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Regulars | The cheshire Magazine
From the
Editor W
e wish you a merry Christmas and a Happy New Year… I know, it’s not Christmas yet…you haven’t done your shopping…you have no idea who’s coming to town (or what he’s bringing with him)…the weather outside is frightful…oh, here I go again! I’m afraid I’m an unapologetic lover of Christmas and all that goes with it, from giddy children to festive bunting to mulled wine, especially the mulled wine. From the end of November right up till Christmas Day my head is filled with the sound of Christmas carols and I’m already deeply into my mince-pie allowance. I refuse to let the season of glad tidings give me any degree of stress; just say no, that’s my motto. No – you can’t have a pony, no - I don’t bake my own mince pies, no – we’re not inviting your brother, wife and four children for lunch on Christmas Day, we already have 10 coming. See, it’s easy! For those of you who are still racking your brains over the perfect Christmas gifts, we have LOTS of amazing ideas in this issue, and to further inspire, we asked some seriously stylish people what they’re hoping to find under the tree this year in our All I Want For Christmas feature, from p15. Talking of inspiration, I’ve always said that Cheshire is filled with people packed with the entrepreneurial spirit and this month we meet perhaps one of the youngest, Laura Orchant, whose beautiful silk scarves have caught the attention of Fenwicks of Bond Street, p82, and Deepa Parekh, who makes it her business to support some of the North West’s premier athletes, p20. In fact, you’ll find plenty of inspirational women in this issue, from Bec Astley-Clarke to Kerry Lemon to Saiqa Akram, all of whom are following their passions along the path to success. However you’re spending the festive season, I hope you have a wonderful time.
Kate
Kate Houghton Editor Follow us on Twitter @TheCheshireMag
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Contents
December/January 2014
122 102
Features
interiors
015 | All I want for Christmas Our four luxury experts reveal their perfect Christmas wishlists 020 | Seeing stars Deepa Parekh makes it her business to deliver seven star service 024 | Windows of opportunity Kerry Lemon brings festive cheer to window displays across the land 028 | The Downton effect From vintage fashion to country retreats, the whole world’s gone Downton mad 034 | The hunting life Discover one of Britain’s most accessible pastimes in all its many forms 048 | Up the wall Patrick Blanc: the man who created the vertical garden 091 | The ultimate gift guide We bring you ideal gifts for the loved one who has everything 100 | The sail of the century The next step in the history of world’s first super-yacht, the legendary Christina O
042 | Interiors news 044 | Renaissance man Piero Fornasetti’s son on fine Italian craftmanship
regulars 008 | Editors letter 012 | Contributors 038 | Calendar Ideas for getting out and about this winter 040 | Notebook All Cheshire’s most intriguing goings-on this holiday season
art 052 | Art news 054 | Eggspect the unexpected What is the Exbury Egg? 057 | Prize lots
collection 062 | Watch news 064 | Black tie-bound Give your tux a twist at this year’s Christmas parties 066 | Jewellery news Chester-based designer Lucy Quartermaine talks inspiration and style 068 | If you’ve got it... Bec Astley Clarke urges women to speak their minds with jewels
fashion & beauty 074 | Fashion news Our fashion picks will have you kitted out from head to toe in this season’s best 082 | Young, British & on the up Hale resident Laura Orchant goes it alone 084 | Beauty news 086 | Space and time We talk to Space NK founder Nicky Kinnaird
motoring 102 | A purity of passion McLaren unveil their latest road-to-track sports car
106 | Pulses racing Ducati are flying high with their newest venture
travel 108 | Travel news 110 | Spanish inquisition The Alicante spa that might just help you live forever 114 | Weekend away We visit the Great John Street Hotel in Manchester 116 | Explore...South Africa The Rainbow Nation shows its true colours
food & drink 118 | Food news 120 | Franglais... naturally Chef Simon Rogan talks French food with British heart 122 | Wine is money It’s all about investing in the nectar of the gods 126 | Coffee table touches Don’t be fooled, these books are as stimulating as they are stunning
family 129 | Kids news 132 | The classroom Stay up to date with Cheshire’s academic affairs
property 134 | Property directory 136 | State of the market Mark Holden of Savills extols the virtues of sensible pricing 142 | Hot property This Grade II listed building is truly beyond compare
11
Regulars | The CHESHIRE Magazine
The contributors
www.rwmg.co.uk
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JANUARY 2006 • ISSUE 7 • COMPLIMENTARY COPY
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MUSIC TO YOUR EARS
AND WINTER APPEARS WITH COATS AND CHUNKY KNITS
sharp style and well-cut cuits for the dapper chap
M A G A Z I N E
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JANUARY 2006 • ISSUE 7 • COMPLIMENTARY COPY
AUTUMN LEAVES
boys will be boys
library luxury
THE FAITH
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world’s biggest free to Visit motor show returns to Canary wharf
KEEPING
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JANUARY 2006 • ISSUE 7 • COMPLIMENTARY COPY
drivetime
COUNTDOWN TO STYLE
canary STEADYING A BRAND THROUGH ECONOMIC UNCERTAINTY CAN BE A LIFE-AFFIRMING EXPERIENCE
STYLE GURUS FROM THE WORLD OF WATCHES SHARE THEIR STYLE SECRETS
THE MUSICIANS HOTTING UP THE ORCHESTRA SCENE
books for literature loVers
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heaven on earTh, wiTh The one you love
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THE BRAVEST ADVENTURERS FIGHTING TO BE THE BEST
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RED CARPET ROYALTY Oscar season hits Hollywood with avengance
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Design days
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JULY 2008 • ISSUE 37 • COMPLIMENTARY COPY
Personal branding How to create tHe perfect public image Meet the ancestors tracking down your family tree glacial getaway cool norwegian experiences hot ProPerty uk & international
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PRETTY PASTELS & PALE LACE FOR THE S/S12 SEASON
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WoRk hARd; SpeNd WiSelY
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TiFFANY & CO.’S 175TH ANNivERSARY
F E B R UA RY 2012 i s s u e 7 9
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BRIT muscle man ToM HArdy cuTs a fIne fIguRe In hIs laTesT Release
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THE HEIGHT OF
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The brains behind the most beautiful baubled bags in Britain, Anya Hindmarch MBE
made to order
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Why 2012 Is A WondeRfuL yeAR to be bRItIsh
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05/11/2012 11:56
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april 2013
january 2013
MARCH 2013
february 2013
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BETTER WITH AGE
Work this season’s key trends from the office to the after-party
sailing through
It’s the sailor’s life for me, says Sir Ben Ainslie
on the rise
forging the
future
The developing nations hitting new highs
power games The smartest tailoring for power couples
as level39 opens in canary wharf, we look at how British innovation is shaping our world
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Stepping
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Where Every Piece Is A Work Of Art
august 2012 i s s u e 8 5
drive of your life
The new Porsche 911; Corvette reveals its latest incarnation; and a Bugatti Veyron sound system to shout about
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L O N D O N
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MAJESTIC NATURAL OLIVE GREEN DIAMOND HANDMADE IN PLATINUM
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Screen Siren
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freddie ljungBerg strikes a pose in this season’s smartest trends
Lifetime
Take a year To discover The world; Twelve counTries in as many monThs
Fill Your suMMer cAlendAr with the best events: cricket, polo, golF, sAiling And tennis
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CAPtAin RobeRt sCott’s Lost dReAM tHe ULtiMAte JoURney, noRtH & soUtH beHind tHe sCenes of fRozen PLAnet
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RIGHT SAID FRED
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READY, SET, GO!
In our special anniversary issue, weGame look back at the last two incredible back decades of development in Canary Wharf, talk exclusively to CEO Sir canary canary canary canary canary canary canary canary canary canary w h a ryears f w hof a r f Canary w h a rWharf f wGroup, harf wharf a r f helm w h a r fGeorge w h Iacobescu arf w h a rabout f wharf 25 atw hthe & thrown Tr a vel and round-up the most lavish and expensive partiesFood ever THe TO THE ENDS of
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14/04/2011 16:32
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shopping finance motoring interiors property
21/03/2011 13:43
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business • fashion • health & beauty • finance • food & drink • travel • motoring • uk & international property
fashion finance motoring interiors property
J A N UA R Y 2012
www.hirshlondon.com
D E CFEBRUARY E M B E R 2011 2010
TRILOGY COLLECTION
HANDMADE IN PLATINUM
Famous for engagement rings
tRavEl FaR and widE to thE BEst placEs in thE woRld FoR luxuRY, advEntuRE, spoRt and aRt WEST END 56-57 BURLINGTON ARCADE W1J 0QN T 020 7499 6814 - CITY 9 HATTON GARDEN EC1N 8AH T 020 7831 3333
business • current affairs • fashion • health & beauty • finance • food & drink • motoring • uk & international property
small luxuRY hotEls: hEavEn on EaRth
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IRRESISTIBLE INDULGENCE
wish you were here?
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business • current affairs • fashion • health & beauty • finance • food & drink • motoring • uk & international property
shopping finance motoring interiors property
N O VFEBRUARY E M B E R 2011 2010
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a u gFEBRuaRY u s t 2011 2010
JimmY Choo, GEEk ChiC RosÉ winE, Uk TRAvEL
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L O N D O N
onE YEAR To London 2012
SUMMER STYLE
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THE FINAL
COUNTDOWN
COLLECTION
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21ST CENTURY SLEEP Why are We never caught napping?
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the high life lounging in the lateSt StyleS
luxury christmas ideas giftS for him and her
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new year destinations brazil, morocco & Sweden
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cover
48 Hours in Madrid
HOT PROPERTY Exclusive Homes
The Secrets of Seduction Dr Raj Persaud reveals all
On the
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#3 Shearling Leather Biker Jacket Rick Owens, £2,570 (selfridges.com)
CANARY WHARF E14 MAGAZINE
Members of the Professional Publishers Association
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CANARY WHARF E14 MAGAZINE
DISTRIBUTION: The Cheshire Magazine is the largest circulated luxury publication in Cheshire, delivered to selected homes in over 20 postcodes, over 300 businesses, as well as newsagents and retail outlets.
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#2 Lunar Eclipse Necklace Lara Bohinc, £595 (harveynichols.com)
CANARY WHARF E14 MAGAZINE
Runwild Media Ltd. cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited submissions, manuscripts and photographs. While every care is taken, prices and details are subject to change and Runwild Media Ltd. takes no responsibility for omissions or errors. We reserve the right to publish and edit any letters. All rights reserved.
#1 Heroine Medium Tote Alexander McQueen £1,525 (selfridges.com)
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Managing Director Eren Ellwood
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Associate Publisher Sophie Roberts
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Publisher Giles Ellwood
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Head of Finance Elton Hopkins
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Communications Director Loren Penney
kate racovolis Kate is an alumnus of Columbia University’s Journalism School and has written widely on luxury interiors, fashion and lifestyle. This month she talks to the son of Italian interior design legend Piero Fornasetti.
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General Manager Fiona Fenwick
mark holden Mark is a Director of Savills and Head of Office in Wilmslow covering Cheshire East, High Peak and Lancashire. His 30 year estate agency career has been based mostly in Cheshire, predominantly in the ‘Golden Triangle’.
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Client Relationship Director Kate Oxbrow
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Production Hugo Wheatley Alex Powell Oscar Viney
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Brand Consistency Laddawan Juhong
RICHARD BROWN Richard is deputy editor of Collection, our dedicated watch and fine jewellery section. He specialises in men’s style, culture and finance. This month he tells us why Luminox watches plan to send Sir Bob Geldof starwards.
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Senior Designer Lisa Wade
GEMMA KNIGHT Gemma has a background in luxury freelance journalism and comes to Runwild following a stint working and living in China. She has an endless thirst for new places and specialises in lifestyle, culture and travel writing.
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Editorial Assistant Gemma Knight
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Collection Editor Annabel Harrison
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Art Editor Carol Cordrey
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Editorial Director Kate Harrison
FRANCESCA barrow Francesca is a design curator. She is the CEO of Façonner which exhibits luxury brands. She is particularly known for her creative direction and styling of haute-lifestyle photo shoots published in magazines internationally.
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Editor Kate Houghton
ELLE BLAKEMAN Elle is a journalist and editor based in London. She has previously worked at Harper’s Bazaar, Marie Claire and InStyle and specialises in luxury travel and fashion writing. She has a weakness for brownies and red lipstick.
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seasonal fashion, trends & events in Canary wharf with ted baker, haCkett, l.k bennett, hobbs, Jaeger, and more
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Motoring
The great summer pastimes of yore: croquet, boules, skittles & ping pong
Issue
the drive of your life: with Maserati, Mclaren, bentley, alfa roMeo, aston Martin, laMborghini, porsche, lotus, ferrari & Mercedes. plus, the Motor expo returns to canary wharf
Strike a
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poolside glamour for bathing beauties
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AcTing royAlTy
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The inimitable Dame Helen Mirren on playing three British queens
Tom Aikens talks exclusively about bringing his winning formula to Canary Wharf
Rainer Becker on Roka; a preview of One Canada Square; wine-tasting in the Loire; and the best of Business Class
suiTeD & BooTeD
After 25 years, the power suit makes a comeback
the
viva espana! Featuring the best of Spain, with foodie, beach and rural escapes
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cUtIng-edge tIme-keepIng from ralph laUren, bUrberry, dIor & chanel; plUS, SeaSonal trendS & beaUtIfUl ballgownS
women in power World leaders, game changers and business powerhouses – we celebrate the women who have ruled and revolutionised our world
This Christmas,fall in love with Laurenti x www.winedirection.com a winedirection O
The cheshire Magazine | Feature
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mas? Christ wn s i h t Jo Bro ee r d t n e a h ry key er t d und e, Darren S eal the luxu n fi o t v g re or ant you w , Prince Ge ion as they o d t t a e a Wh lark spir stley C seasonal in A c e B e sire s som give u ir hearts de he gifts t n ight WO
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BEC ASTLEY CLARKE Founder and Executive Chairperson of luxury jewellery brand Astley Clarke
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ec places prime importance on pioneering creativity and encourages women to empower themselves by never waiting for a man to buy them the iconic jewels they crave – and, with a brand that’s stocked in Harrods, Selfridges and Liberty (and astleyclarke.com a leading online destination for contemporary jewellery lovers), she certainly knows what she’s talking about. First on her list is this season’s Saint Laurent Classic Sac De Jour Bag in Powder Leather (£1,960, ysl.com), ‘a design classic’ that’s as soft as can be and looks sensational in Bec’s chosen colour, the creamy-beige ‘powder’. We particularly love the little details - embossed Saint Laurent signature, brass feet and leather-encased padlock. She’d also like a Zadig & Voltaire cashmere jumper (£235 - £790, zadig-et-voltaire.com), particularly loving the quirky wearability of these sumptuous sweaters, available in a plethora of colours and styles but always a fabulous example of form meets function. Bec is constantly drawn back to the 1920’s Italian glass lamps at Alfie’s Antique Market (13-25 Church St, Marylebone, London NW8) and we have to agree, with their mesmerising colours and curves, it’s certainly hard not to be swept away by nostalgic notions of days gone by when confronted by these stalwarts of continental glamour. For the kitchen, it’s Nigel Slater’s latest cookbook, Real Fast Food (published by Michael Joseph, £9.99, amazon.co.uk) which makes it onto her list, with the endearing, idiosyncratic chef’s latest offering (which accompanies a sister volume, entitled Real Fast Puddings) containing 350 nutritious recipes, all of which can be prepared in an impressive thirty minutes. ‘It’s so simple, so inspirational,’ says Bec. ‘Perfect for the time-poor but hungry woman!’ And last but not least, it’s the large Rose Gold Icon Pendant from Astley Clarke’s new collection (£2,250, astleyclarke. com) which Bec wants under her tree – a clever little piece from the Muse collection with an open back, allowing light to flow through each of the tiny pave set grey diamonds so that it quite literally glows. Bec grins and says ‘in accordance with our brand’s ethos - I shall be buying this for myself!’
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Recommends…
#1 Billionaire Couture gold sequin clutch, £850 (billionairecouture.com)
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#3 Clive Christian No1 for women perfume with silk handkerchief, £2,700 (clive.com)
#2 La Prairie White Caviar Collection, $150 - $470 (shoplaprairie.com)
The cheshire Magazine | Feature
prince george of cambridge
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or reasons unknown, the Royal Family’s newest arrival is being resolutely tight-lipped about his first ever Christmas list. But never fear, as we have it on good authority that Prince George has excellent taste and will be valiantly leading the baby brigade in their wishlist-making this festive season. The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have ever been enamoured with the African continent, and we have heard that they plan to instil their love of this adventurous, romantic region in their heir, decking out the royal nursery with jungle scenes and toy animals to let the Prince ‘grow up as if he’s in the bush’. We can only assume, then, that there’ll be at least one gorgeous piece of handcrafted furniture from wildlife-inspired brand Anaiza in attendance. We’d suggest the Amos wardrobe (price on request, anaiza.co.uk), a bespoke, durable piece with an intricately carved lion arched majestically across its top, or the Dahlia changing table (price on request, anaiza.co.uk), a pale green chest of draws with delicately positioned gold stars and a smiling, long-lashed giraffe gazing serenely from above. Both pieces are made to the highest standards, with handpainted detail and even the option to adapt the animals’ poses to suit your exact requirements. If it’s playtime fodder the Prince is after, we suggest a beautiful Stevenson Brothers large bespoke rocking horse (£3,600, rockinghorses.uk.net), the design-your-own option offered by one of the country’s most loved traditional rocking horse makers, or perhaps a set of Dragons of Walton Street music boxes (£65 each, dragonsofwaltonstreet.com) complete with sweet handpainted illustrations of woodland creatures. When bedtime arrives, Prince George can be lulled to sleep by the legendary words of one of the world’s best-loved children’s authors, read to him from the pages of The Fairy Tales of Hans Christian Andersen (£24.99, taschen.com), a stunning volume which includes magical illustrations by famous artists from around the globe and a brief historical introduction to each fairy tale. main image: cat walker / Shutterstock.com
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Recommends…
#1 William Sharp white cashmere sleep suit set, £354 (alexandalexa.com)
#2 Nici Grey-Beige Giant Teddy Bear, £143 (delveswoodbears.co.uk)
#3 Hand-painted Mason Pearson hairbrush, £120 (dragonsofwoltonstreet.com)
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darren skey Head of Menswear at Harvey Nichols
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ith a career in retail spanning sixteen years – which now finds him overseeing the menswear departments at all eight of Harvey Nichol’s stores and sitting on the British Fashion Council’s NEWGEN panel – Darren Skey certainly knows his luxury brands. With such extensive knowledge of the designer market and all the goodies it has to offer, we were expecting him to find it devilishly hard to narrow down his wishlist to only four perfect gifts – but, rather impressively, he hardly hesitated. This is certainly a man who knows what he wants. From the gorgeous Jet 8 range, he chose the Turquoise Cashmere Jumper, £190 (harveynichols.com) – a stunning colour sold exclusively at, you guessed it, Harvey Nichols. This classic is as soft as it is warm and ideal for standing out from the crowd, particularly when they’re all wearing jumpers with reindeer on them. When it comes to gadgets, Darren has gone for top-of-therange simplicity with the BassBuds Black High-Performance InEar Headphones, £39.95 (harveynichols.com), neat, elegant buds which come with a built-in hands free microphone and mp3 controller. And if that’s not enough for you, perhaps the Swarovski crystal in each headphone will tip the balance. He’d also like the truly luxurious Valentino Camouflage Leather Document Holder, £1,160 (harveynichols.com), a must-have for any self-respecting businessman or woman with its sleek mottled finish, metal stud embellishments and neat leather flap. Inside is a handy zip-up compartment surrounded by plush mahogany-hued leather and embossed with its crowning glory, the Valentino plaque. And finally, Mr Skey would like the Murdock London Luxury Shaving Gift Box, £98 (harveynichols.com). In the typical style of Shoreditch-based master barbers Murdock London (who entered the grooming industry with the express intention of ‘re-imagining the masculine luxury of the capital’s Victorian male grooming establishments’), this signature range contains pre-shave oil (100ml), shaving cream (200ml) and a pure badger brush – everything you need to pamper yourself dapper.
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Recommends… #1 Geoffrey Parker Billionaire Monopoly, £8,185 (quintessentiallygifts.com)
#2 Linley Captain’s Decanter, £495 (quintessentiallygifts.com)
#3 Montblanc Meisterstuck briefcase, £31,000 (montblanc.com) 18
The cheshire Magazine | Feature
jo brown
Brand Ambassador Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Manchester
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ith a job that involves increasing brand awareness for the world’s most luxurious car brand, businesswoman Jo Brown needs to look every inch the part – an excellent excuse to fill her Christmas list with some truly exceptional trinkets. First on her wishlist is the Jo Malone Christmas Trousseau (£560, selfridges.com), a limited edition feast for the senses in true Jo Malone style. Presented in a lacquered chest, the collection comprises two deluxe candles in Bitter Orange & Chocolate and Pomegranate Noir, and three classic colognes (Redcurrant & Cream, Grapefruit and Orange Blossom), all deep, indulgent scents which Jo Brown describes as ‘classic fragrances for my home and for me’. And when she’s finished unwinding with the help of these soothing scents, the rest of her gifts will certainly come in handy for achieving the ultimate business-chic look. ‘In my role I need to be perfectly groomed’, Jo explains, meaning that the next item on her list – the Yves Saint Laurent La Laque Couture Colour Collection (£395, selfridges.com) - is utterly essential. ‘These nail colours are just perfect’ she says, and with the 24 timeless shades meaning you’ll always be able to flawlessly match your nails and accessories, we can’t help but agree. Jo’s next pick is the crème de la crème of handbags, and we must admit, we’ve been admiring its sumptuous curves and bold, hyper-luxe façade ourselves. Made by luxury car brand Bentley, the Barnato in St. James red (price on request, bentleyhandbagcollection.com) is named after Diana Barnato Walker MBE, the socialite daughter of Bentley’s 1920s chairman, Woolf ‘Babe’ Barnato, a glamorous aviatrix as famous for her social antics as her lavish mode of transport (a top-of-the-range Bentley, of course). And last but not least, Jo has set her heart on the Rolex Oyster Perpetual Day Date “Sertie”, £53,200 (davidmrobinson.co.uk), the beautiful new timepiece which launched earlier this year complete with an 18 carat gold bezel and 60 baguette-cut diamonds. We’d rather like one of these too.
a t n a S t Secre #1 Grey i-pad Clutch, £145 (lemiena.com)
Recommends… #2 Diamond Charm Bracelet, £3,955 (joubi.co.uk)
#3 George Jensen Magic White Gold Earrings, £1,375 (selfridges.com)
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Seeing stars Being a Premier League footballer is not something most of us consider to be a tough job. With incomes into five figures per week there can’t be many things these chaps find a challenge, surely? W O R D S : K AT E H O U G H T O N
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The cheshire Magazine | Feature
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Deepa Parekh
aving spent a fascinating few hours with Deepa Parekh, the glamorous founder and force behind luxury concierge business Seven Star Football, I have actually come away with a whole new perspective. Yes, of course when money is no object then the decisions that face most of us daily simply don’t apply, and I’ll never feel sorry for a young man who can buy himself a supercar on a whim, but when you look more deeply at the lives of those young men who suddenly find themselves thrown into the media spotlight after having achieved the glory of being signed to a Premier League team, it’s not quite all you’d imagine it to be. Deepa is an endlessly fascinating individual in her own right. I wasn’t expecting fluff, but her dry sense of humour and feisty friendliness was a delight to encounter, when so many people who operate at her level can leave you cold. When we meet Deepa is looking very fresh and relaxed, probably due to an increase in the hours of sleep she is suddenly able to claim, as the football transfer window has closed and she’s not deep in the thick of helping new and existing clients settle into new homes, in new regions – or even new countries. Deepa says: ‘With several of the world’s biggest teams based in this area, the weeks following the close of the transfer window are a very busy time. As things can change right up until midnight on the last day I can’t predict who might be leaving the area, or who might be referred to me as a newcomer to the North West. I also look after a number of top athletes in different sports, and some high profile celebrities, so there’s never really a slow period!’
