The Cheshire Magazine January 2015 by Runwild Media Group

Taking inspiration from ancient classical elements - Earth, Water, Air and Fire - with a subtle sprinkling of British cool has led My-Perfect-T to the creation of beautiful, contemporary, unique and versatile prints. Precision cut silhouettes made out of specially sourced silks and ethical cotton projects create simple and flattering pieces, whilst allowing the inimitable prints to flourish and be the main focus of the design.

E: enquiries@my-perfect-t.com T: +44 (0)203 402 5109

my-perfect-t.com

C O L L E C T I O N S TA R T I N G F R O M ÂŁ 1 , 9 5 0

The Cheshire Magazine Dec DPS.indd 2-3

B E LV E D E R E S E T £ 2 , 1 7 5

1 2 / 1 4 S T A N N S T R E E T, M A N C H E S T E R M 2 7 L F, T E L 0 1 6 1 8 3 2 2 5 5 1 3 2 E A S TG AT E R O W S O U T H , C H E S T E R C H 1 1 L F, T E L 0 1 2 4 4 3 2 5 9 3 8 MAPPINANDWEBB.COM

14/11/2014 15:46

30244-71-manchester A3 DPS.indd 1

Dramatic, yet graceful. Effortlessly simple, with cutting-edge technology. Ghost Series II forges a silent path of serenity through an ever-changing world. No ordinary power. Experience it for yourself.

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Manchester Manchester Road, Knutsford, Cheshire WA16 0ST Tel: +44 (0) 1565 700 000 www.rolls-roycemotorcars-manchester.co.uk Official range fuel economy figures for the Rolls-Royce Ghost Series II: Urban 13.2-13.3mpg (21.4-21.2l/100km). Extra Urban 28.8mpg (9.8l/100km). Combined 20.0-20.2mpg (14.1-14l/100km). CO2 emissions 329-327g/km. Figures may vary depending on driving style and conditions. ÂŠ Copyright Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Limited 2014. The Rolls-Royce name and logo are registered trademarks.

31/10/2014 11:47

Regulars | The CHESHIRE Magazine

From the

Editor

EDITOR’S PICKs #1 Wizard of the Secret Garden Collection clutch, £3,200, (Ethan K at Harrods)

#2 NoTox, £95, The Fabulous You Company (fabulousyoucompany.co.uk)

3 #3 MyFitnessPal calorie counter App, £Free

s a brand new year peeks its head around the corner, what better way to end the year than with some reflection, celebration and planning. Felicity Green, Fleet Street legend and one of the most powerful women in fashion in the swinging sixties and beyond, reflects on a life full of fun, frills and famous faces (page 74). And Jonathan Slater, equally legendary, but of the hotel industry, tells us of his journey at the illustrious Chester Grosvenor on the eve of his sixtieth birthday (page 28) and gives us a glimpse of what the future may hold. Celebrate in style with ball gowns fit for a queen (page 66), canapés to delight the tastebuds (page 36) and pampering to the max (page 84). What’s more, delve into our round-up of the very latest cosmetic treatments and beautifying lotions and potions tipped to top the 2015 beauty chart (page 91). And if you’re in planning mode or if you’re just looking for inspiration we have some hints and tips on how to make 2015 your year; from getting fit to writing a book (page 42); from buying a new car (Richard Yarrow falls for the Overfinch on page 96) to booking a holiday and getting away from it all (we particularly like the sound of Elle Blakeman’s Seychelles retreat on page 106); and from investing in a beautiful home away from home (page 177) to redecorating your current home (page 123). From all the team at The Cheshire Magazine we wish you a happy and healthy new year.

What do you think?

Louisa Louisa Castle Editor

Taking the New Year, new you theme to heart, we’d love to hear from you. What are you up to? What would you like to see more of?

Proud to support: Variety – The Children’s Charity The Pink Ribbon Ball, Manchester & Breast Cancer Campaign

info@thecheshiremagazine.com @TheCheshireMag 020 7987 4320

Lilou et Lo誰c L O N D O N

S I Z E D O E S M AT T E R . . .

3kg Scented Candle From The Emperor Collection

www.lilouetloic.com

Manchester: St Anns Square, M2 7JB T: 0161 834 0217 Altrincham: 14 Railway Street, WA14 2RE T: 0161 928 7487 Liverpool: 4-6 South John St, L1 8BJ T: 0151 708 1140 www.davidmrobinson.co.uk

DMR3302_Cheshire Magazine.indd 1

04/07/2014 15:19

032

074

082

Contents

January 2015

052

028

Features

collection

travel

028 | In the summer of ‘83 Managing director Jonathan Slater on The Chester Grosvenor’s 150th anniversary 032 | Taste as you eat We get up close and personal with the godfather of Italian cooking Antonio Carluccio 036 | Celebrate with canapés Rupert Frazer Worden shares scene-stealing canapé recipes 038 | The new year detox Legendary chef Wolfgang Puck gives us his tips and tricks for getting healthy this new year 042 | The power of three What can you do to make this year really matter? 046 | Top fitness trends for 2015 Make 2015 the year you finally get in shape with these trends

056 | Watch news Stunning state-of-the-art timepieces for him and her 060 | Jewellery news Our usual beautiful array of the very latest jewels 063 | Ice Queen Diamonds for winter

104 | Travel news 106 | Island living Maia in the Seychelles is the ultimate island escape 110 | Going Dutch Whether you’re looking for contemporary or classic, Amsterdam truly has it all 114 | Weekend away Dive into Bath’s decadent Halcyon Apartments and incredible Thermae Spa

regulars

157 126 110

art 050 | Art news 052 | Northern pride The work of Paul Wolfgang Webster and Shaun Keefe 055 | Prize lots

fashion & beauty 064 | Fashion news From essential accessories to new trends, it’s all here 066 | Age of elegance Be inspired by the timeless glamour of courture gowns 074 | Style vs. fashion Felicity Green weighs up design’s opposing forces 080 | Tipping the scales A lesson in luxury from handbag designer Ethan K 084 | Beauty news New treatments, products and all the latest news 086 | Turning back the clock All the pioneering cosmetic treatments from Harley St

motoring 092 | Motoring news The latest developments from the automotive world 096 | Operation overdrive Presenting the world’s first £200,000 Range Rover 100 | The Alfieri and omega Maserati’s new masterpiece 102 | Technology central A battle of the ebooks, plus the latest apps and games

FAMILY 116 | Kids’ news The very latest for little ones 119 | The classroom 121 | Masked ball Baby Dior’s beautiful enchanted party collection

homes & interiors 124 | Interiors news 126 | Master of motion Enigmatic designer Sacha Lakic’s emotive, motioninspired works of art 140 | Crystal clear CEO of Lalique Silvio Denz on the brand’s latest collections and unusual collaborations 150 | Quintessentially British Katy Simpson of Noble Isle on rambling walks and capturing Britain’s beauty in a bottle 159 | Local property We’ve picked the very best local homes on the market 177 | Overseas property These stunning properties will have you yearning to emigrate

Regulars | The CHESHIRE Magazine

January 2015 s issue 013 s

Editor Louisa Castle Editorial Director Kate Harrison Art Editor Carol Cordrey Collection Editor Annabel Harrison Assistant Editor Gemma Knight Senior Designer Grace Linn

The

contributors JENNIFER MASON Jennifer started out in luxury fashion marketing and has since worked as a writer in the UK and Dubai, specialising in motoring, travel, lifestyle and local features. Her time is spent reading and obsessing over the latest Formula 1 results.

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 brings us all the latest developments from the world of timepieces.

Richard Yarrow Former associate editor of Auto Express, Richard is an accomplished motoring journalist. This month, he takes us inside the launch of the world’s first £200,000 Range Rover at renowned British-based Land Rover specialist Overfinch.

carol cordrey Carol is an art critic and editor. She organises the annual London Ice Sculpting Festival and is permanently on the art scene, bringing us her take on the latest happenings from the constantly evolving world of art.

Iain Warde Iain is a self-confessed geek, having worked in computer gaming and tech magazines since the creation of Pac-Man. He is also a huge petrolhead who spends his spare time marshalling at Oulton Park and around the UK.

NATALIE ANGLESEY Natalie is an author, broadcaster and journalist working with The Guardian and Cosmopolitan as well as regional media. She is also a television producer and director and is currently busy writing a book about the theatre.

Brand Consistency Laddawan Juhong Production Hugo Wheatley Alex Powell, Oscar Viney Amy Roberts, Alice Ford Advertising Manager Kayleigh Penswick General Manager Fiona Fenwick Publisher Giles Ellwood Executive Director Sophie Roberts Managing Director Eren Ellwood

Proudly published by

RUNWILD MEDIA GROUP

www.rwmg.co.uk 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. 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. ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES: Please contact Kayleigh Penswick +44 (0)1502 380434; +44 (0)7841 199699 k.penswick@runwildgroup.co.uk

cover On the

Cover: Jenny Packham dress, £5,880 (jennypackham.com) From Age of Elegance fashion shoot, page 62 Photographer: Alexander Beer Stylist: Ozzy Shah Retouch: Pavel Zolin (ipaulus.com)

Also published by Members of the Professional Publishers Association

England

Inside the

Dressing room meeT The man responsible for dressing The counTry’s finesT

NYE

in the City The parTies Taking new year’s eve To new heighTs

Stand-out Ski JacketS This season’s mosT sTylish après-ski apparel

Off the Cuff

The BriTish BroThers making fashion’s foremosT cufflinks

the Cult Wine PhenOmenOn

revered vineyards, sacred cases and The mosT soughT-afTer BoTTles

masters Of malt

spread The cheer This year wiTh The world’s finesT whiskies

Jaw-dropping beautiful sound ÂŁ1,699 In stock to take away today.

Bang & Olufsen of Wilmslow 1-3 Bank Square Wilmslow, Cheshire SK9 1AN United Kingdom Tel: 01625 527666 Email: wilmslow@bang-olufsen.co.uk Web: www.bang-olufsen.com/wilmslow

Experience this premium wireless music system in our showroom. B&O PLAY by BANG & OLUFSEN

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Regulars

My life in CHESHIRE K at r i n a M i c h e l Chief Executive, Marketing Cheshire

‘T ‘It’s a classic contemporary city and the pride is wonderful.’ – Katrina Michel clockwise: the deer at tatton park; the wonderful cheshire cat in alice in wonderland; chester’s eastgate clock

hat Cheshire cat has to be my favourite thing about our county. It’s smile is because the number of dairies in Cheshire meant that cats were never far from their next meal – Lewis Carroll only lived here as a child but some of the folklore clearly stuck.’ Facts and figures abound in my meeting with the chief executive of Marketing Cheshire, that and enthusiasm and passion for a county which ‘is good for the body and soul’. Katrina and her family (husband and two kids) moved from West Ham to Cheshire in 1998, Katrina supporting her husband’s job relocation but also questioning what an ex-Ogilvy advertising director would do ‘up-north’ where big agencies were a rarity. ‘My back-up plan was to retire to the countryside and organise edgy arts festivals.’ But that was not to be, as a tempting offer to join Cheetham Bell in Manchester came up, which through life’s twists and turns (including beginning a PGCE qualification at Chester University), led her return to Ogilvy as a global account manager. ‘Then I received a call from a head hunter about the position as chief executive here at Marketing Cheshire. It was a completely new route and an exciting opportunity. It didn’t really scare me as such but it was a huge learning curve! ‘The public funding had been drastically cut before my arrival and we needed a whole new vision to promote one of the ‘brightest stars of the north’ and attract the inward investment the area and businesses deserve. ‘Chester and Cheshire have a huge offering to attract both business and pleasure visitors, we just have to let them know and that can only be done by everyone working together. We can be romantic, cultural, city-based, country-based, easy to get to and there’s so much free stuff it’s amazing! It’s a classic contemporary city and the pride is wonderful. ‘I love a quick bite in the cafe at Jodrell Bank or a treat at The Hollies. But then you’ve got Cheshire Oaks on your doorstep and super-villages Tarporley and Malpas. ‘I was attracted to Cheshire when we moved because of the fact that from my house I could drive ten minutes and either be in one of the loveliest cities in England or one of Europe’s biggest outlet malls! ‘I also love the fact that you can walk round Chester and know that you are walking in the footsteps of Roman soldiers and medieval tradesmen. I also really love the deer at Tatton – so soft and furry!’ (visitcheshire.com; investincheshire.com) 17

WINTER WONDERLAND The Selfridges ice rink is back! This year it’s gone fairytale, with rich forest greens and sparkling gold bringing the Christmas storytelling theme to life. What’s more you’re guaranteed a great skate to the inevitable Christmas tunes whatever the weather in the undercover ice rink, with festive food and drinks close by to keep you warm and cosy. The rink will be open until 4 January. Adult tickets start at £7.50 (off peak) and children (3-12 years) at £5.50. Skate aid and trained ice marshals will be on hand to help too. (selfridges.com)

Couture culture

eventS

Lantern Magic As if a visit to Chester Zoo isn’t magical enough, this Christmas you can journey through the zoo at night following the enchanted trail of spectacular animal lanterns. You can make your own, too, in the lantern workshop. This year, not only can you help your little ones write their letters to Santa (or indeed write your own, but only if you’ve been good!) but you can also visit him in person as well as add 18

your Christmas wish to the Giant Wishing Tree. Then it’s time to journey through the zoo after dark, listening for the animals and soaking up the festive fun. We would recommend you book one of the hearty suppers for after your walk and make it a real night to remember. The Lantern Magic experience begins on 4 December, but hurry as tickets are flying. (chesterzoo.org)

literary itinerary

Sitting proudly at the top of one of the world’s most recognisable addresses, Gieves & Hawkes of Savile Row has been dressing nobility and the elite since the 18th century; from Admiral Lord Nelson to Prince William, Duke of Cambridge. In a new compendium published by Flammarion, readers are given a glimpse of what goes on behind the doors of the Royal Tailor, looking in to its vast unpublished archives into an attempt to trace the rich history of the brand. With a foreword by Harold Koda, the eminent fashion scholar, and text by various esteemed writers such as Marcus Binney, architectural correspondent at The Times and Colin McDowell OBE and fashion writer for The Sunday Times, it’s a truly varied and allencompassing read. A handsome addition for any coffee table, whether you’re a tailoring aficionado, or can just appreciate the appearance of a good suit. One Savile Row: The Invention of the English Gentleman: Gieves & Hawkes. Foreword by Harold Koda, text by Marcus Binney, Simon Crompton, Colin McDowell, Peter Tilley and Alasdair MacLeod. Available now, £60, published by Flammarion

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Regulars

IMAGE © UNIVERSAL PICTURES

5 top picks

Tartan Touch Inspired by Scotland but perfect for your home and wardrobe #1 Heather tartan floor lamp, Alexander & Pearl, £375 (alexanderandpearl.co.uk)

#2 The Bothy Blanket, Prickly Thistle Scotland Ltd, £695 (pricklythistlescotland.co.uk)

film

The Theory of Everything

‘H

owever bad life may seem, there is always something you can do, and succeed at. While there’s life, there is hope.’ This is just one of the many pearls of wisdom Stephen Hawking (Eddie Redmayne) gives the audience in his latest biopic, illustrating an often forgotten element of his turbulent life: love. The chronological retelling of his life starts with the innocent courting of Jane Wilde (Felicity Jones), after the pair meet at a soirée in Cambridge, where they both attended university. She was studying medieval Spanish poetry, he was studying cosmology; their charming, twee relationship begins to blossom but is met with the earth-shattering diagnosis of Hawking’s motor neurone disease, aged

just 21. He was given two years to live. Wilde, who later becomes Mrs Hawking, gives up her life to care for him and witnessing her silent struggle makes for a heart-breaking watch, exposing the honest tensions of their relationship as he beats the odds of his diagnosis and exceeds his life expectancy considerably, but while his condition worsens. His triumphs in the field of physics act only as the spine of the film, so if you’re looking for a true portrait of his career, look elsewhere; the real story here is the incredibly moving, bittersweet romance that will pull at your heartstrings. The Theory of Everything will be released on 1 January words: bethan rees

‘It isn’t the size of the gift that matters, but the size of the heart that gives it’ Roger & Gallet and Italian duo Carnovsky (winners of Wallpaper Design Award) have joined forces to give us these fabulous crackers. Perfect for the table or the tree. £6 from Marks and Spencer.

#3 Vivienne Westwood messenger bag, House of Fraser, £355 (houseoffraser.co.uk)

– The Angels’Little Instruction Book, Eileen Elias Freeman

#4 Per Una Speziale coat, Marks & Spencer, £125 (marksandspencer.com)

#5 Cashmere sport check scarf, £105 (johnstonscashmere.com)

FRESH OR FAKE? Now is the time for the decision: fresh Norway spruce, fake fir or something altogether different?

HIDDEN GEM… INODOREM

andles and diffusers have become very much part of everyday life for any stylish homeowner and we were thrilled to discover Inodorem. Set up by Kerry Staniford, this beautiful boutique is all about the power of scent; its ability to evoke a memory, change a mood and give personality to space. Having worked in the perfume industry for

more than 20 years, Kerry set up Inodorem using renowned French perfumers to create six unique fine fragrances. Each has its own personality and inspiration but we love Inquisition for its woody, vetiver, amber and vanilla notes. The packaging is beautiful too. Go on treat yourself! Inodorem, The Bluecoat, Liverpool, L1 3BX (inodorem.com)

SPACE SAVING Ingenious space-saving trees, for corners, walls and integrated lighting from £49, ACHICA (achica.com)

PURCHASE OF THE MONTH Tweed Accessories

We feel that we may have been neglecting our four-legged friends recently, so when these uberstylish tweed accessories crossed our path we were delighted. Earthbound is renowned for its luxury, handcrafted beds, all made in the UK. Indeed, their best-selling product is the Luxury Tweed Dog Bed (from £44.99) available in herringbone, green, brown and navy tweed. Just in time for the winter season they have released their tweed accessories collection: lead, collar and coat. Now there’s no excuse for your pampered pooch not to look every part the English gent or lady. Earthbound Tweed Sherpa Dog Coat Beige, from £20 (10-20 inch), Earthbound Tweed Herringbone Collar , from £12 (S,M,L,XL) and Earthbound Tweed Herringbone Lead, from £20 (M,L). Available from Barkers, 17-19 Alderley Road, Wilmslow, SK9 1HY (barkersfordogs.com) 20

PICK YOUR OWN Choose your very own Norway spruce direct from the field of Ivy Cottage Tree Farm, 01625 531609

WHITE OUT Go ultra-modern with this white twig tree with lights, £70 from Tesco (tesco.com)

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Regulars

Christmas in Chester

rom elf trails and ice rinks to snowmen and secret wardrobes, Chester is vying for the top spot in family fun this Christmas. Chester’s very own elf, ChELFie, will be on hand to guide festive shoppers around the historic streets of the city, giving away prizes for those who spot him in shop windows. Elsa and Olaf and their Disney friends will be visiting, and celebrity chefs will be taking part in enchanting Gingerbread story-telling and decorating events. At the cathedral, The Snowman will be making an appearance accompanied by a live orchestra. Head through the back of the wardrobe into Narnia for The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe exhibition (to 6 January), not to be mistaken for the Christmas Tree Festival and Chester Markets. (christmasinchester.com; @ChesterXmas)

“Tomorrow is the first blank page of a 365-page book. Write a good one” – Brad Paisley, author

SPOTLIGHT ON… Harvey Nichols Festive Afternoon Tea

ully on the countdown to Christmas, we love the festive afternoon tea from the stylistas at Harvey Nichols. After a busy day of shopping (with a little pampering thrown in), this was the perfect afternoon pick-me-up with the girls. Start with the traditional finger sandwiches: perfectly proportioned and utterly festive turkey and cranberry, honey roast gammon and wholegrain mustard, and prawn mayonnaise. Then dive into the scones with clotted cream and preserve, complete

with detailed conversation on the perfect scone-eating technique. Jam or cream first? The last part was definitely my favourite, with mini Christmas puddings, Baileys macaroon, orange and cranberry cheesecake and mince pie sable. Each bite was delicious and a little tantalising. While we enjoyed a thirst-quenching tea we also indulged in some house Champagne, accompanied by the

obligatory toast to Christmas and whether we’d been naughty or nice. Our verdict: indulgent and delicious, the perfect way to start the festive season. Available until 24 December. £17.95 or £25.95 with Champagne. Harvey Nichols Second Floor Restaurant, Manchester; 0161 828 8898

Local scene Cheshire has been out celebrating the weird and wonderful this month. From ghoulish goings on to Alice in Wonderland inspired events check out whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s been happening on the social scene

Multi-Storey Catwalk Selfridges, Exchange Square The three-storey department store took full advantage of its design with the A/W15 fashion show offering unique viewing on each floor. Showcasing key trends for both casual and evening wear, the key elements were androgynous tailoring, feminine maxi dresses for the ladies and classic styles for the the men. (Selfridges.com)

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Regulars

One Goal Festival Hall, Alderley Edge Ghoulish costumes galore descended on Cheshire for Chantelle Heskey’s Hallowe’en Ball in aid of her charity One Goal Foundation. Vampires, zombies and superheroes attended to raise money for the charities in South Africa which touched Chantelle’s heart on her visit for the World Cup in 2014. Chantelle wore a bespoke Queen of the Night vampire costume made by Zeynep Kartal to fit both her and the baby daughter bump, and surprised guests with a debut DJ set on the witching hour. (@OneGoalFound)

Wonderland World The Point, Lancashire County Cricket Club The annual Genesis Breast Cancer Prevention Ball raised more than ÂŁ80,000 for the charity. This year the wonderland world welcomed compere comedienne Pauline Daniels who recently battled with the disease herself; Sally Dynevor, who plays Coronation Streetâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Sally Webster and is patron of the charity and many more fabulous local people. (Genesisuk.org)

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Regulars

charles ledigo

dennis taylor

george bergier

kevin horkin

martina cole

tim bacon

aldo zilli torvill & dean

The legends of industry Hilton Hotel, Manchester A host of stars attended the Legends of Industry Awards, the annual event which honours and celebrates those who have achieved outstanding success in their chosen fields of sport, business and industry. Jayne Torvill OBE and Christopher Dean OBE joined a raft of industry legends to receive their award from Variety, the Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Charity these included: best-selling author Martina Cole, Sir Howard Bernstein, Chief

Executive of Manchester City Council, award-winning celebrity chef Aldo Zilli, former world champion snooker player Dennis Taylor, leading Manchester sommelier George Bergier, Tim Bacon (Co-Founder, Living Ventures), Charles Ledigo (Chairman, Reisser Ltd) and Kevin Horkin (The Horkin Group). The evening raises crucially important funds to enable Variety to support sick, disabled and disadvantaged children and young people in the region. (variety.org.uk)

jayne torvill, christopher dean with lyn staunton of variety

Fashion & Fizz Restaurant 1539, Chester Racecourse Stylistas from Laundry Boutique and theEDITEUR held their second Fashion & Fizz event at the rooftop venue of Restaurant 1539. Prosecco and canapĂŠs were accompanied by a catwalk show, scent-matching from Penhaligonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and, of course, shopping. (restaurant1539.co.uk)

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Regulars

Heels & Handbags Mottram Hall Leanne Brown held a Champagne charity ladies’ lunch in aid of Once Upon A Smile, complete with pop-up shops, auction and music. Inspired by the charity, she encouraged lots of lovely friends to also raid their wardrobes and donate their heels and handbags for the Manchester charity, set up by actors Daniel Jillings and Danny Miller. ChronoEdge, Simon + Simon and Harvey Nichols also took part. Leanne took to the mic herself for the auction, raising more than £10,000 and now has the bug. She’s thinking of a parachute jump next... watch this space. (onceuponasmile.org.uk)

IN THE Summer of â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;83 As The Chester Grosvenor prepares to celebrate 150 years, Louisa Castle has coffee with Jonathan Slater, managing director, on the eve of another celebration, his sixtieth birthday

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Feature

‘I

’m quite excited about being sixty. There’s still lots to achieve and lots of opportunities to capture. Plus, my wife and I are lucky enough to be young enough and have the energy to enjoy the grandkids.’ Mr Slater has two grandchildren Ophelia and Orlando (whose middle name is Jonathan, he tells me with all of the pride of a doting grandparent). ‘I breezed through my forties too. My mentor, who is unfortunately no longer with us, a great man Hiro Shirato, kept telling me to be careful of the early forties crisis. I didn’t really understand what he was talking about. Then when I saw him when I was 44, he concluded, “early forty crisis over”. ‘My fifties were another matter. Mentally I wasn’t prepared for those years, I don’t think. Now, though, exciting times.’

