Portfolio Magazine, May 2017

May 2017

WIN! A family trip to Drusillas Park Celine Dion’s Breathtaking Florida home

Boldly go

Wallpaper Exclusive interview with Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen

Golf and spa oasis in Kent

Gardens special Kids dig it National Trust’s lone ranger City courtyard gardens

FREE

WIN

a set of Micro Scooters for the family*

Get your family moving this spring Hamptons International is teaming up with Micro Scooters to offer a set of scooters to five lucky families (each set includes four scooters; two adults’ and two children’s).* To enter, simply book a market appraisal with us between Tuesday 18th April and Sunday 21st May. Sales 01273 79 6 156 Lettings 01273 799 680 hamptons.co.uk

*Each set includes 4 Micro Scooters, two adult and two children’s. T&Cs apply. See www.hamptons.co.uk for details.

PORTFOLIO welcome

"Celine’s Jupiter neighbours include Michael Jordan and Tiger Woods" Celebrity Homes, page 16

"The Safari Express transports you on a roar-some ride deep into the heart of the zoo" Competition, page 42

"Our world can start to feel as though it’s shrinking and nowhere feels safe"

Image: Bugs and Butterflies wallpaper, Barneby Gates, www.barnebygates.com

Health, page 83

WELCOME

O

nce the May Day bank holiday has passed, it’s freewheeling all the way to summer – right! Well not so fast. Firstly, let’s not push our luck with the unseasonably warm weather, and why not linger a little longer in spring? For our money, this season is the best of all, and let’s savour the amazing display of spring flowers and early blooms. Which is why we have dedicated a large part of this issue to the great outdoors, and, in particular, our own gardens. Getting kids involved in gardening and nature is a good start, so for ideas on how to do this, turn to page 72. In the run-up to the big flower fest, the Chelsea Flower Show, we have a special interview with TV’s Dan Pearson, whose passion for horticulture is infectious (page 104). And if you’ve ever wondered what a ranger at the National Trust does, then you can find out on page 74, when we speak to ‘dormouse whisperer’ Kevan Gibbons.

A candidate for best job in Sussex, we think.

One of our personal highlights was an exclusive interview with Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen, the slightly eccentric and flamboyant homestyle guru and interior designer, on page 38. We discuss Changing Rooms and wallpaper, which also happens to be our special interiors feature this month. He advises us to go bold on the walls and “swathe the entire room in ravishing pattern – it’s like living every day in a jewel box.”

Conquer your fear!

Lynne Edwards Managing Director

"Beetroot has to be in my menu in one form or the other. It features in everything from chutneys to ice creams" Food, page 86

INSIDE 7

16 Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen, page 38

COVER STORY : Inside Celine Dion’s ocean home

24

Property News

33

Calendar : Out and about in May

38 42

Kids gardening, page 72

Hill House and Home Truths Celine Dion's home, page 16

COVER STORY : Interview – the opulent Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen COVER STORY : WIN! A family visit to Drusillas Park

43

What’s Trending

50 53

Getting started : First-time buyer advice

55 57

Talk Money : Showing interest

61 62 65 66

Gardening : Things to do in May

Legal matters : Brexit and Property with Healys LLP

Welcome to my World : Business advisor Carol Duncumb

May Collection : City courtyard gardens Alter & Co : Café culture Do it yourself : Getting the hang of wallpaper

For all advertising, editorial and general enquiries contact Lynne Edwards, Managing Director

Search @PortfolioMagUK for Twitter, Instagram and Facebook

07931 537588

lynne@portfoliopublications.co.uk www.portfoliopublications.co.uk

Subscribe to our newsletter

Tudor Park Golf & Country Club, page 88

69 70 71

72

On The Drawing Board : Get on the professionals’ map Escape To The Country : Shoreham walk Construction Voice : Developing debate COVER STORY : Gardening – kids dig it

74

The lone ranger : National Trust’s Kevan Gibbons

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Interiors : Inspirational wallpaper

83

Health : Help for stress and anxiety from Elysium Healthcare

84 86

Style : Vacation season

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Bite-sized : City’s food & drink news

Dan Pearson, page 104

Hotel review : Tudor Park Golf & Country Club, Kent Celebrity recipe : Top British chef Clare Smyth Motors : Fiat’s special edition Bigger Picture : Twin Peaks and May highlights Local news from around the city Golf Guy : Women and golf – a game of two halves Interview : TV garden expert Dan Pearson

The PORTFOLIO team Production Editor: Fiona McTernan portfoliomagazineproduction@gmail.com

Chief Sub-Editor & Features Editor: Daniel Frickelton portfoliomagazineeditorial@gmail.com Contributing Editor: Tara de la Motte tara@sussex-homes.co.uk

Designer: Sally Wynn portfoliopublications@dollydesigns.co.uk Contributor: Kate Hill 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.

BEVINGDEAN COPSE NORTH CHAILEY

CHAMPAGNE LAUNCH Saturday 13th May

A DEVELOPMENT BY

SUPERBLY DESIGNED CONTEMPORARY COUNTRY HOMES County Gate Properties & Oakley invite you to join them for a glass of fizz while you take in everything that these stunning new homes have to offer.

Bevingdean Copse is an exciting and unique development of two houses in the heart of North Chailey.

The houses enjoy views to Chailey Common at the front and the South Downs at the rear.

Saturday 13th May 11am - 3pm • Bevingdean Copse, East Grinstead Road, North Chailey, BN8 4DH

GUIDE PRICE £1,295,000

FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL 01273 487444 • EMAIL: DAVID@OAKLEYPROPERTY.COM • OAKLEYPROPERTY.COM

EXPERT column

THE HILL HOUSE

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iesel, petrol, electric - in an ideal world we wouldn’t have cars at all. However, since life these days seems to consist of mad dashes between childcare, trains, work, GP practice, rugby practice, and all-too-regular trips to continental supermarkets, I spend more time in a vehicle than I do on my sofa. The 27 bus only gets me so far.

So I have a car. And I hate it. It’s the worst car I have ever owned.

Purchased new in my immediate post-redundancy madness two years ago, it has been a Romanian 4x4 pile of junk since the moment I drove it off the forecourt. The paint peels and flakes. It is uncomfortable. The satnav and stereo have never worked. The vents clog with leaves if you park within a hundred yards of a tree, causing the whole inside to flood when it rains. And to cap it all, when I have taken it back to the dealer with each and every fault, I have been treated to some good oldfashioned Soviet bloc belligerence: what problems? So the paint still peels and the body still floods and the fancy gadgets are as much use as a chocolate teapot – I have given up.

HOME TRUTHS AT LAST WE’VE GOT A DRY DAY - I’M OFF TO CUT THE LAWN But you only did it at the weekend? What’s wrong with you?

I follow the barbershop code for lawns: like hair and beards, grass grows quicker with frequent cutting.

Wrong on both counts. Well, mostly. Research from the University of Maryland has shown that it’s not how often you cut your lawn that makes a difference with regrowth - it’s cutting it when it’s at the right length, to the right length. Between 2.5-3.5 inches is ideal - cut any shorter and you risk damaging the blade, leave it longer and it thins out and becomes patchy. Keeping your lawn maintained within this length will ensure that it thickens and stays green - which might make it feel like it it’s growing faster.

"Until a few years ago, I didn’t think much about cars at all. When we bought the house, we barely registered the fact it had off-road parking" Until a few years ago, I didn’t think much about cars at all. When we bought the house, we barely registered the fact it had off-road parking.

The 1970s crazy paving was left to gently crumble for over a decade, concealed by a succession of ramshackle VW vans. It was only when our street became a permit zone that the driveway assumed significance in our lives. And when phase one of the great refurb happened, the driveway got a full makeover: crazy paving made way - with startling efficiency, they were the best tradespeople I have ever used, for slate gray block sets and rendered raised beds. It’s rather smart. I would go so far as to say it has significant kerb appeal - or it would, if it weren’t for the sorry heap of tin taking up space in the corner.

As a non-car person I couldn’t generally tell you what such-andsuch make of car says about the person driving it. I know what my car declares to the world, though. It is dangerously close, as it sits outside balefully glaring at me through cheap headlights, of being a car for the person that has given up on life. Or on hope. Or both.

I need to get a new car.

So I can put my feet up?

Yes. Relax - and keep your blade ruler to hand. Don’t over-cut or you’ll end up with a lawn that’s scalped or scorched or just plain ugly. You won’t get a nice stripy finish if you cut too often.

Speaking of scalps - are you telling me It doesn’t hold true for hair, either?

Correct. You may notice growth more, because a cm of growth on shorter hair makes a proportionately bigger difference than when it’s longer, but the simple act of cutting does nothing whatsoever to stimulate hair follicles into growth.

Beards? Eyebrows?

Kate Hill

No. And don’t get me started - it’s one of those cruel tricks of nature.

Pluck an eyebrow too often and it may never grow back. Eyebrow follicles are very temperamental.

Wax anywhere else, however, and it most assuredly will.

PORTFOLIO 7

contemporary by energy gaining windows

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 solu on.

01903 756699 or visit www.benchmarkwindows.co.uk

Units 4 & 5 Marlborough Road Lancing Business Park Lancing West Sussex BN15 8UF

EXCEPTIONAL HOMES Outstanding properties in our beautiful part of the world

7 bedrooms 3 bathrooms 4 receptions

WILBURY GARDENS

OIRO £2,250,000

A substantial, double fronted, seven bedroom detached Victorian villa, arranged over three floors located in the sought after Wilbury District of Hove. Wilbury Gardens lies close to Hove mainline station being situated within a few minutes’ walk providing north bound commuters with links to London. Hove Recreation Ground and Hove Park with its open spaces are also within close proximity

6 bedrooms 4 bathrooms 2 receptions

KINGSWAY

ASKING PRICE £1,225,000

A substantial detached family home of significant proportions, standing on a good sized plot, while occupying an enviable seafront location, with stunning views of the sea and Hove Lagoon. This is a superb home for the large or growing family, offering lovely light and generously proportioned living space spanning three floors making this a particularly versatile and comfortable home.

FIND MORE PROPERTIES ON MISHONWELTON.COM

EXPERT GUIDANCE Local knowledge to help find your perfect home in East Sussex

3 bedrooms 2 bathrooms 2 receptions

HAMPTON PLACE

GUIDE £600,000 TO £625,000

An elegant and stylish three bedroom Georgian maisonette situated in the highly sought after and desirable Montpelier and Clifton Hill Conservation area of Brighton. Moments from the sea and the colourful and bustling cafe culture of the city this truly a super spot to live in.

Honest valuations in current market conditions Ahead of the game marketing strategies

#lifeinBN

Professional photography 3D Virtual Tours Social media marketing Professional printed brochures Top listings on Rightmove, Zoopla Daily sales progression Dedicated lettings team

94 CHURCH ROAD, HOVE BN3 2EB

In-house financial advisors

T: 01273 778 877

First class service from valuation to completion

SALES@MISHONWELTON.COM

CALL 01273 778877 FOR A FREE PROPERTY VALUATION ON YOUR HOME

01273 733 500 NASHWATSON.COM HOME@NASHWATSON.COM

FROM HOUSE TO HOME

ARUNDEL COLLECTION

ENGLISH ROSE This new collection of life-like hand-painted flowers and greenery were inspired by the great British hedgerow. They work in a bouquet or on their own in a stem vase to brighten any room. Rose £16.

MUST

The deeply brushed oak gives the beautiful grain a burnished look and our revolutionary Natural IsoGuard® lends the timber a warm honey colour. Its clean lines and textured timber add something special to any room and always make an impression.

Bench from £420, Table from £1400.

HAVES A selection of items from the beautiful new Hove Neptune Interiors store.

See the full collection at 379 Kingsway, Hove, BN3 4QD 01273 458459

BOWSLEY COLLECTION The Bowsley is an example of where beauty is found in artisanal imperfection. An earthenware line of crockery, every piece is hand-made and has just the right amount of character. From £6. Cake stand £29.

WINSFORD TEA Our Winsford tea collection celebrates the Britishness of classic afternoon tea.

Crafted from porcelain, it’s then glazed and intricately detailed in our seasonal Sage shade and works particularly well against a crisp white tablecloth like the Emily. £32 for four plates.

Effortless. Elegant. Dining.

See the full collection in store.

neptunehove.com Please bring your copy of Portfolio into our Hove or Hailsham Store in May to receive *ÂŁ10 off a ÂŁ100 spend Neptune Hove, 379 Kingsway, Hove, BN3 4QD, 01273 458459, info@neptunehove.com Neptune Hailsham, Neptune House, North street, Hailsham, BN27 1DQ, 01323 849483, info@neptunehailsham.com *Terms & Conditions Apply

BEAUTIFUL homes CELEBRITY Homes

CELINE DION’S DREAM HOME A look inside Celine Dion’s Bahamian-inspired Florida ocean front and water park home, currently for sale

16 PORTFOLIO

CELEBRITY homes

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rammy Award-winning Canadian singer Celine Dion and her manager husband, René Angélil, built their dream vacation home on Jupiter Island, Florida in 2010. The location offered the privacy the hard-working couple wanted in which to relax with their children and friends, and they designed an estate around a series of water features and outdoor sports activities that, along with pristine beachfront, took full advantage of the warm Florida sunshine and Atlantic Ocean breezes. But even for celebrities who seem to have achieved it all, life can throw curve balls.

Though René appeared to have fully recovered from a bout of throat cancer in 1999, it reoccurred in 2013, when he had surgery for another malignant throat tumour. Dion announced in 2014 that she would suspend her performances indefinitely due to her husband’s worsening health. In August of 2015, she resumed her Las Vegas residency at Caesar’s Palace, but lost René to cancer in January 2016 and her brother only two days later. The couple and their three children had made the Las Vegas bedroom community of Henderson their home while Dion was performing at Caesar’s Palace. She returned to the stage on February 23rd for the first time since René’s death and paid tribute to his memory and their life together in her first performance.

Their Bahamian-inspired Florida oceanfront estate was first put up for sale in 2013, the year that René was re-diagnosed, for $72.5 million.

Over a period of time with no buyer interest, the price was cut to $62.5 million.

Among many five-star features, the 5.5acre beachfront property’s centrepiece is the 500,000-gallon water park, highlighted by a slow-current, lazy river connecting two pools, bridges and a twisting waterslide. There is also

another pool located beachside. The two-story, 10,000-square-foot main residence has five bedrooms with a second-level wraparound terrace with ocean views and multiple mainlevel terraces. The luxurious master suite walk-in closet has automated carousels for quick access to shoes and clothing at the touch of a finger. The open-plan main level is light and airy, in keeping with the sub-tropical climate.

There are also two separate four-bedroom guest houses, a tennis house, simulated golf range, pool house and beach house. Celine’s Jupiter neighborus include Michael Jordan and Tiger Woods, and Palm Beach is just a few miles down the road.

"The property’s centrepiece is the 500,000-gallon water park, highlighted by a slow-current, lazy river connecting two pools, bridges and a twisting waterslide" Now settled in Henderson, Nevada, at least until the end of her Caesar’s Palace residency in 2019, Celine has stepped up her effort to sell her Jupiter Island, Florida private resort estate by engaging a new brokerage and lowering the asking price. Fenton Lang Bruner & Associates currently holds the listing, which is now priced at $45.5 million.

Visit TopTenRealEstateDeals.com for more historic, celebrity and spectacular homes and real estate news.

PORTFOLIO 17

www.hamptons.co.uk

Wilbury Road, Hove £1,995 Lovely & spacious three bedroom, two reception room mansion flat, located in the heart of Hove. EPC E

Golden Lane, Brighton £2,500pcm Deceptively spacious four bedroom town house arranged over 4 floors with allocated parking, garage, patio, balcony & roof terrace. EPC D

Tisbury Road, Hove £1,250 A well presented two bedroom apartment located in the heart of Hove with a small patio garden. EPC C

Preston Drove, Brighton £2,250pcm A substantial four bedroom family home with two reception rooms.

Located opposite Blakers Park. EPC E

Hamptons International Estate Agents Hove Sales. 01273 796 061 | Lettings. 01273 796 159

www.hamptons.co.uk

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ED V R SE E R

St. Andrews Road, Brighton, BN1 6EN Price, from £435, 000 to £475,000 100% of properties sold prior to build completion These seven, brand new Brighton homes are set within their own, specially designed, quiet private close in the popular Fiveways area of Brighton. The build consists of three two bedroom houses and four three bedroom houses, all set over two floors, each with an allocated parking space and private garden.

Externally, although these stylish properties are firmly rooted in 2016, internally tradition is not abandoned, with all seven homes offering conventional layouts with ground floor living, comprising kitchen and sitting room, and the bedrooms and bathroom upstairs. The ground floor further includes a light, open entrance hallway, a guest cloakroom and understairs storage. However in terms of fittings, fixtures and décor, these superb properties offer a “modern-classic” style, installed with consideration and practicality in mind. White high gloss kitchen units sit gracefully below off-white engineered quartz work surfaces, with inset under-mounted 1.5 sink with practical pull out spray tap. High end appliances in the shape of NEFF oven, hob and extractor and integrated NEFF dishwasher provide further mod cons, whilst space remains for provision of a fridge/freezer and washing machine of the purchasers’ choice.

EPC TBC

Hamptons International Estate Agents Hove Sales. 01273 796 061 | Lettings. 01273 796 159 Images are CGI representation

CHUNKY WOOL

GEOMETRIC CONCRETE Bring some fun to your coffee table, with these on-trend geometric print coasters.

Printed with style-focussed pastel shades.

The acrylic and concrete material adds a modern aesthetic.

Geometric Concrete Coaster Set £25.00. www.creategiftlove.co.uk

MUST HAVES Texture is the new colour.

Keep your scheme contemporary by adding different textures to soften, sharpen or shine

POLISHED PLASTER Polished plaster looks good, feels great and bounces light. Create this contemporary style using these ice Polished Plaster tiles, which are designed so they can be used both inside the home and out.

Polished Plaster tiles £35.00. www.bakedtiles.co.uk

This luxurious, hand-made, chunky-wool knit throw is made by Vacht Van Vilt in Holland.

Made from 100% pure and animal friendly shaving wool, they come in a range of natural and vibrant colours to suit any room.

Chunky Wool Knit Throw 150cm x 200cm £445.00. www.limelace.co.uk

MARBLED GLASS Marble adds a luxury feel to your bathroom scheme and this set is made to look like green marble, which gives it a really expensive, plush feel, but without the price tag, as they are actually made from glass.

Sold as a set.

Marbled Glass Soap Dispenser and Toothbrush Cup £24.00. www.miafleur.com

Albany Villas, Hove, BN3 | £1,100,000 •

3-4 bedroom house

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Bedroom two with en-suite shower

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Approximately 2000sq ft

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Family bathroom

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Three reception rooms

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Utility room

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Master bedroom with dressing room

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Mature town garden

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Study

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Central location

LOCATION: Albany Villas is an exceptionally popular location, adjacent to Hove lawns, seafront & promenade as well as being within a close proximity to Church Road benefiting from shops, boutique cafés, bars and restaurants which cater for all tastes and expectations. Hove mainline railway station is just a short walk away offering direct links to London Victoria, being ideal for commuters.

Ground Floor, 10 The Drive, Hove, BN3 3JA T 01273 830 919 E hove@fosterandcoestateagents.co.uk W www.fosterandcoestateagents.co.uk

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01273 777123 goldinlemcke.com

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In less than a year since Mark Welton joined Simon Goldin in partnership, at Goldin Lemcke, the signs of success are everywhere.

When Mark joined the company, Goldin Lemcke enjoyed a very strong foundation and reputation in all sectors of the market. However, according to Simon “We are a forward-thinking company and simply wanted to do more to extend our market share, still further, into the upper price ranges and particularly into the exclusive suburban location of Hove Park and Dyke Road. We knew our marketing infrastructure was strong, we just needed someone to help us achieve that objective. Mark has a long-standing reputation in these areas and considerable experience spanning three decades. We knew too that our combined experience of over 60 years is second to none.”

The results and success of the new partnership are plain to see with the firms distinctive red ‘SOLD’ boards springing up all over Hove Park and Dyke Road.

Mark is clearly loving his new role and has said, “It is an area of the market that I feel very comfortable with, having advised clients and sold their homes over a 30year period. Indeed, many of the houses we have sold over the last year, I have

FIND US

sold 2 or 3 times previously and it is wonderful to know that clients continue to

160-162 Church Road Hove East Sussex BN3 2DL

trust us as their agent of choice.”

email

property@goldinlemcke.com

selling homes In Brighton & Hove since 2002

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SELLING SOMETHING SIMILAR? Get in touch for a free, no obligation valuation.