‘It’s hectic, but I thrive on hectic, so it’s good too.’ Deepa’s main role during these busy weeks is to get players out of their hotel rooms, where life can be lonely and restrictive, and into the perfect home for their needs. Some young men are of course single and looking to enjoy everything a single man with a large wallet can enjoy, others will have girlfriends, wives and children to consider too. But let’s start at the beginning - just how did all this come about for Deepa? It’s not the sort of job you find advertised anywhere, and most certainly not something likely to be discussed at careers day in school, even in those schools where footballers’ wives are a regular sight at the school gates. ‘I actually started in broadcast media,’ says Deepa. ‘I worked on news and current affairs programmes at BBC GMR in Manchester. After some time both in front of the mic and behind the scenes, I moved to work at the North West New Media Network.’ ‘A lot of what I did there involved setting up and running networking events, where we brought together businesses that could support one another, and learn from one another. I then moved to The Circle Club, a members’ only club designed to attract the innovators in the music, creative and media industries. Because it was a private club, it also attracted many Premier League players, seeking privacy on their nights out.’ ‘I built an incredible network of contacts during that period, and learned a lot about myself and my own abilities too.’ The club was sold in 2006, but Deepa had already decided to move on, the seeds already sown for the next step in her career. First however, she took some time for herself to
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Feature | The cheshire Magazine
look deeper into a subject that had always fascinated her – the human mind. ‘I sent myself on an NLP (Neuro Linguistic Programming) course. It’s fascinating how we are all so influenced by our past experiences, mostly without ever really understanding that, and how the decisions we make and actions we take feed back into those past experiences. I went on the course to help me understand my motivations and set goals for my future. I ended up studying to become a master practitioner myself – and it’s proven immensely helpful in my work!’ Establishing Seven Star Football was the culmination of a dream, the seeds first sown when with The Circle Club. ‘I was forever being asked to arrange stuff, source things, plan events and had happily obliged, but it had occurred that this “concierge service” I was providing could in fact deliver an income! I tested the water with a few of my Premier League friends, and the response was overwhelmingly positive… so here I am!’ Here she is indeed. In fact, Deepa had only arrived back in Cheshire on the morning we met, having undertaken a last minute, hugely complicated job on for a client who plays for Arsenal. ‘We thought he was heading off on a new contract, having been on loan for most of last season. We’d rented out his London apartment, expecting him to start somewhere different. At the very last minute (as often happens in football!) Arsenal announced they were keeping him so we had to move the tenants out, do the inventory process and really just get everything back on track for him, with a matter of hours to do it in!’ Deepa’s clients trust her with more than sorting out existing homes; she is often asked to present them with a limited choice of two or three properties for sale or lease, to
select and source a new car, to plan weekend breaks or even just nights out in other cities and on one occasion to source a specific pair of shoes no longer on general sale! ‘Being a top level footballer definitely has its stresses,’ Deepa says. ‘They’ve been bought in, for eye-watering amounts of money, to deliver a specific result. From the moment they arrive all eyes are on them and if they don’t deliver, immediately, they can be in receipt of some pretty unpleasant feedback from the media and fans. These young men put enormous
‘She is often asked to select and source a new car, to plan weekend breaks or even just nights out in other cities’ pressure on themselves, they’re often from a background that simply hasn’t prepared them for the kind of life they can live with a significant income, and they’re usually far away from home, family and friends. ‘I’ve moved clients from Manchester to New York, from Brazil to Manchester, from here and there to pretty much everywhere – and back again. I work closely with counterparts in every city my players move to, but always, always go there myself – nobody knows and understands my clients like I do and as they trust me to get it right for them, I won’t ever let them down.’ I think Deepa expected me to leave our meeting with a whole new level of respect for our Premier League players, and the very real stresses they can be placed under, but actually, with Deepa at their side, they pretty much have nothing to worry about, and it’s Deepa herself who engenders respect – for being a successful woman in a man’s world, and doing it all with grace, good humour and more than a touch of glamour.
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Windows of
opportunity Artist and illustrator Kerry Lemon is the talent behind some of the world’s most high-profile window displays. She sits down with Gemma Knight to talk past projects, ambition and attention to detail
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The cheshire Magazine | Art
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I BELOW, FROM LEFT: PEACOCK AT LIBERTY; MAGPIE AT HARVEY NICHOLS; DEER AT Le Bon Marche; KERRY PAINTING AT HARVEY NICHOLS
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f ever there was a success story, Kerry Lemon is it. Still just barely in her thirties, her intricate hand painted murals, pen drawings and innovative art installations have rocketed her into the international spotlight, garnering commissions from global brands such as Sony, Swarovski and Harvey Nichols, not to mention a host of assignments closer to home. ‘You’ve probably walked past her art on the way to work a hundred times and not even known it!’ her PR tells me, and she’s probably right. ‘I can’t believe my luck that I get to draw all day long,’ is the very first thing Kerry says to me, her happy, unaffected air making it impossible not to like her instantly. ‘There is nothing in the world that I would rather do.’ She may attribute it to luck, but it seems to me that she doesn’t give herself enough credit. In fact, I have the immediate feeling that this is one of those instances where the profession
chose her, rather than the other way round. ‘I was always drawing from being very little, I loved to draw in obsessive detail, each hair on a rabbit’s fur and every tile on a roof,’ she muses, as if this sort of talent and dedication were the height of normality for an eight year-old. She followed a childhood spent drawing with a degree in Fine Art, during which she spent four years working on highly conceptual installations and turning entire rooms into vast sculptures which utterly transformed their environments. Having begun creating art on what she candidly terms ‘an ambitious scale’, Kerry Lemon was never going to be content with the limitations of a canvas. Having slowly established herself through small UK-based projects, it wasn’t until last year that things really took off and she suddenly found herself creating large scale, breath-taking installations and window displays for achingly high-profile brands, among them Smythson, Liberty London and London Fashion Week. Two of her most elaborate commissions were those for legendary Parisian department store Le Bon Marché and longstanding British brand Boodles – commissions which, it’s plain to see, are two of her favourites. ‘I created all of Le Bon Marché’s New Year windows in January 2013 which was a mammoth, exciting challenge’ she says, showing me pictures of the life-sized ivory animal figures perched on coloured plinths, from beneath them springing the elaborately hand-drawn legs
The cheshire Magazine | Art
(or, in one case, tentacles) of mismatched creatures. She looks at the bizarrely beautiful scene fondly and says she’s delighted with how they turned out. She brings out pictures of the Boodles window displays too, gorgeous wintry scenes of spindly icing-white trees peppered with line-drawn woodland animals carrying immaculately-wrapped Christmas gifts and bags of Boodles jewellery. ‘It was a wonderful commission,’ she smiles ‘creating bespoke Christmas window schemes for seven of their stores across the UK [including those in Liverpool, Manchester and Chester]. Each store had completely different sizes and numbers of windows and so they had to be individually designed. I love drawing animals, and so it was great to create the owls, robins and rabbits for this job.’ Kerry also takes commissions for illustrations and album covers (meaning she has worked with an impressive array of newspapers, magazines and music companies around the world), and continues to teach art workshops, classes and courses, something she began doing while still a student at university because, not coming from an arty family, she admits being drawn to ‘people who are nervous of drawing and helping them to find their confidence by teasing out their unique drawing style.’ She’s currently engrossed in her latest project, an art book set to be launched next
spring, a development which seems to have taken her by surprise more than even her most ambitious commissions. ‘I’d never even considered writing a book until my publisher got in touch last Christmas, it came completely out of the blue.’ She explains. ‘They had seen details of an art retreat I was teaching in America about drawing, and were interested in commissioning an instructional art book. I am passionate about enabling people to find their own way into drawing and making it a part of their life, and the book enables me to teach a far wider audience than my schedule allows.’
‘I am passionate about enabling people to find their own way into drawing’ Kerry Lemon is a contradiction. On the one hand, she is a down-to-earth freelance artist and illustrator living in Surrey with her boyfriend and two cats, subsisting on ‘pink wafer biscuits, and oceans of tea (white, no sugar)’. On the other, she is a rapidly rising superstar of the art world, in cross-continental demand and praised by some of its most eminent figures. Perhaps it is her enduring ability to balance the two which is responsible for her meteoric success – but whatever it is, hers will certainly be a name to listen out for in 2014.
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image: on set at downton abbey, courtesy of itv press office
The
Downton effect From period dramas to silent films, Fifties fashion to retro homeware, it seems we can’t get enough of the past. As the eagerly-anticipated fourth series of Downton Abbey begins, Gemma Knight finds a country gone yesteryear mad
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The cheshire Magazine | Feature
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e’re obsessed with looking back. Downton, Mad Men, Gatsby today’s popular culture is ironically becoming more retro than yesterday’s. Nostalgic reminiscence is a theme across much popular culture, where we collectively attempt to recollect the decades that flourished. It is the Roaring Twenties, the safe Fifties and the Swinging Sixties that are currently igniting the creativity of fashion designers, television producers and film directors, eras that were characterised by wealth and hedonism with advances in technology and women’s rights. As our society leaves the recent troubled years behind and looks to a brighter future, it’s hardly surprising that we’re drawn to eras of prosperity and forward thinking. Indeed, almost no cultural phenomenon currently encapsulates this thriving trend like the latest period favourite, Downton Abbey. If you’re not familiar with it (although even those who’ve spent the better part of the past four years under a rock will have had trouble remaining oblivious), the series – written by national treasure Julian Fellowes – follows the turbulent lives of the aristocratic Crawley family and their servants, residents of a Yorkshire country estate in the post-Edwardian era. And by George, has it struck a chord. When Downton Abbey made its breakthrough in 2010, few people could have predicted the global success it would achieve. In the aftermath of that year’s General Election, with austerity taking hold and status becoming an issue for the first time in a generation, the show’s flagrant use of wealth and power - even if viewed through a century old prism - could have been seen as out of kilter with the public mood.
GET THE DOWNTON LOOK Louis Vuitton Boite de Jeu Backgammon Long winter evenings need never be dull – or lacking in antique chic – with this lovely set. If you don’t know the rules, just leave it out on a pretty chaise longue looking half-played for that lazy Leisure Classes look. £8,500 (louisvuitton.com)
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GET THE DOWNTON LOOK Dr. Hauschka’s eye shadow palette These lovely deep hues were 1920’s inspired (we wonder why), intended to help shape brows into a beautiful curve for that ultimate Downton Damsel look. £32.50 (drhauschka.com)
But what proved irresistible was its well-judged relationships between aristocracy and staff, and a raft of thoroughly engaging storylines. Viewers revelled in the late weekend escapism, and its peak viewing figures - 11.9 million - have justified ITV’s decision to prioritise the show so vigorously. Indeed even our cousins across the
Veteran English actor Hugh Bonneville, who portrays patriarch Robert Crawley, Earl of Grantham, agrees, suggesting that a huge part of the appeal comes from ‘Julian [Fellowes]’s enormous affection for his characters. Even with the baddies, you are somehow intrigued by or rooting for them; they all have shades to alleviate the evil, or the menace, in them. Robert does have liberal instincts, while being constrained by the world he grew up in, and he often makes foolish errors’.
‘Visiting castles, stately homes and famous buildings in Britain is now a top priority for overseas visitors’
above: on set at downton abbey, courtesy of itv press office
pond (who, admittedly, have a reputation for being susceptible to quaint, traditionally British exports) have been thoroughly charmed and ultimately helped to create a worldwide audience of more than 120 million. ‘I don’t think any of us expected to see Downton Abbey achieve what it has,’ Michelle Dockery, the show’s Lady Mary, admits. ‘I think going into the first series there was even the question of whether we actually needed another period drama. But right the way from Lady Crawley’s predicament through to Manservant Moseley, there’s real interest to see what these characters go through. As usual, the writers have pitched it perfectly, so you end up investing in every single character, which is so clever.’ GET THE DOWNTON LOOK Louis Vuitton Mink collar Accessorise your newest 1920s silk evening dress with this stylish piece for a touch of turn-of-the-century charm. Super soft and surprisingly warm. £640 (louisvuitton.com)
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The show’s popularity is obvious and, with Marks & Spencer launching a Downton Abbey luxury beauty line and countless country hotels and experience day enterprises offering Downtoninspired packages, the widespread cultural effects of the show are no less hard to spot. Visit Britain, for example, has reported that visiting castles, stately homes and famous buildings in Britain is now a top priority for overseas visitors, with more than 30 per cent of foreign tourists now including a trip to a built heritage site in their holiday. Indeed, Dunham Massey – the magnificent Georgian house on the outskirts of Bowden - has recently made it into Greater Manchester’s top ten list of visitor attractions for the first time, a sudden jump in popularity they attribute to the Downton effect. get the downton look Louis Vuitton leather gloves The perfect way to see out the cold winter months in vintage style, even if you’re not braving the open-top automobile this year (probably wise). £420 (louisvuitton.com)
The cheshire Magazine | Feature
Similarly, American TV station PBS have launched a Downton Abbey jewellery collection, and the demand for British butlers has more than doubled within the past two years, thanks to a desire by wealthy families to model themselves on the classic, upper-class elegance of the Crawleys. Specialist domestic service recruitment firms say there’s been a huge increase in requests for staff across the world, with new billionaires determined to live like the ‘old money’ families of the early twentieth century – particularly in America. And even China has felt the Abbey’s farreaching effects. With the super-power’s new class of super-rich hooked on symbols of British class structure, DVDs and internet showings of Downton with subtitles are now required viewing as a sure-fire route to a flawless British accent and an air of respectability (joined in the popularity stakes by pheasant shooting, polo matches, the Royal Family, public schools and James Bond, of course).
THE DOWNTON EXPERIENCE Downton Delight at Lucknam Park Sup champagne afternoon tea, lounge in four poster beds, ride through landscaped gardens and relax in the sumptuous drawing room of this 18th century Palladian mansion, an experience which promises guests the chance to ‘live like a Crawley’. From £257.50 per night, 2 adults in 1 standard room (lucknampark.co.uk)
below: on set at downton abbey, courtesy of itv press office
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Feature | The cheshire Magazine
the downton experience Shooting like a Lord The London Shooting Club encourage you to discover your ‘inner Lord or Lady’ with their bespoke shooting experiences in the grounds of some of Britain’s finest stately homes (including Highclere Castle where Downton Abbey is filmed, and Swinton Park). Annual membership £195 (beginner) - £335 (competent and advanced) (londonshootingclub.com)
But arguably the most notable effect of the Downton craze has been its significant impact on global fashion, with the Crawley sisters given credit for inspiring a whole new generation of vintage shoppers. Last year alone, the autumn collections of Ralph Lauren, Ruffian, Burberry and Giles Deacon were heavily inspired by so-called ‘Edwardiana’, while almost every vintage shop in the country (and, no doubt, in many others) has seen a marked increase in the sales of staples such as elbow length gloves, oversized hats and button-up coats. Flapper dresses, too, have enjoyed a huge revival, as have a host of more exotic Poiret-inspired pieces, such as burnt out velvet kimonos and intricately embellished, beaded pieces. Even the successful resurrection of historic luxury lingerie brand Lucile (established in the early 20th century by Lucy, Lady Duff-Gordon, now based in Manchester and famous for sumptuous kimonos and georgette gowns) was
GET THE DOWNTON LOOK Chichi Furniture’s French Funky Upholstered Designer Love Seat This period piece with a twist adds the perfect touch of antique appeal to any room. Guaranteed to make you feel every inch the Lord or Lady Grantham. £1,249.99 (chichifurniture.com)
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largely down to the show, following the briefest of mentions during a conversation between Dowager Countess of Grantham and her daughter-in-law Lady Cora about newlywed wardrobe essentials. So it’s official, we – as a nation (perhaps even as a species) – have Downton fever, and whether we mean to or not, it seems every one of us is partaking in its cultural entrenchment, damning us to the certainty of an enduring Edwardiana invasion (well, for the next few seasons at least). But far from a hardship, this is surely something to be celebrated – for what could be better than a television series which makes us all a little bit more refined, a little more elegant, proper and polite (not to mention better dressed)? And even if the misadventures of an aristocratic dynasty can’t fully return us to a time of high tea, parlour games and social civility, we can be safe in the knowledge that, at the very least, it’ll be on hand for historical charm, daring romances and pretty dresses, certain to see us through the cold winter evenings unscathed.
below: on set at downton abbey, courtesy of itv press office
Making it clear° Specialist family law services
Transparency as standard When any relationship breaks down, whether it is a marriage, a civil partnership or a couple living together, there’s a lot to think about. Then there is the added worry of how much your legal support will cost and how you will pay for it. At DWF we provide clarity and accuracy at the outset as to what your legal costs are likely to be, with access to funding facilities to meet those costs. With a range of specialist family law services providing advice covering divorce and the financial issues arising from a divorce, civil partnership dissolution or cohabitation disputes, our Family team have the experience and expertise to support and guide you. For a confidential, no obligation, initial consultation contact David Pickering on 0161 603 4983 or email david.pickering@dwf.co.uk To find out more visit www.dwf.co.uk
Š DWF LLP 2013. DWF LLP is a limited liability partnership registered in England and Wales with registered number OC328794. DWF LLP (registered number OC328794) is authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority.
The hunting life The gun’s been serviced, the dog reminded of his duty, new shooting boots worn in – but as Nick Hammond reports, there’s a lot more to the shooting season than standing shivering on your peg
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The cheshire Magazine | Feature
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hen you mention the shooting season, the mind’s eye turns to frosted mornings, bumpy rides in shoot wagons and a line of guns patiently waiting on an ankle-breaking plough. But driven shooting – so called when pheasants and partridges are sent over the line of guns by a team of enthusiastic beaters and their dogs – is actually but a fraction of the sport enjoyed by millions between September and February. While many of us are delighted with the occasional invite to a driven shoot, or more often an end-of-season Beaters Day, most rely on less highbrow – but equally exciting – winter sport. Pigeon shooting over decoys, walked-up rough shooting for the occasional rabbit, woodcock and snipe shooting in the south west or Ireland, flight pond shooting for duck or bone-chilling wildfowling dawns by the nation’s waterways are all just a flavour of what’s on offer in the UK. Often, these exciting varieties on a theme cost little or nothing, which makes shooting one of the most accessible pastimes we possess. As long as you’re a known and trusted entity in the area, it’s not hard to find pigeon shooting, particularly over winter when the wood pigeons flock together by the thousand and cause heavy damage to farmers’ crops. You’ll need warm clothing, a sound understanding of your quarry and a healthy dose of fieldcraft skills, but there’s little to beat an exciting day of pigeon shooting over decoys. Here, you lure the bird to within reach of your shotgun by the careful positioning of decoy pigeons and any number of ingenious and varyingly effective flappers, whirlers, peckers and floaters. Your success will depend on myriad factors: air pressure, wind speed, time of day, availability of food (for the birds, not you) and where and how you site your hide and decoy pattern. Get it right and you will have a thrilling day, with every type of shot in the book coming your way as these birds lilt, rocket, stoop and fly past your setup. It’s true what they say – if you can shoot well here, you’ll shoot well anywhere. You need no specialist equipment bar your
Images courtesy of James Purdey & Sons Ltd
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Feature | The cheshire Magazine
CHESHIRE’S FINEST gun, dog, stout boots and some endeavour. You can walk miles along hedgerow and woodland, using your faithful friend to find any hidden game. You’ll never shoot big bags here, so every shot counts, but a day of chatter, a dose of exercise and a smattering of rabbits, pigeon, duck or the odd pheasant is the stuff dreams are made of when you finally collapse by the fire with a dram in hand. You can of course pay to shoot in different areas of the country that specialise in varying forms of shooting – with Devon, Cornwall and southern Ireland renowned for the quantity and quality of woodcock and snipe most years. These birds are fast and manoeuvrable, and so make snap shooting exciting and highly missable. You can walk up to these gamebirds or indeed wait while experienced hands flush them towards you. Either version provides thrilling sport and delicious game for the table. Wildfowling is the long-practiced and difficult art of getting within gunshot of a selection of wary wildfowl. A howling estuary gale on a bitter winter’s morn is a Godsend to the wildfowler, so this is not for the faint hearted. But if you can stand the gloop and dangers of the mudflats, you’ll be rewarded with some of the most spectacular scenes the wild has to offer and you might just bag a goose for Christmas lunch. And all that is before we’ve even mentioned the ancient and historic art of deer stalking. Traditionally a shooting sport of the Scottish glens, the huge increase in the numbers and varieties of deer living wild in the UK means there’s barely a county where you can’t find the opportunity to stalk – under the watchful eye of a professional – with a high-powered rifle. You may not bag a red stag (prize specimens of these are very expensive to shoot nowadays in the old-fashioned, pony-on-the-hill style of stalking), but a morning roebuck or a muntjac taken on a gloomy woodland ride all have their place. If you add to the above tackling worrisome crows and magpies and ‘bolting and banging’ rabbit warrens with ferrets, you’ll see why the shooting man doesn’t have to be on a prestigious estate syndicate to have the sporting time of his life.