For more than half of his life Mr Slater has been at the helm of The Chester Grosvenor, steering it to its position as one of the country’s finest independent hotels. ‘I’d been at the Metropole (NEC), beforehand which had over 700 bedrooms, then their Brighton hotel which had 350 rooms. I got the call from a consultant who advised the board here asking if I’d ever considered what we know now as a boutique hotel – at the time no one had heard that term. ‘The whole process took about three weeks to sign and seal and that was that. ‘I was practically still in short trousers when I arrived! [Mr Slater was 28 years old when he took the general manager position] It was the summer of ’83 and I remember arriving in Chester with my wife and two young daughters, the youngest who was just six weeks old.’ Within two years Mr Slater, or Jonnie to his

‘You can’t go far wrong if your decisions are based on good old common sense’ friends, became managing director. I shall continue to call him Mr Slater, it feels only appropriate – respectful yet not pompous. Under his guidance the hotel has been transformed. In 1987 and with a budget of £15m and four months closed, the 90 rooms (some of which were too small for modern expectations) were renovated to provide a new total of eighty, plus a complete reworking of the internal infrastructure. La Brasserie and The Arkle were also created from what was the old hotel dining room. The fine-dining in The Arkle (now the Michelinstarred Simon Radley at The Chester Grosvenor) was an instant success, as was La Brasserie, but that was a little more risky. ‘I could see the success of the brasserie style eateries in London and other large European cities and wanted to emulate this in a regional hotel. In 1987 this was definitely ahead of the game.’

opposite: jonathan slater at the opening of oddfellows this page: with simon radley; the chester grosvenor

The creation of a spa inside the hotel was another vision having seen the rise of spas in urban landscapes in Europe and the US. A wing of bedrooms was demolished and a spa complex created. The following year it was rated the second best UK city spa by Condé Nast Traveller. Most recently Mr Slater undertook The Kitchen Project, installing a state-of-the-art kitchen, reconfiguring La Brasserie and the creation of the first Rococo chocolate concession outside of London (the chocolates are divine). In 2012, The Chester Grosvenor team also took on management of Oddfellows, the quirky, design-led hotel in the city and with Mr Slater leading the way, oversaw a multi-million pound refurbishment including 14 new bedrooms and a major overhaul in the food and beverage department. Due to the success, plans are afoot to launch an Oddfellows On The Park at Bruntwood Park, Cheadle, next year. Mr Slater’s not been one to rest on his laurels, though. He has been crucial in the success of Small Luxury Hotels (SLH) where he sat on the board for 21 years, spending nine of those as chairman. He is also a champion of the region, working as a director of Marketing Cheshire and travelling to Asia and America regularly. ‘We are a unique hotel in a unique city and attracting people to the hotel is about attracting

people to the destination that is Chester. Sometimes I don’t think we realise what we have got on our doorstep and how many great examples of excellence there are surrounding us. ‘In thirty years the world has changed and 99 per cent of that change has been for the better, I feel. New challenges arise, you evolve and you learn something new every day. You can’t please all of the people all of the time but you can focus on perfection. And succeeding at that all comes down to the people. ‘David Morgan-Hewitt, managing director of The Goring Hotel in London [who is visiting for Mr Slater’s sixtieth birthday lunch] put it right. An iconic hotel isn’t about the fabric, the carvings, the antiques. It is about one thing – the people. And you can’t buy that off the shelf. ‘The hotel industry is like a village, everyone knows everyone and the staple introduction is “what’s your occupancy level and how’s your room rate?” It should be “how are you doing and how are your staff?” ‘Everyone who comes to the hotel, whether they are guests or clients or simply popping in for a coffee, is here to realise their dreams. We are here to create them. Today, unfortunately we live in a blame culture full of excuses and it drives me potty. Our guests are not interested in the fact the housekeeper hasn’t turned up or the water is off, that is for us to address and solve. Never accept anything other than the very best. ‘And that is all about core values and culture, which cannot just come from me at the top. It comes from everyone and is about being true to yourself and those around you. ‘Don’t try and overcomplicate it either. Like a good chef the best dishes hardly ever have more than five components and focus on the quality. My dad always used to tell me “you can’t go far wrong if your decisions are based on good old common sense”. And I use that advice on a daily basis in both my personal and business life. ‘I love what I do and, yes, it is a way of life, but I see it as a privilege, not a job. I’m never happier than being here and having a happy team, guests, wife, kids and grandkids.’ (chestergrosvenor.com)

this page: the gallery at the chester grosvenor opposite: closing the hotel for refurbishment in 1987

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Feature

‘There’s still lots to achieve and lots of opportunities to capture’

Taste

as you

eat

The godfather of Italian cooking Antonio Carluccio shares memories and a cheeky glass of Prosecco with Natalie Anglesey at his new launch in Hale

‘H

ale is exactly the right location for our new restaurant as it’s already a centre for lovers of good food,’ an ebullient Antonio Carluccio enthuses. He makes an imposing figure with his tanned skin and shock of pure white hair. We’d originally met when the award-winning, internationally renowned, Italian chef, restaurateur and author launched his first restaurant in the area at the Trafford Centre soon followed by his Spinningfields restaurant. Now as he surveys the new premises in Hale, where he’s a consultant, he sighs contentedly. ‘I really like this space because it has a warm, homely feel,’ Antonio beams. ‘I want diners to feel relaxed here with the same sense of

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Feature

freedom about food we have on the Continent. This is an all-day, Italian dining and deli experience and not just another brand.’ As we walk outside into the bustling centre to view the front of the restaurant, Antonio’s in fine form, agreeing with a smile to ‘selfies’ while welcoming residents and visitors to Hale’s newest eaterie. ‘Forget footballers’, smiles one Hale resident. ‘I’m only interested in a photograph with my favourite chef’ and with a chuckle, Antonio obliges. As he points out the convenient location opposite the railway station, Antonio reminisces about his father who was a station master. ‘My earliest memory is of my mother cooking. She’d send me to find the last train times, she’d put the homemade pasta on and just as papa sat down – she’d serve his meal.’ Antonio’s already been honoured in his homeland for his contribution to the Italian food industry. In 2007 he was awarded an OBE, while in 2012 he received an AA Lifetime Achievement Award and released his memoirs A Recipe for Life.

‘There’s so much available and I can’t understand why the British only pick blackberries!’

The feisty Italian remains passionate about food. ‘Supermarkets are fine if you’re bulkbuying but if you want to make something special, please support your local butcher or fishmonger’ he pleads. Antonio has no time for fusion or science in the kitchen. ‘I like to cook with good, basic ingredients which you can taste as you eat.’ Asked for his opinion on British food, his reply is brief and to the point. ‘Britain suffers from a crisis of self-confidence about her cuisine. A good steak and kidney pie is the most delicious thing in the world, but the British don’t think so.’ The Italian chef grew up with a love of cooking. Born near Salerno in 1937, Antonio’s family moved to Piedmont, where he grew up mushroom-hunting with his father. ‘I still go foraging today. There’s so much available and it’s a wonderful experience. I can’t understand why the British only pick blackberries!’ From an early age Antonio accumulated knowledge of Italy’s regional food. ‘Because we travelled around with my father’s job, I learned a great deal about each region’s dishes. For example in this country most people will have had turkey for Christmas dinner, but in Italy, each region has its own specialities and I’ve tried to incorporate that variety in my menus.’ Although he first arrived in this country as a wine merchant, Antonio soon became manager of Sir Terence Conran’s Neal Street Restaurant in 1981, marrying into the family and eventually becoming its owner in 1989. He opened his first food shop in 1991. Eight years later the first Carluccio’s café popped up and today,

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Feature

Carluccio’s operates from 88 locations worldwide with Antonio as consultant. With over twenty books on Italian cuisine to his credit, including his latest cookbook, Antonio Carluccio’s Pasta, there are book tours aplenty. ‘I’ve just returned from Australia,’ he tells me. ‘Television appearances have helped to spread my love of cooking particularly Antonio Carluccio’s Italian Feast and the BBC series Two Greedy Italians with me and fellow chef Gennaro Contaldo. We travelled around Italy talking about and cooking good food. It’s been shown here again as well as in Europe and even Russia!’ Antonio prides himself on keeping a watchful eye on quality. ‘I like to check up regularly on menus and change them according to the

‘Forget footballers. I’m only interested in a photograph with my favourite chef’ season. I also like to keep an eye on prices, with a fixed price menu offering fantastic value.’ In the deli section the shelves are bursting with beautifully packaged Italian products, many sourced direct from artisan producers in Italy, as well as unique mushroom and truffle delights. The delicatessen is brimming with freshly made dishes available for lunch on-thego, while there’s top quality cured meats and the sweet treats are perfect for simple Italian dinner parties at home. As I make a mental note, Antonio reminds me: ‘Carluccio’s will be hosting a series of culinary classes so you can master the basics in Italian cooking and enjoy great food and wine, just like we Italians do.’ Then, with a merry twinkle in his eye, Antonio sums up: ‘To paraphrase a well-known saying, Carluccio’s stands for Liberty, Equality and Fraternity. Liberty: the freedom for customers to come from 8am to 11pm for breakfast, coffee, lunch or dinner. Equality: all at reasonable prices and Fraternity: served by our friendly, welcoming staff!’ (carluccios.com)

Celebrate with

CANAPES Miniature lamb Koftas, pomegranate tzatziki For the koftas (can be made and frozen ahead) 300g minced lamb ½ teaspoon of each of the following: ground cumin, coriander, garam masala, cinnamon 1. Mix the lamb with the spices. 2. Shape into small canapé balls and place on your skewers. 3. Pre-heat the grill (medium) 4. Cook until firm (three minutes) and turn, then three minutes again. 5. Top tip: squeeze on a little lemon or lime juice and allow to rest. 6. Decorate your platter with tzatziki (for the koftas to sit on), pomegranate seeds and a few baby mint leaves. 7. Add yout koftas and serve. For the tzatziki (make on the day) 1 crushed garlic glove 1 finely diced shallot 15-20 mint leaves, finely sliced 2-inch piece of cucumber, finely diced 1 large teaspoon of honey 200g Greek yogurt Seeds from 1 pomegranate 1. Mix the garlic, shallot, mint leaves and cucumber together with the honey in a small mixing bowl. Then add the yogurt. 2. Fold through the pomegranate seeds.

Local chef Rupert Frazer Worden shares some scene-stealer canapé recipes – perfect for your New Year’s celebrations

Queenie Scallops Kilpatrick Queenie scallops in the half shell Half an onion, finely sliced 50g butter 30ml rapeseed oil 100g streaky bacon, cut into thin strips Juice of 1 lemon Fresh parsley, chopped For the Kilpatrick butter(makes up 20 canape portions and keeps for up to 7 days in fridge) 1. Cook the onion in the butter and oil (vegetable will do). 2. Add the bacon and stir for 3 to 5 minutes. 3. Zest and juice the lemon. 4. Add the parsley at the last minute. 5. Remove from heat and check seasoning (salt, pepper and lemon to taste) To serve 1. Pre-heat the grill (medium). 2. Place your cleaned queenie scallops onto a baking sheet. 3. Spoon over a little Kilpatrick mixture. 4. Grill for 2 to 3 minutes. 5. Serve from the oven in Chinese soup spoons or shells.

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Feature

ABOUT RUPERT FRAZER WORDEN Cheshire chef, Rupert Frazer Worden has had a love of cooking throughout his life. Although from Cheshire Rupert trained at Leiths School of Food & Wine in Kensington, followed by experience at Michelin-starred restaurants Chez Bruce and La Trompette. He set up The Fine Dining Company in 2008 catering for private dinner parties and events cooking for Daniel Craig, Michael Owen and The Grosvenor Estate. He has a real passion for food. As well as going to Michelin-starred restaurants, he really enjoys simple street foods and international cuisines â&#x20AC;&#x201C; these inspire his dishes and keep them fresh. (rupertfrazerworden.com)

Soft-boiled quails eggs, truffle mayonnaise and black pudding dust (optional) For the eggs (the day before) Quail eggs Malt vinegar 1. Ahead of time (at least 12 hours) cook the quail eggs in boiling water for 2 mins 45 seconds. 2. Remove and place in iced water for 10 minutes. 3. Remove and place in small container or jar. 4. Cover with a mixture of 2/3 malt vinegar, 1/3 water. 5. Leave in the fridge overnight so the shell to softens. 6. To peel, rinse in fresh water and start at the soft spot on the bottom of the egg. For the mayonnaise (in the morning) 2 egg yolks (pasteurised if possible) 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard Squeeze of lemon juice 240ml high-quality rapeseed oil 10ml truffle oil Truffle (if you can find it) Salt and white pepper 1. Place the egg yolks into a small bowl with the mustard, lemon, a pinch of salt and white pepper. 2. Slowly whisk in (drizzle) the rapeseed oil and add truffle oil to taste. 3. Add a little fresh truffle if desired. For the black pudding dust (day before) 80g black pudding 1. Thinly slice the black pudding. 2. Oven cook at 100Ë&#x161;c until dry and crispy.

2. Blend to a dust in your food processor. To serve Simply place the eggs in a serving bowl or platter, dust with black pudding. Serve the mayonnaise in a small ramekin.

THE NEW YEAR

DETOX

It’s inevitable; during the Christmas season it is almost a legal requirement to over-indulge. Luckily for those of you feeling the need to turn over a new leaf this January, Gemma Knight has called on superstar chef Wolfgang Puck to guide us through the trials and tribulations of healthy eating unscathed (and hunger pang-free)

orn in Austria and taught to cook by his mother, Wolfgang Puck moved to America at the age of 24 and, after a brief spell at La Tour in Indianapolis, was soon chef and part owner of the prestigious Ma Maison in Los Angeles. Thirty years later, he is unarguably one of the world’s most famous chefs, known as a restaurant tycoon (he has more than 80 worldwide) and culinary mogul, perhaps still most renowned for the awardwinning Spago in Los Angeles, certainly Hollywood’s most iconic and popular eatery throughout the 80s and 90s and constantly packed to the hilt with the city’s elite. Oh, and have we mentioned he caters for the Oscars? This is a man who knows his food, and who famously overhauled his entire lifestyle in order

to get in shape, so who better to seek advice from when it comes to a New Year detox? ‘I was quite heavy when my son was born about ten years ago,’ he tells me when we meet, his white teeth as pristine as his spotless chef’s jacket. ‘I remember one time I went skiing with friends, including the gold medal Olympic skier Franz Klammer, and I had to keep on stopping as I was so out of breath. I remember thinking that if I didn’t do something I wouldn’t be able to play with my young son, so I changed my lifestyle. I tried to cook healthier, especially at home, and started to exercise. I got a coach and three times a week I would exercise at home. You don’t need machines, I just used weights, did floor exercises, and boxed.’

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Feature

wolfgang puck, courtesy of Amanda Marsalis

I ask what he thinks is the golden rule whaen it comes to dieting, and he immediately says that the most important thing is to get rid of anything which is made with a lot of sugar or refined flour from the house, so you won’t be tempted, and to try replacing snacks with fresh fruit and vegetables. ‘I know in my family, even for my kids, if I peel carrots and leave them on the counter they’ll snack on them,’ he says. ‘And try to cut out snacking between meals. Many people associate healthy eating with boring eating, but it doesn’t have to be that way. Using fresh herbs and spices and not overcooking fish, meats and vegetables will give you great results and you won’t miss the calories.’ When I remind him that dieting is always harder in winter, when cold, unappealing salads struggle to compete with big, tempting bowls of carbohydrate, he nods. ‘But you can make healthy food still in winter,’ he replies. ‘You can make a venison stew and serve it with brown rice and root vegetables and it’s still really good for you. If you crave pasta don’t eat late at night, eat it for lunch instead.’ He’s certainly full of interesting tips – for example, he always drinks double the amount of water for each glass of wine and never eats on planes. He also suggests putting limp salad leaves in ice-cold water for ten minutes before use to make them fresh and crispy. But it’s his final titbit of advice that really sums up the man and his healthy eating ethos. ‘I’ve found from my experience that eating healthy and exercising is the only way to stay in shape,’ he says. ‘It’s not about losing weight, it’s about staying in shape’. It’s a simple philosophy, but we couldn’t agree more. ‘Wolfgang Puck Makes it Healthy: Light, Delicious Recipes and Easy Exercises for a Better Life’ is priced at £22.50 (amazon.co.uk)

the sumptuous interior of wolfgang’s london eatery, CUT at 45 Park Lane

‘I’ve found from my experience that eating healthy 40

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Feature

WOLFGANG PUCK’S Q U I C K A N D H E A LT H Y K I D - F R I E N D LY D I S H ( S E R V E F A M I LY- S T Y L E ) Italian Strata with Tomatoes, Bell Pepper, and Swiss Cheese Serves 8 Ingredients: ½ pound stale country-style wholewheat or multigrain bread 1 garlic clove, halved Olive oil-flavored non-stick cooking spray 1 cup finely shredded reduced-fat Swiss cheese 1 large red bell pepper, roasted, peeled, seeded and torn into thin strips 2 large ripe tomatoes, cored and thinly sliced 3 large eggs 3 large egg whites 2 cups buttermilk ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes ½ teaspoon dried oregano ½ teaspoon sea salt Freshly ground black pepper

5. Put the eggs and egg whites in a mixing bowl and beat them lightly with a fork. Add the buttermilk, red pepper flakes, oregano, and salt and pepper to taste, then beat until thoroughly combined. 6. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layered ingredients in the baking dish. 7. Bake the strata until it looks slightly puffed up and the top is golden brown, 8. 45 minutes to 1 hour. Remove the dish from the oven and let it set at room temperature for at least 10 minutes before using a large serving spoon to scoop it onto individual serving plates.

Directions: 1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. 2. With a sharp bread knife, cut the bread into slices ¾ of an inch thick. Rub one or both sides of each bread slice with the cut sides of the garlic clove halves, using more or less depending on how garlicky you want the strata to be. Then, cut the bread into ¾ of an inch cubes. 3. Lightly coat the inside of a 12 x 10-inch baking dish, gratin dish, or a heavy non-stick 10-inch skillet with non-stick cooking spray. 4. Place the bread cubes in the dish in a single, even layer. Evenly sprinkle half of the cheese over the bread. Evenly layer the bell pepper strips and tomato slices on top, and then sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly over the peppers and tomatoes.

and exercising is the only way to stay in shape’ 41

The power of three:

How to make

2015 matter What could you achieve with encouragement from a little black book of contacts? Gabrielle Lane sought out the experts in their fields who are inspiring others to accomplish meaningful lifestyle goals this year, to ask for their best advice

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Feature

WRITE A BOOK Mentor: ALYSOUN OWEN, editor of Writers’ & Artists’ Yearbook

Alysoun says: Ideas are quick and easy; translating them into fully fledged concepts is much harder, not to mention writing them in a style that captivates an audience. It’s good to be able to sum up your book in a couple of clear and concise sentences as a way to clarify what it means to yourself and to ‘sell’ it. Publishers and literary agents will ask to see a synopsis of your book – in fact most will want one before reading sample chapters. The key thing they are looking for is a book that is readable, has a strong storyline and will appeal to readers of the genre in which it is written. An average first-time novel is usually around 100,000 words and that’s probably good to aim for. If it’s shorter than that it risks becoming a novella or (long) short story. Structurally, try not to be too wacky or complicated. A clear narrative with a range of voices, possibly timeframes and moments of tension or drama, if handled well, can follow a simple, well-trodden structural path. Don’t forget that all good stories have a clearly defined beginning, middle and end – especially an end! For general non-fiction it’s nearly always necessary to work through a literary agent to secure a publishing deal. For educational and academic offerings, it is typically advised to go direct to the publisher. To attract an agent: follow their submission guidelines to the letter; send in text without typos or grammatical errors; give your book an arresting title; sell your idea and yourself in your cover letter and include your two-sentence idea; meet potential agents at literary events and agent lunches such as those we run at Writers & Artists. Read articles and posts in the 2015 edition of the Writers’ & Artists’ Yearbook and visit writersandartists.co.uk for more advice.

GIVE BACK Mentor: JOHNNY DEVEREAUX, ordinary man

turned extraordinary fundraiser for Breast Cancer Campaign

Johnny says: In April 2013, my sister Geraldine got the devastating news that she had secondary breast cancer, just months after being told she had recovered from a long and painful battle with the disease, which had begun some six years earlier. It’s hard to put into words how I felt. The pain and anger were soon joined by a sense of helplessness, a desperate feeling that I was powerless to do anything tangible to help my own sister face this horrible thing. As I tried to make sense of it all, I came to realise that, actually, there was something I could do. Maybe not directly (it’s not like I could donate an organ or anything), but I thought of my own two daughters and Geraldine’s two lovely girls, and how I could do something that might just contribute to a future where breast cancer is something they don’t have to fear. So I signed up for the Brighton Marathon and embarked on a journey of self-discovery, pain, blisters and ultimately an enormous sense of pride and achievement (and a few tears) as I crossed the finish line on that Sunday last April, to be greeted by my closest family and friends, Geraldine among them. I chose to raise money for Breast Cancer Campaign. From day one they offered the most amazing support, not only in terms of my fundraising efforts, but also emotionally. They fully understood my motivation, and everyone I spoke to had real empathy and compassion. I developed a very close affinity with them that I know will endure for many years to come. Fundraising isn’t easy these days. The training, work and other pressures of modern life make it a tough proposition that can really get you down if it’s not going well. So I was amazed when after less than three months I crashed through my initial £2,000 target

in July, thanks to generous donations from friends and family, boosted by online auctions of sporting and music memorabilia. I was astonished by the response, and also by hearing about how many friends had been affected by some form of cancer. This proved a real eye-opener to me, realising the impact cancer has on so many lives, and spurred me on, both in terms of getting myself in the best possible shape and raising as much as I could. By December I had passed my revised total of £3,000 and continued to bombard everyone I knew via all forms of social media (I’m amazed I’ve got any Facebook friends left!). A week before the race I passed the magic £5,000 and, fittingly, it was Geraldine’s donation that got me there. I’d gone way further than I ever imagined possible, and could focus on the race in the knowledge I’d done all I could. My final total was more than £6,000, a drop in the ocean perhaps in terms of what’s needed to fund the necessary research, but something I’m very proud of nonetheless. But I can’t stop there. Geraldine’s fight goes on, and I’m amazed by the courage and grace with which she handles the ups and downs. I’m immensely proud of her, and I have to continue doing all I can to help her and thousands of women like her across the UK. I chose to give back through running but you can support a charity in many different ways. Giving your time can be as valuable as giving money. There are so many events nationwide that you can volunteer at, you could organise a bake sale, golf day or attend an event such as the Pink Ribbon Ball in Manchester. Supporting Breast Cancer Campaign has been one of the most rewarding things I have ever done. My message is clear, don’t leave it to someone else. Let 2015 be the year that you make a difference. I can testify that you can get so much out of this experience and, although it may feel like a big step, once you have made the leap you will realise how much fulfilment you will gain and you will not want to stop giving back. To gain ideas, inspiration and see the great work being undertaken to beat breast cancer visit breastcancercampaign.org

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Feature

IMPROVE FITNESS Mentor: THOMAS GOMULKO, personal training specialist at Hale Fitness

Tom says: Half of us start the new year with a resolution and best intentions; 66 per cent of those set fitnessrelated targets while as little as 8 per cent actually go on to achieve their New Year’s goals. Selfimprovement is something which we all all strive for, so why are we so good at being so bad when it comes to improving our health and fitness over a prolonged period of time? Answer: we focus on only one lifestyle factor when a combination of several will reap you the rewards. Nutrition is the single fundamental change that will benefit your health as well as making the rest of your lifestyle changes much easier to adjust to. As a nation we tend to eat too many carbohydrates and too much sugar. With sugars being addictive it is extremely difficult to accept that your body doesn’t actually need them in

abundance. The trick is to re-adjust your body to rely on fats and lipoproteins as energy sources. It will then begin to use the fat you are eating (and currently storing in all the wrong places) as energy after it has been broken down. Then we can look at exercise. According to the Health Survey for England, 4 per cent of all adults are ‘inactive’ while the low levels of physical activity in children is frightening (only 8 per cent of girls and 14 per cent of boys aged 13-15 currently meet the guidelines). If you are eating right, even two 30-minute workouts per week can be enough to make changes to body composition and general health. It is also proven to improve cognitive performance, mood and mental capacity. Therefore an easily time-framed programme incorporated into your daily life can enhance your social, home and working life. I read recently that more than 35 per cent of people are sleep deprived. And when you consider that the statistic for obesity is nearly identical, it’s easy to connect the dots. Adequate sleep is essential (7-8 hours each night) to see the benefits of improved dietary intake and increased exercise. Sleep deprivation causes ‘metabolic grogginess’ whereby your fat cells change the way they work in a way that prevents fat loss. Following on from sleep, stress levels are directly related to reducing weight loss. Someone who is more stressed has a greater abundance of cortisol secretion, contributing to greater storage of fat regardless of how hard they are working in the gym or how strict they are being in the kitchen. Along with the physiological effects of being stressed, you are also more likely to refrain from going to the gym and indulge in junk foods. An easy way of reducing your stress levels is by ensuring you get enough sleep each night while creating and maintaining sleeping habits that are replicated each day (going to bed and waking up at similar times) as well as cutting down screen time before bed - turning all electrical devices off an hour before bedtime. In essence eat well, train often, sleep more and relax in order to make 2015 YOUR year! For more information on improving your fitness contact Tom on tgomulko@gmail.com; 07547 673 642

TOP

FITNESS TRENDS

for 2015

As we prepare our resolutions for the New Year, there’s a pretty high probability that at least one of them will be about health and fitness. With that in mind, here are the top trends for the year ahead

#1 TECHNOLOGY Gadgets and gizmos related to fitness are everywhere at the moment, whether it’s an app on your phone or something a little more sophisticated. Either way, it’s currently the biggest growing trend and those in the know predict it can only increase. There are wristbands that track your physical activity and sleep cycles, heart-rate monitors and other wearable devices. All of which sync with the apps on each and whichever modes of technology you favour. Fitbit is one of the top downloads available and can be used on its own or with the wristbands, what’s more it’s free and one of Apple’s top health and fitness downloads. Then there are the apps for your phones which don’t need you to

wear anything or input data, not to mention the hundreds of other helpful apps to that do require you to. MyFitnessPal’s calorie counter, again free to download, is our favourite, with thousands of food listings from the main supermarkets and brands. This is a definite boom time for health and fitness technology and the companies associated with it.

