratch the glaze.
digital...
“Regular vacuuming is essential for carpets, as it prevents loose dirt and grit from working into the carpet pile
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
INTERIORS
THE BEAUTY OFWOOD This year The Wooden Flooring Centre is celebrating their 20th anniversary. We find out the secret of their success
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“Their most popular engineered natural hardwood flooring is hard to beat, but innovative and durable finishes like cork and concrete are on-trend”
or over 20 years The Wooden Flooring Centre has been providing high-quality flooring solutions to the region’s homeowners and businesses. They have one of the largest independent showrooms for solid, engineered and laminate flooring in the South East, and therefore are the logical destination for anyone looking for quality flooring products. They have an extensive range of beautiful flooring options available to browse in their spacious showroom in Portslade, and Michael Wallace and his team are on hand to offer expert advice and assistance. Their most popular engineered natural hardwood flooring is hard to beat, but innovative and durable finishes like cork and concrete are definitely on-trend and worth consideration. The internet is a great place to get inspiration, but when you make any large investment of this kind it is essential to properly look and feel the flooring finishes available, and seek advice of the professionals. Not all flooring is suitable for all purposes, and their knowledgeable and experienced staff will guide you through the decision process and ensure that you get the perfect flooring to fit your needs and budget. Over the past 20 years The Wooden Flooring Centre has forged strong partnerships with a number of the world’s leading flooring manufacturers and are able to offer a guarantee to match any quote for the same product elsewhere. Testimonials and recommendations from delighted customers attest to the great products and service they offer, but don’t take their word for it. Visit the showroom and see for yourself. The Wooden Flooring Centre Ltd. 99 Trafalgar Road, Portslade BN41 1GU 01273 423600 www.woodenflooringcentre.com PORTFOLIO 77
FUTURE BRIGHTON:
WHAT DO YOU WANT?
Paul Nicholson from Chalk Architecture on the shaping of Brighton, its seafront and the future
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n my capacity as a Director of a busy Brighton architecture business, I get to participate in discussions of how Brighton will be shaped over the coming years. Chalk is lucky enough to be involved in creating some of these projects. Most of the time, a typical such project is the brainchild of an entrepreneur who comes to us seeking advice and guidance with a big idea. Now and again community institutions come together to develop a proposal, though this is quite rare, especially given the lack of public funds. It is rarer still for a community to actually be asked what they want in the first place. Mostly, community groups that are engaging in a built-environment debate are founded because a developer is proposing something that people within the community dislike. What has been interesting about the debate leading up to the EU vote is that people had to make their own critical analysis of what they want for their future (I’m not getting into the cogency of the EU debate here; that would take up the whole magazine). This isn’t like voting for
an MP or a councilor, which is often primarily an expression of a partisan choice for whatever club you support. With the EU vote, people have been asked to consult themselves, to explore what they believe to be the best route, a process which has traversed the usual boundaries of political divides. Some parts of this critical analysis have exposed the honest concerns of
“The architecture of our city is a representation of our human condition” a very large portion of our national community. Are the people who form political policy actually in a position to deal with the probable consequences of enacting policies that would directly address these thoughts and desires? I’m clearly dancing around a particular issue here, but I’m not interested in referring to it explicitly. What I am interested in is the process
CODE Contractor Management is a construction sector professional services company combining design & project management, building surveying, contract administration and site management into a single expert solution.
of responding to public opinion. Sometimes this opinion does not correlate with what the power brokers want. What then? In architecture, we create designs in response to what a client has set out in a brief. Then the proposals are tested and assessed by the various statutory processes, and public consultation is embedded within these. Often, people are surprised to see a development begin on site, a common refrain being, “I didn’t know about that, nobody asked me?!” We all know we need more affordable housing, more school places, more and better medical facilities. We all know that the public realm is a precious and limited resource, our parks and open spaces need protection and care. We all appreciate the cultural value of our historic buildings. The architecture of our city is a representation of our human condition, a reflection of how we see ourselves in relation to our political, economic, geographic, sexual, environmental and historic context. Against this background then, it is relevant
BUSINESS
to consider what you want on your seafront: a piece of replica Victoriana pier that blends seamlessly with the existing wrought-iron balustrades, or a super high-tech viewing
“History will judge our generation on the buildings and the public realm that we create” platform that is a visceral, vertical counterpoint to the horizon? The former suggests that, in cultural terms, we can’t do any better than a classically inspired precedent, while the latter provokes critical debate about the future and our present relationship with it. History will judge our generation on how we respond to the result of the EU vote, not on the actual outcome of the vote itself. History will also judge our generation on the buildings and the public realm that we create. If anything,
the run-up to the EU vote has been an object lesson in how not to create a critical dialogue around a proposal. In Brighton and Hove the community needs to be more involved in the process of place-making – the process of collectivley deciding how the city looks and functions. To do this, we need to develop processes for facilitating a coherent debate. Saying “I don’t like it” is not relevant as this is merely another expression of NIMBY-ism, whereas being honest about why you don't like it is relevant and informative. At that point the community can collectively create a response, and as designers, we can creatively co-ordinate a proposal. Chalk Architecture, 4th Floor Lees House, Dyke Road, Brighton BN1 3FE Tel: 01273 448700 Twitter: @chalkdesign & @chalkarch #FutureBrighton www.chalkarchitecture.com https://m.facebook.com/ChalkArchitecture
Code Contractor Management Ltd 4th Floor Lees House, Dyke Road, Brighton BN1 3FE +44 (0) 7977 481234 +44 (0) 1273 448071 paul@codecm.co.uk www.codecm.co.uk
OVERSEAS
CHANNEL HOPPING The vital cultural heritage and gastronomic indulgence of Normandy are a winning formula if you are looking to buy a holiday home in France
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f your idea of the perfect holiday home is somewhere you can access in a few hours, unload the car and open that bottle of wine, then northern France could just be the answer. There is a huge range of property available to buy in this intriguing region… And with so much to do in the region, plus some of the best local markets, there is plenty to do on a short weekend break, so you can pop over the Channel any time. Here are just a few crackers.
NORMANDY MANOIR CLOSE TO CABOURG & DEAUVILLE In a very charming village, this superb Manoir is surrounded by garden, outbuildings and a 5 x 11 pool. The Manoir offers a spacious and bright living room with fireplace, well-equipped kitchen with a range cooker, a pantry and a bedroom with ensuite shower room. On the first floor is a magnificent master bedroom with fireplace, library, dressing room and private bathroom. Two other bedrooms and a bathroom complete the property.The outbuilding includes a workshop, a double garage, an underground wine cellar and a pool house with sauna and shower room. Upstairs, an office and a guest bedroom with bathroom (in progress). A beautiful 5 x 11 heated pool completes this magnificent property. Recent construction and improvements have been sympathetic to the character of the old structure while using high-quality materials, including underfloor heating, solid oak flooring, and stone slabs from Burgundy... REDUCED FROM €1,050,000 TO €995,000 For more details contact Leggett Immobilier: 08700 11 51 51 | info@leggett.fr | www.leggettfrance.com
COUNTRY HOUSE, WITH GUEST HOUSE, PIGEON TOWER, AND POOL This property is in a peaceful setting, only one hour from the Normandy coastal resorts and ferry port, and two hours from Paris. This traditional brick and timber framed country property, with a total of 180sq m floor space is set in 3620sq m of garden, with fruit and ornamental trees and shrubs, plus a small fenced pond. The main house includes an open-plan lounge and dining room with a large brick fire place with a wood burner and a fitted kitchen. There are exposed beams and parquet floors throughout, and a tiled south-facing terrace. On the first floor are two bedrooms, on the second floor, another two rooms, used as bedroom and play room. The guest house/gite has been recently renovated with a living area, plus kitchen and two bedrooms. A large pigeon tower is set in the garden, awaiting refurbishment. There is also an above-ground pool included in the sale. PRICE €178,000 For more details contact Sextant Properties: 020 7428 4910 info@sextantproperties.com | www.sextantproperties.com
15/16TH CENTURY MANOR HOUSE WITH OUTBUILDINGS, OVERLOOKING THE VILLAGE OF ORNE Located in a small historic village, the manor offers 300m² of living space and has been fully restored. This beautiful manor house comprises eight main rooms with all modern conveniences, a spiral oak staircase tower with meutriers, mullioned windows, monumental fireplaces, and a vaulted basement. It also has central heating. The property overlooks an old medieval village and is set in a 7725m² stunning walled garden. The garden design is a succession of spaces, each following a different theme: the French garden with box hedging and topiary; the Italian garden with a theatre of lawns and patio areas; English garden with mixed borders and climbing roses; Iris collection; potager; orchard; rose garden, all in harmony with one another, creating a picture-postcard garden. GUIDE PRICE E645,000 For more details contact Leggett Immobilier: 08700 11 51 51 | info@leggett.fr | www.leggettfrance.com
NORMANDY BEACHES: BEAUTIFUL AND WELL RENOVATED NORMAN HOUSE DATING FROM 1631 The accommodation includes a living room with open fireplace, kitchen, three bedrooms, bathroom and shower room. It is in the lovely SeineMaritime countryside about ¾ hour from Dieppe. With the beach only three miles away and walking distance to shops, it is ideal as a holiday home or permanent residence. PRICE €231.000 For more details of this and other beautiful properties around France contact Prime French Properties. 01323 896812 | www.primefrenchproperties.com.