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A BRANTHWAITE GUNSMITHS A traditional, family run business established in 1968, this is one of Cheshire’s oldest and most well-known gun shops. With owner Arthur Branthwaite a keen shooter himself, the expert knowledge on offer is hard to beat, with a range that includes such internationally renowned brands as Beretta, Browning and Winchester. 6-8 Ravenoak Road, Cheadle Hulme SK8 7DL (abgunsmiths.co.uk)
THE CHESHIRE GUN ROOM With a background working alongside such legendary gunsmiths as Holland & Holland and E.J Churchill, The Cheshire Gun Room prides itself on an informal, modern approach to the sport, keen to offer the same high-quality service to inexperienced newcomers and shooting veterans alike. 29 Buxton Road, Heaviley, Stockport SK2 6LS (cheshiregunroom.com)
ALEXANDER JAMES A store of the very highest quality, selling riding, hunting and shooting clothes for the discerning gentleman. Founded 35 years ago, they offer ready to wear items, a customised option and a full bespoke service, with particular importance placed upon attention to detail, excellent service and use of the finest material from some of the oldest mills and weavers in Britain. 6 Mossfield Road, Pendlebury, Manchester M27 6EN (alexander-juames.co.uk)
James Purdey & Sons Ltd. 57 - 58 South Audley Street, London W1K 2ED +44 (0)20 7499 1801 www.purdey.com
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The calendar There’s plenty to do in Cheshire this winter, so whether you’re in search of an outdoor ice adventure or a cosy cross-country ride, it’s time to don your Christmas jumper and get involved
14 December
Winter warmer
Nationally renowned burlesque star Tempest Rose and a whole host of her talented friends will be coming all the way from infamous Soho nightspot Madame Jojo’s to take part in this year’s Macclesfield Winterfest. This very special appearance, which sees the festive House of Burlesque troop set to thrill, entertain and enthral, will be complimented by a small but perfectly crafted vintage fair. What better way to spend a cold winter’s evening? (winterfestmacclesfield.com)
Until January
Get your skates on Nothing says Christmas like an ice-rink, it seems! Get a little breathless this year at the Trafford Centre, where Selfridges & Co are running an undercover ice rink from now until the New Year. When you’ve completed your perfect double axels, twizzles and toe-loops, or even just managed a circuit while remaining upright, you can retire for hot chocolate and a festive Krispy Kreme donut and watch the fun out on the ice, or visit the UGG Christmas concept store. (selfridges.co.uk)
12 – 15 & 19 – 23 December
Sweetness and light
For a truly magical treat for the whole family this winter, look no further than Chester Zoo’s annual Lantern Magic event. Promising an enchanted night which meanders throughout the zoo, children and adults alike can try their hand at lantern-making, as well as meeting festive characters, enjoying tasty seasonal grub and adding a Christmas wish to the special Giant Wishing Tree. The highlight, however, is the traditional giant animal lanterns, and – if little guests are very good – there might even be a visit from Father Christmas himself. (chesterzoo.org) 38
The cheshire Magazine | Regulars
Sunday 15 December
right: image © Featureflash
Hollywood Christmas
An extravaganza event will take place at Tatton Park this winter to launch a new charity. Faith’s Foundation is the new charity arm of International Football Management Ltd, the Cheshire-based global sports management company that represents many of the most famous names in football. Organisers promise that from the moment you step onto the red carpet you will be taken on a lavish journey through Hollywood... right up until the very special guest performance by global star Pharrell. Tickets £160 or £1,400 per table of 10. (faiths-foundation.com)
6, 13 and 20 December
Songstress
Bright new star on the soul pop scene Afrika Fuentes will be performing a trio of dates this December in the elegant surroundings of Cheshire’s renowned The Bells of Peover pub. Following the release of her acclaimed album Rainbow in August 2012 and creating a storm with her creative and original music, this winner of the BBC New Talent Award for New Songwriters promises an unforgettable experience at this popular dining spot. To add an extra special seasonal twist, diners can choose from the mouth watering Festive Menu, which includes such delights as Foie Gras & Chicken Liver Parfait, Scallop & Razor Clam, Smoked Duck, Pan Fried Hake and, naturally, homemade Christmas Pudding. (thebellsofpeover.com)
Throughout December
13 December
For the ultimate Christmas day out, look no further than the Northern Belle. Throughout December, this luxury 1920s-inspired train (like her southern cousin, the British Pullman) will be steaming her way across the north of England, ferrying passengers to festive events at some of the country’s best cathedral cities and Christmas markets. We love the sound of fully decked-out carriages (guaranteed to instil festive cheer into even the Scroogiest of bah humbuggers) with stewards serving traditional Christmas lunches and guests even able to do their Christmas shopping on-board in the Signature Boutique. (orient-express.com/uktrains)
There really is a day for everything nowadays – National Mustard Day, Lighthouse Day and International Eat an Apple Day, to name a few – and now, in aid of a great cause, there is Christmas Jumper Day. On Friday 13 December, people throughout the UK will be donating £1 to international charity Save the Children and, in exchange, donning their most embarrassing festive sweater for the day. With official retail partner of Christmas Jumper Day John Lewis offering a fine line in kitsch-chic woollies, and a whole host of celebrities getting involved too, there’s never been a better time to embrace your inner knitted-nerd. (Donate your £1 to Save the Children at christmasjumperday. org.uk)
The belle of the ball
Winter woolies
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The notebook With Christmas fast approaching, we bring you a round-up of all the most exciting events going on in our fair and frosty county this holiday season, from anniversaries to benefits and beyond words : kate houghto n
Celebrating in style Having celebrated their muchanticipated tenth birthday in October with a star-studded bash, Harvey Nichols Manchester are now gearing up for the festive season with a whole host of lovely events. If retail therapy is your preferred way of dealing with the Christmas crowds, head along to their Christmas Shopping Party on 4 December, an extravaganza which will see discounts of between 15% and 50% plus live music and drinks. If you happen to be more of a food fan, we’d recommend taking advantage of the Christmas dining offers at the beautiful Second Floor Restaurant, Bar and Brasserie, with special mention going to their new tasting menu. 21 Cathedral Approach, Manchester M1 1AD (harveynichols.com)
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The cheshire Magazine | Regulars
Everybody vogue This October Vogue, the fashionista’s style bible, chose to hold their annual Fashion’s Night Out in Manchester, the first time this huge fashion event has taken place outside London. On 10 October, the entire Vogue team, plus many, many of fashion’s biggest names descended upon Manchester and ensured that the high fashion shopping festival happened in style. Selfridges & Co Exchange Square celebrated with some of the biggest names in British fashion, including model Daisy Lowe, designer royalty Henry Holland, Erdem and William Banks-Blaney, DJ Jameela Jamil and pop star Eliza Doolittle, whilst customers and guests were treated to a whole host of glamorous fun in every department. 1 Exchange Square Central, Central Manchester M3 1BD (selfridges.com)
Fabulous fundraiser St Luke’s Hospice, the palliative care hospice in Winsford recently benefitted from an awareness and fundraising event organised by The Fabulous You Skin Clinic, based at Willington Hall near Tarporley. Guests were treated to a glass of champagne and delicious canapés, and enjoyed a wide range of mini-treatments, from manicures to massages and skin analysis to eye-lash extensions. Leisa Roberts, proprietor of The Fabulous You Skin Clinic, said: ‘We like to run regular events for our clients, when we can introduce them to new services and treatments, and using the occasion to help raise funds for local charities makes great sense. St. Luke’s provides such a vital service and it’s all funded by donations, so we’re proud to support them.’
Raise your glasses One of Wilmslow’s most prestigious businesses, James Doyle Opticians, is celebrating their 20th anniversary this December and doing it in the style loyal clients have come to expect. In addition to a champagne reception and eyewear fashion show at their Wilmslow premises on 6 December, they will be opening a whole new optometry practice in Hale. As the Wilmslow practice has developed a strong reputation for their skills and the extensive range of designer brands they carry, Hale’s residents must be delighted! 53 Alderley Road, Wilmslow SK9 1NZ (jamesdoyleopticians.co.uk)
Race you! Team Cheshire Magazine enjoyed an adrenaline-packed evening at the recent TeamSport Speedkarting event, held at the newly upgraded race centre in Warrington. Joining our boys on the track was Oli Webb, Cheshire-based F3 superstar, who certainly showed them how it’s done! At speeds of up to 40mph, the experience was a fun-filled Formula 1 fantasy for all concerned and we’ll definitely be heading back! (team-sport.co.uk/Warrington) 41
Interiors news Add some colour to your home this festive season with bold prints from Liberty and eye-catching cushions by Christian Lacroix W O R D S : ca t h e r i n e S k r b i c & g e or g i a b ar n e t t
Treasure trove When Gillian Anderson Price decided that she needed a ‘change of scenery’ and moved her popular vintage curiosities shop across London, there was uproar. Luckily for those living outside the capital and enchanted with her eclectic collection, each hand-selected item in the boutique is also available on her beautiful website - and there’s even a full interior design service on offer too. Breakfast cup and saucer c.1880, £75 (gillianandersonprice.com)
Out of Africa Wanting to add a hint of flair to your abode this winter? Look no further than Arhinarmah. The newly established lifestyle brand specialises in home décor and soft furnishings with a stylish African influence. Catching our eye is its bespoke Jamestown cushion collection inspired by the sleepy coastal town of the same name in Ghana, West Africa. The range features six luxurious pieces in a lively mix of pink, lavender and dark purple, hand-woven in a vibrant print. (arhinarmah.co.uk)
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Wall to wall A cascading waterfall from Castle Howard, exotic flowers from Kew Gardens and lush scenes of England’s parklands are just some of the iconic British settings that have inspired the vibrant colours of Liberty’s new range of wallpapers. Influenced by the 19th-century landscape artist William Nesfield, the wallpaper brings beautiful English gardens to life through its rich prints. Guaranteed to liven up even the most unloved of rooms. From £59 per ten-metre roll (liberty.co.uk)
The cheshire Magazine | Interiors
Customised china French interior designer Claud Cecil Gurney is renowned for his enchanting floral wallpaper designs coveted by the likes of Gwyneth Paltrow. His stores, titled de Gournay, specialise in recreating classical periods of interior decoration. His latest offering includes an exquisite porcelain collection, entirely made by hand using traditional techniques, with the option to have your own designs delicately painted, should you so wish. (degournay.com)
Pillows with personality Monogramming can add a personal touch to anything. Now, renowned French designer Yves Delorme has teamed up with the Monogrammed Linen Shop to offer this service on their stunning linen. Steeped in tradition (Yves Delorme has been manufacturing luxury linens since 1845), these elegant pieces are the ultimate way to claim your side of the bed. Monogramming service, from ÂŁ12 (monogrammedlinenshop.com; 020 7589 4033)
Blue isle Recently arriving on the British interiors scene is the charming online brand Blue Isle; perfect for those with a penchant for authentic design. Among the debut collection of decorative hand-crafted furniture and accessories is a sophisticated range of ornate table lamps. Made from elaborately hand-carved and subtly distressed wood, its chic neutral colours add a touch of grandeur to any traditional home. (blueisle.co.uk)
FINISHING TOUCH The perfect seasonal addition to any home (particularly one imminently hosting relatives from far and wide), the limited edition Blue Spruce Deluxe Candle from Jo Malone blends green galbanum with woody notes of Atlas cedar and vetiver, not to mention elements of cinnamon on a warm, velvety base of patchouli and golden amber. We’re feeling warmer already. Blue Spruce Deluxe Candle, £115 (jomalone.co.uk)
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Renaissance
man It has been 100 years since the Milanese design maestro Piero Fornasetti was born. To mark the occasion, his son Barnaba talks to us about Italian craftsmanship and continuing his father’s legacy W O R D S : K AT E R A C O V O L I S
‘O
right: The Fornasetti house in Milan, by Richard Powers; below: Fornasetti Profumi La Chiave Nero Scent Sphere, from £195, available from Selfridges
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ur work is limitless, full-time. There is no schedule, day or night. Whatever I do, I translate my dreams into reality,’ Piero Fornasetti once said. This statement, concise as it may seem, neatly sums up the life and work of Fornasetti, the Milanese artist who died in 1988, and left behind some 13,000 pieces of work, a design company in a financial shambles and one very willing son. ‘He worked day and night, slept only a few hours, and woke up very early in the morning,’ says Barnaba, who carries on the Fornasetti name and company. ‘He was really obsessive. He would never take a vacation. He was always in Milan, he only took a weekend in Venice sometimes, but even then, he went with a small book and painted.’ And the result of such tireless and passionate work was what many collectors of Fornasetti’s pieces from the 1950s and 1960s (when he was arguably at the height of his success) would call creative genius. Next month, one of the most prestigious museums in Milan, the Triennale Design Museum, will host over 700 Fornasetti pieces, of the 13,000 objects Piero made during his lifetime. The exhibition traces his collaboration
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Interiors
with the famed architect Giò Ponti during the 1950s and 1960s, and the vast spectrum of his design, which adorned almost anything you could think of inside (and outside) a house; from umbrella stands, to ashtrays, tables, scarves, as well as a kitchen sink. It’s a busy time for the company. Soon a pop-up shop will appear at Selfridges, where a large collection of the now widely circulated candles are sold. Indeed the reason we are even able to see re-released versions of Piero’s designs, including the Fornasetti Profumi collection, is because of Barnaba and his commercialmindedness. ‘When [my father] died, he left me with a really large, strong, incredible heritage of imagination art – a world of fantasy,’ he says. And with it Piero’s whimsical house, which was falling apart quite literally, along with the financial side of the company. Barnaba spent a decade fighting the amassed debt, and fought
‘When [my father] died, he left me with a really large, strong, incredible heritage of imagination art – a world of fantasy’ even harder to keep the company independent from bigger organisations, which were trying to piggyback off the success of the iconic name. Although in many ways, the work of the father and son is now closer than it was when Piero was alive, they did work together on some projects. As early as three years old, Barnaba brought a hydrangea leaf into the house from the garden and presented it to his father. ‘When he saw this leaf, he made it into a tray with that idea, and that was my first collaboration with my father.’ He grew up surrounded by his father’s work, playing on the floor through the legs of the people working for Piero. When Barnaba went through what he calls his ‘rebellious’ phase, he moved away from home, only to return when his father really needed his help with the
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right: the Fornasetti house in Milan, by Richard Powers ; FAr right, from top: Architettura, by Piero Fornasetti and Giò Ponti, 1951, Image courtesy of Sinai and Sons Ltd; Barnaba Fornasetti by Fabio Massimo Aceto; the Fornasetti house in Milan, by Richard Powers
company’s finances in the 1970s. ‘He was a collector of images. He was a collector of collectors. He has a file, not digital, but in paper, with all the names of collectors, strange kinds of collectors – of houses, of sand from beaches, of boats from Lake Como, of small elephants made of wood. And he was a collector of images to use for his decoration,’ says Barnaba. One of the most recognisable of these images, is the face of the Italian opera singer, Lina Cavalieri, which appears in many different forms – winking, smiling or simply staring nonchalantly – on the vintage and modern works of Fornasetti. Since taking over the company, Barnaba has adapted many of his fathers designs, by adding small variations, for example some rouge on the lips of one of Cavalieri’s faces on a candle, or overlaying images of butterflies on Piero’s famed newspaper print – a design which quite literally covers every corner of Barnaba’s kitchen in Milan. In fact, reinvention is at the heart of what Fornasetti means. ‘For example, in the house there is window full of bohemian glass. From that came a decoration with the glasses that was used for a tray and after, for a fabric,’ Barnaba says. Even though Piero’s designs are widely considered to be timeless – the vintage pieces are now coveted pieces for collectors of Fornasetti around the world – they do represent a different era, which is part of their appeal today. Raphael Sinai, who owns Sinai and Sons antiques shop has been acquiring and selling
From left: A selection of Fornasetti Profumi candles, from £99. All product images by Paul Bowden
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vintage Fornasetti since 2005: ‘What I love about them is that ultimately, they are all conversation pieces. They put a smile on your face, and its not academic stuff, you don’t have to be a scholar to know what it is. It is whimsical, and for me, personally, it’s stuff that I could live with and mix with other things,’ he says. At present, he has one of the most well-known pieces of Fornasetti in his showroom, an Architettura from one of the collaborations with Ponti – a multi-tier, lithographically and transfer-printed wood and metal trumeau from 1951. The difference between buying reproduced and original Fornasetti pieces is highlighted in the price: a modern Achitettura would sell for around £20,000, whereas the asking price for the vintage version in Sinai’s showroom is £185,000. While the new reproductions of Fornasetti has made the company more marketable to new buyers and collectors today, avid fans of the brand tend to chase after the pieces from the 1950s and 1960s, which are both rare, and appropriately weathered as antiques. Piero himself was not one to be labelled as an artist of a particular style or movement. ‘He was against being classified,’ says Barnaba. ‘And it’s true, it’s difficult to classify him because he’s not modernist, he’s not post-modernist, he’s not a designer, he is, and he is not, everything. He was always saying, “I’m a Renaissance man, I can do anything. I’m European, but I can be everywhere.”’ (fornasetti.com)
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Interiors
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UP THE WALL
With the world’s tallest vertical garden soon to be unveiled by world pioneer Patrick Blanc, Gemma Knight talks to the man himself about the skill behind the art of the green wall
The cheshire Magazine | Interiors
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below, from left: icon hotel in hong kong; one central park, sydney (images © patrick blanc)
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’ll be brutally honest, until a month ago I’d never heard the term vertical garden – although how I’d missed this colossal powerhouse of a botany movement, I’m not sure. For those similarly uninitiated, vertical gardens (otherwise known as green walls) are just that; incredible living creations which cling to (usually exterior) walls, with the really technical, top of the range specimens boasting hi-tech irrigation systems and inorganic growing fibres. While it’s actually an ancient idea (the Hanging Gardens of Babylon are the first known example, back in 600BC), the vertical garden really came into its own under the craftsmanship of Professor of Landscape Architecture Stanley Hart White in the 1930s. Nevertheless, it is French rockstar-botanist Patrick Blanc who is credited with turning them into design icons with his myriad of gravitydefying projects around the world, including the infamous green wall at Paris’ Musee du quai Branly and the Caixa Forum in Madrid. ‘Plants don’t really need soil.’ Patrick explains, looking out at me through a streak of bright forest green dyed into his glossy fringe – every inch the botanist. ‘The soil is nothing more than a mechanic support. Only water and the many minerals dissolved in it are essential to plants, together with light and carbon dioxide to conduct photosynthesis. Because you see, plants can grow on tree trunks and branches as well as on soil-less habitats like cliffs and caves. Therefore it’s possible for plants to grow on nearly soil-less vertical surfaces as long as there
is no permanent water shortage.’ The idea first struck him in the late sixties when, still only a teenager, Patrick started experimenting with vertical gardens as a biological filter for his tropical aquarium. Fascinated by the effects, he went on to study tropical botany and joined the National Centre of Scientific Research, all the while developing the vertical garden concept which he finally patented in 1988 and 1996. ‘The success of my work was immediate,’ he says proudly, ‘and then the Contemporary Art institutions considered that I was an artist and then they commissioned different permanent installations.’
‘The vertical gardens are also a very efficient way to clean up the air’ Despite the striking visual effects, the method behind Patrick’s green walls is actually surprisingly simple. First, since plant roots can seriously damage brickwork, a ‘living skin’ must be created to insulate the pre-existing wall, giving the plants no choice but to grow very light supporting roots on the surface (as they are able to do in the wild), rather than into deep soil. ‘This living skin is in three parts; a metal frame, a PVC layer, and a layer of felt.’ Patrick tells me, as I frantically attempt to get my head around his clever system. He explains how one
The cheshire Magazine | Interiors
layer is placed on top of the other, creating a soil-free self-supporting system light enough to be hung on the wall and weighing less than 30 kilograms per square meter. The plants are then installed in the felt as seeds or cuttings, the water (sometimes supplemented with concentrated nutrients) is provided from the top, and the roots grow on and inside the felt. Simple. Well, in theory if not in practice. Patrick’s world-renowned project on the outer wall of the Musee du quai Branly is a prime example of the remarkable effect of a really ambitious green wall. The building, designed by architect Jean Nouvel in 2006, houses indigenous art from across the world and sits in the shadow of the Eiffel Tower, with a stunning 200 metre-wide vertical garden standing twelve metres tall and covering the entire northwest façade. Across this vast urban expanse a myriad of plant life twists and creeps, merging every imaginable hue of green in a swirling mass of leafy goodness, drawing admiring visitors from near and far to secure its place as one of the most photographed buildings on the planet. Similarly, Patrick Blanc’s Madrid green wall at architect group Herzog and de Meuron’s Caixa Forum – climbs an incredible four storeys and, boasting 15,000 plants from more than 250 different species, really almost looks as if its winding paths and bushy shrubs had been lifted from a nearby back yard. The wall is constantly irrigated, and has succeeded in creating an urban oasis amongst a neighbourhood of formal, ancient buildings in the Spanish capital. His newest project, due to be completed in January 2014, is even more ambitious; a 166-metre vertical garden covering the façade of brand new, hyper-exclusive residential building One Central Park in Sydney. The wall, which will unsurprisingly be the world’s tallest vertical garden, consists of 190 native Australian and 160 exotic plant species, with shrubbery that actually begins in the adjacent park before it starts to climb the structure. But these botanical marvels aren’t just beautiful works of art. Patrick is keen to ensure
that the wider benefits of his creation are known and appreciated, hoping that more people will be seduced by the idea of their own green wall. ‘The vertical gardens are also a very efficient way to clean up the air’ he says. ‘As well as the leaves, the roots and all the micro-organisms are acting as a wide air-cleaning ecosystem. And not only that, but it’s a valuable shelter for biodiversity, and a great way to add nature to the daily life of city inhabitants.’ I see his point – in our modern urban world, not only are cities gradually driving out homeless wildlife, but human dwellers are rapidly losing their connection with the great outdoors. If we can’t all have a garden or ready access to a nearby park, it seems apt in our age of innovation that we find an alternative setting for our flowerbeds and herb gardens. One thing’s for sure, with more and more living walls appearing across the globe, urban greenery is well and truly on the up.
below: a vertical garden in a private residence, Beirut (image © patrick blanc)
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4 of the best… sculptures #1 Stephanie ou l’Aurore by Serrano Pascal (France) $25,000 (saatchionline.com)
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#2 Four legs, four spheres by Frans Muhren (Netherlands) $1,400 (saatchionline.com)
Art news
above: 461 by Shaun Keefe
From abstraction to antiques, Cheshire’s art scene is as busy as ever this season. Here’s our round up of the very best on offer for the region’s culture vultures
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words: amy Williams
Art and soul We’ve only recently discovered the innovative and unusual work of local artist Shaun Keefe, but that’s probably because – having spent years pursuing a career in advertising after attending art school in the 1970s – this talented painter has only recently returned to his roots and decided to take up professional canvaspainting and photography full time. He’s already enjoyed several very well received exhibitions and, having worked and lived in our fair county for most of his life, even has his own studio in Kermincham near Swettenham. We particularly recommend investigating his themed ‘guitART’, a vivid range of work which reflects his love of music. (shaunkeefe.com) 52
#3 Walking Man by Janet Fryer (United States) $1,200 (saatchionline.com)
#4 Wayfarer by Igor Vadim (Ukraine) $2,000 (saatchionline.com)
The cheshire Magazine | Art
Q&A with…
Chester-born international artist Christian Furr tells us about his latest project, Cheese Paintings
image: ‘Burts Blue‘ Made in Cheshire by Claire Burt Oil on Wooden Panel by Christian Furr
All the fun of the fair
Q. Cheese is a rather unusual subject matter – what inspired you? A. I have always been a fan of the understated still lives by Chardin and am known for painting people and portraits in particular. You could argue that there are similarities between a cheese and a person - cheese is a living thing, and there are a myriad of differences with each one. The idea originated in 1992 in my studio in the old Jewish quarter of Whitechapel. A half bottle of milk had gone off so I decided to paint it, as I painted I mused on the origin of cheese. Seventeen years after the original seed was sown, in 2009, my portraits of cheese began, each one with its own individual skin, veins and aroma. Q. What else are you currently working on? A. I have just collaborated with neon artist Chris Bracey on a collection of neon art pieces (stayingaliveneon.com), and I am working on a portrait of Dita Von Teese for a series of portraits. Hand finished giclees of the cheese paintings can be bought at cheesepaintings.com
It’s that time of year again! For those keen to augment their collections or simply add the finishing touch to a newly decorated room, the region’s most prestigious annual event has finally arrived; the Tatton Park Antiques and Fine Art Fair. Promising visitors an extensive range of fully authenticated treasures - from period furniture, Persian rugs and fine silver, to glass, enamels, clocks and watercolours - the fair offers connoisseurs and beginners alike a chance to peruse some of the country’s finest pieces. Hurry though, as tickets are known to be snapped up fast. 10 -12 January, Tatton Park, Knutsford, Cheshire WA16 6QN TOP: M&N Rug Stand AT THE TATTON PARK ANTIQUES & ART FAIR; left, from top: Ian Davenport (born 1966) Citric Etching 2011, Four-colour etching with chine-collé; John Renshaw (born 1946) Consequences 2010, Acrylic on plywood panel
Q. Tell us about Cheese Paintings A. Cheese gets eaten but not often painted. I am on a mission to paint and document all the artisan cheeses of Great Britain & France, since the textural quality of the cheese can be portrayed beautifully with the thick, creamy impasto of oil paint.
Blurred lines Abstract art is a truly fascinating medium, with the work of its masters (and, frequently, its novices too) a veritable treasure trove of beautifully rendered psychological experience, filled with sweeping colour and ambiguous contour. Unfortunately such vagueness can make the meaning of these intriguing pieces somewhat elusive, so it’s just as well that Dr Tom McGuirk, Senior Lecturer in Art Theory at the University of Chester, has decided to give Chester residents a free crash course. Who’s Afraid of Abstract Art?, an hour-long talk outlining the movement’s history, will take place at the Grosvenor Museum on 4 December, covering the medium from its roots in western figurative art to its modern day heights. Never again will we be mystified by a Matisse, perplexed by a Pollock or confused by a Calder. Phew. 4 December, Grosvenor Museum, 25-27 Grosvenor Street, Chester CH1 2DD 53
Eggspect
the unexpected It may not seem the most obvious response to climate change, nor the most conventional art studio, but the Exbury Egg is as environmentally revolutionary as it is visually bizarre – and that’s saying something WORDS: GEMMA KNIGHT
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he Exbury Egg is not your average art project, and Stephen Turner – the man behind this energy efficient self-sustaining work space – is not your average artist. With previous projects (among them installations for the Northern Gallery for Contemporary Art in Sunderland and Fermynwoods Contemporary Art in Northamptonshire) frequently involving long periods of time spent in abandoned or isolated places, his focus has long been a study of the effects of artificial and natural environments upon one another, recording them in the name of research and art in order to help humanity gain a better understanding of its relationship with nature. The egg, in traditional Turner style, is a floating wooden studio which will be tethered on the River Beaulieu in Hampshire for twelve months (finishing its tenancy next summer and even featuring on Channel 4’s George Clarke’s Amazing Places, episode 1), all the while
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absorbing the effects of nature while Stephen – who will be living inside for the duration – creates artwork inspired by his nautical surrounds. The idea is to explore sustainability and to look closely at how well natural resources cope with the elements over time, as well as creating a truly unique body of artwork which reflects our natural environment. ‘Climate change is already creating new shorelines and habitats.’ Stephen explains. ‘The implications for wildlife and for the flora as well as for people are challenging. Raising awareness of the past and the unfolding present of a very special location will be the task, whilst living in an ethical relationship with nature and treading as lightly as possible upon the land.’ The design is clever to say the least – and, since it will be Stephen’s home for another seven months, it needs to be. The egg is certainly no palace, but provides all its own electricity using solar energy (enough to run Stephen’s arsenal of technical equipment), while all activity outside
The cheshire Magazine | Interiors
the egg is recorded 24 hours a day by two state of the art webcams. The structure, which cost an incredible £140,000 to build, does look somewhat out of place in this sleepy river estuary, although local residents seem to have welcomed their newest arrival with open arms. According to Stephen curious neighbours often stop by to offer their support, while businesses in the area donated £100,000 worth of materials at the start of the project. In order to make the experience as inclusive as possible, Stephen records his daily goings-on in a blog (exburyegg.me), a rather unusual read which has covered everything from the discovery of two dead mice (COD unknown, but he is keeping them ventilated in the hope he will ‘inherit two complete skeletons which I will try to assemble one cold Winter’s evening, like those Airfix kits of childhood’), home (or rather, egg) visits from his hairdresser, and the launch of Egglets - clear plastic mini-eggs released on outgoing tides for people to find and log online,
each containing a different message about the egg project and an ‘artwork’ (which might be anything from a squirrel skull to a whelk egg case). There is also an extensive education programme attached to the project, allowing students from primary to university age to get involved with a range of science, art, ecology and engineering events, seminars and workshops. Stephen Turner’s attempt to create a project at once in perfect harmony and striking contrast to its natural surrounds might have seemed ambitious, but we’re thoroughly convinced he’s cracked it.