#2 ONLINE WORKOUTS Linked to the technology boom above, more and more people are participating in online fitness challenges and doing their workouts online. While it may not be the same as attending the gym in person, it is a solution to sustaining a healthy lifestyle in today’s busy world. Workout In is a local company that offers online classes which are live and interactive.

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Feature

Feature | The CHESHIRE Magazine

Expert trainers give you real-time feedback via webcam and keep you motivated and on-track to achieve your goals, whether that’s cardiac, toning or more holistic. You can even organise your own bespoke one-to-one sessions if you want. Plus, your first class workout is free so you’ve nothing to lose. (workoutin.com)

#3 SHORT WORKOUTS It seems that one-hour workouts are on the decline, with 20, 30 and 40 minute options winning in the popularity stakes. Partly to do with our hectic lifestyles and partly with a rise in high-intensity workouts, it’s a way to get started without it being too scary! Circuit training (or boot camp training as it has been branded) has always been a popular alternative to the treadmill, but it seems the recent media-hurrah over Insanity is influencing people’s fitness choices. People who are put off by one-hour or longer workouts are more willing to push harder if it’s for a shorter amount of time. Then there’s Tabata. This is about working hard for 20 seconds, resting for 10 seconds and then repeating eight times before taking a minute break. You can do pretty much any exercise you want: squats, rowing, kettlebells. The reason it’s still growing in popularity is because it works for almost all levels of fitness and results come pretty fast for most people. Plus it’s hard to get bored.

#4 ROPEWORKS Waving a rope up and down sounds simple – until you try doing so with weighted ropes, believe us! This new trend relies on the art of undulation, or creating a wave-like pattern in the rope with your body. Once you get the position right and begin undulating you’ll work every muscle, especially your core. We have been assured you will also reap the cardiovascular benefits, improving co-ordination, and increasing metabolic endurance. We’re only three weeks in so couldn’t possibly comment, but it is easier and

you see the difference in your arms. It’s low impact too, so it’s safe for most people. Available at selected gyms and Hale Fitness

#5 HOLISTIC Partly down to the higher-intensity, shorter exercise sessions and partly down to a mindset which is becoming more holistic, more and more people are turning to holistic and restorative workouts to rejuvenate body and soul. Restorative yoga is a reasonably new trend and a great complement to more active workouts. It uses props to support your body so that you can hold the poses for longer, allowing the body to open through passive stretching. Then there’s Self-Myofascial Release or ‘foam-rolling’. Basically, a type of self-massage to release muscle tightness that has been used by professional athletes for years. Using an affordable foam roller, it works by applying pressure to specific points or knots on your body to assist them to return to normal function. It’s all about training hard and recovering harder.

TOP FIVE WORKOUT TRACKS 5 4 3 2 1

Move Your Feet, Junior Senior Ladyflash, The Go! Team Shake Your Body, Michael Jackson One More Time / Aerodynamic, Daft Punk The Edge of Glory, Lady Gaga

2 COURSES FOR £12.50

*OFFER AVAILABLE MONDAY TO FRIDAY 12 – 7PM, SATURDAY 12-4PM.

01244 304 611 INFO@RESTAURANT1539.CO.UK RESTAURANT1539.CO.UK

Bright and beautiful We love Yorkshire-born artist Katy Jade Dobson’s wonderfully vivid work, particularly her opulent oil paintings of wildlife and nature with their intricate detailing, kinetic overtones and incredible, vibrant use of colour. So we were thrilled to hear that her work will be on display at the Attitude Gallery in Congleton from December, one of our favourite exhibition spaces in the county and always filled to the brim with bold new creations. If you haven’t yet discovered Katy Jade’s work or this fabulous gallery, now’s a great time to investigate. (katyjadedobson.co.uk, attitudegallery.co.uk)

Art news Time to celebrate Following a record-breaking fair in 2014, which saw more than 55,000 visitors flock to Brussels, the Brussels Antiques & Fine Art Fair (BRAFA) celebrates its 60th anniversary this year by gathering together 126 exhibitors from over a dozen countries to display their finest and most recent discoveries in archaeology, tribal art, furniture, paintings,

drawings, sculpture, design, jewellery and objets d’art – not to mention a special exhibition drawn exclusively from private Belgian collections presented by the King Baudouin Foundation. If you’re looking for an excuse for a cultural minibreak, this might well be your cup of tea. Brussels Art Fair, 24 January – 1 February (brafa.be)

Clockwise from top; pieces by Yann Ferrandin, alexander calder and damien hirst

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Art

Q&A with…

Cheshire native Ian Jarman

In fine taste Now in its fourth year, The Antiques & Fine Art Fair at The Mere has built itself quite the reputation, with collectors, interior decorators and buyers coming from near and far to enjoy its incredibly diverse array of works. With around twenty-five dealers attending each year, the fair showcases the best antiques and art from around the UK and even gives visitors the opportunity to seek out advice on what to look for when buying. A wonderful day out, antiques addicts will certainly be spoiled for choice. 30 January – 1 February, Chester Rd, Knutsford, WA16 6LJ (merefair.com)

Q. Was your career a childhood ambition, or something you came to later on in your life? A. I have always loved painting and drawing. When the time came to make a career choice, I chose graphics over fine art because, just then, conceptual art was all the rage and I couldn’t figure out how to make a living by dangling string from the ceiling! I worked in the graphics industry for over twenty years before a sudden company closure caused me to reassess. Q. What inspires you? A. Everyday scenes. I am constantly amazed at how beautiful the world is. People just need to look! I try to stop working on a picture as soon as it triggers a feeling reminding me of how I felt at the scene. Although I have a reputation for cityscapes and night scenes, I will attempt any subject that moves me. I always strive to convey an atmosphere. Q. What have been the highlights of your career so far? A. Selling a picture to someone who’s never bought art before. Seeing a wall of red dots suddenly appear at a private view. Discovering that I have collectors! My work was once described as being ‘like frozen glimpses’ and I was very pleased with that. Q. What projects do you have coming up? A. The next picture! Painting can be difficult and unforgiving and it involves constant learning. The rewards come when a piece suddenly and mysteriously begins to take on a life of its own. It’s even better when a viewer connects and you realise that you’ve communicated something beyond words Ian’s work is available from: Jo Bennett Original Pictures; Wendy J Levy Fine Art; Longden Gallery, Macclesfield

Northern Pride Northern artists Paul Wolfgang Webster and Shaun Keefe have shared artistic interests, but Carol Cordrey discovers that their new exhibition reveals quite different approaches to their work

olfgang Webster and Shaun Keefe have emerged from very different artistic backgrounds to create high-quality, individual forms of art that reflect not just their talents but their pride in Northern life. Webster is already a photographer of some repute, as London’s National Portrait Gallery can testify, with collections there including no less than four of his portraits: Fred Dibnah MBE, erstwhile steeplejack and television presenter; Ian Simpson of the eponymous, distinguished architecture practice; Professor Brian Cox OBE, the man credited with making physics and astronomy compulsive viewing; and Debbie Moore OBE, founder of the legendary Pineapple

Dance Studios in London. These are part of Webster’s successful quest to create a group of attention-grabbing portraits called Made in the North that focus attention on iconic figures who came out of the shadows of Northern England and into the glaring limelight. In creating them, Webster presents in environments that allow viewers to immediately identify with their success. Thus, Dibnah appears in working men’s clothes and displaying a broad smile of satisfaction as he leans on dark industrial machinery. That contrasts markedly with the clean image of Simpson against a backdrop of a smart, modern building. Equally individual is the portrait of fashionably dressed, sunglasses-sporting, ‘punk poet, John Cooper Clarke.

‘Webster presents his subjects in environments that 52

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Art

from left to right: ‘union jack GUITARS’ by shaun keefe, Tony Wilson ‘Northern’ by Paul Wolfgang Webster, ‘tangled up in blue’ by shaun keefe, ‘old blues’ by shaun keefe, John Cooper Clarke photographed by Paul Wolfgang Webster.

Webster undoubtedly made a name for himself through these memorable, monochrome portraits but, in recent years, he has immersed himself in colour, shooting a series of innovative cityscapes such as New York and Venice, as well as his portraits of modern rock ‘n’ roll icons. This exhibition will shine the spotlight on Keefe, too. He trained as an artist before developing a successful career in advertising but now relishes devoting time to his twin interests of art and music. He has always loved playing the electric guitar but much of his artistic inspiration comes from the music of the great Hendrix, The Stone Roses and Oasis. Keefe has become well known for his large canvases, an intriguing blend of acrylic paint and collage applied with a dynamism which conveys the physical and emotional sensations that Keefe experiences through painting and music. For example, Tangled Up in Blue references the Bob Dylan song and communicates Keefe’s burst of feelings that radiate from the bottom corner of the picture plane. Its carefully controlled tonal work conveys drama and incorporates slender rolls of paint-splattered cotton sheeting, glue and particles of sand, all applied spontaneously as the mood of the music took hold.

He feels, quite rightly, that much of the world loves guitars and that they strike a powerful chord in our experiences of life. This has encouraged Keefe to develop his series of fusion artworks that he entitles GUITART. They involve his original, expressive paintings being overlaid with photographs of guitars, manipulated through Photoshop. The images are then printed onto high-quality paper as limited editions of 150 that are signed by the artist. Typical of this style of work is Morning Glory, the background an exciting, rich mix of colour, linear effects and pieces of fabric that create a reverse silhouette for the beautifully illuminated neck of the guitar. The effect is both dramatic and thought provoking. These two artists are well recognised for their separate styles of art but they are planning collaborative projects next year, which will see Webster’s portraits combine with Keefe’s paintings and original prints. It promises to be a winning combination, and I look forward to the results with excited anticipation. Paul Wolfgang Webster and Shaun Keefe In-Toto Kitchen Design Studio, Station Road, Wilmslow Throughout December and January (intoto.co.uk) Also exhibiting at Wolfgang Webster Gallery, Cheadle (wolfgangwebstergallery.com)

viewers can immediately identify with their success’ 53

£20

off B

your first order at ACHICA.com* Use code CHESH

Make Christmas magical, with hundreds of unique gift ideas

SAVE UP TO 70% OFF RRP ON LEADING BRANDS Great brands, amazing prices, every day

*Excludes travel offers, minimum spend £50. See ACHICA.com for full T&Cs

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Art

PRIZE LOTs

3 #1 The Goldfish Pool at Chartwell by Sir Winston Spencer Churchill Part of the most important and personal group of paintings by Churchill ever to come to the market, this picture – painted in 1932 – depicts Chartwell; the place most closely linked to Churchill’s development as a painter. It was given to his daughter, Mary Soames, by her mother Clementine Churchill. Her father created water gardens near the house, where he enjoyed feeding the golden orfe. Exhibition and auction at Sotheby’s; 17 December; Estimated range: £400,000-£600,000 (sothebys.com)

#2 Portrait of Lucy Stern by Sir John Everett Millais, PRA Signed with a monogram and dated 1882 in the lower-right corner, this stunning oil on canvas will be auctioned as part of Bonhams’ 19th Century European, Victorian and British Impressionist Art

sale. The subject of the painting, Lucy Stern, was the daughter of Joseph Biedermann, court jeweller to the Habsburgs in Vienna, and married the banker James Julius Stern in 1871. Exhibition and auction at Bonhams; 21 January; Estimated range: £80,000-£120,000 (bonhams.com)

#3 Mob by Martin Peikert An offset lithograph in colour, this piece is due to be sold as part of Christie’s Ski Sale, the only auction of its kind worldwide. The sale will feature contemporary luggage from luxury labels alongside posters from France, Italy, Austria and Norway. The largest selection of which will be from Switzerland, the most prolific country for producing ski tourism posters during the 20th century, and among the first to establish ski resorts. Exhibition and auction at Christie’s; 22 January; Estimated range: £3,000-£5,000 (christies.com)

Polished precision

Watch news This month we admire Raymond Weil’s tribute to its late founder and Bremont’s updated ALT1-C model, as well as young brand Breva’s impressive Genie O2 Air wor d s : r i c h ar d brow n

Raymond Weil remembered Few are the watch houses still in the hands of their founding families. One that remains so is Raymond Weil; after 18 years of Raymond’s son-in-law being at the helm, the brand is now under the stewardship of grandson Elie Bernheim. One of his first acts as CEO, following the recent passing of company creator Mr Weil, was to launch the Maestro Raymond Weil Limited Edition, a beautiful, rose-gold-fluted chronograph embossed with his grandfather’s signature on its dial. An automatic-winding mechanical heart, equipped with a 42-hour power reserve, sits inside the COSC-certified timepiece, which has to be one of the brand’s most ambitious pieces yet. A fitting tribute indeed. Maestro Raymond Weil Limited Edition, £14,950 (raymond-weil.com) 56

Bremont, the British watch brand that manufactures its mechanical timepieces in Henley-on-Thames, has introduced a polished steel version of its ALT1-C. The classic piece takes design cues from the company’s 2012 Victory, which remains arguably the brand’s best-looking creation to date. Whereas the Victory was limited (and sold out almost immediately), Bremont will make as many of the ALT1-C/PW as it thinks it can sell, which, owing to its good looks and the cult following the brand commands, will more than likely be an awful lot. ALT1-C/PW, £4,495 (bremont.com)

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Collection

ONE TO WATCH ‘A limited edition of only 500 pieces worldwide in an all-steel case, this upto-the-minute timepiece leaves no wish unfulfilled. Showing day, date, month, year and seven-day power reserve in a 44.2mm case, it is grand-scale theatre on a tiny stage’ Lee Chadwick, Manager at David M Robinson’s Manchester showroom

The IWC Portuguese Perpetual Calendar, £21,500, Davd M Robinson, St Ann’s Square, Manchester, M2 7JB (0161 834 0217; davidmrobinson.co.uk)

High performance Nestled between the watch world’s super-brands at November’s SalonQP was industry newcomer Breva. Yet to celebrate its fifth birthday, the Swiss firm graced the Saatchi Gallery to showcase its Génie O2 Air, a watch that in addition to telling the time will indicate both altitude and air pressure. Air pressure is measured using special non-magnetic ‘memory metal’ capsules (invented by Breva) and a mind-blowingly complex system of gears. Expect big things from this brand. Génie O2 Air, £82,000 (breva-watch.com)

From space to sea When Felix Baumgartner became the first human to freefall at Mach 1.25, he did so with a Zenith El Primero Stratos Flyback Striking 10th strapped to his spacesuit. If, as Zenith hopes, record-breaking sailor Yann Guichard wins the transatlantic sailing race the Route du Rhum, he’ll do so sporting an El Primero Stratos Spindrift. If you’re looking for a no-fear, sea-faring sports watch, what better option than a chrono that’s stood the test of one of sailing’s most treacherous contests? El Primero Stratos Spindrift, from £6,000 (zenith-watches.com)

LET CHISHOLMHUNTER.CO.UK

BLOSSOM TEL: +44 (0)844 417 6058

VISIT YOUR NEAREST CHISHOLM HUNTER STORE: ST MICHAELS SQUARE GROSVENOR SHOPPING CENTRE CHESTER CH1 1EE

MULTIPLE JEWELLER OF THE YEAR 2012 & 2013

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Collection

A taste of

honey

hichever your gold preference, this beautiful new Honeycomb Ring is an unusual and striking addition to your trinket box. We love the simple combination of 18-carat gold (be it white, rose or yellow) set with gorgeous diamonds in an interlocking design. Even better, these rings can be worn alone or even stacked for an elegant multi-hued effect. We think treating yourself to this lovely piece might even make all the New Year diets and detoxes just about bearable – with honeycomb like this, who needs chocolate? Yellow Gold, £575; Rose Gold, £1,950; White Gold; £3,650 (davidmrobinson.co.uk)

Jewellery news

WORDS BY OLIVIA SHARPE

Independent woman Despite having only recently joined the company as head jewellery designer, Lucrezia Buccellati has already made quite an impact, launching a series of rebranding initiatives to make the family-owned, Italian heritage jeweller appeal to a younger generation. Along with a redesigned logo and a line of bejewelled iPad and iPhone covers, Buccellati is in the midst of releasing a series of short films, each featuring one of the brand’s female ‘muses’. The first includes fashion designer Marta Ferri, while the second stars president of Spanish fashion brand Delpozo, Indre Rockefeller. The third muse has not yet been unveiled but we can be sure that she will share with her contemporaries a love of Buccellati, a sense of timeless style and youthful ambition. Along with this, the brand has also just launched a range of more affordable jewellery pieces, starting from £2,000. (buccellati.com)

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Collection

Collection IV

Scale the heights Swiss jeweller Shawish Genève has landed in London and its first flagship boutique is in Chelsea. Inside, the contemporary design – featuring a spectacular glass tube chandelier centrepiece and a fish skin motif in the facade panels – is in keeping with the brand’s innovative and visionary aesthetic. Well-known for creating high jewellery pieces which combine traditional techniques with modern technology, arguably Shawish’s biggest claim to fame is designing the world’s first alldiamond ring, cut from a single diamond weighing 150 carats. From the enchanted Magic Mushroom collection to the whimsical Teddy Bear set (just some of the pieces on display), visiting the boutique is a magical experience. Shawish Genève (shawish.ch)

Rising star Lily Elia has launched a new 10-piece collection for her eponymous brand, Lily Gabriella. Founded in 2011, the company has gone from strength to strength and this latest collection is indicative of this; the jeweller harkens back to fond childhood memories of holidays in Brazil by creating a range of jewellery pieces which marry the natural and the sculptural, featuring smooth, undulating lines and never-ending circles that conjure up images of rolling clouds and rippling waters. Full finger rings featuring blue sapphire pavé, on the other hand, possess an almost talismanic quality, shielding the wearer like protective armour. Collection IV, from £8,190 (lilygabriella.com)

CUTTING EDGE Noudar Jewels and its exclusive new collection recently arrived in Harrods Fine Jewellery room. Comprising an assortment of ring sets and finger bracelets inspired by Islamic and Arabic cultures, the eclectic range remains signature to the brand. Designer Noor Al Fardan comments:

‘The second collection is an edgier and a more daring version of the previous collection; holding onto Noudar’s unique essence, focusing mainly on rings and earrings, taking inspiration from Arabic heritage’ - Noor Al Fardan

Noudar Jewels, available at Harrods Luxury Jewellery Room harrods.com

It takes 89 years to create movement this beautiful. The new 55" BeoVision Avant. An Ultra High-Definition, 4K Bang & Olufsen Smart TV with iconic sound. Experience it in store now. Recommended price ÂŁ5,995*. bang-olufsen.com Bang & Olufsen of Wilmslow 1-3 Bank Square Wilmslow, Cheshire SK9 1AN United Kingdom Tel: 01625 527666 Email: wilmslow@bang-olufsen.co.uk Web: www.bang-olufsen.com/wilmslow

*Recommended price for BeoVision Avant 55" includes BeoRemote One. Price excludes placement option on either wall, table or floor starting from ÂŁ695. Energy class C.