Call 01273 777123 or email property@goldinlemcke.com

PROPERTY news

PROPERTY NEWS REVERSE STAMP DUTY More than three quarters of developers want to see the government go into reverse on its stamp duty and mortgage-interest tax relief policies in order to encourage more buy to let purchases by investors. Research by specialist lender Amicus Property Finance, published in FTAdviser, shows that 78 per cent of developers want the government to change its mind on penalising the lettings sector in the hope it would encourage more sales to landlords and in turn expand the private rented sector’s capacity. More than two in five want to see incentives for elderly people to downsize and free up family homes, while 41 per cent think stamp duty should become a seller’s tax rather than a buyer’s tax. Some 37 per cent recommend a suspension in capital gains tax to encourage more land to come to the market.

“Though large-scale government investment plays a part in stimulating supply, developers see the current tax laws as one of the biggest obstacles to solving the housing crisis, particularly repealing the recent stamp duty increases for landlords” Keith Aldridge, Founder and Managing Director at Amicus Property Finance, told FTAdviser. www.estateagenttoday.co.uk

SHOREHAM HARBOUR NEWS

BHEAA SEMINAR The recent BHEAA seminar at the Sussex County Cricket Ground in Hove attracted a number of sales and lettings agents to hear a fascinating and often humourous account of the life of a surveyor, from Jim Plant BSc (Hons), FRICS of 3j’s Surveyors & Valuers Ltd. Sponsors of the event, PORTFOLIO magazine, provided refreshments and BHEAA president Paul Taggart from Hamptons-International was there to provide advice and support.

For more information on future subjects at the seminars, contact Paul Taggart at: taggartp@hamptons-int.com.

24 PORTFOLIO

Oakley Commercial have confirmed the completion of the sale of a popular business centre, Maritime House, located within Shoreham Harbour, close to Hove Lagoon. The site comprises a three-storey office building, a two-storey workshop/studio building with a communal car parking area and wharf frontage. The building will continue to be operated as the Maritime House business centre and has been purchased by the Port as an investment so they can continue running and improving the business centre.

Steven Harvey, Commercial Director of Oakley commented: “The building was originally a site for the MOD and used by HMS Sussex. The site and buildings were acquired over 20 years ago by Maritime Atlantic. This latest acquisition by the Port accords with the Port Masterplan, which is focused upon ensuring that the Eastern Harbour Arm remains as a location for port-related and employment activities. www.oakleyproperty.com

PROPERTY news

NEW HOUSING RESEARCH

NAEA/ARLA PROPERTYMARK ADVERTISE AT SKY SPORTS EVENTS Propertymark, the new brand umbrella for the National Association of Estate Agents and the Association of Residential Letting Agents, is to advertise its logo on perimeter boards during 20 live Sky Sports events throughout 2017.

Propertymark says this will attract a TV viewership of approximately 9.5m between the ages of 18 to 65; there will be pitch-side advertising during specific cricket, Rugby Union, Rugby League and football matches.

The future schedule for televised cricket fixtures include the July 9 Kent v Essex Nat West Blast T/Twenty at Beckenham, the July 27 Kent v Somerset Nat West Blast T/Twenty match at Canterbury; and the July 28, Leicestershire v Nottinghamshire county match.

For Rugby Union the advertising will be at the December 7 Oxford v Cambridge Varsity match. For Rugby League, televised advertising can be seen at the October 7 Super League Grand Final played at Old Trafford.

“This demonstrates our commitment to support Propertymark to benefit members by reaching a wide and relevant consumer audience via popular televised Sky Sports events. There will be other matches announced by Sky soon,” says a Propertymark statement. www.arla.co.uk

A new research body launches this summer with a remit of looking at six overlapping aspects of housing. The Collaborative Centre for Housing Evidence, or CaCHE, will be independent from government and is a collaboration between nine universities and four non-higher education organisations. CaCHE aims to “advance knowledge of the housing market, provide robust evidence to inform housing policy and practice across the UK, and will join together a comprehensive range of stakeholders with the goal of tackling housing problems at a national, devolved, regional, and local level.” The centre will launch on August 1st and will receive £6m of funding from the Economic and Social Research Council, with additional support from the Joseph Rowntree Foundation and the Arts and Humanities Research Council.

The work of the centre will focus on six overlapping themes Housing and the economy; Understanding housing markets and their demand, need, supply and delivery; Housing aspirations, choices and outcomes; Housing, poverty, health, education and employment; Housing and neighbourhood design, sustainability and place-making; and multi-level governance.

NO CONFIDENCE IN TECHNOLOGY-ONLY SALES One of the founders of hybrid agency Purplebricks says sellers in the UK may never accept the sale of their property through technology alone.

Michael Bruce says his Local Property Experts bridges the gap between online and traditional ways of transacting, in line with consumer wishes.

“Rightmove and Zoopla came into existence and millions were invested in helping the buyer understand what’s in the market. But actually no one’s invested materially in assisting and supporting the people who pay the bill, people who generate the revenue in the sector, the people who sell their houses,” Bruce says.

“What was abundantly clear was that people are not yet ready, and may never be ready, to hand over the sale of their property entirely to technology. They still want someone who can give them advice on price, about how they’re going to get the best price for their property.”

Read more about these and other stories at: www.estateagenttoday.co.uk

GOLF DAY Brighton & Hove Estate Agents Association Charity Golf Day 2017 will be held on Friday, 4th August at Mid Sussex Golf Course, and will once again be supporting the fantastic local charity Clock Tower Sanctuary, which assists young homeless teenagers in the city. Book a space before 31st May 2017 to take advantage of the Early Bird discount on entry fee.

For more information contact Andrew Hovey at: andrewhovey@leaders.co.uk.

PORTFOLIO 25

maslen.co.uk

Falmer Road, Woodingdean

OFFERS OVER

£500,000 FREEHOLD

A distinguished detached 4 bedroom family home The property is in good decorative order and offers spacious accommodation.

The formal dining room - ideal for entertaining - is adjacent to the kitchen and features doors leading to the rear garden.

Other benefits include a private drive and double garage, a tiered garden and patio seating area for dining ‘al fresco’.

There is also a play area and enchanted garden offering beautiful views to farmland opposite.

Energy rating: C59 Maslen Estate Agents 62-64 Warren Road Woodingdean Brighton BN2 6BA t:01273 278866 e:woodingdean@maslen.co.uk

LEWES ROAD

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FIVEWAYS

BEAUTIFUL HOME Brighton

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fantastic three-double-bedroom Mews house with beautifully presented and well-arranged accommodation over three floors. The property is located a short walk from Kemp Town with its eclectic range of independent shops, cafes and bars.

Highlights include a stunning kitchen diner and bathroom, a pretty southerly-aspect garden, an impressive 17’9 living space, off-street parking and an integral garage. Viewing highly recommended. Energy Rating E50. Exclusive to Maslen Estate Agents.

Robin Dene, Brighton, BN2 5EX Guide Price: £475,000 Bedrooms: 3 Bathrooms: 2 Extras: Integral garage; Off-street parking; Stunning bathroom and shower room Best Bits: Fabulous kitchen diner; Southerly-aspect garden; Short walk from Kemp Town Maslen Estate Agents 39 Lewes Road, Brighton, BN2 3HQ 01273 677001 www.maslen.co.uk

PORTFOLIO 27

KEYMER | Guide Price £1,450,000 Substantial detached house - Stunning views - Large kitchen/breakfast room - 7 bedrooms - 7 reception rooms - 4 bathrooms Indoor pool complex - Outdoor heated pool - Tennis court - Gardens and grounds of approx. 1.6 acres - Integral triple garage

DITCHLING | Guide Price £1,350,000 Fine detached family house – 4/5 bedrooms – 4 reception rooms – 3 bathrooms – Large sweeping driveway – Glorious front and rear garden – Outdoor heated swimming pool – Detached double garage with sunken spiral wine cellar

chattestates.co.uk | 01273 844500 34 HIGH STREET, DITCHLING, EAST SUSSEX BN6 8TA

BEAUTIFUL HOME Hurstpierpoint

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spacious and extended semi-detached Edwardian family house, prominently situated in a highly soughtafter location boasting an abundance of period features and glorious gardens with views over neighbouring farmland.

Arranged over three floors, ‘Springcroft’ is an ideal large family house with all the period features and character of its era. The entrance hall has ornate plaster work and cornicing and provides access to principal reception rooms.

Particular attributes of the house are the working and feature fireplaces, notably in the drawing room, where there is a cast iron multi-fuel burner with marble surround and slate hearth. The large kitchen/breakfast/family room is a perfect space for entertaining, with double patio doors leading out onto the raised terrace that overlooks the rear garden. Arranged over the first and second floors, there are five double bedrooms, an en-suite bathroom, two further shower rooms and a balcony overlooking the rear garden and the views beyond. The rear gardens are predominantly laid to lawn with fruit trees and well stocked borders.

Springcroft, Wickham Hill, Hurstpierpoint, BN6 9NR Guide Price: £1,125,000 Bedrooms: 5 Bathrooms: 3 Extras: An abundance of working and feature fireplaces with marble or wooden surrounds; Bedroom three with a balcony overlooking the rear garden Best Bits: High ceilings and ornate plaster works; Beautifully extended kitchen/breakfast/family room Chatt Estates 34 High Street, Ditchling, BN6 8TA 01273 844500 www.chattestates.co.uk PORTFOLIO 29

LYNDHURST ROAD, HOVE GUIDE PRICE £825,000 - FREEHOLD • • • •

Tastefully decorated Full of character Superb lounge Feature kitchen/dining room

4 • • • •

1

2

Fantastic shower room/WC Attractive rear garden Popular Highdown/Lyndhurst District No ongoing chain

2 Church Road, Hove BN3 2FL

01273 773399

hove@elliottsestateagents.co.uk

& 2 Queens Parade, Hangleton BN3 8JG

01273 322766

hangleton@elliottsestateagents.co.uk www.elliottsestateagents.co.uk

CLOSE SEAFRONT & PORTSLADE STATION £474,950 FREEHOLD SELLING QUALITY HOMES SINCE 1993

• • • •

Abundance of period features Attractive garden A-fresco dining area Kitchen with white hi gloss units

• • • •

4

2

Good storage throughout Gas central heating Stunning order throughout Close Vale Park & many local schools

2

BEAUTIFUL HOME Brighton

A

quite stunning apartment, located on the twentieth floor of this iconic landmark block, directly adjacent to Brighton seafront and in the very heart of Brighton’s famous City Centre with its vast array of restaurants, bars and shops.

Views are simply breathtaking, looking directly across to the sea, but also east and west, with Worthing to the west and The Seven Sisters to the east clearly visible when the sun is shining.

Accommodation includes two bedrooms, with the master bedroom being circa 18,’ with a dressing area. There is a modern bathroom with white suite, separate high-gloss kitchen with granite work surfaces and appliances, plus a hallway with storage. Undoubtedly a signature area for the property is a quite stunning dual-aspect lounge, which in turn leads to an equally spectacular enclosed balcony with some of the best views you will find. Offered for sale with no ongoing chain, early inspection is a must.

Sussex Heights, St Margarets Place, Brighton, BN1 2FR Price: £429,950 Leasehold Bedrooms: 2 Bathrooms: 1 Extras: Breathtaking sea and coastal views; Lift access/caretaker; Large enclosed south/east/west balcony Best Bits: Immediately adjacent to i360; Signature dual-aspect lounge/dining room; No ongoing chain Elliotts Estate Agents 2 Church Road, Hove BN3 2FL 01273 773399 www.elliottsestateagents.co.uk

PORTFOLIO 31

Nearing completion, stunning new homes in Kingston nr Lewes A choice of just two brand new executive homes, built to exacting standards by Cook of Brighton.

Plot 1: The ground floor features a spacious entrance vestibule and hallway, triple aspect lounge, large kitchen and dining room, utility room, cloakroom. Upstairs is the master suite complete with dressing area and luxury en suite shower room and a wonderful balcony providing stunning views of the South Downs. There are three further double bedrooms (one with en suite shower) and a family bathroom. Outside there is ample parking to the front with a double garage with workshop/storeroom above and to the rear there is a lovely garden with uninterrupted countryside views.

Plot 2: This property also features a spacious entrance vestibule and hallway, a fantastic lounge with double height ceiling, large open plan kitchen and dining room, huge utility room, cloakroom, office/bedroom 5. Upstairs is the master suite with en suite shower room. There are 3 further double bedrooms and a family bathroom. Outside there is ample parking to the front with a double garage with workshop/storeroom above and to the rear there is a lovely garden with uninterrupted countryside views.

Both properties are available ‘Pre Launch’ at a guide price of £1.35 - £1.5 million.

Detached Villa in Premier Location Hill Drive, Hove

This imposing property has been greatly extended to provide spacious living accommodation over two levels. An impressive entrance hall leading to a large living/dining room and fully fitted kitchen with internal access to the garage. There is a further lounge/reception room and a cloakroom, and of particular note is the leisure suite with pool and games room. Upstairs there is a master bedroom with dressing room and large en suite bathroom, five further bedrooms and a family bathroom. There is plenty of off street parking and attractive garden at the rear.

Available with no onward chain at £1.3 million.

Book an appointment to view on Tel: 01273 541177 | e-mail: info@marchants.org or visit us at 67/69 Queen Victoria Avenue, Hove, BN3 6XA.

CALENDAR of events

May May is Festival season in Brighton & Hove and Sussex. Our pick of May events highlights some of the Festival events from around the county

19 - 29 May, Charleston Festival

Hig Our hlig ht

Located in the glorious South Downs in East Sussex, Charleston was, from 1916, the home of Bloomsbury group artists Vanessa Bell and Duncan Grant. Pioneers of early 20th century British art, Bell and Grant created a hub of artistic and intellectual activity.

Home also to Clive Bell and John Maynard Keynes, guests included Virginia Woolf, Roger Fry, Lytton Strachey, T.S. Eliot and E.M. Forster.

Charleston is now open to the public and provides the stunning setting for the Festival. This year’s Festival of literature, art and ideas includes talks from Vanessa Redgrave, Nicholas Crane, Justine Picardie, Colm Tóibín, Maggie Gee, Professor Stephen Hawking, Barry Humphries and many more.

Charleston, Firle, Lewes. Full details at www.charleston.org.uk

From 20 May, Glyndebourne Festival Escape the ordinary this summer and head to Glyndebourne for a Festival of unconquered passions, divided loyalties and political intrigue. Glyndebourne Festival 2015 starts on 20th May with Cavalli’s Hipermestra. It continues with Verdi’s La Traviata from 21st May, Brett Dean’s Hamlet – a new opera based on Shakespeare’s best-known tragedy from 11th June, Strauss’ Ariadne auf Naxos from 25th June, Donizetti’s Don Pasquale from 13th July, and Mozart’s La Clemenza di Tito from 26th July. Make an occasion of visiting Glyndebourne: explore the grounds, visit the Archive and Gallery, and always – of course – have a picnic on the lawn during the Festival’s extended interval.

Glyndebourne Festival 2017 runs from 20th May to 27th August.

Glyndebourne Opera House, Glynde www.glyndebourne.com

6 - 28 May, Brighton Festival Brighton’s annual celebration of music, theatre, dance, circus, art, film, literature, debate, outdoor and family events takes place in venues both familiar and unusual across Brighton & Hove for three weeks every May. In 2016 Brighton Festival celebrated 50 years of commissioning and producing innovative arts and culture with Guest Director Laurie Anderson at the helm. In 2017 they welcome Guest Director Kate Tempest. Described as the voice of a generation at the age of just 31, Kate has already established herself as a respected artist in the fields of music, literature, theatre and the spoken word.

Venues across the city. Full details at www.brightonfestival.org

More events continued over the page

CALENDAR of events

6 May, Rich Hall Join Rich and his virtuoso musical mates for a mash-up of music, comedy and gratuitous coloration featuring the very best of comedy and music. Rich Hall is the star of the critically acclaimed BBC 4 documentaries Rich Hall’s Californian Stars, Rich Hall’s You Can Go To Hell, I’m Going To Texas, Rich Hall’s Inventing the Indian and his most recent Rich Hall’s Presidential Grudge Match. He also wrote and starred in a fourpart series for BBC Radio 4 in November 2016 called ‘Rich Hall’s (US Election) Breakdown’.

13 May, Maximo Park Alternative pop experts Maximo Park’s tour follows the April 21st release of blistering new album ‘Risk To Exist’, bringing together their trademark hook-laden melodies and sense of urgency with off-kilter rock, soulful grooves and pop sensibilities. ‘Risk To Exist’ is a vital record for our times, raging against the dire state of world affairs in 2016 and crumbling political systems. Frontman Paul Smith says: ‘The album is, ultimately, about empathy. Some songs are simple messages of solidarity and others are fuelled by anger at the elitist, established order of British society. There’s a questioning of power throughout and a feeling that there must be a different way of structuring our society in order to alleviate inequality.

Musically, the songs reflect more soulful and groove-based influences, allowing more space in the arrangements than ever before.”

De La Warr Pavilion, Bexhill-on-Sea, 7pm www.dlwp.com

The Hawth, Crawley. 8pm. www.parkwoodtheatres.co.uk

6 May - 3 June, Caroline, Or Change 1963. Lake Charles, Louisiana.

Caroline Thibodeaux is an African American maid earning thirty dollars a week working for the Jewish Gellman family. She is a single parent and the mother of four children. Eight-year-old Noah Gellman visits Caroline in the basement as she works, washing and ironing. But when the boy begins leaving loose change in his laundry, his stepmother Rose devises a deterrent with revealing and farreaching consequences.

This Olivier Award-winning musical mixes blues, soul, Motown, classical music and Jewish folk songs to create a beautiful, uplifting and deeply moving portrait of America at a time of momentous social upheaval spurred by the civil rights movement. The Broadway production was re-staged at the National Theatre in 2006; this will be the first new UK production. Author of the ground-breaking Angels in America, Tony Kushner’s book and lyrics were partly inspired by his own boyhood.

Minerva Theatre, Chichester Festival Theatre.

For times and prices visit www.cft.org.uk

Photo Credit: Steve Gullick

5 May - 4 June, Brighton Fringe Brighton Festival’s not-so-little sister, Brighton Fringe, takes place for four weeks every May to include two bank holidays and the summer half-term break.

This vast celebration of all things creative features nearly 1,000 individual events in over 150 venues over four weeks. Expect inspired programming at Komedia, The Attenborough Centre for the Arts, The Warren, and The Spiegeltent, amongst others... Fringe City 2016 takes place each weekend: (6 & 7 May, 13 & 14 May, 20 & 21 May, 27 & 28 May and 2 and 3 June) from 1pm to 5pm on New Road, the perfect place to check out what Brighton Fringe is all about and sample some of the programme for free. (Also at Bartholomew Square from 5pm to 7pm on Thursdays and Fridays.

Venues across the city. Full details at www.brightonfringe.org

9 & 10 May, Ricky Gervais: Humanity Considered one of the most influential British comedians (he received the Charlie Chaplin Britannia Award for Excellence in Comedy 2016 BAFTA/LA), Ricky Gervais is returning to stage with his first stand-up tour in seven years: Humanity. 2016 has been a busy year for Ricky Gervais, with the cinematic and DVD release of David Brent: Life On The Road, the release of David Brent & Foregone Conclusion - Life On The Road the album, the launch of Special Correspondents on Netflix, as well as the publication of the David Brent Songbook and the hosting of the Golden Globes for a fourth time. 2017 begins with Ricky Gervais’s return to stand-up. v Brighton Centre, 7.30pm. brightoncentre.co.uk

CALENDAR of events

6 - 28 May, Artists’ Open Houses Festival The largest event of its kind in the UK, around 200 houses and studio spaces across the city open their doors to exhibit the work of over 1,500 artists and makers. Last year over 200,000 people visited the festival. Artists’ Open Houses offers the chance to buy artworks directly from the artists and makers themselves. There is a hugely diverse selection of art works on show, from original paintings, prints, graffiti arts, ceramics and textiles to photography, sculpture, crafts, jewellery and many other media. The houses are grouped into one of 14 trails around different areas of the city, from the fishermen’s houses of Hanover to the urban warehouse spaces of the North Laine and cottages of the South Downs village of Ditchling. Artist Marion Brandis is the 2016 brochure cover artist, and will be exhibiting her work at The Old Market, Hove.

Across the city and beyond. Full details at www.aoh.org.uk

14 May, Liz Aggiss: Slap and Tickle

14 May, Shirley Collins

This dark, ribald physical commentary is created and performed by Liz Aggiss, a “maverick, anarchic, indomitable and fearless performance artist”. Liz’s “refreshing irreverence” (theatrebubble) litters the stage in a disorientating display of interpretations and received contradictions about women, girls, mothers and pensioners. It’s a feminist soup which lurches from spoken word to expressionist movement, music hall to radio nostalgia, costume change to prop manipulation. Come on, everybody, let’s have a party!

One of the most important voices in British Folk, singer and song collector Shirley Collins returns to performing with music from her first release in nearly 40 years, Lodestar.Bringing together English, American and Cajun songs dating from the 16th century to the 1950s, collected by Shirley and recorded at her home in Lewes with music director Ian Kearey, her expressive vocals transcend time, connecting ageold tradition with a contemporary edge.