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The cheshire Magazine | Art
SOTHEBY’S | PRIZE LOT Three Victorian masterpieces from the Leverhulme Collection
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or the first time in generations these three Victorian masterpieces by Dante Gabriel Rossetti, William Holman Hunt and James-Jacques-Joseph Tissot will be up for auction, a sale that will see paintings among the most important examples of their kind available to the public. Originally amassed by the 1st and 2nd Viscounts Leverhulme, the three oil paintings - A Christmas Carol by Rossetti, from his series depicting women in Venetian-style dress playing musical instruments, Tuscan Girl Plaiting Straw by Holman Hunt, painted in the winter of 1869, and James-Jacques-Joseph Tissot’s A Visit to the Yacht – come from the Leverhulme collection, widely regarded as one of the greatest collections of English paintings ever assembled. (sothebys.com)
Particulars: Estimated Ranges: Dante Gabriel Rossetti - A Christmas Carol £4-6 million William Holman Hunt - Tuscan Girl Plaiting Straw £3-5 million James-Jacques-Joseph Tissot - A Visit to the Yacht £2-3 million No. of Lots: 3 Place of Exhibition and Auction: Sotheby’s, London Date: 4 December 2013
from left: A Christmas Carol by Dante Gabriel Rossetti; Tuscan Girl Plaiting Straw by William Holman; A Visit to the Yacht by James-Jacques-Joseph Tissot (imageS: © sotheby’s)
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Art | The cheshire Magazine
bonhams | PRIZE LOT Diamond single-stone ring by David Morris
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his magnificent diamond ring, from the extensive collection of bestselling English novelist Barbara Taylor Bradford, was crafted by jewellery icon David Morris, the founder of one of London’s most well-loved jewellers and a man who counts royalty and some of the world’s most glamorous women amongst his clients. The cushion-shaped diamond weighs precisely 14.07 carats and sits within an architectural scrolling mount of brilliant-cut diamonds in micro-pavé settings, giving it a delicate appearance despite its size. (bonhams.com)
image: courtesy of bonhams
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Particulars: Expected Range: £330,000 - £430,000 No. of Lots: Approx. 200 (more than 40 from the Barbara Taylor Bradford Collection Place of Exhibition and Auction: Bonhams, New Bond Street Date: 5 December 2013
Best of British
Twenty Leading British Artists 15 October - 18 January 2014
Enjoy artworks by twenty leading, internationally acclaimed British artists this Christmas including:
Damien Hirst Gary Hume RA Marc Quinn Stephen Chambers RA Sir Peter Blake Tracey Emin RA Norman Ackroyd CBE RA Albert Irvin OBE RA Chris Le Brun PRA Mat Collishaw Elizabeth Magill Eileen Cooper RA Allen Jones RA Patrick Caulfield CBE RA Basil Beattie RA John Hoyland RA David Macke RA Joe Tilson RA Sandra Blow RA Barbara Rae RA and more... Tue - Sat 10:00 - 5:30pm or privately by appointment 0161 928 4021 www.atelierrosegray.co.uk info@atelierrosegray.co.uk 1 Cambridge Road, Hale WA15 9SY Opposite Piccolinos
Gary Hume RA, Magda, 2012, linocut 134 x 93 cm ÂŁ6,000 Unframed
The cheshire Magazine | Art
christie’s | PRIZE LOT December Jewellery Auction in Paris
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he result of a sudden fashion for transformable jewellery in the 1940s, these three stunning pieces are true feats of technical mastery. While the origins of the diamond necklace are unfortunately unknown, it is nevertheless an undoubtedly important piece, transforming into a pair of clips, a pendant or, with the addition of separate clasps, a stunning bracelet. It even transforms into a tiara with the help of hidden movable joints. The other two pieces, a sapphire and diamond ring and sapphire and diamond brooch, were both created by iconic 20th century jewellery designer Suzanne Belperron and can be adapted easily to suit a variety of needs and outfits. (christies.com)
Particulars: Estimated Ranges: An important diamond necklace €100,000 - 150,000 A sapphire and diamond ring ‘Modèle à pois’, by Suzanne Belperron €15,000 - 20,000 A sapphire and diamond brooch, by Suzanne Belperron €15,000 - 20,000 No. of Lots: 3 Place of Exhibition and Auction: Christie’s Paris Date: 4 December 2013
image: christie’s images ltd.
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Watch news We bring you the very best in treasured timepieces, horological heirlooms and modern masterpieces from across the globe WORDS: RICHARD BROWN
Out of this world Many a watch-celebrity partnership have we seen in recent times but perhaps none as bizarre as that which will see Luminox send Sir Bob Geldof into space. We’re not sure how the star first became acquainted with the American brand but he has secured a place on an upcoming, Luminox-sponsored SXC space flight. SXC will be offering flights on-board its two-man spaceship from the end of next year. ‘Being the first Irishman in space is not only a fantastic honour but pretty mindblowing,’ says Sir Bob. Indeed. (luminox.com; spacexc.com)
A touch of the blues
Only Watch – the results Those who read with interest our story on Only Watch recently may be keen to learn of the charity auction’s outcome. It came as no surprise that Patek Philippe’s unique titanium 5004 sold for the highest value (a staggering £2.5 million), whereas it was perhaps more surprising that watches from the likes of Van Cleef & Arpels failed to realise their estimates. The auction raised £4.2 million for muscular dystrophy. (onlywatch.com) 1
Following this summer’s collaboration with Zenith, this autumn it’s the turn of Bell&Ross to get creative with The Watch Gallery. The result is the BR 03-51 GMT-TWG (£3,500), an aviation watch distinguished by the blue highlights on its hands. For the benefit of long-haul travellers, Bell&Ross has fitted the watch with a GMT function capable of displaying time in a second time-zone simultaneously. Only 50 will be made. Available at Selfridges (thewatchgallery.com)
An Italian affair Of all the motoring collaborations within the watchmaking industry, perhaps none come as authentic as that which exists between Chopard and Italian endurance race the Mille Miglia. It was while racing himself that Chopard’s co-president Karl-Friedrich Scheufele met Andrea Zagato, owner of the renowned Italian bodywork specialist that bears his name. Now, as Chopard celebrates 25 years as the event’s official timekeeper, the brand gives us the Mille Miglia Zagato. The watchmaker provides the mechanical self-winding ‘engine’, while Zagato helped to create the ‘bodywork’; a 42.5mm steel case with either an all-black (£5,230) or rose gold bezel (£6,390). Only 500 pieces of each will be made. Let the race to the showroom begin. (chopard.com)
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Collection
A Literary Tribute Next in IWC’s seemingly never-ending run of launches come two limited edition pilot’s watches. Designed to celebrate the 70th anniversary of aviator/novelist Antoine de Saint-Exupéry’s Le Petit Prince – France’s favourite and most translated book – the Big Pilot’s Watch Perpetual Calendar Edition (£36,500) comes in gorgeous red gold and is limited to 270 pieces. The equally arresting Pilot’s Watch Mark XVII Edition (£3,900) arrives in stainless steel and is limited to 1,000 pieces. “Your task is not to foresee the future, but to enable it,” de Saint-Exupéry once wrote. In keeping with his sentiments, part of the proceeds from sales will aid the fight against illiteracy. (davidmrobinson.com)
Less is more Not all world-timers come with maps and capital cities splashed across their faces. For a lesson in gracious world-timer watchmaking, look to Jaquet Droz’s Grande Heure GMT, a self-winding, 43mm red gold timepiece that can tell the time in two cities via two elegant hands and 24 clean Arabic numerals. Simple, stunning and sophisticated, this is surely one of the most handsome world-timers on the market. Available in Arije, Harrods & Selfridges (jaquet-droz.com)
ONE TO WATCH
Each month we select our timepiece of the moment from the watch world’s most exciting creations
“Having seen the watch at the launch in Baselworld in April this year, a few things immediately strike you; firstly the weight of the watch and secondly; how much better it looks in the flesh than in images. No matter how good the photography is, they can never do this beautiful timepiece justice. It is quite simply, stunning.” – Karl Irwin, General Manager, David M Robinson Rolex Cosmograph Daytona, £50,100. Available at David.M.Robinson in Manchester, Liverpool and Altrincham 2
Collection | The cheshire Magazine
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Black tie-bound Stylise your cocktail and Christmas party accessories to ensure you stand out from the crowd
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#9 #1 Admiral’s Cup AC-One 45 Chronograph, from a selection, Corum (corum.ch) #2 Telescopic umbrella with black maple crook, £65, Turnbull and Asser (turnbullandasser.co.uk) #3 Polka-dot silk pocket square, £60, Charvet (mrporter.com) #4 Leopard head cufflinks, £350, Holland and Holland (hollandandholland.com) #5 Lace and silk bowtie, £110, Marwood (marwoodlondon.co.uk) #6 Silk lapel velvet jacket, £1,195, Burberry Prorsum (matchesfashion.com) #7 Spot-print silk braces, £130, Alexander Olch (mrporter.com) #8 Leather Weekender bag, £1,400, Dom Reilly (domreilly.com) #9 Travel Watch Roll, £125, Daines and Hathaway (dainesandhathaway.com) #10 Vernice patent-leather monk-strap brogues, £395, O’Keeffe (okeeffe-shoes.com) #11 Leather notepad with pen pod, £110, Graf von Faber-Castell (cultpens.com) 64
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E ye wea r
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53 Alderley Road, Wilmslow, SK9 1NZ
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www.jamesdoyleopticians.co.uk
Jewellery news If there was ever a season in which to sparkle, this is it. Welcome to a winter wonderland...
Q&A with… Chester based contemporary jewellery designer and mum of three Lucy Quartermaine talks inspiration, multitasking and personal style
words: OLIVIA SHARPE
Members only The world’s first jewellery club, Lulu’s, has arrived in the UK (online, and in London’s exclusive Belgravia district). While the founders Desiree Fixler and Ian Wilson only began buying and selling their collection of pre-sold jewellery in the UK last year, their reputation has rapidly spread with British celebrities Laura Whitmore and Jade Parfitt endorsing their pieces at this year’s London Fashion Week. As well as announcing its new outlet in Beulah London, the company also heralds its unique membership schemes; these offer 200 members exclusive access to its range of fine jewellery (including heritage Art Deco pieces and contemporary luxury brands such as Tiffany and Rolex, which have been previously sourced from collectors, dealers and individuals and then restored), for an annual fee. (lulusestatejewellery.co.uk)
Garden of roses Miranda Kerr dazzles as the new face of international crystal house Swarovski. Having forged relationships with luminaries from the milieu of fashion and jewellery, the supermodel was the perfect choice to represent the luxury brand. Shot by Nick Knight, the world-renowned British photographer has enhanced the modern component of Swarovski jewels; the youthful, fresh-faced Kerr is set against a backdrop of English garden roses and the accompanying TV ad features music by singer Pharrell Williams. Commenting on the campaign, Creative Director of Swarovski Ronnie Cooke Newhouse said: ‘Mix Miranda Kerr with home-grown English garden roses, Swarovski jewellery, Nick Knight photography, original Pharrell Williams music and you get beauty, warmth, coolness and desirability. Things we love…’ And we love it too. (swarovski.com) 66
Q: With your company, LucyQ Designs, you’ve experienced incredible success over the past year (a three-fold increase in turnover as well as being shortlisted for Designer of the Year). To what do you attribute your meteoric rise? A: It has to be my utter passion for design and drive to succeed in the industry - I have a strong competitive streak! I started LucyQ quite slowly in 2004 as I had 3 children in the first few years of setting up the business. This allowed me to learn and build the brand at my own pace. As the children are now older, I can really focus on the growth of my “brand”, including relationships with retailers and the press. I am delighted to have been awarded 4 prestigious accolades so far this year. Q: Your pieces are very unique and visceral, often with links to the natural world (such as your gorgeous new Wave collection). What inspires you? A: I can be inspired at any point throughout my day. For instance, the Wave collection came from a day out at the beach during my summer holiday in France. One minute I was jumping the waves with my children and the next I was sketching some ideas onto my scrap book (which I take everywhere with me). My inspiration often comes from the natural world as organic, fluid and dynamic shapes work so well in silver. Each and every design comes from the heart.
The cheshire Magazine | Collection
Q: How do you balance a thriving business with bringing up your three children? A: It’s not easy! I want to set a good example to my children, and involve them where I can. I work from home, so they can see everything that I do and are always asking questions about the company. They can see the benefits of their mum being self-employed and working from home. They also see how hard I have to work in order to stay on top of my game - I hope I will inspire them to work hard to achieve what they want too. Q: What sort of jewellery (other than your own!) do you wear day to day – do you prefer simple pieces, specific materials, or are you fairly eclectic? A: It all depends on the mood. I do wear my own jewellery when I go out and I like to test the new designs for practicality and get a bit of feedback about each piece. But I also like to wear the jewellery of some of my good friends in the industry - there is some fabulous talent in the British jewellery industry and, despite the healthy competition, we’re actually very supportive of each other! Available from lucyqdesigns.co.uk and Rigby Jewellers, Chester
The Gift of giving Ethan & Co understands that giving a piece of jewellery to a loved one is about so much more than the piece itself. Therefore, as well as supplying its own collections, the newly-launched jewellery brand also provides a tailored concierge service which brings to life the experience of giving and receiving a diamond. So whether you’re looking to celebrate a special occasion or even sky-write a proposal this Christmas, Ethan & Co is there to help with all the arrangements. (ethandiamonds.com)
CUTTING EDGE From Jacqueline Kennedy and Aristotle Onassis to Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor, Mr. Harry Winston has played a leading role in some of the greatest romances of our time. Following in this tradition, the jeweller has introduced its bespoke Ultimate Bridal Collection, now available in boutiques around the world
The initial stage of the process involves a private consultation between you and a bridal specialist who determines what style of ring you prefer from the curated collection of five classic engagement ring designs. The designers then create a gouache of the ring for you and only once you’re completely happy will the team of expert gemmologists and craftsmen make it up
This service only uses diamonds from the top three colour grades (D,E,F) and clarities (IF-VS2) and all central diamonds start at three carats, harrywinston.com 67
If you’ve
got it… Finish off that sentence and you’re keying into the ethos upon which Bec Astley-Clarke, the founder of the eponymous luxury jewellery retailer, has built her business W o r d s : K at e H o u g h t o n
I
met Bec at the opening of her pop-up shop in Selfridges & Co, in the Trafford Centre. This is the first retail space Astley Clarke have opened outside of London (where you can find her in Harrods, Liberty and Selfridges, and indeed their own beautifully converted Mews residence in W2), and she’s scored a prime spot, right at the bottom of the escalator, which I think speaks volumes for this powerhouse luxury retailer’s opinion of her. Bec is a tall, elegant blonde, with that slightly breathless style you often find with those who have accomplished something extraordinary; almost like they’ve been running so hard to get here that it’s not quite sunk in that they’ve made it yet. She chats rapidly, and a little erratically, about her business, her plans, her inspirations and her past, leaving it for me to keep up and make sense of it all. First, let’s be clear on just what the term ‘luxury jewellery’ actually means. According to Bec, it falls somewhere between the High Street offering and what you’ll find on Bond Street, and in design terms - definitely closer to the latter than the former.
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‘I always knew I wanted to launch my own business in the luxury sector,’ says Bec. ‘When I decided to go for it, I prowled the best shopping streets of London and scoured the internet, searching for a gap I could fill, and realised that there are very few jewellery brands that aren’t focussed quite strongly at one end of the scale.’ ‘I did some research, and found any number of really talented, inspired designers who didn’t really have an outlet for their talent. As a jewellery designer you are obviously more focussed on actual design, and the promotion of your talent and your designs takes a back seat. I brought some of these incredible designers under one roof and gave them the shop window they needed.’ ‘As my own obsession grew, I decided it was time to launch my own range. I recruited some of the best designers in the business, who had worked at design houses such as Fabergé, Tiffany and Boodles, and brought them into Astley Clarke with the promise that they would be given a free rein with design, with minimal input from me. This is something everybody who is creative and design driven wants, and they have become core drivers of the business.’ ‘Each season we release a new collection, but that collection is a combination of evolution – developments on what has gone before and done well – and revolution – something new
The cheshire Magazine | Collection
‘Each season we release a new collection, but that collection is a combination of evolution’ – Bec Astley and exciting that we have created. ‘Each year I meet with our stones procurer and look at what he has found for us. I have a passion for coloured stones. I think the public fixation on white diamonds is quite a shame really – especially when you realise that although white diamonds aren’t exactly rare, people often pay more for these than they would for a fabulous coloured gemstone that’s less well known. Some of the stones we work with are in fact very rare indeed!’ ‘Take, for example, Morganite; it’s the most beautiful peachy pink stone that flatters every skin colour there is. We created a range of jewellery using this gorgeous stone and our customers simply love it.’ Last year Bec came across a grey aquamarine that so captivated her that she built another new collection around it. These stones are misty and mysterious and in Bec’s designs simply celestial in their simplicity and beauty. ‘I’m obsessed with these at the moment! They work so well with another of my requirements – that everything we produce can be worn every day. In fact, “Go precious every day” is the mantra that we all work by. Why should we lock away our jewellery for special occasions? Precious stones can and should be worn every
day, and the coloured stones we use allow our customers to do just that. ‘I also want the designs to combine form with function. For example, my rings have a low profile; they quite literally don’t jut out in the way more traditional rings do, and so don’t catch on things or scratch your children.’ As we all know (and men deny), women dress more for themselves and less for men than they’d like to believe, with this nod to the female psyche translating into the design ethos. ‘We design for women who have the desire and the means to buy their own jewellery. Women choose their own designer shoes, bags and clothes, so why not jewellery?’ ‘Most jewellery brands design around the concept of romance, of the little lady spotting something sparkly in a shop window or catalogue and getting her man to buy it for her. Our range starts at £70 and goes all the way up to £10,000, so there’s plenty of choice for every woman who wants to treat herself; to celebrate a promotion, acquire an heirloom, or who just knows she deserves something incredible, just for her. We work hard; we deal with stress and demanding bosses and juggling childcare and oblivious partners every day. We say don’t wait for him to buy it – buy it for yourself!’ Now that’s a mantra I could live by. You can find Astley Clarke at Selfridges Trafford Centre until Christmas and online at astleyclarke.com
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#1 Why Not earrings in white gold set with oval-cut Burmese rubies and diamonds, from a selection, Adler (adler-joailliers.com) #2 Phenomena crest bracelet, from a selection, De Beers (debeers.com) #3 Limelight ring in white gold set with diamonds, £11,100, Piaget (piaget.com) #4 1890s silver diamond rivière necklace, £24,000, Olivia Collings (net-a-porter.com) #5 Rose pendant in white gold set with diamonds, £3,970, Piaget, as before #6 Multi-shape ruby and diamond necklace, from a selection, Graff (graffdiamonds.com) # 7 Rhodium-plated cubic zirconia brooch, £195, Kenneth Jay Lane (net-a-porter.com) #8 Ruby chandelier earrings, from a selection, Graff, as before #9 White diamond bracelet, from a selection, Shamballa Jewels (shamballajewels.com) #10 Oriental Princess clip, from a selection, Van Cleef & Arpels (vancleefarpels.com) #11 Lattice 18-karat yellow gold and diamond rose earrings, £11,500, Annoushka (annoushka.com) #12 Royal bracelet with a white diamond pavé in white gold, from a selection, Shamballa jewels, as before 70
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While her price may be far above rubies, these precious jewels are certain to win over her heart this Christmas
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#13 Trencadis earrings, from a selection, Adler, as before #14 SJ Trio earrings, £25,440, Shamballa jewels, as before #15 Phenomena Glacier 7 row bracelet, from a selection, De Beers, as before #16 Gatsby necklace, £89,700, Messika (harrods.com) #17 Oval-cut ruby ring with brilliant and marquise cut diamonds in platinum, £250,000, Asprey (asprey.com) #18 Twirl cocktail ring in 18-karat white gold, £1,900, 77 Diamonds (77Diamonds.com) #19 Como cushion maxi-drop earrings in 18-karat white gold, £2,500, 77 Diamonds, as before #20 Aurora necklace, from a selection, Adler, as before #21 Ruby half-band eternity ring, £4,600, Asprey, as before #22 Diamond swirl ring, £2,650, Astley Clarke Diamonds (astleyclarke.com) #23 Ruby bracelet, from a selection, Annoushka (annoushka.com) #24 Ruby and diamond line bracelet, £17,000, Asprey, as before #25 Limited-edition white stag art pendant, £2,850, Theo Fennell (theofennell.com) 71
Collection | The cheshire Magazine
Diamonds are
forever
F
rom humble beginnings as an apprentice diamondcutter to becoming an esteemed luxury British jeweller, David Morris has made leaps and bounds over the past 50 years. After winning the ninth De Beers Diamonds International Award in 1963, just a year after setting up his firm, the jeweller’s fame further escalated when he was commissioned to design the jewellery for the James Bond motion picture, Diamonds Are Forever. Since then, his pieces have featured in a total of 14 Bond films, the most memorable being the diamond necklace and earring set worn by Teri Hatcher in Tomorrow Never Dies. Driven by a desire to tell her grand-father’s story in full, this year sees grand-daughter Phoebe Morris pay tribute to his legendary career in her book, Celebrating 50 Years of David Morris. (davidmorris.com)
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51A London Road, Alderley Edge, Cheshire, SK9 7DY | 01625 583565 51a London Road, Alderley Edge, Cheshire SK9 7DY 59 Park Lane, Poynton, SK12 1RD | 01625 872470 Telephone: 01625 583 565 Facsimile: 01625 583 673 Email:henryjohnstone@btconnect.com henryjohnstone@btconnect.com
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From grooming goodies to sumptuous saddleinspired bags, we have everything you’ll need to take you from Christmas shopping to New Year’s Eve and every occassion in between
Au revoir marc After 16 years at the helm of Louis Vuitton, creative director Marc Jacobs has announced he is to leave the brand to focus on the development of his own eponymous label. The man who played with the LV logo (welcoming coloured versions and graffiti print into the fold) and launched trends around everything from geometric prints to sugary-sweet pastel tones, signed off his last collection in Paris on 2 October. On his S/S14 runway models wore black – but the mood was anything but sombre. The girls walked as showgirls in ostrich feather headdresses by Philip Treacy, glittery tights bearing a love letter to the brand and decadent, crystal-studded mesh in all its forms. LVMH will continue to own a stake in Jacobs’ own brand as it moves towards a rumoured initial public offering. (louisvuitton.co.uk)
Fashion news Saddle up In the Nude Finding a good pair of nude-coloured shoes is never easy. Like the white tee or perfect pair of black jeans, such essentials are always present in their masses when you’re not looking for them but then magically disappear whenever you need to buy. Thankfully, Christian Louboutin has put an end to this problem with an entire colour spectrum of nude-patented heels. The styles, designed to compliment every skin tone, range from the clean lines of the point-toe Pigalle to the delicate curves of the Fifi and Simple Pump. Download the free iPhone and iPod Touch App, Louboutin Shades, to check out the range. (itunes.com/appstore; christianlouboutin.com)
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In the midst of a new season of ‘It’ bags, a classic handbag remains timeless. Ralph Lauren’s new ‘Ricky’ bag is a great update on a classic; a more relaxed version of the 19th-century saddle silhouette inspired by Ralph’s wife and muse. It is the range of colours that has drawn our eye to this collection – from bright pink to cyan, these bags are perfect for brightening up our winter wardrobes. ‘Ricky’ bag, £1,750, Ralph Lauren (ralphlauren.co.uk)
The right fit Suddenly our suits fit seamlessly into our fast-paced lives, thanks to Burberry’s new ‘Travel Tailoring’. The British label, famed for its iconic trench coat, has brought that same innovation to workday attire, combining modern canvassing with naturally flexible fabrics making them perfect for the modern man on the go. And with a sharp silhouette they don’t only feel great, but they exude sartorial style too. ‘Travel Tailoring’, from £1,195, Burberry (burberry.com)
The cheshire Magazine | Fashion
Painting the town
Grooming matters Last month, all our favourite grooming brands came together in one place with the launch of a dedicated area on MrPorter.com. Saving us the trouble of trawling through shops in search of skin, body and haircare products, this website has edited its selection down to the very best of the best. We love the Edwardian-inspired products from Czech & Speake, a brand founded on Jermyn Street in 1978. Shaving set, £310, Czech & Speake (mrporter.com)
Converse and Maison Martin Margiela have made quite a splash with their first collaboration. The range features the shoewear brand’s traditional Chuck Taylor All Star and Jack Purcell sneakers but these have been given a radical paint job by the avant-garde French fashion house, coated in its signature white paint which can be cracked off to reveal one of four colours: red, black, navy or a Maison Martin Margiela exclusive, vintage yellow. Never has watching paint dry been more entertaining. (converse.com)
On the edge Describing themselves as ‘street wear with high impact’, the mystery of the four anonymous founders (who admit only to being ‘individuals from the fashion world’) is perfectly counterbalanced by the loud, fierce nature of their designs. Nevertheless, the bright, colourful pieces from Être Cécile are as sophisticated as they are attitude-filled, with clever, creative little touches and an underlying sense of effortless French chic. The brand, named after the artistic, 1960s Paris-dwelling grandmother of one of its founders, has already found favour with key industry figures such as Cara Delevingne and Yasmin Sewell, so ladies looking to display a little edge without sacrificing their style will certainly be in good company. 57 Alderley Road, Wilmslow SK9 1NZ (blackwhitedenim.com)
A question of sport Since its first ever collection, ESCADA-Sporty Elegance, Escada has always been about functionality as well as style, creating pieces which stand the test of time. It’s therefore no surprise that the brand has made it to its 35th year and, in celebration, it has created a handbag which epitomises the label’s philosophy. The 1978 birthday bag features a modern trapeze tote shape with a versatile, detachable shoulder strap so that it can be worn comfortably in two different ways. Coming in one of this season’s most popular hues, rose pink, this has been rendered in a patchwork of calfskin leather and soft suede. While only 12 of the limited edition handbags were brought to the UK, if you’d like to get your hands on one, simply visit an Escada boutique and they will arrange to have one shipped over for you. (escada.com)
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All that
glitters... During the upcoming deluge of glamorous social engagements, ensure your jewels do all the talking; accessorise pared-down monochrome outfits with the most exquisite sparkling treasures this Christmas
photographer: roberto aguilar c r e a t i v e d i r e c t o r & s t y l i s t: f r a n c e s c a b a r r o w
Diamond cluster line earrings set in platinum, from a selection, diamond Sunflower necklace set in platinum, from a selection, diamond cluster bracelet set in platinum, from a selection, all Harry Winston (harrywinston.com). White diamond two part floral ring (total diamond weight 5.07 carats), from a selection, David Morris (davidmorris.com). 18-karat white gold diamond lace ring, ÂŁ2,980, NOA Fine Jewellery (noafinejewellery.com). 76
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Diamond cluster earrings set in platinum, from a selection, Harry Winston, as before. Five-line bracelet, white diamonds set in white gold, from a selection, De Beers Arpreggia (debeers.co.uk). Rose ring in white gold set with 107 brilliant-cut diamonds 0.40 carat, ÂŁ5,050, Limelight pendant in white gold set with 192 brilliant-cut diamonds 2.33 carat and three pear-cut diamonds 0.73 carat, ÂŁ18,100, both Piaget (piaget.com). Necklace from the Pushkin collection featuring interlaced diamonds and pearls set in white gold, from a selection, Chopard (chopard.com). Diamond cluster earrings set in platinum, from a selection, Harry Winston, as before.