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Collection

#2 #3 #1

Star

Struck

The start of a new year sees jewellers looking to the stars for inspiration

#15 #7

#14

#12 #13

#10

#11

#1 Acte V green beryl Genesis ring, POA, Louis Vuitton (louisvuitton.com) #2 & #3 Nuit de diamonds necklace in white gold with diamonds and black spinel beads, POA, and Voie Lactée bracelet, £17,500, both from the Comete collection, Chanel (chanel.com) #4 Pompadour 18-carat white gold, sapphire and diamond ring, £4,300, Maison Martin Margiela (net-a-porter.com) #5 Silver-plated Swarovski crystal necklace, £1,025, Ben-Amun (net-a-porter.com) #6 Acte V Australian black opal Genesis necklace, POA, Louis Vuitton, as before #7 Cristal de Lune watch, POA, Boucheron (boucheron.com) #8 Radiant gold-plated crystal necklace, £315, Lulu Frost (net-a-porter.com) #9 Morning star earrings, £7,200, Mikimoto (mikimoto.co.uk) #10 Lady Stardust Crystal Haze ring set in 18-carat white gold with hematite and white diamonds, POA, Stephen Webster (stephenwebster.com) #11 Pompadour 18-carat white gold, sapphire and diamond ring, £2,800, Maison Martin Margiela (net-a-porter.com) #12 18-carat white gold diamond ear cuff, £780, Anita Ko (net-a-porter.com) #13 Rock It! cage pendant, from £2,300, Ornella Iannuzzi (ornella-iannuzzi.com) #14 J12 Flying Tourbillon watch, POA, Chanel, as before #15 Pagoda earrings, £14,950, Robinson Pelham (robinsonpelham.com) 63

Too hot to handle Up until now, British shoewear designer Charlotte Olympia has limited her accessories to dinky little clutches barely large enough to hold one’s lipstick, but this season sees the designer branching out with a collection of practical leather handbags large enough to fit most of your run-around essentials, including iPhone, keys and purse. Each of the four vintage-inspired styles has been named after a classic Hollywood actor – Bogart, Gable, Brando and Astaire – and comes in a choice of lipstick shades and luxury materials, such as black alligator and leopard pony skin. (charlotteolympia.com)

Fashion news All About Eve Dedicated online footwear destination Shoescribe.com is playing host to an exclusive capsule collection by award-winning designer Tabitha Simmons. Having taken inspiration from Hollywood film All About Eve, the line includes three classic styles in five different colours, including a pair of Simmons’ signature stilettos in dark cherry. Tabitha Simmons exclusive collection, from £510 (shoescribe.com)

The designer look These days a fabulous pair of specs is as much a statement of individuality and taste as the latest clutch or pair of killer heels. And if you’re going to make a statement with your eyewear, who better than Dolce & Gabbana to help? Their 3170 glasses are vivid, fun and oh so luxurious. 3170 glasses, £163, Dolce & Gabbana (myoptique.com )

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Fashion

Well groomed

Around the globe The destination is usually the exciting element of a trip away, but with GlobeTrotter’s bespoke service the pleasure starts with the packing. The heritagesteeped brand is inviting clients to its bespoke lounge in the Albemarle Street store to create a personalised piece, customising everything from the lining to the contrasting leather corners. For a truly unique item, add your initials to the suitcase; it was the custom in the Victorian era so owners could identify their baggage when it was sent ahead of them with the porters. Bespoke suitcase, from £510, Globe-Trotter, (020 7529 5950; globetrotter1897.com)

The modern man: he has a suit so sharp it could cut ice and his shoes are shined to perfection, but he needs the grooming regime to match. This is where British aromatherapy house Czech & Speake steps in, with the launch of the Oxford & Cambridge shaving set. Classic in concept, the brand brings a minimalist contemporary edge to the set with a sleek silver stand and the finest silver-tipped badger hair brush. The perfect tools for a close shave. Shaving set, £310, Czech & Speake (czechandspeake.com)

Head over heels When two St James’s institutions work as a team, something beautiful and filled with heritage is bound to be born; this collaborative project from Turnbull & Asser and Lock & Co Hatters is no exception. The set of limited-edition headwear takes the classic trilby in Lock & Co’s Atlantic style, and features a Turnbull & Asser trim, blending old world and new world style seamlessly. Two heads are definitely better than one. Hat, £225, Turnbull & Asser and Lock & Co Hatters (020 7808 3000; turnbullandasser.co.uk)

The grand scheme of things In anticipation of the exciting launch of St. Regis Istanbul next February, the global luxury hotel group has partnered with fashion designer Jason Wu on a collection of scarves, entitled ‘The Grand Tourista’. Two of the three scarves have been designed to evoke the ancient city – one featuring geometric patterns in shades of blue and the other arriving in beige – while the third comes in grey, Wu’s signature colour. The exquisite scarves are 100 per cent silk twill with hand-rolled edges, making them the perfect accessory for today’s discerning luxury traveller. The Grand Tourista Scarf, £120 each (stregis.com/boutique; jasonwustudio.com )

Age of

elegance Be inspired by the timeless glamour of embellished, floor-length couture gowns and exceptional jewellery as the party season arrives Photographer: alexander beer styling: ozzy shah

Dress, ÂŁ5,880, Jenny Packham (jennypackham.com) 66

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Regulars

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Fashion

above Dress, price on application, Emilia Wickstead (emiliawickstead.com) Cuff £25,000, Ritz Fine Jewellery (ritzfinejewellery.com)

opposite Dress, price on application, Elie Saab Haute Couture, 1 Rond Point Champs Elysées, Paris. Bracelet, £160,000, Ritz Fine Jewellery (ritzfinejewellery.com)

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Regulars

Dress, price on application, Nicholas Oakwell Couture (nicholasoakwellcouture.com) Heels, price on application, Elie Saab haute couture, 1 Rond Point Champs Elysées, Paris. Cuff, £160,000 and ring, £65,000, both Ritz Fine Jewellery (ritzfinejewellery.com). Necklace and bangle, price on application, both Harry Winston (harrywinston.com) 71

Fashion | The CHESHIRE Magazine

above Top, ÂŁ4,480, Jenny Packham (jennypackham.com) Bracelet, price on application, Harry Winston (harrywinston.com)

opposite Dress, price on application, Nicholas Oakwell Couture (nicholasoakwellcouture.com)

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Fashion

Photography assistant: Ben Duah Model: Neva C @ Profile models Styling Assistant: Matilda Lee Make-up: Jonas Oliver Hair: Dany Mikhael Retouch: Pavel Zolin (ipaulus.com) Shot on location at Ham House, Surrey and with special Thanks to Ham House, National Trust 73

Why style works better than

Fashion Felicity Green, former fashion, woman’s and associate editor of the Daily Mirror, takes a highly personal – and somewhat controversial – view of how the two forces of contemporary design continue to wage a war of opposites!

his is a picture of me in 1965 (right) and it sums up very nicely my whole philosophy of fashion. The outfit in question - designed by me and made for me by Mabel, the dressmaker who lived next door to my father’s Walk-Rite Shoe Shop in Reede Road, Dagenham, Essex - is one I would wear today, roughly fifty years later. I was size ten then and I am size twelve now, but that apart the skirt is the right length, the boots are the right height and only the lack of sleeves requires attention – older arms can’t cope with such exposure. The moral of all this is that when this picture was taken I had already scaled the first heights of my career in fashion. I had become associate editor, woman’s editor and fashion editor of the Daily Mirror, the world’s top-selling newspaper,

felicity green by terry o’neill

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Fashion

reaching the now preposterous level of more than five million copies a day. Those three ‘simultaneous’ job titles worried me. I was intensely proud of being an associate editor and woman’s editor on such a prestigious national newspaper – but fashion editor? For me then, and it remains for me now, fashion is something to be followed at a very firm and respectful distance. Get too close and you get burned. How many of us fell for the charms of the puffball skirt and finished up all too soon with a trip to the nearest Oxfam shop? Of course there certainly is a place for frivolity in the fashion world. My philosophy: just don’t spend a fortune on that latest look. Do I dismiss fashion altogether? No, of course not. But I was never in love with fashion as were many of my fellow fashion journalists. Style has always been first on my list of meaningful fashion terms. Style is a constant, and another helpful term for the same thing is simplicity versus novelty. Style takes a bit of practice to get right but it’s definitely worth the effort. Fashion is a short-term love affair. Style is a

long-term romance that will be there as long as you are! I realise my minimal style started extremely early. I think I was practising minimalism long before it even existed as a style. I had never revelled in the frilly party frock world of children’s wear. Everything I wore was simple – and, I hope, stylish. Like my outfit over the page – with its neutral colour scheme, my signature palette ever since – caramel wool coat trimmed in dark chocolate brown – and, of course, the hat to match. I now know I inherited my minimalist style from my mother. A Jewish immigrant who came to London aged three, she lived with her family in the Jewish ‘village’ of Whitechapel in London’s East End. Where my mother got her sense of style from God only knows, but then she did come from a very religious family! When I look at my mother’s 1924 wedding pictures I am bowled over by her obvious sense of style. She designed her wedding dress herself and it was made by the local dressmaker in flesh-coloured georgette, trimmed with pearls and rhinestones and had a headdress to match. This photograph gives

THIS PAGE FROM LEFT: Felicity in her minimalistic childhood; Never before in newspaper history had the front and back pages of a national newspaper been given to the Fashion Editor to fill; David Bailey’s signature leggy look

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Fashion

me a true vision of style to treasure all my life. For me, style and the cinema are synonymous. A film fan from the age of four when each Thursday my father shut his shop in Dagenham and off we went to the pictures, I was well and truly hooked on the cinema. My first favourite stylish star was Norma Shearer and my heart was broken when, at the age of six, a violent attack of whooping cough caused me to whoop all over my five-hundred picture scrapbook of Miss Shearer. It had to be burned and I conducted a film star pyre, weeping away. Much later came Audrey Hepburn, when I became less starstruck but was totally stylestruck. Opposite the irresistible Gregory Peck in Roman Holiday, Hepburn was a revelation. I recognised Style when I saw it and throughout her career Miss Hepburn, dressed by Givenchy, lived and breathed style. Then came Breakfast at Tiffany’s and Givenchy created that blacknothing of a gown with no interruption from neck to hem. Audrey Hepburn’s chic style and minimalism made a worldwide impact and postcards of this image still sweep the western world – I have ten!

‘For me then, and it remains for me now, fashion is something to be followed at a very firm and respectful distance. Get too close and you get burned’ But for me the high point of her style magnetism was reached when she appeared in a huge charity concert in London in the early 1960s. All the starry cast vied with each other to make a fashion statement. And then came Miss Hepburn and the difference was delightful – no make-up, no jewellery, just that long black slink of a dress and my heart was hers forever. This is an extract from Felicity Green’s new book ‘Sex, Sense and Nonsense’ by ACC Editions, available from all good bookstores now

THIS PAGE FROM LEFT: Moving in high circles - The Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh visit the Daily Mirror; The dress that started it all - a Barbara Hulanicki summer drss for twenty-five shillings; Mary QUANT saw the 60s revolution coming and designed clothes for it

Pink Ribbon Ball Manchester Cathedral Saturday 25 April, 2015 Pricing from ÂŁ150 per person or ÂŁ1,500 per table Tickets include champagne reception, four-course meal by Harvey Nichols with fabulous entertainment

To book: 020 7749 4106 pinkribbonball@breastcancercampaign.org www.breastcancercampaign.org/pinkribbonballmanchester

Registered charity no. 299758

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Fashion

ver wondered what the Wizard of Oz’s Dorothy would wear on her feet in 2014? Look no further than Jimmy Choo’s Vices collection, inspired by precious gemstones. Crystals drip from clutch bags and stilettos, including the Jing style, a chunky, ruby-red snakeskin sandal embellished with glass teardrops. The range reflects a slightly feistier aesthetic for the brand, following creative director Sandra Choi’s decision to add biker boots to its boutiques, alongside its elegant evening styles. (jimmychoo.com)

YOUR

Next Vice 79

Tipping the

Scales

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Fashion

Olivia Sharpe is given a lesson in luxury by a man who has come to define it, bespoke leather handbag designer Ethan Koh

uxury is one of those words, like iconic or timeless, that has become so over-used that its real meaning has ceased to exist. Ironic, really, given that a term used to describe something rare or precious has become so clichĂŠd. However, after meeting handbag designer Ethan Koh, I can safely say that my faith in this intangible concept has been restored; for here is a man who not only appreciates the meaning of luxury but embodies it. Visiting his private atelier in Chelsea was enough to convince me of this. From the grand double doors featuring a total of eight brass knockers (eight being a symbol of good luck in Chinese culture), to the custom-made exotic leather chairs and vintage books, it is clear that there is nothing commonplace about this particular designer. This meticulous attention to detail and creativity is furthermore highlighted in Kohâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s attire; he is impeccably dressed in a tailor-made blazer featuring flamboyant collars, a signature colourful bow-tie and large animal rings adorning his fingers. The 28-year-old Singaporean has been designing handbags for his eponymous brand for only five years, but he has already made quite a name for himself in the industry; his bags have appeared on the arms of celebrities and members of royalty, from Kim Cattrall to Princess Eugenie, in publications such as British Vogue and in luxury department stores around the world. Having proven a hit in Harrods, two

months ago saw Ethan K open its first 200 square foot standalone store on the ground floor of the British emporium. While Koh’s talent is indisputable, he has also been blessed with a series of serendipitous moments which have shaped his success. While studying at Central Saint Martins and living in Mayfair, he happened to be strolling down Piccadilly wearing one of his own crocodile bags when he was stopped by a passing admirer, who turned out to be a member of the Gulf States royal family; she commissioned Ethan then and there to design something similar. Soon orders started flying in and with the help of his father who loaned his son $5,000, Koh was able to get his business off the ground. Ethan reminisces about how he first met Marigay McKee, the former chief merchant at Harrods, on a flight to Switzerland: ‘I crouched beside her seat the whole journey whilst she animatedly told me about her favourite things. Our next encounter in Marrakech when we both happened to be in the same garden was where I sketched the Marigay bag for her…somehow these encounters just happen; it’s a little bit like destiny,’ he says, smiling. It appears as though the designer has always been destined for greatness, descended from an impressive tannery family dynasty. His greatgrandfather first mastered the art of exotic tanning from the British at the beginning of the 1900s in Singapore and these skills have since been passed down four generations of Kohs. Ethan’s father founded the business, the Heng Long tannery, in 1977 at the back of

the family home and as Koh grew up, he was given a rare insight into the craft. Today, Koh’s father remains the managing director of the tannery and he supplies his son with the majority of the exotic skins used for his bags, along with top fashion houses including Hermès, Prada and Louis Vuitton. The designer works with many exotic skins, from ostrich to python, but it is crocodile for which he and his family are most famous. These skins are imported from farms in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Australia, and sent to Singapore where Ethan’s team of more than 400 expertly trained artisans begins the lengthy process of transforming the skins into handbags. Knowing little about the craftsmanship behind it, Ethan endeavours to explain the different tanning stages. ‘Firstly, crocodile skins are one of the most complicated reptiles to tan because you can put 50 skins around the same size into a drum to dye them but when they come out they’re all different colours because crocodile skins have the most complex fibres.’ There are more than 50 departments that make up the tannery; one (known as the cosmetics department) where the colour is adjusted, while another is in charge of putting the unique finishing touch on the skin known as the ‘bombe shine’, a secret, Koh polishing technique using agate stone. Following this, the bag is sent to Italy for the final crafting stages. Being naturally aggressive animals, crocodiles must be housed in separate pens to avoid them

‘Ethan’s father supplies him with exotic skins, along with Hermès and Louis Vuitton’

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Fashion

fighting or killing each other, which would subsequently a huge cost for the farmers. Koh is committed to sustaining the trade and this therefore justifies his handbags’ hefty price tags, ranging from £5,000 upwards. All of the bags have also been certified by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). Koh compares the appreciation of rare diamonds and the 3 C’s to crocodile skins: ‘So if you consider, there’s the carrot cut, as in the way the skins are cut. It can be a very pricey and risky business because the skins can be cut by mistake. Then there’s the carrot: the wider the crocodile’s belly, the wider the bag so the price goes up per centimetre exponentially. Finally, there’s the clarity.’ For Koh, the process of tanning the skin and crafting the handbag is very much a balance between art and science. ‘To make a skin with a beautiful colour, you need a basis in chemistry to understand the fibre of the skin.’ Like any great designer, Koh imparts his own personality into his handbags. Arriving in a whole spectrum of vivid colours, from deep purple (‘the colour of intensity’) to classic black (‘the colour of sensuality’), they often have clasps in the form of his favourite animals, embellished with semi-precious stones (also doubling up as rings and brooches which he wears). Although Koh works predominantly on bespoke orders, he also designs ready-to-wear collections and his most recent to date is the Wizard of the Secret Garden. Koh confides that as a child he

was enchanted by the stories of Hans Christian Andersen and the Brothers Grimm, and he has subsequently referred to both of their whimsical and enchanting stories through the leaping frog and Rapunzel clasps, featuring semi-precious stones such as African jade, tiger’s eye and black agate. Koh sees his designs as ‘a medium to communicate with people’ and so he draws upon his heritage, his life in Europe and his dreams. He’s recently been working on a collection called The Midnight Magician, launched at the end of 2014. Acutely aware that ‘a handbag is like a woman’s second home’, Koh works closely with clients to transform their vision of the perfect bag into reality and this is why the process can take up to seven months, but being as much an artist as he is a designer, Koh knows you can’t rush a masterpiece. ‘At the moment we are very much led by trends and told ‘the’ shoe to buy and ‘the’ bag to buy but that’s not what Ethan K is about.’ He hopes to spread his own unique philosophy around the world, one day possibly designing jewellery, fashion and cafés that go against the mass market. For the designer, Ethan K the brand is ‘an empty canvas waiting to be painted’. Unlike many in the past who’ve tried, Koh is able to encapsulate the true meaning of luxury: ‘Luxury, for me, has multiple definitions: firstly, it is about living in the moment. It is also about exceptional service. Most importantly, luxury is about having an experience.’ (ethan-k.com)

Chanel’s new inspiration: The feather Going with the idea that specks of gold and soft colours are lighter than a feather, Chanel has channelled reflective textures and metallic tones for a limited-edition range. The centrepiece of its Plumes Précieuses de Chanel line, is an illuminating powder with a feather motif sculpted into the compact. The subtle silver pigment catches the light when dusted onto brow and cheekbones. £47 (chanel.com)

Beauty news Sexy, strong, confident

Revlon revelation

Inspired by American actress Lauren Bacall, Bobbi Brown’s latest collection, Scotch on the Rocks, is all about making an entrance with a subtle fireside glow and sparkling eyes. We love the limited-edition Warm Glow Eye Palette featuring nine decadent shades of soft nudes, gilded golds and scotch-inspired browns. Mix and match for the definitive classic look or go ultra-sexy. £59 (bobbibrown.co.uk)

Ah, winter – cold, wet, windy and absolutely guaranteed to give those of us with even mildly frizz-prone hair a thoroughly unwanted new look. We’ve tried an arsenal of serums, oils and sprays designed to combat the eternal frizz issue, with varying degrees of success – until now. Enter the Revlon Professional Brilliant Hydra Elixir, which, put simply, works. Run a pea-sized amount through damp or dry hair and it becomes instantly soft, shiny and sleek. It even contains good things such as vitamins A and E so your hair is actually healthier too. What more could you ask? £10.99 (revlonprofessional.com)

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Beauty

TREATMENT OF THE MONTH POLISH & PREEN When Harvey Nichols launched its beauty pamper packages I was excited. Especially the Polish & Preen. Perfect for when you’re going straight from work to drinks or a little indulgence with the girls. To start, the ladies at Only Fingers + Toes nail boutique make sure your nails are on trend and unchipped with a manicure – and glass of bubbles. A soak, shape, buff and polish (I went for Osaka, a great pinky nude, but there are more than sixty colours to choose from) later I was ready for my blow-dry. As my nails set I had my consultation with hairstylist Ryan and we agreed on straight but bouncy. It was the first time I tried the Umberto Giannini products, too, and found the Frizzi range to be perfect for my hair (and the torrential rain I was about to embark into). I would recommend it to any person who struggles taming naturally curly hair. Just stepped out of the salon swish achieved, next it was Estée Lauder.

Utter indulgence We’ve only recently discovered Winter in Venice, and we could spend all day just looking at its prettily packaged shower gels, bubble baths, body butters, bath pearls, triple mild soaps, body polishes and therapeutic salts. The products are full of natural oils to nourish skin, while gorgeous gift sets such as the Woodlands Metal Trug (£43; includes bath soak, body butter, foot butter, hair and body lotion, hand wash and shower gel from their citrus Bergamot range) even come with sweet little extras for your home – in this case, a miniature rake, miniature trowel, sisal sponge, wooden nail brush and gardening gloves. (winterinvenice.co.uk)

I’m not particularly brave with my make-up choices, preferring something natural and which doesn’t feel like a mask. We plumped for the new Perfectionist serum / foundation as base and a touch of Bronze Goddess for colour. Then smoky eyes and lip gloss to finish the look. Ready for a night out with the girls in less than two hours and feeling great. The Polish & Preen, £95, Harvey Nichols Manchester, 0161 828 8888 For other pamper packages visit harveynichols.com

Strike gold

An added bonus Hoorah, the House of Fraser Beauty Recognition Reward Card is finally here! You can sign up for one both in store and online, then you’ll collect one point for each £1 you spend on anything at House of Fraser and an extra £5 bonus for every 500 points you earn. And as if that wasn’t enough, card holders will also have access to exclusive beauty offers and events, not to mention collection previews and external offers such as theatre promotions. Sign us up! (houseoffraser.co.uk)

Dior has long had a love affair with gold, but for a more subtle nod to the iconic shade than its decadent gold leaf nail polish, try new editions of the classic 5 Couleurs palettes, where the precious metal is mixed with steel grey and bronze, or earthy plum. For the perfect mistletoe kiss, new two-tone lipsticks come with pure matte and gold iridescent halves. (dior.com)

Turning back

THE CLOCK Harley Street is the go-to place for aesthetes nationwide, and for residents of Cheshire in the know (from Abbey Clancy to…well, we’re not allowed to say, actually), the Harley Street Skin Clinic is the Holy Grail when it comes to anti-ageing. Gemma Knight meets husband and wife co-founders, Lesley Reynolds and Dr. Aamer Khan

he world of cosmetic treatments and procedures is often as bewildering as it is fast moving. Those of us no longer quite content with the reflection in the mirror are well aware that there are ways to combat the crow’s feet, sun damage, saggy skin and beastly blemishes, but where to start? Should I go straight for surgery or Botox, or should I turn to lotions and potions claiming to lift, firm, tighten, whiten and turn back the clock? What works, what doesn’t? What’s safe? There is a truly baffling array of treatments now available, covering a scale of price and success so vast that, frankly, trying to decipher it without help is more likely to give you wrinkles than get rid of them. Luckily there’s also an army of obliging experts on hand to guide us clueless

many through this ever-evolving new world of lifts, peels and tucks, and foremost among them are ‘Queen of Harley Street’ Lesley Reynolds and the acclaimed Dr Aamer Khan; the husband and wife team behind the prominent Harley Street Skin Clinic. With a prestigious London address on the street long world-renowned for its prowess in medical and cosmetic surgery, the clinic is a well-trusted favourite among Cheshire’s great and good – those for whom only the very best will do, and who value the service’s discretion as highly as its results – not to mention a long list of celebrities, reportedly including the likes of Gillian Taylforth, Patsy Kensit, Andrea McLean, Samantha Womack and Tara Palmer-Tomkinson. With Lesley’s many years of beauty expertise and Dr Khan’s close to thirty-year medical career, their combined knowledge of the industry is certainly extensive, and the couple even have their own TV series depicting the clinic’s daily goings on (and the occasional unabashed celebrity client). The clinic was established in 2005, and offers everything from fat removal and tummy tucks to Botox and microdermabrasion. It is often amongst the

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Beauty

Beauty | The CHESHIRE Magazine

first to bring non-invasive alternatives into the mainstream market and boasts a team of world-class doctors and surgeons. Lesley is on hand to advise those overwhelmed by the choice, but is keen to point out that she’ll always advise them to go for the least dramatic treatment which gives the desired results, and never lets her clients go too far. ‘Sometimes non-surgical is better for what your goals are,’ she explains, ‘however, there are times when only surgery will achieve what a client is looking for – often surgery is the only answer for heavy eyelids or eye bags, the same with a heavy, droopy jowl and saggy neck. And I often recommend clients not to have treatment. It could be for health reasons, or if they have young children – after a tummy tuck you can’t lift anything for six weeks. A client may think that having surgery will get them the right man or the right job, but of course an aesthetic treatment won’t get you the man or the job. We want to help you be the best you can be, and

‘We want to help you be the best you can be, and this comes from within as well as looking after your skin, hair, body and weight’ this comes from within as well as looking after your skin, hair, body and weight.’ Lesley and Dr Khan start to chat about which treatments are currently most popular at the clinic, and I have to admit to never having heard of any of them – proof, if proof were needed, that these decisions are best made with expert advice. Among the current favourites are BodyTite and the French Lift, the first of which melts your excess fat so that it can be removed through a small incision in a less conspicuous area. It’s very gentle, apparently, lessening the discomfort usually associated with fat reduction, and also heals more quickly. Unlike liposuction – which starts to look like something out of the Stone Age in comparison – it’s particularly good for

targeting small areas of unwanted fat (such as love handles, tummy and thighs) since it also tightens the skin. Meanwhile, the French Lift is a new technique intended for those with sagging skin and involves having a long needle with a hook inserted through a tiny hole in the hairline, which gently lifts the sagging skin back into place. It might sound a bit gruesome, but is so mild that you only need a local anaesthetic, with results that last up to seven years. The couple also tell me about a few new treatments that are currently being pioneered at the clinic; the Silhouette Soft Face Lift, and the ReCell. Lesley describes the Lift as ‘revolutionary’, and I’m inclined to agree once she explains that it takes half an hour and doesn’t even require incisions, lifting the whole face with the use of dissolvable stitches, which tighten your jowls, cheeks and forehead. The second procedure, ReCell, is designed to get rid of scars, burns and vitiligo by spraying the area with a solution made from tissue taken from a healthy area of the neck. It’s then covered for seven days and revealed to show fresh skin where healthy cells have repopulated and are repairing the damaged ones – a process which continues for more than six months. Lesley even throws in a little insider knowledge, saying that in 2015 there’s an exciting new body cream coming to the market designed to combat uneven skin tone, age spots, acne scarring and pigmentation – though she won’t say any more than that. And with a job which requires such discretion, it’s no surprise my pleading doesn’t work. (harleystreetskinclinic.com, 020 7436 4441)