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TRAVEL
FEELING GROOVY IN GOUVIX If you think all B&Bs are the same, follow Daniel Frickelton to The Priory B&B in the heart of Normandy as he discovers what’s groovy in Gouvix...
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ome among us are linguistic Neanderthals. More concerned during French lessons about what great deals and swaps could be made during the next break, these products of our school systems are unlikely to appreciate that Gouvix rhymes with groovy, not with Screw Fix. These individuals will struggle with the headline above, which serves them right for not paying attention in school. No amount of linguistic proficiency, however, can alter the fact that Gouvix is a tiny Norman village which you most likely have never visited. You may have driven through it on your way to somewhere you had heard of, but if you blinked your eyes, you probably missed it. We approached from Bretteville sur Laize, through the beautiful Gouvix Valley. At Gouvix we left the high street and followed the drive running between the 11th -century Norman church and the village Mairie, emerging at a large, threestorey château – The Priory – situated cheek by jowl with the church. The first impression of quiet, leafy tranquillity contrasted nicely with the good-sized Moto Guzzi parked outside the
house. Not a soul in sight, but as we began to work the travel kinks out of our lower backs, we were approached by what appeared to be a large broad-leafed talking plant. The plant turned out to be our host, Dave, bearing a bottle of Beaujolais and an armful of the most luxuriant rhubarb stalks I’ve ever seen. These, in turn, would reappear later in the evening as pudding. More on that...
"We want people who like food and cooking to come here" Dave joined us as we settled around the large picnic table for a proper look at this impressive property. We followed our host around the couple of acres of walled lawn, gardens, a spring-fed pond and numerous stone outbuildings comprising this spacious, verdant piece of Normandy. Dave has been doing a lot of gardening, creating beds and cutting back unwanted vegetation. His little stone hothouse, with its cobbled floor and
copious light, is exactly my idea of the ultimate man-shack. The small space is crammed with the sprouts of the next generation of garden flora. The garden behind the maison boasts what must be the largest cherry tree on earth. From here the quirky, ornate concrete external staircase, once all the rage, may be viewed. Originally Brighton-based, Dave and his wife sold their attractive, sought-after house, chucked the management consultancy career, with its onerous daily commute, and headed off to Normandy in search of a different kind of life. Ten years later, they are now lord and lady of the manor. When they bought The Priory it had been shut up for ten years, and it took them two and a half years to renovate it to its current standard. The refurbishment has been done with considerable sensitivity to preservation of the rustic Norman feel of the house. Our second-floor room, for instance, still had its original wooden floorboards and working fireplace. The adjoining bathroom was fitted with modern conveniences and shower, but the overall feel was one of relaxed comfort rather than gleaming perfection. The
TRAVEL
downstairs dining room and vast working kitchen continue on this theme of getting the right balance between modernity and Norman authenticity. B&Bs abound in Normandy, of course. “There are loads of places with pretty gardens and nice rooms,” says Dave. “What sets The Priory apart from the others is the food. We want people who like food and cooking to come here.” For a modest extra fee, Dave will cook you up a memorable dinner. If you’re able to come the day before and stay for two nights, he can also offer cooking lessons. You shop locally and prepare a three-course meal for the B&B’s guests. I love to cook, so I’m afraid I was a bit of a pest in the kitchen, hovering about, looking over Dave’s shoulder, trying to pick up a few tricks as he browned the rabbit bits for our first main course. He is clearly relaxed and at home in the kitchen, likes to chat about food and ingredients. Starters that evening consisted of ravioli stuffed with artichokes from Dave’s vegetable patch, all home-made, of course. I can still taste them. The rabbit had been stewed in fennel
root, with, I suspect, a dash of pastis added for good measure. We should eat more rabbit in the UK. Its sweet, delicate flesh marries easily with so many other flavours. Roughly crushed herbal potatoes mixed with chopped spring onions – green bits and all – rounded off the course. And then, following the cheese course
"His little stone hothouse, with its cobbled floor and copious light, is exactly my idea of the ultimate man-shack" – de rigeur in this part of the world - there was the rhubarb crumble, whose main ingredient had been harvested only hours earlier. Rhubarb is another thing we should use more often back in Blighty. Having experienced the crackling freshness of Dave’s crumble, we are determined to make the effort. The Priory is ideally located within easy
reach of Caën, all the D-Day attractions, and is not that far away from amazing Bayeux, with its eponymous tapestry and nearby English cemetery. We returned from our excursion with very hardy appetites and found that Dave was in full flow, whacking together a vegetarian feast at the request of some visiting Americans. This cornucopia of veggie delights commenced with a stunning lemon risotto, proceeded with Dave’s special baba ganoush and freshly prepared flatbreads, followed by courgette frittatas and finished with cheese and poached pears. All meals include wine or alternative beverages. As we departed we overheard Dave negotiating with other guests about the ingredients for that evening’s meal. When he suggested that they just buy whatever they fancied eating that evening and bring it back for him to cook, they understandably expressed concern that they might bring something he couldn’t cook. A kind, tolerant smile passed across Dave’s lips as he simply said, “I can cook anything. Really.” You’ll not find me contradicting him any time soon... Go find out for yourselves. You will thank me.
The Priory B & B Gouvix, Normandy www.gouvix.com Tel 33 (0)2 31 39 09 92 Email : gouvixpriory@gmail.com How to get there: Take the car. Travel by ferry from Newhaven to Dieppe with DFDS Seaways. www.dfdsseaways.co.uk Stay over on the way: We recommend Honfleur and especially Le Fond de la Cour www.lefonddelacour.com
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UPDATING OUTDOORS
Photo: www.johnlewis.com
INTERIORS
Your outdoor area should be a place to wine, dine and socialise. We look at some of the key outdoor furniture trends for 2016
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reating your outdoor space as another room should enable a seamless transition from indoors to outdoors. To ensure a smooth flow, think about the overall design of your home and how your outdoor area will complement it. Look into what colours work well together, along with design themes and schemes that will provide a smooth and consistent progression from your indoor area to your outdoor space. This incorporating of the garden into the flow of home continues to inform the key trends of the season.
CLEAN AND SIMPLE Clean lines, sleek looks and contemporary styling in outdoor furnishings continue to grow in popularity for 2016. Characterised by the use of metals or metallic finishes, this urban-inspired look underscores the outdoor room as an extension of interior living and furniture styles. The contemporary style is driven by metallic finishes and tends to go toward light, soft and grey, as well as traditional earth tones.