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Fashion
Panthère de Cartier necklace in white gold, diamonds, emeralds and onyx, £70,500, Panthère de Cartier Massai bracelet in white gold, diamonds, emeralds and onyx, from a selection, Paris Nouvelle Vague necklace in white gold, onyx, lapis lazuli and diamonds (worn around ankles), £44,900, Paris Nouvelle Vague ring white gold, black lacquer and diamonds, £87,000, all Cartier, as before. 18-carat Illusion marquise white diamond four-section drop earrings, from a selection, David Morris, as before. Fabric courtesy of Sahco, 020 7352 6168; Underwear by Rigby & Peller and Triumph.
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Fashion | The CHESHIRE Magazine
White diamonds butterfly and flower tiara (total diamond weight 16.24-carats), from a selection, David Morris, as before. Rings (far left and right), from a selection, and necklace, from a selection, both Buccellati (buccellati.com). White gold and diamond lace ring, £2,980, white gold and diamond Starlet ring, £2,150, white gold diamond lace earrings, £4,490, all NOA Fine Jewellery (noafinejewellery.com).
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Creative Director & Stylist Francesca Barrow (at faconner.co.uk) Styling Assistants Claudia Marcelletti, Ines Simoes Photographer Roberto Aguilar Hair Stylist Maria Kovacs for Tigi Haircare using Catwalk by TIGI, Firm Hold Hairspray, Wet Look Gel, Weightless Shine Spray
Necklace, ring and bangle, from a selection, all Buccellati, as before. Diamond Queen bracelet from the Ultimate Adornments Collection set in platinum, from a selection, Harry Winston, as before.
Make-Up lan Nygen-Grealis using M.A.C. Model Joy at Models1 Location With special thanks to Bed Head Studio
Young, British
There’s been much talk of how today’s graduates are as likely to set up for themselves as take a corporate position and sweat it out for someone else’s benefit and Laura Orchant, textile designer, is an inspirational example of this trend w o r d s : k a t e h o u g h to n
and on the up
R
right: LEAF design IN DUSTY PINK
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esident of Hale, very young, very beautiful and very confident, Laura is a fascinating young woman. At just 25 she has already convinced fashionista’s favourite, Fenwicks of Bond Street, to carry a collection of her stunning silk scarves and has now set her sights on Europe. But just how does someone so young, and an artist at that, make her mark in such a viciously competitive market-place so quickly? ‘You just pick up the phone,’ she says, as if catching the attention of fashion buyers for such a highly thought-of store was something desperate designers (new and old) didn’t attempt in vain every day. Laura graduated from Ravensbourne college in 2012, having completed a degree in Textile Design & Womenswear, but says she was already hard at work on her business plan six months before this. ‘I’ve been working on this for at least 18 months,’ she explains. ‘My tutor knew what I wanted to achieve, so as well as my graduation show, which was womenswear, I was able to work on my first commercial designs.’ It seems drawing has always been a passion for Laura, so while her classmates were fighting over internships with
fashion design brands, Laura joined print designer Robin Greene, coincidentally also from Manchester. ‘He had done some scarves and a range of upholstery for Liberty and was designing for Firetrap at the time, and he allowed me to create my own t-shirt design for them, using a skull motif. I was so proud of it, but admittedly frustrated that my name wasn’t anywhere near it. I have one at home, and I like to think “I did that”, but this is better!’ At one point in our conversation Laura indicates that she’s lucky to have succeeded so far in these difficult times and in a tricky market, but I’m no believer in luck where success is concerned. Like every entrepreneur, Laura has had to work hard to achieve every step, from impressing her tutors at college to getting any buyer to take her seriously. Her climb has been supported by a lady she describes as an “angel investor”; someone else she had to impress. ‘My dreams are quite realistic, so she knew I wasn’t all pie-in-thesky. I know how hard it is to break into this industry, and am prepared to do the leg-work, as well as the design-work, to make it happen. She has given me huge support in so many ways though. At first I was using a British company to print my scarves, onto the chiffon silk I like to work with. I was increasingly disappointed with the quality of the
The cheshire Magazine | Fashion
end-result though. She helped me find a new printer in Italy, who are not only more skilled, but cost less too. It’s a shame that my British designs aren’t British-made, but quality is all-important in the luxury sector and I’m not prepared to compromise.’ Laura’s design process is as mysterious as any artists, and one which she can’t really articulate, but her inspiration comes from the natural world. ‘My Leaf design, used in the current collection, came to me when I was walking the dog though Hale,’ she says. ‘Leaves were falling, I picked one up and took it home. That time the design just flowed, it only took me an afternoon. I worked on Jewel for weeks and weeks.’
‘That time the design just flowed, it only took me an afternoon’ – Laura Orchant
below, from left: leaf design in neon pink; indian summer design in black; jewel design in blue
Laura starts by doing a set of pencil drawings, then digitally manipulates her chosen design into an explosion of fragments, fractals and colour. It is this that takes the time, as the first element will always be very tiny, and she has to grow it from there into the glorious designs recognised for their originality and beauty by Fenwicks. It may be her youth, but Laura seems quite unfazed by her success, seemingly accepting it as her due, until I asked her if she’d visited the store on Bond Street yet. ‘Oh my gosh no, but I can’t wait,’ she almost gasps. ‘They’ve sent me a photo [showing me on her iPhone] and I’m desperate to go! Seeing my scarves there, in a display, will be just amazing! I actually saw a lady wearing one the
other day; I was so thrilled I actually went over and told her I’d designed it!’ Ah, now we see the joyful youth, exuberant at her success, and less of the groomed, careful one. Of course, Fenwicks of Bond Street aren’t her first or only customers. Laura’s scarves are carried by some of the best luxury fashion boutiques in the UK, including Willow, in Hale and Knutsford, and this was accomplished by that old-fashioned expedient of picking up the phone. ‘I research what boutiques carry the brands I think we sit well alongside and then I call them up,’ Laura explains. ‘Most of those who have taken stock buy them after I send images by email, I’ve hardly had to send any samples.’ ‘I also attend the right shows. I first met the buyers from Fenwicks at Pure, at Olympia. I saw them first in 2012, and basically nagged them right up until this year’s show. They came over to my stand, and one said that she thought that my scarves were lovely, and that they were seeking to bring art back into the scarves department. After they left, I was advised that I was as good as in, but wouldn’t believe it till they called me.’ As well as Pure, Laura takes space at Scoop, held in the Saatchi Gallery, ‘an incredible space!’ and at Who’s Next in Paris. She has also recently joined the UK Fashion & Textiles Group, who support British brands seeking to develop into Europe and further afield. in ‘Is world domination too much to ask for?’ Laura muses, as I put away my pen. Having spent an hour in her company, I think if anyone can achieve it, it’s Laura.
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If you can’t go for full on glamour at Christmas, when can you? W o r d s : K at e H o u g h t o n
What’s your sign? Every year since 1968 Estée Lauder has introduced a new, limited edition, collection of solid perfume and refillable powder compacts. This year, no Glamazon should be without her own Zodiac inspired version. Zodiac Compact, £65, John Lewis Cheadle & Trafford (johnlewis.com)
Knock ‘em dead Sahara Noir from Tom Ford is an oriental, woody fragrance crafted around a heart of Frankincense, an ingredient used for millennia in ceremony, used as a gift of devotion and worn to enhance beauty. There can be no better time of year to let its hypnotising aroma bewitch the man of your dreams. Sahara Noir EDP, £100 (50ml), Harvey Nichols Exchange Square and Harvey Nichols Beauty Bazaar, Liverpool One (harveynichols.com)
Beauty news Deep clean If you’re embarking on a detox this New Year then make each day count and go for maximum results. My Detox Diet offer a combination of cleanses but it’s the vegetable only option that offers best results. Made from freshly hand-pressed produce and jammed full of feel-good nutrients, vitamins and superfoods to heal and detoxify the body, the juices are a wholesome medley of beetroot, kale, carrots, spinach, celery and cucumber. Super-convenient, all juices are delivered to your door (in an ice-packed hamper), so there’s no having to fit deliveries into the daily schedule and with an easy to stick to plan of 5 (genuinely tasty) juices daily, it’s impossible to go wrong. Tried and tested with a 4kilo weight loss and soaring energy levels, with other benefits including loss of water retention, improved metabolism, clearer skin and improved sleep all in a matter of days – what’s not to love? Vegetable Juice Cleanse, 6 days, from £275. Available nationwide (mydetoxdiet.com) 84
On the rocks The perfect gentlemen’s gift, celebrity favourite Whisky & Water luxury hand wash and lotion from Noble Isle is absolutely sublime. An evocative scent of honeyed barley and smooth malt strikes the perfect balance of sweetness partnered with subtle notes of whisky. Our festive tipple of choice. Noble Isle Whisky & Water hand wash £18 (250ml) and hand lotion £20 (250ml), Harvey Nichols Exchange Square (harveynichols.com)
The cheshire Magazine | Beauty
Treatment of the month
I recently discovered what I can only describe as the best way to recover from a party, ever; the ESPA Aromatherapy Back, Face & Scalp, at Cottons Hotel & Spa in Knutsford. It’s an experience of pure, unadulterated relaxation from the moment you snuggle into the fleece robe to the moment you wake up, 90 minutes later. Firstly you choose your oils, on the basis that your body knows what it needs.
The eyes have it With 48 provocative colours to create an endless range of looks; this luxurious limitededition eye shadow palette will take you from everyday gorgeous limited to special-occasion edition glamorous... and everything in between. And with a guarantee to last up to 12 hours, you’re ensured to look great throughout the festive season. Limited-edition READY Artistry Palette, £255, Selfridges & Co Exchange Square & Trafford (Selfridges.com)
Pucker up This holiday season, Bobbi Brown is bringing us their Old Hollywood collection, celebrating all the glitz and glam of iconic American screen sirens. This sultry collection offers something for every woman, ensuring you’ll always be red carpet worthy. Why not start with this glorious retro red lip colour for maximum impact? Limited Edition Old Hollywood Lip Colour, £22, Bobbi Brown Selfridges & Co Exchange Square & Trafford (Selfridges.com)
‘You choose your oils, on the basis that your body knows what it needs’ I plumped for the balancing oils each time, until I selected the fitness oil for my back massage. My very talented therapist Lisa was quite surprised, until she discovered the state of my shoulders; filled with knots from hours over the keyboard. A back exfoliation is followed by a massage – as deep as you want it – and then an ESPA Intensive facial (which is the bit where you fall asleep) and finally the gentlest scalp massage ever (through which you continue to drift on a sea of relaxation) until finally you’re carefully woken and told to stay where you are until she returns with a glass of water. If you’re feeling brave enough (my hair resembled Elvis’s circa 1972) you can then retire to the newly refurbished relaxation room, or simply dash home to hide in bed for the rest of the day. Perfect for anyone seeking total escape from a stressful time, it’s also an ideal post-party pick-me-up, so if an office party or charity ball is looming, book now – you can thank me later. ESPA Aromatherapy Back, Face & Scalp £85 (spatreatments.cottonshotel.com)
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Space and Space NK has become a mecca for women everywhere. Elle Blakeman talks to CEO and founder Nicky Kinnaird about beauty philosophies, stealing her mother’s lotions and how candles can change the world
‘I
could easily be a bathroom designer,’ says Nicky Kinnaird, the impeccably groomed founder of Space NK at our breakfast meeting in the elegant library room at Claridge’s. I don’t doubt it, her spotless yet somehow invitingly warm chain of stores are a positive homage to the art of bathing, cleansing and general me-time. Via Space NK, Kinnaird has expertly ploughed through an industry of impossible promises and misleading packaging to bring a cheat sheet of hero products to a clearly awaiting public. ‘A lot of people don’t know where to start,’ she says. ‘There’s so much advertising and hype out there. There’s newness coming in all the time and what we do is filter through that and say “Okay, these are the things that really matter, these are the products we believe in that are going to make a difference.”’ After nineteen years, eighty-one stores – both here and in the States – and now stocking over eighty brands, it’s safe to say she has made a difference. Back in 1993, preinternet and pre-Space NK, options for beauty shopping in the UK were limited to say
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the least: a quick dash to a chemist to pick out products like you would confectionary, a pushy door-to-door lady, swinging her suitcase of multi-hued powders and pastes, or the intimidating, heavily fragranced department store girls who would happily send you on your way with a dozen products from the same range and no concern for what you really needed. Times were tough. ‘It was the dissatisfaction with how beauty was being retailed in the UK that led to Space NK,’ says Kinnaird. ‘I grew up with a Spanish perfumeries and pharmacy culture. When we were kids in summer in Valencia, my friends would go to the pharmacist and ask them what they could do for their skin and rarely did it come from one brand. The lady in the white coat would know exactly what she had in store, what two or three products were going to come up with the ideal solution bearing in mind lifestyle and pocket,’ she says. ‘What I wanted to do was put together a collection of the best of the best products from all over the world but created by true innovators in their respective fields,’ she says. ‘And not just have the right products, but a team of make-up artists
The cheshire Magazine | Beauty
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and experts who were completely trained across every single brand, so we got absolutely the best,’ but – and herein lays the genius of Space NK – they listen to your lifestyle, as well as your skin concerns. ‘Exactly,’ says Kinnaird. ‘I’d never just come up with one solution for someone because we’ll cover a myriad different price points and philosophies. There’s no point having an advanced skincare regime when the lady has got five minutes to do her skincare and make-up, and get the kids packed and on their way to school,’ she adds, highlighting the reason so many of us have an unopened facial mask, peel and cream set stuffed at the back of the cupboard. With Kinnaird you get the sense that she really is one of us. She’s busy; she travels; she doesn’t always eat five different types of green vegetable at dinner, and this allows her to take a wider view of the industry, looking at beauty in context of real life, rather than being constrained to the fashion pages. ‘It’s very much about taking the holistic approach, so looking from the inside out as well as outside in. I’d much rather have someone say “Your skin looks amazing” than “I love your make-up”’. A quick look in any bathroom cupboard will reveal a smörgåsbord of brands, confirming that Kinnaird’s approach is certainly one that resonates with how women actually use their products. ‘I believe lots of companies have hero products but I think it’s very rare you find a brand that offers the best top-to-toe for any customer. If you look in your make-up bag it’s a mixture of different products, different prices, but absolutely geared to what’s best for you,’ she says. But if we feel overwhelmed by the beauty products that have actually made it to market,
how does Kinnaird cope with the deluge of new innovations that are constantly trying to get a space on one of her coveted glass shelves? ‘We’ve got a great team of people who are constantly searching for innovation out there and constantly testing to verify that the products are as good as people are claiming,’ she says. ‘Innovation comes from all walks of life and it’s really working with people who truly are passionate about particular areas of the business and want to take it one step further,’ she says. ‘We’ve also increasingly seen skincare ranges that do look at inside-out: high levels of antioxidants, not just within preparations, but for example Dr Brandt’s Water Boosters which are loaded with polyphenols – there’s no way you could achieve through drinking green tea, that amount of protection against free radical damage’. Are supplements high on her agenda? ‘Absolutely, yes,’ she says. ‘I think when you’re running around, your nutrition is never going to be as good as it can, so we need to look at extra supplementation. One thing that I’m always going to think makes a huge difference is Omega 3 fish oil – you really do see a difference in both the skin, and in how you feel,’ she says. In fashion, nineteen years is a lifetime. We’ve fallen for grunge, boho and even, in an illconsidered twist, double denim... but how has the beauty side of the industry changed since Space NK’s inception? ‘I think people are much more open to doing things themselves in the comfort of their own home. It’s a combination of advances in technology and making things easier to use as well as economic times,’ she says. ‘We are seeing a lot of increase in high-tech
I need a hero Certain products defy advertising campaigns, elaborate packaging and passing trends to earn themselves a permanent place in our hearts and make-up bags. Here, Nicky Kinnaird shares her true ‘must-haves’…
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#1 Cleanser, £40, Eve Lom A best-seller the world over, this cult-classic is on every beauty editor’s hit list. ‘It acts as an eye make-up remover, cleanser, toner and mild exfoliant in one,’ says Kinnaird, ‘and the muslin cloth is gentle enough to leave skin radiantly clean every day’.
#2 Touche Veloutée, £35, By Terry ‘I panic if I forget to bring this with me on my travels,’ says Kinnaird. ‘There is nothing that quite matches up to it – the light reflection is like no other.’ This magical highlighting concealer illuminates the eye contour, hiding imperfections and dark circles, allowing you to look rested and radiant.
The cheshire Magazine | Beauty
treatment whether it’s things like the Natura Bisse Glyco Peel product which allows you to do a facialist-worthy home peel in ten minutes flat,’ she says. ‘If you look at the role of the media and television and the increase of the internet, there is an awful lot of information out there and people want to take advantage of the products that offer them solutions.’
‘People want to take advantage of the products that offer them solutions’ – Nicky Kinnaird While it has educated and informed, the increasing impact of the media is also responsible for the ‘body beautiful’ ideal – once safely confined to billboards it is now a standard expected in every bedroom and boardroom in the land. ‘The attitude towards exercise and grooming has changed dramatically over the years,’ agrees Kinnaird. ‘I think everyone should be well groomed; it’s unacceptable to show up in the morning looking as though you just rolled out of bed. It’s all a kind of self-esteem, a sense of self-worth. But, there’s also a limit of course, we don’t want the obsessive behaviour which you can get in the States, but I think we’re still very much on the easier side of that,’ she says. The words sound tough, however Space NK doesn’t feel like it’s pressuring anyone to look better, but rather encouraging them to take some time out of the day for
#3 Baume de Rose, £35, By Terry ‘I love this,’ says Kinnaird. This rich balm is a clever multi-tasker: the creamy rosescented balm delivers a shiny, yet nonsticky finish for lips, and the regenerative formula is a very effective treatment for culticles too – perfect for travelling!
themselves. ‘There’s an acceptance that it’s actually okay to take some time out for me because if someone is stressed out to the hilt they don’t work their best. Our lives are much more pressurised and you realise that you just have to step back for an hour or so,’ says Kinnaird. And Kinnaird is certainly one for taking time to smell the roses. ‘I light candles everywhere!’ she declares with unapologetic glee. ‘That’s one of my little indulgences – I come home from work and whatever candle I’m currently burning is lit. And there are always memories associated with different fragrances. I’m burning the Brighton fragrance, trying to invoke summer,’ she adds, hopefully. The candle does indeed evoke memories of salty, sandy English beaches, instantly transporting you to a windy seaside resort. ‘I live in an apartment, I don’t have the roaring fire to welcome me home but I light a candle for a little bit and it smells delicious,’ she says. So where does this dedication to me-time come from? ‘I was always using my mum’s products as a child,’ she says. ‘I used to get in so much trouble! I was obsessed with chilling in the bath tub, because I used to play a lot of sports. I’d come home, scoop whatever lotions and potions I could find on my mum’s dressing table straight into the bathroom and bath up to maximum level, with no sense of proportion or quantity required. She realised very quickly to buy me my own. If I have a bad day, I’ve always been one to head for the shower or bath tub instantly and surround myself with fabulous smells and aromas and good music. You can change your world; it’s a much better place with a little R&R time.’
#4 The Curling Mascara, £20, Kevyn Aucoin ‘The Japanese formula in this mascara shrink-wraps the lashes, and comes off easily with water,’ says Kinnaird. ‘It’s the most fabulous mascara for anyone who does sport because it never flakes, and never smudges.’ The small wand is great for catching tiny lashes, leaving you with dramatic wide-awake eyes that last all day long.