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Beauty

NEW YEAR, NEW YOU Inspired by a visit to the Anti-Ageing Health and Beauty Show, we look at the beauty products destined to be the stars of 2015 #1 EVERGREEN

Launched at the Show, EverGreen is a new plant-based beauty and detox supplement that has been specifically formulated for active women over the age of 30. It supports healthylooking skin and combats the signs of premature ageing. EverGreen, £24.99 (150ml) (rejuveme.com) #2 NOTOX

The pain-free answer to botox, this topical product is applied directly to the surface of the skin to reduce wrinkles in minutes. It lasts for 8-12 hours, and can be washed off at any time and used daily. A face lift, without the needles? We’re in. NoTox, £95, The Fabulous You Company, Willington Hall, Tarporley, 01829 759332 (fabulousyouskin.co.uk) #3 VAMPIRE COLLAGEN

Roll, activate, hydrate and protect to maximise collagen and elastin, instantly moisturising, plumping and brightening your complexion. All in the comfort of your own home. 4 Step Vampire Collagen Treatment, £99.99 (skinpep.com) #4 OCEAN POWER

Created by one of Italy’s leading scientists, DEU Skin Program Italia harnesses the power of the marine world with its hydrating Oceanwave face wash. It is suitable for the most sensitive and reactive of skins. Oceanwave Face Wash, £22.95 (200ml) from Jump Start Health & Wellbeing (deuskincare.com) #5 RESURFASTIC

The world’s first microdermhydration stick, gently removing dead skin cells and exposing healthier, radiant, youngerlooking skin and ensuring your skin gets the full benefit of your moisturising products. Resurf.a.stic Body, £55, Resurf.a.stic Face, £44 (resurfastic.org)

1 3

2 5 89

Everything they wish for up to 60% less

#HappyGiftGiving CheshireOaksDesignerOutlet.com

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Fashion

photo by john dominis, time life pictures, getty images

r Porter’s third instalment of The Manual for a Stylish Life brings to mind the phrase, ‘to take a leaf out of someone’s book’; this volume is truly something to live by for any gentleman. With tips on style and etiquette to interviews with an array of talents such as Heywood Hill chairman Nicky Dunne, Ray Winstone and Ralph Fiennes, the tome offers a comprehensive guide to living like a quintessential Mr Porter man; forever stylish, endlessly chivalrous. The Mr Porter Paperback: The Manual for a Stylish Life, Volume III, by John Brodie, Thames and Hudson, £20 (mrporter.com; thamesandhudson.com)

Live by

the book 91

Motoring news words: Iain Warde

Price: from £29,900 Engine: 1,984cc, four cylinders, 16 valves, turbo-charged, 300bhp Transmission: six-speed gearbox with four-wheel drive Performance: 155mph, 0-62 in 5.1 sec, 39.8 mpg, CO2 165g/km

ULTIMATE HOT HATCH

n today’s new car market it can be difficult to find something that is near perfection, but this Golf R is a GTI and then some. While the GTI makes do with a mere 220bhp, the R squeezes 300bhp from the 2.0-litre turbocharged engine and manages to channel all this energy through all four wheels. There is a rumour that a limited-run Golf R400 (bhp) is in the pipeline. That may be a power explosion too far, but 300bhp – nearly three times the output of the first Golf GTIs – is eminently containable. Enlarged air intakes below the front bumper and two pairs of exhaust pipes below the rear hint at the extra power, but

this is a discreet machine. It looks especially crisp and neat in its three-door guise, but you can also have it as a family-friendly five-door, balancing the best of both. It sticks great to the road, with the fourwheel drive system ensuring the power never takes over the grip. Applying a lot of power in a corner causes most of it to be sent to the rear wheels, making the Golf very satisfying to balance in a bend. It does just what you want it to do, draws you into the process and ensures you enjoy it as much as possible. I honestly cannot think of a better hot hatch available currently. A quite expensive hot hatch, but still the best to date. (volkswagen.co.uk)

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Motoring

Fit for royalty British gun maker Holland & Holland has partnered up with Land Rover’s Special Vehicle Operations team to create a spectacular Range Rover that follows a long line of collaborations between the two companies, both of which hold the Royal Warrant. Land Rover is planning to make forty of the special editions every year for the next three years, priced at a staggering £180,000 each.

The headline feature is the gun cabinet in the boot, designed to carry a pair of shotguns (not included). It sits on a deployable boot floor, engineered from lightweight aluminium and carbon fibre strong enough to take heavy loads. Based on the Autobiography Black, which starts at £143,400, you get a choice of the 339hp 4.4-litre SDV8 diesel or the 510hp 5.0-litre supercharged petrol. (landrover.co.uk)

FMX ADDICTION The energetic and rather mental ArenaCross team will be kicking off their UK tour on 3 January at the Phones 4U arena. We have two family tickets worth more than £100 each up for grabs. Thanks to the likes of X-Fighters and even the X-Games ,the popularity of FMX has hit an all-time high and is massive across the globe. Especially Freestyle Motocross, which takes place 40 feet above the track with riders hitting purpose-built ramps and then attempting to outdo each other as they whip and back-flip 100kg motorcycles in a jawdropping display of aerial gymnastics. Having watched them at the Isle of Man TT, X-Fighters and many other bike-related sporting events, I can definitely say this is well worth a watch and great big of fun for all the family. (arenacrossuk.com)

WIN Send your name, address and daytime telephone number to info@thecheshiremagazine.com. Closing date: Friday 19 December. Winner will be notified same day. Not to used in conjunction with any other offers.

‘Eight minutes past the hour here in Belgium - and presumably eight minutes past the hour everywhere in the world’ - Murray Walker Pure McLaren McLaren has named its Porsche 911 rival, and confirmed its launch for the second quarter of 2015. Previously known only by its codename ‘P13’, the new, more affordable model will be badged the McLaren Sports Series. Referred to as a ‘pure McLaren’, and taking styling tips from the P1, it will join the range below the 650S supercar. Prices for the new McLaren beast are expected to start from around £120,000. (cars.mclaren.com) 93

Here’s to your next adventure. The new Continental GT V8 S.

Continental GT V8 S fuel consumption* in mpg (l/100 km): Urban 18.4 (15.4); Extra Urban 36.7 (7.7); Combined 26.8 (10.6). CO2 Emissions 246 g/km. For more information call 01565 220302 or visit www.Manchester.BentleyMotors.com. #Continental #GTV8S Bentley Manchester, Mobberley Road, Knutsford, Cheshire, WA16 8GT

*EU Drive Cycle. Fuel consumption figures are subject to Type Approval. The name ‘Bentley’ and the ‘B’ in wings device are registered trademarks. © 2014 Bentley Motors Limited. Model shown: Continental GT V8 S

BEnTLEy MAnCHESTEr

Operation

OVERDRIVE An SUV aimed at the chauffeur-driven market with bespoke design options so focused on the individual that they include matching the car’s leather finish to that of the owner’s superyacht. Richard Yarrow meets the world’s first £200,000 Range Rover

t the top end of the luxury and performance car markets, exclusivity is one of the key criteria behind a purchase decision. It’s a fact that renowned British-based Land Rover specialist Overfinch has traded on for almost 40 years, and has this year led to a new high watermark in its product portfolio – the launch of its most expensive car to date, the world’s first £200,000 Range Rover. The newcomer is based around the long wheelbase version of the premium sports utility vehicle (SUV), which is aimed predominantly at the booming chauffeur-driven market in Far Eastern markets such as China. However, because the car is available in both left and right-hand drive formats, it’s also proving popular closer to home. Land Rover dealers will happily sell you one, with prices ranging from £104,000 to £146,000 depending on engine and specification

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Motoring

choice. But if money is no object, the Overfinch model will help you stand out from the crowd, and exclusivity is guaranteed. The company expects to sell no more than a dozen in the UK each year, with up to 100 finding homes globally, but even then your vehicle can be completely unique to you. The Overfinch features a host of individual customisation features, including distinctive exterior body styling and a bespoke interior conversion. Its party trick is an automated sliding floor in the boot, which brings the owner’s luggage forward for collection once the tailgate is opened. The mechanism uses lightweight aluminium runners and is finished in Bridge of Weir leather, replacing the traditional factory-fit upholstery. As with all Overfinch products, the interior trim of the car can be engineered to each customer’s specification. In this case, it is gloss black handcrafted wood veneers with striking motherof-pearl inserts. Material selection is a painstaking process involving skilled craftsmen handmatching each piece of shell, precision-cutting it to a fraction of a millimetre, then fitting and setting it. Such attention to detail is part of the reason why the car’s price tag is so high. The rest of the cabin is finished in black Bridge of Weir leather trim, featuring micropiping and contrast stitching. The car makes a similar statement of intent on the outside; it’s finished in Santorini Black paint with a styling package that includes hand-laid carbon fibre in both bumpers and the roof spoiler, plus an all-new signature Overfinch grille. A stainless steel performance exhaust system adds a more characterful note to the 5.0-litre supercharged V8, and the makeover is completed thanks to newly designed 22-inch forged alloy rims. So who is going to pay £200,000 for a car like this? Overfinch spokesman Andrew McCarthy said the brand’s customers are generally high net worth individuals such as successful businessmen and women, celebrities and sports stars. ‘They are people who appreciate quality, and who are looking for something exclusive that they can’t get from the Land Rover factory.

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Motoring

It’s that which drives them to us and they appreciate the whole retail experience we provide is different. They get a much more personal one-to-one service when specifying the car and during the ownership.’ Overfinch started in 1975 after some bright spark spotted an opportunity in the market. Land Rovers of the era were famously underpowered, so a company called Schuler Ltd – the UK arm of German-based automotive supplier Schuler Presses GmbH – proposed a series of modifications to match on-the-road performance with the brand’s famed 4x4 ability. Success came quickly and the company rebranded as Overfinch from 1985, it made its name transplanting large American V8 engines under Land Rover bonnets. Celebrating 30 or 40 years in 2015 – it depends when you start the clock – is a major milestone, but it’s not all been plain sailing. In 2010 the firm went into administration, though it is now under new management with a fresh business model. That involves greater emphasis on sourcing cars directly from the Land Rover factory and taking them to its purpose-built production facility near Leeds. It’s a more professional approach than getting customers to drive along in their own car once it had left the showroom, and has resulted in an improved customer experience. Today Overfinch’s public face is based around a dedicated showroom in St John’s Wood, London. It’s the company’s only bespoke sales point, though it works with local distributors in Dubai and Beijing and also operates in Russia, Japan and mainland Europe. The plan is to open a second showroom on America’s west coast in 2015, and launch special commemorative vehicles to mark its anniversary.

The business sells around 300 new cars a year with a similar level of used vehicles, and its expansion plans revolve around exploiting opportunities overseas. It has aftermarket enhancements for Range Rover, Range Rover Sport and Range Rover Evoque, though also creates a handful of niche Land Rover Defenders each year. Overfinch prices start at around £45,000, which includes the vehicle plus exterior styling upgrades and wheels. Costs of interior upgrades depend on specification. There is typically a 10-12-week lead time on all orders, and Land Rover’s standard warranty is supported by like-for-like cover on all modified parts. ‘We have what we call “designer’s choice” where we make recommendations to the customer about what they might do to the car,’ explains McCarthy. ‘But if a customer wants something truly individual, we can undertake that project. For example, a client with a Sunseeker yacht wanted the car’s trim and leather finish to be the same as on their boat.’ He said that with the latest model, the team had given careful consideration to what customers would want, and what would boost comfort levels. ‘The power-sliding load floor is a prime example of the extra touch of refinement that chauffeured individuals will enjoy.’

‘A stainless-steel performance exhaust system adds a more characterful note’

THE ALFIERI & OMEGA Words: Jennifer Mason

Maserati says the Alfieri will be in production in coupé form by 2016, and as a cabriolet the following year (maserati100.com)

Leg Room The concept has adopted the same attitude and 2+2 style of the 1957 3500 GT and the 1959 5000 GT

The Finishing Touches Design accents throughout the concept are finished in Maserati Blue, as is the Alfieri signature at the rear, which has been reproduced from the brand’s archives

100

What’s In A Name? The Alfieri name is a tribute to Alfieri Maserati, the engineer who founded ‘Officine Alfieri Maserati’ in Bologna a century ago next month

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Motoring

Shining Bright

Power by Numbers

The Alfieri features bi-xenon LED headlamps, shaped at the front and back to follow the shoulders of the car

The engine sends 460 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque through a six-speed automated manual gearbox and a limited-slip rear differential

In Control The dashboard is inspired by the Maserati 5000 GT

Engine Pride The 4.7-litre, naturally aspirated V8 engine comes from the GranTurismo

I In A Spin

A Steady Foundation

Staggered-diameter, forged aluminium wheels measuring 20 inches in front and 21 inches at the rear feature decorative spokes; a subtle nod to 1950s design

The chassis is based on the GranTurismo MC Stradale, but it is 9.4 inches shorter. The carbon-ceramic brake discs are also taken from this model

n many motoring reviews, writers are keen to talk about the power, the drive and the ride. Often, this is because they can’t find anything remarkable to say about what the car actually looks like. This is not a problem Maserati vehicles often suffer from. They exude and embody style in a thoroughly Italian manner. Watching one pass by affects me the way Michelangelo’s David impresses an art lover. It’s the knowledge of vision and creativity brought to life in a very tangible way. The new Maserati Alfieri concept, launched earlier this year at motor shows across the world, is a prime example of how the brand has managed to embrace the futuristic possibilities for motoring while harking back to the golden age of its designs. The team have taken little pieces from past models and amalgamated them in a new sleek, sensuous shell, which they describe as looking ‘as though a metallic veil has been draped over a naked body’. Intrigued? So was I.

101

eBook challenger

-readers are taking the world by storm, with a lot of thanks to the Kindle. However, a challenger to the crown looks to be emerging in the form of the Kobo Aura H2O, the first waterproof and dustproof e-reader, perfect for reading by the pool, on the beach or in the bath. With up to two months of battery life, book lovers will have the freedom to keep reading wherever they go and do it with clarity – the Kobo offers the highest resolution screen available. Kobo’s eBookstore has over four million ebooks, comics and kids’ titles, and with the built-in WiFi you can quickly download new books at your leisure. The device has a 4GB onboard memory capacity, which can carry up to 3,000 eBooks and has a slot for a SD card to expand the memory up to 32GB (30,000 eBooks). With many other great features it is very hard not to recommend the Kobo, so if you are thinking of a quick and easy gift for your parents or maybe a cheeky purchase for yourself, you will not be disappointed. Kobo Aura H2O, £139.99 (kobo.com)

Technology central What’s hot in the world of gadgets, games and geekery words: Iain Warde

Printer round-up With Christmas just around the corner, here’s a selection of top-quality printers for your family photos #1 Canon Pixma MX870 Best multi-function This is ideal for home and home-office use. The five tank system uses pigmented black in for text printing, giving clear results with very little bleed. Worth every penny. £157 (canon-europe.com)

1 102

#2 Epson Photo XP-760 Best for photography Look no further than this superior quality printer with WiFi. It uses a six-colour ink-set that will help you produce professional-quality, long-lasting photographs. £229.99 (epson.co.uk)

cheshire Magazine The The cheshire Magazine | Technology || Lifestyle The CHESHIRE Magazine Regulars

THE APP Santa Tracker Arguably the best Santa tracker. It also contains an Advent Calendar with lots of Christmas sightings of Santa busy in the toy factory or relaxing with a cup of tea. Free, Google Play

THE GAME The Crew Take part in a relentless ride to infiltrate the 510s, a gang grown around Detroit’s illegal street racing scene. Get a handle on the underground racing scene and sabotage their activities city-by-city. Each locale comes with its own set of surprises and driving challenges to master. On your journey you will encounter other players on the road – worthy companions or future rivals? This is driving at its most exciting, varied and open. £42 (amazon.co.uk)

‘I’ve always been a geek and slightly awkward... slightly umm... I was never the cool kid at school’ - David Tennant

#3 HP Deskjet 1000 Best on your wallet This is the basic entry for HP. You can print high-quality black-andwhite and color documents with straightforward controls, a 60-sheet input tray and a 25-sheet output tray. It won’t worry your bank account and is a good solution for a newbie to photography or computing. £25.00 (hp.com)

#4 HP Photosmart 7510 Best for quality This is a great printer that again won’t do too much to break the bank. Quality, especially on photo paper, and settings to maximum DPI will not disappoint. With the ability to also print from SD or MMC cards and WiFi connectivity it is a great little printer. £99.50 (amazon.co.uk)

103

Blue Marine Photography: Paulina Holmgren

Breaking the ice

Northern Lights Photography: Markus Alatalo

For something a bit more adventurous this winter, Ice Hotel in Sweden is the perfect destination. Situated by the Torne River in the city of Jukkasjärvi, it remains the world’s first and largest hotel built entirely of snow and ice, including 16 deluxe ice suites, an ice bar and even an ice church. In celebration of its 25th anniversary the hotel has recruited 42 international artists to create one-of-a-kind rooms and ice sculptures, ranging from a rainforest to the inner workings of a clock. When you’re not snuggling up with some hot lingonberry juice in your ice chamber, dog sled by day and see the Northern Lights by night. (icehotel.com)

Travel news Going tribal Spanning across 560 acres of unspoiled natural land, including a 2.5km stretch of private beach, the all-villa luxury resort Nihiwatu on the island of Sumba offers an exotic Indonesian escape, away from the well-trodden traveller path of Bali. The villas are built on private terraces with sweeping verandahs, offering spectacular Indian Ocean views. Nihiwatu offers a rare opportunity to learn about the island’s ancient tribal culture through visits to local villages and markets. Whether you’re after exhilarating experiences (such as world-class surfing, fishing and diving with the resort’s specialist team) or prefer more calming activities such as waterfall yoga (which sounds rather more fun than the classes we’re used to), each stay is expertly personalised, making for an unforgettable holiday. (nihiwatu.com) 104

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Travel

Detox dreams

Long haul vs short haul Porto call Located in the scenic Boka Bay on the stunning Adriatic coast, the newly opened hotel Regent Porto Montenegro is a glamorous marina getaway in a place that has been heralded as the new Monaco of the Mediterranean. Designed by ReardonSmith Architects, the hotel exudes the classical feel of the grand palazzos of the Italian lakes, facing Boka Bay on one side and Venice Square Basin on the other, offering guests the best of sea and marina. Take a cruise on a yacht for the day or lounge by one of the hotel’s infinity pools, followed by a visit to the luxury spa, kitted out with Turkish bath and a fresh juice bar. Finish the day with an exquisite Mediterranean dinner at the on-site restaurant. A holiday of sun and style? Yes please! (regenthotels.com)

Short haul

Lake District longevity The elegant Armathwaite Hall Country House Hotel & Spa has recently launched the Life Regimen programme, an assortment of spa days and retreats designed to help you overhaul your approach to healthy living through stress management, treatments, exercise, nutritional and lifestyle information and expert guidance. (armathwaite-hall.com)

©Larry Pierce Steamboat Ski Resort

Long haul

The sands of time After a three-year closure and a top-to-bottom renovation, Auberge Resorts’ Malliouhana property in Anguilla has reopened its tropical-hued doors. Set on 20 acres of prime beach, the new-look resort boasts 46 ocean-view rooms and suites; an open-air cliff-side restaurant spearheaded by award-winning chef Jeremy Bearman; a two-tiered infinity swimming pool flanked by private cabanas and a signature own-brand spa. Head to one of the two white-sand beaches and make the most of the postcardperfect waters by island hopping and deep-sea fishing, or help retain your bikini body with a range of shoreside workout classes. (aubergeresorts.com)

All-American detox Colorado’s beautiful ski resort Steamboat Springs is the perfect place to blow out the cobwebs, with the Strawberry Park hot springs and many outdoor natural spring-fed pools hewn from the rocks, not to mention treatment rooms with massage and Watsu therapists. There’s also an army of healthy eateries serving nutritionally balanced and organic food, plus everything from horse-riding to snow-tubing to get the blood pumping. (steamboat.com)

105

Island

LIVING Want to completely escape from the world, without turning to Cast Away-style escapism? Elle Blakeman heads to Maia,in the Seychelles, where private yoga, world-class food and, most importantly, the best bath of her life awaits

106

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Travel

107

here is privacy and there is privacy; Maia offers the latter. Thirty huge villas, spread across 12 hectares, each with their own outdoor spa, dining area and infinity pool overlooking the sea take ‘getting away from it all’ to a new level. You can quite easily avoid the sight of anyone but your butler, should you wish. Maia is a place governed by nature: lush hibiscus and lemongrass plants, rustling wildlife and white-sand beaches leading onto the warm Indian Ocean below. There are many effects of this, one of which is that you will be woken up by sunlight and birdsong, rather than an iPhone or your neighbour’s Land Rover. Another is that at night, the villas and their surrounding areas are as dark as God intended it to be at that time, which has a powerful effect on the body and quickly gets you back to a normal circadian rhythm, the one you would have had before being busy became a competitive sport. For my first morning, I booked myself into a yoga class at 8am, and when my wake-up call roused me from the deep sleep that only comes with total isolation from the world, all I could think was “What the hell possessed me to book a morning yoga class at 8am?!” However, this mood rapidly dissipated when I saw the studio: a handful of mats laid in the outdoor spa, surrounded by plants with leaves bigger than me and a waterfall that looked like it was put there specifically for our class. Having spent years trying to ‘get’ yoga, I can confirm that little reduces you to a Zen-like state faster than an upward dog next to a waterfall. After this, I floated blissfully to breakfast on the beach, unable to decide which was better – the sea view, the platters of fruit, pastries and

108

charcuterie, or the fact that I didn’t have to go near any form of public transport for the foreseeable future (the closest thing being the golf buggies at our beck and call all day) heaven. The rest of the day melted away as I pottered around in my huge private villa (no one does mere ‘rooms’ here) – jumping in and out of the pool, eating most of the welcome coconut cake left by my lovely butler Samantha and having as many dips in the outdoor bath sunk into the second infinity pool (really) as I could justify. I actually think I hit bath nirvana – everything else will be downhill from here. I had an Omorovicza facial in the afternoon, which was so relaxing it knocked me out for the rest of the day and it was all I could do to half-heartedly flick through a newspaper on the daybed and have another bath. At night, finally bored of bathing and my own company, I joined my party – all of whom had been similarly enjoying the lack of contact with other people. Everyone was exceedingly relaxed, surprised by how quickly they adapted to ‘holiday mode’. The restaurant had a nice mix of couples, friends and family, and we quickly realised that Maia, while perfect for honeymooners, is not a honeymoon destination. This is a key distinction: the former is full of smug couples, toned from months of personal training and carb avoidance, talking endlessly about how the best man’s

‘You will trek past cinnamon trees and rocks with climbing vanilla pods, past waterfalls and huge trees laden with the amusingly shaped Coco de Mer’

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Travel

speech could have been worse; a place that all sane people should avoid like the plague. The latter, however, is one that affords you the privacy to feel like the only people in the world when you want, and the opportunity to rejoin the real world, or rather a very tranquil, enjoyable version of the real world, when you choose. Food-wise, while you can order pretty much anything you can think of here, the main menu is very influenced by the local Creole culture and you will find delicious local dishes, such as spiced fish curries, alongside gourmet Indian, Thai and French cuisine. The atmosphere is wonderfully soporific and hours disappeared in a flash as we dined slowly, taking in the view of both the pool, lit by tiki torches and the beach next to us, chatting about our days, which were all mostly spent in some form of water. There is a nice amount to do here without feeling bored or overwhelmed – during the day you can accompany the chefs to the local food market in Victoria – well worth seeing if you have the time – where locals sell lines of red snapper and homemade packs of spices picked

fresh from the trees. If you can muster the energy to leave your infinity pool, Maia can arrange a hike in the nearby Mare aux Cochons deep in the Morne Seychellois National Park – uphill enough to make you feel like you’ve earned the view, yet not so hard that it can’t be done in an old pair of trainers (a pleasing mix). You will trek past cinnamon trees and rocks with climbing vanilla pods, past waterfalls and huge trees laden with the amusingly shaped Coco de Mer (Google it if you’re unfamiliar), while at the top is a stunning view over the Indian Ocean where you might be lucky enough to spot some turtles. Best of all, when you get back to your villa, you’ve earned another infinity-pool bath. Ocean Panoramic Villas at MAIA start from £1,955 on a BEYOND all-inclusive basis, per villa, per night based on two sharing. This includes all daily meals, soft drinks and premium alcoholic beverages, welcome Champagne on arrival, a dedicated butler service, Wi-Fi, unlimited scuba diving, laundry, yoga or Qigong and non-motorised sports (snorkelling, kayaking, canoeing) (maia.com.sc); +248 4 390 000.