MIX IT UP We are increasingly seeing a focus on mixedmaterial furniture that enables contrast and fusion between your indoor and outdoor entertaining space. Wood and resin, wood and iron or stainless steel and teak continue to be popular. Natural materials like stone and wicker are also in vogue. This trend allows people to experiment and stray a little from exact matching styles while creating a cohesive look. Soften the look with outdoor textiles.
“We are increasingly seeing a focus on mixed-material furniture that enables contrast and fusion between your indoor and outdoor entertaining space” PORTFOLIO 85
“Furniture that’s adaptable to the function will be more important in 2016 — modular furniture that can grow as the party gets bigger”
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Photo: www.johnlewis.com
INTERIORS
FIRED UP The fire element in the outdoor room is a natural focal point, making it a hugely popular feature for 2016, and there is an increasing trend in fire pits of all kinds, separate from the cooking area. A fire pit or chimenea adds luxury, warmth and ambience for outdoor dining or gathering. Beyond its visual impact and practical application, fire extends the season for outdoor living beyond the core summer months and provides a natural focus for people to gather around for eating, talking and relaxing. LET’S CHAT The outdoor experience is shifting from simple dining areas to ‘chat groups,’ with areas designed solely for relaxing and conversation. It’s no longer enough to have a dining table on the patio: there’s a movement toward individualising multiple outdoor seating spaces, a desire for ‘chat group’ furniture - deep seating with cushions around a fireplace, for example. These are conversation furniture areas, places to relax, not just for dining. ADAPTABLE SEATING Part of the allure of conversational seating
is its flexibility. Conversational seating is a trend that elevates all the elements of the outdoor room. Outdoors, walls are not needed to define the room. You can create a relaxed and adaptable seating area with a collection or combine different pieces to create an eclectic, more unique look. Furniture that’s adaptable to the function will be more important in 2016 — modular furniture that can grow as the party gets bigger. SPLASH OF COLOR While neutral tones remain steadfastly the base colour for outdoors — with grey a key neutral — the use of bold colors and designer patterns as accents offers the opportunity to customise your outdoor room. Whether matching, complementing or contrasting, adding colour will lift your outdoor scheme and add focus. LIGHTING SCHEMES Outdoor lighting is key. Mix and match electric lighting, solar lights and strings of party lights for a relaxed feel. Set lighting schemes using softer tones to highlight different plant materials. A good electrician will help with an overall outdoor lighting scheme which will highlight your garden’s features.
With thanks to: www.furnituretoday.com, www.gardendesign.com
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PLACES Qatar Goodwood Festival: 26-30 July 2016
Taking place atop the stunning South Downs The Qatar Goodwood Festival is the place to see and be seen. www.goodwood.com for tickets
HEALTH
CHECK IT OUT Preventative health care means making use of regular health checks. We look at what, when and how to check
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egular health checks can help to nip potential problems in the bud, keeping us healthier for longer. But many of us – and this is a particular issue for men, who, according to Harvard Medical School, are more likely to become ill and less likely to seek help – aren’t good at keeping track of our health. This week, we take a look at health checks: What should we check, when should we check it, and why? Prevention and early detection There’s a difference between health checks and screening. Screening programmes – for example, the universal cervical screening programme that all adult women are invited to take part in – look for a specific condition, often in a defined population. Most of us will take part in screening at some point in our lives: Newborns are routinely screened for hearing problems, and in addition to cervical screening, women over 50 are invited to take part in a national breast screening programme. Additionally, everyone aged between 60-74 is invited to take part in a national bowel cancer screening programme. All of these schemes are designed to detect specific problems in parts of the population with identified risk. Health checks, on the other hand, are more like a general health MOT, where key tests and measurements are taken to get a picture of general health and potential risk factors. A check can help pinpoint where we can make changes to reduce our risks, and signpost us to relevant support services. Sometimes a health check can spot a real problem – but most often, they help prevent them.
Which health check? Everyone aged between 40-74 who doesn’t have a pre-existing condition is entitled to a free health check under the NHS Health Check programme. This national initiative includes tests for risk factors for diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease, stroke and dementia – all conditions where help and support is available. If you’re in this age group and haven’t yet been invited to take part, you should soon
“Health checks are like a general health MOT, where key tests and measurements are taken to get a picture of general health and potential risk factors” receive a letter from your GP or local authority. In addition, some local pharmacies (including some branches of Boots) and mobile units offer the Health checks programme – you can find out more about the programme and where you can take part at www.healthcheck.nhs.uk. If you’re aged below 40 or above 74, it’s still worth getting a regular health MOT. The US National Institute for Health recommends that people aged 18-39 and over 70 have a basic health check including blood pressure and weight every 2 years, and for people with increased risk or specific conditions,
more frequent or detailed checks may be a good idea. All GPs and many pharmacies offer specific checking services outside of the Health Check programme – for example, blood pressure, weight and body mass index, or cholesterol levels. And there is an increasing number of private health MOT providers who can tailor the tests and advice they offer to your lifestyle and needs. There are also important health checks we can do ourselves, at home, throughout our adult lives. Familiarising ourselves with our bodies and keeping an eye out for changes to moles and freckles, breasts or testicles, and changes in bowel habits can help us to pick up on any potential issues early. Making changes A health check is only useful if you make the right changes afterwards. If you’ve been advised to stop smoking, lose weight or take other steps to reduce your health risks, ask your care provider for advice on making changes that last. Thanks to Evidence Into Practice Associates, a research and delivery organisation specialising in health, care and community.
www.eipa.co.uk PORTFOLIO 89
FACE TO FACE It seems health and body weight are always in the news, and it is no secret that health issues affect not only our own bodies and personal happiness; they have an enormous impact on the wellbeing of families, businesses, and our staff. Recognising this, Zahra Nassiri set up Z-Nutrition Coaching, which helps to develop and sustain a healthier lifestyle and body composition goals Zahra, you are a qualified Nutrition and Sports Nutrition coach. Tell us a little about how your interest in nutrition developed into forming this new company? I was always slightly heavy in my teen years and, like most people, I bounced between different diets from magazines and snippets, with absolutely no idea what I was doing. Some were just terrible, others were potentially very damaging and none of them gave results. A few years later I met an amazing personal trainer and body composition coach who taught me so much about nutrition and the importance of a healthy diet. I lost a lot of weight, built lean muscle and completely changed my physique, but also my mind set. He really inspired me, and that’s when I realised I’d love to work in that field and help as many people as possible, who, like me, seek guidance in achieving body goals, improving health and gaining body confidence. I spent years and years studying at college, university and on independent courses, and I’m forever reading and researching- it’s such a huge topic. Many of us struggle with weight and bounce between the never-ending diets that bombard us via the media and social media. How should we make sense of it all? This is where a lot of confusion exists! Social media is terrible for flying health-related messages around. Don’t get me wrong, there
is some great stuff on these sites and I follow some of the top guys in the industry, but sadly, I’ve seen a lot of really bad advice and tips about losing weight from people who aren’t properly qualified, including reality TV stars and celebs.
“Just by making some very effective changes (drinking ample water, for example) Nicole felt ten times better in the first week!”
that grew, ran, swam or flew, these are your best sources of high-quality foods full of all the minerals, vitamins and fibre your body needs. Think back to what your parents and grandparents grew up on! You can still include your favourite foods; there is no reason why anyone should cut out bread or carbs or chocolate completely. This is actually unhealthy and very unsustainable in the long run.
It’s difficult to know who is giving quality advice and who is just trying to make a bit of money by selling something. Generally, if a product is being sold in the form of a diet pill, a shake, a meal replacement or involves some form of extreme change and is promoting weight loss, it’s most probably going to affect your health in some way. A healthy diet for losing weight is all about REAL food, where moderation is key.