#5 Triple Action Eye Cream, £75, Zelens ‘This is the best eye cream I’ve ever come across and anyone who’s tried it gets absolutely addicted to it,’ says Kinnaird. One of Space NK’s best-sellers, this triple-action cream tightens skin, diminishes fine lines and puffiness and reduces dark circles around the eye area. It is packed with antioxidants, three different peptides and caffeine to boost circulation.
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The cheshire Magazine | Feature
The ultimate gift
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No.1 perfume Gift Set ÂŁ520, Clive Christian (Selfridges Trafford Centre and Exchange Square)
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Feature | The cheshire Magazine
The ultimate gift
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The Extreme Survival Kit ÂŁ82, Battle Box (battleboxcompany.co.uk)
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The cheshire Magazine | Feature
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The
sail of the
century
V
ery few things embody the lavish, dazzling opulence of the 1950s and 60s like the ground-breakingly decadent floating palace that was once the pride and joy of Greek-Argentine shipping magnate Aristotle Onassis – and for very good reason. Originally built in 1943 as a Canadian anti-submarine River-class frigate, the vessel then known as the HMCS Stormont chalked up a distinguished naval career during the Second World War, even making an appearance at the D-Day landings. Nevertheless, with the end of the war came a sudden drastic decrease in the need for large fleets of military vessels, and it
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As the original by-word for unimaginable luxury goes up for sale, Gemma Knight unravels the rich history of the world’s first superyacht; the legendary Christina O
seemed that the frigate’s days were unavoidably numbered. Thankfully – for the superyacht era, not to mention the countless glamorous guests who were to grace her decks over the coming years – it was ambitious businessman Onassis who stepped in, purchasing the craft for its scrap value (a mere $34,000) and spending an incredible $4 million (roughly $45 million today) on a colossal refurbishment from bow to stern. By the time he was finished, Aristotle Onassis had created the very first luxury superyacht; 325ft of polished mahogany, high ceilings and sweeping staircases the like of which the world had never seen. As the crowning glory, Onassis
The cheshire Magazine | Feature
hired architect Cäsar Pinnau to style the exteriors and named the finished masterpiece after his only daughter; five year-old Christina. Not content with being able to entertain 34 guests at a time (housed in 17 sumptuous staterooms), Onassis also made sure there was room for the yacht to lodge 35 members of crew, ensuring his high-profile guests were waited on hand and foot just as they were on dry land. Likewise, when Onassis couldn’t decide whether a pool or dance floor was the more important recreational amenity, an elaborate mosaicked swimming pool was installed, complete with a base which rose – at the push of a button – to
world’s most well-known figures danced across her decks, including the likes of Frank Sinatra, Marilyn Monroe, Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton, Eva Peron and John F Kennedy – to name just a few. And really, all things considered, where else could Prince Rainier of Monaco and Grace Kelly have chosen to hold their wedding reception in 1956? After Aristotle Onassis’ death in 1975 the yacht was willed to its namesake, his daughter Christina, who in turn gifted it to the Greek government with the intention that it become a presidential yacht. Briefly renamed the Argo, it quickly fell into disrepair before being salvaged
‘Polished mahogany, high ceilings and sweeping staircases the like of which the world had never seen’ create a gilded dance floor on the main deck instead. Added to these extravagances were majestic dining rooms with onyx pillars, al fresco bars with handles made from whale fangs, a library, sports lounge, playroom and, of course, the Onassis suite, complete with private lounge, en suite and its very own Renoir. It’s unsurprising, then, that some of the world’s most glamorous and infamous soirees took place on board, as did many of the most iconic romances of the 20th century. Onassis was married to his first wife Athina when he purchased the boat (from whom he was divorced having been caught in a compromising position with his well-publicised opera-icon mistress, Maria Callas – coincidentally, also on board the Christina), and was married to former-first lady Jackie Kennedy aboard the yacht in 1968. During the Christina’s heyday, many of the
by an Onassis family friend, extensively refurbished and rechristened the Christina O in 2001. In addition to its original amenities, the yacht now also boasts a spa, helipad, fitness centre, beauty salon, massage room and Jacuzzi, giving it the chance to more readily compete with its modern, hi-tech peers when it became available to charter shortly afterwards. The Christina O may never be a sharp, state of the art mega-cruiser, but its legendary status and glittering past have long overshadowed any shortcomings this cultural colossus might have. This year, the original superyacht is up for sale for the first time in more than a decade, brokered by yachting specialists Edmiston for a cool £21 million – a drop in the ocean compared to some of her younger sisters, but if owning a piece of history floats your boat – quite possibly the sail of the century.
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A purity of
passion
McLaren – a name synonymous with Formula 1, supercars and sheer, unadulterated passion for producing what many would argue are the world’s best road to track sports cars W o r d s : K at e H o u g h t o n
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The cheshire Magazine | Motoring
M
cLaren Formula 1 has a history littered with Grand Prix wins, world records set and broken, engineering firsts and, of course, famous names. Nobody could argue that F1 icons such as James Hunt, Ayrton Senna, Lewis Hamilton and Jenson Button brought no more than lightning fast reflexes and the desire to win to their team. Any individual, or business, that commits to Formula 1 does so because of the unquenchable fire of passion – the passion for bringing together the very peak of form and function that together unite to create perfection. And in their newest release, the P1™, they may just have achieved that. The first McLaren road car was developed by Bruce McLaren himself, in 1969. His aim was to build the ultimate sports car, and to build it to the highest specification possible. Bruce used the M6GT on his commute to and from race meetings; it was only his tragic death that interrupted plans to build 250 production cars a year. His ethos of building to the highest specification possible did not die with him however, and is still the driving force behind every car built. The P1™ is McLaren’s first wholly new model in four years, following the launch of the 12C in 2009, and that was the first since the McLaren F1 was launched in 1993. It has been said that the P1™ is McLaren’s twenty-first century upgrade on the F1, but this is hotly denied by McLaren and by everybody who knows and loves them. The P1™ is McLaren’s “road to track” car; designed to be driven on the roads, in comfort and style (and oh, what style) but to perform like a true thoroughbred on the race track. To accomplish this, McLaren have taken an uncompromising approach to every single element of the design process. The interior, for example, is as minimalist as McLaren can make it (they are, apparently, obsessed by weight) but there is no compromise on comfort. The exterior is breathtaking in its sheer elegance, yet every sweep of line, every curve, every fold and every seam is designed to deliver
the fastest drive possible. Indeed, McLaren say it’s the fastest road car in the world… But, at a starting price of £866,000, it’s most certainly a purchase only those passionate about the marque could consider. And with the plethora of options out there, why do people choose McLaren? I spoke to Saiqa Akram, the P1™ specialist at McLaren Manchester, to learn more about this mysterious breed of supercar obsessives. The first thing I experienced, before Saiqa had even shaken my hand, was the sound of a 12C being fired up for a test drive. Oh lordy. Now I get it. No need to ask any questions… it’s a done deal. The sound of a McLaren is a uniquely distinctive, throaty, purring roar that hits you right in the solar plexus and takes your breath away more comprehensively than a punch from Joe Calzaghe. If that’s what greets you every time you drive the car then I begin to see where the obsession starts. Just as I’m recovering from this, Saiqa lands me another body blow. It turns out that this distinctive sound, recognisable even when there’s no car in sight, has been ‘sound engineered’ using a piece of software! Laughing at my astonishment (though a true petrol-head would already have known this, I suspect) Saiqa explains further: ‘The high level exhaust pipes exit the car from a mixing box rather than a conventional silencer. The 12C has a very distinctive exhaust note, and it’s one McLaren developed proactively. Revisions have been made to the innovative Intake Sound Generator. This system works by controlling engine intake noise within the cabin at differing levels, depending on the “powertrain” mode selected for the car. Moving up through Normal, Sport and Track powertrain modes enhances the aural drama and driving experience of the 12C, allowing more of the natural sound of the V8 engine to enter the cabin. With the most recent software upgrade the driver is able to select the level of engine noise generated in each mode.’ That would keep me happy for hours and
image © McLaren Automotive LTD.
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images © McLaren Automotive LTD.
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hours; I might never even need to leave the driveway! Saiqa is quite fascinating in her own right, but more of her later – first… what kind of person chooses a McLaren? ‘All sorts of people, and not just the Premier League types you might expect!’ says Saiqa. ‘They’ve developed an appreciation for the best things in life in every field and come from all kinds of backgrounds.’ ‘Many of the people who bought a 12C Coupe when it was released in 2011 went on to purchase the 12C Spider when that was released in 2012. Now it’s many of the same buyers who have put their name down for a P1™.” Having your name on the list for a P1™ will catapult you into an elite group of enthusiasts; only 375 of these astonishing cars are being built and despite hitting the headlines in 2012 after its unveiling at the Paris Motorshow, the first one was only delivered to its excited new owner a matter of weeks ago. Saiqa adds: ‘To maintain exclusivity the production number is just 375 units – this will ensure the Mclaren P1™ will remain a rarity. We won’t hold a vehicle as a showroom car or demonstrator, this means that the clients who have ordered a car have not yet test driven it and for some when they take delivery of their own P1™ it will be the first time they will drive one.’ Well, if that’s not a sign of faith in a company I can’t imagine what might be. If there’s a purity of passion that runs through the makers and owners of McLaren, then Saiqa is the thread that binds them. Having become addicted to Formula 1 when caring for her older sister’s baby (‘having it on the television was the only thing that would settle him sometimes!’), Saiqa cast aside all previous career plans and set about getting a start in the motor industry. ‘My ultimate aim was to work for Ferrari,’ she says. ‘This was the team I followed in Formula 1 and this was the marque I wanted to work with! I knew I needed to start somewhere, so I wrote to car dealerships in my home town of Sheffield and asked for a job, any job. The only person
‘For some when they take delivery of their own P1™ it will be the first time they will drive one’
who invited me for an interview was the MD of the Sytner BMW dealership. When we met, he said he didn’t have any vacancies, but had been so taken with my letter he wanted to meet me. Two hours later I left with a job on reception. ‘I spent three years there, and did stints in every area, and when it was announced that Sytner would be opening one of only three McLaren dealerships in the UK, headed by Jon Crossley in Knutsford, I immediately wrote to him and asked for a trainee sales position. We
The cheshire Magazine | Motoring
The best a man can get The first buyer in Europe to collect his P1TM was a certain Mr Paul Bailey, of Leicestershire. He collected his new motor, the latest addition to a collection of 61 modern supercars, from the factory at the end of October, accompanied by Saiqa and the team from McLaren. I caught up with him a week or so later to ask how it felt to drive this incredible machine. ‘It’s beyond compare,’ he says. ‘I’ve got a fantastic collection, but as it stands today this is the best car I have ever driven.’ As a self-confessed supercar fanatic, and owner of endurance race-team Horsepower Racing, Paul definitely knows what he’s talking about too. ‘I first saw it on display at Geneva. I actually had no intention of buying it, as I’d gone there to buy a Pagani Huayra, but I changed my mind and placed an order there and then. Around the same time I also ordered the new Ferrari LaFerrari and Porsche 918 Spyder. Despite both of the latter companies being massively wealthy, neither of them have yet to deliver. It makes me proud to know that this British designed and built car has beaten its closest competitors to the finish line, and done it in absolutely stunning style.
met, even though the showroom wasn’t close to opening, and he said he wasn’t planning on taking on anybody in a trainee role, but to stay in touch. I emailed him every few weeks for months, and after around six months he offered me a job here!’ And as for Ferrari, well that’s a dream firmly put to bed. ‘Having worked with McLaren for nearly three years there isn’t another marque I’d like to work with - at least for the foreseeable future!’
Paul Bailey takes a seat in his new P1(TM)
‘Everywhere I go it causes a stir. It’s a simply magical car.’
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PULSES RACING As motorcyclists’ dream Ducati open their first clothing store outside Italy in Manchester, Gemma Knight gets a sneak peak at what the lucky residents of the North West can expect from their newest arrival
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ntil now, strolling into a store littered with pristine clothing and accessories by top of the range motorbike manufacturer Ducati has been the pleasure of a privileged few, with the iconic brand sticking firmly to its home shores and its wealthiest citizens reaping the benefits. But as of autumn 2013, this is no longer the case. Stepping outside Italy for the first time, the clothing and accessories arm of this motor-megalith (whose legendary machines are already available to purchase in more than 80 countries) have elected to open a store in none other than Manchester Airport’s Terminal One. The creators of such coveted motorbike models as the 750 Imola Desmo, Desmosedici GP10 and 1198 R Corse Special Edition, Ducati was founded in 1926 by Antonio Cavalieri Ducati and his three sons, quickly establishing a reputation for luxurious, expensive machines which matched performance with racing ability and innovative design. Characterised by large capacity four-stroke, 90° V-twin engines and a desmodromic valve design, the brand now boasts 17 manufacturers’ titles, 14 riders’ titles
‘The brand now boasts 17 manufacturers’ titles, 14 riders’ titles and more than 300 race victories’
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and more than 300 race victories around the world – not to mention a reputation as the world’s foremost purveyor of top of the range racing bikes tinged with trademark elegant Italian design. It’s hardly a surprise, then, that enthusiasts and novices alike are positively beside themselves with excitement at news of the new store – after all, it’s not every day you get the chance to peruse Ducati merchandise with your own eyes (or hands, if you’re as big a fan of their super-soft Italian leather as we are). The store sells an extensive range of jackets, bags, t-shirts and hats, plus a host of other accessories indispensible for any bona fide connoisseur, all emblazoned with a logo guaranteed to leave envious friends in no doubt where your latest attire was acquired. Unfortunately – and, we admit, rather cleverly – the store sits airside of the baggage screening
The cheshire Magazine | Motoring
area, so only those with boarding passes (i.e. only those planning to travel) are able to access it. A slightly crafty move by the airport, but a shrewd way of ensuring the store remains as exclusive as possible nonetheless. And if Manchester Airport still seems like an odd choice of location for the international mega-brand, we need only remind you that, as the largest airport outside London, it boasts a catchment area that extends from southern Scotland to the Midlands and the patronage of such colossal carriers as Emirates, Etihad, Lufthansa and Swiss. Not bad for a regional hub. To celebrate the store’s grand opening, specialist design agency Designate have created a promotional video – a perfectly normal thing to do, although the video itself is anything but. Filmed during night operations (the period during which Manchester, as a 24-hour airport, handles its lowest volumes of air traffic), the video begins by informing us that it is 3.17am and showing a selection of prettily-lit aircraft landing and taking off against the night sky and neon-lit tarmac of Runway Two. Then, all of a sudden, it’s not planes we’re looking at, but the sleek red outline of a Ducati Panigale streaking across the runway at 180mph and performing a series of ground-breaking test runs. Atop the bike is Darren Fry, a veteran rider, Daventry native and winner of the 2010 Ducati 848 Challenge, who nimbly zips across the airstrip and towards a member of ground staff. The yellow-jacketed man holds his neon paddles aloft (as to a taxiing plane), and for a moment it looks as if Fry is going to park – but then, in a not entirely unexpected turn of events, he ploughs onwards, dodging the airport official and speeding on into the terminal building. A series of impressive moves and lift rides later, the bike cruises along the passenger-free shopping concourse and glides, smoothly, to a halt outside the new store – the tagline ‘arrive in style’ fluttering glibly across the screen as he does so. Understated it is not, but with Italian curves like that, we can hardly blame them. View the video at youtube.com/watch?v=iOD3h_Eqavc
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Lava me tender Having this year won a Condé Nast Traveller award for the world’s best hotel, Ayana Resort in Bali is introducing an exclusive new treatment to its Spa On The Rocks. ‘Lava Me Tender’ celebrates the many benefits of lava’s rich mineral content, known to detoxify and remove deep pore impurities while nourishing and healing the body. Anchored on natural rocks amidst the Indian Ocean with views of the waves below, delight in a mineral lava body scrub, black rice bath, full body deep tissue massage and a relaxing volcanic earth body wrap. (ayanaresort.com)
There’s an app for that… PACKING PRO If you’re the sort to forget, then tell this app where you’re going, who with and how long for and you’ll never leave anything behind again. £1.99, iTunes App Store
On an evening in Roma The J.K. Place Roma is the newest addition to the stylish J.K. collection, with sister hotels in Capri and Florence. A shining jewel in the centre of the city, it adds an exciting luxurious notch to the Italian city’s belt. Designed by renowned architect Michele Bonan, the building has maintained its 17th century charm whilst simultaneously exuding an air of modern glamour. Boasting 30 deluxe rooms and suites, you can enjoy a stay of ultimate pampering. Feeling tired after a day of sightseeing? Look forward to the hotel’s in-room massage service and state of the art wellness centre. After, head to the chic rooftop bar and lounge to marvel, cocktail in hand, at breathtaking vistas of the romantic city by night. (jkroma.com)
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Travel news
Whether you’re looking for the perfect city break or an ideal luxury retreat, we’ve scoured the world of exclusive travel to bring you the very best on offer across the globe
The cheshire Magazine | Travel
Long haul Vs short haul
Long haul
Cheval Blanc Randheli, Maldives Take in the unspoiled paradise of the Maldivian archipelago by seaplane en route to your idyllic villa. Already responsible for a Maison in Courchevel, Cheval Blanc has brought the same stylish aesthetic to the breathtaking haven of Noonu Atoll. Bask in the sun by your own private infinity pool and beach or unwind in your villa, which boasts lofty cathedral style ceilings and furnishings made with materials from Don’t leave home the Indian Ocean. without… (chevalblanc.com) Refresh dehydrated skin with Sodashi’s Rejuvenate Skin Care Kit, which comprises six nourishing, natural products. The moisturerich plant extracts will provide a much-needed invigorating boost after a long-haul trip; the perfect post-flight tonic. Rejuvenate Skin Care Kit, £138.70, Sodashi (sodashi.co.uk)
Short haul
Mosaic Palais Aziza & Spa, Marrakech This winter, budding photographers can combine their passion with a weekend getaway at Mosaic Palais Aziza & Spa in Marrakech. When not relaxing in the peaceful, rosescented ambience of this luxurious hotel, head into the bustle of the Imperial city to capture tanners at work in the soft morning sun or the vibrant colours and flavours of exotic spices at Azbert’s vegetable market – all under the guidance of American-born, Marrakech-based photographer Terry Munson. (mosaicpalaisaziza.com)
‘One’s destination is never a place, but a new way of seeing things’ – Henry Miller
Couture in the capital Paris is always a favourite come Christmas, and the newly opened Hotel Félicien offers a truly unique experience. Enter the world of fashion through the eyes of couture designer Olivier Lapidus: famed for his avant-garde inventions, the designer has created every element of the chic hotel, from customised taps to bespoke desks and chairs which are also available to purchase. Whether for a short stop over or long weekend, the Félicien provides a refreshing zen atmosphere. There are 32 spacious Japanese inspired rooms and two stunning private roof terrace suites complete with Jacuzzis overlooking romantic views of Paris’ rooftops. (hotelfelicienparis.com)
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Spanish inquisition Can a macrobiotic lifestyle cure whatever ails you? Elle Blakeman travels to the Spanish hills of Alicante to find out
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The CHESHIRE Magazine | Travel
‘SHA is a dedicated spa-meets-clinic oasis, balancing Eastern and Western values’
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D
r Mera genuinely believes we can live forever. I’m not sure I want to, but the point is I’m starting to believe him – which I hadn’t expected. I’m in eastern Spain at a conference at the SHA Wellness Clinic where several world-renowned doctors have gathered to discuss healthy ageing, and while not everyone is trying to make the case for cheating the human condition altogether, all agree that our current lifestyles – invariably containing stress – processed foods and general unhealthy habits, are accelerating the end game. SHA is not about living forever, but rather finding ways to help the body to work at optimum levels, given a break from the epic physical toll of daily stress, of constantly leveling the effects of sugar, caffeine and alcohol, and the trudging digestion of meat and dairy through systems only designed to deal with these on an occasional basis. Founded by Alfredo Bataller, when he discovered that a macrobiotic diet brought him back from the brink of stomach cancer, SHA is a dedicated spa-meets-clinic oasis that balances Eastern and Western values. It’s a place to recharge, with the help of medical, fitness and nutritional experts who can guide you to better health. Helpfully, Bataller already had a holiday home in the Alicante mountains, which
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he built upon to become the impressive four-storey recuperation spot it is today. At 64 he looks fantastic, and is certainly a great advertisement for the philosophy. Macrobiotic literally translates to ‘long life’, and the basic principles include eschewing dairy, meat, caffeine and alcohol, replacing them with large quantities of seasonal vegetables, whole grains and some fish. But before you go running back to Gaucho begging for red meat and a large glass of Malbec, this is not something that has to be done 24/7, in fact during one of my many consultations with Dr Prange, SHA’s nutritionalist, I was told that even introducing this for just a day or two a week would have serious health benefits. Interestingly, SHA is not the only one to be singing the praises of a plant-based diet. From Stella McCartney’s Meat Free Mondays to Gwyneth Paltrow’s mostly vegetarian recipes in her new book It’s All Good, it seems the dark days of Atkins are well and truly behind us. Even Bill Clinton, once famous for jogging down to McDonald’s for a fast food feast, has now become a vegan following a quadruple bypass – a good enough reason to put down the steak knife. However, macrobiotic does not mean starvation or dull meals (honestly) and one thing SHA does fantastically well is create meals in its restaurant – diners are not just other SHA inmates, but locals who have simply come for the evening, something that I have never seen at a detox spa before. The restaurant itself is beautiful – all
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Travel
starched white linens and silver service, while full floor-to-ceiling windows give a panoramic view of the surrounding villas and over the Spanish hills. At nighttime it’s a beautifully romantic backdrop to your evening and complements the unhurried enjoyment of your meal. The chefs are Michelin-starred and the menu is elegant, complex and genuinely delicious. Clearly with a point to prove, each dish is a whirlwind of ingredients – tuna tataki, mushrooms with truffle oil, caramel and almond crumble with vanilla “ice cream” – which leave you feeling anything but deprived. You can even order organic wine (although I’m reminded – several times – that this is not the key to rapid weight loss). There are three different menus – one strict (Kushi), one less so (Biolight) and the SHA menu (the show-off, macrobiotic two fingers up at anyone who thinks it can only serve up boiled quinoa and kale), but you will be put on one, or a mix of all three, by a joint agreement with your doctor. For example, those looking for rapid weight loss will be Kushi only. I am firmly told by Dr Prange that only he can change this – it’s no good pleading with the waiters as they cannot give you anything from a different menu. I enjoy that I look like someone who may attempt to coerce a waiter into changing my miso soup for a salmon fishcake. However even the “extravagant” SHA menu only has 1,200 calories a day. While the diet is the backbone of the clinic there are various programs at SHA, focusing on everything from weight loss and anti-stress, to those that help you stop smoking, cure insomnia and even help with fertility issues. The days are filled up with visits to various experts, and continuing in the philosophy of fusing the best of Eastern and Western medicine, there is seemingly no end of therapy you can get here: acupuncture, cupping, colonic hydrotherapy, a complete menu of massages: lymphatic drainage, Thai, relaxing. You can be wrapped in seaweed, ginger or aloe vera and bathed in detoxifying salts and mud. All will be tailored to your needs, which are rapidly and impressively
assessed by the doctors. Along with the standard weight and BMI tests, you will also have a blood test to assess cholesterol and other potential issues, and an interesting sort of hand evaluation – these are also strangely revealing. Using all of this information, you can then work out a plan for your time at SHA. Most programs are for a minimum of a week, but two or three is preferable to see real results. There is one former high-profile lawyer here who is now in his seventh month at SHA. Frankly if I could do the same, I would. Each day is gently planned so you are kept occupied without feeling busy. There are cooking classes for those who want to take some recipes home with them and being so close to a stunning natural park, you can also go catamaran sailing, jet skiing, golfing or simply join the weekly walk to the Sierra Helada mountains. On one of these trips I spoke to a woman who had been unable to make it even half way up the hill on her first week. By week three she was racing ahead, convinced and converted to the macrobiotic way of life. After just three days I leave feeling lighter and fresher, like I’ve been retuned. Not quite immortal, but certainly closer than before. Wellbeing Escapes (wellbeingescapes.com) offer a five-day Discovery Break at SHA Wellness Clinic from £1,799 pp sharing. This includes all the treatments on the detox programme, full board accommodation in a Deluxe Suite and return flights from the UK to Alicante. For more information on SHA Wellness Clinic please visit shawellnessclinic.com
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Travel | The cheshire Magazine
Weekend away
… Great John Street Hotel, Manchester Words: gemma knight
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illed with grand fireplaces, sumptuous roll-top baths and a generous helping of old-world charm, it’s not hard to see why celebrities such as Robbie Williams and Samia Ghadie flock to this luxury boutique townhouse in the heart of Manchester. As the first of its kind in the city, this renovated Victorian schoolhouse revels in its ability to transport its guests to an oasis of calm without ever leaving the busy metropolis. We arrived to an efficient, amiable welcome, a positive first impression immediately enhanced by the sight of our room. With high ceilings throughout, all but four of the 30 unique rooms sport mezzanine levels and enormous windows, with huge bed and immaculate en suite above, and lavish living room with fireplace, cast iron radiators and glossy stripped floorboards below. Loathed to leave the room’s crushed velvet furnishings and decadent décor, we finally prized ourselves away and headed for dinner at plush new restaurant Neighbourhood. This Manhattan-inspired eatery (located a mere five minutes’ walk from the hotel) has already secured an unrivalled reputation amongst Manchester’s connoisseurs since it opened earlier this year - and for good reason. The food was superb – with special mention going to the wholegrain-mustard-whipped butter and soft pretzel bread, herb encrusted scallops (although the oysters – Cornish assured, of course - are renowned), fillet steak and truffle carbonara (made the authentic cream-less way) - but it’s the waiting staff that make this gastronomic gem truly shine. With head waiter Tom at the helm, the team are efficient, friendly and expert, happy to sit for a good natter about the menu should you require a little guidance. Following dinner with a pleasant evening
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stroll through the city’s chilly streets, we were soon drawn to the hotel’s cosy Oyster Bar, a chic, decadently-upholstered affair and soon-tobe venue for the hotel’s eagerly anticipated Masquerade Ball on New Year’s Eve (for tickets, which include champagne and a three-course meal, contact the hotel). It’s hard to do justice to the benefits of a really good night’s sleep in a vast, soft bed – but suffice to say, it comes highly recommended. This was followed by the sort of breakfast that you dream about but seldom get to actually eat, with light, fluffy poached eggs and sizzling, thick-cut bacon galore.