109

GOING

DUTCH With plenty of cosy cafés and a generous taste for luxury, Amsterdam is the perfect city to explore this winter. Gemma Knight shows you how to do this legendary hub of extravagance in style

ll things considered, Amsterdam is as perfectly suited to short city getaways as it’s possible for a European destination to be. With a flight time from Manchester of only an hour and fifteen minutes, Schiphol Airport is a mere twenty minute drive from the city centre and its buzzing, eclectic mix of bars, cafés, museums and picture-perfect townhouse-lined canals. During your stay, there are certain activities and attractions that no self-respecting tourist, however well travelled, should miss. These include hiring bicycles and peddling your way down cobbled streets, eating an inadvisable number of waffles, drinking a glass of Dutch

110

beer (or a shot of jenevre, if you’re brave), and visiting Anne Frank’s house, the flower market and at least one art gallery (we’d recommend the Van Gogh Museum). But there are, of course, lots of less hackneyed ways to spend your time, and though the big tourist attractions are famed for a reason, we’d also suggest making time to get yourself thoroughly lost amongst the Old Town’s labyrinth of narrow streets, people-watching a good deal in Vondelpark, strolling around a Sunday street market and maybe even wandering into a coffee shop or two. Certainly not short of luxury hotels, our favourites are two of the city’s most prestigious

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Travel

and renowned. If it’s innovative and contemporary you’re after, head to the Conservatorium; a sleek, sumptuous newcomer to the city’s hotel scene that’s all clean lines, sandblasted black glass and the delicious contrast of subtle nods to the original building’s history as a music conservatorium and, before that, one of Amsterdam’s most prestigious banks. The eight floors (which are part of the original facade) and its two wings house the bulk of the rooms and suites, while what was once the inner courtyard has been transformed into an enormous, light-filled glass atrium, which is home to the elegant brasserie and lounge and, in an unusual twist, overlooked by several suites.

‘Amsterdam is as perfectly suited to short city getaways as it’s possible for a city to be’ The hotel is known at home and abroad as ‘Amsterdam’s Living Room’, and it’s not hard to see why. Service is friendly and second to none, with a twenty-four hour dedicated concierge team and a charming array of staff at your beck and call no matter what the hour (this is, after all, Amsterdam). The suites are filled with suave little touches and neat elements of clean,

111

modern design picked out by award-winning Milan-based interiors guru Piero Lissoni. With huge floor-to-ceiling windows that flood the rooms with daylight and exuberant touches such as double-headed rainforest showers, we felt instantly at home. The location, while rather a hike from the centre of the city (though it’s easily accessed by trams), is nonetheless ideal for those keen to embrace Amsterdam’s less hectic and more refined side, with the hotel nestled in the heart of Museumplein – the grand, lush square which is home to many of the city’s major museums – and just around the corner from the plush designer fashion district of P.C. Hooftstraat and Van Baerlestraat. However, for those who prefer classic, oldworld glamour, it simply has to be the Grande Dame herself; the InterContinental Amstel. Opened in 1867 and occupying a truly enviable spot overlooking the beautiful Amstel River, this large, striking building is as opulent and regal inside as out, overflowing with high ceilings, grand staircases and shimmering chandeliers. An almost tangible ethos of effortless elegance permeated every aspect of our stay here, from the glasses of Prosecco which immediately appeared when we arrived half an hour before check-in, to the suite’s antique French décor, marble bathrooms and gilded armchairs. Downstairs are the acclaimed La Rive restaurant (voted Amsterdam’s best in the 2013 Lekker restaurant guide) and Amstel Brasserie, both with terraces overlooking the river and traditional gourmet menus – though we love the recently opened A Bar for its fabulous range of

112

cocktails and simple but perfectly executed ‘food to share’ menu of Dutch classics (try the small meaty bitterballen). It’s also an easy walk to the centre of the city, and impossible to get lost since the route follows the Amstel river’s banks – although if you really want to take advantage of the hotel’s position, head to its private moorings and jump into one of the exclusive-use riverboats for a historic tour of the canals. Unsurprisingly, the city is also not short of excellent watering holes and even better eateries. Homely, low-key bistros abound, with the old city centre particularly well known for its diversity of restaurants, though it’s at the top of the scale where the real gourmet innovations reside. With twelve Michelin-starred restaurants to choose from, we’re long-time fans of the legendary big hitters – Lastage, Le Restaurant, Bord’eau – but our new favourite has to be Bridges. Inspired by the craft and creations of Dutch master-chef Ron Blaauw and boasting a kitchen team headed by Joris Bijdendijk, one of his star protégés, and the fresh culinary talents of brand-new chef de cuisine Bobby Rust, the two year-old restaurant has well and truly hit its stride since its makeover and relaunch in 2012. Located in Sofitel Legend The Grand Amsterdam hotel, the restaurant is all sleek lines and billowing muslin with a sensational view out onto the adjacent canal. The menu is heavy on fish done to perfection, with traditional Dutch cooking methods given a French twist (think langoustines in a bonbon with cucumber crème and crusted brill with smoked eel, chanterelle mushrooms, cauliflower and a spicy vin jaune sauce), though the meat dishes are just as inventive and equally delicious. We’d also highly recommend putting aside an hour before dinner to sample the extensive cocktail menu, as these beautifully concocted creations were certainly the best we’ve tasted anywhere in the city. Without doubt our new favourite urban European getaway, let it never again be said that Amsterdam begins and ends with the tulip and coffee shop. (conservatoriumhotel.com, bridgesrestaurant.nl, amsterdam.intercontinental.com)

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Travel

Sofitel Legend The Grand Amsterdam

the conservatorium hotel

afternoon tea at the intercontinental amstel

pool and health club at the intercontinental amstel

terrace of the conservatoriumâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s i love amsterdam suite

the i love amsterdam suite at the conservatorium lobby of the InterContinental Amstel

113

Travel | The CHESHIRE Magazine

Weekend away ...The Halcyon Apartments, Bath WORDS: GEMMA KNIGHT

s British cities go, Bath is truly in a league of its own. For starters, the entire city is a World Heritage Site thanks to its ancient Roman spa roots and breathtaking prevalence of gleaming Georgian buildings. This amazing sense of history means that a visit to the city is almost akin to travelling back in time – or would be, were it not for its fabulously cosmopolitan vibe, the elegant architecture and cobbled alleys, dazzling cornucopia of designer shops, markets, bars, restaurants and quaint tea rooms, not to mention gorgeous boutique hotels. Of the latter, the five year-old Halcyon Hotel is one of the best known and loved, so there were celebrations all round when it added seven luxury apartments to its offering in January 2014. Located on the northern edge of the city’s central hub, the apartments vary in size but are all sumptuously homely and majestic in equal measure – though if you fancy a little more space than the two-person residences typically afford, we’d recommend Apartment One with its floor-to-ceiling windows, enormous French Rattan bed, characterful kitchen and Julian Chichester furniture. While staying in your apartment you’ll be treated to a feast of a breakfast at neighbouring restaurant The Porter, one of the city’s most enviable eateries thanks to its homely feel, intimate, expert service and truly top-notch fare. Then, appropriately fuelled, it’s

time to explore the city’s picturesque streets and squares until you are so laden with trinkets and sore of foot that the Thermae Spa is the only sensible remedy. And this really is a spa unlike any other. Taking advantage of the natural thermal waters which made Bath such a big hit with the Romans and Celts, the spa offers a range of steam rooms and treatments (including the bizarre but blissful Watsu), though the pièce de résistance is the warm rooftop pool with its surreal views across the city’s historic chimney tops. It’s lovely in summer, but there’s no feeling quite like basking in its bathwaterwarmth on a bright, chilly winter’s day. To round off the day, head back to The Porter to investigate in full. Spread over four floors of an exquisite Bath townhouse, it’s worth asking to see inside the quirky private dining rooms on the top floor before stopping for an aperitif on the sumptuously cosy first-floor bar, then finally making your way to the acclaimed Clayton’s Kitchen at ground level. Here you’ll be waited on by the friendliest team in town while you gorge on such mouth-watering temptations as bread and sun-dried tomato butter, venison steak, hand-dived scallops and salted caramel mousse. And if you’re still not quite ready to turn in, there’s always the basement’s late-night speakeasy-style bar beckoning below… Apartment One is available from £190 per night (thehalcyon.com/apartments, thermaebathspa.com)

‘The apartments are all sumptuously homely and majestic in equal measure’ 114

SUPERB, LUXURY HOLIDAY RESIDENCE

The Sanctuary, Gwynedd

Stunning, luxury 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom lodge located in the 5 star Sanctuary Lodge Park in the heart of rolling North Wales countryside. This superb holiday residence has unsurpassed contemporary style, an impressive open plan living space with fully fitted kitchen, uPVC double glazing & Gas central heating. Spacious decked terrace with southerly aspect & hot tub. The lodge benefits from an 88 year Licence Agreement which ends on 10/01/2102. Peaceful location with pleasant views | Situated on a 60 acre Country Estate | Fully furnished ready for occupancy | Two allocated parking places | Park, outdoor heated swimming pool, gymnasium, tennis court & fishing lake | 5 miles from Pwllheli | 10 miles from Abersoch The lodge has been greatly reduced to ÂŁ135K for a quick sale (original price ÂŁ170K) Contact Claire Wilman (M) 07771701773 clairewilman@me.com

The belle of the ball

Returning to wonderland To celebrate 150 years since the original publication of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, the British Library has granted Rug Maker an exclusive licence to reproduce John Tenniel’s illustrations as seen in the first edition of the children’s literary classic. The handcrafted 100 per cent wool rugs are available in two iconic monochrome designs: The White Rabbit and Alice Drink Me. They can be used as floor or wall art. £695 (rug-maker.com)

Young girls can live out a fairytale fantasy with the new childrenswear evening collection by American fashion designer Dennis Basso. His red carpet gowns for women have been worn by famous faces including Nicole Kidman, and the junior range has a similar sense of opulence thanks to its use of embroidered silk tulle, tiers of organza, taffeta and duchess satin embellished with lace, pearlescent beads and crystal flowers. It’s the first time Basso and his team have worked on childrenswear, in a project that has been warmly welcomed by Harrods: the department store has given the occasionwear line pride of place on its fourth floor. (harrods.com)

Kids’ news Little miss stylish Roger Hargreaves wrote the first Mr Men book in 1971 and the miniature characters have entertained both kids and parents since. The latest addition to the Mr Men and Little Miss gang is Mr Quiffy, a character created in collaboration with House of Holland as part of a women’s and kids’ clothing collection. Henry Holland’s famously quiffed hairdo inspired the new comical character, which will feature alongside others in the fourteen-piece collection. (houseofholland.co.uk)

116

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Family

d e MR HENDRIX h s a e nl U

It’s a wrap Luxury brand AGNONA has created two blankets for young children and newborns. The two-toned Teddy Bear Blanket is made from pure cashmere and features AGNONA’s signature teddy bear in jacquard, while the Cable Blanket, which uses a plait of the finest yarn, is both lightweight and warm. Both blankets come in soft neutral colours of ivory, baby pink and baby blue. (agnona.com)

Pretty pitter patters Mother of two Vevian Lopez established luxury shoe brand Vevian in 2008, after struggling to find the right shoes for her daughter’s first birthday. The company now offers smart and fun footwear styles for babies and toddlers with eye-catching details such as button fastenings and ribbon ties. Each pair of shoes is handmade in London and, with comfort a key concern, high-quality, supple leather is sourced from local suppliers. We love the classic patent Marias (pictured) as well as the special Christmas editions, which include The Salame and Cree designs.

From £99, available at JouJou & Lucy (joujouandlucy.com)

appy New Year! Now I’m not normally one for making New Year resolutions, but my owner Anji found me paw deep in the leftover turkey. OK, OK I know it was wrong which is why I’ve promised to make an effort and try to change my lifestyle. So here are my Top 5 Resolutions • Raise money for my favourite doggy charity • Star in my own movie • Become the face of Gucci • Learn a new language, I’m thinking cat • Learn to swim Having decided on swimming as my first venture, I’ve pulled out all the stops and been passed by the vet to indulge in a little hydrotherapy swim. Cheshire Canine Hydrotherapy Centre is based just outside Knutsford, set in the beautiful Cheshire countryside, and as I arrive I am greeted by a very confident, statuesque peacock strutting around the grounds. Meeting Kim, my swimming instructor, instantly puts my nerves at ease. After a quick shower I have a life jacket fitted, which I must say I look dashing in, and we head for the pool, which I’m pleased to say is heated to a therapeutic 28-30 degrees to help relax muscles and boost circulation. Today I’m here for a fun swim, though hydrotherapy is a great form of exercise for a healthy dog wanting to maintain good cardiovascular fitness or needing to lose a little weight, and it’s also good as a pre-operative measure to improve muscle tone around affected joints and help you recover after surgery. So if you have osteoarthritis, dodgy sprains, inter-vertebral disc damage, obesity or just fancy a bit of fun then this for you! Doggie paddle is by far my best stroke, I did manage 15 laps in total and was never far away from the safe hands of the ever-vigilant Kim and the little ledge at the end of the pool where I could get my breath back after each couple of laps. Swimming did take it out of me and I snoozed all the way home and throughout most of the afternoon, but just a few more lessons and I will be swimming with the big boys before embarking on my next resolution! I must say I’m very pleased with myself and feel I’ve got 2015 off to a superb start. This is definitely a resolution I’ll be keeping! Love and Licks,

Mr Hendrix

xxx (facebook.com/mrhendrixandfriends, mrhendrix.com) (cheshirecaninehydrotherapy.co.uk)

117

tnschool.co.uk tnschool.co.uk

0% 10 te att 0a% 0 s + as r p1 atde1a3 rn 13+ p1a1s+s a and 11+

• • • • • • • •

Traditional values with a modern outlook Traditional values with a modern outlook Co-educational from age 3 to 13 Co-educational from age 3 to 13 Day school with optional boarding from Year 3 Day school with optional boarding from Year 3 36 acres of grounds with outdoor classrooms 36 acres of grounds with outdoor classrooms

Terra Nova School, Jodrell Bank, Holmes Chapel, Cheshire, CW4 8BT Terra Nova School, Jodrell Bank, Holmes Chapel, Cheshire, CW4 8BT

“I am so impressed with the way the school “I am so impressed with the way the school manages to identify and nurture diverse manages to identify and nurture diverse individual talents in every single pupil. individual talents in every single pupil. Certainly for my daughter the resulting self Certainly for my daughter the resulting self confidence and self esteem has enhanced confidence and self esteem has enhanced her development across the full spectrum of her development across the full spectrum of school activities and I know that she will leave school activities and I know that she will leave as a mature and confident 13 year old.” as a mature and confident 13 year old.”

@TerraNovaSchool @TerraNovaSchool

Terra Nova School Terra Nova School

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Family

A self-portrait Stockport Grammar School recently held the final of its Year Five art competition, which was open to ten local primary schools. Fifty self-portraits were submitted and the winner - Charlie Fitzgerald from Gorsey Bank Primary - was announced by renowned figurative artist Mark Demsteader and head of art, Richard Davies. (stockportgrammar.co.uk)

The classroom Poetic talk Paul Cookson, the official poet in residence for the National Football Museum and rock band Slade, gave an exciting masterclass in writing at The King’s School, inspiring the students to write about their own personal passions, just as he has. Paul is the only poet to receive the National Reading Hero Award, which he was awarded at 10 Downing Street. Fans will also O’Neill Paul Cookson with Tyler know him from numerous Ashworth (Hale) (Knutsford) and Jake appearances on Match of the Day, Radio Two, CBBC, Sky Sports and the Everton match day programme.

Oliver Jackson, Meurig Lewis and Sam Timpson

Ww1 comes to The Firs Ian Main of the Liverpool Somme Association enthralled children at The Firs School with his stories and memorabilia from WW1. The children in Year Six were spellbound by Mr Main’s stories of young soldiers on the front line and women in the munitions factories, and loved being able to handle some of the artefacts in his extensive collection. (firsschool.org)

101 things to do If you’re stuck for things to do this school holiday, Tatton Park has 101 ideas. From feeding the deer to segway rides and from seeing if you had what it takes to be a footman or simply exploring the festive spectacle in the Mansion. Lots to do and see... (101tatton.org.uk) 119

Domestic, childcare and private catering staff for your home and family.

Call Laura Harrall at our Manchester office to discuss your requirements for staff in Cheshire and across the north of England. Email: laura@greycoatlumleys.co.uk Telephone: +44 (0)161 667 9420 Online: www.greycoatlumleys.co.uk

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Family

hristian Dior was a firm believer in the idea that parties were essential for meaningful, authentic celebrations, and we couldn’t agree more. Playing on the designer’s love of festivities and costumes, Baby Dior’s A/W14 collection depicts an enchanted party with a mix of charming, swirling dresses for little girls and light costumes for the boys, which display a flair for couture details and bold colour. Dresses range from jacquard and organza with tulle and feathers to a smart royal blue number. Beautiful outfits such as these are sure to make any little girl feel like the belle of the ball. As Christian Dior once said, ‘deep in every heart slumbers a dream, and the couturier knows it: every woman is a princess’. (dior.com)

Masked

Ball

121

Suppliers of quality bespoke doors and ironmongery to some of the UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s finest homes. Showrooms: Esher, Surrey & Chelsea Harbour 01932 851 081 or 0207 376 7000 info@solidwoodendoors.com www.solidwoodendoors.com

homes and

interiors showcasing the

finest HOMES & PROPERTY IN CHESHIRE AND BEYOND

Master of motion The inspired masterpieces of Sacha Lakic

Crystal Clear

A look at Lalique’s stunning collaborations

Place des Vosges - Table Cactus rectangulaire © Gilles Pernet

Home & interiors news

#1 A FINNISH MASTERPIECE London-based brand Klaus Haapaniemi and furniture brand Nikari have revealed its limited-edition range of upholstered sofas. With Carl Virtanen from Nikariâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s craft on the carving and marquetry, and Klaus Haapaniemi himself having designed the vibrant upholstery, the sofas are a joint effort from the two Finnish designers. Haapaniemi has stripped the popular birch sofa of its armrests and has featured an angled back engraved with a collection of original patterns by Nikari. The luxurious home collection is a culmination of quirky upholstery and expert craftsmanship, which uses locally sourced timber and sustainable wood. (klaush.com)

#2 DEEP WHITE TUB There is nothing quite as satisfying as a warm bath after a long day â&#x20AC;&#x201C; especially during these cold frosty months. The new Kelly bath at Alternative Bathrooms is a striking feature for minimalist bathrooms. Made from Cristalplant, the Kelly bath comes as a freestanding bath or in a semi-recessed version, in either a matt or a gloss finish. The sleek, straight-edged exterior gives an infinity pool feel, now where is our sea view? (alternativebathrooms.com)

124

Homes and Interiors

#3 SEEING THE LIGHT An ‘edgy’ accessory for any home, the new Labirinto table has been designed exclusively for Natuzzi Italia by renowned Italian architect Claudio Bellini. Its innovative structure, made from float glass, promises the highest transparency and to reflect light. Both colour combinations – blue, violet and smoke grey, or yellow, bronze and smoke grey – will serve as an attractive centrepiece. Each table assumes a square or rectangular shape, with the square table available in both high and low versions. (natuzzi.co.uk)

#4 HANGING OUT Lean back and relax in the newest swinging pod from artist and sculptor Stephen Myburgh. Whether placed indoors or outdoors, the handmade swing is appreciated as a collectable piece of art and as a piece of statement furniture. With copper continuing to thrive as a fashionable metal, this eye-catching modern design has been fashioned to style both homes and hotels. NW3 Interiors has partnered with Myburgh Designs to offer an exclusive edition of the Gravity Swing. (myburghdesigns.com)

#5 FOR THE LOVE OF FOOD For nearly 100 years, culinary passion has lay at the heart of French brand La Cornue. With uniqueness being key to its ethos, each stove is handmade and one team member will follow its production from start to finish without compromise. La Cornue Châteaux 120 is available in 30 different colours ranging from matt black to bright yellow and, should this not satisfy, La Cornue will create a shade to suit the individual request. (lacornue.com)

125

FINISHING INTERVIEW TOUCHES Ad excestis maio beribuscim volum accabor mod et acculluptus et ut quas untio excererferum velectios molore corum volupti aut invel ius apelignitiis inis non conem il ipsam, cuptate mpellorempos est ut et re re, sam laut quuntios mod maio. Itae quistot atempor ehendit eiunt

Master of Motion As he unveils his latest collection for trailblazing furniture brand Roche Bobois, Gemma Knight sits down with pioneering designer Sacha Lakic to talk curiosity, character and feel-good furniture

orn in Belgrade and raised in Paris, Sacha Lakic is no ordinary designer. With a background firmly rooted in automotive design – starting at Peugeot’s Interior Style offices and going on to work with the likes of Alain Carré and MBK-Yamaha – his nearly thirty-year old career has also included architectural projects and successful forays into product and furniture design. Nevertheless, as the son of acclaimed Paris-based fashion designer Stefan Lakic, it should come as no surprise that Sacha’s blood seems to throng with such malleable

126

Homes and Interiors

127

creativity. ‘My father passed his passion for creating down to me,’ he explains. ‘He taught about proportion, fluidity of shapes, and elegance in design, to follow my instincts and to be innovative. He also taught me to pay attention to the little details and to really play with colours and textures.’ This playful attitude is particularly evident in the numerous furniture collections Sacha has produced for leading French interiors brand Roche Bobois, a collaboration which has seen the creation of such quirky, standout pieces as the Speed Up sideboard, Marina bed and, most recently, the Bubble sofa. Lakic began working with Roche Bobois in the early nineties, after a chance meeting with founder Francois

128

Roche. ‘After that I became fascinated by the world of furniture design,’ Sacha explains. ‘Roche Bobois opened up new creative fields and challenges, and it’s a great collaboration based on trust, which is very important to me. I have a lot of fun creating and developing new products and I consider every collection a challenge.’ So how does Lakic’s background in automotive design affect his approach to other areas of the design field? Quite simply, he is obsessed with the idea of movement. ‘I believe that curiosity is an essential characteristic for a designer,’ he explains, ‘and since I was a little boy I have always been fascinated by the world of automobiles, motorbikes – any object in motion. So when I design, I’m very

Homes and Interiors

attracted to fuss-free curved lines that suggest movement and fluidity. Of course, there’s no real connection between the worlds of cars and furniture, but I like to create one. I sit down with a white sheet of paper, a good pen, some nice music, then I let my hand float while sketching on a piece of paper which allows me to create very fluid and dynamic shapes. The products need to be fully developed aesthetically, but it is also important that they perfectly integrate all key functions, just like cars. And, for me, anything that appears in motion comes to life. I always aim to create products that evoke an emotional response and by giving my furniture designs this sensation of movement, I feel I give them a soul.’ But Sacha’s designs are certainly not just about giving his work personality, and he’s very conscious of the fact that – as with vehicle design – the importance of aesthetics should never eclipse the ultimate need for practicality. ‘When I am about to design a sofa, I always try to make it comfortable, of course, but I also always make it appear comfortable, too,’ he tells me. ‘Although the design of the Bubble sofa is open to

individual interpretation, for me it’s like a puffy cloud. I even believe that softness and comfort can create a sense of wellbeing beyond relaxation. I try to design pieces that make people feel good.’ This is without doubt a man who holds himself up to almost impossible standards, taking the view that his best work is always ahead of him (I ask which of the many pieces he’s designed is his favourite, and he only smiles and says ‘I like to believe that my favourite piece is yet to be created!’). He is never afraid to try his hand at something new in the belief that he can create something unique with his fusion-based approach. ‘I’m a versatile designer and new challenges drive me forward... a luxury yacht, a hotel on the moon... you name it,’ he muses, though it’s actually an eyewear collection for ‘a famous French luxury brand’ to be launched in 2015 that is the next challenge on his horizon. Whoever it is, we can guarantee that the result will be inescapably Lakic; fluid, beautiful and, above all, full of character.