You radiate fitness and health yourself. How often do you train, and what should we all be aiming for when it comes to daily exercise? I do a lot of strength and conditioning training, about 4-5 days a week, and even though this is usually associated with big, bulky men, I’m tiny. I really love it, and look forward to every session. For fat loss, a combination of cardio and weight training is perfect. There’s no need to spend hours on a treadmill. Twenty minutes of highintensity interval training (HIIT), like short sprints in a park, is great. But if you enjoy swimming or walks across the Downs or Zumba, they are also great. The key is to get moving around 3-4 days a week!
So, nutrition is not necessarily eating less but approaching food as fuel, and eating healthily? Yes! Its amazing how many people think a good diet will leave them feeling hungry. That’s so untrue. It’s all about making the right food choices. Think natural wholefoods: anything
Zahra, can you tell us about a specific case where you successfully set up a one-to-one coaching programme to address a person's specific needs and goals? What was their problem, and what changes occurred? I recently coached a young girl who has twins.
INTERVIEW
Nicole came to me looking exhausted and told me she was really self-conscious, particularly about her 'mummy tummy,' which she hid under oversized tops. She wasn’t huge! But she wanted to get her pre-pregnancy figure back and, more importantly, she wanted to start eating better now that the twins are on solids, get her energy back and feel happier in herself. I’ve had a lot of female clients who feel they stop taking care of themselves once they have a baby to look after, and too often diet is the first thing to go out the window. After assessing her diet and lifestyle I was able to put together a program for her with really simple but effective changes for her to follow over a period of six weeks, which fitted in with her lifestyle. We worked together closely. As a coach, I make sure I support and monitor clients' progress as much as possible. Just by making some very effective changes (drinking ample water, for example) Nicole felt ten times better in the first week! In total she lost half a stone and has learnt so much about nutrition. Her before-and-after photos are amazing, AND she still enjoyed chocolate and social events with friends. You work with sports men and women who seek help in developing their bodies and improving energy levels. What about those of us who just want to lose weight and keep it off? Without going into the science, losing weight all comes down to how many calories we are eating
and how many calories we are burning in a day. Although there’s no need to get the calculator out or worry too much about numbers, we just need to be more active and make wiser food choices. Processed foods, convenience foods and sugary drinks are very calorie-dense, which
“Be patient, go at a steady pace and be consistent.” means it’s easy to consume too much. They may taste good, but they aren’t very filling and have very little benefit to our health. You may think you aren’t eating a lot, but it's WHAT you’re eating! Natural whole foods and less processed foods are less caloric, much better for us and keep us full for longer. You’re a great advert for healthy living, Zahra. Give us your top three tips for a healthy lifestyle? 1 Eat right. Focus on high-quality foods, swap processed foods for whole foods. Start cooking from scratch as much as you can. Try to have a variety of vegetables with every meal, and if you’re working, prepare healthy lunches the night before. This is a great way to start. And just experiment with different ingredients, get creative in the kitchen, discover some new, healthy favourites! Healthy food can be just as fast, tasty and filling as fast food. If 80% of your daily food is healthy, you can have about 20% of
your favourites. A healthy diet doesn’t have to be boring. 2 Get active. Make the most of the sunny days by being outside. Go for long walks, get the bicycle out, kick a football round the park with the kids, get your friends and family involved. It’s important to find an exercise or activity that you really enjoy. Exercise is so important for the heart, but it’s also a great way to de-stress and also keep the pounds off. 3 Be patient, go at a steady pace and be consistent. Unfortunately, everyone wants instant results these days- we all want a quick fix, and that’s why crash dieting is so common. What people don’t realise is that the BEST diet is one you can see yourself sticking to for the rest of your life. Keep it simple: incorporate highly nutritious foods into your diet, cut down on poor-quality foods, listen to your body, eat when you’re hungry, stop when you’re full, enjoy the odd treat and drink ample water and the results will follow.
Contact Zahra Email: info@z-nutrition.com Online: www.z-nutrition.com Facebook page: zncoaching Instagram: @zncoaching PORTFOLIO 91
CELEBRITY chef recipe
FRENCH Flamboyance Michel Roux Jr, the two-star Michelin-starred chef, shares some sizzling secrets as summer approaches
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hat I love about cooking is the fact that dining habits have changed considerably over the years, and continue to change. Recently I’ve become really fascinated by the whole idea of sharing plates. I think, initially, that was brought about by our love of tapas and that whole idea of food being a real community thing, and I admire that. It's something I’m keen to take forward. That said, there will always be a place for the formal restaurant. We all have birthdays and anniversaries and we all want to have that luxurious, pampered feeling, so they will always exist, but I really like the way we have a mix between the two nowadays. You see, what it comes down to is often not the food at all. Yes, it’s an imperative part of the whole thing, but the key to a good
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restaurant goes much further. It’s about the whole experience – so, the front of house, the service and the buzz. The buzz is very important. A good atmosphere is a must, or why would people want to come back? And, you know, you can’t buy buzz; it’s not an ingredient. You only get the buzz from happy people dining in your restaurant, and that comes from a positive environment, great food and dedicated staff. And if we’re going out spending money, we should all demand that. So, for a recipe here, I’m presenting a cheese soufflé, something that’s been on almost every menu I’ve put together for decades. It’s an individual dish, but cheese often evokes thoughts of sharing – from cheeseboards to fondue - so it feels very relevant.
“the key to a good restaurant goes much further. It’s about the whole experience – so, the front of house, the service and the buzz. The buzz is very important. A good atmosphere is a must”
CELEBRITY chef recipe
CHEESE SOUFFLÉ Serves 4 Prep: 20 minutes Cooking time: 12 minutes Recipe • • • • • • • • • • •
50g softened butter, to grease dishes 50g Gruyère, grated, to coat dishes 20g butter 20g plain flour 250ml milk Salt and freshly ground pepper Pinch of cayenne 6 medium egg yolks 10 medium egg whites 240g Gruyère or Comté, finely grated, Plus 8 or 4 thin dishes
This technique is similar for all hot soufflés - savoury or sweet.
1.
Generously grease the insides of 8 standard 8cm ramekins (or four 10cm soufflé dishes) with the softened butter. Put about 50g grated Gruyère into one dish, rotate it to coat the inside, then tip the excess into another ramekin. Repeat to coat them all. To make the béchamel, melt the 20g of butter in a pan. Add the flour and cook for 2 minutes, stirring with a whisk, to make a roux. Still stirring, add the cold milk and bring to the boil over a medium heat. Let bubble for a minute or two, then pour the béchamel into a bowl. Season lightly with salt, pepper, and cayenne, then whisk in the egg yolks. Cover the bowl with cling film and let cool slightly.
2.
Preheat the oven to 200C/Gas 6. Beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until soft peaks form. Immediately mix one-third of the egg whites into the warm soufflé mixture with a whisk, then, using a large spoon, fold in the rest with one hand while showering in the grated Gruyère with the other. Stop as soon as the mixture is amalgamated.
3.
Spoon the mixture into the ramekins to come 5mm above the rim. Smooth the surface with a palette knife, then use a knife tip to ease the mixture away from the side of each ramekin to help it rise.
4.
Stand the ramekins in a deep ovenproof dish lined with a sheet of greaseproof paper and pour in enough almost-boiling water to come halfway up the sides. Bake the soufflés for 4 minutes (or 6 minutes for the 10cm dishes). Put the cooked soufflés on individual plates and serve at once - they won't wait!
5.
*Recipe taken from ‘Michel Roux's Eggs’, published by Quadrille.
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STYLE
Phew!
IT’S A SCORCHER! Samantha Wilding on dressing well for hot weather. Men, she is talking to you...