A key part of the British Folk revival of the 60s and 70s, her voice is still as captivating now as it was then. Lodestar shows that, even at the age of 81, Shirley still pushes at the boundaries of folk music. Shirley has recently been nominated for two awards at the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards.

Read more from the BBC about the star who couldn’t sing for 30 years when she was robbed of her voice by an emotional crisis.

Brighton Dome, 7.30pm. www.brightondome.org

The Old Market, Hove, 7pm. www.tom.co.uk

1 May, The Unthanks: How The Wild Wind Blows The 2013 release of Molly Drake’s work could easily have been perceived as just a curious footnote and jigsaw piece in explaining the talent of Nick Drake. However, Molly’s work is extraordinary enough to rank alongside and independently of her son. With encouragement from the Drake musical estate and the full blessing of celebrated actress Gabrielle Drake (Molly’s daughter and Nick’s sister), The Unthanks, Mercury nominated mavericks of British folk music, are bound to treat the challenge with the same love and diligence for their subject as they did when reinterpreting the work of Robert Wyatt and Antony & The Johnson’s. This tour of her reimagined work will be accompanied by an album release of Molly Drake’s work - Diversions Vol 4. Never intended for public release, her songs share plenty of common ground with her son’s charming and bittersweet, yet dark and pensive.

St Bartholomew’s Church, Brighton, 7pm (formerly 8pm). Please note that this event, previously booked at The Old Market, Hove, will now take place at St Bartholomew’s Church, Brighton, with doors at 7pm. All previously purchased tickets will remain valid.

19 May, M¡longa Deeply rooted in Argentinean culture, tango has fascinated and captivated the world with its sexuality, power and beauty. Inspired by the late-night milonga scene in the intimate bars of Buenos Aires (‘milonga’ is literally a tango dance party), internationally celebrated Belgian choreographer Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui adds a contemporary twist to this traditional dance.

Brighton Dome, 5pm and 8.30pm. www.brightondome.org

See you next month for our top picks in June

If you’re looking for a new letting agent

why not choose the best?

Lettings: 01273 321333 | enquiries@propertymoves.co.uk | 109 Church Road, Hove, BN3 2AF

Check out these stats...

We were 1st out of 228

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branches in the area on Rightmove for New Instructions

We were 1st out of 165 branches in the area on Rightmove for Lets Agreed

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Based on Rightmove intel data from 01/02/16 to 31/01/17 covering postcodes BN1, BN2, BN3, BN41, BN42, BN43. Based on all data and all property types.

www.propertymoves.co.uk

Est.

1993

INTERVIEW

PUTTING ON THE RITZ Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen talks wallpaper and Changing Rooms with PORTFOLIO magazine’s Lynne Edwards

O

ver the years, Laurence’s personal charisma and ability to inspire people to express themselves have established him as the UK’s favourite and most easily identifiable interior designer. His most recent credits include ‘DIY SOS’ for BBC1, ‘Laurence’s Extraordinary Ordinary Houses’ for BBC Wales and ‘Llanelly House Restored’ on BBC2.

Laurence also fronts the Ideal Home Shows across the UK and is the head judge on the hugely successful ‘The Apartment: Style Edition,’ filmed in Singapore, and now in its third series. It is currently beamed to over 120 million homes around the world on Fox. As well as running his own interior design practice, Laurence has a number of very successful product ranges, including a bestselling wallpaper and paint range, and a range of mugs and cutlery. Over the past five years, Laurence has worked with Littlewoods as the face of interior design and continues to design a large range of products.

Wallpaper has clearly made a resurgence in recent years. There are indeed some beautiful designs available, particularly for feature walls. Word is that you are mainly responsible for this, Laurence – is this true?

There’s no denying it. Wallpaper is definitely back, and it’s because we’ve all got hooked on pattern again. I blame fashion and the

38 PORTFOLIO

unstoppable rise of boho, which has meant we want our homes to be every bit as eclectic and eccentric as the must-have looks we see on the catwalk. It’s bizarre to think that only a few years ago wallpaper was actually a dirty word.

‘Fading into the wallpaper’ was an insult and all those try-too-hard DesignoSaurs that took modernism way too seriously told the world that wallpaper was most definitely out. Even the Queen of Beige, Kelly Hoppen, does wallpaper now. She’s obviously finally got bored of all those flat and rather lacklustre neutral walls!

You have been collaborating with wallpaper makers Graham & Brown for 18 years. What makes the partnership so special?

I remember getting into terrible trouble at a DIY conference from some very rowdy wallpaper manufacturers from up north back then.

They kept heckling my speech, claiming that Changing Rooms was killing off wallpaper because it never got used on the show. I have to say I really rather turned on them, pointing out in front of everybody that wallpaper never got onto telly because in those days it was ridiculously boring. By teatime not only had we all become friends, I’d started negotiating with them for my own wallpaper licence. They were Graham and Brown and were still together 17 years later.

In that time we’ve sold literally hundreds and

hundreds of thousands of rolls all over the world: Russia, America, China, Europe and now Australia. It helps that my wallpaper is so very ‘wallpapery’. When we talked about my first collection their brief actually said, ‘no large-scale floral patterns are predicted to be popular,’ so guess what I did... huge, exquisitely etched daisies, and it was a runaway success.

Tell us about your latest collection, Laurence?

My latest wallpaper collection for Graham and Brown is all about the exquisite sophistication of mother of pearl. Each pattern has a direct reference point to a particular school of Asian pattern making and I’ve conceived the papers to be the perfect design framework for your room. The light-reflective, glamorous shades of grey (many more than 50) can take any colour accenting you want to throw at it. It really is like using a fashion-statement piece as the background for some scintillating accessories.

I’m also being asked to do more and more bespoke wallpaper couture.

You’ve been quoted as saying, “Have nothing in your home that is neither drop-dead gorgeous or undeniably sexy.” In fashion and at home, you appear to lead a rather aristocratic life, so perhaps don’t spoil the illusion, Laurence.

William Morris was brilliant at wallpaper. He threw some fabulous shapes into his muscular,

INTERVIEW

"Have nothing in your home that’s not either drop-dead gorgeous or can be used to open booze"

sinuous repeats. I love to paraphrase him by saying, “Have nothing in your home that’s not either drop-dead gorgeous or can be used to open booze”... in fact, for the current series of The Apartment, which is being watched by record numbers all over Asia, India and Japan, I wear an outfit my tailor made in Morris and Co Seaweed fabric! It’s my sartorial homage to the great man himself... a three-piece-suite-threepiece-suit.

You run your own interior designer business in Cirencester. What other product ranges are you involved in, and which are you most proud of?

I’ve also launched two signature room Fragrances, Dawn and Dusk. Initially through my House of Laurence Chinese collections, it will be available over here very soon. And talking of China, The House of Laurence is flying in the newly launched House of Fraser Stores in China, and The Laurence Collections in Malaysia and Singapore will soon be joined by a sister business, The Laurence Collection Philippines.

Does all this leave any time for any TV work?

I’m half through filming House Rules, which is the flagship Home renovation show on Australia’s Channel Seven. It’s great fun and I’m getting to see a lot of Australia. Being away from

the family is tough, however, and particularly so now that I’m a doting grandfather (the family call me Guvnor rather than Grandpa, which I think is really funny). I’m so proud of my grandson Albion; he’s such a happy little gent, and Jackie is the world’s best glamorous Granny in the whole entire world.

For anyone nervous about adding a striking wallpaper into their minimalist home, what is your advice?

Wallpaper can, and should, bring a whiff of glamour to your walls. Although everyone’s flirting with feature walls at the moment, my advice is to go the whole hog and swathe the entire room in ravishing pattern. It’s like living every day in a jewel box.

We fondly remember ‘Changing Rooms’. Time for a comeback perhaps, Laurence?

Funnily enough, there was a party to celebrate its 20th anniversary last September. I think everyone was there, Carol, Linda, Andy, Graham.

Unfortunately, I was literally flying overhead on my way to film series five of The Apartment. So, I suppose that’s the answer; if someone could find a way of giving me an extra 365 days every year, I’d certainly look at it! www.grahambrown.com/uk/ wallpaper/brands/laurence-llewelyn-bowen/

See pages 78 for our main interiors feature on wallpaper and 66 on how to hang wallpaper in this month’s issue PORTFOLIO 39

BEAUTIFUL HOME Overseas

E

l Latigo (The Whip) was built circa 1975 and oozes charm and character like no other in Maryvilla. Commissioned by Englishman Dennis Williams, a professional entertainer, during the late 50s early 70s, his act was billed as ‘Kasbek & Zary International Specialty Act’. In fact, they appeared during the 60s for Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II at a Royal Command Variety Performance.

The villa has been built on one of the few double plots on the mountain, enjoying unrivalled views over the beautiful Mediterranean, the Ifach (Calpe Rock), Calpe Town and the breath taking mountainous country side. The construction has ensured a high level of privacy, unusual for the area. With its unique rustic design and bohemian style this home could quite easily feature in a glossy magazine or a James Bond movie.

El Latigo is believed to span approx. 1600 sqm with a build area of 300/350 sqm. The accommodation comprises of 7 reception/dining rooms, 3 kitchens, six bedrooms, four bathrooms. There are numerous gardens, terraces and balconies to entertain or relax and enjoy the uninterrupted panoramic views. To top it all off you have your very own private swimming pool, what more could you possibly wish for? For parking you have an integral double depth garage, more than capable of holding a car and caravan.

Calpe, Alicante, Spain Guide Price: €795,000 Bedrooms: 6 Bathrooms: 4 Extras: Swimming pool, Various gardens and patios; Best views in the whole of Spain Best Bits: A wonderful property full of character; Flexible accommodation: the property is split in to three self contained units Princetons Overseas 6 St Georges Road, Kemptown, Brighton, BN2 1EB, overseas@princetonsps.co.uk www.princetonsps.co.uk PORTFOLIO 41

COMPETITIONS

WIN! BRIGHTON FESTIVAL TICKETS! Brighton’s annual celebration of music, theatre, dance, circus, art, film, literature, debate, outdoor and family events takes place in venues both familiar and unusual across Brighton & Hove for three weeks every May. In 2016 Brighton Festival celebrated 50 years of commissioning and producing innovative arts and culture with Guest Director Laurie Anderson at the helm. In 2017, they welcome Guest Director Kate Tempest. Described as the voice of a generation, Kate has established herself as a respected artist in the fields of music, literature, theatre and the spoken word.

We have two pairs of tickets to give away for six Brighton Festival events: • • •

Meow Meow on Sat 20 May, 5pm Lyrix Organix onTue 23 May, 7.30pm Tristan & Yseult on Tue 23 May, 7.30pm

• • •

This Bright Field on Thu 25 May, part 1 at 6.10pm (tbc) This Bright Field on Thu 25 May, part 2 at 8pm The Comedy of Errors on Thu 25 May, 6pm

For your chance to win a pair of tickets, all you need to do is email competitions.portfoliomagazine@gmail.com with FESTIVAL in the subject box, plus your name, address and a contact number.

Brighton Festival runs 6th to 28th May at venues across the city. Full details at www.brightonfestival.org

WIN! A FAMILY TICKET TO DRUSILLAS PARK! Make tracks to Drusillas Park, East Sussex and jump aboard the totally wild, brand-new train ride for 2017, The Safari Express. Grab your binoculars and have your cameras at the ready, as the Safari Express transports you on a roar-some ride deep into the heart of the zoo.

From May 26th, two further children’s rides will open at the Park - the Hippopotobus and Flying Cheetahs. Collectively the three attractions will be known as Go Safari! Visitors can also enjoy plenty of animal magic, including Oli the giant anteater, who arrived at the zoo in March. Normally found snuffling around the grasslands and forests of Central and South America, the giant anteater is a species never before seen at Drusillas Park.

Plus, all your old favourites will be putting in an appearance too, including Hello Kitty (1st and 29th May and 1st and 25th June) and Chase and Marshall from PAW Patrol (31st May). Please see www.drusillas.co.uk for full dates and details.

With all this, plus the award-winning zoo, oodles of adventure play and Hello Kitty Secret Garden, you’ll have an awesome time at Drusillas Park.

We have a family ticket to give away, all you need to do is email competitions.portfoliomagazine@gmail.com with DRUSILLAS in the subject box, plus your name, address and a contact number. www.drusillas.co.uk

42 PORTFOLIO

NEWS

WHAT'S TRENDING BRIGHTON FRINGE AT THE MONTEFIORE HOSPITAL

ON THE COVER Laura Ashley garden room A feast of garden-inspired tableware www.lauraashley.com

WE LOVE: COFFEE This Pour Over Coffee Maker creates a coffee with maximum flavour, every time. It uses a slow, steady stream of water at the right temperature, to make the best use of natural aromas, oils and flavours from the coffee. This provides a cleaner taste in comparison to the fresh press method, is less dangerous than a stovetop percolator and delivers a greater level of taste compared to a typical machine-drip coffee maker. So make the most of your favourite coffee beans, and use the Pour Over Coffee Maker to ensure the best quality and best tasting coffee around. Other high-quality accessories in the range include the Canister and Pour Over Kettle.

Pour Over Coffee Maker from Coffee Gator, available in 400ml (Three cups), £29.97. www.coffeegator.com

CONGRATULATIONS! BRIGHTON AND HOVE ALBION After 34 years, the Seagulls are returning to the Premier League next season. After three previous failed attempts at the play-off stages, Chris Hughton’s side finally laid their demons to rest by beating Wigan on Easter Monday to secure their place at the top of the EFL Championship. www.seagulls.co.uk

Art lovers and visitors to The Montefiore Hospital in Hove will be able to view a unique photographic exhibition during Brighton Fringe, which starts on May 5th. Nine years and 425 photographers later, Tim Andrews will be showcasing the results of his personal journey with Parkinson’s disease - a progressive and incurable disease of the nervous system.

On display in the hospital’s reception area will be 40 prints specially chosen for the free exhibition, all with a common theme – images of the Brighton resident in various poses and settings taken since his diagnosis.

“When I saw the results of my very first modelling session nine years ago, I looked at the photo and saw a human being with power and prospects, which is not something I had felt since my diagnosis in 2005,” says Tim, 65, a retired solicitor.

He has entitled the photographic project “Over the Hill,” which, he says, is a rallying battle cry rather than a negative comment on his illness. Professional photographers involved have included famous names such as Rankin (pictured). The exhibition is free and will run from May 5th until May 26th. www.themontefiorehospital.co.uk

GET PLANTS!

WIN

It’s official, plants are cool. They transport us to exotic locations, bring nature indoors and make us feel happier. There are many of us who would like to share our living space with plants but don’t know where to start. The good news is there’s a plant that will thrive on every window sill or shelf, every shady back garden or front door step. And whatever your size or style of home - from urban sleek to shabby chic - there are plants that will perfectly suit your life and make it brighter, happier and more interesting.

Get Plants brings a bit of Kew Gardens magic and wisdom to all novice planters. It shows that with a little basic know-how you can find a plant that will flourish in the many different “ecological niches” available in and around your home. Gorgeous contemporary photography shows how plants enhance any living space.

Get Plants, How to bring green into your life (Kew Publishing, HB, £20) by Katherine Price is published in May 2017.

We have a copy to give away.

Just email: competitions.portfoliomagazine@gmail.com with PLANTS in the subject box, plus your name, address and a contact number.

PORTFOLIO 43

PROPERTY PROFESSIONALS LUNCH “This is always a great lunch event!”

Stephanie Prior, Anthony Singh

Leith McK enzie yne h, Richard Pa Sam Kinloc

Mark Packwood, Becky Cheney, Simon Gregg

er, Byrne, Peter Raini Robin Martin, David aly He n Joh , rds wa Lynne Ed

Simon Conn, Pa ul Taggart

“Our favourite networking event – always productive”

T

he April Property Professionals lunch event, held at Pub du Vin Brighton was, as usual a great success, with lots of regular faces plus some new attendees. Richard Zinzan from ZST architects delivered an interested speech about the personal journey of his company, project highlights and forthcoming attractions!

The coveted raffle prize of two tickets for the last game of the season in Amex Stadium’s 1901 lounge including three course lunch at HBs restaurant. The lucky winner was Simon Howe, and the proceeds of the draw went to the event’s chosen Rockinghorse Children’s charity.

To book into the next event on Thursday 6th July contact stephanie@searchesuk.co.uk

44 PORTFOLIO

Emma Weaver, Nazish Ahmad, Alex Bateman

Richard Perry, Stefan Olingschlaeger

an speaker, Richard Zinz rton-Sell Isabel Alde

Raffle prize wi nner

“Highlight of the season”

solicitors Incorporating Johnson McCabe

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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

Commercial Litigation • Commercial contract/ Consumer Disputes • Director/Shareholders/ Partnership Disputes • Insurance Claims • Construction and Engineering • Commercial Property Disputes • Professional Negligence Claims • Intellectual Property Disputes

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

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

Peacehaven, £525,000

Lewes Town & Country Residential Sales & Lettings 14a High Street Lewes East Sussex BN7 2LN T 01273 487444 E lewes@oakleyproperty.com

London Office 40 St James’s Place London SW1A 1NS T 020 78390888 E enquiries@tlo.co.uk

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Oakley are pleased to offer this attractive detached 1920’s house set in a semi rural cliff top position looking over the English channel. The property benefits from stunning views to the English channel, extensive gardens and scope to extend. (STNC)

Hove, £395,000

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Oakley are pleased to offer this attractive two bedroom mid terraced period house situated in this quite road in Hove. The property benefits from gas heating, painted floorboards throughout and offers scope for extension subject to necessary planning consents.

oakleyproperty.com

BEAUTIFUL HOME Brighton

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rare opportunity to purchase an attractive, period, semi-detached Victorian villa in this sought-after Montpelier & Clifton Hill conservation area of Brighton, close to Brighton Mainline Railway Station.

The property has been lovingly refurbished and offers versatile accommodation extending across four storeys. The property is approached via a private driveway with ample vehicle parking. There is an entrance hall with original period features, two good-sized reception rooms and a bright study area off the hallway with windows onto the private rear garden. On the first and second floors you have four good-sized double bedrooms, a family bathroom, a shower room and a second floor roof terrace offering spectacular views across Brighton and to the Sea. At garden level there is a spacious open-plan kitchen/living area with a double aspect, modern high gloss units and stone work surfaces with quality appliances, tiled floor with underfloor heating, a further reception/bedroom five and a shower room. The walled, private rear garden has two stores and a decked patio leading to a lawned garden.

Alexandra Villas, Brighton, BN1 3RF Guide Price: £1,750,000-£1,950,000 Bedrooms: 5 Bathrooms: 3 Extras: Five good-sized double bedrooms; Front and rear garden and second floor roof terrace Best Bits: Ample parking for several cars; Recently refurbished throughout; Sought-after location Oakley 3 North Road, Brighton, BN1 1YA 01273 688881 oakleyproperty.com

PORTFOLIO 47

BEAUTIFUL homes

NEW STEINE, BRIGHTON •

Renowned and leading contemporary Bed & Breakfast

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2/3 Bedroom owners apartment with open plan lounge/kitchen

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Eight stylish bedrooms with en-suite facilities

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Roof terrace, car port, workshop

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Elegant Listed Grade II Georgian townhouse in popular Seafront Square

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Sole Agents

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Reception room, breakfast room

£1,200,000 FREEHOLD

Graves Son & Pilcher, 51 Old Steyne, Brighton, BN1 1HU 48 PORTFOLIO 01273 321123 | www.gravessonandpilcher.co.uk

NEWS

CLIVE EMSON AUCTIONEERS The latest news from Clive Emson Auctioneers

news

MAY AUCTION ONLINE AUCTION RESULTS In addition to the success of our regional March auction, a further £2 million was exchanged on two lots offered through our online auction service. Five Wells, an office building in the Essex town of Grays, fetched £1,225,000 and Eden House, a three-storey residential property in Bristol, fetched £622,000. Any agent or prospective seller who would like more information about our online facility, which has now been proved and tested after months of extensive development, is invited to call Jon Rimmer on 0345 8500333, or speak to any of our branches for more details.

Our May auction will take place on Monday, 8th May at the Hilton Brighton Metropole, commencing at 11am. If you are interested in watching a live auction and finding out how the auction process works, please do not hesitate to come along.

MARCH RESULTS With spring well and truly here and the warmer weather lifting everyone’s mood, we are delighted to announce that our March auction was the most successful to date!

Our Hampshire and Essex offices celebrated a 100% success rate and the overall combined conversions from lots offered to contracts exchanged was a record-breaking 89%!

FUND RAISING ENTRIES INVITED FOR THE JUNE AUCTION The fourth round of our 2017 auctions will take place on Wednesday, 14th June at the Hilton Brighton Metropole.

Please contact one of the team if you would like to discuss placing your land or property into an auction, or if you have any other auction-related questions. The Sussex & Surrey team can be contacted at sussex@cliveemson.co.uk or by calling 01273 504232.