‘It’s hard to do justice to the benefits of a really good night’s sleep in a vast, soft bed’ Nippy though it was, we couldn’t resist a coffee out on the hotel’s legendary rooftop garden (set to be transformed into the city’s only Ski Lodge this December), which boasts views right across the city, plus sun loungers, veranda and hot tub. And then, all too soon, it was time to leave. We bid the friendly staff goodbye then set off to explore the city, taking advantage of a perfect winter-blue sky as we passed by Granada Studios (they, and the Coronation Street set, are directly opposite the hotel), then on to the stunning University of Manchester Library and Opera House just around the corner. The city, of course, is spectacular – but, frankly, we’d give it all up for one more perfectly poached egg. Classical Grand suite at the Great John Street Hotel (part of Eclectic Hotels), nightly rates from £180 Great John Street, Manchester (eclectichotels.co.uk)
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South Africa in style 10 night luxury holiday from ÂŁ2399 Includes 4 nights in Cape Town, 3 nights in the Winelands & 3 nights Safari at Shamwari Game Reserve. Flights from Manchester. Price is per person based on 2 sharing for travel 1 May - 15 July 2014. Please mention Cheshire Magazine when booking. Price is subject to availability. Booking conditions apply.
Destinology_South_Africa_Cheshire.indd 1
01625 885 588
www.destinology.co.uk/wilmslow 47 - 49 Alderley Road, Wilmslow, Cheshire, SK9 1NZ
08/11/2013 16:28:46
A destination like no other; South Africa is a diverse land rich in heritage, stunning natural scenery and a fascinating wildlife. Now discover the sophisticated side of this glorious country with Annelouise Speakman Known as the ‘Rainbow Nation’, South Africa is a beautiful, vibrant country that offers an amazing range of experiences. Here are a few of my favourites:
Wildlife & Safari Rolling savannahs with the Big Five roaming free, this is the place to experience a game drive. Nothing beats the thrill of your first glimpse of these majestic animals in their natural habitat. Get up close (although not too close!) to lions, elephants, leopards, rhinos and other amazing animals as they go about their business. Many private game reserves allow guests to get involved with their conservation efforts; for example at Shamwari guests can visit rescued big cats at the Born Free Foundation. As evening falls, dine by outside lantern-light; a romantic experience intensified by the incredible sweep of stars above and the sounds of the bush at night.
Cape Town Consistently ranked amongst the world’s top cities, Cape Town combines natural beauty, cosmopolitan lifestyle and cultural history. Ascend Table Mountain by cable car early in the morning and watch the mists rise over the sprawling city below. Swim with penguins at Boulders Beach and indulge in a spot of retail therapy in the V&A Waterfront’s designer shopping malls.
Eating & Drinking in the Winelands Situated in the rolling Winelands, about an hour north of Cape Town, the pretty Frenchinfluenced town of Franschoek is considered the gourmet capital of South Africa with over 30 wine cellars and a clutch of award-winning restaurants.
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explore…
south africa
The cheshire Magazine | Travel Promotion
The Tasting Room at Le Quartier Francais offers an African-inspired tasting menu where you will hear, see, smell and taste the story of many local ingredients – venison, waterblommetjies, mebos, sour fig, baobab, buchu and more – masterfully plated by the chef and beautifully presented by the charming service staff.
Where to stay Safari needn’t mean roughing it. South Africa’s game reserves offer a variety of luxurious lodges and 5-star tented camps where you’ll truly experience the bush environment, without sacrificing necessary comforts like airconditioning, hot showers, a Cognac before bed and even private plunge pools. The elegantly restored Riverdene Lodge in the malaria-free Shamwari Game Reserve provides a colonial African experience with traditional touches and bright, contemporary rooms. But the big attractions here are the unrivalled activities and opportunities for wildlife viewing including game drives, family safaris and visits to the animal rehabilitation centre. In Cape Town, the stylish One&Only resort brings an unprecedented level of luxury to the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront with stunning views to Table Mountain and the harbour.
When to go There’s always a good time to visit South Africa – May to September is when you’ll see the best of the wildlife, while Cape Town’s warm weather earlier in the year is the perfect antidote to the UK winter. Annelouise Speakman is a luxury travel expert and Director of Destinology in Wilmslow. Destinology offers 10 night luxury South Africa holidays from £2,399, including Emirates flights from Manchester, 4 nights Bed & Breakfast at One&Only Cape Town, 3 nights Bed & Breakfast at Le Quartier Francais in Franschoek and 3 nights at Shamwari Game Reserve Riverdene Lodge with Full Board and game drives. Destinology, 47-49 Alderley Road, Wilmslow, SK9 1NZ (01625 885 588).
my SUITCASE E S S E N T I A L S #1 Hat, £59, Reiss (reissonline.com)
#2 Sunglasses, £290, The Row (matchesfashion.com)
#3 Kelly Printed Leather large Winged Tote, £245, LK Bennett (lkbennett.com)
#4 Dress, £189, Reiss (reissonline.com)
#5 Shoes, £445 Alexander Wang (net-a-porter.com)
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Santas little hamper Those clever people at Selfridges have done it again, revealing yet another year’s worth of fabulous festive hampers teeming with delectable fare. Our favourite this year is the Celebrate & Share Hamper, an extravagant collection of puddings, cakes, ports, French wines, champagnes and classic confectionary – everything you could possibly need. Most hampers include a diverse assortment of goodies, making them the perfect gift for family groups or far-flung friends – although, with the Cheese Hamper, Vintners Hamper and a whole host of other specialties, those with more particular palates are well catered for too. selfridgeshampers.com, Celebrate & Share Hamper, £500 (plus delivery charges)
Food & drink news Tis the season for baggy, thick-knit jumpers and – with bikini season a comfortingly long way off – what better excuse to thoroughly indulge this winter? Words : Amy Williams
Flawless fizz New Year’s Eve just wouldn’t be the same without the triumphant pop of champagne corks and, a firm favourite with those serious about their bubbly, Perrier-Jouët has long been a celebratory staple. Of course, the pre-midnight dash to the fridge to retrieve chilled bottles has never been ideal – and now, thanks to the time-honoured brand’s new InBloom Fresh Box, you’ll never miss a moment of merriment again. The box, created by acclaimed French designer Benjamin Graindorge, is a matte white soft-touch case which keeps champagne chilled for up to two hours and pops open at the touch of a button. Perfectly chilled bubbles at midnight? We’ll drink to that! 118
The cheshire Magazine | Food & Drink
Something new If you find that, thanks to the ever earlier onset of Christmas, you tend to be Mulled Wine-ed out by December 1st these days, fear not. With a whole new range of festive tipples gently trickling into the market of late, Cointreau’s Winter Berry Fizz might just be our favourite – a spicy, warming cocktail blending blackberries, almond syrup, lemon juice, Cointreau and soda water. The tangy, soothing flavours are a winning combination, though it’s the stylish Cointreau Fizz glass – this winter’s must have fashion accessory – which has us thoroughly sold. (Available at selected bars nationwide this Christmas)
Festive feast With the Harvey Nichols Pop-Up Foodmarket making a triumphant return to both Liverpool ONE and the intu Trafford Centre this Christmas, we’ll admit we’re rather excited. Touted as ‘one stop shops’ for all your festive food needs, the pop-ups at both venues have made quite a splash in previous years, and promise to be even bigger and better in 2013. The Liverpool ONE pop-up (Manesty’s Lane, between the Beauty Bazaar and Paradise Place) and intu Trafford Centre pop-up (Regent Crescent Mall, first floor) both stock a range of luxury hampers, gift sets, gourmet treats, deluxe wines and the store’s new own-label range; Riot of Colour, which features a range of gluten, dairy and alcohol-free products. (harveynichols.com)
We ask the questions… This month, we meet French organic wine producer Muriel Lismonde, at her Hale store and cookery school, Le Vin La Table Q: Why organic? A: Our vineyard, Tour de Belfort, lies in a protected regional natural park, so it made sense to preserve the ecosystem by not using any chemicals. Also, by keeping out chemicals and using the minimum amount of sulphates, we don’t get hangovers with our wines! Q: You’ve won many awards, which has been the most exciting? A: The first one, in 2010; the state Gold medal (Concours General de Paris) for our first vintage. It confirmed we were on the right track, despite considerable local resistance! Where our vineyards are situated they have always traditionally grown a dark red grape only; introducing white grapes and growing organic was seen as almost a rebellion! Q: Will 2013 be a good year? A: This has been our most challenging year; a long cold and rainy spring, hail in August and unstable weather during harvest time. Our wines will still be delicious, however we will have only half our usual production since we hand-picked only the best grapes. Q: Where did you get the idea for Le Vin La Table? A: My dream as I live in Cheshire was to have my own shop here, which I opened after meeting gourmet Chef Jason Palin. I’m French, for me food and wine must go together and so joining my passions I opened Le Vin La Table: shop, wine and cooking school. Q: What has Jason brought to the business? A: Chef Jason knows recipes from all around the world, he shares his knowledge in a simple and friendly way, and creates beautiful dishes to pair with our wines. Q: What’s next for Tour de Belfort? A: We wish to extend our hospitality to our French vineyard, with guest houses, experience in the vines, and of course a wine and cooking school there too! Le Vin La Table, 10 Broomfield Lane Hale, Altrincham, Cheshire WA15 9AQ (tour-de-belfort.com)
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Franglais…
naturally
The French at The Midland Hotel was one of Britain’s first Michelin-starred restaurants. It may not have featured in this year’s new release, but with Simon Rogan freshly at the helm, it must surely be firmly on their radar W O R D S : K AT E H O U G H T O N
S
imon Rogan was never supposed to take over at The French, he was originally brought in to this finest of Manchester hotels to launch and run new restaurant Mr Cooper’s House & Garden. However, as talks around how he was going to do this without putting their flagship restaurant out of business, it became increasingly clear that he couldn’t. ‘So,’ says Rogan, ‘they offered me that too.’ It’s said with great nonchalance, but in no way can it have been an easy process. Considerably along with their discussions about Mr Cooper’s, they did a full about-face and decided to re-launch The French first. A full refurbishment to work around, a brand new kitchen team to recruit and train and a fine dining menu to develop is not something even the most prolific chef-restaurateurs undertake too frequently, and here was Rogan agreeing to do two. Nonchalance is a good word for this selfeffacing chef however; he is as lovely and natural as his food, but it’s clear that, like his food – still waters run deep. As well as his flagship restaurant and hotel, l’Enclume in Cartmel, Cumbria, Simon Rogan is probably best known for his singleminded approach to
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his menus: fabulous British ingredients, beautifully cooked. But, as he also makes clear, that’s not to say that there isn’t a lot of hard work behind each item on the plate. ‘The driving force behind every dish we develop [at his R&D facility, Aulis, in Cartmel] is the purity of the ingredients – and the fact that they must all be home-grown and seasonal. Our aim has been to eliminate all foreign grown ingredients; I’d say that this has become an integral element in our success.’ ‘But that’s not to say that there aren’t a lot of very complex, technical processes behind each element too.’ When Rogan first opened L’Enclume, he was aware that a big part of him wanted to step away from all the “Michelin star rigidity” found in many fine dining establishments, and do things his own way. ‘When I opened L’Enclume, overcoming its geographical location was what I thought would be the greatest challenge. Actually, it’s turned out to be its greatest advantage; it’s really the most magical place. I have been able to develop my own style and build a reputation for an approach that really appeals to diners.’ Rogan has 12 acres of farmland in Cartmel, where he farms many of his raw ingredients. Currently less than one acre is given over to agriculture, but this is set to change.
The cheshire Magazine | Food & Drink
Stars in our eyes…
‘Between all the restaurants I’m looking at around 230 covers per day so far’ ‘With these two venues and L’Enclume, plus The Pig & Whistle [Rogan’s pub, also in Cartmel] and Rogan & Co [again, in Cartmel] I need some more space. I’m also opening a new restaurant at Claridges, in Mayfair, so will definitely need more room then. Between all the restaurants I’m looking at around 230 covers per day so far. As well as the fruit and vegetables, we keep chickens (for the eggs) and have a small flock of Herdwick sheep. We have pigs and have just taken delivery of some goats – so soon will be making our own cheese.’ According to Kamila, Maitre d’ at The French, it didn’t take long for word of the end of l’ancien régime and the revolution in the kitchen to spread. Bookings are vibrant, and it’s getting even busier. ‘It’s all going very well,’ says Rogan. ‘People seem to like it.’ More understatement from a man who’s success is anything but understated. (the-french.co.uk)
The French is already an award winning restaurant, with the prestigious three AA Rosettes recently added to by Best Newcomer and Restaurant of the Year from The Manchester Food & Drink Festival Awards. And I have to say, after my recent dining experience these most certainly won’t be the last awards they win. Having dined in Michelin starred restaurants in Europe and the UK, I’m no fine-dining newbie, but the experience delivered by The French was in a class of its own. We chose the six course tasting menu, with wines selected by the Sommelier for each course. The opening gambit, a gone-in-amoment ‘snack’ (no amuse bouches here, thank you, we’re British!) of crispy kale, horseradish, chicken skin and some teeny tiny seeds, set the bar very high… and it only got better. I could list each course, in detail, with the accompanying wine, but simple words just won’t do it justice. I must however comment on one thing – the Ox in Coal Oil. This is a carpaccio of beef, and something I would NEVER have chosen from an à la carte menu. Coal Oil is Simon’s own creation of Rapeseed Oil steeped over hot stones for 24 hours, then used to marinate the Ox meat. It imparts an almost barbequed flavour, but deeply, richly satisfying when applied to the soft, luscious beef. I still probably won’t ever order carpaccio for myself – but only because Simon has spoiled me for it forever. Finally, a quick word about service. Astonishingly good. Hordes of black clad staff are constantly in motion, bringing dishes, serving wine, reassuring themselves that guests are wholly cared for. The Maitre d’ serves at each table too, and the Sommelier introduces each new wine himself, and is very happy to be put through a considerable Q&A about each. Simon did say that having the right team in each restaurant was the guarantee of success, and he’s most certainly got it right.
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Wine Is Money We’re constantly being reassured that the economy is on the up, yet regular stock market fluctuations (not to mention jumpy traders) don’t give us normal mortals much confidence that this is indeed the case W ords : K ate H oughton
W
hile previously solid as a rock investment portfolios still stand on shaky ground, those seeking a return on investment greater than they might find through traditional channels are seeking new opportunities. Art, wine, gold… all these are now being seen as potential money-makers, if we believe the hype. Grayson Perry summed it up rather beautifully in one of his recent Reith Lectures, where he announced that: ‘Banks now recognise the solid asset group that art is – they even have a space put aside in their vaults – Silver Wine Art and Gold – SWAG’. Cynicsim aside however, the canny investor is most certainly looking tangentially for new opportunities, and the greatest joy of wine must surely be that if the price doesn’t rise as hoped, you can drink it. WineOwners.com launched in June 2013 as a platform to allow serious collectors, and traders, of the world’s greatest vintages to “play the wine stock market”. With just a few clicks you can upload and track the value of your own cellars, access scores, reviews, optimal drinking dates and add your own tasting notes. It then allows you to make informed decisions as to when to buy or sell, if and when you want to make a profit. There are also charts to map price history so you can see performance over time and judge if a wine’s value is likely to hold or appreciate. Owner of WineOwners.com, Nick Martin, says: ‘We launched Wine Owners because there was simply nothing else like it in the marketplace; previously collectors and traders pretty much had to
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manage their own portfolio via a spreadsheet or similar, and do all their own research into trading, buying and selling, etc. Incredibly time-consuming for people already likely to be working very hard.’ ‘In the four months since launch, members have used the platform to manage and analyse £35,000,000 of wine and are adding £8,000,000 each month. We expect to be serving the needs of 15,000 members by this time next year.’ ‘The fine wine market, the end that is focused around trading, is worth around £800,000,000 in the UK alone, part of a global market worth £3bn+. As you’d expect, China became an increasingly important market from the mid 2000s onwards, though traders initially focused on a narrow band of wine “brands”.’ ‘It wasn’t the good news for the wine trade you’d think it might be however; the immensely wealthy elite started buying in the big names in the 2000s - first growth Bordeaux in particular driving prices inexorably higher and culminating in an investment bubble. Speculation overtook the interests of an orderly market, with brokers betting on which wines would become the next recognised brands in the Chinese market. In the summer of 2011 the bubble dutifully burst, and the price of first growth purchases and pumped-up brands deflated.’ Clearly trading in wines can be just as risky as stocks and shares, with those simply “in it for the money” creating the same problems for less avaristic traders. Cheshire resident Euan McAlpine was one of the first to join Wine Owners, and loves the ease that it brings to the management of his extensive wine collection, although
right: DETAIL OF A White Spiral Cellar with leather treads
The cheshire Magazine | Feature
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Feature | The cheshire Magazine
when he first started collecting, it was with no intention of entering the buy and sell market. ‘I actually started off seeing wine purely as something to drink. I always say that my downfall came while I was a student, and I worked one Christmas for a wine merchant. I quickly developed a taste for the good stuff, and that was the start of a life-long passion. I started buying seriously around 30 years ago, not long after I graduated. My first bottle was a 1982 burgundy, delicious!’ ‘I tend to stick to what I know – and like. I don’t take it too seriously, there’s too much room for disappointment. I look at it as a way to subsidise my drinking.’ ‘I usually buy vintages from four different wineries in one area. If one has announced they’ve got a great vintage, it’s likely the others have too. Most usually track one another, but
‘Investing in great wine is pointless if you’ve spoiled it by careless handling or storage’ sometimes a particular label will leap skyward, usually as a result of a critic making a pronouncement that’s leapt upon by wine buffs. I will sell those ones, and then the others – they’re usually very similar so you know you’re going to thoroughly enjoy yourself!’ ‘I also don’t tend to hang on to wines for very long. I like to drink them before they’ve aged too far for my own personal taste. There’s nothing in my collection I wouldn’t open for myself, but some of them are rather valuable and need to be approached with caution, shall we say?’ Euan prefers to keep his wines in bond now, rather than have them shipped to the UK. This way, he says, there is a guaranteed provenance, something of significant value in the wine trade, just as with antiques or art. ‘Buyers like to be very sure that what they are getting is not only what you say it is, but that it’s been kept in the perfect environment right up
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until the point when they want to open it. The same goes for me, investing in great wine is pointless if you’ve spoiled it by careless handling or storage.’ This isn’t the case for a different sector of the wine-loving population however, who most certainly want their wines exactly where they can see them. Part investment, part somewhere to impress the dinner guests (though probably more of the latter), dedicated wine space is steadily becoming an enviable addition to the finest homes. Whether it’s a temperature controlled bespoke cabinet, a sexy cellar sunk into the dining room floor or the majestic conversion of an existing room into a dedicated place of wine worship, these domestic temples to Bordeaux, Burgundy and beyond are seriously on trend. Delivering unmistakable wow factor is very much at the heart of the success of Spiral Cellars, whose delightful, cylindrical wine rooms can be dropped into almost any hole you ask them to dig. When Lucy Hargreaves, her husband and a third partner took over the 25-year-old company ten years ago, they were quick to introduce a chic new range of trapdoors, including a glass one. This window to their underground worlds of wine was an instant hit, and helped the company find a trend-setting new audience. No longer were wine cellars just for oenologists; they were for people who rather liked the idea of showing off a little, too. A decade ago, Spiral Cellars customers were almost exclusively wine buffs. Now, Lucy says, buyers often ‘don’t have a clue about wine,’ but they do want an eye-catching feature for their home. The wine knowledge comes later, often with the help of experts who can steer them towards a top-notch selection. And that’s half the fun. You don’t need to know a Saint Émilion from a Médoc to enjoy a custom-built wine space… you simply need the perfect place to put it. Hmmm… a custom-built wine cellar filled with all my favourites from around the world. I’ll raise a glass to that! (wineowners.com; spiralcellars.com)
Coffee table Even the most extravagantly designed interior so often looks unfinished without those all-important finishing touches. Gemma Knight seeks out the ideal coffee table books, guaranteed to add a touch of style, colour and culture to your pristine pad
Louis Vuitton: The Birth of Modern Luxury (Updated Edition) by Paul-Gerard Pasols and Pierre Leonforte Since its publication in 2004, Louis Vuitton: The Birth of Modern Luxury has been a staple in collections of fashionistas the world over, with a dazzling array of archival art, product designs and cuttingedge advertising displayed across its glossy pages. The updated edition features new information on designs for ready-to-wear clothing, shoes, jewellery and cars, plus a selection of new photographs chronicling the story of the company’s three leaders; founder Louis Vuitton, his son Georges and grandson Gaston. Published by Abrams, available at louisvuitton.co.uk, £125
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The Impossible Collection (Ultimate Edition) by Philippe Ségalot and Franck Giraud Owning the stunning artwork contained within the pages of this coffee table gem is, as the title suggests, an impossible dream for most. It’s lucky then that eager art buffs can now own all of them (sort of) without ever having to worry about insuring a painting or dusting a sculpture. Offering a unique perspective on contemporary art, the limited edition is colour-tipped by hand on art-quality paper, with each page carrying the unique imprint of the artist. Published by Assouline, available at assouline.com, $695
Herb Ritts: The Golden Hour by Charles Churchward Filled with candid interviews from his closest friends, The Golden Hour is understandably popular amongst devotees of the legendary photographer, a man who was – at the time of his death in 2002 – arguably the most celebrated figure in the field of celebrity portraiture, fashion, and music video. Nevertheless, with a host of neverbefore-seen images and behind-thescenes shots from personal archives, this collection of stunning photography is a work of art in its own right, whether you’re a fan or not. Published by Rizzoli New York, available at rizzoliusa.com, $65
The cheshire Magazine | Feature
touches Arabian Horses by Judith E. Forbis Known for their iconic beauty and synonymous with ancient, cultural mystery, the horses of the Arab world were long due a literary accolade. Featuring page after page of striking equestrian photography, not to mention a thorough exploration of the Arabian horse’s fascinating heritage, this is one for art connoisseurs and animal lovers alike. Published by Assouline, available at assouline.com, $695