‘I like to believe that my favourite piece is yet to be created’

129

RECREATE THE LOOK Model the look and feel of your home on the sleek, clean lines and quirky characteristics of Sacha Lakic’s designs

he Marina Bed is the focal point of this minimalist room, with its unusual shape, simple colour palette and smooth, functional figure. However, a piece of such powerful simplicity can lose all influence when surrounded by the wrong furnishings, so it’s important to keep the rest of the room light and uncomplicated. We love this stripped-back colour scheme of whites and wood, with very sparse touches of colour to draw the eye and give character without setting

130

the room out of balance. Notice, too, that the level of the room has been kept low, with sideboards, bed and even free-standing decorative elements rarely raising above a metre, in order to encourage the feeling of space and avoid inhibiting the natural light which flows through the large windows. It’s very easy for minimalist designs to lack warmth, an issue which can be combated with the use of a medium dark wood such as juniper or elm to give the room a feeling of envelopment rather than sterility.

Homes and Interiors

A minimalist paradise ‘We love this stripped-back colour scheme of whites and wood, with sparse touches of colour to draw the eye’ #1 Coupe Aurica Blanche, €876 (ksl-living.fr), #2 Cohen Table Lamp, White and Natural Oak, £55 (made.com), #3 Linea Table Lamp, £POA (bakerfurniture.com), #4 Prisma Side Table in White, £119 (made.com), #5 Novecento 3 Door Sideboard, £2260 (natuzzi.co.uk), #6 Karlsson Play Wall & Table Clock, £70 (quinceliving.co.uk), #7 Horsely Wood and Metal Sailing Boat, £36 (artisanti.com) #8 Acacia TV Unit/Low sideboard, £530 (gomodern.co.uk)

131

LD SO Wilmslow

SO LD

Lower Withington

Wilmslow

People Property Places

Bowdon

SO LD

Bowdon

jackson-stops.co.uk

Alderley Edge

Wilmslow 01625 540 340 wilmslow@jackson-stops.co.uk Local & National reach through a network of London & Regional offices

SO LD

Alderley Edge

Mottram St Andrew

LD SO SO

Bowdon

Bradwall

SO LD

LD SO SO

Macclesfield

Bowdon

Wilmslow 01625 540 340 wilmslow@jackson-stops.co.uk Local & National reach through a network of London & Regional offices

People Property Places

LD SO Brereton Park

SO LD

Wilmslow

Bowdon

People Property Places

Henbury

SO LD

Hope Valley

jackson-stops.co.uk

Alderley Edge

Wilmslow 01625 540 340 wilmslow@jackson-stops.co.uk Local & National reach through a network of London & Regional offices

SO LD

Mottram St Andrew

Alderley Edge

LD SO SO

Mottram St Andrew

Knutsford

SO LD

LD SO SO

Alderley Edge

Bowdon

Wilmslow 01625 540 340 wilmslow@jackson-stops.co.uk Local & National reach through a network of London & Regional offices

People Property Places

LD SO

jackson-stops.co.uk

SO LD

Brereton Park

Siddington

People Property Places

SO LD

Bowdon

Great Warford

SO LD

Lower Withington

Pott Shrigley

Wilmslow 01625 540 340 wilmslow@jackson-stops.co.uk Local & National reach through a network of London & Regional offices

SO LD

Broadbottom

Alderley Edge

LD SO SO

Wilmslow

Hale

SO LD

LD SO SO

Styal

Wilmslow

Wilmslow 01625 540 340 wilmslow@jackson-stops.co.uk Local & National reach through a network of London & Regional offices

People Property Places

ER FF O R DE UN

jackson-stops.co.uk

Nether Alderley

O UN

DE R

Prestbury

OLD

FF ER

Alderley Edge

FF ER

Mottram St Andrew

Smallwood

People Property Places

Hale

Wilmslow 01625 540 340 wilmslow@jackson-stops.co.uk Local & National reach through a network of London & Regional offices

ER UN

ER FF O R DE UN

FF O DE R UN

Wilmslow

Henbury

O R DE UN

FF ER

Somerford Booths

FF ER

DE R

Lower Peover ER

Hale

Chelford

Wilmslow 01625 540 340 wilmslow@jackson-stops.co.uk Local & National reach through a network of London & Regional offices

People Property Places

140

Homes and Interiors

Crystal Clear Annabel Harrison speaks to Silvio Denz, CEO of Lalique, about the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s iconic product range for A/W14 and its most recent collaborations

hy did Lalique deem James Suckling and Salvatore Ferragamo suitable partners for its

latest project? â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Three years ago, the internationally acclaimed wine critic James Suckling asked me whether it would be possible to collaborate with Lalique on the design of a new wine glass. He had a universal glass in mind, suitable for both red and white. It would be based on the tasting glass he has been using for more than 30 years, which is excellent at bringing out the subtle flavours of the wine and allowing them to develop. Our chief designer worked with James to create a glass

141

INSPIRATION

that is an ideal combination of functionality and beauty. It is called 100 Points – a reference to the highest rating that is given to a perfect wine. ‘We were having dinner with Massimo Ferragamo in Florence a year ago when the idea of the 100 Points wine and glass case, which doubles as a briefcase or overnight travel bag, was born. Like Salvatore Ferragamo, Lalique stands for the highest quality and craftsmanship, as well as tradition and heritage. James Suckling, Massimo Ferragamo and I share a love of wine and respect for nature, the work of the vineyard and the winemaker’s art.’ What is, for you, the most outstanding product in the A/W14 collection? ‘Our creative team did an excellent job on the Provence collection. A particular challenge was the Rayons vase, which harmoniously combines

142

the purity of crystal and the nobility of gold. The transparent crystal honeycombs are highlighted with 22.5-carat gold leaf, hand-applied by the artisans of the prestigious Ateliers Gohard. The hand craftsmanship of each piece brings the crystal to life, transforming it into an exceptional work of art in a limited edition of 88 pieces.’ Does the application of gold leaf onto the Rayons vase by Ateliers Gohard require a great level of skill? ‘The large Rayons vase is made using the pressé technique. The main difficulty during the hot-glass process is to remove the piece from the mould without damaging the six edges. Only the talent and experience of our glassmakers can achieve such a perfect result. Furthermore, the printing of the decoration must be perfect since the geometric pattern

Homes and Interiors

Place des Vosges - Salon ÂŠ Gilles Pernet

143

INSPIRATION

with its very clear finish would reveal any imperfection. The gilding with gold leaf is an entirely artisanal technique. Located in Paris since 1962, Ateliers Gohard restores monuments, furniture and works of art such as the Dôme des Invalides in Paris, the roofs and gates of Versailles, the Municipal Theatre of Rio de Janeiro, and the flame of the Statue of Liberty in New York. ‘The Rayons vase is a very complex piece to cover in gold leaf: two layers of gold leaf are applied by hand, and when the gilding is complete, another very detailed process begins; the vase must be thoroughly cleaned without taking off the gold leaf. It took about two months for Lalique and Ateliers Gohard to achieve this sublime limited edition. It comprises 88 pieces as this is a lucky number in Asia; a symbol of fortune and good luck.’ Can you explain why “immortalising nature through crystal” is so important and why it is a realistic aim for the Lalique product stable and craftsmen? ‘It is part of Lalique’s DNA. Since the early days, recurring themes have included the female form, flora and fauna. Depicted through realism, though sometimes stylised, nature remains an inexhaustible source of inspiration at the heart of the Lalique identity. Strong Art Nouveau and Art Deco influences add strength and lightness to the ornate masterpieces of the past and present. ‘For more than 100 years, our manufacturing plant in Alsace, an area renowned for glassmaking, has perpetuated its unique know-how. The hand of both artist and

144

craftsman leaves its imprint on every object, conveying a rich heritage. The Lalique style flows from an artistic gesture, from which a drawing diffuses into crystal. It is a style easily recognised through the manual modelling of shapes and patterns as if sculpted, the richness of the figurative details and the different types of finish which create a characteristic contrast of clear and frosted crystal. This is an identity characterised by softness, femininity and nature, with a strong Art Nouveau and Art Deco inspiration.’ What are the advantages and disadvantages of working with a material like crystal? ‘The magic of crystal emanates from the fusion of raw ingredients. At this stage the sand, potash, lead oxide and recycled crystal (cullet), mixed in proportions which remain a closely guarded secret, metamorphose into brilliant and luminous crystal, with the particular sonority that distinguishes it from mere glass. ‘Crystal is a noble material; our creations are true sculptures of light, endowing the material with its particular beauty. But it is a very difficult material to work with. It takes great expertise and patience to tame crystal, to understand its properties and translate a design, an idea, into an object. Crystal is very fragile and unpredictable during manipulation. We write off many pieces that do not meet our quality standards or break, so it is expensive to produce crystal pieces. And it takes approximately ten years to become a good glassmaker. Once produced, a crystal piece is

Homes and Interiors

‘Crystal is unpredictable and fragile... we write off many pieces that do not meet our standards’

eternal because it does not deteriorate over time. All this makes crystal a truly magical material!’ Zaha Hadid has designed two Crystal Architecture vases for Lalique. Why Zaha? ‘Zaha has always had a passion for Lalique. For her, Lalique is synonymous with elegant, fluid designs that are innovative and timeless, yet do not compromise the integrity of the medium or craftsmanship of its production. When I met Zaha three years ago, she was immediately fired with enthusiasm at the idea of collaborating. The two Crystal Architecture vases, Visio and Manifesto, combine the characteristics of Zaha Hadid and Lalique in unique works of art: Zaha’s avant-garde design with Lalique’s craftsmanship and the distinctive technique of satin glass. (lalique.com)

145

When aa couple couple from from Hale, Cheshire When began creating creating their their dream dream home home four began four years ago they years ago they knewknew whatwhat they they wanted; wanted; outindesign in their own stand outstand design their own signature signature surroundings. There would surroundings. There would be no be no shortcuts, and Diane’s client shortcuts, and Diane’s client Kim, had Kim, had very specific design ideas in very specific design ideas in mind. They mind. They heard about Alno by Diane heard Alno by Diane Berry Berry about Kitchens through friends. ‘The Kitchens through friends. ‘The name name kept coming up’ says Kim, who is kept coming up’London says Kim, originally from andwho had is visited originally London and had her homefrom city for inspiration too.visited They her home city for inspiration They consulted kitchen companiestoo. closer to home as well but decided Diane Berry consulted kitchen companies closer to was the for them. home as best well choice but decided Diane Berry ‘What struck me about Diane Berry was the best choice for them.

was theirstruck approach; it wasDiane so different ‘What me about Berry to other companies’ was theirkitchen approach; it was soexplains different Kim. Diane is verycompanies’ holistic in her to other kitchen explains approach and really encouraged Kim. Diane is very holistic in her Kim to think about her lifestyle and herKim to approach and really encouraged family’s needs, even the pet’s! think about her lifestyle and her family’s Diane wants to understand how her needs, even the pet’s! clients’ live, and really appreciates that Diane wants to understand how the design should complement andher clients’ live, and really appreciates that work around them. the should and Atdesign the start of thecomplement design process, work around them. Calder Peel architects in Altrincham At the start ofchoosing the design recommended theprocess, kitchen worktopPeel firstarchitects and foremost which Kim Calder in Altrincham admits wouldn’tchoosing have been top recommended thea kitchen priority. Kim had her heart set on aKim worktop first and foremost which

specific textured granite which they admits wouldn’t have been a top searched highhad andher lowheart for eventually priority. Kim set on a sourcing it in Sheffield. Kim also they wanted specific textured granite which asearched hidden pantry to be worked into high and low for eventually the design, hugely practical hiding sourcing it in Sheffield. Kimfor also everyday kitchen clutter from guests! wanted a hidden pantry to be worked This is where Diane and her team’s skill into the design, hugely practical for really come in to play; they listen to hiding everyday clutter from their clients idea’skitchen and then fine-tune guests! This is where Diane and her the details making the best of their team’s skillmaking really come in to play; and they ‘wish lists’ them functional listen to their clients idea’s and then bespoke to boot. the details making theatbest fine-tune Kim wanted the kitchen to be the of heart of their home, the social aspect their ‘wish lists’ making them functional was hugely whilst being and also bespoke toimportant, boot. functional for Kim, her husband two Kim wanted the kitchen to beand at the

promise mporary work on

etro feel ne matt ew, the l shade

HOLISTIC DESIGN

by diane berry kitchens children agedhome, 11 and 8. Berry A keen baker,Ltd, heart of their the social aspect The unusual lighting gives the space a truly unique feel, whilst Diane Kitchens they look great they’re hugely practical in highlighting forhugely Kimareas makes the most of132 a steam oven, was also important, whilst being Bury New Road, cooking, preparing food and of course eating. Theasopen wellplan as for using theher flexi hob, and functional Kim, husband and two Prestwich, Manchester living area is extremely family friendly allowing the couple the Teppanyaki cooking any menu. children aged 11 andto 8.suit A keen baker, chance to be with their young children whilst preparing dinner. M25 0AA The ground floor of their home is The dining table is a great addition to the island unit andmakes keeps the most of a steam Kim oven, www.dianeberrykitchens.co.uk very open plan, and the kitchen has the space open and sociable.

as well as using the flexi hob, and gone on to influence the surrounding diane@dianeberrykitchens.co.uk cooking to suit any menu. their neutral Tel: and0161 earthy 798 5335 The ground floor ofeffect their is home is very tones. The kitchen’s actually open plan, and the kitchen has gone quite warm, despite the vast panes on to surrounding of influence glass andthe minimalist cleanrooms lines. with their neutral units and earthy tones. The The Walnut are a contrast to kitchen’s is actually quite warm, the largeeffect glazing which mirrors the outdoorthe eating along withand an despite vast area panes of glass outdoor fireplace in keeping with the minimalist clean lines. The Walnut units welcoming feel. are a contrast to the large glazing which

mirrors the outdoor eating area along with an outdoor fireplace in keeping with the welcoming feel.

‘We are so pleased with the finished room which just works so Teppanyaki rooms with well for us as a family’

Diane Berry Kitchens Ltd 132 Bury New Road, Prestwich, Manchester M25 0AA www.dianeberrykitchens.co.uk diane@dianeberrykitchens.co.uk Tel: 0161 798 5335

Intoto Kitchens provides a bespoke service creating the perfect kitchen for every client. As one of the World’s leading quality kitchen brands and part of the most established fitted kitchen businesses in the UK, we mix German quality and craftsmanship with our specialist design service. Created specifically for you and your lifestyle, each of our kitchens is designed, produced and professionally installed by our experienced Installation team and project managers, whilst being supported by our KBSA Consumer Care Protection Insurance. Appointed as a Neff Master Partner & Exclusive Brand Partner, our clients benefit from exclusive products and additional savings across leading appliances, worktops & accessories. Providing a free Survey and Design service to clients, we also work

closely with Architects, Designers and Developers form an early stage, to deliver the perfect balance in kitchen living spaces across the Cheshire and the North West. If you’re looking for inspiration and would like to see how an Intoto kitchen might look in your home, visit our showroom to discuss your ideas and plans, or contact us for a free survey and design consultation.

SUMMER SALE

IS NOW ON Limited offer period. Ask in store for details

UP TO 30% OFF www.intoto.co.uk

WWW.INTOTO.CO.UK

WILMSLOW Sta t io n R o a d , W ilm slo w, C h esh ire, (ne xt to Kwik F it ) S K9 1BT | T el. 01625 530792

gardens

Quintessentially British Katy Simpson, creative director and one of the founders of Noble Isle, speaks with Louisa Castle about rhubarb, rambling walks and capturing Britain in a bottle

K opposite: mynwy valley, the inspiration for fireside

150

aty is no stranger to scents, with over twenty years in the luxury beauty industry. She is speaking to me today from her home in Buckinghamshire, accompanied by her beloved ‘terrible twosome’ Westscotts (Scottie x Westie), Hoagie and Slippers. ‘They are part of the Noble Isle family too, sniffing and picking the scents. We know when we’ve got it right as their seal of approval is licking it off!’ Noble Isle was created three years ago by four partners, all of whom had been in the luxury beauty industry for over twenty years together. ‘We’ve

known each other for years and kept in touch as we went our own ways. Then we all came together with a concept of producing something beautiful and entirely British. ‘We are all about Britain. We’re privately owned by Brits, funded by Brits, produced in Britain and all our scents are locally sourced. Our concept is very in trend within the food industry – sourceable and traceable.’ It’s all about celebrating our country, then, our noble isle? ‘Noble Isle was only the working title but it stuck! It captures the whole concept of pride and strength so we kept it. We have visited the length and breadth of England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland to source authentic, native ingredients which encapsulate the feeling of the British countryside. ‘Out Coat of Balms came about one summer’s day, sitting outside with my friend (who happens to be an artist) and dogs, chatting and doodling away.

‘It is definitely something I was meant to do. Without a shadow of a doubt’

Homes and Interiors

151

GARDENS

152

Homes and Interiors

opposite: rhubarb rhubarb! from the yorkshire triangle RIGHT: THE NOBLE ISLE RANGE

We wanted something which captured the wit and humour and a dash of gentle eccentricity, but also was stylish. What better than the international symbol of relaxation – a bath!’ Like every scent and perfume the collection of nine evokes memories and ‘retells beautiful stories’. ‘Rhubarb was our first scent and it took one and a half years to develop’ helped by Katy’s passion for home cooking and nature. ‘Before moving to Buckinghamshire I was lucky enough to have a fabulous vegetable patch and I loved growing all the elements for some delicious home-cooked meals, what was on the table depended on what was ready in the garden. At this time I also got into foraging on our long country walks (with Hoagie and Slippers, of course) and finding the wonderful things that nature gives us free. ‘I love game: venison, duck and pheasant... and stews... and pies. All perfect for this time of the year. And no meal is ever the same as I add hazelnuts, blackberries or sloes [depending on what’s] in season and make pickles and jams with the fruits of our foraging. ‘I have been lucky enough to have travelled all around the world and sample the tastes and delicacies. Today when I travel I am always picking up spices to cook with and try new dishes at home. ‘Anyway, back to the rhubarb. Found in the cold, wet ground of the West Yorkshire Rhubarb Triangle, the pink princess of British spring ‘forced’ rhubarb is at

‘Our concept is very in trend within the food industry’ its best. Loaded with natural antioxidants, rhubarb extract is recognised for its cleansing properties; generations ago the precious tonic from its root commanded several times the price of opium. The extract we use is from a sixth-generation farm in Yorkshire, E. Oldroyd & Sons, overseen by Janet Oldroyd. Her passion and story inspired us to seek out other interesting people and stories, with tales just as passionate, from the barley, spring water and people of the Balvenie distillery to the Cornish hedgerows and Lost Gardens of Heligan. ‘Some scents we have stumbled across and some have come as a result of lots of meetings. The most interesting part is always the people behind the story. The best part is capturing that scent and emotion perfectly, bringing memories into your home.’ (nobleisle.com)

153

Homes and Interiors

GARDENS #1

#9 #2

#3 #8

#7 #4

RECREATE THE LOOK ‘Take inspiration from Noble Isle and create your own gardening haven’ #1 Storage and garden equipment, from £3.50 Tesco (tesco.com) #2 Watering can, £18, The Contemporary Home (tch.net) #3 Indoor/outdoor rug, £70, Dash & Albert Europe (dashandalberteurope.com) #4 Pottery bird bowl, £16.80, PrinceDesignUK (etsy.com) #5 Rustic tubs, £19.50, Boutique Provencale (boutiqueprovencale.co.uk) #6 Teak lantern, £142, The Libra Company (artisanti.com) #7 Gardening gloves, £14.99, Wyevale Garden Centres (wyevalegardencentres.co.uk) #8 Gardener’s gubbins pots, £19.95, Annabel James (annabeljames.co.uk) #9 Pheasant chair pad, £16, Sophie Allport (sophieallport.com)

154

Award - Winning Architectural & Interior Design Janey Butler Interiors are proud winners of the 2014-2015 International Property Awards for one of their Cheshire Developments. These awards identify the highest levels of achievement in Property Development & Interior Design which focuses on sustainability, high living standards, originality and creativity. Cheshire Showroom Coming Soon

W: w w w . j a n e y b u t l e r . c o . u k E: hello@janeybutler.co.uk T:

0844 809 4469

www.janeybutler.co.uk

Adderley: A resid ence that inhabits you

Once youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve seen Adderley, you will find it occupies your thoughts like no other. Such grace in such space is all too rare. For this residence has been created as a celebration of grand living. Its statement entrance. The capacious rooms for entertaining. The five bedroom suites, off-the-charts de luxe. The pool, the spa, the grounds, the vista and exquisite finishings at every turn. And beyond the gates: the rarefied environs of the finest par t of Wilmslow. However : there is just one Adderley. We recommend you visit immediately. For more information about Adderley, Wilmslow, Cheshire call 01942 263485 or visit us at www.eventusproperties.co.uk

Eventus Properties Ltd Oakland House, 21 Hope Carr Road, Leigh, Lancashire, WN7 3ET T. 01942 263485 E. info@eventusproperties.co.uk www.eventusproperties.co.uk

Promotion

MOVING HOME As Jackson-Stops & Staff moves into new premises on Ashley Road, we speak with Anthony Jevons about what makes the area so special

enowned for its portfolio of prestige properties, Jackson-Stops & Staff prides itself on being the only independent national estate agency operating in the Hale area, providing a bespoke service on a local, national and international basis. At the helm of the Hale office is Anthony Jevons, an agent with more than 25 years experience of buying and selling properties in the Cheshire area. ‘Since the Victorian mill owners decided Hale was the place to be, the area has attracted people and wealth for over a century. ‘It’s special because it gives people the best of lots of worlds; it’s a leafy green suburb with a great sense of community and accessibility. ‘The schools are highly regarded and the village provides everything you need, including some great restaurants. It’s got everything. ‘What’s more, because it’s such a desirable place to live, house prices are reasonably buoyant compared to the UK figures, so buying a home here is attractive to the wallet as well as the heart.’ Jackson-Stops & Staff, 174 Ashley Road, Hale, Cheshire, WA15 9SF; 0161 928 8881; jackson-stops.co.uk

Anthony Jevons, Director ‘I pride myself on being involved with all our clients from start to finish and being able to create a bespoke service for our clients’ needs. ‘The one thing I would take with me to a desert island is my wife, soppy I know, but no doubt she would have a long list of things for me to do!’

Clare Martin, Viewing Representative ‘My primary role is showing clients around properties which we hope match their dreams and requirements. ‘My desert island must-have is “Travel Bear”. He was a present from my mother when I went to live in Dubai, and has kept me safe on my travels.’

Jade Hodson, Office Secretary ‘I assist Anthony with the day-to-day running of the office, creating beautiful property details for our homes, arranging viewings for potential purchasers and being on hand to help any clients with their buying or selling needs. ‘I cannot live without music so if I was marooned on a desert island I would have to take my iPod.’