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e Brits do not have a great reputation when it comes to hot-weather dressing. As soon as the mercury begins to climb, all sense of decorum seems to go out the window, with acres of pale skin being inappropriately revealed. We never quite manage to look ‘effortless’ in the sun in a way that our continental cousins do (this is not an argument for Brexit, by the way.) And men, unfortunately, draw the short straw with a tricky triumvirate: shorts, sandals and swimwear. I’m going to focus on these three in this article, which I hope will help you up your game this summer, whether you’re heading to Bali, Barcelona or Blackpool. GUYS: LET’S TALK SHORTS Shorts can be a potential minefield for the average British man. But here are some guidelines that I hope you will find helpful. First of all, get the length right. Your shorts should end just a couple of inches above the knee – in other words, neither too short nor too long, and ideally, if they suit your frame, they should be slim cut. If you choose denim shorts, no rips please: you are not in a boy band. Tailored shorts will ensure you look the part. Make sure to choose heavy cotton (chino) rather than linen, which will crease like mad. Wear your shorts – denim or chino – with a good quality t-shirt that fits. Not a huge, holey, baggy thing with a Hard Rock Café logo, circa
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1987, but a slim-fitting, good-quality t-shirt in a complementary colour. If it’s chilly in the evening, add a fine knit jumper (keep it fine, you don’t want to add bulk) or a stylish sweatshirt (again, no logos) for when the sun goes down. Chino shorts, by the way, look particularly sharp with a Breton striped t-shirt: this is a classic look that never dates. You can also add a casual blazer to this look. SANDALS AND SOCKS – NO! It’s hard to believe, but sandals and socks had a brief fashion moment earlier this spring as Bottega Veneta styled dual-strap sandals with chunky socks. Thankfully, that moment ended. So what are the best styles to go for? Here are some of my favourites: • Soft leather sandals will keep your feet comfortable. Choose classic Birkenstocks (which come in a range of shapes, styles and colours) or Hudson woven sandals (see the box) – all of which can be worn with chinos, jeans and shorts • Rubber pool sliders are waterproof and comfortable. These have been around for the past couple of years and will take you from poolside to bar with ease • Thong sandals are more substantial (and less sloppy) that a traditional flipflop. Kurt Geiger are doing a lovely navy version this year that would look great with the chino shorts-Breton t-shirt look
(see the link below). Make sure your toes are not hanging over the end If you can’t bear to bare your feet (or invest in a pedicure), choose breathable trainers, canvas deck shoes or luxe espadrilles. A pair of classic Converse in white or navy is an easy starting point if you’re unsure. And to keep things fresh, invest in some footie socks that don’t show; they’ll keep your feet happy and your trainers sweet. STYLE, FIT, COLOUR Whatever style you choose – tailored or casual – they should fit you properly. Tailored swim shorts are usually slim cut and made from polyamide. They often come with a button or popper fastening and are sized by your waist measurement, which usually means a better fit than drawstring or elastic alone. If you prefer a casual cut that gives you more room in the thigh, choose a traditional short in mesh-lined nylon or polyester. These are less formal than tailored shorts and range from midthigh length to more generous board shorts. Whichever style you choose, they should be no longer than just above the knee and no shorter than mid-thigh. Colour can make the difference between you looking yacht-ready… or not. When choosing colour, consider your skin tone, just as you would with any other item of clothing. Muted and neutral colours (navy, grey, olive green) look
STYLE
“Chino shorts, by the way, look particularly sharp with a Breton striped t-shirt: this is a classic look that never dates”
Beauty Box A miracle in a bottle
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better on fairer skin, while brighter and jewel tones (yellow, bright blue, red) look fantastic on darker skins. If you’re going straight from the beach to the bar, choose a subtle tailored style (not board shorts or garish prints) which are easy to pair with a polo shirt or linen blazer. Orlebar Brown is great for this as their swim shorts are made from a quickdrying material. See the box for further details.
MY RECOMMENDATIONS SWIM SHORTS: Orlebar Brown: www.orlebarbrown.co.uk Paul Smith: www.paulsmith.co.uk/uk-en/shop/mens/swimwear J Crew: www.jcrew.com/uk/mens_category/swim/65tabswimshorts.jsp Mr Porter: stocks a range of upmarket swimwear brands, including Club Monaco, Vilebrequin and Hartford: www.mrporter.com/mens/clothing/swimwear SANDALS: Birkenstock: www.birkenstock.co.uk Hudson London ‘Matto’ woven leather sandal: available at www.asos.com Adidas Originals ‘Adilette’ textured rubber sliders: available at www.mrporter.com Kurt Geiger ‘Kalil’ navy thong sandal: www.kurtgeiger.com/men/shoes/sandals/ kalil-navy-leather-kurt-geiger-london SHORTS: Denim – HE by Mango: www.shop.mango.com/GB/hebymango/clothing/shorts Chino – Scotch & Soda: www.scotch-soda.com
very once in a while, you come across a product that seems too good to be true, but actually delivers. I recently discovered Electric Body’s Skin Elixir, a live, multi-use skin cream that is chemical- and alcohol-free and packed with natural ingredients. The key to its formulation is colostrum (the foremilk of all mammals) from New Zealand dairy cows, developed by a guy with a dairy farming background. Colostrum is the starter of life, and colostrum from cows is much more powerful than that from humans. It’s one of the most researched health compounds out there, and is naturally renewable.
Skin Elixir also contains cold-pressed botanical oils, naturally occurring vitamins and trace minerals. Its formulation allows the colostrum to penetrate cell membranes, providing complete nutrition for your skin. It is dispensed from an airtight pump to keep it from contamination. I’ve been using the Skin Elixir for about eight weeks now, and I can honestly say my skin has never looked or felt better. It feels incredibly soft and the tone looks more even: an age spot on my cheek that had been bothering me is breaking up and fading. I also use it on my neck and décolleté, as well as a scar on my arm (which has also faded). You can use it on your hands, feet – even as an aftershave for men - and a little goes a long way. Try it for yourself. You won’t be disappointed. Electric Body Skin Elixir retails at £155 and is available from www.electricbody.co.uk All the best...
www.styleandgrace.eu @alwayschicUK
Samantha
TV – The BIGGER picture
RIO 2016 ON THE BBC Rio 2016 Olympic coverage starts on August 5th. BBC commentator Clare Balding on the ones to watch in 2016
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lare says: "London 2012 saw the likes of Jessica Ennis, Mo Farah, Greg Rutherford, Nicola Adams and the Brownlee brothers become household names, as the nation took them to their hearts following their monumental sporting success on home turf. All eyes will be on them again this summer, while track cyclist Laura Trott and dressage star Charlotte Dujardin are vying to become the most decorated British female Olympians in history. But who else could make their mark on the international sporting stage and emerge as a breakthrough name at Rio 2016? Here are my top picks, selected from the new generation of star athletes who could catapult themselves into the sporting history books."
Athletics - Dina Asher-Smith The Londoner became the fastest-ever teenage girl over 200m at the 2015 World Championships in Beijing, where she broke the 31 year-old British record by finishing fifth in the final. Now 20, the former world junior champion is combining her training with a degree in history. She is definitely capable of making more of her own in Rio this summer. Also watch out for... Katarina Johnson-Thompson (heptathlon). The 23 year-old looked on course to challenge Jessica Ennis-Hill for the World Championship title last year before three fouls in her favoured long jump ended her hopes. If she can be more consistent, particularly in the field events, she will be among the favourites in Rio. It should be a great battle between the two Brits for the title.
Boxing - Joe Joyce GB boxing’s stand-out man in 2015, he is fancied to trouble the medal positions in Brazil after securing super-heavyweight bronze at the World Championships. A multi-talented sportsman, the 30 year-old Londoner also took a degree in fine art and will hope to emulate friend and former team-mate Anthony Joshua at the Olympics. Track cycling - Becky James After missing out on a place at the London Olympics, James bounced back in 2013 to win four medals - including two golds – in the sprint disciplines at the World Championships. The Welsh cyclist then endured injury and illness problems and was out for almost two years, missing the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. However, she made a successful comeback on her return to the World Championships in March, winning a bronze medal in the keirin, and looks to be back on track at just the right time. Diving - Jack Laugher The 21 year-old Yorkshireman enhanced his growing reputation by winning two bronze medals at last year’s World Championships in Russia. The 3m springboard specialist became only the second British diver - after Tom Daley - to win an individual World Championships medal, and alongside Chris Mears he also claimed Great Britain’s first podium finish at that level in the synchronised event.