Photo: From left to right: Richard Payne, Emma Attrell, Sam Kinloch and James Emson

Director Sam Kinloch is due to take part in multiple cycling events in May (Surrey Hills Cyclone Sportive “Epic Route”), July (Etape du Tour) and September (Revolve 24), all raising funds for Cancer Research UK. Auctioneer Richard Payne is also taking part in the Prudential London-Surrey 100 in July, raising funds for the Rockinghorse Charity, which supports the Trevor Mann baby unit at the Royal Alexandra Children’s Hospital in Brighton.

If you are interested in finding out more or would like to make a donation, please follow us on Facebook (@CliveEmsonAuctioneers) or Twitter (@CliveEmson), where we will be posting regular updates.

Clive Emson Auctioneers, 83 Bates Road, Brighton, BN1 6PF 01273 504232 | www.cliveemson.co.uk

PROPERTY

STARTER HOME Is it harder than ever to get on the first rung of the housing ladder? We look at the facts

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s the Government pledges to build one million homes, the number of wouldbe first-time buyers is at a peak. It’s a thorny issue, and one the government and large property developers have tried to tackle as the gap widens between those who would still prefer buying to renting and those who can afford the deposit, and the costs, involved in purchasing.

Here are some interesting statistics that put this subject into sharp focus: • 25% of 18- to 34-year-olds are relying on inheritance to get on the property ladder • One in 10 young people would leave the UK for a more affordable home • 25% are certain they’ll never own their own home • One in five says home ownership is a thing of the past Almost half (48%) of young Brits think it’s harder than ever to get on the property ladder, with one in 10 prepared to leave the UK in order to buy their own home.

New research from Halifax uncovered the attitudes of young people who don’t own a property, revealing that a quarter of 18- to 34-year-olds think the only way they’ll manage is by inheriting the cash.

Eight out of ten feel that a lack of affordable 50 PORTFOLIO

property is keeping home ownership out of reach, and, as a result, one in 10 (14%) think they’ll need to rent forever. However, first-time buyers end up on average £651 a year better off buying than renting.

The average deposit put down for an average first-time-buyer home in the South East is £47,472.

"Many of the large house builders now offer attractive deals in some areas designed with first-time buyers in mind" Martin Ellis, Halifax housing economist, said: “Even with the highest number of firsttime buyers in the last decade in 2016, many young people still feel they are running a financial gauntlet – saving for a deposit, finding an affordable property in the right area and managing to fund living in the meantime.

“It’s never too early to do some research to help build a better understanding of how much is affordable, the borrowing options available and calculating what’s achievable to help make owning a property more of a reality.”

Although aspiring homeowners could begin gravitating towards the UK’s more affordable areas to get on to the property ladder, more than one in five (22%) feel that home ownership is a thing of the past. Even if they have managed to raise a deposit, a third (33%) feel mortgage criteria are too difficult for them to meet.

HERE’S THE GOOD NEWS There are still ways for people determined to get on to the first rung of the ladder, as many lenders offer mortgages for first-time buyers with deposits of 5%. This could reduce the amount needed to nail the necessary deposit, and longer mortgage terms help make monthly payments more manageable.

The Nationwide Building Society have introduced some innovative products into the market - one being the Family Deposit Mortgage. If you already have a mortgage with the Nationwide Building Society against part of the equity in your home, you can gift that additional borrowing to a family member as a deposit on a home of their own. If you’re with another lender and thinking of moving your mortgage to Nationwide, the idea’s the same – you’re free to gift that additional borrowing to a loved one to help with a home purchase.

Choosing a Family Deposit Mortgage means good news for you, too, as they’ll offer you a preferential interest rate.

PROPERTY

Before taking the plunge, here are a few things to consider: ADVANTAGES A place to call home: You’ll have somewhere to really call your own, without having to rely on a landlord.

Investment potential: When your mortgage is paid off, you’ll have the satisfaction of owning your own property, which may also turn out to be an investment that could increase in value.

Improve credit rating: Making regular payments and owning a property are great ways of showing lenders you’re in control of your finances.

" There are still ways for people determined to get on to the first rung of the ladder, as many lenders offer mortgages for first-time buyers"

THINGS TO CONSIDER Raising a deposit: In order to get a mortgage, you’ll need a deposit.

This is a sum of, usually, at least 5% of the property’s total value.

Sometimes saving this much money to put down on a property can be tough.

Exposure to the housing market: Sometimes property prices fall.

If that happens, there’s a risk of ‘negative equity,’ where your home becomes worth less than the mortgage you have on it.

Monthly mortgage payments: You run the risk of losing your home if you can’t keep up your monthly payments. This can also affect your credit rating, which may impact on your ability to borrow or get credit in the future.

And don’t forget Stamp Duty is payable. Calculate at: www.moneysavingexpert.com/mortgages/stamp-duty Thanks to www.nationwide.co.uk/guides

Another is their Help To Buy ISA savings scheme, which applies to first-time buyer-savers on second-hand homes.

It’s also worth checking out the Government’s Help to Buy: Shared Ownership scheme. You can buy as little as 25% or as much as 75% of a home and pay rent on the rest. See more at: www.helptobuy.gov.uk. Also, many of the large house builders now offer attractive deals in some areas designed with first-time buyers in mind, so ask for details.

HALIFAX TIPS FOR ASPIRING FIRST-TIME BUYERS 1.

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Try out calculators and tools: you can work out how much you could borrow, how much deposit you would need and what monthly payments would be What are your mortgage options? Speak to a mortgage adviser – it will give you a clearer idea of your options – some lenders will allow first-time buyers to borrow up to 95% of the property value, or you may have someone to guarantee the mortgage Do your research on any schemes or incentives such as shared equity, that could make buying a property in the area you want more affordable.

Create a money plan: working out how much you will need for monthly costs will help you understand what kind of mortgage you can afford, factoring in bills and expenses You should check your credit score a year before you plan to get a mortgage and keep track of it throughout the year to ensure you get the best start

PORTFOLIO 51

LEGAL

BREXIT AND PROPERTY Nazish Ahmad from Healys LLP looks at Predictions vs Proof regarding Brexit and the Housing Market

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he triggering of Article 50 on March 29th, 2017 has potentially thrown another spanner in the pipeline for the housing market. As we have seen, numerous reports and articles have debated and tried to make educated guesses as to what will happen to properties in the UK once we leave the EU. No one can truly be sure as to what extent Brexit will affect the housing market in the near and distant future. One main concern for consumers and investors is the effect it may have on property prices. We have already seen that the pound fell dramatically after the Brexit vote last year; since then trading has been around 15% lower compared to the dollar ($) and 12% lower than the euro (€). However, GDP (Gross domestic product) increased 0.7% (up from 0.6%) according to ONS (office for national statistics).

Prior to Article 50, the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors stated that the property market is slowing down, with the number of homes on the market at a record low. Enquiries

from buyers are down, as uncertainty over Brexit negotiations and other economic conditions are causing people to wait and see what happens and delay purchases.

"The property market will always have highs and lows and elements of risk. However, Brexit or no Brexit, this would always be the case" On the contrary, UK house prices accelerated in Feb 2017, rising 4.5% in a year, according to the Nationwide, and 5% according to Halifax.

Martin Ellis, a Halifax housing economist said ‘’Housing demand is still being supported by an economy that continues to perform well with employment still expanding.’’

It is these different sources and opinions which are causing stress and strain to

consumers and professionals alike. Can anyone truly predict the future for the UK’s property market? I think not. Does that mean that those wishing to sell and buy should avoid doing so until a plan is clear? I think not. The property market will always have highs and lows and elements of risk. However, Brexit or no Brexit, this would always be the case.

The next two years will be uncertain; negotiations and differences of opinion will exist across all media platforms worldwide.

However, the economy and market sectors will adapt, and it is accepting those changes which will allow the property market to continue to develop across the UK. If you wish to discuss any aspect of conveyancing, whether it be commercial or residential, our team at Healys have extensive experience and expertise in the field. If you require advice, then please contact me, Nazish Ahmad, for further information via email nazish.ahmad@healys.com or via telephone 01273 669110.

PORTFOLIO 53

We are an independent Chartered Surveying practice where our full dedication is to our Clients Our Professional Services Include • Building & RICS Homebuyer Surveys • Maintenance Reports • Valuations • Lease Extension/Enfranchisement • Expert Witness Reports • Drawing Work • Building Project Supervision • Lease & Land Transfer Plans • Planning & Building Regulation Submission • Party Wall Awards • Schedule of Dilapidations

For more information please contact us at: 75 Church Road, Hove, BN3 2BB office@3jssurveyors.co.uk www.3jssurveyors.co.uk 01273 773193

TALK money

SHOWING INTEREST Claire Cook from Independent Financial Advisors Talk Money looks at how to make the most of your savings

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he low interest rates over the past few years have been good news for borrowers, but savers have suffered. If you are retired, things may have been tough, especially if you are on a set income and reliant on your savings interest.

Many people have trawled the market for higher interest rates, but this can often mean tying your money up for a period of time or investing into accounts where there is a limit on the amount you can deposit. As time has gone on, fixed-rate investments have matured and further options have become more limited.

The traditional places to put your savings, such as cash ISAs, may not be quite so attractive now you are able to earn, depending on your tax banding, tax-free interest of up to £1,000 per tax year on traditional savings accounts. This is because you may now find an account with a higher rate and still earn taxfree interest.

Financial institutions keep merging, and with a limit of only £85,000, with each covered by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS), if people have a high amount of savings they can get really stumped as to where to invest their money.

How do I get a return on my investments?

To get a higher long-term growth rate on a proportion of your funds, it may be necessary to take a measured level of risk. Risk levels can be tailored to individual requirements; even a low-risk investment has the potential to achieve a higher long-term return than cash investments.

“To get a higher longterm growth rate on a proportion of your funds, it may be necessary to take a measured level of risk” You could seek the advice of an IFA, who can look at the whole market and work out where best to invest your money.

Firstly, we would ensure that you have sufficient funds in cash for your needs.

See more from Talk Money at www.portfoliopublications.co.uk

These are funds you can access in case of emergencies or shorter-term spending needs. Then, we would review any existing investments to see how they have performed, the charges and the risk level.

Very importantly, we would assess your attitude to investment risk and capacity for loss. You may be very cautious with your investments, or you may be happy with a medium or more adventurous risk level. What do you want your investment to do for you? Do you want growth or income, or a combination of the two? What is your tax situation? Your investment should be tax-efficient and work in combination with other income and investments you may have.

If you need advice on investments or any other aspect of financial planning, please call me, Claire Cook, on 01273 224667. I offer a free initial consultation and would be happy to help. www.talkmoney.co.uk.

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 55

FEATURE home

HOME OF THE MONTH

...as selected by PORTFOLIO magazine Three-bedroom terraced house for sale Robert Street, Brighton Price: Offers in Excess of £575,000

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his attractive city centre period three bedroom home is situated in the heart of the North Laine area of Brighton, and offers well laid out, versatile accommodation. The ground floor consists of an entrance hall leading to a good-sized reception/bedroom three with a feature bow fronted double glazed window and a bathroom with separate cloakroom. The lower ground floor benefits from a separate street entrance, a kitchen/dining room and a study/utility/ garden room. The house has two double bedrooms on the first floor and benefits from double glazing throughout, solid oak flooring and an east facing rear patio garden which enjoys a sunny aspect.

Oakley Property, Brighton 3 North Road, Brighton, BN1 1YA 01273 688881 www.oakleyproperty.com

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

INTERVIEW

WELCOME TO MY WORLD This month we speak to Carol Duncumb, PLC Non-Executive Director, Remuneration Chairman and Senior Executive Mentor/Business Advisor Carol, you have been a Non-Executive Director on a number of boards. What exactly does this role entail?

That’s interesting, and a question I’m often asked. Essentially, it is a position on the board of a company which does not have a day to day remit as, say, an executive would have, but rather an independent role, usually protecting the interests of major shareholders. Certainly, that is the case in a publicly listed company (PLC). Having said that, far more private businesses are now engaging non-executives to gain experience and wisdom from industry specialists to help widen their knowledge and assist in accelerating growth.

Many board rooms realise that if they undertake a basic skills assessment, they can benefit enormously from the knowledge that an independent person can bring them. It often helps to see things from a different perspective, not to mention that it can be a stressful life for an owner running a business, and it is useful to have someone to talk to.

as a chief executive. I realised this was good grounding for continuing as a mentor. It started a while back when I invested into on-line retail and tech start-ups. Many of these business had a great product and terrific energy but lacked confidence in the basic disciplines of everyday business life. After all, who teaches you how to file VAT or speak to investors/banks or develop a strategy for growth or, best of all, manage people? My decision to invest was firstly around the product, but by working closely with management teams I was able to mentor and enhance growth.

Presumably, your considerable retail experience at a high level means that the Board should listen and taken your advice. Do they?

That question makes me smile! My role is rather less of a final say on a matter and more a means to debate ongoing strategy. It can be a two-way process... I often learn something new as well. But on a serious note, over the years I have faced a great variety of business challenges and situations. One way or another, I can advise on a question, and yes, I’d say my colleagues are grateful for the advice and support. Rarely am I at odds with a board unless they step outside of good corporate governance or take on too much risk.

What benefits does mentoring offer to individuals and companies?

I’d say the biggest benefit on a personal level is reassurance and confidence boosting.

It’s a lonely life sometimes being at the top.

Everyone depends on you, and often business owners feel huge personal responsibility.

Many business owners I work with see our time together as a bit of “me” time. A chance to privately share thoughts, develop themselves and discuss in confidence some of the issues they face. The sessions we have can be quite lively, and often result in shared minds developing an enhanced vision of the future.

My goal is to leave an individual confident they can achieve.

Outside of this work, you have developed a reputation as a business mentor and advisor.

How did this role come about?

Over the years I’ve been a good listener and managed different divisions in my former role

Your business background is in retail; tell us a little more about that.

I started selling with bags of samples, coldcalling on retailers. It was the hard school of knocks! After two years, although I was

Are they usually start-ups, or do you advise larger, established companies?

It can be any size of business that is openminded to debating how it operates. Whatever the size of your business, it’s healthy to have external opinion, and not always from within the sector. In my case, I work with PLC’s, scaleups and start-ups. Each has their own unique set of challenges.

making a decent living, it was too lonely for me. I wanted to be part of the development of something. So I applied for a job with a famous men’s clothing company based at Gatwick. The job was typing purchase orders and making coffee for the buying director. After six months I told my boss, “Listen, I’ve got more to offer... “ He said, “OK come with me to El Paso, Texas and we’ll see what more there is to be done.”

Shortly after that trip, I was on my way to Hong Kong to start sourcing golf polo shirts!

Developing product for retailers was a tremendous learning ground. I worked alongside M & S, BHS, Matalan, John Lewis and hundreds of independent retailers. Many of these businesses are not run by traditional business-trained individuals, but by rather tougher characters. In an ever-changing world, staying one step ahead was a constant challenge and taught me never to take anything for granted. When Asda started to sell clothing, I was famously interviewed as saying, “A supermarket will never sell bras and knickers with frozen peas...” Within five years Asda had two per cent of the market share!

What was your first job?

Like all my friends, it was a paper round, delivering the Bournemouth Evening Echo.

I couldn’t get up in the morning to do the morning rounds!

Do you have a typical day, Carol?

Actually, I thrive on NOT having a typical day!

That’s exactly why after 25 years of executive life I decided I needed a life without a remit.

What do you do when you want to relax?

I love playing golf... now, there’s a whole other subject! A wonderful way to meet people all over the world. My father taught me to play golf, and it was the best thing he did for me.

Carol Duncumb, NED and Business Coach Get in touch with Carol at: carol@duncumb.com or 07720 451453 PORTFOLIO 57

45% Property prices in Brighton and Hove have increased by 45% in the last five years...

Find out how much your property is worth

North Laine

01273 720714 Brighton Marina

01273 622007 Fiveways

01273 561534 Hove

01273 321721 North Laine

01273 675571

Sales & Lettings Sirius, £1,133,000

Oriental Place, OIEO £1,500,000

Victory Mews, £689,950

EPC C

EPC B

EPC C

A chance to acquire one of two freehold buildings located in Oriental Place. Each building features 6 individual self contained properties.

Oriental Place is a period building with flats converted inside. The building boasts an excellent location and sea views.

This is a fantastic investment opportunity to purchase a 1, 2 or 3 bedroom or penthouse apartments with spectacular sea views. Each apartment comes with either a terrace or balcony and is finished to a high standard.

A beautiful newly refurbished dual aspect open plan living/kitchen/ dining area which offers plenty of cupboard space. Three double bedroom with two benefiting from having en suites. A bright reception which could also be used as a fourth bedroom which has a south facing balcony overlooking the inner harbour.

Copenhagen Court, £595,000

Russell House Development

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£ 2 rice 60 s Fr ,0 om 00

The Boardwalk, £645,000

EPC B This is a fantastic investment opportunity to purchase a 1, 2 or 3 bedroom or penthouse apartments with spectacular sea views. Each apartment comes with either a terrace or balcony and is finished to a high standard. The apartments come with a 141 year lease.

EPC B A three double bedrooms with two benefiting from having en suite and one having a Jack and Jill bathroom, dining room with access to the west facing balcony, kitchen with integrated appliances and plenty of storage space, large living area which is perfect for entertaining.

Hartington Villas, £250,000

Russell House is a stunning new development with high end design, style and quality throughout. The development offers a selection of one, two and three-bedroom apartments in the heart of Brighton, with the opportunity to purchase much sought-after, secure parking spaces.

Grand Ocean, £299,000

Belbourne Court, £140,000

EPC C

EPC C

A well proportioned one bedroom ground floor flat situated in the development of Belbourne Court, catering for over 60’s. The property comprises of entrance hall lounge, kitchen, double bedroom and walk in shower room.

An two bedroom property, within the famous Art Deco building of the former Grand Hotel. The apartment is located within the original building; just a stone’s throw away from the beach front, making for amazing coastal walks and direct sea views from the open plan living.

EPC D A well positioned, one bedroom, ground floor flat, situated on the tree-lined road of Hartington Villas. The property is in close proximity to Hove mainline railway station, 200 yards away. The property comprises lounge, separate kitchen, bedroom and bathroom.

EPC B

leaders.co.uk

LEADERS

LOVE BRIGHTON AND HOVE? Love living in Brighton and Hove? Show Leaders why and you could win £250!

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o you love living in Brighton and Hove?

If so, simply take a photo that sums up your passion for the city and you could win one of eight prizes of £250.

Estate agents Leaders, which operates five branches across Brighton and Hove, has announced the return of its Love Living In competition for 2017. Following video contests in 2015 and 2016, this year’s competition is looking for photos that show exactly why people love living where they do.

Joanne Darroch, Senior Branch Manager at Leaders in Brighton and Hove, says: “From its iconic piers and sun-soaked seafront to the vibrancy of the Lanes, historic architecture and the beautiful surroundings of the South Downs,

there are thousands of things that people love about living in Brighton.

“We are looking for eight winners, so I would urge everybody in Brighton and Hove to pick up their smartphone or camera and get snapping.

Summing up your love for the city in a single photo is all you have to do in order to win £250.”

“There are thousands of things that people love about living in Brighton” The Love Living In categories are Urban Energy, Natural Beauty, Hidden Gems, Cherished Landmarks, Family Fun, Best of Spring, People’s Choice and Young

Photographer. The People’s Choice winner will be decided by online votes, while the Young Photographer category is open only to under16s.

Joanne adds: “We are looking forward to seeing how people interpret these categories and hope they will provide plenty of inspiration when it comes to taking a stunning photo. As Brighton and Hove is so diverse and full of such eye-catching panoramas, we believe it is possible for snaps taken within the city to win any of the categories.”

Entries can be submitted at lovelivingin. co.uk, and the closing date is Tuesday 2nd May. All eight winners will be announced shortly after this date.

PROTECTING CUSTOMERS The Government are to force letting agents to offer Client Money Protection. Joanne Darroch, Senior Branch Manager at Leaders in Brighton and Hove, explains

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lient Money Protection (CMP) is to be made compulsory for all letting agents across England following the recommendations of a government working group set up to investigate the issue.

The Department of Communities and Local Government ran the group looking into CMP – which ensures tenant deposits are protected within an official scheme and prevents rogue agents from absconding or abusing client funds – and has concluded it should be added to the laws governing the lettings market.

Estate agents Leaders, which has offered a lettings service since 1983 and always used CMP, has welcomed news of the findings and believes it will help to eliminate the practices of some untrustworthy agents.

Joanne Darroch, Senior Branch Manager at

Leaders in Brighton and Hove, says: “Making CMP mandatory across the industry will help to raise standards and improve the reputation of letting agents. It is only right that a sector in which money is held on behalf of clients is forced to adhere to strict laws.

“At Leaders, we have always taken steps to protect our clients’ money and have long argued that all agents should be required by law to do the same. Over the three decades we’ve been in business, we’ve seen far too many agents without CMP going out of business and leaving landlords and tenants badly out of pocket. In some cases, unscrupulous agents deliberately mishandle funds for financial gain.