Paris Between the Wars, 1919-1939: Art, Life & Culture by Vincent Bouvet and Gérard Durozoi Originally published in French, those who like to stare dreamily at images of the City of Love will enjoy this every bit as much as the archetypal Francophile or history buff. Charting the influx of artists and intellectuals in the years following the First World War, the book explores the results of the cultural melting pot which developed as a result, underlining the point with a stunning collection of drawings, paintings, period photos, adverts and film stills. Published by Vendome Press, available at amazon.co.uk, £30
Barbie (Ultimate Edition) by Yona Zeldis Mcdonough Celebrating the 50th anniversary of the world’s most popular doll (a fact rather than an opinion), this vibrant volume is a must have no matter what your age. Chronicling the fascinating evolution of Barbie’s fashion statements and various reincarnations throughout her history, the book is filled with colourful tableaus of the lady herself, as well as portraits of vintage dolls and accessories. If you’ve ever owned a Barbie, this one is a must. Published by Assouline, available at assouline.com, $695
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“A good friend is a connection to life, a tie to the past and a road to the future” Lois Wyse
2014 ENTRANCE EXAMINATIONS For Year 7 entry:
Monday 13th January 2014
For Years 3-6 entry:
Saturday 18th January 2014
To arrange a tour of the School please call 0161 224 1077
Find out more by calling 0161 224 1077 Wellington Road, Fallowfield, Manchester M14 6BL
wgs497_entrance-2013-g_297x210_v1-final.indd 1
Meanstested bursaries available from Year 7
wgs.org 12/11/2013 09:11
The cheshire Magazine | Family
Kids’ news We all seek to surround our little ones with love and luxury at Christmas... here are some ideas for doing it in style Mini-me’s Continuing the trend for mother-and-daughter lines, the popular Somerset range by Alice Temperley at John Lewis has launched its first collection of girlswear this autumn, featuring cosy knit jumpers, party dresses, blouses and printed skirts. Many items echo the adult range, such as the black cropped military jacket with gold buttons, and the acorn, feather and songbird designs that are prominent on a number of the pieces. Designed for girls aged four to 12, the line is stylish yet functional with its attention to detail, design and quality in keeping with the signature Temperley style. Somerset collection, Alice Temperley Available at johnlewis.com
Animal planet Mini Rodini, the childrenswear brand popular amongst celebrity kids, has just launched an exciting interiors collection, with all products made from 100 per cent organic and non-toxic materials. The stylish new range includes an assortment of brightly coloured bed linens and blankets with fun ecofriendly animal themed designs. The sets, available in different sizes, are perfect for sprucing up yours or your child’s bedroom this winter. (minirodini.com)
Bear hug For a gift with a real feel-good factor this Christmas, take a look at the beautiful Taunina bear and bunny range, available online and at Selfridges. Made from luxury and iconic fabrics, including Liberty of London and Sanderson, the toys are hand-crafted in Taunina’s Cape Town studio by skilled women who have escaped hardship in countries such as Zimbabwe and the Democratic Republic of Congo. A large percentage of the sales (30 per cent) go directly to the makers, helping to give them income security. Each bear and bunny comes with its own authenticity passport, which includes an individual Taunina identification number and the name of the artist and seamstress, making them completely unique and special. (taunina.com)
Happy feet Handmade in Sweden using traditional craftsmanship that has been making moccasins since 1950, Moccis are the latest celebrity craze to hit the UK. Machine washable and with non-slip leather soles, these slippers are incredibly practical and oh so comfortable. Available in over 30 playful designs and with sizes to fit babies, children and adults, these are winter fun for the whole family. (moccis.co.uk)
Call of the Highlands Scottish flair is a key theme in the Gucci A/W13 womenswear and menswear collections, and childrenswear has jumped onboard too. We love Gucci’s A/W collection for boys, heavily inspired by our northern neighbours; think checked tartan prints in shades of navy blue, khaki, bordeaux and green, along with yam-dyed flannel shirts, shearling parkas and skinny or loose-tapered pants. With St Andrew’s Day falling on 30 November, why not get your wee bairns kitted out in highland fashion? You can almost hear those bagpipes… (gucci.com)
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Family | The cheshire Magazine
Linley toy chest in oak and sycamore, £4,950 (davidlinley.com)
Classic Satchel, £109 The Cambridge Satchel Company (harrods.com)
Blue and white striped pyjamas, £315 (dolcegabbana.com)
Alice in Wonderland decorative theatre £1,000, Benjamin Pollock (quintessentiallygifts.com)
It’s a wrap From popcorn makers to giant elephant rockers, children’s presents have taken on a life of their own this Christmas
Baby cashmere knit vintage coat, £98 Brora, (brora.co.uk)
The Red Fairy Book by Andrew Lang £44.95 (foliosociety.com) Wool and cashmere blend mittens, £49 (mariechantal.co.uk)
Elephant rocker £75,000 Asprey (asprey.com)
Rainbow collectable Paddington bear, £35 (alexandalexa.com) 130
Retro Series popcorn maker, £64.95, Nostalgia Electrics (selfridges.com)
el g v in le m A or & rf SE pe C p G To l at o ho sc
The King’s School in Macclesfield
Outstanding education from 3 to 18 years
Senior Entrance Examinations Friday 17 January
Life At King’s* Saturday 11 January
Infant & Junior Taster Afternoon* Thursday 13 February, 1- 3pm
Infant & Junior Open Afternoon Friday 25 April, 1- 3pm *booking required • Exceptional results at infant and junior stages • Outstanding GCSE results with 60% A*/A grades
• More than 70 extra-curricular activities • One of England’s leading music schools • New sports facilities
Charity No. 1137204
• A Level results far above independent schools’ average
Please contact Admissions on 01625 260000 or email admissions@kingsmac.co.uk
Family | The cheshire Magazine
Christmas is coming, and with it Nativity plays, sweetly sung carols and school fairs. Before we come over all festive though, let’s take a look at some of Autumn’s educational highlights w o r d s : k at e h o u g h t o n
Dragon-tastic inspiration Budding young writers at Hulme Hall Grammar School let their imaginations run wild with magical creatures and brave heroes as they met celebrated children’s author Cressida Cowell. The writer of the internationally successful How to Train Your Dragon series of children’s books swooped into the Hulme Hall Road based leading independent school to inspire children from schools across the county, as part of Simply Books’ author event series. Hulme Hall Grammar School pupil Millie Houldsworth, 10, a keen reader from Cheadle Hulme, was amongst the youngsters thrilled and inspired to meet Cressida and couldn’t believe her luck when she signed her copy of her latest bestseller, the fantasy adventure How to Betray a Dragon’s Hero, the penultimate book in the Hiccup series. Hulme Hall Grammar School Head Teacher Rachael Allen commented: ‘We were delighted to welcome Cressida to the school as her wonderful work is very popular with the children.’ (hulmehallschool.org)
Awe and wonder Pupils, parents and guests recently celebrated Withington Girls’ School’s Founders Day at the Bridgewater Hall, with this year’s theme being Awe and Wonder. Withington’s results placed the school very highly in the national league tables, ranking 4th in the Daily Telegraph’s rankings and top outside London for GCSEs this year. Headmistress Sue Marks said: ‘The primary significance of our girls’ exceptional results lies not in league tables but in the doors they open for further study at the most selective universities and colleges in the country and ultimately the access they provide into the girls’ chosen career,’ she said. But, she added, there is also a wealth of human experience which goes beyond academic performance. Year 7 pupil Elena McLean, who lives in Bowdon, agrees that the school provides a rounded education. ‘Every day is different and exciting,’ she says. Hoping eventually to study medicine Elena, who joined Withington in the Junior school, is a member of the Junior Science Society, enjoys music and has also played in the school’s netball, hockey and lacrosse teams. Out of school, she is a member of Knutsford Junior Netball Club and is hoping to play for Cheshire. ‘At Withington you are allowed to be yourself. The school is small so it makes it feel very homely. You quickly learn your way around and make new friends. You look forward to going back to school after the holidays!’ (withington.manchester.sch.uk)
Bigger than Bill An 11-year-old boy from Cheshire has scored the highest mark possible in a Mensa IQ test, making him one of the youngest people ever to do so – and a certified genius! Harrison Kaye, a pupil at The Manchester Grammar School, scored 162 in the adult IQ test, making him smarter than Bill Gates, Stephen Hawking and even Albert Einstein who all only managed 160. Harrison, who lives in Knutsford, said he decided to do the test after trying the online version and getting a very high score. ‘I wasn’t very nervous because I was just doing it for a bit of fun,’ he said. ‘I had to guess one or two when the time ran out.’ Harrison’s mother, Hayley, described him as being very talented with computers. She said: ‘We’ve always known he was very bright but we didn’t think for a minute that he would get into Mensa.’ High Master of The Manchester Grammar School, Dr Martin Boulton, said: ‘I was delighted to hear this news and want to offer my congratulations to Harrison on this remarkable achievement.’ (mgs.org)
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below: Image by kind permission of The Times and photographer, Henry Nicholls
The classroom
Property | The cheshire Magazine
Local estate agents ON THE MARKET
Prestbury, £2,795,000 Contact Michael Chapman: 01625 584 379
Prestbury, £1,895,000 Contact Savills: 01625 417453
Hibbert Homes
Michael Chapman
187 Ashley Road, Hale Altrincham WA15 9SQ 0161 929 6922 info@hibberthomes.com hibberthomes.com
79A London Road Alderley Edge SK9 7DY 01625 584 379 hello@michaeljchapman.co.uk michaeljchapman.co.uk
Chester 22 Lower Bridge Street Chester CH1 1RS 01244 323 232 chester@savills.com savills.co.uk
Sotheby’s
Jackson-Stops & Staff Wilmslow 8 Water Lane, Wilmslow SK9 5AA 01625 540 340 wilmslow@jackson-stops.co.uk jackson-stops.co.uk 134
Savills Wilmslow 6 Water Lane Wilmslow SK9 5AA 01625 417 450 wilmslow@savills.com savills.co.uk
Stratford-upon-Avon 4-5 Union Street Stratford-upon-Avon CV37 6QT 01789 273 109 sothebysrealty.co.uk
showcasing the
finest HOMES & PROPERTY from the best estate agents
Exclusive PROPERTIES Insider knowledge and market tips on sourcing the ultimate home
Sandalwood Farm in Nether Alderley. For more details please contact Jackson-Stops & Staff on 01625 540 340 (jackson-stops.co.uk)
Property | The cheshire Magazine
State of the market Mark Holden, Residential Director at Savills Wilmslow, explains why sensible pricing is the key to accessing buyers in the current Cheshire market
T
he local housing market continues to be rather unpredictable, with strong activity in the towns and villages yet less movement in the countryside. Close proximity to services remains a strong motivator for many buyers, especially those who commute to London via Wilmslow or Macclesfield. As a result there is some good value around for buyers in the countryside, especially those areas within a reasonable commute to the South Manchester commercial centres and the M6 or M60. Quality of schools, both state and private, remains foremost in young families’ minds when it comes to location. Buyers often ask us whether there is a school bus service nearby or what the morning traffic is like for the school run. We have had a number of buyers returning to the North West from London with children at school age, who generally have a local family connection. Certainly schooling and child-care in London can be very expensive and the quality of education in our region is very appealing. House price rises in London, even for quite modest properties, enables these buyers to substantially upgrade whilst allowing, in many cases, one partner to give up full time work. Expatriate buyers are also re-emerging in our area, perhaps sensing that the market is unlikely to soften further. They are “laying down” property for the end of contracts or retirement, which they may let out in the intervening period. These buyers often have a good level of equity and are not faced with the funding dilemmas that many of our local buyers have experienced. It is too early to say whether the Government’s Help to Buy scheme will make a huge impact, limited as it is to £600,000 transactions. However we do hope this will release buyers above this price level who may have lost equity in their present home during the last five years. Availability of mortgage funding continues to create issues. Loans are readily available at
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competitive rates for good fixed terms for the lower percentage loan to value purchases, but they remain relatively costly for those requiring 80% or above. All these factors point to another housing bubble being a long way off in the North West, yet sensibly priced houses at any level continue to sell well in both the town or country markets here. The old adage of “you get out what you put in” has rarely been truer. Sensible advice on pricing, experienced staff and prominently located offices all increase the odds of achieving the best price in any given market conditions. Savills research is predicting a total market increase of 19.3% for the North West over the next five years - against a UK average of 25.2 % and 24.4% in London. Transaction levels are expected to rise by 27% over the same period, although this will leave them 24% below what is considered a fully functioning market. The seasonal aspect of the market seems to have disappeared in recent years with buyers appearing when rental terms end or sales are agreed on their own properties. This could of course happen at any time and the traditional spring and autumn market periods no longer have the surge in activity they used to. Many agents reported a slow and late spring followed by very brisk August market this year, historically a particularly quiet time in Cheshire. Could this in turn have generated a strong late autumn and winter market for 2013?
Savills Wilmslow 6 Water Lane Wilmslow SK9 5AA
Savills Chester 22 Lower Bridge Street Chester CH1 1RS
01625 417450
01244 32 32 32
wilmslow@savills.com
chester@savills.com
savills.co.uk
IMPRESSIVE ARTS & CRAFTS STYLE HOME IN THE VILLAGE alderley edge, beechfield road A stroll away from the village with gated access on a private road ø 3 reception rooms plus study & large living room conservatory ø 5 bedrooms 4 bathrooms ø superb breakfast kitchen with Aga ø triple garage, private landscaped gardens ø EPC = D Guide £1.795 million
Buying or selling this autumn? Talk to Savills.
Contact: Mark Holden mholden@savills.com 01625 417454
Savills Wilmslow 6 Water Lane Wilmslow SK9 5AA
Savills Chester 22 Lower Bridge Street Chester CH1 1RS
01625 417450
01244 32 32 32
wilmslow@savills.com
chester@savills.com
savills.co.uk
BEAUTIFULLY PRESENTED FAMILY HOME WITH TRIPLE GARAGE prestbury, heybridge lane Spacious, well planned contemporary home ø 3 reception rooms, 4 double bedrooms, 4 bathrooms ø superb kitchen sitting & dining room ø study, conservatory, lawned gardens to about 1/3 acre ø triple garage and large parking area. EPC = D Guide £1.25 million
Savills only concentrates on one type of house. Yours. If it's time to sell, talk to Savills.
Savills Wilmslow 6 Water Lane Wilmslow SK9 5AA
Savills Chester 22 Lower Bridge Street Chester CH1 1RS
01625 417450
01244 32 32 32
wilmslow@savills.com
chester@savills.com
savills.co.uk
GRADE II LISTED FARMHOUSE IN OVER 3 ACRES prestbury, bridge end lane Landmark Grade II listed farmhouse ø 4 receptions 4 bedrooms 2 bathrooms ø in the heart of Prestbury village ø fabulous gardens and paddock about 3 acres ø garaging, stables, garden room Guide £1.895 million
Savills - winner of the 2013 'UK Sales Agency of the Year' award.
Contact: Jean Pilkington jpilkington@savills.com 01625 417453
Savills Chester 22 Lower Bridge Street Chester CH1 1RS
Savills Wilmslow 6 Water Lane Wilmslow SK9 5AA
01244 32 32 32
01625 417450
chester@savills.com
wilmslow@savills.com
savills.co.uk
BESPOKE FAMILY HOUSE IN A PRIVATE SETTING twemlow green, macclesfield road Spacious family residence in a fantastic elevated & private setting ø views over the Dane Valley to the South ø 5 receptions 5 bedrooms 2 bathrooms ø large double garage & workshop ø impressive landscaped gardens to 1.7 acres ø EPC=F Guide £995,000
Contact: Jean Pilkington jpilkington@savills.com 01625 417453
For insight into your local property market visit 'IN NUMBERS' at savills.co.uk/in-numbers
SA7
Christmas. It’s the little details that make a big difference. Just like when it comes to property.
Savills Chester 22 Lower Bridge Street Chester CH1 1RS 01244 323232 chester@savills.com
Savills Wilmslow 6 Water Lane Wilmslow Sk9 5AA 01625 417450 wilmslow@savills.com
savills.co.uk
SA71887 The Cheshire Magazine Xmas WPB.indd 1
05/11/2013 14:55
HOT PROPERTY
The Coach House, Swythamley Hall
Savills: For further enquiries contact Jean Pilkington (jpilkington@savills.com; 01625 417454)
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The cheshire Magazine | Property
W
e don’t like to bandy around the expression ‘a property that has it all’, but when it comes to The Coach House, it’s difficult to argue otherwise. An unmistakably unique home, it was originally the coach house and stables to Swythamley Hall before being thoughtfully converted in the 1990s then meticulously and tastefully refurbished by the current residents. Now a substantial house of considerable stature and Grade II listed, The Coach House has fine architecture, endless character and beautifully mellow stone elevations. The four wings of the house surround a square cobbled courtyard which is home to an exquisite fountain, with the principal rooms looking inwards with large bespoke arched windows and French doors providing plenty of natural light and creating a Roman villa feel. The interior accommodation extends to about 8,300 sq ft and strikes a fine balance between formal rooms and comfortable family living space. The flow of rooms works exceptionally well and there are charming and unique features at every turn, particularly when it comes to the oak joinery evident in the panelled doors, bookcases, windows, deep skirtings, architraves and magnificent principal staircase. And as if that wasn’t enough, the property even boasts a wine cellar, tennis courts and helipad. What more could you ask? The Coach House, Swythamley Hall Estate, Swythamley, Macclesfield, Cheshire. Guide price £1.795 million
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01625 584 379
79A London Road, Alderley Edge, SK9 7DY
Heybridge Lane, Prestbury
Guide Price ÂŁ2,795,000
An outstanding residence with magnificent interior with high quality fittings, located on the favoured south side of one of the villages highly regarded roads. This substantial house extends to approximately 8,000 square feet. The property stands on an elevated position in grounds with over 2 acres. Planning permission has been granted for a games room, indoor swimming pool and an annex over the garage. EPC Rating: D
Sand Lane, Nether Alderley
Guide Price ÂŁ1,595,000
A Four bedroom contemporary detached family home with carefully designed accommodation to maximize modern living requirements. The high tech environment and easy to use components include a Lutron lighting system, integrated sound system to principle rooms and fabulous living kitchen with Aga. The rear garden is a good size a provides a gym and spa area. EPC Rating: C
Residential Sales | Lettings | Property management
01625 584 379
79A London Road, Alderley Edge, SK9 7DY
Battery Lane, Wilmslow
Guide Price £1,375,000
A magnificent five bedrooms, five bathroom Arts and Crafts style family home built in style of ‘Voysey’, with open plan family living to the ground floor with a separate contemporary two bedroom annex. The property stands in approximately 4.8 acres with a triple garage and a gravelled driveway providing ample parking and turning space. EPC Rating: D
Chorley Hall Lane, Alderley Edge
Guide Price £1,350,000
An impressive and individually designed detached five bedroom family house refurbished and extended by our clients to the highest of standards with quality fittings throughout. The property offers well balanced family accommodation and a large mature garden to the rear, situated within a short walk of the village centre and local schools. EPC Rating: E
www.michaeljchapman.co.uk
01625 584 379
79A London Road, Alderley Edge, SK9 7DY
Hocker Lane, Nether Alderley
Guide Price ÂŁ925,000
A charming detached three bedroom country cottage with two reception rooms and a kitchen/breakfast room set in 2.5 acres of paddocks and woodland planted with specimen trees with extensive views across the Cheshire countryside towards the Welsh hills. EPC Rating:D
Marsh Lane, Holmes Chape
Guide Price ÂŁ899,950
A charming refurbished and extended Five bedroom, Five reception room detached country house set in grounds of approximately 1 acre or thereabouts with detached double garage and a swimming pool affording delightful open views over the surrounding countryside. EPC Rating: D
Residential Sales | Lettings | Property management
01625 584 379
79A London Road, Alderley Edge, SK9 7DY
Holmlee Way, Prestbury
Guide Price £895,000
A spacious five bedroom 3 bathroom detached family house with 3 reception rooms and open plan kitchen/breakfast and living room forming part of this a small select development, fronting onto Withinlee Road with views over the countryside to the front. EPC Rating: E
Birtles Lane, Over Alderley
Guide Price £795,000
An individual designed two bedroom detached bungalow occupying a magnificent rural position set behind electric gates and standing in just over ½ an acre of gardens and grounds. The property can either be lived in as it currently stands or it would suitable for re development, subject to the necessary consents. EPC Rating: D
www.michaeljchapman.co.uk
01625 584 379
79A London Road, Alderley Edge, SK9 7DY
Welsh Row, Nether Alderley
Guide Price ÂŁ600,000
A luxuriously appointed 3 bedroom mews barn conversion combining the old with the new. Upgraded by the present owners this contemporary property offers excellent accommodation thoughtfully planned to enjoy the open views across the countryside and has been designed to maximise natural light and the buildings original character whilst combing modern and stylish fixtures and fittings. EPC Rating: E
Adlington Road, Wilmslow
Offers in excess of ÂŁ650,000
An impressive and individually designed four bedroom, two bathroom detached family home with three reception rooms and a kitchen/ breakfast room. set behind electric gates with large southerly facing gardens in this popular Wilmslow location that offers the potential to extend subject to the necessary consents. EPC Rating: D
Residential Sales | Lettings | Property management
01625 584 379
79A London Road, Alderley Edge, SK9 7DY
Downes Close, Off Prestbury Road, Macclesfield
Guide Price £650,000
A beautifully refurbished four bedroom 3 bathroom detached family home enjoying large mature gardens and heated swimming pool. Set in a quiet location behind electric gates. The property offers 3 reception rooms, large live in kitchen and a utility room to the ground floor and externally there is parking for several cars and a double garage. The grounds extend to approximately 0.3 of an acre. EPC Rating: D
St Hilary’s Park, Alderley Edge
Guide Price £435,000
A stunning and beautifully appointed spacious 3 bedroom 2 bathroom ground floor apartment offering superb accommodation with outside terrace in this secure gated development with two allocated parking spaces. EPC Rating: C
www.michaeljchapman.co.uk
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Park Road, Hale Asking Price: ÂŁ1,845,000
A magnificent example of a 6/7 bedroomed Victorian period family detached residence of outstanding quality. Measuring 5,270 sq ft and sitting on a large plot of over 0.48 of an acre. EPC E
187 Ashley Road Hale | Altrincham | WA15 9SQ 187 Ashley Road Hale | Altrincham | WA15 9SQ t 0161 929 6922 te0161 929 6922 info@hibberthomes.com e info@hibberthomes.com HH Vebra Press Ad NEW.indd 1 HH Vebra Press Ad NEW.indd 1
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Park Avenue, Hale Price: £1,500,000 87 Ashley RoadAsking Hale | Altrincham | WA15 9SQ
0161 929 6922 info@hibberthomes.com
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y Road Hale | Altrincham | WA15 9SQ 9 6922 bberthomes.com
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An impressive five bedroom, three bathroom detached house located on one of hale’s most desirable roads. Drawing room, lounge, dining room, breakfast kitchen. Five large bedrooms with an en-suite to the master bedroom and a ‘Jack and Jill’ ensuite to bedroom two and four. Large gardens, electric gate. EPC D
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South Downs Road, Bowdon Asking Price: ÂŁ799,950
A beautifully remodelled and extended, semi detached property on a 0.25 acre plot in a desirable part of Hale. Comprising a lounge, open plan live-in, dining room and kitchen. Four double bedrooms, two with en-suite shower rooms and a family bathroom. Detached double garage and an extremely large rear garden. EPC F
187 Ashley Road Hale | Altrincham | WA15 9SQ 187 Ashley Road Hale | Altrincham | WA15 9SQ t 0161 929 6922 te0161 929 6922 info@hibberthomes.com e info@hibberthomes.com HH Vebra Press Ad NEW.indd 1 HH Vebra Press Ad NEW.indd 1
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The Springs, Bowdon Price: ÂŁ625,000 87 Ashley RoadAsking Hale | Altrincham | WA15 9SQ
0161 929 6922 info@hibberthomes.com
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A spacious modern townhouse arranged over four floors, with a secure gated entrance, two private parking spaces and additional visitors parking. Originally built by Williams Tarr and provides well appointed flexible accommodation throughout. EPC E
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