TV – The BIGGER picture Leeds-based Laugher (pronounced Law) won the overall World Series title in 2015 following three impressive victories. The previous year he earned two Commonwealth gold medals and a silver in Glasgow. Laugher became Britain’s first world junior diving champion for 11 years in 2010, prompting the American diving great Greg Louganis to tout the Brit as a future senior world champion after watching him perform. Golf - Charley Hull Hull made her professional debut in March 2013, aged just 17, and was runner-up in her first five tournaments on the Ladies European Tour. Later that year she was picked to represent Europe in the Solheim Cup - the women's equivalent of the men's Ryder Cup. Hull was their youngest-ever player and helped Europe to lift the trophy on USA soil for the first time. She was named Rookie of the Year after her impressive debut season and claimed her first professional title at the Lalla Meryem Cup in Morocco in 2014. Sailing - Giles Scott Scott is red-hot favourite for a gold medal in Rio. Beaten just once in the Finn class since April 2013, he picked up his third World Championship title in November. He also won the Rio test event in 2014. He has flourished since, coming out of the shadow of Sir Ben Ainslie, who narrowly beat him at the London Olympic trials. Scott is also part of Ainslie’s America’s Cup team for next year.
Swimming - Adam Peaty Peaty has been a revelation since his breakthrough in 2014. He won European and Commonwealth titles that year and followed up with world records and three world titles in 2015. He’s a medal prospect primarily in the 100m breaststroke and potentially the medley relay. Also watch out for...James Guy The biggest shock of 2015, as no-one saw him challenging for medals at the World Championships, let alone winning gold. He was amazing over 200m and 400m, winning gold in the former and silver in the longer event. Guy struck gold again in Kazan in the 4 x 200m freestyle relay, taking the British quartet from third to first on the final leg of the relay to claim Britain’s first-ever men's relay title at a World Championship event.
World Championships, following in the footsteps of Sarah Stevenson, who won in 2001 and 2011. The Liverpudlian overcame two serious knee injuries to win the +73kg world title and she will hope to emulate her housemate Jade Jones, who won Olympic gold in 2012.
“Here are my top picks, selected from the new generation of star athletes who could catapult themselves into the sporting history books”
Triathlon - Non Stanford Wales’ Non Stanford made a successful transition from track running to triathlon after a series of injuries kept her off the track. Her breakthrough year was 2012, when she won gold in the Under-23 World Championships and then followed that with the senior title in 2013. Injuries ruled Stanford out of most of the 2014 season, including the Commonwealth Games, but she returned the following year in fine form and, at the World Triathlon Grand Final in Chicago, secured her ticket to Rio in September. She has targeted a medal this summer and, after winning her first race of 2016, she looks on course to fulfil her promise.
Clare Balding Taekwondo - Bianca Walkden In May 2015, Walkden became only the second Briton ever to clinch taekwondo gold at the
Tennis - Johanna Konta British number-one Konta is making the Olympics her top priority this summer and she is well placed to make a Brazilian breakthrough. It has been a year to remember so far for Konta, who turns 25 on 17 May. She became the first British woman for 33 years to reach a Grand Slam semi-final at the Australian Open in January. That followed her progression to the fourth round of the US Open last September. Born in Sydney to Hungarian parents, she moved to England at the age of 14 and qualified as a British citizen in 2012.
ON SCREEN ... On our radar this month…
BBC PROMS 2016 This season, which runs from 15 July to 10 September and consists of more than 90 concerts, has a strong Russian focus, beginning on the First Night with Tchaikovsky’s Romeo and JulietOverture. One notable highlight will be when bass-baritone Bryn Terfel appears in the eponymous role of Musorgsky’s opera Boris Godunov, in which Sir Antonio Pappano conducts the Orchestra of the Royal Opera House. Starts from 15th July.
VICTORIA This ambitious 8-part drama follows the early life of Queen Victoria (Jenna Coleman), from her accession to the throne at the tender age of 18 through to her courtship and marriage to Prince Albert (Tom Hughes). The series chronicles the public and private life of one of history’s most interesting and influential monarchs. Rufus Sewell stars as Lord Melbourne, Victoria’s first prime minister, and Tom Hughes as her husband, Prince Albert. Starts July, ITV.
MARCELLA Anna Friel stars as a London detective whose personal and professional life is at a breaking point. The UK production (which has already aired on ITV) is the first Englishlanguage series from Hans Rosenfeldt, creator of the original Swedish version of The Bridge. Available Netflix from 1st July.
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LOCAL news
LOCAL NEWS THEATRE ROYAL BACKSTAGE TOURS The Theatre Royal’s popular Backstage Tours will take place every Saturday morning throughout summer. This beautiful grade II listed Theatre holds over 200 years of secrets and intriguing tales, this offers a fascinating insight into its history, redevelopment and present day workings. On the Historical Tour, you can creep behind the scenes of this theatrical treasure, steal a bow on stage, sneak into the Queen’s seat in the Royal Box, tiptoe into the infamous ‘gulp bar’ used by Laurence Olivier and explore the unusual backstage area constructed from fishermen’s cottages. There is also a new interactive Family Friendly Tour, which lets you see what happens backstage when a show is on, explore hidden parts of the building not open to the public, meet characters from the past and staff from the present and experience what it’s like to perform on stage in front of a packed audience! With props, games, fun facts and plenty of photo opportunities, this is a great way to find out about more about Brighton’s most famous and fascinating theatre. Tours are approx. 1 hour and run every Saturday until September. Family-Friendly App Tour, 10.15am. Historical Tour, 11.30am.
CBE FOR BRIGHTON COUNCILLOR Brighton councillor Steve Bell, 60, said that he was humbled to have been honoured by the Queen on her 90th birthday. Councillor Bell, who represents Woodingdean on Brighton and Hove City Council, was made a CBE for political service, in particular his work as president of the National Conservative Convention. The former south London barrow boy said: “I am immensely honoured and humbled to have been appointed a Commander of the Order of the British Empire in the Queen’s Honours List on the occasion of Her Majesty’s 90th birthday. “It is a testament, coming from my background as a barrow boy from Woolwich, southeast London, to being involved in politics at the highest level and sitting on the Conservative Party Board, that my party recognises people’s abilities from all walks of life. “I have tried to keep myself grounded by keeping in touch and working with the grassroots throughout my career and by maintaining an involvement with local politics. Mr Bell is currently the president of the National Conservative Convention and chairs the Conservative Associations Finance Board.
PORTFOLIO AWARD WINNER The Brighton & Hove Independent Business Awards, organised by JP South Events, which recognise local business excellence, took place on Friday 17 June at the Amex Stadium. PORTFOLIO sponsored the Hospitality, Tourism and Leisure Award and Lynne Edwards was delighted to award this to Harvey Dawkins of Lagoon Watersports (pictured). www.lagoon.co.uk.
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CARNIVAL OF GOLF Brighton’s Dyke Golf Club is hosting its first Carnival of Golf Week from 1st to 6th August, with a range of team events culminating in a Pro-Am and Men’s Team Open. The Pro-Am on Friday, 5th August gives a team the opportunity to be paired up with a professional golfer. So whether you want to have a fun day out with friends or maximise the opportunity to entertain clients, it’s a great way to play golf in a relaxed and fun environment, and to see just how it should be done! The Club have also announced a range of sponsorship opportunities for the week for companies who’d like to promote their business to like-minded golfers. You can download entry forms at www.dykegolf.com/visitors/opens or, if you’d like more information, please call Martin Yeates on 01273 857296.