“In making CMP compulsory rather than voluntary, the government can quickly and

easily force all agents to meet the highest standards when it comes to securely and honestly dealing with tenant deposits and other monies – just as reputable and trustworthy firms already are.”

Approximately 85 per cent of interested parties in the working group – including a number of letting agents – expressed their desire to see CMP become mandatory. The group has suggested those agents who continue to fail the due diligence requirement to access CMP cover should be banned from handling client money.

Joanne adds: “While regulations should not be a barrier to new agents entering the market, it is crucial that certain standards are met and client money is one area in which no exceptions can be made.”

For more information and expert advice on selling, letting, buying or renting in Brighton and Hove, please contact your local Leaders branch or visit leaders.co.uk.

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GARDENING

INTO THE GARDEN May brings a taste of summer to come.. 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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Weed borders weekly now to stop them spreading

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Continue to mow the lawns on a weekly basis

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Trim ornamental hedges, like box hedge

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Keep watering regularly

Enjoy your May garden as it grows

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his is a beautiful month in the garden as colour erupts everywhere you look.

The garden is a magical place right now with so many perennials blooming that have been hidden away before, waiting for warmer weather to come. This is the month of the pretty forget-me-nots, honesty and aquilegia, which, left to seed, carpet our gardens in beautiful shades of blue.

At this time of the year our outdoor spaces become invaluable; even the smallest garden can be turned into an idyllic oasis for us to enjoy away from the hustle and bustle. Limited outside space does not have to be restrictive at all as there is so much you can achieve with compact gardens. Treat the space as an outdoor room, an extension of your home, keeping the colour palette simple just as you might inside your home and applying to the garden the same principles you may use in

your interiors. Consider proportions, texture and colour when planning a small garden.

Lack of space does not mean a lack of options.

To make a small garden appear larger, stick to one or two bold elements rather than filling it with smaller items. For example, one larger tree like an olive in the centre, planted or in a pot, can make a real statement rather than lots of smaller shrubs. Always blur the boundaries in a space this size by covering walls and fences with evergreen climbers.

Good design is vital when planning a small garden and it’s not always necessary to get a professional to do the planning if the budget does not allow. Instead, visit gardens and garden shows and also look at magazines to see what is best for your own unique plot.

When space is an issue, style does not have to be compromised. A classic themed garden can work well if space is limited.

The dominant colour in the classic garden is mostly green with striking flowers. Low box hedges can work well, and within them you can plant a standard rose or a small tree in the centre surrounded by seasonal flowers. Tulips earlier on, followed by forget-me-nots, then alliums and agapanthus later on will all add style and real impact to your box enclosure.

Enjoy the month of May with a visit to the annual RHS Chelsea Flower Show to see all the amazing gardens and to take inspiration for your own garden. Another garden well worth a visit is the classic gardens at Sissinghurst Castle and Hidcote Manor, beautifully created

by Vita Sackville-West and her husband in the 1930s. This is classic in its style, with natural planting, and is one of the most beautiful gardens in England. www.rhs.org.uk/Chelsea www.nationaltrust.org.uk

“Blur the boundaries in a small space by covering walls and fences with evergreen climbers”

THE collection

THE May COLLECTION Small is beautiful. These courtyard gardens and pretty patios are low-maintenance but high in wow factor

Exuding style Sussex Square, Brighton Situated in the greatly desired Sussex Square, this light, bright one-bedroom apartment exudes style and comes with access to the six acres of private gardens, Kemp Town Enclosures. This one-bedroom lower-ground-floor apartment is accessed via a wrought iron gate and down a small staircase to a lower courtyard with a communal cellar area.

The spacious living room is exceptionally light and bright, with white painted walls and an elegant feature fireplace, with shelving in the alcoves either side.

The windows look out to the front courtyard area and allow an abundance of natural light to stream into the room. The bedroom looks out to a rear communal courtyard area. Back out to the hallway, and at the rear of the apartment, is the ideal office space, accessed via double doors, ideal for anyone working from home.

Price: £325,000 Mishon Mackay 01273 670067 | www.mishonmackay.com

"Behind the distinctive 1820s bow facade an expansive interior has been refurbished to an incredibly high standard"

Historic square Norfolk Square, Brighton This elegant four-storey, five-bedroom, Grade II-listed period townhouse with a selfcontained apartment is in an historic Brighton square. Ideally situated only moments away from the bustling cafes and shops of Western Road, this beautifully presented home is only a short walk from the seafront.

Offering a very rare opportunity to acquire an entire house on this attractive square, behind the distinctive 1820s bow facade an expansive interior has been refurbished to an incredibly high standard. Set in Brighton’s highly sought-after Regency Square Conservation Area, this is a wonderful example of contemporary living in a period property.

Price: OIRO £1,250,000 Fine & Country 01273 739911 | www.fineandcountry.com

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THE collection

Village location Church Hill, Patcham Old Village, Brighton

Price: OIEO £349,950 Spencer & Leigh 01273 565566 | www.spencerandleigh.co.uk

Boasting a beautiful location in the heart of Patcham Old Village, adjacent to a wishing well, cottages don’t get much better than this! Dating back to the late 1600s, this attractive Grade II-listed cottage has many original features, including beamed ceilings, a flagstone floor and a beautiful fireplace housing a log burning stove.

A secluded side entrance leads into the surprisingly spacious lounge/dining room. There is a pleasant kitchen with its own range cooker and a groundfloor cloakroom with ample space for appliances. The outside area features a secluded east-facing courtyard garden presenting a pleasant space to relax and enjoy the tranquility.

"There is a real sense of period charm and character with lovely exposed and polished timber floors throughout, decorative ceiling coving and a focal fireplace"

Secluded garden Langdale Gardens, Hove This lovely flat occupies the ground floor of this attractive red-brick period building and offers lovely light and spacious living accommodation.There is a real sense of period charm and character with lovely exposed and polished timber floors throughout, decorative ceiling coving and a focal fireplace in the living room. Such character is complemented by modern comforts that include high-quality double-glazed windows, with sash window variety at the front to preserve the character of the building, central heating and a modern kitchen and bathroom.

Worthy of particular mention is the pleasant, attractively landscaped and secluded rear garden, which enjoys a sunny southeasterly aspect, and the front garden is also included in the ownership.

Guide Price: £475,000 to £495,000 Goldin Lemcke 01273 777123 | www.goldinlemcke.com

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ARCHITECTURE

e

COFFEE & COCKTAILS Café culture and the economy: Grant Shepherd from Alter & Company Architects looks at how coffee houses have become the new work, as well as social, hubs

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rtisan independent coffee houses are acting as the new agents for social change throughout Brighton and Hove, gentrifying areas of our city. This can be considered equal to artists acting as catalysts for social change, forming communities that define the city’s culture. Coffee houses don’t necessarily define our culture, but they do currently form community nucleuses and temporary workplaces. There may be mixed feelings toward the new taverns of black medicine, with consumer culture feeding a social appetite rather than local government, businesses and the public, making indoor community-founded places that don’t have a fiscal bias. Whilst the coffee house is not a fully loaded, free social construct, it is moving in the right direction to provide space for community assembly.

Brighton’s consumption of coffee is reputed to be the largest in the United Kingdom. A walk through the famous North Laine will immeditely confirm this fact. Take a walk from north to south and you will find two to three coffee houses on each street. These are places to meet, congregate, work and commun. They are also places of common ground and sharing.

A coffee house has a sense of romance to it and

is wrapped up in films and books, the gaze of an individual looking into the distance through the dusted sunlight.

It’s is really this depth of drama that we as designers and architects try to embrace and reinvent into new coffee house environments.

At Alter & Company architects we have been involved in several high-stake coffee house developments, including The Science Museum

"We have found that there is no single, fixed architectural formula for a coffee house" and National History Museum London, for coffee company Benugo. We have found that there is no single, fixed architectural formula for a coffee house. Retro-fitting an existing building has its difficulties and induces thinking creatively when dealing with a brand, space, experience, functionality. In an environment such as a coffee house, the space has to perform and tell a story. All good design works with a narrative, to make dramatic, memorable moments in the space through forms, furniture, texture and colour with materials. Judicious

use of lighting is essential: natural light brings depth and joy but can be overbearing if too bright. Controlled artificial lighting can set the atmosphere by evoking feelings of softness or passion. The drama of a coffee house is driven by a nucleus that is rooted in the experience of something unseen, original and of our time or of the future. This can also be a burden to a coffee house and chain of shops as they can appear out of date very fast.

Patterns in living show a shift to many more freelancers working in coffee houses throughout the city. Freelance workers, digital contractors and entrepreneurs - who don’t occupy an office and can’t afford to rent – have been crucial in shaping a new role for coffee houses. This has not taken off as much as in other cities, where co-working and consuming coffee is the basis of the venture. Where might the coffee house be heading? At Alter & Company we are seeing a turning towards the continental approach to public life, with a slow process of consuming allowing time to pass by enjoying coffee and cocktails into the evening.

Alter & Company Ltd, Studio 1C, 11 Jew Street, Brighton BN1 1UT 01273 720816 | www.alterandcompany.com PORTFOLIO 65

DIY

“When you’re working with paste-the-wall papers, you’ll find it quicker and easier to use a paint roller to apply the paste”

HANG IT

Wallpaper is the ultimate tool for adding drama to your scheme, and you really can do it yourself

T

he trend for feature walls is here to stay.

Wallpapering a single wall to create a striking design feature adds a focus to a room and drama to your interior. Typically, most feature walls use a big, bold print and you can go really bold, even in a small space.

Modern paste-the-wall paper now makes it easier to apply (as it doesn’t require a pasting table) and is easier to take off should you fancy a change.

How to hang the first length of wallpaper on a feature wall Using a pasting brush or a roller, put a generous, even layer of strong wallpaper paste onto the wall where you’ll be hanging your first length of paper. Cover the whole area and make sure the pasted part is slightly wider than the width of the roll.

Top tip - Easy pasting When you’re working with paste-the-wall papers, you’ll find it quicker and easier to use a paint roller to apply the paste. Use it with a roller tray, but make sure the paste on the roller doesn’t dry out. Only paste a small area at a time, and take care not to flick paste onto adjacent walls or wallpaper.

Start at the top of the wall. Hang the first length of wallpaper and slide it into position against the marked vertical line.

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Smooth the paper towards the bottom of the wall with a brush or damp sponge. Gently press the paper into the angle of the ceiling and skirting, and mark a cutting line with the rounded back of your scissors. Then pull away the paper gradually to cut along the line at the top and bottom, and smooth the trimmed edges into place.

Carry on pasting across the width of the wall, making sure that you match the pattern at eye height and there are no gaps between the lengths. You should only use a seam roller on non-textured papers. At the edges of the feature wall, you’ll probably meet either an internal or external corner and be left with a strip of wall narrower than the wallpaper roll.

Hanging the final length on a wall Start by measuring from the last length to the corner of the wall. Add an extra 40mm to this measurement and mark on the reverse of the wallpaper (remembering which is top). Then draw a vertical line down the length of the wallpaper, using a pencil and straightedge.

Cut along this line with a pair of scissors.

Carefully match the pattern by pushing the paper into or around the corner - taking care not to get too much excess paste on the next wall. Then make a vertical cut in the excess paper at the top and bottom of the corner.

Mark a vertical cutting line with the rounded back of the scissors, and then neatly trim off

the excess paper. Smooth down the paper on the wall and wipe off any excess paste.

Matching the Pattern To get the best effect, you need to position a large-scale pattern carefully. If there’s a large or dominant motif, it should appear in the centre of your wall. At the same time, try to think about how the pattern will look at the top and the bottom - you can check by sticking up a sample length using masking tape. Most patterned wallpapers have a pattern drop of roughly 53cm. For your second and subsequent lengths, you’ll need to line up the pattern before measuring and cutting them.

Top tip - Delicate patterns Some wallpapers (like flock) are very delicate and can mark easily - so take extra care not to damage the surface when you cut and smooth them. It’s not a good idea to use a seam roller on these papers, and try not to get any paste on the surface.

First, lay two pieces of paper together on a clean pasting table and work out the pattern drop. Measure your next length and cut this to size.

To stop any confusion when you’re hanging your lengths, mark the top lightly on the reverse of each length with a pencil.

Thanks to diy.com

BEAUTIFUL homes

PAPER CUTS These tips will ensure you don’t come unstuck Measure the height of your wall and add 100mm to get your drop length.

Always check to make sure you are working with the design the right way up!

Find the point in the design you want to see at the top of the wall.

Cut straight across the paper about 50mm above that. (You’ll trim the extra off after you’ve hung the wallpaper).

Measure out the drop length on the back of your paper. Mark a straight line across the back and make your cut.

A dustsheet on the floor will help keep your wallpaper clean as you work.

Check your first drop dry against the wall before you paste or cut any more.

If the ceiling height varies, cut each drop one at a time and number it on the back so you know which drop goes where.

Straight match patterns: Check the label of your paper. A symbol with two arrows opposite one another means it’s a straight match pattern where the left and right sides line up.

Unroll your next drop on top of your first and line up the pattern on the side furthest away from you.

Cut your second drop to match your first. Keep offcuts to use above doors.

Drop match patterns: When you see a drop match symbol it means the pattern is staggered so the next drop matches up (usually) half way down the first.

Unless you’ve got a bold pattern, start in the least noticable corner (behind a door maybe).

Bold patterns look best when you start in the middle of the focal point of the room.

Cut bold patterns so you trim back to a complete motif at the top of the wall.

Paste on the front of your paper can spoil the surface. Remove it quickly but gently using clean water on a soft sponge, working out to the edge of the paper.

Thanks to www.wallpaperdirect.com

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On the drawing board On The Drawing Board is our platform for Industry professionals and the public to discuss issues and ideas relating to planning

O

n The Drawing Board will showcase planning permissions granted, scheme ideas and ideas for Brighton’s regeneration and future. This month: we look at some of the developments taking place in the city. If you are a property professional, or just have a great idea, get in touch on the channels below.

THE MODERN BRIGHTON & HOVE MAP The Modern Brighton and Hove map is currently in design and production.

A celebration of the city’s architecture from the past 100 years, it is a collaborative project between Dr Cara Courage, Paul Zara of Conran and Partners, photographer James Stephenson and graphic designer Richard Wolfstrome. It is funded by RIBA Sussex and will be available in the early summer. There will be a series of walking tours based around the themes of the map: modernism and art deco, brutalism, housing and contemporary architecture.

#BRIGHTFUTURE TODAY Working with the Brighton & Hove Tourism Alliance for English Tourism Week (#ETW17), Brighton and Hove buses donated their City Sightseeing bus to ZST architects to run their #BrightFuture Today workshop. Using #Brightfuture, ZSTa want to continue the conversation on what you want to see to make

Brighton & Hove better! We parked up in Ship Street, outside Fabrica, on Wednesday 29th March, and the public were invited to join the discussion on how to improve our city through regeneration and architecture.

With an interactive map, passer-bys were encouraged to share their thoughts and ideas, and ZST architects hope to use city connections and their architectural knowledge to make some of your ideas a reality. Amongst the array of suggestions were: a large art gallery, including eco micro-flats in the Hove Station area re-development, a sensational 50m swimming pool and a concept to make the marina more attractive to visitors. For a full list of the inspirational ideas we received, please visit the zsta.co.uk/brightfuture.

TOWER POINT ZSTa were appointed to transform the building known as Tower Point through the construction of a new rooftop landmark restaurant and five penthouse apartments. Their concept is to add a refined, even jewel-like extension to the lower element of this simple, yet fairly brutal, building. In so doing, we aim to effectively cap the building off and transform its appearance. It is our view that Tower Point can be a landmark building, conspicuous within the Brighton skyline for all the right reasons!

The roof-top restaurant and terraces will have spectacular panoramic views over the city towards the sea and will be a real asset to Brighton’s offer to locals and visitors alike.

Playing on this, we have sought to create an eye-catching structure with a faceted roof form intended to hover over a glazed perimeter, appearing as a stretched ‘halo’. The restaurant will be highly visible from various distant viewing points all over the city and will be a

spectacular sight in the evening when lit up. By contrast, the restaurant will be very discreet from street level views where only a teasing view of the roof’s edge would be visible.

The planning has been submitted, and ZSTa will bring updates when the decision has been made.

PRIORY HOUSE PLANNING APPROVED ON APPEAL ZST architects have successfully had planning permission approved at appeal for a building in the historic Bartholomew Square of Brighton’s South Lanes.

In 1984-7 the municipal offices of Priory House and Bartholomew House were erected adjacent to the Town Hall to form Bartholomew Square. Priory House was occupied by Brighton & Hove city council until 2011. The council remained owners and developed the purpose-built office into residential units. ZST architects were commissioned to then create an additional penthouse storey, but on two occasions these applications were refused, with the planning department stating the penthouse would “cause significant harm to the historic character and appearance of the surrounding Conservation Area and setting of the adjacent Listed Buildings.” After this second refusal, local planners at Stiles Harold Williams were appointed to take the proposal to appeal.

SHW Planning argued there was minimal impact to the views into Bartholomew Square as a result of the additional storey and that the public benefit of an additional family-sized home built on a brownfield site in a highly sustainable location far outweighs this and that the scheme was, in fact, compliant with both national and local planning policy.

The Planning Inspector overwhelmingly supported this view, and it was concluded that the proposal would continue to preserve the character of the Old Town Conservation Area, as well as the setting of the surrounding Listed Buildings.

Do you have more ideas? Submit to #BrightFuture @ZSTaUK or @PortfolioMagUK

WALKS

ESCAPE TO THE COUNTRY Explore the peaceful countryside and stunning views of the Adur Valley...

Distance: 4.5 miles (7.25km) | Time: 2.5 hours Access: Grassy bridleways, uneven in places.

Fairly fl at with some small inclines ROUTE INSTRUCTIONS 1 From the bus stop at the Red Lion, take St Nicholas Lane until you get to The Street; turn left and head up the hill. Take the footpath signposted to the left and follow it around the fi eld. Continue up to the bridge that crosses the A27. Look out for the great views across the Adur Valley.

2 Cross the bridge and at the end take the footpath to the left. Follow this round to Mill Hill Nature Reserve and then take the footpath down the hill. Continue past old Erringham Farm and back up onto the road.

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3 Turn right and head south along the road until you reach the track on the left hand side that leads to New Erringham farm. Follow the road past the farm and round to Mossy Bottom Barn.

4 Leave the track a short distance east of the barn and continue down towards Slonk Hill Farm.

5 Cross the bridge over the A27 and continue on the track round to the vehicle entrance to the shopping centre.

6 Carefully cross the road and use the pedestrian route into the car park. The bus stop is located at the south end of the covered walkway.

“Mill Hill has excellent views across the Adur river valley, providing a great place for exploring and watching wildlife” For more information about walks in the region, contact South Downs National Park Authority.

Tel: 0300 303 1053, or visit www.southdowns.gov.uk

CHAMBER of Commerce

Photos by Vervate.com The Construction Voice panellists are, from left to right: Steve Skuse, Willmott Partnership Homes, Andy Winter, BHT, Olaide Oboh, First Base, Nick Hibberd BHCC

DEVELOPING DEBATE A recent Construction Voice event posed the question: Are there barriers to building in Brighton?

D

evelopment has become a divisive topic in Brighton and Hove, seen by some as the economic salvation of the city, by others as, at best, a necessary evil, tackling the shortage of housing and commercial space that’s widely recognised as one of the biggest challenges currently facing us.

Those involved in development say, however, that barriers are being put in the way of development, and unless they’re tackled, the city will fall behind on targets for new homes and offices, pushing rents and property prices even higher as demand continues to outstrip supply.

Over one hundred of those involved in the property, construction, development and historic preservation sectors came together recently to discuss the issue of ensuring the financial and practical viability of development by removing barriers at a Construction Voice event hosted by Brighton and Hove Chamber of Commerce.

The event brought together a panel of four people representing organisations which are at the heart of the debate. Kicking off was Nick Hibberd, Executive Director of Economy, Environment and Culture for Brighton and Hove City Council. Nick started by pointing out that to be considered viable, a development needs to provide a competitive return for both the developer and the landowner and that that need was already enshrined in planning policy.

The next speaker was Olaide Oboh, Head of Marketing and Communications at developers First Base.

Olaide said that discussions about developments should be about far more than just the financial viability of a project

and that factors such as the concerns of residents, potential improvements to the local environment and how a scheme fits into the neighbourhood must be taken into account too: “As a developer who genuinely focuses on people, we have erased the word viability from our vocabulary. This is because we know that’s there is so much more to development than viability. We focus on the benefits that regeneration can bring – new jobs, impact on spend locally, increasing aspiration, reduction in crime and improved wellbeing.”

“The event demonstrated the importance of bringing together all the different parties involved in development in the city” The third speaker to address the event was New Business Director for construction firm Willmott Partnership Homes, Steve Skuse.