157

When your hom e is part of who you are For a certain type of person, their home deﬁnes them. It plays a fundamental part in their contentment with life. If that sounds like you, we should meet. Because at Eventus we understand you want your residence to be the sum of a thousand extraordinary parts. Where every room makes a statement. Every space exudes style and grace. And every detail - from light switches and skirting boards to the pool tiles and landscaping - has been considered and ﬁnessed. That’s why Eventus exists. To design, build and deliver residences that are as extraordinary as their owners. For more information about Eventus call 01942 263485 or visit us at www.eventusproperties.co.uk

Eventus Properties Ltd Oakland House, 21 Hope Carr Road, Leigh, Lancashire, WN7 3ET T. 01942 263485 E. info@eventusproperties.co.uk www.eventusproperties.co.uk

5356 Eventus_Adverts_F_CheshireLife.indd 1

06/03/2014 11:21

Homes and Interiors

LOCAL PROPERTY

Tatton, Eden Park ALDERLEY EDGE

ith its six bedrooms (four en suite) and separate staff quarters, Tatton is an imposing family house offering an exceptional standard of accommodation and the last remaining contemporary villa in this exclusive gated development. Despite its size, it nestles in its setting to give a true sense of intimacy and privacy. It also boasts a ‘spa’ with a pool, steam room, gymnasium, wine store and a fully equipped media room, each ready to reflect your mood. While some homes are just a collection of rooms, Tatton shows the architect’s skill in creating a cohesive, natural flow and an indulgent sense of space. This is only increased when you throw open the doors and let the outside in; both the kitchen breakfast area and formal drawing room open

out onto south westerly facing gardens. There is also a gorgeous terrace for al fresco summer dining, while in the winter it’s a case of curling up in the drawing room in front of the log fire or retreating to the library with a good book. The master bedroom is a complete suite, comprising a spacious bedroom, dressing room and a magnificent en suite bath and double shower room. The second bedroom is also complete with an en suite bathroom and the third and fourth bedrooms share a generous family bathroom, with bedroom three also benefiting from a dressing area. Tatton, Eden Park, offers in the region of £3.195 million. Jackson-Stops & Staff, 8 Water Lane, Wilmslow, SK9 5AA (01625 540340, jackson-stops.co.uk)

159

LOCAL PROPERTY

Tempest ALDERLEY EDGE

empest has a number of exceptional features; including three superb reception rooms, a media room and a spectacular kitchen/ breakfast/living room. The pool/ leisure level is generous both in specification and space – naturally lit by more than 7m of west-facing sliding doors opening onto a lower terrace, ideal for al-fresco entertaining. The large pool is lined with French porcelain mosaic tiles, giving a subtle aquamarine hue to the pool, lit or unlit. A sports-specification countercurrent unit defines the ergonomics of the inner curved end of the pool. The gym affords beautiful views across the pool – it’s also sized to be fitted out as a virtual golf simulator if preferred. The centrepiece of the first floor is

160

the master bedroom suite, which can be configured to provide approximately 1000 sq ft of accommodation, including his and hers bathrooms and dressing rooms. The games room is easily accessed from the ground or first floor, but is remote enough to provide a virtually sound-proofed environment for music, games or movies. The second floor is acoustically-isolated from the rest of the house, the attic has been designed to provide a large selfcontained suite for a nanny or further family accommodation, with a large bedroom and separate study. Tempest, Alderley Edge, guide price: £2.95 million. Jackson-Stops & Staff, 8 Water Lane, Wilmslow, SK9 5AA (01625 540340, jackson-stops.co.uk)

Homes and Interiors

Twemlow Hall holmes chapel

wemlow Hall is an extremely handsome triple gabled 17th century house, with mellow red brick elevations and dressed stone quoins. The house bears the stone carved crest of the Booth family. Internally the house does not disappoint, with extremely high ceilings and spacious, light rooms, with a layout ideal for modern family living. The expansive galleried entrance hall sets the scene for this large family house. There is a majestic carved oak staircase leading to the first floor. The principal reception rooms have fireplaces, coving, ceiling roses and a fantastic oak parquet floor. The top floor is, at present, attic space, but has good ceiling height and windows, and would make further accommodation (subject to the necessary consents being obtained).

Twemlow Hall is accessed off a long tree-lined driveway with its own parkland and woodland extending to approximately 21 acres and screening the house from view. The hall is extremely well situated just over two miles from the centre of Holmes Chapel, which offers a good range of shopping facilities. Goostrey Train Station enables easy access to Manchester, while the centres of Alderley Edge, Wilmslow and Knutsford are all within easy reach. Alderley Edge School for Girls and Ryleys Preparatory School, are a short drive away and the Peak District lies to the east. Twemlow Hall, Holmes Chapel, offers in the region of ÂŁ2 million. Jackson-Stops & Staff, 8 Water Lane, Wilmslow, SK9 5AA (01625 540340, jackson-stops.co.uk)

161

Homes and Interiors

LOCAL PROPERTY

Old Braestead PRESTBURY

ld Braestead was built in 2005 by the prestigious Hillcrest Homes in the Arts and Crafts style. The six-bedroom house is constructed of cream rendered elevations adorned by climbing roses and wisteria, with stone detailing to the leaded windows, all surmounted by a slate roof. The house sits centrally within its plot of just under 1.5 acres, with stunning south-facing gardens and southerly rural views, giving the house the most magical location, all within the pretty village of Prestbury. Internally, the majesty of the exterior is only amplified by the interior, with state-of-the-art fitted

162

rooms, all decorated beautifully. Internally, the specification includes oak flooring, solid oak doors and staircase, a galleried entrance hall with a floor-to-ceiling window, designer modern bathroom/showers and gas-fired underfloor heating. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also a sophisticated alarm system with electric gates and CCTV, as well as surround sound in the kitchen, breakfast room, family room, dining room and master bedroom. Old Braestead, Prestbury, guide price: ÂŁ2.695 million. Jackson-Stops & Staff, 8 Water Lane, Wilmslow, SK9 5AA (01625 540340, jackson-stops.co.uk)

MANCHES T ERW O

RER TO EN P

O O M

ESCAPE THE CITY WITHOUT LEAVING IT BOROUGH

3-SEATER £699 Delivered from as little as 7 days. sofasandstuff.com/cantwait

T H E N E W CAN’ T WAI T C O L L ECT IO N 40 D e a r ma ns P l ac e , T h e B r i d ge , M anc h este r , M3 5 EW. 0161 393 7 140

SAS002_Can'tWaitCollection_MASTER_297x210_AW4.indd 1

05/06/2014 17:54

e Estate Agents Cheshire and Manchester’s Largest Leading Independant Visit our new web site www.jordanfishwick.co.uk

Shrigley Road Pott Shrigley

Beautiful panoramic views • Three bedroom detached cottage • Four reception rooms • Two bathrooms • Offers a fantastic blend of original characteristics, alongside today’s more modern comforts • Situated within 1.5 acres of gardens and paddocks

Guide Price: £750,000 Wilmslow and Alderley Edge Office 36/38 Alderley Road, SK91JX Sales: 01625 532000 Lettings: 01625 536300 E: wilmslow@jordanfishwick.co.uk

Hale Office 172 Ashley Road, WA15 9SF Sales: 0161 929 9797 Lettings: 0161 929 9898 E: hale@jordanfishwick.co.uk

Didsbury Office 757-759 Wilmslow Road, M20 6RN Sales: 0161 445 4480 Lettings: 0161 434 5290 E: didsbury@jordanfishwick.co.uk

Macclesfield & Prestbury Office 84-86 Waters Green, SK11 6LH Sales: 01625 434000 Lettings: 01625 502222 E: macclesfield@jordanfishwick.co.uk

Sale Office 95-97 School Road M33 7XA Sales: 0161 962 2828 Lettings: 0161 976 5080 E: sales@jordanfishwick.co.uk

Swythamley Rushton Spencer

Quaint detached country farm house, formerly part of the Swythamly Hall estate • Four bedrooms • Five reception rooms • Three bathrooms • A rural position enjoying views over farmland and countryside • Set within approximately 3 acres of land

Guide Price: £750,000 Glossop Office 44 High Street West, SK13 8BH Sales: 01457 858888 Lettings: 01457 858888 E: glossop@jordanfishwick.co.uk

Chorlton Office 410-412 Barlow Moor Road, M21 8AD Sales: 0161 860 4444 Lettings: 0161 860 444 E: chorlton@jordanfishwick.co.uk

Manchester City Centre Office 217 Deansgate M3 3NW Sales: 0161 833 9499 Lettings: 0161 833 9499 E: manchester@jordanfishwick.co.uk

Salford & Media City Office City Point Unit 2, 156 Chapel Street M3 6BF Sales: 0161 833 9499 opt 3 Lettings: 0161 833 9499 opt 2 E: salford@jordanfishwick.co.uk

Northern Quarter Office 45 Tib Street M4 1LT Sales: 0161 833 9494 Lettings: 0161 833 9494 E: nor thernquar ter@jordanfishwick.co.uk

Cheshire and Manchester’s Largest Leading Independant e Estate Agents Visit our new web site www.jordanfishwick.co.uk

Carrwood Hale Barns

Large detached residence • Stunning interior and architectural features • Premier position in a private and exclusive area • Five reception rooms • Five bedroom suites • Planning for further accommodation • Extensive grounds of over three quarters of an acre

Guide Price: £3,795,000 Wilmslow and Alderley Edge Office 36/38 Alderley Road, SK91JX Sales: 01625 532000 Lettings: 01625 536300 E: wilmslow@jordanfishwick.co.uk

Hale Office 172 Ashley Road, WA15 9SF Sales: 0161 929 9797 Lettings: 0161 929 9898 E: hale@jordanfishwick.co.uk

Didsbury Office 757-759 Wilmslow Road, M20 6RN Sales: 0161 445 4480 Lettings: 0161 434 5290 E: didsbury@jordanfishwick.co.uk

Macclesfield & Prestbury Office 84-86 Waters Green, SK11 6LH Sales: 01625 434000 Lettings: 01625 502222 E: macclesfield@jordanfishwick.co.uk

Sale Office 95-97 School Road M33 7XA Sales: 0161 962 2828 Lettings: 0161 976 5080 E: sales@jordanfishwick.co.uk

Westbrook Villas Chorlton Prices from £550,000 Glossop Office 44 High Street West, SK13 8BH Sales: 01457 858888 Lettings: 01457 858888 E: glossop@jordanfishwick.co.uk

Unique development of 12 luxurious homes • Highly regarded location close to Chorlton village • Thriving suburb of Manchester within easy commuting of the City Centre • Fusing classic Victorian architecture with contemporary design & materials • Four villas behind the original facade • A further eight detached & semi-detached homes crafted in the substantial grounds • Substantial family accommodation with four styles over three & four floors

Chorlton Office 410-412 Barlow Moor Road, M21 8AD Sales: 0161 860 4444 Lettings: 0161 860 444 E: chorlton@jordanfishwick.co.uk

Manchester City Centre Office 217 Deansgate M3 3NW Sales: 0161 833 9499 Lettings: 0161 833 9499 E: manchester@jordanfishwick.co.uk

Salford & Media City Office City Point Unit 2, 156 Chapel Street M3 6BF Sales: 0161 833 9499 opt 3 Lettings: 0161 833 9499 opt 2 E: salford@jordanfishwick.co.uk

Northern Quarter Office 45 Tib Street M4 1LT Sales: 0161 833 9494 Lettings: 0161 833 9494 E: nor thernquar ter@jordanfishwick.co.uk

HALF PRICE SALES & LETTINGS FEES

(Limited Period Launch Offer)

An Estate Agency that’s like a breath of fresh air. Lock & Parker are the next generation of Estate Agents. We provide a professional, proactive sales and lettings marketing service. Our passion for property is self evident in our unique approach to each and every client. Our service is ‘personally’ tailored to you, because you are individual - and so are we.

For a free, no obligation valuation call us on freephone 0800 689 1117 or on 01625 588 960

Unlock the potential of your Home.

Y RT PE G O IN PR AIN ST M LA RE

The Tatton, Eden Park, Alderley Edge 6 Bedroom, 6 Bathroom Detached Villa with Leisure Suite & Annexe (NB: This property is currently under construction at a ‘shell stage’ and provides a unique opportunity to fit it out to your exacting requirements) With its six bedrooms (four of them en-suite) and separate staff quarters, Tatton stands as an imposing family house offering an exceptional standard of accommodation. Despite its size, it nestles in its setting to give a true sense of intimacy and privacy. It also boasts a subterranean ‘spa’ complete with a pool, steam room, gymnasium and wine store. A true sanctuary in which to shut out the world and completely relax.

£3,195,000

LD N SO LA % P 80 FF O

Davenport, Butley Hall, Prestbury

Scottmount, Butley Hall, Prestbury

3 Bedrooms, 3 Bathrooms , 1800 sq ft Apartment

3 Bedrooms, 3 Bathrooms , 1600 sq ft Apartment

If you enjoy entertaining, Davenport boasts a dining area with space for a 10-seater table. This luxurious apartment has a very generous kitchen, complete with a lovely breakfast area, and the dining space situated directly next to it. The master bedroom suite incorporates an en-suite bathroom and a wonderful floor to ceiling bay window.

Homely and welcoming, Scottmount features a very spacious kitchen with a lovely breakfast area. Directly adjacent is a comfortable dining area, and living room. The master bedroom suite incorporates an en-suite bathroom and dressing area.

£875,000

Lock & Parker Estate Agents, 10 London Road, Alderley Edge SK9 7JS Freephone: 0800 689 1117 Alderley Edge Office : 01625 588 960 www.lockandparker.co.uk

£750,000

INTERNATIONAL PROPERTY

Alpine Escape A sanctuary in the snow-capped Swiss GraubuĚ&#x2C6;nden mountains can be forever yours as we discover a glamorous set of apartments for sale in the town of Arosa

170

Homes and Interiors

171

Homes and Interiors

INTERNATIONAL PROPERTY

here’s something so calming about the sight of snow dusted across imposing mountains, especially when viewed from the comfort of a cosy alpine apartment with its own open fire. Whether you’re a keen skier, or just enjoy the view of picturesque slopes, bespoke travel company Powder Byrne is bringing the ideal opportunity to the market with the sale of nine boutique residences in the resort of Arosa, Switzerland. Deemed one of Switzerland’s best-kept secrets, this destination sits in the heart of the Graubünden mountains, nestled in at 1,800m in the romantic Schanfigg Valley. Arosa is a not just a winter ski resort however, it is also perfect for summer jaunts as well, as it is blessed with prolonged sunny days. The charming, traditional Swiss-style two or threebedroom chalets are designed to be the ideal home from home, with spacious entertaining areas to unwind in and top-of-the-range kitchens for cooking feasts for your family or guests. There is also access to all of the ‘communal’ areas such as a boot room with an honesty bar, a private gym and a wellness area including a sauna, steam room and Jacuzzi. What really sets these boutique dwellings apart from others is the Swiss Collection membership that is offered

172

to buyers upon purchase, which includes a bespoke management service. This means the general day-to-day running of the apartments is taken care of – from paying household bills to doing the laundry, so you won’t have to lift a finger while relaxing in your alpine haven. This mountainous pied-à-terre strikes the perfect balance between cosy and impressive, designed using a combination of local, natural materials and all the 21st-century appliances you could need. Experience the majesty of the Swiss Alps and you may never want to leave. Chesa Araus chalets are now on sale off-plan with prices between £650,000 £2 million. They will be completed by early 2016. For further enquiries contact Powder Byrne (020 8246 5306; powderbyrne.com)

4 0

D e a r m a n s

P l a c e ,

T h e

B r i d g e ,

M a n c h e s t e r ,

0161 393 7140

M 3

5 E W

M A N H

C T O ER W S O TO P EN RE R

Join us this weekend Saturday 6th December between 11am â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 4pm for our Open House event. We will be opening the doors to a number of our homes so come along and step inside what could be your dream home.

NEW LUXURY HOMES OFFERING GOLF COURSES, DRIVING RANGE AND HEALTH SPA FACILITIES STRETTON GREEN ~ MALPAS, CHESHIRE SY14 7JA

It’s not just the beautiful city of Chester you’ll find yourself close to...

}

Stretton Green is a beautiful collection of luxury country homes set in the heart of the Cheshire countryside and just 10 miles from the cosmopolitan city of Chester

Unrivalled Location Superb Specification Idyllic Lifestyle

TO BOOK A PRIVATE VIEWING CALL JAN MAC CUTCHAN ON 01829 458977 OR VISIT REDROW.CO.UK/STRETTON

The Big Winter

Sale

% off

everything* 1st December - 31st January * excludes Classic and Discontinued lines. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer.

CELEBRATING 25 YEARS Order online at: mandarinstone.com Local showroom, Wilmslow 67-69 Water lane, Wilmslow, Cheshire SK9 5BQ 01625 531 343

Homes and Interiors

luxury overseas property we’ve picked our favourite properties from around the world for your viewing pleasure

THE HAMPTONS

#1 Briar Patch

Briar Patch is a magnificent waterfront estate, which is not only one of the most expensive properties on the market in the Hamptons, but the second-highest priced in the United States. Every detail of the Georgian revival, six-bedroom, 10,000 sq ft main house was restored and renovated over two-and-a-half years by the internationally renowned architect Peter Marino. It now boasts a tennis court, large pool, hot tub, and expansive third-floor gym with sea views. Available at a guide price of $140 million through Christie’s International Real Estate (+1 631 903 6115, christiesrealestate.com)

CALIFORNIA

#2 Rancho Palos Verdes

A majestic Italian villa with 180-degree ocean views, a Merlot vineyard and more than an acre of lush gardens. Built in 1997, the property includes a formal dining room with ceiling moulds, five bedrooms, gourmet kitchen with two-storied pantry, a master suite with his and her bathrooms and closets, a panelled library with secret passage, large wine cellar and five-car garage. There is also a stunning hand-painted ceiling mural of the Allegory of the Winds and a mosaic made of over 15,000 pieces of stone. Available at a guide price of $10,888,000 through Savills – The Agency Beverly Hills (+1 424 230 3752)

177

luxury overseas property

BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS

#3 Celestial House, Tortola

BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS

#4 Steele Point, Tortola

Steele Point is named after the peninsula upon which this unique, five-bedroom home is perched. Built atop a 90 ft rock headland, the property offers dramatic 360-degree views and boasts the feel of a private island. It offers five air-conditioned bedroom suites, an open-plan living/dining/ kitchen area, sitting room, patios, courtyards, indoor and alfresco dining areas, private dock and private cove in the cliffside. Original sculptures and fine art are found throughout the property. Available at a guide price of €15 million through Savills International (020 7016 3740, savills.com/international)

178

Located in the West End of the island on Long Bay’s hilltop, Celestial House has a stunning secluded setting with natural, awe-inspiring surroundings. This property attests to its name in its elevated position above one of the island’s most renowned beaches. The five-bedroom home boasts an expansive, wrap-around veranda along with Caribbean Sea views, an infinity pool and Jacuzzi. Available at a guide price of $7.78 million through British Virgin Islands Sotheby’s International Realty; (+1 284 494 5700, bvisothebysrealty.com)

Homes and Interiors

CALIFORNIA

#5 Santa Barbara

A modern masterpiece offering 360-degree views of ocean, islands and mountains in a private setting on 160 acres. This four-bedroom, fourbathroom home brings the outdoors in with slide-away custom glass walls revealing the entire Santa Barbara coastline. The property includes an open kitchen, media room, powder room, yoga room with private garden, swimming pool and master bedroom with en suite spa bath, Japanese-style soaking tub and steam shower. Available at a guide price of $10.9 million through Savills – The Agency Beverly Hills (+1 424 230 3702)

CALIFORNIA

#7 Fontenelle Way, Los Angeles

Tucked away in the hills of Bel-Air, this contemporary home offers views of ocean, city and canyon. Set within an acre of its own land this five-bedroom, five-bathroom property is accessed by a private drive and includes a beautiful pool and a detached guest house. Available at a guide price of $6.5 million through Savills – The Agency Beverly Hills (+1 424 233 0922)

SWITZERLAND

#6 Alpine Retreat

This luxurious chalet is located in the heart of the Swiss Alps close to the picturesque village of Villars-surOllon, at a height of 1,300 m on a natural balcony facing south. Ideally located in a private area, the property is within walking distance of the ski resort Barboleuse/Gryon and has breathtaking unobstructed panoramic views. The fabulous five-bedroom property was renovated in 2002 in a contemporary style using the very best materials. Available at a guide price of $7,643,674 through Christie’s International Real Estate (+41 58 810 30 25, christiesrealestate.com)

179

luxury overseas property

MIAMI

#8 Ritz-Carlton Residences

CALIFORNIA

#9 El Fureidis

El Fureidis is one of Montecito’s most celebrated estates. Steeped in rich and colourful history, the main house recently underwent a multimillion-dollar renovation with many of the original fixtures now coupled with the modern and deluxe. The renovation includes a second floor, configured with three guest suites. Available at a guide price of $35 million through Christie’s International Real Estate (+1 805 252 2773, christiesrealestate.com)

180

Comprised of only 111 condominium residences and 15 private single-family villas, The Residences will be one of only a few standalone Ritz-Carlton Residences in the world. Designed by award-winning Italian architect Piero Lissoni, the project will offer luxury waterfront living – amid seven acres of gardens, pools, entertainment spaces and a private marina. Prices start from $2 million to $25 million. Available through One Sotheby’s International Realty (+1 888 919 9153, onesothebysrealty.com)

Homes and Interiors

PORTUGAL

#11 Vale do Lobo

GERMANY

#10 Artistic Villa

Inspired by traditional Sardinian round houses and reminiscent of classic works by Gaudí and Hundertwasser, this incredible designer villa spans almost 9,000 sq ft in more than three quarters of an acre. Its 22 rooms flow effortlessly together and embrace the organic forms of the natural world. In the main home, four levels encompass a music room, library, gym, a wellness area with Jacuzzi, steam room, a spectacular indoor swimming pool as well as a beautiful natural outdoor pool. The separate, light-filled summer house continues the flowing style established by the main building, as does the private guest house including two apartments. Available at a guide price of $23,197,492 through Christie’s International Real Estate (+49 89 69 79 7230, christiesrealestate.com)

MOROCCO

#12 Dar Olfa

A unique six-bedroom villa in a fabulous frontline location. Ultra-contemporary architecture maximises the uninterrupted Atlantic Ocean views while ensuring total privacy from the garden and swimming pool area. Complete with double-height living room, games room, heated swimming pool, open-plan kitchen and dining area, barbecue area and outdoor kitchen, the property also enjoys a fantastic roof terrace providing al fresco living space and a stylish built-in Jacuzzi. This is an ideal property for those seeking a stylish family home within mere steps of the beach and fashionable bars and restaurants of Val de Lobo. Available at a guide price of €4.5 million through Savills Algarve (00351 0 289 396 073)

Located in the most prestigious enclave of all Morocco, Dar Olfa provides unparalleled amenities on a scale that truly make it a private palace. The main house has five independently designed main bedroom suites including private as well as commercial kitchens, several large drawing rooms, a three-storey library, a private nightclub with its own separate entrance from the 15-car underground garage, a dining-room seating 20 guests, a 16-seat private cinema and 42 m swimming pool. Offers in excess of $85,692,750 through Christie’s International Real Estate (+212 524 422 229, christiesrealestate.com)

181

Homes and Interiors

luxury overseas property

NEW YORK

#13, 408 Grace Church

This exquisitely customised Shingle-style home by renowned architects Shope Reno Wharton sits at a commanding elevation. The sixbedroom property has an amazing 1,100 ft of water frontage and its own private peninsula along with an open galley library, private dock, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, spa and a wine cellar, plus an expansive deck that hosts parties for 200. Available at a guide price of $22 million through Julia B. Fee Sothebyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s International Realty (+1 914 584 9854, juliabfee.com)

14 182

AUSTRIA

#14 Alpine Estate Positioned on the edge of a high meadow, this exceptional villa enjoys magnificent 360-degree views of the Salzburg Mountains. Featuring more than 600 m2, this spacious country house is partitioned into a private living and sleeping area and an area for guests. The highlight of the private area is the breath-taking living and dining room with a terrace overlooking the valley and mountains. The library and fitness room are on one split level above, and on the ground floor is a swimming pool and sauna. Available at a guide price of $8,163,600 through Christieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s International Real Estate (0043 662 6585 110, christiesrealestate.com)

t: 01704 544 222 e: info@portraitpools.com w: portraitpools.com

Homes and Interiors

BEAUTIFUL THINGS

INSPIRED BY EXTINCTION This friendly and characterful Baby Bustard lamp is a member of Blott Works’ LightBEAM collection, and was inspired by the great bustard – the heaviest flying animal alive today, and one that became extinct in the UK in 1872 but is now being reintroduced. This chirpy little bird lamp was the last of the three members of the LightBEAM collection to take shape and came about when playing with the telescoping beam idea some more, and finding that by turning it upside down it immediately looked bird-like. The shade, body and tail are fully adjustable. Limited edition series of 100. (£1,500, Sable & Ox, sableandox.co.uk)

186

W: w w w . j a n e y b u t l e r . c o . u k E: hello@janeybutler.co.uk T:

0844 809 4469