LOCAL news
GREEN TRANSPORT FUNDING FOR THE CITY
£30M MADEIRA TERRACES RESTORATION PLANS Plans to restore the Madeira Terraces and create glass-fronted shops, cafes, offices and overnight beach huts underneath have been unveiled. The listed Victorian terraces have been closed since 2013, when a routine survey uncovered structural concerns. Subsequent surveys have uncovered substantial corrosion of the cast iron fixings keeping the 130-year-old structure up, leading to further closures and the relocation of several businesses. Campaigners have been pushing hard for Brighton & Hove City Council to publish its plans after they were first promised at the beginning of the year. As expected, they include a commercial element in the form of the units. The ironwork will be restored where possible and replaced with replicas where necessary. The council says it will also try and preserve the Green Wall, which predates the terraces. The council says it will be be bidding for £4million of coastal communities fund money to get the £20-30million project started, with further money coming from other grants, private investment and possibly borrowing from the Public Works Loan Board, the way the bulk of the i360 has been funded.
Brighton & Hove has won £485,000 of funding from the government to promote green forms of transport. The funding for Brighton & Hove City Council is part of £20.6m that is being given out nationally for 23 sustainable travel initiatives across England that boost local economies by supporting people’s ambitions - offering cheap, clean and healthy travel options to access jobs and education opportunities. Transport Minister Robert Goodwill said: “Green transport cuts congestion and improves air quality. It also offers the cheapest and healthiest way for people to access jobs and education. “Brighton & Hove’s green travel scheme will make a real difference for residents and help provide better air quality for everyone. Our £21m funding across England shows we are committed to improving lives through investment in sustainable transport.” Successful local authorities demonstrated they could cut emissions, support social and economic growth and increase cycling and walking in their areas.
BRIGHTON & HOVE STORE FOR FURNITURE RETAILER Furniture retailer Barker and Stonehouse have announced a new store will open in Brighton and Hove in spring 2017. An existing building in Old Shoreham Road, Hove, will be converted, bringing in 25 new jobs to the city. The company’s 11th store will offer 35,000 sq ft of space across two floors and represents an investment of around £1m by Barker and Stonehouse. From its origins in Stockton on Tees in 1946 the company has grown to become the UK’s largest family-owned furniture retailer. It added to its established bases across the North by opening a showcase store in Battersea, London, in 2013, and work is also underway on a second southern store in Guildford, Surrey. James Barker, Managing Director of Barker and Stonehouse, said: “Our plans to expand into the South East are really taking shape and we’re delighted to be able to announce this latest venture. “The Brighton & Hove store will be designed to be somewhere people like to visit, with a breadth of products and the quirky touches that make shopping in Barker and Stonehouse an exciting customer experience.
TWO FIRSTS FOR GLYNDEBOURNE TOUR 2016 Glyndebourne’s first-ever staging of Puccini’s Madama Butterfly and an exclusive new event to introduce new audiences to opera mark two firsts for Glyndebourne Tour 2016. One of the world’s most popular operas, Madama Butterfly, will make its first appearance at Glyndebourne when it opens the 2016 Glyndebourne Tour on 14 October. The second main-stage opera on the Tour is a revival of Jonathan Kent’s 2010 production of Don Giovanni, featuring a cast of up-and-coming young singers, a number of whom started their careers in the Glyndebourne Chorus. Tour 2016’s third live performance marks another first - a new event created exclusively for Glyndebourne to offer a unique insight into how an opera is created. Don Giovanni: Behind the Curtain is a fully-staged theatrical production going behind the scenes to see how an opera comes to life. Now in its 48th year, Glyndebourne Tour was founded in 1968 to act as a showcase for emerging artists and to enable Glyndebourne to share its work with bigger audiences. The 2016 Tour will begin at Glyndebourne on 14 October before visiting Milton Keynes, Canterbury, Norwich, Woking and Plymouth. glyndebourne.com/tour2016
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GOLF
PRACTICE MAKES perfect Most golfers would probably agree with some version of the old adage,“practice makes perfect,” but would struggle to find the time for a full round of golf, much less the hours of practice needed to improve consistency. GolfGuy turns to the expert to find out how to squeeze the maximum benefit out of limited practice time...
W
hether you like golf, football, Shoto-kan or just schuckin' and jivin' with your guitar in an amateur band, you know deep down that your passion will be crashin' if you don't put in the time needed to refine and improve your skills. While professionals spend most of their time practising, with actual performance making up the tip of the iceberg, we amateurs do it all in reverse, spending perhaps a few hours a year honing our skills and three to five hours on every round of golf. And we remain mystified as to why we have been stuck on a 17 handicap for years, perplexed about our recurring inconsistent rounds with birdies alternating madly with double bogeys or worse. We often put it down to luck, accepting that “it's just not my day.” When someone suggested to the great
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Jack Nicklaus that he had been pretty lucky lately, he is said to have replied with the oftquoted “Yeah, I find that the more I practice, the luckier I get.” The problem for amateurs is that we don't play golf for a living. We help people with their legal affairs, run companies, keep people's cars running properly, and so on. We spend most of our time doing these things and find that just squeezing in a monthly round of golf can be challenging, especially when there is a family at home with understandable expectations of spending some time with working parents on weekends. We know we need to practice, but practice sessions all too often are limited to sneaky buckets of balls bashed mindlessly on the range between the office and home with every club in the bag except the putter
and with no particular plan. As a result, we seldom know with any certainty how far, on average, we hit each club and rarely have the confidence needed to hit a nine-iron bump rather than the seemingly obligatory wedge that often gets left pitifully short or bladed off the back of the green. If practice makes perfect, the corollary must be “poor practice is a waste of time.” Golfers committed to improving their skills will accept the need to spend an hour on the practice range at least a couple of times a month. Given these limitations, how would you recommend we spend those precious hours? Can you suggest a practice routine that will add some structure and value to what all too easily can become just wasted time?
Golf Guy...
GOLF
The Golf Pro replies Do you think 'practice makes perfect', or 'practice makes permanent'? It is surprising how many golfers do not have a practice plan. This inevitably means you are practicing faults and grooving them, rather than sound principles. The earlier in your golfing life you learn sound principles, the better; sound mechanics are important to being able to play the game consistently well. There are a number of issues that have to be taken into account: your range of motion, the time available and the incentive. If necessary, get professional help to form a practice plan which has clearly defined goals that are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Recordable and Timed (SMART). Playing 36 holes in a weekend, every weekend, may not be the best approach to improving your golf. By playing only 27, invest the time you've saved into a practice session which is planned out.
Practice like it matters. Never waste time, never waste a golf shot and make sure that the shot is executed to the best of your ability with your full attention on it. The next time you decide to go to the range to work on your game, consider that you have a marvellous opportunity to start practicing with real purpose. You should design your practice so that it’s specific, engaging and repeatable and you’ll discover that this shift in the way you go about performing your practice will build a strong and reliable bridge between practicing on the range and performing on the golf course when it really counts. Golf is hard. We know this is no revelation, and to get better you not only need to practice, but know how to practice correctly. Going to the range and bashing a bucket of balls with your driver might help let off some steam, but it’s not necessarily the best “practice” for your game. Instead, try picking targets, using different clubs, shaping shots and working a club or two
that gave you trouble during your last round. This kind of practice will do a lot more for your game. Try placing a club on the ground and use the shaft to check that your stance line is square to your target line. Practice hitting shots to a target like you are hitting a real shot on the course, not just a 7-iron aiming for the 150 yd marker.
If you have any questions, please feel free to email: lee@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.
With thanks to our golfing expert, Lee Andrews, PGA Golf Professional, Mid Sussex Golf Club lee@midsussexgolfclub.co.uk www.midsussexgolfclub.co.uk
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BUSINESS
Small businesses bearing the brunt of
CYBER CRIME
A new report from the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) has found that small firms are unfairly carrying the cost of cyber crime in an increasingly vulnerable digital economy
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he report, ‘Cyber Resilience: How to protect small firms in the digital economy,’ suggests smaller firms are collectively attacked seven million times per year, costing the UK economy an estimated £5.26 billion. Despite the vast majority of small firms (93%) taking steps to protect their business from digital threats, two thirds (66%) have been a victim of cyber crime in the last two years. Over that period, those affected have been victims on four occasions on average, costing each business almost £3000 in total. Cyber crime costs small businesses disproportionately more than big businesses when adjusted for organisational size. Currently, the responsibility largely falls on small businesses to protect themselves [2]. FSB is calling for more support to be given to those smaller firms least able to bear the burden of the increasing global cyber threat. Almost all (99%) of the UK’s 5.4 million small firms rate the internet as being highly important to their business, with two in three (66%) offering, or planning to offer, goods and services online. Without intervention, the growing sophistication of cyber attacks could stifle small business growth and in the worst cases close them down. Mike Cherry, FSB National Chairman, said: “The digital economy is vital to small businesses, presenting a huge opportunity to reach new markets and customers, but these benefits are matched by the risk of opportunities for criminals to attack businesses. “Small firms take their cyber security responsibility very seriously but often they are the least able to bear the cost of doing so.