Steve explained how many builders and construction firms are still struggling to recover from the problems caused by the last recession, with prices driven down and a shortage of manpower and other resources.

He also touched on the problems endemic to the construction industry, such as 20-50% of the workforce coming from overseas, with attendant language barriers and training deficiencies in the workforce, leading to quality issues. He said: “Viability means different things to different people, and whilst we all remain in silos, we

will never be able to see the whole picture.

A piecemeal approach risks division and misunderstanding, so true engagement with all stakeholders from the outset is an absolute, in my view. We face political and economic uncertainty at the moment, but a lack of delivery capacity in the supply chain is already with us, so early engagement is even more vital.”

The final speaker of the evening was Andy Winter, Chief Executive of Brighton Housing Trust.

Andy claimed that the term ‘affordable housing’ has become useless, as even those properties being sold under that banner are not affordable to most people in the city, and that the risks of Brighton and Hove becoming a dormitory city for people working in London are becoming ever greater. He went on to suggest that thinking needs to be bolder to address the housing shortage and that the council should consider building on National Park land to the east of Brighton.

Speaking after the event, Construction Voice founder and sponsor Sean Clemons of property company Robinson Low Francis said that the event really demonstrated the importance of bringing together all the different parties involved in development in the city.

For more information about Construction Voice, see: www.businessinbrighton.org.uk/ events/construction-voice The Construction Voice quarterly events are run by Brighton Chamber with event partners Graves Jenkins, Haydon Consulting and Robinson Low Francis. www.businessinbrighton.org.uk

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BEAUTIFUL homes

DIGGING IT It’s educational and fun, and healthy too: we get out in the garden with the kids

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garden is a wonderful playground for children of all ages. There’s so much to look at, like different leaf shapes, stuff to mess around with, like squidgy soil and lots to learn, like how big plants grow from tiny seeds. Children’s gardening activities are all about learning and fun, rolled into one, and there are lots of projects you can do with them that they’ll love.

LEARNING ALL ABOUT PLANTING If you can, set aside a garden bed, pot or container they can call their own. Bedding plants are a great way for kids to learn all about planting and they’re ready to pop in the ground when you buy them, so there’s not much work to do. Why not try vegetables and herbs too? They’re also available as small garden-ready plantlets. All your child has to do is poke a hole in the soil or compost, pop the flower (or vegetable or herb) in and then tamp the soil firmly around the plant. Add another few and they’ll have made their own colourful display, or little herb or veg patch, in an instant!

Bedding plants are also suitable for planting in pots, if you don’t have a big garden, or only a balcony or patio.

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LEARNING ALL ABOUT SOIL Soil, of course, is what all plants depend on – and there’s so much to learn about this interesting substance. There are lots of different types of soil – clay, sandy, silty, chalky, peat and loam. (Loam is a mixture of clay, sandy and silty elements.) So how do you tell them apart? Finding out can be messy fun…

You can tell a clay soil by taking a small amount and rubbing it between your palms. If it forms a ball, you’ve got clay. If you have a sandy soil, it’ll feel gritty when you rub it between your hands.

A silty soil (one with finer, gritty particles of clay and sand) will feel quite silky. A chalky soil will easily crumble between your fingers and may have bright white stones in it.

IS YOUR SOIL ACID OR ALKALINE? The other interesting thing about soil is that some is acidic and some is alkaline. Chalk, for example, is very alkaline; and sand, quite acidic. So testing your soil to find out what you’ve got in your garden can be another fun and educational activity – especially for budding scientists. Soil testing kit tells you how acidic or alkaline your soil is by giving you a pH reading. All you do is dig up a little

bit of soil and pop it in – and then wait for the answer.

COLOURS AND TEXTURES When you’re looking at plants, compare the wonderful variety of colours, shapes, sizes and textures. The smooth leaf of a geranium feels and looks really different to the slightly furry leaves of a salvia. If you go for a walk in the park, compare the bark of different trees and the different colours of berries on bushes and shrubs.

WHAT’S IN A NAME? Lots of plants have fun or interesting names, so encourage kids to think about how these got their names: • Poached Egg plants (Limnanthes douglasii) • Lamb’s Ear (Stachys byzantina) • Butterfly Bush (Buddleja) • Chocolate Cosmos (Cosmos atrosanguineus) • Balloon Flowers (Platycodon grandiflorus) • Dog’s Tooth Violet (Erythronium dens-canis) • Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia reginae)

TIPS

GROWING THEIR OWN Whether you’re working with a window box or a whole allotment, growing fruit, veg, herbs and flowers is a great way of getting kids involved in the garden. Let them choose their favourites or pick ingredients for a specific recipe, for instance a pizza garden might include tomatoes, onions, peppers, basil and oregano.

Here are few other ideas to whet your appetite: • Fruit: strawberries, raspberries, apples and blackcurrants • Salad: lettuces, tomatoes, peppers and radishes • Vegetables: potatoes, carrots, pumpkins, runner beans and peas • Herbs: basil, mint, chives, dill and cress • Flowers: daffodils, sunflowers, sweet peas and snapdragons

"If you can, set aside a garden bed, pot or container they can call their own.

Bedding plants are a great way for kids to learn all about planting" INDOOR IDEAS In the winter months, when the great outdoors is less inviting, hang onto a few vegetable stalks and see if you can grow an indoor garden. Cut the top 1-2cm (1in) off a fresh beetroot, place the stalk in a shallow dish of water and wait a couple of days for shoots to appear. Don’t waste the bottom of celery stalks, either. Instead, put the bottom 7-8cm (3in) in some water and watch as tiny roots sprout out the bottom while leaves shoot out the top. And don’t forget, planting and caring for potted herbs, weird and wonderful cacti and succulents, and colourful houseplants can also keep kids busy and entertained on long rainy days.

GROW EGGHEADS A fun way of growing cress is to make eggheads. Carefully hollow out a raw egg, gently place some wet kitchen towel inside the shell and sprinkle on some cress seeds. Get the kids to draw a face on the outside, then wait for the ‘hair’ to sprout.

Bug Hotel, £5 from Flying Tiger Copenhagen uk.flyingtiger.com

GET CRAFTY Creative kids can get colourful, painting plant pots and pebbles or drawing pictures of the garden. Interesting leaves like sycamore, ash and beech are perfect for tracing while, with a bit of help from a grownup, flowers can be pressed and used for arts and crafts.

LEARNING ABOUT WILDLIFE Gardens are a great place for little ones to learn about wildlife, from frogs and newts to birds, beetles and bugs. Make a bird feeder out of a plastic bottle or a hedgehog house out of an old crate to help animals feel at home, or just let a corner of the lawn keep growing and scatter some wildflower seeds to create a haven for insects, birds and small mammals. Ponds and bird baths are also a great way of attracting more wildlife to the garden. Little ones will love looking for tracks, feathers and other creature clues like snail trails, while older kids can make creepy-crawlie bingo cards, then see who spots them all first.

Find out more about bee-friendly planting and attracting butterflies to your garden. www.wyevalegardencentres.co.uk PORTFOLIO 73

NATIONAL trust

LONE RANGER Kevan Gibbons is a ranger with the National Trust at Bateman’s, East Sussex. He takes time out of his busy schedule to tell us about the birds and the bees… as well as the dormice, great crested newts, dragonflies, flora and fauna that fill his days in the beautiful High Weald

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NATIONAL trust

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s night falls in the East Sussex countryside, ranger Kevan Gibbons make his way carefully across the Bateman’s estate. His destination: rare great crested newt colonies, found in the many ponds that dot the landscape. “May is peak time to check in on our newts” Kevan explains.

“At night, they swim in open water, displaying their jagged crests to attract females.”

After a childhood love of the countryside inspired a career change, Kevan has been a ranger with the National Trust for a decade.

“My work falls into two categories,” he explains, “public access and wildlife habitats.”

This summer is particularly special for the newt surveys. It’s the first since Kevan and his team revitalised three important ponds as part of the National Trust’s work to help reverse the UK’s decline in wildlife. “We’re hoping the surveys will show the newts expanding their territories and numbers,”

explains Kevan. “The restored ponds will provide a home for other wildlife, such as dragon- and damselflies, too.”

“The restored ponds will provide a home for other wildlife, such as dragonand damselflies, too” The conservation charity aims to create 25,000 hectares of new habitats such as these by 2025. With 300 acres to look after, Kevan is always busy. At this time of year, you’ll spot him clearing pathway vegetation, and maintaining styles and gates so that visitors can enjoy the countryside. He also takes school groups pond-dipping and leads walks.

Despite this, Kevan finds time for his

“pet project”: restoring the hay-meadows.

“We’re letting the grasses grow this year,” he explains. “They attract wildflowers, butterflies and bees, which for me are the natural beating heart of this unique landscape.” Come autumn, the nutrient-rich grass makes for extra-hearty hay bales too.

Once a month, Kevan takes on a smaller, but no less important, task. “I’m a licensed dormouse handler,” he says. “I check and weigh our dormice for the National Dormouse Monitoring Programme.” The dormice are most docile in early morning as they get ready to sleep for the day. “They rarely bite,” says Kevan, “and when they do, it’s more of a nip before getting back to the important business of naptime.”

To find out more about how the National Trust is looking after wildlife, visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/nature-andwildlife.

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HURRICANE LAMP

STAR PRODUCT This durable, eco-friendly, reversible indoor/outdoor pillow featuring cheery stars performs in every room of the house.

Machine washable. Size: 56cm x 56cm. Star Outdoor/Indoor Cushions in Denim and Navy, £78. www.dashandalberteurope.com

MUST

In bamboo and natural wood, with glass insert for 6cm candle, these rustic-looking lanterns enable you to create a lovely ambient atmosphere in your home or garden. Hurricane lamp Sabba from L'Atelier Natalia Willmott, £52.00. www.nataliawillmott.co.uk

HAVES Take the indoors outdoors with these accessories to really create comfort in your outdoor space

LAMBSWOOL THROWS For those chilly spring evenings. Soft and luxurious lambswool throws, available in Sage, Sky and Cranberry. They are 1.9m x 1.5m and can be personalised with a hand-stamped label. The lambswool, called Beaumont, is also available by the metre.

Lambswool throws by Inchrya, Scotland, £135. www.inchyradesigns.co.uk

TURN UP THE HEAT The JASSA limited-edition collection brings a carefree summer feeling indoors and makes it last all year. Look out for curvy, organic shapes, riotous colours and mix-and-match patterns. Get ready to relax the rules and turn up the heat. Available for a limited period only. www.ikea.com

BEAUTIFUL homes

Enchanted Garden OSBORNE & LITTLE

Trumpet LITTLE GREENE

Albany FLYING DRAGON

Lolly Pop MYLANDS

Imagination ALBANY

GRE AT CH O I CE, BR A N DS & A LWAYS GRE AT SERV I CE & A DV I CE

Visit brewers.co.uk to find your local store.

16 branches across Sussex, over 150 branches around the UK PORTFOLIO  77

Ancient Map Wall Mural by www.wallsauce.com

Vinyl Wall Mural by www.pixersize.com

Classic Dino Wallpaper by www.sianzeng.com

m

INTERIORS

Albany Wood Panelling 8550-60 £18.98 per roll www.brewers.co.uk

WONDER WALL Wallpaper can create the ultimate wow factor, covering flaws and creating beauty. We look at ways of making an impact with walls

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allpaper has been a key interiors trend for nearly a decade, and it isn’t going anywhere soon. Mercurial, versatile, transformative - paying attention to the wallpaper used in a space can teach you about the people who inhabit it, the history of a building, and what it is used for. Covering flaws and creating beauty, it spans a bridge between art, history and utility.

One of the reasons wallpaper has remained so popular is that people have tended, in recent years, to renovate and redecorate before – or instead of – moving. Changing wall colour, pattern and texture can define a space all over again. Digital printing, rediscovered historic designs and a new thirst for retrospective interiors have opened up a wealth of possibilities. This month, we consider the ways in which wallpaper is used to change people’s spaces.

HISTORICAL WALLS We’ve been using pattern to decorate our walls for centuries. The earliest sample of wallpaper held by the specialist Whitworth Gallery (www.whitworth.manchester.ac.uk ) dates to 1680, but the first recorded use of hand-decorated sheets of paper predates this by over 100 years. Subsequent eras embraced wallpaper as an expression of style and opulence: The Regency period was particularly notable for its ‘Chinoiserie’ oriental designs, and innovative use of colour – Brighton’s Pavilion is full of beautiful regency walls whose influence persists in modern wallpaper design. From Victorian and Edwardian eras, we also see timeless patterns (like those of William Morris) still on sale today.

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Albany Roscoe 98561 £29 per roll www.brewers.co.uk

INTERIORS

“‘Faux finish’ papers, which give the appearance and even texture of brickwork, stone or concrete, wood, bookshelves or even tiles, can be used to great effect”

Brick Wall Mural By www.wallsauce.com

HOW TO USE IT Wallpaper can be used in almost any space.

The current trend is to use it more for ‘feature’ walls – dramatic one-wall impact rather than floor to ceiling pattern – but it depends on the type of paper you choose and the room itself.

Both walls and the house itself should be considered when choosing paper: Each period or era has developed its wall papers and art according to the fashions and mores of the time. Anaglypta, a white, thick relief paper was developed to cover uneven surfaces, as was woodchip - walls with imperfect finishes are better suited to textured papers that will help to disguise variation. Foil wallpaper, with a metallised plastic film on paper backing, illuminates with its reflective surface. Vinyl can also have a raised relief pattern and is easy to wipe down in high traffic areas.

Finally, flock – paper with a fine pile synthetic or natural embossed surface – adds a sensual, rather luxurious touch to rooms for entertaining.

finish, especially if walls (or plaster) are less than perfect. For smaller spaces and low ceilings, use bold colour sparingly – on a wall or two.

Pattern is also a strong trend: And the choice is huge. Modern florals, retro mid-century colours and patterns, and reclaimed historical prints can work well in both modern and more traditional spaces. Chose something big and bold for a one-wall feature.

COLOUR ME BEAUTIFUL For 2017, colour is rich and vibrant with modern (and modernist) as well as Scandi / folk designs: Mustard, tangerine, lime, grape and crimson. Single-shade wallpaper is a great way to introduce colour with a neat

INDUSTRIAL CHIC Wallpaper is increasingly used in larger spaces, including commercial and corporate settings. ‘Faux finish’ papers, which give the appearance and even texture of brickwork, stone or concrete, wood, bookshelves or even

MOODY BLUES AND METALS Deep, dark colours and patterns can be used with great effect on walls to change the feel of a room, adding drama and changing the light. Dark prints with metallic highlights are particularly impactful. Metallic papers can look incredible - they bring tone, colour and light. The ‘shininess’ of the paper is what matters, as the colour and light will change throughout the day. Glitter papers are very Brighton, and bring texture, too, making them ideal for less than perfect surfaces.

tiles, can be used to great effect. They also look good in smaller spaces, too: Faux concrete or brickwork in open-plan living space will update it instantly. Some of the ‘faux’ finish papers come in hard-wearing vinyls too, which makes them perfect for heavy use areas or homes with small children.

CITYSCAPES, MURALS AND STREET SCENES Huge, one-wall wallpaper murals are increasingly popular, including urban landscapes, treescapes, and large-scale art inspired design. Mural paper can be customised to fit your wall, and you can even use your own images, as some companies will help you create your own paper.

On a smaller scale, city features such as rows of houses, cars or landscapes and trees have been adapted by folk art into chic wallpaper patterns. Small, whimsical prints inspired by the countryside, folk-art or tradition in pale, simple colours add a subtle edge to walls. Simpler patterns are much easier to work across more than one or two walls, and should blend well with other décor.

Street scenes – period or contemporary – are another popular wall-covering, with Harlequin’s ‘Brighton’ paper a top seller in big department stores- bringing a little bit of Brighton into homes all over the country.

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CULTURE Tristan & Yseult

“The original tale of forbidden desires, broken hearts and the agony of choosing one human being over another�

23rd-27th May Theatre Royal, Brighton www.brightonfestival.org

HEALTH

Stress and Anxiety When stress or anxiety get out of hand these otherwise healthy emotions can become overwhelming.

The right therapy can help find balance again

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ost of us will be able to identify a time in our lives when we felt stressed and/ or anxious. Like all emotions, stress and anxiety can be described as being on a continuum – so we can experience high and low levels of stress and anxiety depending upon the context; and these emotions can sometimes be very helpful or feel really unhelpful.

One way of defining stress is when we feel the physical or emotional demands placed upon us are greater than the resources we have to draw on. Anxiety can be described as an emotion that can result when we perceive a level of ‘threat,’ and the threat may be ‘real’ or feared, physical or emotional.

In the short term, stress and anxiety can be facilitative, and we can often forget the helpful and adaptive element of these emotions. For example, think about how a deadline at school or work can sometimes help make us work a bit harder and focus our energies because of the ‘stress’ they may induce in us. Having a slightly raised level of stress and anxiety can help our performance and help us find new resources and solutions.

However, at the other end of the stress and anxiety continuum, we know that heightened levels over a long period of time can feel

very unhelpful, and for some people the experiences associated with these emotions can be debilitating and very disabling. Our world can start to feel as though it’s shrinking and nowhere feels safe; the world outside seems to be full of threat and danger. This can come in many different forms, from feeling an overwhelming sense of being judged by others, to fears of being physically incapacitated in

"Our world can start to feel as though it’s shrinking and nowhere feels safe; the world outside seems to be full of threat and danger" some way, leaving us feeling vulnerable. As a consequence we can experience awful heart palpitations, dizziness, wobbly legs, upset stomachs and even fizzy feelings in our arms and hands. All these physical symptoms can further confirm for us how unsafe we are.

Understandably, many people who experience these symptoms may then ‘retreat’

from the world to try and keep themselves ‘safe’. They may stay at home more, call in sick to work, cancel outings with family and friends.

As therapists we recognise that, unfortunately, these very common strategies for trying to manage disabling levels of stress and anxiety unwittingly reinforce the sense of threat and maintain a vicious cycle If you or someone you love is experiencing something similar to what has been described, the good news is that psychological therapy is very successful in helping manage these symptoms differently.

Therapy can help people identify the trigger or triggers for the emotions, plot out the particular vicious cycle they may be experiencing and then tailor specific psychological interventions to help them slowly and surely feel safe in the world again.

For further information and support please contact: Brighton and Hove Clinic, 01273 747464 or email brighton@elysiumhealthcare.co.uk Written by Dr Rebecca Coles-Gale, Clinical Psychologist PORTFOLIO 83

VACATION SEASON We round up the trends that promise to raise the excitement for holiday season and form the groundings of your getaway uniform

STYLE

“Effortless summer dressing is something that the floaty maxi dress always wins at and it shows no signs of relinquishing its top spot as the summer must-have”

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acation season is just around the corner and SS17 offers myriad opportunities to bolster your suitcase selection. From weightless layers that lend themselves well to endless days in the city sun to swimwear that’s sure to cut a stylish silhouette poolside, these are the pieces that promise to raise the excitement for holiday season and form the groundings of your getaway uniform. Your summer wardrobe has never looked so good.

PALM PRINT PERFECTION Effortless summer dressing is something that the floaty maxi dress always wins at and it shows no signs of relinquishing its top spot as the summer must-have for SS17. Palminspired prints capture the essence of island life and as a result they translate particularly well to tropical destinations. This season’s muted palette evokes a certain softness that feels overtly feminine, so toughen up the overall look with gladiator sandals in black and layer on statement jewellery to up the impact.

IN STRIPES The striped shirt is always in style, but white shorts bring a new purity to the look that will revive even the most classic of cuts in time for summer. Styled unbuttoned at the neckline and partially tucked-in, a relaxed fit will artfully showcase the high rise of wideleg shorts. When it comes to footwear, make gladiator-inspired sandals your calling card for city days; they’ll see you through the season and fare just as well with a floorsweeping maxi dress as they do with minilengths.

UP THE GLAMOUR Sometimes there’s a swimwear style that’s simply too chic to save just for the beach and this season’s one-piece designs come in a rich colour palette, from deep teals to warm russet tones, that gives them something of an evening-ready slant. Dress them up by draping a longline jacket over your shoulders and add flippy printed shorts and heels for a grown-up take on classic summer separates styling.

ONE SHOULDER The shoulder has become something of an emphasis of late with bardot-inspired necklines heading up many-a style edit. Here, we shift focus to the one-shoulder silhouette, a chic younger sister of the season’s hero piece and one that delivers just as much in terms of drama. Make it your go-to for sundowners by the sea and don’t eschew the colour black when it comes to packing for warmer climes; when cut to reveal the right amount of sunkissed skin it slots perfectly into a tropical setting.

RUFFLES RE-WORKED There’s something romantic about summer’s obsession with ruffled detailing and whilst it comes in varying degrees of intricacy, it’s one-tier layering that captures the trend in the most elegant manner. Colour-pop hues are a must for summer, but be sure to balance a statement shade by keeping accessories to a minimum and make-up natural.

MAKE WAVES Blue and white is one of summer’s most classic colour combinations and when nautical stripes grace swimwear, there’s little more appealing. Bring this time-tested look firmly into the now by teaming it with dustypink separates and espadrilles to welcome a certain peppiness to your vacation wardrobe.

IN THE FRAME When it comes to poolside accessories, one rule applies; the bigger the better. Cat-eye sunglasses in chunky acetate will add instant glamour to any look and beach cover-ups come in conceptual cuts designed to expertly drape the silhouette. In addition, you can forget what you think you know about knitwear on holiday. Oversized shapes in light-as-air weights translate just as well to the side of the pool as they do after dark and will breathe fresh perspective into your look.

Thanks to Reiss, for content and images.

Reiss, 67 East St, Brighton BN1 1HQ. 01273 770702 www.reiss.com PORTFOLIO 85

BITE SIZED

Nick Mosley, Managing Director of the Brighton & Hove Food and Drink Festival CIC, rounds up the month’s food news

Etch makes waves The doors were flung open last month to Steven Edwards’ new restaurant Etch on the junction of Hove Street and Church Road in Hove. And feedback on both the food and the wider dining experience has been phenomenal. Steven found fame at the Camellia restaurant at South Lodge near Horsham, where he led the kitchen whilst also winning Masterchef the Professionals in 2013.

He’s also found fame locally by winning Sussex Young Chef of the Year in 2010.

A selection of tasting menus showcases the produce of the Sussex countryside, all with a distinctly modern twist. Four courses are £40, six courses £50, while the full eight courses are excellent value at £60.

I asked Steve what his signature menu dish would be if he had to choose one: Marmite Bread & Seaweed Butter. I’d never recommend filling up on the bread course at a restaurant, but when it’s the chef’s self-proclaimed iconic dish, I’ll let you off.

Etch, 216 Church Road, Brighton BN3 2DJ • 01273 227485 • www.etchfood.co.uk

60 seconds with…

Kanthi Thamma, Curry Leaf Café

Guilty secret food?

Masala popcorn First kitchen job?

Taj Fort, Aguada Beach Resort, Goa. Seafood or meat?

Meat. I’m a true Hyderabadi.

Favourite restaurant?

La Choza for street food, Semolina for modern European, Terre à Terre for vegetarian and Bincho Yakitori for some amazing Asian food.

Chef you most admire?

I have two chefs. Celina Tio, who was my head chef at Walt Disney World in Florida, is the one I consider to be my mentor and inspiration. But also chef Alfred Prasad for redefining the Indian food concept in the UK. Essential ingredient?

Beetroot has to be in my menu in one form or the other.

It features in everything from chutneys to ice creams.

Favourite international cuisine?

Mexican, Thai and Indonesian, top the list.

60 Ship St, Brighton BN1 1AE. 01273 207070. www.curryleafcafe.com

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Sunday lunch treats at the Restaurant at Drakes With a kitchen promotion from Sous to Head Chef last year, Andy Vitez is relishing his new role and the opportunity to introduce his own style and flair to the menu at the acclaimed Restaurant at Drakes. The dishes are generally lighter but still offer a good overall selection of white and red meat, fish and vegetarian options, to ensure all tastes are catered for. Andy still insists on using only the finest seasonal produce available, purchasing from local suppliers whenever possible to ensure the best flavours and quality throughout the year.

Historically, the restaurant has offered table d’hote menus, providing a number options per course for a set price. However, they are currently trialling individually priced dishes for Sunday lunch. “A set menu makes people feel obligated to order two or three courses when perhaps they neither have the time nor the appetite for it,” says Carla ter Maat of Drakes. “We want people to feel welcome to visit us whenever they crave an excellent, but not necessarily big, meal”.

The Sunday lunch menu now offers starters and desserts at £7.50 each and mains, including a roast and a catch of the day, as well as a vegetarian option, from £14.

The Restaurant at Drakes, 43-44 Marine Parade, Brighton BN2 1PE. 01273 696934. www.drakesofbrighton.com

FOOD

Brighton food festival highlights 18th to 29th May sees the first outing of the twice yearly Brighton & Hove Food and Drink Festival. Choose from a programme of gala dinners, tours and trails, and chef-producer collaborations, culminating in the epic free entry Sussex & The World Weekend on seafront Hove Lawns. Here is a selection of my highlights…

Sussex and the World Weekend on Hove Lawns - photo Julia Claxton International Chef Exchange: The festival works in partnership with other festivals and gastronomic tourism destinations across the globe to promote Brighton as the place to visit for great food and drink, and also to welcome back talented chefs and producers.

This May we have chef Victoria Garcia Bishop from Gibraltar working with Jeremy Ashpool of Jeremy’s Restaurant in Borde Hill on an Iberian-North African fusion dinner (Thursday 18 May), Linus Palm of Hvita Hjorten in West Sweden and Tom Griffiths of Pascere on a Taste of Sweden menu at Etch (Tuesday 23 May), Bas Oonk of Basaal in The Hague in the Netherlands teaming up with Kanthi Thamma of Curry Leaf Café for a Dutch-Indonesian supper at Kemp Town Kitchen (Sunday 28 May) and ‘Channel Islands Chef of the Year’ Simon Mckenzie of Bella Luce in the Channel Islands joining forces with Dan Cotton of Market for a Taste of Guernsey brunch, including Wheadon’s craft gin (Monday 29 May).

In addition, we welcome the acclaimed Johannes Eser of the Johannishof wine estate in Germany’s Rheingau region to The Chilli Pickle for a collaborative dinner featuring chef Alun Sperring’s exquisite Indian food matched with award-winning Rieslings. This is a very special event, and we’re over-the-moon to be hosting Johannes this year.

We keep with the international theme with India vs Mexico in the Dome Room at Hotel du Vin on Monday 22 May. Chefs from Curry Leaf Café and La Choza go head-to-head with a street food extravaganza.

This promises to be a brilliant fun and informal evening, and all profits will be donated to FareShare Sussex - one of the festival’s two chosen charities.

Those who love vegetarian dining are well catered for with another of our fun dining experiences. The Three Chefs go to the Movies this year is hosted by 1847 on North Road on Wednesday 24 May, with each chef creating an interactive dish based on their favourite film. With Matty Bowling (1847), Sam Lambert (64 Degrees) and Isaac BartlettCopeland (Isaac At) on the stove, prepare for something very exciting!

Butlers Wine Cellar English Wine Festival - photo Julia Claxton Wine lovers are well catered for with Ridgeview Deconstructed at the Ginger Dog (Friday 19 May), the Butler’s Wine Cellar English Wine Festival on Hove Lawns (bank holiday Monday 29 May), and the everpopular Make Your Case ‘punk’ wine tasting at Hotel du Vin (Friday 26 May) which just gets wilder as the years go by. To get out of town and explore some of our local vineyards, the Sussex Wine Bus Tour is for you on Saturday 20 May. Chef patron of Harbour Hotels, Alex Aitken, presents our festival gala dinner on Thursday 25 May in the Marine Room at Brighton’s Harbour Hotel. We’ll be showcasing four amazing wines from the Pommery Champagne house alongside a fine dining menu, plus we’ll be joined by one of the wine makers from France.

A brand-new addition to the food festival is Brighton Cocktail Week that runs at around 35 venues across the city throughout the festival period. Presented in 18-28 May 2017 association with our friends at Mixology Group in Hove, each venue will be presenting five twists on classic cocktails for just £5 each. You’ll need to buy a £10 wristband in advance from www.brightoncocktailweek.com to take advantage of this amazing promotion!

The highlight of the festival is always the Sussex & The World Weekend on Hove Lawns, running from Saturday 27 May until bank holiday Monday 29 May. As well as an epic market featuring Sussex producers and chefs and guests from further afield, we have the Live Food Show and Children’s Food Festival. Plus, a World Record beer bottle opening is in the offing. Best of all, the event is completely free entry for everyone to enjoy!

BEAUTIFUL homes

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TRAVEL

GARDEN OF ENGLAND OASIS Daniel Frickelton heads east in search of golf and a good bed and gets a lot of bang for his buck at Tudor Park Marriott Hotel & Country Club, Bearsted, Maidstone, Kent

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f you think a golf course has to be in the vicinity of 6,500 to 7,000 yards in length to be worth the effort, read no further. If, on the other hand, you believe that the best courses, regardless of length, demand skill and thought, provide rewards alongside the risks and challenges, capture your attention and interest every time you play them and leave you with a smile on the eighteenth green, read on.

The Tudor Course at Bearsted near Maidstone was surely at the back of the mind of the pundit who coined the phrase “less is more.” Presenting at “only” 6075/5715/5281 yards (white, yellow and red tees, respectively), the Tudor nevertheless delivers bags of golfing fun and will put most or all of the clubs in your bag to the test, regardless of your gender, handicap or style of golf.

My lady partner and I rocked up for a late morning round at the end of March with limited expectations. I have to confess that previous encounters with hotel golf courses had left us with mixed feelings about this formula. While it is (nearly) always pleasant to stay and play at such layouts, the golf courses can be a bit hohum. Maybe it was the warmth of the sun on this achingly beautiful Kentish spring day, or the buzz of activity all around us, but our first view of the leafy-green Tudor course kick-started that flow of adrenaline that is your body’s way of saying, “Yes! Bring it on!”

We checked in with the friendly gents in the pro shop, finally managed to drag The Lady away from the many enticing things on offer in the shop and were met

by Big Dave, the starter, on the first tee. This great, friendly shambling bear of a man gave us loads of helpful advice on how (not) to play certain holes, strategies we might find useful and pitfalls to avoid if possible. He advised us to use anything but a driver, for instance, off the first, a 351 yard par four. That proved to be sound advice. My five-iron followed the natural camber of the fairway downhill and left, leaving me well clear of the trees on the right and with a perfect angle of approach to the green. A fairway club put me hole high in the fringe, a tiny chip and putt from my par. Nice start. A few of the big hitters I play golf with regularly, however, will not be able to resist the temptation to go for this green with driver from the tee box.

Different strokes for different folks...and that’s the real strength and beauty of this course, cleverly engineered by the renowned designer Donald Steel.

Our first encounter with a Steel course was at his now 27-hole layout at Château des Vigiers, Dordogne, SW France. We visited years ago when there were two ninehole loops ending at Steel’s personal choice as his “best hole,” the signature 18th, a gorgeous par four with the second shot over a lake to the expansive green. Having opened in 1992, Vigiers was barely fifteen years old when we played it.

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“Beyond the hotel is historic Leeds Castle, a mere five minutes away”

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TRAVEL

It nevertheless bore all the hallmarks of Steel’s deft hand with parkland layouts: respect for the natural beauty of the land, flora and fauna and a concern for providing a golfing experience that is a fair, firm test of golf with enough risks and rewards to ensure immense pleasure.

The Tudor course cannot escape its classy Steele imprimatur, and there are so many interesting holes of all lengths here that choosing a favourite is truly difficult. The Lady loves the eighteenth because at 254 yards off the reds she was able to drive the ball very close to the green, pitch it onto the green and comfortably make par. A lovely way to end a round. Bombers can open their shoulders on the tricky fourteenth, flagged up by Big Dave as a potential score wrecker. At 537 yards off the whites, you feel you must take driver, but you do so at your peril. The view up the fairway from the tees is more reminiscent of a deer run in a forest than of a wide, welcoming fairway.

If you can keep it on the short stuff, you have a good chance to make par or birdie. Like all of Donald Steel’s holes, the risks are real, the rewards great. Whatever the final result, you will have a lot of fun on this course and you will want to play it again and again.

So, what to do if you don’t play golf? You still came to the right place. The Marriott Tudor boasts two gymnasiums with cardiovascular equipment, a very inviting swimming pool and children’s pool with towels provided, sauna and spa services at very competitive rates. Fitness classes and swimming lessons can also be arranged. Beyond the hotel is historic Leeds Castle, a mere five minutes away. If shopping is your thing, head for nearby Ashford for great deals and all the latest fashions. Visit nearby

Canterbury Cathedral or explore Kentish culture at Detling Showground.

When everyone has returned from the golf course or day trip, head for the Zest Bar with its pond-side terrace water feature for a tall, frosty one or a hand-poured cocktail before dinner. Alternatively, choose something from the well constructed bar menu of classic treats.

I can highly recommend the generous turkey club sandwich with twice-fried chips. But bring an appetite with you. The Mezzanine Bar also offers an impressive selection of beverages and an impressive food selection.

“My rib eye steak with chunky chips, tomatoes and mushrooms graced with bearnaise was a tired golfer’s idea of heaven” Breakfast and dinner are served in the Conical Grill restaurant, which features an inventive menu specialising in locally sourced fare. The ambience is scandi-inspired contemporary with stone and wood accents, which cleverly triggers a feeling of space and light laced with warmth. The full length of the room opens out into the golf course and the stunning Maidstone countryside.

We shared a starter of smoked salmon and house potato salad with giant capers and rocket. The potato salad was remarkable for its light, fluffy texture. I imagine that this was

due to using more crème fraiche or sour cream than mayonnaise. The result, in any case, was amazing.

The Lady’s slow-cooked leg of duck was served on a mound of beany salsa composed of cannelloni beans, harissa and ginger. The medium-spice zinginess of the salsa waltzed elegantly with the confit softness of the duck.

My rib eye steak with chunky chips, tomatoes and mushrooms graced with bearnaise was a tired golfer’s idea of heaven. The meat was a perfectly cooked piece of more-ish moo, the chips fluffy and hot on the inside, delicately crispy on the outside. We helped it all down with a bottle of Portillo Malbec (Argentina, of course), which I highly recommend. It will fill your mouth with an explosion of fruit and vanilla, and at £28 is excellent value for money.

The Lady finished with three generous scoops of house ice cream and said very little as she quietly demolished the lot... which says it all, I reckon. There was no rhubarb to accompany my panna cotta, so the chef offered to whack up a bespoke fruit compote.

I requested some spicy apples with plenty of cinnamon. That was no trouble at all for this kitchen, and minutes later I enjoyed one of the nicest desserts I’ve ever had.

The Tudor Park has it all: exceptional golf, comfortable, well-appointed rooms, Spa, a brilliant kitchen, and, most importantly, friendly, professional staff who happily go the extra mile to put a smile on your face. All for very reasonable money, and it’s only an hour and a bit from Brighton & Hove.

Tudor Park Marriott Hotel & Country Club Ashford Road, Bearsted, Maidstone ME14 4NQ 01622 734334 www.marriott.co.uk PORTFOLIO 91

EVENTS South of England Show

Celebrates 50 years “Supporting farming, agriculture and the countryside in the South of England” 8th-10th June www.seas.org.uk

CELEBRITY chef recipe

KEEPING UP WITH MISS SMYTH Top British chef Clare Smyth talks about her culinary origins, her inspiration and what it’s like to be at the helm of the kitchen

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lare Smyth was the first female British chef to be awarded three-Michelin-star status, and her other career highlights include holding the unique position of Chef Patron at Restaurant Gordon Ramsay and being awarded a perfect ten by the Good Food Guide of the UK. I used to help cook the dinner all the time.

It was part of my chores to help prepare the evening meal when I got home from school.

Living on a farm, all the men were out working, and often my mum would be going to work in the evenings. Potatoes would be part of every meal, so I’ve cooked a lot of potatoes in my life!

I was always inspired by the great chefs.

When I was starting out I did some trials at what were most of the top restaurants in the country, and when I arrived at Restaurant Gordon Ramsay in 2002 it had recently just won its third Michelin star and the energy in the kitchen was just phenomenal.

I wanted to challenge myself at the very toughest level and in the most difficult kitchen I could work in. The food was just incredible – I had never seen or tasted anything like that and I just knew that I had to be there.

People go to restaurants for good food, good service, ambience, the friendliness of the staff – it takes many, many things to make a good restaurant. You need to be 100 per cent focused and dedicated all of the time –

expectations are huge. You can’t let people down. It doesn’t get easier because you have won something; it gets harder.

It’s great for the team, because everyone works incredibly hard every day and you can say, “Here we go guys, we’re going in the right direction, we’ve won the awards and it is worthwhile.” But by the same token, you say well done for five minutes and then that’s it, it’s back to putting your head down.

You have to make sure that you continually get better because you never want to go backwards and you never want that threat of losing your status, so it is pretty tough. You have to somehow keep finding it in yourself to keep moving forward.

PORTFOLIO 93

BEAUTIFUL homes

“Treat someone special to this smart dinner for two. It’s surprisingly easy to make too”

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CELEBRITY chef recipe

Spiced duck breast with creamed Savoy cabbage and roasted apples Serves 2 For the duck

Serves 2 For the creamed Savoy cabbage

•

2 x 150g duck breasts

•

50g smoked bacon lardons

1 Braeburn apple, quartered and

•

30g carrot, diced

core removed

•

30g celeriac, diced

25g butter, plus an extra knob of

•

½ Savoy cabbage, thinly sliced

butter

•

salt and freshly ground black pepper

•

1 tsp fennel seeds

•

250ml double cream

•

1 tsp coriander seeds

•

½ tsp ground nutmeg

•

½ tsp ground cinnamon

•

½ tsp orange zest

•

1 tsp honey

•

25ml orange juice

•

175ml duck stock

•

salt and freshly ground black pepper

• •

Method Preheat the oven to 210°C/425°F/Gas 7.

Score the skin of the duck breasts in a criss-cross pattern. Place the duck breasts in an ovenproof frying pan, skin-side down, and cook for 4-5 minutes or until the fat is rendered. Add the apple to the pan.

When the duck skin is crisp and golden brown, turn the duck breasts over and cook the other side for 1-2 minutes. Baste the duck with a knob of butter, then roast in the oven for 2-3 minutes (for medium) or until cooked to your liking.

Heat the fennel and coriander seeds in a dry frying pan until aromatic. Grind the seeds with a pestle and mortar. Add the nutmeg, cinnamon and orange zest. Stir in the honey and enough orange juice to give the glaze a good consistency.

Remove the duck breasts from the oven and brush the spice mixture over them with a pastry brush. Baste the duck with its roasting juices and leave to rest for a few minutes.

Heat a frying pan until hot before adding the duck stock and cooking until the volume of liquid has reduced by half. Add the 25g of butter and whisk until well combined, before seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

For the creamed Savoy cabbage, heat a lidded frying pan until hot and fry the bacon lardons, carrot and celeriac with the lid on for 4-5 minutes.

Add the cabbage and season to taste with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Cover with the lid and continue to cook for 3-4 minutes or until the cabbage is tender. Add the cream and cook for 1-2 minutes or until the cream has thickened.

To serve, spoon the cabbage onto serving plates and top with the roasted apples. Slice the duck breasts and place on top.

Clare Smyth will be opening her first solo venture in London’s Notting Hill later this year at 92 Kensington Park Road, replacing the former Notting Hill Brasserie site.

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MOTORING

FIAT’S SPECIAL EDITION A limited-edition convertible celebrates the 60th anniversary of the Fiat 500

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MOTORING

“The launch of the 500-60th forms part of the Fiat 500’s 60th anniversary celebrations.

‘Forever Young’”

F

iat is launching a special-edition 500 convertible to mark the 60th anniversary of the iconic global bestseller. This special edition comes with a grey fabric roof and Dolcevita bi-colour paintwork, combining tri-coat white for the body of the car and pastel ivory for the bonnet and pillars. Chrome mirror covers and special 16-inch alloy wheels, with white diamond finish, complete the look and pay homage to the styling cues of the original Fiat 500. It will be badged with vintage Fiat logos and a bespoke 500-60th icon, with the red ‘6’ and ‘0’ incorporated into the last two figures of the 500 logo.

Inside, a bordeaux vinyl dashboard and vintage Fiat logo-clad steering wheel complement the retro-inspired ivory leather seats, with contrasting bordeaux piping, ivory leather gear knob, bespoke floor mats and 50060th kickplates.

While the styling pays tribute to the original 500, its standard technology remains up-todate, with a multi-function steering wheel, 7-inch HD Uconnect™ Radio Live touchscreen system with Bluetooth, satellite navigation and USB and AUX IN ports, rain and dusk sensors, cruise control, automatic climate control, fog lights and rear parking sensors.

Bringing the 500-60th bang up-to-date, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto™ are both now available as standard. They enable access to smartphone applications directly from the 7-inch screen of the Uconnect™ system, integrated into the central console.

The 500-60th is available with a choice of three petrol engines: the 1.2-litre 69hp and the 0.9-litre TwinAir with 85hp, both available with a manual or Dualogic gearbox, and the 0.9-litre TwinAir with 105hp. The 0.9-litre TwinAir with 85hp and Dualogic gearbox emits just 88g/km CO2 while returning 74.3mpg on the combined cycle.

Having set trends worldwide in lifestyle, fashion and art, more than six million Fiat 500s have been sold globally in the past six decades. Just 250 units of this model will make their way to the UK, and the first 60 units built will be completed with an individually numbered limited-edition plate and certificate of authenticity.