Smaller businesses have limited resources, time and expertise to deal with ever-evolving and increasing digital attacks. We’re calling on Government, larger businesses, individuals and providers to take part in a joint effort to tackle cyber crime and improve business resilience.” The types of cyber crime most commonly affecting small businesses are phishing emails (49%), spear phishing emails (37%), and malware attacks (29%) [3].
“The law enforcement response to cyber-crime must be improved at the local, regional, national and international levels” Small firms are also concerned about hacking and fraud when the card is not present, with the average information breach setting them back 2.2 days [4] [5]. To combat this, four in five small firms (80%) use computer-securing software, and well over half (53%) perform regular updates of their IT systems. The FSB report also found room for small firms to improve security. Currently, just a quarter of smaller businesses (24%) have a strict password policy, four per cent have a written plan of what to do if attacked online, and just two per cent have a recognised security standard such as ISO27001or the Government’s Cyber Essentials scheme. Mike Cherry added: “Small firms are understandably focused on building their
businesses and creating the jobs which drive economic growth. The vulnerabilities of the digital world affect everyone and the responsibility for improving resilience should not be left to the group with least resource to do something about it. “Security is important, but given that an element of risk will always be present when operating online, resilience must also be championed. Without a concerted effort to reduce cyber-crime and improve resilience, small businesses could be at real risk.” There needs to be significant simplification and consolidation of cyber security information provided by Government. The National Cyber Security Centre should become the hub for this, providing a one-stop-shop for advice and guidance for all small businesses, alongside a determined marketing effort to ensure businesses are aware of it. Schools should try to incorporate digital learning so that young people have a better understanding of the dangers of being online and are educated about how to be cyber secure. There should also be better incentives for small businesses to encourage them to invest in cyber resilience measures and adopt best practice when it comes to increasing their cyber resilience. The law enforcement response to cybercrime must be improved at the local, regional, national and international levels. There must be more investment by the Government in law enforcement resources to effectively tackle cyber-crime. Businesses should be encouraged to report every crime, and they must be reassured that it will be taken seriously. For more information visit: www.fsb.org.uk PORTFOLIO 103
STILL ON THE MOVE In an Olympic year, Portfolio catches up with Nadia Comaneci, who, 40 years after clinching gold at the Montreal Olympics, is still at the heart of the sport today
THE interview
M
any of us remember Nadia Comăneci, the former Romanian gymnast, for scoring a perfect 10 at the 1976 Montreal Olympics, at the age of 14 and, in the process, winning millions of hearts. Now, four decades years on, at age 54, the recipient of nine Olympic medals – including five gold – explains how that incredible success was both the start and the end of her career. “I started when I was six-and-a half and retired in 1984 at the age of just 22. That sounds very young, but I'd been doing gymnastics for many years, and although I’d had very few injuries, actually – a sprained ankle and pains here and there – there was never anything major. I think that’s because I'd done a lot of conditioning and my body was strong enough to handle low landings and things like that, but in a sport like gymnastics your lifespan is very short.” These days Comăneci has a foundation in her name. It was formed to raise money to help kids who have the potential to compete in sport at a high level but cannot afford it. She still gets back to Romania on a regular basis – in fact she made a point of returning
there to get married 20 years ago. “It was very emotional. It was important for me to get married in Romania, because I wanted to share that moment of my life with the entire country. It was declared a non-working day, so people didn't go to work. It was special.
"These days Comăneci has a foundation in her name. It was formed to raise money to help kids who have the potential to compete in sport at a high level but cannot afford it" “Now I'm celebrating the 40th anniversary of winning that Olympic title and it's hard to believe it was that long ago since the '76 Games. I'm more emotional these days.” That emotion stretches to encouraging the next breed of gymnast, as her foundation
proves. Indeed, it seems that despite modern society providing a range of different opportunities in leisure – from sport to gaming and other entertainment – gymnastics is as popular as ever. “I think it comes down to how competitive you are. I was very competitive as a child. When I was five years old, my first win was in a kindergarten tricycle competition, so I think I had the drive somehow to want to be better than the person on the right or on the left. I think my motivation came from my family and from my teammates. “My mum was behind me all the way - she took me to the gym when I was six because I jumped on the bed a lot and I was too energetic, so she found out a way that I could expend that energy. It wasn't like she was thinking 'I would like you to do this because this will be probably be your life.' She said, 'Just go there and jump on a trampoline as long as you want and don't break my furniture,’” Nadia laughs. “So that's how I ended up in a gym.” Comăneci now lives in Oklahoma with her husband, the American Olympic champion Bart Conner, raising their nine-year-old son, Dylan. She is a Laureus Foundation
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THE interview
"I think I had the drive somehow to want to be better than the person on the right or on the left"
Ambassador, and together with her husband, travels the world delivering inspirational speeches as well as promoting their charities, gymnastics and fitness lifestyles. “It’s a passion to stay involved, and seeing my son embrace gymnastics has been fantastic. He has certainly inherited the stubbornness that I had. When I was doing gymnastics and my coach would say, 'I bet you cannot do more than two,' I would be like, 'I bet I can do five.' I was always like that. That was a good thing for me and I think that will prove a good thing for Dylan as well.”
“I think now a lot of people understand that you can only get to the Olympics if you work hard. You don't get there because your mum is an Olympian” Staying in shape is something many former athletes struggle with, but for Nadia the process is down to routine. “I work out every day for about 30 minutes. It’s a challenge when you don’t enjoy the exercise you’re doing, so for anyone who wants to stay in shape, I’d recommend that it has to be about figuring out something that works for you. And really, I don't think 30 minutes is a lot - I run for 10 or 15, do a few weights and some stretching and that's it, and I eat very smart. I know what I like, what's good, what's not good. So it's working for me.”
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When asked if she can still do those incredible flips and somersaults that impressed the world in 1976, Nadia is coy. “I can’t do all of them, but I do like to play in the gym when there's nobody around!” she laughs. “I'm curious to see what I can do. I can do a handstand, a cartwheel and I think I'll be able to do that for a long time, but as for the more difficult tricks, you have to be doing that every day if you’re going to be able to maintain it.” Despite being away from the limelight, Nadia still courts considerable media attention, and it’s not uncommon for people to become emotional when they meet; indeed, even actress Salma Hayek cried when the pair met at the Golden Globes. “I was very surprised, because when I was 14 I would watch stars on TV and I'd say, 'I will never ever be able to meet any of them.' It looked like they lived in a different world. “When I competed in the Olympics, many years ago, being an Olympian didn't qualify you as a star. I think now a lot of people understand that you can only get to the Olympics if you work hard. You don't get there because your mum is an Olympian, and you don't get there because you've campaigned to be in the Olympics. “So, I think everybody respects that. I was surprised to see that last year with Salma, because she started to cry and I didn't know why she was crying. She said, 'I wanted to be you when I grew up!'. That was just so great, and that’s what sport offers that maybe nothing else does. It truly inspires people, and, hopefully, will always continue to do that.”
CULTURE David Bowie is
Another chance to see this fascinating journey through the exhibition at the Victoria & Albert Museum 14th July Connaught Theatre Worthing www.worthingtheatres.co.uk 18th July Duke of York Cinema, Brighton. www.picturehouses.com
Our birthday is only a number.