The launch of the 500-60th forms part of the Fiat 500’s 60th anniversary celebrations.

“Forever Young” will celebrate Fiat 500 models from the past and present.

The Fiat 500 has influenced fashion, society and behaviours and become a genuine trendsetter. Fans can get involved by taking an online tour of the era the 500 was born at www.500foreveryoung.fiatpress.com, looking back at the “500-mania”, art and advertising that helped to shape the icon.

The Fiat 500-60th is now on sale at a starting price of £19,240 OTR, with first deliveries taking place from 4th July.

For more information on the new Fiat 500-60th, please visit www.fiat.co.uk, or, to locate your nearest Fiat dealer, visit www.fiat.co.uk/dealers.

PORTFOLIO 97

TV - bigger picture

TWIN PEAKS If you’re a fan of Twin Peaks, perhaps even a cult devotee, you will already be eagerly anticipating the return of the series after a 26-year absence from our TV screens

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mid the detritus of the many soaps, sitcoms and drama series that have graced American television networks for the past fifty years or so, a very few have achieved iconic status by tearing up existing rule books. All In The Family, a sitcom featuring a bigoted New York cab driver and his family, enjoyed nine seasons on CBS (1971 to 1979).

Unfettered by any rules of political correctness, like Alf Garnet’s Till Death Us Do Part, America’s Archie Bunker and his brood fearlessly addressed the major issues of the day: racism, homosexuality, women’s liberation, rape, religion, miscarriage, abortion, breast cancer, the Vietnam War, menopause, impotence and so on, all topics that were previously considered inappropriate for television. Many 98 PORTFOLIO

Americans still regard All In The Family as the best television programme ever created.

“Twin Peaks provided viewers with terrifying images, dark humour, hauntingly memorable music and quirky characters and plot lines” During the ‘eighties the police drama series Hill Street Blues seriously raised the bar in terms of what TV viewers could expect of writers and producers. Mark Frost, later to become co-creator of Twin Peaks, worked on

Hill Street Blues for three years when, some would argue, the series was at its peak. Ahem...

Another pivotal moment for the entertainment industry arrived with the film Blue Velvet (1986), written and directed by David Lynch. Starring Kyle MacLachlan, Dennis Hopper and Laura Dern and borrowing its title from Bobby Vinton’s famous song, Velvet eerily blended noir and psychological thriller themes.

The critical response was mixed, with many objecting to what they regarded as gratuitous sexual content and violence. In 2008, however, Blue Velvet was nevertheless chosen by the American Film Institute as one of the greatest American mystery films ever made.

The stage was thus set for the arrival of the original Twin Peaks, yet another

ground-breaking TV drama created by Mark Frost (Hill Street Blues) and cult film director David Lynch (Elephant Man and Blue Velvet). Starring a collection of Lynch’s favourite actors, including Kyle MacLachlan and Isabella Rossellini Twin Peaks premiered in 1990 on ABC in the US (BBC Two in the UK) and aired until 1991. There were two series originally.

Twin Peaks centred on the inhabitants of a small American town who all come under suspicion when the naked body of murdered local teenager and Homecoming Queen Laura Palmer is found wrapped in plastic on a river bank outside of Twin Peaks. The main plot follows a seemingly straightforward murder investigation headed by FBI Special Agent Dale Cooper (Kyle MacLachlan). Things quickly get surreal, supernatural and disorienting for Agent Cooper. Twin Peaks provided viewers with terrifying images, dark humour, hauntingly memorable music and quirky characters and plot lines, the likes of which we had never seen before. Twentyfive years later, the story continues. It is vintage Lynch. David Lynch will be directing all 18 episodes of the new series.

Many original cast members, including Kyle MacLachlan, are to appear in the revival. New faces visiting Twin Peaks will include the likes of Trent Reznor, Michael Cera, Naomi Watts, and others.

Sky will simulcast the opening on Sky Atlantic at 2 am, Monday 22nd , in the UK, repeating on the 23rd at a more civilised time.

Kyle MacLachlan

HIGHLIGHTS

RHS Chelsea Flower Show Described as the world’s most prestigious flower show and the pinnacle of the horticultural calendar, the RHS Chelsea flower show will be back on our screens in May. This year it includes nine Show Gardens, five Fresh Gardens, nine Artisan Gardens and more than 100 floral displays to inspire millions.

The special Fresh Garden highlights include Jack Dunckley’s ‘The Bermuda Triangle’, which will resemble an active volcano surrounded by tropical planting. At 23, Jack is one of the youngest garden designers ever to exhibit at RHS Chelsea Flower Show. Kate Gould’s ‘City Living’ demonstrates how to create a usable green space in an urban apartment block and ‘Mind Trap’ by Ian Price, is about his personal experience of depression.

23-27 May on BBC 1 and BBC 2

The Emirates FA Cup Final Having started with 736 clubs, it now comes down to two. The date for the showpiece conclusion to the English domestic season can now be confirmed. The Emirates FA Cup Final will take place at Wembley Stadium - connected by EE - on Saturday 27 May 2017 (kick-off TBC).

Teams from London will undoubtedly feature, although as we go to press the two finalists are still unknown.

So, cancel all your plans for that day and make the most of the bank holiday weekend by getting stuck in to the game at a wide screen near you.

Saturday 27 May 2017 Live across TV and BBC radio

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LOCAL news

LOCAL NEWS EVERYDAY EPIC Lulu.com, sponsor of Brighton Festival commission Storytelling Army, has launched a short story writing competition that is open to all Sussex residents over the age of 18. From extraordinary moments amongst the ordinary, to the little victories against the odds, writers are invited to reflect on the observations and achievements of our daily lives, which we piece together to celebrate and share our common humanity.

Four lucky competition winners will be announced during the last week of the Festival. The winning stories will be combined into an anthology, alongside stories from the Storytelling Army, and published as a paperback book. UK-based marketing and PR company Authoright will also be supporting the book with a publicity campaign once it is published, ensuring that the Everyday Epic stories reach as many readers as possible after the competition ends.

Entry is free, stories must be no more than 4,000 words and must be received by 15 May 2017. Entries should be emailed to social_uk@lulu.com. For full Terms and Conditions visit lulu-uk.blog.

NEW GRAND OUTLOOK ONTO THE SEAFRONT

WAITROSE IN-STORE FINE DINING Shoppers are being offered a restaurant-style meal experience instore in Waitrose. The company is trying out its first official Supper Club in Sussex at its new store in Haywards Heath. Customers will be able to have a top-quality meal created by chefs from the company’s three cookery schools.The cafe will be transformed for 12 evenings in April and May. The concept was trialled for a short period last year at the company’s Newbury and Salisbury stores.

Waitrose Cookery Schools’ Manager, Karen Himsworth, said: “This aims to deliver the next level of in-store dining at Waitrose, building upon concepts like our sushi bars and wine bars.We want to make our stores a food destination in the evenings as well as in the day.

Our aspiration is for this to continue at Haywards Heath and to explore how we might introduce it in other branches across the Waitrose estate.”

The three-course meal includes nibbles and drinks and costs £35.

There is capacity for up to 50 customers on each night during the trial period.

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SEH Commercial, the commercial arm of awardwinning installation firm SEH BAC, has completed an extensive renovation project on The Grand in Brighton. Established in 1864, the regal Victorian structure has been a standout feature of Brighton’s seafront for more than 150 years.

At the time, it was one of the most technologically advanced hotels in the world, featuring a “vertical omnibus”, a hydraulic elevator powered by cisterns on the building’s roof. The hotel recently underwent a multimillion-pound revamp, and now boasts 201 luxurious rooms, as well as conferencing facilities for up to 800 guests.

SEH Commercial were initially called on to install 25 windows.

They were then asked to fit another 30, and went on to complete additional work throughout 2016.

“This was a challenging but incredibly rewarding project for us,” said SEH BAC Managing Director John Savage. “The hotel’s coastal location means its windows need to be able to take whatever the elements can throw at them – while ensuring the building retains its iconic look.”

LOCAL news

MARKETING EXPERTISE FOR HOUSE SITTERS Jess Stephens - entrepreneur and cat lover with more than 10 years’ experience of working with major brands - has joined the world’s biggest house and pet sitting business, Brighton-based TrustedHousesitters, as Chief Marketing Officer (CMO).

Jess is a digital and mobile marketing expert who has previously worked with FTSE250 companies, including MoneySupermarket, and has set up and sold her own marketing platform, TagPoints to SmartFocus, gaining the position of CMO within the acquiring company in the process. Her role at TrustedHousesitters is to accelerate its global growth as the business continues to expand into the US.

SEAFRONT TRADERS’ CONCERN OVER COUNCIL PLAN B FOR MADEIRA TERRACES SEAFRONT traders have responded to Warren Morgan’s plan B for the Terraces with skepticism.. Traders have described plans to crowdfund part of the project as “ludicrous” while claiming it’s two years too late to use pop-ups in an area where footfall has declined.

Madeira Drive businesses have also questioned the city council’s ability to manage the major multi-million pound project to save the Terraces, with some calling for the private sector or heritage groups to take over.

Steve Honeysett of the Honeysett Gallery said: “It is two years too late.

We came up with the idea of a Portacabin-based artists’ village, and if the council had agreed to it you could have had 20 artists working out of there now.” Mr Honeysett said the council was still being too closed about details for the project and had not sought other ideas such as designs by architect Paul Nicholson, backed by structural engineer John Orrell, incorporating luxury flats and new roof-top public gardens.

He said: “It is an idea with real commercial viability which the council should be considering, and it would not take £4 million of seed funding.

ROCKINGHORSE DRAGON BOAT RACE SALTDEAN LIDO RE-OPENS THE country’s only Grade II-listed lido reopens this month and will have heated water for the first time. Swimmers will be able to dive into the 40m pool of the Saltdean Lido for the first time in more than five years this May Bank Holiday.

Sun loungers and deckchairs will line the poolside area, but the premium space will be a long grass strip on the lido’s south side.The May opening will not yet include access to the 1937 Art Deco building and its rooftop suntrap. However, there will be a pop-up café on site. The details are still to be determined by the company and a permanent restaurant will only be in place when the entire property is completed. This is expected to be in 2020.

Oars at the ready! The Rockinghorse Dragon Boat Festival is returning to Brighton Marina on Sunday 14th May. This unique charity event offers supporters the opportunity to compete in 40-foot long canoe-like boats, ornately carved with dragon’s heads and tails. Crews of between 12 to 16 people sit in pairs and paddle their way through a series of timed races over distances of up to 250 metres.

With 24 team places available, Rockinghorse is looking for supporters to sign-up and take part in the challenge (over 16’s only), which takes place on the waters at Marina Square in Brighton. Raising funds for the charity’s Sussex Giving for Sussex Children 50th anniversary appeal, registration is £100 per boat, plus £50 sponsorship per competitor.

Entry is free for spectators, and all ages are welcome to attend and watch the races, which will begin at 10am. For more information call Analiese Doctrove, Head of Fundraising at Rockinghorse, on 01273 330044 or email analiese@rockinghorse.org.uk.

PORTFOLIO 101

A GAME OF TWO HALVES...

WOMEN IN GOLF We have managed to convince – some would say hoodwink – the rest of the world that the UK is “the ancestral home of golf.” Why, then, asks GolfGuy are the figures for female participation in golf in the UK so low compared to Continental Europe?

C

onsider this: according to a report commissioned by the PGA and published in 2013, “The game (of golf) continues to be heavily male dominated, even at junior level. This is particularly true in GB&I. Plainly, if the game of golf in GB&I, and in other heavily male-dominated markets, could be made more attractive to women without being made less attractive to men, the potential for growth is enormous.” (The Economic Impact of Golf on the Economy of Europe, Sports Marketing Surveys Inc.). Most of our European neighbours enjoy a very different state of affairs. Female golfers in Germany account for over 35% of the total of registered players. The numbers for the other top-five countries, Austria, Switzerland, Netherlands, and Denmark are similar. Compare these figures with those for the UK, where a paltry 14.5% of golfers are female versus a gob-smacking 75.2% male membership.

Despite the efforts of a plethora of organisations and interest groups, the UK continues to lag far behind our European

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neighbours when it comes to capturing the interest of female golfers. Even at golf’s highest level, the Royal & Ancient, there has been a great deal of tooth sucking and foot dragging on the issue of women’s membership rights in certain bastions of male exclusivity.

"Is there a future for women golfers in the UK? Is there a future for UK golf without them?"

The members (all male) of Muirfield, for instance, continued to exclude women, even in the face of the R&A’s threat to remove Muirfield from the Open rota. The R&A called their bluff, of course, and now the boys at Muirfield have relented.

This actually happened recently at a wellknown, well-established Sussex golf club near you: two lady members were getting their

gear out of the car in preparation for a booked round of golf. A few yards away, three older gentleman members were doing the same, when one of the gents wondered aloud at the apparent fact that “they” allowed women to play golf these days. One of the others offered the view that there must be lots of things the ladies could and should be doing at home. In the end, these business women were sent off by the gents with an admonishment not to hold anyone up with slow play. It comes as no surprise, then, that Women in the Golf Industry (WIGI) found in a 2005 report that the reason many former women golfers had left the sport “had more to do with the attitudes they faced” and with what needed to be done to make women feel more welcome. All of which begs the question of whether women are being made to feel welcome in golf clubs anywhere.

Is there a future for women golfers in the UK? Is there a future for UK golf without them?

GolfGuy

GOLF

The Golf Pro responds: Thank you for such a political topic! The straight answer to the question of whether the ladies have a future in golf is an unequivocal “yes,” as there will be as no future for UK golf without them. Golf as a sport in the UK has been steadily on the decline over the last five years.

Many blame this on recession, golf being an older sport, or the lack of money. For me, the key reason is change, or the reluctance to change.

Changes to the game will be met with criticism and face strong opposition, but progression is a way of life in sport. Formula One changes its rules every year, tennis has Hawkeye, cricket has the T20, and even football finally accepted goal line technology.

What needs to change to get more women playing?

"For me, the key reason is change, or the reluctance to change.

Changes to the game will be met with criticism and face strong opposition, but progression is a way of life in sport"

Image: There is still a stereotypical image of the golf club member; he is male and of a certain age…

• The Clubhouse entrance and facilities need to be more welcoming to new visitors and ladies • Perhaps a relaxation of the dress codes. Clubs could review their dress codes and possibly relax the requirement for knee-length socks.

• Professional competitions need to adapt. To make watching golf more interesting, shortened versions over fewer days, or target golf formats, could be introduced to encourage new and young people to get into the game. You only need to go to Sussex County Cricket ground on a T20 evening game and see the impact it has on people watching.

• One particular way in which we have attracted more families and women to the golf club is by adopting the game of Footgolf. The game meshes together the concepts of golf and football and requires players to take turns in kicking a football into a large 21-inch cup in as few shots as possible.

The game, which is growing rapidly in popularity, has attracted new and young customers to clubs and courses.

Time: On a good day it’s four hours; on a bad day it could take over five. Do people know you can play nine holes?

• Can golf clubs introduce three-, six- or nine-hole competitions for the new golfers?

• Could clubs offer shorter open competitions of nine holes for new golfers of all ages, regardless of membership?

• More competitions revolving around carrying just three clubs, greens-in-regulation challenges or target golf are further possibilites.

If golf needs changing, it seems sensible that the governing bodies, clubs and professionals who are at the forefront of the economy of the sport should take a leading role.

At Mid Sussex we have Footgolf, which introduces youngsters, and therefore their parents, to the game.

We have a four-hole short course for beginners; the front nine has a short course to enable beginners to play and get round in under two hours. A ladies’ coffee morning with golf that runs every Tuesday to introduce more ladies into the game in a relaxed environment has created 15 new lady members in the last 12 months. A clubhouse that has an open door policy to all with a dress code that is relaxed. A membership that understands that to grow our game we need to embrace change.

This might entail setting up a club handicap system that can start higher than 36. In Europe handicaps start at 54, with three shots per hole. A great way of learning the game without feeling you are not good at it!

The future for golf can be bright. The members and patrons of the game need to embrace some change.

Change is good!

If you have any questions, please feel free to email: lee@midsussexgolfclub.co.uk.

With thanks to our golfing expert, Lee Andrews, PGA Golf Professional, Mid Sussex Golf Club lee@midsussexgolfclub.co.uk www.midsussexgolfclub.co.uk Bring this article with you to Mid Sussex Golf Club, and when you pay for a round, another player can go free.

PORTFOLIO 103

BEAUTIFUL homes

“We’re able to garden nearly every week of the year if we want to in this country"

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THE interview

GROWING UP GREEN Dan Pearson has devoted his life to horticulture in a career that has taken him from the gardens of Surrey to the forests of Japan and beyond

A

t the tender age of 17, few people know what direction their life is destined to take. Not so Dan Pearson, who left his academic studies to doggedly pursue a career in horticulture that has seen him flourish as one of the nation’s top landscape designers and gardening writers. Though many parents might balk at the thought of their little darling dropping out of school to follow such floral passions, Pearson’s folks intervened only to make sure he realised his dreams to the fullest.

“My parents were both teachers in different things: Dad taught fine art and Mum taught fashion – and they knew the importance of following your heart,” the 52-year-old explains. “So when I thought I might follow in their footsteps and go to art college, they asked, ‘Why would you do that?’ I thought, ‘I don’t really want to put all my eggs in one basket, and my passion is gardening, but I feel like I should be doing something else because otherwise I’m not following many of the routes available to me.’

“But they said, ‘if you’re gardening and you’re interested in the arts as well, you will be able to combine the two somehow and just start working out where your strengths are.’ So I applied to Wisley and got in – and never looked back. I have come back to be able to pursue the arts through horticulture, so it was just a different route to the same destination.”

Having trained at the Royal Horticultural Society garden at Wisley in Surrey for three years, Pearson’s career then took him to Edinburgh, where he worked in the Royal Botanic Gardens, and then to the iconic Kew. But it was his time at Wisley that set the tone for the rest of his life’s work.

“Wisley at that point was just a cornucopia of information and experience for me,” he reminisces. “It had some amazing and committed gardeners working there, and still does. And because it was an apprenticeship scheme, you were working right alongside them, which is often the best way of learning something – to get that physical, practical experience on a day-to-day basis. For me it was a wonderful experience to be able to talk to people who had been in the subject for 30, 40 or 50 years, and to learn from them.”

Pearson’s work saw him design private gardens for the likes of fashion designer Sir Paul Smith and esteemed editor Carlo Caracciolo, and he crafted green spaces around the globe at sites such as the Millennium Dome and the Botanic Garden of Jerusalem. His secondary calling, however, was in his written work for The Guardian, The Telegraph and The Sunday Times – and these musings form the cornerstone of his most recent project, a collection of those journalistic contributions entitled Natural Selection: A Year in the Garden.

“I think it’s got a different kind of rhythm to the articles that appeared in the paper, and the pieces are different because of that,” says Pearson. “I think it’s interesting when you start to reassemble something like that, how you can make PORTFOLIO 105

THE interview

“I think our changing world is one that will need those skills and that experience.

Horticulture has an enormous amount to give back to a world"

the connections between pieces. So each week something was read in isolation in the paper, but together you have something that has a different flow to it in the book.”

And despite the global nature of much of his design work, Natural Selection is something of an ode to the distinctiveness of gardening in the country where Pearson first learned his trade.

“We’re able to garden nearly every week of the year if we want to in this country. There are very few weeks that are locked down badly with freeze or are so wet that we actually can’t get onto the ground,” he enthuses. “Not many countries are lucky like that. If you go somewhere in the Mediterranean, it is often too hot in the summer and things dry out to the point where they are not growing. In North America, you have whole months of the winter closed down because it is too cold, and it freezes.

“But we are able to garden here all of the time, and that means that the winter, for instance, becomes this very productive time – it’s not a period of inactivity or inertia at all. It’s the opposite; it’s when things happen. You can prepare for that rush of spring over quite a few weeks. So I – having worked all over the world 106 PORTFOLIO

– would not really like to garden anywhere else. There are lots of advantages to us having these four distinct seasons and the change of pace that happens because we have them. No single one season is ugly or negative – there’s always something of interest.”

And Pearson believes that the British horticulturist’s ability to acclimatise to the occasionally erratic changes in the country’s weather will stand our nation’s next generation of gardeners in good stead when it comes to facing the challenges of climate change head on.

“I think horticultural people and people who are dealing with plants and landscapes have an enormous amount to offer this changing world,” he nods. “Because the act of gardening is something that is inherently something that has to be an act of adaptability and enterprise and initiative.

“I think our changing world is one that will need those skills and that experience.

Horticulture has an enormous amount to give back to a world that needs this connection more than ever when it comes to greenery and the things that you eat, or knowing where your food came from and knowing how to go about growing it and preserving space.”

Natural Selection: A Year in the Garden by Dan Pearson will be published by Faber & Faber on 4th May 2017. RRP £20.

At times we all need a little help.

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• Stress

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